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IT'S BACK TO SCHOOL & BACK TO BASICS
Even those of us
in the wine business are going back to basics. In this economic environment
we can all learn a thing or two - who better to teach everyone then the master?
Here at the Los Angeles Wine Company we have written the book for over twenty eight years on Value and Cost to Quality. After all our guiding mantra has always
been: "Every Wine In Our Stock is Expertly Selected
for Best Cost/Quality Ratio and Always Sale Priced." We know good
wines and good deals when we taste them. We work hard and are consistently giving
out good customer service, time and time again. Forget about the chains, clubs,
drug stores, and big boxed warehouse stores where you are nothing but a number
in line. Shop here every time for the "best for less". Why get inferior wines
at higher prices when you can get great wine advice and superior wine deals
everyday every time?
THANK YOU FOR YOUR BUSINESS IN ADVANCE!
ONE PROGRAMING NOTE: We will be closed for YOM KIPPUR, Saturday September 18th. Please SHOP EARLY and remember you can shop right here right now on the web. Our store will re-open Sunday the 19th at NOON! Happy Holidays!!
DID YOU ALSO KNOW?........... IN STORE PICK UP IS FREE!! BUY NOW SHIP LATER
(Shipments that involve special needs or weather holds for future
shipping can and will be accommodatedat no charge.
Please provide detailed instructions at the time you place your order.
ORDER HERE. CLICK IT!! |
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THIS IS A SLEEPER BUY!
2008
Brokenwood
Semillon
Hunter Valley
"Light, tangy and refreshing for its deft balance of citrus, pear and apple flavors, persisting impressively on the delicate finish. Needs time to develop. Best after 2013. 300 cases imported." (WS)
Wine Spectator: 89 pts.
"At a refreshing and infinitely drinkable 10% alcohol, their classic 2008 Hunter Valley Semillon is a solid example of this distinctive style that can be approached in its relative youth, though it ages wonderfully. It begins a little mute with subtle aromas of pure lime juice, fresh herbs and white pepper. With a light body, and crisp, lemony palate, it gives a long citrusy finish. In late 2009 it was going through a bit of a closed stage with nervy fruit flavors looking to manifest themselves. By the time I tasted it again in January, 2010, it was emerging nicely from this slumber. Drink 2010-2016. Founded in 1970, Brokenwood, by virtue of its illustrious founders (3 lawyers from Sydney) and a proven track-record for producing superlative wines, is today amongst the Hunter Valley’s icons. Production is now at around 100,000 cases with about 50% of this being accounted for by the Cricket Pitch Red and White. Hunter Valley fruit constitutes around 25% of production and it’s their wines from this region that really make Brokenwood outstanding. Brokenwood’s famous Graveyard Vineyard was planted in 1968 using Shiraz cuttings from the vineyards of a couple of the Hunter’s oldest examples: Tyrrell’s and McWilliams. The soils at Graveyard are relatively infertile, slowing the ripening process and giving small vines." (WA)
Wine Adocate: 88 pts.
"($20; 10% alcohol) Bright straw. Pungent, spicy herbal, mineral and citrus aromas, plus a hint of anise. Limeade and pink grapefruit on the palate, with white pepper and bitter quinine notes adding vivacity. Firm, sharply focused and pure on the finish, with the lime note repeating. This uncompromising style will be too severe for some, but fans of truly dry wines will love it." (IWC)
International Wine Cellar: 90 pts.
only $14.95 |
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HUGE REDUCTION!
$90.00 LIST PRICE!!
2006
Pahlmeyer
Merlot
Napa Valley
"Pahlmeyer’s Merlot was the uncontested top California Merlot for many years, but significant competition has emerged from the upstart Kapcsandy Estate in Yountville. However, Pahlmeyer’s offering remains one of the classic examples of just how great Merlot can be in Napa. The 2006 Merlot (89% Merlot and 11% Cabernet Sauvignon) exhibits sweet chocolate, mocha, cola, black cherry, and plum aromas and flavors as well as full body, a sumptuous, dense texture, and no hard edges. The beautifully integrated acidity, tannin, and wood result in a hedonistic, mouthfilling, luscious Merlot to consume over the next 10-15 years. Things just seem to get better and better at Pahlmeyer, a long-standing, brilliant, remarkably consistent source for one of Napa’s finest Merlots, Chardonnays, and Pinot Noirs." (WA)
Wine Advocate: 94 pts.
"(includes 11% cabernet sauvignon) Full ruby-red. Black raspberry, licorice, truffle, shoe polish and a note of black olive on the nose. Sweet, lush and plump, with expressive flavors of black plum syrup, dark chocolate, mocha and truffle. This boasts a solid middle ("the addition of some cabernet adds weight and fills out the palate," notes winemaker Green) to support its substantial ripe tannins. Finishes with dark fruits and earth. This has turned out very well." (IWC)
International Wine Cellar: 92 pts.
only $59.95 |
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2009
Bodegas La Cana
Albarino
Rias Baixas
"La Cana’s just bottled 2009 Albarino reveals the excellence of the vintage in Rias Baixas. Light gold-colored with an unusually fragrant nose of mineral, lemon zest, and spring flowers that jumps from the glass, on the palate it exhibits a creamy texture, vibrant acidity, and a lengthy, refreshing finish. Drink it over the next 3 years." (WA)
Wine Advocate: 90 pts.
This is the second release of this wine.This winery is a new project between the Gil family of Jumilla and Jorge Ordoñez. The grapes for this wine come from 11.5 Ha of vineyards (5.2 Ha are estate owned and 6.3 Ha are owned by local growers) divided amongst 12 parcels located in Sisan Ribadumia in the Salnes Valley, the most northern part of the Rias Baixas very near the Atlantic ocean. The vines were planted in 1966 in the pergola system, traditional for this area. The soils are very sandy and have a high acidity due to their proximity to the ocean. Yields are 4.5 T/Ha. The winemaker is Alistair Gardner from New Zealand, well regarded for his work in white wines both in Spain and in New Zealand. The wine is partially barrel fermented and all of the wine rests sur lie. Production: 4,300 Cases
(Winery Notes)
only
$11.95 |
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WHY
SHOP ELSEWHERE WHEN WE HAVE THE LOWEST PRICE?
2007
Joseph Phelps
Insignia
Napa Valley
"Firm, intense and concentrated, massive yet well-proportioned, with a dense, focused core of graphite, dried currant, blackberry, black tea, forest floor and blueberry flavors. Full-blown, finishing with rich, layered tannins that beg for cellaring. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot. Best from 2013 through 2025."
(WS)
Wine Spectator: 96 pts.
"The 2007 Insignia (a 13,500-case blend of 88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Merlot, and 4% Petit Verdot) offers a seamless introduction to this flagship cuvee. Its inky/purple color is followed by aromas of creme de cassis, incense, crushed rocks, lead pencil shavings, cedar, and spice box. It possesses a massive, opulent mouthfeel, serious tannins, and no hard edges. This stunning effort should hit its peak in 5-8 years, and last 40 years. I would not be surprised to see it become the greatest Insignia to date and close in on a perfect score. In case you think the aging curves I have described are unrealistically long, I have the Joseph Phelps regular Cabernets from the mid-seventies as well as the Insignias in my cellar, and those wines are still drinking beautifully at 30+ years of age. Today’s wines are better made." (WA)
Wine Advocate: 97-100 pts.
"Full deep ruby. Urgent aromas of crushed cassis, bitter chocolate, violet, licorice and minerals; almost medicinal today. Then juicy and bright in the mouth, with sharper definition and more depth of material than the 2006. Lovely graphite and violet perfume perks up the dark fruit flavors and gives lift to the finish. Finishes with substantial fine tannins and excellent length." (IWC)
International Wine Cellar: 92 pts.
only $149.95 |
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SUPER UNDER-PRICED! DRINKS GREAT NOW!
2009
Montebuena
Rioja
"The 2009 Montebuena is 100% Tempranillo. Dark ruby-colored, it offers an appealing perfume of spice box, leather, tobacco, and blackberry. On the palate it is packed with ripe fruit, has outstanding concentration, and impeccable balance. It is a great bargain that offers a sneak preview of the great 2009 vintage in Rioja and northern Spain in general. It should drink well for 6-8 years. " (WA)
Wine Advocate: 90 pts.
Produced from 100% Tempranillo grapes, which are hand harvested from the Montebuena vineyard. Brilliant deep ruby red color, fruity aromas. Montebuena Red has a spicy vanilla bouquet and is smooth and fruity in the mouth with some well-integrated secondary nuances, full-flavored and a persistent pleasant finish.
(Winery Notes)
only
$7.99 |
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2008
Beringer
Chardonnay
Private Reserve
Napa Valley
"Big, ripe and complex, with full-bodied apple, melon, pear and citrus notes that gain depth and turn creamy in texture, picking up a dash of anise and cedar on the finish. Drink now through 2014." (WS)
Wine Spectator: 92 pts.
"The 2008 Chardonnay Private Reserve continues the success Beringer has enjoyed with this program. Notes of brioche, hazelnut, marmalade, honeyed tropical fruits, buttered citrus, and a gentle touch of smoke are found in this full-bodied, concentrated wine with impressive purity, depth, and length. It should drink well for 4-5 years. As I have written in the past, Beringer offers between 200-250 cases of each of their single vineyard Cabernet Sauvignons that go into their Private Reserve program. Interestingly, as good as the single vineyard cuvees tend to be, and they’re all very different, the Private Reserve blend is as good or better than the finest single vineyard, demonstrating that the blending process is essential and important." (WA)
Wine Advocate: 94 pts.
"($37) Bright yellow. Grape and pineapple fruit aromas are enlivened by floral lift and solid minerality. Broad, dense, ripe and sweet, with a chewy, saline quality and some smoky oak notes contributing to this wine's impressively tactile mouth feel. Finishes long, ripe and sweet, with stone and citrus fruit flavors and solid underlying structure." (IWC)
International Wine Cellar: 92 pts.
A blend of Beringer’s northernmost Chardonnay vineyards – this chardonnay is a mixture of the most expressive lots and blended to create an intensely aromatic and flavorful wine featuring citrus, tropical notes of fresh pineapple and mango, crème brulée, brown spice and butterscotch that come together for a seamlessly long, plush finish. This wine is truly the chardonnay lover’s chardonnay!
(Winery Notes)
only $27.95 |
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2009 WINE SPECTATOR TOP 100: #24
2005
Penfolds
Shiraz
St. Henri
Barossa Valley, Langhorne Creek, Adelaide Hills
"Aromatic, complex and silky, slipping in its gorgeous blackberry, currant and plum fruit against a seething background of toast, spice, mineral and loamy earth. The texture is seamless, and the flavors just take off, sailing through the long, expressive finish. Best from 2011 through 2020. 1,000 cases imported. " (WS)
Wine Spectator: 95 pts.
"The 2005 St. Henri Shiraz is matured for 16 months in large, seasoned oak vats and includes 10% Cabernet Sauvignon. It exhibits a floral-accented perfume along with nutmeg, cinnamon, licorice, and blueberry. Medium-bodied and impeccably balanced, it displays a complex array of fruit and spice flavors leading to a lengthy, pure finish. Drink this stylish effort over the next 10-12 years." (WA)
Wine Advocate: 90 pts.
"($65) Deep ruby-red. Sexy aromas of blackberry, blueberry, incense, dried flowers, cola and vanilla. Lush, creamy and sweet, offering deep dark berry compote flavors, velvety texture and mounting spiciness. The sweet dark berry notes echo through a strikingly long, juicy and focused finish. Bet on this to improve for at least another decade but there's plenty of appeal right now." (IWC)
International Wine Cellar: 92 pts.
"Very fine, supple, elegant and seamless, this old-fashioned expression of the Australian Ôburgundy' style, is full to medium in weight, with earthy, leathery and chocolatey complexity beneath its briary expression of bright red and black fruits. Supported by fine, cherry kernel-like tannins, it's silky-smooth, slightly minty and meaty, finishing long and savoury with nuances of licorice, raisins and menthol.(18.6/95, YTD 2017-2025)" (JO)
Australian Wine with Jeremy Oliver: 95 pts.
Penfolds St Henri is a highly successful and alternative expression of Shiraz and an intriguing counterpoint to Grange. It is unusual among high quality Australian red wines as it does not rely on any new oak. It was created in the early 1950s (first commercial vintage 1957) and gained a new lease of life in the 1990s as its quality and distinctive style became better understood. St Henri is rich and plush when young, gaining soft, earthy, mocha-like characters as it ages. It is matured in old, 1460-litre vats that allow the wine to develop, imparting minimal, if any oak character. Although a small proportion of Cabernet is sometimes used to improve structure, the focal point for St Henri remains Shiraz. "Drinking well upon release, yet this will cellar - as per its template. Over half a century on - the St Henri stylistic stamp remains indelible." -Peter Gago - Penfolds Chief Winemaker
(Winery Notes)
only $49.95 |
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WHAT VALUE IN THIS DAY AND AGE...CASES A MUST!!
2008
Snoqualmie
Riesling
Winemaker’s Select
Columbia Valley, Washington
"Soft and light, this is sweet enough to make the melon and citrus flavors feel rich, but the tang on the finish keeps it in balance. Drink now." (WS)
Wine Spectator: 87 pts.
Winemaker Comments
“This Winemaker’s Select Riesling is crisp, refreshing, and bursting with aromas of spicy pear and dried apricots. The richly textured palate is characterized by spice and fruit as well as lingering notes of honey.” -Joy Andersen, Winemaker
Food Pairings
Fruit desserts, pasta with grilled chicken, scallops with cream reduction sauce
(Winery Notes)
only $5.99 |
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2005
Bodegas Muga
Reserva
Rioja
"This red is focused and graceful, with black cherry and tart plum flavors framed by leafy, smoky and minerally notes. Shows a good balance of light tannins and lively acidity. Drink now through 2015. 4,000 cases imported." (WS)
Wine Spectator: 90 pts.
"The purple-colored 2005 Muga Reserva, a blend of 70% Tempranillo, 20% Garnacha, and the balance Mazuelo and Graciano. It was aged for six months in wood vats followed by two years in new French and American oak. It delivers an alluring nose of cedar, tobacco, earth notes, mineral, and black cherry. This is followed by an elegant wine with good depth and enough ripe tannin to evolve for several years. Nicely balanced and long in the finish, it will be at its best from 2012 to 2020 if not longer." (WA)
Wine Advocate: 90 pts.
"($30; 70% tempranillo, 20% garnacha and the rest mazuelo and graciano) Bright ruby. Vibrant, seductive perfume of black raspberry, powdered rose, anise and minerals. Weighty but lively cherry and dark berry flavors are brightened by zesty minerals, picking up a candied licorice quality with aeration. The finish repeats the deep dark berry note and leaves exotic flowers and minerals behind. Very elegant wine that suavely blends richness and finesse." (IWC)
International Wine Cellar: 92 pts.
Powerful, intense and very lively, anxious to please from the start. Almost perfect mingling of red-berry fruit and toasted oak aromas on the nose, with the fruit coming to the fore in the mouth and rounding off a supple, balanced overall effect.
(Winery Notes)
only $23.95 |
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YOU CAN'T BEAT THIS!
2002
Louis Roederer
Cristal
Champagne
"A suave customer, with hints of citrus, berry and coffee. Harmonious and
refined, with freshness and a bright structure. The finish shows a lot of
potential, with a mouthwatering aftertaste. Better than previously reviewed.
Drink now through 2030." (WS)
Wine Spectator: 92 pts.
"Roederer’s 2002 Cristal is still in its infant, fresh stage. Subtle
notes of pears, flowers, spices, mint, minerals and oak are woven into a
cashmere-like frame of extraordinary grace and elegance. This beautifully-sculpted
Champagne possesses notable clarity but with the additional depth of fruit
that is characteristic of this vintage. It is a gorgeous, seductive Cristal
of the highest level. In 2002, Cristal is 60% Pinot Noir and 40% Chardonnay
with 10 grams of dosage. 20% of the wine was fermented in oak. This is Lot
: L030351A107809. This bottle was disgorged in June 28th, 2007. Anticipated
maturity: 2010-2032." (WA)
Wine Advocate: 96+ pts.
"($289) Light, bright gold with a steady bead. Orange, ripe pear, red
berries and white flowers on the nose, with complementary notes of lemon,
honey, sweet butter and smoky minerals. Ripe citrus and orchard fruit flavors
are braced by gentle minerality, picking up subtle baking spice and buttered
toast notes with air. Surprisingly generous at this stage, with smoky mineral
and floral qualities on the finish. This is more open-knit than the comparatively
elegant 2000 and appears ready to drink." (IWC)
International Wine Cellar: 91 pts.
"55% Pinot Noir; 45% Chardonnay. Its Pinot Noir portion notwithstanding,
this wine has a crisp, chalky, lightly citrusy, lightly toasty aroma that
is more than a little bit suggestive of an elegant Blanc de Blancs. And
perhaps that is its secret. It is an incredibly refined yet deep wine whose
suggestions of roasted soy and caramel are kept as complex nuances within
a well-filled, refreshing, crisp set of flavors and a graceful, lengthy
aftertaste. It occupies a comfortable middle ground between the quiet refinement
of Dom Perignon and the bold approaches of the top Bollinger and Krug wines."
(CG)
Connoisseurs' Guide: 96 pts.
"This is an exceptional wine, as is the vintage. The fruits—grapefruit,
crisp red apple—balance with a fine yeasty character. There is a great depth
of flavor, the fruits going in a pure line of freshness. The one problem
is that it is much too young, the result of the demand from the market for
the next vintage. Age this wine for at least four years." (WE)
Wine Enthusiast: 98 pts.
"If a wine could ever make you want to pull the top down on your '68
Ferrari convertible, rip off the rearview mirror and take off, this is it.
It has a different kind of energy than the '02 Cristal Rosé, which is more
ethereal, like strawberries at the right hand of some ancient Gallic god.
This is more insolent, brash, earth bound. All the scents and flavors seem
to emanate from limestone, as does the acidity, which hits at the front
of the mouth and powers through the wine with the kind of solar energy that
lifts mist off the white chalk on a cool morning in Cramant. The wine goes
on for miles. It's already irresistible, and will only improve with ten,
20, 30 and 40 years of age." (W&S)
Wine & Spirits: 100 pts.
only
$179.95 |
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IT'S
BACK! BUTTER JUICE LIKE ROMBAUER FOR HALF THE PRICE!
THE BUTTERY OF BUTTERY THE OAKY OF OAKY...BUT FANTASTIC DRINKING!
2009
Trinitas
Chardonnay
Carneros
The Wine
Our famous Trinitas "Butterscotch Bomb" is a perfect marriage of high-quality fruit and American wood barrels: The toast on the barrels is prominent, giving a "crème Brule" character to the nose. Underneath the toast, you get the intense tropical fruit – pear, peach, lemon zest and citrus. The rich mid-palate, explodes with cinnamon toast, cream and butterscotch – which is a contribution to the length of time spent in the Oak Barrels. In its own way, it's as bold and expressive as a Cabernet. It's got so much presence it can easily pass as an aperitif or carefully matched with food just as rich – perhaps pounded veal cutlets, an Italian risotto, or plump-cooked chicken breasts in a cream sauce
The Winemaking
This wine is a blend of Carneros vineyards. It is cold barrel fermented at 46-48°F which helps capture and enhance the tropical fruit aromas and aged in 100% New American Oak for 9 months. Our distinctive Chardonnay completes 100% malo-lactic fermentation furthering its balance of ripeness, forward fruit and crisp acidity allowing the wine great aging potential.
The Vineyard
Chardonnay from the Carneros region ranks among the finest in California. Due to its ideal location along the San Pablo Bay, the Carneros appellation is recognized for producing grapes of great intensity, balance and natural acidity. Cool, foggy mornings and moderately warm days provide the perfect growing conditions.
only
$19.95 |
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2009 WINE SPECTATOR
TOP 100: #5
2006
Barone Ricasoli
Chianti Classico
Castello di Brolio
Tuscany
"Shows amazing aromas of blackberry, with hints of vanilla and flowers, along with black licorice and crushed berries. Full-bodied, with wonderfully caressing, ultrafine tannins. Very balanced and long. Best after 2011. 6,170 cases made." (WS)
Wine Spectator: 96 pts.
Barone Ricasoli is the oldest winery in the world, producing wine at the estate since 1141. The current owner, Barone Francesco Ricasoli, is the 32nd generation Baron of the family. Geremia and Ridolfo were the original Ricasolis, but it was in the year 1000 that the Ricasoli family was granted the highest degree of power over their feudal land, the title of “Baron” decreed directly from the King. This title signified full autonomy over their lands and those who inhabited them. After centuries of defending their land and people, the Ricasoli family was the first to utilize their farmland and vineyards, producing and selling their best wine production. It has been documented from as early as the 16th century that Brolio had exported wine to Amsterdam and England and from the beginning of the 20th century, Brolio wine had become renowned and exported all over the world. With this harvest, it was finally possible for the Sangiovese to express its maximum potential. Of an intense ruby colour with garnet tinges, it has a good aromatic complex bouquet. Chocolate/coffee and spices palate, it possesses an elegant tannin content and a lingering finish.
(Winery Notes)
only $49.95
1.5L....only $109.95 |
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2008
Domaine William Fevre
Chablis
Les Clos
Grand Cru
"Clean and focused, with apple, lemon, yellow plum and mineral notes riding a firm structure. This is balanced, with a chalklike texture and a savory element on the finish. There's fine clarity and loads of power in reserve. Best from 2013 through 2025. 200 cases imported." (WS)
Wine Spectator: 94 pts.
"(Pale yellow-green. Great precision on the nose: crushed oyster shell, steely minerality, lemon, lime and nutmeg. Even denser than the Cote Bouguerots but not as large, with captivating, soil-driven toast and nut oil notes adding another element of complexity to the vibrant citrus and mineral flavors. An utterly edge-free, spherical wine of great energy and clarity that also conveys a captivating sweetness. Leaves the mouth vibrating, with the empty glass exuding a lingering perfume of minerals and powdered chalk." (IWC)
International Wine Cellar: 94 pts.
"Here too the elegance of the nose is simply stunning with a layered and perfumed aromatic profile that oozes Chablis character and in particular, a fine minerality that continues onto the impressively concentrated and palate staining flavors that possess striking precision on the explosively long finish. This is a great Les Clos that will make old bones." (BH)
Burghound: 94-97 pts.
only $79.95
1.5L....only $169.95 |
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MONSTER CLOSE-OUT!! WAS $17.95 HERE AND GOD KNOWS WHAT ELSEWHERE!
SHOP HERE AND GET THE DEALS!
2006
Ridge Vineyards
Zinfandel
Geyserville
Sonoma County
"Just like the tasty Sonoma field-style blends of yore, with distinct toasty dill and berry cobbler aromas and zesty raspberry, cracked pepper and earthy sage flavors that end with slightly rustic tannins. Zinfandel, Carignane, Petite Sirah and Mataro. Drink now through 2015. 12,000 cases made." (WS)
Wine Spectator: 90 pts.
"($35; 70% zinfandel, 18% carignane, 10% petite sirah and 2% mataro) Ruby-red. Black raspberry, blueberry, smoked meat and dried violet on the fresh nose. Juicy, sharply focused red and dark berry flavors are dusted with suave minerals and firmed by supple tannins, with an exotic floral pastille note emerging on the back. Finishes sappy, sweet and long, with a deeper cherry note. Already quite complex." (IWC)
International Wine Cellar: 91 pts.
"70% Zinfandel; 18% Carignane; 10% Petite Sirah; 2% Mataro. It is usual for Ridge's Geyserville bottling to vie for top Zinfandel honors in every vintage, and, the 2006 version exhibits the depth and density and solid structure that we have come to expect. It hints at chocolate and a bit of raisiny fruit, and picks up an edge of tannin and heat at the end. It is, however, not fully in focus just yet, but given the ageworthy nature of its predecessors, it is likely to improve over time and comes with a recommendation for a several years of cellaring." (CG)
Connoisseurs' Guide: 90 pts.
"A plump, juicy zinfandel, this manages to be vibrant and savory at once. The ancient vines at Geyserville yield spicy berries, their tannins as black as bittersweet chocolate. The impression from the alcohol is generous, while the finish remains clean and cool. Best with at least ten years of cellar time." (W&S)
Wine & Spirits: 92 pts.
Located on the western edge of Sonoma's Alexander Valley, Geyserville was Ridge's first source of red wine grapes, other than Monte Bello Ridge. The first vintage — 1966 — was an essence. The combination of Geyserville's climate, gravelly soils, and varietal mix (zinfandel, carignane, petite sirah, alicante, mataro, etc.) imparts elegance and definition not usually associated with zinfandel. It's hard to describe a "typical" Geyserville. Each vintage is unique, distinct, extraordinary. Yet they do have elements in common, including the blackest of blackberry fruit, peppery spice, tar, cedar. The term "layered" was invented for Geyserville. And the wines change, re-inventing themselves in bottle, developing more nuance and complexity as years pass. The '73 still shines. Most ageworthy of all Ridge "zinfandels," they can be (witness the '97) magnificent when young. Go taste a Geyserville. Any vintage will do.
(Winery Notes)
375ml...only $9.95 |
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100% Garnacha!!
2009
Bodegas Borsao
Rose
Campo de Borja
"Watermelon and raspberry flavors are accented by herbal and orange peel notes in this full, firm rosé. Expressive, with enough structure for food. Drink now. 2,000 cases imported."
(WS)
Wine Spectator: 87 pts.
"The 2009 Borsao Rose is medium salmon pink with aromas of strawberry and rhubarb. Dry and tasty with a refreshing finish, it is meant for drinking over the next 12-18 months. Bodegas Borsao has long been known for high quality value-priced wines and the current releases are no exception." (WA)
Wine Advocate: 85 pts.
The vineyards are divided between the chalky soil of alluvial terraces of the Ebro River at 1,200 ft. in elevation and the more complex soils of the hillside vineyards on the Moncayo mountain range 1,950 ft. in elevation. The wine is stainless-steel fermented.
(Winery Notes)
only $6.99 |
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2008
Grayson
Merlot
Lot #6
California
"Even more remarkable is the 2008 Merlot Lot 6 (3,200 cases). I am not a big fan of California Merlot, but this offering is surprisingly complex. A dark ruby/purple color is followed by notes of white chocolate, black cherries, black currants, and hints of spice and oak. Velvety tannins, medium body, and lots of fruit depth as well as a seductive style result in a wine that is stupifyingly inexpensive. It’s about time Grayson Cellars receives recognition for the extraordinary bargains it is creating. There is a lot of high quality fruit available for buying and turning into wine given the hard economic hit vineyards of California have absorbed, and Grayson Cellars appears to be exploiting that to their advantage as well as to that of consumers. Winemaker Larry Levin is doing some remarkable work here, turning out wines that defy belief given their price points. Kudos to him and the owner of Grayson Cellars. " (WA)
Wine Advocate : 88 pts.
The 2008 Grayson Merlot exhibits a beautiful purple garnet color. The aromas show rich complexity with opulent ripe, dark fruit off black currants, blackberries and a hint of violets and chocolate oak. This medium bodied wine shows soft tannins with a finish of mixed dark fruits and a light toasty finish.
(Winery Notes)
only 7.99 |
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2007
J. J. Prum
Wehlener Sonnenuhr
Riesling Spatlese
Mosel-Saar-Ruwer
"Floral, peach, lime and herb aromas and flavors really sing in this elegant, silky Riesling. Beautifully integrated with the bright structure, showing intensity and length in a seamless, effortless manner. Mouthwatering finish. Drink now through 2035." (WS)
Wine Spectator: 93 pts.
"The Prum 2007 Wehlener Sonnenuhr Spatlese is intriguingly- as well as gorgeously-scented with peony, narcissus, heliotrope, mint, and fresh apple. Creamy and buoyant on the palate, it caresses and seduces with suggestions of lemon chiffon and vanilla flan, but then leaves a surprisingly adamant, stony, subtly zesty finish as if to put the taster on notice that there is a lot more here than meets the palate at such a youthful juncture. The characteristics of great Riesling from the Prum estate coincide with one of the most striking virtues of 2007 Mosel Rieslings in general, namely the ability to combine intensity of aroma and flavor with delicacy, and caressing richness with vivacity. In a sense, the best wines in this year’s collection are like Prum-squared in their distinctiveness and expressivity. Manfred Prum acknowledges good reasons for the widespread comparison of 2007 with 2004, and thinks the present vintage also shares the richness of 2005. Notoriously little attention is paid at this address to dry-tasting wines, and I was unfortunately not able to taste either a Zeltinger Sonnenuhr Spatlese trocken or a Bernkasteler Badstube Spatlese feinherb. Nobly sweet wines which I have not yet tasted include Wehlener Sonnenuhr auction Spatlese, gold capsule Auslese, and Beerenauslese; a Graacher Himmelreich long gold capsule Auslese, and a Bernkasteler Badstube Eiswein." (WA)
Wine Advocate: 93 pts.
"($56) Elegant aromas of Bing cherry, apple blossom and roasted pine nuts. Sweet, delicate and nonetheless creamy on the palate, with sweet herbs and a touch of vanilla. Lemon curd and slate animate this serious spatlese's compelling finish." (IWC)
International Wine Cellar: 92 pts.
"Last of the Spätlesen, of course, is the Wehlener Sonnenuhr Spätlese, a great Spätlese by any measure. Mineral, deep, and nervy in the nose, the wine is electric, deep and very mineral with lime and Sonnenuhr vanilla flavors and great depth." (FWR)
Fine Wine Review: 95 pts.
only $36.95 |
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DO WE STILL HAVE THE LOWEST PRICE OR WHAT??
PACKED SIX TO A CASE!!
NV
Piper-Heidsieck
Brut
Champagne
"A fresh, medium-bodied style, this shows finesse, with notes of apple, peach, ruby grapefruit, vanilla and toast. The refined texture and vibrant structure keep this focused and lingering, with fine length. Drink now through 2012. 50,000 cases imported." (WS)
Wine Spectator: 91 pts.
"Ripe pears, crisp green apples and flowers emerge from Piper-Hiediesck’s NV Brut Cuvee. This medium-bodied non-vintage Champagne offers excellent persistence and a long, clean finish. It is a very solid effort at this level. The Brut Cuvee is 55% Pinot Noir, 30% Pinot Meunier and 15% Chardonnay. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2010. Piper-Heidsieck is another of Champagne’s best-known brands. The house traces its history back to the original Heidsieck and Co., which was founded in 1785" (WA)
Wine Advocate: 88 pts.
"Bright gold. Spicy apple and citrus zest aromas complicated by a hint of white pepper. Tightly wound and a bit rigid, offering dry lemon and orchard fruit flavors and a late note of brown butter. Finishes on a tart citrus note, with firm grip." (IWC)
International Wine Cellar: 87 pts.
"Toasty aromas leap from the glass in this deliciously mature wine. It is soft but still very dry, with acidity tamed by both fine, mature fruit and a creamy texture that sits well in the mouth. This is a very fine, tasty wine." (WE)
Wine Enthusiast: 92 pts.
only $27.95 |
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BEAT THIS! STILL A SMOKING PRICE!!
2009
Santa Margherita
Pinot Grigio
Valdadige
The world's most popular non-Chardonnay white is Santa Margherita and we've
got the hottest price around. Fresh flavors, light to medium body and a
bright clean finish, it's no wonder this is the best selling Pinot Grigio
in the world!
Santa Margherita Pinot Grigio is the benchmark by which all other Pinot
Grigios are judged. Santa Margherita Pinot Grigio was named the leading
Italian wine and continues to be requested by name. Its crisp, elegant character
makes it versatile for a wide array of cuisines. The Valdadige Pinot Grigio
was harvested during the first two weeks of September 2008. After the early
harvests of 2006 and 2007, optimal weather conditions brought the 2008 harvest
back to the standard time. Above average winter temperatures and heavy rains
in the spring led to excellent conditions during the entire growing season,
producing grapes with perfect ripeness. The Santa Margherita 2008 Pinot
Grigio presents a slightly higher level of malic acid, resulting in a fresher
and crispier wine.
(Winery Notes)
only $16.95 |
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2009 Orange County
Fair & Wine Competition:
Gold Medal Winner, Four Star Best of Show, and More! Read on!!
NV
Mumm
Brut Prestige
Napa Valley
"Vibrant and crisp, with citrus and raspberry aromas and appealing apple, cinnamon and spice flavors. Drink now. 120,000 cases made."
(WS)
Wine Spectator: 87 pts.
"51% Pinot Noir; 46% Chardonnay; 2% Pinot Muenier; 1% Pinot Gris. Very fresh, lightly yeasty and a bit sparing insofar as expressive autolysis is concerned, this straightforward and lightly lemony effort is very clean and shows proper Brut dryness, but its bubbles are somewhat on the large side, and they fade away a little too soon. " (CG)
Connoisseurs' Guide: 86 pts.
"This is Mumm Napa’s workhorse brut. It’s a beautiful sparkling wine that satisfies the basics of elegance and lusciousness. Shows raspberry, lime, brioche and smoky flavors, with a slightly sweet dosage and a refined mousse." (WE)
Wine Enthusiast: 90 pts.
IT’S STILL THE GREAT VALUE - IN COST & QUALITY - AMONG CALIFORNIA SPARKLING
MUMM’S NAPA BRUT PRESTIGE
For years, in fact decades I’ve felt that Mumm’s Napa Brut is about as good
as it gets when it comes to California Sparkling wine and that’s in the
face of other similar California “bubbles” selling for double to even triple
the price. I even remember a while ago when it was better then most of Mumm’s
French Champagne—as there was a time when the quality of the Napa product
stayed high and the French Mumm’s became mediocre. Luckily, with change
of ownership the French product is now back producing fine Champagne. The
Napa wine has many of the charms that the French Mumm’s Champagne has but
there is an added touch of fruitiness in the California product due to the
slightly warmer growing climate and the more intense angle of the Sun in
California. Though not the wording I would use, I think a good description
of this wine is from Wine News magazine when their writer says, “Mature
aromas of yeast and flint with fruit notes in the background. Beautifully
aged flavors of baked apple and flint are seamlessly integrated and deftly
delivered. Long, dry, yeasty close.”
TERRIFIC BARGAIN PRICE: Normal price for this wine is $25 (that is what
the winery charges) and you can see it “discounted” on the internet on “special”
for $18 or $19. Well, L.A. Wine Company has it on special for under $14.
As far as I can tell the best price in the country.
RATING:91
PRICE:$13.95 **** bargain
WHERE: Los Angeles Wine Co.
(Martins Guide to Wine Bargains)
A charming pale salmon color introduces this wine, and follows with
a bouquet of ripe Pinot Noir fruit. Part of the wine is initially fermented
in the press, producing a soft fruity character that gives Blanc de Noirs
its directness, while a small percentage of Chardonnay gives the wine power
and structure.
(Winery Notes)
only $13.95 |
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Stunning German
Riesling selling well below market prices!
2008
Donnhoff
Oberhauser Brucke
Riesling Spatlese
Nahe
"Cool and refreshing, like a gust of fresh air on a hot day. Passion fruit, pear, quince and grapefruit notes are interspersed with the vibrant structure. There's a fine aftertaste of fresh orchard fruit and mineral. Drink now through 2021." (WS)
Wine Spectator: 92 pts.
"Fresh red raspberry, green tea, and thyme in the rather restrained nose of Donnhoff-s 2008 Oberhauser Brucke Riesling Spatlese lead into a creamily-textured yet at the same time both palpably dense and vivaciously citric and tart berry palate, setting up a dynamic interplay with herbal, bitter-sweet citrus oil, and somehow crystalline as well as stony and alkaline mineral skeins. You could easily get lost in this wine. But I would advise returning to it repeatedly over the next 20 or more years." (WA)
Wine Advocate: 93 pts.
only $39.95 |
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