Best Buys $10 And Under

For classic rose Champagne elegance, it is hard to top Ruinart. From the first glance at its rounded bottle, to its strawberry tinted bubbles that dance up the from the bottom of the flute, nothing says "tonight is the night" more than this delightful fizz. Typical baguette notes merge with pinot-noirish aromas and flavors of cranberries and honeysuckle. The top shelf of rose sparklers. - PJ

90 points James Suckling
A round, juicy red with plum, chocolate and berry aromas and flavors. Chewy, yet caressing with a long, flavorful finish. Hints of biscuits and balsamic. Drink now

Organic / Biodynamic

90 points Wine Advocate
The red 2022 Montecastrillo was produced with 90% Tempranillo and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon from younger vines, fermented with indigenous yeasts in stainless steel and matured in 225-liter barrels for eight months. It has good ripeness, 14.5% alcohol and a pH of 3.75. It's medium-bodied and approachable, with fine tannins, finishing with fruit-driven flavors. It keeps the poise in this warm and dry year.

Finca Torremilanos continues with their environmentally minded approach. Not only are their 198 hectares certified organic and biodynamic, but they go beyond that and installed solar panels in 2023 that cover 40% of their electricity needs. Production is 500,000 bottles.

100% biodynamically-cultivated Tempranillo from the estate?€?s younger vines. Fermentation takes 9 days and malolactic occurs in 80% stainless steel and 20% in barrel. Elevage for three to four months in a mix of French and American 225L barrels.

"Our signature Riesling is vibrant and aromatic, featuring the distinctive minerality that has become our trademark. Fragrant essence of spring blossoms sets the stage for a succulent palate of early fruit, balanced with a refreshing crispness, revealing the true qualities of the Riesling grape. A brilliant texture carries into a lingering finish, in a wine that accommodates a wide range of food." Winemaker notes

Whole Cluster Press, Cold fermentation 3+ months, No fining or filtering agents, Estate grown & bottled. Estate Vineyards: 65% HJW, 23% Josef, 12% Magdalena.

Winemaker Notes:
Indicative of its cool-climate origins, with bright acidity beneath notes of pear, apple, pineapple, apricot, nutmeg and vanilla-all framed by a richly textured palate.

"Pale gold in color, this Cava has aromas of mature white peach, toasted bread and green tea with hints of lemon citrus and apricots. Equally rich and broad on the palate, these flavors continue to unfold on the palate." Importer notes

Reserva de la Familia is the flagship cuv??e of the Juv?? y Camps estate winery. In the beginning days of their winemaking, the Juv?? y Camps family had their own reserve of this Cava, and it is still the only Brut Nature that they make. Made from the free run juice of traditional varieties Macabeo, Xarel.lo and Parellada and a touch of Chardonnay, this is the Cava of choice of Spain?€?s royal family, and it is regularly served at all official banquets.

Juv?? & Camps is a family-owned winery located in San Sadurn?? d?€?Anoia, a small town in the northeastern Pened??s region near Barcelona. Founded in 1921 by Joan Juv?? Baqu??s and his wife Teresa Camps Farr??, the winery?€?s three-generation history has resulted in an international reputation for producing top-quality Cava. The story of Juv?? & Camps actually began over 200 years ago when Joan Juv?? Mir, a bold and enterprising vine grower with ideas ahead of his time, laid the foundation for what would become the family firm. His son, Antoni Juv?? Escaiola, carried on the legacy. There were many challenges, including the terrible phylloxera plague. Advocating replanting (as did other leading figures of the Pened??s), he led a drive to restore the vineyards and to rebuild the region?€?s wine production. Respected and loved by his contemporaries, his example encouraged his son, Joan Juv?? Baqu??s, to build the family?€?s first winery. Joan Juv?? Baqu??s married Teresa Camps Farr??, an exceptional woman and an enthusiastic supporter who, in 1921, inspired her husband to launch the first sparkling wine under the Juv?? brand. It was made in the underground cellars beneath the family home in San Sadurn?? d?€?Anoia. Today, Juv?? & Camps has established itself as the most highly regarded Cava producer in Spain. Juv?? & Camps wines are regularly served at state banquets given by Spain?€?s Royal Family and are offered to visitors and guests by the National Government, the Senate and Congress.

"Aromatic, with accents of bread dough, smoked almond and creme de cassis, this creamy Champagne is lightly chalky in texture and framed by firm acidity, with flavors of glazed apricot, orange blossom and rich hints of clover honey and coffee liqueur. Drink now through 2022. 11,000 cases imported." 93pts WS

62% Pinot Noir, 24% Chardonnay, 14% Meunier Only 5 to 6% red wine added due to its power Over 85% Grands and Premiers crus. Cellar aged for more than twice the time required by the appellation. Moderate, 7 to 8 grams per liter.

The Bollinger champagne House has created prestigious champagnes with character, distinguished by their elegance and complexity, since 1829. These outstanding wines are the result of rigorous attention to detail, for Bollinger accepts nothing less than excellence. Each and every detail represents a quest for a certain form of perfection.This uncompromisingly independent spirit, dedicated to unostentatious achievement, exemplifies the inimitable elegance for which the Champagne region is renowned and which has so impressed the Court of England that the House has been awarded the Royal Warrant since 1884. In 2008, for the first time in its history, the House placed its future into the care of a Chairman who was not a family member. Their choice fell on Jerome Philipon, originally from the Champagne region, who had led an impressive career with large industrial groups. The choice might be unexpected - but Bollinger has never hesitated to reject conformity for the good of the House and its wines! With the Bollinger family?€?s support, Jerome Philipon has extended his predecessor?€?s programme of modernisation and investment. With him, the House has continued to preserve its traditional expertise while incorporating the best of new technologies for the future development of the brand, both in terms of quality and commercial growth.

92-94 points Jeb Dunnuck
The only barrel sample I was able to taste, the 2021 GSM Santa Barbara County showed beautifully, and if this wine is any indication, this estate didn?€?t miss a beat in 2021. Giving up pretty blue fruits, peppery herbs, and sappy flower nuances, it?€?s medium to full-bodied, has terrific tannins, and an elegant yet textured style that will drink nicely right out of the gate.

92 points Wine Spectator
Plush and savory, with sleek raspberry, orange-tinged mocha and smoked pepper flavors that build richness and structure toward refined tannins. Grenache, Syrah and Mourvedre. Drink now through 2030. 1,350 cases made.

91-93 points Vinous
The 2021 GSM is a promising wine. Deep and beautifully layered in the glass, with terrific vibrancy, the GSM is marked by gorgeous purity in its red/purplish fruit and terrific balance. It is the only 2021 that had been racked at the time of my visit, but also a wine that portends well for the vintage if its representative of quality across the range.

Winemaker Notes:
"Apothic Red reveals intense fruit aromas and flavors of rhubarb and black cherry, complemented by hints of mocha, chocolate, brown spice and vanilla. The plush, velvety mouthfeel and the smooth finish round out this intriguing, full-bodied red blend."

Inspired by the "Apotheca", a mysterious place where wine was blended and stored in 13th century Europe, Apothic Red offers a truly unique wine experience.

The brambly spice of Zinfandel, dark fruit flavors of Syrah, the bold notes of Cabernet Sauvignon and the smooth elegance of Merlot unite to create this captivating red blend.

"This seems drier than its stablemate, the famous Yellow Label, and is the better for it. There is an urgent freshness here, driven by red currants and tight plum skin flavors. It is lively but full in the mouth, and shows just the right bottle age." 91pts WE

Made using 50 to 60 different crus, the cuvee is based on Brut Yellow Label's traditional blend: 50 to 55% Pinot Noir, 15 to 20% Pinot Meunier, and 28 to 33% Chardonnay.

91 points Wine Advocate
A terrific value proposition, the organic Valle dell'Acate 2022 Sicilia Vittoria Il Frappato shows a light appearance with shiny ruby colors. This wine is fragrant and punchy with lots of vibrant cherry fruit, wild berry and sour cassis. Hints of caper or green olive also appear. You get energy and tension in this easy-drinking red. Valle dell'Acate makes a really fun bottle of Frappato that hits all the right marks.

"Ruby red colour with a golden rim. Bright and deep. Complex aromas. There is a great balance between the fruit (cherries, black plums, ripe blackberries) and the clean nuances of the wood (clove, pepper, vanilla and coconut). The nose is further enriched by the aromas that develop during bottle ageing. Smooth and balanced on the palate with a full, elegant feel and a long, lingering finish." Winemaker notes

Aged for 18 months in American and French-oak casks (50%). Rounded off for 18 months in the bottle cellar.

A neatly cut array of refined red and black cherries in a pristinely cast style. The palate has an elegant and neatly defined core of supple, long and ripe fruit flavor and carries a wealth of crisp, fresh, cherry-soaked tannins at the finish.

Winemaker's Notes:
As this wine is poured into your glass, you will notice its beautiful, dark ruby red color. This is a classic Russian River Pinot Noir that expresses aromas and flavors of dark fruit. The first impression starts in the nose with aromas of intense blackberry, cola and black raspberry followed by a touch of vanilla and hints of rhubarb, baking spice, licorice, dark chocolate and earth. The wine is richly textured and balanced with a beautiful brightness. Flavors of black cherry, tobacco and sweet barrel spice shine throughout. Fine tannins round out the long, juicy finish.

Winemaker Notes:
This Hess Select Cabernet features grapes from some of the best vineyards in Napa and Lake county. The wine showcases a ruby color with aromas red raspberry and dark cherry. Flavors of red raspberry, black cherry follow with spicy notes of currants, anise, cloves, cedar and a touch of vanilla. This soft, round, medium-bodied wine tastes like Cabernet should.
This Cabernet is perfect with an informal BBQ straight through to Saturday night. Dishes incorporating sweet peppers, caramelized onions or roasted Portobello mushrooms, a hearty bacon burger with blue cheese, barbecued shrimp, and mild blue cheeses or cheddar cheese. All these dishes pair well with the Hess Select Cabernet.

Off Dry sparkling red.
Fabio Lini's artisanal approach to sparkling wine production, their bright red fruit and berry
flavors are balanced by juicy minerality. Their clean but lingering finish makes them an ideal
pairing for a wide variety of cuisines.

"Bogle winemakers have sourced fruit from the best growing regions in California for the varietal. The terroirs of the cool Russian River Valley, coastal Monterey hills and the unique Clarksburg Delta all grow fruit of character and distinction. Combined, the resulting wine is elegant, classic Pinot Noir.Floral notes of violets and fragrant strawberries resonate throughout this wine, while touches of green tea add complexity and nuance. The sophisticated mouthfeel is vibrant with layers of cherry fruit, yet balanced by comforting leather and pipe tobacco. A combination of French and American oak makes quite an impression, leaving lingering earth tones and graceful tannins behind." Winemaker notes

94 points Wine Advocate
The 2016 Vi??a Cubillo Tinto Crianza was surprising, spectacular, elegant, clean and fresh like few vintages before. It was a superb year, with quality, quantity and freshness. It's quite the opposite from the previous 2015, which was a much warmer and riper year. The 2016s have moderate alcohol and especially the perception of less ripeness (even though the alcohol is very similar). It feels very young, still quite primary. Mercedes explained, "Cubillas, a 24-hectare plot, is a vineyard that could produce Gran Reserva wines. It's a very good vineyard, but we would miss the Crianza in our range". In fact, the comment was that this vintage is even a challenge for the Vi??a Tondonia red "because of its price." It is indeed a bargain. "But it doesn't have the finesse of Tondonia," concluded Mar??a Jos??. Anyway, it's super tasty. 92,000 bottles produced. It was bottled in November 2022. Drinking Window: 2024 - 2032

94 points Tim Atkin
It could be a Gran Reserva," says Mar??a Jos?? L??pez de Heredia of a wine that is always sold as a Crianza, partly for historic reasons. Picked late in a cooler vintage, it partners Tempranillo with 20% Garnacha, and 5% each of Graciano and Mazuelo. Earthy, stemmy yet refreshing, it has negligible oak, racy redcurrant and pomegranate fruit and savoury tannins. 2024-29

Established in 1970 by John and Suzanne l'Hoste, the business was handed down to their sons Pascal and Dominique, who invest all their passion and determination in the vineyard. By bringing care, attention and modernity, by the constant desire to distinguish themselves with their knowledge and desire for perfection, by always working with a respect for nature in the service of both vine and wine, they continue to develop this wonderful nectar we call champagne. They will be delighted to help you discover and enjoy it.

#66 on The Wine Spectator Top 100 Wines of 2023!

91 points Wine Spectator
Offers good energy and refined flavors of blackberry, dusky spices and black olive that build structure toward medium-grained tannins. Drink now through 2031.

Winemaking Notes:
Fresh, bright and crisp, this Sauvignon Blanc is a wine of balance, richness and aromatic complexity. Leading with zesty citrus notes of grapefruit, Meyer lemon and a light grassiness, this wine gives way to more tropical fruit and melon characteristics. This classic Sonoma County style Sauvignon Blanc ends with clean, refreshing acidity and pairs beautifully with toasted brie, seared scallops, oysters with mignonette and fresh pasta with sweet peas and a lemon cream sauce.

Food Pairing:
This classic Sauvignon Blanc pairs wonderfully with oysters, salads, vegetable quiche and a variety of seafood dishes.

93 points Wine Enthusiast
Deep garnet in the glass, this wine has aromas of blackberry, clove, oregano and violet. Notes of leather and forest floor slightly outweigh flavors of cherry, pomegranate, star anise and lavender, while opulent tannins power into a lengthy finish. This is a classic, traditional Rioja that will appeal to those who enjoy the style.

Intense primary aromas, fresh and harmonious combined notes from oak aging. Outstanding aromas of candied red fruit and spices are underscored by mineral notes. Sweet, ripe tannins in the mouth. Elegant, balanced mouth. Harmonious, pleasant, long aftertaste. Beautiful nose, abundant spiced rich blackberries laced with leather. Round mouthfeel, good balance and savory finish. Pairs well beef, lamb, veal, and poultry dishes

Grapes are from their Las Encinas vineyard in Laguardia, Rioja Alavesa. Fermentation of destemmed grapes takes place in stainless steel tanks at a controlled temperature of 28 ??C to 30??C. Macerated for 2 weeks to ensure good color extraction and smooth, round tannin
Aged for 18 months in French and American oak barrels and 18 months in bottle.

Organic

Whereas much of Austria?€?s Gr??ner Veltliner is planted in soils of loess, Stadlmann?€?s grows in the limestone that characterizes their sector of the Thermenregion, resulting in an elegantly chalky, salty wine less opulent than many versions grown elsewhere. Fermented spontaneously in large neutral-oak casks, it is bottled in May the year after harvest without fining and with only a gentle filtration, rarely topping 12.5% alcohol. (Rosenthal Wine Merchant Import)

Organic

Whilst the origins of viticulture at Can Vendrell go back to the middle ages, it was not until 1903 that the Albet family established itself at the estate. Joan Albet i Rovirosa came to Can Vendrell to oversee the replanting of the estate after the Phylloxera plague. This process involved planting American rootstock and grafting the desired variety onto that rootstock. After replanting the vineyards he stayed on as manager of the 210 hectare estate of which 90 hectares were vineyards.

It was the fourth and current generation, Josep Maria Albet i Noya, that introduced organic farming methods to the vineyards. Josep Maria took over the management of the estate after his father's death in 1972 and at the end of the seventies started producing his first organic wines. With the success of that first wine produced specifically for the Danish market, they gradually moved the entire estate over to organic farming.

The family also finally acquired the estate that they had been farming for four generations. At this point, they began a long process of continuous rennovation of the cellar, as well as switching 100% of the estate over to organic farming methods.

We currently control 80.6 hectares of vineyards as well as buying grapes from local farmers who have converted to organic farming, paying the highest prices in the Pened??s and advising the farmers to ensure the highest quality.