K&L Monthly Newsletter - Featuring Italy

Now Available From K&L Wine Merchants... Monday Jul 3rd, 2017 [View in Browser]( [Special Italy Feature]( “The 2012 Brunello Vintage is a Return to Finesse” —Kerin O’Keefe, Wine Enthusiast “I found more good to outstanding examples than in any past vintage”  —Ian d’Agata, Vinous “Rock Star Vintage” —James Suckling So the pundits have spoken, and I agree that the 2012 wines from Montalcino are exceptional. It sounds too good to be true after how good the 2010 vintage was, but the elegance, balance, complexity and depth of texture are all sensational in these wines. The 2010 vintage brought Brunello to the world stage, and now it is on the back of the 2012 to show how good the wines from Montalcino are, and that 2010 wasn’t just a fluke or a once-a-decade event. This February, I spent the better part of a week in Tuscany tasting the 2012 vintage, and I was amazed by the consistent quality and intrigued by its more savory, rather than overtly fruity, character. In this way it is similar to 2010. In general, the wines are superbly balanced, elegant and will age well for a decade plus. In this newsletter you’ll find my reviews on a selection of these you may wish to try, followed by refreshments from Lugana and Soave Classico. -Greg St. Clair, K&L Italian Wine Buyer [View our electronic newsletter!]( Highlights this month include... Vintage Item Name Score Retail Link 2013 Tormaresca "Neprica" Puglia $9.99 [View]( 2016 Tenuta Roveglia "Limne" Lugana 90 $12.99 [View]( 2013 La Massa "La Massa" Toscana 93 $14.99 [View]( 2015 Argiano Rosso di Montalcino $19.99 [View]( 2015 Uccelliera Rosso di Montalcino $26.99 [View]( 2012 Abbadia Ardenga "Piaggia" Brunello di Montalcino (Pre-Arrival) 95 $39.99 [View]( 2012 Fattoria dei Barbi Brunello di Montalcino 94 $39.99 [View]( 2012 Talenti Brunello di Montalcino 95 $43.99 [View]( 2012 Ciacci Piccolomini d'Aragona Brunello di Montalcino (Pre-Arrival) 95 $44.99 [View]( 2012 Felsina "Fontalloro" Toscana 94 $46.95 [View]( 2013 Einaudi "Terlo Vigna Costa Grimaldi" Barolo (Elsewhere $70) 95 $49.99 [View]( 2012 Antinori "Solaia" Toscana 97 $199.99 [View]( Pre-arrivals are expected to arrive for shipment or pickup by Monday, July 31, 2017. [2013 Tormaresca "Neprica" Puglia]( [2013 Tormaresca "Neprica" Puglia]( ($9.99) Wine Spectator: "*Best Values* This creamy red takes a modern tack, with mocha and spice accents to the pureed boysenberry fruit. Bright and balanced, with a lightly chewy finish of moderate length. Negroamaro, Primitivo and Cabernet Sauvignon. Drink now through 2018. (AN)" (06/2015) Turk]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: October 04, 2016 The 2013 vintage is somehow even better than the last! An incredible value from Puglia, Neprica is a crowd pleaser with weight and complexity, thanks to its blend of dark berry Negroamaro, grippy Cabernet Sauvignon, and rich Primitivo. Deliciously fruit forward without being cloying or simple, and the price is right - enjoy immediately! Moreira]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: September 19, 2016 I find most intriguing when french grapes grown in Italy acquire that "Non so che cosa"that makes it uniquely Italian. The Neprica has just that with its Cabernet Sauvignon. Very nice and approachable wine that is ready to go on any party, dinner, picnic and anywhere else you might want to take it along. St. Clair]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: June 08, 2016 It is hard to believe that a wine at this price point can carry the quality level it does, but the Antinori family has centuries of experience to back them. This wine is a blend of NE (Negroamaro) PRI (Primitivo) and CA (Cabernet), hence the Neprica name. Negroamaro is Puglia's most important grape and provides the size and frame and structure of the wine, the Primitivo gives it a rich dose of fruit and the Cabernet adds backbone and complexity, all told for the price this wine can't be beat! Haase]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: May 20, 2016 Tuesday night pizza wine anyone!! This red delivers with great red ripe wild berries, floral and herbal spice. A lovely balance of acidity and tannins. With summer right around the corner. It is amazing with any grilled meats too! Sure to please at any event. From pizza and a movie on the couch or outdoor event with all your great summertime eats! Boyce]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: December 31, 2015 This Tormaresca Neprica Puglia blend is quite the value! This blend of Negroamaro (Ne), Primitivo (Pri), and Cabernet Sauvignon (Ca) brings together lovely cherry and currant fruit, perfect richness, and a bit of cola and chocolate. It truly fits the "daily drinker" category! Parres]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: November 10, 2015 I just opened this for our staff tasting recently and this little "Puglia blend" stopped the show, with lots of oohs and ahhs from my coworkers. This wine has lots of bang for the buck. This wine is a blend of 40% Negroamaro, 30% Primitivo & 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, medium-bodied with dark fruit, good acidity and a really long finish. Two THUMBS up !!! Guido --------------------------------------------------------------- [2016 Tenuta Roveglia "Limne" Lugana]( [2016 Tenuta Roveglia "Limne" Lugana]( ($12.99) 90 points Wine Enthusiast: "Fragrant and refreshing, this savory white opens with delicate scents of white spring flower, orchard fruit and a whisper of crushed herb. The tangy palate delivers white peach, yellow pear and a hint of nectarine that linger on the crisp finish." (07/2017) St. Clair]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: May 03, 2017 This wine excites me: the nose is floral, spicy, and a bit of beeswax and honey flow from the glass. On the palate the wine has weight and a distinct richness yet you immediately feel the snap of acidity, that vibrant center-palate zing that just lights up your mouth, and a rarity to find wines that have that richness but are so clean on the palate, and at only 13.0%. The flavors are spice, lees, braised fruit, all offset by the focused central acidity that add lift and drive to the palate presence. The finish is long, mineral driven, and shows incredible balance; layers of fruit, spice and floral notes are consistently blossoming in the finish. This Lugana Limne is capable of aging very well for another 2-4 years, the Riserva up to 10 years. Downing]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: May 01, 2017 Tenuta Roveglia is the most recent addition to our Italian direct import portfolio and their wines are already turning heads. My colleague Greg St. Clair alerted me some time ago as to just how impressive Roveglia's Luganas were and he was right. Over the years I've found most Lugana to be either a bit lean or conversely more akin to oaky new world Chardonnay with few rising above. Neither is the case with Roveglia. Their "Limne" is a value priced Lugana that weds crisp acidity with flavorful honeyed fruit and is vibrant on the palate from start to finish. We were expecting this to retail closer to $20 and were astonished to find otherwise. This versatile white drinks nicely as an aperitif but will pair nicely with shellfish, white meats and lighter Asian style dishes. Impressive. --------------------------------------------------------------- [2013 La Massa "La Massa" Toscana]( [2013 La Massa "La Massa" Toscana]( ($14.99) 93 points James Suckling: "A solid and chewy young red with dried blackberries, licorice and hints of toasted oak and walnuts. A full-bodied, energetic red from the Chianti Classico region of Panzano. Needs two to three years of bottle age." (08/2015) 93 points Vinous: "A dark, sumptuous beauty, the 2013 La Massa opens with superb depth and textural richness. Inky blue/purplish fruit, smoke, white pepper and violets are all super-expressive. Pliant, concentrated and deep, the 2013 is shaping up to be a real beauty. I especially like the delineation and focus here. This a gorgeous La Massa. (AG)" (09/2015) 92 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "The 2013 La Massa is a delicious blend of 60% Sangiovese and 30% Merlot, with the rest being Cabernet Sauvignon and Alicante Bouschet. It opens to a bright ruby color with dark garnet intensity. This is a more feminine wine compared to Giorgio Primo, but the wine's inner complexity and finesse are really quite remarkable. Bold fruit layers show intensity and purity, and the wine is impeccably clean and forthcoming. That same sense of purity is transported to the palate where fresh acidity works in nice contrast to the natural heft and structure of this wine. Best of all, La Massa is a great value. (ML)" (09/2015) 90 points Wine Spectator: "A tightly woven texture embraces the black currant, blackberry and iron flavors in this red. Almost jammy, this is balanced, showing richness and a vibrant finish. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Sangiovese. (BS)" (02/2016) St. Clair]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: September 06, 2016 For me, this is really a superb reflection of all of Giampaolos vineyard work. The wine is a delicious blend of 60% Sangiovese, which gives the wine a structural backbone, 30% Merlot, which adds some meat, density and richness, with Cabernet Sauvignon lending authority and direction even at this small amount, while Alicante Bouschet adds some personality, spice and a little bit of nastinessit kind of reminds me of Giampaoloand it all seamlessly blends together. It is a superb blend, and once again, highly awarded. Westby]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: February 15, 2017 If you love super Tuscans and expensive Napa Cabernet, this La Massa is a must try for you. This Toscana has all of the dark color, flashy richness and power of its more expensive neighbors, but not the price. Vogel]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: September 13, 2016 I was lucky enough to try this wine twice, once when it first arrived last month and just today. And it was a great change! Giving the wine time to settle brought it back to the luscious wine it was meant to be. The big juicy, ripe nose on this wine had my mouth watering right away. When I took my first sip the deep fruit created a beautiful blanket for the dry spice and earth. The wine had smooth, yet prominent tannins and a long, dry finish with deep plum flavors. Easy to enjoy! Schroeder]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: September 09, 2016 When winemakers in Italy started producing non-traditional Tuscan blends back in the 1970s, it was a huge leap forward for steak-lovers everywhere. Now, they could combine the wild-fruited savoriness of Sangiovese with the structure and substance of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. La Massa is a fantastic version of this style of wine at a price miles below some of its counterparts. Pure flavors of blueberry and blackberry ride perfectly integrated tannins with just a touch of earthy savoriness. The finish keeps that dark-fruited sensation just going and going! If you enjoy a good steak, I think youll find this to be a flawless pairing. Turk]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: September 07, 2016 While Ive always been able to count on La Massa to be crowd-pleasing and food-friendly, this vintage is more toned and focused, with greener aromatics, lovely acid, and slight spice notes. This is an elegant wine that manages to be both soft and structured. Fans of juicier California style will appreciate the dark berry fruit, but this outstanding bargain is solidly Tuscan. Mabry]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: September 06, 2016 The 2013 captures the essence of what made the last several vintages so successful: a complex nose of cedar and spices with juicy black currant and blueberry fruit on the palate all framed by supple tannins. A touch more aromatic and lifted with a step back in density than the 2012, this is more my own personal style. For those in the know, this reads like a top Super Tuscan wine but for pennies on the dollar. Downing]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: July 19, 2016 This vintage of La Massa strikes me as a benchmark as the wine has moved from a full-bodied international version to a more classic yet full-bodied and savory Tuscan style blend. It's exceptionally balanced with a smoothly textured palate of layered black and red fruits with bright acidity throughout. Giampaolo Motta continues his impressive streak of great "La Massa" wines and this may very well be his best yet. Othenin-Girard]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: July 13, 2016 The absolute perfect Tuscan under $20. Not with the ripe dense intensity of last years, but with so much more depth and complexity it's impossible not to LOVE! It's soft and open, but very with this wonderful acidity that makes it ultra quaffable. The key here is balance and this beautiful red fruit that's almost impossible to describe properly. This bombastic nose is balanced by great herbal quality and this beautiful dried floral component. Maybe not as hedonistic as some would like, but for me this is the clearly best Massa I've tasted. --------------------------------------------------------------- [2015 Argiano Rosso di Montalcino]( [2015 Argiano Rosso di Montalcino]( ($19.99) St. Clair]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: May 23, 2017 The nose of this wine is smoky, earthy spiced with aromatic plums, but more red plums than dark plums. The body shows lushness, supple warmth, yet without being fat, it is just textured, Argiano is in the western portion of Montalcino and has sun-kissed glow to its feel. The flavors show a bit of earth, spice, leather that combine with the smoky, spiciness, the red plums come in at the end and drive those into a more singular flavor. The finish shows Sangioveses long, natural structure and in a great vintage like 2015 where everything lines up you can get quite the show. Balanced, complex, texturally supple with a long finish this is a really good wine thats going to age for another 5-10 years. Downing]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: June 20, 2017 The historic Argiano estate has undergone a good amount of renovation of late as a result of a more recent change in ownership. The new caretakers have achieved an impressive level of refinement throughout their wines and the 2015 Rosso stands out. Warm and juicy red fruit, fully ripe tannins and a delicious lingering finish make it irresistible. This showcases Sangiovese and more specifically, the outstanding 2015 vintage. Vogel]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: June 18, 2017 2015 Rosso di Montalcinos are not a vintage to miss, many even say it is the "next 2010." So while waiting for the 2015 Brunellos to come in, the Rossos are excellent to enjoy. The dry wood, spice and crushed cherry aromas of the Argiano jump out of the glass right after pouring. The palate is flavorful and structured with powerful dense fruit flavors. While you can enjoy this wine tonight, it can also spend some quality time in your cellar as you drink them over the next few years until the Brunellos are released! --------------------------------------------------------------- [2015 Uccelliera Rosso di Montalcino]( [2015 Uccelliera Rosso di Montalcino]( ($26.99) K&L Notes: Uccelleria's Rosso di Montalcino is a great early drinking red picked from the youngest Brunello vineyards--perfect for those who love Brunello but don't want to wait for it to mature (or fork over the clams for it). The Sangiovese grapes were grown at vineyards in Castelnuovo dell'Abate at elevations up to 1200 feet. Velvety, fruity and balanced, it is a great companion to tomato-sauced pastas and prosciutto-focused hors d'oeuvres. St. Clair]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: May 23, 2017 The nose of this wine is smoky, savory, umami driven and reminds me a lot of the aromas from the 2010 vintage and they were heavenly. It isnt as if there is a lack of fruit its just that its not that ebullient California fruity forwardness. The fruit in this wine is part of that savory nose its just integrated, the wild cherry aromatics are less like a bowl of Jell-O theyre more like that pungent, earthy, aromatic, dried cherries can give, concentrated but not fruity. On the palate you sense this is Sangiovese immediately, the long axis that gives wines from Montalcino that great length and lift. There is no sense of sweetness on your tongue but you can feel the movement, that electric vibrancy driving the flavors and the supple texture. The finish is very well balanced, complex and persistent. This is a wine that is really drinkable now, but I always like to decant Sangiovese for an hour or two, it opens an expressive option. This wine will age very well, 10-15 years from the vintage opening, gaining complexity. --------------------------------------------------------------- [2012 Abbadia Ardenga "Piaggia" Brunello di Montalcino (Pre-Arrival)]( ($39.99) 95 points Wine Enthusiast: " *Editors' Choice* Here's a delicious red that opens with appealing ripe plum, blue flower, tobacco and baking spice aromas. Velvety tannins and fresh acidity provide structure and balance, while while juicy black cherry, raspberry compote and licorice flavors envelope the palate. Drink 2019-2032. (KO)" (04/2017) 93 points James Suckling: "I like the dried fruit to this red with blueberry and cherry undertones. Full body, firm and silky tannins and a long and flavorful finish. Polished and pretty. Very well done. Drink or hold." (02/2017) --------------------------------------------------------------- [2012 Fattoria dei Barbi Brunello di Montalcino]( [2012 Fattoria dei Barbi Brunello di Montalcino]( ($39.99) 94 points Wine Spectator: "You can almost smell the countryside in this expressive red. Wild herb, underbrush, cherry and smoke notes weave throughout this supple red. Firms up on the finish while remaining fresh and resonant. Best from 2020 through 2035. 2,500 cases imported. (BS)" (06/2017) 93 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "The Fattoria dei Barbi 2012 Brunello di Montalcino offers a clear and bright quality of fruit. This wine really hits the high notes better than most others in its class. Stefano Cinelli Colombini and his team have done a fine job with this Brunello annata. Beyond the dark cherry and cassis are elegant tones of dried herb, tar and rose petal. The bouquet reaches harmony and finesse. In fact, you'd hardly know just how warm this summer growing season was because the fruit appears not to have suffered one bit. The tannins are delicate and silky. (ML)" (02/2017) 93 points Wine Enthusiast: "*** Editors' Choice ***Earthy aromas suggesting leather, forest floor, tilled soil and dark spice take the lead in this Brunello, punctuated by a balsamic note. Firm and full-bodied, it delivers succulent Marasca cherry, star anise, mint and pipe tobacco, framed by tightly wound but refined tannins. Drink 20202032. (KO)" (04/2017) 91 points James Suckling: "Ripe and savory Brunello with plum, spice and grilled-meat character. Full and chewy. A little rustic now but will come into its own in three or four years." (02/2017) 91 points Vinous: "Good bright red with pale rim. Racy aromas of spicy red berries, sour red cherries and rhubarb on the nose. Crisp, bright and juicy, with an enticing easy-going sweetness characterizing the fresh and tasty red berry and mineral flavors. This medium-bodied wine is quite tangy and penetrating today with fresh acids but avoids coming off as hard; an excellent showing. (ID)" (03/2017) St. Clair]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: June 13, 2017 This wine is gorgeous, Fattoria dei Barbi is one of Montalcinos classic wines, and for me it defines the classic style in Montalcino. The nose is full of a tight wild cherry, plumy swirl interspersed with leather, spice and Tuscan brush that is wildly attractive. On the palate the wine has a density, a smooth muscle power, supple, and where Barbi sometimes comes across a little gritty this vintage shows a bit of sweetness rounding off the edges. The flavors are stunning, so focused, saturated, and really show a great combination of place and vintage while being extraordinarily well balanced. The finish is long, alive and seems to lift in the back end regaling one with that ultra complex Sangiovese wild cherry spice that goes on and on. This wine is remarkably drinkable now yet will age easily up to 20 years from the vintage, I really love this wine. Vogel]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: June 26, 2017 The hot, dry 2012 vintage has been bringing us more full bodied, riper Brunellos that are very unique to the vintage. With the use of irrigation, Barbi was able to combat the dry heat and keep the great structure we love from Brunello- making this wine still quite ageable. If enjoying now, I would decant the wine for at least an hour. Right after opening the wine is reserved and retrained but it opens into gorgeous fresh fruit and spicy aromatics. Downing]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: June 20, 2017 Barbi has always been one of my favorite of the more classic style Brunello producers and I am especially impressed with their 2012. There's a freshness and vibrancy that shines through some very bright and savory red fruit in this medium-bodied gem. The tannins are ripe, the acidity is balanced and the wine is wonderful now and will drink nicely over the next few years. Parres]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: June 13, 2017 This wine is full-bodied wine with some tannin structure and intense fruit (black cherries and plum) and a hint of mineral flavors and was very well-crafted. I would give this a couple hours of decanting and serve with a blackened Tri tip or a pork loin fresh off the Que. --------------------------------------------------------------- [2012 Talenti Brunello di Montalcino]( [2012 Talenti Brunello di Montalcino]( ($43.99) 95 points James Suckling: "The plum-fruit character with salted almonds here is fascinating. Full body, and this really grows on the palate, showing a powerful depth of fruit and wonderful length. Drink in 2020." (11/2016) St. Clair]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: June 13, 2017 You can really sense the richness of this wine that is dictated by Talentis Western Slope location, the wine smells of the afternoon sun. The nose is full of an umami spiked plum, far more savory than fruity yet the nose still has a dense fruitiness to it, it fills your nose almost like the difference between warm summer breezes that fills your sinuses in New Orleans versus a similar afternoon in Phoenix, there is a lushness to it that feels like humidity rich environments. On the palate the wine is agile, linear, while still reflecting that density that is ubiquitous yet it remains remarkably elegant and fresh on the palate. The flavors amble between those salty plum and dried wild cherry flavors with suggestions of Mediterranean garrigue. The finish has a certain lushness about it, but not overtly fat at all just a bit of weight on its bones that gives it more drinkability now. It still has the classic Sangiovese linear drive in it that gives the balance and freshness in the finish. BBQ pork chops with fresh rosemary for me with this wine, dont overcook them they need to be a little pinkish. This wine will age well for another decade but is too delicious to wait! 91 points Vinous: "Bright, full red-ruby. Nuanced, scented nose combines raspberry, blackcurrant, tobacco, and an intense flinty note. Suave, juicy and complex, with harmonious acidity giving shape and freshness to the plum and mocha flavors. This subtle midweight finishes with smooth tannins, very god balance and lingering perfume. A big success for Talenti. (ID)" (03/2017) Vogel]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: July 01, 2017 My Brunello education started off with a bang when I first started at K&L with the acclaimed 2010 vintage, then rolled into the fresh and fruit forward 2011, and now we have the fuller bodied, approachable vintage of 2012. While vintage variation is natural and common, I am amazed at how different these three are. The Talenti shows the 2012 vintage character with deep marasca cherry and plum aromas and a broadness of fruit and balance of structure on the palate. The classic Sangiovese savory earth and mushroom adds depth to the nose with the distinctive steamline of acidity keeps the palate longer and learner than expected from the warm vintage making this wine as age worthy as ever. Downing]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: June 20, 2017 The better 2012 Brunelli offer both freshness and the ability to drink now and Talenti is one of our very best values and a favorite as well. This concentrated Sangiovese delivers flavorful waves of sweet dark berry and dark plum fruit anchored by solid tannins and fine acidity. Hats off to Talenti for capturing the best attributes of the 2012 vintage. Parres]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: June 13, 2017 This was once again in my top five Brunelli and is in my cellar and will be there over the next five years or so. I love the concentration user friendliness of 2012 in Montalcino, there are many layers of ripe fruit, tobacco, earthiness, smoke and toasted oak and I would give this an hour or two of decanting to see the great structure and balance that is going on here. YUM ! --------------------------------------------------------------- [2012 Ciacci Piccolomini d'Aragona Brunello di Montalcino (Pre-Arrival)]( ($44.99) 95 points Wine Enthusiast: " *Cellar Selection* Dark spice, ripe berry, forest floor, Mediterranean brush and new leather aromas lead the nose on this powerfully structured wine. On the full-bodied palate, baking spice, licorice and pipe tobacco notes accent a juicy black cherry core while firm, velvety tannins provide the framework. Drink 20202030. (KO)" (04/2017) 94 points James Suckling: "Wow. I love the texture and beauty of this young Brunello. Medium to full body with a dense and tightly compacted palate. Dried cherry light cedar and chocolate. It goes on for minutes. Gorgeous now. Excellent acid fruit balance, but will improve with age." (12/2016) 93 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "The 2012 Brunello di Montalcino is a beautifully finessed and elegant wine. It offers a very pleasing sense of balance in which no one characteristic overpowers the next. A dark ruby appearance gives the wine an open and inviting personality. The bouquet produces a subtle medley of wild berry, blueberry, underbrush and toasted almond aromas. The mouthfeel is lean, but it also shows polished and silky persistence. If you don't have the patience to wait, it tastes great even at this early stage. (ML)" (02/2017) 91 points Wine Spectator: "A tight, leafy, balsamic style, delivering strawberry, cherry, underbrush, wild sage, tobacco and iron flavors. Though tannic, this is more fluid than its peers, with a lingering aftertaste. Best from 2021 through 2033. 3,750 cases made." --------------------------------------------------------------- [2012 Felsina "Fontalloro" Toscana]( [2012 Felsina "Fontalloro" Toscana]( ($46.95) 94 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "The 2012 Fontalloro (100% Sangiovese) is a stunning expression and delivers the high quality we have come to expect of this celebrated IGT Toscana wine in a less important vintage. Careful work has been done here to ensure the high quality of fruit. The Fontalloro vineyard is located on the border of the Chianti Classico and the Chianti Colli Senesi appellations. Many have called upon Fèlsina to change the wine's status to Chianti Classico Gran Selezione, but technically it can't be because of much of the vineyard is located outside the denomination limits. The bouquet is soft and rich with dark fruit and spice. In the mouth, Fontalloro reveals integrated tannins and acidity." (10/2015) 94 points Vinous: "Dark red cherry, plum, cinnamon and crushed rock nuances flesh out in the 2012 Fontalloro. Next to most of the other wines in the lineup, the 2012 Fontalloro is floral, perfumed, fresh and vibrant, with gorgeous aromatic lift, silky tannins and lovely overall balance. Fontalloro often opens up before Rancia, as is the case today, but the 2012 also possesses more than enough depth to drink well for a number of years. Still, the sexy, radiant finish makes me think most bottles won't be around to make old bones. Put simply, the 2012 Fontalloro is an arrestingly beautiful, showy wine built to please. And please it does." (09/2015) 94 points Wine Enthusiast: "Cellar Selection: Ripe plum, mature black cherry, violet, clove, mocha, anise and grilled sage are just some of the sensations you'll find on this gorgeous wine alongside velvety tannins. It already has great depth but hold for more complexity. Drink 2017-2027." (11/2015) 93 points James Suckling: "Aromas of chilis, currants, berries and flowers follow through to a full body, chewy tannins and a tangy finish. A structured and fresh wine. Better in a year or two but already so fine. Always excellent. Better in 2017." (09/2015) 92 points Wine Spectator: "This red evokes cherry, black currant, earth, tobacco and mineral flavors, allied to an elegant frame. Well-structured, remaining fresh and long on the dusty finish. Sangiovese. Best from 2018 through 2029. 3,750 cases made. BS" (06/2016) --------------------------------------------------------------- [2013 Einaudi "Terlo Vigna Costa Grimaldi" Barolo (Elsewhere $70)]( [2013 Einaudi "Terlo Vigna Costa Grimaldi" Barolo (Elsewhere $70)]( ($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) 94 points Vinous: "94+ Points: Black cherry, smoke, tar, licorice and menthol give the 2013 Barolo Terlo Vigna Costa Grimaldi much of its virile personality. Here, too, the level of fruit intensity is considerable, but, as always, the Costa Grimaldi has the broad shoulders and frame to hand all of that richness. Readers will have to be patient, as the 2013 needs at least a few years in bottle to shed some of its youthful tannin. This is impressive juice. (AG)" (02/2017) 93 points Wine Spectator: "A whiff of hay gives way to cherry, strawberry, rose and tobacco aromas and flavors. This is elegant and steely, with dense tannins on the mouthwatering finish. (BS)" (03/2017) St. Clair]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: June 13, 2017 I notice immediately that there is a bigger fruit component to this wine than one usually finds in Einaudi Barolo, its strident, tightly focused but very intense. The fruit aromatics roll back quickly as the dusky, leathery, and brambly notes move to the front; this is the classic Einaudi spectrum that begs for time, food and a broad Burgundy glass. On the palate the fruit is center stage once more, showing a sweeter density that seems to be bursting from the middle trying to push the tannin off your palate to the edges. The flavors are plumy but vibrantly so, they are dense and luxuriant but taught, as the wine rests on your tongue and shows layers of leather, earth, smoke, and tobacco. In classic fashion this Einaudi Barolo has tannin (like most Barolo!) but this wines tannin is ultra fine grain, almost supple to the feel, embracing rather than gripping and slowly dissipates. To drink now decant for a couple of hours and have it with Brasato al Barolo (Italian Pot Roast) or a porcini laden risotto, this wine will age very well for the next few decades. Downing]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: June 16, 2017 In addition to the "Terlo"' we're pleased to offer Einaudi's outstanding Barolo "Costa Grimaldi". It's produced from 40-55 year old vines and offers a bit more depth and longevity. An earthy nose of dark red fruits, minerals and a pleasant hint of smoke precede a full, round and flavorful palate with ample ripe tannins and acidity. There's plenty of weight and depth here and this truly wonderful Barolo deserves at least a couple of years in the cellar and will continue to reward the patient. Westby]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: June 14, 2017 It isn't every day that I taste a wine that marries power and elegance as well as this Vigna Costa Grimaldi from Einaudi. The high class aromas have all the best traditional components of Barolo in a very stylish frame. In the mouth, the wine is full of dark, savory fruit and strong, but silky tannins. Rather than being tarted up with French barrique, this is great all big barrel, real Barolo... I can't wait to try it with Osso Bucco after a couple hours in a decanter! Moses]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: June 14, 2017 Just under 600 cases of this gem from Einaudi's Costa Grimaldi vineyard are made every year. This has been one of the early standouts for superb value from the celebrated 2013 vintage. Very intense aromas of black cherry, orange peel, and leather lead the way. The pallet is compact and focused with solid core of fruit, structured tannins, and an intensity that begs for time to unfurl. Although it does require a bit of time, it has all the signatures of a great Cru Barolo bottling and it'll be hard to have your money go further in Piedmont these days. Parres]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: June 13, 2017 Light red with ruby tones. Aromas of marzipan, brown spices, dried rose and truffle. Suave and sweet, with a liqueur-like ripeness to the flavors of red fruits, marzipan, brown spices, menthol and leather. Nicely integrated acidity accentuates the wine's inner-mouth perfume and contributes to an impression of firm structure. Love this Barolo, drink now and over the next few years. --------------------------------------------------------------- [2012 Antinori "Solaia" Toscana]( [2012 Antinori "Solaia" Toscana]( ($199.99) 97 points James Suckling: "Extremely impressive ripe dark fruits of blueberries, plums and blackberries follow through to a full body, round texture and bright acidity. The finesse and depth to this red is stunning making it a wonderful successor to the 2011 Solaia. Needs three or four years to soften and open. Better in 2018." (08/2015) 97 points Wine Enthusiast: " *Cellar Selection* This stunning expression of Solaia opens with ample aromas of exotic spices, tilled soil, mature black-skinned fruit and an underlying whiff of fragrant blue flowers. The vibrant, elegantly structured palate doles out high-toned black cherry, ripe blackberry, white pepper, cinnamon, clove and Mediterranean herbs alongside a backbone of firm, polished tannins and bright acidity. Drink 20172032. (KO)" (08/2015) 95 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "The 2012 Solaia is the ultimate comfort wine: It serves as a beautiful monument to the potential of Italian wine. Let me give you some context. My lukewarm review of the 2011 vintage caused some heads to turn. Happily, the previous vintage has served as a springboard for this current release. Both 2011 and 2012 come from hot climatic conditions, but these wines are very different in style and content. The 2011 heat softened the lines that make up the varietal identity of this celebrated Tuscan blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Sangiovese. Those lines are presented in sharp focus with the 2012 edition. The nose is redolent of dark berry, crushed mineral, plum, spice and touch of white pepper. The wine is integrated and seamless, but it speaks with a strong and articulate voice. (ML)" (10/2015) 94 points Vinous: "Another intense, tightly-wound wine, the 2012 Solaia is likely to require a number of years in bottle before it is ready to drink. Graphite, smoke, plums, black cherries, rose petal and mint meld together effortlessly in the glass. Here, too, the style is all about grace and finesse. The 2012 Solaia is going require patience, but all the elements are in the right place. In 2012, the Cabernet Franc is nearly 7% of the blend, which is on the high side. (AG)" (09/2015) 94 points Wine & Spirits: "To achieve the purity of fruit exhibited in this wine required careful fruit selection in the warm 2012 vintage. Lush flavors of black plum and cherry swirl around tannins so suave that they feel like theyve been individually buffed. The wine unfolds in layers of tobacco, graphite and chocolate, brightened by accents of mint and spice. The flavors gain energy as they race across the palate, maintaining a harmonious balance on the persistent finish. This will get even better with time in the cellar, but its lush, vibrant flavors are hard to resist today." (04/2016) 93 points Wine Spectator: "Ripe plum and black cherry notes are augmented by toast, spice and tobacco details in this muscular red. Turns more compact on the finish, where dense, dusty tannins reign. Just needs time to integrate. Cabernet Sauvignon, Sangiovese and Cabernet Franc. (BS)" (06/2016) --------------------------------------------------------------- --------------------------------------------------------------- Follow us on: Check Out Our Blog: [Twitter]( [Instagram]( [On the Trail (K&L Blog)]( --------------------------------------------------------------- [My Account]( | [Wine Clubs]( | [Events]( |[Gift Cards]( | [Accessories]( | [Shipping]( --------------------------------------------------------------- Missed an offer? Check out recent opportunities at our [Email Archive]( page. 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 Click here to manage your e-mail settings with K&L Wine Merchants or alternatively, [click here to unsubscribe from all mailings]( This email was sent to {EMAIL} [K&L](