{"title":"12\/17: Top Wines of the Year","description":"","products":[{"product_id":"domaine-vacheron-sancerre-blanc-loire-france-2024","title":"Domaine Vacheron, Sancerre Blanc, Loire, France, 2024 (One of our Wines of the Year)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/Y_f-pkTfcX0\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThe Vacherons are without question Sancerre’s leading winemaking clan. From the family’s pioneering work in identifying and exploiting the region’s top terroirs to their leading position in biodynamic viticulture today, there are few if any artisans in Sancerre as exacting or as respected.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGreat-grandfather Maurice Vacheron tended a few vines back when Sancerre was but a stop on a village road. His son, Jean, was the first of the family to specialize in producing wine, paying particular attention to the influence of terroir on Sauvignon Blanc. Jean’s sons, Denis and Jean-Louis, solidified the Vacheron name in Sancerre, showcasing the family’s talent with not only Sauvignon Blanc but also Pinot Noir.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eToday, Denis’ son, Jean-Laurent, and Jean-Louis’ son, Jean-Dominique, have taken the estate to a whole new level of quality, championing biodynamic viticulture and selecting singular vineyard parcels that the family has observed for generations (and planted with their own hands) to bottle as single-vineyard wines, with the goal of showcasing the heights that Sancerre can reach.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor more than two decades we’ve brought these world-class wines to the United States, and it has been exhilarating to watch the family’s vine-growing and winemaking expertise deepen with each vintage. To wit, the family has always made fine Sancerre; yet the current generation has pushed the estate to a level of quality that transcends appellation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eDemeter - Biodynamic.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eWinemakers\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eJean-Laurent \u0026amp; Jean-Dominique Vacheron\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e100% Sauvignon Blanc\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eLoire Valley, France\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eAromas of grapefruit zest and gunflint. Flavors of lemons and limes, sea salt, crisp pears.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e96 Points - Ian Blackburn\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThis storied house makes wines with high ethos - certified biodynamic (Demeter) and Certified Organic.  The wines go through natural ferments and some (20% of the cuvee) is from the higher rated single vineyards (we have some) that are highly allocated and rare.  These single vineyards see larger wood and add depth and richness to what I could declare is THE BENCHMARK producer in Sancerre.  The style is very dry, very clean, and leans into the flint and stoney notions of the soils.  The restraint in the nose is hypnotic and should be bottled as a perfume of citrus peel, Asian pear and young honeydew melon.  The stoney elements on this wine are right in balance and the elegance, early harvest, and high tier work in the vineyards is evident… the wine is so tender and balanced… with incredible length and nice intensity and reverberation… the complexity will continue to be added as time allows this wine to show off.  The finish is refined and if I didn’t have to work - I could drink this all day… a top wine of the year…. for me to recommend.   C 14.5, A 24.5, Body 23, Overall 34 - love this wine… 96 points.\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"North Berkeley","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51642156056881,"sku":null,"price":51.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Domaine_Vacheron_Sancerre_Blanc_Loire_France_2024_ac58fabc-e2ff-4c9d-8a66-87bfb94836e8.jpg?v=1754310505"},{"product_id":"holocene-memorialis-pinot-noir-yamhill-carlton-oregon-2023","title":"Holocene, Memorialis, Pinot Noir, Yamhill-Carlton, Oregon, 2023","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/_3X25Q-8OlU?si=DIMwiNaUJmTOyClz\" title=\"YouTube video player\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe Holocene Epoch began about 11,700 years ago, bringing a warm, stable climate after the last Ice Age. The stability allowed humans to start farming – and eventually, grow grapes and make wine. Our Mission is to craft terroir-driven wines that are delicious, fresh, complete, textural, age-worthy, and true reflections of place and time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe value the connections that wine has provided us along the way.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe are a small, family-owned wine brand with two generations at the helm. We source from dry-farmed vineyards using organic practices, and where sites possess a unique terroir. And while Holocene is focused on the varied soil types of the Willamette Valley, we also make wine in a few regions in France.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSustainable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWinemaker\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eTodd Alexander\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e100% Pinot Noir\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eYamhill-Carlton, Willamette Valley, Oregon\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThis is the original wine for Holocene – the Memorialis bottling, which began in 2015 and has become our largest production wine at a whopping 360 cases.  The fruit for this wine comes from the Yamhill-Carlton AVA. As it has been for quite some time, it is 100% whole cluster fermented. This vineyard is now farmed completely organically as well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe vineyard faces west, and we pull from a good number of blocks in this vineyard, which is about 18 acres – not very big. It is in a sweet spot in Yamhill-Carlton and gets the beautiful afternoon sunshine and breezes from the west. It was planted in the mid 1990s, the soils are marine sedimentary and produce generous, complex fruit that we endeavor to transmit to the bottle.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e98 Points - Wine Enthusiast\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA Bing cherry aroma slinks its way up from the glass, followed by spicy whispers of cardamom and cinnamon. Straw and chalkboard dust scents seal the deal. After a tannic black tea note materializes on the palate, the wine’s cranberry and raspberry flavors punch the tart button. You can feel the tannins, but they aren’t grippy. The acidity, however, lets you know it is ready for juicy business. Memorialis is quietly becoming one of Oregon’s best Pinot Noirs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e96 Points - Owen Bargreen\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eInitially first made in 2015, the 2023 ‘Memorialis’ is a 360 case production wine from the Yamhill-Carlton AVA. It is 100% whole-cluster fermented and stored in mainly neutral oak barrels before bottling. This is concentrated, gorgeous stuff, loaded with crunchy red fruits that parade with menthol, white pepper, exotic spices and shades of blood orange zest. Full-bodied and beautifully-textured, enjoy this beauty now and over the next twelve plus years to come. Give this 30 plus minutes in the decanter if enjoying in its heady youth. Drink 2025-2040\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Holocene","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51772972368177,"sku":null,"price":78.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Holocene_Memorialis_Pinot_Noir_Yamhill-Carlton_Oregon_2023.jpg?v=1756214201"},{"product_id":"precision-wine-co-method-cabernet-sauvignon-california-2023","title":"Method, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, 2023","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMaster Sommelier Ian Cauble whose fame arose from his being featured in the documentaries \"Somm\" and \"Into The Bottle\" where his wine knowledge, focus, energy and attention to detail were exceptional, is bringing that praiseworthy intensity to producing fine wine. Teaming up with Vintner, Trevor Sheehan of Precision Wine Company, who spent nearly a decade learning from the master winemakers of Burgundy and Bordeaux before returning to craft expressive California wines, they've created Method.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong style=\"font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003eWinemaker\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIan Cauble\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong style=\"font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong style=\"font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCabernet Sauvignon\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNapa Valley, California \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaker Tasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFeaturing opulent layers of blackberry, bing cherry and juicy red fruit character that unfold with complex nuances of violet and mocha. Ample, mature tannins provide firm structure and rich texture for the mouth filling flavors. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e95 Points - James Suckling\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe blackberry, dark-chocolate, walnut and blueberry aromas are so attractive. It’s medium-bodied with fine, velvety tannins and a long and firm-tannin finish. Just the right amount of tension at the end. Shows the beauty of the 2023. A blend of 80% cabernet sauvignon, 10% merlot and 10% petit verdot. Drink or hold.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e93 Points - Wine Enthusiast\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eSometimes, a great winemaker and a Master Sommelier can create something unique. This selection does not disappoint—opulent aromas of blackberry, cassis, dried thyme, and notes of Tahitian vanilla grace the nose, trembling into rich, mouth-watering dark plum, clove, and silky tannins.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Tri-Vin Wine \u0026 Spirits","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51843736305969,"sku":null,"price":29.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Precision_Wine_Co_Method_Cabernet_Sauvignon_California_2023.jpg?v=1758134939"},{"product_id":"chateau-lilian-ladouys-la-devise-de-lilian-saint-estephe-bordeaux-france-2018","title":"Chateau Lilian Ladouys, 'La Devise de Lilian,' Saint-Estephe, Bordeaux, France, 2018","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eOn 24th September 2008, Jacky and Françoise Lorenzetti fell under the spell of Château Lilian Ladouys; their daughter Manon joined them there in 2018.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe family are very proud of the path they have followed. In 2020, after the Lorenzettis had restructured their premium Saint-Estèphe vineyards and chosen to tailor their viticultural practice to respect the environment, Château Lilian Ladouys was anointed a Cru Bourgeois Exceptionnel.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn 2020, Château Lilian Ladouys has committed to converting the entirety of their vineyards to organic agriculture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis year, the family has rubber-stamped this commitment: from 2020 onwards, they are officially in conversion to full organic practice.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur vines are planted on over 80 hectares of the Cos plateau, along the axis that links Calon Ségur to Lilian Ladouys. They flourish on these soils – gravel topsoil overlaying clay and limestone – that are the appellation’s true geological treasure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince the Lorenzetti family bought the property, we have engaged in a massive programme of land consolidation. This has enabled us to create coherent clusters of plots, planted with carefully chosen grape varieties, in the manner of the 19th-century vineyards, and so to recreate the ideal conditions for these vineyards to achieve their full potential.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWinemaker\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eFrédéric Godart\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e60% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eSt. Estephe, Bordeaux, France\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cu\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eLa Devise de Lilian has become a benchmark among second wines. Its flavourful style and its well-integrated tannins have won the hearts of those who love softness and richness. La Devise does not use strict plot definition, but is instead a true second wine, a genuine signature blend with Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot at the forefront.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLa Devise is matured for an average of 12 months and is accessible in its youthful prime. Fruity with a velvety structure, it pairs wonderfully with fresh cuisine such as white meat or fruity desserts. It's approachable, earthy, and fresh, but also noticeably powerful and well-structured\u003cspan\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e92 Points - Ian Blackburn\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eNow with 7 years of age (rating in 2025) - this wine has really melted together nicely.  The rugged Saint-Estephe muscles and cabernet accents - while significant - are really in a nice place with the very nice 2018 vintage. The nose has that a signature Saint-Estephe charm - similar to what you will find from its neighbors Calon-Segur and Montrose (but in a $20 version);  this drinks well above its cost.  The wines balance and lenght are key to its success with cassis, dry herbs and minerals and a refined and extended finish.  The significant tannins are integrated yet present and this will continue to improve for 5-10 more years.  e Fun to drink right now.  C 13.5 A. 23 B. 23 Overall 32.5 = 92\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003e91 Points - James Suckling\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBlack-fruit, graphite, tar and tobacco aromas. It’s medium-to full-bodied with firm, fine-grained tannins. Nicely austere and fresh finish. Second wine. Better from 2024. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Duclot","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51866840236337,"sku":null,"price":22.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Chateau_Lilian_Ladouys_La_Devise_de_Lilian_Saint-Estephe_Bordeaux_France_2018_d9da6b55-d53c-420e-9e1c-6c94aa97a52b.jpg?v=1759176850"},{"product_id":"vinos-en-voz-baja-barrio-pastores-rioja-spain-2023","title":"Vinos en Voz Baja, Barrio Pastores, Rioja, Spain, 2023 (Ian's #1 Wine of the 2025)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eClick \u003c\/b\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/learnaboutwine.com\/blogs\/news\/rules-of-rioja\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eHere\u003c\/a\u003e to Read Our \"Rules of Rioja\" Blog\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eStaff pick!\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eVinos en voz baja is a winery located in the historic wine area of Rioja Oriental in the village of Aldeanueva de Ebro. Classic Rioja vineyards, viñas de vaso of the typical variety of the area, Garnacha, accompanied by other varieties that were always mixed such as Pasera, Tempranillo, Garnacha Roya, Graciano de Alfaro, Viura and others. The wines are structured in three steps to represent the region: Rioja Oriental Zone Wine (Costumbres red and white), Village Wine from Aldeanueva de Ebro (Barrio Pastores), and Single Vineyard Wine (Erosivo).  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe elaboration of the wines is based on the stepped on the whole clusters and the fermentation and storage of the wines for a year in the tanks and barrels. The style of the wines is fine, with lightness and a little more alcohol than in other areas of Rioja, the Garnacha strawberry is the protagonist because the aging in the wood is lighter. The wines are ready to drink in the first few years, and the wines from the best plots can be very long-lived.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCarlos Mazo of Vinos en Voz Baja has been awarded the Young Winemaker of the Year 2023 by Tim Atkins. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"This is another inspiring venture – so much so that Carlos is my young winemaker of the year – working with ten parcels spread over just six hectares in Aldeanueva, Alfaro, Autol, Calahorra, and Rincón de Soto. He started out in a garage in 2012 and has been in his own, very stylish boutique winery since 2020. The focus here is on old vine Garnacha (plus a bit of Calagraño and Tinto Velasco) of remarkable finesse and elegance\" - Tim Atkin, Rioja Special Report 2023.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eWinemaker\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eCarlos Mazo\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eOld Vine Garnacha \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eRioja, Spain\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eIt is perfumed and floral with moderate alcohol and with a medium-bodied palate with very fine tannins and a dry, austere finish. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e96 Points - Tim Atkin\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the space of a few vintages, Carlos Mazo has established himself as ONE OF THE MOST EXCITING YOUNG PRODUCERS IN RIOJA . This remarkable Garnacha hails from two plots in his native Aldeanueva, Mazaterón and Montote, and is typical of his style. Whole bunch fermented, it is hauntingly refined and perfumed, with aromas of rose petal and mountain herbs, fine tannins and succulent cherry , hibiscus and wild strawberry flavors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Antalva","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51871827558705,"sku":null,"price":52.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Vinos_en_Voz_Baja_Barrio_Pastores_Rioja_Spain_2023.jpg?v=1758738051"},{"product_id":"hudson-chardonnay-carneros-estate-napa-valley-california-2023","title":"Hudson, Chardonnay, Carneros Estate, Napa Valley, California, 2023","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e(Consulting Winemaker - John Kongsgaard)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eSituated deep in the heart of the rolling hills of Napa Valley’s Carneros District, Hudson Ranch and Vineyards is our agrarian dream. Producing world-class wine grapes for exceptional wines and Tuscan olives for verdant oil, raising heritage breed pigs, lamb and chickens, and growing a diverse array of seasonal fruits and vegetables for our grocery store, Hudson Greens \u0026amp; Goods, our farm encapsulates the true sense of wonder, possibility, and enthusiasm with which we start each day.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHudson Vineyards produces grapes of distinction from uniquely situated sites on two hundred acres of vineyards. Over thirty years of meticulous winegrowing and winemaking experience goes into each bottle of Hudson Wine. Additionally, Hudson Vineyards’ premium grapes are sold to 27 wineries in Napa and Sonoma counties, some of which produce wines from specific vineyard sites identified as distinct and bear the ‘Hudson Vineyards’ designation on their labels.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eChardonnay\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eNapa\/Sonoma, California\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThe fruit was picked by hand at night, whole cluster pressed, and barrel fermented utilizing native yeast in 70% new Francois Freres \u0026amp; Damy French-forest oak barrels. The wine is stirred regularly while being aged sur lie, and bottled unfiltered and unfined after an 22 month élevage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 2023 Chardonnay showcases a combination of 3 distinct blocks from the Hudson Estate planted to Heritage Shot Wente clone. We hand select barrels from each site to create a Chardonnay that fully expresses the elegant and balanced style of Hudson Vineyards.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHudson produces grapes of distinction from 200 acres of estate vineyards situated in the heart of the rolling hills of Napa Valley’s Carneros District. Forty years of meticulous winegrowing and winemaking experience goes into each bottle of Hudson wine. Our deep understanding of the intricate combinations of soil, climate, rootstock, clone, and scion, combined with our management of each vineyard block, allows us to produce premium wines with an intense varietal expression found only at Hudson.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e97 Points - The Wine Palate\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe 2023 Hudson Vineyard Chardonnay prances out with showy notes of white peaches, beeswax, juicy pears, and allspice, plus hints of wet pebbles and coriander seed. The medium to full-bodied palate is satiny and savory, delivering lots of orchard fruit layers and a long mineral-laced finish.\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e93 Points - James Suckling\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eGenerous ripe fruit like pears and golden apples resting on a relaxed, rich texture. This wine is gentle, almost sweet tasting, with Bartlett pears, vanilla bean, creme brulee and white chocolate on the palate. Drink now.\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"KJS","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51893399683377,"sku":null,"price":70.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Hudson_Chardonnay_Carneros_Estate_Napa_Valley_California_2023.jpg?v=1759369091"},{"product_id":"douloufakis-winery-vidiano-crete-greece-2024","title":"Douloufakis, Vidiano, Crete, Greece, 2024 (Top Value)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 0, 0);\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/douloufakis.wine\/en\/\"\u003eOur winery\u003c\/a\u003e is located at the village of Dafnes, a few kilometers south of Heraklion, Crete, Greece. We produce wines from Cretan indigenous varieties (Vidiano, Vilana, Muscat White of Spina, Malvasia, Liatiko, Mandilari and Kotsifali) but also international ones such as Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sangiovese and Syrah.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"container\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDouloufakis winery is a family that got bigger as friends kept joining us to work together. A strong team with a common goal: to fill your cellar and your glass with the best Cretan wine and, why not, to wish \"Yamas!\" when we are together. Get to know us and let us prove to you that we will do our best to offer you a great time when you visit us!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eWinemaker\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNikos Douloufakis\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e100% Vidiano\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eCrete, Greece\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003ePale golden color. Peach and apricot aromas are dominant and quince traces. There are floral notes of chamomile, jasmine and herbs. Rich flavor with the same dominant aromas. On the palate well-balanced acidity, full-bodied with a fine finish. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e92 Points - Decanter\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eDouloufakis was the estate that resuscitated Vidiano from a scant 10 hectares at the turn of the 20th century. The estate now farms a total of 25ha organically with a strong focus on Vidiano grown on Crete's abundant limestone. Although famous for the single-vineyard, barrel-fermented Aspros Lagos, this steel-fermented wine is a brilliant introduction to the variety. Fleshy and bold with some of the richness and decadence of Viognier, with attractive flavours of fresh peach, melon and apricot, but the palate is a completely different game: alert, spicy, structured by notable acidity and with real drive and concentration through to the finish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003eProduct size: 750ml \u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Elevage Wine Co","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51935284494641,"sku":null,"price":19.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Douloufakis_Winery_Vidiano_Crete_Greece_2024.jpg?v=1760472439"}],"url":"https:\/\/merchantofwine.com\/collections\/12-17-top-wines-of-the-year.oembed","provider":"Merchant of Wine","version":"1.0","type":"link"}