staff picks

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Crisp and refreshing, with a zap of acidity, this white wine originates from the family-run estate in the Loire Valley's Touraine sub-region. The estate, certified with the HVE3 status, takes great care in maintaining environmental sustainability both in the vineyards and winery. Despite its modest 15 hectares of vineyards, Château de Fontenay produces some of the purest expressions of these grape varieties. The 2021 Le Sauvignon is a perfect example of the estate's commitment to quality. 

Crafted from a blend of 53% Sauvignon Blanc and 47% Sémillon grapes. The vineyards, averaging 25 years in age, are situated on soils composed of 80% sandy gravels and 20% clay gravels. The wine undergoes fermentation in a combination of stainless steel vats and oak barrels previously used for a first-growth wine, followed by six months of aging on lees. Aromas of wild mushrooms, crushed rocks, white truffles, peach tart, preserved mandarin peel, poached pears, lemongrass, and lime leaves. 

Also known as Campogrande, a white wine from the Orvieto Classico DOC in Umbria, Italy. Crafted from a blend of Procanico and Grechetto grapes, it embodies the elegance and bracing acidity of the region's fine white wines. The harvest began at the end of September, yielding healthy fruit with optimal acidity and an excellent aromatic profile. The nose is intense, offering pleasant fruity aromas of ripe Golden apples, apricots, and orange zest.  

Feudo Principi di Butera has been producing delicious wines since 1997, and this 100% Insolia is no exception. Tropical fruits, melon rinds and brown butter are familiar notes for this unfamiliar and underrepresented Italian varietal. Originating from the Sicilian region, the unique terroir imparts a slightly ashy and saline note to the finish of this wine.

 Dirler-Cade is the product of two iconic Alsace houses coming together. The vineyard is in a prime location with half of the vines sitting in Grand Crus. The families have been making wine for five generations. The wines are versatile and can hold up with Michelin star food, or be celebrated in a natural wine competition. 

A distinguished white wine from the Drama region of Greece, showcasing the unique characteristics of the Assyrtiko grape. Sourced from a single vineyard in Kali Vrisi, situated on the eastern slopes of Mount Menoikio. The wine undergoes sur lie aging, where fine lees are stirred into the tanks, enhancing volume and complexity. A complex bouquet combining apricots, tropical fruits, mineral notes, and soft botanicals.

Castel Firmian, located in Mezzocorona, Trentino, is a historic 13th-century castle that was expanded by Count Nicolò Firmian, a powerful figure known for his strong connections with the Habsburg courts and his influence on the wine trade. Castel Firmian wines, crafted to complement both Italian and international cuisines, reflect Trentino’s rich history and winemaking traditions. Known for their elegance and balance, these wines feature a harmonious blend of fragrance and taste.

Ca’ Bianca of Piedmont has been producing exceptional wines for almost 100 years. In Alto-Monferrato winemaker Pier Luigi Borgna transforms fruit from a hillside amphitheater-shaped terrace into masterful wines. Their 2010 Moscato d’Asti is an excellent showing of delicate and sweet peach, sage and citrus. We highly recommend this Moscato d’Asti for the fan of elevated sweeter wines. 

A beautifully expressive dry white wine made from 100% Chenin Blanc. The wine comes from clay-limestone soils enriched with flint, which imparts a distinct tangy minerality to the final product. The 2023 vintage presents an aromatic nose with inviting notes of saffron, vine peach, quince, and almond. On the palate, it is ample and generous, with a lovely balance of richness and freshness. With only 13,000 bottles available, it’s a rare and delightful expression of Vouvray’s rich terroir.

A lively Veneto Bianco crafted from 90% Garganega and 10% Chardonnay grapes, sourced from the Foscarino vineyard's volcanic tuff soils. Visually, a bright straw yellow hue greets the drinker, followed by aromas of ripe apple, lemon tart, and peach. On the palate, it is juicy with a peach-like fuzz, showcasing almost sweet, ripe fruit, well-integrated acidity, and subtle minerality.   

An ephemeral and deeply feminine white wine made from 100% Chardonnay, showcasing the elegance and minerality of Burgundy’s Montagny appellation. Françoise, born into the prestigious Domaine Michel Juillot in Mercurey, grew up immersed in winemaking and formalized her expertise with a year of oenology studies. After partnering with Maurice Bertrand in 1989 to develop his 14-hectare Montagny estate, Françoise continued to grow the estate, taking full ownership in 2004 after his passing. 

A lesser-known variety that was first planted in Alto Adige sometime around the mid-19th century has blossomed to become one of the most-grown white varieties in the region. Loving a cool climate, at moderate elevations between 300m and 750m, the grape shines with a fresh bite, crisp fruit character, and highly integrated verticality. 

This wine has a versatile profile, with a vibrant character that suits both social and solitary moments of enjoyment. With a history rooted in quality and tradition, it appeals to both connoisseurs and casual drinkers. Crafted with care, it offers bright citrus and spice aromas, a harmonious blend of zesty flavors with a touch of sweetness, and a crisp, refreshing finish.

This wine has it all, acid, fruit, minerality and a striking beauty. An Auslese cuvee is crafted from late-harvested grapes, offering a slightly sweet palate, gorgeous golden hue and an inviting nose filled with aromas of ripe white peach,  raw honey, and delicate white flowers. On the palate, it is rich and luscious, with a perfect harmony between sweetness and acidity. Lemon zest is paired against the white stone minerality, refreshing the soul and creating a wine that is quite elegant.

 A luscious orange wine, comes from 65-year-old vines in Goriška Brda, Slovenia's premier wine region.  The name derives from the Italian "ribollire," meaning "to re-boil," referencing how fermentation would pause in winter and restart in spring due to the cold Bora winds. Fermented with native yeasts in stainless steel, it is then aged for 18 months in used barriques on its lees.  

Although the winery was founded in the 1980s, Frog’s Leap has been under construction since the 70s. Founding winemaker John Williams began working for Stag’s Leap wine cellars a year before the 1976 Judgment of Paris put Napa Valley on the world map. When the American winery beat out French wine in a blind tasting, Williams became "the” salesman of the region. After this success, he bought Frog Farm and founded Frog’s Leap. 50 years later, their 2023 Sauvignon Blanc is a resounding success. 

The Pont de Chevalier Sauvignon Blanc, from the Knights Valley, Sonoma, is a bright, crystal clear expression of the region. Hand-harvested between August and September, the grapes were delicately pressed to preserve their aromatics. The juice underwent a 72-hour cold settling before fermentation in stainless steel at cool temperatures, inhibiting malolactic fermentation to maintain brightness. It presents aromas of white peony tea, linden flower, citrus peel, passion fruit, and mineral tones.

The Te Muna Sauvignon Blanc from Martinborough, New Zealand, has vibrant aromas of kaffir lime and white flowers. The palate balances intense fruit flavors with a refined texture and a crisp, clean finish. Harvested during a warm, early season influenced by La Niña, the wine was fermented in stainless steel and French oak, with brief aging on fine lees to enhance complexity. Praised with a 94-point Wine Spectator  it highlights lime, mango, and passion fruit in a lively, elegant profile.

The Estate-owned Keyhole Ranch, based out of the northern Russian River Valley produces Seghesio’s Italian white varietals. Coastal breezes and morning fog create ideal windows for ripening, paired with a nighttime harvest to maximize the grapes vibrant flavors and piercing acid. Whole cluster pressed, with slow pressure extraction in a bladder press to finish the wine with a clean, green note.  

From New Zealand’s Marlborough region, known for producing some of the world’s finest Rieslings. This wine shines with a pale straw color in the glass, offering a brilliant bouquet of fresh lemon zest, crisp green apple, and stone fruit. Always crisp and refreshing, best served cold. Giesen perfectly balances lively acidity and subtle sweetness, lingering at the tip of the tongue. Complemented by a touch of slate, that minerality adds a depth and complexity only rivaled by German Rieslings.

A bright and refined white Bordeaux blend from California’s Livermore Valley, highlighting the region’s vibrant terroir. Primarily Sauvignon Blanc for crisp acidity and aromatic freshness, balanced with a little Sémillon for added texture and richness. Fermented in stainless steel and neutral oak to preserve its freshness and enhance complexity. Flavors of green apple, tropical fruit, and pear, complemented by a creamy texture and refreshing minerality. 

An estate-grown blend from Perissac, Bordeaux, combining Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon in perfect harmony. Deep ruby red with intense aromas of black currants, cherries, and subtle spice, it gains depth from oak aging, adding a hint of sweet vanilla. The Cabernet provides structure, while the Merlot enhances its rich fruit character. Medium-bodied with elegant tannins and a smooth, lingering finish, this balanced wine is a pure delight to enjoy.

The Steading Blanc is crafted from non-traditional Barossan varietals: Marsanne, Rousanne, and Viognier. This wine is patterned after the mineral-forward wines of the Rhone Valley. This dry wine offers notes of fragrant jasmine and gardenia, apricot, peach and tropical aromas. On deeper consideration, this wine reminds one of bee’s wax, lemongrass, and ginger. The Steading Blanc is aged in 225 litre oak barriques made by Dominique Laurent ‘Magic Casks’. 

Ahhh yes, the quintessential South African grape, Chenin Blanc! This wine dazzles with aromas of bosch pear,  lively quince, and honeysuckle, complemented by hints of vanilla and spice from its time in  neutral French oak. Medium-bodied with vibrant acidity, it offers flavors of ripe stone fruits and a creamy, textured finish. "Steen" is the traditional South African name for Chenin Blanc, reflecting its deep-rooted history as the country's most widely planted grape.

With the 2021 growing season being exceptional, this vintage earned its highest scores in 20 years. Low rainfall as well as mild spring and early summer temperatures, the vines experienced a normal bud break in mid-March. Showcasing coastal influences, vibrant notes of lemon zest, grated ginger, and pineapple, jump out of the glass. The mid-palate reveals a lovely minerality, and the mouthwatering acidity enhances the long, elegant finish.  

This Chardonnay from the oft-forgotten Knights Valley in Sonoma, where the white-ash tuff loam lends a vibrant minerality and crisp, acidic backbone to this cooler vintage. It offers aromas of citrus, honey, ginger, and shortbread, with flavors of Meyer lemon, orange blossom, and salted caramel, leading to a luscious, balanced finish. Ideal with lobster ravioli or sage butter gnocchi, this wine is enjoyable now and will age gracefully.

A scenic vineyard attached to a hotel and award-winning restaurant, Babylonstoren makes small-production wines in a classically old-world style. The grapes are whole-cluster pressed and inoculated in stainless steel tanks. Following a quick fermentation, the wine is moved to 300-liter French oak barrels, 40% new and 60% second use while being kept on lees for up to four months. A leaner style of Chardonnay, fresh with lemon zest, quince, kiwi, and white stone.  

Named after the legendary Carter brothers’ Narrow Gauge railroad system used to transport goods, this Chardonnay is a celebration of the timeless classics, while embracing a forward-thinking mentality. A full yet refined and refreshing style of Chardonnay, the classic notes of pineapple and apple are present, complimented by a mild mineral undertone. The complex palate and nuanced mouthfeel are achieved through whole cluster press and a gravity flow into neutral French oak for 14 months. 

An elegant, dry-style white wine from Washington's cooler Yakima Valley, features a bright golden hue and a complex nose of pink grapefruit, minerality, and fresh ginger. On the palate, it offers a velvety texture with hints of dried herbs and coriander, enhanced by its fermentation in neutral oak.  

 Two Shepherds Winery pays equal attention to their wines as they do their clever names. The name Two Shepherds stems from the winemakers’ belief in guiding along the grapes, protecting them from harm, and caretaking the wines without overbearing. This particular orange wine series is “coined” Centime after France’s historic copper penny. The additional time spent on the skins deepens the hue of this wine of Vermentino, Picpoul, and Albarino, giving it the classic rosy color. 

Megan and Ryan are winemaking partners with a near-identical vision. They claim to never argue and agree on winemaking decisions 99% of the time. This wine represents the 1%. When discussing the best approach for the 2023 harvest, the pair experienced a rift. Thus, the “His” and “Hers” Vermentinos. The His gives off notes of jasmine, rose, and peach. The difference lies in the skins. Ryan decided to whole-cluster ferment to draw in savory characteristics and lend structure. 

The beautifully sandy soils of Tavel, France help Château D'Aqueria produce a phenomenal 6-grape blend rosé. Grenache Noir, Syrah and Mourvedre contribute to the deep rosy hue, while Clairette, Bourboulenc and Cinsault add a biting acid and fresh raspberry finish. Known for its exceptionally crisp palate and fragrant aromas, this rose will have you coming back for more. 

One of Argentina’s best known wine exports, Malbec, is presented in a refreshing and engaging rosé that beautifully showcases a different side of the Malbec grape, traditionally known for its deep, bold reds, in a lighter, more delicate form. With a pale salmon-pink color, this wine offers an aromatic bouquet of fresh red berries, watermelon as well as a fascinating eucalyptus note. Crisp and lively on the palate, with a shocking acidity that lifts the fruit-forward flavors.

Originating from the “highest vineyard in Chianti,” a premium, full-bodied red wine that embodies the essence of Tuscany's renowned region. This Riserva is crafted predominantly from Sangiovese, with small amounts of other local varieties, showcasing a deep, ruby red color and complex aromas of dark cherries, ripe blueberries, and subtle hints of leather. On the palate, it is elegant and well-structured, with fine tannins and balanced acidity that provide a smooth, lingering finish.

Crafted exclusively from Nero d'Avola, this wine is succulent, ripe and ready to be drunk. The rich aromatic profile is complex, offering notes of dried red fruits, star anise, aged cuban cigars and peppercorns, with subtle hints of almond and vanilla from aging in oak. On the palate, it is velvety and juicy, with a profound structure that finishes with soft, sweet tannins.

A rich and expressive Italian Primitivo. Widely grown in southern Italy’s Puglia region, it's beloved for notes of stewed plums, delectable blackberries and black licorice. Full-bodied and smooth, tantalizing fruit front palate with a soft baking spice finish, velvety tannins and a well-balanced acidity, this wine entices the palate from all angles.  Pair with grilled meats, hearty stews, pasta with rich sauces, or mature cheeses. Offers both immediate appeal and the potential to age gracefully.

This version of Montepulciano, a hallmark wine of central Italy, has deep, ruby-red color with a nose offers up an inviting bouquet of ripe blackberries, bing cherries, and freshly ground star anise and cardamom. On the palate, it is smooth and well-rounded, featuring integrated tannins followed by a harmonious balance of fruit and piercing acidity. The wine’s medium body and juicy profile make it approachable yet flavorful, with a finish that lingers with a touch of peppery spice.

A truly exceptional Tuscan red wine made exclusively from carefully selected Sangiovese grapes grown around Castello Banfi. Boasting a deep ruby-red color with bright garnet reflections, an aromatic bouquet of violets, ripe red fruits, berries, cigar box, and spices. On the palate, it delivers rich flavors of plums, cherries, blackberry jam, and raspberries, supported by velvety tannins and a long, elegant finish.

Pipoli grows its Aglianico in a vineyard that feels like stepping back in time according to consulting winemaker Alberto Antonini. Located 800 meters above sea level, the vineyard is completely isolated and removed from the nearby towns. The grapes are hand harvested, destemmed and crushed, and go through pre-fermentation maceration. The grapes are aged in 60% stainless steel tanks and the rest barriques for 10 months, giving the wines silky notes of cherry, vanilla, and spices.

Soft and supple, this Pinot Noir from Alsace is crafted in the Alsatian style, with a traditional maceration period of one week. The 2022 vintage reveals an intense and elegant nose, with aromas of red and black fruits, such as bing cherry and ripe raspberry, complemented by subtle floral notes. On the palate, the wine offers a harmonious balance of fresh acidity and “drink now” tannins.

Terramia is a winery that aims to highlight the beauty of Italian viticulture, with wines selected and blended with Piergiorgio Castellani, a descendant of skilled Tuscan winemakers. This red wine from Toscana, Central Italy, is crafted from the Sangiovese grape. It is celebrated for its smooth, cherry flavor and a pleasing, lasting finish.

Chateau Musar is a world-renowned winery with a cult following. The winemaker has been making wine in Lebanon since 1959, after training in Bordeaux. The Cinsault, Syrah, and Cabernet Sauvignon of this blend are fermented separately in cement vats and left unoaked to maintain pleasant freshness. The grapes are sourced from the same vineyard in the shadow of the Bekaa Valley village of Aana.

Originating from the Southern Rhône Valley, presenting a scrumptious balance of power and elegance. With its bright, inviting ruby hue, Ogier draws you in with aromas of ripe fruits— boysenberries and pluots—along with freshly cracked white pepper, wood smoke and thyme. Rich and full-bodied, velvety tannins cling to the tongue, convincing you to take another sip! This blend of Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre grapes delivers a complex yet joyous body. 

A pure version of the Grenache grape, this wine presents a deep, garnet red color and presents a bouquet of red fruit aromas, including dried cherries, fresh raspberries, and strawberries. A touch of vanilla and coconut arise on the back palate from aging in oak, accompanied by a lingering cinnamon nuance. The wine’s vibrant acidity adds freshness, balancing its richness and providing a clean, lingering finish.The decade of aging has done nothing but improve this vintage. 

100% Merlot wine crafted by Château Les Arromans in the Bordeaux region of France. The vines, averaging 35 years in age, are planted at a density of 5,000 per hectare on clay-limestone soils. Fermentation occurs over five days at 26°C, followed by two to three weeks of maceration. The wine is then matured in oak barrels for 12 months, resulting in an alcohol content of 13.5%. Tasting notes highlight a silky smooth texture with bold flavors of plum, fig, black cherry jam, and hints of tobacco.

Stemming from the heart of the Beaujolais region, crafted from exclusively Gamay grapes. Layered and fruity, Chateau Jacques meticulously crafts an elegant and timeless wine, showcasing an enticing purple hue. Plums and oak leap out of the glass, along with subtle violet and sous bois notes. On the palate, it is full-bodied with surprisingly soft tannins and piercing acidity, offering a refreshing, juicy character that is both smooth and lively. 

Crafted from 85% Malbec and 15% Merlot, this wine showcases the power and elegance of Cahors Malbec with Merlot adding softness and balancing the Malbec's natural structure and tannins. On the nose, the wine reveals dark black and red fruit aromas, along with hints of white and black pepper, licorice, and subtle floral notes.  On the palate, it is full-bodied and structured, with firm tannins and a well-balanced acidity that provides both freshness and depth.

From the Languedoc region of France, this Malbec has a soft back palate notes of violets and wood smoke that completes a fascinating and complexly round mouthfeel. The finish is long, rounded, and satisfying, making this wine a perfect companion for grilled meats, hearty venison stews, or aged parmesan.

In the region of Kartri, Georgia Chateau Mukhrani has been crafting wines since 1878. Mukhrani is the first Georgian Chateau, uniting the vineyard, cellar, palace, and history. This wine has notes of dark berry, oak, vanilla, and leather. It is a drier style on the palate with balanced tannins and mouth-watering acidity. 

100% Malbec wine hails from the Cahors appellation in Southwest France. The vineyard's 12 hectares, situated on south-facing hillsides with clay-ferrous, slightly calcareous soils, providing optimal conditions for Malbec. The wine exhibits a beautiful dark garnet color with ruby highlights. The nose reveals black fruit aromas, complemented by spicy notes. With fine tannins contributing to a harmonious profile. this wine pairs well with grilled meats, hearty stews, and aged cheeses.

Made entirely from the little known Greek red varietal, Agiorgitiko (or Saint George.) this wine can be difficult to describe. Unlike anything you’ve tried before, gooseberries strike the palate, tasting like you just plucked them off the vine. Truly unique in its ripeness of fruit, the almost overwhelming freshness and complexity is  beautiful to behold. This wine pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, Mediterranean dishes, hearty stews, and aged cheeses. 

A distinctive red blend, constituting 70% Syrah and 30% Romeiko, a native Greek varietal which brings a distinct taste of the Greek terroir. A striking garnet color, the Romeiko draws you in, presenting an enticing nose of dark fruits, backyard BBQ and leatherbound books. On the palate, the wine is medium-bodied and well-structured, ready to age or be enjoyed now. Layers of macerated bing cherries, cracked pepper, and subtle gamey notes fuse together in a harmonious and balanced profile. 

Bodegas Sentencia, in the village of Los Pedrones, Valencia, makes their wines the traditional way. The winery uses indigenous yeast and foot-treads and ferments its wines in stone vats. Then they age the wine for six months in French oak barrels. This Spanish Garnacha has unexpected yet delightful aromas of strawberries and hoisin sauce. We recommend coming in for a splash before getting Vietnamese food. 

These gnarled 100-year-old vines were originally brought to Bierzo by pilgrims walking the Camino de Santiago, commonly known as "suitcase clippings.” A beautifully funky red wine out of Spain, Raul Perez co-ferments his Mencia with a long maceration time in an open-top chestnut wood cask. The resulting wine has a powerful hint of menthol, followed by eucalyptus, chocolate and aged Cuban cigars. Truly a treat!

An exceptional red wine from the renowned Rioja region in Spain, crafted by Bodegas Allende. Made primarily from Tempranillo grapes, this vintage showcases the hallmark elegance and depth of modern Rioja wines. Aged in French oak barrels, it boasts a balanced profile of ripe red and black fruits, such as bing cherry, plum, and fresh blackberry. Complemented by soft notes of vanilla, baking spice, and a touch of earth. The wine is medium to full-bodied with velvety tannins, a refreshing acidity, 

From Spain's esteemed Ribera del Duero region, produced by Bodegas Valdubón. Crafted exclusively from Tempranillo grapes sourced from vineyards with vines over 30 years old, and aged for more than 24 months in 50/50 American and French oak barrels, this wine reflects the depth and character typical of mature vines. Exhibiting a deep, intense red color with a violet rim, indicating its excellent aging potential. On the nose, it offers a rich bouquet of ripe red fruits intertwined with licorice.

A distinguished wine from the Rioja region, showcasing the essence of its terroir.  The 2016 vintage presents a ruby color with high intensity, clean, bright, and with noticeable legs. On the nose, it offers notes of ripe black fruit, black pepper, clove, and chocolate, while the palate is long, rich, and reflects the presence of the terroir. With complex aromas, this wine is in evolution with potential for aging, making it an excellent expression of the Rioja region's winemaking tradition.

The Douro region of Portugal is known for its incredibly steep slopes, yielding stressed vines and more complex grape flavors. The area is so mountainous a terracing system is needed, requiring manual tending and harvest. While this region was traditionally reserved for only the finest Ports, the production is expanding into fantastic reds. The Broadbent Douro Reserva is a fine example of a Douro table wine. This wine has notes of orange peel, black fruit, wood aging, and spice.

Founded just before the turn of the millennium, Robert’s Road vineyard is located in stony soil, right next door to the Gap’s Crown vineyard. Having the ideal climate for growing Pinot Noir, the finished wine is a marvel to enjoy. Soft cola notes, purple berry pastries and white floral elements are highlighted, leading to a truly unique Sonoma Pinot Noir. 

Established in 1999, Escarpment is a New Zealand producer named after the French word meaning long, steep, slope. The name is a nod to the perfect growing conditions to cultivate stressed and therefore complex grapevines. The winery’s Pinot Noir highlights the unique terroir of the plot in Martinborough. The wine is made primarily of grapes off Te Muna Road, a cool climate subregion that lends earthy, spicy, and zesty notes. 

An unusual grape for the region, this red wine crafted from 100% Primitivo grapes sourced from the esteemed Osborn Ranch in Sonoma County's Alexander Valley. Winemakers Diane Wilson and Antoine Favero have produced a unique wine that exemplifies the depth and character of this varietal. Deepest purple in the glass, it stuns with soured blackberry, pluot and freshly cracked black pepper.  

This Lodi based Petite Sirah has a vibrant, full-bodied palate wine with a deep, inky color. It offers aromas of boysenberry jam, plum, and molasses, leading to flavors of plum, licorice, and black pepper. Aged for 22 months in 100% French oak barrels, with 45% being new oak lends a round, smooth characteristic to this wine. Known for showcasing varietals typically used in blends, the Inkblot series highlights the depth and intensity of Petite Sirah as a standalone wine. 

Grown in Dry Creek, their Zinfandel has a good deal of warm weather influence. Despite the dry conditions, the ripening period from mid-August to late October was nearly ideal, allowing for patient harvesting at peak flavor and intensity. The briar patch, pomegranate, and violet aromas give the wine an almost seductive quality. The palate is energetic, featuring fresh dark fruits, toasted coffee beans, and plush tannins.

This Russian River Valley Zinfandel made with a touch of Alicante Bouchet, sees hot days and cold foggy nights, allowing a high quality and luxurious ripening process. The vineyards were originally planted in 1904, lending to the name as well as creating beautiful depth and tannin structure in the finished wine. A jammy palate of blackberry pie opens into a mouthwatering bouquet of baking spices and plums. 

Crafted from vines that range from 40 to nearly 130 years old, a delicately balanced and juicy Napa Zinfandel, unlike any you’ve had before. Coating the palate in blackberry and five spice, a velvet finish that pairs incredibly well with BBQ. Give it a swirl, you’ll be surprised at just how much this wine will open up with a little bit of oxygen. 

This rare Swartland gem, crafted from Tinta Barroca—a Portuguese variety seldom seen in South Africa—offers vibrant aromas of black cherry, underripe plum, and dried oregano, with a subtle hint of spice and earthiness. Medium-bodied with silky tannins, it delivers juicy red fruit flavors and a savory, layered finish. "Sk’windjiesvlei" translates to "Little Winds Valley," a nod to the breezy terroir that shapes this wine's character. 

Alta Vista is an iconic producer of Mendoza, Argentina’s flagship grape. The Alto Malbec utilizes fruit from the steepest part of small vineyard plots to craft a delicious expression of the region. Coming from a smaller hands-on producer, Alto is the result of the hard work of every team member from vineyard to glass. This wine has a lovely ruby color with crimson edges, bright fruit on the nose, and cherry and tropical fruit on the palate. 

In Japanese, Asuka means"A Bright Future and Hope for Tomorrow”, it is also the name of the town founder Kenzo Tsujimoto was born in. The Napa Valley winery Kenzo is heavily influenced by Japanese wines. They create wines that pair well with food, fresh, perfect, and delicate wines. This delightful Cab Franc has no hint of vegetal aromas. Sage, cedar, and raspberry come out of the glass prior to enjoyment. 

Steven Kent L'Autre Côte Livermore Valley blend showcases a predominately Cabernet Franc profile. The Cabernet Franc grapes are sourced from the Ghielmetti Vineyard, planted in 1999 in the Altamont District. Refined tannins and a soft, pyrozine backbone promise a stunning showing of this wine in a few years! 

A choice blend of fruit from three organic vineyards, each unique terror contributes a playful note to this surprisingly light Cab Franc. Fruit from Los Carneros, Oak Knoll and Yountville are fermented for 12 days in stainless steel tanks before being transferred to French oak for 19 months. Refined, elegant wine with layers of dark fruit, subtle herbal notes, and a touch of earthiness. It offers a smooth texture, balanced acidity, and fine tannins, showcasing the variety’s natural complexity. 

Almost entirely Cabernet Sauvignon, with just a hint of Petite Verdot and Cab Franc, this lively Napa valley red is bright, carrying soft huckleberry and anise notes. Certified organic as well as sustainable fruit from a low input and regenerative farm sees native fermentation for close to a month on skins in stainless steel, before 20 months in French oak. With minimal racking and absolutely no fining or filtration, the palate receives a clean, unadulterated experience of Napa. 

Initially bold with dark fruit aromas and flavors, it has now revealed its elegance and complexity, highlighting why it’s considered one of Napa Valley's finest reds. Notes of crushed red clay, dark berries, cassis, and mountain wildflowers emerge beautifully. With low yields of nearly one ton per acre, this vintage boasts exceptional color and depth. Despite its robust tannin structure, the wine maintains a lively energy and sophistication, reminiscent of Bordeaux.

An inky, red wine sourced from select vineyards within the esteemed Stags Leap District. Deep garnet hue, indicative of its richness and concentration. Expressive bouquet featuring ripe red and black fruits, complemented by subtle notes of cigar box and chocolate. It will pair excellently with hearty dishes such as grilled steaks, roasted lamb, or aged cheeses, drinking fantastically now or ready to be aged for a few decades!

On the palate, this wine presents fennel/anise and black liquorice flavours that pave the way for fine yet powerful mouthcoating tannins. The weighty structure carries savoury nuances (artisanal charcuterie paired with tangy barberries) adding layers of complexity. Cherry nuances – both cherry pip tartness and white cherry subtle sweetness – play off each other elegantly. The finish is punctuated by notes of preserved salty plum, which linger long after the last sip.

A refreshing expression of Coombsville's unique terroir, this Cabernet offers aromas of blackberry, cassis, and graphite, with hints of tobacco and dark chocolate. Full-bodied and structured, it boasts rich dark fruit flavors, polished tannins, and a long, elegant finish. With the high amount of ash from Mt. George and the basin shaped construct of the surrounding mountains imbue a dark, tangy note and cold winds which perfectly ripen the grapes.  

Cathy Corison is considered Napa royalty and the Napa Valley bottling is her signature release, sourced from three benchland vineyards between Rutherford and St. Helena. Rated 96 points by Decanter and 95 points by Wine Enthusiast, it presents savory aromas of fennel, black licorice, cedar, and black currants. On the palate, soft blackberry fruits are lifted by fine tannins, leading to a long  tobacco-tinged finish with a mineral freshness. 

“Farming requires optimism. That’s especially true in viticulture, given the timeline to transition bare ground into a finished wine”. 

Chateau Montelena has been crafting wines for 140 years, and while modern technology has streamlined winemaking, it has yet to speed them up. Their philosophy is one of patience and perfection. They believe in spending the extra time and craftsmanship to make exceptional wines. Great grapes can take up to 5 years to harvest after initial planting.

The descendant is a single vineyard wine made from vines planted in 1994 that were cloned from some of the oldest genetic vine material in Australia. The Shiraz is pressed with the Viognier and the two grapes are then co-fermented. The co-ferment is then aged in Dominique Laurent ‘Magic Casks’ for 20 months. The more detailed note reveals blackcurrants, mulberry, cassis, satsuma plum, potpourri, dried apricots, cloves and star anise.  

A strapping and robust red wine from Sonoma County's Dry Creek Valley, renowned for its rich, full-bodied character. Squid ink in the glass, powerful and inviting on the nose. Offering aromas of blackberry, plum, and hints of black pepper, reinforced by firm tannins, macerated blackberries and unsweetened dark chocolate.  

Grown in La Londe Vineyard, located in the Mt. George foothills which produce beautiful, gray from stony soils yielding low but concentrated fruit, the wine blends 86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot, and 4% Malbec, with a total production of 1,818 cases. Despite challenges from wildfires, early harvesting preserved the vintage's structure and vibrancy. Tasting notes highlight roasted coffee bean, anise, cherry, and cigar box, with a robust palate that gains depth with aging. Rated 92 points.

This Cabernet Sauvignon blend is a meticulously crafted wine.This blend comprises 97% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Cabernet Franc, and 1% Merlot, resulting in a wine with fragrant aromas of sweet red raspberry, cassis, and a warm undertone of sautéed morel mushrooms. On the palate, flavors of huckleberry pie, spice cake, and toasty oak are complemented by bright acidity, leading to an energetic finish. It pairs excellently with dishes such as grilled steak, barbecued pork, or grilled lamb chops. 

A bold and zippy Napa Valley red, this blend delivers rich aromas of boysenberries, pluots, and mocha, with notes of vanilla and toasted oak. Full-bodied and smooth, it features juicy dark fruit flavors balanced by soft tannins and a lingering, velvety finish. The long linger of the back palate will leave you “chained” to this exquisitely crafted red. 

A niche name due to the limited production, Smith Woodhouse is nevertheless highly sought after by Port connoisseurs, due to the incredibly high scores and exemplary value in blind tastings. This 10-year Tawny earned a 91 from Wine Spectator. Fall harvest grapes are fermented for a few days before the addition of a 100% grape spirit alcohol, halting the fermentation process, retaining the natural grape sugars and the unique richness inherent in the grapes. 

Michael Broadbent is largely considered the world’s premier taster of Madeira. His years of experience with Madeira led him to team up with Justino Henriques, the single most important producer of classical Madeira. Using the best grapes on the island, this 10-year vintage was aged in the traditional "Canteiro” cask method. Following the full maturation process, this delectable amber-colored wine was racked, fined, and filtered after which it was blended and bottled, ready for you to enjoy! 

The Kracher vineyard is located as close to Lake Neusiedl as possible, to promote the growth of Botrytis cinerea, a fungus that creates the perfect environment for incredible dessert wines. Grapes affected by Botrytis lose a majority of their water, intensifying the sugar content within the skins. After a 80/20 split of aging in stainless steel tanks and large oak barrels respectively, the final product is a top-quality expression of Botrytis and wine making practices. 

Predominantly Semillon, this 2016 Sauterne seems to glow from within, emanating a soft, golden yellow color. A strange yet beautiful cacophony of dried apricot, gingerbread, candied orange peel and spun wheat entices the drinker, while a quiet vanilla note from the barrel aging rounds out the mouthfeel. Scoring 92 points with James Suckling, and 91 from Wine Enthusiast, this estate Sauterne is attractive to both dessert wine aficionados and those new to this delightful style! 

The Kvaszinger winery in the Hungarian region of Tokaji sits at only 300m above sea level, in an ideal location for Botrytis to form. The Botrytis aszū berries are hand harvested and macerated for 3 days with a base wine from the Hatalos vineyard. A rigorous 36 month aging process helps to draw the beautiful dried apricot, heirloom tomato and warm caramel notes out of the berries. 24 months are spent in local Hungarian oak, a mix of new and one use, while the final year sees age in bottle. 

This American sparkling wine is medium-dry with crisp fruit flavors. The aromas of apple and pear are balanced with a bouquet of toasty yeast notes and floral nuances. Using 100% stainless steel tanks for the base wine and then secondary fermentation takes place in the Charmat tanks. This process preserves the fruit character, making a fresher, more flavorful wine.

The Mandois Blanc de Blancs 1er Cru Champagne 2017 is a refined and elegant vintage made exclusively from Chardonnay. It displays a luminous golden color and an intricate bouquet of citrus blossoms, green apples, and white peach, with hints of brioche and subtle minerality. On the palate, vibrant acidity enhances flavors of lemon zest and pear, complemented by a creamy texture from extended lees contact. The persistent finish showcases its elegance, making it a perfect pairing. 

Aged on the lees for almost 4 years allows extra time for the wine to reach the peak of aromatic maturity, resulting in a delicately balanced Champagne known for its consistently excellent quality. This wine has a subtle, pale gold color with fine, persistent bubbles. It is delicate, with aromas of peach, white flowers, vanilla pod, and brioche on the nose and flavors of fresh fruit and honey on the palate. 

The Dr. Pauly-Bergweiler Estate spans 16 hectares of steep Riesling vineyards in the Middle Mosel, with white slate soils imparting a cool minerality indicative of traditional Mosel Rieslings. This wine, gently heated to evaporate alcohol while preserving its fruity and sharp mineral notes, offers fresh aromas of apricot, citrus, and apple. A perfect summer sipping wine for those looking to avoid alcohol, it contains less than 0.5% ABV and a pleasant residual sugar of 35.6 g/l. 

A stunning non-alcoholic wine made from California-grown Pinot Noir and Zinfandel grapes, crafted in a traditional wine-making style to retain the fruit forward characteristics, then treated to emulate a rosé while removing the alcohol content. It offers a refreshing and light profile with notes of strawberry, raspberry, and citrus, along with the delicate lightness of Pinot Noir and the hint of spiciness from Zinfandel. This makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a wine-like experience.

This Non-Alcoholic wine option has many of the characteristics of a typical Tempranillo, it has a great deep red color, high tannin, and dark cherry notes. The wine is fermented as usual but is gradually heated below the boiling point to evaporate alcohol from the wine. This leaves the wine with 0.5% ABV. This is a perfect alternative to pair with meat stews and steak for those looking to avoid alcohol.