K&L Wine Merchants - Staff Favorites

2024 Samuel Louis Smith "Les Granitiers" Monterey County Chardonnay

By: Ryan Woodhouse | Review Date: 5/6/2026 | Send Email

There are few young winemakers in the business with more raw talent than Sam Smith. His wines have that magical balance of edgy, electric vibrancy, elegant refinement, and quiet repose all at the same time. They show incredible purity and a vivid sense of place. Made using very non-interventionist techniques, they remain polished and sophisticated nonetheless. The 2024 Les Granitiers Chardonnay is built around three high-elevation vineyards in Monterey County, each with dramatic terroir. Coastview Vineyard sits at 2,300 feet in the Gabilan Mountains, planted in hard granitic soils, above the fog but constantly cooled by ocean breezes. Pelio Vineyard rises 1,000 feet above the Carmel Valley floor, again cooled by Monterey Bay, but also defined by its striking diatomaceous shale soils that seem to impart complex minerality to the wines. Then there is Fogstone, a site in the northern, windswept part of the Santa Lucia Highlands, where granitic loam soils and progressive organic farming produce highly concentrated, flavorful clusters of fruit. Sam weaves these sites together with deft precision, and the results are mesmerizing. Complex aromas of struck flint, crystalline preserved citrus, crushed granite, crunchy orchard fruit, and saline minerality carry through to a long, Chablis-like finish. This is focused, racy, mineral-driven Chardonnay done to perfection. Delicious now for its electric drive and freshness, it will no doubt age beautifully for 5-10 years if you can resist it that long. Best Chardonnay in California? It’s right up there, for sure.

Price: $32.95

JD: 98

WE: 94

Scarlet K&L Exclusive "Fernet Cask Marriage Peated Cask #21" Japanese Amaro (700ml)

By: Aaron Hughes | Review Date: 5/5/2026 | Send Email

Look at this smile, oh right. You can't see me, well my picture is somewhere nearby look at that and my smile, the one I have on now is even bigger. This feels like more what I was originally expecting when I tried Scarlet's traditional Fernet, not that I came away disappointed before, but this is just wow. The nose is intense but alluring, I can't stop just going in deeper and deeper, trying to get ever more. There's mintiness, cola, medicinal herbs, and just so much going on, with this touch of that brine in the background. The palate is drier with just a little touch of heat, but really excellent bitterness that's fighting and pushing against the sugar the whole way, but the balance is impeccable this razor's edge brilliance with some chewy smoke in the background as it continues the long and inexorable finish. This is great, I love it, I'm going to marry it I love it so much (I'm kidding, Kristen) but yeah it's very good.

Price: $109.99

Limit of 2 per customer

2019 Doisy-Védrines, Sauternes

By: Aaron Hughes | Review Date: 5/5/2026 | Send Email

First, you need to stop being worried about getting a full bottle of Sauternes. It will last in your fridge for ages, and is just a great excuse to indulge twice. This has that kind of fresher and younger Sauternes smell where there's a little touch of that noblest of rots, but it's also super clean and brightly fruited still, pineapple, guava, yellow peach, and sultanas. The palate is bright and fairly light, not rich or cloying at all with amazing acidity that tries to gaslight you, the sweetness is mild and this is something I would definitely pair with something savory, this really feels like a cheese plate or foie gras or something indulgent because we're worth it. This is really nice and an easy cheat code for Yumtown population you.

Price: $39.99

DC: 96

VN: 92 - 94

2024 Chantegrive Blanc, Graves

By: Aaron Hughes | Review Date: 5/5/2026 | Send Email

It's really a big shame that not enough people prioritize Bordeaux Blanc for their summers, because it's really awesome stuff. It's got a little more weight depending on the amount of Semillon, but that also gives it a little better mouthfeel, a little kind of gentle roundness. This has some grapefruit zest, white peach, and some gooseberry on the front of the nose with a little chalkiness following, and then the palate is just pure fun times. More peaches come to the party along with a little bit of weight, lemon candy, grapefruit zest and pith, and then a little bit of honeyed peel . This has great acid, totally dry, and for this price drinks surprisingly fun and complex. It's really great, why don't you drink more Bordeaux Blanc?

Price: $17.99

VN: 90 - 92

JS: 90 - 91

2022 Domaine de Chevalier, Pessac-Léognan

By: Aaron Hughes | Review Date: 5/5/2026 | Send Email

I think this might be my favorite Bordeaux Chateau? I don't know, it's hard to pick a favorite but I've never had a bottle of Chevalier that bums me out at all, and there's really nothing nicer you can say about a winery, right? This is classic and rich, there's this really lovely depth that spirals down towards something I can't quite touch. There's ripe and fairly rich fruits, dark cherry, blackberry jam, bruised strawberry, and then there's a little bit of something floral and the barrel spice comes in. The palate is much the same, but more enjoyable because I think tasting is more fun than smelling, not to say I get more from it but yeah, I have opinions I guess. Either way, this is just fabulous and made me crazy happy when we had it. Big smile all day.

Price: $84.99

2019 Laforge, St-Émilion

By: Aaron Hughes | Review Date: 5/5/2026 | Send Email

Brambly cassis, raspberry, a strawberry someone punched, and then a little bit of tomato leaf and some barrel spice. The palate is easy and clean, really nice fruit and a lengthy finish that's still finishing. It fills that niche of a kind of crowd pleaser bottle, which isn't damning with faint praise or anything, it's nice to have something that you know you can just bring out for anyone.

Price: $29.99

JD: 93

VN: 93

2016 Siaurac, Lalande de Pomerol

By: Aaron Hughes | Review Date: 5/5/2026 | Send Email

High toned fruit on the nose, this almost smells a bit crunchy with cranberry sauce, pie cherry, and ripe raspberry. The palate has really lovely acid with some slight tannins but nothing that's going to upset you, there's some tertiary development with some rich mushroom, a little bit of bright olive, and a kind of lingering earthiness as the barrel comes in and the wine rounds itself out. This is good to go with a meal, but absolutely could lay down further. It's definitely on the brighter lighter side, but there's nothing wrong with that.

Price: $24.99

2022 Croix de Labrie, St-Emilion

By: Aaron Hughes | Review Date: 5/5/2026 | Send Email

Such a really nice little nose this guy has, the fruit has a ripeness to it, but not overdone at any measure, raspberry, bruised strawberry, black cherry, cassis, rough stone, fresh leather, and a little bit of pomegranate candy. The palate is vibrant with great acidity and gentle loving tannins that are super well integrated already, this approaches so politely, and then the palate has black cherry, more strawberry, rhubarb crumble, and then barrel spice for the long and luxurious finish. I accidentally deleted this and had to re-write it and it's still finishing, I didn't retaste it, still minutes later I get little touches of fruit and barrel. Fab-u-lous.

Price: $109.99

2022 Réserve de la Comtesse de Lalande, Pauillac

By: Aaron Hughes | Review Date: 5/5/2026 | Send Email

Like a lot of the 2022s this has a ripe and pretty nose, really fully fruited. There's ripe black cherry, blackberry, a little touch of cassis, and then more spices and a little dried green herbs. The tannins are incredibly well integrated and very fine, one could easily argue you don't need anything with this, and they'd be wrong but they could make a compelling case. Since this morning the opening has given it a good amount of depth and length, the finish feels like it's where it should be. Really nice bottle.

Price: $64.99

2022 Le "C" des Carmes Haut-Brion, Pessac-Léognan

By: Aaron Hughes | Review Date: 5/5/2026 | Send Email

Pretty and ripe on the nose, there's some really lovely ripe raspberry on the front, there's also fresh fig, black cherry, blackberry compote, barrel spice, and a touch of cedar. The tannins are incredibly tight knit and well integrated, giving a soft and gentle little grip with each sip, but nothing crazy that makes me run for the butter dispenser we have here at work for high tannin incidents. It takes nickels for some reason. The palate has stewed strawberry, more cherry, a little creaminess from the barrel, rhubarb crumble, and just a long and enjoyable finish that gets a little woody at the very end, but in a way that just makes me want to take another sip. This is just such an approachable and easy bottle. Easy recommendation, too.

Price: $49.99

2019 Joanin Bécot, Cotes de Castillion

By: Aaron Hughes | Review Date: 5/5/2026 | Send Email

This has really sweet and pretty fruit on the nose, some really ripe cherry, blackberry, sweet cranberry sauce, a little bit of fresh tobacco. The palate has grip, but is not soul or mouth destroying, the tannin is already starting to get finer and while I do think this needs some food or a few more years, it really is quite delicious, it just needs some fat to counteract the still fairly firm tannic grip. It has really nice acidity and will improve in the cellar over the next 5-10 years without a doubt and then past that too. Pretty crazy to have that kind of longevity on a bottle this price. Life is fun.

Price: $24.99

2019 K&L Discovery Series Bordeaux, Pauillac

By: Aaron Hughes | Review Date: 5/5/2026 | Send Email

Such a lovely nose even though I just pulled the cork. There's a really pretty bramble-cherry note right on the front, with a little touch of cocoa following and then something alluring and floral. Deeper into the nose there's a touch of developing tertiary, with a little bit of worn saddle leather, a hint of something mushroomy, and then a lingering oak spice. The palate is medium plus with just enough tannin to encourage you to think about laying it down for a few years, but soft enough not to demand it. There's a nice dusty blackberry and cherry, more cocoa than the nose, and then a firm hit of barrel spice towards the end. The finish is lingering and enjoyable with fruit, acid, and barrel mixing back and forth and the only one winning is me. This is so drinkable and accessible, and this wine absolutely deserves to be had with a nicely marbled ribeye and a fat potato. If you don't do that kind of thing, a mushroom stroganoff would absolutely be amazing with this as well, preferably on top of a fat potato. I really love how we're bringing in these wines at really cut rate deals compared to the producers price, but it never feels like we're bringing in a wine that someone didn't want, but instead they're wines we really saw something in.

Price: $29.99

2015 Altanza Gran Reserva Rioja

By: Rachael Ryan | Review Date: 5/5/2026 | Send Email

Rioja is a region like no other, perhaps most famous for aging wines for years or even decades before release, allowing them to reach maturity gracefully as the years pass. And unlike just about every other region in the world, these traditional wineries offer these aged wines at an absurdly reasonable price, allowing wine drinkers to experience older vintages without a markup for the extended cellaring. The 2015 Altanza Gran Reserva Rioja is a fantastic example of this tradition. Now with over a decade of maturity, the wine shows off the best of a traditionally made Rioja at a very sharp price. The 2015 vintage was a powerful one in Rioja – a warmer and drier year than average that led to richly concentrated wines. This medium-bodied, savory Gran Reserva, made from 100% Tempranillo, was aged for two years in a combination of French and American oak barrels, before resting in bottle for several more, helping those concentrated flavors and aromas to integrate fully. Aromas of warm cedar, cigar box, and dried tobacco are layered over hints of leather and fresh potting soil, while on the palate, there is a subtle rustic quality, with notes of faint forest floor and shitake mushrooms. Despite its age, this wine remains impressively fresh, driven by bright, lifted acidity that keeps everything lively and focused. The structure feels balanced rather than bold, allowing the savory notes to unfold gradually without overwhelming the still-fresh red fruit notes. As it sits in the glass, the wine becomes more savory and more complex. There’s also a quiet elegance here, and the finish is long and revitalizing, leaving lingering impressions of spice, earth, and toasty oak. This is a graceful, old-school Rioja that balances both maturity and energy. While you could certainly continue to age this wine in your own wine cellar, it would probably be hard to resist opening a bottle now! Mature, elegant, and impeccably balanced, this Rioja delivers a traditional experience at a practical price.

Price: $29.99

2024 Domaine la Clef du Récit (Anthony Girard) Quincy

By: Keith Mabry | Review Date: 5/4/2026 | Send Email

Quincy often lives in the shadow of Sancerre, but it quietly holds its own place in history—recognized as an appellation in 1936, the same year as Châteauneuf-du-Pape. In fact, it even predates Sancerre’s official status, a fun bit of wine trivia for those paying closer attention. Shaped by the nearby Cher River, a tributary of the Loire River, Quincy’s soils lean sandier and more gravelly. While limestone does lie beneath layers of alluvium, it’s these lighter, rockier soils that tend to produce wines with a more open, rounded feel. Anthony Girard of Clef du Récit has been working with vineyards here in recent years, crafting a quintessential expression of Quincy. The style leans into a creamier texture while maintaining a fresh spine of acidity, showing notes of apple and softer Meyer lemon rather than the sharper, more linear grapefruit tones often associated with Sancerre and Pouilly-Fumé. One of Quincy’s enduring appeals is its value. Still flying a bit under the radar compared to its more famous neighbors, it consistently delivers character and charm at a more accessible price point. For anyone who loves classic Sauvignon Blanc but prefers a slightly more supple, generous style, Quincy is an easy yes.

Price: $19.99

WE: 91

Scarlet K&L Exclusive "Fernet Cask Marriage Peated Cask #21" Japanese Amaro (700ml)

By: David Othenin-Girard | Review Date: 5/4/2026 | Send Email

The incredible Iseya distillery in Sagamiko is simply one of a kind. The proprietor lives and works on the farm with his mother and partner, but his demeanor is more that of a mad scientist than a humble farmer. Moto-san began his career at the famous Top 50 bar Ben Fiddich in Tokyo. It’s simply a matter of chance that he ended up at this small farm in a quiet village on Lake Sagami. His obsession with flavor is not limited to liqueurs. In his small R&D bar he keeps old and rare vintage single malt, vermouth, chinato, grappa, and much more. His understanding of the entire spirits category is second to none and he boasts one of the most accomplished palates I’ve ever encountered. But Scarlet is all about exploring the past and the future. He never stops experimenting and is constantly searching for new sources of flavor, yet his creations remain fundamentally classical. Many might eschew this product for fear of the dreaded Fernet profile, that menthol bite of Branca can be too much for some. But if you’re at all interested in bitter liqueurs, skipping this would be a real missed opportunity for discovery. Nor is this a big, peaty, gnarly powerhouse as the Laphroaig cask might imply. Instead, you get one of the most complex and balanced drinking experiences you’ll find. The mint is present, but far fresher and more precise than typical Fernets. The richness of character feels limitless. The structure is spot on, with serious bitter tension throughout. It’s unmistakably Fernet, but never abrasive or aggressive. While this handmade, farm to glass product is not inexpensive, the level of care and dedication Moto-san brings to each bottle is extraordinary. With that in mind, don’t shy away from using it in cocktails. It won’t replace every bitter liqueur, but it shines in the right applications. Highballs with a lemon twist, Black Manhattans or Boulevardiers, even split with Angostura in a Trinidad Sour. It’s both inspired and inspiring. I’ve never been more excited about a liqueur in 22 years of doing this. We’re extremely lucky to have this rare release, adorned with one of Moto-san’s hand drawn masterpieces. There’s nothing else like it, and there may never be again.

Price: $109.99

Limit of 2 per customer

2017 San Filippo "Le Lucere" Brunello di Montalcino

By: Orazio Campoli | Review Date: 5/4/2026 | Send Email

This brilliant eastern Montalcino cru acted as the absolute perfect defense mechanism against the heat of the year. The nose completely bypasses any heavy, roasted baggage that most Brunello have in this vintage. Instead, it comes at you with a highly high-toned wave of wild mint, crushed galestro stone, and a distinct, "crunchy" core of dark sour cherry and dried blood orange peel. It smells serious and demanding. On the palate, it absolutely refuses to be fat or syrupy. Where lesser wines from this vintage completely collapse under their own weight, Le Lucere drives forward with a razor-sharp, vertical spine of acidity. Normally, a single-vineyard Brunello of this pedigree and critical acclaim sits comfortably at $120 elsewhere. At $79.99, it is absolute highway robbery. Secure your allocation before it disappear. It’s to be enjoyed now, we are in the perfect drinking window.

Price: $79.99

DC: 96

JS: 96

WS: 92

2021 Far Mountain "Amotus - Alta Vista Vineyard" Moon Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon

By: Philip Roufail | Review Date: 5/3/2026 | Send Email

If you like mountain Cabernet Sauvignon, you must discover Far Mountain Winery, run by husband and wife winemaking team Mai Errazuriz and Rodrigo Soto. Their specialty is "dramatic wines from dramatic sites." All single vineyard wines from Sonoma Valley and the Moon Mountain District (on the border between Napa and Sonoma) you get beautiful concentration balanced by high elevation acidity. From the Alta Vista Vineyard on Moon Mountain, the Amotus is, in Rodrigo's words, their "Grand Cru" and it tastes like it! 100% Cabernet Sauvignon aged in French oak for a year, 40%-50% new, followed by 10–12 months in 1,000–2,000 liter foudres "for integration". A seemingly endless reservoir of plush red and black fruit, tobacco, pine needles, new leather, graphite, and mint. This is a big tannic mountain wine that delivers on its unique terroir! Exceptional, and still a baby! Only 1440 bottles produced so grab this artisanal gem while you can!

Price: $99.95

JD: 95

VN: 94

2021 Far Mountain "Fission" Moon Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon

By: Philip Roufail | Review Date: 5/3/2026 | Send Email

If you like mountain Cabernet Sauvignon, you must discover Far Mountain Winery, run by husband and wife winemaking team Mai Errazuriz and Rodrigo Soto. Their specialty is "dramatic wines from dramatic sites." All single vineyard wines from Sonoma Valley and the Moon Mountain District (on the border between Napa and Sonoma) you get beautiful concentration balanced by high elevation acidity. One of their flagship Cabernets is "Fission" sourced from the Alta Vista Vineyard on Moon Mountain. We have two releases right now - the 2021 and the 2019. The 2021 spent 12 months in French oak, 35% of it new. True to the Far Mountain style, it's savory and bursting with dark brambly fruit. Still a little more fruit forward than the 2019, it also has notes of dark chocolate, vanilla, fresh herbs, minerality from the vineyard's volcanic soils, and a long stony finish.

Price: $49.99

DC: 94

JD: 94

2019 Far Mountain "Fission" Sonoma Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

By: Philip Roufail | Review Date: 5/3/2026 | Send Email

If you like mountain Cabernet Sauvignon, you must discover Far Mountain Winery, run by husband and wife winemaking team Mai Errazuriz and Rodrigo Soto. Their specialty is "dramatic wines from dramatic sites." All single vineyard wines from Sonoma Valley and the Moon Mountain District (on the border between Napa and Sonoma) you get beautiful concentration balanced by high elevation acidity. One of their flagship Cabernets is "Fission" sourced from the Alta Vista Vineyard on Moon Mountain. We have two releases right now - the 2021 and the 2019. The 2019 is their inaugural vintage and is already showing layers of complexity that were surprising to me since it's not that old. Full bodied, silky, with loads of savory dark fruit, blackberry, spice, eucalyptus, dried herbs, violets, leather, and a vein of minerality from Alta Vista's volcanic soils!

Price: $44.95

WE: 94

JS: 93

VN: 93

2024 Odjfell "Armador" Carménère Valle Central

By: [email protected] | Review Date: 5/2/2026 | Send Email

Every so often I am craving a red with savory, vegetal characteristics that you find in grapes with higher pyrazine counts, like Carménère. You can't really find a better value Carménère than this one right here. Being the varietal that put great Chilean wines on the map, the small percentage of Carignan blended in makes for wonderful balance, and this bottle shows inviting purple fruit, a bit of licorice and is punched with that signature peppery flavor element that is sought after in this variety.

Price: $14.99

2025 Domaine du Vieil Orme Touraine Blanc Sauvignon Blanc

By: [email protected] | Review Date: 5/2/2026 | Send Email

A Sauvignon Blanc that wildly overdelivers for the price--I'm already allured by the intense aromatics of sweet ripe pineapple and a bit of honeydew. If you are in search of a Sauv Blanc that doesn't lend as much grapefruit and green on the nose, this is it. It's no surprise that Domaine du Vieil Orme are known for being meticulous terroirists and admirable stewards of the idyllic "Valley of the Kings" Loire Valley landscapes. Unbelievably balanced, elegant and fresh--grab a handful of these before they are gone for the Summer.

Price: $14.99

2025 Domaine les Pins "L'Instant" Bourgueil Rosé

By: [email protected] | Review Date: 5/2/2026 | Send Email

2025 Domaine les Pins “L’Instant” Bourgueil Rosé is everything you didn't know you wanted in a Cab Franc rosé. It dazzles in the glass with a brilliant orchid pink color that comes from just a quick kiss of skin contact. An inviting nose of fresh-picked strawberries and raspberries lead into a fresh patch of garden herbs. Lively, fresh and energetic make it a delight for casual sipping or packing a couple of bottles (or three) on your next Spring or Summer picnic.

Price: $13.99

Almare "Rosa" Spritz

By: Matthew Landau Hassan | Review Date: 5/1/2026 | Send Email

Light, refreshing, and slightly more playful, this rose-style spritz bring together bright grapefruit peel, with a gentle bittersweet herbaceous edge. Grapefruit and strawberry lead, but it finishes crisp and dry enough to stay refreshing rather than sugary. the bubbles keep it lively, making it an easy, crowd-friendly aperitivo with just a touch more fruit than the classico. Chill it well and it's an effortless go-to for warm days, causal hangs, or anyone easing into the spritz world.

Price: $13.99

2025 Domaine du Bagnol Cassis Rosé

By: Keith Mabry | Review Date: 5/1/2026 | Send Email

The seaside village of Cassis is one of the most stunning places to visit in southern France, and the wines capture that beauty effortlessly. Limestone soils, set in a natural amphitheater, soak up the Mediterranean sun while cool समुद breezes shape the wine’s freshness and aromatic lift. There may be no better expression of this than Domaine du Bagnol’s Cassis Rosé. The new vintage leans into a slightly brighter, more lifted profile, with notes of pink grapefruit, white peach, and delicate white strawberry. A subtle saline edge runs through the wine, adding energy and a refreshing, mouthwatering finish. There’s a natural elegance here—refined yet completely unpretentious. Cassis is an idyllic place to visit, and this wine always transports me back to that special seaside village. Year after year, it stands among my favorite rosés, and this vintage is no exception.

Price: $27.99

2024 Mas de Libian "Bout d'Zan" Côtes-du-Rhône

By: Keith Mabry | Review Date: 5/1/2026 | Send Email

One of my favorite Rhône discoveries in recent years has been Mas de Libian. This Demeter-certified biodynamic estate sits in a remote corner of the southern Rhône, with soils that feel more akin to Châteauneuf-du-Pape than many nearby Côtes du Rhône villages. The family’s roots here stretch back to the 1600s, when the property functioned as a polycultural farm. It wasn’t until the 1970s that they built a cellar and began producing their own wines. Today, with three generations working together, the estate is crafting some truly compelling Côtes du Rhône. Bout d’Zan—a blend driven by Grenache with a touch of Syrah—is aged in a mix of large oak casks and tank. It was the wine that first caught my attention and remains, for me, the clearest expression of the domaine’s style. Raspberry and red cherry fruit are layered with classic spice notes of pepper and allspice, while hints of garrigue and tobacco bring that unmistakable southern Rhône character. The fruit is generous yet precise, with seamless tannins and a natural sense of balance. This is a wine of pure charm—an honest reflection of place and a compelling example of what thoughtful, regenerative farming can achieve in the right hands.

Price: $16.99

2023 Domaine Roche "La Bousquette" Cairanne

By: Keith Mabry | Review Date: 5/1/2026 | Send Email

The Bousquette is traditionally sourced from a single parcel, highlighting both the maturity of the vines and the dynamic interplay between Grenache and Carignan. Lush blackberry fruit leads the way, complemented by black cherry and a subtle hint of porcini that underscores the wine’s savory depth. This is a benchmark for the region—a wine that captures the essence of Cairanne and clearly expresses its terroir.

Price: $25.99

JD: 91

2023 Domaine Roche "Marcel Roche" Cairanne

By: Keith Mabry | Review Date: 5/1/2026 | Send Email

All from 80+ year old Grenache vines, this wine always shows great purity of fruit. Blueberry, cassis with notes of dried tobacco, this has a sweet and silky texture that feels quite sumptuous on the palate. Every year this is one of my favorite pure Grenaches.

Price: $21.99

JD: 90 - 92

JS: 91

1998 Glen Garioch 27 Year Old "Redacted Bros." (Thompson/Dornoch) Single Ex-Wild Turkey Bourbon Barrel Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

By: David Othenin-Girard | Review Date: 4/30/2026 | Send Email

This absolutely stunning value from our friends in Dornoch represents a truly unique opportunity. You might remember the last batch, which included a remarkable 27 year old Glenburgie that many overlooked until it was far too late. This is that cask but for 2026. A beautiful old barrel matured in refill ex-Wild Turkey wood from one of Scotland’s most underappreciated distilleries. It is only on the rarest occasions that we’re able to offer whisky of this age and quality at such a low price. What’s even more striking is just how delicious it is. You’ll recall we had to raise prices on the old Glenburgie and unpeated Ledaig last year, so don’t be surprised if this one climbs as well, assuming any is left on arrival. Not a warning, just the reality of how spoiled we’ve become. Three exceptional old casks from top distillers under $200 from Thompson Bros this year, and this may well be the best of the lot. From a distillery undergoing one of the most exciting revivals in Scotland, now with new floor maltings and direct fire, Glen Garioch is firmly one to watch. The color is a gorgeous, enticing deep copper (0.9). The nose is an absolute explosion of fruit: yellow plum, cantaloupe, Pink Lady apple, and apricot, layered with deeper tones of nougat, toffee, vanilla, old cellar floor, tobacco leaf, and citrus oil. It is immensely complex and deeply satisfying. On the palate, the texture is powerful, with ripe fruit leading the charge. The higher proof brings a bold midpalate spice before settling into a softer, composed finish with no harsh tannin. With a touch of water, it opens beautifully, softening slightly while retaining that incredible fruit intensity. For those chasing that old school fruit basket style that has become increasingly rare in modern Scotch, this sits right at the top.

Price: $200.00

Manuscrito "Chapter Three" Single Estate Reposado Tequila (750ml)

By: David Othenin-Girard | Review Date: 4/30/2026 | Send Email

The exceptional new Manuscrito may be the most exciting brand to emerge from Mexico in years, but it is not the beautifully curated presentation that defines this tequila, it is the remarkable liquid inside. Produced in the Highlands at the new El Sabino distillery, Manuscrito is already turning heads. In a very short time, El Sabino has climbed into the upper echelon of Tequila Matchmaker’s rankings, just behind icons like Fortaleza, Cascahuín, and El Pandillo. That may seem trivial to outsiders, but the top tier has remained largely unchanged for years, making this rapid ascent incredibly significant. A handful of new producers are now challenging the old guard, and they are doing it with serious quality at very fair prices. The formula is simple in theory but rare in execution: secure fully mature agave at the right moment, invest in a thoughtfully designed distillery, and refuse to cut corners. While some traditionalists may note the absence of tahona extraction, the results speak for themselves. This is one of the finest tequilas available at any price today. Chapter Three shifts the conversation slightly, introducing a delicate touch of oak while preserving the distillery’s signature clarity. Aged just over three months in barrel, the influence is intentionally restrained, allowing the agave to remain front and center. The nose is immediately expressive with cooked agave layered over honey, light oak, citrus peel, and soft baking spice. On the palate, warm cinnamon and baking spices lead into creamy cooked agave, honey, and butterscotch, with subtle herbal and citrus elements adding lift and complexity. The texture is supple and rounded, offering a gentle richness without sacrificing freshness, while the finish carries a harmonious blend of honeyed agave, spice, and lingering citrus with just enough structure to keep things focused. This is exactly what great reposado should be: restrained, agave-driven, and quietly complex, with the barrel acting as an accent rather than the headline, but still adding depth and nuance to the picture.

Price: $54.99

Manuscrito "Chapter Two" Single Estate High Proof Blanco Tequila (750ml)

By: David Othenin-Girard | Review Date: 4/30/2026 | Send Email

The exceptional new Manuscrito may be the most exciting brand to emerge from Mexico in years, but it is not the beautifully curated presentation that defines this tequila, it is the remarkable liquid inside. Produced in the Highlands at the new El Sabino distillery, Manuscrito is already turning heads. In a very short time, El Sabino has climbed into the upper echelon of Tequila Matchmaker’s rankings, just behind icons like Fortaleza, Cascahuín, and El Pandillo. That may seem trivial to outsiders, but the top tier has remained largely unchanged for years, making this rapid ascent incredibly significant. A handful of new producers are now challenging the old guard, and they are doing it with serious quality at very fair prices. The formula is simple in theory but rare in execution: secure fully mature agave at the right moment, invest in a thoughtfully designed distillery, and refuse to cut corners. While some traditionalists may note the absence of tahona extraction, the results speak for themselves. This is one of the finest tequilas available at any price today. Chapter Two takes everything that made the original release compelling and dials it up with a high proof bottling at 51.55% ABV, amplifying both structure and intensity. The nose is immediately more assertive, driven by bold cooked agave framed by bell pepper, earthy vegetal tones, and a lifted citrus edge with hints of white pepper and baking spice. On the palate, the texture is richer and more forceful, with sweet agave at the core wrapped in black pepper, cinnamon, and layered vegetal complexity, while citrus and subtle lactic creaminess add lift and balance. There’s a distinctly structured, almost tannic grip here, likely from fermentation with fibers, giving the tequila a serious, mouth-coating presence. The finish is long, spicy, and mineral-driven, with lingering notes of cinnamon, pepper, and earthy citrus that seem to echo endlessly. A powerful and uncompromising expression that shows exactly what this new distillery is capable of when pushed to the limit, Chapter Two feels like a clear step forward and a sign they are just getting started.

Price: $59.99

Manuscrito "Chapter One" Single Estate Blanco Tequila (750ml)

By: David Othenin-Girard | Review Date: 4/30/2026 | Send Email

The exceptional new Manuscrito may be the most exciting brand to emerge from Mexico in years, but it is not the beautifully curated presentation that defines this tequila, it is the remarkable liquid inside. Produced in the Highlands at the new El Sabino distillery, Manuscrito is already turning heads. In a very short time, El Sabino has climbed to #4 on Tequila Matchmaker’s Top 100 distilleries, just behind Fortaleza, Cascahuín, and El Pandillo. That may seem trivial to outsiders, but the top tier has remained largely unchanged for years, making this rapid ascent incredibly significant. A handful of new producers are now challenging the old guard, and they are doing it with serious quality at very fair prices. The formula is simple in theory but rare in execution: secure fully mature agave at the right moment, invest in a thoughtfully designed distillery, and refuse to cut corners. While some traditionalists may note the absence of tahona extraction, the results speak for themselves. This is one of the finest tequilas available at any price today. The single estate blanco opens with a subtle nose of roasted pumpkin, citrus zest, minerality, and underripe mango. With air, it expands beautifully, revealing deeper notes of sweet cooked agave, hibiscus, honeysuckle, buttercream, dried fruit, and earthy spice. The palate mirrors the nose, delivering roasted fruit, bright citrus, and a rich, creamy texture in perfect balance. The finish is long and satisfying, with a spicy mineral depth more often associated with the best Lowland examples. An impeccable and genuinely exciting release that proves even the newest producers can achieve greatness with the right raw materials and uncompromising intent.

Price: $49.99

2025 Pax "Cuvée Syrah" California Syrah

By: Scott Beckerley | Review Date: 4/30/2026 | Send Email

The nose on this new release is very, very pretty and full of violet pastille and boysenberry scents. On the palate, red cassis, with upper palate chalk and light minerals. It's really just a lovely wine at a pretty exceptional price. I would like to see where it goes in a couple of years. I had wonderful experiences with their vineyard designated Syrah's starting from the mid-1990's. They would age for decades!

Price: $22.95

2025 Massican "Annia" California White Blend

By: Scott Beckerley | Review Date: 4/30/2026 | Send Email

Like the Sauvignon Blanc, a brand-new release that retains the quality of their previous efforts. Like the Sauvignon Blanc, it is also refreshing and clean and bright. There are flavors of tart apricot, lemon, cantaloupe and nectarine. It's simply a perfect warm weather drink!

Price: $29.95

2025 Massican California Sauvignon Blanc

By: Scott Beckerley | Review Date: 4/30/2026 | Send Email

Brand new! In keeping with its past vintages, this Massican Sauvignon Blanc retains its unique character of crispy clean refreshment! So clean with pink grapefruit, yellow citrus and white exotic fruits. Just enough minerals and "bite" to make it a classic.

Price: $24.95

Almare "Classico" Spritz

By: Matthew Landau Hassan | Review Date: 4/30/2026 | Send Email

More bitter than sweet, this is a true aperitivo-style spritz with a real edge and refreshment. Bright orange peel and herbal notes lead the way, balanced by crisp bubbles and a clean dry finish. It's lighter, more refreshing and less sugary than most ready-to-drink spritzes, making it perfect for people who want something more adult and balanced. Chill it down and it's an instant, no-effort aperitivo that actually tastes like one.

Price: $13.99

Oban 14 Year Old Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky

By: David Othenin-Girard | Review Date: 4/30/2026 | Send Email

It can be hard to get excited about whiskies I’ve been drinking since the beginning, but it’s not fair to leave some of these truly great bottles out of the conversation. Add in the fact that we spent years fighting with the supplier on price and you’ve got a recipe for something that rarely gets mentioned. But sometime last year we managed to bring the price back to pre-pandemic levels, and I figured this old staple deserved a fresh look. Coincidentally, I had the chance to drive the western coast last month and was reminded just how special the terroir is for this unique little whisky. The tiny town of Oban is home to one of Scotland’s few truly urban distilleries. Springbank and Glen Garioch come to mind as others, not counting the newer operations in Glasgow and Edinburgh. While Oban sits within the massive Diageo portfolio, it remains one of the only malts distilled almost entirely for its own label. It doesn’t really show up in blends, nor is it traded around to independent bottlers. Only a handful of ancient casks have ever surfaced elsewhere. Maybe that’s why it lacks some of the fanfare. There’s no cult chase here. What there is, however, is a damn good mid-aged malt at a very fair price, and we’ll always do our best to keep it that way. Let’s have a taste. The color is a classic deep gold. The lightly peated style shows just a faint phenolic edge, but it carries an invigorating sense of place more often associated with the smokier malts to the south. There’s an absurd freshness that lifts the whole glass, yet something old and salty underneath. Yellow fruit, crisp malt, and deep maritime minerality evoke a walk through an old harbor. Barnacles, leather, salt-soaked ropes, weathered wood, a touch of ash, citrus oil, beeswax, and a hint of sweet almond. It’s simply excellent whisky that we too often overlook, but anyone who loves the salty west coast not only owns this bottle, they open it and drink it.

Price: $64.99

WE: 91

Scarlet K&L Exclusive "Fernet Cask Marriage Peated Cask #21" Japanese Amaro (700ml)

By: Josh Gelfand | Review Date: 4/30/2026 | Send Email

We’ve been following the work of Tatsuya “Moto” Motonaga for a few years now, and every time we check in on his Iseya Distillery, the story just gets better. We recently had the chance to visit Moto-san at his setup in Kanagawa, and let me tell you, this isn't your typical industrial operation. He built his distillery inside a repurposed 100-year-old house nestled near Lake Sagami (or “Sagami Loch” as he says on the label, in tribute to Scotland and the Japanese whiskies he so adores). Moto-san is a veteran of the Tokyo and Taipei bar scenes, having spent years behind the stick at legendary spots like BenFiddich and Bar-Hopping. He brings that obsessive bartender’s palate to everything he touches, farming over half of his own botanicals on-site to ensure the "shibui" - that perfect, understated elegance - is present in every bottle. Stepping into Moto-san’s private quarters is like entering a museum of bitterness. He maintains an incredible personal collection of vintage amari, with dusty bottles of mid-century Fernet and long-lost European liqueurs that serve as his liquid library. This deep respect for history informs every decision he makes, including the aesthetic. Moto-san actually designed and drew the label art himself; his intricate, hand-sketched illustrations reflect the same artisanal precision he applies to his precision blending. Since gentian is restricted in Japan, Moto-san has had to get creative to achieve that classic Fernet backbone. He uses a combination of chicory, aloe, and local roots to provide a bracing, clean bitterness that feels entirely new yet deeply familiar. For this K&L Exclusive Single Barrel, we lucked out while digging through the barrel house. While tasting some of his varietals aging in a variety of casks, including mizunara oak, some sherry and other wine casks, bourbon barrels, and more, we noticed one barrel he pointed out: his Fernet resting in an old Laphroaig cask. We knew IMMEDIATELY that this was the one for us. They wouldn’t turn it over right away, though, as it took a bit of persistent prodding (okay, maybe a little begging) to get him to agree to give us the whole thing. But we knew that the medicinal, alpine intensity of the Fernet meeting the maritime, iodine-soaked smoke of Islay was the ideal spiritual homecoming we wanted all to ourselves. Thankfully, we got it all. Now to the tasting notes: The nose is an absolute trip. You get the immediate blast of menthol and spearmint you expect from a great Fernet, but it is quickly enveloped by a sweet cloud of cold campfire smoke and a hint of salty sea air. There are layers of medicinal herbs, licorice root, and a faint, sweet hint of Okinawan raw sugar. On the palate, the texture is oily and coating. The initial bitterness of the chicory and aloe is beautifully tempered by the spicy-sweet angelica and galangal, and further ensconced by the Laphroaig cask, which brings notes of vanilla, toasted oak, and just the lightest wisp of that savory, first-aid kit peatiness that lingers perfectly. The finish is epic, trailing off with a long, cooling mintiness and a ghostly whisper of Islay smoke. This is a must-have for the amaro geeks and the peat-heads alike, and I promise you, will not last long. This is a one-off for the ages.

Price: $109.99

Limit of 2 per customer

2025 La Bargemone Coteaux d'Aix-en-Provence Rosé

By: Aaron Hughes | Review Date: 4/30/2026 | Send Email

Super lush and ripe nose, there's a lot of white peach, pear drops, with a tropical touch of Gros Michel. This is pool wine through and through, definitely for someone who wants something more fruit forward and inviting. The palate is where the wild strawberry starts to really pop out, underripe raspberry, bruised pear, and vibrant lemon candy all are carried with enough acid to give it a little bite of that thirst quenching rosé vibe, but there's still gobs of fruit through the palate as well. This is so friendly and inviting, it's got a little bit of weight but still drinks super light and fresh but with those tropical touches that kind make a rosé just a touch more fun. Yummers! Yes, I say yummers sometimes, it's fine.

Price: $18.99

2025 Peyrassol "La Croix" Mediteranée Rosé

By: Aaron Hughes | Review Date: 4/30/2026 | Send Email

Lots of that pretty peach and wild strawberry, but I feel like there's this touch of something herbal in the background on this one, it's also overall lighter in the bouquet but also ultimately more floral, with lots of white and pink flowers. The palate is light and just a slightly bit tart for the merest moment, but then goes really bright and smooth, a generous amount of fruit but not too much, and then the acidity pushes through and helps clean everything, with just lightest touch of grip at the end, like a tiny lil hug.

Price: $18.99

2025 Domaine de Fondrèche Ventoux Rosé

By: Aaron Hughes | Review Date: 4/30/2026 | Send Email

There's this kind of raspberry candy on the nose that's really interesting, it unlocked some kind of memory for me, there's that with some white peach, wild strawberry, a little touch of some tropical. It's really an enjoyable nose that's drawing me in, and then the palate is a little wacky in the most enjoyable of ways. It's got this kind of fruit crescendo that at first sip, it's got some light fruit and more mineral and then it just gets more and more juicy with a pushing salinity that just emphasizes everything and then just a light little touch of tannin at the end that makes it have the slightest grip, it's crazy good and for this price might be one of my biggest go-to bottles this season.

Price: $18.99

2025 Clos Cibonne "Tentations" Côtes de Provence Rosé

By: Aaron Hughes | Review Date: 4/30/2026 | Send Email

The nose is so beautiful on this, lots of white peach and wild strawberry grace us with their presence, and we're so happy they showed up to the party. There's just a touch of watermelon rind in the background, and this kind of chalky white flower. The palate is beautifully crisp with more peach, raspberry, a little touch of watermelon, and then the finish has this really lovely mineral push that ends in a salty saline finish. This is so good on so many levels, there's this juiciness to the finish that the salinity is helping carry on, giving it a lingering finish that is still finishing minutes later. Just sublime.

Price: $23.99

2015 Domaine Daniel-Etienne Defaix Chablis 1er Cru "Les Lys"

By: Scott Beckerley | Review Date: 4/30/2026 | Send Email

This was such a treat to taste along with the 2015 Vaillons version from Defaix. The two could not be more different. Both in ways most excellent! While the Vaillons leans toward a fuller and richer style, the Les Lys has more citrus and comes across as a bit more delicate. It starts with a pretty nose of sea salt, delicate flowers, juicy lemon. On the palate, more lemon, green apple, followed by yellow apple skin and fresh minerals. The finish lingers and dissipates elegantly and softly. I hear a seared scallop calling the name of this Chablis!

Price: $64.99

2015 Domaine Daniel-Etienne Defaix Chablis 1er Cru "Vaillons"

By: Scott Beckerley | Review Date: 4/30/2026 | Send Email

This is a rarity! A Chablis with 10 plus years under its belt! Of the two offering from this vintage and this producer, the "Vaillons" is of a richer style. Nicely rounded yellow apple fruit with an ample texture and mouthfeel. Of course, there is also a lovely citrus, which in this case is more lemon than lime and of a creamy style. Underneath it all is a classic Chablis minerality and wet stone character. A top quality Chablis with just the right amount of age!

Price: $64.99

2024 Samuel Louis Smith "Les Granitiers" Monterey County Chardonnay

By: Jackson Kelly | Review Date: 4/29/2026 | Send Email

My favorite Central Coast Chardonnay we carry. This wine is light and crisp, with notes of pear, apple, and lemon zest with a distinct undertone of honey. The finish is long and clean, carried by wonderful minerality. An incredible choice for lovers of light and crisp coastal Chardonnay.

Price: $32.95

JD: 98

WE: 94

2023 Alfaro "Trout Gulch Vineyard" Santa Cruz Mountains Chardonnay

By: Jackson Kelly | Review Date: 4/29/2026 | Send Email

Coastal California Chardonnay at its finest. This wine is lean and crisp with incredible acidity and notes of grapefruit, lemon zest, and lime on the palate, tied together with salinity that brings to mind how closely these grapes were grown to the ocean. An absolute steal under $30 dollars.

Price: Hidden

JD: 97

RP: 93

2021 Ernest "Alder Springs Vineyard" Mendocino County Chardonnay

By: Matthew Landau Hassan | Review Date: 4/29/2026 | Send Email

This is California Chardonnay with a cooler, more restrained edge. Fresh lemon, green apple, and white peach lead the way, layered with subtle hints of almond, wet stone, and just a whisper of oak. The texture is sleek and polished rather than heavy, with a bright acidity carrying the wine through a long, lifted finish. A great pick for anyone who loves chardonnay but wants precision and balance over richness. Elegant, food-friendly, and quietly impressive.

Price: Hidden

VN: 94

WE: 94

JS: 93

2024 Samuel Louis Smith "Baytree Lane Vineyard" Sonoma Valley Gamay Noir

By: Scott Beckerley | Review Date: 4/29/2026 | Send Email

We don't get a lot of Gamay Noir but, when we get ones like this, it's time to jump up and take notice. I find this type of wine to be absolutely perfect when I need something a little lighter than Pinot Noir. Particularly to match with certain food for certain friends who do not drink white wine. You know who you are. This is one pretty baby that smells floral and crunchy. Raspberry flavors dominate with bright minerals and crunchy, crunchy cherry flavors. Jolly Rancher cherry flavors! The tiniest bit of spice on the upper palate brings joy and the finish is pure and lingering. I don't know why but, fish and chips came to mind when I tasted this.

Price: $32.95

JD: 97

WE: 94

2025 Red Car Sonoma Coast Rosé of Pinot Noir

By: Scott Beckerley | Review Date: 4/29/2026 | Send Email

Yes, it is only Spring but, this wine screams "hellooooo Summer!". So darn clean and crisp and inviting! It's even less expensive this year than last year. Wonderfully juicy with bright raspberry and tart strawberry flavors. Minerals and a very light chalk appear along with the mid-palate watermelon goodness. The is going to be THE Rose for your 4th of July!

Price: Hidden

2021 Ernest "Alder Springs Vineyard" Mendocino County Chardonnay

By: Scott Beckerley | Review Date: 4/29/2026 | Send Email

This wonderfully flinty and clean Chardonnay has some very nice mid-palate flavors of Granny Smith apples, juicy oranges, tart pineapple and super crisp lemon-lime citrus. Underneath it all is a deft bit of savory herbs and orange blossom. The finish is clean and slightly rich at the same time. It simply begs to be served with fatty fish, scallops, lobster.

Price: Hidden

VN: 94

WE: 94

JS: 93

2023 Domaine Roche Cairanne

By: Keith Mabry | Review Date: 4/29/2026 | Send Email

Romaine Roche will always be one of my favorite people to visit in the Rhône. His generosity and warm, welcoming spirit make every encounter a pleasure. I recently caught up with him at a large trade tasting, where we had the chance to taste through his latest releases—and the 2023s are outstanding. Across the range, the wines capture the beauty of the vintage: expressive fruit, clear terroir definition, all with a sense of finesse. Romaine’s style does not lean toward overstatement. Years ago, he moved away from oak in favor of concrete and stainless steel, a shift that emphasizes freshness and purity of fruit. I’m especially drawn to his traditional Cairanne. A benchmark producer in this now-Cru appellation, the vines for this cuvée are rooted in sandy red clay with limestone bedrock beneath. The wine shows classic notes of blackberry and tobacco, underscored by a mineral edge that reflects the iron-rich soils. Think of it as a Côtes-du-Rhône turned up a notch—or two. A compelling reminder of why Cairanne earned Cru status, and why Romaine Roche remains one of its prominent voices.

Price: $17.99

JD: 89 - 91

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