CLASSICS VINTAGES FINE WINE & PREMIUM SPIRITS
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VINTAGES CLASSICS COLLECTION FINE WINE & PREMIUM SPIRITS FEBRUARY & MARCH 2014
Harvesting Cabernet Sauvignon grapes in Bordeaux. ON THE COVER: The 15th-century church of Sainte-Claire, near the village of Précy in Chablis, sits surrounded by Sauvignon Blanc vineyards.
February & March 2014
CLASSICS
COLLECTION
New monthly collections on
vintagesshoponline.com !
We’re excited to announce that we are now
releasing a new Classics Collection every month.
This catalogue includes both the February and
March 2014 collections, each with its own order
date. The collections can be viewed and
purchased via our new, improved VINTAGES Shop
Online site. All orders will be filled on a first-come,
first-served basis! See page 52 for ordering start
dates and other important details.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
February 2014 Collection FEBRUARY 2014 COLLECTION
Italian wine lovers will be delighted to discover that 4 FRANCE
this edition of Classics includes a fine assortment from
Piedmont, including several examples of 2008 Barolo, 12 GERMANY
a vintage worthy of considerable attention. Fans of the 12 HUNGARY
Rhône will take special note of the assortment from
the 2009, 2010 and 2011 vintages. 12 ITALY
In the New World, we have a very exciting lineup high- 18 PORTUGAL
lighted by the 2003 Dunn Vineyards Howell Mountain 18 SPAIN
Cabernet Sauvignon, which earned a rating of 95 points
from Robert Parker Jr., and the 2009 Shafer Hillside 19 AUSTRALIA
Select Cabernet Sauvignon, which Antonio Galloni of 21 USA
erobertparker.com awarded 98 points.
23 FORTIFIED WINE
March 2014 Collection 24 SPIRITS
At the heart of this edition, again from Italy, are the 2007
Brunellos. The 2010 Burgundies are here too, with a MARCH 2014 COLLECTION
selection of fine reds and whites. Take special care not
to miss the exquisite 2011 Quinta do Noval Nacional 26 FRANCE
Vintage Port, which earned a rating of 98-100 points from
erobertparker.com. There are also several exciting offerings 31 GERMANY
from Vega-Sicilia, including the Unico Reserva Especial.
32 ITALY
The New World makes a splash with a nice assortment
37 SPAIN
from California, including three 2009 wines from Vérité:
Le Désir, La Muse and La Joie. 38 AUSTRALIA
These are but a few highlights. We invite you to explore 39 NEW ZEALAND
all of the outstanding wines waiting to be discovered
within our Collections. 39 SOUTH AFRICA
39 USA
42 FORTIFIED WINE
43 DESSERT WINE
Introducing a faster, easier online shopping 43 SPIRITS
experience! See page 52 for details.
ONLINE ORDERING STARTS 44 PRODUCT SUMMARIES
February Collection: February 20 at 8:30 am 52 ORDERING INFORMATION
March Collection: March 6 at 8:30 am
VINTAGE CHART
VINTAGESSHOPONLINE.COM The Vintage Chart is available on our website at
First-come, first-served. Shop early for best vintages.com/vintagechart
selection. Prior to ordering start date, collections
can be viewed online at vintages.com/classics.
tOPPOSITE: Morning mist burns off the
vineyards beyond the 13th-century
2 VINTAGES castle at Grinzane Cavour in Piedmont.
FEBRUARY CLASSICS COLLECTION Online ordering starts February 20
THE CLASSICS COLLECTION • FEBRUARY 2014
FRANCE – BORDEAUX FRANCE – BURGUNDY TAUPENOT-MERME MAZOYÈRES
CHAMBERTIN GRAND CRU 2011
AC
WHITE WINE CÔTE DE NUITS TASTING NOTE: The 2011
RED WINE Mazoyeres-Chambertin Grand Cru,
CHÂTEAU COUTET 2007 which is populated by 54-year-old
AC Barsac, 1er Cru DOMAINE TAUPENOT-MERME vines with a propensity for small berries
TASTING NOTE: Offers fascinating MOREY SAINT DENIS LA RIOTTE due to millerandage, has a fuller
aromas of cooked apple, clove and 1er CRU 2011 and more aromatic bouquet when
honey that follow through to a full body, AC compared directly against the
with superlively acidity and spicy TASTING NOTE: The 2011 Morey St. Charmes-Chambertin 2011, perfumed
blanched almond and honey character Denis 1er Cru La Riotte, which comes with lascivious ripe strawberry and
on the palate. Long and powerful, from a 0.56-hectare parcel, sports a cranberry aromas suffused with cold
showing amazing botrytis character, pretty, feminine bouquet with light stone. The palate is medium-bodied
with so much spice and richness, red cherry, fresh strawberry and dried with supple and fine tannins. It has a
yet also freshness. Even better than rose petal. The palate is medium- pleasant build in the mouth and yet
the superb 2006. Best after 2015. bodied with fine tannins and very good the finish is understated, classic in style
Score: 95 (James Suckling, wine- focus. No, there is not the length of a and very refined. This is just a Maz-
spectator.com, March 31, 2010) more benevolent season, but there is oyeres that you will want to abscond
great poise and tension allied with a with. Drink now-2022. Score: 92
248740 [S] 750 mL $88 directness that would make it a superb (Neal Martin, erobertparker.com,
match at the dinner table. Drink Aug. 2013)
now-2017. Score: 90 (Neal Martin,
CHÂTEAU GILETTE erobertparker.com, Aug. 2013) 13854 [XD] 750 mL $206
CRÈME DE TÊTE 1982
AC Sauternes 42648 [XD] 750 mL $138
TASTING NOTE: Very roasted in profile,
with maple, date and green tea notes
and lots of crème brûlée, but it’s still
light and well-defined through the
finish, with a hint of dried orange peel
adding lift. Tasted non-blind at the
château. Score: 95 (James Molesworth,
winespectator.com, web only, 2012)
048975 [S] 750 mL $325
4 VINTAGES
THE CLASSICS COLLECTION • FEBRUARY 2014
LOUIS JADOT CLOS DE LA ROCHE CÔTE DE BEAUNE WHITE WINE
GRAND CRU 2010 RED WINE
AC LOUIS JADOT
TASTING NOTE: The 2010 Clos de DOMAINE FAIVELEY CLOS DES BIENVENUES-BÂTARD-
la Roche is dark, voluptuous and CORTONS FAIVELEY CORTON MONTRACHET GRAND CRU 2010
seductive. Black cherries, mint, spices GRAND CRU 2011
and graphite flesh out on the mid- AC AC
palate and finish. The Clos de la Roche TASTING NOTE: Good deep red. A bit TASTING NOTE: The 2010 Bienvenues
boasts gorgeous inner sweetness and darker on the nose than the grand Batard-Montrachet is a seriously
perfume, with big, yet fine, tannins that crus from Gevrey-Chambertin, offering gorgeous wine. Endless layers of sweet,
frame the fruit through to the finish. explosive aromas of crushed raspberry, perfumed white stone fruits caress
The style is rather immediate, but I black cherry, exotic spices and a touch the palate in this utterly impeccable
don’t see anything wrong with that. of smoke. Compellingly rich and seam- Burgundy. The 2010 is all about
Anticipated maturity: 2025-2035. less in the mouth, with terrific sappy finesse and class. Light floral, honeyed
Score: 94-96 (Antonio Galloni, erobert- verve to the urgent flavors of red notes wrap around the weightless,
parker.com, Feb. 2012) berries, minerals and game. The very gracious finish. The Bienvenues simply
long, slowly rising finish boasts out- oozes with class, but it also closes
344846 [XD] 750 mL $235 standing energy and thrust and satu- down quickly in the glass. Patience is
rates the mouth with sweet perfume. the key. Anticipated maturity: 2020.
Score: 93-96 (Stephen Tanzer, Inter- Score: 96 (Antonio Galloni, erobert-
MAISON ROCHE DE BELLENE national Wine Cellar, Jan./Feb. 2013) parker.com, Aug. 2012)
CHARMES-CHAMBERTIN 2010
AC 722249 [XD] 750 mL $209 340364 [XD] 750 mL $358
TASTING NOTE: A reserved but quite
pretty and attractively layered nose
speaks of earth, fresh wild red berry LOUIS JADOT
fruit and humus. The mouth feel is BATARD-MONTRACHET
rich, suave and refined thanks in large GRAND CRU 2009
part to the fine-grained tannins that AC
coat the palate on the moderately deep TASTING NOTE: Jadot’s 2009 Batard-
but well-balanced and strikingly per- Montrachet is rich, layered, sensual
sistent finish. Note that while the tan- and totally beguiling. This is yet another
nins may be quite fine, they are dense 2009 Jadot white with stunning
and this will certainly require ample vibrancy and freshness. Slate, smoke
cellar time before it’s completely and crushed rocks are some of the
ready for prime time. Drink 2025+. notes that develop in the glass, adding
Score: 91-94 (Allen Meadows, burg- complexity to the highly expressive,
hound.com, April 2012) nuanced fruit. Anticipated maturity:
2014+. (Antonio Galloni, erobert-
343681 [XD] 750 mL $170 parker.com, Aug. 2012)
635003 [XD] 750 mL $357
VINTAGES 5THE CLASSICS COLLECTION • FEBRUARY 2014
FRANCE – BURGUNDY DOMAINE JEAN-MARC BROCARD MÂCONNAIS
VAULORENTS CHABLIS 1er CRU WHITE WINE
2010
CHABLIS AC CHÂTEAU-FUISSÉ VIEILLES
WHITE WINE TASTING NOTE: An expansive nose VIGNES POUILLY-FUISSÉ 2010
with a pronounced floral character is AC
DOMAINE WILLIAM FÈVRE trimmed in soft wood and sea shore TASTING NOTE: The 2010 Chateau-
BOUGROS CHABLIS GRAND CRU nuances. In contrast to the Montée Fuisse Vieilles Vignes has an entrancing
2011 de Tonnerre, this is beautifully complex bouquet with apricot, orange blossom,
AC with fine richness to the mouth coat- cold stone and just a hint of licorice.
TASTING NOTE: This also displays ing, round and ultra-refined flavors that The palate is very well-balanced with
an abundance of classic Chablis possess a silky mouth feel before a generous aniseed-tinged opening.
character with iodine, tidal pool and terminating in a balanced, focused and There is certainly good weight in the
ripe green fruit aromas that precede impressively persistent finish. Lovely mouth, although personally I prefer
dense, muscular and overtly powerful juice. Drink: 2015+. Special designa- the tension demonstrated by the 2011.
flavors that culminate in a saline- tion: Outstanding. Score: 92 (Allen Still, this is a magnificent wine that
infused and impressively persistent Meadows, burghound.com, Sept. 10, will age with style. Drink 2015-2025.
finish where a touch of wood surfaces. 2012) Score: 93 (Neal Martin, erobertpark-
As Bougros typically is, this is a big wine er.com, Aug. 2013)
with almost painful intensity. While 581710 [XD] 750 mL $40
this slightly smoky effort isn’t particularly 947721 [XD] 750 mL $59
refined, it is certainly dramatic and
imposing. Drink: 2018+. Special des- JEAN-MARC BROCARD VALMUR
ignation: Don’t Miss! Score: 92-94 CHABLIS GRAND CRU 2010
(Allen Meadows, burghound.com, AC
Sept. 10, 2012) TASTING NOTE: Bright pale yellow.
Spicy, high-pitched aromas of peach,
941229 [XD] 750 mL $73 crushed stone, quinine and wild herbs.
Concentrated, vibrant and sharply
delineated, conveying a strong soil
character to the high-pitched citrus,
floral and mineral flavors. Lovely har-
monious acidity contributes to the
wine’s impression of energy. The long,
rising, perfumed finish is suave and
fine-grained. Score: 92(+?) (Stephen
Tanzer, International Wine Cellar,
July 2012)
206151 [XD] 750 mL $68
6 VINTAGESTHE CLASSICS COLLECTION • FEBRUARY 2014
FRANCE – RHÔNE LAURUS HERMITAGE 2010 DOMAINE DU COULET
AC TERRASSES DU SERRE
(Gabriel Meffre) CORNAS 2009
NORTHERN RHÔNE TASTING NOTE: A broad, roasted, AC
RED WINE smoky style, offering bay and chestnut TASTING NOTE: This really stands
flavors up front, followed by notes of apart from the crowd, with searingly
ALAIN VOGE VIEILLES VIGNES singed cedar, warm currant confiture intense minerality cutting through a
CORNAS 2011 and mulled blackberry. A bittersweet massive core of pastis, plum sauce
AC cocoa note lingers on the muscular and fig paste. Gorgeous violet and spice
TASTING NOTE: A remarkable effort, finish. Best from 2014 through 2024. notes fill in the background, while
the 2011 Cornas Vieilles Vignes is Score: 93 (James Molesworth, wine- charcoal and tar thunder through the
one of the stars of the vintage. Superbly spectator.com, Oct. 15, 2012) finish. Broad in scope, but still has
concentrated with an inky/purple perfect focus. Best from 2013 through
color and a layered texture, it reveals 343665 [XD] 750 mL $59 2023. Score: 95 (James Molesworth,
copious aromas of blueberries, black- winespectator.com, Oct. 15, 2011)
berries and spring flowers intermixed
with hints of pen ink, lavender and 359620 [XD] 750 mL $90
graphite. Full-bodied as well as supple
and accessible, it should keep for
12-15 years. Score: 94-96 (Robert FERRATON PÈRE & FILS
Parker Jr., erobertparker.com, LES GRANDS MÛRIERS
Dec. 2012) CORNAS 2009
AC
8177 [XD] 750 mL $83 M. CHAPOUTIER MONIER DE LA TASTING NOTE: Hints of ripe figs,
SIZERANNE HERMITAGE 2010 blackberries, blue fruits, charcoal
AC and damp earth are present in the
EPSILON HERMITAGE 2010 TASTING NOTE: Dark and mouthfill- dark purple-hued 2009 Cornas Les
AC ing, with gorgeous ganache and Grands Muriers. This is a classic, old
(Cave de Tain) espresso notes up front, followed by style Cornas with relatively civilized
TASTING NOTE: A brilliant offering vivid blackberry, boysenberry and tannins as well as impressive purity.
that could easily compete with the raspberry fruit. Dense and velvety Consume it over the next 10 years.
best growers’ Hermitage is the 2010 through the finish, with a smold- Score: 90-92 (Robert Parker Jr., erob-
Hermitage Epsilon. Perhaps the ering edge that lingers wonderfully. ertparker.com, Feb. 2011)
greatest wine I have ever tasted from Best from 2014 through 2025.
a cooperative, it flirts with perfection. Score: 95 (James Molesworth, wine- 340026 [XD] 750 mL $50
An inky/black/purple color is accom- spectator.com, Oct. 31, 2012)
panied by copious aromas of black-
berries, creme de cassis, camphor, 182725 [XD] 750 mL $105
charcoal, white flowers and toasty
oak. Packaged in a heavy duty glass
bottle with a wax capsule, this wine
should be reasonably drinkable in
7-10 years and should last for 25-30
years. Kudos to this coop. Score: 98
(Robert Parker Jr., erobertparker.com,
Dec. 2012)
352930 [XD] 750 mL $295
VINTAGES 7THE CLASSICS COLLECTION • FEBRUARY 2014
FRANCE – RHÔNE SOUTHERN RHÔNE FRANCE – ALSACE
RED WINE
NORTHERN RHÔNE BOSQUET DES PAPES CHANTE WHITE WINE
WHITE WINE LE MERLE VIEILLES VIGNES
CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE 2011 DOMAINE WEINBACH
M. CHAPOUTIER AC FURSTENTUM GEWURZTRAMINER
CHANTE-ALOUETTE TASTING NOTE: Also beautiful, with 2010
HERMITAGE BLANC 2011 gorgeous raspberry, kirsch, licorice, AC Alsace Grand Cru
AC ground pepper and assorted Provencal (Colette, Catherine et Laurence Faller,
TASTING NOTE: Possibly the finest herbs, the 2011 Chateauneuf du Prop.-Vign.)
cuvee of this wine I have ever tasted, Pape Chante Le Merle Vieilles Vignes TASTING NOTE: Just off-dry, and lush
the stunning, rich 2011 Ermitage (first introduced in 1990 and an old and silky, this features finely meshed
Chante Alouette comes from three vine blend of 85% Grenache and the vibrant acidity enlivening flavors of
separate parcels on Hermitage Hill balance Syrah and Mourvedre) offers candied grapefruit zest, mango, orange
(Meal, Les Murets and Chante Alouette) a decidedly pretty (especially for this sorbet, crystallized honey and smoky
and reveals plenty of white currant, cuvee), polished profile with full body mineral. Lingering finish. Drink now
buttered citrus, tangerine oil and honey- richness, excellent mid-palate depth through 2025. Score: 94 (Alison
suckle along with hints of such exotic and a seamless, elegant texture that Napjus, winespectator.com, Oct. 31,
fruits as mango. It is a full-bodied, carries through the blockbuster finish. 2012)
Montrachet-styled, dry white. Score: 95 Up with the top wines in the vintage,
(Robert Parker Jr., erobertparker.com, it is reasonably approachable now, yet 120691 [M] 750 mL $80
Dec. 2012) will evolve gracefully for 15+ years
given its balance and harmony. Drink
140541 [XD] 750 mL $80 2015-2026. Score: 94 (Jeb Dunnuck,
erobertparker.com, Oct. 2013)
734244 [XD] 750 mL $73
RENÉ MURÉ CLOS ST. LANDELIN
VORBOURG VENDANGES
TARDIVES GEWÜRZTRAMINER
2010
AC Alsace Grand Cru
TASTING NOTE: A hint of caramel
adds richness to the flavors of orange
granita, pink grapefruit candy, can-
taloupe and pickled ginger found in
this off-dry and creamy wine. The finish
features the wine’s mouthwatering
acidity, along with echoes of the fruit.
Drink now through 2025. Score: 93
(Alison Napjus, winespectator.com,
Nov. 15, 2012)
163147 [M] 500 mL $42
8 VINTAGESTHE CLASSICS COLLECTION • FEBRUARY 2014
DOMAINES SCHLUMBERGER FRANCE – CHAMPAGNE GOSSET GRAND ROSÉ
CUVÉE ANNE SÉLECTION BRUT CHAMPAGNE
DE GRAINS NOBLES AC
GEWÜRZTRAMINER 2009 CHAMPAGNE The lot number for this product may
AC Alsace vary from the one reviewed by Inter-
TASTING NOTE: There’s a melt-in-your- GASTON CHIQUET national Wine Cellar, but the winery
mouth creaminess to this lush version, GRAND CRU BLANC DE BLANCS strives for a consistent house style
which shows a core of lychee, pink D’AŸ BRUT CHAMPAGNE for its non-vintage Champagnes.
grapefruit zest and mango flavors, AC
accented by orange blossom, honey, TASTING NOTE: The estate’s NV Brut TASTING NOTE: (L202 9110): Bright
chamomile and smoke. Vibrant, with Blanc de Blancs d’Ay is once again orange. High-pitched, floral-accented
seamless integration and refined tex- simply striking. An exotic melange of aromas of citrus fruits, red berries and
ture throughout. Drink now through green pears, flowers, crushed rocks toasty lees. Sappy, concentrated
2029. Score: 94 (Alison Napjus, wine- and jasmine emerge gracefully from strawberry and orange zest flavors are
spectator.com, Nov. 15, 2012) this effortless, totally beguiling wine. firmed by a nervy spine of acidity
The 2004 has an inner perfume and and gain weight with aeration. Taut and
343715 [S] 750 mL $125 pure sweetness that is captivating. focused, with noteworthy finishing
Ay is much more famous for its Pinot cut, thrust and length. Score: 92 (Josh
Noir, but Chiquet’s Chardonnay is Raynolds, International Wine Cellar,
ROLLY GASSMANN KAPPELWEG flat-out gorgeous. Disgorgement date: Dec. 2012)
RIESLING 2009 February 2012. Anticipated maturity:
AC Alsace 2012-2018. Score: 92 (Antonio 989442 [D] 750 mL $81
TASTING NOTE: The Rolly Gassmann Galloni, erobertparker.com, Nov. 2012)
2009 Riesling Kappelweg Vendange
Tardive smells seductively and com- 63768 [XD] 750 mL $52 GOSSET GRANDE RÉSERVE
plexly of white truffle and fresh lime, BRUT CHAMPAGNE
gardenia and acacia, overripe peach AC
and cyanic peach kernel. Its satiny, Although Antonio Galloni is referring
expansive palate is persistently, sweetly, to a different lot number, as with their
and decadently perfumed with lily rosé bubbly above, the winemaker
and gardenia, while nut oils and honey strives to maintain a consistent house
add a further dimension of richness. style for its non-vintage Champagnes.
This [soothes] and seduces in a linger-
ing, multi-layered, truly nobly sweet TASTING NOTE: The NV Brut Grande
finish. Expect it to last for at least a Reserve opens with a bouquet of
quarter century. Score: 92 (David chalk, slate and wet stones. It is a beau-
Schildknecht, erobertparker.com, tifully pointed, energetic wine en-
May 2011) dowed with gorgeous drive from start
to finish. Red berries, dried flowers
343756 [MS] 750 mL $43 and mint are some of the nuances that
inform the finish.This is Lot # L0428123.
Anticipated maturity: 2011-2016.
Score: 91 (Antonio Galloni, erobert-
parker.com, Nov. 2011)
344945 [XD] 750 mL $73
VINTAGES 9THE CLASSICS COLLECTION • FEBRUARY 2014
FRANCE – CHAMPAGNE GOSSET CELEBRIS EXTRA BRUT BOIZEL JOYAU DE FRANCE
CHAMPAGNE 1998 CHAMPAGNE 1996
AC AC
CHAMPAGNE “I was extremely impressed with the The 2010 Guide Hachette awarded
wines I tasted from Gosset. The this wine a Coup de Coeur and its
VARNIER-FANNIERE CUVÉE house style is one of finely-sculpted highest rating of HHH, denoting an
ST-DENIS BRUT CHAMPAGNE wines that possess striking clarity Exceptional Wine.
AC and precision. Gosset favors oak aging
TASTING NOTE: This fresh, open-knit for their top selections and malo- TASTING NOTE: 60% Pinot Noir, 40%
version features a floral overtone to lactic fermentation is always blocked. Chardonnay. Roasted hazelnuts and
the flavors of blackberry pâte de fruit, The top of the line Celebris range biscuity aromas, quite a bit of earthy
bread dough, golden raisin and slivered sees very low dosage. From top to character, chalk, wet pebbles, a little
almond. Lightly spiced finish. Disgorged bottom this is an exceptional line- bit of wild strawberries. Crisp, fine bubs,
May 2012. Drink now. Score: 90 (Alison up from one of Champagne’s most great intensity. Long minerally finish.
Napjus, winespectator.com, web only, historic houses.” (Antonio Galloni, Score: 93 (Lisa Perrotti-Brown, MW,
2013) erobertparker.com, Dec. 2008) erobertparker.com, March 2010)
343673 [XD] 750 mL $69 TASTING NOTE: The 1998 Extra 360461 [D] 750 mL $135
Brut Vintage Celebris is a beautifully
focused, linear wine that sparkles on
the palate with the essence of white
peaches, pears, quince and flowers.
This medium-bodied yet structured
wine offers phenomenal persistence,
along with chalky, minerally notes that
give the wine its superb liveliness
and sense of freshness. Like many
wines in this line-up, the 1998 Extra
Brut Vintage Celebris is a beautiful,
contemplative wine that deserves
serious attention. This is a great effort.
The blend is 64% Chardonnay and
36% Pinot Noir. The cork is labeled
C 7202, and this bottle was dis-
gorged early December, 2007. Anti-
cipated maturity: 2010-2020.
Score: 96 (Antonio Galloni, erobert-
parker.com, Dec. 2008)
344952 [XD] 750 mL $169
10 VINTAGESTHE CLASSICS COLLECTION • FEBRUARY 2014
FRANCE – LOIRE FRANCE – MIDI FRANCE – SOUTHWEST
WHITE WINE RED WINE RED WINE
DOMAINE DES BAUMARD CHÂTEAU SAINT-ROCH CLOS TRIGUEDINA PROBUS
QUARTS DE CHAUME 2009 KERBUCCIO 2011 CAHORS 2008
AC AP Maury Sec AC
TASTING NOTE: Bold, lush and trop- TASTING NOTE: The backside of this (Jean-Luc Baldès)
ical in feel, with creamed papaya region is Corbieres, but this opaque TASTING NOTE: There is great power,
and mango notes seamlessly gliding purple-colored 2011 Kerbuccio would yet balance here. The wine has firm,
together, while coconut, green plum, blow away just about any Corbieres. rich fruits, with solid dark tannins to go
ginger, quince and white peach flavors A wine of great intensity, it offers up with layers of fresh acidity and a
fill in the background. Offers a suc- copious floral, blackberry and blue- dense texture. Obviously for aging, this
culent finish, but stays pure and steady berry fruit intermixed with hints of char- is an impressive statement of Malbec.
thanks to perfectly embedded acid- coal, scorched earth and wet rocks. Score: 93 (Roger Voss, Wine Enthu-
ity. Best from 2015 through 2030. Dense and full-bodied with tremendous siast, Dec. 15, 2010)
Score: 96 (James Molesworth, wine- richness and supple tannins, this
spectator.com, Feb. 28, 2013) beauty should drink well for 5-7 years, 7260 [XD] 750 mL $51
possibly longer. Score: 95 (Robert
358622 [MS] 750 mL $99 Parker Jr., erobertparker.com, Dec. 2012)
“One of the top wine values I have ever
tasted is from one of the newest
appellations in France, Maury Sec.
Maury produces abundant sweet
wines (largely from Grenache), but this
is a totally dry red made from 40%
Syrah, 30% Mourvedre and 30% Gre-
nache aged in concrete tanks for
8 months, and bottled unfiltered. It
comes from the black schist soils
of this appellation.” (Robert Parker Jr.,
erobertparker.com, Dec. 2012)
343731 [XD] 750 mL $42
VINTAGES 11THE CLASSICS COLLECTION • FEBRUARY 2014
GERMANY – HUNGARY ITALY – PIEDMONT
MOSEL-SAAR-RUWER
WHITE WINE RED WINE
WHITE WINE
ALANA TOKAJ TOKAJI ANDREA OBERTO ALBARELLA
ZILLIKEN SAARBURGER RAUSCH ASZÚESZENCIA 2006 BAROLO 2008
ERSTE LAGE RIESLING AUSLESE Hungary DOCG
2010 TASTING NOTE: Sweet, yet excep- TASTING NOTE: The 2008 Barolo
Gold Capsule, Prädikatswein tionally bright, with juicy acidity lifting Albarella is a tasty, fleshy wine
(Forstmeister Geltz) the grapefruit, apricot and passion graced with supple red fruit, flowers,
TASTING NOTE: Figure on a good fruit notes, as layers of honey, date and spices and licorice. It shows lovely
four decades of high-quality life. spice roll on through the superlong mid-palate juiciness and an approach-
[Owner/winemaker Hanno] Zilliken’s finish. Drink now through 2030. able personality that makes it very
2010 Saarburger Rausch Riesling Score: 94 (Nathan Wesley, winespec- appealing today. The 2008 can be en-
Auslese gold capsule A.P. #4 was, tator.com, Feb. 29, 2012) joyed with minimum cellaring or aged
he assures me, rendered in a volume for a few years. Sweet rose petals and
closer to what would associate in 346098 [S] 375 mL $167 spices inform the generous finish.
normal years with a Spatlese than with The Albarella, from a site in Barolo,
even a regular Auslese. “Here there was aged for six months [in] new
was a lot more botrytis, yet the fruit was French oak barrels followed by 20 mon-
lower in acidity” than for the “regular” ths in 16-hectoliter casks. Antici-
Auslesen, he notes by way of among pated maturity: 2013-2023. Score: 93
other things explaining this wine’s (Antonio Galloni, erobertparker.com,
caramel overtones and creaminess of April 2013)
texture. The nobly fungal, carnal, and
musky notes that characterized the 343699 [XD] 750 mL $75
A.P. #5 are present here in spades,
another obvious legacy of its advanced
botrytization. Ennobled richness of
caramelized peach and mango; con-
centrated lime and pink grapefruit;
honeysuckle, rowan and orange blos-
som; as well as creamy and caressing
textural allure improbable for this vin-
tage (and given what is still extremely
high acidity) are here allied to the sort
of transparency to stony, saline,
smoky, and crystalline nuances that
was otherwise achieved in the present
collection only “way back” with the
Spatlese A.P. #8. This finishes with a
shimmering cascade of fruit essences
and mineral matter. I imagine it will
dazzle over the next half century.
Score: 97 (David Schildknecht, erobert-
parker.com, Feb. 2012)
345785 [S] 375 mL $75
12 VINTAGESTHE CLASSICS COLLECTION • FEBRUARY 2014
BORGOGNO FOSSATI CORDERO DI MONTEZEMOLO MOCCAGATTA BASARIN
BAROLO 2008 VIGNA ENRICO VI BAROLO 2008 BARBARESCO 2008
DOCG DOCG DOCG
TASTING NOTE: The 2008 Barolo TASTING NOTE: A seductive red, TASTING NOTE: The emphasis is on
Fossati is my personal favorite thanks complex and layered, beginning with the fruit in this round, smooth red,
to the stunning aromas that emanate its eucalyptus and tobacco-scented featuring cherry, plum, eucalyptus and
from this wine. I find those mineral cherry to the rose petal and raspberry mineral flavors. The structure is
notes absolutely divine, they are chalky notes that emerge along the way. there, with the refined tannins covered
without being dusty and so finely Harmonious yet firm, with a long after- by fruit and flesh now. A hint of
etched and chiseled overall. They help taste of sweet fruit and spice. Best oak graces the finish. Best from 2014
pull the aromas straight up and out from 2014 through 2030. Score: 94 through 2027. Score: 94 (Bruce
of the glass and are soon followed by (Bruce Sanderson, Sanderson, winespectator.com,
more substantial notes of pressed winespectator.com, Nov. 30, 2012) April 30, 2012)
blue flower, licorice, cola, tar and dried
ginger. It offers a vertical aromatic 22020 [XD] 750 mL $112 342840 [XD] 750 mL $68
delivery, in which each descriptor is
pulled from the bottle like a chain of
pearls, rather than a horizontal delivery MASCARELLO MONPRIVATO
in which all the perfumes hit you at BAROLO 2008
once. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2030. DOCG
Score: 95 (Monica Larner, erobert- TASTING NOTE: Detailed and fragrant,
parker.com, June 2013) offering floral, strawberry, cherry,
licorice and spice flavors, this is ele-
367037 [XD] 750 mL $62 gant and underlined by a strong
mineral streak. Well-proportioned,
picking up intensity and complexity
on the long, savory finish. Extremely
fresh and classy. Best from 2016
through 2035. Score: 95 (Bruce San-
derson, winespectator.com,
April 30, 2013)
284323 [XD] 750 mL $165
VINTAGES 13THE CLASSICS COLLECTION • FEBRUARY 2014
ITALY – PIEDMONT CORINO VIGNA GIACHINI LA SPINETTA VIGNETO CAMPE
BAROLO 2007 VÜRSÙ BAROLO 2007
DOCG DOCG
RED WINE TASTING NOTE: The 2007 Barolo TASTING NOTE: There is no doubt the
Giachini opens with a beguiling, cap- 2007 Barolo Campe is impressive. It
SEGHESIO VIGNETO LA VILLA tivating bouquet redolent of tar, smoke, is a beautifully balanced wine layered
BAROLO 2008 French oak and wild cherries, all of with opulent, super-ripe fruit, new
DOCG which come together in the finely-knit leather and licorice. The French oak is
TASTING NOTE: The 2008 Barolo voice that is unique to this La Morra beautifully balanced in this broad-
Vigneto La Villa emerges from the vineyard. The Giachini stands out for shouldered Barolo, while the fruit avoids
glass with generous dark red fruit, its exceptional length, finely nuanced the overripe tendencies of the past.
flowers, menthol, pine and licorice, fruit and lovely overall balance. Hints The wine holds up perfectly in the
all supported by firm, massive tannins. of Pinot linger on the close. Anticipated glass, which hasn’t always been the
French oak gives the wine volume maturity: 2017-2027. Score: 94 case. Tar, licorice and spices wrap
and textural depth, but without being (Antonio Galloni, erobertparker.com, around the intense finish. This is
intrusive. A plush, authoritative finish Feb. 2011) the finest vintage of Campe to date.
rounds out this stylish, totally fabulous Kudos to Giorgio Rivetti and his team
Barolo. Anticipated maturity: 2018- 297259 [XD] 750 mL $60 for this fabulous effort. To be released
2028. Score: 94 (Antonio Galloni, in 2012. Anticipated maturity: 2014-
erobertparker.com, April 2012) 2024. Score: 95 (Antonio Galloni,
erobertparker.com, Oct. 2011)
341982 [XD] 750 mL $65
343632 [D] 750 mL $177
BATASIOLO VIGNETO
CORDA DELLA BRICCOLINA
BAROLO 2007
DOCG
TASTING NOTE: An alluring red, this
offers perfumed aromas of flowers,
cherry and tar followed by juicy cherry,
raspberry, licorice and spice flavors.
Flesh covers the structure well, but
could benefit from aging. Best from
2014 through 2030. Score: 95 (Bruce
Sanderson, winespectator.com,
Nov. 30, 2012)
992271 [XD] 750 mL $74
14 VINTAGESTHE CLASSICS COLLECTION • FEBRUARY 2014
MASCARELLO SANTO ITALY – TUSCANY DEI SANCTA CATHARINA 2009
STEFANO DI PERNO BAROLO 2006 IGT Toscana
DOCG TASTING NOTE: A wine with lovely
TASTING NOTE: The 2006 Barolo RED WINE ripe fruits such as strawberries and
Santo Stefano di Perno is a decidedly cherries with hints of new wood. Full
more important and interesting wine BRANCAIA ILATRAIA 2010 and very velvety with a pretty balance
in this vintage. A fresh, vibrant hue IGT Maremma Toscana between fruit, wood and acidity. Always
leads to glorious dark fruit, menthol, Ranked #86 in Wine Spectator’s excellent. Cabernet Sauvignon. Better
spices and sweet medicinal herbs. Ele- Top 100 Wines of 2012. in 2014. Score: 94 (James Suckling,
ments of classic austerity and ripeness jamessuckling.com, Aug. 29, 2012)
play off each other as this structured, TASTING NOTE: This is pure and
powerful Barolo opens up in the glass. oh-so-silky, featuring flavors of black 139410 [XD] 750 mL $46
This is a fabulous vintage for the Santo currant, violet and sweet spice, with
Stefano di Perno. Anticipated maturity: a hint of tobacco. The supple texture
2016-2031. Score: 94 (Antonio Galloni, is offset by refined tannins as this VIGNAMAGGIO CABERNET FRANC
erobertparker.com, Dec. 2010) cruises to a long aftertaste of black 2009
currant and spice. Cabernet Sauvignon, IGT Toscana
343749 [XD] 750 mL $130 Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. Best TASTING NOTE: A bright, scented
from 2014 through 2024. Score: 94 red, exuding black currant and olive
(Bruce Sanderson, aromas and flavors, with a touch of
winespectator.com, Oct. 31, 2012) graphite all wrapped in a supple tex-
ture. Balanced and solid, with a long,
685230 [XD] 750 mL $69 mouthwatering finish. Best from 2013
through 2023. Score: 93 (Bruce
Sanderson, winespectator.com,
CASTELLO DI AMA L’APPARITA Oct. 15, 2012)
2009
IGT Toscana 236190 [XD] 750 mL $59
TASTING NOTE: The 2009 L’Apparita
(Merlot) wraps around the palate
with layers of fruit. The more seamless
side of Apparita is on display, yet at
the same time there is plenty of tannin
underpinning the fruit. Juicy dark
cherries, plums, flowers and tobacco
wrap around the finish. As always,
L’Apparita is one of the more interesting
Merlots in Tuscany. It is first and
foremost a wine of Chianti Classico.
Anticipated maturity: 2019-2029.
Score: 95 (Antonio Galloni, erobert-
parker.com, June 2012)
39776 [XD] 750 mL $215
VINTAGES 15THE CLASSICS COLLECTION • FEBRUARY 2014
ITALY – TUSCANY COL D’ORCIA POGGIO AL VENTO ITALY – TRENTINO
RISERVA BRUNELLO
DI MONTALCINO 2004
RED WINE DOCG RED WINE
TASTING NOTE: The 2004 Brunello di
TENUTA DI TRINORO 2008 Montalcino Riserva Poggio al Vento SAN LEONARDO 2006
IGT Toscana is developing beautifully. This is a IGT Vigneti delle Dolomiti
TASTING NOTE: The 2008 Tenuta di decidedly feminine, graceful style (Tenuta San Leonardo)
Trinoro sweeps across the palate with of Poggio al Vento. The wine literally The 2013 Gambero Rosso guide
layers of beautifully articulated fruit, floats on the palate with gracious awarded this wine its highest
violets, spices and minerals, while layers of fruit. Silky tannins support rating of BBB.
avoiding the heaviness and overripe- sweet red berries, flowers and spices
ness that characterized some of the on the mouthwatering finish. The 2004 TASTING NOTE: The 2006 San Leo-
wines of the past. The tannins and the is flat-out beautiful. This was a rela- nardo boasts striking inner perfume,
oak both need several years to fully tively generous harvest, and that comes great purity and fabulous overall bal-
harmonize, but this is a soft, impec- through in the wine’s medium-bodied ance. A large, broad-shouldered red,
cably refined Tenuta to treasure over structure. Anticipated maturity: 2014- the 2006 shows off layers of expressive
the next two decades, perhaps longer. 2044. Score: 95+ (Antonio Galloni, dark fruit, grilled herbs, licorice and
The 2008 Tenuta is approximately erobertparker.com, May 2012) new leather, all supported by firm yet
40% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Franc, 15% well-integrated tannins. The 2006 is
Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Petit 343640 [XD] 1500 mL $285 impressive today, but it is built to last
Verdot. Anticipated maturity: 2014- for decades. The flagship San Leonardo
2028. Score: 96+ (Antonio Galloni, is 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30%
MW, erobertparker.com, Oct. 2010) LAZZERETTI RISERVA Cabernet Franc and 10% Merlot aged
BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO 2004 in French oak barrels. Anticipated
343707 [XD] 750 mL $359 DOCG maturity: 2016-2036. Score: 94
TASTING NOTE: The layers of rich, (Antonio Galloni, erobertparker.com,
opulent fruit make you want to drink Feb. 2012)
this now. There’s so much berry, prune,
chocolate and coffee character, with 32474 [XD] 750 mL $74
ripe, velvety tannins. All there. You can
open this now or hold on. Drink
now through 2018. Score: 95 (James
Suckling, winespectator.com,
Oct. 31, 2010)
241299 [XD] 750 mL $96
16 VINTAGESTHE CLASSICS COLLECTION • FEBRUARY 2014
ITALY – VENETO CORTE SAN BENEDETTO WHITE WINE
AMARONE DELLA VALPOLICELLA
CLASSICO 2007
RED WINE DOC INAMA VIGNETO DU LOT
Gold Medal winner at the 2012 SOAVE CLASSICO 2010
INAMA BRADISISMO 2008 Mundus Vini. DOC
IGT Veneto TASTING NOTE: Aromas of very ripe
The 2013 Gambero Rosso guide TASTING NOTE: (Barrel sample) apple and tarte tatin. Full and rich
awarded this wine its BBB. Deep black almandine with black re- with layers of tropical fruit and toasted
flections and cherry rim. Powerful oak. Oily. Yet balanced and long with
TASTING NOTE: Nose of spices and nose with a great deal of cedar, [which] creamy, dried fruit flavors. Gorgeous.
chili aromas with hints of dried cherries overshadows all else. On the palate Barrel fermented 30%. Drink now.
and currants. Full-bodied, with silky it’s ample and soft with plum prune Score: 94 (James Suckling, james-
tannins and a delicious finish. Hints of fruit supported by acidity that’s a suckling.com, June 7, 2013)
caramel and toasted oak. Why wait? little cheekier than I expected, and by
This is 70% Cabernet Sauvignon and tannins that have a youthful peppery 361535 [XD] 750 mL $38
30% Carmenere. Score: 93 (James burr. (Kyle Phillips, Italian Wine Review,
Suckling, jamessuckling.com, March 4, 2011)
June 7, 2013)
358523 [D] 750 mL $68 v
732198 [XD] 750 mL $47
v
ZENATO SERGIO ZENATO RISERVA
AMARONE DELLA VALPOLICELLA
CLASSICO 2007
DOC
TASTING NOTE: Mouthwatering,
with lush notes of black cherry coulis,
raspberry ganache, strawberry pre-
serves, ground anise and espresso.
Fine-grained tannins frame this
vibrant, silky red, with smoke, dried
herb and spice notes echoing on
the lasting finish. Drink now through
2028. Score: 94 (Alison Napjus,
winespectator.com, Sept. 30, 2013)
132316 [XD] 750 mL $75
VINTAGES 17THE CLASSICS COLLECTION • FEBRUARY 2014
PORTUGAL SPAIN EMILIO MORO MALLEOLUS
DE SANCHOMARTIN 2008
DO Ribera del Duero
RED WINE RED WINE In 2012, Wine Enthusiast and Wine
Spectator awarded this wine scores
CV CURRICULUM VITAE 2010 ALVARO PALACIOS FINCA DOFÍ of 93 and 92, respectively.
DOC Douro 2011
(Quinta Vale D. Maria) DOCa Priorat TASTING NOTE: The 2008 Malleolus
TASTING NOTE: The 2010 CV is the TASTING NOTE: The 2011 Finca Dofi de Sanchomartin was also tasted
winery’s celebrated old vines (80+ is a blend of 95% Garnacha and 5% from a barrel sample. Deep purple in
years) blend, aged in a mixture of Syrah. It has another exuberant bou- color, it displays beautiful aromatics
new (75%) and old barriques for 22 quet, like the older sister of the 2011 that are very seductive. Elegant on
months (meaning that this was just Gatrallops, endowed with beautifully the palate with ample underlying
bottled in August, 2012, making it a defined floral aromas. There are structure, this is a focused, intense
big, young puppy). Happily (about a hints of broom and fennel infusing the offering that will evolve for more than
full point) lower in alcohol than last scintillating red fruit and a sorbet-like a decade. Malleolus de Sanchomartin
year’s version, this is well balanced freshness. The palate is medium-bodied is sourced from a vineyard planted in
while once again being the deepest with a vibrant peppery entry, fanning 1964 with cuttings grafted from the
wine in the lineup. If it does not quite across the mouth with succulent red Valderramiro vineyard. Alcoholic fer-
seem as fresh and elegant as the currant and wild strawberry fruit. mentation is with indigenous yeasts
Vale D. Maria, in its own right it is still The acidity maintains superb balance, with ML in barrel. The wine is then
rather harmonious and a pleasure to countering the 14.8% alcohol with aged for 22 months in French oak.
drink, a wine that makes its bones ease. There is a firm underlying struc- Score: 94-97 (Jay Miller, erobertpark-
with balance and concentration (rela- ture that is only exposed towards er.com, June 2010)
tive to the vintage) rather than sweet- the long persistent, mineral-rich finish.
ness and power. It should become a Wonderful. Drink 2016-2030+. 342907 [XD] 750 mL $197
remarkably graceful CV in time. It is a Score: 94-96 (Neal Martin, erobert-
bit oak tinged at the moment, but parker.com, April 2012)
that should be absorbed well. This is
super and I think it is a big success, 730184 [XD] 750 mL $93
especially in the context of this vin-
tage. It should be approachable
young, but of course it will benefit
from a few years in the cellar to allow
it to develop some expressiveness. It
tightens noticeably with air. There
were 6,000 bottles produced, plus
some large format bottles. Drink
2015-2026. Score: 94 (Mark Squires,
erobertparker.com, Dec. 2012)
341974 [XD] 750 mL $115
18 VINTAGESTHE CLASSICS COLLECTION • FEBRUARY 2014
CONFESOR 2004 AUSTRALIA FIRST DROP FAT OF THE LAND
DOCa Rioja EBENEZER SHIRAZ 2010
(Bodegas Vinicola Real) Barossa Valley, South Australia
TASTING NOTE: The flagship 2004 RED WINE TASTING NOTE: Deep garnet-purple
Confesor comes from a two-hectare in color, the 2010 Fat of the Land
plot of 73-year-old vines that yield 1kg DOMAINE TOURNON Ebenezer Shiraz exudes blackberry tart,
per vine, made from Tempranillo, LADY’S LANE VINEYARD crushed black currants and dried
Garnacha, Graciano and Mazuelo. After SHIRAZ 2010 mint aromas with an undercurrent of
de-stemming and crushing, it is fer- Victoria forest floor, cedar and lavender. Full-
mented in an open barrel where it is Domaine Tournon is the Australian bodied and tightly-knit with a crisp acid
raised over 14 months. It has a very home of one of the Rhône Valley's line and firm, rounded tannins it is
complex bouquet of effervescent red- most renowned producers, Michel finishing long and layered. Drink it from
berry fruit, blood orange, chalk Chapoutier. The ancient red Cam- 2014 to 2024+. Score: 95+ (Lisa
and crushed stone that is beautifully brian soils of Heathcote are located in Perrotti-Brown, MW,
defined. The palate is very well-bal- one of Australia's most prized premi- erobertparker.com, Feb. 2013)
anced with fine but grippy tannins. It um Shiraz regions. Little surprise then
is very natural, with a rustic pedigree that one of Rhône’s greatest voices 303339 [XD] 750 mL $73
and superb freshness and personality would want to explore the possibilities
towards the finish. Superb. Drink offered by this region. The wines
2015-2025+. Score: 94 (Neal Martin, created here, in what might be con-
erobertparker.com, Aug. 2012) sidered the second home of Shiraz,
are simply spectacular. Robert Parker
342923 [XD] 750 mL $171 awarded Tournon's 2010 Lady’s Lane
a score of 95 points in December 2011,
though he did not include an accom-
panying review, allowing the M. Cha-
poutier name, and the 95 points,
to speak for themselves.
297465 [D] 750 mL $70
v
VINTAGES 19THE CLASSICS COLLECTION • FEBRUARY 2014
AUSTRALIA PENFOLDS RWT SHIRAZ 2010 WHITE WINE
Barossa Valley, South Australia
TASTING NOTE: Deep garnet-purple LEEUWIN ESTATE ART SERIES
RED WINE in color, the 2010 RWT Shiraz is CHARDONNAY 2009
a little closed showing intense and Margaret River, Western Australia
PENFOLDS BIN 707 youthful primary aromas of cassis, TASTING NOTE: A deftly balanced
CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2010 kirsch, cedar, prunes and a touch of Chardonnay of tremendous depth
South Australia mulberries. Rich, muscular, packed without much weight, floating its pear,
TASTING NOTE: Deep garnet-purple with flavor, it is full-bodied, concen- quince, floral and orange marmalade
colored, the 2010 Bin 707 Cabernet trated and finishes long with oak still flavors through to the end. It’s the finish
Sauvignon is an earthier style display- poking out. Very youthful still, it will that makes this special, balancing all
ing classic aromas of cassis, plum drink from 2014 to 2026+. Score: 93+ the elements effortlessly and lingering
and pencil shavings with some earth, (Lisa Perrotti-Brown, MW, erobert- on and on. Drink now through 2025.
olives, spice box and cloves. Very parker.com, Feb. 2013) Special designation: Highly Recom-
structured by firm, grainy tannins, it mended. Score: 96 (Harvey Steiman,
is concentrated and muscular with 564278 [XD] 750 mL $150 winespectator.com, March 31, 2012)
good acid freshness through the long
and layered finish. It needs 1-2 years 619437 [XD] 750 mL $93
more of aging and will drink to 2030+.
Score: 95+ (Lisa Perrotti-Brown, MW,
erobertparker.com, Feb. 2013) v
414995 [XD] 750 mL $225 v
v
20 VINTAGESTHE CLASSICS COLLECTION • FEBRUARY 2014
USA – CALIFORNIA CONTINUUM ESTATE DONUM PINOT NOIR 2010
PROPRIETARY RED 2010 Carneros, Napa Valley
Napa Valley TASTING NOTE: Offers ebullient rasp-
RED WINE TASTING NOTE: This has been an berry and black cherry flavors that
impressive, serious wine since the debut are ripe and seductive, with spice, loam
CADE ESTATE vintage, and Tim Mondavi's estate and sandalwood details. Notes of
CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2010 high on Pritchard Hill has fashioned cassis, raspberry jam and red licorice
Howell Mountain, Napa Valley a 2010 blend of 71% Cabernet Sau- crescendo on the long finish, with
(PlumpJack) vignon, 14% Cabernet Franc, 11% very refined tannins. Special designa-
TASTING NOTE: The 2010 Cabernet Petit Verdot and 4% Merlot. Gor- tion: Highly Recommended. Drink
Sauvignon Estate Howell Mountain geously ripe, intricate and nuanced, now through 2023. Score: 95 (MaryAnn
stands out for its balance, a rare feat with aromas of spring flowers and Worobiec, winespectator.com,
on Howell Mountain in this vintage. red and black fruits, a stunning texture, May 31, 2013)
Mocha, chocolate, cloves, plums and sweet tannin, a full-bodied mouthfeel,
black cherries meld together effort- and undeniable elegance and finesse, 279786 [XD] 750 mL $90
lessly in this nicely balanced Cabernet this complex beauty cascades over
Sauvignon. The 2010 isn’t a block- the palate without a hard edge to be
buster, but it is a solid effort for the year. found. It is a tribute to Mondavi's
Anticipated maturity: 2015-2025. long resume of skillful winemaking.
Score: 94 (Antonio Galloni, erobert- Black currants, blueberries and a
parker.com, Dec. 2012) touch of raspberries are all compelling
and persistent. Drink this gorgeous
368035 [XD] 750 mL $200 Napa red now and over the next
15+ years. Score: 97 (Robert Parker Jr.,
erobertparker.com, Oct. 2013)
206276 [XD] 750 mL $229
JANZEN BECKSTOFFER
MISSOURI HOPPER VINEYARD
CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2009
Napa Valley
(Bacio Divino Cellars)
TASTING NOTE: This is a stunning
example of modern-day Napa Cab-
ernet Sauvignon. It’s soft, complex,
smooth and sweet, with a veneer of
smoky, caramelized oak coating the
flavors of ripe blackberry, black
cherry and crème de cassis. It’s really
delicious, and made all the more
appealing by a fine structure of tannins
and acids. Score: 94 (Steve Heimoff,
Wine Enthusiast, Sept. 2012)
342881 [XD] 750 mL $105
VINTAGES 21THE CLASSICS COLLECTION • FEBRUARY 2014
USA – CALIFORNIA STONESTREET BEAR POINT DUNN VINEYARDS
CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2009 HOWELL MOUNTAIN
Alexander Valley, Sonoma County CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2003
RED WINE TASTING NOTE: The 2009 Cabernet Napa Valley
Sauvignon Bear Point comes across as TASTING NOTE: Rich with surprisingly
SHAFER HILLSIDE SELECT dark and brooding. Espresso, graphite, soft tannin, this dense plum/ruby/
CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2009 blackberries, cassis and spices emerge purple-colored 2003 Cabernet Sauv-
Stags Leap District, Napa Valley from the glass as this dense, opaque ignon exhibits lots of briary mountain
TASTING NOTE: The 2009 Cabernet Cabernet Sauvignon shows off its pedi- fruit, blackberries, blueberries and cas-
Sauvignon Hillside Select is deep, gree. Layers of expressive perfume sis, outstanding purity, full-bodied
racy and layered from the very first are woven throughout the fruit in this power and nicely integrated tannin.
taste. A large-scaled, sumptuous wine, open, relatively accessible Cabernet. There is no evidence of toasty oak to
the 2009 impresses for its exceptional This is another terrific effort from Stone- be found in this beauty from Randy
balance and pure pedigree. There is street and winemaker Graham Weerts. Dunn. Drink it now or cellar it for
plenty of flesh here, but also more than Anticipated maturity: 2012-2021. 15+ years. It finished at 13.8% natural
enough tannin to help balance some Score: 92 (Antonio Galloni, erobert- alcohol. Score: 95 (Robert Parker Jr.,
of the wine’s more overt tendencies. A parker.com, Feb. 2012) erobertparker.com, June 2013)
dazzling, utterly vivid finish rounds
things out in style. This large-scaled, 252353 [XD] 750 mL $69 193839 [XD] 750 mL $129
voluptuous Cabernet Sauvignon
should be at its finest between the
ages of 10 and 30. Anticipated CORE MISTER MOREVED
maturity: 2019-2039. Score: 98 ALTA MESA VINEYARD 2007
(Antonio Galloni, erobertpar- Cuyama Valley,
ker.com, Dec. 2012) Santa Barbara County
TASTING NOTE: Almost identical to
735712 [XD] 750 mL $299 the 37-Month aged cuvee, yet with
a touch more richness and depth, the
2007 Core Mister Moreved Alta Mesa
42-Months is showing every bit as well
as it did over a year ago, with savoury
aromas of meat, coffee, and graphite
that are supported by brilliant cassis
and blackberry styled fruits. Full-bodied,
mouth filling, and very rich, with
impeccable balance and a chewy, le-
ngthy finish, this beauty could still
use another handful of years in the
cellar, and will drink well for 10-12 years
or longer. Score: 94 (Jeb Dunnuck,
therhonereport.com, Dec. 2011)
365429 [XD] 750 mL $54
22 VINTAGESTHE CLASSICS COLLECTION • FEBRUARY 2014
WHITE WINE USA – OREGON FORTIFIED WINE
FLOWERS VINEYARD
MOON SELECT RED WINE PORT
CHARDONNAY 2009
Camp Meeting Ridge Vineyard, REX HILL PINOT NOIR 2010 KOPKE COLHEITA PORT 1975
Sonoma Coast Willamette Valley DOC Douro
TASTING NOTE: A delightfully fragrant, TASTING NOTE: Fresh and focus- TASTING NOTE: This is a lovely
rich, yet elegant and delicate expres- ed, with nice transparency to the Colheita, gentle, yet complex and very
sion of ripe peach, honeysuckle and blackberry, licorice and floral flavors, graceful, with a powerful nose in
spice. Impressive for its lithe body, lingering enticingly on the deft finish. the background, bright acidity and
persistence and depth. Fun and refr- Drink now through 2018. Score: 90 considerable charm. It finishes
eshing to drink. Drink now through (Harvey Steiman, winespectator.com, sweet and richer than the mid-palate
2018. Score: 94 (James Laube, wine- Dec. 31, 2012) initially suggests as it has those con-
spectator.com, Dec. 15, 2011) centrated flavors I adore in Colheitas.
275735 [XD] 750 mL $37 It gather[s] steam and manages
358028 [XD] 750 mL $95 to deliver intensity and concentration
while remaining elegant and bal-
anced, with some brandy-laced bursts
of acidity dancing around. The good
acidity gives it a lively feel, but ulti-
mately what makes this a beauty
is the combination of harmony and
intensity, as odd as that sounds.
There is some tannic pop on the finish
at times, too. It covers all the bases,
assertive without being obvious. The
more I drank this, the more I liked
it. At the price, it is a rather nice deal.
Score: 94 (Mark Squires, erobert-
parker.com, Nov. 2012)
342964 [S] 750 mL $113
VINTAGES 23THE CLASSICS COLLECTION • FEBRUARY 2014
FORTIFIED WINE SPIRITS COGNAC
THOMAS HINE TRIOMPHE
PORT SCOTCH WHISKY GRANDE CHAMPAGNE COGNAC
Hine’s Triomphe is aged a minimum
KOPKE COLHEITA PORT 1953 HIGHLAND PARK 30 YEARS OLD of 45 years in barrel.
DOC Douro ORKNEY ISLANDS SINGLE MALT
Bottled 2012 TASTING NOTE: An exemplary High- TASTING NOTE: ... The opening
TASTING NOTE: This opens with the land Park. There’s certainly plenty of aromatics are lovely, a touch spicy and
powerful aromatics, promising dense sherry influence in this whisky and it mildly sweet in a tropical fruit man-
and concentrated juice, that makes me is complementary. (About 2/3 of the ner; following seven minutes of further
adore mature Colheitas so much. This whisky was aged on sherry casks, and aeration the bouquet becomes deeper
is what it is all about at this end of the a lot of these casks were second fill.) as the oak enters the equation, lending
scale. Juicy and sweet on the long The whisky enjoys a delicious foun- weight to the delicately sweet aroma
finish, it has bursts of enlivening acidity dation of toffee, fruit (lemon, plum, that also features honey and beeswax.
and some portents of elegance to blueberries) and dark chocolate. It It’s in the mouth that Triomphe tri-
come, but it is the dark, brandy-laced continues to develop and evolve umphs; the palate entry is sinewy, sweet
nuance on the finish with intense on the palate, with emerging notes of with overtones of marzipan and light
notes of molasses, bitter chocolate and heather, nougat, lavender, delicate caramel; at midpalate the taste profile
treacle that helped make it special. peat and complex dried spice (espe- highlights the oaky vanilla and honey
Its very dark feel was nicely cut by the cially cinnamon and nutmeg) to [elements]. Concludes gracefully, com-
acidity, making it surprisingly sunny balance the sweeter notes. The extra posed, integrated, and semisweet ...
at times with actual hints of elegance. alcohol is also a bonus, providing a it still holds up as a Hine icon. Oh, that
This is very fine, complex, sturdy and drying balance to the whisky’s sweet- classic mouth-feel and flavour
quite spry for a 60 year old. Despite ness. Whiskies like this one remind phase. Highly Recommended. (2005
the concentration and power, it me why I fell in love with whisky in the Review) Score: HHHHK (F. Paul
still seems quite elegant as it comes first place. Score: 94 (John Hansell, Pacult, Kindred Spirits 2, 2008)
together. Score: 97 (Mark Squires, maltadvocate.com, undated)
erobertparker.com, Nov. 2012) 292888 700 mL $900
22202 750 mL $599
342956 [S] 750 mL $409
THE MACALLAN FINE OAK
30 YEARS OLD SPEYSIDE
SINGLE MALT
Speyside
TASTING NOTE: Colour: Rich golden
honey. Nose: Orange and pineapple.
Grapefruit. Rich, venerable. Red berries.
Body: Full and mouth-coating; creamy.
Palate: Orange marmalade dominated,
with softer and supportive spice and
oak. Drying. Finish: Big on all fronts,
with the fruit holding out above the
oaky tannins and spiciness. Excellent
balance and wonderful, long aftertaste.
Score: 91 (Michael Jackson, Malt
Whisky Companion, 2010)
656553 750 mL $1400
OPPOSITE: These Sonoma vineyards
benefit from the cool breezes that
24 VINTAGES sweep in from San Francisco Bay.MARCH CLASSICS COLLECTION Online ordering starts March 6
THE CLASSICS COLLECTION • MARCH 2014
FRANCE – BORDEAUX DOMAINE DE CHEVALIER 2006 CHÂTEAU D’ANGLUDET 2005
AC Pessac-Léognan, Cru Classé AC Margaux
TASTING NOTE: The brilliant St.- TASTING NOTE: A sleeper of the vin-
RED WINE Emilion-based consultant, Stephane tage, this well-known, non-classified
Derenoncourt, is working his magic growth is a deep ruby/purple-colored
CHÂTEAU RAUZAN-SÉGLA 2006 at this great vineyard in Leognan. The effort revealing notions of roasted
AC Margaux, 2e Cru 2006, a blend of 63% Cabernet meats, black truffles, licorice, and loamy
TASTING NOTE: On the same quali- Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, and the rest earth. Sweet tannin, a rich, chocolaty,
tative level as this estate’s brilliant Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc, black currant fruitiness, medium to full
2005, but with slightly less sucrosite, is a revelation of sweet, lush, black body, and terrific freshness and
this blend of 53% Cabernet Sauvignon, raspberry and black currant fruit vibrancy provide a gorgeous early app-
44% Merlot, and the rest Petit Verdot, intermixed with subtle notes of scor- eal. It will be even better in 3-4
exhibits a 1986-like personality, a very ched earth and barbecue spices. years, and should last for 15 or more.
successful vintage at Rauzan Segla. Round, luscious, sexy, and exception- Drink: 2011-2023. Score: 90
Its deep ruby/purple hue is accompa- ally complex, the wine is dominated (Robert Parker Jr., erobertparker.com,
nied by sweet aromas of bay leaf, by that smoky minerality that comes April 2008)
black currants, licorice, truffles, and from this area. It is the quintessentially
a touch of toast, dazzling fruit, and elegant yet substantial Pessac-Leognan 29884 [XD] 750 mL $106
plenty of ripe, but not astringent tannin. with class, complexity, and potential.
This is a medium to full-bodied, Despite wanting to drink most of the
classic, pure, surprisingly approachable bottle when I was tasting it, I know it
Rauzan Segla that will be at its will be even better with 2-4 years of
finest between 2012-2025+. Score: 93 bottle age, and should keep for two
(Robert Parker Jr., erobertparker.com, decades. Drink: 2011-2031. Score: 92
Feb. 2009) (Robert Parker Jr., erobertparker.com,
Feb. 2009)
504209 [XD] 750 mL $119
355248 [XD] 750 mL $105
26 VINTAGESTHE CLASSICS COLLECTION • MARCH 2014
FRANCE – BURGUNDY LOUIS JADOT MOREY-SAINT-DENIS CÔTE DE BEAUNE
CLOS DES ORMES 1er CRU 2010 RED WINE
AC
CÔTE DE NUITS TASTING NOTE: The 2010 Morey- DOMAINE P. DUBREUIL-FONTAINE
RED WINE Saint-Denis Clos des Ormes is won- CORTON-BRESSANDES
derfully perfumed and delicate. Floral GRAND CRU 2010
DOMAINE HENRI GOUGES notes meld into an expressive core AC
NUITS-SAINT GEORGES CLOS of red fruit in this gracious, delicate TASTING NOTE: As with the Verge-
DES PORRETS SAINT-GEORGES Burgundy. This is an especially lesses, there is mild reduction present
1er CRU 2010 elegant style of Morey. There is more that in this case is sufficiently slight
AC than enough freshness in the glass that it doesn’t unduly detract from the
TASTING NOTE: The 2010 Nuits St. to make me think the 2010 will drink sense of aromatic freshness exhib-
Georges Clos des Porrets Saint-Georges well for a number of years. Anticipated ited by the red currant, plum and soil-
is the first wine in this lineup that shows maturity: 2015-2025. Score: 91-93 inflected nose. There is excellent size
the structure of the vintage. Freshly (Antonio Galloni, erobertparker.com, and weight to the very rich, round and
cut flowers, minerals, graphite and Feb. 2012) impressively complex broad-shouldered
black cherries are woven into a tex- flavors that display a subtle minerality
tured fabric of notable class. I especially 934042 [XD] 750 mL $77 on the refined, balanced and strikingly
like its energy and drive. A precise, long finish. This is a Bressandes that
finely-chiseled finish rounds things out will age for years yet is not so firmly
nicely. Anticipated maturity: 2015- structured that it won’t be approach-
2025. Score: 91-93 (Antonio Galloni, able young. Drink: 2022+. Special
erobertparker.com, Feb. 2012) designation: Don’t Miss! Score: 93
(Allen Meadows, burghound.com,
693606 [XD] 750 mL $69 April 2012)
297200 [XD] 750 mL $88
DOMAINE HENRI GOUGES
NUITS-SAINT-GEORGES 2010
AC
Among the many highly rated domaines
in the Nuits St. Georges, Domaine
Henri Gouges holds prominent status.
The Gouges family have been pro-
prietors of this domaine since 1919
and own a considerable portion of
the region’s most celebrated vineyard,
the inimitable Les St-Georges. Henri
Gouges was one of the leading voices
in defining Burgundy's cru system.
The wines produced here are famously
ageable and long lived, rich
and impressively concentrated.
118901 [XD] 750 mL $45
VINTAGES 27You can also read
