2007 de Myrat, Sauternes (375ml) ($18.98)

92-96 points Wine Spectator: "Dried apple, pear and honey on the nose and palate. Full-bodied, medium sweet, with a citrus fruit, apricot and spice character. Long and flavorful." (Web only, 2008) 92-94 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "A very lifted nose with great definition: notes of honey, white peach, mango and dried apricots. The palate is very intense with superb acidity and vibrancy, good levels of botrytis with a clean, fresh, vibrant honeyed finish. Very good weight and persistency - this is a superb 2007 and a great success for Myrat. Drink 2012-2035. Tasted April 2008." (04/08)

2007 Two Hands "Bella's Garden" Shiraz Barossa Valley ($39.99)

94 points and #14 on the Wine Spectator's Top 100 Wines of 2009: "Ripe, fleshy and generous, but not nearly over the top, with gorgeous cherry, pomegranate, black olive and bay leaf flavors arching beautifully and swirling through the long, supple finish. Best from 2010 through 2017." (07/09) 93 points from Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar: "Bright purple. Explosively perfumed bouquet of raspberry, blueberry, spicecake, potpourri and anise, with a subtle mocha undertone. More serious on the palate, where chewy cherry-cola and licorice qualities are complicated by notes of violet pastille and black cardamom. Large-scaled, fat and spicy, with strong finishing grip and supple tannins." (Jul/Aug 09) 93 points from James Halliday's Australian Wine Companion: "Pure Barossa mocha, blackberry and fruitcake, blended with a generous serve of toasty oak; thick and unctuous on entry, the quite gravelly tannin refocuses the wine, to conclude with more toast and ample levels of sweet fruit." (02/09) 90 points Wine Enthusiast: "... the 2007 Bella’s Garden Shiraz displays a crisp, red raspberry fruitiness framed by cedar and cocoa. It’s surprisingly focused for this level of ripeness, the structure imparted more by acids than tannins. Drink it over the near term." (03/10)

2008 Bodegas Angel Rodriguez Martinsancho Verdejo Rueda ($16.99)

Angel Rodriguez Leal produces what is hands down the best wine in Rueda, Martinsancho. A family owned bodega since 1784, the family holds some of the best real estate in the D.O. Their land boasts verdejo vines which average 40 years of age and stand in a bed of rounded river stones. Wine is fermented in enamel tanks and aged in very large, neutral oak 'cubas.' The resulting wine is generous, with delicious peach, melon and guava notes, textural, as well as mineral, focused and age-worthy. In other words, drink it now but stash some away for a few years down the road. One of the wine world's truly singular wines, and always one of my favorite white wine values not only from Spain, but from anywhere else in the world. (Joe Manekin, Spanish wine buyer, K&L Wine Merchants). 90 points Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar: "Green-tinged gold. Deep, pungent aromas of floral honey, pear, green papaya and salty minerals. Weighty orchard fruit and herb flavors are brightened by notes of orange peel and minerals, with a deeper honeyed quality on the back. Really stains the palate, showing excellent breadth and lingering spice and floral notes." (Sept/Oct '09)

2005 Heretat de Taverners Graciano Valencia ($19.99)

90 points from Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "The 2005 Graciano spent 14 months in a mix of new and used French oak. It is dark ruby/purple-colored with an expressive nose of balsamic, pepper, spice box, cedar, and black cherry. Forward, full-flavored, and layered, it is meant for near-term gratification. It should provide pleasure over the next 6-8 years." 90 points Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar: "Inky ruby. Powerfully aromatic bouquet combines blackberry, cassis, smoky minerals and vanilla. Supple dark berry flavors display good depth and clarity, picking up minerals and dusty tannins with air. Finishes with impressive energy and persistence." (Jul/Aug '08) At Heretat de Taverners there are records of grape and wine production since 1738. Not unexpectedly, this 100% Graciano-based red is from very old vines, and you know what that means: depth, concentration and lots of flavor.

By:Jim Barr | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: 1/28/2010 Our Spanish wine buyer, Joe Manekin, brought in one of the most incredibly unique Rioja-like reds that I have ever tasted, produced from a native grape (Graciano), in the Heretat de Taverners 2005 Graciano Valencia. There are records of this wine being produced from these native grapes since 1738. Given 90 points from the ivory tower of the International Wine God and also by Stephen Tanzer (The International Wine Cellar), this deeply colored, high profiled wine is rich and opulent in the nose. The heady aromas carry over nicely to its intense fruit-filled palate of cassis and currants, with slate-y mineral and meaty undertones, incredible structure, silky tannins, amazing complexity that would stand-up to many First Growth Bordeaux, and a finish that is warm, long, and intense. This puppy will age easily another 8 to 12 years, but Anderson wants to make it one of our house reds for the next three to five years. 14.5% abv

2005 Viña Ijalba Reserva Rioja ($22.99)

92 points Burghound: "Big currant, berry, plum, berry liqueur nose; refined tart currant, tart plum palate; medium finish." (10/6/2009) Viña Ijalba has gained much acclaim both within Spain and internationally for their terrific work with organic viticulture, as well as their championing of obscure indigenous varietals. These wines are amongst the few modern Riojas that truly impress for their sense of balance and style, without sacrificing their Rioja soul.

2004 Bodegas Casa Juan Señor de Lesmos Crianza Rioja ($15.99)

This tiny Rioja Alavesa estate is surely one to watch. All estate fruit, hand harvested, and carefully vinified with native yeasts, this is a hand sewn wine with the purity, texture and elegance to prove it. A rather Burgundian nose of cherries and plums, opening to reveal a hint of sandalwood, leads to a wonderful palate, opening with tangy cherry flavors, which are persistent and presented on an elegantly textured frame, with terrific acidity and a lasting finish. One could not ask for much more in a classically styled, Rioja crianza.

By:Susan Thornett | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: 11/18/2009 A vibrant, traditionally inclined Rioja with beautiful cherry fruit, a little nutmeg spice and gorgeous layered texture.

2001 Bodegas Casa Juan Señor de Lesmos Crianza Rioja ($14.99)

Curious to see how this wonderful bodega's Riojas age? Might I suggest this, their 2001 Crianza. Behold what a traditionally minded Rioja bodega can do with terrific, organically farmed fruit, native yeast fermentation and judicious use of oak. Highly recommended for anyone who wants a real taste of Rioja for a more than fair price. Drink now or age another 5 years. That's right, you will be able to drink this amazing crianza bottling 14 years after the vintage date. This estate continues to impress....

1980 Lopez de Heredia "Viña Tondonia" Gran Reserva Rioja ($149.99)

2007 Domaine de la Mordorée "La Dame Rousse" Lirac Pre-Arrival ($26.99)

92 points Robert Parker: "The outstanding 2007 Lirac La Dame Rousse, a blend of equal parts Syrah and Grenache, reveals a dense purple color as well as a gorgeous, sweet nose of creme de cassis, crushed rocks, violets, and licorice. This layered, full-bodied Lirac could easily pass for a Chateauneuf du Pape priced twice as high. Drink it over the next 4-5 years." (10/09) 91 points Wine Spectator: "Rich and driven, with a range of raspberry ganache, crushed plum and warm fig notes followed by tobacco, spice and licorice notes. The finish is long and rich. Drink now through 2011." (06/09)

2007 Domaine Grand Veneur "Clos de Sixte" Lirac Pre-Arrival ($27.99)

93 points Robert Parker: "The 2007 Lirac Clos de Sixte is composed of 50% Grenache, 35% Syrah, and 15% Mourvedre. Abundant licorice, graphite, black cherry, and blackberry characteristics are offered in a full-bodied, deep, fleshy style. Liracs generally do not age as long as Chateauneuf du Papes, but this effort is capable of lasting 5-7 years where well-stored as it is a big, impressively endowed wine." (10/09)

2007 Domaine de la Mordorée "Cuvée de la Reine des Bois" Lirac Pre-Arrival ($29.99)

94 points Robert Parker: "The outrageously superb 2007 Lirac La Reine des Bois (equal parts Grenache, Mourvedre, and Syrah) may be the finest wine Delorme has yet made. Its dense purple color is accompanied by a sumptuous perfume of black fruits, licorice, earth, and pepper. The fruit quality is deep, textured, and pure, and the 35-second finish is superb. This knock-out wine should drink well for 7-8 years." (10/09) 92 points Wine & Spirits and 92 points Wine Spectator: "Really loaded with fruit, this shows raspberry, boysenberry and blackberry notes all layered with sweet spice and bacony toast before the fresh, mineral-driven finish takes over. Impressive for the appellation. Drink now through 2012." (06/09)

2007 Clos Reissier Pouilly-Fuissé ($17.99)

This property, formerly in the Chateau & Estate portfolio, makes lovely Pouilly-Fuissé from a vineyard dating back to Roman times. It has been called Clos Reissier for more than 200 years. The combination of bright fruit, a bit of toasty oak and mineral notes on the finish makes this absolutely classic for the appellation. It is fine and elegant in character, with lovely minerality and very lively fruit. Bravo to the producers at the Cave de Chaintré for this lovely wine. Vintage Wine Connections writes: "This Chardonnay is rich and full-flavored. Lovely straw-colored, it has a pleasant fruity flavor, is lightly oaked and has a pleasantly long finish. Clos Reissier Vineyard is one of the most famous vineyards in the Pouilly-Fuissé region. We've had other Chardonnays from the Pouilly-Fuissé region, but this was the best wine so far, in our opinion."

By:Kirk Walker | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: 3/5/2010 This is like drinking history. This vineyard site dates back to Roman times, and has carried the same name for the last 200 years, and it is not ridiculously priced! A classic Pouilly-Fuissé, with bright fruit backed with fresh acidity and just a touch of oak. This is what Pouilly-Fuissé used to be, and it's priced that way too!

2005 Château de Maligny Chablis 1er Cru "Fourchaume" ($19.99)

90 points Allen Meadows' Burghound: "Floral, lightly spicy and airy to the point of being perfumed with excellent intensity on the solidly detailed, pure and racy medium weight flavors that display finishing minerality to burn. This is a generous but not easy wine as there is a firm core of ripe acidity on the backend which will allow the flavors to develop slowly in bottle." According to Wine Spectator: "A broad style, ripe and balanced on the soft side. Light apple and honey flavors end with moderate length. Drink now. 12,000 cases made." (Web '08) Our Notes: Floral and lovely, with nice minerality. Developing a touch on honey on both the nose and palate, fresh and delicious. This really shows the generous side of the 2005 vintage, but is clearly a true Chablis, with length and minerality. Rich, concentrated, ready to drink and a charmer. And, thanks to our special purchase, at a truly terrific price. When you can drink aged Premier Cru from a vineyard right next to the Grands Crus, and do it for the price of an ordinary village Chablis, why wouldn't you? (Keith Wollenberg, K&L Burgundy Buyer)

By:Gary Westby | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: 3/10/2010 I am asked often for white Burgundy that is ready to drink, and I can hardly think of a better bottle and a better value than this Fourchaume. The nose is 100% Chablis, with both subtle leesy character and earth. On the palate it is round and rich from having time in the bottle, but still very fresh, clean and mineral on the finish. It is, after all, premier cru Chablis! I can't wait to drink one of these while Dungeness crab is still in season!

2006 Jean St. Honoré Meursault ($29.99)

Some of the domaines in Burgundy find themselves with the same problem faced by many wineries here in California. They have larger stocks of certain wines than they can easily sell under their own label. To protect their reputation, they do not wish to lower their prices. One option is to sell the wines, already bottled, to one of the negociants in Beaune, often for no more than the cost of production. Another option is to sell the wine abroad, but not under the primary label. We have found a brand sold by an importer with more than 45 years of experience in Burgundy, who buys in exactly this way. It is called Jean St. Honoré, and there are some very lovely wines here. Each is estate grown and bottled at the domaine, but legally declassified to negociant wine since it does not have the grower's label on it (although you can clearly see exactly who made each wine on the label, even if I cannot publish it here). The 2005 Meursault represents an extraordinary value in Meursault, with the classic Meursault nuttiness, rich mid-palate and a long finish, and at a price that is harder and harder to match with our falling dollar. (Keith Wollenberg, K&L Burgundy buyer)

By:Kirk Walker | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: 3/5/2010 This is a negociant label that offers estate- and domaine-bottled wines without the domaine name or price tag! We cannot tell you who the domaine is, but once you see the bottle you'll know right away!This is classic Meursault: nutty, round mid-palate and a long finish. There is a decent amount of this, but it is such a deal that I cannot image we'll have it in stock for long.

2007 Domaine Paul Pillot Chassagne-Montrachet ($34.99)

As young Thierry Pillot takes over the reins here, the wines get better and better. His careful work in the vineyard has paid big dividends, and the wines have lift, drive and terrific finishes. You will be extremely excited about this one, once you taste it! Burghound rates this Outstanding, writing: "A classic Chassagne nose of resin oil, straw, citrus blossom and a hint of soil that is more elegant than usual merges seamlessly into clean, bright, energetic and intense flavors that also enjoy excellent precision and vibrancy on the complex, linear and impressively persistent finish. Again, worth your attention." (07/09)

2000 Springbank 9 Year Old Chateau d'Yquem Cask, Murray McDavid, Single Malt Whisky 750ml ($65.99) Wine Club Price: $59.99

This is the type of whisky that truly knows no boundries, nor does it cater to any particular type of drinker. If you are a single malt connoisseur or just like a wee dram from time to time, you're going to love this bottle. Springbank, recently awarded 2010 Distillery of the Year from Whisky Magazine, is a whisky that rarely shows up in an independent bottling. However, Jim McEwan (master distiller for Bruichladdich) is known for finding the absolute best barrels for his Murray McDavid collection, and he somehow managed to get a hold of some aging Springbank stock. He then gave the whisky a second maturation in Chateau d'Yquem Sauternes casks to add a sweet richness to the already supple and smooth malt. The result is simply phenomenal. The nose is an intoxicating blend of honey, tropical fruits, and caramel. The palate shows guava, pineapple, brown sugar and the malted cereal notes of sweet barley, though the whisky is never cloying or overly sweet. Every flavor in the rich and round mouthfeel is in balance all the way to the finish, which lingers on for minutes. Only 1,500 bottles were produced, and we bought a large number of them to be able to offer this fantastic whisky at an amazing price. (David Driscoll, K&L Spirits Buyer)

2006 Bradford Mountain Dry Creek Valley Zinfandel ($19.99)

93 points Wine & Spirits: "This blends fruit comes from Goat Trek Vineyard in Dry Creek Valley and the Grist Vineyard on Bradford Mountain, a combination that creates a bright, sunny zin with red fruit and spice. The fresh flavors have a lively red apple and cherry character; the tannins have a red fruit-skin flavor, along with a blast of earthiness. It's delicious and ready to decant for any spicy sausages, whether turkey or morcilla." (02/10)

By:Michael Jordan | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: 3/10/2010 This is a wine I tried at the ZAP tasting in San Francisco in February. A beautiful, medium-bodied cherry bomb of flavor with amazing spice and minerality you can sense on the nose all the way to the finish. This Zinfandel will show you the brilliant wines now coming from the Bradford Mountain Vineyard.

2005 Carol Shelton "Maple Vineyard-Old Vine" Dry Creek Valley Zinfandel ($29.99)

93 points and two stars from the Connoisseurs' Guide to California Wine: "10% Petite Sirah; 4% Carignane; 3% other. Raspberries, strawberries and vanilla abound in the perfectly ripened, fully fruited, aromas of this impressive young Zin, and its jammy, wonderfully well-extracted flavors follow suit. Big-bodied, but supple and rounded with its alcohol and tannin always buffered by fruit, the wine has plenty of muscle without being tough and drinks nicely now even if showing lots of room for years of development." (01/08) 91 points from Wine Spectator: "Loaded with ripe and appealingly rustic black raspberry, mocha and sage aromas and well-defined dried cherry, licorice and pepper flavors that take on depth on the finish. Drink now through 2012. 800 cases made." (06/07)

By:Bryan Brick | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: 3/10/2010 Zinfandel is quickly becoming one of the most polarizing varietals in the market. More specifically: what winemakers are doing with Zin is really dividing people. Some winemakers go for the gusto with full-boar ripeness (read: sweetness), their wines tasting like a cross between IHOP’s blueberry syrup and grape Now-N-Laters. Some winemakers, although much more rare, are lashing back against this and making earthy, acid, spice-driven numbers that most people wouldn’t even recognize as Zin. The good news is that The 2005 Carol Shelton “Maple Vineyard” Zinfandel is somehow perfectly placed in the middle of these two styles. A blend of 83% Zinfandel, 10% Petite Sirah, 4% Carignane and a 3% Field Blend of mixed red grapes that includes rare varietals like Alicante Bouchet and Black Malvasia, this Zin has it all. Ripe fruit, structure and spice are all on full display here beginning with the nose packed full of expressive brambly blackberry, dried violet and caramel. The juicy palate resonates with crushed black pepper, baker’s chocolate, pastille and clove leading to the dry, long finish. If you lost your faith in Zin somewhere along the way, this wine would be a perfect place to start getting it back.

2005 Vincent Girardin Bourgogne Rouge "Emotion de Terroirs" (was $23 elsewhere) ($19.99)

In a terrific vintage like 2005, this drinks WAY above its price-point. As Allen Meadows writes about Girardin in this vintage: "the last few vintages really do seem to corroborate what he's saying about wanting to make more classically styled wines. And to this end Vincent told me that he "used up to 60% of the stems in his wine from the Côte de Nuits and up to 30% in those from the Côte de Beaune. 2005 is an aristocratic vintage that isn't at all fruity or forward and thus I did long but soft vinifications with no punch downs, only pump-overs. And I'm also doing a long élevage as well with less new wood too, which is to say between 30 and 40%. For me 2005 is a great vintage, even better than 1999 and I believe the wines, both red and white, will age extremely well."

2007 Pahlmeyer Napa Valley Chardonnay ($64.99)

95 points Connoisseurs' Guide to California Wine: "...places Pahlmeyer solidly in the pantheon of outstanding Chardonnay producers in California. This wine, if anything, is too young even to be considered for drinking. It may have a strong, bold personality highlighted by sweet appley scents and smoky oak overlays, but it is also tight in the latter palate and has not begun to open up fully. Lay it down for a year or three or more and drink the 2006 in the meantime." (06/09) 92 points Robert Parker: "There are 3,300 cases of the 2007 Chardonnay Napa, which reveals more honeysuckle and ripe peach characteristics, a deeper, fleshier mouthfeel, and less minerality. It suffers only in comparison to the prodigious Sonoma Coast offering. Full-bodied with brilliant acidity, it can be consumed over the next 5-7 years. Things just seem to get better and better at Pahlmeyer, a long-standing, brilliant, remarkably consistent source for one of Napa’s finest Merlots, Chardonnays, and Pinot Noirs." (12/08) From the Wall Street Journal: "Delicious. Best of tasting. What California Chardonnay can be, with ripe, rich fruit held in such control it seems to vibrate. Clean, focused and classy, with some mouthfeel and the most luscious roasted-lime finish, with a lingering hint of nutmeg. World-class. Ageable." (09/09) 92 points Wine Enthusiast.

2007 Pahlmeyer Sonoma Coast Chardonnay ($64.99)

95 points Robert Parker: "For starters, the 2007 Chardonnay Sonoma Coast may be one of Pahlmeyer’s finest Chardonnays to date (it’s coming right on the heels of their two brilliant 2006 Chardonnays). Most of the fruit comes from the Ritchie Vineyard, a site from which Mark Aubert also produces incredible wines. This 1,600-case cuvee is fashioned from the old Wente and Mt. Eden clones. Like the finest California Chardonnays, it reveals a light greenish hue to its straw color in addition to a beautiful perfume of nectarines, brioche, subtle smoke, crushed rocks, and gobs of white peach and pineapple fruit. This full-bodied beauty should drink easily for 5-6 years." (12/08) 93 points Wine Spectator: "Rich, intense and well-structured, with ripe pear, apple, melon and a dash of citrus, giving this full-bodied wine a long, complex, mouthcoating finish. Drink now through 2012." (06/09) 92 points Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar: "Good full yellow. More minerally on the nose than the Napa Valley offering, with piquant fruit notes of tangerine and pink grapefruit. More intensely flavored and less sweet than the Napa release, but distinctly laid-back and linear today. Conveys the firm acid impression of a cool year-or is this simply a function of the phenolic lift on the back end? A classy, low-fat wine with a light touch. In fact, notes winemaker Erin Green, the 2007 Pahlmeyer chardonnays finished with lower pHs than the 2006s." (

2006 Pahlmeyer Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir (Was $99.99) ($64.99)

94 points Robert Parker: "There are 1,600 cases of the 2006 Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast, a 100% destemmed cuvee made from Dijon clones 667, 828, and 777. It reveals classic Cote de Nuits aromas of damp forest floor, black raspberries, cherries, and spring flowers. With terrific fruit, full body, ripe tannin, and a round, generous, savory mouthfeel already displaying tremendous complexity, it should drink well for 7-8 years. Almost half of the fruit comes from Pahlmeyer’s own 24-acre Pinot Noir parcel at his Sonoma Coast vineyard called Wayfarer. Things just seem to get better and better at Pahlmeyer, a long-standing, brilliant, remarkably consistent source for one of Napa’s finest Merlots, Chardonnays, and Pinot Noirs." (12/08) And, according to Wine Spectator: "Shows candied apple, cherry, wild berry and huckleberry flavors. Medium-weight, spicy and floral, with a clean, vibrant finish that offers depth and complexity. Drink now through 2013." (05/09)

2006 Pahlmeyer Napa Merlot (Was $89.99) ($69.99)

94 points Robert Parker: "Pahlmeyer’s Merlot was the uncontested top California Merlot for many years, but significant competition has emerged from the upstart Kapcsandy Estate in Yountville. However, Pahlmeyer’s offering remains one of the classic examples of just how great Merlot can be in Napa. The 2006 Merlot (89% Merlot and 11% Cabernet Sauvignon) exhibits sweet chocolate, mocha, cola, black cherry, and plum aromas and flavors as well as full body, a sumptuous, dense texture, and no hard edges. The beautifully integrated acidity, tannin, and wood result in a hedonistic, mouthfilling, luscious Merlot to consume over the next 10-15 years. Things just seem to get better and better at Pahlmeyer, a long-standing, brilliant, remarkably consistent source for one of Napa’s finest Merlots, Chardonnays, and Pinot Noirs." (12/08) 92 points Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar: "Full ruby-red. Black raspberry, licorice, truffle, shoe polish and a note of black olive on the nose. Sweet, lush and plump, with expressive flavors of black plum syrup, dark chocolate, mocha and truffle. This boasts a solid middle ('the addition of some cabernet adds weight and fills out the palate,' notes winemaker Green) to support its substantial ripe tannins. Finishes with dark fruits and earth. This has turned out very well."

2006 Pahlmeyer Napa Valley Bordeaux Blend ($99.00)

95 points Robert Parker: "There are 7,000 cases of the prodigious 2006 Proprietary Red Wine (a blend of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot, and the rest Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Malbec). Most of the fruit comes from the Stagecoach Vineyard and the Waters Ranch. Sweet, smoky, meaty aromas interwoven with melted asphalt, camphor, blackberry, cassis, and charcoal scents emerge from the complex aromatics. In the mouth, the wine is full-bodied, displaying sweet tannin, a concentrated mouthfeel, and a long, heady finish with substantial fruit, glycerin, and extract. It should drink beautifully for 20+ years." (12/08) 93 points Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar, May/Jun 09: "Good medium ruby. Musky aromas of black raspberry, mocha and smoke. Ripe, lush, seamless and deep; broad for the vintage, with plenty of mid-palate stuffing to support its tannins. This, too, is still youthfully unevolved and will need longer to express its inherent sweetness. Like the 2006 merlot, this merited a score at the high end of my original projected range."

2007 Domaine du Pégaü "Cuvée da Capo" Châteauneuf-du-Pape Pre-Arrival ($399.99)

98-100 points Robert Parker: "The 2007 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Pape Cuvée da Capo (the first made since 2003) is a whopper! Slightly less potent alcohol-wise than the 1998 or 2003, Laurence Feraud compares it to the 2000. With just under 16% natural alcohol, it exhibits a dense purple color along with a big, sweet kiss of charcoal, grilled steaks, beef blood, plums, blackberries, smoked herbs, kirsch, and black currants, fabulous concentration, enormous body, and a finish that lasts over a minute. There is a freshness and vibrancy because of the vintage's crisp acid levels, and the wine should age well for 30+ years. It reminded me more of the 1998 at a similar stage than the 2000, but that's splitting hairs given the quality level of this offering. Normally there are 500-600 cases produced, most of it being available through the grey market rather than through any authorized importers. Laurence told me the Capo will be bottled in February, 2010." (10/09) 96 points Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar: "Inky ruby. Pungent, exotically perfumed aromas of dark berry compote, Asian spices and garrigue, with bright minerality adding vivacity. Powerful and deeply concentrated but also shockingly fresh and lithe, offering sweet red and dark berry flavors and notes of candied flowers and licorice. The finish is smooth, sappy and extremely persistent, with echoing floral and herb notes." (Jan/Feb 2010)

2007 Domaine du Pégaü "Cuvée da Capo" Châteauneuf-du-Pape (1.5L) Pre-Arrival - 6 available ($849.99)

98-100 points Robert Parker: "The 2007 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Pape Cuvée da Capo (the first made since 2003) is a whopper! Slightly less potent alcohol-wise than the 1998 or 2003, Laurence Feraud compares it to the 2000. With just under 16% natural alcohol, it exhibits a dense purple color along with a big, sweet kiss of charcoal, grilled steaks, beef blood, plums, blackberries, smoked herbs, kirsch, and black currants, fabulous concentration, enormous body, and a finish that lasts over a minute. There is a freshness and vibrancy because of the vintage's crisp acid levels, and the wine should age well for 30+ years. It reminded me more of the 1998 at a similar stage than the 2000, but that's splitting hairs given the quality level of this offering. Normally there are 500-600 cases produced, most of it being available through the grey market rather than through any authorized importers. Laurence told me the Capo will be bottled in February, 2010." (10/09) 96 points Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar: "Inky ruby. Pungent, exotically perfumed aromas of dark berry compote, Asian spices and garrigue, with bright minerality adding vivacity. Powerful and deeply concentrated but also shockingly fresh and lithe, offering sweet red and dark berry flavors and notes of candied flowers and licorice. The finish is smooth, sappy and extremely persistent, with echoing floral and herb notes." (Jan/Feb 2010)

2007 Domaine Ferrand Châteauneuf-du-Pape (6 bottle limit) Pre-Arrival - 0 available ($129.99)

98+ points Robert Parker "An amazing effort, the 2007 Châteauneuf-du-Pape eclipses what I wrote about it last year. Every time I went back to it, the wine revealed more nuances as well as greater depth. Full-bodied and powerful, it exhibits a compelling bouquet of creme de cassis, ground pepper, incense, seaweed, garrigue, and licorice. The knock-out aromatics are followed by a wine with colossal richness, a multilayered texture, no sense of heaviness, an incredibly deep, penetrating palate feel, and a finish that goes on for 50+ seconds. Philippe Bravay is one of the most modest and serious Châteauneuf-du-Pape vignerons, and it is a thrill to see him hit a home run in this vintage...The dense purple-colored 2007 will benefit from 2-3 years of bottle age, and last for 20-25 years. Bravo! (10/09) 94 points Wine Spectator: "This is seriously dark, with bittersweet chocolate, braised beef, fig, tar and ground espresso notes leading the charge, while dark plum and currant fruit wait in the background. Cuts a broad swath on the muscular finish. Very backward, with a ways to go, this has harnessed more grip than most in this vintage. Best from 2010 through 2030" (11/09) 94 points Tanzer's IWC: "Bright ruby. Expressive aromas of raspberry, cherry, blood orange and dried flowers, with an undertone of zesty spices. Very fresh and incisive red fruit flavors are complemented by sweet lavender and rose pastille, and pick up a peppery nuance with air. Impressively balanced..."

2007 Domaine Charvin Châteauneuf-du-Pape Pre-Arrival - 0 available ($99.99)

97 points Robert Parker: "I believe the 2007 Châteauneuf-du-Pape is the finest wine ever made at Charvin. Their wines never achieve a lot of color, but this is one of the most saturated ones they have produced. The blend from the 45- to 50-year-old vines is 85% Grenache and the rest equal parts Syrah, Mourvedre, and Vaccarese, all aged in cement tanks prior to being bottled unfiltered. A terrific nose of kirsch, lavender, licorice, forest floor, and spice box soars from the glass of this full-bodied effort. With fabulous density, a multidimensional mouthfeel, and a 45+-second finish this brilliant, elegant, feminine-styled wine is loaded with concentration and intensity. Like many 2007 Châteauneuf-du-Pape, the extraordinary fruit level makes it hard to resist. However, it will be even better in 3-5 years, and should last for 15-20." (10/09) 92-95 points Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar: "Bright ruby. A strikingly complex bouquet of red and dark berries, kirsch, Asian spices and garrigue Very pure, fresh raspberry and blackberry flavors supported by a sexy undercurrent of tangy minerals. A candied floral quality builds on the finish, which refuses to let go. Impresses with elegance and clarity rather than brute force." (02/09) 95 points Wine Spectator: "...This has ample grip, but it's extremely graceful - a deft act in this vintage. Best from 2010 through 2030." (04/10)

2007 Domaine du Caillou "Les Quartz" Châteaunuef-du-Pape Pre-Arrival ($89.99)

95+ Robert Parker: "The prodigious 2007 Châteaunuef-du-Pape Les Quartz (85% Grenache aged totally in foudres and the rest Syrah, which is aged in small barrels) has terrific floral, raspberry, and black cherry notes intermixed with a striking minerality and precision. A Musigny grand cru Burgundian style of wine, with power and elegance, a thoroughly compelling flavor profile, and a rich, intense finish, the tannins are sweet and the well-integrated acidity gives uplift to the wine. Stunningly proportioned yet never heavy, this is a sensational wine that should only get better over the next few years and last for 15 or more." (10/09) 95 points Wine Spectator: "Really gorgeous, with layer upon layer of fig, boysenberry, blackberry and blueberry fruit, which stay polished and driven, while graphite, black tea and pastis notes fill in the background. Very rich, but supersilky, with great buried acidity. Drink now through 2029." (Web Only 2010) 94 points Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar: "Glass-staining ruby. Vivid raspberry and mulberry scents are complemented by dried violet and licorice. Showing more vivacity than it did last year, offering sweet red and dark berry flavors and showing no rough edges or obvious tannins. The finish repeats the dark berry and licorice notes and lingers with impressive persistence." (Jan/Feb 2010)

2008 Tabali Chardonnay Reserva Especial Limari Valley ($12.99)

91 points from Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate: "The 2008 Chardonnay Reserva Especial shows off the potential for Chardonnay in Limari. It delivers Côte de Beaune like aromatics of mineral, toast, white fruits, and hazelnut. Elegant, intense, with lively natural acidity, this lengthy effort may well evolve for 1-2 years and can be enjoyed through 2014. Tabali is producing high quality wines from the newly developing cool-climate region of Limari." Looking for Chile's next big thing? Then allow us to introduce you to the region of Limari, an arid viticultural area that is far north of Santiago, but kept cool by its proximity to the Pacific and the influence of the cool Humboldt current, which originates at the southernmost tip of Chile. The wine leads with clean apple and sweet citrus aromas, tangerines in particular. On the palate, the wine is surprisingly restrained and the oak very well-integrated, no surprise as a combination of second, third and fourth use French oak barrels are used for a discreet nine months of aging. It is this skillful winemaking, the cool climate location, and the high limestone content that likely make this as interesting a bottle of Chardonnay as it is. This is hands down the tastiest Chardonnay I have had from South America in a long while, possibly ever.

2007 Varner "Amphitheater Block" Santa Cruz Mountain Chardonnay ($34.99)

94 points Robert Parker: "The 2007 Chardonnay Amphitheater Block reveals tremendous minerality as well as abundant buttery lemon oil notes, a crisp, steely component, medium to full body, excellent texture, and lots of acidity. It is completely different from Chardonnays made further north." (02/10) There are few wineries in the Santa Cruz Mountains appellation that make wines as stunning as the Varner brothers. Twins Jim and Bob may not be as well known as John Kongsgaard or Steve Kistler,but many of their wines achieve the same grace and complexity all while clearly demonstrating a distinct sense of place. Sourced from the "Amphitheater Block" of the Spring Ridge Vineyard, which was first planted in 1980 and has been dry-farmed since 1988. Insecticide-free, non-interventionist vineyard practice combine with native yeast fermentation for stunning, characterful wine. This 2007 is crisp and citrusy, with plenty of acidity and terror. A consistent high-performer, the wine wows again with its relatively modest price tag.

2007 Varner "Bee Block" Santa Cruz Mountain Chardonnay ($36.99)

95 points Robert Parker: "The incredible 2007 Chardonnay Bee Block is a tour de force in mountain Chardonnay. Honeysuckle, creme brulee, buttered citrus, white peach, and baked apple characteristics emerge from this full-bodied, intense effort. With great acidity as well as fabulous precision and purity, it can be enjoyed over the next 7-8 years." (02/10) The 2007 vintage Chardonnay really showcases the Bee Block as a very special site. Planted to 25-year-old vines on sedimentary rock at 670-735 feet in elevation. Nicely structured, these will age well like the 2005s, with lemony-apple aromas, and a fleshy palate with just a kiss of minerals. One of the San Francisco Chronicle's Top 100 Wines of 2009: "Sharply mineral at first take, with deep-roasted lemon and quince. There's a coiled energy to it, with a textural weight and very subtle supporting oak. A rich lime-curd tone broadens out a long, taut finish. Deep, momentous Chardonnay from the talented Varner brothers." (12/09)

2007 Varner "Hidden Block" Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir ($34.99)

Varner's Hidden Block Pinot Noir comes from eight-year-old vines and shows its youth with exuberance and grace. Located just 10 miles from the rumbling, cool Pacific in the Santa Cruz Mountains, the site is a carefully cared for swath of porous, fractured sedimentary rock with naturally low yields. The wine's delicately perfumed nose and vibrant palate explode with dark cherries, red plums and sweet, forest floor, buoyed by the restrained use of new oak.

"Tour of California" Tent Event, K&L Hollywood: Saturday, April 17th 3-6 p.m. ($75.00)

K&L is celebrating our third anniversary in Hollywood with a Tour of California tent event in honor of Chip Hammack, one of our store managers who passed away last year after a courageous battle with cancer. A portion of the event's proceeds will be donated to the American Cancer Society. Wines from some of the biggest names in California, as well as from some of our favorite boutique producers, will be poured, including wines from Caymus, Lewis Cellars, Dominus, Joseph Phelps, Beaulieu Vineyards, Patz & Hall, Belle Glos, Seghesio, Ambullneo, Justin, Goldeneye, Ridge and Booker, with more producers being added daily. The event will be held at K&L Hollywood on Saturday, April 17th from 3-6 p.m. Tickets are $75 plus tax. We also have a spectacular package that includes one night at the fabulous new "W" Hotel Hollywood for $325. We hope to see you there.

2007 WH Smith "Maritime Vineyard" Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir ($39.99)

94 points Wine Enthusiast: "This has been a great bottling from W.H. Smith, and it is the most interesting and complex of the winery's current releases. Very dry, its elegantly silky structure frames intricate flavors of baked cherry, cherry skin, red currant, root beer, licorice and cedar, with an elaboration of Asian spices and a sprinkle of cocoa. Really fascinates as it changes in the glass, and best now and through 2013." (2/1/2009) 94 points Wine & Spirits: "Bill and Joan Smith, of La Jota on Howell Mountain, got involved with Sonoma Coast pinot noir in the early 1990s, when they purchased a parcel of land in Cazadero and began planting their Maritime Ridge Vineyard. This Maritime Pinot Noir comes from a vineyard further south, between Freestone and Occidental, where they purchase fruit from Marimar Torres; it's a blend of the Pommard clone and Dijon clones. The wine's power is tied to its bosky fruit, the tart cherry flavor bound to mineral tannins, both generous and a little sanguine or sauvage. All of it is suppressed by new oak at the moment, but there is plenty of wine to back up that oak and outlast it in the cellar." (04/09) And, according to Wine Spectator: "This greets with spicy, toasty oak aromas, then folds in spicy black cherry, mineral and cedar notes. Elegant and medium-bodied, with a complex touch of graphite and anise. Drink now through 2014." (Web only, 2009)

2006 Valpidio Ribera del Duero (Was $25) ($12.99)

Produced by a cooperative located in a remote village within the Ribera del Duero DO, this is very impressive wine. Despite the obvious quality of this wine, which is rich, aromatic, and as intensely flavored as you'd expect of a wine utilizing fruit from vines that are up to 100 years old, the distributor had a tough time moving it at its old price, so now we have a terrific deal on the remaining quantity.  If you enjoy experimenting with different expressions of Ribera del Duero, this would be a great wine to try out. 89 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "The 2006 Valpidio is 100% Tempranillo from vines averaging 40 years of age. It was aged for 8 months in French and American oak. Purple-colored, it delivers an enticing perfume of smoke, Asian spices, leather, and blackberry. This leads to a medium to full-bodied, ripe, spicy wine with ample fruit and enough structure to evolve for 2-3 years. Nicely balanced and long in the finish, it should drink well through 2020. It is an excellent value in Ribera del Duero." (02/08)

2006 Hestan "Stephanie" Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon ($49.99)

96 points Wine Enthusiast: "Classic and harmonious, a very solid Napa 100% Cabernet that's dry and firmly tannic in the mouth. Feels balanced, harmonious, ageworthy, a wine without seams or faults. Fruity, but not overly so, with the blackberries and black currants generously balanced by herbs, minerals and cedar. Very classic and noble wine, and one to cellar through at least 2018. Editors' Choice." (03/10) According to Robert Parker: "The 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon Stephanie reveals seductive plum, anise, and black currant flavors, and a pleasant smoky, slightly herbal character. In the mouth, the wine is medium-bodied, round, generous, and ideal for drinking over the next decade." (12/09)

2006 Anderson's Conn Valley "Eloge" Napa Valley Bordeaux Blend ($79.99)

95+ points Robert Parker: "The 2006 Eloge's dark plum/ruby color is followed by a sweet kiss of plum, black cherry, earth, licorice, and spice box, a medium to full-bodied wine, abundant tannin, and impressive concentration, purity, and overall complexity. Reasonably evolved, and extremely seductive aromatically, with a slightly structured finish, it can be enjoyed now and over the next 15 years. It is a blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Cabernet Franc, 7% Petit Verdot, and 3% Merlot." (12/09)

2007 Marchesi de' Frescobaldi "Tenuta Castiglioni" Tuscany ($21.99)

93 points Wine Spectator: "Intense aromas of currant, raisin and licorice, with hints of toasty oak. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a powerful currant, blackberry and mineral aftertaste. Dense, and all in reserve. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Sangiovese. Best after 2013." (10/09) The superb drinkability of the 2007 vintage shines through in this sleek, drinkable and bargain Super Tuscan. Beautiful cassis-like fruit flows from the Cabernet and gives the wine its frame, the softness of the Merlot gives suppleness to the structure; the Cab Franc adds spice, a personality and some intrigue, while the Sangiovese adds focus, a center and a fresh and vibrant finish. This is really a well made wine and a steal at the price. (Greg St.Clair, K&L's Italian wine buyer)

2007 Bouchard Pere et Fils Volnay 1er Cru "Clos des Chênes" Pre-Arrival ($59.99)

92 points Burghound: "Perfect integration of the of the oak treatment adds to the depth of the expressive, ripe, complex and densely fruited nose that offers up notes of red and blue pinot fruit as well as perfumed floral aromas that slide gracefully into rich, full and relatively powerful medium plus weight flavors that possess excellent mid-palate concentration with ample sap that really coats the palate and buffers the firm tannins on the wonderfully intense finish. I quite like this." (04/09) 91 points Wine Spectator: "Purity and grace describe this svelte red. Raspberry and cherry flavors are backed by refined, integrated tannins as this unfolds and lingers on the long, berry- and spice-filled finish. Best from 2012 through 2020." (11/09) 89-92 points Stephen Tanzer: "Good deep red. Cool aromas of bitter cherry, menthol and chocolate mint. Broad, round and mouthfilling, with subtle sweetness and very good lift to the cherry and mineral flavors. Finishes with lush tannins that coat the teeth." (Mar/Apr 09)

2007 Bouchard Pere et Fils Volnay 1er Cru "Taillepieds" Pre-Arrival ($59.99)

92 points Burghound: "A wonderfully elegant nose that features ripe red berry fruit and violet notes that complements to perfection the classy, refined, pure and reserved middle weight flavors that seem to be extracted from liquid stone, all wrapped in a gorgeously long finish that is less austere than is typical for Taillepieds. Terrific though patience required." (04/09) 89-91 points Stephen Tanzer: "Good deep red. Reticent, youthfully brooding nose offers black cherry and menthol. In a distinctly cool style, and clenched today owing to its firm acidity. A flavor of menthol currently dominates. This is much harder to taste than the Caillerets, finishing more tannic but long. Still on its lees." (Mar/Apr 09)

2007 Bouchard Pere et Fils Volnay 1er Cru "Les Caillerets - Ancienne Cuvée Carnot" Pre-Arrival ($69.99)

93 points Burghound: "Somewhat curiously, this possesses at once the most elegant, the ripest yet also the coolest nose among these three examples from Volnay with its lightly spiced black fruit and rose petal and violet nose that merges seamlessly with the rich, full, serious, firm yet utterly refined and intensely mineral suffused flavors that are focused, linear and hugely long. This is a striking wine and as good as the Taillepieds and Clos des Chênes are, this has another dimension of overall depth. Built to age and it will absolutely require it." (04/09) 93 points Wine Spectator: "This red shows a peppery side, with hints of animal and mineral. There's a core of raspberry and wild berry character, and though elegant, this is firmly structured. There's terrific energy and length. Best from 2012 through 2022." (11/09) 90-93 points Stephen Tanzer: "(tasted from cuve) Good medium red. Lovely lift and purity to the aromas of cassis, bitter chocolate and violet. Supple, sweet and delicious, with a juicy ripeness to the sappy dark chocolate and mineral flavors. Very nicely integrated acidity gives this a weightless feeling. Finishes with sweet tannins and very good mineral lift. A classic Volnay in the making." (Mar/Apr 09)

2007 Bouchard Pere et Fils Le Corton Grand Cru Pre-Arrival ($89.99)

92-95 Burghound: "A truly magnificently complex nose that is layered, dense and broad with a mix of red berry fruits, earth, spice, smoke, meat and leather with a distinct animale character that leads to very rich, full and powerful big-bodied flavors that culminate in a peacock's tail of a finish as this really fans out. The tannins are dense but fine and the length seems to go on and on. Impressive and built like it." (04/09) 90-92 points Stephen Tanzer: "Good deep red. Aromas of black fruits, graphite and minerals. Rich and sweet if a bit youthfully inexpressive, with a suave, velvety texture to the flavors of black cherry and tar. Finishes long, silky and rich but reserved, with fine-grained tannins. Director Stephane Follin-Arbelet notes that this wine is a blend of four or five different vats and is thus more complex than most of the foregoing samples." (Mar/Apr 09) 91 points Wine Spectator: "On the gamy side, with a feral streak complemented by cherry, black currant, herb and mineral notes. The tannins are firm and dry now, but there's fruit and length, so be patient with this. Best from 2013 through 2024." (10/09)

2007 Bouchard Pere et Fils Meursault 1er Cru "Genevrieres" Pre-Arrival ($89.99)

93 points Burghound: "This offers yet another, and more complete, dimension of aromatic depth as well as a bit more elegance with a naturally spicy and mildly exotic fruit nose that is seductive and pure. The detailed, precise and pure medium-bodied flavors possess excellent transparency and impressive finishing power on the mouth coating finish where plenty of dry extract is evident. Terrific." (07/09) 93 points Stephen Tanzer: "Sexy aromas of lemon verbena, minerals, oatmeal, hazelnut and toast, lifted by a floral topnote. Suave, broad and dry, with the energy of the vintage coming through. Long and tactile on the aftertaste. Winemaker Prost noted that his 2007s typically finished with between 1.2 and 1.5 grams per liter of residual sugar, while the 2008s are a bit sweeter, ranging from 1.8 to 2.7." (Sept/Oct 09) 91 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "With the addition of a parcel formerly owned by Ropiteau-Mignon to their original plots in this vineyard, Bouchard's 2007 Meursault Genevrieres now represents around 15% of its appellation. It evinces village-typical toasted almond, hazelnut and grain as it takes on air. Polished and creamy, with succulent suggestions of peach and orange, this is less emphatic but more nuanced in perfume and spice than the corresponding Gouttes d'Or, and hauntingly persistent. I would expect it top be worth following for the better part of a decade." (12/09)

2007 Bouchard Pere et Fils Meursault 1er Cru "Perrières" Pre-Arrival ($89.99)

94 points Burghound: "A less expressive but even more complex nose features acacia blossom, pear and citrus aromas nuanced by an almost pungent minerality that continues onto the pure, detailed and almost painfully intense flavors that possess serious delineation on the notably ripe and sappy finish. I was knocked out by this textbook Perrières. Highly recommended." (07/09) 93 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "The Bouchard 2007 Meursault Perrieres is more vibrant and dynamic as well as more pronouncedly and complexly mineral than the estate's other 2007 vintage Meursault bottlings, exhibiting a rich texture allied to a vibratory intensity of interchange between citric, pit fruit, mineral, and rich toasted nut, grain, and malt elements. Zesty, chalky, and saline notes add invigoration in the finish, and the high-toned aromas here suggest distilled strength, and spirituous penetration. 'Penetrating' is also the word for the dynamically complex finish here. I would anticipate following this with high expectations over the next 8-10 years." (12/09) 93 points Stephen Tanzer: "Very pale, bright color. Ethereal aromas and flavors of citrus peel and crushed stone. Taut and penetrating, with terrific purity and delicacy. For all its acid spine and minerality, this superb premier cru maintains a pliant texture. Not more complex than the Genevrieres but at least as refined." (Sept/Oct 09)

2007 Bouchard Pere et Fils Vosne-Romanée 1er Cru "Les Suchots" Pre-Arrival ($119.99)

92-95 points Stephen Tanzer: "Good medium red. Aromas of musky strawberry, raspberry and stone, plus an exotic liqueur-like element of chocolate-covered cherries and a whiff of stone. Lush and suave but sappy, with superb energy and inner-mouth perfume provided by tangy flavors of pepper, crushed stone and flinty minerality. This very sharply delineated wine finishes with a magically light touch that's almost electric. A potentially exceptional premier cru." (Mar/Apr 09) 93 points Burghound: "A discreet application of wood does not intrude on the ripe and seductively spicy red, blue and black pinot fruit that complements the velvety and mouth coating flavors that possess the generosity of a classic Suchots but there is first rate depth that accompanies the superb length. The supporting tannins are firm but equally ripe and this should age well as the balance is impeccable. Excellent quality." (04/09)

2007 Bouchard Pere et Fils Vosne-Romanée 1er Cru "Aux Malconsorts" Pre-Arrival ($129.99)

91-93 points Stephen Tanzer: "Deep ruby-red. The nose shows a darker character than the Suchots: black cherry, dark chocolate, licorice and menthol. Dense, broad and perfumed but rather brooding today, with less in the way of treble notes than the Suchots. This is velvety rather than silky in the sense of more weight on the palate. A big boy, finishing with mineral and underbrush nuances and serious structure. This is the last year in which Bouchard got these grapes in a trade with the Montille family." (Mar/Apr 09)

2007 Bouchard Pere et Fils Corton-Charlemagne Grand Cru Pre-Arrival ($129.99)

96 points Burghound: A cool, airy, complex and gorgeously elegant nose is more restrained than these Puligny-based grands crus while offering up notes of green apple, pain grillé, stone and very subtle spice notes that merge into rich, full and impressively powerful flavors that possess perhaps the best dry extract levels of any wine in the range as they really stain the palate on the intense, long and bone dry finish that seems to have no end. There isn't quite as much overall depth here as in the Montrachet but otherwise, this succeeds in going to toe to toe, which is not small feat given how good the prior wine is." (07/09) 96 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "Bouchard's 2007 Corton-Charlemagne - the last wine they picked - offers another of those occasions for reflecting on a bit of Burgundian craziness: a grand cru wine presented last in a stellar line-up, yet that costs on-half to one-third that of the other grand cru bottlings that preceded it. A striking and intensely pungent aroma of holly berry, fresh ginger, and lime zest leads to a vivacious, silken-textured, chalky, saline, crustacean palate. For all of this wine's sheer intensity and palpable sense of underlying extract, it shares lift, buoyancy, and overall elegance with its Chevalier-Montrachet counterparts and preserves the energy and primary, juicy refreshment that goes with its vintage. The diversity and persistence of mineral elements here are memorable..." (12/09)

2007 Bouchard Pere et Fils Chapelle-Chambertin Grand Cru Pre-Arrival ($169.99)

93 points Burghound: "An elegant, pure, ripe, cool and layered nose of primarly red pinot fruit that has added depth in the form of Gevrey style earth notes as well as subtle underbrush and a smoky character that precedes the mineral and soil-driven medium full-bodied flavors that retain a fine sense of detail and verve on the long, complex and palate staining finish. This doesn't quite have the sheer depth of material as say the Bonnes Mares or the Bèze but it's not far off and I particularly admire the underlying sense of tension." (04/09) 90-93 points Stephen Tanzer: "Saturated ruby-red. Wild black fruit and bitter chocolate aromas lifted by mint and orange peel. Wonderfully sweet and round-in fact, downright spherical in texture-with fully ripe berry flavors remaining just this side of exotic. A bit monolithic compared to a wine like the Bonnes-Mares but impressive nevertheless. Finishes with substantial ripe tannins. Like Bouchard's Clos de Beze, this wine is from Pierre Damoy fruit." (Mar/Apr 09)

2007 Bouchard Pere et Fils Chambertin-Clos de Bèze Grand Cru Pre-Arrival ($229.99)

93-96 points Stephen Tanzer: "(this was racked and blended in September) Bright red-ruby. Multidimensional nose of redcurrant, blueberry, minerals, spices, earth, licorice, mint and citrus peel. Suave on entry, then vibrant and classy in the middle palate, conveying powerful minerality and perfume and a very suave impression of weightlessness. This wonderfully refined and crisp wine makes the Chapelle seem heavy by comparison. Wonderfully zesty on the explosive back end, which features very fine tannins and piquant notes of bitter chocolate and mint." (Mar/Ap 2009) 93-95 points Burghound: "As it usually does, this offers another level of aromatic complexity with a highly spiced nose trimmed in a subtle touch of wood that does not interfere with the overall transparency of either the nose or the palate as this is pure, classy and refined. Moreover, the tannins are also more refined, which is unusual, and this completely stains the palate on the hugely long finish. A balanced, stylish and beguiling Bèze that is built to age, and improve, for up to two decades." (04/09)

2007 Bouchard Pere et Fils Bonnes Mares Grand Cru Pre-Arrival ($259.99)

95 points Burghound: "A serious, tight and brooding nose though aggressive swirling coaxes intensely floral, pure and elegant notes of very ripe black cherry and currant that merge into broad-shouldered and well-muscled flavors that offer excellent volume and concentration, all wrapped in an explosive and moderately austere finish. This is flat out terrific and blessed with huge amounts of dry extract. This should age extremely well but note that it is a wine for the very patient." (04/09) 91-94 points Stephen Tanzer: "Bright, deep red-ruby. Highly complex nose combines crushed blackberry, cherry and licorice; like a clafouti of black fruits. Quite silky on entry, then clenched in the middle, with blackberry and tar flavors displaying a serious medicinal reserve and no easy sweetness. In comparison, the estate Clos Vougeot is more expressive today. Finishes tannic and extremely unevolved." (Mar/Apr 2009)

2007 Bouchard Pere et Fils Chevalier-Montrachet Grand Cru Pre-Arrival ($259.99)

95 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "A dramatic and alluring display of floral perfume rises from the glass of Bouchard 2007 Chevalier-Montrachet, suggesting iris, hibiscus, lemon blossom, and lavender. These segue into lemon oil, white peach, and Persian melon on the palate, tinged with salt and chalk and leading to a buoyant finish of lip-smacking savor, ravishing floral persistence, and hypnotic subtlety. This should be capable of inducing a rapturous trance over the coming decade, and hopefully for longer." (12/09) 94 points Burghound: "A discreet touch of oak highlights the naturally spicy floral and high-toned orchard and green fruit aromas before giving way to textured, sappy and almost painfully intense full-bodied flavors brimming with both dry extract and ample minerality on the hugely long and impeccably balanced finish. This is a really lovely wine that possesses everything it needs to deliver a first-rate drinking experience with a decade of cellar time. As good as this is, and it is very impressive, it's not necessarily superior to the magnificent Perrières though it may require a bit more bottle age to arrive at its peak." (07/09) 94 points Stephen Tanzer: "Pale yellow. Citrus peel, wet stone, flowers and a saline nuance on the nose. Wonderfully ripe, broad and rich but classically dry, with the stony quality currently dominating the middle palate. Best today on the extremely long, grapefruity finish, which opens like a peacock's tail." (Sept/Oct 09)

2007 Bouchard Pere et Fils Chevalier-Montrachet Grand Cru "La Cabotte" Pre-Arrival ($499.99)

96 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "Reflecting a terrace adjacent to Le Montrachet (one of four Bouchard terraces that collectively constitute around one third of this great cru) the 2007 Chevalier-Montrachet La Cabotte offers a floral bouquet as ravishing as that of its 'regular' Chevalier-Montrachet counterpart. Here the scents range from iris through orange blossom, and including that of the flowering vines themselves. This is even more penetrating yet also more rarified than its immediate sibling, with the high-toned floral notes again carrying along with citrus oils all the way into the finish, here characterized by transparency to and a dynamically shimmering interchange with saline, stony, and savory crustacean mineral elements. A hint of white pepper adds invigoration to the litany of luscious fruit and intriguing mineral characteristics of this subtly creamy-textured, uncannily buoyant expression of a great site which - although Bouchard has appealed to the authorities in past for a reclassification as Montrachet - strikes me as distinctively Chevalier in personality, or perhaps in this vintage like a cross between Montrachet and Les Preuses! I both hope and anticipate that this will be worth following for well more than a decade, but anyone lucky enough to acquire some would be crazy not to begin enjoying it young." (12/09)

2007 Bouchard Pere et Fils Montrachet Grand Cru Pre-Arrival ($549.99)

97 points Burghound: "While not more elegant than the Cabotte, this is quite a bit more complex with a stunning range of fruit, citrus, floral and spice aromas that complement to perfection the very rich, full and strikingly concentrated broad-scaled flavors that are supported by plenty of dry extract that buffers a firm core of ripe acidity on the beautifully intense and flat out incredibly lingering finish. What really impresses me about the '07 though is that despite the impressive heft, the finish remains laser-like in its focus. A 'wow' wine in every sense except for one, which is that this is not an imposing or massive vintage for this wine. Otherwise, this is sensational, especially in terms of its impeccable balance." (07/09) 94 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "The Bouchard 2007 Montrachet is scented with peaches, ocean breezes, narcissus, musk, and a hint of sweat, setting the tone for a creamy palate brimming with richly ripe fruit and invigoratingly tinged with salt, sweat, white pepper, lemon zest, and peach fuzz. This is more emphatically concentrated than its Chevalier counterparts as well as - predictably - more overtly rich, but less alluring, and lacking the dynamic or lift that made the La Cabotte bottling especially memorable. Still it is formidably rich stuff, which one hopes will display stamina in bottle concomitant with its palate persistence. If I had some, I would not open a bottle for several years and would anticipate a decade or more..."

2008 Sojourn Cellars Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir ($37.99)

93 points in the Pinot Report: "Medium ruby color; somewhat tight on the nose with earthy, spicy aromas; deep and rich cherry flavors as wine opens up with spice and earthy notes; very silky texture, nice sweet oak notes; good structure and balance; long finish. Full of potential, this is a Pinot that shows well now with air but really needs some time to develop. Patience...." (01/10) According to Robert Parker: "The moderate ruby-colored 2008 Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast reveals lush, rich, plum, and black cherry aromas and flavors with hints of roasted herbs and underbrush. With medium to full body and a silky style, it can be enjoyed over the next 4-5 years." (02/10)

By:Keith Mabry | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: 3/2/2010 The Sonoma Coast bottling is comprised of Fedrick, Windsor Oaks and Sangiacomo Vineyard fruit. The wine opens with ripe, plush fruit, spice and a touch of earth. It has that silky feeling that makes it immediately accessible and extremely pleasing right now, but there is enough backbone to warrant a year or two in the cellar.

2008 Sojourn Cellars "Sangiacomo Vineyard" Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir ($46.99)

97 points from the Pinot Report: "Medium-deep ruby color; deep, spicy clove and dark cherry aromas; big, rich, ripe, dark cherry flavors with spicy clove and earthy notes; very silky texture; good structure and balance; long finish. Rich, ripe and very complex Pinot with an amazing core of fruit; beautiful to drink now but will definitely improve with age. Great Pinot from a great vineyard." (01/10) According to Robert Parker: "Slightly closed, but similarly-styled, the 2008 Pinot Noir Sangiacomo Vineyard exhibits soft berry fruit intertwined with hints of sassafras, herbs, and sandalwood. It is a medium-bodied, fruity, round Pinot to consume over the next 3-4 years..." (02/10)

By:Keith Mabry | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: 3/2/2010 Sojourn’s flagship, the Sangiacomo is sourced from two distinct blocks within the vineyard, one planted in an old creek bed and the other in deeper loam soils. Still feeling the influence of the Petaluma Gap, there is a deep core of fruit to this wine. Surrounded by rich cherry flavors, clove, cinnamon, earth and spice, it is a seriously complex wine that should improve for several years.

2008 Sojourn Cellars "Gap's Crown Vineyard" Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir ($46.99)

95 points in the Pinot Report: "Medium-deep ruby color; deep, complex blueberry and dark cherry aromas with lots of spicy notes; rich. ripe, complex dark cherry and blueberry pie flavors; spice and earthy notes; silky texture, sweet oak; great structure and balance; long finish. Incredibly complex and full of flavor, this Pinot has a lot of time ahead of it but also drinks well now." (01/10) 91 points Robert Parker: "An exceptional effort, the 2008 Pinot Noir Gap's Crown Vineyard's dark ruby/garnet color is followed by a big, sweet kiss of plum sauce intermixed with kirsch, sweet cherries, and a hint of underlying minerality. Medium to full-bodied with outstanding purity, texture, and length, this beauty can be drunk over the next 5-8 years." (02/10)

By:Keith Mabry | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: 3/2/2010 The Gap’s Crown Vineyard is on the west-facing slopes of Sonoma Mountain, where it also feels the influence of the high winds and cool fog of the Petaluma Gap. Its rocky soil and severe terrain naturally stress the vines, making Gap’s Crown one of the most desirable vineyards in the region. Darker fruit dominates the wine’s character, with black cherry, blueberry and spice. Grippier than the Rodgers Creek, giving a wonderful mouthfeel with Burgundian flair.

2008 Sojourn Cellars "Rodgers Creek" Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir ($46.99)

93 points in the Pinot Report: "Medium-deep ruby color; deep, concentrated, berry aromas; deep, ripe berry and red cherry flavors with earthy, mineral notes and sweet oak; good structure and balance; long finish. Deep and concentrated Pinot that makes a good statement for this new vineyard in the Petaluma Gap region." (01/10) 90 points Robert Parker: "Sweet black cherry, licorice, forest floor, and floral notes are found in the attractive, dark plum-hued 2008 Pinot Noir Rodgers Creek Vineyard. The wine possesses velvety tannins, a medium to full-bodied mouthfeel, and more complexity than the generic or Windsor Oaks offerings. It should drink nicely for 5-7 years." (02/10)

By:Keith Mabry | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: 3/2/2010 It seems that each year Erich and Craig add a new Pinot fruit source. The 2008 Rodgers Creek is the first vintage they have produced of this wine, and it is a welcome addition. Rodgers Creek is located on a ridge in the Petaluma Gap, which is one of the coolest growing regions in Sonoma, and is ideally suited for producing classic Pinot Noir. The vines are grown in light chalky soils on steep inclines, causing natural vine stress and resulting in high levels of concentration. Even though this is a cool climate site, the wine has wonderful depth and expression. There is rich red fruit, a touch of minerality, a hint of toast and a wonderful silky feel.

Burgundy Dinner at Gordon Ramsay at the London, 6:30pm on Thursday, March 11th ($140.00)

This incredible Burgundy dinner at the famed Gordon Ramsay at the London will feature the following producers and their wines: Domaine Philippe Colin will pour the Chassagne Montrachet 1er Cru Chenevottes 2007 and Chevalier Montrachet 2007. Domaine Bruno Colin will pour the Chassagne Montrachet 2007 and Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru Vergers 2007. Domaine Matrot will pour the Meursault 2007, Meursault 1er Cru Charmes 2007 and Meursault Rouge 2006. Finally, Domaine D'Angerville will pour the Volnay Premier Cru 2007 and Volnay 1er Cru Champans 2007.

Burgundy Dinner at STK, 6:30pm on Thursday, March 11th ($140.00)

This intimate Burgundy dinner will be held at STK and will feature the following producers and their wines: Domaine Blain-Gagnard will pour the Chassagne Montrachet 1er Cru Morgeot 2006 and Chassagne Montrachet 1er Cru Caillerets 2007. Domaine Gagnard-Delagrange will pour the Chassagne Montrachet 1er Cru Morgeot 2007 and Chassagne Montrachet 1er Cru Rouge 2007. Domaine Pierre Gelin will pour the Gevrey Chambertin 2007 and Fixin Clos Napoléon 2007. Finally, Domaine Roumier will pour the Chambolle Musigny 2007 and Morey-St-Denis Clos de la Bussière 2007.

Burgundy Dinner at the Belvedere Private Dining Room at the Peninsula, 6:30pm on Thursday, March 11th ($140.00)

An intimate Bugundy dinner held in the Belvedere's private dining room at the Peninsula Hotel. This evet will feature the following producers and their wines: Domaine Ramonet will pour the Chassagne Montrachet 1er Cru Boudriotte 2007, Chassagne Montrachet 1er Cru Vergers 2007 and Chassagne Montrachet 1er Cru Clos St Jean Rouge 2007. Domaine De Courcel will pour the Pommard Clos des Epenots 2006 and Pommard Rugiens 2007. Finally, Domaine Tollot-Beaut will pour the Chorey Cotes de Beaune 2007 and Corton Bressandes 2007.

Burgundy Dinner at the Chef's Table at the Montage, 6:30pm on Thursday, March 11th ($140.00)

Enjoy an expertly prepared dinner at the Chef's Table at the Montage, as well as intimate conversation and wine with the following producers and their wines: Domaine Michel Niellon will pour the Chassagne Montrachet 1er Cru Champgains 2007 and Chassagne Montarchet 1er Cru Chaumées 2007. Domaine Alain Chavy will pour the Puligny Montrachet 2007 and Puligny Montrachet 1er Cru Folatières 2007. Domaine Grivot will pour the Vosne-Romanée 2007 and Nuits-St-Georges 1er Cru Boudots 2007. Finally, Domaine Aurelien Verdet will pour the Hauts Cotes de Nuits 2007 and Nuits-St-Georges 2007.

2006 Freestone Vineyards "Fog Dog" Chardonnay Sonoma Coast ($23.99)

93 points Robert Parker: "My favorite of these whites is the 2006 Chardonnay Freestone Vineyard Fog Dog. (I learned that Fog Dog is an expression used when there is a slight break in a fog bank, and clear skies can be seen.) This beautiful Chardonnay offers white peach, honeysuckle, and citrus characteristics nicely framed by acidity as well as noteworthy minerality. This fresh, lively, medium to full-bodied 2006 can be enjoyed over the next 2-3 years." (12/08) 93 points Wine Enthusiast: "Just what you want from a Sonoma Coast Chard. It's bone dry, crisp in cool-climate acidity, and elegant, with a minerally tang to the Meyer lemon fruit. Oak barrels bring richer notes of vanilla and buttered toast. Beautiful, and should hold through 2012." (09/09) 91 points Wine Spectator: "Delivers a beam of fresh, vibrant peach, nectarine and green apple fruit that's rich and full-bodied, ending with a touch of spice and a lingering finish. Drink now through 2012." (06/09)

2006 Freestone "Ovation" Chardonnay Sonoma Coast (Was $49.99) ($29.99)

Save 40% on this gorgeous wine! 94 Wine Enthusiast: "Acidity, dryness and steely minerality characterize this Chard. It has lemon and vanilla flavors that are brisk and clean. It's refreshing to get such an elegant alternative to today's ripe, fruity Chards. Gets better and better as it warms in the glass. Drink this brilliant wine with shellfish, sourdough bread and lots of butter." (09/09) 92 points Robert Parker: "The 2006 Chardonnay Freestone Vineyard Ovation reveals crisp lemon blossom, white citrus, crushed rock, flower, and orange blossom characteristics, and beautiful texture, freshness, and elegance. It is undeniably a successful Chardonnay in a challenging vintage for this varietal in Sonoma. This can be enjoyed over the next 2-3 years." (12/08) 91 points Wine Spectator: "Fresh and vibrant, with lively acidity and snappy pear, apple and citrus shadings. Still a touch crisp and flinty in a good way, this is full-bodied and ends with a long, clean finish. Drink now through 2013." (06/09)

2007 Flowers Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir ($37.99)

94 points Wine and Spirit Magazine: "The Flowers team blends this from their estate fruit grown on the far coast around Fort Ross with selected lots from vineyards in the Russian River Valley, consistently producing one of the most graceful pinot noirs in the New World. In 2007, the wine has a brisk, foresty scent, bright red fruit in the middle and delicacy to the tannic weave. Hints of black tea, pink grapefruit, cranberry and salt all contribute to the complexity. The flavors are saturated while the wine remains transparent. Completely satisfying, this is a wine to buy by the case." (04/10) Flowers Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir boasts tart cherry, raspberry and plum notes on the nose. The fruity bouquet is supported by a clean minerality with hints of spice and violet. On the palate, red and black fruit with a leathery undercurrent sit on a frame of juicy acidity. The tannins are fine and supple and the finish shows whispers of cola and smoke.

2006 Napa Angel by Montes Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon ($34.99)

92 points Wine Enthusiast: "From Chilean winemaker Aurelio Montes comes this Cab of considerable depth and power. It shows well-developed blackberry and cassis flavors. The tannins are significant. Give it until 2011 to begin to open, and it should drink well through 2014. Cellar Selection." (03/10) 90 points and one star from the Connoisseurs Guide to California Wine: "By Montes. Deep, impressively extracted and brimming with lots of keenly defined and carefully oaked Cabernet fruit, this nicely crafted effort is at once both very rich and shows a fine sense of proportion and polish that wins it high marks. It has lots to offer the impatient drinker, but its greatest strength lies in structure and balance, and it promises to age famously for five years and more in the cellar." (04/09)

2006 Napa Angel by Montes "Aurelio's Selection" Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon ($79.99)

97 points and a Cellar Selection, Wine Enthusiast: "From Chilean winemaker, Aurelio Montes, this 100% Cabernet shows massively concentrated flavors of ripe blackberries and cassis, with richer notes of dark chocolate, anise, spices and smoky cedar. What an amazing tannin structure, intricate, fine and complex. A wine to drink now for sheer opulence or to age for at least a dozen years." (03/10) 92 points and two stars from the Connoisseurs' Guide to California Wine: "By Montes. Chilean winemaker, Aurelio Montes, joins an elite crowd of high-achievers in Napa Valley with a stunning pair of new Cabernet releases. This, the winery's flagship bottling, is a substantial and serious wine by any and all measures, and its combination of concentrated curranty fruit, lavish oak and rich, loam and tobacco-leaf qualities will win loud applause from all who champion hedonistic, optimally ripened, full-flavored Cabs. For all of its up-front appeals, however, it is a solidly structured wine that cries out for age, and it is bound to get better for a decade or more." (04/09)

2008 Tabali Chardonnay Reserva Especial Limari Valley ($12.99)

91 points from Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate: "The 2008 Chardonnay Reserva Especial shows off the potential for Chardonnay in Limari. It delivers Côte de Beaune like aromatics of mineral, toast, white fruits, and hazelnut. Elegant, intense, with lively natural acidity, this lengthy effort may well evolve for 1-2 years and can be enjoyed through 2014. Tabali is producing high quality wines from the newly developing cool-climate region of Limari." Looking for Chile's next big thing? Then allow us to introduce you to the region of Limari, an arid viticultural area that is far north of Santiago, but kept cool by its proximity to the Pacific and the influence of the cool Humboldt current, which originates at the southernmost tip of Chile. The wine leads with clean apple and sweet citrus aromas, tangerines in particular. On the palate, the wine is surprisingly restrained and the oak very well-integrated, no surprise as a combination of second, third and fourth use French oak barrels are used for a discreet nine months of aging. It is this skillful winemaking, the cool climate location, and the high limestone content that likely make this as interesting a bottle of Chardonnay as it is. This is hands down the tastiest Chardonnay I have had from South America in a long while, possibly ever.

2008 Michel Delhommeau "Harmonie" Muscadet Sèvre et Maine Sur Lie ($12.99)

91 points - Wine Advocate: "The nose of lime, chalk, and sea air will pique your appetite and set you salivating even before it hits the palate or rather, I am inclined to say, before you hit the surface of its seemingly bottomless pool of saline, citric refreshment. The amalgam of fresh lime, grapefruit, rhubarb, salt, citrus pips, and iodine on the palate puts me a bit in mind of certain Gruner Veltliner, but the combination of sheer intensity with alcoholic lightness and this wine’s juicy, effortless elegance, as well as the sheer mineral vocabulary required in an attempt to capture its finish are archetypal Muscadet. Relish this anytime over the next 2-3 years." From a single parcel of old vines planted on gabbro soils, this wine is a smack in the face with its sharp, stony minerality. But that component is matched and balanced with rich tropical notes of mango and pineapple. A very nice snap runs through the middle and zingy sharp finish leaves your lips smacking for another sip.

2006 Bonny Doon "Le Pousseur" Central Coast Syrah ($14.99)

93 points an "Editors' Choice" and #32 in the Wine Enthusiasts' Best of the Year 2009: "This bottling, which is Randall Grahm’s hommage to the Northern Rhône, has varied over the vintages, but with this 2006, hits the mark as never before. Made with a splash of Grenache, it’s full-bodied, bone dry and compelling in the intricacy of flavors. The blackberries, black cherries, licorice, and raspberries have elements of roasted meats and wild mushrooms sautéed in butter, tamari and a few drops of balsamic, liberally dusted with black pepper. Unique and compelling, and should develop over the next six years." (8/1/2009)

By:Gary Westby | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: 2/16/2010 I am impressed to see value coming back in California wine, and this is a fine example of that good trend! Yesterday I was on my bike going up Bonny Doon on a perfect "spring preview" day. Today, tasting the Le Pousseur I immediately thought of spring lamb. This smoky, savory Syrah would be perfect for a rare leg, or even a braised shank.

2005 Henry's Drive Reserve Shiraz Padthaway South Australia (Elsewhere $50) ($26.99)

93 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "The 2005 Shiraz Reserve was sourced entirely from estate fruit and was aged in 85% new oak. The wine is a glass-coating purple/black with an alluring perfume of toast, bacon, smoked meat, blueberry, and licorice. Deeper and richer than the 'regular' Shiraz, it also has enough structure to merit 4-6 years of cellaring. The wine's finish is long and pure. Henry's Drive is owned by Kim and Mark Longbottom with Kim Jackson as winemaker. This task was previously handled by Sparky and Sarah Marquis but in this, the second vintage after their departure, Henry's Drive has not missed a beat." (10/07) 91 points Wine Spectator: "Bright and open-textured, with pretty raspberry and currant flavors at the core, lingering nicely against finely polished tannins. Has depth and focus, with a coffee note adding interest as the finish rolls on elegantly. Drink now through 2015." (05/08)

2006 Freestone "Ovation" Chardonnay Sonoma Coast (Was $49.99) ($29.99)

Save 40% on this gorgeous wine! 94 Wine Enthusiast: "Acidity, dryness and steely minerality characterize this Chard. It has lemon and vanilla flavors that are brisk and clean. It's refreshing to get such an elegant alternative to today's ripe, fruity Chards. Gets better and better as it warms in the glass. Drink this brilliant wine with shellfish, sourdough bread and lots of butter." (09/09) 92 points Robert Parker: "The 2006 Chardonnay Freestone Vineyard Ovation reveals crisp lemon blossom, white citrus, crushed rock, flower, and orange blossom characteristics, and beautiful texture, freshness, and elegance. It is undeniably a successful Chardonnay in a challenging vintage for this varietal in Sonoma. This can be enjoyed over the next 2-3 years." (12/08) 91 points Wine Spectator: "Fresh and vibrant, with lively acidity and snappy pear, apple and citrus shadings. Still a touch crisp and flinty in a good way, this is full-bodied and ends with a long, clean finish. Drink now through 2013." (06/09)

2004 La Velona Brunello di Montalcino ($34.99)

92 points Wine Spectator "Very ripe, with sweet berry and light dried currant aromas that follow through to a full body, with toasty oak, wild fruits and polished tannins. Rich and delicious already. Drink now through 2015. 1,830 cases made." (07/09) 92 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate " The 2004 Brunello di Montalcino opens with earthiness, tar, leather and licorice that lead to a core of expansive dark fruit. This sepia-toned Brunello grows in the glass, adding multiple dimensions to its weighty frame but most of its appeal is up-front as the intensity trails off a bit on the mid-palate. Generous and beautifully-balanced, the wine offers outstanding poise and an elegant finish. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2019. Wine Advocate # 183 Jun 2009 Antonio Galloni " (Currently listed as Castello di Velona, they are correcting)

2007 Varner "Hidden Block" Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir ($34.99)

Varner's Hidden Block Pinot Noir comes from eight-year-old vines and shows its youth with exuberance and grace. Located just 10 miles from the rumbling, cool Pacific in the Santa Cruz Mountains, the site is a carefully cared for swath of porous, fractured sedimentary rock with naturally low yields. The wine's delicately perfumed nose and vibrant palate explode with dark cherries, red plums and sweet, forest floor, buoyed by the restrained use of new oak.

2006 Smith-Haut-Lafitte Rouge, Pessac-Léognan ($39.99)

93 points Robert Parker: "A top-notch success, the dense ruby/purple-colored 2006 Smith-Haut-Lafitte offers aromas of smoky, juicy black currants, graphite, earth, truffles, and forest floor. Full-bodied with superb purity, noticeable but sweet tannins, this round, generous, long wine should drink nicely for 15-20+ years." (02/09) 92 points Wine Spectator: "Gorgeous aromas of dark chocolate, cappuccino and berries lead to a full body, with luscious fruit and round tannins. Long and voluptuous for the vintage. Impressive. Best after 2014." (03/09) 92 points Stephen Tanzer: "Full red-ruby. Expressive nose offers plum, black raspberry, tobacco, mocha, truffle, licorice and herbs. Suave, fine-grained and vibrant; generous and plush yet light on its feet. Finishes very long and classy, with sweet tannins, terrific energy and palate-coating persistence and perfume. Not as fat or full as the 2005, but just a step behind that wine." (May/June '09) K&L's notes - 65% Cab, 30% Merlot, 5% Cab Franc. At Joanne - Toasty oak aromas and good depth of flavor. A touch of tonic on the nose? Has tannins, but fruit is coming out. At property - Very toasty aromas with a touch of tobacco and coffee. Fine, toasty red fruit flavors. This is powerful wine for aging. Rounded tannins. *1/2 Ralph Sands: The round and ripe fruit is a touch exotic with hints of earth and white pepper. he Smith wines continue to get better and better. On 01/23/09: Toasted oak. Sweet and lush. Sexy wine!

2007 Domaine du Vieux Telegraphe "La Crau" Châteauneuf-du-Pape ($69.99)

96+ points Robert Parker: "The 2007 Vieux Telegraphe may be the greatest wine made at this property since the 2005 and 1998. Dense ruby/purple-tinged with an exquisite nose of salty sea breezes, licorice, ground pepper, jammy black cherries, black currants, figs, and plums, this is a full-bodied, rich, Provencal-styled offering with lots of sweet, ripe tannin. It is surprisingly accessible for a Vieux Telegraphe (this wine normally shuts down several years after bottling), but it should have great longevity (25+ years) given its power, full-bodied mouthfeel, and enormous length and richness. This is a brilliant effort from brothers Frederic and Daniel Brunier." (10/09) 95 points Wine Spectator & #3 Wine Spectator's Top 100 Wines 2009: "Packed, in a brawny, muscular style atypical for this lush vintage, with a gravelly undertow to the currant paste, braised fig and dark licorice notes. Picks up even more steam on the finish, with grilled mesquite, mineral and garrigue notes and a long, hot stone¿filled finish. Best from 2010 through 2030." (12/09) 93 points Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar: "Glass-staining ruby. Highly pungent bouquet offers black fruit compote, olive and floral qualities, along with a slightly high-toned quality that recedes with air. The palate-coating, deeply concentrated cassis and blackberry flavors display a slow-mounting spiciness. Pretty powerful for a wine from this estate, showing more heft and dark fruit character than...(Jan/Feb 2010)

By:Keith Wollenberg | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: 2/26/2010 I thought this would be very backwards and need tremendous time in the cellar. But due to the ripeness of 2007, once it had been open a day it had charming, rich fruit and was extremely drinkable. Feeling hedonistic? Go ahead and decant this and enjoy it now, or put it away for a nap in your cellar.

By:Keith Mabry | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: 3/1/2010 Easily the best young Vieux Telegraphe I have ever tasted. This could also be one of my favorite wines of the 2007 vintage. Intense flavors of smoke, blackberry and hoisin but still focused and balanced. Many of the wines from this vintage are a little over-the-top with fruit but this is classic VT with the volume turned up. You'll let the wine envelop you with its incredible sound and resonance and it won't leave with your ears bleeding.

2006 Napa Angel by Montes "Aurelio's Selection" Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon ($79.99)

97 points and a Cellar Selection, Wine Enthusiast: "From Chilean winemaker, Aurelio Montes, this 100% Cabernet shows massively concentrated flavors of ripe blackberries and cassis, with richer notes of dark chocolate, anise, spices and smoky cedar. What an amazing tannin structure, intricate, fine and complex. A wine to drink now for sheer opulence or to age for at least a dozen years." (03/10) 92 points and two stars from the Connoisseurs' Guide to California Wine: "By Montes. Chilean winemaker, Aurelio Montes, joins an elite crowd of high-achievers in Napa Valley with a stunning pair of new Cabernet releases. This, the winery's flagship bottling, is a substantial and serious wine by any and all measures, and its combination of concentrated curranty fruit, lavish oak and rich, loam and tobacco-leaf qualities will win loud applause from all who champion hedonistic, optimally ripened, full-flavored Cabs. For all of its up-front appeals, however, it is a solidly structured wine that cries out for age, and it is bound to get better for a decade or more." (04/09)