2007 Joh. Jos. Prüm Bernkasteler Badstube Kabinett - 10 available ($33.99)

91 points Wine Spectator: 'Plump and inviting, with lime, peach and slate aromas and flavors permeating the rich texture. All the elements are in place, though it's a little jumbled today on the finish. Needs some time. Best from 2010 through 2024." (03/09) This is a classic, well-balanced Kabinett ideally served with a slight chill on it. There's wonderful acidity here to help it age long into the future. Enjoy as an aperitif or with everything from spicy Asian cuisine to decadent pate appetizers.

2007 Joh. Jos. Prüm Bernkasteler Badstube Spätlese ($42.99)

91 points Wine Spectator: "There's good intensity, yet this comes off as a little on the light side in terms of flavor. Peach, lime and slate notes mingle on the gossamer texture, and this lingers nicely. Drink now through 2028." (04/09) 90 points Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar: "Fresh bouquet of bosc pear and acacia blossom. The palate offers a delicate sweetness, with an attractive interplay of apricot and saline soil tones. This rich spatlese finishes with lipsmacking elegance." (Jan/Feb 09) The wines of Joh. Jos. Prüm are notable for their incredible longevity and this elegant, classic spätlese is sure to fulfill that promise in spades. Wonderfully floral, with sweet herb and stone fruit aromas and a great acidic kick on the palate, delivering more fruit and lovely minerality that lingers on the finish. Buy enough to enjoy now and some to age.

2007 Joh. Jos. Prüm Bernkasteler Badstube Auslese ($47.99)

94 points Wine Spectator: 'Gorgeous aromas and flavors of tropical fruit salad stay vivid and etched across the finish thanks to the vibrant structure. Ethereal yet intense, with a snappy finish that makes you want more. Drink now through 2035." (04/09) 93 points Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar: "Pale golden yellow. Subdued aromas of passion fruit, lime oil and wild herbs. The sweet tropical fruit flavors are highlighted by a refreshing gingery acidity that keeps the palate light in spite of the wine's density. Elegant but also quite full-bodied, this auslese finishes on spice and slate." (Jan/Feb 09) J.J. Prüm estate was founded in 1911 and rose to great recognition under the management of Sebastian Prüm, who achieved 2 perfect 100 point scores in the Wine Spectator for his long-lived and terroir-typical wines of the famous Sonnenuhr vineyards of Wehlen and Zeltingen. Today Sebastian's son Dr. Manfred Prüm continues the legacy of the greatest wines from the Mosel and his daughter Katharina is starting to work at the winery to eventually take over the estate.

2007 Joh. Jos. Prüm Graacher Himmelreich Kabinett ($33.99)

91 points Wine Spectator: "Elegant and stylish, revealing floral, lime, slate and saline notes allied to a gossamer frame. There's an intensity that dissipates slowly, with a mouthwatering aftertaste. Drink now through 2022." (03/09) 91 points Wine Enthusiast: "Under an initial leesy funk, you'll find ample apple and lime aromas. On the palate, this is a plump, succulent wine, enlivened with a touch of residual CO2 and boasting apple, vanilla and citrus flavors layered over a minerally foundation. Lng and creamy-tentured on the finish." (10/09) The 2007 Kabinett walks the line between ethereal and terrrestrial at once sailing across your senses with pear and tangy citrus notes, then grounded by fine mineral and earth tones. Slightly tropical on the finish, this wine's acidity and structure will guide it into august old age.

2007 Joh. Jos. Prüm Graacher Himmelreich Spätlese ($43.99)

93 points Wine & Spirits: "At this stage, this feels much more open and generous than its Sonnenuhr counterpart, showing bright, floral flavors of tangerine and white peach. Its bold, rounded depth of fruit reveals more nuance and complexity the longer this sits in the glass, and it should feel even more focused and complete in a few years, after shedding its initial puppy fat." (10/09) 92 points Wine Spectator: "Very delicate, precise and detailed. Violet, slate and peach aromas are followed by mint and peach flavors, with an ever-present back note of mineral. There's wonderful harmony and balance. Drink now through 2028." (04/09) 91 points Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar: "Green apple, lemon oil and clover on the nose. Light and lively yet velvety on the palate. Rose petal and saline minerality mingle on the crisp, well-balanced, lipsmacking finish, which is long and elegant." (Jan/Feb 09) The '07 Prüm Himmelreich Spätlese is a bit more revealing aromatically than its Kabinett counterpart. Full of apricot and peach fruit on the palate with mineral overtones and compact structure, this is a nimble, broader style than the Sonnenuhr Spätlese and more immediately approachable.

2007 Joh. Jos. Prüm Graacher Himmelreich Auslese ($51.99)

93 points Wine Spectator: 'High-toned floral, citrus and red berry aromas introduce this delicate Riesling, which is marked by finesse and a gossamer frame, unveiling its citrus and peach flavors in a fleeting manner. Fine length. Drink now through 2035." (04/09) 92 points Wine Enthusiast: "Reeks of heating oil at first, then slowly opens to reveal hints of honey, apple and citrus. This is a sweet but not overdone auslese, with a slightly creamy texture and layers of ripe stone fruti that linger and pick up minerally overtones on the lengthy finish. Cellar Selection." (03/09) Fine mineral tones in the nose, with more concentrated fruit aromas... not botrytis, more of the clean evaporative concentration aromas. White peach, yellow peach, a hint of apricot, and ting of honey dominate a creamy palate. Wonderful Graach mineral earth on the finish blends with orange citrus flavors.

2007 Joh. Jos. Prüm Wehlener Sonnenuhr Kabinett ($39.99)

92 points Wine Spectator: "Floral and smoke aromas give way to peach, apple and lime flavors in this delicate, silky Riesling. All is well-integrated with the bright structure and lingers lazily on the long, mineral-tinged finish. Drink now through 2024." (03/09) 90 points Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar: "Delicate aromas of cherry, apple blossom and sweet herbs. Firm apricot pit flavor, with a nice balance of sweetness and acidity to frame the palate. The elegant finish features persistent slate minerality. An excellent kabinett." (Jan/Feb 09) 90 points Wine Enthusiast: "Like many of the J.J. Prüm wines, this one starts off funky smelling, with hints of sweaty socks. But those aromas aren't enough to conceal the underlying notes of apple, citrus and vanilla; decant the wine if you intend to drink it during the next five years or so. It's plump and custardy in texture, with a long, pineappley finish." (10/09) The 2007 Sonnenuhr Kabinett is alluring with its delineated slate notes on the nose and diaphanous palate. Easily the most delicate of the Prüm '07s, with bracing acidity and up front minerality dominating now. Like a perfect rose bud now, this surely open up to be an exquisite bloom with a little body age.

2007 Joh. Jos. Prüm Wehlener Sonnenuhr Spätlese ($49.99)

95 Wine & Spirits: "Some of Prüm's releases in this decade have been more fruit-forward and less overtly yeasty than in the past, but this wine feels like a Prüm Spätlese of old: Tightly restrained and stubbornly closed behind a wall of youthful fermentation aromas, it takes its time to reveal subtle detail and silky depth of fruit. It's infused by the haunting blue slate character for which the vineyard is renowned, and while it undoubtably packs more richness and ripeness than a Prüm' wine of 20 years ago, it maintains a similar feeling of delicacy, purity and grace." (10/09) 93 points Wine Spectator: "Floral, peach, lime and herb aromas and flavors really sing in this elegant, silky Riesling. Beautifully integrated with the bright structure, showing intensity and length in a seamless, effortless manner. Mouthwatering finish. Drink now through 2035." (04/09) 92 points Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar: "Elegant aromas of Bing cherry, apple blossom and roasted pine nuts. Sweet, delicate and nonetheless creamy on the palate, with sweet herbs and a touch of vanilla. Lemon curd and slate animate this serious spatlese's compelling finish." (Jan/Feb 09) More dominate slate aromas than in the Kabinett. On the palate it shows more of the succulent ’07 fruit character. Juicy pear, slate, and a piquant acidity make for a very racy Spätlese.

2007 Joh. Jos. Prüm Wehlener Sonnenuhr Spätlese 375ml ($29.99)

93 points Wine Spectator: "Floral, peach, lime and herb aromas and flavors really sing in this elegant, silky Riesling. Beautifully integrated with the bright structure, showing intensity and length in a seamless, effortless manner. Mouthwatering finish. Drink now through 2035." (04/09) 92 points Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar: "Elegant aromas of Bing cherry, apple blossom and roasted pine nuts. Sweet, delicate and nonetheless creamy on the palate, with sweet herbs and a touch of vanilla. Lemon curd and slate animate this serious spatlese's compelling finish." (Jan/Feb 09) 92 points Wine Enthusiast: "Shows some characteristic Prüm stinky notes, but there's plenty of fruit lurking underneath. Pear, honey, melong and citrus flavors give an impression of great ripeness, amplified by the creamy texture and custardy mouthfeel, but there's also enough crisp acidity for balance. Drink now-2025." (10/09) More dominate slate aromas than in the Kabinett. On the palate it shows more of the succulent '07 fruit character. Juicy pear, slate, and a piquant acidity make for a very racy Spätlese.

2007 Joh. Jos. Prüm Wehlener Sonnenuhr Auslese ($61.99)

96 points Wine & Spirits: "This is archetypal Prüm' Auslese, from its aristocratic poise and silky finesse to its vibrant energy and crystalline complexity. Its sleek fuselage of fruit feels succulent without needing to be overly rich, and its subtle, mineral-drenched flavors unfold in kaleidoscopic detail on the long and fragrant finish. At the same time, its youthfulnes is almost painfully evident, a reminder that drinking this wine in optimum maturity is a pleasure that won't be experienced for at least another two or three decades." (10/09) 94 points Wine Spectator: "Pungent aromas of slate and flowers give way to peach and lime in this unevolved Riesling. The texture is supersilky, with great harmony among all the elements. Terrific length. Needs time. Best from 2014 through 2040." (04/09) 94 points Wine Enthusiast: "Some typical Prum smelly notes are apparent on the nose, but there's also plenty of pineapple and pear scents, and the flavor really blossom on hte palate; honeyed pineapple, melon and slate-like notes are sweet but balanced by tongue-tickeling acids. Long on the finish, where it picks up additional mineral overtones. Should come into its own by 2016 and last 20-30 years thereafter." (03/09) Citrus and slate in the aromatics. On the palate there is pear with peach, a hint of honey, and fresh cut apple. So fine and focused, clean and bright ... an enchanting bottle of Riesling. Surely one of the lightest and most tactful Auslesen made in 2007.

2007 Joh. Jos. Prüm Wehlener Sonnenuhr Auslese (375ml) ($36.99)

96 points Wine & Spirits: "This is archetypal Prüm Auslese, from its aristocratic poise and silky finesse to its vibrant energy and crystalline complexity. Its sleek fuselage of fruit feels succulent without needing to be overly rich, and its subtle, mineral-drenched flavors unfold in kaleidoscopic detail on the long and fragrant finish. At the same time, its youthfulnes is almost painfully evident, a reminder that drinking this wine in optimum maturity is a pleasure that won't be experienced for at least another two or three decades." (10/09) 94 points Wine Spectator: "Pungent aromas of slate and flowers give way to peach and lime in this unevolved Riesling. The texture is supersilky, with great harmony among all the elements. Terrific length. Needs time." (04/09) 94 points and a Wine Enthusiast Top 100 Cellar Selection of 2009: "Some typical Prum smelly notes are apparent on the nose, but there's also plenty of pineapple and pear scents, and the flavor really blossom on hte palate; honeyed pineapple, melon and slate-like notes are sweet but balanced by tongue-tickeling acids. Long on the finish, where it picks up additional mineral overtones. Should come into its own by 2016 and last 20-30 years thereafter." (03/09) Citrus and slate in the aromatics. On the palate there is pear with peach, a hint of honey, and fresh cut apple. So fine and focused, clean and bright ...an enchanting bottle of Riesling. Surely one of the lightest and most tactful Auslesen made in 2007.

2007 Joh. Jos. Prüm Zeltinger Sonnenuhr Spätlese ($43.99)

93 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "There could scarcely be a more dramatic contrast than that between the Prums’ 2007 Zeltinger Sonnenuhr Riesling Spatlese and their Bernkasteler Badstube Spatlese. Whereas the latter - for all of its delicacy - is energetic, bright, and invigorating, this Zeltinger is a soothing, creamy essence of liquid flowers, accompanied by orchard fruit essences, vanilla, malt, and nut oils. Naturally - this being archetypal Mosel - there is something here too that one is practically compelled to describe as 'stone' If this wine doesn't put you in a dream state, then you must suffer from genuine agitation! " (06/09) The Zeltinger has unusually low residual sugar for a spätlese (56.6 grams per liter) in 2007, which means the fruit here is more understated and delicate. But the gorgeous minerality more than makes up for it. This a well-structured wine with the generous acidity that will make it an ideal match for poultry, pan-roasted halibut chees or spicy Thai dishes.

2005 Arrowood "Reserve Speciale" Chardonnay Sonoma County - 0 available ($34.99)

95 points Wine Enthusiast: "Rich and satisfying, this opulent Chardonnay dazzles with sheer deliciousness. Master winemaker Richard Arrowood has pulled out all the stops on this Burgundian-style wine. The flavors, of pineapple custard, lemon meringue, green apple butter, crème brûlée and gingersnap cookie, are balanced by perfect acidity. This is by far Arrowood's greatest Chardonnay in recent memory." (05/08) And, according to Robert Parker: "The 2005 Chardonnay Reserve Speciale is an elegant, almost Chablisian style of Chardonnay...The wine displays lemon blossom, nectarine, and guava notes intermixed with some subtle wood and fresh acidity in a medium to full-bodied finish." (12/07)

2007 Bodegas Ateca "Atteca" Garnacha Calatayud, Spain ($12.99)

91 points from Stephen Tanzer's Internationa Wine Cellar: "Inky purple. Ripe boysenberry and blueberry on the nose, with licorice and graphite adding complexity. Juicy dark berry preserve flavors show palate-saturating depth and impressive clarity, picking up smoky minerals with air. Energetic finishing notes of blackberry skin and candied licorice linger with impressive tenacity." (Sept/Oct '08) 90 points from Wine Spectator: "Toasted vanilla and smoke notes accent raspberry and black cherry fruit in this sleek red, which has enough tannins for grip. The fresh finish echoes with dark chocolate and spice. Drink now through 2011. 1,250 cases imported." (02/09) 90 points from Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "The 2007 Atteca was sourced from 80- to 120-year-old head pruned Garnacha vines and aged for 10 months in seasoned French oak. Deep purple-colored, it exhibits an impressive nose of crushed stone, black cherry, and plum. This is followed by a full-bodied wine with layers of savory fruit, spice notes, and silky tannin. This balanced effort will evolve for another 1-2 years and drink well through 2017." (02/09) From Wine Enthusiast: "Jammy, rich and a little sweet and reduced on the nose, but once this baby unwinds there’s no stopping it. The palate is exceedingly fresh and exuberant, with strawberry and raspberry flavors. Lively to the end; a fruit-lover’s wine with no leash. Drink sooner than later to capture the wine's pointed red-fruit essence." (12/08)

2007 Bodegas Atalaya Red Blend Almansa, Spain ($13.99)

91 points from Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "This is the first release of Atalaya. The 2007 Atalaya is a blend of Monastrell, Garnacha Tintorera, and other red grapes. The wine was aged for eight months in French and American oak. This purple-colored wine has an expressive bouquet of violets, spice box, leather, game, blueberry, and black cherry. On the palate it comes off as borderline kinky and definitely sexy with lots of easy-going flavor, superb depth, complexity, and a 45-second finish. Although it can be enjoyed now, it will evolve for another 2-3 years." (08/08) 90 points from Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar: "Inky purple. Spicy dark berries and cherry on the nose, with strong black cardamom and cumin qualities. Candied blackberry and rose flavors are gently firmed by soft tannins and pick up a peppery note with air. Suave and immediately accessible, with very good finishing sweetness and cling." (Sept/Oct '08) And, from the Wine Spectator: "This solid red adds intriguing mineral and licorice notes to a core of ripe plum fruit and chocolate oak. Firm tannins are balanced by lively acidity. Nicely put together. Drink now through 2014." (11/09)

2006 Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru, Clos St. Jean, Domaine Paul Pillot ($49.99)

91 points and "Outstanding!" from Allen Meadows' Burghound: "A subtle touch of wood sets off pretty and nicely fresh aromas of peach and just sliced lemon that merges into rich, full and voluminous flavors that possess a silky mouth feel and a palate staining, mineral-driven and even more complex finish. Excellent quality." (07/08)

2006 Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru, Grande Ruchottes, Domaine Paul Pillot ($54.99)

93 points and "Sweet spot Outstanding!" from Allen Meadows' Burghound: "This is also quite ripe but also stops on the door step of exotic fruit aromas with pretty acacia blossom, honey, spice and dried orange peel that is also picked up by the elegant, pure and classy flavors that possess huge length and perhaps the best depth of any wine in the range, including the Bâtard. One of the best 1ers of the 2006 vintage." (Jul 01, 2008)

2007 Meursault Blagny 1er Cru, La Piece Sous le Bois, Domaine Sylvain Langoureau ($44.99)

This comes from a plot high on the hill, just below the woods, above Meursault Perrieres, near the border with Puligny Montrachet. It is bright, has lots of minerality, and lovely white flowers on the nose. Fine, elegant and long on the palate, this is a lovely Premier Cru for the price of a village wine! It is a direct buy, so when it sells out, we won't have more until the next vintage, so do not wait. (Keith Wollenberg, K&L Burgundy Buyer)

2007 St. Aubin 1er Cru, Derrière Chez Edouard, Domaine Sylvain Langoureau ($29.99)

Almost everyone grins at the idea of a Premier Cru vineyard called "Behind Eddie's House," but that really is the translation of the name of this little-known vineyard. It lies on the Montagne du Ban above the village of St. Aubin on a mixture of Callovian limestone and Argovian marl. For my palate, this is always the best of Sylvain Langoreau's St. Aubins, but only available in tiny quantities. It is rich and floral on the nose, with more weight on the palate then his Vermarin al l'Est, and a lovely poise and balance. I like this wine a great deal! (Keith Wollenberg, K&L Burgundy Buyer)

2007 St. Aubin 1er Cru, En Remilly, Domaine Sylvain Langoureau ($29.99)

This vineyard is one of the best in the village, located immediately adjacent to Chassagne Montrachet Premier Cru vineyards and a stone's throw from Le Montrachet. This is quite sweet and forward, with a nice thread of minerality running through it. This is drinking very nicely, indeed, and very reminiscent of a Chassagne Montrachet, at a fraction of the cost. (Keith Wollenberg, K&L Burgundy Buyer)

2005 Corison Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley - 0 available ($64.99)

95 points Wine Enthusiast: "This wine is so balanced it hits the palate as impeccable and gorgeous. The flavors, of currants, cherries, vanilla and sweet oak, are only part of it. It is so dry, so richly structured in tannins and acids, so pure through the long, spicy finish, that it easily deserves its high score. Will age well for up to a decade." (02/09) One of the San Francisco Chronicle's Top 100 Wines of 2008: "Cathy Corison coaxed a smoky, anise-tinged effort from the 2005 vintage. Balanced, fresh and ripe, with sweet black fruit, plum graphite and a big grippy finish, very much in line with her more structure, firmly tannin and ageworthy approach." (12/08) From Decanter Magazine: "Warm, spicy, berry nose. Fine plum jam, spicy notes. Plenty of weight. Firm, crisp tannins. Nice length." And, according to Connoisseurs' Guide to California Wine: "Nicely proportioned and remarkably polished for such a young Cabernet, this well-balanced bottling achieves a fine sense of refinement and steps away from the crowd of very ripe, oak-driven wines. Very long on the palate and showing a spine of fine-grained tannins, it will unfold and deepen over another half-dozen years or more of cellaring even though will be altogether drinkable in the near to mid-term." (12/08)

2006 Frédéric Mabileau St.-Nicolas-de-Bourgueil Les Rouillères - 0 available ($14.99)

91 points Wine & Spirits: "Fresh, fragrant and pure this shows tautly focused flavors of red cherry and berry saturated with a lovely mineral fragrance. The wine is sleek and streamlined on the palate and the balance is superb, keeping you coming back for more." Frédéric Mabileau is known for his no-nonsense approach in the vineyards, eschewing the chemicals and machines that dominate much of the Loire and focusing his energy on growing the best possible fruit naturally . He says, "the action of respecting the integrity of the grape all the way to the tank allows us to maintain the fruits' clarity, showing its suppleness and delicacy." This wine is 100% organically cultivated Cabernet Franc that was harvested from vines ranging in age from 15- to 35-years-old. The Mabileaus make a very strict selection both in the vineyard and on two successive sorting tables, looking for only the most pure and healthy grapes. For Les Rouillères the grapes are 100% destemmed to accentuate the fruity/floral qualities of this site, it is then aged in stainless steel tanks for 7-9 months to preserve this freshness. I really loved the 2005 Les Rouillères, which was a big hit here at K&L, yet whereas the '05 was big and brawny the '06 is sleek and sexy, it seduces rather than overwhelms, the flavors are more "classic" and bright, full of juicy cherry and berry fruit that really jump from the glass. You will love it, not to mention it is a tremendous value.

2005 Domaine de la Noblaie Chinon "Les Chiens-Chien" - 0 available ($15.99)

92 points Wine & Spirits: "Broad and full, this is driven by pungent stoniness, a deeply expressive minerality that saturates the waxy stone fruit flavors. It's gripping and focused, possessing the weight and authority of the red wines that are more typically grown on these soils, yet demonstrating chenin's inimitable character." Jerome Billard doesn't make your father's Chinon. After work at both Chateau Petrus in Bordeaux and Dominus in California, two of the world's most prestigious estates, who would expect him to turn out Cabernet Franc like anyone else in the area? The Chinon rouge from the property is a case study in the balance between power and elegance, spice and softness, fat and acidity. Named for a parcel on the property, "Les Chiens-Chiens," is produced from 40- to 80-year-old vines of Cabernet Franc. Only a small amount is allocated to the United States. This is his best offering I have had to date. Wonderfully dense and spicy with hints of cherry and black berry. A soft, subtle herbaceous line runs through the middle, which leads you into a ripe juicy mineral core and a long finish (Eric Story, K&L Wine Merchants)

2007 Santa Rita "Floresta" Sauvignon Blanc Leyda Valley, Chile (Was $25 elsewhere) ($15.99)

91 points Wine & Spirits Magazine: "This wine's orange peel and green chile scents deliver a fresher, lighter side of Sauvignon than the warmth of its alcohol might suggest. The finish is long and herbal, with crisp acidity to match skate in a lemon sauce." (06/08) 90 points Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar: "Pale yellow. Potent lime and white peach aromas are complicated by jasmine and dusty minerals. Racy, deeply concentrated citrus and melon flavors offer excellent palate coverage and tangy grip, finishing clean and long. Pretty impressive." (Mar/Apr '08) 90 points Wine Spectator: "Bright and pure, with lots of mâche, sweet pea, chive flower and mineral flavors backed by a bright, tangy finish. This has solid length and richness." (06/08) 90 points from Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "The 2007 Sauvignon Blanc Floresta from the cool-climate Leyda Valley is a first class effort with an expressive bouquet of minerals, fresh herbs, grapefruit, and gooseberry. Round and complex, the wine has exceptional depth and concentration. Should be consumed over the next 1-2 years. Santa Rita produces a wide range of wines in all price categories. A significant number offer excellent value and the top wines are Chilean icons." (10/08)

2007 Châteauneuf-du-Pape, "Mon Aieul" Pierre Usseglio Pre-Arrival ($99.99)

100 points Robert Parker: "There are 1,800 cases of the 2007 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee du Mon Aieul (100% tank-aged Grenache). It represents an awesome naked/virginal expression of Grenache from three vineyard parcels planted in sand, clay, and limestone soils. After tasting this wine on five separate occasions, I can state with certainty, it has the most saturated color of any Mon Aieul produced to date. Moreover, its perfume of blueberry liqueur, black raspberries, licorice, roasted meat juices, and lavender is incredible. Full-bodied power, a multilayered mouthfeel, tremendous purity, and awesome concentration put this wine in a class by itself. This sensational Chateauneuf du Pape is still very young, and 3-4 years of cellaring is required. It should be a modern day legend and last for nearly two decades." (10/09) 93-96 points Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar: "Inky ruby. Powerful dark berry and cherry preserve aromas are complicated by cola, underbrush and Indian spices. Lush and creamy, with concentrated black raspberry and cherry-cola flavors and a jolt of white pepper on the back. Finishes with mounting sweetness and excellent persistence. This refuses to let go of the palate."

2007 Châteauneuf-du-Pape, "Reserve des Deux Freres" Pierre Usseglio Pre-Arrival ($199.99)

98-100 points Robert Parker: "There are 4,000 bottles of the 2007 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Reserve des Deux Freres (which sports a new label). Another monumental example of Châteauneuf, this 100% Grenache reveals no evidence of makeup. It is about as natural an expression of old vine Grenache as one can find. Gorgeously long, blackberry, cassis, seaweed, licorice, cherry, and lavender scents explode from the glass. In the mouth, the wine is even fuller, richer, and denser than the Mon Aieul, and exhibits more tannin as well as a phenomenal finish that lasts over a minute. This is a prodigious wine of extraordinary singularity and intensity. It should evolve for 30+ years." (10/08) 95-97 points Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar: "Glass-staining ruby. A captivating bouquet evokes black and blue fruits with strong floral and spice accents. Lush, creamy and palate-coating, with sweet blackcurrant and boysenberry flavors, fully absorbed tannins and alluring spiciness. Tangy minerality adds bite and clarity to the finish, which is shockingly lithe for a wine with such palate impact. 'This would be more Sophia Loren than Catherine Deneuve,' says Usseglio.'" (Jan/Feb '09) ETA for this wine is late fall 2009.

2006 Feudo Maccari Saia Nero d'Avola Pre-Arrival ($24.99)

92 points and Highly Recommended, Wine Spectator: "This has subtle aromas of blackberry, mineral and lavender. Full-bodied, with soft, silky tannins and a long, flavorful finish. A succulent red. All in the right place. A classy wine. Drink now. 4,420 cases made." (08/08). This is due to arrive by fall 2009.

2006 Tenuta Sette Ponti "Oreno" Pre-Arrival ($59.99)

96 points Wine Spectator and #15 in their Top 100 Wines of 2008 "Shows loads of black licorice, blackberry and toasty oak. Full-bodied, with supersilky tannins and a long, long finish. Has wonderful concentration and balance. Structured. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Sangiovese. Best after 2013." (10/08) This wine will arrive by fall 2009.

2007 Fontanafredda Barbera Piemonte "Briccotondo" ($10.99)

90 points and a "Best Buy" designate, Wine Spectator. We think it's better than the '06, which out-sold every other Italian red we carried last year: "Displays lovely plummy, chocolaty character. Full and silky smooth, this is packed with flavor. So delicious. Drink now." (12/08) 90 points from Wine & Spirits Magazine: "A vibrant and youthful barbera with fresh plum and cherry flavors, this feels balanced and cool. An everyday red to enjoy with grilled sausage." (12/08) The wine is aged partly in new barrels made of oak from Allier, and partly in large Slavonian oak casks. It stays in wood for around five months and is bottled in late Spring. The Briccotondo is a ruby-red wine with purple highlights. The nose is packed with black fruit, especially blackberries and plums, with slight spicy overtones hinting at black pepper and cinnamon. Sweet, soft tannins come together in a closely-woven texture that merges with the fruit, while a crisp freshness provides a long, tasty finish. Great with anything in a red sauce!

2007 Foxglove San Luis Obisipo County Chardonnay ($12.99)

90 points Robert Parker: "Perhaps the great value in Chardonnay in the marketplace today, this wine, made by the highly talented Varner Winery in the Santa Cruz Mountains, comes from fruit accessed in California’s Edna Valley. With malolactic blocked but with lees stirring, this 25,000-case cuvee provides terrific notes of tropical fruit and poached pear in a fleshy, medium-bodied style with obvious minerality and precision. This is a remarkable effort that is fresh, lively, and best drunk over the next 1-2 years." (08/08) Winemaker Bob Varner makes Foxglove SLO Chardonnay in a fresh, approachable style - loaded with tropical fruit, the wine is crisp and refreshing. It sees no malolactic fermentation or oak, allowing the wine's mineral streak to shine through. Unbelievably good at this or any price!

2006 Patient Cottat Sauvignon Blanc ($10.99)

This delicious wine comes from a combination of vineyard sites both in Verdigny in Sancerre and some parcels just outside the appellation to the west. The Fournier family, with roots as deep as their vines in this region seem to be related to just about everyone in some way and have for generations been farming and producing wines in Sancerre. We are pleased to have been offered this wine first at such a great price and took everything there was. This bright Sauvignon has subtle expressions of chalk and green melon with candied citrus and fennel with a slight peppery finish. It is gentle and yet lively, very inviting and just plain fun to drink. Grab a case at this price and make this your house white, have a glass after work to wash away the day and take you into dinner.

2005 Seventy Five Wine Company "Amber Knolls" Lake County Cabernet Sauvignon ($18.99)

From Robert Parker's "Value Issue:" "The 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon from the Amber Knolls area is a good value Cabernet showing black currant fruit with some cherries, spice, and earth. This is an attractive wine with good ripeness and certainly a fair price. These are value-priced wines from one of the Beckstoffer family who has planted vineyards up in Lake County." (Aug. 2008) Seventy Five Wine Company is the priced-for-consumption label from Tuck Beckstoffer, revered vineyard manager and winemaker. The Beckstoffer family purchased Lake County's "Amber Knolls" vineyard in the late 1990s after determining the climate and soil perfect for ultra-premium cab. Bright fruit balanced by spice and youthful tannins, Robert Parker scored the last vintage of this wine 90 points.

2007 Elsa Torrontes Mendoza, Argentina ($7.99)

"A Best Buy" designation from Wine Enthusiast Magazine: "Neutral for the most part, but this light-framed white slips in pear, orange and spice notes while maintaining a nice, juicy profile. Nothing more than a refreshing, lime-infused dandy. But what’s wrong with that?" (5/1/2008) Torrontes is a wine of pleasing fruit intensity both in the nose and on the palate. Clean refreshing aromas with hints of spice, fruit, and honey that lead to similar flavors on the palate, with good natural acidity and a clean refreshing finish. This variety is blessed with the ability to develop these nice aromas and flavors at relatively low sugars which translates into better balance for a light- medium bodied white wine.

2004 Castello di Monsanto Chianti Classico Riserva ($19.99)

91 points and a Smart Buys designation from the Wine Spectator: "Full-throttle, with lots of vanilla and ripe fruit character. Almost cherry liqueur. Full-bodied, round and soft, with lots of flavor. Drink now." (10/07) 90 points Wine Enthusiast: "A generous and modern wine with plush aromas of sweet vanilla, black cherry, ripe blueberry, spice and a healthy wallop of chocolate fudge that proves to be a true crowd pleaser. Beautiful in the glass, with brilliant ruby reflections, the wine is silky-smooth in the mouth with bright berries flavors that ride over a long, soft finish." (11/1/2007)

2007 Maritma Sangiovese "The 4 Old Guys" ($7.99)

One of our favorite wines in the store has returned for the 11th straight vintage, the 2007 Maritma Sangiovese or, as the K&L staff refers to it, "The Four Old Guys." This is an amazing wine at a dirt cheap price. Bright, fleshy, this gem offers tons of spicy, sangiovese fruit with good fullness and incredible drinkability. Enough said! Buy your cases now! This wine has increased in price exactly 50 cents over that last five years, and it represents an insanely good value!

Cremant de Bourgogne Rosé, Perle d'Aurore, Louis Bouillot ($13.99)

This delightful Rosé sparkling wine comes from Burgundy. It is made of 80% Pinot Noir, and 20% Gamay Noir. The charming eye of the swan color comes from the addition of Pinot Noir to the wine when the lees are disgorged, following the traditional fermentation in the individual bottle, in the champagne method. On the palate it is very rich and fruity but just off-dry on the finish. The mousse is explosive, with a very creamy palate impression. It shows just a hint of the earthiness of a Pinot Noir from Burgundy. This is charming rosé, subtle and delightful. (Keith Wollenberg, K&L Burgundy buyer)

2007 Sherwood Pinot Noir Marlborough New Zealand ($14.99)

An Editors' Choice, Wine Enthusiast. Everybody loves pinot noir these days and that's for a good reason. It easily expresses a sense of place, style and character. The tough thing, though, is to find pinot noir that, at the very least, tastes like the grape at a price point that won't break the bank, something that can be used for large group parties or events. Well, this wine hits the mark, without a doubt. Dayne and Jill Sherwood have been in the wine business since the 1980s; the fruit for this wine comes mainly from their vineyards in Marlborough and Waipara. I think the 2007 is their best to date and a terrific value. The nose offers fresh dark plum, cherry, clove and a hint of dried orange peel. On the palate the wine is juicy with a supple mouthfeel, fine-grained tannins and good length. (Jim Chanteloup, K&L New Zealand buyer)

2007 Castle Rock Willamette Valley Pinot Noir ($10.99)

From Wine Spectator: "Soft and open-textured with vivid red plum and berry flavors on a polished frame, lingering nicely. Drink now. 8,000 cases made." (Dec. 15, 2008) This elegant medium-bodied wine offers aromas of cherry and spice. On the palate the wine gives flavors of berries, cinnamon, black cherry, sweet vanilla, oak, and floral notes, with a long velvety finish. This versatile wine pairs well with lamb, chicken, veal, salmon and light pasta dishes.

2007 Undone Pinot Noir ($10.99)

Sometimes a great wine pops up when you least expect it. This bottle has a lot to overcome in the US market; the fact that people don't necessarily think of Germany for great value Pinot Noir, the fancy, hip, label depicting a woman's corset being "undone", and the fact that it is $10.99 AND imported. To be honest I had little hope but again here we are... Much like the Bernier Chardonnay we have been selling the heck out of this wine exceeds its humble beginnings. The Undone Pinot Noir is all about fun, easy drinking pleasure. Bottled with a screw cap, unoaked and unmanipulated this is the fresh, light and juicy wine for those of us who don't like our Pinot Noir to look and taste like Syrah. The wine is delicate and pure, medium bodied and full of wild strawberry, cherry and raspberry aromas with just a subtle hint of spice in the finish. "No sugar tonight" in this wine. Think of this for parties this holiday season or Tuesday night with grilled sausages or roast chicken with mushrooms.

2007 Napa Cellars Napa Valley Chardonnay ($15.99)

Can't get your hands on enough Rombauer Chardonnay to satisfy your thirst? Try this "baby Rombauer" from Napa Cellars. Founded by Rich Frank and Koerner Rombauer in 1996, Napa Cellars is the better known winery's more casual label, boasting drink-it-every-day prices. Like Romabuer Chard, this comes with all of the tropical fruit, lemony acidity and creamy texture you can handle. Try it with parmigiano-crusted chicken or chicken marsala.

2007 Adega Ponte de Lima "Adamado" Vinho Verde, Portugal ($9.99)

One of Bon Appetit Magazine's Great Bargain Bottles! When the temperatures are high most people stray away from wine turning to beer, refreshing cocktails like mojitos or margaritas or, heaven forbid, water, to quench their sun-induced thirst. But most don't know about the low alcohol (this one clocking in at 10% ABV), thirst quenching number called Vinho Verde. These traditional wines from the north of Portugal have snappy, bright acidity and a touch of fizz to them that makes them even more appealing, at least in my humble opinion. The "Adamado" is from a co-op by the name of Ponte de Lima, a conglomeration of more than 2,000 growers that began in 1962. Made from a blend of traditional varietals (Loureiro, Trajadura and Pedernã) this wine is all about unabashed, tangy lime flesh. Add the slightest bit of effervescence and minerality and subtract the lack of cloying, sugary sweetness and this is one of the best wines from Vinho Verde on the market today. Our staff has taken to this wine like a fish to water, some of whom may have even been spotted drinking this straight from the bottle. (Bryan Brick, K&L)

2006 Las Rocas de San Alejandro Garnacha Calatayud, Spain ($9.99)

91 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "The 2006 Las Rocas Garnacha is dark crimson-colored with an alluring nose of spice box, mineral, black cherry, and black raspberry. Smooth-textured, round, and with no hard edges, this tasty effort is designed for immediate gratification. This is one worth buying by the case." (08/08)

2007 Côtes du Rhône Domaine de la Maurelle ($10.99) Wine Club Price: $8.49

Always a favorite here at K&L, the 2008 Domaine de la Maurelle Cotes du Rhones exhibits juicy berry fruits along with very subtle hints of tapenade, grilled herb and mineral notes. A direct buy makes this an even better deal, but even at a significantly higher price, this delicious Rhone red (based on grenache) would be a steal. You will want a case of this on hand to go with pizza, pasta, ribs, chicken...whatever you tend to eat on, say, a Tuesday! 14%abv.

2006 Poggiarellino Rosso di Montalcino ($17.99)

One of our real evolving stars in Montalcino this tiny winery is making great wines. 2006 is one of the best vintages in recent memory and you'll see it in this wine, I've had Brunello that isn't this good! The Poggiarellino Rosso di Montalcino is full of complex dark cherry fruit, with nicely evolved notes of tobacco leaf and has layers of what the Italians call sotto bosco (the flavor of the forest floor). On the palate the aromas are interwoven and fleshed out by an unctuous but not fat body and backed up with a core of mineral, stone, earth and truffle in the finish, does that sound complex? Wow! Drinkable now over the next 3-5 years, if you have a chance decant for an hour or two ahead of time. Try it with London Broil with some olive oil drizzled over it, Roasted Rabbit or Rosemary-infused Pork Loin accompanied by thick or broad noodle (your choice) pastas. Only 300 cases produced. Greg St.Clair (K&L's Italian Buyer)

2006 Three Rings Barossa Valley Shiraz ($15.99)

91 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate - here's your final chance to get the last of the 2006! Wine Advocate says: "There are 14,000 cases of the 2006 Shiraz, a wine sourced from three Barossa vineyards. The wine was aged in seasoned American oak. Opaque purple colored, it offers up a jammy perfume of cedar, spice box, violets, blueberry, and blackberry. This leads to a medium to full-bodied wine made in a surprisingly elegant style. Supple-textured, full-flavored, with well-integrated tannin, this hedonistic effort will evolve for three to five years but can be enjoyed now and over the next ten years." South Australia's Chris Ringland (Winemaker), David Hickinbotham (grape grower) and Californian Dan Philips (importer) have created this fine wine; a hard act to follow. 100 percent Barossa from several old vine vineyards blended beautifully by Chris Ringland.

2007 Blason Pinot Grigio ($8.99)

2 Glasses Gambero Rosso*. Bright and focused, and not at all wispy, this ripe white offers melon notes along with Granny Smith apple. If you love fish and seafood, this should be in your repertoire for certain, as its mineral and citrus characters offer a great foil for things from the sea, especially calamari and shrimp. Thanks to a rounder feel on the palate, it is also delicious without food. According to Wine Enthusiast: "Luminous and bright, this well-priced Pinot Grigio doles out fresh fruit flavors of peach, apricot and tangerine. The wine is lean and firm with an easygoing approach and spicy crispness on the finish." (03/09)

Taltarni Brut Rosé "Tache" Sparkling Wine (was $20 elsewhere) ($14.99)

90 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate for this sparkling wine from Victoria and Tasmania: "The Non-Vintage Brut Tache is a delightful, well-priced sparkling wine composed of 52% Chardonnay, 41% Pinot Noir, and 7% Pinot Meunier. A dash of red wine liqueur is added to the finished tirage wine at disgorgement to create the salmon pink color. The nose offers rose petal, peach, apricot, and wheat thin scents leading to a sparkler with a steady, persistent stream of small bubbles and red berry and nutty flavors. On the palate the wine is dry and refreshing, with a long, clean finish." (10/07) According to Wine & Spirits: "The bubbles look tiny but they power the strawberry and cherry fruit in this light pink sparkler, a brisk cut that leaves the finish clean. For rustic country pâté." (10/07) According to the Wine Spectator: "Pale pink in color, this dry, creamy-textured sparkler shows pretty watermelon and toast flavors. Drink now." (11/06) Taché is a French word meaning ‘stained’ and refers to the rare winemaking method used since 1985 at Taltarni to create this fine rosé-colored sparkling wine. Its delicate salmon pink color is achieved by adding a dash of red wine liqueur to the finished tirage wine at disgorgement. Crafted from a traditional blend of chardonnay (54%), pinot noir (36%) and pinot meunier (10%), Taltarni Brut Taché is bottle fermented and matured for a minimum of 18 months according to traditional ‘Mêthode Champenoise’ practices. Delicious!

2007 Burgans Albariño Rias Baixas, Spain ($11.99)

90 points from Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "Burgans is a custom cuvee made for importer Eric Solomon. While it’s not the best Albarino on the market, in terms of bang for the buck, it has no challenger. The 2007 Burgans Albarino is light gold-colored with a sprightly nose of mineral, spring flowers, and lemon peel. Ripe, balanced, and concentrated, this is an ideal match for flaky fish courses. Drink it over the next 1-2 years." (02/08) From Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar: "Light yellow-gold. Exotically perfumed nose displays smoky peach, mango and papaya, plus a strong floral accent. Deep and chewy, with more power than I usually find in this wine. Tropical fruit flavors coat the palate and pick up a subtle herbal note on the back end. This could handle richer foods." (Sept/Oct '08) Dr. Jay Miller, the gentleman that reviews Spanish wines for Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, nailed it on this one. I agree with him that this is simply the best inexpensive Albariño made on a yearly basis. Notes of white peach mingle with wet stone and Meyer lemon on the nose. The freshness and vigor here is impressive with more of the notes of stone and layers of sprightly apricot and lime on the palate. This is a wine that instantly gets your stomach growling and your mouth watering. You want oysters, lightly fried white fish or even roast chicken and a glass that can somehow hold this whole bottle at once. (Bryan Brick, K&L)

2006 Louis Martini Sonoma Cabernet Sauvignon ($11.99)

90 points from Robert Parker: "One of the finest bargains in California Cabernet Sauvignon must be Louis M. Martini's outstanding 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon Sonoma. The good news is there are 140,000 cases produced. Fabulously sweet aromas of black currants, licorice, and cedar soar from the glass of this medium to full-bodied wine. With silky tannins as well as surprising concentration, depth, and texture, this 2006 should drink well for 8-10 years." (12/08) According to Wine Spectator: "Tight, chewy and earthy. Full-bodied and complex, offering a mix of earthy currant, anise and dried berry fruit..." (03/09)

2007 Franck Millet Sancerre Blanc ($16.99)

The wines of this family domaine have been a staple here at K&L since the 1994 vintage when Franck and Betty Millet drove from Sancerre to Bordeaux (a long way) to meet Clyde and crew to present the wines. The wines were great even in that tough vintage and the rest is history. We love these wines for their freshness, charm and affordability. Our best value Sancerre in the store. From soils of clay and chalk in the village of Bue near the Domaine. A wine of freshness, lift and snap, one that keeps you coming back for more, it is vinified entirely in stainless steel to preserve the wonderful citrus and slightly grassy aromatics and the gentle mineral finish.

2007 Bernier Chardonnay Vins du Pays Jardin de la France ($6.99)

Wow, we knew this was a great value last vintage but now that the 2007 has hit the shelves I am convinced there is no other white wine in the store as exciting and tasty as this chardonnay for the price. The 2007 is slightly brighter and more focused than the 06 with a wonderful fresh nose that just leaps from the glass. There are many great bottles of Chardonnay and this is no exception, yet not many leave you with such satisfaction while not draining your wallet. It does not pretend to challenge the established icons of the wine world; it is merely delicious, friendly and under 7 bucks, a perfect bottle for Tuesday night, something to reach for to quench your thirst and that of your friends. The wine is produced by the three brothers Couillaud at the Château de la Ragotière a few minutes from the Atlantic near the mouth of the Loire River where the Maritime climate is ideal for producing whites that are refreshing and bright. The Couillaud's age most of this wine on its lees until bottling to add weight and texture with around 10% being barrel fermented in French oak for the faintest touch of toastiness. You will love the abundant citrus aromas, juicy, slightly rich mouth feel and refreshing mineral finish. The perfect wine for all of your holiday gatherings and a stunning value, buy this buy the case and drink anytime you have a thirst.

2006 Kalinda Napa Valley Zinfandel ($16.99)

Many of today's zinfandels are so high in alcohol and aggressive fruit that they taste more like a Jell-O shot than a glass of wine. But not the 2006 Kalinda Zin, a special cuvée bottled for K&L by a vintner Robert Parker once called "One of my favorite zinfandel producers." Picked at relatively low brix (sugar level), the wine is aged for 13 months in French and American oak (about 20% new American). The wine's earthy framework keeps the blackberry fruit in check, creating a balanced zinfandel with acidity, fruit tannin and oak tannins all working together.

2008 Kim Crawford Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc ($13.99)

91 points and #40 in Wine Spectator's Top 100 Wines of 2008: "Fragrant and complex, with a refreshing burst of lime, guava, grapefruit and grass flavors. Wet stone, passion fruitand oyster shell accents add interest, with bright acidity highlighting the vivid finish. Another outstanding Sauvignon from a perennial success." (12/08). 90 points and an Editors' Choice, Wine Enthusiast: "This medium-bodied Sauvignon Blanc strums the right chords, combining notes of crushed tomato leaf with citrusy fruit to make a pretty melody. A hint of creaminess rounds out the midpalate, and the wine finishes long, with pristine cleanliness." (03/09) This brand-spanking-new 2008 is another in a list of tremendously tasty, fruit-forward wines from this estate/negociant in New Zealand. Never oaked, also refreshing, this is an ideal warm-weather wine, espcially when combined with shrimp and other shellfish!

2007 Shenandoah Vineyards "Special Reserve" Amador Zinfandel ($9.99)

Another beautiful zinfandel from the folks at Shenandoah Vineyards in Amador County! There's plenty of fruit, moderate tannins and juicy acidity harmonizing like the Beach Boys. Lower in alcohol than many modern zins (14.2%), this is light enough to enjoy with a good burger at lunch, but complex enough for the evening's braised short ribs over parsnip puree.

2005 Coufran, Haut-Médoc ($25.99) Wine Club Price: $23.95

91-93 points Wine Enthusiast: "91-93 Barrel sample. If you're looking for great, ripe black currant fruits, this is where to come. The wine is full and hugely fruity, but it still manages a good Bordeaux sense of proportion." (6/1/2006)

Veuve de Vernay Brut ($6.99)

The Veuve du Vernay Brut is the ultimate holiday party wine. A crisp, clean, and refreshing sparkler that brings the term "bang for your buck" to new levels. Rarely does such a tasty sparkling wine (or any wine for that matter) come in under the seven dollar mark. For a celebration, dinner with friends, or any festive occasion, there is absolutely nothing that can top this wine bargain-wise. The wine is bright and zesty with hints of apple and pear on the nose and a juicy yet dry finish. Buy it by the bottle, or by the case, but either way make sure that you get some before it's gone.

2007 Kalinda Napa Valley Chardonnay ($17.99)

The 2007 is a much more opulent style of Kalinda Chardonnay than previous vintages. Made by one of Napa's top producers, it's full of broad, exotic fruit flavors. In the mouth, the wine is dry with gobs of fruit, and a lingering finish. The perfect wine for fans of buttery California chardonnays, at a price even someone on a tight budget would like.

Jean-Louis Denois Brut "Tradition" ($15.99)

Outstanding sparkling wine from the Languedoc? Absolutely and resoundingly, YES! There will be those of you who will scoff at the price of this wine, and claim that a sparkling wine set so low will never be worth any serious consideration. Well, those of you would be WRONG. One of the rising stars of the Languedoc, Jean Louis Denois makes exciting, world class wines that nonetheless remain amazingly inexpensive, a fact of his location more than anything else. His vineyards sit in the very southwestern corner, at the foot of the Pyrenees, and include red, white and sparkling examples, all made from perilously low-yielding vines, vinified with as little interference as possible. Denois' Brut Tradition is composed of 50% each pinot noir and chardonnay and spends 18 months on the lees before degorgement. It is dry, elegant and long, with notes of hazelnut, red berries and toasted bread. This is one delicious bubbly! 12.5% abv.

2007 Dominio del Plata "Crios de Susana Balbo" Malbec (Argentina) ($12.99)

90 points from Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "The purple-colored 2007 Malbec offers an enticing bouquet of spice box, cedar, black cherry and black raspberry. Medium-bodied and full-flavored, on the palate it has gobs of spicy, savory fruit, soft tannins, and a lengthy finish. It may well evolve for 1-2 years but there is no reason to defer gratification. All of the Crios wines are phenomenal values worth buying by the case. The Crios de Susana Balbo label has rapidly become synonymous with great value. Susana Balbo is also widely credited with developing the modern style of Torrontes; hers remains the benchmark." (12/08) A Best Buy, Wine & Spirits: "This starts with smoky notes of oak, then reveals aromas and flavors of ripe raspberries. A simple and refreshing Malbec." (06/09) The wine has a beautiful reddish/purple color as most good Malbecs do. The aromas are a mix of fresh crushed cherries and toasty/smoky oak... just enough to frame the exuberant fruit. On the palate, the flavors of cherries and spice are obvious, and the jammy fruit quality just keeps coming on strong, with hints of spice and sandalwood lurking in the background. This is a wine that you'll want to buy by the case because it can be consumed at almost any occasion, whether at a fancy dinner party, or just curled up on the couch in front of a movie. Fun and delicious... what more can you ask for?!

2006 Thorn-Clarke "Shotfire" Cabernet Sauvignon Barossa Valley South Australia ($16.99)

91 points from Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "The 2006 Shotfire Cabernet Sauvignon was aged for 18 months in French oak. Purple-colored, it offers up a fragrant bouquet of cedar, spice box, earth notes, black currant, and blackberry. Bordering on opulent, it has gobs of savory black fruit, excellent balance, and a fruit-filled finish. It will provide pleasure over the next eight years." (02/09) 90 points Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar: " Inky ruby. Dark cherry and cassis on the nose, with suave vanilla, cola and floral qualities adding complexity. Medium-bodied red and dark berry flavors are impressively pure, with fully absorbed tannins and gentle acidity on the back end. A very nicely balanced wine with no excess sweetness or weight." (Sept/Oct '08) Our notes - Bold, big and crammed with blackberry and cassis fruit, this is one of our finest Cabernet values in the store right now. If you are a tried and true fan of Thorn Clarke (you'd be in good company, right alongside Robert Parker and Stephen Tanzer) you'd want to know that this is the very first release of a Shotfire Cabernet. K&L is the only retailer in California, if not the entire West Coast to sell this wine, which was sourced from Thorn Clarke's Kabinge and Milton Park vineyards. Turns out 2006 was such a perfect storm for Cab, lucky for us.

2007 Valle del Acate Poggio Bidini Nero d'Avola ($12.99)

From Ragusa in South Eastern Sicily, this family estate has been growing grapes for 6 generations. Lovely fruit on the nose and the palate, with red cherries and spice. Not a lot of tannin on this pleaser, so it appeals for those who appreciate drinkability and softness above structure and longevity. Aged for 4-5 months in steel vats. Enjoy with roast chicken, pizza, or almost anything!

2005 d'Aiguilhe, Côtes de Castillon ($39.99)

92 points Robert Parker: "This huge, historic property, owned by Stephan von Neipperg, appears to have produced their finest wine to date. The dense purple-tinged 2005 offers up notes of creme de cassis, charcoal, camphor, and espresso roast. A sleeper of the vintage, it is a full-bodied, layered, super-concentrated, smooth as silk blend of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc. Enjoy this superb bargain-priced claret over the next 8-10 years." (04/08) 92 points Wine Spectator: "Displays gorgeous aromas of vanilla bean, mineral, raspberry and blackberry. Full-bodied, with very round, soft tannins and a long, rich, fruity finish. Beautiful. Best after 2016." (03/08) K&L's barrel tasting notes - K&L's barrel tasting notes - 80% merlot and 20% cabernet franc. Bright and effusive wine with a lovely palate entry. Blackberry juice flavors. Plenty of structure.*+ (Clyde Beffa, K&L Bordeaux buyer) Please note: 2005 Bordeaux futures are not currently in stock. They will arrive between Jan. and Dec. 2008. We will contact you for shipping instructions.

2005 Robert Mondavi Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon ($34.99)

93 points from the Wine News: "Violet hue. Pretty nose with tobacco, leather and plum scents. Nice blend of black fruit and graphite have the great backing of cedar-laced tannins. Tart, drying notes on the finish with hints of maple and focused tannins." (Oct/Nov 2008) 91 points Stephen Tanzers International Wine Cellar: "Medium ruby-red. Currant, tobacco and menthol on the nose: classic Oakville cabernet. Then broad, lush and sweet, with very ripe flavors of plum, currant, chocolate and tobacco nicely lifted by minerality. Finishes broad, with huge but ripe tannins and noteworthy length. I find this fresher and less extreme than the Stag's Leap bottling." (May/June '09) Since 2002 the Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon Oakville District has been one of the best cabernets in Napa Valley dollar-for-dollar. 79% its grapes are sourced from the famed To Kalon vineyard, while the remaining fruit comes from nearby vineyards on the Oakville Bench. It's a blend of 89% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Cabernet Franc, 3% Petit Verdot and 1% each Malbec and Merlot, aged in French oak barrels for 18 months. Seductive nose of juicy berries, violets, earth and black truffles. On the palate the wine displays the tell-tale Oakville flavors of blackberry, plum, black olive and chocolate nuances. There is excellent balance, structure and harmony here with enough oak to give it a rich, subtle flavor without overwhelming the layers of complexity.

Veuve Clicquot Brut ($39.99)

91 points Wine Spectator: "There's plenty of finesse in this smooth-textured Champagne, whose flavors evoke apricot, peach, vanilla pastry and mineral. Racy, with snappy acidity providing energy and driving the flavors to a long conclusion. Drink now through 2012." (11/09) The famous yellow label. According to Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "The NV Brut offers up attractive notes of smoke, tar, rich ripe pears and flowers in a medium to full-bodied style. There is a good measure of persistence..." (12/08)

2006 Razor's Edge Shiraz-Grenache McLaren Vale South Australia ($10.99)

91 points and a "Smart Buy" designate, Wine Spectator: "Polished, round and expressive. A gorgeous mouthful of ripe blackberry, plum, cherry and exotic spices, with hints of leather and brown sugar nibbling at the edge. The finish rolls on and on against superfine tannins. Drink now through 2016." (07/08)

2005 Olema Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon ($18.99)

A new label from winemaker Jeff Hansen (Amici Cellars) at a friendly price. The fruit for this cab comes from the southern parcel of Amici's Saint Helena vineyard, while the merlot (about 10% of the blend) comes from an adjacent vineyard. Aged for 22 months in 50% new French oak, the wine is a saturated ruby-garnet hue with aromas of spice and berries and flavors of blackberries and dried cherries on the palate.

2007 Chateau Souverain Alexander Valley Chardonnay ($11.99)

90 points Wine Spectator: "Complex aromas of citrus, pear, apple and honeysuckle, with touches of toasty oak. Full-bodied, rich and elegant, with a long, lingering finish." (Tasting Highlights, 12/9/08) And, according to Robert Parker: "The fruity, medium-bodied 2007 Chardonnay is ideal for present consumption." (12/08) Chateau Souverain has been a constant in the California wine world for many, many years. They always seem to produce solid, varietally correct wines with plenty of fruit and structure and, better yet, they are typically amazing values. The 2007 Chardonnay is no exception to this legacy. Full of tropical notes like lychee, dried pineapple and green tea with an underlying base of butterscotch, this is a bit more than your typical $12 Chard. There is a lot of stuffing here and the level of richness found in wines twice the price, if not more. Full-bodied and coating on the palate, this shows layer upon layer of pie crust, vanilla, Fuji apple and some of the reoccurring themes of butterscotch and pineapple. With just enough snappy acid to move it along and surprisingly long, lasting finish this is a serious value. (Bryan Brick, K&L)

2007 Weingut Allram Grüner Veltliner 1.0L (some damaged labels) ($10.99) Wine Club Price: $8.49

This is a new DI property for us producing great wines from some of the top sites in the Kamptal. Michaela Haas is the 4th generation of this family to run the 15 ha domaine. Fermented and aged in stainless steel and bottled with a crown cap this is the perfect liter, fresh, light and snappy; delivering all the thirst quenching you look for in a wine like this. The nose is textbook Gruner Veltliner filled with spice and pepper, snap pea and grapefruit. It is sleek, focused and juicy owing to the wonderful bright acid structure of the vintage. Enjoy o