2005 Mas Doix "Salanques" Priorat, Spain ($35.99)

93 points from Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "The 2005 Salanques, a blend of 65% Garnacha, 20% Carinena, and the balance Syrah, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon, is aged in French oak for 14 months. It has a glass-coating purple-hue with an alluring bouquet of cedar, smoke, slate, blueberry, and black cherry. Youthful and structured on the palate, this potentially complex effort will profit from 5-7 years of additional cellaring. It will be at its best from 2015 to 2030." (02/08) 90 points from Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar: "Bright red. Zesty red berry aromas are sharpened by white pepper and baking spices. Brisk raspberry and cherry flavors show very good energy and are nicely framed by fine-grained tannins. A focused, nervy example of Priorat, finishing precise and persistent." (Sept/Oct 07) And, according to Wine Spectator: "This has crisp focus, with bright cherry and berry fruit and lively acidity. The tannins are light but firm, the oak well-integrated. A vibrant wine. Drink now through 2012." (04/08)

2005 Vinas de la Vega Duero Sardonia Castilla y Leon - 0 available ($64.99)

94 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "This new estate is just beyond the western border of Ribera del Duero where Abadia Retuerta is located. Peter Sisseck is a co-owner and the vineyard is farmed biodynamically. The wine is a glass-coating opaque purple. It offers up a splendid concoction of toasty oak, crushed stone, floral notes, spice box, and wild black fruits. This leads to a forward, friendly wine with lots of juicy flavor, excellent depth, and an altogether hedonistic personality. Already exhibiting complexity, this wine will continue to evolve but few will be able to resist its seductions for very long." (02/08) 92 points Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar: " Inky violet. Deep, smoky raspberry and cherry compote aromas are enlivened by zesty minerals and fresh rose. Powerful dark berry flavors are sweetened by suave vanillin oak and firmed by dusty tannins. Turns spicier on the long, red fruit-dominated finish, which delivers excellent clarity and persistence." (Sept/Oct 2007)

2005 Mas Doix Costers de Vinyes Velles Priorat, Spain ($119.99)

98 points from Robert Parker: "The 2005 Costers de Vinas Viejas is aged for 16 months in new French oak. The wine is a blend of 50% Carinena, 48% Garnacha, and 2% Merlot. Purple-colored, it has an other-worldly perfume of pain grille, grilled meat, spice cabinet, espresso, mineral, wild blueberry, and black cherry. This is followed by a powerful, masculine, intense Priorat with gobs of flavor, 8-10 years of cellaring potential, and a very long finish. It will be at its peak from 2018 to 2040." (02/08) 95 points from Wine Spectator: "This beautiful red is expressive, harmonious and intense. Black raspberry and pomegranate flavors are juicy and focused, backed by vanilla, nutmeg, anise and mountain herbs. Elegant on the palate, this drives through the finish with power and length. Drink now through 2020." (12/07) 92 points from Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar: "Inky violet. Vibrant cherry, cassis and violet aromas are deepened by smoky bacon, mocha and toasty oak. Tightly wound, with firmly structured dark berry flavors and no flab. Picks up a spicy quality on the impressively long, juicy finish, which offers an intriguing, rooty cola flavor." (Sept/Oct 07) 91 points Wine & Spirits: "...this wine's future is assured by the clear quality of its fruit. Open in four or five years with venison stew." (02/09)

2007 Lewis Cellars "Barcaglia Lane" Sonoma Chardonnay ($59.99)

94 points from Wine Spectator Insider: "A rich, creamy, seductive style, with vanilla, nutmeg and smoky oak scents and ripe, pure, polished pear, fig and melon flavors that are remarkably elegant and stylish, gaining body, depth and complexity. Drink now through 2012." (March 25, 2009) The critically acclaimed wines from Lewis Cellars are always popular here at K&L - selling out in a flash. In fact, we don't expect this incredible single-vineyard Chardonnay to collect much dust on our shelves, even before the reviews come out. Made from fruit planted for the winery in 1998 at Dutton Ranch's Barcaglia Lane Vineyard in the Russian River Valley, this is a special wine from an exceptional white wine vintage. Aged sur lie, the wine has a distinctive toasty bread component to its bouquet, which is quite exuberant with spice, mandarin and honey aromas. On the palate it is a symphony of citrus, with a luxurious mouthfeel from the sur lie aging in oak, but there's plenty of acidity to keep this from becoming a butter bomb.

2007 Lewis Cellars Napa Reserve Chardonnay ($59.99)

93 points from Wine Spectator Insider: "Firm, rich and concentrated, offering a tight, full-bodied mix of fig, smoke and melon, with shades of nutmeg. Gains weight and complexity. Drink now through 2012." (March 25, 2009) This is the second vintage of Lewis Reserve Chardonnay to get an extra four months of sur lie barrel age, and it really adds to the wine's precision and depth. Always a winner, and the recipient of rave reviews from the critics, the Lewis Cellars wines fly off the shelves here at K&L. There were only 400 cases of this sublime Chard produced, so we don't expect that to change much here. Its nose is fresh, with hazelnut and wet stone aromas that add light to the Key lime and pear aromas. In the mouth, the wine is a mélange of stone and citrus, with bright acidity and a lingering texture.

2006 Lewis Cellars Napa Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon ($112.99)

95 points Wine Spectator: "Pure, rich and focused on a beam of ripe plum, cherry and currant, with touches of anise and cedar. Deliciously complex, deep and persistent, ending with ripples of rich, creamy flavors. Drink now through 2015." (06/09) The critically acclaimed wines from Lewis Cellars are always popular here at K&L - selling out in a flash. Fortunately, the 2006 Reserve Cab was made in quantity, at least compared to some of the winery's other bottlings, a whopping 2,000 cases. This is serious Cab sourced from Pritchard Hill, Calistoga, Rutherford and Oak Knoll. Enticing cigar box, black plum, cassis and cocoa nib aromas draw you into the glass, and you are rewarded with plush, up front cherry and blackberry fruit, followed by coffee, chocolate and vanilla notes. Surprisingly supple for its youth, with fine-grained tannins that create a lovely frame to admire this wine from. This Reserve provides plenty of drinking enjoyment now, for thos who like big, grippy wines, and will continue to give pleasure in the years to come as it softens and revelas secondary andt tertiary aromas and flavors.

2007 Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Olivier Hillaire "Cuvee Classique" Pre-Arrival - -3 available ($49.99)

91-93 points Robert Parker: "The 2007 Chateauneuf du Pape (80% Grenache and 20% Syrah) is a full-bodied, heady, deep ruby/purple-hued wine displaying sweet aromas of black raspberries, licorice, and incense. With sensational purity and a full-bodied, layered mouthfeel, this lovely 2007 will drink well for 10-15 years. Olivier Hillaire has taken over most of the vineyards that once comprised Domaine des Relagnes, and has profoundly changed the wines from very good to sensational. The 2007 Chateauneuf du Papes are Hillaire’s finest wines to date."-WA #179, Oct 2008. 90-93 points Stephen Tanzer: "Saturated ruby. Highly perfumed, spicy aromas of raspberry, Asian spices, garrigue and anise. Pliant red and dark berry flavors stain the palate, enlivened by zesty cinnamon and white pepper qualities. Finishes sweet, with a gentle snap of smoky minerals."-IWC Jan/Feb 2009. ETA Fall of 2009.

2007 Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Olivier Hillaire "Les Petits Pieds d'Armand" Pre-Arrival - 0 available ($84.99)

94-96 points Robert Parker: "The 5,000-bottle luxury cuvee, the 2007 Chateauneuf du Pape Les Petits Pieds d’Armand, is outrageously good. A wine of exceptional elegance with extraordinarily pure strawberry and kirsch notes intermixed with notions of crushed rocks, spring flowers, and lavender, this full-bodied, massively endowed wine cuts a relatively stylish feel across the palate in spite of its size, substance, and depth. Sensational length as well as overall equilibrium make for a promising, potentially monumental Chateauneuf du Pape of the vintage. Drink it over the next 20 years.Olivier Hillaire has taken over most of the vineyards that once comprised Domaine des Relagnes, and has profoundly changed the wines from very good to sensational. The 2007 Chateauneuf du Papes are Hillaire’s finest wines to date."-WA #179, Oct 2008. 95 poins Wine Spectator. "Shows the ripeness of the vintage, with a touch more intensity than most, as a wide range of inviting blueberry, plum, fig and boysenberry flavors are spiked with sweet spice, graphite and licorice notes. The long, rounded finish has great buried grip. Drink now through 2030.—J.M.(September 16, 2009) ETA Fall of 2009.

2007 Sojourn Cellars Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir ($34.99)

95 points in the Pinot Report: "Medium ruby color; bit shy on the nose now; rich, ripe core of dark cherry fruit; complex, spicy, notes; silky texture; good structure and balance; long finish. Delicious, lush Pinot with amazing flavor. Deep core flavors really have a long way to go." (01/09) The Sonoma Coast has that deep rich nose that pulls you in and never lets you out. This is the "value wine" but even at $35 this is twice the wine of so many other California producers. It is crafted from four vineyard sources including Sangiacomo and Windsor Oaks. Even more balanced and refined than last year, the layers keep coming with strawberry, raspberry, pain grille and forest floor. (Keith Mabry, K&L Wine Merchants) According to the Wine Enthusiast: "A dry, polished Pinot, zesty in crisp coastal acidity, with a light texture framing flavors red cherries, cola, rhubarb and pepper. Drink now." (09/09)

2007 Sojourn Cellars "Gaps Crown" Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir ($46.99)

95 points in the Wine Spectator: "Beautifully crafted, ripe and juicy, with richly flavored blackberry and wild berry, sweet cherry, floral, anise and subtle herbal sage touches that are full-bodied, complex and long on the finish. Drink now through 2015." (6/3/09) 96 points in the Pinot Report: "Medium-deep ruby color; deep, slightly closed. Complex red cherry and raspberry aromas; rich ripe cherry flavors. Spice and cinnamon notes; silky texture, sweet oak; great structure and balance; long finish. Very deep and complex Pinot that already has layers and layers of flavor. A great statement of the quality of this new vineyard." (01/09) The Gaps Crown Vineyard is pure excitement in a glass. The vineyard is located in the west-facing slopes of Sonoma Mountain, where the high winds and cool fog of the Petaluma Gap exert their influence. With this cooling influence, it would seem that this wine is destined for restraint; instead the wine is loaded with black cherry, wild raspberries, clove and cinnamon. The Gaps Crown is deep and long on the palate filled with complexities. In 2008, Kosta Browne will release their own Gaps Crown as a single vineyard, why wait when you can stay ahead of the curve with Sojourn Cellars. (Keith Mabry, K&L Wine Merchants)

2007 Sojourn Cellars "Sangiacomo Vineyard" Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir ($46.99)

97 points in the Pinot Report: "Medium-deep ruby color, bit tight on nose; some spice and dark cherry; big, rich, ripe, incredible core of dark cherry fruit with complex spice and sweet oak notes; silky texture; good structure and balance; long finish. This Pinot is all about texture - it's silky and mouthfilling with amazing flavors and still quite a bit of time ahead." (01/09) 92 points Wine Spectator: "Minty bay leaf and ripe, juicy wild berry fruit join together in this full-bodied effort, gaining richness and body and picking up a cola note. Ends with a long, peristent finish. Drink now through 2013." (06/09) According to Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar: "Good medium red. Expressive red fruit nose lifted by flowers and blood orange. Supple on the palate, with good pinot tang to the red fruit flavors...." (May/June '09) 92 points Wine Enthusiast: "Here's a Pinot that's so beautiful and beguiling, it's perfect to drink right away. Feels delicate and silky, with lush flavors of cherries, cotton candy, bacon, sassafrass, orange peel and dusty Asian spices." (09/09) The Sangiacomo Vineyard is sourced from two separate blocks in this prestigious vineyard. It is the fourth vintage made by Sojourn and it is the best yet. There is incredible weight to this wine, but it is never overwhelming. Gorgeous texture, beautiful acidity and a panoply of spice and fruit. This is truly a California Grand Cru. (Keith Mabry, K&L Wine Merchants)

2007 Sojourn Cellars "Windsor Oaks" Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir ($46.99)

92 points in the Pinot Report: "Medium ruby color; deep, tight cherry and cola aromas; rich. ripe, cherry flavor with cola and spice notes, some toasty oak; good structure and balance; long finish. Subtle Pinot with some bright fruit and silky texture - great for a lighter menu." (01/09) This is the first vintage that the Windsor Oaks Vineyard has been given its own vineyard designation. Two lots were so exceptional they felt that it warranted its own bottling. This wine is definitely for the Burgophiles. The Windsor is a giant, showing more restraint of its fruit flavors but delivering tobacco and spice box character with notes of cola and graphite. This was one of my favorite wines because it has even more grip and texture than the others. This is a provocative wine not to be overlooked. (Keith Mabry, K&L Wine Merchants)

Big Southern Rhône Tasting, K&L Redwood City, Saturday, March 28, 2009 ($40.00)

Big Southern Rhône Tasting, K&L San Francisco, Saturday, March 28, 2009 ($40.00)

2006 Michele Chiarlo Barbera d'Asti Superiore "Le Orme" ($10.99)

From Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "Chiarlo's 2006 Barbera d'Asti Superiore Le Orme is a delicious, fragrant Barbera. Made in a medium-bodied style, it offers notable harmony in its ripe red fruit, minerals and spices. Silky, refined tannins round out this terrific effort, which is a steal for the money. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2010." (08/08) The Michele Chiarlo Barbera d'Asti "Le Orme" is the first and only Italian wine to have ever received the "Best Value" designation from all the top wine magazines in the world: Decanter, Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, the Wine Spectator and Gambero Rosso! There is a complex mix of sweet fruit along with hints of truffle, smoke and leather that weave together to form an incredibly complex nose on this 2006. This wine has great body, richness and the aromatic complexity continues on the palate yet is very well balanced in a classic Barbera style. The synthesis of aromatics, complex fruit and palate vibrancy really do make this wine outstanding and to think of it at this price it is truly outstanding. This is a wine that both novices and lovers of classic style can appreciate now! A Great Buy! (Greg St.Clair, K&L Italian buyer)

2007 L'Aventure Paso Robles Estate Cabernet Sauvignon - 0 available ($74.99)

94+ points Robert Parker: "Another long distance runner is the 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate, a wine worth following over the next 15-20 years. With classic aromas of graphite, creme de cassis, spring flowers, and earth, this is a big, broodingly backward, full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon that is probably too formidably endowed and intense to attack presently, but given 3-4 years of bottle age, this wine should evolve as well as some of the North Coast Cabernet Sauvignons from Napa. Everything is there – crushed rock, creme de cassis, graphite, full-bodied power, fabulous concentration, purity, and a saturated purple color, all suggesting a brilliant wine. By the way, it is a blend of 95% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5 % Petit Verdot. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2025+."-WA #184, Aug 2009. ETA: 2nd week of Sept 2009.

2007 L'Aventure Paso Robles Estate Côte à Côte - 0 available ($74.99)

95 points Robert Parker: "Another blockbuster and decadently rich, extravagant expression of winemaking is the 2007 Cote a Cote, a blend of 40% Grenache, 40% Mourvedre, and 20% Syrah. An incredible wine, it tips the scales at 15.9% alcohol but is loaded with melted licorice, black currant fruit, sweet, jammy cherries, forest floor, and a bit of pepper and fruitcake notes. Deep, full-bodied, and layered, it is voluptuous, with relatively low acidity and velvety tannins. Drink it over the next 7-8 years. Wow!." (08/09) 93 points Wine Enthusiast: "Darker than most of the wines in a big Rhône tasting, this dramatic Grenache, Syrah and Mourvedre bottling is full-bodied and rich. It offers waves of chocolate and blackberries, with oak providing a smoky, butterscotchy overlay. Drink this soft, flamboyant wine now." (10/09) ETA: 2nd week of Sept 2009.

2007 L'Aventure Paso Robles Estate Cuvée ($74.99)

95 points Robert Parker: "Composed of 49% Syrah, 35% Cabernet Sauvignon, and the balance Petit Verdot, the 2007 Estate Cuvee is a blockbuster. A seamlessly built, multidimensional effort, it boasts a black/blue color as well as a gorgeous perfume of graphite, charcoal, blueberry and blackberry liqueur, truffles, bouquet garni, and a subtle hint of oak. Superb texture and power in addition to a seamless integration of acidity, alcohol, tannin, and wood suggest it will evolve for 10-15 years." (08/09) 90 points Wine Enthusiast: "Shows the soft, lush creaminess that mark L'Aventure's reds. A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Mourvedre, it's almost sweet in blackberry, cherry, chocolate, smoky oak and spicy flavors. Refined tannins help proved grounding." (10/09) Just to clarify, the composition of the 2007 Estate Cuvée is 49% Syrah, 37% Cabernet Sauvignon and 14% Petit Verdot - no Mourvedre, as the Wine Enthusiast review suggests. ETA: 2nd week of Sept 2009.

2006 L'Aventure Paso Robles Optimus - 0 available ($39.99)

91 points Robert Parker: "The 2006 Optimus consists of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 45% Syrah, and 5% Petit Verdot. It reveals the exuberance of a northern Rhone, but the structure of a top Bordeaux. It is more elegant, but less understated and concentrated than the 2005. Notes of chocolate, coffee, blackberries, and tar are present in both the aromatics and attack, but then the wine closes down, displaying plenty of structure, muscle, and tannin. This 2006 clearly needs several years of bottle age to round into shape. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2016." (06/08) 91 points Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar: "Inky purple. Cherry-vanilla and blueberry on the nose, with suave spice and floral qualities adding complexity. Juicy dark berry flavors give way to deeper plum and dark chocolate with air and deliver refreshing spicy lift on the back end. The sweet finish features excellent cut and persistence." (Nov/Dec '08) Previous vintages were also highly-acclaimed. Parker gave the 2005 94 points and the 2003 93+ points.

2004 Franck Bonville Brut Millesime Blanc de Blancs Champagne - 0 available ($36.99)

2004 Leclerc Briant "Cuvée Divine" Brut Champagne ($39.99)

Extremely limited. Those of you who have been lucky enough to taste older vintages of this superb tete de cuvee know how great it can be. The 2001 was unbelievable, in a year others wrote off. I grabbed K&L's tiny allocation without tasting it, and will be allocating some to myself by the end of the day! (Gary Westby, K&L Wine Merchants)

Launois "Cuvée Reserve" Brut Blanc de Blancs Champagne ($34.99)

This K&L favorite has a new package with an impressive old-fashioned bottle shape and new label. This spectacular Champagne is one of the most sought after in France, and Launois' cult status made it very difficult for us to make a purchase. We lucked out, and now we buy it directly, passing massive savings on to you. This house is from Mesnil, the southernmost Grand Cru in Champagne and home to Salon and Krug's Clos de Mesnil. This Champagne is all Chardonnay and all Grand Cru from the villages of Mesnil, Oger, Cramant and Avize - a roll call of the finest crus for Chardonnay in all of Champagne and all Veritas-certified for sustainable agriculture. It is made primarily from the 2004 harvest with 10% 2001 reserve wine and more than three years on the lees after an all stainless-steel vinification. The aromatics of this Champagne are like polished white Burgundy with a touch of pine nut and minerals. The flavors are broad and rich. This is serious wine, with small bubbles and a refreshing finish. (Gary Westby, K&L Champagne Buyer)

Launois "Quartz" Brut Blanc de Blancs Champagne ($34.99)

This is one of the few "cult" Champagnes that we have been able to get for our customers. A K&L favorite, this has a new package with an impressive old-fashioned bottle shape and new label. Luckily we bought direct, making it a great deal! Identical to the Reserve but not as heavily carbonated - it has four atmospheres (59psi) of pressure instead of the normal six (88psi). While I would be hard pressed to tell by looking at or tasting this Champagne that it has lighter carbonation, it tastes very different from the Reserve. Since less yeast and sugar were added to the wine during bottling, it has less leesy flavor, and because there is less disolved carbon dioxide in the wine the flavors of the grapes underneath shine more. Look for flavors of apple and brioche in this creamy, supple, mouthfilling Champagne. It is perfect for cocktail parties and as a starter for any event, and great to taste side by side with the Reserve. (Gary Westby, K&L Champagne Buyer)

2002 Launois Brut Blanc de Blancs Vintage Champagne ($39.99)

We have been waiting for this 2002 from Launois, and we are very excited to have it for you now. This is the strongest vintage in Champagne since 1996, having much in common with the great 1990 vintage! This all-estate, all-Grand Cru, pure Chardonnay Champagne comes from mid slope, old vine plots in Mesnil, Cramant and Oger. Bernard Launois harvests late (about 10 days after every one else is finished) and ferments in enamel tanks rather than stainless steel. His wines are some of the best we carry, and at this price it would be a mistake not to buy a little extra - they age very gracefully indeed, with examples from the 1950s still showing quite well. This is a creamy, more full-bodied style of Blanc de Blancs that does not sacrifice any minerality to achieve its ample texture. (Gary Westby, K&L WIne Merchants)

Michel Arnould Verzenay Brut Reserve Champagne ($29.99)

This is a blend of 75% Pinot Noir and 25% Chardonnay, entirely from estate vineyards in the Grand Cru of Verzenay. This is a great party Champagne, since it is full of flavor yet refreshing and moreish. The hazelnut Pinot character so unique to the village of Verzenay is pronounced in this wine, and many good tasters have mistaken it for barrel-fermented (it is actually all stainless and enamel fermented) when presented the wine blind. The texture is full and the bead is refined - a Champagne that you will be proud to serve to your guests, or perhaps not too proud to save for yourself! If you have enjoyed the wines of Lallement, Bollinger and Krug in the past, I think you will very much enjoy Michel Arnould. They are bold, masculine Champagnes with plenty of toasty flavor. (Gary Westby, K&L Champagne Buyer)

Michel Arnould Grand Cuvée Brut Champagne ($34.99)

Exclusively from the 2000 harvest, although not labeled as such, this Champagne is composed of two-thirds Pinot Noir and one-third Chardonnay. The color is gorgeous gold, studded with tiny bubbles. The aroma is amazing. The Champagne has a graceful, delicate balance that Verzenay wines sometimes lack, but with the signature hazelnut Pinot core. I found it to have creaminess to complement its racy cherry fruit on the palate, and an extraordinarily long, dry finish. It is dosed at 9 grams per liter - very dry! It will age very well. The Arnoulds own 27 acres in the village of Verzenay, a quite sizable holding in this high rent area. It is planted to 80% Pinot Noir and 20% Chardonnay, which is average for the village. The Arnoulds have quite a few plots of vines that are very old and positioned in the golden band mid-slope where the sun exposure is best. They have 40- and 45-year-old vines in the lieux-diets of Corret, Perthos and Coutures and 50-plus-year vines in the red wine vineyard Carreaux. All of the wines made by the Arnoulds undergo complete malolactic fermentation in stainless steel and enamel vats. If you have enjoyed the wines of Lallement, Bollinger and Krug in the past, I think you will very much enjoy Michel Arnould. They are bold, masculine Champagnes with plenty of toasty flavor. (Gary Westby, K&L Champagne buyer)

Tarlant Brut Reserve Champagne ($34.99)

This wine is creamy and rich but still light and refreshing. The scores of dancing bubbles invite you to come back for more. It has primary fruit flavors and warm bread aromas to charm you, and the length to convince the pickiest Champagne critics. Tarlant is one of a handful of "cult" producers in Champagne, but unlike most other "cult" producers, they have been around for awhile - since 1687. This wine is a blend of 2005, 2004 and 2003 with the two older vintages stored in wood vats prior to bottling. The varietal blend is one-third each Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay. All of the fruit comes from hillside vineyards in Oeuilly in the Vallee de la Marne. The Tarlant family uses organic practices in the vineyard - but they are very coy about calling themselves organic, no doubt due to the family's prominence in the vignerons association in Champagne. (Gary Westby, K&L Wine Merchants)

Tarlant Brut Zero Champagne ($34.99)

Do you like dry Champagne? A real brut style? Well, this is it-a no-dosage-added beauty from Tarlant! It is a vibrant, even electric style of Champagne, with no sweetness whatsoever to cloud the purity of its flavor. Unlike some other "ultra brut" Champagnes, this wine has great texture and richness, mostly from a generous use of reserve wines and barrel aging. This is a great introduction to this style of wine! Tarlant is one of a handful of cult producers in Champagne, but unlike most other trendy estates, they have been around for awhile -since 1687! This wine is a blend of 2005, 2004 and 2003 with the two older vintages stored in wood vats prior to bottling. The composition is Pinot Noir (1/3), Pinot Meunier (1/3) and Chardonnay (1/3). All of the fruit comes from hillside vineyards in Oeuilly in the Vallee de la Marne. The Tarlant family uses organic practices in the vineyard, but they are very coy about calling themselves organic, no doubt due to the family's prominence in the vignerons association in Champagne. (Gary Westby, K&L Champagne and Sherry Buyer)

Tarlant Rosé Zero Champagne ($49.99)

From the masters of Champagne without dosage - the Tarlant family - comes a rosé with no dosage! This wine is composed of 85% Chardonnay and 15% Pinot Noir, making it the rosé with the highest proportion of white grapes in the entire store. The red wine is sourced from a very steep site in the Aisne department called the Fourachaux, and has enough power to make this rosé in every way - not just in its perfect salmon color. The nose has a subtle toast that reminds me of waffles, but it also has a creaminess and a cherry fruit from the Pinot. On the palate, the texture is weightless, and the finish is, as one would expect completely dry! (Gary Westby, K&L Wine Merchants)

Tarlant Cuvée Louis Brut Prestige Champagne ($54.99)

This is Tarlant's top-of-the-line wine, and one of the best Champagnes we carry regardless of price. It is made of half Chardonnay and half Pinot Noir from the chalkiest portion of the Tarlant family's hillside vineyards in Oeuilly (Vallée de la Marne). The Tarlant family uses organic practices in the vineyard- but they are very coy about calling themselves organic, no doubt due to the family's prominence in the vignerons association in Champagne. The plot that the grapes come from is called "les Crayons" and the vines are all over 45 years of age, but average out to more than 50 years. It is fermented in oak barrels without malolactic fermentation, then aged in oak for 13 months and then on its lees for nine years before release. The current cuvee is a blend of equal parts 1996 and 1997 harvests. This very long aging process gives this wine lots of complexity and the suppression of malo and the high quality old vine fruit give it the vivacity of youth. Look for flavors of cinnamon, lightly toasted bread and apples. The dosage is very, very low and the finish is dry, precise and ultra-long. Hold on to your hat, this wine has it all! (Gary Westby, K&L Wine Merchants)

Leclerc Briant "La Croisette" Single Vineyard Brut Champagne ($32.99)

This Champagne is all Chardonnay from a less than one-acre vineyard in Epernay, near the border with Mardeiul, and is composed of equal parts 2000 and 2001 harvest. It has a very rich, sweet fruit nose of ripe cantaloupe and still maintains strong minerality. It is racy, long and powerful, dosed at 8 grams per liter, though t seems like even less! It is hard to believe that something that smells so sweet and ripe can taste so dry and refreshing. They make only 3500 bottles a year. Perfect with smoked salmon appetizers! (Gary Westby, K&L Champagne buyer)

Leclerc Briant "La Ravinne" Single Vineyard Brut Champagne - 0 available ($39.99)

This is a brand new release from Leclerc Briant. It is as distinctiive as Champagne gets, and one that will impress lovers of the unusual and esoteric. La Ravinne is 100% Pinot Meunier, 100% biodynamic. K&L Champagne Buyer Gary Westby says: "It's my personal favorite of the Leclerc Champagnes. This all-Meunier vineyard is located in Verneuil and is the farthest west of all the sites. It is the polar opposite of the mushroomy style of Rene Collard, instead showing a sweet, almost pear eau-de-vie-like clean fruit on the nose and very racy acidity on the back. It is one of the ultimate aperitif Champagnes in the store."

Leclerc Briant "Les Chêvres Pierreuses" Single Vineyard Brut Champagne ($32.99)

This Champagne is composed of 41% Pinot Noir, 19% Meunier and 40% Chardonnay from a seven-acre vineyard that is the steepest of the three offerings. Perhaps the most plain delicious of the three wines; this Champagne has great fresh apple fruit, lightly toasted bread notes and good refreshing zing. It amazes me that a wine can be so distinctive and complex while still maintaining such easy going charm. A fantastic aperitif! (Gary Westby, K&L Champagne and Sherry buyer)

Leclerc Briant "Les Crayères" Single Vineyard Brut Champagne ($32.99)

This wine is composed of 38% Pinot Noir, 37% Meunier and 25% Chardonnay from a two and two-thirds-acre vineyard that has the most chalk of the three single-vineyard offerings. The vineyard faces south on a small slope about a mile west of the village. The Champagne has a fresh, clean vanilla bean and subtle raspberry fruit nose. It is concentrated and holds its fruit like a great Blanc de Blancs. It is a dry style, dosed at just 8 grams per liter and a favorite of many on staff at K&L. (Gary Westby, K&L Champagne and Sherry buyer)

1999 De Meric Vintage Sous Bois Brut Champagne (Was $49.99) ($35.00)

We have been working with Champagne De Meric since the beginning of their renaissance, and now their first vintage Sous Bois has been released. It is composed of 70% Pinot Noir and 30% Chardonnay from the villages of Ay, Avize, Cramant, Oger, Mareuil-sur-Ay and Mutigny. It has a fantastic nose of fresh cream and bread dough and the palate has great black cherry Ay Pinot Noir power. There are subtle hints of orange peel and vanilla underneath, almost certainly coming from the all-wood fermentation. (Gary Westby, K&L Champagne buyer)

2003 Louise Brison Vintage Brut (Was $39.99) ($24.99)

This Champagne is a blend of 50% Pinot Noir and 50% Chardonnay from organic, estate vineyards. Mr. Brulez sells two-thirds of his grapes, and keeps the best third to make only vintage Champagne. He is the chairman of the Dijon University Alumni Association, and looks more to Burgundy than to Reims for the inspiration for his wines. This comes from one of the earliest vintages in the long history of Champagne, in fact they had not picked so early since 1852! Like elsewhere in Europe, it was a very warm year, and this Champagne is marked by the breadth and generosity of a hot harvest. It reminds me very much of the "2003 by Bollinger," a bottling that estate thought so different from any other vintage they made that they completely changed the package, making the vintage the largest print on the label! The Champagne makes a reticent impression on the nose and the opposite on the palate; a powerhouse of muscled Chardonnay and broad Pinot. The finish is very dry and flavory. I would drink this over the next five years or so. (Gary Westby, K&L Champagne buyer)

2008 Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough, New Zealand ($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!

2008 Nobilo "Icon" Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough, New Zealand ($18.99)

92 POINTS and a "SMART BUY" from the Wine Spectator: "A brilliant burst of lime, grapefruit and green apple rides easily on a racy, acidity-fueled texture, persisting into the long, vibrant finish with hints of wet stone and citrus peel. Drink now. 20,000 cases made." (04/09) The 2008 Nobilo "Icon" Sauvignon Blanc is made from fruit sourced from both the Awatere and Wairau valleys in Marlborough. They also use a variety of canopy systems to provide a complex set of flavors and aromas to arrive at the final blend.The bouquet is lifted with pure, crystal clear notes of mineral, grapefruit, lime blossom, passion fruit and notes of grass and red bell pepper. On the palate, the wine has wonderful mid-palate richness and weight with great supporting acidity that ties the layers of flavors together with a long juicy vibrant finish in a package that has impeccable balance. (Jim Chanteloup, K&L Wine Merchants)

2005 Flora Springs Napa "Trilogy" ($47.99)

95 points and an Editors' Choice, Wine Enthusiast: "A drop-dead gorgeous red blend that continues Flora Springs’ fine streak of Bordeaux-style wines. Full-bodied and dry, it’s balanced and rich, with complex flavors of currants, minerals, cedar and spice. The tannins are strong, but ultra-refined. Drink this high quality wine now and through 2015." (05/09) 93 points Robert Parker: "The vintage is exemplified beautifully by the 2005 Trilogy. This is a superb example of this proprietary red. Beautiful deep red, blue, and black fruits all intermingle with some crushed rock, lavender, and spice box in a very scented bouquet. In the mouth, it is layered, medium to full-bodied, with sweet tannin, gorgeous purity, and length. This is a stunning wine that should drink nicely for 15 or more years." (12/07) One of the best Trilogy bottlings I have had in years! The '05 shows a ripe core of berry fruit with a firm structure and ripe fruit tannins. Hints of coffee, mocha and asian spice add the extra touches. Drink now with some air or hold for 5-7 years. (Trey Beffa, K&L Wine Merchants)

1990 Batard Montrachet, Gagnard - 4 available ($139.00)

According to Allen Meadows: "Powerfully expressive and almost completely mature aromas combine with attractive enough flavors ... this is still very pretty and still offers reasonably fresh fruit..." (Tasted: Oct 10, 2002)

1992 Batard Montrachet, Grand Cru, Leflaive - 6 available ($599.00)

97 points Robert Parker: "Millionaires should have fun debating whether the 1992 Batard-Montrachet or Chevalier-Montrachet is superior. The Batard is the more evolved and precocious of the two. Both are beautifully well-knit, expansively flavored, full-bodied, super-concentrated white burgundies that display honeyed, orange, roasted nut, overripe apple-scented noses, buttery, creamy textures, super extraction of flavor, and long finishes. The Batard exhibits more mineral scents in its nose and flavors, and is more upfront. The Chevalier-Montrachet appears to be holding more in reserve than the Batard. The Chevalier explodes on the back of the palate and looks to have greater longevity. Both are beautifully well-knit, expansively flavored, full-bodied, super-concentrated white burgundies that display honeyed, orange, roasted nut, overripe apple-scented noses, buttery, creamy textures, super extraction of flavor, and long finishes." (10/93)

1988 Beaune Blanc "Clos Mouches" Drouhin - 6 available ($89.95)

90 points Wine Spectator: "Elegant and nicely proportioned, showing delicious complexity of apple, spice and floral flavors on the long finish. Crisp acidity maintains balance, and the flavors seem to grow with each sip. A harmonious wine that's drinkable now, but better after 1991." (07/90)

1989 Bonnes Mares Groffier - 2 available ($139.00)

According to the Wine Spectator: "Decidedly earthy, with flavors that run more toward barnyardy and bacony than fruity, but it has a meaty texture and enough depth to warrant cellaring. For fans of the style. Best after 1994. 425 cases made." (01/92)

1996 Calon Segur, St-Estèphe (3L) - 1 available ($469.00)

92 points Robert Parker: "The 1996 has gained weight, revealing even more flesh and depth than it did in spring, 1997. The wine is opaque ruby/purple-colored, full-bodied, ferociously tannic, and crammed with fruit and extract. Made in an uncompromising, traditional style, this wine will require a decade of patience. There is plenty of sweet fruit on the attack, and while the tannins are high, they are remarkably ripe with no evidence of astringency or vegetal characteristics. This appears to be a profound, classic, muscular, and powerful Calon-Segur that will age effortlessly for 30-40 years. Readers should remember that this estate possesses one of the greatest terroirs of Bordeaux, and produced a bevy of legendary wines in the twenties, late forties, and early fifties. Since then, it has been something of a hit or miss property, but under her administration, Madame Gasqueton has produced consistently outstanding wines. The 1996, a blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Merlot, was made from extremely low yields of 35 hectoliters per hectare. Anticipated maturity: 2006-2035." (02/98) 90 points Wine Spectator: "Aromas of blackberry, currant, strawberry, tar and mint. Medium- to full-bodied, with a polished and caressing texture. Not as good as the great '95, but excellent. This chewy yet closed wine needs years to come around. Best after 2003." (01/99)

1992 Chablis, Grand Cru, "Moutonne", Depaquit - 12 available ($49.95)

La Moutonne is less well known than the other seven Grand Cru vineyards in Chablis. There are two reasons for this: 1) It was not declared separately in 1938 when the others were named, and 2) It is a 2.5 hectare monopole, which has belonged to this domaine since shortly after the revolution. It lies mostly in Vaudesir, but .11 hectares span Les Preuses as well. It lies in a natural amphitheatre, high on the Grand Cru slopes, which provide the minerality and richness for which it is known. Impressive and very very rare!

1989 Chablis "Les Clos", Vincent Dauvissat - 5 available ($199.00)

According to Allen Meadows: "Steeley, intense, ripe but classic Chablis nose leads to somewhat dilute flavors that don't seem to have the raw power and depth of a typical Dauvissat Les Clos. Perfectly good..." (Tasted: Feb 02, 2004)

1989 Chablis "Les Preuses", Vincent Dauvissat - 4 available ($169.00)

90 points Allen Meadows: "Big and powerful with an equisite and explosive nose of citrus, limestone and ripe peach notes followed by beautifully detailed flavors that offer plenty of depth, extract and outstanding length. Still very tight and young but this is extremely promising." (Tasted: Oct 26, 1995)

1988 Chambertin Clos de Beze, Rousseau - 3 available ($399.00)

90 points Allen Meadows: "Advanced secondary notes of spice, mature burg aromas and hints of leather and tea introduce rich, pretty, thoroughly delicious, velvety, round flavors underpinned by plenty of ripe tannins on the long, intense finish. This is a fine effort and while the tannins suggest that this could evolve further, I doubt the fruit will hang in there long enough for this to ever completely harmonize. That said, this is completely enjoyable now and I would be drinking it over the next few years. Consistent notes." (Tasted: Apr 02, 2006)

1988 Chambertin, Grand Cru, Rousseau - 3 available ($699.00)

91 points Allen Meadows: "There is a bit more of everything here except for more aromatic spice. Bigger, richer and with better intensity plus a bit more mid-palate depth and weight that causes the still noticeable tannins to appear better integrated. Beautiful and I would counsel drinking this over the next few years." (Tasted: Jan 01, 2003)

1991 Chambertin, Leroy (cracked capsule) - 1 available ($1,299.00)

94 points Wine Spectator: "Lush, ripe, balanced and profound, loaded with ripe fruit and tannins, its flavors centered on chocolate, spice, wet earth and mineral. This should come together nicely by 2000 to 2005.--Leroy vertical." (12/96)

1988 Chambolle Musigny 1er Cru Les Fuees Mugnier (some with slight signs of seepage) - 6 available ($89.95)

According to the Wine Spectator: "Lean and crisp, with sharply focused raspberry, nutmeg and vanilla aromas and flavors. Long and lively on the finish. Should be best after 1994." (05/91)

1989 Chambolle Musigny Amoureuses Groffier - 3 available ($199.00)

Robert Groffier has long been considered one of the finest winemakers in the Côte d'Or. The Domaine owns seven hectares of top vineyards, including this parcel in Chambolle-Musigny. The style tends toward the traditional, rather than exceedingly fruity. Lovely, classic Chambolle here, and ready to drink now.

1985 Charmes Chambertin, Bouree - 4 available ($99.95)

91 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "The Charmes-Chambertin is usually superb, as it is from one of this firm's own vineyards. In 1988 it shows a huge bouquet of plummy, spicy fruit, smooth, rich, velvety flavors, full body, and plenty of length." (01/90)

1990 Charmes Chambertin Maume - 4 available ($129.95)

According to Robert Parker: "All of Maume's 1990 offerings are typical of his style of winemaking. They are darkly-colored, powerful, dense, and backward. Most of them will require 7-10 years of cellaring. Consider Maume's 1982s, a vintage when most red burgundies are in complete decline. His wines are just beginning to reach full maturity." (10/92)

1992 Chassagne Montrachet "La Romanee", Morey-Coffinet - 12 available ($79.95)

According to the Wine Spectator: "This rich, satisfying white Burgundy has butterscotch and custard aromas followed by lemon, apple and floral flavors that expand and linger on the finish. Nicely balanced. Drinkable now." (07/94)

1988 Chassagne Montrachet "Vergers", Colin-Deleger - 6 available ($69.95)

According to the Wine Spectator: "Has a solid core of fruit, with rich, intense citrus, pear, grapefruit and spice notes that are well defined and austere. It's well balanced, echoing pretty toast and spice notes on the finish. Ready for drinking now to 1992. 300 cases made." (02/91)

1990 Cheval Blanc, St-Emilion (Was $999.00) - 11 available ($899.00)

95 points Robert Parker: "Will the 1990 turn out to be a replay of Cheval Blanc's glorious 1983? It appears to be the most complete Cheval produced since their historic duo of 1982 and 1983… The 1990 exhibits deep color than recent vintages of Cheval, as well as a profound menthol aroma intermingled with scents of truffles, mocha, toast, and sweet black fruits. This expansive, typical, exotic example of Cheval Blanc is captivating because of its opulence and rich, velvety finish. It already provides immense pleasure. An attention grabber! Anticipated maturity: now-2010."

1985 Clos Corton Faiveley (some slightly soiled & slightly torn labels) - 5 available ($99.95)

According to Allen Meadows: "Evident bricking. Fully mature aromas that display earth, game, leather and noticeable sous bois lead to slightly vegetal and stewed middle weight flavors that are rich..." (Tasted: Mar 29, 2004)

1988 Clos Saint Denis, Grand Cru, Castagnier - 5 available ($99.95)

According to the Wine Spectator: "Very pretty floral and berry aromas and flavors rest comfortably on a light, supple frame, offering generous flavors that persist through the crisp finish. Elegant and tasty, with echoes of black cherry and spice. Should be best after 1994 or '95." (07/91)

1990 Corton Chalemagne, Bonneau du Martray - 9 available ($199.00)

92 points and a Highly Recommended designation from the Wine Spectator: "This has an extremely well-defined taste band of lemon-lime and cream. Medium-bodied and very steely. Best after 1995." (10/93)

1985 Corton Charlemagne, Bonneau de Martray - 4 available ($189.00)

According to the Wine Spectator: " impressively rich earthy aromas...it's a nice wine that's drinkable now and ought to develop nicely..." (05/88)

1988 Corton Charlemagne, Grand Cru, Jadot - 3 available ($149.00)

93 points Wine Spectator: "This grandly proportioned wine has crisp, vibrant fruit flavors ably supported by orange, pear, lemon and fig notes, with accents of spice, honey and butter from oak aging. Beautifully focused, silky in texture and long on the finish. Drink now to 1998. 725 cases made." (04/91)

1988 Cote Rotie La Landonne, Guigal - 1 available ($699.00)

100 points Robert Parker: "An opaque purple color and a closed but exciting nose of truffles, minerals, Asian spices, and fruitcake. When the wine hits the mouth with its enormous weight and extraction of flavor, one can't help but be seduced by such enormous richness and purity. Nevertheless, there is still a remarkably high level of tannin (sweet rather than astringent), a youthful, unevolved fruit character, and flavors that stain the palate. After tasting this wine, one feels like brushing one's teeth ... it is that rich. Anticipated maturity: 2002-2030. Last tasted 7/96." 94 points Wine Spectator: "Very oaky, but then, it's still very young, boasting sweet plum and licorice flavors that go on and on. Has the classic La Landonne tannic structure, and should be better in 1998.--Guigal Côte-Rôtie vertical. 700 cases made." (11/95)

1991 Cote Rotie La Landonne, Guigal - 5 available ($699.00)

95 points Wine Spectator: "Deep and muscular, this is the most concentrated and tannic of the '91s. It's meaty, smoky and spicy, with ripe plum flavors. Drink beginning in 2000.--Guigal Côte-Rôtie vertical." (11/95)

1991 Cote Rotie La Mordoree, Chapoutier (soiled label) - 1 available ($399.00)

100 points Robert Parker: "In the same class as the great single-vineyard Cote Roties made by Marcel Guigal (i.e., La Mouline, La Turque, and La Landonne), La Mordoree is most akin to La Mouline in its seductive, otherworldly fragrance and layers of sweet, expansive, velvety-textured fruit. There were 400 cases made of this saturated purple-colored wine. Its huge bouquet and spectacularly rich, layered personality offer an astonishing example of what low yields from a naturally farmed vineyard and an unfined, unfiltered winemaking philosophy can achieve. Anticipated maturity: now-2020. Last tasted 7/96."

1988 Cote Rotie La Mouline, Guigal - 1 available ($699.00)

100 points Robert Parker: "Among so many exceptional La Mouline's, this is one of the most profound. At the same time, it is atypically backward, and has been slow to evolve. Still dark purple-colored, with only a hint of the flamboyant Mouline aromatics, this thick, super concentrated, full-bodied, tannic La Mouline is loaded with fruit, massive, and full-bodied, but still in need of time to fully shed its cloak of tannin. It is likely to be the longest-lived La Mouline since the 1978 and 1969. Anticipated maturity: 1999-2015. Last tasted 7/96." 95 points Wine Spectator: "Ripe and concentrated, without being overly tannic, seductive, offering raspberry, cherry and vanilla flavors and a long, elegant finish. Drinkable now, but better in 1998.--Guigal Côte-Rôtie vertical. 500 cases made." (11/95)

1991 Cote Rotie La Turque Guigal - 5 available ($699.00)

99 points Robert Parker: "The 1991 La Turque behaves as if it wants to be the northern Rhone's answer to Richebourg and Musigny. However, with the exception of Domaine Leroy, you cannot find a Richebourg or Musigny with the richness and complexity possessed by this awesome wine. The saturated dark purple color is followed by a wine that is surprisingly lighter in the mouth than its great flavor intensity and rich extraction would suggest. It is a winemaking tour de force in that Guigal has been able to cram phenomenal levels of fruit, complexity, and richness into this velvety-textured wine without causing it to taste heavy. Anticipated maturity: 1998-2015. Last tasted 6/96." (01/97) 93 points Wine Spectator: "Complex and concentrated, this shows toast and vanilla oak flavors balanced by plenty of plum, berry and licorice notes; dense and long. Drink from 1998.--Guigal Côte-Rôtie vertical." (11/95)

1986 Domaine de la Romanee Conti La Tache (slightly corroded capsule) - 1 available ($999.00)

98 points Wine Spectator: "A magical wine, as elegant as we have tasted, loaded with complex aromas an d flavors of cherry, currant, blackberry and cedar, all of which mesh toget her with subtlety. A triumph in every way. Try to wait until 1995 or 2000 t o try it again." (08/89)

1990 Echezeaux, Grand Cru, Mugneret-Gibourg - 6 available ($125.00)

93 points Wine Spectator: "Like satin, this wine caresses the palate with intense red berry, violet and earth flavors, yet has a real iron backbone that leads to a sophisticated, supple finish. Shows wonderful finesse. Try in 1997. 250 cases made." (12/92)

1972 Gevrey Chambertin "Cazetieres", Leroy - 2 available ($169.00)

1988 Gevrey Chambertin Clos St Jacques, Rousseau - 4 available ($349.00)

According to Allen Meadows: "Beautifully complex older burg aromas that have turned largely secondary in character followed by dense, still somewhat tannic flavors of good breed and distinction plus lovely length..." (Tasted: Nov 17, 2003)

1996 Grand-Puy-Lacoste, Pauillac (6L) - 1 available ($999.00)

95 points Robert Parker: "The 1996 displays an opaque purple color, as well as sweet, wonderfully pure, jammy blackberry, mineral, and intriguing floral aromas. Enormously rich and full-bodied, with massive intensity, this is a modern day tour de force in winemaking. In spite of being aged in a hefty percentage of new oak, the wine does not reveal any evidence of new oak casks because the fruit character is so pronounced. Statistically, this wine possesses huge amounts of tannin, but it comes across as a seamless giant with extraordinary richness and intensity. This may be even greater than the exceptional 1982, but it may take longer to become accessible than the latter wine. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2035. Wow! What extraordinary wines Grand-Puy-Lacoste has produced in both 1995 and 1996. At present, I have a marginal preference for the blockbuster 1996, but I am not about to argue with anybody who prefers the 1995! Both are compelling wines (02/98)

1986 Haut-Brion, Pessac-Léognan - 1 available ($299.00)

93 points Robert Parker: "The 1986 Haut-Brion, which I thought should be fully mature by now, remains a backward, highly concentrated, powerful wine with more noticeable tannin than most top vintages. The wine does possesses a tell-tale smoky tobacco and sweet black currant-scented nose, in addition to subtle new oak and minerals scents. This medium to full-bodied, rich, intensely smoky wine has still not reached its plateau of maturity. It is unquestionably the wine of the vintage for Graves, and not far off the pace of the great 1986 first-growth Medocs. Anticipated maturity: 2000-2015. Last tasted 7/97." 92 points Wine Spectator: "There is no denying the greatness in this Bordeaux, but the bricklike, earthy aromas and flavors are bound to polarize wine lovers. Very complex, hard and tannic, it needs until at least the year 2000 to begin to show what it has." (06/89)

1989 La Mission Haut-Brion, Pessac-Léognan - 1 available ($999.00)

99 points Robert Parker: "The 1989 La Mission-Haut-Brion is irrefutably the finest wine made at this chateau since 1975. Certainly it is much more 'user-friendly' than the 1975. It is a thick, muscular, sensationally concentrated wine that is even bigger than its nearby sibling, Haut-Brion. Once past the roasted cassis and smoky nose, the wine is superbly extracted with plum and tar-like flavors framed with generous quantities of new oak (100% was used). While there is a tendency to compare the 1989 to the unctuous 1982, the 1989 is even more concentrated in addition to offering greater structure and grip. Nevertheless, it should drink well given its heady alcohol content and soft tannins. It is a formidable, probably legendary La Mission that will last for at least several decades. If you can still find it (and afford it), this is a must purchase."

1996 Latour, Pauillac - 5 available ($599.00)

97 points Robert Parker: "The 1996 appears to be a modern day version of the 1966 or 1970, rather than the sweeter, more sumptuous fatter styles of the 1982 or 1990. The wine reveals an opaque ruby/purple color, as well as reticent but emerging aromas of roasted nuts, blackberry fruit, tobacco, and coffee, with hints of pain grille in the background. Massive and full-bodied in the mouth, it possesses extremely high tannin, fabulous concentration and purity, and an impeccably long finish. This wine, bottled, in July, 1998, will require at least a decade of cellaring. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2040." 97 points Wine Spectator: "This muscular Latour is deep and dark-colored, its ripe berry oozing from the glass with undertones of vanilla and minerals. Full-bodied, and incredibly chewy, with masses of tannins and a long, long fruity finish. This is how they built clarets in the great years of the 1960s and 1950s.Best after 2005."

1995 Latour, Pauillac (1.5L) (nicked capsule) - 1 available ($1,099.00)

96+ points Robert Parker: "It is an extremely powerful and concentrated, full-bodied, backward wine, but it does not exhibit any harshness or toughness. Like many 1995s, the acidity is low. The wine is an explosive fruit ball that offers massive intensity, without yet having begun to reveal its full personality. The finish lasts for nearly a minute. This looks to be a great Latour that should turn out to be superior to the impressive 1994. It is still extremely raw and backward. It will be a must purchase for Latour fans who plan on living another 25-30 years. Wow!" 94 points and a Cellar Selection designation from the Wine Spectator: "An outstanding Latour, offering marvelous character on the nose and palate with its complex layers of blackberry, tobacco, cedar and berries. This first-growth Bordeaux is full-bodied and velvety, with a long fruit and tobacco aftertaste. Best after 2002."

1996 Latour, Pauillac (1.5L) (nicked capsules) - 2 available ($1,199.00)

97 points Robert Parker: "The 1996 appears to be a modern day version of the 1966 or 1970, rather than the sweeter, more sumptuous fatter styles of the 1982 or 1990. The wine reveals an opaque ruby/purple color, as well as reticent but emerging aromas of roasted nuts, blackberry fruit, tobacco, and coffee, with hints of pain grille in the background. Massive and full-bodied in the mouth, it possesses extremely high tannin, fabulous concentration and purity, and an impeccably long finish. This wine, bottled, in July, 1998, will require at least a decade of cellaring. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2040." 97 points Wine Spectator: "This muscular Latour is deep and dark-colored, its ripe berry oozing from the glass with undertones of vanilla and minerals. Full-bodied, and incredibly chewy, with masses of tannins and a long, long fruity finish. This is how they built clarets in the great years of the 1960s and 1950s.Best after 2005."

1995 Latour, Pauillac (some slightly ink marked labels) (Was $549.00) - 6 available ($499.00)

96+ points Robert Parker: "It is an extremely powerful and concentrated, full-bodied, backward wine, but it does not exhibit any harshness or toughness. Like many 1995s, the acidity is low. The wine is an explosive fruit ball that offers massive intensity, without yet having begun to reveal its full personality. The finish lasts for nearly a minute. This looks to be a great Latour that should turn out to be superior to the impressive 1994. It is still extremely raw and backward. It will be a must purchase for Latour fans who plan on living another 25-30 years. Wow!" 94 points and a Cellar Selection designation from the Wine Spectator: "An outstanding Latour, offering marvelous character on the nose and palate with its complex layers of blackberry, tobacco, cedar and berries. This first-growth Bordeaux is full-bodied and velvety, with a long fruit and tobacco aftertaste. Best after 2002."

1982 Latour, Pauillac (Some Very Top Shoulder Fills with Slightly Depressed Corks) - 1 available ($1,999.00)

100 points Robert Parker: "The 1982 continues to surge in quality, moving from strength to strength. If I were going to pull the cork for pure pleasure on any of the Big 8, it would be this wine. Still an infant in terms of development, the wine displays extraordinary richness, ripeness, and the beginning of that compelling Latour perfume of cassis, cedar, walnuts, and minerals. Extremely full-bodied, concentrated, and thick, this viscous, chewy, large-scaled wine is also amazingly soft. Huge levels of tannin are concealed behind the layers of fruit. More and more I am convinced that this is another unqualified legend of the vintage... This could be a 50-60 year wine . A tour de force!'" 97 points from the Wine Spectator.

2000 Latour, Pauillac (Was $1299.00) - 4 available ($999.00)

100 points Wine Spectator: "Some said that Latour could never top its modern classic, the 1990, but director Frédéric Engerer and his team at this famous first-growth have equaled it with the 2000. It's a young wine that electrifies every taste bud in your mouth. Compact aromas of crushed currants and minerals, with roses and lilacs, it is full-bodied, with masses of silky, refined tannins and a finish that lasts for minutes. Best after 2010." (01/03) 98 points Robert Parker: "There are only 14,000 cases (only 48% of the crop made it into the grand vin) of the 2000, which flirts with perfection. Truly great stuff, it reveals perfect equilibrium, great finesse, yet colossal size, with a thickness and density that rival the brilliant 1996. This saturated black ruby/purple colored wine seems almost discreet on first inspection, but with aeration, notes of vanilla, exceptionally pure, mineral-infused creme de cassis, and earth emerge. Full-bodied and tannic, it should come close to representing perfection. Latour's 2000 is hard to compare with previous vintages. It obviously does not have the opulence of the 1990 and 1982, yet there is an extraordinary purity, delineation, seamlessness, and freshness to this wine that sets it apart from previous vintages. In any event, it is prodigious, with at least five decades of evolution ahead of it. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2050." (04/03)

1995 Léoville-Las-Cases, St-Julien (1.5L) - 1 available ($449.00)

95 points Robert Parker: "If it were not for the prodigious 1996, everyone would be concentrating on getting their hands on a few bottles of the fabulous 1995 Leoville-Las-Cases, which is one of the vintage's great success stories. The wine boasts an opaque ruby/purple color, and exceptionally pure, beautifully knit aromas of black fruits, minerals, vanillin, and spice. On the attack, it is staggeringly rich, yet displays more noticeable tannin than its younger sibling. Exceptionally ripe cassis fruit, the judicious use of toasty new oak, and a thrilling mineral character intertwined with the high quality of fruit routinely obtained by Las Cases, make this a compelling effort. There is probably nearly as much tannin as in the 1996, but it is not as perfectly sweet as in the 1996. The finish is incredibly long in this classic. Only 35% of the harvest was of sufficient quality for the 1995 Leoville-Las-Cases. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2025." (02/98)

1990 Lynch-Bages, Pauillac - 1 available ($259.00)

94 points Wine Spectator: "Big-boned, with plenty of flesh, this wine has loads of plum, tar and smoke characteristics and full, velvety tannins. Highly extracted. Drink after 1998." (03/93) 93 points Robert Parker: "The style of the two vintages for Lynch Bages parallels the style of the 1989 and 1990 Pichon-Longueville-Baron. In both cases, the 1990 is the more forward, flattering, and delicious to drink wine, in contrast to the more massive, backward, tannic, and potentially superior 1989. Lynch Bages 1990 offers sweet, beefy, leathery, blackcurrant aromas intermingled with smoky, toasty oak, and roasted herbs. The wine offers a hedonistic turn-on of fruit, extract, and high levels of glycerin, all crammed into a full-bodied, supple-textured, rich, powerful Lynch Bages with no hard edges. It can be drunk now and over the next 20-25 years." (02/97)

1986 Margaux, Margaux (some stained labels) (was $799.) - 2 available ($599.00)

96 points Robert Parker: "The 1986 Margaux continues to be the most powerful, tannic, and muscular Margaux made in decades. One wonders if the 1928 or 1945 had as much power and depth as the 1986? The black/ruby/purple color reveals no sign of age. The reluctant nose offers up aromas of smoky, toasty new oak and blackcurrants, as well as a few flowers. The wine is mammoth, with extraordinary extract, superb balance, and a frightfully tannic finish. A Margaux of immense stature, it is made in a masculine, full-bodied style that is in complete contrast to the 1990. It should prove nearly immortal in terms of aging potential, but will it have the awesome potential I first predicted?" (01/98) 93 points Wine Spectator: "Racy and powerful. Black color. Currants, tar and dried herbs. Full-bodied, with firm tannins. Slightly hollow center palate--a bit of a letdown. Better with more bottle age.--Bordeaux retrospective." (06/01)

1982 Margaux, Margaux (top shoulder) (Was $999.00) - 1 available ($799.00)

96 points from Parker: "This is an atypically powerful, thick, ruggedly constructed Margaux that has been downgraded slightly because of a certain coarseness I have detected in the tannin as the wine has evolved. Nevertheless, I would be thrilled to drink this wine - anytime, any place. It may just be that the wine's tannin and structure are more noticeable than in the past. The opaque purple/garnet color is followed by an intense, sweet nose of truffles, cassis, smoke, flowers, and toasty oak. Full-bodied, with impressive levels of glycerin, extract, and tannin, this large-scaled, robust Margaux may not possess the sheer class and breed of such other great Margaux vintages as 1983, 1986, and 1990, but it offers a huge, massive mouthful of thick, succulent wine. The elevated tannin in the finish suggests the wine should be cellared for another 5-7 years, but the thick, juicy chewiness so common in the top 1982s is hard to resist."

1989 Meursault "Clos Barres" Lafon - 3 available ($199.00)

91 points Robert Parker: "The 1989 Meursault-Clos de la Barre offers a wonderful juxtaposition of power and elegance. The high acidity and formidable concentration level result in a hazelnut and mineral-scented wine, with gorgeous levels of extraction, admirable purity of flavor, and a long, stylish finish. It is approachable now, but should be at its best between 1993-2005." (02/92)

1990 Meursault Perrieres, 1er Cru, Chateau Puligny Montrachet - 8 available ($79.95)

According to the Wine Spectator: "Tight and firm, with ripe apple, spice and cider flavors..." (08/92)

1990 Meursault Perrieres, 1er Cru, Jadot - 6 available ($79.95)

90 points Wine Spectator: "Focused, well-made Meursault, with mineral, apple and vanilla character, medium body and a crisp finish. Excellent structure. Drink now." (10/93)

1990 Meursault "Perrieres," Leroy (some with signs of seepage, some slightly soiled labels) - 8 available ($249.00)

94 points Allen Meadows: " Incredibly complex nose of green apples, white flowers and the initial hints of secondary aromas leading to fantastically pure and precise flavors exuding minerals and possessing simply dazzling length. This awesome effort is drinking well now though it will hold for another 5 to 7 years, perhaps longer. In short, brilliant. Tasted on multiple occasions with consistent notes." (Tasted: Mar 06, 2005)

2000 Mouton-Rothschild, Pauillac - 4 available ($799.00)

97 points Robert Parker: "The 2000 Mouton Rothschild is at its best with about 24-48 hours of decanting. A blend of 86% Cabernet Sauvignon and 14% Merlot, the wine offers a saturated ruby/purple color in addition to reticent but promising aromas of toast, coffee, licorice, creme de cassis, and roasted nuts. Dense, chewy, and backward, with tremendous purity and density in addition to obvious toasty oak, it is full-bodied, powerful, tannic, and backward. Twenty-four to 48 hours of aeration only hints at its ultimate potential. This blockbuster will be exceptionally long-lived. It is not as expressive as the other first-growth Medocs, but give it time. As I predicted in my first report on the millennium vintage (April, 2001), Philippine de Rothschild could be expected to do something special with her presentation of 2000. She has exceeded everyone's expectations with a work of art. Those who have seen the extraordinary packaging of the 2000 Mouton Rothschild must certainly realize this is a brilliant achievement. The bottle is extraordinary, and likely to have nearly as much value empty as full! Her genius is obvious, but it's what's inside that counts!" (04/03)

2003 Mouton-Rothschild, Pauillac (Was $399.00) - 1 available ($325.00)

95 points Robert Parker: "Backward, powerful, and extremely tannic, the dense purple-colored 2003 Mouton-Rothschild, a blend of 76% Cabernet Sauvignon, 14% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Franc, and 2% Petit Verdot, fashioned from yields of 28 hectoliters per hectare, with a finished alcohol of 12.9%, improves dramatically with aeration. With full-bodied, meaty, powerful, dry flavors as well as a huge finish, this high class wine should be at its finest between 2012-2040+." (04/06) 94 points Wine Spectator: "Blackberry, cherry and currant with just a hint of toasted oak. Full-bodied, with silky tannins and a lovely combination of ripe fruit and vanilla character. Goes on and on. Long and very stylish. Balanced and refined. Best after 2011." (03/06) Barrel sample according to Clyde Beffa, K&L's Bordeaux Buyer: "Spicy, smoky aromas with meaty nuances and coffee on the nose. Toasty oak flavors with black fruits abounding. A very sexy wine with good palate impression. Power behind elegance right now. Very good. 76% cabernet sauvignon, 14% merlot, 8% cabernet franc and 2% petit verdot. **.5 " (03/04)

1988 Musigny, Joseph Drouhin - 3 available ($299.00)

91 points Allen Meadows: "Very rich, very dense fruit with atypically robust flavors with plenty of character. The tannins, while prominent, are dusty and rather fine as opposed to hard and unyielding. Quite a big wine as Drouhin Musigny goes and even though it is drinkable now, it will be better in two or three years." (Tasted: Apr 01, 2001)

1988 Musigny "Viellies Vignes", Mugnier - 5 available ($399.00)

92 points Allen Meadows: "This remains rather unevolved for the vintage with only nuances of wonderfully intense mix of earth, game and spice notes on the still fresh fruit nose followed by reserved, rich and beautifully precise medium full flavors that possess unusual elegance compared to the usual somber and rustic character of most '88s at this stage of their development. I quite like this and it is still on its way up." (Tasted: Jul 01, 2005)

1990 Nuits St Georges 1er Cru "Les Boudots," Maniere Noirot - 5 available ($69.95)

From a legendary vintage, that is only now coming into maturity. Very rare!

1988 Nuits St Georges Aux Boudots Leroy (some damaged capsules) - 4 available ($399.00)

93 points Allen Meadows: "High-toned black fruit with rich, very spicy flavors and drop dead gorgeous complexity on both the nose and the finish. There is almost a surfeit of buffering extract and as such, the substantial tannins are completely in the background. An outstanding wine of grand cru quality that is still improving." (Tasted: Oct 01, 2001) 93 points Robert Parker: "Domaine Leroy's greatest Nuits St.-Georges made in 1988 is the Nuits St.-Georges Les Boudots. The huge, roasted, plummy bouquet suggests sensational extract character and sur maturite. In the mouth, this wine has spectacular depth, richness, and layers of fruit. The acidity is sound, and the balance is virtually perfect. This rich, concentrated, lavishly endowed wine should drink beautifully over the next 15 or so years. The 1988 vintage attests to a remarkably auspicious start for the new Domaine Leroy in Vosne-Romanee." (01/90) 93 points Wine Spectator: "A very intense, flavorful, stylishly oaky Burgundy, with firm tannins and acidity, effusive fruit and spice flavors and a long finish. Assertive and fruity, with tart cherry and berry notes and great structure, giving it plenty of potential for aging..." (04/91)

1972 Nuits-St-Georges, Leroy - 2 available ($169.00)

1990 Nuits St Georges Rouget - 2 available ($149.00)

According to Robert Parker: "It is no secret that the genius behind the wines of the young Emmanuel Rouget is the legendary Henri Jayer. His 1990 offerings are a testament to Jayer's winemaking style, which, in simplistic terms, includes 4-5 days of cold maceration, 100% new oak casks, minimal racking, and bottling without a filter. Rouget's recent releases are exciting wines, including two terrific villages wines. The Nuits St.-Georges's bouquet leaps from the glass, offering up earthy, vividly pure red and black fruits. In the mouth, it is medium-bodied, lush, round, and already gorgeous to drink." (10/92)

1981 Petrus, Pomerol (high shoulder) - 1 available ($599.00)

90 points Wine Spectator: "A bit tough, but there's very ripe and velvety fruit underneath the armor. Offers classic aromas of black olives, berries and smoke; full-bidied, with tough tannins and a long finish." (02/91)

1995 Pichon-Lalande, Pauillac (1.5L) - 1 available ($309.99)

96 points and a Cellar Selection designation from the Wine Spectator: "A megawine, with layers of fruit and various levels of character. This exceptional Bordeaux is full-bodied and very tannic, with masses of rich fruit, berry and tobacco. Very velvety. This powerhouse needs time. Best after 2003." (01/98) 96 points Robert Parker: "What sumptuous pleasures await those who purchase either the 1996 or 1995 Pichon Lalande. It is hard to choose a favorite, although the 1995 is a smoother, more immediately sexy and accessible wine. It is an exquisite example of Pichon-Lalande with the Merlot component giving the wine a coffee/chocolatey/cherry component to go along with the Cabernet Sauvignon's and Cabernet Franc's complex blackberry/cassis fruit. The wine possesses an opaque black/ruby/purple color, and sexy, flamboyant aromatics of pain grille, black fruits , and cedar. Exquisite on the palate, this full-bodied, layered, multidimensional wine should prove to be on e of the vintage's most extraordinary success stories. Anticipated maturity: 2001-2020." (02/98)

1976 Pommard, Leroy - 2 available ($225.00)

According to Allen Meadows: "...very ripe and robust flavors ..." (Tasted: May 10, 1995)

1990 Ruchottes Chambertin, Georges Mugneret - 3 available ($229.00)

93 points Wine Spectator: "An impressive grand cru, with delicate, sweet berry and earth aromas and flavors and a finish that goes on and on. The tannin and fruit structure is truly beautiful, with great balance and harmony. Drinkable in 1997. 300 cases made." (12/92)

1985 Santenay Gravieres, Pierre Bouree - 12 available ($49.95)

According to the Wine Spectator: "More mature than most '85s, but it has a beguiling brown sugar and chocolate edge to the deep cherry fruit than puts it a notch above most other Santenays. No thin stuff her." (05/88)

1978 Santenay, Leroy - 2 available ($179.00)

1988 Volnay 1er Cru "Santenots", Thevenot-Machal - 6 available ($69.95)

According to the Wine Spectator: "Rich, deep, concentrated and tannic, with a wealth of ripe cherry, currant, plum and earthy oak flavors on a rather lean framework, with a pretty toasty oak overlay. Youthful and in need of cellaring; hold off drinking until 1994 at the earliest." (11/90)

1988 Vosne Romanee "Aux Reas" Leroy (some with cracked capsules and signs of seepage) - 3 available ($199.00)

90 points Allen Meadows' Burghound: "Wonderfully complex nose of violets, black fruit plus leather and tea notes followed by medium weight flavors that are showing quite a bit of secondary nuance. Drinkable now but should easily hold for another 10 years." (10/01)

1989 Vosne Romanee Beaumonts Rouget (slightly soiled labels, some with slight signs of seepage) - 3 available ($299.00)

According to Allen Meadows: "...elegant, nicely detailed, pure flavors ..." (Tasted: Jan 12, 1996)

2006 Ghost Block Estate Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon - -10 available ($54.99)

Nestled on a gently sloping knoll on the north edge of Yountville, Ghost Block vineyard is named in honor of the historic Pioneer Cemetery for which it borders. The vineyard is 16 acres planted to Cabernet Sauvignon. The 2005 vintage was highly acclaimed. "A big, rich, expressive style that's intense and concentrated, with ripe, firm, vibrant black cherry, blackberry, currant, anise and spicy, toasty oak, which adds a nice flavor dimension. Best from 2009 through 2014. 1,700 cases made. –JL" 93 points, #85 wine on the Top 100 Wines of 2008 The wine will arrive 4/15/09

2005 Kathryn Kennedy "Lateral" ($24.99)

Possibly one of the greatest deals to come down the California Meritage pike in a while is the 2005 "Lateral" from Kathryn Kennedy. With its cocoa-laden nose, round creamy texture, flavors of chocolate-covered raspberries and a pleasing savory finish, this wine's a hit. As a long running favorite of the K&L Staff and an October 2008 Wine Club selection many of you may have already enjoyed this wine. The good news, and the reason we are putting this in front of all you once more, is that we've worked out a new price with the great folks at Kathryn Kennedy, which will allow us to sell this for considerably less than before. This new price is even a dollar a bottle below our previous "Club Re-Order" price of $25.99. A great deal in times where we're all looking for one. There has never been a better opportunity to refresh yourself with the wildly underrated wines of Kathryn Kennedy and save some hard-earned cash while doing so. (Bryan Brick, K&L) Lateral is inspired by the famous wines of the St-Emilion district of Bordeaux. The blending of Cabernet Franc and Merlot is the cornerstone of this model. Winemakers Marty Mathis and Chris Condos have been carefully assembling the Lateral blend for almost a decade. According to Wine Spectator: "...well-structured, with fresh earth, currant and vanilla notes and strong herbal and cedar flavors." (06/08)

2004 Altesino Brunello di Montalcino Pre-Arrival ($49.99)

94 points Wine Enthusiast "Altesino delivers a wonderfully harmonious wine that generates one delicious sip after another thanks to its polished intensity. Subtle wood shadings appear in the background of bright cherry and blackberry. Overall, what distinguishes this wine is its sense of focus, sharpness and purity." (03/09) 92 points Wine Spectator: "Shows bright berry, earth, mushroom and leather on the nose. Full-bodied, with very ripe, almost raisiny fruit. Tight and lean now, but the rich fruit comes through on the finish. Give this time. Best after 2011." (Web only, 2009) Wine is due 12/31/2009

2004 Altesino "Montosoli" Brunello di Montalcino Pre-Arrival ($79.99)

95 points Wine Spectator: "Shows meat and blackberry on the nose, with hints of rose perfume. Full-bodied, with silky tannins and a long, rich and flavorful finish. Love the cocoa, berry and light vanilla bean aftertaste. This is always classic in an outstanding year. Best from 2010 through 2015." (Web only, 2009) 93 points Wine Enthusiast: "...Montosoli is a tremendous wine with impressive intensity and staying power that takes shape as cherry, tobacco, spice and bursting blueberry. Drink from 2010 through 2020." (06/09) Wine is due 12/31/2009

2004 Argiano Brunello di Montalcino Pre-Arrival ($44.99)

94 points Wine Spectator: "Delivers raisins, blackberries and roses on the nose. Full-bodied, with a soft and silky tannin structure and a long and delicious finish. This is the best Brunello ever from here. Best from 2010 through 2016." (Web only, 2009) 90 points Wine Enthusiast: "You'll get aromas of gingerbread and allspice backed by roasted nuts, wet earth and wild mushroom. It's tight and firm in the mouth." (06/09) Wine is due September 2009

2004 Banfi Brunello di Montalcino Pre-Arrival ($49.99)

93 points Wine Spectator: "Has fabulous aromas of blackberry, black cherry and raspberry. Full-bodied, with wonderfully integrated tannins, fresh mushrooms and milk chocolate. Chewy in the end. We will see if this is better than the 2001 with age. Best after 2010." (Web Only, 2009) Wine is due September 2009

2004 Banfi Brunello di Montalcino "Poggio alle Mura" Pre-Arrival ($59.99)

94 points Wine Spectator: "Shows dried raspberry and cinnamon on the nose. Full-bodied, with an impressive density of fruit and round tannins. Long and flavorful. Just starting to open up. Powerful and rich. Best after 2010." (Web Only, 2009) 92 points Wine Enthusiast: "Poggio alle Mura 2004, Banfi's celebrated vineyard selection wine, delivers a consistent level of quality that reminds us of 1997 and 2001. The wine is true to itself with intense aromas of chocolate, cherry and spice. It's executed in a bold, blockbuster style with creamy softness and a velvety finish." (06/09) Wine is due September 2009

2004 Caparzo Brunello di Montalcino Pre-Arrival ($39.99)

90 points Wine Spectator: "Perfumed with plums, cherries and dried flowers. Full-bodied, with silky and firm tannins and a long finish. Tight and crisp now. Still needs some time. Best after 2011." (Web only, 2009) According to Wine Enthusiast: "Blueberry, raspberry and bright cherry tones emerge on the nose of this lively Brunello and are followed by a spice box medley of clove, peppercorn and vanilla bean. The wine is focused and compact on the tongue and would make a godd companion to lamb or pork." (06/09) Caparzo is the only estate-bottled producer of Brunello di Montacino to have estate vineyards on all five sides of the hill of Montalcino, ensuring that no matter what climatic challenges effect one side, the other vineyards will more than compensate. Owner Elizabetta Angelina Gnudi and winemakers Massimo Bracalente and Francesca Arquint aim to make top quality products using meticulous and traditional techniques, while at the same time applying a modern outlook. This new release proves just how succesful they've become! Already quite silky, this intense Brunello will last decades in your cellar, though it provides lovely, structured drinking much sooner with decanting. Wine is due September 2009

2004 Caparzo "La Casa" Brunello di Montalcino Pre-Arrival ($69.99)

93 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "The single-vineyard 2004 Brunello di Montalcino La Casa is a sweet, layered offering that blossoms on the palate with notable elegance and class. The wine continues to build, showing terrific volume and density as its dark fruit accompanies the tannins all the way to the finish. This is an intense, brooding Brunello in need of bottle age, but its qualities are impossible not to admire even at this early stage. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2024. " (06/09) 93 points Wine Spectator: "A floral and perfumed nose, with raspberries and blackberries. Full-bodied, with racy tannins and a dense yet refined palate. A little tight still. Give it a little more bottle age. Best after 2010." (Web only, 2009) According to Wine Enthusiast: "This special selezione Brunello delivers big ripe fruit flavors - almost too ripe - of blueberry, strawberry and red currants. The wine has power and heft with more flavors of