{"title":"June 25: Greatest Wines Ever Made Dinner","description":"","products":[{"product_id":"chateau-grillet-chateau-grillet-viognier-rhone-france-2017","title":"Château Grillet, Château-Grillet Viognier, Rhône, France, 2017","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe estate was acquired in June 2011 by the Pinault family, who own several other vineyards gathered under the \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.groupeartemis.com\/categorie-participations\/artemis-domaines\/\"\u003eArtémis Domaines \u003c\/a\u003elabel which are managed by Frédéric Engerer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChâteau-Grillet has a rich history, illustrating perfectly the passion and devotion of many generations of men and women for this exceptional terroir.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe vineyards of Condrieu and Château-Grillet were planted by the emperor Probus in the 3rd century AD, from plants brought from Dalmatia. Numerous mosaics preserved at the archaeological site in Saint-Roman-en-Gal (around 12km away) confirm its origins and one of them shows a harvest scene including grape crushing. The early development of the vineyards in this region is probably linked to the Pax Romana. This allowed the ancient Gallic tribe the Allobroges, whose territory included part of the right bank of the Rhône facing Vienne, to acquire Roman citizenship and therefore have the right to plant vines.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eViognier\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eRhône, France\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eChâteau-Grillet is a wine for the initiated, which does not give up its secrets easily; it has great elegance, tightness and a magnificent aromatic complexity. It is a wine for cellaring, and requires patience until it reveals all its magic.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIts minerality is often accompanied by a freshness reminiscent of a sea breeze, sometimes even with hints of mint. The aromatic spectrum is wide and varied. Floral elegance (rose, violet, lime-blossom) and soft fruitiness (pear, pineapple, apricot) can also accompany warmer, more indulgent notes such as honey, nougat, hazelnut, vanilla, white truffle, or spices like saffron.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA remarkably well-balanced wine, dominated by its fat which is nicely offset by the excellent acidity. Château-Grillet is a perfect match for truffled foie gras, roast turbot, grilled lobster, scallops or Bresse chicken in cream sauce. Pairings with Asian cuisine, spicy foods and sweet-and-sour flavours can also provide wonderful experiences.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e97 Points - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBottled just two weeks prior to my visit, the 2017 Chateau Grillet was still looking awfully good for having been fined, filtered and stuck into a confined space. It's a forward, opulent vintage, boasting flamboyant stone-fruit flavors dressed up with hints of jasmine and white pepper. While full-bodied and rich, it never seems heavy or oily, boasting a long, cool, refreshing finish. Wow!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e96 Points - Decanter \u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Atherton","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":39896516165674,"sku":"","price":568.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/products\/Chateau-Grillet-Chateau-Grillet-Viognier-Rhone-France-2017.jpg?v=1762528618"},{"product_id":"dominus-estate-christian-moueix-napa-valley-california-1994","title":"Dominus Estate, Christian Moueix, Napa Valley, California, 1994","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003c\/span\u003e                                                                     \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eIn the late 1960s, while attending the University of California at Davis, Christian Moueix fell in love with the Napa Valley and its wines. Son of Jean-Pierre Moueix, the famed wine merchant and producer from Libourne, France, Moueix returned home in 1970 to manage the family vineyards, including Chateaux Petrus, La Fleur-Petrus, Trotanoy in Pomerol and Magdelaine in Saint Emilion.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHis love of Napa Valley lingered and in 1981, he discovered the historic Napanook vineyard, a 124-acre site west of Yountville that had been the source of fruit for some of the finest Napa Valley wines of the 1940s and 1950s. In 1982, Moueix entered into a partnership to develop the vineyard and, in 1995, became its sole owner. He chose the name 'Dominus' or 'Lord of the Estate' in Latin to underscore his longstanding commitment to stewardship of the land.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\" data-mce-style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 14% Cabernet Franc, 12% Merlot, and 4% Petit Verdot\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\" data-mce-style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eYountville, Napa Valley, California\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003c\/u\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDark-hued, rich and intense, deftly balanced, with a pretty array of ripe currant, anise, black cherry and plum. Concentrated, with firm tannins, it finishes with a bold, rich aftertaste that shows off cedar, sage and pretty earthy nuances.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e99 Points - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eChristian Moueix and his talented winemaking team continue to rewrite the definition of a Napa Valley reference point wine. I have had a difficult time keeping the corks in my bottles of 1994 Dominus. Eight-thousand cases were produced from a blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 14% Cabernet Franc, 12% Merlot, and 4% Petit Verdot. In this vintage, 174 days passed between bud break and the harvest, a remarkable period of time for any wine region in the world. The 1994 is a strikingly thick, compellingly rich wine with the texture of a great Pomerol, despite being made primarily from Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine exhibits a dense purple color, and an incredibly fragrant nose of jammy black fruits, spice, smoke, and loamy, truffle-like scents. In the mouth, it is full-bodied, with thrilling levels of extract and richness, but no sense of heaviness or harshness. This seamless Dominus possesses no hard edges, as its acidity, tannin, and alcohol are beautifully meshed with copious quantities of ripe fruit. This wine offers early drinking, yet has the potential to last for 30+ years.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e95 Points - Decanter\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eStill a youthful, deep, ruby-black, the 1994 Dominus explodes with blackberry, cassis and truffle notes, along with some rustic sous bois and leather. This Bordeaux-styled wine is rich and intense but classically proportioned; though it is somewhat more rustic and heady than the stunning 1991. Edouard Moeiux advises serving this wine at a relatively cool temperature.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ian Blackburn","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49874972148017,"sku":null,"price":595.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/DominusEstate_ChristianMoueix_NapaValley_California_1994.jpg?v=1725040371"},{"product_id":"r-lopez-de-heredia-vina-tondonia-blanco-reserva-rioja-spain-2010","title":"R. López de Heredia, Viña Tondonia Blanco Reserva, Rioja, Spain, 2010","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\" data-mce-style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIt all started in the middle of the nineteenth century when French negociants visited the Rioja region to find alternative sources of quality grapes to transform into wine, since the phylloxera epidemic had decimated their vineyards. Our founder, Don Rafael López de Heredia y Landeta, a knowledgeable and enthusiastic student in the art of wine making, followed closely in their footsteps.\u003cbr\u003eDon Rafael fell in love with the region and especially the area around Haro, the mythical capital of the Rioja Alta region. He observed that there was a magical combination of soil and climate that would offer the perfect environment for producing wine that would eventually become world famous. Around 1877 he began the design and construction of the complex that is today known as the López de Heredia bodega (winery), the oldest in Haro and one of the first three houses in the Rioja region.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFor over a century our emotions have been rooted in our love and passion for this land and its harvest. We cherish our heritage, and this combination of love and the rigorous quality standards we apply, have become our trademark and remains our maxim for today and the future.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBodegas López de Heredia stands out as one of the few family-run bodegas regulated by the Denominación de Origen Calificada Rioja - DOC (Appellation region).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eA year officially rated as \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"ladillo2\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eVERY GOOD\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e. The year passed without severe climatological incidents, in lack of spring frost; but denoted with abundant spring precipitations and after the harvest. However, a mild and drier summer favoured the growth and health of the grapes; which led to a not very abundant, but lightly superior harvest than the previous one with similar quality. The weather conditions were exceptionally favourable during all the final phase of the vegetative cycle, something that is always decisive for the quality of the harvest. Our vineyard enjoyed the optimal conditions necessary to get a health state of the fruit almost perfect; and with balanced parameters of colour, acidity, degree of alcohol and balance during the maturation. All of these characteristics let us get a high quality harvest with a little inferior final volume compared to previous years. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\" data-mce-style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eViura and \u003c\/span\u003eMalvasia Bianca\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\" data-mce-style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eRioja, Spain\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\" data-mce-style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA fresh and complex nose of floral notes, pear, and stone fruits. The results of bottle aging are felt on the palate:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e w\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eet rocks, white flowers, and earthy notes abound, and n\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003euanced, savory mushroom flavors dance along with yellow pears and dried apples. Sip and savor with lemon pepper wings like a true Atlanta wine aficionado.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\" data-mce-style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e98 Points - James Suckling \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eComplex and evolved nose of candied citrus, fig, burnt orange, walnut, toast, dried tobacco and salted caramel. Medium-to full-bodied with bright acidity. Concentrated, layered and delicious with a nutty and saline finish. Phenolic and structured. Keeps going. Drink now or hold. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e96 Points - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e2010 was one of the finest vintages in recent times, and the 2010 Viña Tondonia Blanco Reserva is the textbook fine and elegant white where the 90% Viura is complemented by the 10% Malvasía and, according to María José López de Heredia, gives a mellower profile (honey and some more creaminess) and compensates for the bitter almond notes of Viura and the austerity, making the wine a little rounder. This is a phenomenal vintage of the white Tondonia, vibrant, balanced and fresh. 16,000 bottles produced. It was bottled in November 2018. Drink: 2022-2032.\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":"Winewise","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49912096162097,"sku":null,"price":324.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/R.LopezdeHeredia_VinaTondoniaBlancoReserva_Rioja_Spain_2010.jpg?v=1725735141"},{"product_id":"san-giusto-a-rentennano-percarlo-sangiovese-tuscany-italy-2018","title":"San Giusto a Rentennano, Percarlo Sangiovese, Tuscany, Italy, 2018","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\" data-mce-style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe estate of San Giusto a Rentennano has undergone many transformations over the course of its history, with an inaugural period as a medieval monastery (San Giusto alle Monache). Its vocation changed drastically in the 9th century, when the Florentines adapted the structure for protection against the Sienese, equipping it to serve as a fortress. (Florence and Siena were engaged in a centuries-long battle, reaching a resolution only in the 15th century.)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Ricasoli family of Chianti Classico fame (Baron Bettino Ricasoli authored the original formula for Chianti in 1874) presided over the estate for several centuries, with Enrico Martini di Cigala assuming ownership in 1957. It is presently overseen by three of Cigala’s children—Franceso, Luca, and Elisabetta. The estate—which is situated in the Gaiole zone of the Chianti appellation—comprises 160 hectares, 30.5 of which are planted to vines, and benefits from a microclimate marked by a dramatic fluctuation between day and night temperatures.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePercarlo—a monovarietal Sangiovese—debuted with the 1983 vintage and currently enjoys status as San Giusto a Rentennano’s most renowned bottling. It derives from low-yielding vines representing six cru sites that feature ancient soils of sand and stone, and a clay foundation. As Percarlo is crafted as a wine of considerable concentration, the grapes utilized ripen beyond the mature stage. Its stylistic orientation is born out further through the vinification regimen, which entails a fairly extensive maceration of 18 days, followed by barrique aging for a period of 20 to 22 months. It is bottled unfiltered and ages for an additional 6 months in bottle prior to being released. With peers such as Flaccianello and Cepparello, Percarlo operates in Sangiovese’s cult realm. Its minute production level (approximately 1,600 cases per year) derives, in part, from a highly regimented grape selection process: In some vintages, the entire grape production is deemed unfit. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e100% Sangiovese\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\" data-mce-style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eTuscany, Italy\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\" data-mce-style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePercarlo is made from 100% estate grown Sangiovese grapes, especially selected bunch per bunch, from the best zones of our vineyards, which have a low yield of 1 Kg grapes per vine.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e97 Points - Vinous\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe 2018 Percarlo is another fabulous wine in this range from San Giusto. Ample and creamy, the 2018 dazzles with its total sense of finesse. In 2018, Percarlo is silky, gracious and super-refined. Time in the glass brings out attractive floral and spice overtones that lend brightness. It shows remarkably well for a wine that was bottled only recently. The 2018 was aged in a combination of 30HL casks and 500-liter tonneaux. (AG)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e95 Points - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate \u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe organic 2018 Percarlo is all Sangiovese from a special 30-hectare site that sees a mix of typical Tuscan soils at a breezy 270 meters in elevation. Before oak aging, the wine is fermented in a combination of stainless steel and cement. Percarlo reveals a luxuriously rich and dense quality. The wine's profound intensity is built by deep fruit and elegant mineral etchings. The bouquet is outstanding. However, the only distraction is the dry or powdery tannin that I enjoyed to a lesser extent (with the powerful 15% alcohol content). Exactly 18,352 bottles were made, with various large formats included in that number.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e94 Points - Wine Spectator\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA dense, tightly wound red, with tar, olive and tobacco aromas giving way to dusty cherry and plum flavors. Vibrant and firms up on the mineral-laden finish. A bit angular now, yet with fine potential.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003ci data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ian Blackburn","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50012312404273,"sku":null,"price":199.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/SanGiustoaRentennano_PercarloSangiovese_Tuscany_Italy_2018.jpg?v=1726610906"},{"product_id":"chateau-dyquem-sauternes-bordeaux-france-2022","title":"Château d'Yquem, Sauternes, Bordeaux, France, 2022 (375 ML)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIn 1993, Chateau d'Yquem celebrated 400 years of ownership by the same family. In 1593, the Sauvage family bought this estate which came into the Lur Saluces patrimony when Francoise Joséphine de Sauvage married Count Louis Amédée de Lur Saluces in 1785. Marquis Bertrand de Lur Saluces was one of the 20th century's most important personalities in the world of wine. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCount Alexandre de Lur Saluces has followed in his Uncle Betrand's footsteps since 1968. Highly motivated to perfect this prestigious product while respecting tradition, he is determined to offer maximum quality. All those who love this inimitable wine, from Jefferson to Pamela Harriman, former U.S. Ambassador, by way of great Duke Constantine, have approved this philosophy from vintage to vintage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYquem is the result of painstaking efforts by everyone who works on the estate. However, nature is the major factor in making the most of the rare soil of Yquem.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e80% Sémillon and 20% Sauvignon Blanc\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eBordeaux, France\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 result of a sunny, extraordinary vintage, 2022 Château d’Yquem boasts a solid and powerful structure. The very first aromas immediately reveal intense botrytised notes – the hallmark of\u003cbr\u003ehigh-quality noble rot. These notes are suggestive of candied lemon and pear, as well as orange marmalade. Delicate floral aromas of lime blossom and frangipane mingle with this fruitiness, enhanced by the sweetness of blooming lily of the valley. The almond and gourmand nose foreshadows wonderful richness on the palate. Starting out lively with candied fruit flavours, 2022 Château d’Yquem is resolutely reminiscent of apricot jam. Rich and concentrated, it coats the palate, revealing notes of beeswax, caramel and quince paste. Its powdery texture is prolonged by a touch of salinity and lovely bitter notes on the finish, which enhance the candied bitter orange characteristic of Yquem wines.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e100 Points - James Suckling\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA perfect Yquem again after the 2021, which is fresher and more refined than the 2022. The perception of sweetness is super-knit. Lots of botrytis, with turmeric, saffron, cream, roasted meringue, pine nuts, spices and dried mangoes. This is a powerful, seductive and lush wine. Ornamented and richer this year than 2021, but there is so much charm and harmony. Long and spicy, with a hint of petrol at the end. Wow. The second most concentrated Yquem after 1945, according to the winemaker. About 160 grams of residual sugar. So approachable now, but better in five or six years. It will live forever.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e100 Points - Ian Blackburn \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eStunning purity of fruit in the nose, and plus concentration in the mouth, and a protracted finish that I can taste a month later in my dreams.... candied orange peal, caramel, fresh tropical fruits, layered with Meringue, spun roasted sugar and candied nuts... and there is so much more to contemplate in this wine! In its youth, it will be hard to resist but this will be a vintage that refines over the long term, offering investors so much complexity and punctuation!  We all see it as a diamond.... its a perfect wine to invest in and lay down for the rest of our adult lives... \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e94 Points - Wine Independent\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eComposed of 60% Sauvignon Blanc and 40% Sémillon, the 2022 Y d'Yquem has 6 grams per liter of residual sugar. It skips out of the glass with cheery notions of fresh, crunchy pears, allspice, fennel seed, and lime leaves, leading to touches of lemon drops, chalk dust, and white pepper. The medium-bodied palate has a satiny texture and racy backbone with layers of pear and baking spices flavors, finishing on a lingering chalky note.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct size:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e 375ml\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Duclot","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51082103554353,"sku":null,"price":295.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Chateau_d_Yquem_Sauternes_Bordeaux_France_2022.jpg?v=1742839609"},{"product_id":"domaine-leflaive-batard-montrachet-grand-cru-burgundy-france-2018","title":"Domaine Leflaive, Batard-Montrachet, Grand Cru, Burgundy, France, 2018","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe roots of the Leflaive family go back to 1717 when Claude Leflaive took up residence in Puligny-Montrachet, intent upon cultivating several acres of vineyards. The domaine, in its present form, was created by Joseph Leflaive between the years of 1910-1930, as a result of his successive purchases of vineyards and houses. Domaine Leflaive has been entirely a family domaine since its creation. Brice de La Morandière, great-grandson of the founder, Joseph Leflaive, represents the fourth generation at the head of the domaine. In 2015, after an international corporate career, he succeeded Anne-Claude, pioneer in biodynamics. It is with the same philosophy of respect for the great terroirs, humility toward the forces of nature and relentless pursuit of excellence in viticulture and in winemaking that the domaine will continue to grow in the future.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBiodynamic.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eWinemaker\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eBrice de La Morandière\u003cbr\u003e\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\u003eChardonnay\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003ePuligny-Montrachet, Burgundy, France\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDomaine Leflaive Puligny-Montrachet Clavoillon Premier Cru is a 100% biodynamic wine that is matured 12 months in the cask and then aged 6 months in tank where it is prepared for bottling. Homeopathic fining and very light filtering if necessary.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003e99 Points - Jasper Morris\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003ePlanted between 1962 and 1989. Pale yellow, quite fresh. Touch of coconut. Much greater depth than the Bienvenues-Bâtard-Montrachet, quite a difference between the two. A little fresh ripe lemon zest infuses the finish, lots of subtlety, precision and absolutely the depth of grand cru. Excellent finishing acidity, and a wealth of different aromatics that come back at the finish, peach and pear without suggesting over ripeness. Very lovely. Tasted: November 2019.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003e97 Points - Vinous\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eThe 2018 Bâtard-Montrachet Grand Cru has a touch more pungency compared to the Bienvenue, but perhaps not quite the same alluring charm, at least at this primordial stage. The palate is where it’s at: supremely well balanced, exuding a sense of coiled-up energy countered by a dense, persistent finish. A bit of a beast, but time will tame it. (NM)\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003e96 Points - Wine Advocate\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eThe 2018 Bâtard-Montrachet Grand Cru is powerful and muscular, opening in the glass with notions of orange oil, peach, white flowers, beeswax and warm bread. On the palate, it's full-bodied, deep and introverted, with a broad-shouldered, textural profile, serious reserves of concentration and lively balancing acids, concluding with a saline finish. (WK)\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003e95 Points - Burghound\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eWe are making wines to age,' says Pierre Vincent, perhaps conscious of some of the issues with premature oxidation in the recent past at the domaine. This is right at the other end of the spectrum: a sculpted, chiselled, tightly wound Bâtard-Montrachet, with perfumed 25% new wood and a very racy, mouthwatering finish. Continues the stylistic shift of the last two vintages. Drinking Window 2023 - 2032. (TA)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Breakthru","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51464582168881,"sku":null,"price":1579.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Domaine_Leflaive_Batard-Montrachet_Grand_Cru_Burgundy_France_2018_fac676f6-afd5-4cef-8572-82b4bb4abbe4.jpg?v=1757356878"},{"product_id":"chateau-mouton-rothschild-pauillac-bordeaux-france-1982","title":"Château Mouton Rothschild, Pauillac, Bordeaux, France, 1982","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eChateau Mouton Rothschild, a Premier Cru Classé from the Bordeaux region and one of the world's greatest wines, is owned by Baroness Philippine de Rothschild. The estate includes 205 acres of vines at Pauillac planted with Cabernet Sauvignon (77%), Merlot (11%), Cabernet Franc (10%) and Petit Verdot (2%). \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn 1853, Baron Nathaniel de Rothschild bought Chateau Brane-Mouton. In 1922, his great-grandson Baron Philippe de Rothschild (1902-1988) decided to take the future of the estate into his own hands. His 65 years at Mouton bear witness to the strength of his personality, his spirit of enterprise and his sense of innovation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn 1922, he was the first to introduce chateau bottling. In 1926, he built the famous Grand Chai, the majestic 100-meter first year cellar, which has become a major attraction for visitors to Mouton. 1945 marked the start of a fascinating collection of works of art, created every year for the Mouton label by famous painters. In 1973, after a twenty-year battle, Baron Philippe obtained a revision of the 1855 classification and Mouton was officially recognized as a First Growth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn 1988, Baroness Philippine de Rothschild succeeded her father Baron Philippe. She has become the guarantor of the quality of an illustrious wine whose motto proudly proclaims, \"First I am, second I was, I Mouton do not change.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eWinemaker\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eBaron Philippe de Rothschild\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Cabernet Franc, 7% Merlot\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003ePauillac, Bordeaux, France\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThe color is dense and deep with a slightly amber tint, while the nose reveals aromas of gingerbread, mint, very ripe fruit, blackcurrant and bilberry, with notes of cinnamon, toast and mocha. From a firm and silky attack with an elegant tannic structure of velvety, patrician tannins, the wine develops a full, round body with suggestions of licorice and caramel. Fresh, stylish, seductive and charming, with notes of chocolate, this is a powerful wine with attractive length.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e100 Points - Wine Advocate\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eOver the last couple of years, I had inclined to the view that the 1986 vintage was eclipsing the 1982 Mouton Rothschild, but two perfectly conserved bottles this year put paid to that hypothesis. One of the emblematic wines of the vintage, offering up aromas of sweet crème de cassis, cigar wrapper, espresso roast, spices and vine smoke, it's full-bodied, broad and enveloping, with a rich core of fruit; ripe, supple tannins; and a long, expansive finish. Lavish, even flamboyant, and at the same time seriously structured and quintessentially Mouton, it encapsulates the greatness of the vintage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e100 Points - James Suckling\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eWhat an amazing red. It's so very youthful with toasted oak, light vanilla, and dark berries such as currants and blueberries. Then it turns to mint. This is so fresh and intensely fruity. It lasts for minutes on your palate with each sip. It is so powerful yet elegant. It will improve for hundreds of years. I would still leave it in my cellar for five or ten years. If you need to drink it, decant it three to four hours in advance.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e100 Points - Jeb Dunnuck\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eA wine that’s singing today, the 1982 Chateau Mouton-Rothschild is one of those wines that needs to be tasted to be believed. It almost has a California Cabernet-like sexiness and opulence paired with pure Bordeaux class. Still solid ruby-colored, with a sensational nose of crème de cassis, lead pencil shaving, sweet tobacco, and even some flowery incense, it hits the palate with full-bodied richness, a multidimensional, layered texture, straight-up awesome levels of sweet fruit, and a blockbuster finish. This is Bordeaux at its most sexy and hedonistic, and it’s just a joy to drink. Given its relatively youthful vibe, I expect it to continue drinking brilliantly for another two decades and even at that point have a gradual decline. There’s no need to delay gratification though, and it’s certainly ready to go.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e99 Points - Vinous\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eEvery now and then, you chance upon a 1982 Mouton-Rothschild that blows you away. This is one such example. It has a wonderful, outgoing, precocious bouquet, with blackberry, cedar and a sprig of wild mint that is so exuberant it enraptures the olfactory senses. The palate is fuller and denser than the '82 Pichon-Lalande, with wonderful poise and layers of graphite-tinged black fruit mixed with light aniseed notes. It is unapologetically extravagant and yet it is all delivered with a kind of carefree joie de vivre. Stupendous.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e98 Points - Wine Spectator\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eGlorious aromas. Dark ruby red. Wonderful perfumes of flowers, berry and lilac. Full-bodied, with silky tannins and a long and pretty finish. Balanced. Class in a glass. Just as I remember.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e97 Points - Decanter\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eRich and deep in colour, this has a stunning intensity on the first nose. On the palate, there is the slight iodine edge of an older Cabernet Sauvignon, set against soft brambly fruits, smoky cedar and black truffles. Soft structure but the architecture of this wine is still very much in play, building in power as it works through your palate, setting your taste buds tingling with the gentlest of tannins. Again this is a classic, superlative example of how Pauillac can age. As it uncurls in the glass, the rich smoke on the nose is just beautifully seductive, but the palate softens just a touch quicker than some of the others in this line-up.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct size:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e750ml\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ian Blackburn","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52433627578673,"sku":null,"price":1895.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Chateau_Mouton_Rothschild_Pauillac_Bordeaux_France_1982.jpg?v=1769539322"},{"product_id":"krug-vintage-brut-champagne-france-1975","title":"Krug, Vintage Brut, Champagne, France, 1975 (A beautiful bottle)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eSince 1843, six generations of the Krug Family have been creating the finest and rarest Champagnes. Behind every precious drop of Krug stands the dream of a visionary. One man who, long before others, understood that the essence of Champagne is pleasure. So, over 170 years ago, Joseph Krug broke with convention to follow his vision: to create the most generous expression of Champagne every year, regardless of climatic unpredictability. Thanks to an uncompromising craftsmanship, a unique individual plot by plot approach from harvesting to blending, an unparalleled library of 150 reserve wines, and an exceptional cellar aging, Krug is the benchmark when it comes to the best champagnes in the world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKrug Grande Cuvée is the flagship of the House and the archetype of Krug’s philosophy of craftsmanship and savoir-faire: a blend of more than 120 wines from ten or more different years. Its exceptional finesse is the result of a stay of at least another six years in the cellars. Over twenty years are needed to craft each bottle of Krug Grande Cuvee.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEvery year since the foundation of the House in 1843, one creation, one blend, one bottling and thus one new Edition of Krug Grande Cuvée has come to life. The number of the Edition is now featured on the front label, and this year we celebrate the 164th Edition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eWinemakers\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eHenri \u0026amp; Remi Krug\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003ePinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eChampagne, France\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eMature, gold and clear color. Nose is intense, opulent, generous, and refined. Minty, vegetal, earthy, floral, and citrus flavors. Acidity is balanced with dry and silky tannins, leading to a short and metallic ending.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"pipProfessionalReviews_list\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003eProduct size: 750ml \u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SGWS","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52855387128113,"sku":null,"price":3000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Krug_Vintage_Brut_Champagne_France_1975.jpg?v=1771450503"},{"product_id":"chateau-rayas-chateauneuf-du-pape-reserve-rhone-france-2000","title":"Chateau Rayas, Chateauneuf-du-Pape Reserve, Rhône, France, 2000","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eA small ten-hectare vineyard, in the heart of the woods, planted in very poor, sandy soil producing wines with great finesse. In the heart of the southern Rhône Valley appellation vineyards, Emmanuel Reynaud offers up his Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée wines featuring Châteauneuf du Pape, Côtes du Rhône, Vacqueyras and Côtes du Rhône Village.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBoth red and white, these wines are the fruit of the vineyards of a number of different domains: Château Rayas, Château Fonsalette and Château des Tours signed the Reynaud family, wine-growers from one generation to the next since 1880.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eToday these wines are matured in the cellars of two estates Château Rayas and Château des Tours. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWinemaker\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eEmmanuel Reynaud \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGrenache\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eRhône, France\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSmoke and pepper dominate the nose. Thick and sappy; round and seamless. Offers very good depth of flavor... Best today on the peppery, long finish, which features thoroughly ripe tannins.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e93 Points - Wine Advocate\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe 2000 Rayas Chateauneuf du Pape, which Emmanuel Reynaud believes is better than 1998, came in at a whopping 15.2% alcohol. It is reminiscent of a hypothetical blend of the 1998 and 1999, with a medium to light ruby color, and a sumptuous bouquet of kirsch liqueur, spice box, and licorice. Full-bodied and fleshy, with low acidity, it is a sweet (from high glycerin and alcohol), seductive, intoxicating offering with no hard edges and a rich, fleshy mouthfeel. (RP)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e93 Points - Wine Spectator\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e *Collectible* Remarkable. Very light in color, like weathered bricks, but this medium-bodied red has all the sweetness you can wish for from a young wine, with ripe tannins and some plum and cherry confit providing succulent flavors; you won't leave a drop in the glass. Smooth, silky, ripe, balanced, long finish. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e91 Points - Vinous\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eMedium red. Nose initially dominated by meat, toasted nuts and orange peel; showed a lively raspberry aroma with aeration. Tight, dense and peppery on entry, then lush and silky in the middle palate, with strong pepper and spice notes. Less fruity in its youth than the Pignan, and considerably less showy. But this really coats the palate and lingers on the back end. Will require a good eight to ten years of aging, but will it be a very good or a great Rayas?\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e90 Points - Int'l Wine Cellar\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eRather pale red (Reynaud says the color will deepen as the wine ages). Smoke and pepper dominate the nose. Thick and sappy; round and seamless. Offers very good depth of flavor... Best today on the peppery, long finish, which features thoroughly ripe tannins. There weren't a lot of bunches in 2000, says Reynaud, but the grapes were large. 90+ (ST)\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e \u003c\/b\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ian Blackburn","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52855472816433,"sku":null,"price":2995.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Chateau_Rayas_Chateauneuf-du-Pape_Reserve_Rhone_France_2000.jpg?v=1771451286"},{"product_id":"krug-vintage-brut-champagne-france-1990","title":"Krug, Vintage Brut, Champagne, France, 1990","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eSince 1843, six generations of the Krug Family have been creating the finest and rarest Champagnes. Behind every precious drop of Krug stands the dream of a visionary. One man who, long before others, understood that the essence of Champagne is pleasure. So, over 170 years ago, Joseph Krug broke with convention to follow his vision: to create the most generous expression of Champagne every year, regardless of climatic unpredictability. Thanks to an uncompromising craftsmanship, a unique individual plot by plot approach from harvesting to blending, an unparalleled library of 150 reserve wines, and an exceptional cellar aging, Krug is the benchmark when it comes to the best champagnes in the world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKrug Grande Cuvée is the flagship of the House and the archetype of Krug’s philosophy of craftsmanship and savoir-faire: a blend of more than 120 wines from ten or more different years. Its exceptional finesse is the result of a stay of at least another six years in the cellars. Over twenty years are needed to craft each bottle of Krug Grande Cuvee.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEvery year since the foundation of the House in 1843, one creation, one blend, one bottling and thus one new Edition of Krug Grande Cuvée has come to life. The number of the Edition is now featured on the front label, and this year we celebrate the 164th Edition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eWinemakers\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eHenri \u0026amp; Remi Krug\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003ePinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eChampagne, France\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eAhead lies an extraordinary adventure through the complex tapestry of the 1990 Krug from Krug. This laudable vintage unfolds like a riveting tale, thrusting us into an unforgettable narrative of nature and viniculture. The year of 1990 was characterised by a generous climate, gallantly augmenting the grapes maturity and thus bestowing this champagne with a profound depth and complexity. The initial contact of this wine with your palate may feel akin to a masterful ballet performance. Complex choreographies of ripe stone fruits, bejewelled citrus layers, and lusciously spiced honey intertwine in graceful pirouettes. The 1990 Krug mirror reflects the climate's generosity with powerful waves of flavour, marked by astonishing vitality and elegance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat sets the 1990 vintage apart from its siblings in time is undoubtedly its remarkable longevity. As an investor, one finds the promise of unwavering quality appealing. Produced under meticulously managed weather conditions, this vintage transcends conventional champagne characteristics encompassing both power and delicacy. Time has moulded it subtly, shades growing vibrant yet restrained, like a sumptuous aria sung in hushed tones. Yet, there remains life in this silent symphony, a longevity still to be determined.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e98 Points - Wine \u0026amp; Spirits\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eWhen I tasted this wine pre-release last year, it already showed itself to be great. Now with the benefit of an additional year of age, it may be the greatest Krug I've tasted. The wine has perfect harmony, all the elements in balance, a complex chord of flavor that lasts more than a minute after each sip. There's not much to say when a wine's internal energy and drive are so in tune with the flavors. Buy it if you can. Now 15 years old, it may have another 15 more to go without slowing down.\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e97 Points - Burghound\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e1990 is one of my favorite vintages ever for this storied cuvée because while the vintage was on the riper side the high yields allowed the fruit to retain a very good level of acidity which made for balanced and ageworthy wines. While I have had the pleasure of tasting the '90 on a number of occasions since its release, the last time was alongside the 1985 and the 1988, and as admirable as those two vintages are, the 1990 is head and shoulders above them to my taste. The fantastically complex nose is comprised of an abundance of yeast and toast characters that don't completely dominate the essence of apple, pear, citrus, spice, acacia blossom and discreet orange peel scents. There is equally good depth to the delicious, full-bodied and powerful flavors that possess a lovely sense of vibrancy thanks to the still firm but fine mousse that shapes the delineated, delicious and impeccably well-balanced finale. In my view 1990 is one of the greatest vintages for this wine of the last 25 years and one that is still drinking well.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e97 Points - Int'l Wine Cellar\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eFull copper-gold color. Initially restrained, brooding nose exploded with aeration, showing apple, orange, apricot, honey, iodine, smoke, hazelnut, macadamia and a suggestion of dry oloroso sherry. Dense, full, chewy and rich; an extraordinarily solid Champagne with an intriguing suggestion of Calvados. Broadens toward the back and goes on and on on the echoing aftertaste, with rich, mellow notes of toffee, brown butter and marrow. Like the '92 Clos du Mesnil, this displays its powerful underlying acidity with aeration (Krug's wines never go through malolactic fermentation) and should be long-lived.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e97 Points - Wine Spectator\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eAn aristocrat. Big-boned and intense, yet with finesse and complex flavors of coconut, whole-grain bread, ginger, citrus and honey. Waves of flavor saturate the palate and the long finish picks up a mineral and smoke note. Very harmonious from start to finish. Drink now through 2020.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e95 Points - Wine Advocate\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eAt its finest, the 1990 Vintage is superb, revealing a slightly oxidized style, but a full-bodied, rustic, rich personality with the body of a red wine, but loads of character. (RP)\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e95 Points - Wine Enthusiast\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eA bit dark in color and lacking in bubbles, but when it comes to aromas and flavors it’s out of this world. Vanilla, cinnamon, almond and apple scents are ethereal and mature as can be, while the palate deals layered apple and spice in multiple layers. Runs a mile long but soft on the finish. Unique in style; not the least bit zesty.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e94 Points - Vinous\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe 1990 Vintage, tasted from magnum, was remarkable for its opulent and exuberant personality and incredible finesse. (AG)\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"pipProfessionalReviews_list\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003eProduct size: 750ml \u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SGWS","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53144083333425,"sku":null,"price":1200.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Krug_Vintage_Brut_Champagne_France_1990.jpg?v=1773269702"}],"url":"https:\/\/merchantofwine.com\/collections\/june-25-greatest-wines-ever-made-dinner.oembed","provider":"Merchant of Wine","version":"1.0","type":"link"}