2023 MARIETTA ZINFANDEL 'ROMAN'
$23.99 BTL./$287.88 CASE

93 Points – Wine Enthusiast Magazine…93% percent Zinfandel, 3% Petite Sirah and 4% Barbera come from estate vineyards in Alexander Valley and the McDowell Valley.

A combination of black raspberry, strawberry/balsamico, sage and white pepper. Definitely not oaky because no new oak is utilized. Cinnamon-earth tones, plenty of penetration but ultimately about the engaging succulent fruit. Flavors come in waves and turn red and vibrant on the persistent, drawn-out finish that shows mocha and is rich without being burdensome or thick. Beautiful to drink now and over the next 4-5 years.

2025 PEWSEY VALE RIESLING
EDEN VALLEY
$23.99 BTL./$287.88 CASE

Australia is a magnificent place, even if many creatures can kill you. Some people believe Riesling is the equivalent of a 10-foot, deadly Fierce snake, one of the world's most venomous, and simply avoid it. Riesling, like snakes, have their place in this world. TO compare, snakes rid Australia of annoying rodents and fine Riesling helps eradicate the world of plump, innocuous white wine.

For over 150 years Eden Valley’s established a reputation for some of Australia’s best Riesling and at the forefront is Pewsey Vale and their estate vineyard was first planted 175 years ago. Cool climate, 250 meters above sea level, it is enticingly fragrant, ardently dry, and mouth-watering delight chock full of citrus blossoms, lime juice, talc and peppermint. In the mouth it is invigorating, lively and gushing with luminous finish. Have a bottle or six with spicy Thai food.

2024 OLIM BAUDA
BARBERA D'ASTI 'LA VILLA'
$16.99 BTL./$101.94 - SIX PK

A longtime Cellar Door favorite, this Barbera has been one of my recent go-to TV wines because of its diversity with or without food.

Evident equilibrium with raspberries, hints of underbrush, rose and mineral emerging. The texture is stimulating and satisfying. Harmoniously hearty, vibrant possessing a succulent finish, it is perfect with pasta dishes with meat sauce, roasted chicken, medium aged pecorino, sausage pizza and more.

2023 DOMAINE LAURENS
MARCILLAC 'PIERRES ROUGES'
$19.99 BTL./$239.88 CASE

For years, the world has been trying to figure out France's obsession with Jerry Lewis movies. There are those who will now deny this, saying it is now a generation removed, but we do not believe it. Maybe it is Jerry's lighthearted way that utterly goes against their nature. However, in a twisted way the French must think that Jerry has as much soul as James Brown, Sly Stone or even Daft Punk for that matter. What Jerry Lewis lacks in soul, the French more than make it up with soulful wines and nothing gets us more excited than underdog wines off the AutoRoute regions, and the obscure region of Marcillac is one such area.

The remote Aveyron region is better known as the home for Roquefort cheese. Delightful, country French wine is produced and is a true taste of France’s once famed village life. Very red with licorice whip, crushed cranberry and sanguine aromas, it shows unique character. 100% Fer Servadou, bright, lively and full of life with a fun finish, it will go beautifully with paté, duck confit, Kansas City barbecue (ribs or pulled pork, your choice), perhaps a grilled steak - you get the picture.

2024 ALGUEIRA RIBEIRA SACRA
'BRANDAN' GODELLO BLANCO
$23.99 BTL./$287.88 CASE

One of the most stunning landscapes in Spain is the Galician area of Ribeira Sacra (Sacred Banks). Dating back to the Romans who excavated the terraces still present today, the Godello grape is a mainstay for the region’s white wines. Adega Algueira is a prominent grower, established in this small region for 30 years and whose wines are bastions on bunches of Spain’s Michelin-starred restaurants’ wine lists.

Paying tribute to Galicia’s Celtic lineage, the name Brandan comes from the Celtic warlord who originally settled this NW area of Spain. All Godello from old vines, this cuvee is a palate pleasing white wine deal. Lemon, pear, blossom and flinty scents open the show. On the palate, there is crisp electricity, a medium body, and velvety mouthfeel. Lemon and apple flavors together with the background rocky character captivating and luxuriating on the teeming, persistent follow through.

2023 JL CHAVE
CROZES-HERMITAGE 'SILENE'
[reg. $39.99]
SPECIAL - $26.99 BTL./$323.88 CASE

A terrific special from Syrah/Hermitage god Jean-Louis Chave who commenced his negociant business in 1995.

Expressive, full of grip and substance, this cool-climate Syrah shows impeccable detail. Graham and cinnamon surround Italian plum and blackberry with an undercurrent of ground pepper and tea smoke arriving. Sultry and energetic with lovely palate presence all carrying to a mineral and licorice driven finish. Enjoy over the next decade with a Sunday roast of beef or lamb, mushroom dishes and more. If you need score reassurance, Wine Spectator scored 93 points.

2022 ANDREW WILL 'TWO BLONDES'
CABERNET SAUVIGNON
$37.99 BTL./$455.88 CASE

From one of Washington’s genius producers, Andrew Will’s ‘black label’ wines give a superb experience for a fine price versus their minuscule produced, expensive single vineyard blends.

100% Cabernet Sauvignon Two Blondes Vineyard outside of Zillah in the Yakima Valley this forward, lacy-smooth Cab unfolds scrumptious notes of blackberry, cassis, graphite, underlying dusty cocoa and earth just a kiss of smoked nutmeg. Flavorful, driving, very persistent juice that pound for pound, is one of the best Washington Cabernet values. Lingering and sculpted, this is a serious and accessible wine and will develop and become even more impressive over the next decade.

2021 IPPOLITO CIRO ROSSO
'LIBER PATER'
$13.99 BTL./$167.88 CASE

Virtually only found in Calabria, Gaglioppo is a grape originally of Greek origins and the closest analogy for us is that it may be akin to warm climate Nebbiolo.

Ippolito's Ciro is hearty with roasted red plum, briar, red licorice and seabreeze aromas that follow to luring, dry Italian texture with tangy earth. This red wine pairs very well with spicy food as evidenced by the Calabrian chiles that are omni-present in the area. Try this with a penne arrabbiata or a jalapeno burger.

2021 PINSON CHABLIS
'LES CLOS' GRAND CRU
[reg. $129.99]
SPECIAL - $99.99 BTL./$599.94 - 6 PK

One of the oldest and top-echelon Chablis estates, there is never a set recipe chez Pinson, Charlène and her father Laurent Pinson make decisions based on the conditions of the vintage, experience and natural feel.

‘90% was vinified in stainless with 10% in new oak followed by an élevage in 1-year old wood. A deft but not invisible application of wood sets off ripe yet cool aromas of citrus peel, pear and apple compote along with hints of mineral reduction and oyster shell. There is excellent volume and impressive mid-palate density to the larger-scaled flavors that flash focused power on the youthfully austere and superbly long finale that exhibits a touch of wood. This classy effort is very promising and built to reward extended keeping. In a word, outstanding.’ - 95 Points - Burghound

2025 LA CROIX GRATIOT
PICPOUL DE PINET
$19.99 BTL./$239.88 CASE

History acknowledges Benjamin Franklin, Nicola Tesla and Thomas Edison among many scientists responsible for electricity. When it comes to blues and guitar, the nod to electricity’s invention goes to Muddy Waters. For Picpoul de Pinet, we fully believe Anaïs Ricôme is not only the Mother of all Picpoul but her wines light up the entire region - and les environs!

La Croix Gratiot embodies Picpoul's translation meaning lip stinger from the old Occitan language. With its usual crispness and clarity there is good oomph to go along with no shortage of stun-gun zeal. The nose offers honeydew, bergamot and grapefruit riding alongside sea smoke. The palate echoes the aromas with stimulating voltage and deceptive depth and persistence. This whimsical white is a cannonball plunge into a refreshing pool and without doubt, very seafood friendly. Enjoy with shellfish, particularly mussels, salt cod, fried fish & chips or even just a plate of salami with friends.

2024 LA CROIX GRATIOT
PICPOUL DE PINET 'BRECHALLUNE'
$29.99 BTL./$359.88 CASE

Too many Languedoc producers often make Reserve wines that suffer in a bunch of shiny new oak barrels – Merde alors! For this wine, Anais wants nothing to do with that philosophy. Unlike any Picpoul you have ever tasted, the Bréchallune cuvee is from a single parcel and aged on its lees in 70% concrete tanks and the other 30% in terracotta amphorae.

Think of this wine like you would a top reserve cuvee that you would pour alongside substantial seafood like lobster, crab, bouillabaisse or chinook salmon on a cedar or alder board. Deep aromas of pomelo, melon, sea salt, anise and intermittent mineral and lees scents follow to a texture that maintains luminosity around terrific depth and complexity, stretching across the palate and into a deeply serious, long finish.

2020 TORRE DE OÑA RIOJA
'FINCA SAINT MARTIN' CRIANZA
$19.99 BTL./$239.88 CASE

Torre de Oña is La Rioja Alta’s Rioja Alavesa estate putting forth magical, modern, yet classically inspired wines. 100% Tempranillo, the 2020 is equivalent to going on a ride in a car while I’m dealing the wheels. Get in, sit down, shut up and hold on because it is going to be a thrill ride and I won’t make you sign a waiver!

Neo-classic, aromatic tones of violet and blackberry mesh nicely with undercurrents of cocoa and Moroccan spices form a Rioja that exhibits flare and detail. The sophisticated, velvety texture thoughtfully coats the palate. It picks up grip and structure on the deep middle and stacked, persistent finish. Drink with pork roast and more.

2022 LE MARIE VINI PINEROLESE
'ROUGE LE RISSART'
$23.99 BTL./$287.88 CASE

Hey kids, let’s play stump the wine jagoff, a new, exciting game where you throw an obscure wine at that person you know who fancies themselves an expert. A great play is Pinerolese. Ask the question, where, what and who and they won’t have the correct answer, LOL!

The Pinerolese DOC is located between Torino and the French border of Italy’s Piedmont region. Le Marie, located in the foothills near Monte Viso in the Alps deliver wines that slither in both the Italian and French Alpine style. Rouge de Lissart is a blend of Barbera, Bonarda, Freisa, Chatus and Neretta Cuneese from vines planted in the 1930s. Enlightening strawberry, mint, licorice and dusty earth surround subtle undertones of baking herbs and spices. Palate-filling and vivacious, the level of depth is why this producer is regarded as one of Piedmont’s unearthed gems. Substance, dimension and a finish that launches and lasts; there is a ton of goodness for not a ridiculous amount of money. Enjoy this with beef/pork stuffed ravioli or a risotto done with cheese and mushrooms.

2024 DOMAINE DISZNOKO
| 'DORGO' DRY FURMINT
$19.99 BTL./$239.88 CASE

Disznoko was classified as a First Growth in 1752, but it has only been since 1992 with owners AXA Millesime (owners of Lynch-Bages, Quinta do Noval, Pichon Baron-Longueville, Suduiraut and more) set out to restore old glory to this Hungarian estate. Famed for its dessert wines from the Furmint grape, forcefully dry wines are made as well.

Dorgo is an iconic Cru vineyard of Tokaji. The best word to describe this bone-dry white wine is fervent. Hang on to your drawers as this wine takes you on a thrill ride with electrifying briskness with granny smith apple, melon, chamomile and mineral. No intrusive oak and nothing but clarity. Expands and elevates, it is a miracle in the mouth. Drink this thrill-ride wine with trout, scallops with a citrus marinade, gruyere and more.

2022 LYDIAN CABERNET
SAUVIGNON COLUMBIA VALLEY
$23.99 BTL./$287.88 CASE

Classified into fine Washington producer Avennia’s second label, this vastly undervalued Cabernet Sauvignon punches well above its weight class and knocks out quite a few at twice the price.

Non-stop vanilla and cocoa notes are wrapped around buxom black cherry, smoke, cola and milk chocolate all virtually glisten the instant the wine is poured. On the palate, stylish, flowing dense tones and typically steadfast, mouth-crawling flavors that one comes to expect in these excellent wines. Layered, forward, accessible and perfect with a steak or short ribs; enjoy through 2031.

2024 TIM MALONE MELON
'DEUX VERT VINEYARD'
$19.99 BTL./$239.88 CASE

When I recently tasted this Oregon Melon it impressed upon me the importance of the British heavy metal band Iron Maiden. Serendipitous things happened and later that evening after coming home mildly tipsy after eating barbecue, I turned on YouTube to stream music and saw their iconic video for the song ‘Run to the Hills.’ What does this have to do with crisp white wine you ask? Not so much except that it will get you loaded if you drink enough and the character in general is as whimsical as the video - parallel to getting shot in the ass with an arrow!

Melon is the same grape used in Muscadet. Commencing with citrus scents and undertones of wet stone, this white increases with lemongrass, and key-lime tones. Brisk and mouthwatering on the palate with fine intensity and length, this is a wonderful match for a plate of freshly shucked northwest oysters – but you all knew that anyway.

2022 NOTRE DAME LES PALLIERES
COTES-DU-RHONE 'LES RIEUS'
$13.99 BTL./$167.88 CASE

No hype, no one liners, just a message that if you need a terrific everyday drinking red that is delicious and makes you want another glass, look no further than this terrific Rhone.

Packed full of raspberry and strawberry preserves, lavender, smoke, and definitive Rhone spiciness. In the mouth, it is inviting, warm hearty and personable.

2020 CHATEAU DE SALES POMEROL
$46.99 BTL./$281.94 - SIX PACK

Chateau De Sales is one of the better known, values within the high-priced neighborhood of Pomerol. Affiliated with Christian Moeuix (owner of Petrus, Trotanoy, Dominus and others) this Chateau dates to the 17th century makes brilliant, ageworthy wines, especially for the astute Bordeaux consumer.

Powerhouse Pomerol and French signature, attractive dark intense garnet color reveals notes of cherry, blackcurrant, herbs, savory earth, and subtle allspice. The palate expands, integrated with tannins meshing well with the fruit. Persistent and structured, this promises to be a pleasurable wine experience through 2037+.

2021 CASTELLO DI VOLPAIA
CHIANTI CLASSICO RISERVA
$36.99 BTL./$443.88 CASE

95 Points - The Wine Spectator...The 2021 Chianti Classico wines are hotter than the oil in the deep fryer at Popeye’s. Not that fried chicken and Chianti have anything to do with each other (admittedly, I have never tried the pairing), the quality of the area’s wines for this vintage are already legendary.

Castello di Volpaia is one of the GIANT names in Chianti. Perched outside of Radda in Chianti, Volpaia has long made sophisticated, fetching Chianti. Heavenly scents of red and black cherry, vanilla, sage and red licorice define the aromas while satiny flavors and silky tannins, which have long been Volpaia hallmarks, seduce texturally. Drink over the next 10-12 years.

2023 EVESHAM WOOD
PINOT NOIR 'CUVEE J'
$59.99 BTL./$359.94 - SIX PACK

96 Points – Wine Enthusiast Magazine…The top cuvee on the Evesham Wood roster, Cuvee J is named to honor one of the late, great Russ Raney's influences, Vosne-Romanee master, Henri Jayer. Always sought after by Pinot Noir collectors, this is indeed an Oregon treasure.

A selection of the estate's finest barrels, one sniff of this masterpiece lets you know that you have pole-vaulted to another rank. Blackberry, floral, nutmeg-laced chocolate, and integrated oak aromas are supported by the stunning fruit components. Velvety, lacey with a virtual perfumed texture that is reminiscent of a Northern Nuits-St-Georges vineyard. Generous and charming with a thrusting finish that is svelte and lingers, it is irresistible. Cuvee J is always one of the best agers in Oregon and for best results, drink 2028 - 2037.

2022 PICHLER-KRUTZLER
GRUNER-VELTLINER 'DURNSTEIN'
SPECIAL - $26.99 BTL./$323.88 CASE

[reg. $42.99]…The name Pichler is synonymous when it comes to Austrian greatness and especially the famed region of Wachau. Whether it is FX, Rudi or Pichler-Krutzler, these wines perform on an excellent level and are some of the world’s finest dry white wines. Normally north of forty, this is a glass of class and typical of Pichler, overachieving at this price. If it were made in Burgundy, it would easily fetch twice the price. We will taste this tomorrow if it doesn't sell out

Generally regarded as the crown jewel for Gruner, the Wachau region is renowned for powerful and precise white wines. Durnstein is one of the revered villages and this wine reflects it oh so well. Revved up, multi-faceted scents of powdered lime, peppermint, pronounced white pepper crushed rock and an undertone of melon build from the glass. Commencing with full, expansive fruit in the mouth, the wine's lightning-bolt crisp, zesty mineral characteristics dominate the substantial, firm middle and gushing finish. One with immense potential, drink over the next decade with seafood including sea bass or halibut dressed with greens, Indian cuisine based around curry or mild cheeses.

2020 IL MOLINO DI GRACE
CHIANTI CLASSICO
SPECIAL - $23.99 BTL./$323.88 CASE

[reg. $24.99]…From Panzano in the northern sector of the Chianti Classico zone, Il Molino di Grace is one of Chianti's values. Alas, these wines are now known, but their appeal still is amazing, especially because they have so much drink-worthy appeal.

100% Sangiovese. One whiff of the focused, but wonderfully pure scents of wildflowers, sage, black cherry, and savory earth will have you reminiscing about your last visit to Tuscany! Suave and sultry depth and concentration carry nicely into the mouth as it offers succulent, ripe and flavorful tones with superb focus and grip as well as finishing dark, spicy and long. Drink with a penne Bolognese, grilled steak and more.

2021 QUINTA DE SAES
DAO TINTO
SPECIAL - $16.99 BTL./$203.88 CASE

[reg. $21.99]…Quinta de Saes Dao Tinto is Portugal personified made with 25% Touriga Naçional, 25% Alfrocheiro, 25% Jaen, 25% Tinta Pinheira and 100% pure pleasure.

Packed with Mediterranean personality displaying hearty, peppery and very forward scents and flavors of chocolate truffle complimented with raspberry, leather, roasted earth, sage and spice that bring everything together. The texture starts out plush and supple quickly gaining zest and spine on the earth-laden, snap-back finish. An outstanding choice for under twenty dollars. Enjoy with dishes enhanced or based around chorizo, roasted lamb or vegetarian dishes highlighted by root vegetables like carrots, potatoes and fennel.

2022 CHAGNOLEAU SAINT-VERAN
LES MONTCHAINS
SPECIAL - $27.99 BTL./167.94 - 6 PK

[reg. $39.99]…Domaine Chagnoleau is run by two of the Southern Burgundy’s top winemakers, Frantz Chagnoleau who worked at Olivier Merlin and his wife Caroline Gons former winemaker at Heretiers Comte Lafon with famed Meursault maestro/mentor/Mr. Miyagi, Dominique Lafon. This Mâconnais super couple’s wines are now amongst the most sought after and delicious in Southern Burgundy. It is thrilling to see how Saint-Véran has grown in quality and precision over the last fifteen years. Many younger producers have exposed just how terrific and diverse the terroir of the eight villages that comprise the appellation can thrive and make great wines.

Les Montchanins is in the village of Prissé just over one thousand feet. Around ten centimeters of red clay topsoil give way to sheer bedrock limestone. Luxurious scents of mirabelle, elusive herbs, earth and prominent rock dust. Loads of depth and uncommon refinement; lacy, silky and layered with impressive cut and verve on the substantially long finish…Tasting notes quickly moved from PG-13 to R to NC-17 very quickly but I digress and conclude that this outstanding juice is great with classic seafood, but with oomph to stand up to lobster. Drink through 2032+.