Our Newest Classics Collection

CHÂTEAU MONBOUSQUET 2015
AC Saint-Émilion Grand Cru

635557 (XD) 750mL $129.00

TASTING NOTE: A rich, expressive, slightly showy style, with waves of cassis, creamed raspberry and boysenberry fruit racing forth, backed by a polished yet ample structure. The long, licorice- and ganache-framed finish packs on weight as it moves along, yet stays defined and pure. Impressive. Best from 2022 through 2040. Score: 95 (James Molesworth, winespectator.com, March 31, 2018)

CHÂTEAU DE FIEUZAL 2014
AC Pessac-Léognan

635607 (XD) 750mL $77.00

TASTING NOTE: Ripe and fruity, the wine is a great success. It has juicy berry fruits that are underpinned by the firm tannins and mineral structure. It is full while also crisp: a wine that is deliciously perfumed. Drink from 2024. Score: 93 (Roger Voss, Wine Enthusiast, April 1, 2017)

CHÂTEAU LILIAN LADOUYS 2010
AC Saint-Estèphe

635581 (XD) 750mL $58.00

TASTING NOTE: Obviously wood-aged, with a smoky toast flavor, this is a wine that shows the power of Saint-Estèphe tannins in full force. At the same time, there is a blackberry character that adds richness and juiciness, which cuts through the dry core. Age for at least 7-8 years. Ranks #15 in Wine Enthusiast's Best of Year 2013 Top 100. Score: 94 (Roger Voss, Wine Enthusiast, Feb. 1, 2013)

CHÂTEAU PHÉLAN SÉGUR 2010
AC Saint-Estèphe

635565 (XD) 750mL $138.00

TASTING NOTE: A major sleeper of the vintage, the 2010 Phelan-Segur has a dense ruby/purple color, ripe mulberry and black currant fruit intermixed with some floral notes, and a hint of subtle oak as well as touches of lavender and licorice. Layered, opulent, ripe and fleshy, this beauty should drink nicely for 10-15 years. Score: 90 (Robert Parker Jr., robertparker.com, Feb. 27, 2013)

MADAME DE RAYNE SAUTERNES 2015
Second wine of Rayne-Vigneau, AC

635573 (S) 375mL $25.00

TASTING NOTE: If this didn't taste slightly alcoholic in spite of the rich, candied-citrus character and creaminess, it would be a very impressive Sauternes. Drink in 2019 and 2020. Score: 90 (James Suckling, jamessuckling.com, Feb. 5, 2018)

CHÂTEAU MALARTIC-LAGRAVIÈRE BLANC 2014
AC Pessac-Léognan, Cru Classé de Graves

431346 (XD) 750mL $120.00

TASTING NOTE: A tightly coiled rich wine that has great acidity as well as a lively structure. Touched by spice from wood aging as well as intense citrus, it is fruity, firm and strongly textured. Drink this impressive still-young wine from 2022. Cellar Selection. Score: 96 (Roger Voss, Wine Enthusiast, April 1, 2017)

BOUCHARD PÈRE & FILS ECHÉZEAUX GRAND CRU 2016
AC

703298 (XD) 750mL $310.00

TASTING NOTE: A pungent nose is composed by notes of reduction and wood toast. There is outstanding volume, size and weight to the broad-shouldered, intense and energetic flavors where the supporting tannins possess a high level of phenolic maturity while culminating in an impeccably well-balanced finish. This succulent and velvety effort is deceptively firmly structured and will need at least a modicum of patience. Drink: 2031+. Score: 92-94 (Allen Meadows, burghound.com, April 15, 2018)

MARQUIS D'ANGERVILLE CHAMPANS VOLNAY 1ER CRU 2016
AC

513663 (XD) 750mL $220.00

TASTING NOTE: Bright, dark red-ruby. Medicinal blueberry and licorice aromas are lifted by a minty high note; less showy and more restrained on the nose than the Taillepieds and Caillerets today. Then wonderfully dense, primary and pure on the palate, but more vertical and less opulent than the Taillepieds and Caillerets. Strong mineral energy accentuates the impression of vibrancy. A bit less open to inspection today owing to its firm tannic spine. Score: 92-95 (Stephen Tanzer, vinous.com, Nov. 2017)

MARQUIS D'ANGERVILLE CLOS DES DUCS VOLNAY 1ER CRU 2016
AC

513630 (XD) 750mL $310.00

TASTING NOTE: The 2016 Volnay 1er Cru Clos des Ducs, the famous monopole of the domaine that ostensibly forms Guillaume d'Angerville's back garden, unequivocally possesses the most complex bouquet this year with mineral-drenched black fruit, briary, cinnamon, cold Alpine stream, strawberry pastilles and orange zest. The palate is medium-bodied with a gentle grip on the entry. This is very pure and focused, a fine backbone here but there is enormous length as it fans out. There is something noble about this wine...or should I say, ducal? Drink Date: 2022-2055. Score: 94-96 (Neal Martin, robertparker.com, Dec. 29, 2017)

MARQUIS D'ANGERVILLE FREMIETS VOLNAY 1ER CRU 2016
AC

513697 (XD) 750mL $180.00

TASTING NOTE: Bright medium ruby. Brooding aromas of black cherry, blueberry and violet. Dense, sappy Volnay with compelling sweetness to its dark berry fruit. Finishes with dusty, broad tannins and good saline lift. The estate lost 25% of this parcel to frost, but Guillaume d'Angerville told me that the ultimate crop was actually larger than he thought it would be during the summer. Score: 91-93 (Stephen Tanzer, vinous.com, Nov. 2017)

MARQUIS D'ANGERVILLE TAILLEPIEDS VOLNAY 1ER CRU 2016
AC

513689 (XD) 750mL $225.00

TASTING NOTE: The 2016 Volnay 1er Cru Les Taillepieds is more outgoing and expressive on the nose compared to the Caillerets with ebullient blackberry, blueberry and subtle floral aromas--very pure and delineated, still correct, never flamboyant. The palate is medium-bodied with lithe and fine tannin, a silver bead of acidity here that confers great tension to this Taillepieds and you can feel that residue of mineralité tingling on the tongue on the aftertaste. It will require five or six years in bottle but it will be worth the wait--an outstanding Taillepieds, one of the best that I have encountered from barrel. Drink Date: 2022-2050. Score: 93-95 (Neal Martin, robertparker.com, Dec. 29, 2017)

MARCHAND-TAWSE BEAUNE LES TUVILAINS 1ER CRU 2015
AC

448704 (XD) 750mL $68.00

TASTING NOTE: A broad, cherry- and chocolate-infused red, with firm, deft tannins and moderate acidity providing support. The finish is pinched, yet the fruit lingers. Best from 2020 through 2029. Score: 93 (Bruce Sanderson, winespectator.com, 2018)

DOMAINE A.-F. GROS SAVIGNY-LÈS-BEAUNE CLOS DES GUETTES 1ER CRU 2014
AC

635599 (XD) 750mL $105.00

TASTING NOTE: Matured in 30% new oak, the 2014 Savigny lès Beaune 1er Cru Clos des Guettes has a focused, undergrowth-tinged bouquet with a light ferrous touch. The palate is bounding with freshness, the tannins supple and lithe, and the acidity is well judged. There is good depth here, a pleasing creamy texture already in place with quite a long, spicy finish. This has good potential once in bottle. Drink Date: 2018-2030. Score: 90-92 (Neal Martin, robertparker.com, Dec. 30, 2015)

MAISON MARCHAND-TAWSE CHAMBOLLE-MUSIGNY LES CHATELOTS 1ER CRU 2014
AC

577205 (XD) 750mL $112.00

TASTING NOTE: Somewhat surprisingly this is more deeply pitched still with its densely fruited nose of plum, cassis, earth and gamy hints. There is exceptionally good richness and volume to the concentrated medium-bodied flavors that coat the palate on the austere and robust finale. This is an atypically big wine for Chatelots yet it is balanced and built-to-age. That said, just don't expect the classic Chambolle elegance and refinement. Drink: 2026+. Outstanding. Score: 90-93 (Allen Meadows, burghound.com, Jan. 15, 2016)

LOUIS JADOT LES AMOUREUSES CHAMBOLLE MUSIGNY 1ER CRU 2013
AC

945956 (XD) 750mL $395.00

TASTING NOTE: The 2013 Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru les Amoureuses has a very elegant, persuasive bouquet that exudes the essence of Pinote. There is great transparency here, a slightly lighter style of Amoureuses with red cherries, strawberry and minerals. The palate is medium-bodied with very lithe tannin that belie the structure underneath. Sure, there is some new oak poking through on the finish, but given several years in bottle, this should be a very fine Amoureuses. Drink Date: 2020-2045. Score: 93-95 (Neal Martin, robertparker.com, Dec. 29, 2014)

MICHELAS ST. JEMMS LA CHASSELIÈRE CROZES-HERMITAGE 2016
AC

637843 (XD) 750mL $35.00

TASTING NOTE: Slightly more expensive, the 2016 Crozes-Hermitage La Chasselière is fresh and lively, with notes of blue fruits (cassis, plums), violets and white pepper. Medium-bodied, fresh and elegant on the palate, with solid density and texture, drink it on release and over the following 7-8 years or more. Score: 90-92 (Jeb Dunnuck, jebdunnuck.com, Jan. 24, 2018)

LES HALOS DE JUPITER ADRASTÉE CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE 2015
AC

296814 (D) 750mL $85.00

TASTING NOTE: Lastly, the 2015 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Adrastée is one of the gems in the vintage. Made from 100% Grenache that was completely destemmed and brought up all in larger barrels, it has classic Grenache notes of kirsch, blackberries, crushed rocks and dried garrigue. Tight, full-bodied and backward on the palate, with plenty of tannins, it has a terrific core of sweet fruit and a great finish. It should be at its best from 2020-2032. Score: 95 (Jeb Dunnuck, jebdunnuck.com, Oct. 19, 2017)

REMI NIERO LES RAVINES CONDRIEU 2016
AC

638106 (D) 750mL $85.00

TASTING NOTE: This domaine turned out a trio of fine 2016s. The 2016 Condrieu Les Ravines, blended from five different granite lieux-dits, features scents of crushed stone to go along with bold pineapple fruit. It's round and even a bit oily but not overdone, balanced by hints of ginger and white pepper on the finish. Drink Date: 2018-2020. Score: 92-94 (Joe Czerwinski, robertparker.com, Dec. 29, 2017)

CHÂTEAU GRILLET 2015
AC

360693 (XD) 750mL $550.00

TASTING NOTE: Coming from mature vines located higher on the property's slopes, the 2015 Chateau Grillet is a rich, intense, full-bodied wine of uncommon grace and elegance. It delivers some of Viognier's hallmark floral-spicy-apricot notes but is actually more about textural richness and silk, balanced by hints of citrus zest and a briny character that lingers effortlessly on the finish. Drink Date: 2018-2023. Score: 97 (Joe Czerwinski, robertparker.com, Dec. 29, 2017)

E. GUIGAL HERMITAGE BLANC 2015
AC

125567 (XD) 750mL $75.00

TASTING NOTE: Released just prior to my early November visit, the 2015 Hermitage Blanc features aromas of flamed orange zest (the wine is fermented in second-fill barriques, then ages in them for close to two years). It's full-bodied and rich, with a gorgeous silky texture, but it's also tight and firm, showing significant aging potential. Score: 92 (Joe Czerwinski, robertparker.com)

TRIMBACH CLOS STE-HUNE RIESLING 2012
AC Alsace

247015 (D) 750mL $259.00

TASTING NOTE: Very cool, delicate and floral with daring elegance. Not the most powerful wine of this ripe vintage, but extremely refined. A very long finish that is marked by chalky minerality. The way that it literally blossoms in the glass after half an hour suggests that this masterpiece has at least a couple of decades of life ahead of it. Decant if you want to drink now. Score: 97 (James Suckling, jamessuckling.com, May 28, 2018)

DOMAINE ZIND HUMBRECHT GOLDERT GRAND CRU GEWURZTRAMINER 2011
AC Alsace Grand Cru

265694 (MS) 750mL $39.00

TASTING NOTE: Featuring a bit more residual sugar and less alcohol than its Clos Windsbuhl and Heimbourg siblings, the Zind-Humbrecht 2011 Gewurztraminer Goldert is utterly different, arguably as reflects the sticky Marne marl and extremely high, active lime of this elevated, east-facing site in which these grapes hung longer than any others of their cepage and vintage. Praline and salted caramel, cinnamon and crystallized ginger, lychee and roses inform the head-turning bouquet and ravishingly luscious, creamy, almost buttery palate. The confectionary aspects here are not accompanied by the fresh fruit or finishing clarity of the two aforementioned siblings, but there is a soothing, gum- and throat-coating richness to the finish that will be hard for anyone with a sweet tooth for Gewurztraminer to resist. Look for compelling performances through at least 2028. Score: 93 (David Schildknecht, robertparker.com, Aug. 27, 2014)

DOMAINE ERNEST BURN CLOS SAINT IMER LA CHAPELLE GOLDERT PINOT GRIS 2010
AC Alsace Grand Cru

441857 (MS) 750mL $46.00

TASTING NOTE: Golden yellow with amber highlights. Very intense dried apricot and canned peach aromas are intensified by spicy botrytis. Creamy on entry, then sweet and suave in the middle, showing precise flavors of orange oil, poached pear, cinnamon apple pie and vanilla bean. Looks, smells and tastes like a sweet wine (it does have 60 g/l residual sugar) but the almost mind-numbing acidity here keeps this wine vibrant on the suave, rich, very long finish, which tastes drier than I would have expected from the numbers. About 50% of the grapes were hit by noble rot at the time of harvest. Score: 95 (Ian D'Agata, vinous.com, Nov. 2012)

DOM PÉRIGNON P2 ROSÉ CHAMPAGNE 1996
AC

507897 (XD) 750mL $1,275.00

TASTING NOTE: This has plenty of dried roses, rose hip and other very gently seductive perfumes on offer here such as wild cherries, some pepper, plenty of spices and pink, musky marshmallows. The autolysis is still very discreet, although the fruits have changed to another phase of more savory characters and are really delicate. This is undoubtedly a restrained Champagne on a very slow path of evolution. The palate's smoothly layered with the phenolics shaping it in the first phase of the palate, casting a long tube-like form. The core is composed of dried strawberries, some spiced cherries, some dried peaches and pink grapefruit to boot. It then gives way to fresh acidity as it delivers a really thrilling and mouth-watering finish with some toasty hazelnuts and flamed orange zest to close. Superb focus, and the vintage character of the acidity and length is stunning. Beautifully preserved in the cellars for some twenty-odd years. What a treat! Drink now and for another decade or more. This will age on cork very nicely. Truly a superb expression of Dom Perignon Rosé. Score: 96 (James Suckling, jamessuckling.com, Oct. 7, 2016)

FOUASSIER LES GRANDS GROUX SANCERRE 2017
AC

267948 (XD) 750mL $36.00

Grown in limestone and chalk on vines aged 15-40 years old, this organic Sauvignon Blanc has a history of impressive scores. Expect big things from this, the 2017 vintage.

DR. H. THANISCH BERNCASTELER DOCTOR RIESLING SPÄTLESE 2015
Prädikatswein

113514 (MS) 750mL $67.00

TASTING NOTE: 100% Riesling. Bright yellow with elegant aromas of ripe apricots and peaches. Hints of spice, honey and saffron emerge on the juicy, structured palate. Very well made with an expansive and spicy finish. Platinum: Best German Sweet. Score: 95 (Decanter World Wine Awards, 2017)

SCHLOSS JOHANNISBERG GELBLACK FEINHERB RIESLING 2017
Qualitätswein

633982 (M) 750mL $35.00

TASTING NOTE: In terms of quantity, this is the main wine that Schloss Johannisberg is exporting and the 2017 hits the bulls-eye. Brimming with fruit that ranges from apple to grapefruit with hints of peach, pineapple and berries, this is a joyful riesling that is just off-dry enough to be one of the most flexible food wines on the planet. Drink or hold. Score: 92 (James Suckling, jamessuckling.com, Sept. 19, 2018)

CHAPEL DOWN RESERVE BRUT
Traditional method, England

635185 (D) 750mL $49.00

The wine reviewed by Jancis Robinson, MW, was disgorged in November 2013. If the disgorgement date differs, you can nevertheless expect similar quality and character.

TASTING NOTE: Very neat and dense. Clean and well judged. Piercing acidity but sufficient fruit too. Distinguished. Score: 16 (out of 20) (Jancis Robinson, MW, jancisrobinson.com, Dec. 18, 2014)

CHATEAU IMPERIAL TOKAJI ASZÚ 5 PUTTONYOS 2013
Tokaj

610402 (S) 500mL $44.00

The majority of this estate's vineyards were classified as first growth in the 1772 classification of Tokaj. This sweet wine was sourced from seven estate vineyards.

TASTING NOTE: [Mundus Vini did not include a tasting note.] Score: Gold (Mundus Vini, 2017)

COLLAVINI TURIAN RIBOLLA GIALLA 2016
DOC Colli Orientali del Friuli

632398 (D) 750mL $30.00

TASTING NOTE: A richer ribolla with layers of dried fruit such as lemons and mangoes. Full body, lightly oily and a crisp finish. Drink now. Score: 91 (James Suckling, jamessuckling.com, Oct. 20, 2017)

GAJA SORÌ SAN LORENZO 2015
DOC Langhe

221713 (XD) 750mL $810.00

TASTING NOTE: This celebrated vineyard site has more magnesium in its soils and that may be why you get such a strong mineral note. The 2015 Barbaresco Sorì San Lorenzo offers a complex bouquet with dark fruit, crushed mineral and grilled herb. This wine is very robust in terms of structure and therefore needs extra time in the bottle before it finds its proverbial sweet spot. You need patience to reap those excellent benefits. Drink Date: 2022-2045. Score: 95 (Monica Larner, robertparker.com, June 29, 2018)

MAURO SEBASTE TRESURI BAROLO 2013
DOCG

638122 (XD) 750mL $53.00

TASTING NOTE: Tilled soil, lead pencil, thyme, iris and wild berry aromas take center stage on this fragrant red. It's vibrant and young, with crushed strawberry, red raspberry cinnamon and white pepper flavors framed in lively acidity and taut youthfully austere tannins. A licorice note closes the finish. Drink: 2023-2033. Score: 93 (Kerin O'Keefe, Wine Enthusiast, Sept. 1, 2017)

CRISSANTE CAPALOT BAROLO 2012
DOCG

680710 (XD) 750mL $79.00

TASTING NOTE: Full and structured with dusty tannins and lots of ripe fruit. Plenty of cedar, vanilla and cigar box undertones. Pretty ripe fruit to this as well. Needs two or three years to soften. Better in 2020. Score: 95 (James Suckling, jamessuckling.com, Oct. 20, 2017)

GAJA GAIA & REY CHARDONNAY 2016
DOC Langhe

231563 (XD) 750mL $320.00

TASTING NOTE: It's hard not to love the 2016 Langhe Gaia & Rey. The winemaking approach has been tweaked to allow for less malolactic fermentation. Before, up to 60% or 70% of the mass completed malolactic fermentation, but with this vintage, that number has been reduced to about 20%. Indeed, the acidity is bright, forward and elegantly unmasked. This is a sharp and tonic white wine that delivers a firm grasp on the palate. The flavor profile includes citrus, honeydew melon and salty mineral nuances derived from limestone-rich soils. Drink Date: 2020-2030. Score: 94 (Monica Larner, robertparker.com, June 29, 2018)

TORNATORE TRIMARCHISA 2015
DOC Etna Rosso

583492 (D) 750mL $53.00

TASTING NOTE: There is so much red berry fruit here such as redcurrants and raspberries as well as more ripe notes of ash, tar, dried rose petals and spices. The palate is quite rich and dense yet very much kept fresh by tangy fruit and pretty acidity. Long finish. Drink now. Score: 95 (James Suckling, jamessuckling.com, Oct. 20, 2017)

TENUTA DI BISERNO IL PINO DI BISERNO 2016
IGT Toscana

218743 (XD) 750mL $78.00

"I was able to spend an afternoon with Lodovico Antinori recently at his beautiful estate in Bibbona (just a stone's throw from the Bolgheri municipality line). This is a magical place with softly rolling hills that stand at a slightly taller incline on this part of the Tuscan coast. Shining luminosity from the sky and reflected off the surface of the Mediterranean sea flood the landscape with golden sunshine. The property, planted to Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot, is impeccably manicured. Michel Rolland is consultant in the winery" (Monica Larner, robertparker.com, Oct. 30, 2014). Expect big things from this new-to-market 2016 Il Pino.

FATTORIA LE PUPILLE SAFFREDI 2015
IGT Maremma Toscana

74435 (XD) 750mL $117.00

TASTING NOTE: I love the currant and rosemary character of this wine. Some sage, too. Complex aromas that draw you in. Full body, extremely tight and chewy with a long and intense finish. The tannins are fantastic - so polished. Focused and beautiful. Mineral undertone with ash and hot stone highlighting the dark fruits. It goes on for minutes. Needs three or four years to come together. But a serious red all the way. Score: 99 (James Suckling, jamessuckling.com, Aug. 28, 2017)

PETROLO TORRIONE 2015
DOC

21980 (XD) 750mL $46.00

TASTING NOTE: Lovely aromas of sweet fruit, flowers such as violets and black olives. Sandalwood undertones. Full body and extremely fine tannins. Persistent and sexy. Shows such intensity and finesse. Drink in 2019. Score: 94 (James Suckling, jamessuckling.com, Aug. 29, 2017)

POLIZIANO ASINONE VINO NOBILE DI MONTEPULCIANO 2015
DOCG

952473 (XD) 750mL $66.00

TASTING NOTE: To be released in the first quarter of 2018, the 2015 Vino Nobile di Montepulciano Asinone is a bright and energetic red wine. This Sangiovese-based red offers volume and richness spread over dark fruit, cherry and blackberry flavors. This was a warm vintage, and you get extra softness, fruitiness and succulence as a result. In the mouth, it shows depth and persistence. The tannins still need a year or two to find optimal integration, so it's worth waiting just a bit longer. Drink Date: 2018-2030. Score: 94 (Monica Larner, robertparker.com, Jan. 31, 2018)

TENUTA DI BISERNO BISERNO 2015
IGT Toscana

493791 (D) 750mL $199.00

TASTING NOTE: A red defined by elegance and finesse yet one that's so full of character at the same time. Full body with a great depth of fruit and polished tannins. Lots of layers here this year that are polished to precision. Score: 94-95 (James Suckling, jamessuckling.com, Oct. 7, 2016)

BINDELLA VALLOCAIA RISERVA VINO NOBILE DI MONTEPULCIANO 2013
DOCG

631895 (XD) 750mL $56.00

TASTING NOTE: A modern style, with spicy oak wrapped around a core of cherry. Lively and long, showing balance and accents of iron, tobacco and earth. Best from 2019 through 2029. Score: 93 (Bruce Sanderson, winespectator.com, Oct. 31, 2017)

CONTI COSTANTI BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2013
DOCG

19729 (D) 750mL $100.00

TASTING NOTE: Delicately scented, this offers underbrush, pressed violet and wild berry aromas. It's medium-bodied and loaded with elegance, delivering crushed raspberry, Morello cherry, licorice and a hint of pipe tobacco set against taut, refined tannins. Bright acidity provides balance. It's a bit austere at this stage but will develop beautifully. Drink: 2023-2043. Cellar Selection. Score: 97 (Kerin O'Keefe, Wine Enthusiast, May 1, 2018)

TOLAINI MONTEBELLO GRAN SELEZIONE CHIANTI CLASSICO 2013
DOCG

466607 (XD) 750mL $53.00

TASTING NOTE: This is full of pure cherry, strawberry and floral notes, backed by a sleek frame and solid yet refined tannins. Balanced, with terrific energy and a lingering finish of leather, iron and tobacco. Best from 2018 through 2032. Score: 93 (Bruce Sanderson, winespectator.com, Nov. 30, 2017)

CAPARZO RISERVA BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2012
DOCG

373563 (D) 750mL $90.00

TASTING NOTE: Fragrant blue flower, wild berry and baking spice aromas meld with a whiff of dried aromatic herb. Smooth and savory, the elegant palate shows raspberry preserve, juicy black cherry, licorice and espresso framed by fine-grained tannins. A hint of chopped mint backs up the lingering finish. Drink: 2020-2030. Score: 95 (Kerin O'Keefe, Wine Enthusiast, May 1, 2018)

LAZZERETTI RISERVA BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2012
DOCG

241299 (XD) 750mL $105.00

TASTING NOTE: This is all about the balance and expression of the cherry, strawberry, floral, spice and mineral flavors, with well-mannered tannins and bright acidity. Plays out consistently on the long finish. Best from 2022 through 2037. Score: 94 (Bruce Sanderson, winespectator.com, June 30, 2018)

TENUTA BELLAFONTE COLLENOTTOLO SAGRANTINO DI MONTEFALCO 2013
DOCG

452177 (D) 750mL $65.00

TASTING NOTE: The Collenottolo is one of the most convincing Montefalco Sagrantinos we tasted this year. The 2013 offers complex, variegated fragrances of tobacco, plum and a touch of mushroom. The palate proved excellent for balance and harmony, with a lean, caressing entrance, and tannins that integrate perfectly. Acidity does its part, leading the wine into a deep finish. Score: 3 Glasses (out of 3) (Gambero Rosso Italian Wines, 2018)

LUCIANO ARDUINI RECIOTO DELLA VALPOLICELLA CLASSICO 2013
DOCG

362111 (MS) 500mL $36.00

The grapes for this wine were harvested in the first 20 days of September. The finest and healthiest bunches were placed in trays, then housed in dedicated dry, well-ventilated fruit stores where they were left to wither until the winter, losing up to 45% of their weight. After fermentation, the wine was transferred into barrels where it was left to mature in the wood for around 10 months, after which it underwent further ageing in the bottle.

TASTING NOTE: [Luca Maroni did not include a tasting note.] Score: 96 (lucamaroni.com, 2018)

TOMMASO BUSSOLA AMARONE DELLA VALPOLICELLA CLASSICO 2009
DOCG

631358 (D) 750mL $200.00

TASTING NOTE: Bright red. Precise aromas of crushed red cherry, cinnamon, plum and clove. Suave and pure on the multilayered palate, with floral and sweet spicy elements dominating the ripe rich red cherry and berry flavors. Utterly explosive on the seamless finish, which features outstanding rising length, energy and precision. Already great to drink now, but will undergo a slow development in bottle. Reading 17.5% alcohol on the label would normally have me worried, but this wine is so smooth and harmonious (in fact, it's more refined and deeper than Bussola's knockout 2011 Amarone Classico) you'll hardly notice. When it comes to making superlative Amarone wines, Bussola is right up there with Quintarelli and Dal Forno. Drinking window: 2017-2030. Score: 96 (Ian D'Agata, vinous.com, May 2017)

QUINTA DA VIÇOSA 2015
Vinhos Regional Alentejano

13292 (XD) 750mL $58.00

TASTING NOTE: The 2015 T - M (Quinta da Viçosa), the single-quinta blend that varies every year, is an equal blend of Touriga Nacional and Merlot aged for 12 months in new French oak. It comes in at 14.5% alcohol. The last "T-M" version of this brand was the 2003. Things have changed a bit. From this vintage on, this is a "bio" vineyard - meaning it is organic but not yet listed as such. When last seen, this was in great form and looked superb. I especially love the way it has become more expressive, with a juicy finish and a bright feel. It is equally powerful and much more fun to drink now given its development. Keep cellaring it for another couple of years, although you can approach it now. It will continue to evolve well for more than another decade and hold well for a while after that. Drink Date: 2019-2035. Score: 94 (Mark Squires, robertparker.com, Aug. 31, 2018)

PUJANZA NORTE 2015
DOCa Rioja

207456 (XD) 750mL $83.00

TASTING NOTE: Named after the north-facing plot where the Tempranillo grapes grow, the 2015 Norte is Tempranillo that fermented in stainless steel vats with indigenous yeasts followed by malolactic. Élevage was in French barriques and lasted 15 months. 2015 was a ripe and warm year that managed to combine ripeness and freshness. This is always sourced from the same vineyard, which is located at 720 meters altitude and is around 20 years old - the youngest vineyard they have. Carlos San Pedro planted it with a massal selection that ripens quite early; in fact, in 2017 it was the first vineyard they harvested. It ripens properly and keeps good acidity. They stopped using 100% new oak in 2012, and the oak is very integrated and folded into the wine, even now that they have extended the élevage. This could very well be the finest Norte to date, with very chalky tannins. It feels quite young. 11,000 bottles were filled in September 2017. Drink Date: 2019-2030. Score: 95 (Luis Gutiérrez, robertparker.com, Feb. 28, 2018)

GRANJA NUESTRA SEÑORA DE REMELLURI GRAN RESERVA 2011
DOCa Rioja

548040 (XD) 750mL $98.00

TASTING NOTE: The white truffle and dark berry character comes through here. Rosemary too. Full body, chewy and extremely long. It shows fantastic length and structure. Noble tannins. Needs at least five to six years to soften. Score: 97 (James Suckling, jamessuckling.com, Jan. 18, 2018)

FAUSTINO I GRAN RESERVA 2001
DOCa Rioja

472654 (XD) 750mL $55.00

TASTING NOTE: Faustino (founded 1860) with its iconic frosted bottles and portrait labels is one of Rioja's most easily recognised brands. It's a family business based in Oyon in Rioja Alavesa, and the largest private holder of vineyards in Rioja, spread across the region. The style of the Rioja is as classic as the packaging look for the sweet, vanilla notes of American oak, plenty of bright cherry fruit, and a fine, delicate palate. For those interested in tasting great old Riojas, Faustino is one company that still releases older vintages going as far back as 1970. Among the other wineries it owns is Portia in Ribera del Duero. (Pedro Ballesteros, MW) Deliciously decadent, with extraordinary vitality on the palate and a long, unique finish. A jewel at this price. (Ben Henshaw) Complex nose, quite grippy but fresh and moreish. A touch dry, but amazing fruit. Classy, complex and long. (Annette Scarfe, MW) A more restrained, mineral style with elegant tannins. Youthful, feminine and complex with a long length. A classic Rioja that is still fresh after 12 years, with more to come. Score: 97 (Panel, Decanter, 2013)

CHAPEL HILL THE VICAR SHIRAZ 2015
McLaren Vale, South Australia

638064 (D) 750mL $59.00

TASTING NOTE: 13-25yo vines, machine-harvested, crushed and destemmed, open-fermented with cultured yeast, 10-12 days on skins, basket-pressed, matured in French hogsheads (22% new) for 22 months. Deep, dark crimson-purple; a full-bodied wine, absolutely crammed full of black fruits, tar, earth, licorice, dark chocolate, and cabernet-like tannins. No velvet slipper here, instead vinous flagellation - stop, stop, I love it. Drink By: 2040. Score: 95 (James Halliday, winecompanion.com.au, Aug. 1, 2017)

FIRST DROP FAT OF THE LAND SEPPELTSFIELD SHIRAZ 2015
Barossa Valley, South Australia

148114 (D) 750mL $81.00

TASTING NOTE: The nose is really complex here with layers of brambleberries, granite, subtle savoriness, meat and hints of pepper. Full body, polished tannins, a fine thread of acid and a gamey, long finish. Drink or hold. Score: 95 (James Suckling, jamessuckling.com, Jan. 1, 2018)

YALUMBA PARADOX SHIRAZ 2015
Barossa, South Australia

437731 (XD) 750mL $55.00

TASTING NOTE: From the Kalimna/Ebeneza district, known for the power of its shiraz, here conferring a generous black fruit bouquet, the palate with obvious texture and structure, yet has a special vibrancy on the back-palate and finish. Score: 95 (James Halliday, winecompanion.com.au, April 1, 2017)

TYRRELL'S VAT 1 HUNTER SEMILLON 2005
Hunter Valley, New South Wales

930495 (XD) 750mL $174.00

TASTING NOTE: A very great Hunter semillon, to be re-released in May 2018 to commemorate the 160th anniversary of Tyrrell's Wines. The wine is still very fresh and yet has acquired all the wonderful toasty and beeswaxy complexities of a mature semillon. The palate is intense and long, pure and refreshing as well as multi-layered, with impeccable line. A benchmark wine. (57 gold medals, 33 trophies). Drink Date: 2018-2023. Score: 99 (Huon Hooke, therealreview.com, March 20, 2018)

KEN FORRESTER THE FMC CHENIN BLANC 2017
WO Stellenbosch

37291 (D) 750mL $65.00

The flagship Chenin Blanc from the winemaking team of Ken Forrester and Martin Meinert, the FMC (Forrester Meinert Chenin) is hand-picked from low-yielding bush vines and is always a stunner. Wine writer Neal Martin awarded the 2016 vintage 93 points; expect similar greatness from the 2017.

COLOMÉ ALTURA MÁXIMA MALBEC 2014
Salta

571745 (XD) 750mL $143.00

TASTING NOTE: There are only 7,000 bottles of this remarkable wine, made from a 3-hectare parcel of limestone and granite in the world's highest vineyard. Aromatic, rich and spicy, it's a plush, dense, concentrated wine with underlying focus and precision and layers of blackberry and black cherry fruit. The new oak is effortlessly integrated here. Drink Date: 2019-28. Score: 97 (Tim Atkin, MW, timatkin.com, Argentina Special Report 2017)

TRAPICHE ISCAY MALBEC/CABERNET FRANC 2011
Mendoza

450585 (XD) 750mL $50.00

TASTING NOTE: The aromas are perfect here with dried flowers, ink, dried mushrooms, chili, and other spices. Graphite, too. Full bodied, yet so refined and polished. Superb definition and depth. Better in 2020 but already great. A blend of malbec from Gualtallary and cabernet franc from Altamira. This is an iconic wine from Argentine. Drink or hold. Score: 98 (James Suckling, jamessuckling.com, May 20, 2016)

UNDURRAGA ALTAZOR 2014
DO Maipo Valley

631283 (D) 750mL $68.00

TASTING NOTE: Ripe, heady aromas of cassis, raisin and spice cake hold nothing back but aren't overdone. The palate is staunch in feel, with firm but manageable tannins, while this tastes of plum, berry fruits and tomato touched by savory oak. The full yet tight finish offers plenty of balance. Drink through 2025. Score: 94 (Michael Schachner, Wine Enthusiast, March 1, 2018)

FORMAN CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2015
Napa Valley

143925 (XD) 750mL $157.00

TASTING NOTE: The 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon is dense, pliant and wonderfully expressive. Ric Forman's wines are always on the restrained side, but the 2015 packs a good bit of punch. Sweet red cherry, raspberry, sage, mint, and rose petal overtones all add to the wine's precision and nuance. In 2015, Forman took in fruit from Thorevilos, which he co-manages with David Abreu, but ultimately decided to add that juice to the Cabernet Sauvignon rather than bottle it separately. Dollops of Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Malbec round out the blend. This is one of the classiest wines of the vintage. Drinking window: 2022-2040. Score: 96 (Antonio Galloni, vinous.com, March 2018)

BEAULIEU TAPESTRY RESERVE RED BLEND 2014
Napa Valley

716746 (D) 750mL $90.00

Lisa Perrotti-Brown, MW, awarded this wine a score of 90 points: "Blended of 76% Cabernet Sauvignon and 13% Merlot with dollops of Petit Verdot, Malbec and Cabernet Franc, the 2014 Reserve Tapestry Proprietary Red Wine opens with crème de cassis and blackberry tart notes over hints of menthol, incense and Christmas cake, plus a waft of dark chocolate. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is flamboyant, rich, velvety and seductive, with a lively lift in the mid-palate and a long, spicy finish." (robertparker.com, Oct. 31, 2017)

TASTING NOTE: [James Suckling did not include a tasting note.] Score: 95 (James Suckling, jamessuckling.com, May 19, 2017)

DONELAN GREEN VALLEY KOBLER FAMILY SYRAH 2014
Russian River Valley, Sonoma County

635201 (XD) 750mL $117.00

TASTING NOTE: The 2014 Syrah Kobler Family Vineyard is gorgeous. Inky, powerful and intense, but with striking aromatic lift from the 10% co-fermented Viognier, the 2014 is a total knock-out. Black pepper, sage, violet, lavender and a host of blue/purplish notes infuse the creamy finish. The 50% whole clusters add complexity, but are not overpowering. Put simply, this is a stunning wine from Donelan. Drinking window: 2017-2024. Score: 96 (Antonio Galloni, vinous.com, March 2017)

KRUPP BROTHERS VERAISON CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2014
Stagecoach Vineyard, Napa Valley

143941 (XD) 750mL $159.00

TASTING NOTE: The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Veraison (also from the Stagecoach Vineyard) has an inky purple color, sensational concentration and richness, a multi-layered mouthfeel and a fabulous finish. Cassis, blackberry, blueberry, crushed rock and spring flowers are all present in this super-complex, stunningly rich, full-bodied wine that delivers immense pleasure both intellectually and hedonistically. Drink it over the next 20 years. Drink Date: 2016-2036. Score: 96 (Robert Parker Jr., robertparker.com, Dec. 30, 2016)

LARKMEAD CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2014
Napa Valley

635672 (XD) 750mL $219.00

TASTING NOTE: Loads of blue fruits and wet earth with hints of mushrooms. Full body, round and juicy tannins and a savory finish. Edgy fresh acidity. Lightly chewy. Needs two or three years to soften but already beautiful. Score: 95 (James Suckling, jamessuckling.com, May 5, 2017)

RHYS BEARWALLOW VINEYARD PINOT NOIR 2014
Anderson Valley, Mendocino County

635219 (XD) 750mL $80.00

TASTING NOTE: The 2014 Pinot Noir Bearwallow Vineyard is a solid step up over the Anderson Valley release and has more tension, elegance and precision. Offering up classic notes of strawberries, spice, black cherries and a touch of sous bois, it has medium to full-bodied richness, terrific purity of fruit and integrated acidity. Give bottles a year or two and drink through 2026. Score: 94 (Jeb Dunnuck, robertparker.com, Oct. 28, 2016)

THE HILT THE VANGUARD PINOT NOIR 2014
Santa Rita Hills, Santa Barbara County

407841 (XD) 750mL $86.00

TASTING NOTE: The 2014 Pinot Noir Vanguard is deep and implosive, naturally within the Hilt's generally restrained style. Plum, sweet cherry, spice and menthol are all fused together in a pliant, textured Pinot loaded with textural nuance. Even with its forward fruit, the 2014 has quite a bit of underlying structure and tannin. This is one of the unqualified successes of the year in the Sta. Rita Hills. In 2014, the Vanguard is 100% Mt. Eden clone Pinot from Sanford & Benedict, done with fully destemmed fruit and aged in 45% new French oak. Score: 95 (Antonio Galloni, vinous.com, June 2016)

MOUNT EDEN VINEYARDS CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2013
Santa Cruz Mountains

31831 (XD) 750mL $105.00

TASTING NOTE: The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate is developing beautifully, unfurling in the glass with aromas of cassis, tobacco, bay laurel, dark chocolate and rich soil. On the palate, it's medium to full-bodied, multidimensional and concentrated, with wonderful savory depth, fine grained but firm tannins and a long, taut and tangy finish. While this is firmly shut down today, its potential for the future is fully evident: expect it to begin to come into its own around its tenth birthday. Drink Date: 2023-2050. Score: 96 (William Kelley, robertparker.com, May 31, 2018)

CAKEBREAD RESERVE CHARDONNAY 2015
Carneros

70763 (XD) 750mL $100.00

TASTING NOTE: Well-framed, with concentrated green apple, nectarine and melon flavors that are supported by fresh acidity. The spicy finish offers mineral and white cherry notes. Drink now through 2022. Score: 91 (Kim Marcus, winespectator.com, June 15, 2018)

MOUNT EDEN VINEYARDS CHARDONNAY 2014
Santa Cruz Mountains

328153 (XD) 750mL $96.00

TASTING NOTE: The 2014 Chardonnay Estate from Mount Eden is terrific, offering up a youthful bouquet of buttered apples, pear, toasted nuts and brioche that reveals more and more nuance as it sits in the glass. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied, pure and racy, with a satiny attack, deep core and bright acids. The finish is long and mouthwateringly chalky. This is one of the best recent releases of the Estate Chardonnay, and it comes warmly recommended. Drink Date: 2019-2034. Score: 96 (William Kelley, robertparker.com, May 31, 2018)

LANGE RESERVE PINOT NOIR 2014
Willamette Valley

635193 (XD) 750mL $58.00

TASTING NOTE: Pale to medium ruby-purple in color, the 2014 Pinot Noir Reserve offers-up notions of red and black raspberries over notes of rose petals, anise, cedar, lavender and black soil. The medium-bodied palate is elegantly fruited, though it has a bit of oak poking through. Chewy textured and with ample freshness, if finishes long and a little woody. Drink Date: 2017-2021. Score: 90+ (Lisa Perrotti-Brown, MW, robertparker.com, Aug. 31, 2017)

CROFT VINTAGE PORT 2016
DOP

635532 (S) 750mL $126.00

TASTING NOTE: Extremely perfumed with dark-berry and currant aromas. Hints of earth and spices. Full-bodied, round and medium sweet. Hints of resin. Opulent yet restrained. Shows ripe and beautiful fruit with clarity. Try in 2025. Score: 97 (James Suckling, jamessuckling.com, May 29, 2018)