K&L Top 10 Picks - August

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Monday Aug 7th, 2017 [View in Browser]( Each month we dig through our inventory of several thousand hand-picked wines and spirits, and come up with a list of our Top 10 selections on KLWines.com Vintage Item Name Score Retail Link 2014 de Landiras Rouge, Graves 95 $12.99 [View]( 2016 Tohu Sauvignon Blanc Awatere Valley Marlborough 96 $12.99 [View]( 2014 Château Saint Roch "Kerbuccio" Maury Sec 93 $15.99 [View]( 2014 Domaine Aurelien Verdet Morey-St-Denis (Elsewhere $65) $29.99 [View]( 2013 Bootleg Napa Valley Red Wine 94 $32.99 [View]( 2014 Walter Hansel "Cuvee Alyce" Russian River Valley Chardonnay 95 $38.99 [View]( 2010 Contino Reserva Rioja 96 $39.99 [View]( 2008 Fallet-Dart Vintage Brut Champagne $39.99 [View]( 2015 Martinelli "Bondi Home Ranch - Water Trough Vineyard" Green Valley Pinot Noir 97 $69.99 [View]( 2014 Haut-Bailly, Pessac-Léognan 96 $79.99 [View]( [2014 de Landiras Rouge, Graves ]( [2014 de Landiras Rouge, Graves]( ($12.99) 95 points Decanter: "65% Merlot, 35% Cabernet Sauvignon. Great intensity of classic Bordeaux fruit on the nose, cassis, dark cherries and liquorice. The rich round palate is bursting with fresh blackberry and blackcurrant, lovely silky tannins great length all in perfect harmony. *Decanter World Wine Awards Platinum - Best in Show: Best Red Bordeaux Varietals under £15*" (06/2016) K&L Notes: This property is located at the southern end of the Graves region, very close to Barsac and Sauternes. It is one of the oldest in Bordeaux, dating from the fourteenth century. John Statton built the original chateau in 1360 on the site of a Roman villa, while the land was still in English possession. In the 1500s, the property was purchased and run by the powerful Angol-Gascon family of Montferrand. At the time there were 14,000 acres of vineyards and property. This family, for a short while, also owned Chateau Margaux. The Landiras vineyards eventually were neglected and horses were raised on the property. In 1988, Peter Vinding-Diers became only the third owner of the property in 600 years. What he found was two acres of vineyards and 40 more suitable for planting. Driscoll]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: July 17, 2017 I think what's most shocking about the Landiras is its incredibly restrained and balanced flavor profile. When we get bargain Bordeaux in the $10-$15 range it's usually a juicier, Merlot-driven style that caters to the fleshier and fruitier new world rather than the subdued style of the old. This is not a modern wine, however. It's of that time-honored Bordeaux style many of us food-friendly wine lovers continue to covet. The fruit is soft and elegant, the flavors are traditional and reserved, and the wine finishes with finesse. It's not a one note, one-trick pony by any means. This is a wine I could drink every day. Heck, it's a wine I would be happy to drink every day! Embedded in the Landiras core is that classic Gravsian dichotomy of dark fruit and minerality, and it persists for at least five minutes on the finish. I don't ever expect that level of depth from a $12,99 bottle of Bordeaux, but I'm not going to look a gift horse in the mouth either. Load up. If you're a fan of Chantgrives or Chevalier, this is like a baby version you can afford to drink regularly. Beffa Jr.]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: November 29, 2016 Perfumey aromas of roses and cassis with a touch of earth. Some chocolate in the mix also. Open it 30 minutes and watch the nose evolve. The lushness on the palate is balanced by a stoney undertone. Very Intriguing wine. Extremely forward for such a young wine. Perfect with a chicken or pork entree. Wow-there is a lot of flavor and length for only $12.99. It should sell out quickly. Scored highly by a couple of scorers.Buy a case. --------------------------------------------------------------- [2016 Tohu Sauvignon Blanc Awatere Valley Marlborough]( [2016 Tohu Sauvignon Blanc Awatere Valley Marlborough]( ($12.99) 96 points Decanter: "This has a pure and pristine bouquet with a delicious, layered frame on the palate. Mineral, stony, fresh and pure flavours are bursting through. This is a lovely example of balance, length and complexity that will build over time. Drinking Window 2017 - 2023. (CD)" (07/2017) 93 points Raymond Chan: "Bright, very pale straw-yellow colour with slight green hues, near colourless on the edge. This has a very full, broad and voluminous nose with well-packed aromas of pungent passionfruit and ripe, savoury tropical fruits and dark herbs, with an underlying mineral piquancy and freshness, unfolding white floral notes. Dry to taste and medium-bodied, the palate features a rounded core of ripe, pungent passionfruit and tropical fruit flavours, entwined with savoury herbs. The flavours fill the palate, but are enlivened by fresh, lacy acidity and balanced by fine phenolic textures. The rich, mouthfilling flavours carry to a rounded, long-lingering passionfruity finish. This is a full, rich, passionfruity Sauvignon Blanc with ripe tropical fruut and herb notes and a fresh, fine-featured mouthfeel. Serve with Pacific Rim fare over the next 2 years. 13.0% alc" (06/2017) 90 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "The 2016 Awatere Single Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc reveals a nose of freshly squeezed lemons, yuzu zest, crushed stones and wild thyme. Crisp. clean and with great purity in the light to medium-bodied mouth, it delivers tons of citrus fruit flavors and a pleasant mineral edge with wonderful persistence. (LPB)" (05/2017) Woodhouse]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: July 19, 2017 Tohu is a beautiful example of Awatere Valley Sauvignon Blanc. Many people don't realize that Marlborough is actually quite a large area composed of several quite distinct sub-regions. The Awatere Valley sub-region is cooler and more exposed than most parts;combined its deep river gravel soils this makes for highly aromatic wines, with bright acidity, white floral characters and plenty of zesty fruit. At their worst they can be downright vegetal...think canned asparagus...at their best (as in this instance) they represent an fantastically vibrant, dynamic, distinctive expression of Sauvignon Blanc that can be found no where else on earth. This wine has beautiful ripeness of fruit, juicy mouthwatering acidity and a stony mineral persistence that goes on and on. I'm so happy that folks at Decanter weren't scared to reward such an inexpensive wine with such a huge score (often reserved for much more "prestigious" wines) as I think it's a beautifully made wine that is a dazzling reflection of its place. This will be a staple for many, many people this summer and beyond. Juelsgaard]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: July 21, 2017 I picked up a bottle of this and had it over the weekend and it was the perfect choice for the warm California summer we have been having. It was incredibly bright and fresh and had super juicy tropical fruits. The minerality and acidity really brought it to life and the bursting fruit quality smoothed it out and made it incredibly easy drinking. It's a smashable wine, but also a very interesting one at the same time. A great NZ Savvy, perfect for warm summer nights. Loved it! Walker]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: March 15, 2017 From one of the cooler sub-districts of Marlborough. This has a light, generous personality. Open knit with lots of citrus ranging from mandarin to ruby grapefruit and just a hint of Sauvignon grassiness. Crisp but not tart, the flavors echo the aromatics but minus the green component. Friendly, delicious and reasonably priced, I anticipate drinking quite a few bottles of this off in the next several months. --------------------------------------------------------------- [2014 Château Saint Roch "Kerbuccio" Maury Sec]( [2014 Château Saint Roch "Kerbuccio" Maury Sec]( ($15.99) 90-93 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "A blend of 50% Syrah, 30% Mourvedre and 20% Carignan that was aged in 50% new demi-muids, the 2014 Kerbuccio Maury Sec has an inky color to go with lots of upfront black raspberry, cassis, licorice, wilder herbs and violet-like aromas and flavors. Coming all from the black schist soils of the newly created Maury Sec AOC, this full-bodied, sexy, supple and yet still fresh and lively 2014 will drink nicely on release and have 4-5 years or evolution. I dont think it has the depth of the 2013, but its not far off. Jean-Marc Lafages Maury-based estate, Saint Roch pulls from vines planted on the black schist soils around Maury, but ALSO from the more cooler, more granite-dominated terroirs around the villages of Lesquerde and Saint Paul de Fenouillet. As I stated last year, these wines represent incredible values. (JD)" (04/2015) Mabry]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: April 02, 2017 Jean-Marc Lafage delivers once again from his OTHER property located in the Maury appellation of the Roussillon. This smaller estate produces richer wines which the region of Maury is itself famous. The black and brown slate soils are ideal for Grenache and produce gorgeous full-bodied reds. The Kerbuccio itself is full of ripe blue and black fruit flavors, with subtle notes of fresh thyme, rosemary and Indian spices. This is a slight step back in intensity from the 2013 which to me, adds more immediate appeal. It is beautifully fruited, savory and ready to drink with an herb crusted leg of lamb or some medium rare pork chops straight off the grill. Majeski]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: March 20, 2017 Maury recently underwent a Sec change! Not a typo, but a reference to the Roussillon-based AOC that split in 2011, with the original region named Maury Doux (for its fortified Vin Doux Naturel wines) and the new one Maury Sec (dry table wines). Cultivated on unique schist and granite soils, this embracing, dark and unambiguously seductive red reflects the distinct terroir of the ruggedly beautiful Agly Valley. A dazzling kaleidoscope of wildflowers, fruit and spices from cherries, blueberries and plums to violets, potpourri and balsamic flood the palate, with mineral notes that bring to mind the scent of spring rains. Plenty to admire here, so dazzle yourself with a bottle or two. Live wine and prosper! Smith]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: March 10, 2017 I had certain expectations for the 2014 Chateau Saint Roch before I tasted it. I've had plenty of Syrah/Grenache/Carignan blends in the past--but this one really surprised me. I got a ton of lighter red fruits: small red cherries, and strawberries on the nose, complemented by a graceful floral note that I wasn't expecting at all. Topping it all off there was a clear note of brown sugar emanating from the glass. Great body and texture, there was a touch of heat on the finish. The clean fruitiness of the Mourvedre and Carignan really shines in this wine and ultimately leads to a drinking experience that is distinctive, sleek and modern. That's a whole lot of wine for $16. --------------------------------------------------------------- [2014 Domaine Aurelien Verdet Morey-St-Denis (Elsewhere $65)]( [2014 Domaine Aurelien Verdet Morey-St-Denis (Elsewhere $65)]( ($29.99) We're always looking for pricing that makes great Burgundy accessible to the masses, so when we saw these discounts we were intrigued. What made us truly excited was tasting the wines: they are serious, vineyard-first, expressive, age-worthy red Burgs that show the heights of the vintage. It is for this reason their list prices are among Burgundy's elite. Aurélien Verdet isn't a household name, but a parcel like this might just put him there, and quickly. Certified Biodynamic, Verdet crafts complex and no-compromise wines from some of Côte-de-Nuits finest sites. These are must-try wines for Burg enthusiasts and those looking to discover the region's true gems. This wine comes from two plots, with 80 percent of the blend coming from En la Rue de Vergy, which lies immediately above the grand cru Clos de Tart. The stony vineyard soils have a subsurface of Bajocian limestone, giving this stylish wine a bouquet of morello cherry, plum and polished mahogany. The excellent breadth of flavor is supported by rich, mouthfilling texture. Kelly]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: July 12, 2017 Bottles of wine that are ready for immediate consumption are necessary if the hot Southern California summer sun is baking your home and creating less than ideal conditions for wine storage. Make this release from Aurelien Verdet first on your list. It carries plenty of luscious red berry and spice notes, vivid acidity and maintains that perfect balance between body and fruit. I enjoy the entire lineup from this producer but for drinking now, this is truly my favorite of the lot. McIntosh]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: July 11, 2017 Full-bodied, powerful, deep and broad in texture with velvety mouthfeel of dark cherries and savory earthy spiciness, this is very traditional and one of the best Morey St Denis I have tasted so far this year. It drinks beautifully now and will hold for a long time as well. Othenin-Girard]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: July 09, 2017 The wonderful Morey-St-Denis from Verdet easily ranks as the best value in the already exceptional lot of Verdet wines. All of Verdet wines represent great value, but this one really out-performs in a significant way. That's partly because Morey itself is so special and also because it feels like they've let the terroir really speak here. Vibrant nose of gorgeous red fruit, subtle earthy spice and deep mineral notes. Despite the copious amounts of fruit, the palate is structure and long, probably the most delineated of the entire lineup. This for me is the one to buy multiple cases of rather than just one. Should last a decade with no problems. Schroeder]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: July 08, 2017 This has very luscious strawberry, cherry and herb notes on the nose. There is subtle spice and toast from the oak, and the palate is very round and silky with floral elements coming out. Impeccable tannin and acid structure, and incredibly balanced. Verdet has quickly become one of my favorite Burgundy producers! Driscoll]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: July 07, 2017 Yet another great close-out red from this too-good-to-be-true Verdet deal. The Morey St. Denis is the richest, ripest, and roundest from this latest bunch and it has quite a lush level of red fruit on the finish, despite the more reserved character of the 2014 vintage. Those looking for a great bottle to drink tonight should find plenty to love here and that gentle and haunting profile only opens up further with more air. Great stuff. Pross]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: July 07, 2017 Sappy red fruits dominate this seductive offering buffered by red cherry, spice and crunchy red fruits. Impeccably balanced with a long succulent finish this beautiful wine is a steal at under $30! --------------------------------------------------------------- [2013 Bootleg Napa Valley Red Wine]( [2013 Bootleg Napa Valley Red Wine]( ($32.99) 94 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "The 2013 Proprietary Red from Bootleg is a major sleeper of not only the vintage, but in its entire concept. There are just over 8,000 cases of this wine, which has been culled from KJ vineyards on Atlas Peak, Oakville, Mt. Veeder, Rutherford and Spring Mountain. The wine is a blend of 27% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Petite Sirah, 21% Zinfandel, 12% Merlot, and the rest Malbec and Petit Verdot. Thats like throwing in the entire kitchen sink, but the result is a stunningly delicious, complex, big-time, sexy style of wine with a deep, opaque purple color, a beautiful nose of blackberries and blueberries, with some lavender Provençal herbs, licorice and a touch of espresso. The wine has a fabulous texture, a plush, full-bodied mouthfeel, and beautiful purity and depth. Its something that could only be made in California, given the blend, but it is off-the-charts in terms of its hedonistic appeal. At the same time, it is complex enough to satisfy the intellectual senses as well. Drink it over the next 5-6 years. A big-time winner. (RP)" (10/2016) Brick]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: June 22, 2017 The first time I tasted the 2013 Bootleg Red I was taken back numerous years to the first time I tasted Prisoner. They reminded me so much of each other it was a bit surprising. There was the same intensity, the same largesse, the same power to the wines that I was really taken aback. Then my brain started doing the math and I realized just what a killer wine the Bootleg Red was. I mean Prisoner is almost $50 now, which is difficult for most people to spend on a regular basis, and this incredibly similar wine is $32.99, much more affordable for the masses. So if you like big, brooding, oaky and darkly fruited red blends this new kid on the block is something you surely will want to chase down. Bruno]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: June 23, 2017 A deeply fruity and powerful red blend, yet nuanced and complex. Aromas of cherries, blueberries, and blackberries. Fruit quality is slightly jammy, but overall mostly ripe in expression. Bouquet of vanilla, espresso, and mocha. Soft tannins accented by a noted elevated acidity on the finish. A tinge of dried herbs, most noted being thyme and marjoram. Overall, this robust wine appeals to those who are fans of red blends like The Prisoner. Great option for summer barbeques; also fun pairing with olive tapenade Stanley]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: June 23, 2017 The Bootleg Napa Valley Red Wine blend is luscious and full, brimming with jammy blueberry, strawberry, cassis and plum. subtle floral aromatics of violet waft over the fruit, and dusty spice aromas of star anise, cinnamon and white and black pepper round out the finish. Merlot from Napa's famous Stagecoach vineyard is a major component in the blend, which adds a deliciously supple and velvety tannin, and provides depth and structure. --------------------------------------------------------------- [2014 Walter Hansel "Cuvee Alyce" Russian River Valley Chardonnay]( [2014 Walter Hansel "Cuvee Alyce" Russian River Valley Chardonnay]( ($38.99) 95 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "The top Chardonnay every year is named after Stephen Hansels mother. The 2014 Chardonnay Cuvée Alyce is a field blend of a Hyde and Hudson Old Wente. This vineyard always produces the smallest clusters and tiniest berries and, hence, the richest offering. Its a stunner in 2014, with a light straw/gold color and terrific notes of pineapple, white peach, honeysuckle and citrus oil. Full-bodied and rich with great acidity, beautiful purity and subtle oak, this is a stunner to drink over the next 7-10 years. (RP)Some of the best values in Chardonnay and Pinot Noir emerge from Stephen Hansels winery in the Russian River Valley. He also has the wonderful Walter Hansel Wine & Bistro on Guerneville Road in Santa Rosa. (RP)" (10/2015) 93 points Vinous: "The 2014 Chardonnay Cuvée Alyce is the most exuberant of the Hansel Chardonnays. Crème brulee, candied orange peel, apricot jam, spices and butter hit the palate in a deep, exotic wine loaded with personality and class. The Alyce emerges from a parcel planted with Wente and Clone 95 Chardonnay. The new oak here is at the upper end of the range for Hansel.It is so refreshing to taste with proprietor Stephen Hansel. At a time when so many of the world's best wines are increasingly unaffordable for the normal consumer, Hansel has kept his prices decidedly reasonable. As I have written before, Hansel's wines epitomize what the Russian River does so well; namely rich, butter Chardonnays and forward, juicy Pinots. Hansel reports that his vines set a very large crop in 2014, so he reduced yields by 20-30% for Chardonnays and as much as 60% for the Pinots. The results are in the glass, especially in 2014, which is so strong for Pinot. Hansel captured every bit of that magic with a range of striking Pinots that are among the best I have ever tasted here. During my January trip I also enjoyed a delicious meal at the Walter Hansel Wine & Bistro, a California version of a classic French bistro. The food was delicious, but more than the cooking I was struck by an old-fashioned sense of warmth and hospitality that I have not seen in a restaurant in a very long time. Everything about Walter Hansel Winery speaks to class. (AG)" (01/2016) Stanley]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: June 25, 2017 The 2014 "Cuveé Alyce" Chardonnay from Walter Hansel is the highest tier bottling in the brand, and does not disappoint. A rich golden hue, the Russian River Valley Chardonnay entices with aromas that are equally toasty, earthy and mineral laden. One sip, and you'll be transfixed by the refined power of this wine, which manages to be both concentrated in flavor and mineral prominent. Bearden]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: June 23, 2017 This is typical Russian River Chardonnay with its glycerin textured middle of ripe stone fruit and pebbly finish of mineral and glazed citrus. A tropical note shows up along with baked peach lending a sensation of fatness to the long, rich body. The quality to price ratio is amazing. Schroeder]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: June 21, 2017 Walter Hansel makes some of the best value richer-styled Russian River wines we carry, and the Cuvée Alyce represents the top selected barrels of their Chardonnay. It is Burgundian in style with flint, toasted oak, smoke and a subtle nuttiness. It has great phenolic weight on the palate and that beautiful fog-induced acid to balance and give definition to the rich flavor profile. --------------------------------------------------------------- [2010 Contino Reserva Rioja]( [2010 Contino Reserva Rioja]( ($39.99) 96 points James Suckling: "Lots of plum character, chocolate, bay leaves and rosemary on the nose. Iodine, too. Full body and lots of concentration, yet this also delivers amazing freshness and balance. Ultra-fine tannins. Finish is very long, flavorful and wonderfully polished. This is all about refinement in combination with power. Drink or hold." (12/2016) 93 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "The 2010 Reserva is a textbook Rioja, and in fact it surprised me with a very classic profile. This is usually a blend of 85% Tempranillo with 10% Graciano and 5% between Mazuelo and Garnacha; it fermented in stainless steel and matured in 50/50 French and American oak barrels for two years. It's a subtle vintage with very fine tannins. 2010 is a very good year for Rioja in general, but in Contino they consider it exceptional. This feels polished and developed with some forest floor and cigar box aromas. Very drinkable. (LG)" (08/2016) 93 points Vinous: "Brilliant ruby-red. A heady, expansive bouquet evokes ripe red and dark berries, cherry compote, vanilla and cigar box, and a sexy floral nuance emerges slowly. Smooth and seamless on the palate, offering sweet, concentrated blackberry, cherry-vanilla and mocha flavors that are firmed and given spine by a core of juicy acidity. Rich yet vibrant in style, displaying impressive finishing clarity, smooth tannins and a lingering spicecake flourish. (JR)" (05/2017) K&L Notes: In 1973, Contino was founded and became the first of first of the new wave of single vineyard Rioja estates. Today, winemaker Jesús Madrazo makes some of Rioja's finest wines, polished and comparably modern, but with a sense of balance and restraint that gives them amazing elegance and great longevity. Simply put, this is modern Rioja executed perfectly. Contino's Rioja also boasts a healthy 10% dollop of older vine Graciano, which enhances the wine's color, freshness and ageability. (Joe Manekin, K&L Spanish wine buyer) Manekin]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: July 24, 2017 One of my all time favorite Rioja estates, Contino Reserva is always delicious: a lovely balance of ripe, forward, rich fruit, baking spices, savory tones and bright acidity. As wonderfully consistent as Contino is, it really excels in certain vintages - typically cooler years and vintages where acidities and tannins tend to be a bit higher than normal. Due to their protected, slightly warmer site, it is these vintages where Contino often produces something truly special, and 2010 is the most recent example. Aromatically a rich confit of cherries and plums, along with baking spices, leads to a palate that in short order delivers waves of rich, intense fruit, followed by the balancing acidity which refreshes and should allow for long ageing in bottle. Perhaps there is no Rioja that will appeal to as wide a range of wine drinkers as Contino. For the price, this may be the best Spanish wines I've tasted this year. Marwedel]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: July 28, 2017 You rarely come across wines that have the ability to be all things to all people. The 2010 Contino Reserva is one of those rare finds. Fruit? Absolutely - sweet, supple and incredibly pure. Savor? Yes - complex but not overwhelming flavors of earth and wood. Freshness? Without a doubt - bright acidity and mineral tones carry the day. Drink now? Happily - you will not be disappointed. Collectible? You bet - this wine is built upon vineyard pedigree that is second to none in Alavesa. Price? At $40 this is both the savvy collectors dream and a reasonable stretch for the budget conscious. Wines like this do not come around often - Enjoy! Whiteley]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: July 27, 2017 A superb example of the 2010 vintage. The cool vintage leaves this wine feeling super bright and fresh. The higher acidity balances out the intense dark cherry and purple fruit profile and highlights the tremendous minerality in the wine. The French and American oak regimen delivers a powder keg of spices, vanilla, cedar box, and refined tannin. It is extremely elegant and graceful, but never shy. I hope to drink this bottling for years to come because it will no doubt be a prized collectors item. Unfortunately for me, that will be a massive challenge since it's hard to not drink all of it now. I must concur with Joe's assessment that at this price, it is one of the best Rioja's I've had all year (and I just got back from a week in Rioja!). Bruno]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: July 25, 2017 The 2010 vintage was widely celebrated growing season in Rioja, and the respective Contino Reserva was a great example of this. A blend of predominantly Tempranillo (85%), with a splash of Graciano (10%), and the remainder being Mazuelo and Garnacha. Classic nose of dark cherry, stewed cranberries, and plum. Some prunes as well. A juiciness on the palate, with flavors of ripe red fruit, cherry in particular. Secondary notes of old leather accompanied by a dusty minerality. This wine would be a fantastic choice with food items that have a slight gaminess to them, such as rabbit, wild boar, or morcilla (Spanish blood sausage). --------------------------------------------------------------- [2008 Fallet-Dart Vintage Brut Champagne]( [2008 Fallet-Dart Vintage Brut Champagne]( ($39.99) The blend for the vintage 2008 is 70% Chardonnay and 30% Pinot Noir with aging of 72 months, minimum. It was disgorged in July, 2016. Fruit for the Chardonnay is from the "Les Maliva" vineyard. Winery is based in Charly-sur-Marne. (Scott Beckerley, SF Champagne liaison) Westby]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: May 03, 2017 I consider the 2008 Fallet Dart to be the most exciting vintage Champagne that we have in stock. It comes from estate vineyards in the far west of Champagne, in the tiny hamlet of Drachy, from a family that has been growing grapes for an astounding 17 generations. This bottling is composed of 70% Chardonnay and 30% Pinot Noir, and most of the Chardonnay comes from one of the few "clos" sites in Champagne, the Clos du Mont. This vineyard was the first monastic site in the region and perhaps the oldest of the "clos" in Champagne, first planted around the same time as the l'eglise Drachy was built: 741! The wine has the electricity, length and mineral drive that one would expect from the great 2008 vintage. The surprise is how much body and structure comes along with the minerality, and the complex, seemingly every changing flavors of the wine. I found it to have everything from sourdough to truffles to nectarines from one sip to the next. We tasted this next to the 1999, a much softer vintage that is still going strong... This will last a long time! Stanley]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: June 09, 2017 The 2008 Fallet Dart Brut Champagne is a fine example of a vintage Champagne from an incredible year. Chardonnay driven and with a fine mousse, this wine has a slightly higher acidity than some, which gives it great aging potential, and offers a refreshing note of bright green apple. There are creamy undertones as well, offered by the Chardonnay and extended lees contact, with aromas and flavors of almond meringue. The wine is very clean and offers an intense chalky minerality. This is truly a beauty. Manekin]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: June 07, 2017 Is there such a thing as too much great 2008 vintage Champagne? Of course not! We have sold some great value bottles from this legend in the making vintage: Franck Bonville Millesime, Louise Brisson, Launois, Louis Brochet, amongst others. Delicious as those are, for fans of subtlety and balanced lees driven complexity, the 2008 Fallet Dart is your wines. Biscuity and yellow fruited aromas (70% Chard in this cuvee) lead to a palate that balances rich yet balanced autolytic qualities with loads of acid driven intensity. It's very fine now, and will only get better with age. This is a top value in the store right now, and needless to say for a wine of this quality, that will age with grace for years, from a top quality vintage...it's a steal. My highest possible recommendation for this beautiful wine. Beckerley]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: June 06, 2017 This probably my favorite of all of the Fallet-Dart Champagnes that we have been stocking. A more Chardonnay-driven release, this formidable 2008 is dry but, retains the houses' overall rich style. Minerals, green apple and a hint of anise on the nose. On the palate, hints of golden apple, cream and caramel with lively acidity and elegant balance. A 2008 vintage at this price and quality is like seeing a winged unicorn! Stevens]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: June 06, 2017 Spectacular champagne from a spectacular vintage, always a good combination. The fact that the Fallet Dart House has been around since the 17th century means that they have learned a few things about making champagne, fortunately for us we can directly import them and offer just a little ridiculous pricing. A creamier nose with the toasty character of Fallet Dart leads to a body showcasing both the ripeness and acid of this vintage. Hints of vanilla from the barrel aging add layers of complexity and the finish is truly magnificent. Turk]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: May 13, 2017 Vivid and enticing immediately upon opening, this is a connoisseurs Champagne that is still super accessible. Gorgeously floral on the nose, hits of honeysuckle and white flowers give way to tart green apple and lusher pear fruit and a subtly creamy mouthfeel. The acid is apparent but not overpowering: just enough to showcase the colder 2008 vintages more bracing minerality. Fallet-Dart is always a budget-friendly option, but this vintage Direct Import is an especially complex, sophisticated offering at an astounding price... I can already tell I'll be turning to this powerhouse all summer. Covey]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: May 13, 2017 Such an intriguing Champagne! Spiced pear, lemon zest, flaky pie crust, mineral, dried apple, saline...and while not exactly the same, it reminds me a lot of the Krug Grand Cuvee. As it warmed in my glass, it became more weighty and lingered on the palate. I enjoyed this with my favorite shrimp tempura rolls from my local sushi spot. The toastiness of the tempura complemented the wine perfectly! The fabulous 2008 vintage is just beginning to shine here- I can't wait to see how this develops. A true worthy addition to my regular weekly Champagne ration (because yes, I have one), and most definitely worthy of my cellar! --------------------------------------------------------------- [2015 Martinelli "Bondi Home Ranch - Water Trough Vineyard" Green Valley Pinot Noir]( [2015 Martinelli "Bondi Home Ranch - Water Trough Vineyard" Green Valley Pinot Noir]( ($69.99) 97 points Vinous: "The 2015 Pinot Noir Bondi Home Ranch, from Marinelli's coolest Pinot site, is another stunner. Silky, nuanced and wonderfully expressive on the palate, the 2015 possesses remarkable intensity but in a decidedly mid-weight style by Martinelli standards. Dense and compact in its center, the 2015 needs at least a few years to open up. Even today, though, it is dazzling. Early to bloom and late to ripen, Bondi Home Ranch enjoys an especially long growing season. (AG)" (03/2017) 92 points Wine Spectator: "Bold and assertive, with a rich, potent mix of dark fruit giving this a distinctive personality, veering into black licorice and anise notes. The savory, long and persistent aftertaste keeps the flavors reverberating. (JL)" (06/2017) K&L Notes: Bondi Home Ranch is planted with Pinot Noir clones 115, 777, 667, 828, 943, and Calera. The 2015 vintage was marked by an early growing season and a reduced crop which finished with very good quality. The wine was aged in 80% new French oak for one year before bottling. From the winery: "The nose on the 2015 Bondi Home Ranch Pinot Noir is crisp black tea, boysenberry and spice box. The palate offers seamless, mouth-coating tobacco and blue fruit." Stone]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: March 17, 2017 The Bondi Home Ranch is mid-weight and has a lot of subtle flavors that are refreshing and vibrant. Nice dark berry that shows some weight, cedar wood, tea and light cinnamon and cardamom. If you lay this baby down for a short nap, when it wakes up you should have a beauty on your hands. Vidales]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: March 17, 2017 During our recent Sonoma trip, we stopped at Martinelli to check out their current releases and the Bondi Home Ranch Pinot was a true standout. Full of baking spices and herbal tea, this Pinot is a bit more savory but still has beautiful fruit components like boysenberry jam and is super silky in texture. Delicious! Keilman]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: March 17, 2017 I poured this Martinelli Pinot Noir at a public tasting last weekend and everyone went crazy for it. The thing I love about this pinot noir is how adaptable it is to everyone's palate and preferred style. People who like a little upfront fruit will like it. People who like a touch of toastiness will like it. People who like a little bit of secondary aromatics will like it. People who like structure will like. This pinot noir fits all of the above. Loaded with beautiful exotic wood and savory spice notes, the dark brooding fruit on the palate gives way to even more savory notes and crushed floral elements on the finish. I'm always looking for a wine to go with every occasion and every crowd and I just found my wine! --------------------------------------------------------------- [2014 Haut-Bailly, Pessac-Léognan]( [2014 Haut-Bailly, Pessac-Léognan]( ($79.99) 96 points Vinous: "The 2014 Haut-Bailly has turned out beautifully. Dark, sumptuous and expressive, the 2014 exudes depth and finesse. Ample and resonant on the palate, with striking depth, the 2014 possesses exceptional balance and class. Hints of smoke, tobacco and licorice infuse the deep, creamy finish. (AG)" (02/2017) 95 points Wine Enthusiast: "*Cellar Selection* Initial tight acidity in this crisp wine gives way to smooth rich black fruits. This already has a fine balance with its ripe juiciness and delicious redberry flavors. It is going to develop into a very fine wine. Drink from 2024. (RV)" (04/2017) 95 points James Suckling: "A very well-made, modern wine with ripe cherry and cassis notes but rather discrete oak. The bright fruit and lively acidity balance the moderately dry tannins very well, and the finish is long and quite complex. Compacted. Needs time to open. Beautiful." (02/2017) 94 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "The 2014 Haut Bailly has a charming, quite intense bouquet with layers of blackberry, raspberry coulis, black olive and melted tar scents that soar from the glass. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannin, well-judged acidity, harmonious and focused with superb density and precision towards the finish. This is a classy number and alongside Domaine de Chevalier, it is one of the standouts from the appellation in this vintage. (NM)" (03/2017) 94 points Wine Spectator: "This shows admirable density for the vintage, with a strong loamy echo amid the core of dark currant, fig and plum compote flavors. Loads of tobacco and tar details join in on the finish, while the fruit easily keeps pace. Rock-solid. Best from 2020 through 2035. (JM)" (03/2017) Jancis Robinson: "Rich and substantial but racier than the old Haut-Bailly style. Really very well mastered. Good balance without excess acidity or tannin. Very persistent. The concentration was presumably helped enormously by the saignée that produced the Rosé. Just a little stolid but a very impressive 2014. 17.5+/20 points (JR)" (03/2015) Beffa Jr.]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: July 28, 2017 Veronique Sanders can do no wrong at Haut Bailly and this property is a star in Bordeaux.A very well-made wine with ripe cherry and cassis notes. Bright fruit and lively acidity balance the tannins very well, and the finish is long and quite complex. One of the truly great 2014s. Bearden]( | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: July 28, 2017 This is elegant and complex with touches of earth and tobacco, plenty of sleek dark fruit and very classy lines. Intense, bubbling with potential and in need of a few years in bottle or a few hours in decanter; this is a fantastic wine. There are now several K&L email lists, where wine enthusiasts like yourself can sign up for categories that interest you. Visit [Email Preferences]( to find out more. --------------------------------------------------------------- Automate the effort to find your favorite wines! Our waiting list "keyword matching" program sends you an email when a wine matching your individual keywords comes into our inventory. Find more information or get started with your [waiting list for keywords]( in the My Account section of our site. From the home page of our site you can view a listing of all New Arrivals as well as items that are Coming Soon. In addition right there in the middle of the home page there is a link to our Best Sellers. We offer five excellent wine clubs and a new exclusive Personal Sommelier Service, that allow you to sample outstanding wines from all over the world. Due to our bulk purchase power and longstanding relationships, the quality and value offered by these clubs are tremendous. Unlike winery clubs where you typically taste the same wines year after year, our clubs offer phenomenal variety that is strictly selected by our panel of buyers. [See for yourself](. --------------------------------------------------------------- --------------------------------------------------------------- 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? 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