2019 Pop 300 Rose Napa Valley

2019 Pop 300 Rose Napa Valley

with No Comment $30 and underKevin VogtNapaOakvilleRoséUSA

POP 300

2019 ROSÉ
NAPA VALLEY

2019 Pop 300 Rose Napa ValleyFor wine lovers, being in-the-know can sometimes result in finding a wine that so overperforms that you’ll feel like you stole something when you try it. POP 300’s Rosé hands you all of that on a silver platter, and here’s why… Many wine lovers would argue that To Kalon in Oakville is the most celebrated vineyard in California. A little known secret is that there’s a tiny block of Pinot Noir in the center of this magical vineyard, and it’s called Wilsey-To Kalon. There, location combined with being connected yields some incredible fruit, and POP 300 Rosé has my vote for being in the Lucky Land Club.

Oakville produces some of the best Cabernet Sauvignon in the world, but very few people would consider that Pinot Noir even exits in the region. This genuinely unique Rosé of Pinot Noir is made by Luke Russ, whose day job is the Commercial Director at O’Shaughnessy Winery.
 
Luke made the 2019 vintage in a brightly focused style, with vivid red cherry, mineral-infused raspberry, pink grapefruit, and spring flowers. This beauty is one of the most scarce Rosés that we watch for each year, and there’s never enough to match demand.
 
POP 300
2019 ROSÉ
NAPA VALLEY
 
 
 
“This release of the 2019 vintage of POP 300’s Rosé just happens to coincide with the ripening of many different fruits from our orchard, and it reminds me of quite a few of them. The nose begins with white peach, yellow plum, ripe raspberries and white flowers. The palate is deep and supple with flavors including ripe peach, Asian pear, honeydew melon along with a saline/mineral quality. The rich mouthfeel is beautifully balanced with bright acidity. This is an absolutely wonderful warm weather wine.” 91 Points
2014 Fattori Valpolicella Ripasso Col De La Basita

2014 Fattori Valpolicella Ripasso Col De La Basita

with No Comment $30 and underItalyKevin Vogt

FATTORI

VALPOLICELLA RIPASSO
2014 COL DE LA BASITA 

2014 Fattori Valpolicella Ripasso Col De La BasitaIn the same way that Brunello drinkers gravitate towards a Rosso di Montalcino, and Barolo fans look to a Langhe Nebbiolo, Amarone aficionados will often pursue Valpolicella Ripasso when seeking value. Amarone and Valpolicella Ripasso are both made with the same grapes, and the key difference is Ripasso, which translates to re-pass, is made with a second pressing of the dried grapes used for Amarone. They’re not quite as extracted as Amarone, but they fall deliciously in-between regular Valpolicella and Amarone, and they’re also a fraction of Amarone’s price…      

To make Valpolicella Ripasso, you start with the grapes used in Valpolicella, primarily Corvina, Rondinella, and Molinara. The grapes are harvested late, and once picked, the tops of the clusters are dried for roughly 120 days. The first fermentation and pressing of the dried grapes are used to make Amarone, and these once-pressed grapes are “re-passed” into the tanks of partially fermented Valpolicella to increase body, depth, and color. 
 
Fattori’s 2014 Col de La Basita Valpolicella Ripasso arose from 5 acres of vines grown on a plateau in Basita, in well-drained shaley clay and sub-alkaline rock. The wine is remarkably expressive and oozes ripe red fruits and enchanting elegance.    
 
FATTORI
VALPOLICELLA RIPASSO
2014 COL DE LA BASITA
 
 
“Fattori’s 2014 Valpolicella Ripasso Col de la Bastia is a convincing red wine that offers lasting power and momentum. It shows solid aromatic determination with dried fruit, raisin, prune and dried cherry. The wine also offers an openly savory side with leather, tobacco and a touch of smoked pancetta. Pair this wine with pasta all’Amatriciana.” 88 Points
2018 Morgan G-17 Syrah Santa Lucia Highlands

2018 Morgan G-17 Syrah Santa Lucia Highlands

with No Comment $30 and underKevin VogtMontereySanta Lucia HighlandsSyrahUSA

MORGAN 

2018 G-17 SYRAH
SANTA LUCIA HIGHLANDS

2018 Morgan G-17 Syrah Santa Lucia HighlandsMorgan is one Santa Lucia Highlands’ top producers, and they’ve been around for nearly 40 vintages crafting varietally sound, high-scoring wines that offer stupendous value. Winemaker Dan Lee was San Francisco Chronicle’s Winemaker-of-the-Year in 2003, and his wines continually delight. His new 2018 G-17 Syrah has already earned dual 94 point scores, and at $24, the level of value is nearly untouchable.  

The G-17 Syrah masterfully intertwines fruit from Paraiso, Double L, Tondré, Griva, and Ventana Vineyards into a picture-perfect rendition of cool-climate California Syrah with supple bacon-infused dark fruits, black pepper, and polished tannins. 
 
The 2018 vintage beautifully projects the 94% Syrah and is brightened with 3% Grenache along with 3% Tempranillo. On the palate, the wine offers the perfect amount of lush dark fruits and intriguing smoked meats and spices. At $24, one case won’t be enough. 
 
MORGAN 
2018 G-17 SYRAH

SANTA LUCIA HIGHLANDS

 
Your Price: $24
 
 
Lively aromas of black raspberry jam on French toast, dark hibiscus, tar and lavender show on the cool-climate nose of this bottling, which includes 3% each of Grenache and Tempranillo. The palate is vibrant with flavors of pepper, lavender and lilac, set against the richer black-raspberry and black-plum backdrop.” 94 Points
 
 
“Deep, lush garnet color with rich fruit nose; silky, lush and juicy with blackberry fruit and toasty oak; spice and good balance; if every Syrah was made with such finesse and style, it would be the most popular varietal.” 94 Points
2019 Domaine Nicolas Gaudry Pouilly-Fume Loire Valley, France

2019 Domaine Nicolas Gaudry Pouilly-Fume Loire Valley, France

with No Comment $30 and underFranceKevin VogtLoire ValleySauvignon Blanc

DOMAINE NICOLAS GAUDRY

2019 POUILLY-FUME
LOIRE VALLEY, FRANCE
(100% SAUVIGNON BLANC)

2019 Domaine Nicolas Gaudry Pouilly-Fume Loire Valley, France

The pinnacle of Sauvignon Blanc production comes from the iconic Loire Valley in France, and inside the Loire, the regions of Sancerre and Pouilly-Fumé are foremost. Both Sancerre Blanc and Pouilly-Fumé are composed of 100% Sauvignon Blanc, but on the palate, Pouilly-Fumé can be more lush than Sancerre, and one hallmark is a subtle smoky, gunflint note, which is less common in Sancerre. One of the best examples of classic Pouilly-Fume is from Nicholas Gaudry, whose 2019 is ridiculously good. 
 
The Gaudry family has been making wine in Pouilly-sur-Loire for generations, and the wines offer a pure expression of Sauvignon Blanc. They vinify each plot separately and ferment them in stainless steel tanks to preserve freshness. 
 
The wine team made the 2019 vintage in a bright, clean, energetic style that’s both dynamic and perfectly balanced. If you love Sauvignon Blanc, I highly recommend securing a case of brilliant Pouilly-Fumé. 
 
DOMAINE NICOLAS GAUDRY
2019 POUILLY-FUME
LOIRE VALLEY, FRANCE
(100% SAUVIGNON BLANC)
 
Your Price: $29.99
Click to Order
 
 
 
“Pale yellow robe. The bouquet fresh, with notes of white flowers and citrus fruit. The mouth dynamic, with crisp acidity and stone fruit. A pleasant finish.”
2014 Worthy Sophia's Cuvee Proprietary Red

2014 Worthy Sophia’s Cuvee Proprietary Red

with No Comment $30 and underKevin VogtNapaProprietary RedUSA

WORTHY

2014 SOPHIA’S CUVEE
PROPRIETARY RED

2014 Worthy Sophia's Cuvee Proprietary Red

 
I always pay extra attention to wines that are a second wine from a top producer with a track record of excellence. Worthy Sophia’s Cuvée is the second wine of Axios, and their 2016 Cabernet goes for around $195. Both wines are made by legendary winemaker Bob Egelhoff, who’s held winemaking positions at such notable wineries as Pahlmeyer, Harlan, Chappellet, Merryvale, and David Arthur. At under $30 this Worthy Sophia’s Cuvée is simply one of the best values in Napa Valley Cabernet blends, period.  
 
Ascending from one of Napa Valley’s best vintages, one that the Wine Spectator describes as producing “dense, charming, cellar-worthy wines,” the latest vintage of Sophia’s Cuvée offers silky, mouthwatering tannins, chocolate covered raspberries, espresso, and violets. 
 
The 2014 vintage checks in at 64% Cabernet Sauvignon, and is balanced with Merlot and Cabernet Franc. It’s created from a collection of secret fruit sources spread throughout Napa Valley, and the 2014 release is a beautiful portrayal of the spectacular year. 
 
WORTHY
2014 SOPHIA’S CUVEE
PROPRIETARY RED
Retails at: $32
 
Your Price: $29.99
Click to Order
 
 
 
“A tight and linear red with blueberry, blackberry, and currant character. Ultra-fine tannins that are polished and attractive. Medium body. Bright finish. Drink in 2020.” 92 Points
 
 
“The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Worthy Sophia’s Cuvée wraps around the palate with striking density and richness. Scents of mocha, espresso, dark spices and new leather give the 2014 much of its aromatic nuance and lift. Polished, silky tannins contribute to the wine’s near-term appeal.” 90 Points
2017 Borne Pinot Noir Anderson Valley

2017 Borne Pinot Noir Anderson Valley

with No Comment $30 and underAnderson ValleyKevin VogtPinot NoirSonomaUSA

BORNE

2017 PINOT NOIR
ANDERSON VALLEY

2017 Borne Pinot Noir Anderson Valley

One of the most distinct and appealing regions for Pinot Noir cultivation anywhere in the world is the Anderson Valley appellation located less than 100 miles North of San Francisco. Perfectly positioned near the Pacific Ocean and with a wide diurnal temperature variation, the AVA is classified as a Region 1 growing area, which designates the coldest climate in which grapes may be commercially grown with success. Anderson Valley Pinots are known for their incredible floral-infused flavors and aromas, lively fruit, and subtle earthy characteristics. Here’s a great example, and at our price, a case may not be enough. 
 
Birthed from a single site strategically located in a prime zone of Anderson Valley, referred to as the Deep End. The area lies on the Northwestern end of the AVA, where the valley narrows and is lower in elevation, allowing the cool, maritime fog to pour in and heavily influence the grapes. 
 
The wine team made Borne’s 2017 Anderson Valley Pinot Noir in a bright and spirited style that delivers plenty of floral-infused red fruits, and baking spices, accompanied by a soft, velvet-like texture, and satisfying finish. 
 
BORNE
2017 PINOT NOIR
ANDERSON VALLEY
Retails at: $28
 
Your Price: $22
Click to Order
 
 
 
“Dark red/purple in color, the nose is fragrant with black cherry, backing spices and orange blossom. The palate is well textured and polished with good acidity. Flavors of toasted cocoa, ripe fig and marionberry linger on a long finish.”
2019 Chateau Des Garcinieres Provence Rose Cotes De Provence

2019 Chateau Des Garcinieres Provence Rose Cotes De Provence

with No Comment $30 and underFranceKevin VogtProvenceRosé

CHÂTEAU DES GARCINIÈRES

2019 PROVENCE ROSÉ
CÔTES DE PROVENCE

2019 Chateau Des Garcinieres Provence Rose Cotes De Provence

There are many reasons why Rosé sales in the US are climbing by double digits year-after-year. Many high-quality Rosés are affordable, and the best offer a laser-like focus, remarkable clarity, and freshness of fruit that’s simply irresistible. The level of value is immense, and when you’re looking for a refreshing white that’s not heavy or overbearing and can pair with a multitude of foods, Rosé stands tall. One of the best in our shop is Château des Garcinières, and the new 2019 release is brilliant.  
 
This jewel comes from Provence, a region in Southeastern France, and an area revered for producing delicate, yet focused Rosé wines. Château des Garcinières has been family owned and operated since 1898, and they’ve been caring for these grapes for four generations. 
 
The 2019 Garcinières Rosé deliciously combines Grenache and Cinsault grapes. On the palate, the wine is concentrated and focused, with bright orchard fruits, veins of minerals, bright acidity, and delicate sea-like nuances that bring a smile to my face every time I taste it.
 
CHÂTEAU DES GARCINIÈRES
2019 PROVENCE ROSÉ
CÔTES DE PROVENCE
Retails at: $26
 
Your Price: $24.00
Click to Order
 
 
“This elegant Rosé is vibrant and fresh; aromas of white peach and nectarine emerge from the glass with a bit of bubble gum that provides a touch of sweetness. Beautiful floral notes of scented jasmine expand into the glass as it opens. The lovely soft peach color is reminiscent of previous vintages, and Provence in general, which gives clear evidence of the wine we’ve come to love. Mouth filling orchard fruit and lemon peel notes give way to bracing acidity, wild strawberry, sea shell minerality and a hint of lavender to remind us of its home by the sea.”
2016 Ty Caton Winemaker's Cuvee Moon Mountain District

2016 Ty Caton Winemaker’s Cuvee Cabernet Sauvignon Moon Mountain District

with No Comment $30 and underCabernet SauvignonKevin VogtMoon MountainNapaUSA

TY CATON 

WINEMAKER’S CUVEE
2016 CABERNET SAUVIGNON 
MOON MOUNTAIN DISTRICT 

2016 Ty Caton Winemaker's Cuvee Moon Mountain DistrictIf you enjoy robust, hedonistic Cabs from Mount Veeder, and the elegant and savory wines from Spring Mountain, you would also enjoy wines from Moon Mountain. Positioned on the Sonoma side of Mount Veeder, the well-drained red volcanic soils are also home to icons like the Monte Rosso, which was made famous by Louis Martini, and Frederick’s Vineyard used by Turley. At the $38 retail price, Ty Caton’s Winemaker’s Cuvée from Moon Mountain earned a Gold Medal at the SF Chronicle Wine Competition. But at our price, few others can compete.  

Ty selected clone 337 for his Cabernet, which is commonly found in cult wines and thrives in the well-drained volcanic soils. On the palate, the wine is stunningly deep, enchanting, and full of hedonistic delights. 
 
The 2016 Cuvée checks in at 90% Cabernet Sauvignon entwined with Merlot and spent 15 months in oak barrels. Now with a couple of years in the bottle, it conquers your senses with an exotic tapestry of opulent black fruits, liquid floral, and crushed rock.
 
TY CATON 
WINEMAKER’S CUVEE
2016 CABERNET SAUVIGNON 
MOON MOUNTAIN DISTRICT
Retails at: $38
 
 
 
 
 
“The 2016 Estate Winemaker’s Cuvee meets the palate with rich and full-bodied flavors of black currant, red plums, and cassis, followed by oak notes of cedar and vanilla. These dark flavors produce a lush and velvety textured mouth feel that combine with supple tannins, and leads to a long silky finish.”
2018 Barrique Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast

2018 Barrique Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast

with No Comment $30 and underKevin VogtPinot NoirSonomaSonoma CoastUSA

BARRIQUE 

2018 PINOT NOIR
SONOMA COAST

2018 Barrique Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast

Producing quality Pinot Noir begins in the vineyard with the right clonal selection, terroir, and perfectly ripened fruit. Then, it moves to the winery, where gentle and skilled winemaking techniques complete the job. It doesn’t always take much money to get the result you want. If you have relationships with the right growers and have the right skills, you can make a stunning wine that doesn’t cost a fortune. Barrique’s 2018 Sonoma Coast Pinot is the perfect example, and at our price, I bet you’ll wish you had ordered more when you try it…  
 
Barrique’s Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir encompasses cool-climate vineyards in the Russian River Valley, Sonoma Coast, and Carneros AVAs. The blend also includes fruit from the Roses Estate Vineyard on Olivet Road, which is near icons like Martinelli. 
 
Once harvested, the fruit was gently transferred by gravity to open-top fermenters, where it was fermented with 33% whole clusters for added depth and structure. The resulting wine is balances brightly focused and intriguing fruit, with velvety, yet firm tannins and lovely acidity.  
 
BARRIQUE 
2018 PINOT NOIR
SONOMA COAST
Retails at: $23
 
Your Price: $19
Click to Order
 
 
 
“The 2018 Barrique Pinot Noir is deep red in the glass, the nose is full of ripe huckleberry, cedar and vanilla spice. The texture is plush with a broad mouthfeel. Flavors of blackberry compote, fig jam and caramelized sugar round out a long finish.”
2018 Aimsfield Sauvignon Blanc Central Otago New Zealand

2018 Amisfield Central Otago Sauvignon Blanc

with No Comment $30 and underKevin VogtNew ZealandSauvignon Blanc

AMISFIELD 

2018 SAUVIGNON BLANC
CENTRAL OTAGO | NEW ZEALAND 

2018 Aimsfield Sauvignon Blanc Central Otago New Zealand

Many countries have a signature grape varietal that separates them from the rest, and in New Zealand, that varietal is Sauvignon Blanc. It’s the Country’s most widely planted grape and accounts for around 70% of its total production. Wine lovers revere it for its bracing acidity, vibrant grapefruit, and herbaceous/floral aromas. The very name means “Wild White,” which perfectly coincides with the immense power of this noble variety. 
 
Amisfield is a brilliant example of classic New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, with racy acidity, pink grapefruit, fresh lime, and herbaceous characteristics. Winery founder John Darby chose to plant his vineyard in Central Otago, after an exhaustive search for the best cool-climate terroir in New Zealand. 
 
The wine team harvested the fruit at the pinnacle of perfection to capture fully developed flavors and aromas. Each parcel was fermented separately, at cool temperatures, and in stainless steel tanks to preserve freshness. If you’re looking for a vibrant and compelling white to have on your table this summer, this is it.
 
AMISFIELD 
2018 SAUVIGNON BLANC
CENTRAL OTAGO | NEW ZEALAND
Retails at: $25
 
Your Price:  $22
Click to Order
 
 
 
“Dry, bright, fresh and appealing sauvignon blanc with grapefruit, pineapple, chalky mineral and lime blossom flavours. An accessible wine with attractive purity and an ethereal texture… Drink 2019 – 2022”  93 Points
 
 
 
“This has ample lemon and grassy elements that deliver a very fleshy impression on the palate with bold, lime and lemon notes, as well as apples. Drink now. Screw cap.”  90 Points