In 1720, Maison Champy became the oldest wine company in Burgundy. By the arly 1900's, Champy has established itself as a premier wine company and had acquired more land in the Beaune, specifically in Savigny and Clos Vougeot. Pale yellow color with golden reflections. With a good intensity, the rich bouquet opens on ripe fruits (peach, apricot), on floral notes, and on notes of bread and freshly baked croissants. An elegant nose on a subtly woody base. On the palate, a good richness and smoothness with a long finish, opulent and round.

Contention as one of the top vintages produced here, the wine is strong on its floral characteristics. Once past the opening bouquet of white flowers and dried roses, you find plums, black cherries, black raspberries, mint and cigar wrapper nuances. The palate provides a lush, opulent, vibrant, energetic backdrop for its wealth of deep red fruits and oceanic influences. The finish has a touch of salty chalk that adds complexity to its wealth of silky, ripe, red fruits.

Chocolate shavings and smoked coffee bean on the nose, it's a vintage where you can't get away from the tannins, but here they have sinew and juice, like the best translation of the tannins in the year. This has a real purity of fruit (very low SO2 addition at Palmer) and the gourmet touch you want in Alter Ego. 45% of overall production. 3.73pH. Survived mildew better than in 2018 because of my experience in dealing with the conditions. August 15 to 29 for the harvest.

Catherine and Didier Champalou share a common background, both hailing from vigneron families. However, their shared spirit of independence led them to embark on their winemaking journey alone. In 1983, they founded their Domaine, and since then, their label has earned widespread acclaim in the appellation. Vouvray, the region they call home, is renowned for the noble Chenin Blanc grape, also known as Pineau de la Loire. The Champalou family tends to 21 hectares of vineyards, committed to sustainable farming practices and even incorporating the lunar calendar into their work. Their vineyards boast rich, deep soils, well-aerated due to regular plowing. Embodying the Champalou house style, their wines exude elegance and tenderness, characterized by intense aromas and impeccable balance. Their unique style sets them apart, and no one else comes close to replicating their distinct and exceptional wines.

Xavier Gerard is one of the young stars of the Northern Rhone. His father left him some prime land in the regions of Cote Rotie (including a tiny parcel in La Landonne), Condrieu and Saint Joseph. Although he is not certified, he practises organically in all his vineyards, and all of his wines are unfined and unfiltered. This is a blend of 96% Syrah and 4% Viognier, which makes its presence known with a touch of stone fruit among the ripe forest berries. Good concentration and smooth tannins, yet with high acidity that all lead to a long finish.

Philippe and Valerie Bassereau (4th generation) have been managing the Chateau de la Graves estate since 1990 in one of the more unknown appellations of Bordeaux: Cotes de Bourg (on the right bank opposite of Margaux). This rose is made from 100% Merlot with elegant notes of white flowers, white peach, white raspberry and cherry. It is so drinkable and perfect to share with friends on the patio. Delightful!

“Our historical production Château de Tracy represents one of the oldest winery in Pouilly-Fumé, in the center of Loire, since more than 600 years. Driven by the idea to enlarge our vision and our experience, we have decided to create a new project called Tracy & Cie that aims to share our strong attachment to a certain idea of the wine, following prerequisites such as faithful identity wines, green agriculture, terroir driven approach, handcrafted & confidential production.” – Château de Tracy.

Aged for a minimum of five years, the Padelletti Brunello di Montalcino Reserva is a premium red wine that is made from 100% Sangiovese grapes grown in the Montalcino region of Tuscany, Italy. This wine is characterized by its deep ruby color, intense aromas of dark fruit, leather, and spice, and its full-bodied, complex flavor profile that is marked by notes of black cherry, tobacco, and vanilla. The wine is aged in oak barrels for three years, followed by two years of bottle aging, which gives it a smooth, velvety texture and a long, lingering finish. This wine is a perfect accompaniment to hearty meat dishes, aged cheeses, and rich pasta dishes.

Ripe cranberry and cassis on the nose. Focused dark bramble fruit on the palate, layered with cocoa and clove. Vibrant acidity balances beautifully with opulent fruit and carries through to a long and elegant finish. MB (1/22)

Nose of jammy blueberry, red cherry and pepper. Lively acidity and structure give this wine a full mouthfeel with notes of raspberry, mineral and dark chocolate with a lingering finish. SR (11/22)

This wine is known for its intense aromas of red fruits, roses, and spices, with a complex and elegant flavor profile that includes notes of cherry, licorice, and tobacco. The tannins are firm and well-structured, providing a long and persistent finish. This wine is aged for at least two years in oak barrels, which adds depth and complexity to its flavor. Rinaldi Barbaresco is a perfect wine to pair with rich and flavorful dishes such as roasted meats, game, and aged cheeses.

Intense purple colour, hints in the scent of red fruit and spices one of which, black pepper, stands out. In the mouth it is pleasant tasting, mineral, nervous with intense and characteristic tannins.

Exclusive to CLS, we don't often see Nebbiolo done in rose form, but the brother and sister team at Antoniolo of Lorella (whom this wine is named after)and Alberto have created this gorgeous rosato that is intense and fragrant with juicy red raspberries and violets. Initial mouth feel is soft but the acidity is high with a subtle spicy kick. Slight tannins and medium alcohol all rolled into a perfectly balanced wine. Only 50 more bottles left in the province, and they are here at CLS, so be sure to get your hands on one (or three, or...)

The FAY Cabernet Sauvignon displays vibrant red fruit fragrances accompanied by hints of black tea, olive, and baking spices. It features a harmonious texture that is well-balanced, and the mid-palate boasts a pleasant concentration of berry fruit that culminates in a finish of cinnamon and spices. This vintage is more opulent than previous ones, which is typical of the year's characteristics.

This 100% Timorasso is native to the Tortona area in Piemonte. The ancient name is Derthona and often seen on the labels. Before nearing extinction, this grape was brought back to life by Walter Massa, knowing there was great potential. The grape ages remarkably well and will resemble a dry Riesling with five years of age or more. This single vineyard of Costa del Vento shows aromas and flavours of white flowers, stone fruits, and bright citrus. It will always have high acidity and be voluptuous. These wines can sometimes border on feeling "alcoholic" so chill to temper and decant for best tasting experience.

In the commune of La Morra, Sergio Molino vinifies wine from only 2.5 ha of Nebbiolo vines. The Molino family vineyards, bottled under the Ernesto Molino label is an homage to Sergio's father. Like many micro-wineries, it's a "hands-off" approach, allowing the terroir to speak for itself. Cranberry, violet, hints of vanilla and even an iron note, put this one away for a while to let those austere tannins settle down. Best after 2027.

Located in Montalcino, these Super-Tuscan wines from Luce (Light) are named for the altitude and southern exposure of their vineyards. Cool, breezy nights preserve the aromatic complexities of the grape and make for slow, even ripening. The Lucente is made primarily from Merlot with the addition of Sangiovese. Intense and bright red, the nose opens with intense fruity hints of blackberry, plum and currant, enriched by toasted and vanilla nuances. On the palate it is full and enveloping, soft and elegant, with a persistent finish that displays a pleasantly sweet and fruity aftertaste.

The Cogno family has been making wine for four generations in Piedmont. Located in Novello (one of the 11 communes in which Barolo can be made), it is now being run by Elvio's daughter Nadia and her husband Valter Fissore, the current winemaker. Ravera is a powerful Nebbiolo that has enticing scents of rose, tobacco and perfumed berry, along with a palate of violet, raspberry compote, star anise and wild mint. Taut and refined tannins, yet they have found a roundness in the 2018 vintage. The finish is complex with some spice notes. This wine will no doubt become better with age. Drink from 2025-2038.

The Hospices de Beaune is a prestigious 60ha estate whose wines are auctioned every year in support of charity. This auction has existed since 1859, is the oldest in the world and has 48 cuvees available for donors to have their names printed on it. Albert Bichot has been the leading buyer for 15 years at this world-renowned auction.
Albert Bichot is a five-generation family-owned property having owned land in Burgundy's Cote d'Or since the 1830's. The current owner, Alberic Bichot is respectful of his family's traditions yet entirely focused on the future: converting to organic viticulture, adapting to new markets, increasing exposure to Burgundy wines, and much more. The vineyards now total six estates from Chablis in the north to Beaujolais in the south.
This white wine is 100% Chardonnay grapes grown in the prestigious Charlemagne vineyard in the village of Aloxe-Corton of Burgundy. The nose is intense with notes of lemon curd, citrus pith, nutmeg and rich, nutty complexity. The palate is mouth-filling with balanced acidity and a spicy, smooth, long finish. This white wine will only get better with age. Pair with cauliflower puree, braised fennel and sea scallops.
Pair well with: Chicken and creamy sauce.
Organic

Caparzo Rosso di Montalcino is a red wine produced by Caparzo winery located in Montalcino, Tuscany, Italy. The wine is made using 100% Sangiovese grapes, which are grown in the vineyards surrounding the winery. The wine is aged for a short period in oak barrels to enhance its complexity and depth of flavor. On the nose, the wine exhibits aromas of red berries, violets, and hints of spice. On the palate, the wine is medium-bodied with a good balance of acidity and tannins, and flavors of cherry, blackberry, and earthy undertones. This wine is a great pairing with grilled meats, pasta dishes with tomato-based sauces, and mature cheeses.

The CASK 23 combines the signature perfume notes of FAY vineyard with the structure and dark fruit of S.L.V. Fragrant and fresh aromas of red and black currant, black tea, anise and nutmeg fill the nose. The wine has a vibrant mouthfeel with savory and velvety tannins along with blackberry and currant flavors. This is an elegant, flavorful vintage of CASK 23 with integrated oak, refined tannins and a lasting aftertaste.

Tangs of struck flint and lime zest introduce this richly concentrated yet zesty Chardonnay sourced from vineyards adjacent to the Grand Cru of Le Montrachet. Flavors of lemon and tangerine are opulent and piercing, softened by hints of vanilla, cream and smoked wood. Moderately full bodied but bold in presence, the wine should improve through 2035.

The story of Maison Jadot began with vines and the purchase of a Premier Cru site in 1826. Three decades later in 1859 the family-owned domaine was completed. Louis Jadot also became contributed to the renown of Burgundy by becoming the first negociant, with a focus on selling these unprecedented wines in the Northern European markets with his descendants following in his footsteps.

The Les Boucherottes vineyard covers 8.5ha and has a deep clay soil that adds a lush quality to the the wines. As such, this is a full-bodied aromatic Pinot Noir that is plump and round with a dense structure. The aromas of raspberry and plum mingle with rosehip, raw cocoa and spice. It is a classic expression of the Louis Jadot style, which emphasizes balance, elegance, and terroir-driven wines.

Gerard Raphet, along with his daughter Marion, farms 12 ha of land with vineyards in Morey St. Denis, Vougeot, and Gevry-Chambertin, and most of the plots have a vine age of 60-100 years. This important, and respected appellation in Burgundy is known for delivering deeply perfumed wines with notes of plums, berries, earth and spice. The finish is long with musky perfume and spice.

Château des Quarts was created in 2012 through a joint partnership between two old friends, Dominique Lafon and Olivier Merlin.

For over a decade, Olivier had tasked himself with sourcing and making wine from the best sites within Pouilly-Fuissé and bottling them under his own label. After buying grapes from Clos des Quarts for several vintages, he was first approached with the news that it was for sale. Having been already convinced of the terroir's integrity he jumped on the opportunity.

The vineyard is located in Chaintré, the southernmost village of Pouilly-Fuissé. At just over 2 hectares, the oldest vines are almost a century old and are planted on clay-limestone soils.

Pairs well with: Grilled chicken, Summer salad and Turkey

Groffier Bourgogne Rouge is a red wine made by Robert Groffier, a highly respected winemaker in the Burgundy region of France. It is made from Pinot Noir grapes grown in the Côte de Nuits subregion, which is known for producing some of the finest Pinot Noir wines in the world. The wine has a deep ruby color and aromas of red berries, cherry, and spice. On the palate, it is medium-bodied, with a silky texture and flavors of raspberry, cranberry, and earthy undertones. The wine is aged in oak barrels, which adds subtle notes of vanilla and toast to the wine's flavor profile. This wine is a great example of the elegance and complexity that Burgundy wines are known for and is an excellent choice for Pinot Noir lovers.

Champerrrier is a red wine produced by Domaine Tortochot in the Gevrey-Chambertin subregion of Burgundy. It is made from 100% Pinot Noir grapes, which are carefully selected and hand-harvested. The wine is aged in oak barrels for 12-18 months to develop complexity and richness.

On the nose, Champerrrier has a bouquet of red and black fruit aromas, with notes of cherry, raspberry, blackcurrant, and a hint of spice. On the palate, it is a medium-bodied wine with flavors of ripe fruit, earthy notes, and a touch of oak. The wine has a firm tannic structure and a long, elegant finish that leaves a pleasant aftertaste.

Overall, Champerrrier is a well-crafted red wine that showcases the unique characteristics of the Pinot Noir grape and the terroir of Gevrey-Chambertin. It pairs well with a variety of dishes, including roasted meats, poultry, and game. It is best served slightly chilled at a temperature of around 16-18°C (60-64°F).

Domaine Guy & Yvan Dufouleur Nuits-Saint-Georges 1er Cru Les Crots 2019 is a red wine from the Côte de Nuits subregion of Burgundy, France. The wine is made entirely from Pinot Noir grapes grown in the Les Crots vineyard, which is known for producing complex and elegant wines. On the nose, the wine offers aromas of red berries, cherries, and a hint of spice. On the palate, the wine is medium-bodied with flavors of raspberry, blackcurrant, and a touch of earthy minerality. The tannins are firm and well-structured, providing a long and satisfying finish. This wine can be enjoyed now or cellared for up to a decade to allow its flavors to further develop.

Decoy Sauvignon Blanc is a single-varietal wine made entirely from Sauvignon Blanc grapes sourced from premium vineyards in Sonoma County, California. The wine is fermented and aged in stainless steel tanks to preserve its fresh and vibrant character. Decoy Sauvignon Blanc has a pale straw colour with aromas of citrus, melon, and tropical fruit. On the palate, it is crisp and refreshing with flavours of grapefruit, lime, and passion fruit. The wine has a bright acidity and a clean, zesty finish.

This wine is ideal for pairing with seafood, salads, and light appetizers.

The Tuscany Verruzzo di Monteverro was born in vineyards located in the Grosseto municipality of Capalbio, in the heart of the Tuscan Maremma.

It is produced with Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Sangiovese grapes, harvested exclusively by hand between the first ten days of September and the first of October. The vinification takes place entirely "by fall", so as not to deplete and allow the highest expression in the glass. Subsequently the wine ages for 12 months in French oak barrels before being bottled.

It has a bright garnet red colour with purple nails. The nose opens with floral aromas of rose and lavender, enriched with fruity notes of plum and wild strawberries. On the palate it is structured, soft and with character, with hints of rose, strawberry and melon.

Ideal in combination with lasagna and first courses with lamb ragù, this red wine is perfect to accompany medium-aged cheeses.

The 2019 bottling marks the 20th anniversary of the production of Oreno. This “Super Tuscan” of Merlot, Cabernet and Petit Verdot are blended beautifully with aromas and flavours of black fruit, exotic spice, cured tobacco and new leather.

Carter Vineyard is located in the Eola-Amity Hills AVA on volcanic mother rock. Fruit focused. Darker blue and black fruits of cassis, blackberry and dried blueberry supported by firm acidity and moderate tannins.
Pairs well with: Chicken & Turkey
Certified Organic - Sustainable

E. Pira & Figli Chiara Boschis Via Nuova is a red wine from the Barolo region of Italy. The wine is made from the Nebbiolo grape variety, which is known for its high tannins and acidity. The wine is aged for a minimum of 38 months before release, which is longer than the minimum aging requirement for regular Barolo wines. The wine has a complex bouquet, with notes of red fruit, cherry, rose and tar, it also has a spicy and balsamic aftertaste. The 2018 vintage is expected to be a high-quality wine with elegant tannins and a good aging potential.

At the tasting, this wine offers a complex nose and appealing scents of raspberries, cherries, and blackcurrant. The mouth is bright and supple with vibrant flavours of red cherry and backing spices.

Domaine Jacques Prieur has the rare claim to fame of owning property in some the greatest appellations in Burgundy including Chambertin, Musigny, Clos Vougeot, Echézeaux, Corton, Meursault and Montrachet. Not many Domaines can boast that. History of the Domaine dates to 1868. Owned now by the Labruyère Family, supported by Prieur Family's heirs, they passionately promote and defend the great terroirs of Burgundy worldwide. The Beaune Greves Premier Cru sits on 1.17ha overlooking the city of Beaune. This 100% pinot noir offers notes of fresh red berries, evolving into cherry pit and spicy vanilla notes. Elegant, fresh, and fruity, the wine has balanced tannins and acidity with a smooth finish.

Tasting Notes
Wines from Puligny-Montrachet are typified by aromas and flavors of green apple and lemon and tend to be tauter and firmer on the palate compared to wines from neighboring villages. Aging in a small percentage of new French oak barrels lends accents of toast and vanilla. Structured white wines with high acid and grip, Puligny-Montrachet is destined for long aging.

Food Pairing
White Burgundy, with its rich texture and toasted flavors, pairs well with white fish and shellfish and its naturally high acidity can counterbalance cream-based sauces. Oak-aged Chardonnay from warmer climates lends itself well to grilled fish, starches, butter, and toasted nuts.

"Pronounced plum, blackberry, coffee, spice, soft tannins, lingering finish Floral, nice acidity, unique." - Gold, Sunset International Spirits Competition

Chablis 1er Montmains is a 1er Cru from the left bank. The name of this climate evokes "the middle mountain", that which is at an intermediate altitude between two higher coasts. The orientation is south-east, the slopes can reach 20%.
The soils are fairly shallow and the Kimmeridgian limestone does not take long to appear. The soils are stony and well draining.
In this open and airy valley, our 80-year-old Old Vines give all their expressions.

The Chave family has been tending vines on the world famous hill of Hermitage for half a millennia. The estate was handed down to Gérard Chave in 1970, who quickly established a reputation for producing incredible wines. His son, Jean Louis, a graduate from the University of California Davis, is the most recent generation to manage the estate. Jean-Louis Chave Selections is the wineries line of négociant wines. The grapes are sourced from select growers located in the Rhône. The "Mon Coeur" Côtes-du-Rhône is made from a blend of grapes harvested from plots in Vinsobres, Visan, Buisson, and Estargues. It represents an affordable entry-point into of the France's finest producers.

Rich in red and blue flowers giving pleasure in the notes of lavender, passionflower, magnolias and gardenias. A lot of citrusy hints describe the secondary scene. Medium to full bodied, extremely light, gentle tannins of very fine grain and a harmonic, balanced finale with a smooth, progressive closure.