2020 NADA LANGHE NEBBIOLO
$26.99 BTL./$161.94 - SIX PACK

It is not much of a secret when it comes to our affinity for Barbaresco and the wines of the Fiorenza Nada. This small estate’s Langhe Nebbiolo is Barbaresco in all but name because of the process and sites in in the Barbaresco village of Treiso.

Made from more accessible lots from the Crus of Rombone and Manzola, this is aged 12 months in large botti followed by six more in bottle. Often this wine can be stern when young as evidenced by its initial release eighteen months ago. Fast forward and we have a glorious Piedmont red. Full on licorice whip, porcini mushroom and fresh earth aromas dominate the nose and follow through to a classy and beautifully balanced texture. The grand scale 2020 vintage has added an extra level of dimension and depth. Not exactly a deck wine to slam back on its own, it really requires you to consume it with your legs under the table. If you consider yourself a foodie and want to have a wonderful experience for not a bunch of money, get some mushrooms and try a bottle of this with risotto or pasta con fungi. Enjoy now though 2031.

2019 FLOR DE VETUS TORO TINTO
$16.99 BTL./$203.88 CASE

100% Tempranillo…Producing red wines of power in this area is extremely easy, the bigger challenge for this warm Spanish growing region is maintaining balance, freshness and civility. Known for their white wines, a lot of the same practices are evident when it comes to these classy reds.

Fruit-forward with redcurrants and raspberries plus a touch of clove spiciness gives way to a texture that provides lots of palate coverage with deceptively concentrated flavors complimented by a subtly supple, well-rounded finish. Have it with grilled pork chops, robustly flavored sausages or hard cheese.

2022 CIDERIE DE LEGUER
POIRÉ (Pear Cider)
$19.99 BTL./$119.94 - SIX PACK

Something a little different than we usually feature is this yummy, fully dry, 5.5% alcohol sparkling pear cider from Brittany.

Clean and brisk pear aromas are obvious but are followed by intriguing blossom, elder, and seashore tones. Vibrant and very lifting, the attractive piquancy calls you back for more.

2023 BODEGAS ALBAMAR
VALDEORRAS GODELLO 'CEIBO'
$29.99 BTL./$179.94 - SIX PACK

Xurxo (Galician for Jorge) Padin and his family estate in the O Salnes region of Galicia is quite known for being highly proficient with Albariño. In fact, I would put this estate up into the top five these days. What is not as well known is that Xurxo also makes wines from outside of the Albariño zone including several reds and this wickedly great Godello from Galicia’s eastern reaches.

This wine comes from Godello fruit that he purchases from one of his best friends in the Valdeorras region and is aged eight months in neutral barrels. Perfumy and unbelievably detailed; intense clay-soil driven minerals are buffered by lilac, orange/lemon, ginger and fennel. The fleshy, vinous and clean attack shows mouth-coating aspects, but the real beauty lies in the back of the mouth as the wine gains profound energetic zest and length. An absolute delight with spring seafood dishes and will specially make a halibut dish with a salsa verde a symphonic experience.

2016 EASTON ZINFANDEL AMADOR
$23.99 BTL./$287.88 CASE

Easton might not be one of the most recognized names in the Zinfandel world, but it performs each year with great consistency. Being from the outback area of California Zin, Amador County this Zinfandel features very ripe delicious fruit, but Bill Easton's philosophy is to avoid extremities at all costs to produce a civilized, full Zin that is adept to carry over to the table.

2016 (yes this is current!) is a generous and unapologetic California Zin that provides admirable character. Broad aromas of red berry fruit and a hint of sundried tomato and spice, the fruit barrage continues in the mouth with darker berry tones, black pepper, and good underlying structure and spice, all which allow for pairing with ribs, barbecued chicken or pork.

2023 AYRES 'POETICA' WHITE
WILLAMETTE VALLEY ESTATE
$19.99 BTL./$239.88 CASE

For over twenty years (hard to believe it has been that long) Brad McLeroy has been toiling at his Ribbon Ridge estate. Consistently producing superb wines, and of them at their price points, provide excellent value.

Entirely fruit from Ayres’s estate vineyard, this blend of Pinot Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc and Auxerrois is complex but full of fun. Fragrant aromas of honeydew melon, lychee, and soft spice open the show. Impeccably balanced for the second act, this white wine hits you with a wet kiss of minerality, but then rounded out by bursting melon and mandarin, vibrant, brisk acidity, and a pure and extending finish. Pair it with mussels or Albacore tuna.

2020 PLAISANCE-PENAVAYRE
FRONTON ROUGE
$13.99 BTL./$167.88 CASE

This French red from just outside Toulouse falls into the blind tasting/strip poker/love lexicon because guesses to where and what this wine is, would be all over the dartboard. Most wine lovers have no idea about Fronton, its wines, or its grapes. Even though they do not immediately roll off the tongue, many times that I get these wines into the clients’ glasses they love them because of their unique taste of France.

Sixty-eight percent Negrette, 24% Syrah, 8% Cabernet Franc, and best of all it is nothing but delicious fun!! Virtual neon aromas of cassis and black cherry and a nice underlay of herbs and cracked pepper. Crunchy, balancing its lovely fruit, mysterious minerality and explosive freshness, this is a crucial choice for any French wine lover looking for a new discovery.

2022 CHERON GEVREY
CHAMBERTIN 'RUE DES MÉES
$99.99 BTL./$599.94 - SIX PACK

One of the true underrated and undiscovered Burgundy producers, Philippe Cheron has impressive holdings indeed. These days, finding top wines, especially Premiers Crus and single vineyards from Gevrey-Chambertin, Vosne-Romanee and Chambolle at fair (for Burgundy) prices are unheard of. The bigger news is his acquisition of the former Domaine des Varoilles thus folding those wines into his portfolio and the Rue des Mées is one of the new offerings.

Located on Rue des Mées, on the edge of the village and surrounded by the Champonnets, Craipillot and Fonteny premier crus, this vineyard plot of just over one hectare lies in the best part of the Combe Lavaux. 2022 reveals classic Gevrey power but Philippe and his son Paul always leave beauty marks in all their wines, particularly Gevrey-Chambertin. Top-drawer Gevrey aromas and quality. Lots of cracked pepper, hints of crème de mure (plums), ironstone and mineral underneath all lead into a lavish, energetic, succulent texture that pleases. It then kicks it up a notch with its ever-present spiciness on the lingering finish. Directly imported, this wine is an amazing bargain at 99-bucks…compared to Heresztyn’s Gevrey Clos Village for $150, Roty’s Clos Preiur Bas for $125 or Marc Roy’s Clos Prieur for $160!

2021 DEI ROSSO DI
MONTEPULCIANO
$17.99 BTL./$215.88 CASE

A fresh start, a new year but a similar message. We have shouted about the soaring quality of 2021 Chianti Classico wines, but it also extends to Vino Nobile and Rosso di Montalcino as well.

Sturdy and thorough, Morello cherry and a backdrop of chalky, minerally earth are boosted nicely by sage and other Italian herbs and spices. Good depth and balance with plenteous fruit. The close is pure and lingering with Tuscan tastiness. Enjoy this appealing Sangiovese from a masterful producer over the next 4-5 years with a steak as well as pasta and a meat sauce.

2022 LA TANNERIE
CARCASSONNE ROUGE
$11.99 BTL./$143.88 CASE

From vines just outside the medieval city of Carcassonne in Languedoc.
Grenache, Cabernet Franc, Merlot. Savory black fruits, cocoa and subtle mint. Rosemary and white pepper along with kisses of mint. A flavorful and supple palate shimmers with spice, earth and raspberry aspects. A great go-to wine to enjoy as a weeknight wine with an array of cuisines including Chinese chicken dishes, sloppy joes, hearty soups, nachos and chicken wings during the NFL playoffs and much more.

2023 OSTATU RIOJA BLANCO
$19.99 BTL./$239.88 CASE

Innovative and very stylish, Ostatu’s Rioja Blanco comes from 30 to 80-year-old vines and is a blend of 85% Viura and 15% Malvasia. The new wave aspect of this wine is that it is meant to be a fresh example and is aged solely in stainless steel tanks.

Bright orange peel aromas jump from the glass and bounce off white flowers, perfumed verbena and subtle anise aspects. Plenty of supporting depth, vibrancy and persistence. Excellent as an aperitif but especially lovely with mussels or clams.

2020 BASTIDE BLANCHE
BANDOL ROUGE
$29.99 BTL./$359.88 CASE

There is something special about fine Bandol and the Bronzo family at Bastide Blanche are longtime Cellar Door favorites. Not only does this estate produce one of our most popular Rose wines, the produce outstanding, bold Mediterranean red wines as well. They also are priced extremely well.

Seventy percent Mourvedre, with Grenache, Syrah, Cinsault & Carignan. The 2020 combines an aromatic nose of fresh leather and pipe tobacco with a user-friendly palate of assorted ripe plums, spice and peppercorns. The wine possesses a very long finish even though its tannins are soft and well rounded. Nevertheless, this number is fairly boisterous and rotund and requires, or better put, will truly shine with such hearty red meat entrees as grilled lamb, sausages or beef kabobs. Drink over the next decade.

2020 CARDEDU CANNONAU DI
SARDINIA 'CALADU'
$19.99 BTL./$239.88 CASE

Like the New York Jets, Sardinia has a long history of getting their asses kicked. Whether it be Phoenicians, Romans, Cathars or Moors, this island has an extensive list of occupiers. Also like the Jets, Sardinia had its own Joe Namath which was the kingdom of Aragon, and they were able to boot the Moors off the island. Good times indeed.

Cardedu is a longtime stalwart on the island, and they have a real bend on traditional wines. Canonau (they like to spell it with two n’s instead of three) is Grenache, originally brought to Sardinia by the Moors. By now it has been there for a millennium and is essentially native and does not show much in common with Spain or the Rhone’s versions. Old school with aromas of sea salt and strawberry along with peppercorn, thyme and an underlay of black plum. A magnet to pair with lamb and other meaty treats.

2020 CHATEAU DE FAGE
GRAVES DE VAYRES ROUGE
$16.99 BTL./$203.88 CASE

The appellation for this Bordeaux is Graves de Vayres and has absolutely nothing to do with the Graves region on the left bank. Located across the river from Pomerol and Fronsac, the gravelly soil differentiates it from those famed areas and Entre-Deux-Mers.

Led by 65% Merlot and 25% Cabernet Sauvignon with the remainder being Petite Verdot and Malbec, the 2020 is scrumptious, earthy, classic Bordeaux. Bleu fruits shine, backed up nicely by cassis and savory herbs. Fine and drawn out, this is cool Bordeaux for under twenty-bucks.

2022 ALTOS LAS HORMIGAS
MENDOZA TINTO
$11.99 BTL./$143.88 CASE

One of Argentina’s pioneering estates, Altos las Hormigas has been at the forefront of the movement for wine in this nation for thirty years.

Almost equal portions of Malbec and Bonarda with just a splash of Semillon allow this fleshy red to be a nice weeknight treat. No wood aging, this juicy, forward, red berry-laden/allspice leaning red engages the senses the moment it is poured. Lively, perky yet with plenty of curves. A terrific tipple that pleases a plethora of palates.

2023 CROCHET SANCERRE
'LA CROIX DU ROY'
$39.99 BTL./$479.88 CASE

Year in and year out, the consistency and sheer deliciousness of this Argentine wine never fails and the latest iteration is no exception. Mentioned in the 19th century Bonarda is Argentina's second most planted grape varietal. In 2008 it was discovered that the Bonarda in Argentina is not Bonarda Novarese, which is from Piedmont but Douce Noir, a grape also known as Charbono, and whose roots are from France's Savoie region. Still as it has evolved, it is now something very distinctively Argentine and still delicious!

Colonias las Liberas is made by famed Malbec practitioner Altos las Hormigas and savory, frontal red aromas and flavors present themselves straight away and entice you to want to drink it at any moment. Juicy and supple, it smoothly accompanies anything from pizza to empanadas to grilled meat or veggies.

2022 GOODFELLOW PINOT NOIR
DURANT VINEYARD
$46.99 BTL./$281.94 - SIX PACK

Marcus Goodfellow and The Cellar Door have been intertwined for twenty-six years. We have watched him go from working in hospitality to living his winemaking dream starting in 2002. Nowadays he is the titleholder of whole cluster dominant Pinot Noirs and has followed is brilliant 2021s with equally brilliant but different 2022s.

Situated in a sweet spot of this famed Dundee Hills vineyard, Goodfellow’s 2022 is on form and even more. Structured and compact as per usual for a Marcus wine in its early days, red and black plum shine along with rose, pepper, hints of nutmeg and prominent jasmine tones that will emerge with further bottle age. Layered, sophisticated but very vertical. Lots of material here and will all come forth with some bottle age. Hold on to this one until 2027 and drink through 2035.

2020 LAFAGE 'MIRAFLORS'
COTES-DE-ROUSSILLON ROUGE
[reg. $22.99]
SPECIAL - $14.99 BTL./$179.88 CASE

‘Twas the day after X-Mas and along comes a flash special of an outstandingly tasty, hearty red from the South of France. Located about halfway between Carcassonne and the border of Spain, this hearty, scrumptious Syrah/Grenache blend is everything one should desire in a wine from this area. Especially now that it is fifteen dollars!

Soulful and confident Mediterranean aromas. Excellent material and smoothness with aromas of strawberry, balsamico, fennel, rosemary and a prominent "sea-smoke" note. Plenty of flavor, depth and detail all culminating with a lively, very spirited, spice-laden finish.

2021 PRANDO DOLCETTO DIANO D'ALBA
[reg. $16.99]
SPECIAL - $11.99 BTL./$143.88 CASE

Like their counterparts in Dogliani, the village of Diano D'Alba is known for Dolcetto, hence the special notation of its village on the label. In this village, the grape thrives and is quite special, most times delivering something a bit more.

Giovanni Prando's version exquisitely expresses the sandstone soils in the vineyard. Assertive and quite fragrant with striking aromatic plum, violet and spiced-earth on the nose along with a mouth-coating texture that is crunchy, alive and full of Italian succulence. A hell of a Dolcetto! Enjoy it with salami, pasta or smoked sausages.

CHAMPAGNE LOUIS ROEDERER
BRUT COLLECTION 245
SPECIAL - $59.99 BTL./$359.94 - SIX PK

We are running this legendary Champagne at this fantastic lower price through Tuesday afternoon.

If you haven’t had the chance to imbibe on some 245 then grab some now! From the same folks who make the famed Cristal, Brut Collection is a numbered cuvee and this represents the 245th harvest of Louis Roederer since its inception in 1776. Think of this cuvee as vintage Champagne in disguise. 245 is 41% Chardonnay, 35% Pinot Noir, and 24% Meunier 55% of which is from the exceptionally fine 2020 vintage. Thirty-six percent reserve perpetuelle containing 2012, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18 and 19 vintages; lastly, 10% reserve wines aged in oak (2012 through 2019).

Of the five Brut Collection offerings thus far, the 245 has the silkiest bubbles to date. Very open-knit scents of nectarine, honey, lemon, subtle almond, quince, mineral and wheat biscuit notes. Full and expansive, ample citrus aspects along with a mousse and depth of flavor that seemingly goes on for days. Many transformations occur as this Champagne sits in the glass. The finale is very luxurious yet almost beady and carries beautiful finesse throughout. A great and tasty version and one that can be popped and poured…. or aged for several years as well.