New Arrivals / Back In Stock

A sneak peek at some of the top wines and spirits just released at K&L from new releases to allocations to Old and Rare finds... Tuesday Jan 17th, 2017 [View in Browser] Whether it is a new allocation or old favorite, below you will find our most recent additions to the diverse selection at K&L Wine Merchants. We receive new opportunities weekly from direct imports to local distributors to carefully inspected back-vintage collections - you'll find the best of our new discoveries below. For a look at our full list of [New Arrivals, click here.] For a look at our full list of items that are [Back in Stock, click here.] To browse [all selections on the website, click here.] TOP PICKS FROM OUR MOST RECENT ACQUISITIONS Vintage Item Name Score Retail Link 2015 Stony Bank Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough $10.99 [View] 2014 La Posta del Viñatero "Pizzella Vineyard" Malbec Mendoza 90 $12.99 [View] 2015 Domaine Lafage "Cuvée Centenaire" Côtes du Roussillon Blanc 92 $16.99 [View] 2016 Gen del Alma "Ji Ji Ji" Malbec Pinot Noir Gualtallary 92 $17.99 [View] 2014 Moulin de la Gardette "Tradition" Gigondas 92 $24.99 [View] 2015 Domaine Coursodon "Silice" St-Joseph (Pre-Arrival) 93 $29.99 [View] 2011 Mazzei "Philip" Cabernet Sauvignon Toscano 93 $34.99 [View] 2013 Einaudi "Terlo" Barolo (Pre-Arrival) 94 $39.99 [View] 2010 Gulfi "Nerosanlorè" Nero d'Avola Sicily (Pre-Arrival) 95 $39.99 [View] 2015 Domaine Coursodon "L'Olivaie" St-Joseph (Pre-Arrival) 96 $44.99 [View] 2014 Langoa-Barton, St-Julien (Pre-Arrival) 93 $44.99 [View] 2013 Einaudi "Terlo Vigna Costa Grimaldi" Barolo (Pre-Arrival) 95 $49.99 [View] 2012 Louis Jadot Beaune 1er Cru "153rd" Anniversary Cuvée" (Pre-Arrival) 94 $49.99 [View] 2015 Domaine Coursodon "La Sensonne" St-Joseph (Pre-Arrival) 97 $59.99 [View] Lagavulin 8 Year Old Limited Edition Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky (750ml) $59.99 [View] Four Roses 8 Year, 11 Month Old "K&L Exclusive" Single Barrel OESO Cask Strength Bourbon Whiskey (750ml) $64.99 [View] 2015 Domaine Grand Veneur Chateauneuf-du-Pape Vieilles Vignes (Pre-Arrival) 98 $79.99 [View] 2012 Fontodi "Flaccianello della Pieve" Toscana (Pre-Arrival) 97 $79.99 [View] 2014 Calon-Ségur, St-Estèphe (Pre-Arrival) 96 $89.99 [View] 2011 Fontodi "Flaccianello della Pieve" Toscana (Pre-Arrival) 95 $99.99 [View] 2015 M. Chapoutier "Les Greffieux" Ermitage Vieilles Vignes (Pre-Arrival) 100 $129.99 [View] 2009 Doisy-Daëne "L'Extravagant" Sauternes (375ml) (Previously 200) 100 $149.99 [View] 2002 Krug Brut Champagne 98 $259.00 [View] 2004 Château Rayas Châteauneuf-du-Pape Reserve (Pre-Arrival) 94 $449.99 [View] 2003 Château Rayas Châuteauneuf-du-Pape (Pre-Arrival) 95 $499.99 [View] [2015 Stony Bank Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough] ($10.99) Leaving behind careers in molecular biology and medicine, Brigid and John Forrest returned to the Wairau River Valley in 1988 to merge their passion for science with their love of wine. Along the way, they've picked up awards and accolades for their structured, rich, aromatic whites and reds. Praise from Raymond Chandler: "From modest beginnings in 1988 when John and Brigid Forrest planted their first vineyard in Renwick, Forrest Wines has grown to be a most significant Marlborough and New Zealand producer. Although the quantities of wine do not rival that of the larger producers, it is the breadth of range that is remarkable. The Forrests are innovators and create their wines to occupy the many niches in the market, the core ‘Forrest’ wines supported by ‘The Doctors’ range of new styles, the Otago ‘TattyBogler’ range, the Gimblett Gravels Newton-Forrest partnership wines, and the top ‘John Forrest Collection’ wines." (11/2016) Stony Bank is their second label, dedicated mostly for export. [2014 La Posta del Viñatero "Pizzella Vineyard" Malbec Mendoza] [2014 La Posta del Viñatero "Pizzella Vineyard" Malbec Mendoza] ($12.99) 90 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "The 2014 Malbec Pizzella Vineyard is from Altamira. The vineyard was originally 17 hectares and the owner planted an additional 12 (and is planting yet more), so there is room to grow. This is the most harmonious, elegant, and at the same time backward, of the three single-vineyard Malbecs. Not as showy as the others in the palate either as the tannins are austere and the chalky minerality sticks to your teeth. The differences between the three Malbecs is clear as they each reflect where the grapes grow. The riper, warmer one from Ugarteche, the fresher, higher acidity wine from Tupungato and the one with more depth from here (Altamira). It should be readily available, as some 180,000 bottles were produced in 2014. Superb value! (LG)" (08/2015) [2015 Domaine Lafage "Cuvée Centenaire" Côtes du Roussillon Blanc] [2015 Domaine Lafage "Cuvée Centenaire" Côtes du Roussillon Blanc] ($16.99) 90-92 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "The 2015 Cotes du Roussillon Centenaire is a racy, medium-bodied blend of mostly Grenache Blanc (and Gris), with 20% Roussanne. Crushed rocks, mint, lime and citrus blossom are some of the nuances here, and it hits the palate with medium-bodied richness, beautiful purity of fruit and a clean, dry finish. Its certainly an outstanding white to enjoy over the coming 2-3 years. Ive raved time and time again about the quality - and value - coming from Domaine Lafages Jean-Marc Lafage. A large estate that pulls from vines in the Agly Valley, the Aspres region, and vines around the estate and close the Mediterranean Sea, theyve just completed work on a new, state of the art winery and cellar. I can only imagine the quality will continue to soar at this estate. (JD)" (04/2016) [2016 Gen del Alma "Ji Ji Ji" Malbec Pinot Noir Gualtallary] [2016 Gen del Alma "Ji Ji Ji" Malbec Pinot Noir Gualtallary] ($17.99) 92 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "The red 2016 JI JI JI is a 50/50 blend of Malbec and Pinot Noir from eight-year-old vines in Gualtallary (Tupungato Winelands) on granite and limestone soils with a 20-centimeter layer of sand that fermented together with carbonic maceration. The wine was bottled unoaked. It feels a lot more serious and complete than previous vintages, and they attribute it to the superb vintage in Gualtallary, which surely affected the wines; ripeness was very slow, and there are more floral aromas. They also had a new, dedicated winery, where, even if they had less technology, they made an effort to do everything as perfect as possible. The palate mixes acid, bitter and bittersweet flavors, sour cherries, a touch of earth and decayed violets. This is simply delicious and incredibly priced. I'm not surprised the wine sells out in two months after it's released. (LG)" (12/2016) K&L Notes: Gen d'A is yet another Michelini brothers project, started by Gerardo Michelini and his wife Andrea Mufatto. They use fruit grown on a single vineyard in Gualtallary (within the Tupungato sub-zone). If you expect Malbec to be big, brawny and spicy, then this wine will come as quite a shock: it's actually 50-50 Malbec and Pinot Noir, picked rather early and fermented with whole clusters and carbonic maceration. It's all crunchy, tangy red berry fruit, a wine that is incredibly light on its feet and refreshing. Think good grower cru Beaujolais or even Anjou Gamay. I must admit that while I do not pick up a ton of Malbec character in this Tupungato rendition, it is fascinating wine, sure to bring lots of new wine drinkers into the world of exciting new projects happening right now in Argentina. (Joe Manekin, K&L Argentinian & Chilean wine buyer) [Joe Manekin] | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: January 11, 2017 This is the prettiest, freshest, finest, crispiest, most crunchy, most refreshing, and [insert superlative] red I have yet to taste from Argentina. It is simply that freakin' delicious. Place in a brown bag, and a wine professional would likely guess this to be a very good quality, cooler climate French red. The lively berry fruit, subtle violet floral aspects and firm, poised tannin structure all point to a French effort, perhaps in the Loire or one of the villages in Beaujolais. That said, this Malbec and Pinot Noir blend is impressive and ready to impress. Do not expect loads of fruit but do expect crisp, balanced, low 12% ABV red for your next roast chicken, grilled salmon, occasion to sip an aperitif. Fun stuff! [2014 Moulin de la Gardette "Tradition" Gigondas] [2014 Moulin de la Gardette "Tradition" Gigondas] ($24.99) 90-92 points Vinous: "Vivid ruby. Fresh red berries, Asian spices and potpourri on the highly perfumed nose. Juicy and sharply focused on the palate, offering energetic raspberry and floral pastille flavors that put on weight and open up steadily with air. Closes spicy and long; harmonious tannins add shape and grip. (JR)" (02/2016) Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "The 2014s from this estate are solid. Offering lots of cedary spice, dried red fruits and garrigue, the 2014 Gigondas Tradition is medium-bodied, rustic and charming. Drink it over the coming 7-8 years. (JD)" (12/2016) K&L Notes: Jean-Baptiste Meunier is the fifth generation winemaker behind the great property of Moulin de la Gardette in the Rhone region of Gigondas. We have been working with him since the mid-90s and the wines have always been some of our favorites from the area. The region itself has stepped out of the shadow of neighboring Chateauneuf du Pape, creating wines of intensity and flavor that are distinctly their own. Gigondas has more south facing slopes and higher elevations as well as varied soils that help distinguish the region. The "Tradition" is a blend of Grenache, Mourvedre and Cinsault from vines averaging an age of 40 years. It is aged for about a 18 months in mostly used barrique before bottling. (Keith Mabry, K&L Rhone Buyer) [Keith Mabry] | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: January 03, 2017 The Gardette "Tradition" speaks volumes about what is classic and dare I say, "Traditional" about both the winery and the way wine can be made in Gigondas and the greater Rhone Valley. JB Meunier, took a tricky vintage and gave us everything we should be looking for in any vintage, a sense of place and time and most importantly deliciousness. The wine shows notes of garrigue, Bing cherry, strawberry, rhubarb, Asian spices and burnished leather. It is full-bodied and complete with its persistent weight on the palate. In a region that has placed more emphasis on ripe fruit extraction, the "Tradition" is full of the beautiful savoriness which is what originally made the Rhone famous. After you try a bottle, you can see why we keep going back to the wines of the Moulin de la Gardette, it's Tradition personified. [2015 Domaine Coursodon "Silice" St-Joseph (Pre-Arrival)] ($29.99) 91-93 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "The largest production release is the 2015 Saint Joseph Silice, which is a mix of estate parcels aged in a combination of demi-muids and barrels. It offers full-bodied aromas and flavors of wild strawberries, black raspberries, cassis and crushed violets, a rocking texture and sweet, polished tannin. Its probably the finest vintage of this cuvée to date. One of my favorite estates in the Northern Rhône is that of the young Jerome Coursodon, who makes a bevy of brilliant St Josephs from his roughly 16 hectares of vines. Hes another progressive winemaker who has one foot in the past and one foot in the future, and the wines shows impeccable purity of fruit while remaining classic St Joseph. These 2015s are sensational wines and I suspect will be the greatest wines made yet from this estate. Dont miss these wines! (JD)" (12/2016) [2011 Mazzei "Philip" Cabernet Sauvignon Toscano] ($34.99) 93 points James Suckling: "Gorgeous aromas of blueberries, blackberries and cherries with hints of flowers follow through to a full body, firm and silky tannins and a citrusy finish. Very tangy and lively. Drink now or hold." (08/2015) 93 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "The 2011 Philip is a wine with an American spirit. The front label depicts family ancestor Philip Mazzei (1730-1816) but his white wig and demeanor is very reminiscent of the United States founding fathers. The wine is based on Cabernet Sauvignon (with some Cabernet Franc). It offers surprisingly soft and luscious tannins with a bouquet that is enhanced with dark berry and sweet spice. (ML)" (10/2015) [2013 Einaudi "Terlo" Barolo (Pre-Arrival)] ($39.99) 94 points James Suckling: "Love the decadent, sweet-tobacco, stem and ripe-fruit aromas to this one. Full-bodied, layered and soft with ripe tannins and so much subtle fruit. Sexy is the only word to describe it. Drink in 2020." (01/2017) [2010 Gulfi "Nerosanlorè" Nero d'Avola Sicily (Pre-Arrival)] ($39.99) 95 points Vinous: "Fully saturated ruby. Pure, very deep aromas of black cherry, red plum, medicinal herbs and minerals. Rich, dense and suave, with complex flavors of saline red berries and dark plum complicated by repeating botanical herb and balsamic nuances. Finishes seamless an long. A wine of noteworthy purity, with an excellent balance of sweetness, acidity and tannins. This is Gulfi's closest vineyard to the sea and almost always gives the estate's most elegant, refined wine. (ID)" (12/2015) [2015 Domaine Coursodon "L'Olivaie" St-Joseph (Pre-Arrival)] ($44.99) 94-96 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "An incredible wine, the 600-case 2015 Saint Joseph L'Olivaie comes from 60-year-old vines and is aged in 25% new French oak. Crushed rocks, blackberries, blueberries, lavender, wet rock and hints of truffle all emerge from this full-bodied, incredibly pure, elegant wine that will drink well in a handful of years and keep for over a decade. One of my favorite estates in the Northern Rhône is that of the young Jerome Coursodon, who makes a bevy of brilliant St Josephs from his roughly 16 hectares of vines. Hes another progressive winemaker who has one foot in the past and one foot in the future, and the wines shows impeccable purity of fruit while remaining classic St Joseph. These 2015s are sensational wines and I suspect will be the greatest wines made yet from this estate. Dont miss these wines! (JD)" (12/2016) [2014 Langoa-Barton, St-Julien (Pre-Arrival)] ($44.99) 92-93 points James Suckling: "A beautiful young wine with raspberries and plums. Full, round and juicy. So much berry character. Round tannins and bright acidity." (03/2015) 91-93 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "The Château Langoa Barton 2014 is a blend of 54% Cabernet Sauvignon, 34% Merlot and 12% Cabernet Franc cropped between 25 September and 8 October and raised in 60% new barrels. It has a backward nose that is tightly buttoned down: hints of blackberry, briary and cedar developing with time. The palate is harmonious with fine tannins, good density here for a Langoa Barton with new oak beautifully interwoven and filling out the finish. This is an impressive Langoa Barton, one of the most under-rated crus in Saint Julien. It's one that will surprise a few people once in bottle. (NM)" (04/2015) 93 points Wine Enthusiast: "Firmly tannic and concentrated, this wine demonstrates how this property has developed impressively in recent years. It is certainly powerful, although managing to retain the Saint-Julien elegance. The blackberry fruits will develop well as it matures. (RV)" (01/2017) 93 points Wine Spectator: "This has a well-built core of cassis, blueberry and plum sauce flavors, coated with a ganache edge and kept honest by a graphite accent through the finish. Dense but plush, showing admirable ripeness for the vintage. (JM)" (01/2017) [2013 Einaudi "Terlo Vigna Costa Grimaldi" Barolo (Pre-Arrival)] ($49.99) 95 points James Suckling: "Ripe fruit with orange-peel, walnut and ripe-strawberry aromas. Full body, ultra-fine and long tannins and a finish that lasts for minutes. Wow. Gorgeous. Better in 2021 but who can wait?" (01/2017) [2012 Louis Jadot Beaune 1er Cru "153rd" Anniversary Cuvée" (Pre-Arrival)] ($49.99) 92-94 points Vinous: "Building off the considerable success of their 2009 Beaune 150th Anniversary 1er Cru, Jadot has decided to make the wine again in top years. One of the highlights in this range, the 2012 boasts stunning power, depth and harmony. The lifted aromatics recall the Ursules, but here the fruit possesses more volume and creaminess. An explosive, layered finish rounds things out in style. Some of the parcels in the blend are Avaux, Cent Vignes, Pertuisots, Vignes Franches, Perrières, Toussaints and Chouacheux. (AG)" (01/2014) 92 points Allen Meadows - Burghound: " *Outstanding* A subtle touch of wood sets off ripe and relatively elegant notes of earth, dark cherry and spice. The mid-palate is dense, serious and powerful with plenty of mouth coating sap that helps to buffer the very firm tannic spine on the moderately austere, backward and built-to-age finale. While this is presently backward it should be approachable after 6 to 8 years of bottle age though note that it should live for a very long time. For readers having a child or grandchild in 2012 this would be a good choice to buy in quantity at a price that won't break the bank." (04/2015) [2015 Domaine Coursodon "La Sensonne" St-Joseph (Pre-Arrival)] ($59.99) 95-97 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "The inky, black and blue-colored 2015 St-Joseph Sensonne is a tiny-production release (200 cases) that comes from very old vines around the villages of Mauves, Tournon and Saint Jean de Muzols. Aged in 100% new barrels, it offers sensational notes of cassis, black raspberry, toasted bread, spice and dried flowers, as well as full-bodied richness and fabulous mid-palate depth; it has building, fine tannin and a great finish. There is an inherent elegance and purity here, but it's going to take a decade to hit maturity. One of my favorite estates in the Northern Rhône is that of the young Jerome Coursodon, who makes a bevy of brilliant St-Josephs from his roughly 16 hectares of vines. Hes another progressive winemaker who has one foot in the past and one foot in the future, and the wines shows impeccable purity of fruit while remaining classic St-Joseph. These 2015s are sensational wines and I suspect will be the greatest wines made yet from this estate. Dont miss these wines! 95-97+ (JD)" (12/2016) [Lagavulin 8 Year Old Limited Edition Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky (750ml)] [Lagavulin 8 Year Old Limited Edition Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky (750ml)] ($59.99) Whisky Advocate: "Light in color it may be, but this is no wimp. The nose goes straight to the shore with mineral and salt, but its also sweet, which allows it to be fresh, lively, yet balanced. The palate delivers some menthol, bay laurel, more brininess, a hint of malt, and Parma violet. Everything remains very breezy, with peat smoke being blown from a kiln into salt-laden air. I prefer it to the 12 year old and the price is fantastic. (Summer 2016, Dave Broom)" K&L Notes: The 200th anniversary bottling of Lagavulin is finally here! A limited edition eight year old single malt whisky that packs all the peat, smoke, salt, and classic Islay flavor of the beloved distillery into a younger, brighter, more assertive expression. Sure to sell fast and sure to be one of the more popular whiskies we sell this year! The special edition celebrates a visit to the distillery be Alfred Banard (author of the classic "The Whisky Distilleries of Scotland"), where he recollected tasting a delicious eight year expression. [Four Roses 8 Year, 11 Month Old "K&L Exclusive" Single Barrel OESO Cask Strength Bourbon Whiskey (750ml)] [Four Roses 8 Year, 11 Month Old "K&L Exclusive" Single Barrel OESO Cask Strength Bourbon Whiskey (750ml)] ($64.99) The first selection from our 2016 trip to Four Roses has arrived and it's absolutely as charming as we remember it. Aged just a hair short of nine years, this OESO selection has a mash bill of 75% corn, 20% rye, and 5% malted barley and uses the O yeast strain known for imparting a rich, full-bodied, and vanilla-laden character onto the whiskey. Bottled at 53.25% ABV, the bourbon is full of sweet oak and baking spices galore on the nose. The palate follows suit with vanilla, cinnamon, and cloves balanced by the sweetness from the charred barrel notes. Simply put, it's the type of whiskey you look forward to coming home to. It's full of flavor, never overpowering despite the cask strength power, and balanced on all fronts. It's not difficult to understand, nor is it hiding many deeper secrets. It shows you everything it has right off the bat: creamy vanilla, lots of sweet spice, and a healthy dollop of oak for good measure. Another winner purchased directly from the Four Roses cellar. [Jeffrey Jones] | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: January 13, 2017 This barrel of Four Roses is pretty and delicious. It is soft and round with a rich body and vanilla aromas. There is a bright fruity sweetness that makes this single barrel so nice because it is balanced and supple. [Mahon McGrath] | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: January 13, 2017 The OESO is sweet and spicy. There's plenty of fruit character juxtaposing cedar-y spice and a caramel coated, toasted cereal sweetness. The finish shows good length, but what distinguishes this one for me is the way it manages to have both density and intensity, and yet maintain a brightness and vibrancy despite it. While fully mature and rich, this isn't one of those foghorn, basso-profondo, cask strength offerings. [2015 Domaine Grand Veneur Chateauneuf-du-Pape Vieilles Vignes (Pre-Arrival)] ($79.99) 95-98 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "From barrel, the sensationally rich and concentrated 2015 Châteauneuf du Pape Vieilles Vignes (50% Grenache, 40% Mourvèdre and 10% Syrah aged in concrete tanks and small barrels) is more polished, elegant and seamless, with blockbuster notes of ripe black fruits, crushed herbs, pepper, plums and violets. You almost need a fork to drink this beauty, yet its never heavy or over the top, has incredible purity and present, ripe tannin. I followed this bottle for two days and it only got better with air. Châteauneuf du Pape lovers shouldnt miss it! This sensational estate consistently produces some of the top whites of the appellation (in addition to the reds), and theyve done well in 2015. (JD)" (10/2016) [2012 Fontodi "Flaccianello della Pieve" Toscana (Pre-Arrival)] ($79.99) 97 points Vinous: "Tasted next to the 2012 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna del Sorbo, the Flaccianello is richer, deeper and more flamboyant. Super-ripe red stone fruit, smoke, licorice and dark spices meld together in a deep, powerful wine. The 2012 is impressive, but personally I prefer the finesse and freshness of the Sorbo. The greater influence of new French oak is also felt in the wine's texture. Still, that is splitting hairs, as the level here is high. Very high. (AG)" (10/2016) 94 points James Suckling: "A fresh and clean wine with mineral, blackberry, blueberry and lavender character. Full body, fine and chewy tannins and a tangy finish. Refined and beautiful. Needs a year or two to soften. Organically grown grapes." (08/2015) 94 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "As it is every year, the 2012 Flaccianello della Pieve represents a selection of the best fruit from the best vineyards (excluding, of course, Vigna del Sorbo that is dedicated to its own wine). The five parcels span various soils types and exposures, and the youngest vines are 20 years old. Because the fruit selection process is so detailed, the darkest and smallest clusters are carefully chosen. As a result, the fruit is rich in polyphenols, thick extract and extra aromatic intensity. The 2012 vintage saw yields reduced by as much as 20%, meaning that fruit selection was even more severe in this vintage. This beautiful wine shows abundant richness and generosity with toned mineral nuances that are wrapped within bold flavors of dark fruit and spice. The wine is rich and velvety in texture. (ML)" (10/2015) [2014 Calon-Ségur, St-Estèphe (Pre-Arrival)] ($89.99) 93-96 points Vinous: "The 2014 Calon Ségur is silky, polished and exceptionally beautiful. Freshly cut flowers, mint, dark berries and sage are some of the notes that are pushed forward in a sweet, unctuous St. Estèphe endowed with tons of class and personality. Raspberry jam and crushed flowers add further shades of nuance. The 2014 captures a deeply intriguing blend of lifted aromatics, super-ripe, fruit, pulsating energy and polished tannins. Persistent and impeccably balanced throughout, the 2014 Calon Ségur is without question one of the wines of the vintage. The refined finish alone is striking. In 2014, the blend is 67% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot. Calon Ségur remains one of the few classified growths the average consumer can still afford to buy by the case. As such, it is likely to be one of the very best wines readers will find for the money. Don't miss it. 93-96+ (AG)" (04/2015) 94-96 points Wine Enthusiast: " *Barrel Sample* This wine is packed with black fruit notes as well as ample acidity. The texture is so sumptuous that the tannins are way in the background. The wine, serious and dense, has weight and richness without ever becoming too much. (RV)" (04/2015) [2011 Fontodi "Flaccianello della Pieve" Toscana (Pre-Arrival)] ($99.99) 95 points James Suckling: "The blackberry, currant, nutmeg and chocolate aromas follow through to a full body, with velvety tannins and lots of savory fruit. Some balsamic and citrus fruit underneath it all. Needs a little time to soften. Pure Sangiovese. From organically grown grapes." (09/2014) 95 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "The 2011 Flaccianello della Pieve is 100% Sangiovese aged 24 months in new French oak and two months in large oak cask. Im not sure how Fontodi does it, but this edition of Flaccianello is simply beautiful. It is a seamless expression with lingering tones of red cherry, coffee, spice, truffle and red rose that flow harmoniously into unison. In the mouth, the wine shows great opulence and textural richness that is pushed forward by the stylistic softness of the tannins and the wines inner freshness. Pretty menthol tones appear on the finish. Drink: 2015-2030.Following the glorious performance of Fontodi in 2010, I had lowered my expectations with regard to 2011. The 2010 Flaccianello della Pieve was one of my favorite wines tasted last year. Although the 2011 vintage does indeed result in softer, plusher wines, the Fontodi magic is delivered in droves nonetheless. The big news is that Fontodis Vigna del Sorbo has now taken on classification as a Chianti Classico Gran Selezione. The prestigious wine represents an enormous legitimization of the new category. (ML)" (10/2014) 95 points Wine Spectator: " *#14 on Top 100 List of 2014, Collectibles* Aromas and flavors of violet, black currant, raspberry and spice gain intensity as this red builds to its lengthy conclusion. Vibrant and harmonious, this needs some time to shed its well-proportioned tannins. Sangiovese. Best from 2017 through 2030. (BS)" (10/2014) [2015 M. Chapoutier "Les Greffieux" Ermitage Vieilles Vignes (Pre-Arrival)] ($129.99) 97-100 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "Last of the Hermitage releases, from a vineyard that lies just underneath le Méal, the 2015 Ermitage Les Greffieux is another huge, almost primordial release that tastes like it had just completed fermentation. Inky black in color, with tons of black olive, melted licorice and unctuous levels of black fruit, it should match the 2006 for its concentration, sweet, building tannin and blockbuster finish. Hide this puppy in the cellar for 7-8 years and enjoy over the following 3-4 decades." (12/2016) [2009 Doisy-Daëne "L'Extravagant" Sauternes (375ml) (Previously 200)] [2009 Doisy-Daëne "L'Extravagant" Sauternes (375ml) (Previously 200)] ($149.99) 98-100 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "There are probably around seven casks of the 2009 LExtravagant de Doisy-Daene, although that may decrease a little after racking. An equal blend of Semillon and Sauvignon, it delivers a record 220gms residual sugar and yet still exudes astounding minerality and precision, with touches of clear honey, frangipane and cold wet stones. The palate is full-bodied with a mellifluous texture, perfect acidity to slice through that rich botrytized fruit, stunning balance, citrus peel, apricot, Clementine, lemon curd and a hint of ginger. With awesome length, leaving that tingling sensation akin to Szechuan pepper, this wine truly lives up to its name. (NM)" (04/2010) 95-98 points Wine Spectator: " *Barrel Tasting* This is rich and concentrated, with crème brûlée and apple crumble on the nose and palate. Full-bodied and very sweet. Thick and powerful. Layered and massive. (JS, Web-2010)" (04/2010) [2002 Krug Brut Champagne] ($259.00) 98 points Decanter: "The Krug 2002 vintage Champagne is a mix of bright Welsh gold and pale green lights and has a perfect flow of tiny bubbles. What aromatics spring flowers from well-sited Pinot Meunier, and exoticism in the Chardonnay. The beating heart of the wine is powerful, poised and very complex Pinot Noir, still biding its time to majestically unfold. Magnificent. (ME)" (01/2016) [2004 Château Rayas Châteauneuf-du-Pape Reserve (Pre-Arrival)] - 10 available ($449.99) 94 points Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar: "Medium red. Stunning floral and red berry aromas emphasize raspberry, strawberry and fresh lavender. Bright, focused and pure, with vibrant red fruit and mineral flavors given an exotic twist by a hint of dried apricot. The sweet finish leaves a strong floral pastille impression. The freshness and precision of this wine are really captivating." (01/2007) 93 points Wine Spectator: "Supple, with very elegant structure guiding the raspberry and cassis fruit, cinnamon, mineral and black tea notes through the lengthy, stylish finish. Very pure, with a great silky mouthfeel, this gains depth as it airs in the glass. Drink now through 2020." (10/2007) [2003 Château Rayas Châuteauneuf-du-Pape (Pre-Arrival)] - 10 available ($499.99) 95 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "The 2003 Rayas Chateauneuf du Pape has gone from strength to strength and now looks to be the finest vintage since the monumental 1995. Deep ruby to the rim with that classic Rayas nose of flowers, kirsch liqueur, black raspberries, crushed rocks, and minerals, the wine is dense and concentrated, with a broad, savory mouthfeel, sweet yet silky tannin, fabulous persistence, and a blockbuster finish that just goes on and on. This is a reassuringly profound Rayas that seems to suggest that Emmanuel Reynaud has finally figured out this cold-climate terroir in a warm climate appellation. This wine should be given 3-4 years of bottle age, and drunk over the following 20+ years. (RP)" (02/2006) 93 points Wine Spectator: " *Collectibles* Lovely perfume, with tightly woven red and black cherry, graphite, incense, mineral and sous bois notes that stay fresh and focused thanks to finely imbedded acidity. Stylish finish. (JM)" (06/2006) --------------------------------------------------------------- [K&L] Phone: (877) KL-WINES (Toll Free 877.559.4637) Email: [wine@klwines.com] K&L Wine Merchants 3005 El Camino Real Redwood City, CA 94061 USA San Francisco, Redwood City, Hollywood CA Missed an offer? Check out recent opportunities at our [Email Archive] page. Follow us on [Twitter][Facebook] [Instagram] and read more [On the Trail (K&L Blog)] "Best wine Web site in the US" - Wall Street Journal "Great for rare and hard-to-find wines." - Time "The cellar to search first." - Smart Money "Best Wine Web Site" - Publishers of The Wine Spectator This email was sent to {EMAIL} [Click here to manage your e-mail settings] with K&L Wine Merchants or alternatively, [click here to unsubscribe from all mailings]