Find Us
Orders are available for pick-up at Restaurant Nicholas at 160 Route 35 South Red Bank, NJ 07701 during the following times:
Monday: 9:30-3:30; Tuesday – Friday: 9:15am – 9:00pm; Saturday: 11:00am – 9:00pm; Sunday: Closed
Orders are available for pick-up at Restaurant Nicholas at 160 Route 35 South Red Bank, NJ 07701 during the following times:
Monday: 9:30-3:30; Tuesday – Friday: 9:15am – 9:00pm; Saturday: 11:00am – 9:00pm; Sunday: Closed
Obviously, I can’t tell you all the details of the vineyard source but I can let you in on a few of the details. Crafted using fruit from 1000-1500 ft in elevation, Chad’s 2019 is cool climate Pinot at its best– especially given the price tag. While similar wines (very similar wines) will fetch a $45 price tag, you can snag it today just less than half off that price on bottle one. There’s no surprise this is the #1 wine of the year in 2020.
For generations, the Almondo family have tended vines of Arneis, the noble white variety of Piedmont. Their Bricco delle Ciliegie always seems to be a cut above the rest. It dazzles right out of the bottle, with tons of pent up energy and lift, generous aromas of white flowers, almonds and a touch of sage. The mid-palate has layers of concentrated peach and citrus fruit with a mineral streak and a long, clean finish that leaves you wanting another sip.
From Soave Classico’s most privileged volcanic-limestone hillsides, comes a brand new release that is going to dazzle a lot of folks. This is a high-tone northern Italian white bursting with white flowers, honeysuckle and stone fruits. Crisp and clean, finishing juicy and surprisingly long. A perfect complement to all kinds of seafood dishes, summer vegetables, poultry and light cheeses. There is no old-vine, small lot Pinot Grigio that exists for anywhere near the price of this one.
This one has always been my go-to for entertaining – I just hand everyone a glass upon arrival. The new batch of 2019 Barmes Cremant has just landed featuring a lot of freshness and energy, with a beautiful nose of green apple and Anjou pear with tinges of honey, white nuts and white flowers. The fruit is near perfect, richly concentrated with a creamy texture. The finish is endless, with the tiniest of bubbles, with a zippy acidity that makes it perfect with scallops, grilled swordfish.
Soon to be Rated (Last Vtg. 96 pts + Top 100, WE)
“This is an extremely ripe and bold style of Pinot Noir, showing kirsch, cola, root beer and anise on the nose. The powerful extraction extends to the sip as well, where black cherry, pie crust and vanilla bean flavors sit atop a thick mouthfeel, with a touch of prune on the finish.”
97 Points, James Suckling
“For Bibi Graetz’s 20th anniversary of his beloved Testamatta, the superstar winemaker set out to make something truly age-worthy and spectacular and unlike anything he has made to date. Armed with his brand new, state-of-the-art winemaking facility in Florence, Graetz’s 2019 Testamatta is elegant and pure with multiple layers of depth and evolution. With part of the makeup consisting of vines from the 1950’s, the wine has such sophistication and intrigue and I suspect will continue to evolve into something special over the next three to four decades. ” – Nicholas
91 Points, James Suckling
The Bisol “Jeio” Prosecco NV is a delicious sparkler that comes from the Veneto region of northeast Italy. A brilliant straw yellow color, the first sip is an intense and fresh nose of citrus fruits and saline sensations. If you love fruit forward sparklers… this one is for you.
Fresh off a huge feature in The Wall Street Journal in which they were crowned as the top Prosecco Rose in a lineup of 14, I suspect what was once our little secret will explode. James Suckling also finally got around to tasting it and gave it 91 points. I’d rate it even higher. The 2020 Bisol Jeio Brut Prosecco Rosé is remarkable, and simply put, mouth-wateringly delicious. Inviting aromas of flowers and wild strawberries, with a complex mouthfeel that sings with citrus fruits and creaminess from the tiny crisp bubbles.
93 Points, Decanter
“Initially a mite reductive, this Cape Rhône Ranger delivers a blast of flavours and great bang for buck. Rustic, savoury charcuterie and liquorice notes and tannins – a gentle grip – balance the spicy black, sweet red cherry preserve and blue fruits. Pure and juicy, the red fruit sings sweetly on day two (I would have sworn it was Grenache). Flavoursome but medium-bodied, it’s a brilliant summer and autumn red. Drinking Window 2021 – 2025.”
The newly released 2020 Brunori ‘Le Gemme’ Verdichio is everything you’re looking for in a vibrant, food-friendly white wine. About a billion times better than every-day Pinot Grigio, the Brunori is an electric, vibrant white which combines delicious fruit and vibrancy with boasts a killer nose of white peach, honeycomb and almonds. The fruit is wonderfully concentrated with a salty, stony finish that goes forever. You’re going to want to add a few bottles to your collection ASAP.
Now they’re coming in hot! This is my second private barrel that I sourced from my January trip down to Kentucky. My trip down there was super fruitful as I got to pick out two different barrels. Believe you me, we went through a lot of samples to make up for lost time. The winning combo is something people are going to love. It’s smooth and layered, with a full creamy mouthfeel and manages to sneak in at 104 Proof. On the nose, I get fresh cut oak, vanilla and brown butter. On the palate, freshly baked banana bread, burnt orange creme brulee and graham cracker.
95+ Points, Vinous
“The 2016 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Ravazzol dazzles with a vivid and exotic mix, as crushed rocks blow off to reveal bright cherries with autumnal spices and dusty rose. Its velvety-smooth yet energetic, with tart mineral-tinged berries giving way to cocoa, tobacco and exotic spice that saturates. While sweet on the nose, this is more savory on the palate and flinty through the finale, turning lightly structured and lingering incredibly long yet pure with the prettiest of red florals. Wow; the 2016 is finessed, delicate, feminine and communicates beautiful harmony. Lose some in your cellar.” – Eric Guido
Soon to be Rated
Winemaker and pioneer Josh Jensen has been recognized by Wine Spectator as the Cover feature, he’s won multiple winemaking awards and he’s one of the most respected American winemakers ever. His legacy at Calera will be cemented in the history books, because he made great wines from top to bottom. His entry level Chardonnay was always a tremendous value – a high toned, expressive Chardonnay with impeccable balance and elegance well beyond its price tag. With Wine Spectator, Wine Enthusiast and most likely Wine & Spirits weighing in soon, I’m certain this one will be treated to the usual 90+ point scoring brigade.
94 Pts, Wine Enthusiast – 92 Pts Wine Advocate
92 Pts, Wine & Spirits
Robert Parker famously said “Calera is one of the most compelling Pinot Noir specialists of not only the New World, but of Planet Earth.” He founded Mt. Harlan AVA and it is only right we offer his last Pinot from the amazing wine region he created. Critics were unanimous in their admiration of this wine, with three separate reviewers lofting generous 92+ scores for this Pinot Noir treat. This gorgeous Pinot Noir has a little age to it so it’s drinking like a dream right now. Planted in 1998, Ryan vineyard represents Calera’s highest elevation at more than 2,500 feet!
91 Points, Vinous
A sexy package with a great label leads you off before you’re swooned by a mix of citrus, white peach, and turkish apricots. On the palate, you’re hit with a refreshing sweet and sour combination with incredibly tiny, salty bubbles. This one is a beauty – the definition of a crowd pleaser. Vinous got a hold of it and gave it their highest rating for the category of the vintage, a 91-point score for a wine they deemed, “incredibly pretty and highly likable”. This is going to be the go-to for Melissa this year, I can already tell.
93 Points, Parker’s Wine Advocate – 93 Points, James Suckling
“This is the so-called “green label” Brunello with proprietor Elisabetta Gnudi Angelini’s signature on the front of the bottle. Her classic 2017 Brunello di Montalcino is sharp and tonic with wild raspberry, cassis, lilac, earth and garden herb. There is a sweet note of sour cherry on the mid-weight finish. This is made in a traditional approach with two years in casks made with both Slavonian and French oak.”
95 Points, Wine Enthusiast – 94 Points, Parker’s Wine Advocate
“The Caprili 2017 Brunello di Montalcino is lovely. The wine strikes that great balance of dark fruit, rose and tar that makes Brunello unique, and it doesn’t have those rough edges or stemmy tannins that you see sometimes in this undeniably hot and dry vintage. This expression remains elegant but also generous, and that’s not an easy intersection to reach. This is a standout wine from 2017, despite the challenges and the lower yields obtained this year. “
This year, the Eastside Cuvee hails from a primo vineyard just off the Silverado Trail– perfectly positioned next to neighbors Caymus and Frog’s Leap and just down the road, Quintessa. Amongst the elite, Carl Roy’s team locked into some incredible fruit, with gorgeous blackberry jammy opulence, firm grippy tannins and that signature Rutherford earthiness to the finish that many try to emulate but can only be produced off the special soil from which this beauty was created.
94 Points, Wine Spectator
The 2019 is a must have for any fans of cellar-worthy Italian red wines. It’s a structured Chianti Riserva, with a ton of character. The nose is intense with notes of leather surrounding a core of bright red fruits. The flavors are intense and the finish is long with lingering Bing Cherry notes that absolutely sing. Obviously, since we’ve got the first crack at it, not all the ratings are in and it probably wouldn’t matter anyway as these will not stick around for long.
100 Points, James Suckling – 99 Points, Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate
“This is really something. There’s purity and focus to the aromas of crushed berries, licorice and black tea, which follow through to an integrated palate of extremely fine, melted tannins that spread to the very ends of the wine. This is all about balance and length. It really is an emotional wine. Great follow-up to the 2017, which was also 100 points. Drinkable now, but better after 2024.” -James Suckling
99 Points, James Suckling
“This is made from over 100-year-old vineyards and offers blackberries with blue fruit and dark chocolate. Shows bark and black truffle undertones, too. Tight and more focused than in past vintages. The quality of the tannins is more precise and fine. Blackberries and black truffles at the end. Drink or hold.” -James Suckling
It’s always nice to be in good standing with one of the most beloved wine brands in America! Our special relationship with the Wagner has granted us incredible access on their newest release! These won’t last long! This is an opulent, powerful dark-fruited Cabernet with tightly woven tannins, that is just raring and ready to go. Textbook, full-bodied, revved up and ready to go, this new Caymus Napa Valley Cabernet is the definition of a crowd pleaser.
The 2019 North Coast vintage in Napa and Sonoma for Cabernet Sauvignon is outrageously good. The big three wine critics have already come in calling it one of the best of the last few decades. Of course, Chad Alexander finds himself in the right place at the right time. If there’s someone who can churn out full-bodied, well-structured Cabernet Sauvignon that can compete with the big boys at a fraction of the price, it’s Chad. Cherry cola, blackberries, fig jam and a hint of sage on the palate with plenty of depth and complexity. This has a solid, juicy core and a smooth, lingering finish. This baby should drink well for two decades at least.
92 Points, James Suckling
Charles Krug Estate is the oldest in the U.S. and easily one of the most special. In fact, the team even pays to have their Sauvignon Blanc grapes picked in the dead of night to ensure the perfect time, when the grapes are pristine and not stressed from the heat or the sun. In doing so, they preserve the full aromatic fireworks – a bouquet of stone fruits, guava, grapefruit and melon with wonderful lemony acidity and tension. The body is excellent and crisp with a touch of minerality to compliment the energetic, juicy fruit. The stainless steel maturation process makes this one especially expressive right from the start.
91-93pts, Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate
The 2015 Edmond de Rothschild “Chateau des Laurets” St. Emilion is something special and even after a barrage of fabulous Bordeaux offers this year, I’m still calling it the Bordeaux of the year. It absolutely dazzles, displaying all the silky, elegant tannins and harmonious nature characteristic of the vintage. Lay some down in a dark cellar for the long haul but don’t be afraid to enjoy some right now.
99 Pts, Vinous – 97 Pts (Cellar Selection), Wine Enthusiast– 97 Pts, Spectator – 97 Pts, Wine Advocate
Antonio Galloni called it, “hands down one of the wines of the vintage.” The Wine Advocate chipped in with “a refreshing, beautifully perfumed and skillfully crafted expression of the vintage.” Here’s what I’ll say: How could you do any better than securing a few bottles of a wine with 30-40 years of life left that is already showing better than giants such as Lafite, Margaux and Le Pin. There aren’t many years in Bordeaux’s history where one of the top 3-5 wines of the vintage was a $105 bottling and not one available at four figures.
Winemaker Pascal Sirat consistently puts out some of the best value Bordeaux in the region but he may have outdone himself in the 2018 vintage. Just south of Pomerol, the vines at Panchille borrow deep in the soil. The resulting wines are ripe but fresh, with an aromatic complexity and stony finish usually reserved for wine twice the price. Daniel Boulud tells me it’s been the hottest bottle of wine at Bar Boulud for over a month, so I figured I’d better hurry up and secure my allocation! Don’t miss it.
This is classic Cotes de Provence Rosé from one of the oldest, most respected producers in the region. With over 800 years of winemaking, Peyrassol is best known for their iconic clay and limestone soils that produce mouthwatering Rhone blends. The brand new ‘Cuvee des Commandeurs’ Rose is electric– super crisp and refreshing with a mix of cherries, mango, nectarines and lemon zest flavors. The best part here is the piercing, dry backbone that ties it all together and gives it a lasting finish.
96 Points & #7 Wine of Year (2019), Jeb Dunnuck
” The 2016 Château Poesia is more open and showy compared to the Barde Haut, offering fabulous limestone-like character in its kirsch and currant fruits and notes of dried herbs, white truffle, and dried flowers. Possessing medium to full body, ripe, present tannins, terrific concentration, and a great finish, it’s another incredibly classy Saint Emilion from the Garcin-Lévêque family.”
Year in, year out Château Turcaud produces one of the best white wine values in the world. It’s long been found on Michelin-starred wine lists in Paris and we’ve had it at the restaurant since Day 1. If you’ve ever tried this stunning, classic Bordeaux of Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, Sauvignon Gris and Muscadlle, then you know why. The 2020 vintage has just arrived, and it’s a fantastic vintage in Bordeaux for energetic whites. This is world-class, as always.
90 Points, Vinous
This is an absolutely killer Sparkling Lambrusco Rose that doesn’t taste like what you might expect. It’s got a gorgeous pink hue with a fruity and floral nose, but it doesn’t give off the herbal notes that Lambrusco sometimes does. Instead, it’s a lovely draw expression with fresh, juicy red fruits with a hint of cintrus and minerality. The bubbles are tiny and pure and add a refreshing layer to this fun little number. It comes in a great bottle and whats inside is fantastic. Mom or dad or anybody else will love it.
This is a spectacular new release – a flawlessly crafted, high energy coastal Chardonnay from one of California’s hottest spots. As bright and refreshing as you could want, it hits with clean, pristine green apple fruits, pears and citrus notes with a hint of that limestone-influenced minerality creeping in on the finish. It’s a fantastic wine for summer, the perfect pair with mixed seafood, summer tomatoes, corn and freshly caught fish.
The newly released 2021 Clos Julien Rose is super lively and aromatic. It opens up to notes of high-toned red berry and flowers just fly from the glass and pick up a slight savory accent as the wine opens up. Juicy and fresh on the palate, offering wild strawberry and citrus rind flavors that deepen and spread out on the back half. A long, focused and bone-dry finish showcase amazing energy for what is sure to be a new happy hour go-to and Tuesday night Hall of Famer.
This is the very first of its kind – a Reposado Rosa Single Barrel. Código has been working on a “Reposado Rosa” tequila project for the King of Country and wanted to age their juice in some crazy expensive wine barrels. Might as well get em from one of Napa’s very best. I can’t tell you the winery because they asked me not to but I can tell you that their bottles are on our wine list for north of $1,000 each. I managed to snag exactly one barrel away from the Hall of Famer- the only person who gets this exclusive Reposado. Super smooth with hints of vanilla, caramel, citrus & grilled pineapple. I’m the only one in the country who has this. Released just in time for Valentine’s Day – where a bottle of delicious pink Tequila with a bouquet of flowers sounds like a pretty great gift.
The second year of this elegant, silky smooth Willamette Valley Pinot Noir crafted by Bertrand de Villane of Domaine de la Romanée-Conti fame. Again it comes from the gorgeous Winter’s Hill Estate about 700 feet above sea level in the Dundee Hills. All indications are that the 2019 is going to be one of the best for Pinot Noir since 1991. A flawless summer that benefited from very little rain mixed with cool, breezy summer nights. With a round, supple mouthfeel and a sturdy backbone this will age gracefully for a decade plus. Bertrand’s wines just have a signature stamp that is unmistakably his. This is phenomenal.
This champagne is so good, it’s often a staple on the wine lists of Michelin two and three star restaurants. It offers elegant aromatics, pristine fruit and the crisp, mineral finish that screams for food. We loved it so much, we asked Jacques Diebolt to bottle a special cuveé for the restaurant– and he happily agreed, but it sold out like hot cakes this year. So here is old faithful. Just as delicious as I remember it.
95 Points, James Suckling
Jancis Robinson loved this wine, calling it “Cote de Beaune, not Cote de Nuits, with a relatively savory Burgundian nose.” All that adds up to a high-flying, deeply intricate Pinot that got James Suckling to gush in his 95-point review. He called the palate, “regal, polished and powerful” with a “vibrant core” and gave the wine one of his highest scores of the tasting. From the two winemakers who helped put Cloudy Bay on the map, this wonderful Pinot Noir with some age to it is just hitting its stride.
Glistening pale yellow-green to the rim, infused with mouth-watering aromas of ripe apple, pear and quince, and crushed almonds with honey and rich creamy middle and a fantastic rush of acidity and minerality that are present throughout. A calling card of Bonhomme’s Vire-Clesse, if you closed your eyes and took a sip, it would have you convinced you were drinking Meursault at least a 3x price tag. This is a White Burgundy you’re going to want to snag up quickly, we’re not going to have it in very long this year.
This is seriously good, proper Chablis grown on precious Kimmeridgian soil facing Les Blanchots, west of Montée de Tonnerre. Given what’s in the bottle, it’s offered at a shockingly good price. It’s textbook Chablis and unveils itself very slowly in the glass. One of those rare wines that’s different with almost every passing sip – especially as it warms a bit. Consequently, there’s a myriad of flavors that dart to and fro: pineapple, grapefruit, fresh mint, wildflower, wet stone, apple…all delightful and with that famous Chablis cut.
It’s no wonder this is a hot little ticket amongst some of NYC’s best restaurants; this is a killer wine at a great price. The 2020 Petit Chablis has an attractive nose of citrus rind, white flowers, and wet stone. In the palate, the wine is racy and mineral with just a touch of salinity. The hallmark of the great 2020s will be tension and length and Sébastien’s little wine has both in spades. The acidic/mineral cut will make this fantastic at the table and a great candidate for short term aging.
It’s been a long time since I’ve been able to offer you one of our most anticipated Chardonnays year in and year out. The 2019 came and went, but with lower yields, not much made it over to the states. This year, I made sure we could get our hands on some. This is an unadulterated version of Chardonnay, filled with mineral-laced green-apple/Asian pear aromas and flavors. Bracing acidity provides a super long finish and wonderful food-friendliness. This is a great White Burg. Get it while it lasts!
Winemaker Patrick Brunet’s tiny Domaine Robert estate consists of 50-60 year old vines, deeply rooted in the granitic soils of Fleurie. What I love about him is that every vintage brings something new but it consistently stays excellent. In the newly released 2020 vintage, Patrick produced a concentrated, structured Beaujolais that’s roaring out of the gates but with the bones to improve in the bottle over the next decade. This is a fantastic bottle to have around.
One of Sancerre’s greatest wines. An incredible effort in arguably the greatest Sancerre vintage since 1947, Dominique’s single parcel ‘La Jouline’ is considered the Grand Cru vineyard of Bue. It’s crafted from 60 year old vines and given an extra year in bottle, adding incredible layers and complexity in the process. Tiny yields followed by partial barrel fermentation creates a wine with complex aromatics, explosive flavors, and a mineral-laced finish that makes it both incredible at the table with rich cuisine or a great candidate for short term aging.
In Burgundy’s outraegous 2019 vintage, this is one of the bottles I’m recommending people load up on. It’s gorgeous. Don’t just take my word for it, this is what The Wine Advocate had to say about the wine: “The 2019 Givry Rouge is already hard to resist, bursting with aromas of sweet berries and warm spices. Medium to full-bodied, lively and charming, with melting tannins and juicy acids, it has turned out beautifully.”
Soon to be Rated
Lately, this Chateau has been on an absolute tear, earning some huge 90+ scores in the last couple of vintages. When Parker’s Wine Advocate gets a hold of this one, I expect the trend to continue. The newly released 2020 Chinon Vieilles Vignes is a blend of two terroirs, the terrace between the river and the hillsides on siliceous clay topping the limestone subsoil and the hillside terrace on flinty clay over limestone. It’s made in small concrete vats and aged for six months in a 10-year-old barrel, giving it elegance as well as tremendous depth. Red and dark fruits carefully intertwined with licorice. This is vibrant, fresh and ready to go. A Cabernet Franc worth celebrating.
92 Points, Decanter
The newly released 2020 Domaine Laroche Chablis Saint Martin is a knockout and easily one of the best wines I’ve had from this property. It’s not just me saying it either. The always stingy Decanter Magazine absolutely loved the wine calling it the “Best Saint Martin I’ve had” on their way to giving it a big time 92-point score. They also described it perfectly: “Classy, understated style of Chablis with a great balance between ripeness of fruit and powerful acidity.”
A large glass is necessary to capture the brilliant aromatics of Talmard’s Macon Uchizy. Aromas of ripe Meyer lemon, peach, honey and mint just blast from the glass upon pouring. The wine takes on weight with aeration, developing flavors of crisp green apple, juicy peach and lemon custard. The finish is long and fresh, so good with food. Roast some salmon, make sweet corn risotto, use it as an aperitif, it’s a great choice for a spring/summer-house white wine.
The newly released Crochet Sancerre Rosé is drawn from the high elevations of Janine and Teddy Crochet’s Pinot Noir vines in the village of Bué. The conditions are perfect for crisp, delicious Sancerre Rosé. Salmon-pink in color with a pretty nose featuring aromas of roses and cherry fruits. This is as well balanced as always with terrific fruit flavors of citrus and red berries with racy a high-toned finish.
92 Points, James Suckling
Double Canyon continues to prove themselves amongst the best producers in Washington State with their third consecutive vintage of at least a 92 point score for their flagship Cabernet. The 2017 Horse Heaven Hills Cab comes roaring right out of the gates with beautiful, clean red fruits. On the attack, the wine offers intricately woven youthful tannins that give the wine a delicious and slightly chewy taste. It’s a crowd pleaser – one of Nicholas Wines’ all-time customer favorites.
94 Points, Wine Spectator
One of America’s all-time classic Bordeaux Blends and the 2017 Wine Spectator #1 Wine of the Year returns in very limited supply in the fantastic 2018 vintage in Napa where a return to even and dry weather throughout the growing season created the perfect recipe for this flagship bottling. This is a well-rounded and lavish American Bordeaux blend that demonstrates the wonders of North America’s undisputed top Merlot. This beauty also has at least 25-30 years of cellaring potential going for it as well.
93 Points, Wine Enthusiast
The 2018 Dutton Ranch release courtesy of Dan Goldfield & Co. is a total knockout. A lively, energetic old-world style Chardonnay with fresh citrus and stone fruits, a touch of salinity and piercing minerality. Flavors of green apple, mango, apricot and lemon are accented by salivating notes of toasted hazelnuts and toffee. This one is a perfect compliment to most any dish and can be enjoyed all year round. From one of the most iconic duos in American wine.
If you’re looking for one of my most sincere recommendations of the year, heed this: this is the Rose to have of all the ones I’ve tried so far. The newly released 2021 Effet Papillon Rose is off the charts. Made 100% from Grenache (as many of the best Southern French Roses are, this is salmon in color. It boasts aromas of bright red and stone fruits, orange rinds and a hint of lemon zest. It’s incredibly smooth and dry, making it a great food wine– but this Rose is serious with depth and complexity, making it worthy of enjoying on its own.
Best of Class (Platinum) Sip Awards – #7 Top Whisky, Whisky Advocate 2020
This fantastic extra-aged Rye Whiskey is the first to carry the name of Elijah Craig. Craig was the first to age his American Whiskey in charred oak barrels to make Bourbon. Now this is the first time Elijah Craig Rye is in New Jersey. There’s so much to like here with his 94 Proof release. In the glass, Elijah Craig Rye reveals the imbuing spice of rye grains, perfectly balanced with corn for distinct smoothness and character. Notes of dark chocolate with spices and a hint of smoke and a splash of sweet, toasted oak on the lingering finish.
The brand new release is here! The 2019 Elouan Oregon Pinot Noir is juiced up with vibrant flavors of raspberry, cranberries, baked cherry pie and a hint of earth. It’s packed with crushed red fruits and finishes with soft, refined tannins that leave a great aftertaste. It’s a great choice any time of the year– delicious by itself or paired with just about anything. In 2019, it saw predominantly fruit from the lush Willamette Valley, adding the cold weather Pinot element to a wine usually more reliant on southern Oregon.
Jenny Wagner, the youngest daughter of Chuck Wagner (Caymus) took over the reins in 2011 and absolutely ran with it, making Emmolo a name of its own. In the enormous and beloved 2018 vintage in Napa Jenny was able to deliver a stunning ode to the Right Bank with a super powerful, dark-fruited Merlot. But even though it’s early for this new release, I’m thinking she might’ve outdone herself with the 2019. It’s just so smooth and well-balanced with intricate flavors of black cherries, blueberries, mocha and and violet. It’s still early, I think I’d wait a year or two, but it’s hard to resist this wine now as it’s so youthful and energetic.
The Caymus Family Emmolo Sauv Blanc combines fruit from both Suisan and Napa Valley and is left in the hands of Chuck’s daughter and rising winemaking star, Jenny. The win is flush with a stone fruit and minerality combination. It’s not grassy or overly ripe, instead it features delicate fruit made in 100% stainless steel that comes out super energetic and focused. A pale gold color in the grass, it attacks with layers of guava, white peach and green melon followed by lively acidity and that mineral cut that SB lovers crave.
Etienne Daulny is the latest in a very long line of Daulnys to farm Sauvignon Blanc near the tiny hamlet of Verdigny in the appellation of Sancerre. He is currently in charge of farming over twenty small parcels including some incredibly well respected fifty-year-old vines. This is a classic Sancerre, aromatically dynamic, with intense fruit, distinct minerality and blazing acidity. It’s the white wine we drink most often at home. Beautiful structure and length to this.
This is one of the rare, prized barrels I was able to snag on my January trip to Kentucky. It’s a 78% corn, 10% rye, and 12% malted barley mashbill that blends seamlessly together. Notes of vanilla & cinnamon, and coffee on the nose with freshly baked bread, brown butter, fig and dark chocolate on the palate with a creamy toffee mid-palate and a smooth and delicious finish that lasts for a while. Watch out though… you never feel the heat!
95 Points, Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate
“Once again, Fabio Motta knocks it out of the ballpark. The 2016 Bolgheri Superiore Le Gonnare is another super rich and densely concentrated Tuscan blended wine from this classic vintage. This blend of 85% Merlot and 15% Syrah is soft and velvety. In fact, the wine plays its best cards in terms of the supple and soft nature of the mouthfeel and tannins. The wine is partially aged (only 20%) in new oak. Only 6,600 bottles were made total.”
Soon to be Rated
With Herve and Fabre Montmayou wracking up NYT features, huge scores, gold medals and lifetime achievement awards, I’m left with one choice: get in now or be left in the cold. Waiting for the scores to roll in is a luxury that we know longer have with Fabre Montmayou. Good for the winery, but not so good for us. Rest assured though, the 2020 Cabernet Franc Herve sent me is fantastic, and will surely be minted with the same kind of high-flying praise as the vintage before it. But by that time, you’ll only have a bottle or two left in the cellar.
92 Points, James Suckling
It’s hard to imagine a wine that delivers more bang for your buck and consistency than what Herve Fabre is able to produce from his 100+ year old vines each vintage. Last year, his Malbec Reserva landed on Wine Enthusiast’s Top 100 Buys of the Year. I called a big score form this one and it has just arrived. It’s a big, full-bodied Malbec from the heart of Mendoza and has great tannic structure and primary fruit, giving it similar characteristics to a Napa Valley Cab. Inviting aromas of raspberry pie, sage, herbs and roasted mushrooms.
The newly released Torrontes from Herve Fabre is a fantastic bottle of wine for the price tag. A delicious, crisp white wine treat from our good friend Herve. Crafted in Valle de Uco in the Mendoza region, this delicious white offers delicate aromas of white flowers, orange blossom with a touch of lime that adds a delicious lift to the wine.
Get dad the ultimate Father’s Day gifts this year – I guarantee he’ll love it. This is an incredible deal packaging together some of my best of my recent bourbon selections including two private barrels I picked out in Kentucky when I went in January. Every 4-pack consists of 1 btl. each of the following:
1 btl. Elijah Craig Straight Rye Whiskey
1 btl. Redemption Wheated Bourbon Whiskey
1 btl. Bulleit Nicholas Single Barrel Reserve #2 Bourbon Whiskey
1 btl. Yellowstone Nicholas Single Barrel Selection Bourbon Whiskey
95 Points, James Suckling
From the outstanding winemaking team of Michel Rolland, Charles Thomas, Andy Erickson and David Jelenik comes the Faust Napa Valley Cabernet. Always one of the best QPR Cabernets Napa has to offer, the 2019 received this wines’ highest score to date. That could have been one of two things: 1. 2019 was an exceptional vintage in Napa that produced beautiful fresh and lively fruit that is drinking wonderfully in its youth. 2. The 2019 Faust bottling is a racy mix of Coombsville fruit from Atlas Peak that absolutely roars out of the bottle. Either way, this is truly one of Napa’s great bargains and a must have at this price.
In the excellent 2016 vintage in Napa, winemaker Kian Tavakoli (Opus One, Clos du Val) had little work to do. With ideal weather conditions throughout harvest, clusters came in dark and juicy from both the Coombsville and Rutherford Vineyards where this delicious Napa Valley Cab was crafted from. Deep ruby to the rim with excellent concentration, notes of Bing cherries, raspberry pie and hints of vanilla. On the palate, big wonderfully jammy fruit with young but impressive tannins and great length. The finish leaves notes of black cherry, and baked blueberry pie. This is a steal for the price.
From two New Jersey natives comes something special from Napa Valley. First the Faustini’s bought grapes from the historic Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vineyard for their first test batch. Next they brought in Opus One & Clos du Val alum Kian Tavakoli to head up the winemaking. Throw in an outrageously good 2016 vintage in Napa and what you have is the recipe for a knockout wine that is starting to come into its own and will be great for the next 10-20 years!
The 2016 vintage in Napa was nearly perfect for winemaker Kian Tavakoli (Opus One, Clos du Val). With ideal weather all throughout harvest, he crafted the Faustini Money Road Chardonnay off the famous vineyard located in the coveted Oakville AVA. The picturesque vineyard off Oakville Crossroad is platinum rated, known for its ideal combination of soil & climate and the big A list names that routinely source fruit. Kian’s Money Road Chard is still youthful despite having a few years of age, probably as a result of its 18 months of slumber in 1/4 new Oak.
92 Points (Editors’ Choice), Wine Enthusiast – 91 Points, Vinous
“The 2020 Nerello Mascalese Rosé di Adele keeps you at the edge of the glass with a delicate yet stunning bouquet of ripe peach laced with candied ginger and a dusting of sweet spice. Its textures are fleshy, yet the expression is lifted and spry, with a vivid display of freshly sliced pear, while drenched in minerals and motivated by lively acidity. There’s a crunchy feel through the finale, as the palate reverberates with residual tension…”
The 2019 Fiancetto Howell Mt. Cabernet is restrained at first, needing air to develop its full signature of cedar laced cassis nose and mid palate of chocolate-covered cherries and savory spices. Full and plush it finishes long and fresh. This is a serious Cabernet for serious Cabernet fans. The price is crazy for Howell Mountain Cabernet at just $54 per bottle but that’s what Ry Richards and Fiancetto is all about.
The newly released 2021 Frenzy Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc is a fabulous value white wine, loaded with green apples, pears and white peaches plus a hint of spice. It’s juicy and fresh, the perfect cocktail hour white. It’s what is referred to as the perfect ‘pool wine’. It’s great paired with just about anything or just enjoyed on its own.
This is a beauty courtesy of one of the oldest, most prestigious and hottest distilleries anywhere. These Stagg Jr. releases have absolutely exploded in popularity over the past few years, behind incredibly quality, super high demand and not nearly enough supply. Many in the whiskey world absolutely adore Batch 15 with some calling it the very best of all the batches (though Batch 3 if you still have it otherworldly). It’s incredibly robust and flavorful and is a monster at 131.1 Proof that gives out a huge Kentucky hug. The price of these things have skyrocketed as of late and I doubt they’ll return to this stratosphere any time soon.
This is a beauty courtesy of one of the oldest, most prestigious and hottest distilleries anywhere. These Stagg Jr. releases have absolutely exploded in popularity over the past few years, behind incredibly quality, super high demand and not nearly enough supply. The newest release is Batch 16, bottled at 130.9 Proof and released in the Spring of 2021. It has great notes of Rye spice, freshly baked bread to pair with double chocolate chip cookies and some cherry and peach notes. This is the last of the Stagg Jr. releases and really went out with a bang. This is one of my top 2 or 3 favorites of the collection, and it’s still early- I think this only improves with a little more time.
The sandy soil of north Piemonte is home to the appellation Roero and the indigenous variety, Arneis. Stefano Almondo is a master of the rare variety, crafting aromatic and mineral wines that rival any of the best white wines in Italy. The newly released 2021 Vigne Sparse dazzles right out of the bottle; floral and fruity with juicy peaches and apricots yet with a chalky mineral streak as well. As always, it’s such a complex white and the kicker is its finish which goes on for a minute of pure joy.
94 Points, Wine Enthusiast – 93 Points, Wine Spectator
To find a Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon still available from 2014 is ridiculously rare. Critics went nuts about the vintage, with Wine Spectator calling it a “dream vintage” and James Suckling calling it the best in two decades in the Napa Valley. After all that, unsurprisingly not many of the top bottles can be found anywhere besides collector’s cellars. Certainly not ones that have big scores, such as today’s wine (94 pts, Wine Enthusiast – 93 pts, Wine Spectator). Luckily, I’m well connected.
92 Points, Tasting Panel
Not to be confused with the founders series or the SLH, the Arroyo Seco is a new release that impresses on a lot of levels. Tasting Panel was all over this one, calling it “Weighty, mouth-filling body with notes of lemon-flavored butterscotch, brioche and ripe papaya.” They also called it, “extremely expressive” which I can concur. It’s a Chardonnay with a lot of personality, a la the Mer Soleil Santa Lucia Highlands Reserve.
91 Points, Wine Enthusiast
“A tasty mix of crisp apple and warm butter and vanilla flavors highlight this medium-bodied and silky textured wine from one of Anderson Valley’s well-established producers. Pippin apple and lemon notes complement the buttery richness.” – Jim Gordon
98 Points, James Suckling
The wine is absolutely gorgeous – more than worthy of the lofty 98-point score it received from James Suckling. The review called the wine, “Energetic and bright with tightness and structure” all of which I find accurate, but it’s also the pristine and weighty fruit with the signature Hyde Vineyard smoky-graphite tones that make this wine so unique.
I just re-tasted this beauty last week when it came in and was blown away by how this one turned out. It’s not that I’m surprised, but I’ve been waiting for so long, I almost forgot what I had chosen! Not only that, but I can’t believe this is nearly 123 Proof (122.7). You really never get any of the heat. I wouldn’t have thought it was over 105 Proof smelling and tasting it. It leads with inviting aromas of burnt caramel, hazelnut, and allspice mix with flavors of dried fruit, caramel, vanilla, and light rye spice. The finish is warm and spicy with subtle and smooth notes of vanilla and oak. This is a great one.
96 Points, James Suckling
This is a truly historic and special bottling. The first of its kind in 47 years! Lost C-91 from the 2016 vintage is indeed monumental in stature – having already received a 96 from James Suckling, one of the few reviewers lucky to have tasted it. I found it immensely complex with exciting nuances of what this will become in the future. In addition to all the decadent dark fruit are underlying elements of Italian herbs, cured meats, and even black pepper. An amazing collector’s item with a whole lot of life left.
98 Points, James Suckling #36 Top US Wine of the Year – 97 Points, Decanter
In 2015, the last of four consecutive drought years and one of Napa’s great vintages over the past few decades, it’sno surprise that one of Napa’s all-time great wineries turned in a flawless bottling from the legendary Martha’s Vineyard. Decanter absolutely gushed, giving it 97 points and declaring, “no Cabernet has the aromatic profile of Martha’s. They would even go so far to say, “There isn’t a more definitive Cabernet Sauvignon in the world, at any price.” James Suckling would go a step further in the points department giving the wine a 98, but if Wine Enthusiast had got their hands on it, this would be a 100-point wine yet again. Just 30 bottles of Napa winemaking history up for grabs today.
95 Points, Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate
Jayson Woodbridge is just about the only winemaker who can say he’s received 22 perfect 100-point review from Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate. Parker himself even called him a “genius”. Now, similar to the Mascot, we’re getting the super seconds from Hundred Acre- the oft 100-point wine that fetches between $750-$1100 bottle on average. The only difference is this also has a 95-point review from the most famous publication in wine. This is an incredible one-time offer on something super rare. Serious collectors are going to want a few while we have them.
Marie Jacqueson’s best red is a 1er cru from the vineyard Préaux. The vines are old here, averaging almost 50 years in age. The soil is a classic mix of clay and limestone providing for soaring aromatics of strawberry, black cherry, cinnamon and roses. The fruit is almost crunchy; incredibly fresh, juicy, really flat-out delicious. Those limestone soils gives the wine great length, with a mineral finish that goes a mile. Great now, great in 10 years, and qualitatively worth double the price. There are only 78 bottles available this year. Then we wait again!
Jayson Chardonnay has Pahlmeyer prints all over it. It’s a gorgeoeus, racy Chard that opens with notes of orange blossom, jasmine and freshly sliced pears. In the glass, the wine evolves and deepens, adding bright and zesty hints of creamy lemon meringue, tart citrus fruit and a splash of minerality. On the palate, the wine’s lively acidity is balanced with rich notes of pear, tangerine and baked apricot, wrapped up with a hint of caramel and vanilla on smooth and creamy finish.
99 Pts, James Suckling – 98 Pts, Jeb Dunnuck 98 Pts, (Cellar Selection) WE – 97+ Pts, Wine Advocate
It’s no stretch to call Insignia a first growth of Napa Valley wine. Its track record of huge scores and incredible longevity speak for themselves. The 2018 Phelps Insignia is one of the finest, highest rated renditions yet! Every single reviewer that got their hands on it came up with a huge score for it- cementing its place as one of the greats. James Suckling called it one of the best ever. There’s just so much to like. Perfectly structured and featuring immense power, exuberance and balance. This one will age longer than all of us, and do it with grace. This is a collector’s item you don’t want to miss.
Rich and creamy notes of toasted oak, vanilla, caramel, and fresh baked Bundt cake immediately flood the sense’s as soon as you pop this one open. Bottled at 100-Proof, you get a little bit of heat on the front palate followed by rich oak, leather and freshly baked bread. As it starts to open, you get some sweeter, creamy vanilla notes that cream in as well as campfire s’mores and a dash of pepper. The finish is long, and a bit spicy which leaves a memorable aftertaste and leaves you wanting more.
Winemaker Marjorie Gallet’s Effet Papillon Rouge is a terrific blend of Grenache, Syrah and Carignane, harvested from the iron rich soil just outside of Rivesaltes at the base of Pyrenees. This one is a vibrant wine, with aromas of wild black raspberries and sweet spices. The mid palate is rich and velvety, with a core of sweet black fruit that finishes fresh, long and silky. At the price, it’s a no-brainer case buy.
93 Points, Wine Enthusiast
Combining the fruit from the northeast slope of Sonoma Mountain with their own famous estate vineyard, gives this wine a ton of expression, complexity and distinction. It’s unmistakably Sonoma Mountain, blessed with the iconic sweet, plush black fruit off the high elevation, cool-climate spot. Unsurprisingly, I’m also not the only one who really likes this wine – Virginia Boone from Wine Enthusiast agreed with my assessment, giving the wine a 93-point score and labeling it “classically structured” and “vibrantly approachable”. San Francisco’s International Wine Competition took it a few steps further, finding this wine as their 96-point Double Gold Medal winner.
93 Points, James Suckling – 92 Points, Wine Spectator
This wine is so stinking good– there’s a reason it’s been a multiple recipient of a Wine Spectator Top 100 Wine of the Year nod. With a fresh 92-point review, this may follow some of its predecessors on the end of the year lists. Regardless, this is a fantastic Oregon Pinot that I would recommend to anyone. It’s just so fresh and vibrant with an emphatic expression of berries and herbs and an effortless smoothness that lasts all the way through the finish. It’s Oregon Pinot at its best– when you feel like you’re drinking silk.
95 Points, James Suckling – 93 Points, Jeb Dunnuck
From the creative mind and winemaking prowess of Screaming Eagle’s own Andy Erickson, comes a passion project unlike any other. The goal at Leviathan is to make only one wine a year– the biggest red in the U.S. Sourced from some of the best vineyards up and down the coast (you can thank Andy and Screaming Eagle for that), this Bordeaux blend features ample Cabernet rounded out with Petit Verdot and Merlot. It’s a big, intense wine that will only get better with age, though its great right now and amazingly under $40/btl for an Andy Erickson wine. That should be more than enough any day!
90 Points, Wine Spectator
The latest gem I had from ‘The Dolcetto King’ was the delicious Dogliani Dolcetto he made at Luigi Einaudi in 2020. It’s so bright and delicious; you are absolutely going to love it. It’s a benchmark winery in the region but with Caviola’s help, over the last decade the wines have moved from just excellent to truly sublime. The Wine Advocate called the estate “a reference point producer for top-notch Dolcetto from Dogliani.” and they aren’t wrong.
Following the super quick sell out of the remaining 2019 vintage, we’re onto the brand new vintage and to a Chardonnay that is already drinking beautifully. An inviting nose opens with fresh citrus and lemon notes. So juicy, bright and well-balanced – it’s classic Caymus, rich and hedonistic with a wonderful creaminess. This is the very first of the 2020 vintage and not many folks have this yet. Don’t wait too long to get your hands on these.
I once again found myself with one of the more and limited bottlings from the good people at Michter’s It comes in a round 111 Proof and is a monster from one of the best distilleries out there. This bottling is usually between 107 and 112 Proof but isn’t made every year (only in the good years). It’s oozing with seductive aromas of Cinnamon, rye spice, chocolate and freshly baked gingerbread. Cinnamon, dark chocolate, a hint of Cayenne pepper mixed with charred sugar and oak explode out of the bottle and greet you head on. I wish I had more than six of these beauties to pass out. Such is life.
91 Points, Tasting Panel – 90 Points, Wine Spectator
The winery made famous by Brad Pitt and Angelina is more famous in the wine world for their fleet of top Provencal Roses made by none other than superstar winemaker Marc Perrin, who has countless times turned the wine world on its head with his 100-point Chateauneuf du Papes at Chateau de Beaucastel. His newly released 2021 Miraval Rose shines with a beautiful salmon color, juicy notes of macerated cherries, strawberry currants, citrus and a lemon zest. It flashes that refreshing minerality that has become a Provence signature but crafted at 1100 ft above sea level, its crispness and vibrancy is unparalleled.
96 Points, James Suckling – 95 Points, Vinous – 95 Points, Ian D’Agata
Vinous’ Italian wine expert called it, “very well done” and called out its “massive but refined presence” en route to a rave 95-point review. Suckling echoed that with his own 96-point review and called it, “chewy, yet refined and balanced.” It’s definitely a full-bodied blend, but still manages to be light on its feet. Of course this is also still an infant, only flashing little of its true potential at this point. In another few years, there won’t be any bottles in the cellar drinking better.
97+ Points, Jeb Dunnuck – 97 Points, Vinous
“Mount Eden’s 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon represents the essence of what Cabernet Sauvignon is all about in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Deep, powerful and explosive, the 2016 simply has it all. A wine of tremendous depth and intensity. Readers, take note. This is world class Cabernet Sauvignon that in any other region would cost 2-3 times as much. Savory and expansive, with tons of mountain character and remarkable richness from low yields in 2016, the Cabernet Sauvignon is simply off the charts. It’s another utterly breathtaking wine from Mount Eden.” -Antonio Galloni
94 Points, James Suckling
From the 23-acre vineyard in Yountville, the State Ranch Vineyard Cabernet 2019 is still very much in its youth but showcases a lot of power and a full-bodied mouthfeel with explosive and crunchy black and raspberry fruits. In a slightly lesser 2018 vintage, last year’s State Ranch Cab scored 95 points from Parker’s Wine Advocate. This one seems like it will outperform its predecessor in the years to come. It has so much pent up energy that will settle beautifully over the next 5-10 years, and then this will give you another 20-30 years of unbelievably good drinking.
Out of all the single-vineyards in the Nickel & Nickel lineup, it’s always the Vaca Vista that seems to be the most approachable and enjoyable in its youth. The super charged Oak Knoll District Cabernet fruit comes in waves of red currant, cranberry, crushed cherries with violet undertones. It’s soft and silky throughout the palate, the fruit is juicy and full, with polished tannins, a broad mouthfeel and one of the smoothest, sleekest finishes of the vintage. This will last 20 years easy, but will probably be best in the first ten. I’m coming in just ahead of the Wine Spectator score which for this wine is usually pretty lofty.
93 Points, Vinous
“The 2018 Barolo is terrific. In 2018, the Odderos were not completely convinced of the results across all their sites. Ultimately, they blended all of their vineyard designates into the straight Barolo, with the exception of the Brunate and a Riserva from Vigna Rionda. In the glass, their 2018 is captivating. Exotic aromatics, bright red berry fruit and vibrant acids give the 2018 its considerable allure. Vineyard sites are: Fiasco, Bricco Chiesa, Capalot, Bussia, Villero, Rocche di Castiglione and Monvigliero. Look for this to be one of the under the radar gems of the vintage. I loved it. In fact, the Oddero Barolo is one of the few 2018s readers should not miss. It is a very strong ‘buy’ in my book.”
90 Points, Wine Enthusiast – 90 Points, Decanter
Arguably their best quality to price wine is the Chianti Classico. It’s a bold and incredibly expressive Sangiovese that blends together a number of different parcels from around the estate. It’s got a beautiful silky smooth center with bright red fruits and even a tad of rusticity. A wine like this was just made to be enjoyed at the dinner table. With already a 90-point review from both Decanter and Wine Enthusiast, I’m assuming Antonio Galloni and company will come in with similar high praise, but I couldn’t wait around.
98 Points, Decanter – 97 Points, Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate
“This is a beautiful expression of coastal Tuscany and the sunny Mediterranean. The Ornellaia 2019 Bolgheri Superiore Ornellaia (a blend of 62% Cabernet Sauvignon, 31% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc and 3% Petit Verdot) pours from the bottle with a specific darkness that has elements of both inky saturation and ruby highlights. The wine is saturated and rich—this is something you notice off the bat—but it also reveals a pleasing lightness or grace that is transmitted to both the bouquet and the palate. Dark fruit, pressed blackberry and plum mingle with more substantial aromas of spice, leather and sweetly cured tobacco. The tannins are beautifully managed, and the wine sports considerable heft and density on the palate that drives a very long and pleasurable mouthfeel.” – Monica Lerner
91 Points, Vinous
While the parcels selected for Sori Paitin produce Nebbiolo that most consider more like a fine, brooding Barolo, the much lighter Starda from the remaining parcels is a stunning example of the diversity of Nebbiolo but meant to be enjoyed within a half dozen or so years of release. I haven’t tasted Nebbiolo at anywhere near this price point this good in years.
Nicholas #5 Wine of the Year, 2021 – (Large Format Bottles)
Think of this as like choosing the top one or two barrels from what is already a grand cru vineyard from arguably the greatest ever Piedmont vintage. The aromatics are so intense and noteworthy, that I was reluctant to even take a sip. Of course, I eventually relented. This wine is all class and harmony and I imagine more universally appealing than most cru Barolo. Despite the decade of age, this bottle easily has another decade ahead of it.
This is another absolute gem from Sancerre that comes from the limestone and silex soils that make some of the best expressions of Sauvignon Blanc in the region. This has a wonderful chalky mineral streak that meshes perfectly with a lemon lime zest and stone fruits, with a little flint/steely expression. Philippe Raimbault is a very serious 9th generation winemaker. This one is absolutely worth checking out.
Richard Luftig’s Pied à Terre’s Sauvignon Blanc 2018 is a delicious, fresh, Old-World styled wine, much closer to Sancerre than what is typically found in California. Pair with anything from sea and anything with great richness or fat or on its own as an absolutely eclectic aperitif! The only downside of Pied à Terre is that this is still a work in progress when it comes to production. Just a few dozen cases made it to the East Coast this year, do not miss one of the most exciting American wines we will offer all year.
91 Points (Editors’ Choice) Wine Enthusiast
“A pure but subtle notion of freshly cut Golden Delicious suggests juiciness, creaminess and freshness in equal measure. The palate of this wine homes in on rounded ripeness on a smooth, gently textured, creamy palate. This wine is resonant but sinuous, concentrated and juicy with a lasting, apple-flavored finish.”
The Adaptation Cabernet allows superstar winemaker Jeff Owens to make a Cabernet with other Bordeaux varietals from a collection of the top vineyards from across the valley. This is PlumpJack’s “Quilt” so to speak. It features Cabernet along the Silverado Trail in Stag’s Leap from their own Odette Vineyards as well as Heitz’s Trailside Vineyard, to go with fruit from St. Helena, Chaix’s vineyard in Rutherford, Merlot form mountainous terrain of Howell Mountain, along with fruit from Oak Knoll, and Carneros. Together, this blend comes together effortlessly Owens, who has woven a particularly juicy, dark-fruited Cab that will knock peoples’ socks off.
Poggio Al Sole’s high elevation vineyards bring out the Burgundy-side of Chianti Classico, producing lush wines with just a touch of earthy rusticity and great length. Their 2019 edition is sleek and elegant, with great aromatic complexity and length. The nose is really special, with soaring aromatics of black cherry, anise and peony. Give it time to unwind in the glass. It’s fresh and long on the palate, with the fine tannic structure that defines ever classic vintage, making it great at the table tonight and any night for the next decade.
90 Points, Vinous
Poggio Al Sole is firmly in the elite wineries in all of Chianti. Their Chianti Classicos are consistently amazing and their work with Sangiovese has helped the entire region rise to incredible new heights. One of the wines that helps propel their status is the Primavera, a Rosato with far more weight, balance, and savory notes than most any Rose you’re likely to try.
94 Points, James Suckling
The Ponzi family is one of Oregon’s all-time great wine pioneers, with Dick and Nancy becoming bonded winery #5 in the 1960s and building an empire from scratch. For decades, they have made world-class Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, led by 2nd generation winemaker, Luisa. Her 2018 Laurelwood AVA Pinot Noir is a high-altitude beauty, with red and black fruits, bramble and a hint of spice. It’s a medium to full-bodied Pinot with excellent balance and range, and one that i would think still has a good 2-3 years before it really starts to hit its prime.
100 Pts, International Wine Report – 99 Pts, Parker’s Wine Advocate – 98 Pts, Vinous
Anyone lucky enough to get their hands on one of these bottles can attest, they’re truly some of the best Cabernets produced anywhere in the world. Last year I got 30 bottles. This year I only got 12 of their ridiculously allocated 2019 Cabernet which unsurprisingly was showered with a perfect 100-point review yet again. It’s worth reading all the reviews for something like this because it’s really a special bottling from a Cult producer that is a rare treat for us to have.
99 Points, James Suckling – 98 Points, Wine Enthusiast – 97 Points, Parker’s Wine Advocate
“This is an exceptional vintage of this exceptional wine, its foundation built around 92% Cabernet Sauvignon, with dustings of Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Beautiful in berry fruit, textured and refined tannin and hints of lavender, licorice and sage, it has complexity and energy in equal measure, lengthy and beautifully focused, a truly impressive achievement of site, vintage and winemaker.” -Wine Enthusiast
For those of you looking for a semi-dry Riesling to pair with seafood, salads, pastas or poultry, you don’t have to look any further. Ratzenberger is a benchmark in the region and their consistency in making expressive, classy Riesling continues with the newly released 2019 Kabintt Feinherb. It manages to bring to the table savory, sweet and tangy acidic notes. It’s a versatile bottle of white, that’s for sure.
94 Points, Wine Spectator – 92 Points, Wine & Spirits
This one is an absolute gem from one of Burgundy’s great all-time winemakers, Jacques Lardiere in his new Louis Jadot Oregon project. It also happens to be one of Wine Spectator’s highest scoring Pinots of the year. The 2019 vintage in the Willamette Valley was picture perfect making this one extra special. This one is cut from a similar Burgundian cloth as the Composition. The nose is very fresh and fruity, with a symphony of strawberries and raspberries, wild cherry and blackberry. It’s expressive all the way through the finish which boasts a nice little baking spice component.
It’s hard to beat a great value white wine and this one is a at least a cut above the rest. One prominant industry insider called the 2020 edition, “the best white wine by any within $20/cs of this price.” It’s super crisp with a great mineral streak, and was carefully picked by hand when the temperature is coolest and is kept cool all the way into the press. From there, the effect of the mineral soil takes over, providing great finesse and freshness in every bottle. This white blend has great backbone and a lot of juicy fruit coming through behind aromas of flowers and stone fruits. At this price, it’s a no brainer.
93 Points, Tasting Panel
“A debut variety for this label. Stainless steel fermented and aged for five months, it was pressed whole cluster, crémant style which resulted in fine acidity and an inner sunshine. Its just-sliced lemon- fresh nose sends one to a perfectly balanced palate. Melon, guava, and banana are glossy and clean. The stony mid-to-finish leaves a trace of terroir on the tongue.”
Carneros is well-known as a cool-climate region, perfect for growing Chardonnay. The newly released 2020 version has a delightful energy in its youth, with a pale straw color with lime hues. The aromas are of honeysuckle, orange blossom and creme brulee with layers of vanilla and a hint of toffee. The palate is lively yet soft with flavors of lemon cream pie and merange.
For my money, this might be both the best Whiskey under $50 and the most criminally under-priced Whiskey (not that I’m complaining). Whiskey Advocate has named this one to their 7 best under $60/bottlings, but as you can see this checks in way below. This small batch bourbon is made from barrels picked by father and son master distillers Jimmy and Eddie Russell. It’s as smooth as can be and jampacked with notes of caramel, vanilla, rye spice and burnt orange peel. Bottled at 90 Proof, this one leaves a nice, warm Kentucky hug that lingers nicely on the back palate.
97 Points, Decanter – 93 Points, Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate
“The 2017 Pinot Noir Sanford & Benedict comes from one of the top sites in the Sta. Rita Hills and was 60% destemmed and brought up in 15% new French oak for 15 months. It has a beautiful bouquet of sweet strawberries, toasted spices, forest floor, and earth, with just a hint of salty minerality and seaside-like notes. Ethereal, medium-bodied, ultra-pure, and flawlessly balanced, it’s a stunning Pinot Noir that ranks with the finest releases in the vintage. It will keep for 10-15 years. ” -Jeb Dunnuck
For the first time ever (I’ve been trying for 5 years), we got our hands on Sea Smoke’s elusive, exclusive and exquisite Santa Rita Hills Chardonnay, the famous cool climate Chard that helped propel this tiny winery into the elite stratosphere and cult status. Made with Dijon and Wente clones, they use stainless steel as well as French oak foudres and demi-muids to ferment their Chard, producing and elegant and laser focused Chardonnay.
96 Points, Jeb Dunnuck – 95 Points, James Suckling
“The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon One Point Five is a gem of a wine that readers will love to have in their cellars. Sweet cassis, violets, and graphite define the bulk of the aromas, and it’s a classic Napa Valley Cabernet on the palate with its full-bodied richness, velvety tannins, and opulent yet balanced style. A blend of 83% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Merlot, and the rest Malbec and Petit Verdot, raised 20 months in new barrels, it’s going to keep for a solid two decades.”
98 Points, Antonio Galloni – Vinous
The 2019 Sinegal Cabernet Sauvignon is a stud. Even at $90/bottle it offers one of the absolute best values of any varietal in any wine region in the world made in 2019. It’s flawless. Scored higher or the same as all-time greats Colgin, Bryant Family, Ovid, Abreu and Bond in the vintage– and available at just a fraction the price of those. This is a collector’s item you simply cannot pass up, it’s got everything you’re looking for in a Napa Valley Cab.
91 Points, Wine Enthusiast
It’s no surprise that Jed Steele continues to deliver bold, full-bodied Cabernet in his North Coast oasis. The 2019 Red Hills release is a beauty, a big boy that remains balanced and well-structured. This one is perfect for grill season. A classic fruit-forward, bold Cabernet expression that mixes juicy red and black fruits with a hint of baking spice, backed by soft tannins, a round mouthfeel and a smooth finish with a touch of sweet fruit.
The 2021 Studio by Miraval Provence Rose is a vibrant blend of Rhone varietals that has a completely different mouthfeel and stylistic approach than its cousin and manages to crush it the same. From the winemakers at Beaucastel, it’s hardly a surprise. This one has a similar pale salmon color, but is a fresher, racier version of Rose that is not as fleshy and fruity and instead is more high-toned and refreshing as a result. There’s still great fruit here by way of wild strawberries, raspberry and rhubarb with a mineral streak on the finish that finishes smooth, dry and long.
I got this one before most everybody else in the country which is why this is still yet to be scored. Last year, Wine Enthusiast gave it a 91-point Editors’ Choice review saying, “Te Mata is a few bucks more than your average New Zealand SB. It’s worth every penny.” That pretty much sums up how I feel about this wine. A lot of New Zealand SBs give you the gooseberry and tropical aromatics, but this is a serious Sauvignon Blanc with sophistication, and depth. Refreshing and long with a great finish, this is the one to snag out of New Zealand in the 2021 vintage.
97 Pts, Vinous – 96 Pts, Parker’s Wine Advocate – 96 Pts, Jeb Dunnuck
“The 2020 Syrah Colson Canyon Vineyard is a showstopper. Super-ripe red cherry jam, spice, rose petal, mint and blood orange explode from the glass. Even with all of the opulence of the year, the Colson Canyon retains so much brightness and energy. The 2020 is dense, heady and exotic to the core.” -Antonio Galloni, Vinous
100 Points, Decanter – 99 Points, Wine Enthusiast – 99 Points, James Suckling – 98 Points, Parker’s Wine Advocate
“The latest release from Tenuta San Guido is the 2019 Bolgheri Sassicaia. The bouquet is up front and very expressive from the get-go. It offers a generous display of crunchy, dark cherry that hints at the extra concentration and fruit weight obtained in the 2019 growing season. This vintage will be remembered for the crisp richness of the fruit and its important textural imprint. It also shows fine elegance, bordering on the ethereal, with berry aromas, tarry earth and brushes of balsam herb or grilled rosemary. Sassicaia always shows an almost-glossy finely knit quality to the polished mouthfeel, and I find it again here next to fresh acidity and firm tannins. Mouthfeel in 2019 is the wine’s strongest suit. The 2019 is one of the prettiest and most balanced editions of Sassicaia we’ve seen this past decade, along with the back-to-back duo of 2016 and 2015. The 2019 marries the precision of the 2016 with the rich fruit weight of the 2015.”
The Mascot is a blend of Harlan, Bond and Promontory barrels, Cabernet Sauvignon from some of the most spectacular vineyards in the Napa Valley. Considering those are two of the very best wines in the country and are each coming off 100-point scores, you can say the stakes are raised. But really, the fact that a wine like this even exists is a true gift. Sure it’s a bit steep, more of a special occasion wine for most — but when you consider Harlan Estate goes for about $1100 a bottle and Bond and Promontory come in around $700, the Mascot is still a rare gift of sorts.
92 Points, James Suckling
A wine that was originally slated to be doled out amongst some of the bigger restaurant players, is once again snuck out to the Nicholas faithful. 92 points from James Suckling who called it “Full-bodied with chewy tannins and lively acidity.” A really solid bottle of wine. Big and bold with spicy and smoky undertones, this is the kind of wine that screams for food and pairs well with everything.
For the very first time, superstar winemaker Anne Sery has made a pink wine for her meteoric Trousse Chemise brand. The NYC restaurant favorite tapped into some new fruit sources in Southern Oregon to pair with her Willamette Valley vineyards to make a Rosé of Pinot Noir with vibrancy and balance to pair with its elegance and depth. We’re lucky to be the first ones with Anne’s debut Rosé, but I can assure you it’s so good, it won’t be her last.
94 Points, Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate – 93 Points, Jeb Dunnuck
“This is a very well balanced Brunello with sharp and classic lines. The Val di Suga 2015 Brunello di Montalcino offers attractive energy and brightness that is transmitted through the cherry fruit and wild berry aromas at its core. That primary fruit is surrounded by light spice, grilled herb and potting soil. There is a nice purity and linearity to this wine that reminds you of the natural depth and complexity of Sangiovese when given a little time to age.”
94 Points, James Suckling – 94 Points, Jeb Dunnuck – 93 Points, Wine Spectator
The 2016 Val di Suga Brunello is spectacular– easily one of the best 2016s that I’ve been able to taste. Armed with vineyards in the top three spots of Montalcino, Val di Suga blends elements of each into their flagship Brunellos– continuously making some of the most interesting Sangiovese in the region. Critics always love them, and in 2016s, it is no surprise that trend continues. Double 94-point scores from both Jeb Dunnuck and Italian expert, James Suckling with Wine Spectator joining in on the fun with a 93-point review of their own.
This is a very, very special library offer from our friends at Val di Suga and is also a very limited one. There are only a few of these amazing six-pack collector’s boxes for sale. Two bottles each from Val di Suga’s three single vineyard sites. Val di Suga is the only Brunello producer that controls three separate estate vineyards located in three specific climate zones in the appellation. Each vineyard site has its own unique exposure and geo-climatic features which expresses itself in every bottle. Not to be missed. *Original wooden boxes come included.*
Valéry represents the third generation of his family’s wine growing. His grandad must have been some kind of visionary as he was the first to plant Pinot Noir in the limestone laden vineyards of Reuilly. That limestone is key as it isn’t just sunny days that makes Pinot great. Limestone, like we find all over Burgundy, lends freshness and tension to Pinot that make it great with food and better with air, giving that all that generous fruit a real sense of crunch. The 2020 P’tit Renaudat Pinot soars from the glass, with a mixture of black cherry and blueberry fruit on the nose, gradually unfurling to reveal some aromas of rose petal. The palate is medium-bodied with juicy fruit and a long, fresh finish that will keep you coming back for more.
92 Points, Jeb Dunnuck
Drawn from 65+ year old vines (thus the Vielles Vignes designation) and primarily from “Les Lurets” and “La Gigotte” vineyards at the bottom of Volnay where limestone and clay soils prevail. Jeb Dunnuck did a great job during his 92 point review, where he began: “The 2017 Volnay showed beautifully, with the ripe, sexy style of the vintage balanced nicely by plenty of freshness and focus. Lots of darker strawberry and framboise notes … and it’s medium-bodied, has a light, vibrant texture, ripe tannins, a great finish.”
The Tonelli family are royalty in this region, with four generations of grape growers leading the way and even establishing the local D.O.C. Their 2020 Ponente is 100% Sangiovese and is an absolutely incredible wine for the price. Less than $20/bottle for fleshed out, high-toned, zipped up Sangiovese? Count me in. It screams for pizza or summer salads, squash or a charcuterie plate. It’s about to be one of your new favorites.
92 Points, Wine Enthusiast
The 2019 Wentworth Anderson Valley Pinot Noir is a beauty. Made with 100% Estate Grown, organically farmed fruit from Wentworth’s noteworthy Anderson Valley vineyard. It’s made from a variety of different clones: Dijon 115, 667 and Pommard 5, that seamlessly blend to make an exciting, full-bodied Pinot. You can taste the extra flair courtesy of the 1/4 wholecluster fermentation. This is fresh and juicy and fantastic to pair with food.
97 Points, Wine Enthusiast
“This remarkably complex sipper leads with caramel and vanilla, then reverberates with rounded dried fruit, sherry and almond, fading into a long, gentle baking spice finish. Made with 100% rye sourced from Canada, this is finished in barrels made from Vermont oak and bottled in Vermont.”
Our special relationship with the red-hot Wyoming Whiskey has given us some incredible opportunities. We had a ‘Steamboat’ Whiskey that was previously only for the state of Wyoming as well as our own private barrel. Now, we’ve got their super limited production of Outryder Rye. It’s not a bourbon. It’s not a true rye. The result is a incredibly unique spirit that’s great for sipping or making cocktails. This Straight American Whiskey is a blend of two distinct mashbills, an almost Rye Whiskey and a High Rye Bourbon, that represents Wyoming Whiskey’s first use of Rye.
97 Points, Jeb Dunnuck
The flagship from Xavier is the 2019 Châteauneuf Du Pape Cuvee Anonyme, and in 2019 it’s 60% Grenache, 15% Mourvèdre, 10% Syrah, and the balance a mix of permitted varieties. Partially destemmed and brought up in a mix of demi-muids and tank, it offers a beautifully pure, vibrant bouquet of black raspberries, white and black pepper, candied orange, and violets. Complex, layered, and nuanced, this beauty is medium to full-bodied, has a seamless texture, and a great finish. It has both elegance and richness, and will keep for 15+ years.
91 Points, James Suckling – 90 Points, Jeb Dunnuck
Dollar for dollar, Xavier Vignon’s Côtes du Rhône is one of the best buys in the store whenever we get it in, and the new 2018 vintage in particular is one that I can tell a lot of people are going to love. It’s a got a killer nose, loaded with aromas of anise, black berries and even some white pepper. Even with a small price tag, this one packs a big punch — it’s deeply concentrated with a vibrant long finish, as good at any table as it is just by itself.
The recently released 2021 Zanotelli Pinot Grigio Trentino is a vivacious Italian white wine. It is a high-toned treat, but still features fleshy fruit, a solid medium-to full bodied mid palate with great concentration and depth. Aged for six months in stainless steel, it comes roaring out of the gates with notes of orchard fruit, summer peach, green apple and pear with good acid due to the elevation of their steep vineyards at the SW foothills of the Dolomite Mts.
100 Point Wine Enthusiast: Among all other distilled spirits, vodka stands alone – it is the cleanest tasting, most versatile choice for sipping neat, on the rocks or in a ZYR Vodka Martini. The ZYR recipe is velvety smooth with a clean, fresh and slightly sweet finish. Like many of the world’s other closely guarded formulas, ZYR is the result of select ingredients, recipe, process, controls and tradition. Because of ZYR’s proprietary 9-5-3 formula and the highest criteria for only the best raw ingredients, vodka has never tasted so clean or so smooth.
This one is electric, great minerality, great lemon lime and saltiness. It even has a little ageability. I’d drink this over the next few years. This is one of the absolute best expressions from the region (a Cru vineyard designate in 2011) and so perfect with anything out of the sea but in particular the raw bar. Crisp and clean stone fruit with some pear, and a lot of personality. This is a great new discovery wine to check out.
