Vino Culture Wine Shop 130 Granby St, Suite 100
Featured Items
- Oliver Viticultors Rosé Cava Brut Nature NV: Penedès, Spain$26.00
Grapes: Garnacha/Pinot Noir There are a growing number of biodynamic producers in the Penedès region of North-East Spain, surrounding the famed city of Barcelona and home to most of the country’s Cavas. Cava has to be made from designated regions in Spain and must be made according to the Champagne Method. Known for big, bold, bursting bubbles and a range of styles from fresh aperitivo styles, to rich, nuanced, aged styles that are incredible food pairing wines, there is a lot of diversity to explore with Cava. Brut Nature indicates there is no amount of sugar added to the wine after fermentation, keeping it bone dry. This wine is bursting with flavors of watermelon jolly ranchers and has a tart, juicy palate with a little strawberry shortcake action from 12-15 months of lees aging. The finish is quite chalky thanks to it being so dry. My favorite pairing with a Rosé Cava like this one? Sour cream & onion chips!
- Ovum "Big Salt" White 2023: Oregon$28.00
This wine isn’t just a blend of grape varieties, but it is also a blend of vineyard sites and regions from select growers across all of Oregon all co-fermented together. Tasting Notes: For this lovely blend, Riesling brings high acid, a linear structure, and more delicate floral notes to the table, making up 50% of the blend. Gewürztraminer, which makes up 30% of the blend, is bringing the tropical fruit like lychee and pineapple, along with more pungent floral notes like lily, white rose, and honeysuckle to the flavor profile. There rest is a conglomeration of multiple grapes that all bring their own personality to the wine. Each grape both balances and highlights the other varieties in this eclectic and expressive wine and the finish is salty, fresh, and vibrant—making the wine so adequately named! Every sip makes my mouth water and beg for another, especially if I am drinking it with pasta carbonara!
- Bodegas Olarra "Cerro Añon" Crianza 2019: Rioja, Spain$21.00
Grape: Tempranillo/Mazuelo/Graciano Region/History Notes: Rioja has a long history of winemaking that dates back to the 11th century B.C.E., but due to limited transportation and technology the wines in this region were mostly enjoyed by locals for years. Thank goodness that has changed! With Rioja’s rich history there are also strict regulations that must be followed to have the “Rioja” designation on the bottle, as well as specific age requirements to be labeled a “Crianza”. Red wine must be aged for two years with a minimum of six months in oak barrels. This Crianza comes from 20 year-old vines, is 90% Tempranillo, and was aged in barrel for 14-15 months. Tasting Notes: Bright aromas of raspberries, rhubarb, and spice are prominent in this wine, followed by roses and smoke. With a velvety tannin structure and a medium body, this wine begs to be enjoyed with friends over a warm comfort meal! Serve with beef, pork belly, or fatty cured meats and aged cheeses.
Wine
Vino Culture Weekly Picks
- Wine of the Week: Fiorentino "Zirpoli" 2020: Campania, Italy$23.00
Grape: Coda di Volpe
- Wine of the Week: Paul Laureano "Ema's Vineyard" Tinto 2021: Alentejo, Portugal$23.00
Grapes: Trincadeira/Aragonez/Tinta Grossa/Alicante Bouschet Region/History Notes: Paulo Laureano is committed to exclusively using indigenous varieties and makes quite a few wines showcasing these eclectic grapes and styles. Alentejo is known for its production of cork, harvested from the bark of trees that have been growing in the region for centuries. But there is a growing international demand for the wines from this hot and dry region, not just the corks! Tasting Notes: Concentrated flavors of plums and black cherry are balanced by black pepper spice and a savory, woodsy component to the wine. Bitter herbs and dried rose petals give an edge to this bold wine while the subtle hint of blueberry pie filling softens the finish. Pair with steak fajitas!
Red Wine
- Albert Bichot "Roche Rose" 2021: Brouilly, Beaujolais, France$47.00
Grape: Gamay Region/History Notes: Maison Albert Bichot is one of the largest négociant-éleveur (“merchant-grower”) houses in Burgundy; formed in 1831, they own 6 estates from Chablis down to Beaujolais that comprise a total of 395 acres, along with another 865 acres from which they buy grapes. Brouilly is one of Beaujolais’ 10 Crus recognized for its incredibly fruit-driven expressions of Gamay. Tasting Notes: Such an intriguing nose for a red wine with earthy and nutty (yes, nutty!!) qualities that are layered with notes of red plum, brambly strawberry, and smoked sage. On the palate, the wine offers a plush texture with vibrant acidity and a tannin structure that starts off grippy, but finishes velvety. Fresh cranberry and boysenberry further burst on the tongue and lead into a lengthy finish with a hint of arugula. This wine is downright scrumptious and perfectly enjoyable on its own, but would also make for a delicious pairing with French dip sliders!
- Albert Bichot Santenay 1er Cru - Clos Rousseau 2018: Côte de Beaune, Burgundy, France$75.00
Grape: Pinot Noir Region/History Notes: Albert Bichot is one of the largest négociant-éleveur houses in Burgundy; formed in 1831, they own 6 estates from Chablis down to Beaujolais that comprise a total of 395 acres, along with another 865 acres from which they buy grapes. Santenay is one of the southernmost appellations in the Côte de Beaune, and the Clos Rousseau Premier Cru is located along the western edge of the appellation. The soils here are Bajocian limestone—also found in the Côte de Nuits—yet richer and browner in character. Before bottling, this wine spends 14 to 16 months in oak barrels, 20-30% of which are new. Tasting Notes: Perfumed and red-fruit forward with kirsch notes folded into layers of cigar box, rose stems, redcurrant, and fresh potting soil. The palate builds upon the wine’s floral and earthy qualities, delivering a soft and silky tannin structure with pops of cherry and black pepper on the finish. Pair with a Burgundy classic: coq au vin!
- Alvaro Palacios "Les Terrasses" Priorat 2019: Priorat, Catalonia, Spain$63.00
Grape: Garnacha/Samsó (AKA Cariñena) Region/History Notes: Alvaro Palacios is considered one of the most important new-wave winemakers in all of Spain. Born in Rioja and trained in Bordeaux, his single-vineyard Priorat, “L’Ermita,” is considered one of the region’s crown jewels. Unlike the rest of Catalonia, Priorat is known for its intense black slate “llicorella” soil. The vines have exceptional drainage, which leads to intense but beautiful wines typically with Garnacha as the primary grape. This wine is almost 50/50 Garnacha/Samsó (AKA Carineña). Tasting Notes: Licorice, Luxardo cherries, leather, woodsy and peaty aromatics, tobacco and campfire smoke, and a pop of juniper on the end—there is a LOT going on in this wine! Silky tannins and a structure that is not meek by any stretch while still being incredibly sophisticated. Decant for at least 1 hour to best enjoy this powerful yet elegant wine.
- Anthill Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir 2021: Sonoma Coast, California$52.00
Grape: Pinot Noir Region/History Notes: Anthill Farms began in 2003 as the three co-owners decided to join forces and explore their own style after meeting while working at Williams-Selyem together. They have a passion for terroir-driven wines like none-other! Most of their wines explore single vineyard expressions of Pinot Noir, and every now and then a Syrah and Chardonnay. This particular label is a blend of two different vineyard sites, so it allows for a more affordable entry into their top tier wines. But this sings like a wine twice its price! Tasting Notes: Strawberries, cherries, raspberries all crushed together and hanging out in a cigar box with some mushroom dust and potpourri sprinkled on top--that’s what this wine tastes like!! Gorgeous wine that always tastes better on day 2, but I rarely can make the bottle last that long, so maybe throw it in a decanter for an hour to let it open. Pair with salmon, duck, mushroom risotto, or just sip and savor!
- António Bernardino Paulo da Silva "Colares Chitas" Ramisco Reserva 1996: Colares, Lisboa, Portugal$94.00
Grape: Ramisco Grape: Ramisco Lisboa, formally known as Extramadura, is the region surrounding the capital city of Lisbon. While the area is quite productive in terms of quantity of wine, traditionally the producers have been focused on just that—quantity. A handful of large, commercialized wineries dominate the area, but if you know where to look, you can find some gems. Enter, Paolo da Silva! First established in 1898 by Antonio Bernardino, this winery is known for their incredibly age-worthy reds and whites that can last for decades. Focusing on indigenous grape varieties and expression of terroir, these wines are all about quality over quantity! The 1996 “Colares Chitas” is made from 100% Ramisco from pre-phylloxera vines grown less than a mile from the Atlantic Ocean—Ramisco is virtually unplanted outside of Colares and is one the few Vitis vinifera grapes to have never been grafted onto American rootstock. Decant and enjoy now!
- António Bernardino Paulo da Silva "Colares Chitas" Ramisco Reserva 1999: Colares, Lisboa, Portugal$87.00
Grape: Ramisco Lisboa, formally known as Extramadura, is the region surrounding the capital city of Lisbon. While the area is quite productive in terms of quantity of wine, traditionally the producers have been focused on just that—quantity. A handful of large, commercialized wineries dominate the area, but if you know where to look, you can find some gems. Enter, Paolo da Silva! First established in 1898 by Antonio Bernardino, this winery is known for their incredibly age-worthy reds and whites that can last for decades. Focusing on indigenous grape varieties and expression of terroir, these wines are all about quality over quantity! The 1999 “Colares Chitas” is made from 100% Ramisco from pre-phylloxera vines grown less than a mile from the Atlantic Ocean—Ramisco is virtually unplanted outside of Colares and is one the few Vitis vinifera grapes to have never been grafted onto American rootstock. Decant and enjoy now!
- Avantis Estate " Blessed Time" 2019: Evia, Greece$42.00
Grape: Syrah/Viognier Region/History Notes: Syrah is not an indigenous Greek grape variety. Instead, it is native to France. In the Northern Rhône Valley where it reigns supreme, it is often co-fermented with the white grape Viognier. This process helps break down the grape skins and flavors even more due to the specific acids and enzymes in the white grapes. The result is floral, elegant, expressive, and powerful wines. In this wine, Avantis co-fermented Syrah with 8% Viognier. Tasting Notes: This wine is like experiencing Greek gods coming down to earth to hang with the mortals! There is an earthy, grittiness to the wine with leather and spice that speaks to the mortality, and the pop of violets, geraniums, red cherry, and purple plums all hedonistically layered throughout the wine speaks to the divine element. I love how this wine both lifts and deepens on your palate all at once. Pair with lamb, stews, or a plate of olives with fresh bread dipped in olive oil and herbs!
- AXR Cabernet Sauvignon 2019: St. Helena, Napa Valley, California$114.00
Grape: Cabernet Sauvignon The St. Helena AVA is located in the northern part of Napa Valley and boasts some of California’s most recognized wineries, including Charles Krug and Beringer. Despite these iconic names and the winemaking history they evoke, AXR doesn’t let the weight of tradition hold them back: the winery is named after the axr#1 rootstock that was critical to building the California wine industry. Decant this wine for an hour and let it show you why Cab Sauv is queen of Napa! It’s classic and opulent with ripe plums and blackberry preserves along with mocha, violets, and dashes of dried mint on the nose. On the palate, you can almost chew your way through all of the dense fruits and accompanying flavors of vanilla bean, cedar, and baking spice. I also adore how velvety the tannin structure is—I could pair this with a New York Strip or enjoy it on its own with some dark chocolate!
- Backsberg "Blueberry Row" Pinotage 2020: Stellenbosch, South Africa$21.00
Grape: Pinotage Region/History Notes: Meeting Backsberg’s winemaker of 22 years, Alicia Rechner, was an incredible experience! The only female winemaker I met while traveling through the country, and such a pillar in the community! Her commitment to sustainable practices, quality wines, & ethical business practices fits perfectly into the ethos of the Backsberg family farm. Pinotage is South Africa’s very own variety, created by viticultural professor Abraham Perold in the 1920s as a cross between Pinot Noir and Cinsault. Only 4 seeds resulted in this cross, and of those 4 plantings, one vine did quite well; from that vine’s clippings, we have ALL the Pinotage vines in the world! Tasting Notes: Gentle pressing of the grapes allow for more mild extraction of tannins, creating a softer, more elegant expression of Pinotage. Plums and blueberries on the palate along with a woodsy, spicy finish, this wine is charmingly rustic and great with grilled pork!
- Backsberg Family Reserve Red 2016: Stellenbosch, South Africa$54.00
Grape: Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot/Malbec Region/History Notes: Meeting Backsberg’s winemaker of 22 years, Alicia Rechner, was an incredible experience! She was the only female winemaker I met while traveling through the country, and such a pillar in the community! Her commitment to sustainable farming, quality wines, and ethical business practices fits perfectly into the ethos of the Backsberg family farm. Her entry-tier wines are incredible for their value and quaffability, but her higher end wines like this one are in a different world with their complexity! Tasting Notes: This wine is beautifully savory on the nose with all the leather, tobacco, cedar, peppercorn, and even toffee that you’d expect in an Old World wine. Higher acidity and focused tannins, this wine is food wine for sure. As it opens up, currants and plums come out to play, as well as dried floral notes that add a softening component to the wine.
- Barruol Lynch Côte Rôtie "Les Roses" 2020: Northern Rhône, France$99.00
Grape: Syrah Region/History Notes: Louis Barruol and Kermit Lynch began tasting together in the 1980’s and found that they shared a love of Northern Rhone Syrah! Although Louis Barruol runs his family estate out of Southern Rhone he works with Kermit Lynch to source top of the line Syrah to put into his wines! Kermit Lynch has made a name for himself in French wine by only working with small producers and only importing the very best of what he finds. He is unwilling to cut corners when it comes to importing wines that will have his name attached to it so you know you are getting a high quality wine. Côte Rôtie is famous for producing high quality big red wines and this is no exception! Tasting Notes: Just as I would expect I am getting the violets and pepper that Syrah is known for followed by the blackberry, plums, and black currants with a hint of iron woven throughout! The fruit is tart with racy acidity that makes this wine perfect for food pairing!
- Bava Ruchè di Castagnole Monferrato 2022: Piedmont, Italy$30.00
Grape: Ruchè Region/History Notes: Ruchè is mainly grown in the Italian region of Piedmont, and recent research has identified it as being a cross of Croatina and the nearly extinct Malvasia Aromatica di Parma. Ruché was resurrected in the 1960s by a local parish priest who saw its potential. It’s recognized for its light body, intense floral aromatics, peppery qualities, and often powerful tannin structure. Tasting Notes: This wine smells like you’re walking through a flower garden when all the roses, geraniums, and violets are in bloom! The fruit quality is characterized by notes of strawberry leaf and brambly blackberry. On the palate, there’s a masculine, leathery aspect to the wine that joins all the floral notes and leads into a lifted finish with pops of raspberry and white pepper. The fine-grained, linear tannins start off rustic, but finish incredibly silky and beg for food. Pair with sesame-ginger glazed chicken or creamy tomato pastas!
- Biokult Zweigelt-Pinot Noir 2022: Burgenland, Austria$24.00
Grape(s): Zweigelt/Pinot Noir Region/History: Biokult is a co-operative of several small winegrowers in Austria who are united by their organic approach to viticulture. The grapes in this bottling are sourced from the easterly region of Burgenland, most famous for its red wines and botrytis-affected sweet wines—made possible by the presence of the shallow Lake Neusiedl. Half of the blend is Pinot Noir, while the other half is Zweigelt, Austria’s most widely-planted red grape that was created as the result of crossing the varieties Saint Laurent and Blaufränkisch in 1922. Tasting Notes: With all its brambly berry and spice notes, Zweigelt on its own spells a good time, but I love the elegance that Pinot Noir brings to the mix to create a fresh, juicy, floral, and gently pepper/spicy wine that’s perfect for Spring! Put a slight chill on this if you’d like and pair it with glazed pork belly, roast beef sandwiches, or anything off the grill!
- Bodegas Mas Alta "Artigas" 2020: Priorat, Spain$44.00
Grape: Garnatxa/Carignena/Cabernet Sauvignon Region/History Notes: Unlike the rest of Catalonia, Priorat is known for its intense black slate “llicorella” soil. The vines have exceptional drainage, which leads to intense but beautiful wines typically with Garnacha (locally spelled, Garnatxa) as the primary grape. This wine is about 70% Garnacha with the remaining 30% a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Carinyena (AKA Carignan). The Garnacha and Carignan vines are almost 100 years old, all organically farmed and hand harvested. The wine spends 16 months in French Oak, 35% of which is new bringing some powerful structure to an already powerful wine- exciting!! Tasting Notes: Licorice, Luxardo cherries, leather, woodsy and peaty aromatics, tobacco and campfire smoke, and a pop of juniper on the end—there is a LOT going on in this wine! Silky tannins and a structure that is not meek by any stretch while still being incredibly sophisticated. Decant and serve with lamb!
- Bodegas Niel "Santofimia" 2021: Almansa, Spain$20.00
Grape: Garnacha Tintorera/Merlot Region/History Notes: Garnacha Tintorera is one of the rare red varieties that has red flesh as well as red grape skins, producing very deeply pigmented wines. Grown mostly in Spain, Portugal, France, and California, it thrives in warmer climates with lots of sunlight—which is exactly what Almansa is known for! Stony, infertile limestone soils with hot, dry summers and high elevation vineyards here in Almansa make for an excellent home to bold, powerful red wines like this one. Tasting Notes: 85% Garnacha Tintorera and 15% Merlot aged just 3 months in French oak, this wine is all muscle and power in a glass! Dark and brooding notes of smoke, leather, spice, prunes, figs and bold olive flavors on the finish, this wine packs a lot of punch for just $20! Dense and chewy, this will make a perfect pairing for steak fajitas or even smokey baby back ribs.
- Bodegas Olarra "Cerro Añon" Crianza 2019: Rioja, Spain$21.00
Grape: Tempranillo/Mazuelo/Graciano Region/History Notes: Rioja has a long history of winemaking that dates back to the 11th century B.C.E., but due to limited transportation and technology the wines in this region were mostly enjoyed by locals for years. Thank goodness that has changed! With Rioja’s rich history there are also strict regulations that must be followed to have the “Rioja” designation on the bottle, as well as specific age requirements to be labeled a “Crianza”. Red wine must be aged for two years with a minimum of six months in oak barrels. This Crianza comes from 20 year-old vines, is 90% Tempranillo, and was aged in barrel for 14-15 months. Tasting Notes: Bright aromas of raspberries, rhubarb, and spice are prominent in this wine, followed by roses and smoke. With a velvety tannin structure and a medium body, this wine begs to be enjoyed with friends over a warm comfort meal! Serve with beef, pork belly, or fatty cured meats and aged cheeses.
- Bodegas Riojanas Monte Real Gran Reserva 1998: Rioja, Spain$85.00
Grape: Tempranillo Region / History Notes: Tempranillo is known for its high natural levels of acidity and tannins. Combine this nature with the cooler climate mountainous region of Rioja, and the classic focus on aging extensively in oak, and you get wines that can last for decades! This Gran Reserva is aged for 40 months in American oak barrels and released in batches to the market. I love when Rioja producers take care of the aging for us and don’t charge for it! Tasting Notes: This 1998 vintage is just now starting to come into its peak with many more years of life ahead of it. At 23 years old it is starting to show the vinous qualities of aged wine with nutty aromatics, silky tannins and integrated acidity. This wine is a gorgeous example of how Tempranillo ages as gracefully as Meryl Streep!
- Bodegas Tierra "El Belisario" Rioja 2016: Rioja, Spain$90.00
Grape: Tempranillo Rioja is one of my first loves! So long ago, a lightbulb clicked on for me making me fall in love with Tempranillo from the cool, mountainous, sandy soils of Rioja. Bodegas Tierra makes exceptional wines, but is a tiny producer, so you won’t find their wines many places. This 100% Tempranillo comes from a single vineyard in the Labastida area of Rioja Alavesa. The vineyard is named “Cuba Negra” and was planted in 1910! Barrel-fermented in new French oak, and then aged for 24 months in those same barrels, this wine could easily age for another 15 years if you have the patience! Tasting Notes: Please decant this wine for at least 1 hour, or 3! Olives and cranberries give way to pipe tobacco, plums, and violets as it opens. The structure is nuanced and powerful while maintaining the elegance Rioja is known for. This will be stunning with something gamey like bison or lamb shank.
- Bonny Doon "Le Cigare Volant" 2021: Central Coast, California$20.00
Grape(s): Grenache/Syrah/Cinsault/Petite Sirah Region/History Notes: In 1954, France experienced a string of reports filed by French citizens concerning sightings of cylindrical cigar-like aircrafts … and extraterrestrial panic ensued! From the north of the country down to Châteauneuf-du-Pape, the French feared an encounter with a cigare volant, or “flying cigar.” The mayor of Châteauneuf-du-Pape even issued a decree stating that no UFO was permitted to fly over, land on, or take off from the area. Bonny Doon released its inaugural vintage of this wine in 1984 as winemaker Randall Grahm’s ode to Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Tasting Notes: Fresh, floral, punchy and fruity on the nose, peppery and healthily tannin-ed on the palate—overall an “out of this world” red wine! Throw some burgers on the grill and enjoy!
- Brancatelli "Giuseppe Brancatelli" Syrah 2017: Tuscany, Italy$84.00
Grape: Syrah “Super Tuscan” is a term to loosely describe wines from Tuscany usually made from French varieties and aged in French oak. Sassicaia was the first wine to break from tradition and bottle a high-quality wine made in this style back in 1968. Since then, so many producers followed suit making incredible wines that the Italian government had to respond, creating a new classification system to allow for these sorts of wines. Brancatelli was established in 1990s by chef and restauranteur Giuseppe Brancatelli in an area that no one thought viable for vines, just 2 miles from the sea. He has since proven every skeptic wrong! This Syrah is peppery and meaty with notes of purple plums, violets and smoky backbone. A rich palate with a finish that lasts forever, this is divine! Only 375 cases of this were produced, so get it while you can! Decant 1 hour and serve with braised meat & roasted potatoes topped with fresh herbs!
- Brancatelli "Valle Del Sogno" 2017: Tuscany, Italy$87.00
Grape: Cabernet Sauvignon/Cabernet Franc Region/History Notes: “Valle del Sogno” translates to Dream Valley, and if I could describe what it is like to taste wine at the Brancatelli estate with the sun setting on the horizon and your belly full from Giuseppe Brancatelli’s cooking, ‘dream valley’ would be the term! As a chef-turned-winemaker, Giuseppe knows how to make food friendly wines. While many “Super Tuscan” wines can be over the top intense on tannins and oak aging, this wine is elegantly structured and meant to be more refined and subtle. Perfect for pairing with a plate of charcuterie when you don’t want anything to detract or distract from the flavors of this wine. But on the other hand, a bottle of this paired with a beef mole stew could make you literally see the heavens! Loads of tobacco, spice--but think spices, not spicy, with licorice, roasted espresso, and dried cherries, there is a whole world of flavors and aromatics to explore with this wine. You are welcome!
- Brij Wines "Nythia" Cabernet Franc & Malbec 2022: Carmel Valley, Monterey County, California$62.00
Grape: Cabernet Franc/Malbec
- Brij Wines Grenache 2022: San Luis Obispo Coast, California$62.00
Grape: Grenache
- Brij Wines Syrah 2022: San Luis Obispo Coast, California$62.00
Grape: Syrah
- Ca'Viola "Caviot" Barolo 2019: Piedmont, Italy$70.00
- Cantina del Pino Cru: Gallina 2018: Barbaresco, Piedmont, Italy$73.00
Grape: Nebbiolo Region/History Notes: Cantina del Pino makes absolutely stunning single-vineyard Barbaresco wines, with those from the 2018 vintage among my favorites! This bottling comes from Gallina, located in the town of Neive and divided into 15 plots farmed by different wineries. It's characterized by marl and light sandy soils, a southerly aspect, as well as a bright and open exposure. Tasting Notes: Decant this wine for an hour to really let the aromatics develop! Nebbiolo is already so beautifully floral, but Gallina specifically is recognized for its floral and herbaceous qualities—the classic rose petal note is joined by sage, anise, and heaps of fresh mint. The palate practically vibrates with acidity and is laden with wild cherry, orange rind, and tobacco. While the tannins are firm, they’re not so overpowering that you can’t drink this wine without laying it down for another 10 years—I say drink now with mushroom & truffle tagliatelle!
- Cantina Sociale Cooperativa Primitivo 2020: Salento, Puglia, Italy$25.00
Grape: Primitivo Primitivo is the Italian name for what we know of as Zinfandel but it originated in Croatia where it is called Tribidrag. It was brought to Puglia, the southern-most part of eastern Italy, in the 19th century where it thrived in the warm mediterranean climate of the region. Cantina Sociale Cooperativa is a c-op of over 300 farmers who are committed to reducing yield in the vineyards to maintain higher quality of their wines and it shows in this bottle. The nose is rich and enticing and the palate is full of smoked cherry and roasted plum flavors with licorice, basil, oregano, bay leaf, and leather acting as the base notes. The raisinated, dense fruit is balanced by the deep earthy, savory notes making the wine so pleasurable to drink! Perfect with grilled Italian sausages over rustic tomato sauce and roasted spring asparagus- maybe add some focaccia if you really want to go for the gold medal pairing!
- Capezzana "Villa di Capezzana" Carmignano 2019: Tuscany, Italy$42.00
Grape: Sangiovese/Cabernet Sauvignon “Villa di Capezzana” Region/History: Carmignano is located just north of Chianti in the region of Tuscany. Although less famous than its neighbor appellations of Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino, and Bolgheri, Carmignano once produced wines that commanded 4x the price of any other wine in the 14th century! In the 1700s, the area became home to a nursery of varieties, Cabernet Sauvignon among them. Today, the appellation requires that 10-20% Cabernet Sauvignon or Cabernet Franc be part of the Sangiovese-dominant blend. This wine, an 80/20 blend of Sangiovese and Cab Sauv, is the flagship wine of the Capezzana estate and spends a year in oak. Tasting Notes: Red plums and red currants mingle with notes of cedar, dusty red flowers, and and dried herbs like oregano, thyme, and rosemary. The wine is full-bodied with chewy tannins and lingering flavors of tobacco and oak spice on the finish. Enjoy alongside Italian sausage with peppers and onions!
- Ch. de Saint Cosme Gigondas 2021: Southern Rhône, France$75.00
Grape: Grenache/Mourvèdre/Syrah Region/History Notes: Along with Vacqueyras and Châteauneuf-du-Pape (CdP), Gigondas is one of the more famous communes in France’s Southern Rhône. Located northeast of CdP, Gigondas is recognized for its red wines based on Grenache, like those of its neighbors. While while the wines have traditionally been viewed as the cheaper stepping stones to CdP, those produced by Saint-Cosme are considered the finest in the area and have helped establish Gigondas as a quality appellation in its own right. Tasting Notes: This bold wine is complex and layered as well as extremely balanced and is surprisingly delicious immediately upon pouring! As it opens up, it becomes even more nuanced with lifted pops of pink peppercorn and wild roses, herbs de Provence and pipe tobacco, and so much ripe fruit notes like candied strawberries and black plums. The wine coats your palate and the finish lasts for ages, a perfect winter wine to cozy up with and pair with roast lamb!
- Ch. de Varennes "Sélection Parcellaire" Beaujolais-Villages 2021: Burgundy, France$24.00
Grape: Gamay Region/History Notes: Beaujolais is the southern portion of Burgundy, France that focuses on the Gamay grape. There are multiple villages throughout Beaujolais that have unique and distinct expressions of the grape based on micro-climates, soil variations, and aspect differences. A wine labeled as “Beaujolais-Villages” can be white, red, or rosé wine made from grapes that come from any of the 38 villages located in the north of Beaujolais. With more hilly terrain there is better drainage, so these wines are considered to be higher quality than wines labeled just as “Beaujolais,” which can come from anywhere within the region and have less strict standards. Tasting Notes: So fresh and lovely with a light body but a vibrant mouthfeel. Red fruits like strawberries and fresh cherries mix with hints of baking cocoa on the nose, but the palate has more savory notes like pepper and even hints of leather. Wonderfully charming and balanced and a great pairing for fresh hummus.
- Ch. Haut-Segottes Saint-Émilion Grand Cru 2020: Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux$52.00
Grapes: Cabernet Franc/Merlot/Cabernet Sauvignon Owned and operated by meticulous viticulturist Danielle Meunier, the wines made by Ch. Haut-Segottes all come from the organic 9-hectare estate in the heart of Saint-Émilion. SThese vineyards are situated within the revered lieu-dits of Fortin, Chauvin, and Plateau de Corbin—known for their sandy, calcareous clay soils. She makes several labels; this Grand Cru is generally 65% Cabernet Franc with 30% Merlot and a smidgeon of Cabernet Sauvignon to round out the blend. Aged 18 months in French oak, 20% of which is new, this wine is powerful and age- worthy, but drinks surprisingly well now! Aromatics of red currant and roasted coffee beans waft alluringly from the glass. As the wine continues to open, notes of licorice, cherries, soft leather, and cocoa develop as well. The tannins are firm and structured, but with 1 hour in the decanter will soften nicely. Pair this sultry wine with beef bourguignon!
- Ch. la Graside Bordeaux Rouge 2018: Bordeaux, France$17.00
Grape: Merlot/Cabernet Sauvignon Region/History Notes: Bordeaux is one of France’s most acclaimed wine regions, located on the western side of the country. Two rivers, the Garonne and Dordogne, separate the region into the Left Bank, which tends to focus on Cabernet Sauvignon, and the Right Bank, which is known more for Merlot. Wines that just carry the general “Bordeaux” designation can be produced from anywhere in the region from any of the permitted grape varieties. This entry-level bottling is a blend of equal parts Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon and is meant to be consumed young—no aging required! Tasting Notes: Quite the tasty little Bordeaux blend! Sultry red fruits are deepened by notes of tobacco, leather, bay leaf, and freshly overturned earth. The tannins are grippy, so pop and pair with your next steak night: New York strip, homemade mashed potatoes, and a mushroom gravy!
- Ch. Maris "Les Planels" 2020: Languedoc, France$35.00
Grapes: Syrah/Grenache Region/History Notes: Château Maris is taking sustainability to the next level! They are not only growing and making all their wines biodynamically, but they are a carbon negative winery—the winery is even made out of hemp! They are also BCorp certified, which is a rigorous certification all about social sustainability on every level. They are even researching shipping their wines all around the world via sail boats instead of traditional methods. While all this is cool, it means nothing if the wines aren’t delicious, and theirs certainly are! This is a blend of about 80% Syrah, along with about 15% Grenache which helps soften and lift up the wine. Tasting Notes: The wine is just delightful! Rose petals and graphite, with soft leather and a bit of smoke and an utterly sensual mouthfeel. Perfect with anything from lamb chops, to char-grilled burgers, to BBQ spare ribs!
- Ch. Maris Rouge Blend 2021: Pays d'Oc, France$21.00
Grapes: Syrah/Grenache Region/History Notes: Ch. Maris is taking sustainability to the next level! They are not only growing and making all their wines biodynamically, but they are a carbon negative winery! They are also BCorp certified which is a rigorous certification all about social sustainability on every level. While all this is cool, it means nothing if the wines aren’t delicious, and theirs certainly are! This wine is 70% Syrah and 30% Grenache blend, and does not disappoint! Tasting Notes: This is a powerful wine that has ripe cherry and blackberry dancing out of the glass. But once the wine hits your palate you get all the fruit with some herbal notes of thyme, and a bit of a gamey finish. I want this wine with roast beef or pastrami sandwiches, an herb crusted pork loin with a side of Mac & Cheese! This is going to be the perfect wine to carry you into the cooler seasons!
- Closerie du Pelan Les Salles-de-Castillon 2000: Francs-Côtes-de-Bordeaux, France$79.00
Grape: Cab Sauv/Merlot/Petit Verdot Region/History Notes: French producers aren’t known for aging their wines before release. It doesn’t matter if it’s going to be another 10+ years before the wine is ready to drink—it’s on you to be patient! On occasion, a producer might choose to do a “library release,” where they’ll hold back portions of wines from certain vintages to be re-released at a later date. There’s also a “late release,” where the wine isn’t released at all until a later date. Régis Moro began making wine in 1984 and from the outset was a fierce proponent of low-intervention viticulture and winemaking. In 2022 Moro sold his estate to the Amoreau family and threw in some wines that had never seen the light of day, this one among them! Over 23 years of age on this bottle and it still displays lively floral aromatics and offers plenty of fruit and acidity in addition to its prominent tertiary notes of coffee, tobacco, and hickory. It’s a worthwhile experience to drink now!
- Corte Adami Amarone Della Valpolicella 2018: Veneto, Italy$58.00
Grapes: Corvina/Corvinone/Rondinella + more! “Hey, let’s take these grapes and dry them out on straw mats for 3 months until they turn into total raisins and THEN try to make wine out of those dried out raisins!” said no-one ever except the crazy Italians in Veneto… thus Amarone was born! Veneto, Italy is home to the famous Amarone wine, made primarily from Corvina & Rondinella grapes. The raisinated grapes concentrate the sugars of the grape, but also concentrate the acid compounds and tannins of the wine. These wines are fermented all the way dry so they are powerful and intense in flavor, but not as dense as you might expect due to the higher acid compounds. Intensely flavored with notes of espresso, bitter cocoa powder, black licorice, white pepper, and smoke! There’s plenty of fruit too with red currants and candied strawberries, plums and raspberries. And we haven’t even mentioned the bay leaf and tobacco notes—quite complex and layered. Pair with baked brie and candied pecans!
- Coto de Hayas "Centenaria" Garnacha 2021: Campo de Borja, Spain$24.00Out of stock
- Dom. Bois de Boursan Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2020: Southern Rhône, France$69.00
- Dom. des Mailloches Bourgueil 2021: Loire Valley, France$20.00Out of stock
Grape: Cabernet Franc Region/History: Bourgueil (pronounced bore-GOY) is one of the three most famous red wine appellations in the Loire, all of which are located in Touraine. Touraine is considered part of the Middle Loire and this is where we start to see a shift in the climate as we move further away from the influences of the Atlantic Ocean in the west towards the warmer continental conditions of the east. The red grape of this region is Cabernet Franc and is considered to be one of the top examples in the world. While Bourgueil is lesser known than Chinon, it continues to make its presence known by putting out high quality wines at a reasonable price! Tasting: River rocks, tart cherries and raspberries with just a bit of greenness are present on both the nose and the palate! I love the texture of this wine; it is light enough to take a chill but has presence enough to still command your attention. Pair this with some sausage and peppers or even a mild gumbo!
- Dom. Odoul-Coquard Chambolle-Musigny 2020: Côte de Nuits, Burgundy, France$115.00
Grape: Pinot Noir Region/History Notes: Chambolle-Musigny is one of the premiere villages in the Côte de Nuits recognized for its elegant and feminine styles of Pinot Noir. This village-level Chambolle-Musigny is sourced from 4 individual parcels in the commune. The grapes are fully destemmed and the wine spends 15 months in barrel before bottling, 30% new. The first thing that captures your attention on this wine is the extraction—2020 was a hot year in Burgundy that resulted in more intense reds! This wine needs another few years to settle down and develop, but if you’d like to drink it now I recommend decanting it for an hour. You’ll begin to see the direction this wine is going in—it’s like diving into a bed of roses with red currants, wild strawberries, cherries, and red plums. The red fruit on the palate is ample, but still in its infancy in terms of development, and framed by dusty tannins and a line of firm acidity. Hold for at least another 5 years!
- Dom. Tempier "Lulu et Lucien" Bandol Rouge 2021: Provence, France$76.00
Grape: Mourvèdre/Grenache/Cinsault/Carignan Region/History Notes: Lucie & Lucien Peyraud of Domaine Tempier are the OGs of Bandol! Lucien was key to helping Bandol achieve AOC status as well as fought to raise the required amount of Mourvèdre in the wines to 50%. Lucie (or “Lulu”) was a renowned Provençal cook who inspired many an aspiring chef and whose life work is just as integral to the Domaine Tempier name. This Mourvèdre-dominant blend is an ode to this incredible husband & wife duo and the world-class wines they produced over their lifetime. Tasting Notes: If you think rosé is all that Bandol is good for, I hope this wine changes your mind! It’s youthful, but not immature. Bright, but not flamboyant. Full of depth, but without being brooding. Fresh and full of fruit, but still with a touch of those wild dried herbs known as ‘garrigue.’ I’m daydreaming of a night of olive tapenade with lots of fresh bread, rustic Provençal-style ratatouille, and sautéed wild mushrooms!
- Early Mountain "Young Wine" Red 2022: Madison, Virginia$24.00
Chambourcin/Vidal Blanc Region/History Notes: Hybrid grapes might be the future of Virginia winemaking and here is a perfect example! Traditional Vitis vinifera grape varieties often struggle in our humid climate and clay-driven soils, but there are some hybrid species that thrive in our unique terroir. Chambourcin is a red French/American hybrid and Vidal Blanc is a white hybrid. Early Mountain is one of my all-time favorite Virginia wineries and I am thrilled to see them bring more attention and awareness to our local winemaking. Winemaker Maya Hood White is a UC Davis grad who left her studies in mathematics and engineering to pursue winemaking and she is doing it right! Tasting Notes: These two varieties are an unlikely pair but are surprisingly delightful in this co-fermented light red. Perfect with a slight chill to pair with anything off the grill, enjoy this red even in the hot summer months!
- Envínate "Lousas" Viñas de Aldea Tinto 2022: Ribera Sacra, Spain$54.00
Grape(s): Mencía + 5-10% other co-planted varieties Region/History: Envínate is one of my favorite producers and they are very highly allocated—so you are super lucky to have some! The project is a collaboration between 4 producers who operate in Galicia and the Canary Islands. Envínate is a made-up Spanish word that roughly translates to “go wine yourself” and I think that says it all! Fermentation for this bottling includes 40% whole clusters, and the wine is raised for 11 months in old barrels. Tasting Notes: There are few better expressions of Mencía around! Sultry floral and berry notes abound on the nose and are grounded by notes of freshly cracked black pepper, graphite, and smoky cardamom. The fierce, grippy minerality to the core of the wine speaks to its strength and power—it’s like a ballet dancer with its grace and underlying intensity all bottled together. Pair with duck confit or pork belly!
- Evesham Wood Temperance Hill Pinot Noir 2021: Eola-Amity Hills, Oregon$59.00
Grape: Pinot Noir Region/History: Evesham Wood is part of the Deep Roots Coalition in Oregon—a group of producers committed to dry farming their vineyards and using sustainable practices. Russ Rainy, the founder of Evesham Wood, continues to be one of the driving forces of this organization which strives to educate about sustainable agricultural practices and minimal carbon footprint winemaking. Temperance Hill vineyard spans 100 acres in the Eola-Amity AVA with very old volcanic soils, specifically Nokia, Rittner, and Jory soils—all known for their powdery, weathered volcanic components which are known to create wines that are almost electrifying on the palate. Tasting Notes: Let this baby open up for a while and you’ll find pops of dark cherry, hibiscus flowers, sweet sautéed shiitake mushrooms, and a hint of pipe tobacco laced throughout the palate. The mouthfeel is rich and plush until the finish, which is vibrant and has so much tension that it cuts through the silky textures!
- Field Recordings "Fiction" 2022: Paso Robles, California$26.00
Grapes: Zinfandel/Cabernet Franc/Alicante Bouschet/Charbono & more Notes: Andrew Jones started Field recordings to showcase diamonds in the rough in terms of vineyards, grapes, and styles. I love this field blend of so many different red grape varieties that is aged 16 months in American oak, 20% of which is new. But the thing I love about all his wines is how expressive and dynamic they are but they are so authentic! He is not trying to be anyone else but himself and the wines show that down-to-earth expression of fruit and terroir. Tasting Notes: How is this wine so drinkable! The fruit is fresh and juicy, a little smoke and spice to round it out, and the palate is so enjoyable and easy to drink. This vintage is bolder than other with some grippier tannins and richer fruit, but still elegant. Pair with your favorite movie and make it an at-home date night but you’ll need a second bottle, trust me!
- Fiorentino "Celsì" Aglianico 2018: Irpinia, Campania, Italy$31.00
Grape: Aglianico Region/History Notes: If you enjoy bigger, bolder reds, you need to try Aglianico! Next to Sangiovese and Nebbiolo, Aglianico is one of Italy’s most important red varietals. Thick-skinned and late-ripening, it loves the dry, sunny climate of southern Italy and the volcanic soils of Campania in particular, where it produces full-bodied and tannic wines that often need a few years to settle down before they’re ready to drink. This bottling from Fiorentino is very much true to Aglianico’s character, but made in a slightly more approachable style that I’ll be enjoying all fall and winter long! Tasting Notes: Rich and sultry, pops of red plum and roasted strawberry on the nose are joined by notes of fresh thyme, cigar box, and balsamic. The palate is assertive, with powerful tannins and more savory notes of tobacco alongside white pepper and a beautiful finish of dried lavender. Pair with roasted chicken in a creamy paprika sauce!
- Fledge & Co. "The Clutch" 2022: Western Cape, South Africa$19.00
Grape: Tinta Barocca Region/History Notes: Tinta Barocca is native to Portugal, and while it is South Africa’s most widely-planted Portuguese grape variety, that’s not saying much considering not many Portuguese grape varieties are growing here! Winemaker Margeaux New and her husband, Leon Coetzee, are passionate about bringing Portuguese varieties to South Africa, stating that the terrain, climate, soils, and aspect of the land are much more similar to Portugal’s than France’s. They are quite the creative and unique pair and their wines are one-of-a-kind and always overdeliver for the price. As Leon said to me “I’m terrible at making money!” Tasting Notes: Juicy, juicy, juicy!! If black plums, blackberry, and black cherry were all in a jolly rancher, it would taste like this! All that fruit is balanced with a rustic smoky vibe and spicy finish that make it so fun. Great with sweet/smoky/savory style BBQ off the grill!
- Frasca La Guaragna Freisa d'Asti 2021: Piedmont, Italy$30.00
Grape: Freisa Region/History Notes: Fresia is native to Piedmont in northwestern Italy. It is mainly cultivated across the Monferrato area, which covers the province of Asti where this wine is from. The name of the grape comes from the Latin word for strawberry, in reference to its characteristic strawberry aromas and flavors. Tasting Notes: Freisa has the personality of something like Dolcetto or Barbera, but the structure reminds more of Nebbiolo! The aromatics are feminine and sultry with notes of violet, rose, and brambly strawberry. And by “strawberry,” I really mean everything from the ripe berry itself, to the green leaf, to the very earth that the plant grows from! Morello cherry and blackberry join in on the palate along with a leathery quality … and then the wine pulls back the curtain to reveal its powerful, wide-grained tannin structure that takes over your whole mouth! Pair with something savory and hearty like a caramelized onion, bacon, and mushroom cheeseburger.
- Gianni Brunelli Rosso di Montalcino 2019: Tuscany, Italy (magnum bottle, 1.5L)$125.00
Grape: Sangiovese Region/History Notes: Gianni Brunelli and his wife, Laura, built their reputation for making tiny-production Brunello. While not much is made , the wines are stunning and can age for 15+ years. In 2018 I had the privilege of meeting Laura (Gianni passed away in 2008) and tasting through some of the older vintages of her Brunello which literally brought tears to my eyes! However, it’s her Rosso di Montalcino (just made with less oak aging so as to be more approachable young) that I love to drink while I wait for the Brunello to age! Tasting Notes: Decant and serve at cellar temperature (60ish degrees) in a smaller wine glass to get the most out of this. The aromatics are perfumed and elegant but will take some coaxing to fully develop. With time, notes of plum, red cherry, savory herbs, and fresh red flowers and even a hint of candied orange peel will bloom for you. Pair with Osso Buco or a flatbread topped with fresh pesto & Parmesan!
- Glen Manor "Petit Rouge" 2022: Front Royal, Virginia$29.00
Grapes: Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot/Nebbiolo/Petit Verdot Region/History Notes: Glen Manor has been a family farm for 5 generations—over 120 years! It was converted to a winery in 1995 by current owner and winemaker Jeff White, who planted just 6 acres of vines. It has now more than tripled in size but is still by all means a tiny, boutique winery. These vineyards are planted on very steep slopes with rocky soils that have very little clay content. While they are most known for their “Vin Rouge” red blend with lots of oak and powerful, Jeff began making the “Petit Rouge” as a way to enjoy a red blend that is a little lighter in style and ready to drink now. This is his first vintage of it and I hope it won’t be the last! Tasting Notes: 10 months of neutral oak adds a nice structure to the wine without overpowering the flavors of the grapes. Black cherry, currants, leather, and tobacco, this is perfect with steaks!
- Gran Passione Rosso 2021: Veneto, Italy$18.00Out of stock
Grape: Merlot/Corvina Region/History Notes: The Veneto region lies in northeastern Italy and produces more wine than any other region in the country. Veneto’s most famous wine is a style of red called Amarone della Valpolicella, which is classically made from raisinated Corvina, Corvinone, and Rondinella grapes. This deceptively simple Rosso is a blend of Merlot and Corvina, made with slightly overripe grapes to boost the aromatic, flavor, and structural profile of this wine—an Amarone on a budget almost! Tasting Notes: Deliciously fruit-forward with heaps of ripe red and black fruits with just a touch of raisinated qualities. Notes of bittersweet chocolate and dried herbs and spices join in on the nose and reappear on the palate, which, while bold and chewy, nevertheless has silkier tannins and brighter acid than you’d expect. Wonderful with a pasta bolognese or prosciutto-wrapped pork tenderloin!
- Gravel Bar Cabernet Sauvignon 2019: Columbia Valley, Washington$25.00
Grape(s): Cabernet Sauvignon/Petit Verdot/Malbec Region/History Notes: In Columbia Valley, the unique soil types present due to the Missoula Floods during the Ice Age and the many aspects due to the Cascade Mountains create a unique terroir that allows for the cultivation of numerous grapes. With more days of average of sunshine than Napa Valley, red varieties particularly thrive here. The wines produced are big, bold and fruit forward with a great tannin structure and acidity. Gravel Bar is a small estate that was established in 1985. This wine is 92% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Petit Verdot, and 3% Malbec. Tasting Notes: Aromas and flavors of redcurrant, chocolate, black cherry, new leather, vanilla, and cinnamon jump out of the glass and are joined by notes of roses and eucalyptus. The tannins are silky and well integrated into the wine, making this a very approachable Cabernet Sauvignon. Pop, pour, and pair with dark meat kebabs or roasted eggplant over tomato rice!
- Hendry Primitivo 2020: Napa, California$52.00
Grape: Primitivo (AKA Zinfandel/Tribidrag) Zinfandel is another name for the ancient grape variety that is actually native to Croatia. It is thought to have migrated to Italy in the 18th Century where it found its home in Puglia, and is locally called Primitivo. Never did it thrive as much as it did in California, though, where it is called Zinfandel. While all these are genetically identical, there are a smattering of clonal variations that demonstrate their own unique characteristics. This wine is made exclusively with UC Davis Clone 3 Primitivo, taken from an old vine in the heart of Puglia. Hendry is known for producing wines that showcase power and elegance at the same time and this wine is a perfect example. Candied plums and smoked black cherry are dense and concentrated on the plate. The nose is peppery but feminine, and the palate is sumptuous and rich. Pair with braised short ribs over smoked gouda grits!
- Julia James Pinot Noir 2021: California$20.00
Grape: Pinot Noir Region/History Notes: The Opici family has been in the wine business since 1913 and has a tradition of naming their wines in honor of new generations—the Julia James line of wines is named after the 5th generation of the family and brings a focus to two widely-grown grapes in California: Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. The Pinot Noir grapes in this bottling are sourced from Lodi, an AVA in California’s Central Valley famous for its old-vine Zinfandel plantings. Tasting Notes: If you’re looking for a juicy and plush Pinot Noir, look no further! The richness and ripeness of the California fruit is so enticing on the nose, which is decorated with notes of plump red berries along with hints of sweet spice and peat. The palate is just as satisfying with its bursting red fruit flavors, weightiness, and silky tannins. Pair with chicken cordon bleu, or just pop, pour, and enjoy!
- La Torre Brunello di Montalcino 2018: Tuscany, Italy$100.00
Grape: Sangiovese Grosso Region/History Notes: Brunello di Montalcino shows the great heights that Sangiovese can reach when grown in the right place and tended to with the right hands. In 1976, Giuseppe Anania purchased the La Torre property, located in the highest altitude section of the Brunello appellation (approximately 1500 feet above sea level), extending the growing season and producing more elegant, balanced, and complex wines. The estate has further been certified organic since 2015. Tasting Notes: Elegant and effusive—this is my favorite style of Brunello with its more feminine qualities and softer structure. Sour cherry, mulberry, and dried florals on the nose are joined by notes of balsamic, leather, and oak spice on the palate. This is drinking beautifully now with an hour in a decanter to soften its naturally powerful acid and tannin structure, and is delicious paired alongside braised meats or pappardelle with a beef and mushroom ragu.
- Lafazanis "Geometria" Agiorgitiko 2023: Nemea, Peloponnese, Greece$20.00
Grape: Agiorgitiko Region/History Notes: Agiorgitiko (pronounced AH-zhee-or-ZHEE-tee-ko, or AYE-yor-YEE-tee-ko) is one of the most widely planted grape varieties in Greece. Native to Nemea in the northeastern corner of the Peloponnese, Agiorgitiko translates to “St. George’s grape” and takes its name from the historic church in the area. The grape is incredibly versatile and is produced in an array of styles, from rosé and sparkling wines to rich, full-bodied reds. Tasting Notes: This is an Agiorgitiko on the lighter and fruiter side without oak aging, but it’s still beautifully intriguing! Plush and silky with aromas and flavors of red licorice, chewy red fruits, and red flowers—this is a wine that quietly entices. Pair alongside baked chicken thighs with olives and artichokes, or just enjoy on its own
- Lapostolle "Cuvèe Alexandre" Carmenère 2022: Apalta, Colchagua Valley, Chile$34.00
- Lapostolle "Le Petit Clos" 2020: Apalta, Colchagua Valley, Chile$77.00
- Le Fraghe Bardolino 2022: Veneto, Italy$21.00Out of stock
Grapes: Corvina/Rondinella History/Region Notes: Le Fraghe is a tiny winery in Veneto, Italy. Matilde Poggi is the owner and winemaker of this 35 year-old operation and her aim is to make fresh, approachable wines that could be your “house” reds and whites. Bardolino is the name of a small region that makes fresh and light styles of red wines from the same grapes that the traditional Amarone wines are made from: Corvina and Rondinella, but without the wine being raisinated and dense like Amarone. Tasting Notes: Fresh strawberries, herbs, white pepper, and dried flowers abound on the nose, and the wine offers significantly more flavor than the super pale color would lead you to expect. Pair with lighter fare like turkey or even fish!
- Lindes de Remelluri "Viñedos de Labastida" 2019: Rioja, Spain$48.00
Grape: Tempranillo/Garnacha Region/History Notes: Many Rioja wines are made in a very oxidative style, intentionally allowing for oxygen to affect the wine during vinification and aging. This process creates a unique style of red wine, nutty and caramelized on the nose with very silky tannins. While that is the traditional style, more and more producers are starting to shy away from that. Remelluri is king of this new wave in my book! “Viñedos de Labastida” is one of two wines that pay homage to growers outside of the Remelluri property who’ve supplied grapes to the estate—thus the name Lindes, or “borders,” of Remelluri. Labastida is characterized by higher elevations with a later harvest, resulting in aromatic Tempranillo with higher acidity and tannin. Tasting Notes: Tart cherries, cranberries, and licorice all give way to a spicy delicious wine! With velvety tannins, this full bodied wine can be paired with fancy lamb dishes to a meatball marinara sub.
- Lomas del Marqués Tempranillo 2022: Rioja, Spain$12.00
Grape: Tempranillo Region/History Notes: Tempranillo is grown throughout Spain and has many names, but it is most famous for its wines from Rioja, the mountainous region in northern Spain. While Tempranillo is bold and structured and can stand up to lots of oak aging, there are some expressions, like this wine, that are unoaked. This keeps the fruity flavors of the wine at the center of the stage and makes the wine easier to drink even without aging, decanting, or pairing with food! Tasting Notes: This wine is bursting with notes of plums and black cherries immediately upon opening. As you swirl the glass you will notice aromas of smoke, pepper, leather, and even pipe tobacco—all these flavors come from the Tempranillo grape itself since it wasn’t aged in any oak! The finish is dry and tannic but still smooth and easy to drink. Perfect wine to sip with a burger or a cheese & charcuterie board!
- Lubanzi Cinsault 2023: Swartland, South Africa$22.00
Grape: Cinsault Region/History: Lubanzi began as a collaboration between two friends who fell in love with South Africa while backpacking around the country as exchange students. They returned 2 years later and started the winery in 2016 with a mission to not only create delicious and affordable everyday wines, but do so in a way that was environmentally and socially sustainable. They source their fruit from a large collection of growers and give back 50% of the profits of the company to the growers and employees. AND the wines taste amazing! This wine is 100% Cinsault, which is the other parent grape of Pinotage. The vines are 36 years old and dry farmed, which means no additional irrigation. Struggling vines makes for concentrated wines! Tasting Notes: Fresh cherries, raisins, mint and smoke sing out of the glass. Light tannin structure leads to a chewy and light bodied wine that begs for another delicious sip! Pair with BBQ Ribs or chicken kebabs.
- Lucien Crochet "La Croix du Roy" Sancerre Rouge 2016: Loire, France$48.00Out of stock
Grape: Pinot Noir Region/History: Sancerre is primarily known for its flinty, racy, mineral-driven expression of Sauvignon Blanc, but in this bottle you will see what this region can do for Pinot Noir! Sancerre is an ideal place to grow Pinot Noir due to its cooler temperatures and Kimmeridgian limestone soils, and Lucien Crochet is considered one of the top producers in this region. These Pinot Noir grapes are hand-selected from 40+ year old vines to ensure that each bottle is a true expression of the unique terroir of this region. The wines are aged in French oak and are never released until they’re truly ready. Tasting: Take your time with this older wine–it needs a few minutes to open up! With its age the nose presents hints of dried cherry, herbs, and mushrooms. But don’t be fooled as the acid is still very much present and ready to pair with herb-crusted pork roast, or goat cheese with roasted red peppers.
- Lunae Ciliegiolo 2022: Liguria, Italy$46.00
Grape: Ciliegiolo Region/History Notes: Very little of the wine that the thin, crescent-shaped region of Liguria—located in northwestern Italy—produces is exported. The vineyards here are terraced out of the steep, rocky slopes and are incredibly difficult to cultivate, so production is limited. Lunae is Liguria’s largest winery, and their Ciliegiolo is the first varietal wine I have tried from this understated variety, now experiencing a renaissance in its ancestral home of Tuscany as well as here in northwestern Italy. Tasting Notes: Blueberries and crème de cassis, black cherry and iris—you’re completely enveloped in all these fruit and floral notes. There is also this woodsy, earthy quality to the wine, reminiscent of fresh mulch or forest floor right after it has rained, that grounds the buoyant aromatics. With its elegant, fine-grained tannins, tart acidity, and light body, this wine is even better with a slight chill. Pair a risotto with lamb ragu and spring peas.
- Marqués de Cáceres Rioja Gran Reserva 1987: Rioja, Spain$175.00
Grape: Tempranillo/Garnacha/Graciano Region/History Notes: Marqués de Cáceres was founded in 1970 by Enrique Forner, who had worked in the wine trade since boyhood and had purchased two chateaux Grands Crus Classés in Bordeaux in pursuit of his dream of making fine wine. He retuned to Spain in 1968 and settled in the Rioja Alta sub-region of La Rioja, and now with Christina Forner the third generation of the family has turned Marqués de Cáceres into a global name. Their wines are sold in over 120 countries and continuously score over 90 points with each vintage. Tasting Notes: This wine smells and tastes of dried black cherries, dried herbs and spices, and like you dunked a piece of cured leather into a pot of coffee; these are vinous qualities in a wine at their peak! Decant to keep the sediment out of your glass, serve with braised lamb chops over rice pilaf, and have yourself a great night!
- Massucco Barbera d'Alba 2021: Piedmont, Italy$22.00
Grape: Barbera Region/History Notes: Piedmont is home to a plethora of grape varieties, from the esteemed Nebbiolo grape in Barbaresco and Barolo, to the Cortese grape in Gavi, to Barbera—a variety once considered a mere workhorse but nowadays better appreciated for its versatility and approachability. The best expressions of Barbera can be found in the provinces of Alba and Asti, where the light-to-medium bodied wines burst with red fruit flavors and are recognized for their bright acidity and soft tannin structure. Tasting Notes: Imagine you’re walking through a field of violets while snacking on red cherries and red plums—that’s this wine! There’s also a little bit of a leathery and herbaceous quality on both the nose and the palate that grounds the wine. Super versatile for food pairing, whether that’s with grilled salmon, roasted chicken, or pasta Puttanesca!
- Michael Shaps Petit Verdot 2020: Monticello, Virginia$42.00
Grapes: Petit Verdot Region/History Notes: Michael Shaps has been a Virginia Wine consultant for many years now, bouncing back and forth between his vineyards in France, and his work in Virginia. He opened his own winery in the early 2000’s and has been instrumental in the development of Virginia wine making, culture, and education. His wines are always delicious and are my personal favorite of all the local wineries. Petit Verdot is native to France- specifically the Bordeaux region where it is used as a minor blending grape. And while Cabernet Franc certainly has more notoriety in the Virginia wine market, I anticipate Petit Verdot being the next big thing for Virginia. Tasting Notes: Deeply concentrated and inky in color, this rich wine is powerful and commanding. Aged 22 months in French Oak (22% new) the structure is as bold and grippy as the color. Perfect steak wine! Pick a marbleized steak like Ribeye or NY Strip & decant 30 min.
- Natte Valleij "P.O.W." 2018: Simonsberg-Paarl, South Africa$35.00
Grapes: Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot Alexander Milner converted the Natte Valleij estate, previously used for horse breeding, into a winery in 2005, making just 4 barrels of wine. Since then he has achieved fame for his production of lighter-bodied Cinsault, quite the contrast to the big powerhouse Bordeaux- style blends that South Africa is known for. “P.O.W.” is an example of the more classic Cabernet blend but with Alex’s unique twist: highlighting fresher fruit and less oak influence. I’ve had his wines before and loved them, but after meeting him and touring the estate, I’m now a full convert to his ideology. Red currants, roasted red peppers, and cassis dance around on your palate with an almost flirtatious personality! Feminine, softer tannins add structure while keeping the wine approachable. Pair with filet mignon!
- Natte Valleij Cinsault 2021: Coastal Region, South Africa$24.00
Grape: Cinsault Region/History Notes: Natte Valleij was a horse farm until 2005 when Alexander Milner decided to turn the family’s farm back into a winery, going back to its historic roots as a winery over 300 years ago. Alexander’s primary focus is on the grape Cinsault. Cinsault used to be one of the most prolifically grown and reputable red grapes throughout South Africa and is one of the parents of the heritage grape variety, Pinotage (a cross between Cinsault and Pinot Noir). But in recent years, Cinsault has fallen by the wayside and it has all but become forgotten. Alexander loves finding old, stubborn vines of Cinsault that showcase the vines "dogged persistence to exist” as he says! Tasting Notes: This wine is so bright and smoky all at the same time with cranberry, strawberry, and raspberry notes, but a smoked green herb quality to the finish that is so fun. I love this wine with grilled sausages topped with sautéed peppers and onions, or teriyaki grilled chicken.
- Nicosia "Lenza di Munti" Etna Rosso 2018: Sicily, Italy$32.00
Grapes: Nerello Mascalese/Nerello Cappuccio Region/History Notes: Red wines produced under the Etna Rosso DOC must consist of at least 80% Nerello Mascalese, recognized for its pale color but intense structure, and up to 20% Nerello Cappuccio, considered less complex but valued as a blending partner for its deep color. Tasting Notes: If you love both Nebbiolo and Pinot Noir and have ever found yourself wishing there was a wine that brought the best of each together, I have great news for you! This wine is all powerful red fruit and red floral aromatics encased in an elegant package, with everything from cherry, raspberry, and blood orange to wild roses, cumin, coriander seed, and cigar box. The combination of the 3-4 months this wine spends in oak with the several years of age impart a softer and silkier texture, yet the fruit character and acidity are still remarkably fresh. With its dusty tannins and spicy finish, pair this wine with chicken parmesan or a pork roast!
- Nicosia "Lenza di Munti" Nerello Mascalese 2022: Sicily, Italy$21.00
Grape: Nerello Mascalese Region/History: The history of Tenute Nicosia begins in 1898 when Francesco Nicosia opened a wine shop on the eastern slope of Mt. Etna. Over 100 years later, the current generation continues to highlight the indigenous grapes that grow all across Sicily. This bottling is 100% Nerello Mascalese, the most highly-regarded red grape grown in the volcanic vineyards of Mt. Etna. Tasting Notes: This wine initially seems quite feminine with all of these dried strawberries and dried red flowers on the nose, but as you continue to swirl you’ll discover that it actually has a quite masculine backbone with notes of freshly cracked black pepper, roasted red pepper, and tar. Although light in body, the wine is anything but lacking in its depth of spicy flavors and its structure (this baby has some acid and some unexpectedly pronounced tannins!). I’d put the slightest chill on the bottle and pair with caprese salad and a grilled flank steak!
- Nicosia "Sabbie di Sutta" Cerasuolo di Vittoria 2020: Sicily, Italy$32.00
Grapes: Nero d'Avola/Frappato Region/History: When you combine the deep, juicy, and sometimes rustic Nero d’Avola grape with the perky, floral, and pale-colored Frappato grape, you get Sicily’s only DOCG: Cerasuolo di Vittoria. Elevated to DOCG status in 2005, the name of this appellation comes from the Italian word for “cherry-like." This blend from Tenute Nicosia, a family estate that focuses on native Sicilian grapes and dates back to 1898, consists of 60% Nero d’Avola blended with 40% Frappato. Tasting Notes: Spiced, smoky red plums and violets dance with a little aniseed and fennel to make for an elegant and inviting bouquet. I think that the real magic happens on the palate, however, where you can taste how the depth and structure of the Nero d’Avola is counterbalanced by the acidity and brighter character of the Frappato—these two are great partners for a reason! Pair with wood-fired sausage pizza or meatloaf.
- Nicosia "Sabbie di Sutta" Frappato 2022: Sicily, Italy$25.00
Grape: Frappato “Sabbie di Sutta” Frappato Region/History Notes: While the volcanic soils surrounding the higher-elevation vineyards of Mt. Etna produce some of Sicily’s most renowned wines, even wines from lower-lying areas like Vittoria with its more sandy soils are delicious! Frappato was first documented in Sicily in the mid-18th century and today is one of the two most widely-grown red grapes in Vittoria. Recognized for its floral aromatics, bright acidity, and low tannins, it’s sometimes referred to as the “Sicilian Beaujolais” given its similarities to Gamay! Tasting Notes: All the red fruits and red flowers with a sprinkling of white pepper, incense spice, and so. many. cloves! The wine sits so lightly on your palate with flavors of pomegranate seeds and a slightly bitter, floral finish. Pair with antipasti like marinated artichoke hearts and fresh cheeses, or baked penne with roasted vegetables.
- Noble Hill Estate Reserve Red 2020: Simonsberg, South Africa$29.00
Grapes: Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot/ Cabernet Franc/Petit Verdot Region/History: Simonsberg might not be as well known as Stellenbosch in terms of South African wine regions, but the small region that borders Stellenbosch and Paarl creates some beautiful wines grown in the foothills on the Simonsberg Mountains. Ancient decomposed granitic soils provide excellent drainage for the vines, encouraging powerful flavors in their wines. First generation winemaker & proprietor Kristopher Tillery is a master blender, creating elegant, reserved, contemplative wines that are best suited for dinner parties. Tasting Notes: Leather and red currants are braided together with silky tannins and a dry, tobacco-laden finish. The dried herbs and hints of violets add an eccentric lift to the aromatic profile, but to me this wine is savory at its core. Decant and sink into this wine with braised short ribs over blue cheese grits, or a steak and onion sandwich!
- Numa Cornut Volnay Vieilles Vignes 2022: Burgundy, France$99.00
Grape: Pinot Noir Region/History Notes: Numa Cornut, a new-comer to Burgundy, currently farms 3.5 hectares (~8.6 acres) of land across the Côte de Nuits and the Côte de Beaune, and his wines are sourced from vines planted between 1985 and 1992. Volnay lies just south of Pommard in the Côte de Beaune and is often considered the partner to the elegant and feminine styles of wine produced in Chambolle-Musigny in the Côte de Nuits. This bottling spends 9 months in oak before bottling. Tasting Notes: A charming nose of candied red plum, blackcurrant, and lavender buds intertwined with subtle earthy notes of moss and white button mushroom. The fruit-driven palate offers a plush texture, silky tannins, and juicy acidity that keeps the wine light and lifted. Flavors of fresh vanilla and earl grey tea round out the finish. This wine is drinking beautifully now, but will also continue to develop over the next 5 years. Pair with a brie grilled cheese with fig jam!
- Patricia Green 20th Anniversary Cuvée Pinot Noir 2019: Willamette Valley, Oregon$115.00
Grape: Pinot Noir Region/History Notes: Longtime friends Patty Green and Jim Anderson began Patricia Green Cellars in 200. With over 50 years of winemaking experience between them, they’ve produced more individual bottlings of Pinot Noir than any other winery in America, not to mention some of the finest expressions that have come out of the Willamette Valley. This is their 4th designated “Anniversary” bottling and pays homage to Patty Green herself, who passed away shortly after the 2017 harvest. Tasting Notes: Let this wine see at least 30 minutes of air so you can appreciate the beautiful range of aromatics—from dark brambly berries, potpourri, and black tea to forest floor, sassafras, and mushroom, it’s sumptuous and stunning! The palate is just as layered and is firmly structured with tightly-knit tannins and acidity that sets your whole palate alight. Pair with a mushroom and brie grilled cheese with roasted root vegetables.
- Paxton Grenache 2021: McClaren Vale, Australia$37.00Out of stock
Grape: Grenache The Paxton family has been farming here since the ’70s and bottling wines under their own name since 2000. They converted to organic and biodynamic practices, have been certified biodynamic since 2011, and are committed to sustainable viticulture. These old bush vines are located in a vineyard that sits high up on a ridge overlooking the Willunga basin. The higher elevation allows for an elongated growing season and more nuanced, elegant, and complex wines as a result. Candied strawberry aromatics play with distinct notes of fresh eucalyptus and tarragon along with wild roses and brambly fruit. This wine is so lovely with its silky tannins, rich mouthfeel, and finish that lasts way longer than you’d expect! Pair with smoked salmon or curried butternut squash soup.
- Penley "Phoenix" Cabernet Sauvignon 2021: Coonawarra, Limestone Coast, Australia$29.00
Grape: Cabernet Sauvignon Region/History Notes: Coonawara is one of Australia’s most famous and distinctive wine regions. While many wine regions in Australia are designated by general climate and aspect (2 of the components of terroir), Coonawara is designated specifically by soil type. Coonawara lies in the heart of the Limestone Coast of South Australia and is comprised primarily of soft limestone, a result of melting icecaps leaving sedimentary soil deposits in this area. The top layer is reddish-brown as a result of iron-oxide formations in the soil. This iron-rich soil allows red grape varieties to grow quite well in Coonawara—limestone heavy soils without the iron make it hard for red grape varieties to grow and develop fully. Tasting Notes: This wine is bold and fresh with notes of roasted red peppers, red currants, leather, black pepper, and even some wild red roses. This is super tasty paired with savory meatloaf or a char-grilled burger!
- Perillo Taurasi 2010: Campania, Italy$74.00
Grape: Aglianico Aglianico is grown in the volcanic vineyards of Campania and makes some of the most intense wines I have ever tasted. Every aspect of Taurasi is level 12 out of 10: the acid/tannins/fruit/aromatics/finish/structure! I got a chance to tour this area of Campania in 2018 and was amazed by the terroir and history here. In Taurasi you can find some of the oldest vines in the world, planted in the early to mid 1800s, and are grown almost like trees. The soil is straight up volcanic ash that is so powdery it lingers in the air for 20 minutes after being stirred as well as weathered basalt from previous surrounding eruptions. There are 17 villages in Taurasi but the best wines come from the South East Corner where it is higher elevation. After tasting really good Taurasi, you will see why it was declared “The Emperor’s Wine” by the Romans! Always decant and serve with big flavors like game, braised meats, strong cheeses and olives. These can age for 15+ years!
- Philip Togni Tanbark Hill Cabernet Sauvignon 2021: Spring Mountain, Napa, California$135.00
Grape: Cabernet Sauvignon Oh Spring Mountain, how I love thee! Of all the AVAs in Napa, Spring Mountain will forever capture my heart. The austerity of the rugged terrain seems almost ominous, and the fact that the wines have such power, structure, and elegance speaks to the resiliency of these vines. It was traveling to Napa that first made me fall in love with Spring Mountain, and tasting through Philip Togni’s wines over the years has always been a sublime experience. He certainly didn’t get into this business to make the typical Napa Cabs with über extracted fruit. Instead, his wines rival the best of Left Bank Cru Classé Bordeaux. He recommends not touching the Tanbark Hill for 15 years, and having tasted his older vintage wines I agree. But I find that I am impatient, so with 2-3 hours of decanting, the wine sings and my taste buds are in heaven. Just don’t pop and pour!
- Phillipe Alliet "Vieilles Vignes" Chinon 2020: Loire Valley, France$42.00
Grape: Cabernet Franc Region/History: The vineyards of Chinon lie on both sides of the Vienne River. The appellation allows for the production of red, white, and rosé wine, but today, red wine—made from Cabernet Franc—comprises the bulk of production. While Chinon is often defined by its plush and feminine styles of Cabernet Franc, the wines can vary greatly depending on where exactly the grapes are grown. The grapes in this bottling come from 70+ year old vines, the oldest on Philippe Alliet’s property, grown on the gravelly and sandy soils along the banks of the Vienne. Here the wines are known for being lighter and fresher compared to their hillside counterparts on tuffeau limestone. This wine spends 18 months in concrete before bottling. Tasting Notes: Wild raspberry and elderberry dance out of the glass along with notes of violets, lilacs, roasted green pepper, and espresso. Medium-bodied and chewy with a velvety tannin structure, pair this with a filet mignon!
- Poliziano "Asinone" Vino Nobile di Montepulciano 2020: Tuscany, Italy$91.00
Grape: Sangiovese/Canaiolo/Merlot Region/History Notes: Not to be confused with the grape Montepulciano grown in Abruzzo, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano is an appellation in Tuscany based on the Sangiovese grape. The wines of Vino Nobile must comprise at least 70% Sangiovese, locally called Prugnolo Gentile, and can include a maximum 30% of other local Tuscan varietals. They’re often described being halfway between a Chianti and a Brunello—quite the combination if you ask me! This bottling from Poliziano, one of the most recognized producers of Vino Nobile, blends 95% Sangiovese with 5% Canaiolo and Merlot. Tasting Notes: Candied cherry and wild raspberry are framed by notes of cigar box, sweet tobacco, and leather. The palate is vibrant and juicy with well-structured tannins, and there’s a delicious roasted tomato and tea-like quality that carries through from the nose of the wine all the way to the finish. Pair with baked meatballs topped with melted mozzarella and marinara!
- Proprietà Sperino "Uvaggio" Rosso 2019: Coste della Sesia, Piedmont, Italy$47.00
Grape: Nebbiolo/Vespolina/Croatina Region/History Notes: In 1999, Paolo de Marchi, one of Italy’s most respected winemakers behind Isole e Olena in Tuscany, began working with his son Luca to restore their original family cellars in the area of Alto-Piemonte. Vineyards here are nestled in the foothills of the Italian Alps and experience a significantly cooler climate compared to more southerly areas. Deep marine sands characterize the soils and contribute to the production of exciting, aromatic Nebbiolos (often blended with grapes like Vespolina and Croatina). Tasting Notes: After an hour in a decanter, candied orange rind, potpourri, and cherry make for an expressive nose, and these aromas are further enriched by subtle cigar box notes and sweet spices from the 22 months of oak aging. The palate is delightfully fresh with Nebbiolo’s typically powerful tannin structure showing its face, but not overpowering the wine! Pair with a seared duck breast with orange marmalade!
- QUPÉ Grenache 2019: Santa Barbara County, California$40.00
Grape: Grenache Region/History: Santa Barbara County is the southernmost AVA of California’s Central Coast. Uniquely, the valleys of the AVA run east-west rather than north-south, channeling cool ocean breezes and fog inland and allowing for a diversity of both warm and cool-climate grape varieties. QUPÉ belongs to a group of produces that call themselves “Rhône Rangers” and focus on cool-climate expressions of Rhône varietals. Their Grenache undergoes 33% whole cluster fermentation and is aged in for 16 months in French oak barrels, 20% of which are new. Tasting Notes: Big, jammy, and spicy—this wine is not shy about its bold personality! On the nose, ripe mulberries and red plums meet roasted strawberries, geraniums, and cinnamon sticks. The palate is medium-bodied with a well-integrated ripeness of fruit joined by a slight woodsy and roasted spice quality that adds depth to the finish. Perfect wine for BBQ ribs or brisket!
- R. Lopez de Heredia "Viña Bosconia" 2012: Rioja, Spain$52.00
Grape: Tempranillo/Garnacha/Mazuelo/Graciano Region/History Notes: Rioja Alta is the premier region within Rioja that produces some of the longest living wines of Spain. The R. Lopez Heredia family has been operating for close to 150 years and is considered one of the most iconic wineries of Rioja, nestled in the heart of the village of Haro. The wines focus on estate fruit, with attention to every detail along the way. The Bosconia Reserva was aged for 5 years in oak. Despite being over a decade old, this wine is relatively young and could be aged for another 10 years if stored correctly. Tasting Notes: Ruby red, bordering garnet coloring with an immediate woodsy, pipe tobacco-laden nose. Cranberries and raspberries come out with air along with blue fruits and a smoky, caramelized finish. The wine is linear, focused, and masculine and will definitely benefit from decanting. Serve with hard cheeses, braised meats, lamb, or even gamier meats like bison!
- Rasa Vineyards "Occam's Razor" Red 2021: Columbia Valley, Washington$27.00
Cabernet Sauvignon/Syrah/and lots more! History/Region Notes: While Syrah vineyards were the first planted by Billo and Pinto, they also grow other Rhône varieties, like Mourvèdre and Grenache, along with Bordeaux varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, and Petit Verdot. And just because Washington State can grow virtually any grape variety well, there is a smattering of Tempranillo planted as well. Combine all these together and you get the best red blend ever for everyday drinking. Tasting Notes: I have been featuring Occam’s Razor red blend for years and never tire of the rich, chocolatey fruit, bright finish and aromatics, and velvety texture. Great with burgers, crockpot roast beef, paninis, or dark chocolate covered cherries for movie night.
- Remelluri "Granja Remelluri" Gran Reserva 2012: Rioja, Spain$130.00
Grape: Tempranillo/Garnacha/Graciano Remelluri's current form took shape in 1967 when it was purchased by Jaime Rodríguez Salís. In 2010, his son and daughter, Telmo and Amaia, took over, acquiring full organic certification and turning their attention to the potential of their historic vineyards and estate-grown fruit. The high-elevation sites (500-950m), stony soils, cooling Atlantic breezes, and diurnal shifts on the property create a prolonged growing season, resulting in the complex, nuanced “mountain” wines that have come to define Remelluri. The “Granja Remelluri” Gran Reserva begins in the vineyard, with Telmo often selecting the oldest vines from the highest elevations on the property. Produced only in the best vintages, the wine is aged extensively in both large foudres and in bottle until the team feels it is ready for release. Receiving 96 points from James Suckling and 94 points from Wine Advocate, the 2012 Gran Reserva has the potential to age for an additional decade.
- Remhoogte "Sir Thomas Cullinan" 2018: Simonsberg-Stellenbosch, South Africa$54.00
Grapes: Merlot/Cabernet Sauvignon History/Region Notes: Named for their great grandfather who discovered the world’s largest uncut diamond here in South Africa, now in the Queen’s crown, who knighted Cullinan as thanks. Winemaker Chris Boustred always makes impressive reds, but this wine is my favorite red of them all! Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon blended together that is so reminiscent of Right Bank Bordeaux, but is also uniquely South African in personality with its vivacious fruits and hints of smoke and herbs. Tasting Notes: Pungent and powerful red fruits and assertive but velvety tannins, this wine is power and beauty all rolled up together! Red licorice, red currants, red cherries, red plums with a distinct “leather chair in a dusty library with cedar shelves” quality. Decant for 45 min and pair with roasted duck breast, lamb chops, or washed rind cheeses. Don’t be afraid to age this wine for 10 years.
- Remhoogte "Vantage" Pinotage 2020: Simonsberg-Stellenbosch, South Africa$25.00Out of stock
Grape: Pinotage History/Region Notes: Pinotage is indeed the name of the grape! It was created in a lab in South Africa in 1925 as a cross between Pinot Noir and Cinsault (known back then as Hermitage). Most grapes are crosses that happen naturally in the vineyards over many, many years, but this was an intentional cross by scientist Abraham Perold. I find that many Pinotage labels exported to the United States can be pretty rough around the edges, but Remhoogte is all polish and class! Tasting Notes: Dusty tannins, with loads of smoky, brambly blackberries, red plums, and a peppery/spicy finish. The woodsy qualities are all balanced by the bold, rich fruits in a rustic but elegant way. Pair with short ribs over blue cheese grits, or French dip sandwiches.
- Rippa Dorii Crianza 2020: Ribera del Duero, Spain$27.00
Grape: Tempranillo Region/History Notes: Ribera del Duero is right next to Rueda in Central Spain, but only makes red wine from Tempranillo, versus Rueda which only makes white wine generally from Viura and Verdejo. This high-elevation region with huge shifts in temperature between day to night creates some fantastic wines that have lots of tension and personality. Crianza means the wine was aged for a minimum of 2 years, one year of which has to be in oak. This wine spends 12 months in oak, 30% American and 70% French, all of which is new or just 1 year old, imparting lots of flavor and texture to the wine! Tasting Notes: Bold flavors of stewed plums laced with pipe tobacco and leather and a bright pop of red cherry to add lift to this deeply flavored wine. The finish is savory with flavors of dried herbs and olives and it will pair wonderfully with olive tapenade or braised short ribs served with caramelized carrots.
- Rock Ferry Trig Hill Vineyard Pinot Noir 2020: Central Otago, New Zealand$71.00
Grape: Pinot Noir Region/History: Central Otago, the southernmost wine region in the world at 45-degrees latitude south of the equator, saw its first example of Pinot Noir produced in 1987. Now accounting for over 75% of production, the grape thrives in Central Otago’s semi-continental climate conditions with significant diurnal temperature variation and low-fertility soils. The Trig Hill Vineyard is located on the north-facing, semi-arid slopes of Bendigo Hills. Fermentation includes 15% whole bunches, and the wine is gently pressed into French oak barriques and puncheons—35% new—for 16 months before bottling. Tasting Notes: Decant this wine for an hour and watch it sing! Burgundian in style, it’s delightfully mushroomy on the nose with notes of blood orange, cherry, green herbs, and baking spice. The palate is focused and acid-driven, showing that the wine could easily age for another 10+ years if you’re patient! Or enjoy now with brie to accentuate the fruit!
- Sass Walnut Ridge Vineyard Gamay 2021: Willamette Valley, Oregon$33.00
Grape: Gamay Region/History Notes: The Willamette Valley is known for Pinot Noir, but Gamay also does well here, making styles reminiscent of Fleurie, Morgon, and Moulin-À-Vent in Beaujolais! Less than 10% of the Willamette is planted to Gamay, but plantings have been on the rise in recent years--particularly in the Southern Willamette Valley with its warmer climate and more clay-based soils. Tasting Notes: On the one side of the wine there is all of this intense black cherry fruit, and then on the other side there are all of these earthy, peppery, and distinctly green and stemmy qualities. The palate is juicy and bright with pops of blueberry and blackberry harmoniously integrated with the wine’s woodsier qualities. Medium-bodied with lively acidity and delicate tannin, open a bottle of this the next time you find yourself doing a roast chicken dinner with garlic and rosemary potatoes!
- Skylark "Red Belly" 2019: Mendocino, California$28.00Out of stock
Grape(s): Syrah/Carignane/Grenache Region/History Notes: Winemakers John Lancaster and Robert Perkins make wines that reflect their palates, so they’re always switching things up at at Skylark! In Mendocino, the top appellation, Anderson Valley, is among the coolest of California’s wine regions and is known for Pinot Noir. Further inland, however, the climate warms and you’ll find Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, and Syrah. John and Robert have currently been inspired by the wines of the Rhône Valley; “Red Belly” is their ode to the Southern Rhône and is is a blend of 45% Syrah, 32% Carignane, and 23% Grenache. Tasting Notes: On the nose, luscious red fruit notes are folded into layers of violets, cocoa powder, and red licorice along with a hint of black pepper and sweet spice. The palate offers up plush red fruits with soft acidity and chewy tannins. The perfect easy-drinking bottle for weeknight dinners—think chicken enchiladas, panko-breaded pork chops, or stuffed bell peppers!
- St. Innocent Temperance Hill Vineyard Pinot Noir 2018: Eola-Amity Hills, Willamette Valley, Oregon$56.00
Grape: Pinot Noir In Willamette Valley there are two primary soil types: Marine Sedimentary and Jory Volcanic. Temperance Hill is all Jory Volcanic soil that has high contents of montmorillonite clay. This specific type of clay acts like a rain boot to the vine roots, literally trapping standing water away from the roots, so the vine acts like it is under water stress even if there is lots of water availability. It forces the vine to focus its energy on production of fruit. It is because of the vine’s struggle to survive and procreate that we find the most powerfully expressive flavors in the berries and thus in the wine. That, and a kick-ass winemaker who helped create the market for single-vineyard Pinot Noirs in Willamette! Don’t be afraid to get some air in this wine, even a 30 min decant will be helpful! Watch and see as the verve, tension, and grip that are all so vibrant at first sip turn into layers upon layers of sultry black and red fruits and forest floor!
- Stefano Occhetti Langhe Nebbiolo 2021: Piedmont, Italy$40.00
Grape: Nebbiolo Region/History Notes: Stefano, of the Stefano Occhettti Winery, only produced his first vintage in 2019, but he has since become a winemaker to look out for in Piedmont! He works entirely by hand on steep, terraced vineyards in Roero and his wines are incredibly small production—only about 12,000 bottles produced per year! Stefano's Langhe Nebbiolo is produced from exclusively Roero grapes, and the wine ages for 7-8 months in used tonneaux prior to bottling. Tasting Notes: I love how this wine captures the more feminine qualities of Nebbiolo! The nose is perfumed with waves of wild strawberry and cherry, fresh rose, and just the slightest hint of fig jam. The tannins are firm as you’d expect of the grape, but well-integrated rather than harsh. The fresh, juicy character of the wine and its overall approachability make this a great “gateway” Nebbiolo, especially if you’re currently a Pinot Noir or Gamay lover! Grab a bottle of this and a cheese board!
- Stolpman Vineyards "So Fresh" Red 2022: California$36.00
Grape: Grenache/Gamay/Trousseau Region/History Notes: The Ballard Canyon AVA belongs to the broader Santa Ynez Valley—itself further part of Santa Barbara County on California’s Central Coast. This AVA was chosen to be the focus of Stolpman Vineyards 20+ years ago due to its unique outcropping of limestone soils and its unobstructed position to the winds of the Pacific. Their “So Fresh” label highlights a less extracted style of wine where the grapes undergo whole cluster fermentation and see no added sulfur. Tasting Notes: Bursting with high-toned red fruits and blooming with red flowers, follow the instructions on the bottle & serve this wine with a slight chill to let it best express itself. And don’t be deceived, this isn’t just a tutti-frutti bottle of juice—there’s a savory, stony depth on the palate in addition to a well-defined acid and tannin structure that frames all the fruit. Pair with BBQ chicken sandwiches!
- Tenuta DeAngelis Montepulciano d'Abruzzo 2021: Abruzzo, Italy$17.00
Grape: Montepulciano History/Region Notes: I have now featured EVERY WINE that this producer has available in the US! There are very few producers that I trust this much especially in this price range, but they knock it out of the park. This boutique producer does everything 100% organically and has vineyards in Abruzzo and Marche (just south of Abruzzo) along the Adriatic Sea, which keeps the climate mild. The Montepulciano grape (pronounced mont-eh-pull-chi-AH-no) is not to be confused with the village of Montepulciano in Tuscany which is known for its Sangiovese grapes—confusing, I know! Tasting Notes: Every Montepulciano should have chewy plums with pops of pepper, red flowers, and a smoky finish and this wine has it in spades. Medium bodied and fruit-forward with a rustic structure, this is my Stromboli wine, my pair with all the leftovers wine, my grilled ham and cheese sandwiches wine, and my drink-it-because-I-need-a-glass-of-red wine!
- Tenuta delle Terre Nere "Feudo di Mezzo: Il Quadre delle Rose" Etna Rosso 2021: Sicily, Italy$71.00
Grape(s): Nerello Mascalese/Nerello Cappuccio The incredibly high elevation and cool vineyards on the north-facing side of Mt. Etna (a still active volcano) make some of the most complex and intriguing wines in all of Italy. The producer of this wine, Marc de Grazia, first began the process of Cru Designation on Etna in the 1980s. Small individual parcels (crus) within vineyards are now designated based on their specific terroir. Terre Nere makes all of their cru wines with the same winemaking techniques, so it is only the terroir that makes the flavors so different. This particular wine has verve and tension wrapped up in elegance and finesse. Red cherry and brambly fruit with grippy tannins, pencil shavings minerality, and a perfumed aromatics—all the flavors continue to develop and change the longer the wine is opened. Drink or hold 10 years. Decant and serve with pasta/braised meats.
- Tenuta delle Terre Nere Etna Rosso Calderara Sottana Vecchie Vigne 2020: Sicily, Italy$72.00
Grapes: Nerello Mascalese/Nerello Cappuccio Region/History Notes: The incredibly high elevation and cool vineyards on the north-facing side of Mt. Etna (a still active volcano) make some of the most complex and intriguing wines in all of Italy. The producer of this wine, Marc de Grazia, first began the process of Cru Designation on Etna in the 1980's. Small individual parcels (crus) within the vineyards are now designated based on their specific terroir. Terre Nere makes all of their single cru wines with the same winemaking techniques so it is only the terroir that makes the flavors so different. Tasting Notes: This particular wine has verve and tension wrapped up in elegance and finesse. Red cherry and brambly fruit with grippy tannins, pencil shaving-minerality, and perfumed aromatics--all the flavors continue to develop and change the longer the wine is opened. Drink or hold 10 years. Decant and serve with pasta/braised meats.
- Tenuta delle Terre Nere Prephylloxera "La Vigna di Don Peppino" Calderara Sottana Etna Rosso 2021: Sicily, Italy$190.00
- Tenuta Dettori "Renosu" Rosso NV: Sardinia, Italy$26.00
Grape: Cannonau (AKA Grenache) Region/History Notes: Sardinian Cannonau has another name you might more readily recognize: Grenache as it’s known in France, or Garnacha as it’s known in Spain. The variety is late-ripening and thrives in hot and dry climates like those on the island of Sardinia, and recent research suggests that the grape could very well be native to the island. The Dettori family has been making wine in Sardinia since the early 1900s. They work organically and biodynamically with exclusively local varieties, and avoid oak use in favor of concrete vats. Tasting Notes: Sultry red fruits and red floral notes waltz from the glass. The palate is plush and silky, with the ripeness of fruit balanced by a hoisin-like savoriness on the finish. This is a red wine that you can easily pair with spicier foods—whether that’s a spicy seafood pasta in a vodka sauce, or a piece of chili chocolate to end your night!
- The Fableist #774 Pinot Noir 2022: Santa Barbara County, California$27.00
Grape: Pinot Noir Region/History Notes: Andrew Jones strikes again! Every project he gets involved in is a smashing hit for flavor and value. This project, The Fableist Wine Co. is out of Paso Robles and explores classic and not-so-classic varieties. The purpose is to make delicious, everyday drinking wines. The Fable #774 says, “When time spins swiftly and the temptation to rush arises, heed the Fabulist’s warning: quick and shoddy work befits little praise while time spent in pursuit of quality and craftsmanship endures and delights.” So when you feel the need to rush take a deep breath, open this bottle, drink and enjoy the quality and craftsmanship! Tasting Notes: As soon as you pour this wine all of the tart cherries, strawberries and cranberries with just a hint of minerality swirl out of the class bringing with it the promise of what’s to come! The acid and approachable tannins make me want to enjoy this glass with grilled salmon and scalloped potatoes.
- Thelema "Rabelais" 2020: Stellenbosch, South Africa$99.00
Grapes: Cabernet Sauvignon/Petit Verdot Thelema is a true mountain winery, established in the mid 80s by Gyles Webb, who knew the potential this land had before it was ever even planted with the first vine. Francois Rabelais was a 16th century French writer whose first novel describes an abbey in the Loire named “Thélème” whose only rule was “do what thou wilt!” This, their top bottling, pays homage to Rabelais. Tasting Notes: Pungent and brooding, this is a deep wine that builds to a crescendo as it opens. Bursting with black currant, licorice, leather, spice, and freshly cut cedar, the tannins are assertive, but refined, the finish lengthy but not overpowering, the structure is bold, but graceful, I am absolutely in love with this wine! I cannot wait to see how it ages, I will be putting a few bottles down to open throughout the next 2 decades for sure. Decant if you are drinking this young, but if you can be patient, wait and see how much more beautiful this wine becomes!
- Thelema Cabernet Sauvignon 2019: Stellenbosch, South Africa$40.00Out of stock
Grape: Cabernet Sauvignon I got the chance to chat with Gyles Webb, founder and OG winemaker of Thelema until well into the night, opening bottle after bottle. Towards the end of the night I asked about how his wines have aged over the years—his first vintage was 1988 so he’s had some practice! He said he’d rather me decide for myself and opened up a 1995 Cabernet Sauvignon. None other than the same label as this wine, just a different vintage! It was absolutely incredible and I was blown away at how a Cab at this price-point could age so well for so long. But Gyles is known all around the world for his impeccable palate and his wines have always scored top points from the beginning. This wine transports you to Bordeaux with its leathery, tobacco-laden base notes and red bell pepper high tones. The tannins are firm and assertive, but still approachable and the finish lasts for decades… speaking of, I will be buying a case to lay down and enjoy for years to come!
- Thelema Shiraz 2018: Stellenbosch, South Africa$30.00
Grape: Shiraz Thelema is truly a mountain winery! The massive Simonsberg Mountains that surround the winery are not only an impressive backdrop, but they also provide a unique terroir and micro-climate. Established in 1983 by Gyles Webb (who left his job as an accountant to venture into wine), everything had to be started from scratch from the vineyard to the winery. The first vintage was released in 1988—a Riesling actually since those were the only vines Gyles had access to buy at the time! Now known for Chardonnay, Syrah, and Cabernet Sauvignon, Gyles is still very much a part of the winery’s ins and outs, but the wines are being made by his protégée. Silky and brooding at the same time, this beautiful Shiraz is more reminiscent of a French Syrah with its savory, peppery, and briny qualities. Pair with cheese and salami though and the cherry, plums, and violets come out in full force!
- Thibault Liger-Belair Nuits-Saint-George 1er Cru Les Saints Georges 2019: Burgundy, France$260.00
Grape: Pinot Noir While Nuits-Saint-George does not possess any Grand Cru vineyards, the Premier Cru vineyard of “Les Saint Georges” is the closest thing to a Grand Cru as is to be found in Nuits-Saint-George. Domaine Thibault Liger-Belair dates back to the 18th century with the creation of Companies C.Marey and Comte Liger-Belair in 1720, who took part strictly in wine growing and trading until Thibault took over and created the actual Domaine in 2001. He has since earned international acclaim for his Pinot Noirs, which are characterized by low-intervention methods—the domaine is certified organic, practicing biodynamic, and Thibault adds little sulfur during the winemaking process—and a precise oak regime of no more than 50% new barrels, but also no barrels over three years old. Thibault’s 2019 vintage received a rating of 96 points from Decanter, 93-95 points from Vinous, and 17/20 from Jancis Robinson. Drink from 2029 onwards. This wine will only get better with time!
- Tourelle de TerreBonne Coteaux du Pont du Gard Rouge 2021: Languedoc, France$20.00Out of stock
Grapes: Merlot/Syrah Region/History: You don’t often see Merlot listed as a primary grape variety in Southern France; it is definitely more famous in the Bordeaux region. But Merlot and Syrah are often blended together in Washington State—I call it the ‘Bordeurhone Blend’—and I think more producers should highlight this delightful pairing! Merlot can thrive almost anywhere and it gives a plush, juicy core to the rustic, savory and peppery qualities of Syrah. Tasting Notes: This wine is so juicy! The mouthfeel is rich with generous fruit; you can tell that the vines are supremely happy in the sun-drenched region of the Coteaux du Pont du Gard, located at the meeting of Languedoc and Provence on the Mediterranean coast. It is easy to grow organically here since the dry summers and well-draining, sandy soils virtually eliminate the need for many herbicides and pesticides. Pair with mac n’ cheese topped with pulled pork and smoky barbecue sauce.
- Two Mountain Winery "Brothers" Reserve Cabernet Franc 2017: Yakima Valley, Washington State$95.00
Grape: Cabernet Franc Patrick and Matt Rawn come from 4 generations of Yakima Valley farmers, and when their family acquired their first vineyard in 2000, the brothers were enlisted as the forklift operators and tractor drivers. Six years later, the brothers purchased the vineyard from their family and officially initiated their winemaking venture. The “Brothers Reserve” label is a nod to Patrick and Matt’s early days of blending when they would each make a list of their favorite barrels of wine, and whichever barrels made the list would go into the blend. Today, this collection of wines continues to represent their favorite barrels of single-varietal wine from their estate vineyard sites with more extended aging. The Cabernet Franc from this label spends around 3 years aging in 100% New French oak barrels and is incredibly small production—usually less than 45 cases are produced each vintage! Enjoy with an hour in a decanter, or cellar for 10 years.
- Two Mountain Winery "Brothers" Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2018: Yakima Valley, Washington State$95.00
Grape: Cabernet Sauvignon Patrick and Matt Rawn come from 4 generations of Yakima Valley farmers, and when their family acquired their first vineyard in 2000, the brothers were enlisted as the forklift operators and tractor drivers. Six years later, the brothers purchased the vineyard from their family and officially initiated their winemaking venture. The “Brothers Reserve” label is a nod to Patrick and Matt’s early days of blending when they would each make a list of their favorite barrels of wine, and whichever barrels made the list would go into the blend. Today, this collection of wines continues to represent their favorite barrels of single-varietal wine from their estate vineyard sites with more extended aging. Just 24 cases of their 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon was produced, sourced from their original Copeland Vineyard with 35 months of aging in 100% New French oak. Decant for 1-2 hours or hold onto the bottle for another 10+ years!
- Unico Zelo "Truffle Hound" 2021: South Australia$29.00
- Vatan Tinta de Toro 2020: Toro, Spain$58.00
Grape: Tempranillo Region/History Notes: Toro is nestled on the western side of Spain near the border with Portugal. The region is known for its red wines produced from Tempranillo, here called Tinta de Toro, a specific clone known for its thicker skins and higher phenolics that produce more deeply colored and concentrated wines. Tasting Notes: Tempranillo is quite the chameleon grape that can display an array of qualities depending on the clone, the growing region, and the winemaking method—and this wine proves it! It’s Spanish Tempranillo … for California Cabernet Sauvignon lovers! The aromas are fruity, bold, and practically hedonistic in character with all of these jammy cherry and blackberry notes that are folded into layers of purple flowers, vanilla, and black licorice. The fruit is mouth coating and full on the palate, joined by a little sweet tobacco and black pepper. The tannins are bold, chewy, and beg for food—think ribeye or lamb shanks!
- Villa Le Corti Chianti Classico 2021: Tuscany, Italy$27.00Out of stock
Grapes: Sangiovese/Colorino In medieval times, the towns of Florence and Siena were vying for control of the Chianti Classico zone. Each selected a knight and a rooster, and the goal was that their rooster would wake up first. From there, each knight would set off towards the other’s town, and wherever they met would be where the Chianti Classico boundary was drawn. Siena selected a white rooster and thought that keeping it full would encourage it to wake up first, while Florence selected a black rooster and thought that starving it would encourage it to wake up earlier. Florence proved to have the better strategy and acquired most of the Chianti Classico zone, so now you'll always find a black rooster on Chianti Classico! A brighter, fruit-forward style with red cherry and balsamic-glazed strawberries laced with notes of purple flowers, mocha, and pink peppercorns, and fresh green herbs. The palate is plush with juicy acidity and fine-grained tannins. Pair with homemade moussaka!
- Villa Maria "Ngakirikiri" Cabernet Sauvignon 2019: Gimblett Gravels, Hawkes Bay, New Zealand$122.00
Grape(s): Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot Region/History Notes: Gimblett Gravels is a tiny appellation within Hawkes Bay on New Zealand’s North Island. This wine is named“Ngakirikiri” after the gravelly terrain in this area, deposited by the Ngaguroro river that defines Gimblett Gravels—perfect soils for Cabernet Sauvignon! The 2019 vintage consists of 95% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Merlot. The wine spends 18 months aging in French barrique, 60% of which are new. Tasting Notes: A perfumed bouquet of red currants and cherries along with licorice and red flowers—all with an underlying layer of graphite, baking chocolate, and a hint of black olive. The palate explodes with fresh fruit flavors, like you just plucked red plums and boysenberries from the plants themselves! Velvety in texture thanks to the Merlot, this wine is gorgeous now with an hour in a decanter now and a ribeye, but it could also age for another 15 years if you’re patient!
- Vincent Paris Cornas "Granit 30" 2020: Northern Rhône, France$55.00
Grape: Syrah Region/History: Vincent Paris, co-president of the Cornas appellation, has a long and celebrated family history in the region, yet he remains one of the Rhône’s lesser known producers. His wines however are bold, powerful, and hold up just fine center-stage! The “Granit 30” label refers to the granitic soils of these vineyards and 30 is the average gradient slope of the vineyard from which this wine is made. At about 1000 ft elevation and with intense pruning practices to dramatically reduce yield, this wine is dense, structured, and muscular even though it is his more approachable label. Tasting Notes: With 30 minutes minimum in a decanter, you’ll start to find notes of black pepper and olives that open up into crushed violets, damson plum, and black cherry. The tannins are firm but silky and the finish lasts for decades as it starts savory and turns into candied fruits with bursts of pink peppercorn. Pair this with lamb chops!
- Vino Culture Private Label Wine$45.00
Grape: Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot/Cabernet Franc/Petit Verdot/Syrah **Non-Profit Wine! $10 of every bottle is donated to Norfolk CASA (court appointed special advocates for children) Rasa Vineyards is my favorite winery in Washington State and so I was honored to be able to offer their wine as my own private label. The wine is a blend of all the ‘big-boy’ red grape varieties and can easily cellar and age well for 10+ years. But I recommend celebrating today and drinking the wine! Decant for 1-2 hours and enjoy the wine with a great Ribeye! The label was painted by local artist, Amy Twisdale (www.amytwizart.com) who worked many years with CASA herself.
- Viña Cobos "Felino" Malbec 2022: Mendoza, Argentina$26.00
Grape: Malbec Region/History Notes: While Malbec is native to France, it has really found its home in Mendoza, Argentina. In 1853 Frenchman and grape expert Michel Aimé Pouget was invited to Argentina to help develop the country’s wine industry. Pouget brought with him a cluster of noble French grapes, Malbec among them. Malbec thrives in Mendoza’s arid climate and high-elevation vineyard sites where it can achieve full ripeness while maintaining structural balance. Tasting Notes: Don’t think rustic, earthy, and masculine for this wine—think heavenly ripe fruit! It smells like every kind of red, black, and blue fruit alongside warm vanilla bean (courtesy of 9 months in French oak) and just the right amount of smoke and pepper. Its silky, well-integrated tannins and complementary acidity make this perfect for pairing with steaks or just sipping while snacking on smoked Gouda cheese!
- Viña Gonzàlez Bastías "Matorral" País 2019: Maule Valley, Central Valley, Chile$29.00
Grape(s): País Region/History: Daniela Lorenzo and Jose Luis Gonzales Bastias are the couple behind one of Chile’s oldest family-owned País vineyards. They farm 4 hectares of País, which is believed to have been planted in 1815! Located in the Western Maule Valley, the soil is comprised of river stones and granite which adds depth to the old vine País wines. They practice organic farming and use a wooden grid called a “zaranda” to de-stem the grapes before fermentation. The wine is aged in Chilean Rauli wood for 12 months before bottling. Tasting Notes: Aromas of candied elderberry and blackcurrant dominate the glass with an invigorating eucalyptus undertone. This light- bodied wine is powerfully structured with balanced acid, medium tannins, and flavors of toasted oak, blackberries, and portobello mushrooms on the palate. If you like light- bodied reds, this País might be the perfect wine for you! Pair with grilled meats or shawarma.
- Wade Cellars "Three By Wade" Cabernet Sauvignon 2020: California$36.00
Grape: Cabernet Sauvignon Region/History Notes: When celebrities get involved in wine it often makes me nervous. I am afraid the wine will be mediocre and there will be a crazy rush in demand as people are anxious to try something just because of the name behind it. How pleasant was my surprise when I tasted the wines by Dwyane Wade! So, not only is he an incredible athlete with world-class talent on the court, he obviously has talent in the vineyard and winery as well! Wade teamed up with Jayson Pahlmeyer for this project, and I can’t wait to get this in your glass! I also can’t wait to see what else this dynamic duo has in store for us in the future! Tasting Notes: This Cabernet is the perfect balance of California fruit with bold aromatics and structure, and an elegance that took me by surprise! The tannins are silky and the palate is velvety without being too rich. I definitely loved seeing this develop in the decanter, so pour and wait--this wine is worth it!
- Ch. La Rame Bordeaux Rouge 2020: Bordeaux, France$27.00
- Hundred Suns Syrah 2021: The Rocks District, Oregon$62.00
- Remhoogte "Chronicle" Cape Blend 2020: Simonsberg-Stellenbosch, South Africa$19.00
Grapes: Merlot/Shiraz/Pinotage/Cabernet Sauvignon Region/History Notes: Remhoogte winery is run by brothers Rob and Chris Boustred and is nestled in the mountainous region of Simonsberg-Stellenbosch, about an hour’s drive from the coast. The region is very dry and hot during the summer, allowing for maximum ripeness for all their grapes. But much cooler night temperatures maintain natural acidity in the grapes, making for powerful but elegantly structured wines. This red blend is a mix of 19 vineyard blocks within Remhoogte’s 55 hectare estate and is 45% Merlot with the rest of the wine a blend of Shiraz, Pinotage, and Cabernet Sauvignon. This wine is a perfect everyday sipper if you love bold reds! Tasting Notes: Red currants and leather with notes of roasted herbs and even a bit of chocolate on the end, this wine has a lot going on! Let it breathe and pair with juicy burgers.
White Wine
- Albert Boxler Pinot Gris 2020: Alsace, France$57.00
Grape: Pinot Gris Albert Boxler’s family winemaking traditions in Alsace date back to 1673, but it wasn’t until 1946 that the wines were bottled under the name “Albert Boxler.” Considered one of the greatest producers of Alsatian wines, the Boxler family is as traditional as it comes in the region. They do not experiment or work with innovative technologies; instead, they favor the traditional methods of expressing the local grapes. Their wines are hauntingly delicious and can age for decades as a result of intense care taken at every step of the process. Pinot Gris, native to this area of France, has been known to be cloyingly sweet, sticky on the palate and a little oily, but never Boxler’s Pinot Gris! Instead, Albert Boxler’s wines are the epitome of what I want in Alsatian wines: elegance, brilliant clarity of fruit, power, restrained ripeness, purity of structure, and incredibly long life-span! Age for 5-10 years or drink now, but decant and serve at 55 degrees.
- Avantis Estate "Lenga" Gewürztraminer 2020: Evia, Greece$23.00
Grape: Gewürztraminer Region/History Notes: Evia is the second largest island of Greece and white wine typically dominates production in this area. Greek wine production is changing dramatically in recent years with equal parts traditional and modern/international winemaking styles. Avantis Estate makes both styles! So while Gewürztraminer is not native to Greece, it grows so well in this Mediterranean climate with warm summers, very little rain, and thus little disease pressure. Tasting Notes: Don’t let the front label fool you--it might say ‘off dry white wine’ but this definitely does not come across as sweet! Floral, definitely! Rich and nuanced, for sure! But dry! White roses and fresh lilies are abundant on the nose, but there is a savory, spicy component to the aromatics as well. Nutmeg and ginger laced with lychee and pineapple with this heady, exotic wine! Its bright acidity is rare for this grape and makes it perfect to pair with Thai food that has a hint of spice.
- Backsberg Chenin Blanc 2022: Stellenbosch, South Africa$20.00
Grape: Chenin Blanc Meeting Backsberg’s winemaker of 22 years, Alicia Rechner, was an incredible experience! She was the only female winemaker I met while traveling through the country, and such a pillar in the community! Her commitment to sustainable practices, quality wines, and ethical business practices fits perfectly into the ethos of the Backsberg family farm. Chenin Blanc is native to France, but it found its second home in South Africa, where it thrived in a new way. Now South Africa grows most of the world’s Chenin, where it is the country’s widest-planted variety! Locally called “Steen,” it is made in a host of styles from light and refreshing like this bottling, to rich and nuanced with oak aging. Tasting Notes: Honeycrisp apple and Asian pear notes are found in abundance in this bright and easy-drinking Chenin. Hints of sage and rosemary add depth and fresh spring blossoms lift the wine’s aromatics. Perfect for pairing with goat cheese and beet salads!
- Backsberg Family Reserve White 2017: Stellenbosch, South Africa$50.00
- Barbadillo "Castillo de San Diego" Palomino Fino 2021: Cádiz, Andalucía, Spain$15.00
Grape: Palomino History/Region Notes: Bodegas Barbadillo is a historic winery and a leading producer for Sherry. They have been around since the 1820's and have cultivated quite the global reputation for quality wines. Cádiz is situated right in the Andalucía region of Southern Spain that is known for its sandy soils and warm climate. Palomino is considered a neutral grape, not adding a lot of its own aromatics and flavors, so it's perfect to use as a base wine and build into fortified sherry. But, more producers are experimenting with unfortified expressions of the grape. When made like this, it can be the perfect backdrop to bring out flavors of your foods, especially seafood, since it’s textural, but not naturally highly aromatic or rich in flavor. Tasting Notes: I absolutely love the salty, zesty, vibrant personality of this wine- it is so refreshing! Pair with oysters, crab dip, po-boy sandwiches or just a bowl of popcorn!
- Belle Pente Pinot Gris 2018: Willamette Valley, Oregon$28.00
Grape: Pinot Gris Region/History Notes: Belle Pente was established in 1994, the beginning of the Oregon wine renaissance. Focusing on Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, and Chardonnay from their 70 acres of estate vineyards, they make exceptional wines with more of an Old World flair. This particular bottling is the current release—they always hold back their Pinot Gris longer to allow for a fuller expression and more complexity of flavors. Picked at peak ripeness, fermented partially in oak, and aged for one year on the lees, this wine is bold in flavor and beautifully structured. Tasting Notes: Honeycomb, candied ginger, bruised pineapple, and brown pear--the aromas are deep and sensuous, inviting you into the mix of earthiness and ripe fruit. The palate is silky and dynamic with hints of nutmeg and cinnamon. This beautiful wine is best served closer to 55-60 degrees and would be a lovely pairing with grilled pork chops or miso-glazed chicken thighs!
- Black Elephant Vintners "The Power of Love" Chenin Blanc 2023: Swartland, South Africa$24.00Out of stock
Grape: Chenin Blanc Region/History Notes: Kevin Black met Raymond (his name in Zulu translates to “Elephant”) in the financial industry in the 90s, but they ultimately hated the industry for its inability to create anything more tangible than numbers on a spreadsheet. In 2011 they meet Jacques, who was miserable making wine for a big-box winery and wanted something more meaningful as well. They started their own winery and have such an innovative take on wine tastings—pairing each wine with a song that you listen to in the winery! When I tasted this wine at the winery, it was paired with a local South African artist singing about… you guessed it—the power of love! Tasting Notes: You can smell and taste how ripe the grapes get here in the Western Cape due to the leaves shriveling up at the end of the season, exposing the clusters to more sun. Baked apple, pear, with lemon curd and lime zest, this tangy wine is a delight to sip, especially with Humbolt Fog goat cheese!
- Bodegas Ontañon “Akemi” Viura 2020: Rioja, Spain$24.00Out of stock
Grape: Viura Region/History Notes: A collaboration between Bodegas Ontañon and sushi master/Riojan chef, Felix Jimenez of the Kiro restaurant in Logroño, this is a wine to pair with all your sushi and seafood needs! Made from 35+ year-old Viura vines from one of Ontañon’s estate vineyards, this fruit-forward wine shows both power and restraint, complexity and approachability, and is incredibly versatile for food pairings! Aged for a short amount of time in American oak, the wine has bold structure to soften the bright acid and mineral-driven finish. Tasting Notes: I love how the oak provides the framework for the core essence of this wine, which is the fruit! Ripe melon, fresh peaches, orange zest, and nectarines, there is a lot of beautiful fruit to both the nose and palate. The oak adds a soft, vanilla bean and coconut-esque quality to the finish especially, and hints of cinnamon and nutmeg to the aromatics. Perfect with an eel roll or paella!
- Bodegas Tierra "Tulonio" 2020: Rioja, Spain$75.00
Grape: Mazuelo White Riojas have traditionally been made in a very oxidative style with heavy oak influence and nutty characteristics. They are usually blends of white grapes with Viura being the most important. Bodegas Tierra is taking the whole notion of white Rioja and turning it upside down! Using 100% Mazuelo (AKA Carignan Blanc), and fermenting the wine in a porcelain egg-shaped fermenter, this wine could not be further away from the norm! I love the traditional white Riojas but this wine is simply stunning- I have never had a wine quite like this before. Only 500 bottles were made, so don’t hesitate! Tasting Notes: The aromatics are so intriguing with hints of salted melon, clementines, fresh ginger, and white flowers. As the wine opens up (which it will, so don’t be afraid to decant for an hour), notes of almonds and peaches develop. The wine is light with a finish that damn near grips your soul! Pair with sea bass, monkfish, or even seared scallops in garlic butter sauce.
- Boundary Breaks Vineyard Medium Dry "Ovid Line North" Riesling 2022: Finger Lakes, New York$26.00Out of stock
Grape: Riesling Region/History Notes: Boundary Breaks is located right beside Seneca Lake, the deepest of the eleven lakes of the Finger Lakes region. While temperatures here can fall below zero, the temperature closest to the lake is slightly warmer—the lake itself provides a warming effect for the surrounding vineyards and the vines are able to survive the cold winters. As a result of the climate, you’ll find cool-climate loving grapes like Riesling, Gewürztraminer and Cabernet Franc growing here. This wine is fermented in stainless steel with 2.1% residual sugar to create a “medium dry” (off dry) style wine. Tasting Notes: Don’t serve this wine too cold or you will miss out on all the wonderful aromas of white peach skins, lemon and lime zest, candied ginger, and grapefruit! A pleasant, lingering finish makes this an easy everyday drinker, or pair with lighter fair like grilled chicken salads or spicy Indian takeout!
- Brooks "Amycas" White Blend 2023: Willamette Valley, Oregon$29.00
Grapes: Pinot Blanc/Muscat/Riesling/Gewürztraminer/Pinot Gris Region/History: In the latter half of the 20th century, a number of pioneering spirits worked to develop Oregon’s wine reputation. Among them was Jimi Brooks, who grew up in Oregon, spent 10 years working harvest across Europe, and then returned to the state in the 1990s to start making his own wines. This “Amycas” blend, similar to a Greek word meaning “friends,” is Jimi’s nod to the noble white wines of Alsace made in a friendly style. Tasting Notes: When ice cold the aromatics are a little more reserved, herbaceous, and floral in character with notes of fresh rosemary, thyme, white roses, and lilies. As the wine warms up, however, we’re talking green apple jolly ranchers, kiwi, lime zest, and white peaches! The palate offers plenty of citrus and green almond, joined by a slightly creamy texture and vibrant acidity on the finish that is bound to perk up your palate after a bowl of lemongrass shrimp with vermicelli!
- Ca'n Verdura "Ca Ses Rosetes" Giró Ros 2020: Binissalem-Mallorca, Spain$45.00
Grapes: Giró Ros Region/History Notes: There is a growing number of producers here that are focusing not on just making any wine, but restoring vineyards and making wine in the traditional method from indigenous grapes. Giró Ros is the grape variety of this wine and is incredibly old- in fact it is thought to be the ancestor of almost all the other grape varieties on the island! It has a pinkish grey hue of the skin so it looks like a rich Ramato-style Pinot Grigio! Soils here are “call vermell” a red, iron rich clay with limestone and medium sized galets (river stones). Tasting Notes: THIS WINE! Smells like almonds and macadamia nuts, white flowers, clementines, and the acidity is bright but well integrated making for a richer style white wine that even red wine drinkers can get behind! One of the most balanced wines I’ve had in years. Pair with light chilled pastas or baked chicken.
- Cabriz Reserva White 2022: Dão, Portugal$23.00
Grape: Encruzado Region/History Notes: The Dão region is one of Portugal’s oldest and most respected wine regions, located just south of the Douro Valley. Quinta de Cabriz is one of the Dão’s most recognized estates and holds about 94 acres of vineyards between the region’s two main rivers, the Dão and the Mondego. Made from 100% Encruzado, planted almost exclusively in the Dão and recognized for producing full-bodied aromatic wines, this wine spends 6 months in French oak before bottling. Tasting Notes: If you like a richer style of white wine like an oaked Chard and are looking to explore, try this! I love all of the tropical papaya fruit on the nose and how well-integrated it is with the vanilla notes from the oak. The wine is silky and round on the palate with pronounced minerality and all of these green pear skins on the finish. Pair with turkey sliders with a garlic and herb mayo!
- Ch. Ducasse Bordeaux Blanc 2022: Bordeaux, France$26.00
Grapes: Sémillon/Sauvignon Blanc Region/History Notes: Bordeaux is recognized for its top-tier red blends, but the region also produces some noteworthy whites that consist of Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillon, and Muscadelle. In the subregion of Graves, known as such for the high amount of gravel in the soils, winemaker Hervé Dubourdieu of Château Ducasse produces this exciting Bordeaux Blanc that highlights the role of the rich & aromatic Sémillon grape. Tasting Notes: You might think of a wine comprised of Sauvignon Blanc as being light-bodied and racy, but I’d almost describe this wine as “luscious!” It’s got lemon curd and lime with a little bit of this flinty quality on the nose to keep things interesting. Courtesy of the 70% Sémillon that makes up the blend, you can expect a much more weighty and silky mouthfeel compared to a single-varietal Sauvignon Blanc wine. Pair with chicken Francese or salmon with Béarnaise!
- Ch. Musar Blanc 2012: Bekaa Valley, Lebanon$95.00
Grapes: Obeidah, Merwah Region/History Notes: The wines of Chateau Musar are truly, unequivocally, downright *special.* Inspired by the extensive winemaking tradition of Lebanon and and his travels through Bordeaux, Gaston Huchar founded the winery in 1930 at the age of 20. His son Serge took over as winemaker in 1959 with the vision that the family’s wines—at the time mostly sold domestically—would one day attain international acclaim. Even throughout the Lebanese Civil War (1975-1990), Serge remained dedicated to producing wine. The domestic turmoil fueled a need for a new market, and the first Château Musar appeared on the international scene in 1979 to a captivated audience. Tasting Notes: These white wines are only released 6-7 years after bottling, and when I say that they have the capacity to age I’m talking about decades. The wine will only get richer, more honeyed, and nuttier. These are wines of immense caliber and I hope you delight in them as much as I do!
- Ch. Musar Blanc 2014: Bekaa Valley, Lebanon$90.00
Grape: Obaideh/Merwah Region/History Notes: Inspired by the extensive winemaking tradition of Lebanon and and his travels through Bordeaux, Gaston Huchar founded the winery in 1930 at the mere age of 20. His son Serge took over as winemaker in 1959 with the vision that the family’s wines—at the time mostly sold domestically—would one day attain international acclaim. Even throughout the duration of the Lebanese Civil War (1975-1990), Serge remained dedicated to producing wine. The domestic turmoil fueled a need for a new market, and the first Château Musar appeared on the international scene in 1979 to a captivated audience. Tasting Notes: These white wines are only released 6-7 years after bottling, and when I say that they have the capacity to age I’m talking about decades! The wine will only get richer, more honeyed, and nuttier. These are wines of true caliber and I hope you delight in them as much as I do!
- Commonwealth Crush "Party Kiwi" Sauvignon Blanc 2022: Shenandoah Valley, Virginia$29.00
Grape: Sauvignon Blanc Region/History Notes: Commonwealth Crush Co. is a brand new project that is leading the charge in the next generation of Virginia winemaking and was co-founded by brothers Ben and Tim Jordan along with their friend Patt Eagan in 2022. The Jordan brothers both worked at Michael Shaps Winery, and Ben and Patt both have experience at Early Mountain winery. This well-experienced team started Commonwealth Crush as a community collective that shares resources, information, technology, and equipment to help grow the winemaking community outside of traditional boundaries. This “Party Kiwi” is from their first batch of wines and if all their wines are this tasty, I can’t wait to try more of them! Tasting Notes: Less grass and grapefruit, more kiwi, melon, and peach notes on this Sauvignon Blanc that is friendly, approachable and super refreshing! Pair with grilled chicken sandwiches topped with avocado and vine-ripened tomatoes and enjoy your afternoon!
- Dom. Bernard Defaix 1er Cru Vaillons 2021: Chablis, France$57.00
Grape: Chardonnay Region/History Notes: The Premier Crus of Chablis are often discussed in terms of their position on either the eastern or western side of the Serein River. Those on the eastern side, like Vaillons, are recognized for their restraint compared the more opulent styles produced on the western side. This wine is labeled as “1er Cru Vaillons,” but the grapes come from both Vaillons and a smaller Premier Cru climat, Séchet. It’s common practice for producers in Chablis to group smaller climats under a larger, more recognizable Premier Cru on a label. Tasting Notes: Struck matchstick, hazelnut, and white button mushroom along with white flowers, green apple skins, and citrus pith. All of the bright citrus fruit comes out to play on the palate, but for me the true beauty of this wine is its acidity, which strikes your palate like a bolt of lightning! Fantastic with raw oysters, springtime vegetable risottos, or poached halibut with lemon and parsley!
- Dom. Bott Crozes-Hermitage Blanc 2021: Rhône Valley, France$64.00
Grapes: Roussanne/Marsanne Region/History Notes: Julie, born and raised in the Northern Rhône Valley, and Graeme, born in New Zealand, met while working for Stephen Ogier, an incredible producer in the Côte-Rôtie. They soon decided to make their own expressions of the Northern Rhône and Domaine Bott was born. They create wines from the small appellations of Côte Rotie, Saint Joseph, Seyssuell, Condrieu, and from Crozes-Hermitage—the appellation responsible for about half of all Northern Rhône wine production. Tasting Notes: A blend of Roussanne and Marsanne, two of the three approved Crozes-Hermitage white grapes. It is aged for 9 months in French oak, so as the nose starts ripe and bright with sweet florals and green stone fruit, the palate is soft, spicy, rich, and giving. The extended finish would lend balance to bone in pork chops with red mashed potatoes, skins included, and peach chutney!
- Dom. Boyer-Martenot Bourgogne Blanc 2021: Meursault, Côte d'Or, France$66.00
Grape: Chardonnay Region/History Notes: This wine comes from 70+ year old Chardonnay vines grown in the village of Meursault, which classically produces an unctuous and opulent style of Chardonnay. This bottling from Vincent Boyer, who took over from his father 15 years ago, is made in the more contemporary style of Meursault—lean, minimally oaked, and acid-driven. Tasting Notes: If I could describe the nose of this wine in one word, it would be “flinty”! It smells like a freshly struck match, but if a freshly struck match was lying next to some charred lemon halves, kumquats, and a pile of white flowers. I also love the delicate melon-rind, peach, and fresh vanilla aromas that take their time coming to the surface just when you think this wine has offered up all of its aromatics! The palate is medium-bodied and fleshy, delivering a touch of oak but overall being delightfully mineral and acid-driven. Delicious with garlic butter green beans and roast chicken!
- Dom. de la Pepière "La Pepie" Muscadet Sèvre-et-Maine Sur Lie 2022: Loire, France$24.00
Grape: Melon de Bourgogne Region/History Notes: Muscadet is a region in the farthest east section of the Loire Valley, Pays Nantais. The Loire River is wide at this point, emptying lazily into the Atlantic Ocean, and there is an abundance of sea salt in the air due to the winds coming off the coast. Domaine de la Pépière produces such delightful Muscadets—their “La Pépie” Sur Lie spends 12 months aging on its lees (Sur Lie means “on the lees” in French), and I love how this vintage is just ever-so-slightly richer than the 2021! Tasting Notes: While not intensely aromatic or assertive, I love the subtle and harmonious array of aromas in this wine, from yellow melon and white peaches, to lemon curd and crunchy green apples, to white flowers and river rocks. The lees add dimension to the wine, both on the nose with a flinty/struck match quality and on the palate with a slight creaminess. The chalky minerality and pop of sea salt on the finish make this a perfect pairing with oysters!
- Dom. Jeanne Gaillard Marsanne 2022: Northern Rhône, France$28.00
Grape: Marsanne Region/History Notes: Jeanne Gaillard is the daughter of renowned Northern Rhône winemaker Pierre Gaillard. She purchased her first hectares in 2008 at 24 years old, and today she works a total of 13 hectares across the Rhône and Loire, producing red wines from Syrah and Merlot as well as white wines from Viognier, Marsanne, Roussanne, Chardonnay, and Muscat. Marsanne is the traditional blending partner for Roussanne in many of the Northern Rhône’s most esteemed white wines, but I love coming across varietal expressions! Tasting Notes: The wine expresses a layered nose of browned butter, orange marmalade, apricot pit, yellow flowers, and hints of green herbs like sage and tarragon. It is weighty and structured on the palate, with harmoniously integrated acidity giving lift to the richer vanilla and baking spice flavors that this wine acquires through 7-8 months in 10% new French oak. Pair with pork chops with apples and onions served over mashed potatoes!
- Dom. Perrault-Jadaud Vouvray Sec "Les Grives Soûles" 2020: Loire Valley, France$33.00
Grape: Chenin Blanc Region/History: From the phrase “soûl comme une grive,” or “drunk as a thrush,” this wine is named after the thrushes that eat the fallen grapes in the vineyard that have started spontaneously fermenting, leaving the birds quite tipsy! This Domaine is a partnership between oenologist Anne-Cécile Jaudaud and viticulturist Tanguy Perrault, who established their winery in 2008. Farming and making wine organically, they attempt to showcase purity of fruit and flavors with minimal chemical intervention. This Chenin is made from 40-50 year old vines planted in clay soils with limestone bedrock and flint deposits-ideal for expressive, dynamic, and age-worthy Chenin Blancs. Tasting Notes: The perfect amount of “Chenin funk” is integrated with smoky, jasmine-laced and ginger-spiced undertones and high notes of green apple, lime zest, and dried pineapple. Perfect with roasted pork belly over braised brussels sprouts!
- Dunham Cellars "Shirley Mays" Chardonnay 2022: Columbia Valley, Washington$35.00
Grape(s): Chardonnay Region/History Notes: Founding winemaker Eric Dunham discovered his passion for wine at a young age—as a teenager he enjoyed helping himself to his parent’s international wine collection! He began making wines in the early 1990s and bottled his first Cabernet Sauvignon in 1995. Dunham Cellars continues to be a family owned and operated winery with two estate vineyards, Kenny Hill and Lewis. The “Shirley Mays” Chardonnay is grown on both sites and is aged 9 months in 32% new French oak and 68% neutral oak. Tasting Notes: Aromas of pear, lemon and apple yogurt with slight white peach, honey and apricot. This medium bodied wine has a rounded acidity, while the weightiness of the wine gives a creamy texture. With a good amount of fruit and minerality on the finish, this is an all-around approachable style of oaked Chardonnay! Pair with lemon chicken piccata.
- El Porvenir Amauta "Absoluto" Torrontes 2022: Valle de Cafayate, Argentina$22.00
Grape: Torrontés Valle de Cafayate has vineyards that sit between 5,000-8,000+ feet above sea level! This results in powerfully flavorful grapes with high natural acidity due to the extreme swings in temperature from day to night—perfect conditions for the aromatic Torrontés variety, which is native to Spain but found its new home in Argentina. Tasting Notes: This wine is so aromatic, bursting with notes of lemon verbena, daffodils, and honeysuckle blossoms. The palate has a dizzying amount of citrus and tropical fruit flavors—everything from key limes, lemon zest, and white grapefruit pith, to candied pineapple, fresh guava, and ripe mango! The vibrant palate has such lifted acidity that it brightens your whole mouth, begging for another sip. But if you look for it, there are also notes of dried herbs that keep it from being a total fruit bomb. Best chips and guacamole wine ever!
- Fox Lane Vineyards Chardonnay 2021: California$23.00
- Gavala Winery "Enalia" Assyrtiko 2019: Santorini, Greece$85.00
Region/History Notes: Santorini is a volcanic island in the the Mediterranean that erupted about 3,500 years ago. The volcanic soils do not provide a suitable environment for Phylloxera, the louse that wiped out 70+% of vineyards in Europe in the 1800’s. Because these vineyards never had to be replanted after Phylloxera, Santorini is home to some of Europe’s oldest grape vines! These old vines are trained in the traditional basket-shaped bowl called “kouloura” which helps protect the berries from the harsh winds that whip the island. These vines are 120+ years old and still thriving. This wine has no oak aging, but does spend 18-24 months on the lees adding richness. Tasting Notes: Tropical fruit skins, lemon curd, white flowers all laced together with an intense, mineral-driven core that is severe and welcoming all at the same time. There is a quality here found only in the most complex and equally balanced wines- it can’t be named, but it evokes an emotional response!
- Gramona "Gessamí" 2022: Penedès, Spain$28.00
Grapes: Muscat de Frontignan & Muscat de Alexandria/Sauvignon Blanc/Gewürztraminer Region/History: Gramona has been making wine in the Penedès region of Spain, just outside Barcelona, since the early 1800s. They have been making Cava since the early 1900s and are among the first to be named by any wine professional when listing quality Cava producers. Their commitment to biodynamic farming practices has cemented their reputation in the eco-conscious wine world too. While I have loved their sparkling wines for years, I am blown away by this fun white blend! Tasting Notes: The Muscat clones add such beautiful florality to the palate, and the Sauvignon Blanc gives the wine buoyancy with tart acid and notes of grapefruit and pineapple. The heat-resistant Gewürz. brings a spicy richness to the wine. Perfect pairing with shrimp Pad Thai that I will top with extra lemongrass and green onions and an extra dose of sriracha sauce too.
- Höllerer Ried Ganslgraben Grüner Veltliner 2022: Kamptal, Austria$22.00
Region/History Notes: Grüner Veltliner is the most widely planted grape variety in Austria, accounting for a third of all vineyard plantings. It is almost always a varietal wine, almost never sees new oak, and is produced in a range of styles—from light-bodied, fruity, and zesty to full-bodied, savory, and spicy. This bottling comes from Weingut Höllerer, located in Kamptal and family-owned since 1808. “Ried Ganslgraben” on the label indicates that these grapes are sourced exclusively from the vineyard (ried) of Ganslgraben within Kamptal. Tasting Notes: The aromatics of this wine are vibrant and fresh, characterized by notes of lemon peel, green peach, and daisy. The wine offers an exciting juxtaposition of racy acidity and greenness with a slightly creamy texture and roundness before your palate is swathed in white pepper on the finish. Pair with green bean and potato salad in a Dijon vinaigrette, ham and asparagus quiche, or chicken Pad Thai if you’re in the mood for takeout!
- Jász Laci "Bazalt" Hárslevelű 2017: Somló, Hungary$35.00
Grape(s): Hárslevelű Region/History Notes: Laci Jász founded Nagy Bajuszú Jász Laci Pincéje, aka “The Big Mustached Jász Laci’s Winery,” in 2013. If it isn’t obvious already, he is known for his prominent curled mustache and his exciting and delicious wines. While pursuing his degree in winemaking and viticulture he wrote his thesis on low sulfur wines, and to this day adds zero to little sulfur in his wines. In Somló, the soils are predominantly volcanic and lend a prominent minerality to the wines. After pressing, this wine remains in contact with the skins for 8-12 hours in stainless steel, then spends 3 years on the lees in a combination of neutral barrels and stainless steel. Tasting Notes: I love the combination of terroir and winemaking techniques in this wine! Aromas of honeyed pears, ginger, flint, and dried apricots dance out of the glass. On the palate, there are salted stone fruits followed by a white peppercorn finish. Pair with charcuterie and good company!
- L'Alpage Chasselas 2021: Mont-sur-Rolle, Switzerland$28.00
Grape: Chasselas Region/History Notes: Wine is produced in every one of Switzerland’s 26 cantons, but vineyards cover just under 0.4% of the country’s total land area. Vines are planted in a diversity of soils and cling to steep mountain hillsides that make harvesting and transporting the grapes a laborious and perilous process. Ultimately, less than 2% of Swiss wine is exported (domestic consumption is high). If you do find a Swiss wine outside of the country, it’s likely to be made from their most widely-planted white grape, Chasselas. Tasting Notes: All of this fresh lemon verbena is the first thing to jump out of the glass, but there are also hints of honeydew melon and smoked green herbs that emerge as you continue to swirl. Lower acidity and a few months of lees aging give the wine roundness on the palate, and there’s a fruit skin and bitter floral quality that adds depth to the finish. Enjoy with an Alpine cheese like raclette, or the next time you’re doing fondue!
- La Croix Gratiot "Bréchallume" Picpoul de Pinet 2022: Languedoc, France$35.00
Grape: Picpoul Region/History Notes: Picpoul de Pinet is an ancient wine that has always been a popular go-to white wine. The variety ripens late but still maintains acidity and freshness. Typically, production of Picpoul de Pinet is dominated by just a handful of large cooperative wineries (4 to be exact). There are some smaller producers like this one, but few and far between. Some of those small producers are trying to shake up the game and are making bigger, bolder expressions of the grape. The “Bréchallune” label is harvested from a small plot selection and aged for 5 months on the lees adding to its depth and complexity. Tasting Notes: Aromatics of lemon meringue pie and smoked rosemary with a rich backbone of yellow apples, white peach skins, and sea salt. This wine is incredibly elegant with a restrained structure, barely hinting at generosity. Pair w/ roasted oysters w/ shallot/ginger mignonette!
- Le Fraghe "Camporengo" Garganega 2022: Veneto, Italy$21.00
Grape: Garganega Region/History Notes: Veneto (pronounced VEN-eh-toe) lies in the Northern part of Italy and is more French/Swiss in culture/language/food than its Southern neighbors. While known for richer reds like Amarone, it is also home to the famous Prosecco and this fun grape: Garganega (pronounced gar-GAH-nay-gah). Le Fraghe is a tiny winery in Veneto, Italy. Matilde Poggi is the owner and winemaker of this 35 year-old operation and her aim is to make fresh, approachable wines that could be your “house” reds and whites. Camporengo is the name of the village where these organs vineyards grow. Tasting Notes: white peach skins, pineapple core, green melon rind, and white flowers abound on the nose with a delicate palate that has bright acidity and minerality. There is even a hint of bitterness to the finish that adds a lovely depth to this wine. With its bright structure, this is the quintessential cheese board wine- even better if there is a sunset involved!
- Maison Foucher Vouvray "La Vigne des Sablons" 2021: Loire Valley, France$22.00
Grape: Chenin Blanc Region/History Notes: No place uses the Chenin Blanc grape quite like Vouvray, located in the Touraine district of the Loire Valley, does. With it’s naturally high acidity the grape is a playground for winemakers, and the winemakers in Vouvray make it all from Chenin Blanc: still and dry, still and slightly sweet, still and half-sweet, still and very sweet, fully sparkling and sweet, etc. Their variety is unmatched, and if you’re looking for somewhere to begin with Chenin Blanc, Vouvray is a great place to start! Tasting Notes: Ripe quince drizzled with honey, soft yellow flowers, and the richness of that lanolin (aka Chenin “funk”) quality on the palate to add depth. Serve this wine will a good chill to see how the acidity balances out the residual sugar, or let the wine warm up see how the fruit and sweetness shine through! Pair with country ham or pork chops with apples and onions.
- Marchetti Tenuta del Cavaliere Verdicchio del Castelli di Jesi Classico Superiore 2022: Marche, Italy$27.00
Grape: Verdicchio Region/History Notes: Well this region is a handful to say! Verdicchio is grown throughout the Marche region of Italy, and the best expressions in terms of balance, complexity, vibrancy, and ageabillity come from Castelli di Jesi. Classico Superiore refers to the specific area within Castelli di Jesi that has the best vineyard sites. So the whole region’s name is giving us information about how delicious this wine is going to be! This wine was fermented in stainless steel and then aged for 5 months on the lees—giving depth but also preserving the freshness of the wine. Tasting Notes: I love this rich and nuanced expression of Verdicchio! It has some bitter notes to the finish and flinty notes on the nose, but it’s all honeycomb and yellow apples on the palate with a dense, almost creamy texture! This is the penultimate cheese board wine to pair with honey-glazed goat cheese, candied pecans, prosciutto-wrapped melon, and anything else your heart desires.
- Marjan Simčič "Ribolla Classic" 2022: Goriška Brda, Slovenia$36.00
Grape: Ribolla (AKA Rebula) Region/History Notes: Goriška Brda is located just across the northeastern Italian border, where vines grow on steep hillsides that roll into the Slovenian Alps. The combination of warm Mediterranean sun during the day and cool Alpine air at night makes for ideal growing conditions along with the local soil type, “opoka”—a marl rich in minerals that encourages low yields. Marjan Simčič is the fifth generation of his family to tend their historic vineyards and produce wines from grapes like Sauvignon Vert, Chardonnay, and Ribolla--also called Rebula across much of Slovenia. Tasting Notes: Musky floral notes on the nose merge with cantaloupe, Marcona almond, lemon oil, fresh herbs, peach skins, and clementine—so much going on! Six months of lees aging adds body to the wine, and that firm Ribolla acidity appears on the finish, making this the perfect structured white to pair with mussels in a white wine broth or chicken piccata.
- Mas de Daumas Gassac Blanc 2019: Languedoc France$85.00
The first “Grand Cru” in Languedoc began in 1971 with Henri Enjalbert’s declaration of the potential of this particular area of the Gassac Valley. He literally wrote the book on Saint Émilion and he was the chair of Geography at the University of Bordeaux! This family operation now has 43 vintages and their wines are highly esteemed all over the world. While the majority of the blend is a mix of Viognier, Chardonnay, Petit Manseng, and Chenin Blanc, a small percentage of the wine is a smattering of white varieties. All their grape vines are uncloned, so the yield is extremely low and the quality is very high. 5-7 days of skin contact with the grapes adds weight and texture, so you might be tempted to think there is oak aging, but everything is done in stainless steel. They recommend 5-10 years aging for their whites. I have tried this wine with 8 years age on it and it was one of the most memorable wine moments of my life! So don’t be afraid to lay this one down!
- Mas de Daumas Gassac Blanc 2020: Languedoc France$80.00
The first “Grand Cru” in Languedoc began in 1971 with Henri Enjalbert’s declaration of the potential of this particular area of the Gassac Valley. He literally wrote the book on Saint Émilion and he was the chair of Geography at the University of Bordeaux! This family operation now has 43 vintages and their wines are highly esteemed all over the world. While the majority of the blend is a mix of Viognier, Chardonnay, Petit Manseng, and Chenin Blanc, a small percentage of the wine is a smattering of white varieties. All their grape vines are uncloned, so the yield is extremely low and the quality is very high. 5-7 days of skin contact with the grapes adds weight and texture to the wine, so you might be tempted to think there is oak aging, but everything is done in stainless steel. They recommend 5-10 years aging for their whites. I have tried this wine with 8 years age on it and it was one of the most memorable wine moments of my life! So don’t be afraid to lay this one down!
- Michael Shaps Petit Manseng 2019: Virginia$42.00
Grape: Petit Manseng Michael Shaps has been a Virginia Wine consultant for many years now. He opened his own winery in the early 2000’s and has been instrumental in the development of Virginia wine making, culture, and education. His wines are always delicious and are my standard go-to wines for anyone seeking Virginia selections. Petit Manseng is native to France and was typically made into sweeter or even dessert style wines. Michael is making this as a dry style and I anticipate many more wineries following suit soon. It is barrel fermented so it is rich, unctuous and possibly my most favorite wine I’ve ever had from Virginia! Tasting Notes: delightfully aromatic, one whiff and I am pulled in! Pineapple core, dried apricots, banana peel, and an allspice quality to the finish. Fuller bodied and sumptuous, just a pleasure to drink! Pair with mild curry, roasted poultry, or steaky fish.
- Neumeister "Straden" Sauvignon Blanc 2021: Vulkanland Steiermark, Styria, Austria$38.00
Grape: Sauvignon Blanc Region/History Notes: The mountainous region of Steiermark rests on the southeastern corner of Austria along the border with Slovenia. The climate here can be mercurial between the cool Alpine winds and warm Adriatic sea breezes generating frequent rain and hailstorms. Despite these challenges, diurnal temperature shifts result in a long growing season, and the abundance of volcanic basalt in the soils creates a marked mineral and spice character in the wines. Christoph Neumeister took over the family estate from his father in 2006, and he is particularly passionate about the quality of Sauvignon Blanc produced in this region! Tasting Notes: Gently fragrant with aromas of lemon, chamomile tea, hazelnut, and mango. A year of aging in large, used oak casks helps to soften the body of the wine, yet the minerality, spice, and acidity on the palate keep the wine taut and almost laser-like in precision. Pair with shrimp scampi or fried spring rolls!
- Nic Tartaglia Trebbiano D'Abruzzo 2022: Abruzzo, Italy$30.00
Grape: Trebbiano Trebbiano d’Abruzzo Region/History Notes: Nic Tartaglia hails from 5 generations of farm workers who believe that if you take care of the land then the land will take care of you. This wine comes from the village of Alanno in the province of Pescara, located between the Adriatic Sea and the Appenini Mountains. This area benefits from having less fertile soils, higher elevations, and coastal influences that create a cooler micro-climate. This allows the wines to be more concentrated and intense. Trebbiano d’Abuzzo is the dry white wine partner to the Montepulicano d’Abruzzo appellation for red wines. Tasting Notes: Apple, pear, citrus, and fresh spring flowers dance out of the glass with a hint of salinity to the finish keeping it crisp and lively. This wine has a slightly bitter weightiness that balances all the tart fruits and allows the flavors to linger long after the sip is gone. Pair with margarita pizza topped with fresh basil!
- Nicosia Monte Gorna Etna Bianco 2021: Sicily, Italy$40.00
Grapes: Carricante/Catarratto Region/History: The wines of Mt. Etna are always so evocative of the region’s black volcanic soils—which are regularly refreshed by eruptions from the still active Mt. Etna! This Etna Bianco from Tenute Nicosia comes from their line of “Cru” wines that are meant to evoke the differences in terroir among the sites of Mt. Etna. The Monte Gorna estate is an extinguished volcanic cone that sits at 2300-2460ft above sea level. The blend consists of 90% Carricante, believed to have been growing on the slopes of Mt. Etna for over a thousand years, and 10% Catarratto, historically known for its use in Marsala production. Tasting Notes: Bruised, honeyed apples flirt with ripe mango, banana peel, and orange blossom. But the palate has something totally different in store with its intense minerality, electric acidity, and more focused flavors of lemon rind, aniseed, and green herbs! For food pairing, I have four words for you: pasta, lemon, garlic, and capers!
- Noble Hill Estate Reserve White 2021: Simonsberg-Paarl, South Africa$30.00
Grape: Grenache Blanc/Marsanne/Chenin Blanc/Viognier Region/History Notes: Simonsberg-Paarl is a small Wine of Origin ward (essentially a small demarcated viticultural area) located in the northwest foothills of the Simonsberg Mountain. The granite-based soils in the region call to mind those of the Rhône Valley in France, so it’s no surprise to see Rhône varieties like Viognier, Syrah, Marsanne, Roussanne, and Grenache Blanc growing so well here! Tasting Notes: Ripe apricot and melon, a baked pear tart and citrus blossoms, fresh sage and thyme that you’ve just rubbed between your palms—every time you revisit the wine there’s something new to discover. The careful use of French oak deepens the character of the fruit rather than shrouds it, and the richer body of the wine is balanced by linear acidity that keeps all the flavors focused and lifted. Pair with grilled Mahi Mahi filets with macadamia pesto!
- Orchard Lane Sauvignon Blanc 2023: Marlborough, New Zealand$19.00
Grape: Sauvignon Blanc New Zealand, or Aotearroa (meaning ‘land of the long white cloud’), has been producing wine since the 1850s, a relatively short period of time. Most of the country’s wine regions are located on the eastern side. On the south island, the vineyards fall under the rain shadow of Southern Alps. On the north island, the vineyards exist amongst the volcanoes! Orchard Lane is the little sister brand to Sugar Loaf Wines and is run by a small team of 6 – just 10 in the picking season! David and Kate Acland head this Certified Sustainable project with the next 100 years in mind. Tasting Notes: New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc can be abrasive with its acid structure, and while this wine has a good amount of acidity, it’s not mean about it. The grassy notes are pleasant and the tropical fruit on the palate is just fantastic! Tangerines, peaches, juicy melons and mango, with a citrusy finish! Ceviché, please!
- Ovum "Big Salt" White 2023: Oregon$28.00
This wine isn’t just a blend of grape varieties, but it is also a blend of vineyard sites and regions from select growers across all of Oregon all co-fermented together. Tasting Notes: For this lovely blend, Riesling brings high acid, a linear structure, and more delicate floral notes to the table, making up 50% of the blend. Gewürztraminer, which makes up 30% of the blend, is bringing the tropical fruit like lychee and pineapple, along with more pungent floral notes like lily, white rose, and honeysuckle to the flavor profile. There rest is a conglomeration of multiple grapes that all bring their own personality to the wine. Each grape both balances and highlights the other varieties in this eclectic and expressive wine and the finish is salty, fresh, and vibrant—making the wine so adequately named! Every sip makes my mouth water and beg for another, especially if I am drinking it with pasta carbonara!
- Pala "Milleluci" Nuragus di Cagliari 2022: Sardegna, Italy$28.00
Grape: Nuragus Region/History Notes: If you’ve had red wines from Sardegna, the island in the middle of the Mediterranean, you’ve most likely had Cannonau, which is their name for Grenache or Garnacha. But there are lots more varieties grown here! Nuragus is an ancient grape variety native to the island. While many consider it an “unremarkable” grape, leave it to the Pala family, who have been making wine in Sardegna since 1950, to produce an exceptional example! Tasting Notes: Notes of baked apricot, dried mango, yellow melon, orange oil, and even some lemon curd are all on the palate, but it’s the nose that is the most striking to me! Orange blossom, wild flowers, chamomile tea, with yellow peaches and toasted almonds are all on the nose. After one whiff, I can’t wait to get into the glass. Both the aromatics and the palate continue to develop as the wine opens up—this is such a compelling wine! Serve with roasted root veggies, grilled fish, or gourmet mac n’ cheese.
- Palazzone "Campo del Guardiano" Orvieto Classico Superiore 2020: Umbria, Italy$35.00
Grape(s): Procanico/Grechetto/Verdello/Malvasia Region/History Notes: Orvieto is a region in the inland state of Umbria that grew its boundaries quite quickly, and thus lost some of the prestige it was once known for. Thus, the denomination of Orvieto Classico was born to signify the vineyards are within the original boundaries and the requirements of winemaking a bit more stringent. This DOC region must be a minimum of 60% Grechetto and/or Procanico (local name for Trebbiano Toscano) with some other grapes permitted to make up the rest of the blend. Tasting Notes: No oak aging so the wine remains vibrant, but extended bottle aging allows for depth and complexity. Flint and ginger spice on the nose with hints of bay leaf and oregano with green apple skins, lemon pith, and nectarines. The mineral-driven finish lasts forever on the tongue with a salty, tangy acidity that is electric! Let it open and you’ll see the floral notes develop too! Pair with scallops or ceviche.
- Philippe Colin 1er Cru "Les Combes" 2020: Saint-Aubin, Burgundy, France$116.00
Grape: Chardonnay Region/History Notes: Saint-Aubin is historically lesser known than its neighbors of Puligny-Montrachet and Chassagne-Montrachet, and consequently its wines have offered great value. But act quickly, because demand for their white wines is rising! This bottling from winemaker Philippe Colin comes from the Premier Cru vineyard of Les Combes, which sits at 720-920ft in altitude with east-facing vines planted on limestone and marl soils. Cooler than Puligny-Montrachet and Chassagne-Montrachet, the wines of Saint-Aubin are recognized for their balance of freshness and character. Tasting Notes: Notes of yellow plum, Jordan almonds, chervil, and cream make for such a beautiful nose! Medium-bodied and fleshly on the palate, the earthier qualities of the wine shine through with white button mushrooms alongside pops of tart, bright fruit like lemon, starfruit, and green apple. Don’t serve too cold and pair with a cauliflower gratin or chicken pot pie.
- Rafael Palacios "Louro" Godello 2022: Valdeorras, Spain$35.00
Grape: Godello Region/History Notes: Valdeorras is a mountainous region on the eastern side of Galicia- one of my favorite wine regions just north of Portugal. It is often called “The Gateway to Galicia” since it sits right on the border. Because there is plenty of rainfall per year, most farmers are able to dry farm- meaning they do not irrigate. The primary grape they grow is the white variety Godello. Godello is a tricky grape for me. It's often too oily and viscous for me to get excited about, but this wine rocked my world! This wine comes from his 25 year-old terraced vineyards with granitic soils and is barrel fermented to give the wine structure. Tasting Notes: Sage and tarragon with lime zest, melon, and even some tropical fruit jump out first. But the oak spices and rich texture are what linger- it is so beautifully composed! I just want to serve this with paella with chorizo, scallops, shrimp, clams, and maybe even some prawns!
- Remhoogte "Free to Be" Riesling 2023: Stellenbosch, South Africa$29.00
Grape: Riesling While Stellenbosch is South Africa’s most well-known wine region and Bordeaux varieties, Pinotage, and Chenin Blanc are the most famed expressions of the terroir, there are always innovative producers who are experimenting with other grapes! Remhoogte winery has their classic label, but their “Free To Be” label is where they get to play, to experiment, to practice their craft in out-of-the-box manners! A few decades ago, Riesling was more commonly planted, but with the rise of Chenin Blanc’s popularity, Riesling fell out of fashion. Leave it to winemaker Chris Boustred of Remhoogte to bring Riesling back again! Crisp and refreshing with generous fruit, I love the green apple and honeydew notes on this wine. Dry and zesty, this is the perfect summer wine to pair with all your weekend activities!
- Remhoogte "Honeybunch" Chenin Blanc 2022: Stellenbosch, South Africa (1.5L)$77.00
- Remhoogte "Honeybunch" Chenin Blanc 2023: Simonsberg-Stellenbosch, South Africa$33.00
Grape: Chenin Chenin Blanc is native to the Loire Valley in France, but South Africa is building a reputation for stellar Chenin and now grows most of the world’s Chenin! The “Honeybunch” is a bottling of Remhoogte’s richer style of Chenin using grapes that have hung on these 35 year old vines longer, getting to peak ripeness, and then aged in French oak adding even more depth and richness. I must confess, I don’t want to sell this wine, I want to buy it all myself, but since I don’t have enough room to store it all, I will share! Pink Lady apples, Asian pear, a little lychee, honeycomb, and even some melon notes, this wine has a lot going on while still being fresh and approachable. The minerality and acid give the wine structure, but this wine is all about the fruit! The wine will age spectacularly for 10-15 years (I recently tried a bottle of their 2011 which blew my mind) but if you drink it now, pair with scallops & fresh corn on the cob.
- Rieslingfreak No. 33 Clare Valley Riesling 2023: South Australia$24.00
Grape: Riesling History Notes: John Hughes, aka the “Riesling Freak” earned his nickname in college after he would often show up with a bottle or two of Riesling to every gathering. He has a deep passion for the grape and for showcasing its versatility. John grew up in Clare Valley on his family vineyard and met his wife, Belinda, at an International Riesling Challenge, as she is a winemaker herself—it was meant to be! At Rieslingfreak, they choose where to harvest based on the microclimate and the desired style. No. 33 is sourced from Clare Valley and Polish Hill River, and the vineyards sit around 500m above sea level. Instead of pressing the grapes after harvest, they use a “spin and drain” method to ensure the berries are treated softly while maintaining the purity of the juice. Tasting Notes: Prominent notes of lime juice, salty wet stones, and white flowers. The palate is fresh and lively, with tart ginger spice and lime zest. This is perfect for shrimp tacos!
- Rippa Dorii Verdejo 2022: Rueda, Spain$19.00
Grape: Verdejo Region/History Notes: Rueda sits in the heart of Northern Spain in the area of Castilla y León. While most wine regions in Spain focus on red wines, Rueda focuses on white wines—specifically the Verdejo grape (pronounced ver-DAY-ho). Most of the acres are planted between 600-780m above sea level—above 300 is considered high elevation! The higher elevation and cooler nighttime temperatures can produce some very focused, lean, and elegant wines. Tasting Notes: Key limes and dried mango burst on your palate with this wine that is fresh, vibrant and prickly on the finish. Yellow apples and hints of jasmine begin to develop as the wine opens up, but the wine remains consistently crisp and juicy. Perfect pairing with chicken salad over a bed of arugula with a drizzle of white balsamic!
- Rock Ferry "3rd Rock" Pinot Gris 2021: Marlborough, New Zealand$24.00
Grape: Pinot Gris Region/History: As of 2020, Pinot Gris has become New Zealand’s third-most planted white grape (behind Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay). Many of the wines that are widely available are fermented in an off-dry style, but select producers are aiming for lower yields in the vineyard and then more focused vilification techniques to produce more textured and complex wines. Rock Ferry works with 10 different grape varieties across 4 organically-certified estates in Marlborough and Central Otago. Their Pinot Gris is grown in the Wairau Plains of Marlborough, and then a small portion is fermented in seasoned oak puncheons and spends 4 months on its lees. Tasting Notes: The nose displays notes of ripe green pear, golden apple, yellow apricot blossoms, and a hint of vanilla and oats. With a silky texture on the palate that is offset by a linear streak of minerality on the finish, pair this alongside spaghetti with corn, clams, and lemon butter!
- Santa Julia "El Zorrito" Chardonnay 2023: Mendoza, Argentina$25.00
- Sun Break Wines "Nicolette" White Pinot Noir 2022: Eola-Amity Hills, Willamette Valley, Oregon$36.00Out of stock
Grape: Pinot Noir Region/History Notes: The practice of making white wine from red grapes is most common in the Champagne region of France, where thin-skinned red grapes like Pinot Noir and Meunier are gently pressed so the juice does not extract any color, or very minimal color, from its skins. You’ll find these sparkling wines labeled Blanc de Noirs, but you can also find still Blanc de Noirs produced in various parts of the world. “Nicolette” is one of 5 expressions of Pinot Noir that Sun Break produces from the Cortell-Rose Vineyard. Located in the northern section of the Eola-Amity Hills AVA, the vineyard sits at 600ft elevation and is characterized by volcanic soils and an eastern exposure. Tasting Notes: Tea-like and herbal in character with aromas of chamomile, white carnation, white cranberry, lemon pith, and just a touch of mushroom-like earthiness. The palate is characterized by a lean streak of acidity and a savory finish. Don’t serve too cold and pair with shoyu ramen!
- Sydney Back Chardonnay 2020: Paarl, South Africa$22.00
- te Pā "Oke" Sauvignon Blanc 2019: Marlborough, New Zealand$35.00
Grape: Sauvignon Blanc Region/History Notes: te Pā is one of about a dozen Māori-owned producers in New Zealand. Winemaker Haysley McDonald traces his family ancestry back to some of the earliest Māori settlers who landed on the Wairau Bar some 800 years ago. He and his family began planting vines in 2003, and in 2011 he founded te Pā. The “Oke” Sauvignon Blanc is fermented in barrel and ages in barrel for 11 months on its lees. While oaked Sauvignon Blanc might seem like an odd concept for many, it has been common practice in Bordeaux, France and in California, as with Robert Mondavi’s Fumé Blanc. Tasting Notes: Charred lemon halves and white blossoms dance with undertones of dried green herbs and charred green pepper. On the palate, the oak acts as a frame for all of the fresh, juicy fruit, lending body and adding a little vanilla bean to the finish. Pair with tandoori chicken or prawns and garlic naan!
- Tenuta Ponte Greco di Tufo 2022: Campania, Italy$35.00
Grape: Greco History/Region Notes: “Tufo” means sulfur in Italian and this region is home to some of the largest sulfur mines in the world! You can smell it in the air and I love the way one winemaker described it: “it’s as if the devil’s mistress just walked by,” indicating the seductive and feminine nature of the wines as well as the iconic matchstick aroma. Greco is one of the most ancient local varieties (named after the Greeks who supposedly planted it widely in the area). Tenuta Ponte is a 25-acre estate where grapes thrive in the volcanic and clay soils, Mediterranean climate, and high elevation vineyards. Tasting Notes: White flowers and peach notes, a bitter green apple skin texture layered with chalky minerality, and of course a hint of that sulfur that presents itself like flint! Let it breathe and it will continue to develop, and definitely don’t serve it too cold so the floral notes can pop. Perfect with seared scallops over garlic butter sauce with lemon zest!
- Thelema "Mountain White" 2022: Stellenbosch, South Africa$20.00Out of stock
Grape(s): Sauvignon Blanc/Viognier Region/History Notes: South Africa is producing some exceptional wines these days. The smaller, boutique wineries are focusing on sustainable winemaking- both environmentally and socially- and really expressing the unique terroir of each region. I love exploring the eclectic wines of South Africa that always seem to over-deliver for the price and Thelema (pronounced thuh-LEE-mah) is always a fave! Tasting Notes: This wine is a blend of 90% Sauvignon Blanc made in the more French style with linear structure and mineral-driven finish with all the peaches and lemon/lime you could ask for. The 10% Viognier blended in is adding a lovely softer quality to the wine, rounding out its edges. There is a pop of zest on the finish with hints of herbs and fresh flowers that makes it delightfully refreshing, begging you to take another sip. Perfect to pair with fish tacos (my all-time favorite meal!) Pop a second bottle in the fridge and enjoy this with gusto!
- Tim Smith Wines Eden Valley Viognier 2023: Eden Valley, Australia$35.00
Grape: Viognier Region/History Notes: South Australia is home to some of the most recognizable wine regions in the country. Barossa Valley, Clare Valley, Adelaide Hills, Coonawarra, Eden Valley, and McLaren Vale are all located within South Australia. Not to be confused, “Barossa” is the larger encompassing area for 2 sub-regions, Barossa Valley and Eden Valley. Tim Smith opened his own winery in 2001 after 20+ years experience, and can often be found riding his motorcycle through the vineyards. His winemaking is heavily influenced by the Rhone Valley. This Viognier was made from whole bunches, pressed into a combination of used and new barrels, then aged for six months on the lees, and no malolactic conversion was used. Tasting Notes: So fresh and clean! This Viognier boasts flavors of apricots, dried mangos, blossoms, and a biscuity finish. The palate has a creamy texture that’s so delicious! Pair with pad Thai, a Moroccan chicken tagine, or even just sip on with chips & guac.
- Tomaiolo Pinot Grigio 2022: Veneto, Italy$15.00
Grape: Pinot Grigio Region/History Notes: Veneto, Italy is located in the northeast corner of the country, near the Adriatic Sea. Even though it is slightly smaller than Italy’s other wine producing regions, it produces more wine than any of them! Many different microclimates exist throughout the various designated winemaking areas, but overall the vineyards are considered high elevation, built on steep hillsides, and south facing so that the vines can soak up as much sunlight as possible. Perfect for Pinot Grigio! This wine was created by selecting grapes from hilly vineyards and gently crushing the grape clusters. Fermentation occurred at very low temperatures (between 16-18 C). Tasting Notes: Such a pretty wine! Beautiful notes of apples, pears, blossoms, peaches, and melon leap out of the glass. Bright acidity and an aromatic finish make this wine the perfect choice for antipasto, grilled chicken salad, or roasted root veggies and fish dishes.
- Tyrrell's Hunter Valley Semillon 2022: Hunter Valley, Australia$32.00
Grape: Semillon Region/History Notes: You may have had Semillon from France, often found in Bordeaux Blanc blended with Sauvignon Blanc. In Australia, you can find two styles of Semillon. The first is young, bright, and full of white pepper notes. The second style is aged and completely transforms in the bottle! After five years or more, Semillon from Tyrrell’s Wines is known to take on flavors of honey, brioche, and roasted cashews. Established in 1858, several Tyrrell vineyards are more than a century old. This Semillon is dry farmed and the vines are about 40 years old. The grapes are machine harvested in the cool night, the wine is fermented in stainless steel, and then spends a little time on the lees before bottling. Tasting Notes: Elegant notes of white pepper, honeysuckle, and lemon curd are the first noticeable aromas, followed by cantaloupe and honeydew melon with a medium body and waxy mouthfeel. Pair with pan-seared salmon with roasted root vegetables!
- Valenciso Rioja Blanco 2022: Rioja, Spain$49.00
Grapes: Viura/Garnacha Blanca Region/History Notes: Rioja is famous for its red wines based on Tempranillo, but you can also find some incredibly delicious white wines! Valenciso was founded in 1998 by Luis Valentín and Carmen Enisco, two Rioja natives who partner with growers across the Rioja Alta sub-region. Their Rioja Blanco is a blend of 70% Viura (AKA Macabeo, one of the three primary grapes used in Cava production), and 30% Garnacha Blanca (grown here in northern Spain and in the south of France). As indicated on the label, this wine is fermented in barrel, and spends another 7-9 months aging in barrel before bottling. Tasting Notes: Golden kiwi, green almond, banana custard—I am in LOVE with the nose of this wine! The palate is lush, tropical, and creamy, but well-structured and framed by notes of spice and yellow flowers. Don’t serve this too cold, and send yourself to taste bud heaven by pairing this with a buttery Maine lobster roll with a squeeze of fresh lemon!
- Villa Diamante "Vigna della Congregazione" Fiano di Avellino Riserva 2021: Campania, Italy$47.00
Grape: Fiano “Vigna della Congregazione” Fiano Region/History Notes: This single-parcel Fiano from Villa Diamante carries the Fiano di Avellino designation and is one of just four DOCGs in Campania. As a Riserva it must age for at least one year; Villa Diamante exceeds the requirement with one year of lees aging followed by another 8 months in bottle. The diurnal temperature shifts, high-elevation vineyards (1,400ft), and Mediterranean influences make for one of the most expressive Fianos that I have ever tasted! Tasting Notes: Don’t serve this wine too cold and it will start speaking to you with notes of quince, lemon verbena, banana, and hazelnut. On the palate comes vibrant acidity, a creamy texture, and a pop of sea salt on the finish that makes me want a plate of roasted oysters with garlic-parsley butter!
- Villa Tolnay "Csobáncz" Olaszrizling 2021: Balaton, Hungary$30.00
Grape: Grape: Olaszrizling (AKA Welschriesling or Graševina) Region/History Notes: Olaszrizling grows throughout Central and Eastern Europe, including Italy, Romania, Hungary, and Croatia. While commonly mistaken for Riesling, Olaszrizling is a totally different grape! It thrives in the volcanic soils of Hungary, where it is the widest planted white grape variety even though it is difficult to sell outside of the country. Villa Tolnay was established here on the volcanic hill of Csobáncz and while they grow several white varieties, their pride and joy is their Olaszrizling. Tasting Notes: If you don’t serve the wine too cold, the aromatics are honeyed, nutty and alluring. Apricots and wild yellow flowers develop and there are even subtle hints of sage, pineapple and key limes. As you’d expect from volcanic terroir, the palate is practically alive with zippy acidity and an almost salty finish. Pair with rockfish or seared scallops topped with garlic butter sauce!
- Villages de France Picquepoul-Terret 2022: France$19.00
Grapes: Picpoul/Terret Picpoul, sometimes spelled “Piquepoul,” is a grape grown in the South of France that is either used in the making of vermouth or in quaffable, bright white wines for everyday drinking. The grape name translates to “lip-stinger” because of its salty qualities and bright acidity. Terret is a grape that is often blended with other local grape varieties either in house white blends, or also in the making of vermouth. It is a high-yielding variety, so you can find great examples of the wine at super approachable price-points. Tasting Notes: This wine is so salty and bright, I’ll bet you can’t just take one sip! Lovely aromas of wild yellow flowers and Fiji apples with cantaloupe and lime zest dancing around in the glass. The palate is salty and light and the finish is vibrant and juicy—the perfect party wine! Pair with crab dip or tuna Niçoise.
- Tenuta DeAngelis "Campo di Marte" Falerio 2022: Abruzzo, Italy$15.00
Dom. Bott Crozes-Hermitage Blanc 2021: Rhône Valley, France
Grapes: Roussanne/Marsanne Region/History Notes: Julie, born and raised in the Northern Rhône Valley, and Graeme, born in New Zealand, met while working for Stephen Ogier, an incredible producer in the Côte-Rôtie. They soon decided to make their own expressions of the Northern Rhône and Domaine Bott was born. They create wines from the small appellations of Côte Rotie, Saint Joseph, Seyssuell, Condrieu, and from Crozes-Hermitage—the appellation responsible for about half of all Northern Rhône wine production. Tasting Notes: A blend of Roussanne and Marsanne, two of the three approved Crozes-Hermitage white grapes. It is aged for 9 months in French oak, so as the nose starts ripe and bright with sweet florals and green stone fruit, the palate is soft, spicy, rich, and giving. The extended finish would lend balance to bone in pork chops with red mashed potatoes, skins included, and peach chutney!
Sparkling
- A.R. Lenoble Brut Nature Dosage Zero NV: Champagne, France$56.00Out of stock
This bottling, a blend of 45% Meunier/30% Pinot Noir/20% Chardonnay, receives no added sugar at bottling (called a dosage). So if you’re looking for a crisp, dry bottle of bubbles, look no further! Tasting Notes: The nose of true Champagne is so distinct, and the nose of this wine really captures the essence of the style! Dominant notes of toast and butterscotch meld with pops of freshly grated nutmeg, honey crisp apples, and preserved lemon. The bubble structure is small, fine, and persistent, providing a subtle mousse on the palate. And as a Brut Nature this wine is bone dry—the chalky texture lingers along with a finish of toast and apple skins that seems to last for minutes! Pair with oysters, Brie cheese, or truffle fries!
- Alain Vincey Brut Champagne NV: Champagne, France$48.00
Grape: Pinot Noir/Chardonnay/Meunier Region/History Notes: Champagne Alain Vincey is small family-owned estate based out of Champillon in the Marne Valley. The Vincey family has owned a growers’ co-op since 2004, and as a result their wines carry the “CM” label, representing a coopérative manipulant. Tasting Notes: It is possible to find a Champagne that punches way above its price point—this bottle proves it! At almost equal parts Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Meunier, you can really smell and taste what each grape brings to the blend: bright citrus and white flowers from the Chardonnay, a touch of red fruit and richer butterscotch notes from the Pinot Noir, and vibrant apple notes along with a subtle herbal quality from the Meunier. The bubble structure is small and delicate, and light toast lingers on the finish from the lees aging. There is a refined quality to the wine, but it’s versatile enough to pair with oysters, quiche, sushi, or kettle cooked potato chips!
- Anima Mundí "Cami Dels Xops" 2022: Penedès, Spain$32.00
Grape: Macabeo/Xarel-lo Region/History Notes: Penedès is considered the home of Cava—sparkling wines made in the traditional method that are the country’s answer to Champagne. Although from Penedès, this wine is produced using the métode ancestral, which you may be more familiar with as a “pét-nat.” Pét-nat wines are bottled before the initial fermentation has completed, trapping the CO2 produced as a byproduct inside. Anima Mundi is the more experimental side project of Agustí Torello Roca, who typically makes traditional-method sparkling wines at his family winery, AT Roca. This fresh, clean pét-nat does undergo disgorgement (expulsion of the residual yeast from the bottle). The nose is laden with white peach, green apple, and citrus blossoms, the bubbles are teeny tiny and tightly structured, and I love the bit of weight on the palate that makes the wine a little more serious. Pair with chips, marinated olives, and warm dates drizzled with olive oil!
- Antonio Facchin Prosecco Extra Dry NV: Veneto, Italy (187.5mL)$6.00
- Avinyo Cava Brut Reserva 2020: Penedès, Spain$27.00
Grapes: Macabeo/Xarel-lo/Parellada Region/History: The Avinyó estate is located in Penedès, Spain, and has vineyards at 250-275m (800-902ft) above sea level. All of their wines use estate-grown certified organic grapes. This Cava is comprised of 60% Macabeo, 25% Xarel-lo, and 15% Parellada, and is made in the méthode traditionnelle (where the secondary fermentation that produces the bubbles happens in bottle, rather than in tank). To be classified as a Reserva, a Cava must be aged on the lees for a minimum of 18 months.This Cava spends between 18 and 24 months on its lees. Tasting Notes: Because of the lees aging there are prominent notes of raw dough, lemon peel, white blossoms, and white peach skins. The acidity on this wine adds a mouth-watering feel accompanied by softer bubbles that dance across the palate. Completely dry, this is an easy every day sipper or dress it up with a seared scallops and risotto dinner!
- Besserat de Bellefon "Cuvée des Moines" Brut 2008: Champagne, France$160.00
Grape(s): Chardonnay/Pinot Noir/Meunier Only in the best years, after a particularly promising harvest, will Champagne houses choose to declare a vintage, with 100% of the grapes in the bottle coming from the stated harvest year. Amongst vintage Champagnes, 2008 is considered legendary: a chilly spring season gave the grapes the chance to ripen slowly, and while an initially gloomy summer generated cause for concern, conditions later in the season turned around and offered up bright and sunny days that resulted in a ripe, bountiful harvest. Hold onto your 2008 vintage Champagnes for a few more years if you like, but I think this cuvée from Besserat de Bellefon is drinking beautifully now! Freshly-churned butter meets Meyer lemons, baked peaches, and a finish of Jordan almonds—gorgeous!
- Biancavigna Prosecco Superiore Conegliano Valdobbiadene Extra Brut 2022: Veneto, Italy$38.00
Grape: Glera Region/History Notes: Conegliano Valdobbiadene is a sub-zone of the Prosecco appellation that was established in 1962, achieving DOCG status in 2009 with its aim to produce boutique, extremely high quality Prosecco from the indigenous Glera gape, distinct in their quality and representation of the grape and the land. The vineyards all have very low yield restrictions, and only 15% of grapes other than Glera are allowed to be blended. This wine has even higher restrictions since it comes from one of the 43 “Rive," or communes, of the region known for the best terroir. With steep slopes and better drainage, they must also be single-vintage wines. The commune name for this wine is Ogliano, with calcareous clay soils. Tasting Notes: A very slow secondary fermentation in autoclaves that lasted 150 days and only 1.5 grams of residual sugar, this is bone-dry wine with tiny bubbles and incredibly complex flavors with a chalky finish. Pair w/ smoked salmon eggs Benedict!
- Cantina Bambinuto "CUR" Greco di Tufo Spumante Metodo Classico Extra Brut 2012: Campania, Italy$45.00
Grape: Greco Region/History Notes: Cantina Bambinuto was founded in 2004 by Marilena Aufiero in the hilly, green area of Irpinia. This metodo classico wine spends one year on its lees prior to the secondary fermentation, after which it spends 10 years aging in bottle! I count us very fortunate as this is the first time this wine has set foot on American soil! Tasting Notes: Glimmering and golden in the glass, the color of this wine points to its extensive aging. The aromas of the wine are so dense, from bruised yellow flowers to butterscotch to spiced fruitcake. The palate expresses so much vibrancy with focused acidity, explosive minerality, and a heady perfumed quality. The bubbles start off small and spiky and then burst into a mouth-filling mousse, but make no mistake: this bottle is about the wine, not the bubbles. Every detail of flavor clings to your tongue long after the bubbles are gone. Pair with roasted duck breast with a plum sauce!
- Cazé-Thibaut "Naturellement" NV: Champagne, France$77.00
Grape: Meunier Region/History Notes: Pinot Meunier, or just Meunier as it’s called more & more often, has long been the 3rd wheel of the Champagne grapes. But lately it seems to be on the rise, and I am here for it! Most Meunier vines are found in the western part of the Marne Valley, where the grapes can more easily grow in the heavier clay and limestone soils. Tenth-generation vigneron Fabien Cazé produced his first vintage in 2013 and obtained organic certification in 2018. Tasting Notes: If Chardonnay is elegance or finesse and Pinot Noir is richness or opulence, then Meunier is downright freshness and delight! From the core to the skins, almost every part of an apple seems to be in this very glass—but the kind of wild apple that you went out and picked from the tree yourself, not from a store! I’d love to see how this complements the sweet, savory, and slightly spicy flavors of a Chinese takeout.
- Champagne Leclerc Briant Reserve Brut NV: Champagne, France (360mL)$50.00
Grapes: Pinot Noir/Pinot Meunier/Chardonnay
- Champagne P. Lancelot-Royer "Cuvée des Chevaliers" Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs Brut NV: Cramant, Champagne, France (1.5L)$163.00
Grape: Chardonnay Region/History Notes: Champagne produces arguably the best sparkling wines in the world—after all, they worked on perfecting the craft for over 700 years! But when you try Grand Cru Champagne, it’s a whole new level of amazing! Grand Cru refers to the quality level of the vineyards themselves, regardless of who owns them or makes wine with the grapes. Less than 12% of all the vineyards in Champagne are classified as Grand Cru, and to label your wine as such, 100% of grapes used have to come from Grand Cru vineyards even if it’s a mix of different vineyard sites. “Blanc de Blancs” means that the grapes are all Chardonnay. This Grower Champagne house is tiny but what little wine they make, they make impeccably! Tasting Notes: Bold bubbles and incredibly complex, this is a wine that could age for 10 years if you’re patient (I am not) and is a perfect pairing with sushi, oysters, or kettle cooked potato chips!
- Dom. Bott Geyl Crémant d'Alsace Extra Brut NV: Alsace, France$31.00Out of stock
Grapes: Pinot Blanc/Chardonnay/Pinot Noir This Crémant by Domaine Bott-Geyl is produced in the Alsace region located along the French-German border. It’s a blend of Pinot Blanc, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir and spends 2 years on its lees before disgorgement. Bright and opulent, this is a gorgeous bottle of fuller-bodied bubbles! From lemon peel and honeycomb to apricot and golden raisin, all the aromas and flavors are so elegantly integrated. The fine and delicate bubble structure is joined by a slightly waxy texture followed by a chalky and lemon pithy finish. Pair with chicken cordon bleu or oysters Rockefeller!
- Drappier Brut Rosé de Saignée NV: Champagne, France$75.00
Grape: 100% Pinot Noir Most rosé Champagnes are made by blending a little still Pinot Noir into the white wine before the second fermentation, but the saignée style involves maceration; in the case of this bottling, that’s 2 full days of skin contact to extract more color, structure, and aromatics from the grape skins. You’ll notice the gorgeous deep pink hue from that extra skin contact and more intense red-fruit aromatics with pops of pomegranate and cherry. Among the saignées I’ve tasted, I love how this wine stays on the feminine side and really delivers on the briochey qualities with added notes of orange oil and anise. Small but persistent bubbles makes this an absolute pleasure to drink … as often as you can!
- Eudald Massana Noya Brut Nature Cava NV: Penedès, Spain$24.00
Grape(s): Macabeo/Xarel-lo/Parellada Region/History Notes: Cava is Spain’s answer to Champagne and must be made in the Traditional Method, where the secondary fermentation occurs in individual bottles. There are technically 17 different pockets throughout Spain that can make Cava, 95% of which are in Catalonia, the north-east corner of Spain near the coast. “Brut” is the term for sparkling wines that are fully dry, and “Brut Nature” is the term for sparkling wine that has absolutely zero sugar added, so it’s bone-dry and thus the lowest calorie glass of wine out there! Eudald Masssana Noya is farming biodynamically and organically and aging their bubbles for up to 14 months on the lees to create a nuanced and complex sparkling wine. Tasting Notes: Big, cannonball-like bubbles make flavors of lemon, apple, and pear notes pop and burst in your mouth. Crisp and refreshing with a persistent bubble structure, this lighter wine is anything but boring!
- Faniel et Fils "Agrapane" Brut NV: Champagne, France$53.00
- Faniel et Fils "Perlane" Brut Rosé NV: Champagne, France$63.00
Grape: Chardonnay/Pinot Noir Region/History Notes: True Champagnes vary in style and flavor just like any wine. This family-owned and operated boutique producer has been making wine at this estate for 3 generations. Their mission has always been to showcase a sense of place with their wines, making unique cuvées that express the land from which these vines grow. Tasting Notes: This rosé is full-bodied and rich with bold notes of black cherry, blackberry, and even smoked strawberries. There are also hints of tobacco and tannins from the Pinot Noir that add such a beautiful depth to the wine. With 3 years aging on the lees in the bottle, the wine also has rich aromatics and flavor profiles of brioche and toast. The bubbles are big and creamy and the finish lasts forever on your palate. Pair this wine with duck breast or smoked salmon—this definitely deserves some bigger flavors to accompany the wine!
- François Montand Blanc de Blanc Brut NV: Jura, France$19.00
Grape(s): Colombard/Ugni Blanc/Chardonnay Region/History Notes: If you have yet to explore wines from Jura, you are in for a treat! Nestled between Burgundy and France's Swiss border, wines from Jura are hard to compare to any other style. Typically, the wines are majority Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, but there are several other grapes that grow here. This traditional method sparkling wine is made exactly like Champagne, beginning with still wine that undergoes a second fermentation in the bottle. The grapes used for this wine are carefully hand-picked, sorted, and kept cool to maintain their aromatics. The wine is kept in bottle for 9 months on the lees before disgorgement. Tasting Notes: Aromas of white flowers, white pepper, lime zest and green pineapple linger in the glass. This wine is luscious and creamy on the palate with soft bubbles and delicate flavors of lemon, toasted bread, and yellow apples. Great aperitif wine or serve with ceviche and chips!
- Goutorbe Bouillot "Le Ru des Charmes" Rosé Brut NV: Champagne, France$81.00
- Graham Beck Blanc de Blancs 2018: Robertson, South Africa$40.00
Grape: Chardonnay Robertson lies in the Breede River Valley and is locally known as the “Valley of Wine and Roses,” making premium red and white wines. Graham Beck makes exclusively sparkling wines all according to the Cap Classique method. Graham Beck makes three tiers of wines. The Vintage Collection tier is reserved for better vintages where the fruit ripens fully but natural acidity is preserved—a perfect recipe for excellent sparkling wines that can age! Tasting Notes: This is stunning wine and more reminiscent of True Champagne than most sparkling wines in the world with smaller, tight bubbles and bracing acidity that makes the bubbles precise and persistent on the palate. With 4 years spent on the lees, this wine is toasty and nutty with aromatics of pie crust cooking in the oven. Lemon curd and dried pineapple flavors abound, but to me this wine is all about structure.
- Gramona "La Cuvée" Cava Brut 2019: Penedès, Spain$40.00
Grape(s): Xarel-lo/Macabeo/Parellada Region/History: Gramona’s history as one of Spain’s most iconic Cava producers goes back to the mid 1800s when the current generation’s great grandfather set about selling wine to the sparkling wine producers of France who, at the time, were being ravaged by phylloxera. As of 2021, the Gramona family has been in the sparkling wine business for a full century and continues to produce world-recognized Cavas. This vintage-dated Cava is produced from grapes farmed with biodynamic methods, spends 39 months on its lees, and receives a minimum dosage of 5 g/l. Tasting Notes: This wine offers stunning value for its price and is one of my favorite alternatives to true Champagne! The nose sings with notes of almond pastry, green pear, and white flowers. The bubble structure is finely woven, and the bubbles themselves are soft in texture. The palate is fresh, citrusy, and offers a touch of nuttiness on the finish. Perfect with raw oysters!
- Henri Champliau Crémant de Bourgogne "Brut Authentique" NV: Burgundy, France$34.00
Grape(s): Pinot Noir/Chardonnay Region/History Notes: The Crémant de Bourgogne AOC was introduced in 1975 for traditional-method white and rosé sparkling wines, typically made of a combination of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Henri Champliau is based in the commune of Mercury in the Côte Chalonnaise and exclusively produces sparkling wine. Their “Brut Authentique” is a blend of 85% Pinot Noir and 15% Chardonnay. It spends a minimum of 18 months on its lees and receives a 5-6 g/l dosage. Tasting Notes: Elegant notes of lemon peel and yellow plum are joined by hints of strawberry, Rainier cherry, and shortbread. The bubble structure is small, delicate, and dissipates quickly, allowing the nuances of fruit and florals to take center stage on the mid-palate with pops of candied lemon. The lengthy finish is characterized by notes of butterscotch and shortbread. Bright, fresh, and just ever-so-slightly chalky, pair this with eggs Benedict and asparagus under plenty of hollandaise!
- I Favati "Cabrì" Spumante NV: Campania, Italy$30.00
Grape: Fiano Region/History Notes: Fiano is a grape native to Campania, Italy. It thrives in the volcanic soils of this region, volcanic ash and basalt from the 79 BCE eruption of Mt. Vesuvius that destroyed Pompeii! There’s plenty of limestone in these soils too, and the combination of limestone and volcanic deposits makes for a high acid, mineral-driven white wine. While I have had plenty of Fiano before, this is the first time I’ve tasted a sparkling made from this grape! This is a brand new project for the Favati family, and Vino Culture is the first venue to feature the wine in the United States! Tasting Notes: Made in the Charmat method (same as Prosecco where the secondary fermentation happens in tank) the bubbles are soft and foamy. The wine is so easy-going up front with notes of smoked apple skins, white flowers, peach tea, Asian pear, lemongrass, and ginger spice! The finish is mineral-driven and more serious, but perfectly lovely. Pair with crab dip or shrimp scampi!
- Jané Ventura Brut Nature Cava 2019: Penedès, Spain$35.00
Grape(s): Xarel-lo/Macabeu/Parellada Region/History Notes: This wine is named “La Reserva de la Música” after the famous cellist, Pablo Casals, who was born in the same village that this winery is located in, El Vendrell in the heart of Pendès just outside of Barcelona. A blend of 43% Xarel-lo (pronounced zsha-RAY-lo), 37% Macabeu (mah-cah-BAY-oh), and 20% Parellada (pah-ray-YAH-dah), this wine spends 2-3 years aging on the lees in bottle, giving a rich, toasty quality to the wine. With no dosage this wine is classified as a Brut Nature—absolutely bone-dry and mineral-driven on the finish. Tasting Notes: Notes of almonds and butter browning in a pan, this wine is immediately alluring on the nose. The palate gives way to wild yellow apples and dried apricots, and the palate is lean and mineral-driven with distinct flavors of brioche and baker’s yeast. The tight bubble structure adds a focus to this lovely wine—perfect pairing for ceviche or crudo!
- Lubanzi Rosé Bubbles NV: Swartland, South Africa$22.00
Grape: Cinsault Region/History Notes: Lubanzi is doing everything right! They work with local growers, sourcing delicious fruit from all over Swartland. They give back 50% of the profits to the growers and employees who help make the wine. The wines are organic, and biodynamic practices are employed. Not only all that, but the wines are all absolutely delicious and affordable! Talk about a win-win! They don’t make a lot of wine, but everything they make is spot on. This Rosé Bubbles is a new venture for them and I hope they continue making it! Tasting Notes: 100% Cinsault with very small bubbles and a beautiful, clean finish, this wine is just delightful! Underripe raspberries, watermelon, and strawberries with a hint of the bubble tape we enjoyed as kids with that chalky texture to it. Do not over think this wine, but feel free to over drink it! Serve extra cold and pair with patios, porches, and picnics—make sure to get another bottle to share with friends!
- Markus Huber "Hugo" Sparkling Rosé NV: Niederösterreich, Austria$23.00
Grapes: Zweigelt/Pinot Noir Zweigelt is a genetic cross of 2 other Austrian red grape varieties: Saint-Laurent and Blaufrankisch, created in a lab in 1922 in Austria. It is now the widest planted red grape variety throughout the country and is known for spicy, fruit-forward red wines with soft tannins. Often blended with fuller-bodied reds wines to add softness and silky textures, I love trying varietal expressions as well as rosé and sparkling versions! This wine is a Sekt—the German and Austrian name for sparkling wines—and is made according to the Charmat method, where the secondary fermentation that makes it a sparkling wine happens in tank instead of in the individual bottles. Tasting Notes: This wine has flavors of delightfully juicy pink strawberries, fresh apricot, and even a little pink peppercorn on the finish. With delicate and well-integrated ripeness of fruit and small bubbles that burst into a mouth-coating mousse, this is the perfect breakfast/brunch bubbles!
- Matamis "Charilys" Spumante Brut NV: Greece$26.00
Grape: Assyrtiko/Malagouzia Region/History Notes: Maybe you already know about Assyrtiko, a grape native to Santorini that produces beautifully mineral-driven wines with breathtaking acidity. But what about Malagouzia? This grape was on the brink of extinction until a winemaker from northeastern Greece decided to plant his vineyards with it in 1983. Today it’s one of the most common blending partners for Assyrtiko, lending body and weight. Finally, you might be familiar with the word “Spumante” on bottles of Moscato and think “sweet,” but the word simply means “sparkling” and can refer to a wine that is either sweet or dry! This wine is made in a Brut style, so it comes across as fairly dry. Tasting Notes: All the Honey crisp and Golden Delicious apples a person could wish for with this gorgeous textural softness! The bubbles are so small and delicate that if you sip too fast you might not even realize they’re there at all! Pair alongside mild, soft cheeses.
- Noble Hill Blanc de Blancs Brut Nature NV: Simonsberg, South Africa$40.00
Grape: Chardonnay Region/History: Cap Classique is South Africa’s terminology for wines made in the Traditional Method. This particular bottling by first-generation winemaker Kirstopher Tillery spends 36 months on the lees, which, if made by a less talented winemaker or with less impressive fruit, could overpower a wine’s natural flavors. Not this wine though! Tasting Notes: As all of Kristopher’s wines, this wine is elegant, subtle, reserved, and dare I say, coy! The surprise is the masculine, flinty quality to the finish that adds intrigue to the wine. The bubbles are tiny, tight, and delicate with a persistence that is just lovely. Hints of apricot, hints of white peach, hints of green apple, hints of tarragon, hints of lemon peel—this wine has a LOT going on but it’s all woven together with restraint. From kettle cooked potato chips to caviar, this wine will be diverse in its ability to highlight different flavors on your dinner table.
- Oliver Viticultors Rosé Cava Brut Nature NV: Penedès, Spain$26.00
Grapes: Garnacha/Pinot Noir There are a growing number of biodynamic producers in the Penedès region of North-East Spain, surrounding the famed city of Barcelona and home to most of the country’s Cavas. Cava has to be made from designated regions in Spain and must be made according to the Champagne Method. Known for big, bold, bursting bubbles and a range of styles from fresh aperitivo styles, to rich, nuanced, aged styles that are incredible food pairing wines, there is a lot of diversity to explore with Cava. Brut Nature indicates there is no amount of sugar added to the wine after fermentation, keeping it bone dry. This wine is bursting with flavors of watermelon jolly ranchers and has a tart, juicy palate with a little strawberry shortcake action from 12-15 months of lees aging. The finish is quite chalky thanks to it being so dry. My favorite pairing with a Rosé Cava like this one? Sour cream & onion chips!
- Olivier Marteaux Rosé de Saignée Extra Brut NV: Vallée de la Marne, Champagne, France$62.00
Grape: Meunier Region/History Notes: Rosé Champagne is often made by blending a little still red wine with white wine, but there is another, lesser-known method. From the French word for “bleeding,” the saignée process begins with a maceration period that lets the juice extract color, tannins, and flavor from the grape skins. From there, a small percentage of the juice is bled off. Wines produced using this method tend to be more intense in their aromatic and flavor profile as well as in their structural character. This bottling from Olivier Marteaux is further unique in that the wine is produced from all single-vineyard fruit and all from the 2016 vintage. It even spends 6 and 1/2 years on its lees before disgorgement! Tasting Notes: Pomegranate juice, black raspberry, tobacco, and smoky herbal notes! The palate is bright and so intensely Bing cherry-driven that you need some serious food to stand up to it, so pair it with something like seared duck breast with an orange gastrique!
- Ox-Eye Vineyards Blanc de Blanc Extra Brut: Shenandoah Valley, Virginia$40.00
Grape: Chardonnay Region/History Notes: Husband and wife team John and Susan Kiera purchased a 100-acre farm in 1996 and began planting grapes. While they sold their grapes to other producers for over a decade, they built a winery in 2010 to begin bottling their own wines. Now, they make many different wines using 100% estate fruit. Joined by their daughter, the Kiers family is making some of my favorite Virginia wines! These east and south-east facing slopes are situated around 1,800 feet elevation. The high diurnal temperature variation coupled with limestone soils keep the vines cooler, preserving natural acidity in the grapes. This Blanc de Blancs is made from 100% Chardonnay grapes and is made in the traditional method. Tasting Notes: Small bubbles that are persistent and foamy with loads of apple and pear notes and a finish driven by lemon and lime, this wine is refreshing and quaffable. A perfect pairing with fried chicken all summer long!
- Paltrinieri "Piria" Lambrusco di Sorbara 2022: Emilia-Romagna, Italy$21.00Out of stock
Grape: Lambrusco di Sorbara/Lambrusco Salamino Region/History Notes: Don’t think Riunite jug wine when you hear the term “Lambrusco.” There are many high quality sparklers that taste nothing like what you normally see labelled as Lambrusco. Lambrusco can be made in a range from sweet to dry, white to red, and everything in between, but you can at least count on it being sparkling! There are several grape varieties lumped into the term “Lambrusco;” the top of the list includes the two in this blend: Lambrusco di Sorbara (70%) and Lambrusco Salomino (30%). Tasting Notes: This particular wine is made in a dry style with a distinct saltiness to the finish which makes it a spectacular food-pairing wine! White cherry, white cranberry and tart strawberries are bright and flirtatious on the palate with an herbal, tangy finish that would be perfect with roasted oysters with ginger mignonette, or prosciutto wrapped melon bites!
- Paltrinieri Bianco dell'Emilia 2021: Emilia-Romagna, Italy$21.00
Grapes: Trebbiano/Lambrusco di Sorbara Region/History Notes: Don’t think Riunite when you think of Lambrusco; instead, think of just one more type of Italian sparkling wine that ranges in style from dry to sweet, from white to red, and from soft and easy-drinking to thought-provoking and intense! Alberto Paltrinieri founded the Paltrinieri winery in 1998, and today the estate is dedicated to producing Lambruscos that display the full diversity of the style. Their Bianco is a blend of 50% Trebbiano and 50% Lambrusco di Sorbara, one of the most important red grapes in Lambrusco production that in this wine does not see any contact with its skins, leaving the final wine absent of color. Tasting Notes: Charmingly rustic with notes of wild apples and pears, lemon pith and white peach, hazelnut skins, and a pop of white pepper on the palate. With tiny bubbles that dissipate quickly, this is perfect aperitivo wine!
- Pinon Vouvray Petillant Brut 2019: Loire Valley, France$44.00
Grape: Chenin Blanc Region/History: Established in 1786 and passed down through 7 generations, the François & Julien Pinon estate is still family owned and operated. Now farming their 37 acres and making wine organically north-east of the village of Vouvray, they make wines primarily from Chenin Blanc. The 45 year-old vines in this sparkling Vouvray are low-yielding, producing more pronounced and concentrated flavors in the wine. Chenin has a unique ability to ripen with high sugar content and loads of flavor while still maintaining high natural acidity in the berries- making a perfect base for sparkling wine! Tasting Notes: This wine is clean and precise, without the ‘Chenin funk’ so often found in this region. The 3 years the wine spends on the lees in bottle before disgorgement and release create a wine that is rich in texture and with a depth of complexity that makes my head spin—every sip brings out a new dimension to this wine! Pair with pork chops topped with apple chutney!
- Prima Perla Prosecco NV: Treviso, Veneto, Italy$17.00
Grape: Glera Region/History Notes: Prosecco is a sparkling wine made according to the Charmat Method which is different than Champagne or Traditional Method. With Charmat, wines undergo a second fermentation in a pressurized tank instead of individual bottles. This creates a sparking wine as carbon dioxide is trapped in the tank and stays dissolved in the liquid, bursting once you open the bottle! Prosecco is made with primarily Glera grapes from the Veneto and Friuli areas of North-East Italy and known for its softer, smaller bubbles. This wine is an Extra Dry, which actually means there is more residual sugar in the wine than a Brut! But don’t worry, what’s not confusing is how delicious this wine is and how much value it offers! Tasting Notes: Green apple and asian pear notes with key limes and fresh kiwi, this wine is bright, fruity, and friendly. With small bubbles that foam up and dissipate quickly, this is an excellent party and aperitivo wine, cheers!
- Raventós i Blanc "de Nit" Rosé Brut 2021: Conca Del Riu Anoia, Catalonia, Spain$38.00
Grape: Xarel-lo/Macabeu/Parellada/Monastrell Region/History Notes: Raventós i Blanc has been making wine since the 1400s and is a benchmark for incredible bubbles from Spain! They are 100% organic and biodynamic producers who only work with indigenous Spanish grapes. All their sparkling wines are made from single vintages, expressing how each year does, and should, make different wines! They only work with estate fruit too, so their wines are smaller production and phenomenal! This newer appellation, Conca del Riu Anoi, was created (spearheaded by this team) to showcase high-quality, impressive, age-worthy sparkling wines that rival the best of Champagne. Tasting Notes: Delicate notes of strawberry, almond paste, and fresh herbs, this wine is subtle but not simple with fine, tight bubbles that wake you up and a finish that lasts forever! Pair with fried oysters, sushi, and even specialty ramen soups.
- Szigeti "Cuvée Prestige" Brut 2017: Burgenland, Austria$35.00
Grapes: Pinot Blanc/Chardonnay/Blaufränkisch Region/History Notes: Szigeti (pronounced ZIG-it-ee) was founded in 1991 by brothers Peter and Norbert Szigeti with the goal of producing high quality sparkling wine, called “Sekt” here in Austria. Since 2018 Peter has been the sole proprietor of Szigeti, and today the estate produces a range of traditional-method sparkling wines with fruit purchased from contracted growers across the region of Burgenland. “Cuvée Prestige” is a blend of 40% Pinot Blanc and 30% each Chardonnay and Blaüfrankish from the 2017 harvest. Tasting Notes: 31 months of lees aging adds depth in the form of warm, toasty, butterscotch-like aromas that are layered with baked apples, bruised pineapples, marzipan, and sweet spice. The bubbles are small and initially prickly in texture before bursting into a mouth-filling mousse. A richer style of sparkling wine that would be delicious alongside hot honey fried chicken or baked oysters with herb butter!
- Treveri Brut Syrah NV: Columbia Valley, Washington$26.00
Grape: Syrah Region/History Notes: Washington State is not known for producing one grape or a couple of specific styles. Instead, they are known for their incredibly broad focus! While some wish they would just make up their minds already, I love the diversity found here. Treveri cellars only makes sparkling wines (the only exclusive sparkling winery in Washington) and every single wine they produce is spectacular! Tasting Notes: Such a unique and totally unexpected style of wine! It’s unabashedly Syrah with its more feminine notes of red plum, blackberry, black cherry, and violet being matched with equal intensity by black pepper, tobacco, and some intensely meaty qualities—and then on top of all that it’s fully red and sparkling! While there is a dosage to the bottle to make it a “Brut” style, lending some candied fruit notes to the finish, it still drinks quite dry and would make a great pairing with smoked brisket or a pastrami Reuben.
- Treveri Cellars Blanc de Blancs Brut Zero NV: Columbia Valley, Washington$18.00
Grape: Chardonnay Region/History Notes: When sparkling wines are made, there is often a “dosage” added after the second fermentation (what gives it bubbles). The dosage is sugar added to soften the sometimes harsh acidity of the wine. “Brut” means dry, but can actually have up to 12g of sugar per liter. “Extra Dry” is confusingly sweeter than Brut, allowing for up to 17g. But “Brut Nature or Brut Zero” do not allow for ANY sugar to be added, making it one of the lowest calorie wine out there and it’s delicious! Tasting Notes: Crisp and refreshing with tight bubbles and an expressive nose, Treveri always makes delicious sparkling wines. Use as an aperitif wine to get your palate revved up, or drink with sushi/fried chicken, kettle cooked potato chips- or anything salty!
- Treveri Rosé Brut NV: Columbia Valley, Washington$20.00
Rosé
- Alkoomi Rosé 2023: Frankland River, Western Australia$22.00
Grape(s): Petit Verdot/Shiraz/Grenache/Tempranillo/Malbec History/Region Notes: While most of the Australian wine we drink is from South Australia, the cooler climates of Western Australia have some incredible wine that needs more recognition! Alkoomi was initially a cattle farm founded in 1846 that eventually transitioned into a sustainably operated winery. This rosé is part of what they call their “Grazing Collection” that pays homage to their history and consists of wines that are perfect for all your own times of grazing! Tasting Notes: Raspberry leaf, nectarine, and all the apricots—this wine is the ideal blend of mouthwateringly juicy pink fruits with bright citrus notes, vibrant acidity, and perfect mouthfeel! There is just a hint of chalky minerality, and a delightful pop of spice at the end. I can’t get enough of this wine; it will be a staple all throughout my summertime picnics and barbecues!
- Ameztoi "Rubentis" Txakoli Rosé 2023: Getariako Txakolina, Spain$29.00
Grape(s): Hondarrabi Zuri/Hondarrabi Beltza Region/History Notes: The northern coast of Spain is Basque Country, with markedly different wines, grapes, culture, language, and food compared to the rest of Spain. There are 3 primary regions here with Txakolina being the encompassing region. Getariako, just 18 miles from the border with France, is the most eastern of the three regions. Hondarrabi is the local region name—zuri means “white” and beltza means “red,” so Hondarrabi Zuri and Hondarrabi Beltza are the classic red and white grapes of the region. It’s traditional to ferment the wines in a closed tank to preserve the natural carbonation, so you’ll often find a slight spritz in wines from the area. Tasting notes: Low in alcohol with bright, zingy acidity and the classic marker of white pepper/poblano pepper—this wine is so delicious and way too easy to drink! Pair this delightfully zesty rosé with chips, guacamole, and queso on the beach!
- Backsberg Pinotage Rosé 2022: Paarl, Western Cape, South Africa$20.00
Grape: Pinotage History/Region Notes: Pinotage is indeed the name of the grape, and it has a unique history: it was created in a lab in South Africa in 1925 as a cross between Pinot Noir and Cinsault (then called Hermitage). Most grapes are crosses that happen naturally in the vineyards over many, many years, but this was an intentional cross by scientist Abraham Perold. I find many Pinotage labels exported to the US to be pretty rough around the edges, but Backsberg is all polish and class, and this rosé is such a delightful expression of the grape! Tasting Notes: White cranberry and green strawberry notes with an earthy, almost spicy quality to the wine As it warms up, more peach, apricot, and cantaloupe flavors develop and the wine becomes richer on the palate. I prefer it colder to preserve its tart, bright, and fresh characteristics! Perfect with chips and guac!
- Bedrock Wine Co. "Ode To Lulu" Rosé 2022: Sonoma, California$30.00
Grape: Mourvedre/Grenache/Syrah Region/History Notes: In 1936, a woman named Lucile Tempier married Lucien Peyraud. The couple would go on to revitalize Lucile’s family vineyards and elevate the wines of the Bandol appellation in Provence to practically the same status as those of Burgundy or Bordeaux. It is thanks to Lucile, or “Lulu,” and Lucien that Bandol rosé is so widely recognized today! Bedrock Wine Co. is a staple in my book for rich yet elegant California reds, and their “Ode to Lulu” rosé is always a stunner no matter the vintage! This vintage’s homage to Lulu Peyraud is a Mourvèdre-dominant blend with Grenache and Syrah. Tasting Notes: Aromatic, flavorful, and full, but somehow ethereal and light at the same time! Peaches, powdery florals, juicy berries, juniper, orange zest … I could go on! This is a rosé that keeps you coming back for more, and while I suppose you could pair it with some crispy bread and garlicky aioli, just a wine glass is perfectly sufficient!
- Bodegas Olivares Rosado 2023: Jumilla, Spain$15.00Out of stock
- Ch. des Antonins Rosé 2023: Bordeaux, France$20.00
Grape(s): Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot Region/History Notes: Many centuries ago, Bordeaux began its climb to fame with its deeply-colored rosés called “clairet.” Today, full-bodied reds are the most famous wines to come out of the region and clairet, while still produced, is a little harder to find. There are nevertheless an array of other delicious rosés produced all across Bordeaux to be found, typically made from the leading red grapes Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc. Château des Antonins' rosé is a blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon and 30% Merlot. Tasting Notes: This wine smells like you took a handful of blackberries and squeezed the juice straight from them! From there, it’s like you added a little bit of tangerine, violets, and purple jolly ranchers—delicious! Fuller-bodied with a pop of pink peppercorn on the finish, pair this with steamed pork dumplings with a ginger-hoisin sauce.
- Ch. Puech-Haut "Argali" Rosé 2023: Languedoc-Roussillon, France$29.00
Grape: Grenache/Cinsault Region/History Notes: The Languedoc is one of my favorite regions for great value wine! They make just about everything here—from whites and reds, to rosés and bubbles, and a good deal in between from a whole host of grape varieties. Pays d’Oc is the designation for wines produced all across the Languedoc and offers winemakers more a little more flexibility in their grape growing and winemaking methods. This rosé, a blend of 60% Grenache and 40% Cinsault, comes from a small parcel of land in the foothills of the Cevennes that had been planted to olive trees but was soon converted to vines once the winemaker realized its potential! Tasting Notes: Despite how pale in color the wine is, the aromatics really dance out of the glass with notes of pink and white flowers alongside fresh strawberry, raspberry, and white peach. Delicious with Mediterranean fare, or a salad with goat cheese, strawberries, arugula, and a light vinaigrette!
- Chateau Musar "Juene" Rosé 2021: Bekaa Valley, Lebanon$30.00Out of stock
Grape: Cinsault/Mourvèdre Region/History Notes: Château Musar makes wines that rival the best of Burgundy and Bordeaux, but from a region you might not expect- Lebanon! While many wineries in Lebanon stopped making wine during their civil war, Ch. Musar sought out a distributor for their French inspired whites and reds to export their wines globally. Thus began the partnership with the Broadbent family who’s wine importing and sales business has literally changed the world of wine. While their high-end reds and whites can age for generations, the Musar Jeune label is their expression of the grapes they grow that is meant to be consumed fresh, young, and often! You don’t have to overthink aging and decanting this wine, just pop the cork and enjoy! Tasting Notes: This wine is savory and fresh and vibrant with notes of green strawberries, sage, basil, melon, white cranberry, and pomegranate. Don’t serve too cold and pair with anything from seafood to salty pork dishes.
- Dom. de Fontsainte Gris de Gris 2023: Corbières, Languedoc, France$25.00
Grape: Grenache Gris/Carignan/Mourvèdre Region/History Notes: Domaine de Fontsainte’s history dates back to the 1600s and has been imported by Kermit Lynch for the last 40 years. The vineyards themselves date back to the time of the Romans who planted here in 25CE! The estate has always preserved tradition, making wines that are true to the vineyard with minimal intervention in the winery. Gris de Gris is a style of rosé that means “grey from grey” and must be made from lightly-tinted grapes like Grenache Gris and Cinsault. Tasting Notes: This blend is predominantly Grenache Gris, a pinkish-grey mutation of Grenache mostly grown in the south of France, and it is lovely with all these aromas and flavors of bergamot, raspberry, pink flowers, and green herbs. The palate is remarkably clean, fresh, and delightfully mineral-driven on the finish. Pair with grilled spring vegetables or a fruit & cheese board!
- Dom. de la Manarine Rosé 2023: Côtes du Rhône, France$22.00
- Folk Machine Rosé of Gamay 2023: Arroyo Seco, Central Coast, California$29.00
Grape: Gamay Region/History: The small Arroyo Seco AVA is located in the middle of the Salinas Valley in Monterey County. The wines produced in this cool climate (including those made from grapes like Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Riesling) have always been received favorably by critics, but have traditionally fallen under the radar of consumers. Folk Machine is one of the many labels of Hobo Wines, founded in 2002, and was started as the label for their Pinot Noirs but has since expanded to include an array of eclectic grapes and wines. Tasting Notes: If there is such a thing as pink peaches, then that’s what this wine smells like! If there isn’t, then I suppose you could also describe these flamboyant aromatics as pink starbursts, with a savory backbone of strawberry leaf. It’s so juicy on the palate, but I also love the slightly spicy pop of white pepper on the finish. Pair with spanakopita or chicken gyros with a cucumber-tomato salad!
- François et Jean-Marie Cherrier "Les Chailloux" Sancerre Rosé 2022: Loire Valley, France$33.00
Grape: Pinot Noir Region/History Notes: Sancerre is located in the far eastern side of the Loire Valley called the Central Loire. The area is famous for its Kimmeridgian limestone soils and taut, mineral-driven styles of Sauvignon Blanc, but both red and rosé wine made from Pinot Noir are also permitted under the appellation. François and Jean-Marie Cherrier, or the Cherrier Frères, farm 50 acres of vines over five villages around Sancerre. They produce all three styles of Sancerre—Blanc, Rouge, and Rosé. Tasting Notes: Strawberries, raspberries, and red currants dance with fresh white roses on the nose. With a year in bottle the acidity has softened, allowing notes of dried lavender to shine, and I adore the slightly tangy, crème fraîche-like finish. Perfect springtime dinner party rosé to pair with an herby salmon and potato salad or a chicken primavera with peas and asparagus!
- Mas de Valériole "Vé" Rosé 2023: Méditerranée, France$44.00
Grapes: Merlot/Caladoc
- Poe Split Rock Ranch Rosé of Grenache 2023: Mendocino County, California$33.00
- Proprietà Sperino "Rosa del Rosa" Rosato 2022: Piedmont, Italy$33.00
Grape: Nebbiolo/Vespolina Region/History Notes: Proprieta Sperino’s vineyards are located in Alto-Piemonte at the base of the Italian Alps. This region, while chilly, finds protection from the more inclement aspects of the climate just underneath Monte Rosa, the second largest peak in the Alps. Nebbiolo is showcased beautifully here in both red and rosé form, producing lean, fresh wines that reveal the purity and energy of the terroir. A small percentage of Vespolina is included in this blend to mellow out some of the intensity of Nebbiolo. Crushed, dried rose petals on the nose merge with candied strawberries and ripe peach. The palate reveals the more savory, masculine side of Nebbiolo alongside a little pine and juniper berry, and even showcases a touch of the tannins that structurally define the grape. This is a great food rosé to pair with every course throughout the meal: soft, mild cheeses to start, pasta with truffles and mushrooms, or even creamy Tuscan chicken!
- Quinta Picouto de Cima Espadeiro Rosé 2022: Vinho Verde, Portugal$19.00
Grape: Espadeiro Region/History Notes: Quinta Picouto de Cima is located in Guimarães, a charming Portuguese city rich with history and found within the Vinho Verde wine region. Vinho Verde wines are known for their light body, slightly spritzy character, high acidity, and refreshing taste. There are several varieties that can be included in Vinho Verde and there are two styles: Branco and Rosado (white and rosé). This is a Rosado-style wine made with 100% Espadeiro. The wine is vinified in temperature-controlled open stainless steel tanks—locally called “Bica Aberta”—to preserve freshness. Tasting Notes: Aromas of guava, ripe strawberries, peaches and honeysuckle are present in this wine. The fruit characteristics are juicy and beg for the arrival of summer! The palate matches the nose with a slightly salty finish. Pair with grilled shrimp salad, sunshine and good times!
- Tenuta Sant'Antonio "Scaia" Rosato 2023: Veneto, Italy$18.00
Grape: Rondinella Region/History Notes: Scaia was launched by Tenuta Sant’Antonio in 2006 as an outlet for their younger vines, and the project has since grown to include a range of easy-drinking wines. The name “Scaia” means “crumbs” in the Venetian dialect and is in reference to the stony/chalky/limestone soils that lend higher acidity to the wines in this area. This rosato is made from 100% Rondinella, which typically plays a minor role in Veneto’s Corvina-based red blends. Tasting Notes: Watermelon Jolly Ranchers meet fresh green herbs and pink peppercorns, this wine’s aromatics are so playful! It’s acid-driven, tart and tangy, and has this spicy minerality to the finish that I love. I can’t wait for 90-degree days and a bottle of this poolside—especially with a big bowl of chips and guacamole or ceviche!
Orange Wine
- Ch. Maris "Rare Orange" 2021: Languedoc, France$27.00
Grape: Muscat Region/History Notes: Château Maris might just be one of the coolest producers working today! They’re ranked in the top 5 for the most environmentally friendly wineries in the world, have a winery made out of hemp that is carbon negative (not just carbon neutral), and are a triple threat in the certification department: organic, biodynamic, and B-Corp certified! I always relish the opportunity to try something from them, and I love this orange wine—which despite the crown cap isn’t sparkling! Tasting Notes: Fragrant and characteristically Muscat, but so fresh and fun! The nose is delightfully fruit-forward with tangerine, apricot, and mango, plus plenty of orange blossom aromatics. The palate is more floral than it is savory, and delivers a pleasant amount of tannins that add just enough structure to the wine so that you could enjoy it with or without food. Delicious alongside linguine with goat cheese, asparagus, peas, and lemon!
- Nine Oaks Estate Kisi Qvevri Dry Amber 2018: Kakheti, Georgia$49.00Out of stock
Grape: Kisi Region/History Notes: Georgia rests between the two ranges of the Caucasus Mountains on the eastern side of the Black Sea. The country boasts an 8,000-year winemaking tradition that is defined by hundreds of indigenous grape varieties and, oftentimes, aging in large clay pots called qvevri. This wine is made from the Kisi grape and spends 28 days on its skins in 4,000L qvevri. It is unfined and unfiltered, so don’t be alarmed by the cloudiness! Tasting Notes: Without a doubt one of the most unique noses of any wine I’ve come across! You’re enveloped in this aromatic cloud of dried mango and apricot, coriander seed, Rooibos tea, burnt honey, black pepper, and licorice. It’s bone dry and almost savory on the palate with some surprising tannins, so don’t serve it too cold and treat it almost like a red wine in terms of food pairings. I especially love playing around with exotic, intense flavors when it comes to orange wines—think hearty Middle Eastern and Indian dishes!
- Remhoogte "Free To Be Orange" 2023: Stellenbosch, South Africa$29.00
- Vineyard Kamkouti Orange Malagouzia 2021: Valventos, West Macedonia, Greece$23.00
Grape: Malagouzia Region/History Notes: Kamkouti is located in Velventos, which is a mountainous area, and the vineyard is located at 400m above sea level. The vineyard encounters a warming effect from the near by Lake Polyphytos and with good drainage, alluvium soils, and an ideal microclimate Malagousia thrives! Malagousia almost went extinct but has made a reappearance due to plantings in the 1980s. Various styles exist including sparkling and sweet wines, but it is most typically found as an aromatic white wine. This Malagousia is soaked on the skins for 40 days which gives it an orange color. Tasting Notes: Aromas of dried apricots, white peaches, grapefruit peel, and old white blossoms can be found dancing in the glass. The slightly weighty mouthfeel really adds a layer of complexity to this wine, with flavors of apricots and almond skins. The finish has a touch of tannin and lower acidity, making this an easy sipper. Pair with a grilled chicken sandwich and lunch is served!
Sweet Wine
- 499 "Vento del Mare" Moscato D'Asti 2022: Piedmont, Italy$22.00
Azienda Agricola 499 Moscato Region/History Notes: While Piedmont is known for its super premium red wines made from Nebbiolo in the Barolo and Barbaresco districts, it also makes a delightful and simple sweeter wine from the Moscato grape in the Asti district. Sometimes Moscato d’Asti can be cloyingly sweet and over the top, but high-quality boutique producers like this one know how to balance the acid with the natural sweetness of the grape. Azienda Agricola 499’s estate is situated at 499 meters (about 1,600 ft) above sea level. This higher elevation means the wines naturally have brighter acidity, keeping the sweetness balanced and in check in the wine. This is a slightly spritzy wine that has loads of fresh flowers like honeysuckle and lilies, along with clementines, orange marmalade, candied peaches, and dried apricots. It is delicious with spicy Thai foods or ramen with extra sriracha. If you’re in a sweet frame of mind, pair it with some tiramisu! Yum!
- Baci Dolci Pink NV: Veneto, Italy$14.00
Grapes: Moscato, Marzemino Region/History Notes: Baci Dolci means ‘sweet kiss’ in Italian and their wines are literally just that! The wine is produced by Cantina Colli Euganei which is a cooperative of 680 farmers that began pooling their resources and grapes to produce a larger production wine to market on the global scale. This co-op began after WWII after the area was ravaged by war, and it continues to be a source of economic growth for the local community. Italy has over 1,500 indigenous grape varieties that are grown almost nowhere else but their birthplace. Marzemino is one of those grapes and is so fun in this blend! Tasting Notes: It’s sweet, it’s velvety, it’s a cherry bomb, it’s delicious! Serve fully chilled and the fun slight effervescent texture of the wine makes it still refreshing and juicy. Perfect with spicy foods, especially spicy huevos rancheros for brunch! Also great with wood oven pizza with spicy tomato sauce and lots of red pepper.
- Cantina Sorbara "Emma" Lambrusco di Sorbara NV: Emilia-Romagna, Italy$18.00
Grape: Lambrusco di Sorbara/Lambrusco Salamino Region/History Notes: Lambrusco is both the overarching name of a family of grapes, as well as a style of wine produced from those grapes in the Emilia-Romagna region of Northern Italy. There are countless styles of Lambrusco, from wines that are on the more light-hearted and sweet side, to fully dry sparkling whites and reds. “Emma,” from Cantina di Sorbara, is made mostly from Lambrusco di Sorbara—considered the finest of the Lambrusco clones for its low yields in the vineyard and its fragrant and floral characteristics. Tasting Notes: At 8.5% alcohol this is a gently sweet style of Lambrusco with enough tart acidity to keep the body of the wine lifted and bright. Notes of pomegranate, strawberry leaf, and rose on the nose, and a delicate frizzante bubble structure on the palate with a pop of Morello cherry. Perfect pizza night wine, especially if there’s a little spice involved!
- Cantine Fratelli Bonelli Bonarda Frizzante Amabile 2021: Colli Piacentini, Emilia-Romagna, Italy$16.00
Grape: Bonarda Region/History Notes: Emilia-Romagna is nestled between Piedmont and Lombardy in the northern portion of Italy. The Colli Piacentini DOC of the region is located in the foothills of the Apennine Mountains, specifically on the hills of Piacenza. Cantine Fratelli Bonelli has been a producer here since the 1940s and has become one of the most famous producers of this region. Bonarda, also known as Croatina, originated in Croatia but is now nearly entirely produced in the northern regions of Italy. “Amabile” translates to “agreeable,” equivalent to off-dry in the Italian way of speaking. Tasting Notes: Such a playfully expressive nose-blueberry, pomegranate and ripe cherry syrup (in a good way)! The palate confirms it all on a fizzy bubble that’s creamy and soft. You could easily bring this wine down in temperature to enjoy with a picnic full of cured meats and green apples, or pair it with pizza spiced with chorizo and sweet/sticky BBQ!
- Cascina Fonda Moscato d'Asti "Bel Piano" 2019: Piedmont, Italy$18.00
Grape: Moscato Region/History Notes: While Piedmont is known for its premium red wines made from Nebbiolo in the Barolo and Barbaresco communes, it also makes delightful sweet wine from the Moscato grape in the Asti district. Sometimes Moscato d’Asti can be cloyingly sweet and over the top, but high-quality boutique producers like this one know how to balance the acidity and make it right! Brothers Marco and Massmino Barbero took over Cascina Fonda in 1988. These grapes are hand picked, destemmed and crushed before the wine soaks with the skins for several hours to extract flavor in stainless steel tanks. The fermentation takes 20 days to complete, and pressurized tanks are used to add soft bubbles. Tasting Notes: Aromas of honeysuckle, lemon zest, and vanilla bean shine on the nose. The bubbles are super soft and dissipate quickly. The palate brings forth more fruit like yellow apples and candied mangos. Pair with a cheese danish or spicy ramen if you’re feeling adventurous!
- McNab Ridge "Carisma" Syrah 2022: Mendocino County, California (Sweet)$22.00
Grape: Syrah Region/History Notes: The history of Mendocino dates back to the Civil War era, with many immigrants seeking a new livelihood through the cultivation of grape vines. The McNab Ridge Winery was established in 1868 as a homestead by a Scottish immigrant named Alexander McNab. Syrah originated in the Rhône Valley in southeast France. Rich, powerful, and sometimes meaty, Syrah can give black plum and chocolatey notes, which makes it a great choice for a sweet red! Tasting Notes: This wine is quite the pleasant surprise! The leading aromatics include tart cranberry, lavender and vanilla. With a slight effervescent character, the sweetness of this wine is not off-putting at all. It’s like sugar-coated frozen cranberries (the kind you use for cocktails) with dashes of vanilla bean and purple floral undertones. It’s a perfect winter aperitif or sweet red wine that would please a crowd, even non-sweet wine drinkers! Pair with warm brie cheese, crackers and your favorite jam!
- Patrick Bottex Bugey-Cerdon "La Cueille" NV: Bugey, France$33.00
Grape: Gamay/Poulsard Region/History Notes: Don’t feel bad if you’ve never heard of Bugey! This small wine region has only about 500 hectares (1,2000 acres) planted to vine and wasn’t even granted AOC status until 2009. Just south of Jura, Bugey is often grouped together with Savoie directly to its east, although the two regions aren’t technically connected under French wine law. All styles of wine are made in Bugey, but the most famous is a sweet sparkling wine from Cerdon, one of Bugey’s three Crus. Made mostly from Gamay with a little bit of the local grape Poulsard, these wines are made in the ancestral method with just one primary fermentation that happens in the bottle. Tasting notes: This wine goes down all too easily, but I’m not complaining! Sweet, but not cloyingly so, with bright acidity and layers upon layers of juicy, alpine strawberries. Perfect brunch wine to pair with all the sweet things on your spread, from almond croissants to bread pudding!
- Treveri Sparkling Gewürtztraminer Demi-Sec NV: Columbia Valley, Washington$21.00
Grape: Gewürztraminer Region/History Notes: When sparkling wines are made, there is often a “dosage” added after the second fermentation (what gives it bubbles). The dosage is sugar added to soften the sometimes harsh acidity of the wine. “Brut” means dry, but“Extra Dry” is confusingly sweeter than Brut, and “Demi-Sec” means there is noticeable sweetness in the wine without being dessert-wine sweet. Tasting Notes: Crisp and refreshing with tight bubbles and an expressive nose, Treveri always makes delicious sparkling wines. Use as an aperitif wine to get your palate revved up, or drink with spicy foods to calm the heat- think cajun foods or spicy tacos!
Dessert, Vermouth, etc.
- Bodegas Juan Piñero "Great Duke" 12-Year Oloroso: Jerez, Spain$46.00
Grape: Palomino Region/History Notes: There are 7 major—and very different—styles of sherry, but they have a few things in common: 90% are made from the Palomino grape, they’re all fortified, they're aged in a solera, and their final profile is determined by either the presence or absence of a blanket of yeast over the wine called flor. Styles like oloroso, cream, and Pedro Ximénez are fortified to an ABV that exceeds 17% and prevents the growth of flor. Oloroso is usually fortified to between 18 and 20% alcohol before it slowly works its way through the solera system. This one ages for 12 years in the solera! Tasting Notes: Oloroso means “intensely aromatic,” and that’s what you get with all the dates, figs, dried orange peels, and truffle. It’s dry and light but simultaneously has an almost glycerin-like texture on the palate with a finish that’s all roasted nuts! Store in the fridge after opening & enjoy within 4-6 weeks with aged cheeses and roasted or smoked meats!
- Bodegas Juan Piñero "Maruja" Manzanilla: Jerez, Spain$23.00
Grape: Palomino Region/History Notes: There are 7 major—and very different—styles of sherry, but they have a few things in common: 90% are made from the Palomino grape, they’re all fortified, they’re aged in a solera, and their final profile is determined by either the presence or absence of a blanket of yeast over the wine called flor. Manzanilla is fortified to an ABV between 15 and 17% to allow for the development of this flor. It is only produced around the port of Sanlúcar de Barrameda, as it’s the unique combination of the area’s temperature, humidity levels, and proximity to the sea that create a thick layer of flor and consequently an incredibly delicate sherry with a distinctive sea-spray quality. This particular manzanilla has a lovely bouquet with a hint of fruit and a little nuttiness on the finish that’s so fun! It’s best stored in the fridge and will last about a week, so enjoy fresh!
- Boplaas Cape Ruby NV: Calitzdorp, Klein Karoo, South Africa$19.00
Grape(s): Tinta Barocca/Touriga Nacional/Souzao Region/History Notes: While production today is not as high as it was 300 years ago, fortified wines have nevertheless been a staple of the South African wine industry since the 1700s. The most common style of fortified wine was called Cape Port up until 2012 (when Portugal cracked down on anyone outside of the country using the term). Nowadays you’ll find the word “Cape” on a label followed by the specific style of the wine. This Cape Ruby is made using the same grapes and techniques that you would find in a true Ruby Port from Portugal, meaning that it is a blend of young and fruity wines, fortified with a neutral grape spirit, that spends minimal time in oak barrels. Tasting Notes: Like spiced cherry pie filling in a glass! This wine is rich and fruit-forward on the nose with the woodsy, sweet spice qualities emphasized on the palate. Serve with a slight chill and pair with aged or blue cheeses, or rich chocolate-based desserts!
- Cocchi Americano Bianco: Piedmont, Italy$28.00
Grape: Moscato d'Asti Region/History Notes: Let’s start with the basics: vermouths are made by fortifying still wines with a neutral grape spirit and then adding herbs, spices, and botanicals—each vermouth has its own secret recipe that makes it unique! Cocchi Americano came onto the scene in 1891 and uses Moscato d’Asti grapes as its base. After fortification, it’s infused with things like, star anise, bitter orange peel, wormwood, and cinchona bark. Also called ‘quina,’ cinchona bark contains quinine and helps give Cocchi Americano its signature taste. The name Americano is derived from the Italian word amaricato, meaning ‘to make bitter,’ as well as the American habit of drinking vermouth over ice with soda. Tasting Notes: A beautiful abundance of citrus peels and botanical-derived aromatics to keep your palate invested with every sip! Keep it simple by serving this the American, although you can also use this as a substitution for dry vermouth or Lillet Blanc in cocktails!
- Cocchi Americano Rosa: Piedmont, Italy$29.00
Grape: blend of Piedmont red wines Region/History Notes: Let’s start with the basics: vermouth is made by fortifying a still wine with a neutral grape spirit and then adding herbs, spices, and botanicals. Each vermouth has its own secret recipe that makes it unique! Cocchi Americano came onto the scene in 1891 with their Americano Bianco, made from Moscato grapes. Their Americano Rosa came much later and uses Piedmont red wines as its base before its fortified and infused with things like gentian, ginger, rose petals, vanilla, and cinchona bark (used to make quinine). The name Americano is derived from the Italian word amaricato, meaning ‘to make bitter,’ as well as the American habit of drinking vermouth over ice with soda. Tasting Notes: Sweet and soft and luscious up front and then a little bitter and floral right at the end! Serve over ice with soda water and a grapefruit wheel, or follow the instructions on the bottle to make yourself an Amaricopa cocktail!
- Dolin Vermouth de Chambéry Blanc: Rhône-Alpes, France$21.00
- Fèlsina Vin Santo del Chianti Classico 2014: Tuscany, Italy (375ml)$64.00
Grapes: Trebbiano/Malvasia/Sangiovese Region/History Notes: Within the same delineated zone of Chianti as the dry red wines made from Sangiovese, producers will also make a sweet dessert wine called Vin Santo. Meaning “holy wine,” Vin Santo has been produced in Tuscany since at least the 14th century. Fèlsina keeps with the traditions of Vin Santo production by drying a combination of Trebbiano, Malvasia, and Sangiovese grape clusters on mats for a year. After destemming and pressing, the grapes are transferred to oak casks where they ferment with the “mother,” a mixture of old yeast and wine from previous vintages. The wine spends seven years aging in a loft called the vinsantaia before spending another 6 months in bottle. Tasting Notes: Utterly decadent with swirls of orange marmalade, dried apricot, cinnamon, and hazelnut yet still with a serious current of acidity to cut through the sweetness. Pair with pistachio biscotti or amaretti cookies!
- Királyudvar Tokaji "Cuvée Ilona" 2016: Tokaj, Hungary$76.00
Grape: Furmit/Hárslevelű Two hundred years before France’s Sauternes there was Hungary’s Tokaji, a sweet wine made from botrytis-affected grapes, which concentrates the sugars and acid compounds. Tokaji is one of the most famous sweet wines in the world, displaying aromas of the most beautiful spiced applesauce along with orange marmalade, candied ginger, overripe mango, saffron, and honey. Despite having 160 grams of residual sugar, the acid on Tokaji is twice as high as Champagne, giving the wine a surprising lightness of body. And don’t be taken aback when I tell you there’s a little mushroom on the palate—the beauty of botrytis is how this savory note is so well integrated with the intensity of the fruits! Serve with a very slight chill and pair with blue cheeses or pâté if you want to go savory, or go sweet with desserts like crème brûlée, or anything with chocolate and caramel. Because of the high sugar content, store this wine in the fridge and it will last for months!
- Kopke Colheita Port 1987: Douro Valley, Portugal$150.00
- Kopke Dry White Port NV: Port, Portugal$27.00
Region/History Notes: Portugal’s Douro Valley makes about equal parts still wine and fortified wine, but fortified wines called Port are what they’re most recognized for! There are numerous styles of Port, named after the town of Oporto where the wines are aged and bottled. All are made from local Douro varieties such as Touriga Nacional and Touriga Franca. The wines are made like still wines, but before fermentation has fully finished, winemakers add a high ABV neutral grape spirit to stop fermentation, kill off any remaining yeast, and retain considerable sweetness in the final wine. White port, made from white grapes and bottled without extensive aging, has grown in popularity in recent years. This style of Port has a 3 to 4-year shelf life and is meant to be consumed young. With a touch of sweetness and fresh fruit flavors of apple and pear alongside a slightly oxidative quality, this is delicious served over ice or mixed with tonic water!
- Kopke Fine Tawny Port NV: Douro Valley, Portugal$25.00
Grape: traditional Douro varieties! Region/History Notes: Portugal’s Douro Valley makes about equal parts still wine and fortified wine, but fortified wines called Port are what they’re most recognized for! There are numerous styles of Port, named after the town of Oporto where the wines are aged and bottled. All are made from local Douro varieties. The wines are made like still wines, but before fermentation has fully finished, winemakers add a high ABV neutral grape spirit (aguardente) to stop fermentation, kill off any remaining yeast, and retain considerable sweetness in the final wine. This Tawny style sees extended aging in oak barrels, which lends more of a rusty, brownish-red hue to the wine and supplies more nutty and dried-fruit flavors. Tasting Notes: A delicious introduction to the Tawny style that’s bright and fruit-forward with pops of dried cranberry and apricot, burnt honey, and delicate toffee notes on the finish. Pair with Stilton or caramel-based desserts!
- Lambert Estate "The Chocolatier" Tawny NV: South Australia$29.00
While many today know Australian wine for things like Barossa Shiraz, Clare Valley Riesling, and Hunter Valley Sémillon, Australia’s wine industry began not with still wine but with fortified wine. After Australia was established as a collection of British colonies in 1788 and grape vines were planted the same year, viticulture was centered on high-yielding varieties that would support fortified wine production. The country’s biggest export market consisted of the Port and Sherry drinkers back in Great Britain, so fortified wine accounted for 80-85% of production between 1788 and the 1950s. Today it accounts for only about 2% of production. “The Chocolatier” from the Lambert Estate is made in a Tawny style (i.e., it sees extensive oak aging) and is steeped in 100% dark chocolate! It is as chocolatey as the name would lead you to believe with additional aromas and flavors of butterscotch, toffee, and candied orange. Pair with dried fruit & nuts, rich cheeses, or German chocolate cake!
- Mommenpop Ruby Grapefruit: Napa Valley, California$41.00
Base: Pinot Noir/Ruby Grapefruit Region/History Notes: Samatha Sheehan is a California winemaker to be on the lookout for! Out of a desire to make high-quality wines at an accessible price point, she’s spearheaded three incredible projects: single-vineyard wines under the POE label, a sparkling rosé and Cabernet Sauvignon under the Ultraviolet label, and Mommenpop Spirits. One summer Samantha got the idea to combine her Chardonnay with locally-grown Seville oranges … and thus Mommenpop was born! Every bottle starts with a base wine, is fortified with a neutral grape spirit, and then flavored with California citrus and an assortment of botanicals. Only organic ingredients are used, and neither sugar nor sulfur are added. The Ruby Grapefruit is my favorite of the lineup made from a base of Pinot Noir & flavored with orris root, vanilla bean, and green cardamom. Serve over ice or with a little soda water—this goes down too easy!
- Moraitis Winery Vin Naturellement Doux 2016: Paros, Greece$55.00
Grape: Monemvasia Region/History Notes: Monemvasia is native to the town of Monemvasia on the Peloponnese, although today it is almost solely cultivated on the island of Paros. Malvasia is the Italian name for the town of Monemvasia and refers to a group of grape varieties grown in the Mediterranean, but there is no genetic relationship between Monemvasia and the Malvasia varieties. Still with me? The Malvasia-Paros PDO covers the entire island of Paros and includes fortified wine made from sun-dried grapes as well as naturally sweet wine made from sun-dried grapes—85% of which must be the Monemvasia grape. This naturally sweetened wine is made from 100% Monemvasia grapes that have spent 15 months drying under the Paros sun before undergoing fermentation and then aging in French oak barrels for 2 years. Tasting Notes: Drink this alongside salted caramel dark chocolate & watch as the initial caramelized and raisinated notes give way to brighter flavors of candied orange peels!
- Old World Winery Hummingbird Cider 2021: Russian River Valley, California (500mL)$19.00
Region/History: Old World Winery is a tiny, family owned and operated winery in the heart of Russian River Valley, California. They make wines in the “natural” fashion, meaning they try to be as hands-off as possible in the vineyard and the winery. Winemaker Derek Trawbridge is one of the leaders of the natural wine movement and has been making biodynamic wines for 20 years. He follows centuries old techniques, when they made wine without chemical intervention, and believes that wines taste best when they are the true expression of the natural vineyard. They not only make wine, they make cider as well! Tasting Notes: Hummingbird Cider spends 12 months in the barrel before it is mixed with the following vintage's fresh juice. It then goes through a second fermentation in the bottle creating a the bubbles. It’s fresh and lively, yet complimented with age, cloudiness, and warmth. This is an easy cider to enjoy (or share) as spring turns to summer!
- Oscar.697 Vermouth Bianco: Italy$42.00
- Oscar.697 Vermouth Rosso: Italy$42.00
- Pacheca 20 Year Tawny Port: Douro Valley, Portugal$53.00
Grapes: blend of local, indigenous grapes from old vines Region/History Notes: Pacheca is a Portuguese-owned winery which is oddly pretty rare! But the British-owned Port empire that lasted for hundreds of years, made it harder for small, local producers to succeed. This wine is made in a Tawny style meaning it has spent time in oak and will be more nutty/caramelized. The 20 year indicates the balance of fruit and maturity you can expect to find in the bottle. The more time the wine spent aging in the barrel, the more it loses its ruby color and becomes more tawny in color (thus the name). Once opened, this wine will be good for at least a year! So no need to rush to drink, but feel free to if you’re thirsty. Tasting Notes: The nose is richly nutty and caramelized with deeply macerated raspberries. The flavor is more savory, richer, with delicate oxidative notes of hazelnuts and toffee. Pair with classic chocolate desserts, apple pie, or baked brie with candied pecans!
- Partida Creus "MUZ" Vermut: Spain$46.00
Region/History Notes: Partida Creus is a tiny, boutique winery producing hand crafted, artisanal wines all organically in Spain. The “MUZ” is a Spanish vermouth, called vermuz or vermut, from a collection of local red and white grape varieties that change with each production. The wines are aromatized like traditional vermouth and made according to a top secret formula based non the work of an herbalist of Turin dating back to the late 1800’s. Don’t think Martini Rossi sweet vermouth! This is so much better, so much more complex, and is truly a beautiful expression of a savory and spiced red vermouth with the perfect amount of sweetness. This is delightful on the rocks with an orange twist, or make yourself the best Negroni ever by swapping out your sweet vermouth for this pretty wine! Once you open it, make sure to keep it in the fridge and it will last for months (though the way I make Negronis, it never lasts that long in my refrigerator).
- Quinta do Infantado Late Bottled Vintage (LBV) 2018: Douro, Portugal$37.00
Grape: Touriga Franca/Touriga Nacional/Tinta Roriz + a few others! Region/History Notes: In the 1970s, Quinta do Infantado was the first Port estate to exclusively bottle their own wines from their own fruit. Late Bottled Vintage, or LBV, is a style of ruby port that is vintage dated, meaning the grapes come from a single harvest year. The wines are further bottled after 4-6 years of aging, hence the name! Even more unique is that this specific bottling is unfined and unfiltered. These unfiltered styles are more structured and full-bodied, and while other styles of LBV aren’t meant to undergo further aging, these ones can age an additional 5-10 years! Tasting Notes: Since this wine is unfiltered, be sure to decant before serving, and provided you store it in the fridge after opening, it will stay good for 2-3 weeks. It’s so delicious and complex, beautifully balancing sweet fruits with earth, floral notes, and spice. Pair with chocolate truffles, or go savory and pair with Stilton!
- Quinta do Mourão "S. Leonardo" 20-Year White Port: Porto, Portugal (500mL)$166.00
- Something and Nothing French Rosé + Hibiscus & Rose Spritz: Dover, England$7.00
- Something and Nothing Japanese Junmai Sake & Yuzu Spritz: Dover, England$7.00
- Something and Nothing Sauvignon Blanc + Cucumber Spritz: Dover, England$7.00
Monthly Subscription Wines
The Tribe
- Boissy & Delaygue "Lou Pontias" Viognier 2022: Côtes du Rhône, France$20.00
Grape: Viognier Region/History Notes: The Côtes du Rhône appellation encompasses 171 villages across France’s Northern and Southern Rhône. Located in the Southern Rhône in the village of Puyméras, not far from the appellations of Cairanne and Gigondas, Boissy & Delaygue is one of several brands owned by the Union des Vignerons des Côte du Rhône. This union of cooperatives was formed by local growers in 1956 and today spans almost 30,000 acres of vines tended to by 2,000 individual winemaking families. Tasting Notes: From the ripe flesh to the more bitter skins down to the pit, you’ll find just about every part of a peach in your glass! A little candied lemon rind and white flowers lend a sense of freshness and playfulness to the nose, but the palate showcases the wine’s more structured side with its rich texture and mineral-driven finish. Pair with prosciutto and melon, or glazed chicken thighs with a side of sweet potatoes!
- Bodegas Olivares "Altos de la Hoya" 2021: Jumilla, Spain$22.00
Grapes: Monastrell Region/History Notes: Most of the world’s vines are grafted onto American rootstock, the only solution found to combat the pest phylloxera that destroyed the vast majority of European vineyards in the late 1800s. Phylloxera doesn’t thrive in sandy soils though, so where you find pockets of very sandy vineyards, you often find old vines that are ungrafted. The extremely high elevation Finca Hoya de Santa Ana vineyard of Bodegas Olivares is very sandy, so these old Monastrell vines are all ungrafted and farmed for decades without any pesticides, herbicides or chemicals. Tasting Notes: Perfumed and concentrated notes of cocoa powder, figs, vanilla bean, bruised violets, and black cherry are rich and inviting on the nose. The palate is led by dried strawberries and candied plums that give way to a spicy, tobacco-driven finish. You won’t find a better grill-out-red for late summer evenings that turn into conversations around the fire pit that last well into the night!
Premier Cru
- Abbazia di Novacella Kerner 2022: Alto Adige Valle Isarco, Italy$31.00
Grape: Kerner Region/History Notes: Founded in the 1100s by the Augustinian Order of monks, the Abbazia is located in the quaint mountainous town of Novacella. Winemaking has always been deeply entrenched in their culture. Known for beautiful expressions of both white and red varieties, the abbey’s enologist was once even named Winemaker of the Year by Gambero Rosso. The vineyards surrounding the abbey are very steep and rocky, mostly composed of granite and schist which attract more warmth—helpful in this cool-climate. Kerner is one of their prized varieties, even if lesser known, and is a genetic cross between Riesling and the local red grape, Trollinger. Tasting Notes: High acidity makes this flamboyantly aromatic variety age-worthy, so don’t be fooled by its easy approachability. Fresh blossoms of magnolia and cherry tree are almost heady at first whiff, and develop into ripe tropical flavors with a citrus backbone of tangerines and lemon zest. Pair with chorizo shrimp and grits!
- Can Sumoi Xarel-lo 2023: Penedès, Spain$31.00
Grape: Xarel-lo Can Sumoi is the brain child of long-time friends Pepe Raventós and Francesc Escala. These high elevation vineyards are tucked into the Serra de l’Home mountains and sit around 1300 feet elevation. The cool, limestone soils help preserve natural acidity in the grapes and certified organic production brings out all the natural goodness from these old vines! Tasting Notes: This wine is so green in all its flavors—key limes galore, kiwi, green apple, honeydew melon, and even green papaya, this wine is so dang playful! Since the wine was fermented in concrete and stainless steel, fresh acidity keeps the wine perky and vibrant, but 4 months aging on the lees adds a richness to the mid palate that just compliments the structure of the wine. While lean, the wine is by no means austere and is instead inviting and flirtatious. Perfect pairing with grilled fish topped with garlic & lime sauce!
- Alma Negra "M" Blend 2019: Mendoza, Argentina$30.00
Grapes: ?? Region/History Notes: “Alma Negra” translates to “black soul,” and is named such because the winemaker, Ernesto Catena (you might recognize his last name!), loves to make wines from Malbec and Bonarda. These grape varieties have super thick skins and produce very inky, dark wines. Ernesto is always experimenting with new styles and is an expert when it comes to extracting the very soul of the grapes within each wine he makes. Powerful and dense, he does not list what grapes are in this mysterious red blend, but I’ll wager it is predominately his two favorite red varieties! Instead of over-analyzing the blend, he wants you to just get lost in the wine itself, enjoying it until the last drop! Tasting Notes: Purple plums and black cherries are rich and concentrated on the nose along with perfumed violets and geraniums. The palate is sumptuous and silky, begging you to continue searching, sip by sip, for the mysteries this wine contains. Pair with grilled Italian sausages!
- Sutherland Pinot Noir 2021: Elgin, South Africa$28.00
Grape: Pinot Noir Gyles Webb established world-renown winery, Thelema, in 1988 as a true mountain winery focusing on Cabernet blends. As a lover of Burgundian wines though, he was always searching for another cooler climate site to establish a brand focusing on Pinot Noir and other varieties that were not suited to Thelema’s terroir. He finally found the perfect spot in the early 2000s—an apple orchard located just a few miles from the coast in Elgin with much cooler breezes coming off the Atlantic Ocean. Destemmed to keep the tannins soft, the wine spends 10 months in French oak, 15% of which is new, after fermentation, giving gorgeous structure to this delightful wine. Candied cherries and strawberries are juxtaposed to notes of earth and tobacco for a nuanced and intriguing expression of Pinot Noir. Light on the palate, but with a finish that goes on and on, this wine will pair perfectly with lentil soup with fresh ciabatta bread sprinkled with rosemary!
Grand Cru
- Torre dei Beati "Giocheremo con i Fiori" Pecorino 2022: Abruzzo, Italy$35.00
Grape: Pecorino Region/History: Perfectly situated between the Adriatic Sea and the Apennine Mountains on Italy’s east coast, Abruzzo’s landscape is decorated with rugged mountains and verdant hillsides. Of the region’s wines, robust reds from the Montepulciano grape and fresh, fruity whites made from Trebbiano are the most recognized, but one of my favorites is Pecorino! According to Abruzzo locals, the grape gets its name from the sheep (“pecora”) who love to eat the ripe grapes. Tasting Notes: Yellow flowers leap from the glass and are joined by notes of yellow apple skins, orange rind, and toasted almonds. As the wine warms up, more tropical and melon fruits come out to play. And then wait for what the palate has in store! Bruised, salty orchard fruits with a lengthy finish of ginger, nutmeg, and saffron. I’ll be sipping this all spring and summer long with things like smoked scallop crudo, seared scallops over lemon risotto, or cacio e pepe!
- Dom. Lafouge Coteaux Bourguignons 2022: Burgundy, France$35.00
Grape: Pinot Noir/Gamay Region/History Notes: Burgundy isn’t exactly known for experimental winemaking; this is the ancestral home of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay after all. However, you can find more diversity (and value) if you know where to look! The Coteaux Bourguignons AOP covers production northeast of Chablis down to and including Beaujolais for white, rosé, and red wine. Many of the wines are still on the lower end of the price and quality spectrum, but I think wines like this one speak of the good things to come! Tasting Notes: The more high-toned, flamboyant character of Gamay is tempered by the more restrained, earthy, and elegant character of Pinot Noir, creating a sultry red blend that’s like the little black dress of wine! Red plums, blueberries, violets, cardamom, and clove on the nose are met with juicy acidity and fine-grained tannins on the palate with a dusting of pencil shavings on the finish. Pair with salmon, chicken, Brie, or charcuterie!
- Peter Franus Albariño 2023: Lake County, California$41.00
Grape: Albariño Lake County is home to California’s largest body of fresh water that moderates the surrounding mesoclimates, and the thin soils are largely volcanic in origin from the activity of ancient volcanoes, whose lava flows have further carved the hills and ridges on which the vineyards are planted. Add in high-elevation vineyard sites (these grapes are grown at 3000 feet a.s.l.), diurnal temperature shifts, and you have a recipe for great wines! I am head over heels with these aromatics, which include lemon & lime zest, fresh jasmine, green banana, honeydew, white peach, and raw hazelnut that are all so harmoniously woven together. There’s so much concentration of flavor, but everything is kept lifted with the wine’s tongue-tingling acidity that washes your palate clean after each sip. The finish brings wave after wave of white flowers and the salinity of a sea breeze! Shellfish all day!
- LIOCO "Indica" Red 2022: Mendocino, California$35.00
Grape: Carignan/Valdiguié History/Region Notes: Carignan and Valdiguié are both grapes that are grown in the south of France along the Mediterranean coast and up into the Rhône Valley. Carignan is recognized for its rich red fruit and baking spice profile with a little umami meatiness, while Valiguié is often compared to Gamay with its effusive aromatics—it was actually called “Napa Gamay” up until 1980! LIOCO, however, is resurrecting this old-school Californian style wine with such personality and a focus on old vineyards. Tasting Notes: Notes of strawberry-rose jam, geraniums, red plums, and pink peppercorns—this wine is unabashedly fruit-forward and floral and I am so here for it! The plush palate is joined by juicy acidity, silky tannins, and a little oak presence to round out the finish. I’d suggest a food pairing, but take a look at the label and you’ll find that LIOCO suggests a few. This wine + sausage pizza = taste bud heaven!
Reserve Tier
- Dom. de Cayron Gigondas 2021: Rhône Valley, France$52.00
Grapes: Grenache/Syrah/Cinsault/ Mourvèdre Do one thing, and do it well. That’s the motto of the Faraud sisters, Roseline, Cendrine, and Delphine. This 5th generation sister-winemaking team produces one wine and one wine only, and they do it brilliantly! Their 40-acre estate is located in the high-elevation area of Gigondas, nestled in the foothills of the Dentelles de Montmirail at 1100-1300 feet above sea level. The sisters are practicing organic in the vineyard and the winery, fermenting the grapes from these 60+ year-old vines in concrete vats which are literally built into the floors of the winery. The wine is then aged in old French oak, some barrels dating back over 50 years! Elegant and sophisticated, this is the silkiest expression of Gigondas I have ever had! Sweet cranberries and wild raspberries are ripe and fragrant with notes of lavender, rosemary, and geraniums. Decant and let all the flavors come out to play. This wine will be divine with roasted lamb!
- Dom. de la Charbonnière Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc 2022: Rhône Valley, France$54.00
Grapes: Grenache Blanc/Roussanne/Clairette Region/History Notes: 13 varieties (18 if you account for clonal variation) are permitted in the final blend of Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc:, but the three in this particular bottling are among the most common: Grenache Blanc, Clairette, and Roussanne. These full-bodied whites are fresh, floral, and spicy in their youth, but they can also age beautifully and take on more honeyed, nutty, umami, and dried fruit aromas and flavors. Even when poured fully cold, the aromatics on this wine draw you right in and don’t let go. But let things warm up just a little and you’ll be rewarded for your patience! You can practically smell the transition of fresh green pear to baked pear as the wine opens up, and how all the herbs and flowers start to slowly wilt and bruise. Rich and spicy on the palate with a gorgeously long finish, enjoy now alongside pork tenderloin with a creamy Dijon & peppercorn sauce, or hold 5-10 years!
Brut Brigade
- Cabriz "C by Cabriz" Espumante Rosé Brut NV: Portugal$16.00
Grape: Touriga Nacional Region/History Notes: Quinta de Cabriz is one of the Dão’s most recognized estates and holds about 94 acres of vineyards between the region’s two main rivers, the Dão and the Mondego. Their sparkling rosé is made from 100% Touriga Nacional, considered Portugal’s answer to Cabernet Sauvignon and planted exclusively in the Dão and Douro regions. Fun fact: the winemaker here is Osvaldo Amado of Raríssimo, the most awarded winemaker in Portuguese history! Tasting Notes: Underripe raspberries, peach skins, and watermelon rind with small, soft bubbles that dance across your tongue—I’m so glad I discovered this wine because it’s going to be my new go-to! On the palate, I love the interplay between the fruit and the wine’s more savory qualities that give a sense of depth but also keep the wine delightfully easy to drink. Pair with crab dip, fried pork dumplings, or a decadent mac & cheese with bacon!
- Cantina Bambinuto "Sopra la Panca" NV: Campania: Italy$35.00
Grape: Greco Region/History: Greco is grown mainly in Campania and is most famously produced under the Greco di Tufo appellation, where it can be made into a still, dry white wine or a metodo classico sparkling wine. “Sopra la Panca” is a new label for Cantina Bambinuto and is made in the ancestral method. The label translates to “under the bench” in Italian, and comes from a well-known tongue twister that essentially means that those with money and knowledge have it easier. Mull over that all you like, but one thing’s for sure: a glass of this will make your day a little easier! Tasting Notes: Yellow kiwi, preserved lemon, and a pinch of cinnamon, ginger, and browned butter dance together on the nose. I love the juxtaposition of the wine’s richer texture and the tart, tangy bite of acidity that reminds me of taking a bite out of a fresh golden apple. The bubbles are fine and ever-so-prickly in texture and the finish goes on almost for minutes! Pair with beer-battered fish & chips!
- Mirabeau "La Folie" Sparkling Rosé Brut NV: Provence, France$27.00
Grapes: Colombard/Grenache/Syrah/Rolle/Grenache Blanc/Merlot Region/History Notes: Provence has been a hub for rosé production since the 6th century CE when the Phoenicians landed in what we now know as Marseille and brought along their tradition of making pale pink wines. Maison Mirabeau was founded in 2010 and exclusively produces rosé. Their “La Folie” sparkling rosé is made from a combination of local red and white grape varieties and receives a less than 4g/l dosage, or addition of sugar, at bottling. Tasting Notes: Apricots, strawberries, raspberries, lavender, and a hint of rosemary and mint—this is a fresh and feminine style of bubbles that has such an elegant balance of fruity, floral, earthy, and herbal qualities all braided together. Made in the Charmat method, the wine’s bubbles are delicate and pillowy soft in texture. Pair with an arugula and strawberry salad with fried goat cheese and a light raspberry vinaigrette!
- Champ Divin Crémant du Jura 2022: Jura, France$45.00
Grapes: Chardonnay/Pinot Noir Region/History: France has 8 different appellations across the country for Crémant production: Alsace, Jura, Savoie, Bordeaux, Burgundy, Loire, Die, and Limoux. The wines must be either white or rosé in style and must be made in the same method as a true Champagne. Beyond that, there’s always regional differences in terms of the grapes that go into the blend. This wine is a blend of 70% Chardonnay and 30% Pinot Noir from the small, mountainous region of Jura in eastern France, famous for its oxidative white wines made from the Savagnin grape. Tasting Notes: So aromatic with all of these notes of baked apples and tangerines, and the combination of the large, moussy bubbles and chalky finish make for such a fun and textural drinking experience. I can’t wait to pair this with something like baked brie with an orange-honey marmalade, or crispy potato latkes with smoked salmon!
Gourmet
Pantry
- Hot Peach Chutney$12.00Out of stock
- EVOO Lemon Frontoio (100 ml)$12.00
- Balsamic "Balsamela" Vinegar (250ml)$24.00
- Balsamic "Essenza Riserva" Vinegar (100ml)$28.00
- Wild Hibiscus Flower Syrup$9.00
Wild hibiscus flowers in syrup.
- Pons Sweet White Garlic$10.00
- Gearharts Fine Chocolates Pistachio Toffee (3.5oz box): Charlottesville, Virginia$10.00Out of stock
- Gearharts Fine Chocolates Dark Chocolate Maya Bar: Charlottesville, Virginia$7.00
- Castelvetrano Olives$8.00Out of stock
- Whole Black Truffle$50.00
- Lemon Curd$12.00
- Pommery Moutarde de Meaux$20.00
- Olive Oil Flavored with White Truffle (250mL)$32.00
- Mitica Wild Lavender Honey (7oz)$17.00
- Quinta do Vallado 100 Years of Port 4-Pack$575.00
Consists of 4, 500L bottles of 10, 20, 30, and 40 Year Tawny Ports. Includes 4 bottle stoppers and display box.
- Gearharts Fine Chocolates Dark Chocolate Ginger Bar (2.68oz): Charlottesville, Virginia$7.00
- Gearharts Fine Chocolates Miso Caramels (3.25oz): Charlottesville, Virginia$7.00
- Olives Et Al Sicilian Olives in Brine (280g)$7.00
- Olives Et Al Truffle Infused Mixed Nuts (150g)$8.00Out of stock
- Olives Et Al Siena Rosemary & Chili Mixed Nuts (150g)$8.00
- Di Bruno Bros. Parmesan & Pecorino Crostini$6.00
- Di Bruno Bros. Jam Trio$25.00
- Di Bruno Bros. Balsamic Suite Balsamic Vinegar (8.5oz)$30.00
Gift Items
- Wine Keys$12.00
- Red Gift Bag$3.00
- Bumper Sticker$5.00
- Private Label Sticker$5.00
- Vino Culture Sticker$2.00
- Glass Charms- Agate$16.00
- Glass Charms- Numbers$18.00
- Glass Charms- cork$12.00
- Coravin Model 3 SL$170.00
- Coravin-Pivot$120.00
- Polishing Cloth$15.00
- Riedel Glassware$18.00
- RiedelDecanter$30.00
- Insulated Wine Glass$15.00
- VacuVin Wine Stopper$13.00
- Porron$29.00
- Adult Jenga$35.00
- 2 Bottle Tote$45.00
- Cheese Knife Set$25.00
- Champagne Stopper$10.00Out of stock
- Wine Away$12.00
- Wine Wipes$10.00
For removing red wine stains from teeth!
Boards by Bonzek
- "Coasters in the Cradle" Coaster Set$30.00Out of stock
Hand crafted from Cherry, Ambrosia Maple, and Hard Maple by local artisan, Chris Bonzek. Set of 6 Coasters.
- "Count on Me" Coaster Set$30.00
Drink in style in with this set of 4 coasters! Made from Mahogany, Cherry, and Brass. Hand crafted by local artisan, Chris Bonzek. Dimensions: each coaster is approximately 4 1/2in diameter.
- "Hummus Among-us" Picnic Hummus Board$40.00
Hand crafted from Ambrosia Maple by local artisan, Chris Bonzek.
- "Party of One" Cheese Board$45.00
Hand crafted from Cherry and Epoxy by local artisan, Chris Bonzek.
- "Party of One" Charcuterie Board$45.00
Hand crafted from Cherry and Epoxy by local artisan, Chris Bonzek.
- "Party of Two" Picnic Charcuterie Board$35.00
Hand crafted from Ambrosia Maple by local artisan, Chris Bonzek.
- "Point the Way" Cheese & Charcuterie Board$70.00Out of stock
Round board hand crafted from Walnut, Ambrosia Maple and Mahogoany by local artisan, Chris Bonzek.
- "Check Mate" Cheese & Charcuterie Board: Style 2$150.00
Made from Mahogany, Ambrosia Maple, and Purpleheart. Hand crafted by local artisan, Chris Bonzek. Dimensions: 17.25in x 11 1/2in
- "Check Mate" Cheese & Charcuterie Board: Style 1$150.00
Made from Mahogany, Ambrosia Maple, and Purpleheart. Hand crafted by local artisan, Chris Bonzek. Dimensions: 17.25in x 11in
- "Creek Key" End Grain Charcuterie Board$150.00
Made from Hard Maple, Cherry, Wenge. Hand crafted by local artisan, Chris Bonzek. Dimensions: 16.75in x 14.75in
- "The Navajo" Cheese and Charcuterie Board$125.00Out of stock
Large Cutting Board made from Mahogany and Maple
- "Optical Illusion" Cutting Board$135.00
Hand crafted from Walnut, Hard Maple, Cherry and Epoxy by local artisan, Chris Bonzek.
- "Crossword" Cheese Service and Charcuterie Board$100.00Out of stock
Cheese and Charcuterie Board made from Ambrosia Maple and Epoxy by local artisan, Chris Bonzek.
- "Tree of Wine" Wine Stand$95.00
Made from Pennsylvania Cherry & Merlot-stained epoxy Hand crafted by local artisan, Chris Bonzek. Dimensions: 14in x 11in
- "It Comes in Threes" 3-Bottle Wine Stand: Style 1$100.00
We love these stands to show off our wines of the week, so buy one to show off your weekly favorites in your home! Hand crafted by local artisan, Chris Bonzek. Dimensions: 6in x 12.25in
- "It Comes in Threes" 3-Bottle Wine Stand: Style 2$100.00
We love these stands to show off our wines of the week, so buy one to show off your weekly favorites in your home! Hand crafted by local artisan, Chris Bonzek. Dimensions: 6in x 12.25in
- "Eyes on the Horizon" Coaster Set$30.00Out of stock
Set of 4 coasters, hand crafted from Cherry, Ambrosia Maple, and Hard Maple by local artisan, Chris Bonzek. Re-treat with Butcher Block Conditioner as needed.
- Gift Box$200.00
- olive you$60.00