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Ciacci Piccolomini d'Aragona Rosso di Montalcino 2018

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Ciacci Piccolomini d'Aragona Rosso di Montalcino 2018

$22.99

SKU 02167

750ml Bottle

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Ciacci Piccolmini is one of the most sought-after producers in Montalcino. This ancient estate has 35 hectares of superior holdings in the prized Castelnuovo dell'Abate zone, including the 'Pianrosso' vineyard (from which the best grapes are selected for the Brunello di Montalcino) and the 'Fonte' vineyard, which produces grapes for the Rosso di Montalcino. This Rosso is made of 100% Sangiovese Grosso, with bright and rich red fruit, earth, dried citrus zest and gentle spices. The vineyard is organically farmed and the wine is fermented in stainless steel and concrete vats before being transferred to large Slovenian oak where it rests for 12 months. Only 1000 cases are typically produced in each vintage.

Category	Red Wine
Varietal	Sangiovese Grosso
Region	Italy, Tuscany, Rosso di Montalcino
Brand	Ciacci Piccolomini d'Aragona

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Wine AdvocateThe Bianchini family has been working hard to develop a cohesive strategy for its Rosso program. The Ciacci Piccolomini d'Aragona 2018 Rosso di Montalcino pours from the bottle with a light garnet appearance. The wine remains compact and lean-bodied in terms of palate, and it imparts classic aromas of wild cherry, potting soil and blue flowers. Everything you get here is straight out of the Sangiovese playbook, and the wine remains accessible and easy-dinking throughout. You can't beat that low price. Some 68,000 bottles were released in January 2020.

Monica Larner, January 31, 2020

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Lucien Albrecht Cremant d'Alsace Brut Rosé

Lucien Albrecht Cremant d'Alsace Brut Rosé

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Arvero Limoncello

Arvero Limoncello

The quality of this all natural product is determined by the high quality of the lemons. Árvero is exclusively crafted with Sorrento lemons which have a uniquely ripe and balanced flavor. To retain the great aromas and color of these lemons, they are hand-picked and processed locally, early in the morning to preserve the right humidity. They are never frozen or stored, so as not to lose to fresh, vibrant flavors of the lemons. The result is a limoncello with rich aromas, a naturally vivid yellow color and a vibrant flavor that distinguishes it a true, high quality limoncello. Tasted and loved by our staff, this is exceptional.

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Flaneur Wines Willamette Valley Pinot Noir 2017

Flaneur Wines Willamette Valley Pinot Noir 2017

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Old Forester Single Barrel 90 Proof Bottle Shop Barrel

Old Forester Single Barrel 90 Proof Bottle Shop Barrel

Our very own Old Forester barrel was bottled at 90 proof and gives the Bourbon lover a classic high quality whiskey at an incredible price. For the last few years we have been seeking and choosing singular barrels of whiskey from the best distillers in the USA. These barrels give our clients 'Bottle Shop Exclusive' whiskies tasted and chosen by our staff for both sipping and creating inventive cockOld Forester was created in 1870 and is the only bourbon continuously distilled and marketed by the founding family... before, during and after Prohibition. Taste profile: Summer fruits and banana gently greet you as they mingle with classic bourbon notes of light vanilla, oak, and caramel on the nose. The palate delivers a deep experience with heavy hints of oak, leather, and chocolate with hints of dark cherry and vanilla. The overall finish is rich and flavorful and most whiskey drinkers will appreciate this beauty for its classic nature.

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Matias Riccitelli Hey Malbec! 2018

Matias Riccitelli Hey Malbec! 2018

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$19.99

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$24.99

Iuli Barbera del Monferrato Umberta 2018

Iuli Barbera del Monferrato Umberta 2018

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Iuli is set among the last band of dramatic hills and valleys before descending into the rich flatlands of the Po river valley, with the Alps as a backdrop on a clear day. If you're headed to Montaldo, chances are it is to see Fabrizio Iuli. His family figures prominently and colorfully in the town's history. In the 1920s, his grandfather, Gioacchino Natale Iuli, like many young men from the countryside, was courted by a factory job in Lombardia. In a twist of fate, Gioacchino heard that a burgeoning marching band had been formed in Montaldo, so he packed his bags and headed back to become its clarinetist and to start a family. The first vines were planted around 1930. Fabrizio's grandmother, Ernestina, established a little osteria in their living room, a place with warm food and warm hospitality that became a gathering point for the village. There was much conviviality and Iuli Barbera flowing. Though no longer an official restaurant, the feeling continues to this day with Fabrizio and his wife, Summer Wolff, cooking up a storm and popping bottles. It is a place that sucks you in, where time seems to stand still, if only temporarily. Today, Fabrizio is the only winegrower in the town. His first commerical vintage was 1998, with his Barbera called Rossore. The grapes found in his vineyards are Baratuciat (a nearly-extinct white variety from the Val di Susa), Slarina (a red Monferrato variety also almost lost), Grignolino, Nebbiolo, Pinot Nero, and, of course, Barbera. There are 35 contiguous hectares of land in one valley, with 16 hectares planted to vine. Certified organic, the land has never seen any chemicals. Despite being ridiculed by neighbors, Fabrizio's grandfather and father never succumbed to pressure to buy products they felt were meant to fix something that wasn't broken. The isolation of the place suits Fabrizio's desire to instigate and protect biodiversity. The thick surrounding woods keep the prospect of a monoculture at bay. They contain many white truffles in the season; they also house many wild boar, who can and do devour a crop of grapes. Some end up at Cascina Iuli in the form of 'Barbera Pig' stew. The wines are Piedmontese to the core, ultra-reflective of the poor, but limestone-rich soils and northernly climate with cool nights. Each wine has a reason for being; each wine has extreme drinkability without losing seriousness or intrigue. They are concentrated in their fruit, but also have a lightness and florality that feel very "Iuli." In the cellar, Iuli's trajectory over the years has become increasingly non-interventionist. Fermentations are carried out spontaneously, with a little so2 added after malolactic fermentations. The tradition in the area is to use concrete tank and large oak cask. Fabrizio wouldn't dream of deviating from that lineage. He adores, collects, and restores small concrete vessels. There's a room in the cellar in which they're lined up like little misfit robots waiting to be deployed. The wines are aged slowly and statically, bottled unfined and unfiltered, when taste and an auspicious moon deem they're ready. *** DON'T MISS THE OPPORTUNITY TO MEET THE WINEMAKER -- FABRIZIO IULI --- VIP EVENT FRIDAY MARCH 27, 2020 FROM 4 - 6 PM ***

$19.99

Iuli Malidea Vino Rosso 2017

Iuli Malidea Vino Rosso 2017

Located in the town of Montaldo in the far north of Monferrato, Iuli is an organic farm and winery, owned by Fabrizio Iuli. Today only 92 people live in his little hometown, a charming, soulful place where we had the good fortune of visiting on one of our European wine buying trips. Monferrato is the home of many of Piedmont's top Barbera wines, which Fabrizio crafts from his old vine organic vineyards, but he also makes this gem made of 100% Nebbiolo. Named Malidea, which translates to 'Bad Idea', since who would wish to make Nebbiolo in the 'Land of Barbera'? But Fabrizio wanted the challenge so in 1999 he planted these vines. The south-facing vineyard was harvested in mid-September in 2017, nearly a month earlier than usual due to the drought conditions of the vintage. Vinified in concrete with 21 days of maceration, aged 16 months in large French oak 2500 L casks, then aged in bottle for 6 months before release. Only 4200 bottles made. The Iuli estate is organically farmed by Fabrizio, and his old vine vineyards have a strong core of limestone which adds a distinctive terroir. We had the incredible opportunity to visit Iuli, hike around the vineyards and taste wine out of barrel and bottle with Fabrizio. His wines clearly have a purity, honesty and joyfulness to them that we just love. They are also seriously complex at the same time. Iuli is set among the last band of dramatic hills and valleys before descending into the rich flatlands of the Po river valley, with the Alps as a backdrop on a clear day. If you're headed to Montaldo, chances are it is to see Fabrizio Iuli. His family figures prominently and colorfully in the town's history. In the 1920s, his grandfather, Gioacchino Natale Iuli, like many young men from the countryside, was courted by a factory job in Lombardia. In a twist of fate, Gioacchino heard that a burgeoning marching band had been formed in Montaldo, so he packed his bags and headed back to become its clarinetist and to start a family. The first vines were planted around 1930. Fabrizio's grandmother, Ernestina, established a little osteria in their living room, a place with warm food and warm hospitality that became a gathering point for the village. There was much conviviality and Iuli Barbera flowing. Though no longer an official restaurant, the feeling continues to this day with Fabrizio and his wife, Summer Wolff, cooking up a storm and popping bottles. It is a place that sucks you in, where time seems to stand still, if only temporarily. Today, Fabrizio is the only winegrower in the town. His first commerical vintage was 1998, with his Barbera called Rossore. The grapes found in his vineyards are Baratuciat (a nearly-extinct white variety from the Val di Susa), Slarina (a red Monferrato variety also almost lost), Grignolino, Nebbiolo, Pinot Nero, and, of course, Barbera. There are 35 contiguous hectares of land in one valley, with 16 hectares planted to vine. Certified organic, the land has never seen any chemicals. Despite being ridiculed by neighbors, Fabrizio's grandfather and father never succumbed to pressure to buy products they felt were meant to fix something that wasn't broken. The isolation of the place suits Fabrizio's desire to instigate and protect biodiversity. The thick surrounding woods keep the prospect of a monoculture at bay. They contain many white truffles in the season; they also house many wild boar, who can and do devour a crop of grapes. Some end up at Cascina Iuli in the form of 'Barbera Pig' stew. The wines are Piedmontese to the core, ultra-reflective of the poor, but limestone-rich soils and northernly climate with cool nights. Each wine has a reason for being; each wine has extreme drinkability without losing seriousness or intrigue. They are concentrated in their fruit, but also have a lightness and florality that feel very "Iuli." In the cellar, Iuli's trajectory over the years has become increasingly non-interventionist. Fermentations are carried out spontaneously, with a little so2 added after malolactic fermentations. The tradition in the area is to use concrete tank and large oak cask. Fabrizio wouldn't dream of deviating from that lineage. He adores, collects, and restores small concrete vessels. There's a room in the cellar in which they're lined up like little misfit robots waiting to be deployed. The wines are aged slowly and statically, bottled unfined and unfiltered, when taste and an auspicious moon deem they're ready. *** DON'T MISS THE OPPORTUNITY TO MEET THE WINEMAKER -- FABRIZIO IULI --- VIP EVENT FRIDAY MARCH 27, 2020 FROM 4 - 6 PM ***

$34.99

Mongarda Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore Brut 2018

Mongarda Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore Brut 2018

Looking for a premium, well-priced Prosecco for your favorite cocktail :: Aperol Spritz? Look no further! This vintage dated, dry-style is from the best area in all of Italy for Prosecco. Mongarda is a small, family-owned, nature-oriented producer of Prosecco. At the beginning of 2020 when we were on the hunt for new Prosecco, this Mongarda blew us away. The family's story began in 1978, when Bruno Tormena decided to dedicate himself full-time to the career of vignaiolo. As a youngster he learned the art of vine cultivation while working with his grandfather in family vineyards in the locality of Mongarda, from which the estate takes its name. Bruno transmitted his passion to his son, Martino, who has run the estate since 2011. Martino is a recent graduate of the enology school in Conegliano and he has intensified his family’s commitment to their land and the quality of their wines. Today, Mongarda has 3 hectares of woods and 10 hectares of vines, spread between the villages of Col San Martino, Farra di Soligo, Miane, and Valdobbiadene. This is the heart of the Valdobbiadene-Conegliano Prosecco Superiore zone, and Mongarda’s vineyards are on extreme slopes with old vines and poor, rocky soils, a situation which forces them to be worked manually. The main varietal is, of course, Glera, but the Tormena family has also kept the local heirlooms of Perera, Verdiso, Bianchetta, and Boschera, which are interspersed through the parcels and co-harvested and co-fermented with the Glera. The vines, some dating back to 1950, are pampered: no weedkillers (undesired plants are mowed or removed by hand) and no synthetic fertilizers (instead, a biodynamic compost of grape skins, vine cuttings, and manure from grass-fed cows is made in-house). In 2015, only copper and sulfur were used to combat disease pressure, and though Martino has set organic certification as a goal, he is also concerned with elevated use of copper, whose toxicity is perhaps the ‘elephant’ in the organic viticulture room, especially in wet, cool, climates. In the cellar, the objective is to let the vintage and vineyards speak for themselves. Grapes are pressed whole cluster, softly enough to avoid extracting bitterness. All primary fermentations are spontaneous. The use of dosage is not formulaic, but is adjusted according to each vintage and disgorgement. So consumers can be assured that this Prosecco is a low sugar option, especially this Brut, which is always more dry than an Extra Dry (contrary to the terminology confusion!). Made of 90% Glera and 10% Verdiso and Bianchetta, 100% harvested by hand, this is from a vineyard named Farra di Soligo in the lieu-dit of San Gallo, about 2 hectares in size at 350-370 meters above sea level, planted in 1950 with southern Exposure and Suolo marcuola soils (calcareous marl and composite rocks). Winemaking: Whole-cluster pressed; primary fermentation with indigenous yeasts in 30HL stainless steel vats, secondary fermentation in autoclave according to the Charmat method. Light filtration before bottling. Dosage: 4 g/l. Production: 8,000 bottles.

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$17.99

Le Ragose Valpolicella Classico 2018

Le Ragose Valpolicella Classico 2018

Le Ragose is a small, high quality, family-run estate. Just to the north of Verona, at the highest point in the Valpolicella zone, lies this 30 acre estate, founded in 1969 by Arnaldo and Marta Galli. Their children, Paolo, Marco and Marina have now joined them to oversee every aspect of the estate, along with Paolo's daughter, and all the picking and care of the vineyards is done by hand in the steep, high altitude, old vine, dry-farmed (no irrigation) vineyards. Le Ragose Valpolicella Classico is produced from 100% estate vineyards sitting about 1,200 feet in elevation. The vineyards are ideally situated with a southwest exposure and soils of red and brown clay, on Eocene limestone. Vines average 30-60 years old at the estate. Made from de-stemmed grapes, 50% Corvina, 20% Rondinella, 20% Corvinone and 10% other authorized grapes, the Valpolicella juice is fermented in temperature controlled stainless steel tanks with indigenous yeasts. Fermentation is 12-14 days. Look for a brilliant ruby red color, fresh scents of cherry, berry and pomegranate. Serve with starters, Pasta, Soup, White and Red meats at r oom temperature or slightly chilled in Summer.

$24.99

Luca Malbec 2017

Luca Malbec 2017

Laura Catena, daughter of Argentine wine pioneer Nicolás Catena, is fulfilling her vision of creating a new breed of Argentine wines: small quantities, artisan quality, and true to their individual terroirs. She starts with some of Argentina’s best fruit from low-yield, high elevation vineyards. State-of-the-art winemaking and oak aging (primarily French) elevate the wines to a quality level demanded by true wine connoisseurs. The final varietal blends deliver power along with complexity and finesse. They are the ultimate expression of rigorous vineyard management, viticultural experimentation, strict irrigation controls, skilled winemaking, and a quest for quality at any cost. Luca is named after Laura Catena’s son. The family crest (the McDermott family) that appears in the label’s background is that of Laura’s husband, Dan. Laura is continually inspired by the synthesis of cultures in her own family, and this international inspiration infuses the style and quality of her wines. Luca is made from Malbec vineyards located in the Uco Valley: Altamira, La Consulta and Gualtallary. The s oils is these premium high-elevation vineyards are very poor with l imestone in Altamira and La Consulta. All the vines are ungrafted and average 44 years in age. All work is done by hand including the harvest.

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$34.99

Lyrarakis Symbolo 2014

Lyrarakis Symbolo 2014

Talk about a show stopper... if you enjoy rich, concentrated reds, whether you reach for Napa Cabs, Big Bordeaux or Super Tuscans, this is the red for you. Symbolo is a very special reserve wine hailing from Crete and the quality-driven Lyrarakis family. Its inaugural release was a celebration of the great vintage of 2005, marking an important milestone in the history of the Lyrarakis Estate. They have since kept the commitment to release this wine only in the very best vintages . The 2008 and 2012 were also deemed worthy of the "Symbolo" title as is this recent vintage of 2014. Beautifully ripened and concentrated grapes of Syrah, Mandilari and Merlot were sourced from the family's finest sustainable and organic vineyard sites, macerated gently and aged for 17 months in French and American oak barrels. Symbolo 2014 is full of ripe dark fruits supported by oak spices and cocoa butter with a hint of coconut milk. On the palate, it is a powerful wine, full of chewy tannins with an incredibly long and savory finish. Pair it with juicy steaks, slow-smoked ribs and more.... this will impress you! The Lyrarakis Estate was founded in 1966 by brothers Manolis and Sotiris Lyrarakis. It is surrounded by the Lassithi mountains and focuses on rare local varieties and single variety wines. The Lyrarakis family is credited with the revival of two ancient white Cretan varieties, Dafni and Plyto while a third “vineyard treasure”, the indigenous Melissaki, was recently added to their credit. Kotsifali and Mandilari are our favorite local red wines they make, and Syrah, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon go into their special Symbolo bottling. The winery is situated in one of the most noteworthy vineyard regions of Crete, namely at Alagni, Heraklion, the most mountainous village of the appellation area (AOC) of PEZA. The company only started bottling wines under the Lyrarakis name in the early nineties, and 1992 was the first vintage. Today, the company is managed by the second generation: Bart (CEO and now our good friend:), George (Chairman) and Manolis (viticulturalist). The estate vineyards spread over 14 hectares, at an average altitude of 550 meters. The soil is composed of gravel and limestone. The farming is sustainable and they are in conversion to organic farming - certain vineyards are already certified. Biodynamic viticulture in selected vineyards. Member of the People4soil initiative - European Citizens Initiative (ECI) - aiming at lobbying for the creation of a specific European legislation that will recognize soil as a common good and will establish regulations for its protection. An organic community garden produces part of the vegetables used for the meals served during the meetings of various groups (employees, members of St August winegrowers group and others).

~~$59.99~~$49.99

Lyrarakis Voila Assyrtiko 2019

Lyrarakis Voila Assyrtiko 2019

This tastes like s ummer in a bottle with its thirst quenching style, but we will drink it all year long now that it is here in the U.S.! Made of 100% Assyrtiko from dry-farmed vineyards located in the area of Vóila, in the eastern part of Crête, at 580 meters above sea level. The soil is composed of loam and the grapes are hand-harvested then fermented on the skins for 16 hours at 12C (53F). Slow fermentation (around 2 weeks) in stainless steel tanks follows. Serve with all kinds of seafood, white meat cooked with lemon and oregano, goat and sheep's milk cheeses, salads or on its own as an impeccable aperitif. This wine is part of the Lyrarakis family's Single Area series, which highlights the place where each wine is grown. The Lyrarakis Estate was founded in 1966 by brothers Manolis and Sotiris Lyrarakis. It is surrounded by the Lassithi mountains and focuses on rare local varieties and single variety wines. The Lyrarakis family is credited with the revival of two ancient white Cretan varieties, Dafni and Plyto while a third “vineyard treasure”, the indigenous Melissaki, was also recently added to their credit. Indigenous reds such as Kotsifali and Mandilari are highlights at the estate, as well as Syrah, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, for which the great Symbolo is produced (also in stock at the Bottle Shop). The winery is situated in one of the most noteworthy vineyard regions of Crete, namely at Alagni, Heraklion, the most mountainous village of the appellation area (AOC) of PEZA. The company only started bottling wines under the Lyrarakis name in the early nineties, and 1992 was the first vintage. Today, the company is managed by the second generation: Bart (CEO and now good friend of the Bottle Shop), George (Chairman) and Manolis (viticulturalist). The estate vineyards spread over 14 hectares, at an average altitude of 550 meters. The soil is composed of gravel and limestone.

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$22.99

Lyrarakis Mandilari Plakoura Vineyard 2017

Lyrarakis Mandilari Plakoura Vineyard 2017

This is a beautiful, balanced, refined Greek red made of 100% Mandilari, an indigenous ancient greek variety. The rare low-yielding Plakoura vineyard is the equivalent of a premier cru, with a slope at 500 meters. This high altitude, with sandy, stony soils breeds complex red wines. The head-trained pruning in combination with the north-east exposure of the vineyard and plenty of sunshine, ensures that the grapes reach optimum ripeness at the time of harvest. Very thorough cultivation helps the Lyrarakis family achieve extremely low yields, succeeding in crafting a very concentrated wine with a deep red color and an excellent structure, which will age for a long time. The Lyrarakis Estate was founded in 1966 by brothers Manolis and Sotiris Lyrarakis. It is surrounded by the Lassithi mountains and focuses on rare local varieties and single variety wines. The Lyrarakis family is credited with the revival of two ancient white Cretan varieties, Dafni and Plyto while a third “vineyard treasure”, the indigenous Melissaki, was also recently added to their credit. Indigenous reds such as Kotsifali and Mandilari are highlights at the estate, as well as Syrah, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, for which the great Symbolo is produced (also in stock at the Bottle Shop). The winery is situated in one of the most noteworthy vineyard regions of Crete, namely at Alagni, Heraklion, the most mountainous village of the appellation area (AOC) of PEZA. The company only started bottling wines under the Lyrarakis name in the early nineties, and 1992 was the first vintage. Today, the company is managed by the second generation: Bart (CEO and now good friend of the Bottle Shop), George (Chairman) and Manolis (viticulturalist). The estate vineyards spread over 14 hectares, at an average altitude of 550 meters. The soil is composed of gravel and limestone.

jr16.5

$29.99

Pursued by Bear Bear Cub Red Blend 2016

Pursued by Bear Bear Cub Red Blend 2016

The debut release of Bear Cub Red from Kyle MacLachlan in Washington State, is a Cabernet Sauvignon-dominated blend with Merlot and Syrah. Grapes are selected from eight distinct vineyards, including sites located in the Horse Heaven Hills, Wahluke Slope, Red Mountain and Walla Walla Valley. The grapes are hand-pruned throughout the growing season, and hand-harvested in the fall. The Cabernet and Merlot grapes are whole-berry pressed, then gently fermented and aged in tight grain French oak barrels with thick staves to allow the fruit and oak to integrate slowly. Syrah, aged in 600L Taransaud puncheons, adds richness and depth to the mid-palate. Aged for 28 months in barrel and 3 months in bottle prior to release. Black cherry and cola, with hints of vanilla bean and shaved cocoa, fill the glass. Soft and lush on the midpalate, inviting dark fruit flavors, notably wild blackberry, blueberry pie and cassis, linger across a silky finish. Actor and Yakima native Kyle MacLachlan has been producing Pursued by Bear Cabernet Sauvignon for 10+ years, making top notch Washington State Cabernets and Syrahs. The project (which takes its cheeky name from a stage direction, "Exit, pursued by bear," in Shakespeare's The Winter's Tale) was rooted in Kyle's birthplace of Yakima and his friendship with the late Eric Dunham, a great Washington State winemaker who inspired him to start the project. His wines are truly exciting, well-made, complex and a pleasure to drink.

~~$39.99~~$29.99

Lyrarakis Dafni Psarades Vineyard White 2019

Lyrarakis Dafni Psarades Vineyard White 2019

Made of 100% Dafní, an indigenous greek variety saved from extinction in the early 90’s by the Lyrarakis family and planted in their “Psarades” estate vineyard. It is located in central Crête, at 480 meters above sea level. The soil is clay and loam. “Dáfni” means laurel (bay leaf) in Greek. The eponymous wine evokes its aromas. This goes through s kin contact for 10 hours. 5% of the juice comes from grapes that are fermented for an extended time on the skins in order to balance the acidity. Fermentation in stainless steel tanks, aging on the lees for 4 months. Aromas of laurel, rosemary, citrus notes in the background, refreshing mouthfeel and intensely aromatic finish. Sustainable and organic farming practices, and this is vegan. The Lyrarakis Estate was founded in 1966 by brothers Manolis and Sotiris Lyrarakis. It is surrounded by the Lassithi mountains and focuses on rare local varieties and single variety wines. The Lyrarakis family is credited with the revival of two ancient white Cretan varieties, Dafni and Plyto while a third “vineyard treasure”, the indigenous Melissaki, was also recently added to their credit. Indigenous reds such as Kotsifali and Mandilari are highlights at the estate, as well as Syrah, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, for which the great Symbolo is produced (also in stock at the Bottle Shop). The winery is situated in one of the most noteworthy vineyard regions of Crete, namely at Alagni, Heraklion, the most mountainous village of the appellation area (AOC) of PEZA. The company only started bottling wines under the Lyrarakis name in the early nineties, and 1992 was the first vintage. Today, the company is managed by the second generation: Bart (CEO and now good friend of the Bottle Shop:), George (Chairman) and Manolis (viticulturalist). The estate vineyards spread over 14 hectares, at an average altitude of 550 meters. The soil is composed of gravel and limestone. This wine's story just gets better and better, found this : Daphne was the dazzlingly beautiful nymph of Greek mythology who was turned into a laurel tree when she begged to be saved from Apollo’s advances. Daphne, or dafni, means laurel. It is also the name of an extremely rare white grape, native to the island of Crete, that is so-called because it makes wine that has a distinctive whiff of bay. According to Bart Lyrarakis of Domaine Lyrarakis, wine made from Dafni was likely to have been drunk by the Minoans. “A copper vessel dating back to the late Minoan period was found in the Cave of Ilithias [goddess of childbirth and fertility]. It’s inscribed – in ancient Linear A writing – with the words dafnitis oinos – laurel wine.”

bot95
wa89
jr16.5

$24.99

Gérard Boulay Sancerre Rosé Sibylle 2019

Gérard Boulay Sancerre Rosé Sibylle 2019

This small family domaine of 9 hectares located in Chavignol can trace its history back to 1380. The land records for that year mention Jean Boulay as owner of vineyards in Chavignol. At the time, the Clos de Beaujeu in Chavignol was already known for the quality of its white wine which is remarkable since Sancerre was known as a red wine area until after phylloxera invaded it. In the 14th century the Clos de Beaujeu supplied the Cathedral of Bourges with white wine. Of the 9 hectares owned by Gerard Boulay, 8 of the hectares are on the slopes of Chavignol on Kimmeridgian or “terre blanche” soils (similar to the soils in Chablis), which he works manually and has farmed organically since 1990. The youngest vines at the domaine were planted by Mr. Boulay in 1972 and the average vine age is approximately 45 years old. The wines ferment naturally in tank and with the exception of the Chavignol tradition which is also aged in tank, the parcellaire wines are aged in in a mix of Foudres and used 300L barrels. Gerard adds no yeast and little to no SO2 during vinfication. He describes his role as one of “surveillance” to make sure nothing goes wrong. In general he works by instinct, “au feeling” because he wants to “let the wine live” and tries not to interfere with the natural process. “C’est la nature qui fait le vin” (Nature makes the wine). Boulay and Mother Nature team up to produce beautiful Sancerre wines. This gorgeous Sancerre Rosé is created from 35-40 year old Pinot Noir vines on the steep clay hillsides in front of the Boulay home in Chavignol. Gerard works the soil manually and lets nature make the wine. Tank fermented. Boulay adds no yeast and minimal amounts of SO2. Only 200 cases made per year. U nlike many Sancerre Roses, Gerard harvests his Pinot specifically to make rose by direct press, then into tank. It is not a selection of young vines as he has no young Pinot vines. What makes the rosé one year could make red another, and vice versa, depending on what the vintage gives.

v93

$34.99

Iuli Barbera del Monferrato Superiore Rossore 2017

Iuli Barbera del Monferrato Superiore Rossore 2017

This Barbera from Monferrato in Piedmont is an extraordinary, high quality Barbera made by winemaker Fabrizio Iuli. Rossore, named after the color Barbera puts in your cheeks, was in reality the first wine Fabrizio ever produced in 1998, and the predecessor to his Barabba label. He blends 100% organic estate fruit into the Rossore, including fruit from Barabba, his ancient plot of Barbera. The result is a wine with a ripe, chocolately nose followed by a palate packed with flavor, ripeness and underlying acidity and tannin. The Barabba vineyard is his oldest plot of Barbera, with vines planted in 1930 and 1960, located on a steep, rocky hill with a limestone core. The core of the blend is from vines planted between 1980-1998 from south-facing parcels. Rossore is aged in concrete and large French oak casks of 1700-2500L for 25 months, followed by 6 months in bottle. 11,000 bottles made. Fabrizio Iuli calls himself a barberista , for his love, focus and dedication to the Barbera grape. Located in the small town of Montaldo in Monferrato, which is the home of many of Piedmont's top Barbera wines . We had the incredible opportunity to visit Iuli, hike around the vineyards and taste wine out of barrel and bottle with Fabrizio. His wines clearly have a purity, honesty and joyfulness to them that we just love. They are also seriously complex at the same time. Rossore Barbera will be a flavorful crowd-pleaser with many types of foods. Grilled or roasted meats, oven roasted tomatoes, baby back ribs, pasta dishes with meat sauces, aged cheeses and salumi, a thick-cut bacon lettuce and tomato sandwich and more will pair amazingly. Iuli is set among the last band of dramatic hills and valleys before descending into the rich flatlands of the Po river valley, with the Alps as a backdrop on a clear day. If you're headed to Montaldo, chances are it is to see Fabrizio Iuli. His family figures prominently and colorfully in the town's history. In the 1920s, his grandfather, Gioacchino Natale Iuli, like many young men from the countryside, was courted by a factory job in Lombardia. In a twist of fate, Gioacchino heard that a burgeoning marching band had been formed in Montaldo, so he packed his bags and headed back to become its clarinetist and to start a family. The first vines were planted around 1930. Fabrizio's grandmother, Ernestina, established a little osteria in their living room, a place with warm food and warm hospitality that became a gathering point for the village. There was much conviviality and Iuli Barbera flowing. Though no longer an official restaurant, the feeling continues to this day with Fabrizio and his wife, Summer Wolff, cooking up a storm and popping bottles. It is a place that sucks you in, where time seems to stand still, if only temporarily. Today, Fabrizio is the only winegrower in the town. His first commerical vintage was 1998, with his Barbera called Rossore. The grapes found in his vineyards are Baratuciat (a nearly-extinct white variety from the Val di Susa), Slarina (a red Monferrato variety also almost lost), Grignolino, Nebbiolo, Pinot Nero, and, of course, Barbera. There are 35 contiguous hectares of land in one valley, with 16 hectares planted to vine. Certified organic, the land has never seen any chemicals. Despite being ridiculed by neighbors, Fabrizio's grandfather and father never succumbed to pressure to buy products they felt were meant to fix something that wasn't broken. The isolation of the place suits Fabrizio's desire to instigate and protect biodiversity. The thick surrounding woods keep the prospect of a monoculture at bay. They contain many white truffles in the season; they also house many wild boar, who can and do devour a crop of grapes. Some end up at Cascina Iuli in the form of 'Barbera Pig' stew. The wines are Piedmontese to the core, ultra-reflective of the poor, but limestone-rich soils and northernly climate with cool nights. Each wine has a reason for being; each wine has extreme drinkability without losing seriousness or intrigue. They are concentrated in their fruit, but also have a lightness and florality that feel very "Iuli." In the cellar, Iuli's trajectory over the years has become increasingly non-interventionist. Fermentations are carried out spontaneously, with a little so2 added after malolactic fermentations. The tradition in the area is to use concrete tank and large oak cask. Fabrizio wouldn't dream of deviating from that lineage. He adores, collects, and restores small concrete vessels. There's a room in the cellar in which they're lined up like little misfit robots waiting to be deployed. The wines are aged slowly and statically, bottled unfined and unfiltered, when taste and an auspicious moon deem they're ready. *** DON'T MISS THE OPPORTUNITY TO MEET THE WINEMAKER -- FABRIZIO IULI --- VIP EVENT FRIDAY MARCH 27, 2020 FROM 4 - 6 PM ***

$26.99

Luigi Voghera Dolcetto d'Alba Vigna Basarin 2018

Luigi Voghera Dolcetto d'Alba Vigna Basarin 2018

This is literally one of the greatest values in all of Italy at this very moment. Made of 100% Dolcetto sourced from two hectares of 30-year-old vines in the illustrious Basarin cru of Neive, the vines grow at 250-300 meters above sea level at a southeastern exposure. After pressing, the must macerates on the skins for 4 to 5 days in stainless steel, then is racked off and aged in steel for 7 to 8 months. Only about 400 cases are produced each year. The Voghera family have been farmers in Neive in Barbaresco for many, many generations. They grew grapes for a modest production of family wine, but also cultivated grain and fruit trees. The estate as we know it today was born in 1974, when Luigi Voghera, the father of the current owner, dedicated his farm entirely to the production of grapes and started to vinify and bottle his own production. Luigi’s son Livio adheres to his father’s old-school and time-tested methods of production: longer maceration on the skins, and aging in large oak cask. All of Livio’s offerings are estate bottled, and across the board tremendous values. His Dolcetto is a faithful companion to any ragù, or with savory pasta dishes, roasted meats, cheeses and salumi, pizza and Italian sandwiches.

$19.99

J.J. Vincent Pouilly Fuissé Marie Antoinette 2018

J.J. Vincent Pouilly Fuissé Marie Antoinette 2018

If you like flavorful, elegant, dry whites with a touch of wood, this Pouilly-Fuissé is the perfect wine for you! This 2017 is outstanding, exhibiting real terroir coupled with fresh, pure fruit flavors. It is our favorite vintage in 10+ years! Made of 100% Chardonnay, 'Marie Antoinette' Pouilly Fuissé is made from grapes grown in several parcels belonging to owner Jean-Jacques Vincent's two sisters, and the wine is named after his mother, Marie Antoinette Vincent. The soils of the different vineyards impart their own special characteristics into the wine. The stony soils of the Vergisson Vineyards provide the beautiful acidity, elegance and minerality, while the clay soils in the Fuisse vineyard give the wine its full-bodied structure and generous fruit character. The wine is vinified separately in small oak barrels by Jean-Jacques' son Antoine, and then blended to achieve a well-balanced Pouilly Fuissé, combining all the wonderful characteristics of the different 'terroirs'. Serena Sutcliffe, MW, has referred to Jean Jacques Vincent as "one of the most brilliant makers of white Burgundy". He is also the owner/winemaker at the celebrated Chateau Fuisse, and also produces an outstanding line of special selections under his own name with his talented son Antoine Vincent now firmly by his side. The 'Marie Antoinette' is one of the wines under the 'JJ' label. I sold this wine to restaurants in NYC for many years while working for Frederick Wildman and Sons, and my clients loved it for the quality and the price! Also a New York Times favorite, who called it 'deliciously focused and refreshing...the Marie-Antoinette was weighty yet focused with smoky fruit and mineral flavors. 3 Stars.'

$29.99

Domaine Dominique Gruhier Bourgogne Epineuil Cuvée Juliette Rouge 2018

Domaine Dominique Gruhier Bourgogne Epineuil Cuvée Juliette Rouge 2018

The village of Epineuil is located just northeast of Chablis, sharing the same Kimmeridgian soils. Bourgogne Epineuil is the regional AOC, created in 1993, for the reds which are 100% Pinot Noir. We tasted and positively adored this Cuvée Juliette, made from 50% whole cluster, 15 months in oak, only 10% new and no added sulfites. It’s ripe, velvety, delicious, and has oodles of violets, lavender, red berries…this is classic Burgundian Pinot Noir from a lesser-known AOC, and very worth seeking out. Dominique only makes about 600 cases of Juliette each year from his oldest vines. Dominique Gruhier hasn't had it easy, getting his domaine to this point. Throughout his many troubles which included frozen vineyards, fires and lawsuits, he remained one of the warmest, most charming, welcoming, well-mannered, and smiling men in Burgundy. As his domaine and his relatively obscure appellation began to attract more customers, he has been able to make the investments and changes that were necessary to let his talent shine. What beautiful wines have emerged! Fine, sexy, juicy, vivacious, saline and chalky. They are some of the greatest values we have tasted in Burgundy, and what we like to think of as 'Chablisien Pinot Noir'.

$39.99

Francois Baur Sang du Dragon Pinot Noir 2017

Francois Baur Sang du Dragon Pinot Noir 2017

This Pinot Noir from the Alsace region is an absolute beauty and a wonderful example from northern France. With its perfumed aromas of red and black fruits, mocha, vanilla, forest and stones., Sang du Dragon Pinot is smooth, silky and pure, with a perfect balance of fruit, acidity and gentle tannin. Pair at home with salmon in dried cherry sauce, roasted chicken or fine cheeses and charcuterie. Continuous vine growing in Alsace dates back to Roman times; viticulture in the Brand area was recorded in 1328 from documents of Paris and the abbeys of Munster. Red wines have been traditionally rare in Alsace because of the region's cool growing season and northerly location, but today we are seeing more and more reds produced with changing climates and organic winemaking methods. The name for this Pinot, 'Sang du Dragon' comes from an old legend...when the valley of the Rhine was still underwater, a dragon emerged from the waves to rest on the protruding Brand hilltop. The sun was too fierce, however, and its rays eventually pierced the dragon's scales, drawing blood. Gravely wounded, the dragon dragged itself to a cave where it then died. Many centuries later, wine growers came to plant vines in this area. Still fertile with the dragon's blood, legend has it that the vines even today produce a wine of fire. Today, Baur's wines carry the dragon's image. In an email we received from Virginie Baur, she told us : "Sang du Dragon means dragon's blood. There is a legend that a dragon was slain in this vineyard (the Brand vineyard), and the blood of the dragon made the vines strong. 'Brand' means "land of fire" in German and is a Grand Cru Vineyard but only Muscat, Pinot Gris, Gewurztraminer and Riesling can have the Grand Cru Appellation according to the AC laws, so we named the wine 'Sang du Dragon'." The story is fun for sure, but the wine itself is amazing. We drink it at home often, it is a wonderfully terroir -driven treat! Over the past several years, Baur has converted his vineyards to fully biodynamic production--a totally natural approach to the cultivation of vines that makes every attempt to respect the plants, the soil and the environment. No weed killers or insecticides are used; instead, certain types of grasses are encouraged to grow between the vines which actually strengthen the soil. To provide aeration, the earth is plowed manually a few times a year. Only natural products are used on the leaves of the vine itself: Work is scheduled according to the phases of the moon, often at night while the vines are resting and not fatigued by the sun. Studying in the same biodynamics class as Jean-Michel Deiss, one notes the fervor with which Pierre Baur (Virginie's father) now addresses his work; it has become a religion to him and, he trusts nature explicitly in his vineyards.

$39.99