April Case of the Month — Floral Wines in Bloom!

Spring has officially sprung, and so has our April Case of the Month! This month, we're celebrating floral-forward wines—perfectly suited to the season.

Inside, you’ll find an enchanting mix:

• A lively sparkling wine

• A collection of elegant, delicate whites

• Rosés as pretty as they are refreshing

• Earthy reds with soft, floral aromatics

From notes of crushed rose petals and white blossoms to hints of minerality and bright acidity, these wines offer a fresh, fragrant welcome to longer days and warmer evenings.

Let this floral lineup be your go-to case for garden parties, brunches, or just sipping something lovely on the patio.

Teutonic Wine Company 2024 Rosé of Pinot Noir

Old vines, cool climate, native yeast—the folks at Teutonic Wine Company don’t just make wine, they make statements. This SE Powell-based urban winery sticks to its roots (literally and figuratively), crafting German-inspired wines that let the vineyard speak.

Their 2024 Rosé of Pinot Noir is a total springtime stunner. It is low in alcohol and high in charm, with juicy red fruit, fresh florals, and a lively lift that makes it the perfect aperitif. It’s a wine that feels both wild and refined—with no heavy-handed winemaking, just pure Oregon Pinot vibes.

Pair it with rich pâté, springy bruschetta, a Bottle Shop turkey BLT (trust us), or sip it solo.

In our April “Florals” Case of the Month—because it’s basically bottled spring.

Mijita Wine Company 2023 Weets Vineyard Cabernet Franc

Mijita Wine Co. is the kind of label we love to shout out—female-led, flavor-forward, and beautifully balanced. Winemaker Lizzy Ezqueda started her wine journey in NYC before heading west to make her mark on the Oregon wine scene. Her style? Let the fruit lead, keep it minimal in the cellar, and let texture and brightness take center stage.

The 2023 Weets Vineyard Cabernet Franc is fresh and vibrant with red cherry, rosehip, and herbal notes that lean more toward mountain meadow than bell pepper. Sourced from Washington’s Yakima Valley and made with a light touch, it’s a total spring sipper with enough structure to stand up to grilled fare.

Perfect for BBQ season—and one of the standouts in our April Case of the Month.

Domaine Colin “Perles Grises” NV PetNat of Pineau d’Aunis

If your brunch game needs a bubbly upgrade, Domaine Colin’s “Perles Grises” pét-nat is the move. Made from Pineau d’Aunis—a lesser-known but seriously lovable noir grape—this méthode ancestrale sparkler is as charming as it is crushable.

On the nose and palate: peach blossoms, red berries, wet stones, and a hit of white pepper. Dry, zippy, and savory in the best way, it’s made from organically farmed grapes in France’s Loire Valley. It finishes fermentation in the bottle for that creamy, satisfying fizz.

Delicious with salty snacks, quiches, or just a sunny morning and your favorite playlist.

Domaine Melody “Marc + Marlène” 2021 VDF Syrah

We love a bold Syrah—but let’s be real, most Rhône reds aren’t exactly screaming “spring.” Enter the 2021 “Marc + Marlène” Syrah from Domaine Melody. This beauty takes a more refreshing route.

Harvested early from cool-site Crozes-Hermitage fruit and aged in stainless steel, it keeps things lively and lifted. What you get is classic Syrah flavor—purple fruit, black pepper, and herbal-savory notes—without the weight. It’s floral, fresh, and structured enough for food, but smooth enough to sip on its own.

Think roasted lamb, grilled veggies, or even a Friday night cheese board.

March case of the Month: Wines Under $20

This month, we’re excited to roll out a case with an awesome selection of 12 fantastic wines, all under $20! Check out our lively mix, starting with some crisp, aromatic white wines that burst with zesty citrus and floral vibes.

Don’t miss out on a tasty Alpine rosé, known for its fun minerality and refreshing acidity—perfect for those warmer days ahead!

We’ve also got some juicy, fruity reds, each packed with a blend of flavors from famous wine regions around the globe. Enjoy rich berry notes, a touch of spice, and a great balance that highlights its terroir's unique character.

And the best part? You can grab this entire case for under $200, making it a fantastic deal for wine lovers looking for quality and variety!

Case of the Month Highlights

Domaine Carrel & Senger 2023 “Jardin d’Altitude” Rosé

Mondeuse and Gamay are two red wine varietals that thrive in cooler climates in France. Both are known for their impressive aromas and structure, making them perfect for a delightful springtime rosé.

This steely-pink wine is lean and approachable, offering playful notes of candied red fruit and citrus peel and a distinct minerality from the Alps.

Grab a bottle for your aperitif hour at the Bottle Shop, or check it out in our case of the month!

Love & Squalor 2023 Mothershucker

This wine truly has character! It’s an aromatic, crisp, and dry white blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris, and Riesling.

The grapes are grown in the Willamette Valley, benefiting from marine sediment and volcanic soils. The intensely mineral-rich soils combined with the cool, salty Pacific air create a wine that pairs perfectly with shellfish, spicy dishes, and fresh spring vegetables.

Be sure to check out this crowd-pleaser in our under-$20 selection for COTM!

2023 Timothy Malone White Label Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

This month’s case features a shop favorite Pinot Noir! At only $17, this wine offers exceptional elegance and vibrancy.

With notes of crushed, dried herbs, Douglas fir needles, bright raspberry leaves, and tart red fruits, it is sure to please any crowd—all for under $20.

It really exceeds expectations!

Domaine de L'Idylle Wines

This month, we are excited to feature fresh, youthful, and crisp wines from Domaine de L'Idylle in the Savoie region of France!

Our selection includes a 100% Jacquère and a 100% Gamay. The Jacquère is mineral-driven, crisp, bright, yet complex—perfect for pairing with fondue. The Gamay is fruit-forward and fresh, making it an excellent choice for a springtime roast or as a refreshing aperitif.

Both wines are priced under $20 and are highlighted in our Case of the Month (COTM).

Saint Cosme 2023 Cotes-du-Rhone

This 100% Syrah from the 15th-century winery at Château de Saint Cosme tells a rich story of history and terroir. The clay and limestone soils impart a savory quality to the fruit, which is further enhanced by fermentation in cement vessels.

This process gives the wine a “grippy” texture on the palate, making it an excellent choice for food pairings. We recommend trying it with lamb, beets, potatoes, or mushrooms to discover why it is a Bottle Shop favorite priced under $20!

February Case of the Month: Rainy Day Wines

This month's case features a selection of wines perfect for enjoying on a rainy night, whether playing board games or watching a movie at home.

We’ve got some fun bubbly options from Italy that are sure to bring a little sparkle to your evening. For a chill vibe, check out our easy-drinking whites that everyone will love, making them great for snacks or just sipping on their own. And don’t miss the budget-friendly reds that offer a whole lot of flavor and depth, ready to take you on a little taste adventure right from your couch.

Swing by in February to grab this awesome case, and get ready to turn any night into a super cozy experience, no matter what the weather’s like!

Case of the Month Highlights

Gilbert Cellars 2022 “Left Bank”

The “Left Bank” moniker on this Washington red blend is a tip of the hat to Old-World Cabernet-dominant red blends from the west, or “left,” Bank of Bordeaux in France. Here, harsh conditions and soils foster concentrated, complex, and earthy Cabernet Sauvignons that can be pretty different from many New World expressions. Cabernet Franc and Merlot are traditionally in these blends, while the grape Carménère is like the Cabernet family's long-lost cousin who went to study in the Americas. This grape can highlight the Cabernets' herbaceous and herbal aromas and tannins while supporting Merlot's supple red & purple fruited notes. Think plum, black currant leaf, and eucalyptus.

This blend is an approachable, everyday Washington Cabernet Sauvignon. 66% is Cabernet Sauvignon, 32% is Merlot, and 2% is Carménère, all grown sustainably on the peaks above the Columbia River in Eastern Washington. The fruit is sun-ripened and windswept, making for a luscious glass with impressive structure for an everyday red. Pair it with hearty meats and stews.

Adegas Guímaro 2023 Ribeira Sacra DO Mencía

When we think of Spanish wine regions, we often envision sun-drenched plateaus with little rainfall. However, the steep, temperate hillsides of Galicia in northwest Spain offer a different perspective. Along the Miño and Sil Rivers slopes lie the terraced vineyards of Ribeira Sacra DO. Here, red wines (tintos) are crafted from the aromatic and uniquely mineral grape variety, Mencía, which expresses the slate soils alongside its floral notes and warmly spiced black fruit flavors.

“Adegas Guímaro,” meaning “Rebel Winery” in Galician, reflects a local 15th-century uprising when independent farmers resisted the ruling noble class. This historical event is a source of pride for many locals today. The wine produced here is a wine of the people, characterized by its expressive and youthful nature. It is perfect for enjoyment with grilled sausages, spicy tomato dishes, or even seafood. Explore this gem from our Rainy Day February case of the month!

Kiona 2021 Lemberger

This wine has a dedicated following, and it's easy to see why! It's a PNW mountain wine characterized by its spicy notes and plush blue fruit, resulting from the extreme conditions in which the grapes are grown.

This wine shines mainly because it is made mainly from estate-grown Lemberger, also known as Blaufränkisch. This Austrian grape is celebrated for its spiced black and purple fruit profile and plush, velvety tannins.

When cultivated in the high desert of Washington's Red Mountain AVA, Lemberger offers a medium body with flavors of wild berries, warm earth, anise, and herbs on the palate.

This wine is incredibly versatile and budget-friendly. It pairs wonderfully with sausage, beans, and stir-fry or can be enjoyed on its own. Don't miss out on this conversation starter in our “rainy day” case of the month!

Corte San Pietro “Sei Bollissima” NV Spumante Brut

If I had to describe this sparkling wine in one word, it would be “cheeky.” It hails from Piedmont, a region in Italy known for its dry red wines made from Barbera.

This wine is crafted from gently crushed Barbera and Cortese grapes, creating a style reminiscent of Prosecco. The gentle pressing followed by cold maceration of the fruit results in predominantly dry notes of tart pear, red apple, and candied citrus peel. The pleasant bubbles enhance the experience without overwhelming the palate.

On the back of the bottle, behind the colorful label, it simply states, “blah blah blah blah…drink it,” and I couldn’t agree more! This refreshing wine might become your new favorite for springtime brunches—be sure to check it out in our case of the month!

Sip into Sweetness: Celebrate February with the Timeless Elegance of Kopke Port

When you think of February, thoughts of warm hearts and sweet treats come to mind—perfect for cuddling up with a glass of something special! And what better choice than Port wine? We must highlight Kopke, the oldest Port wine house in the world, established way back in 1636. It all started with Nicolau Kopkë, a member of the German Hanseatic League who made his way to Portugal and began exporting delicious Port to Northern Europe. Talk about a pioneer!

So, what exactly is Port? It’s a delightful fortified dessert wine, primarily coming from the beautiful Douro Valley in northwestern Portugal. While most of us think of Port as a rich red, there are also fabulous white varieties that deserve a spot on your table.

The process is fascinating: grapes are sent from inland vineyards to the bustling coastal cities of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia. Once there, they’re crushed in shallow granite vessels, traditionally by foot stomping or with modern machinery. After a brief fermentation, a distilled grape spirit is added to stop the yeast in its tracks, preserving the natural sugars and giving Port its sweet, boozy character.

Now, let’s talk about why Port is perfect for February. Imagine cozying up on a chilly evening with a glass of this luscious wine. It’s the ultimate pairing for all those chocolate delights we crave around Valentine's Day! Whether it’s rich chocolate desserts or decadent stewed fruits, Port elevates the experience to a whole new level of deliciousness.

So, make your February extra special and swing by the Bottle Shop to grab some remarkable bottles. Nothing beats sharing a cozy moment with loved ones and a glass of Port by a warm fire. Cheers to love and sweet sips!

Discover the Exciting World of Non-Alcoholic Wines and Spirits

Exploring the world of non-alcoholic wines and spirits has never been more exciting. Whether you're looking for a sophisticated sipper or a complex cocktail base, there are more options than ever. From bold and bitter amaro-style spirits to crisp, refreshing Rieslings, non-alcoholic alternatives are proving that you don’t need alcohol to enjoy depth, complexity, and flavor.

In this blog post, we will highlight a few standout selections that offer all the character without the alcohol—perfect for any occasion, any time of year.

The Pathfinder Hemp and Root Distilled NA Spirit

Amaro-lovers rejoice! Enjoy the bittersweet and herbal flavors of this winter digestif without the alcohol! Patented-distilled from fermented hemp and blended with Wormwood, Angelica Root, and Douglas Fir needles, The Pathfinder Spirit offers a bitter and complex profile.

It can be crafted into a cocktail or sipped on its own, and it's said to cure a variety of ills— from ennui to hot tempers, weak knees, and everything in between. Try The Pathfinder today! We have the spirit on shelves now, with their canned NA negronis arriving at the Shop soon.

Allendorf “Save Water Drink Riesling” Free

This dealcoholized Riesling is dry, crisp, and tart. It can be enjoyed on its own or made into a spritz with soda water!

“It's Not a Sin” Dealcoholized Aromatized Wines

“It’s Not a Sin” begins as a dry German Riesling, from which the alcohol is then removed. Aromatics are added back in, creating a vibrant and tart sipping experience.

Flavors like raspberry and mint or ginger and orange peel perfume the non-alcoholic wine, making it a beautiful aperitif or suitable for a spritz with soda water or tonic!

January COM: Travel the New World

We're collecting stamps on our passports as we travel through the New World! This month’s collection features a diverse selection of wines, including 1 sparkling, 5 whites, and 6 reds. Some are more traditional, while others are experimental and innovative. They showcase a blend of Old World influences with new terroirs and cultures to explore. We are very excited about this incredible variety! Cheers!

Case of the Month Hightlights

Kumusha Wines

In 2017, Tinashe launched Kumusha Wines, with "Kumusha" being the Zimbabwean Shona word for "your home," "your roots," or "your origin." Through Kumusha Wines, Tinashe brings his down-to-earth Zimbabwean sensibilities to his minimal-intervention wines, allowing the land of South Africa to truly shine. The Cabernet Sauvignon showcases gamey, earthy smoke and high-toned red berries, while the Sauvignon Blanc highlights the distinct minerality of fruit grown on wind-swept hillsides, offering plenty of citrusy and herbaceous aromas that invite you back for more.

With our January Case of the Month, join us as we travel through the New World and explore the unique stories and terroirs of South Africa, Oceania, and the Americas. Over the past few decades, Old World traditions have influenced these regions and their people, leading to the emergence of new customs. As a result, the world of wine has become increasingly diverse. Join us as we discover some of these wines and their stories!

Domaine Bousquet 2019 Gaia Red Blend Tupungato

The “Tupungato” label on this bottle refers to the mountain where the grapes were grown at 4,000 feet above sea level.

This Argentinian red blend is crafted from 100% organic fruit. Its plush, peppery body and savory earthiness pay homage to Old World blending techniques while highlighting the boldness and fruitiness characteristic of New World wines. With leather, moss, and dark fruit flavors, this Malbec-dominant blend pairs beautifully with grilled or roasted meats, mushrooms, Chinese cuisine, and root vegetables.

Be sure to pick up a bottle in our January case of the month!

Broc 2022 “Love” Red

Broc Cellars, owned by winemaker Chris Brockway, produces minimal-intervention California wines in Berkeley—a non-traditional setting for innovative wines. The “Love” Red is a perfect example of this approach, showcasing the future of creativity in New World winemaking.

This blend features varietals typically found in the South of France but employs winemaking techniques that render it vibrant, lively, and distinctly Californian. Expect flavors of tart, dried red fruits and earthy blackberry, which contribute to the wine's intentional and food-friendly structure. It pairs beautifully with savory charcuterie, fresh crudités, and a variety of romantic winter dinners!

Consider stocking up for Valentine’s Day, or visit our January Bottle Shop Case of the Month to pick it up. The Broc “Love” wine checks all the boxes for a fantastic, lighter-bodied winter red!

Kumeu River 2023 Village Chardonnay

This village, Chardonnay, hails from the North Island of New Zealand and is renowned for its complexity and restraint, all at an attractive price point. Vinified in Auckland, this wine is crafted from grapes from various vineyards across the island, with 80% of the fruit coming from Hawkes Bay. The limestone soils of this region contribute a crisp mineral quality to the wine.

The flavor profile is lean and complex, featuring creamy citrus notes alongside subtle, earthy nectarine undertones. The oak influence is light, as only 30% of the wine was aged in previously used oak barrels, while the remainder was fermented in stainless steel. This makes the Chardonnay ideal for those who enjoy a textural white wine not dominated by oak's warmth.

Fresh and complex, this Chardonnay pairs beautifully with seafood, pasta, or as an aperitif. Check it out in the Bottle Shop's January case of the month!

December Case of the Month: Christmas in the Alps!

It's time for fireside fondue and an après-ski drink! We have Champagne dupes, aromatic and mineral-driven whites, and gently spiced, fruit-forward reds. This month's case represents exquisite wines from France, Italy, and Switzerland.

Case of the Month Highlights

Elena Walch 2023 Pinot Grigio

This Pinot Grigio from Alto Adige has been ranked #33 on the Wine Spectator Top 100 Wines of 2024 and is also featured in our Alpine case of the month for December! It offers complex notes of peppery wet stones, tart green pear, and mountain herbs, making it approachable and stimulating. This wine is perfect for pairing with a winter seafood tower or a cheese plate.

Elena Walch is an architect who married into a winemaking family in Alto Adige, Italy's northernmost wine region, located high in the Alps. She quickly established a reputation in the area and is well-regarded for her varietal wines and blends. We carry several of her wines, so be sure to see why she is a favorite at the Bottle Shop!

Léon Beyer Riesling & Pinot Noir

Alsace is a wine region in northeastern France with historical ties to Germany. Its distinct identity is shaped by a warm, dry climate and the protective Vosges Mountains, which allow southwest-facing vineyards to receive ample sunlight for grape ripening. While aromatic wines like Riesling are often seen as overly sweet in the U.S., Alsace wines are typically fermented dry, offering rich flavors and bright acidity that complement many dishes. The Beyer Family has been part of this winemaking tradition since the 1580s, blending heritage with sustainable practices for future generations.

Our December case of the month features several wines from Alsace, including these two from Léon Beyer: a Riesling with lime peel and elderflower aromas, complemented by subtle tropical fruit notes and a mineral backbone with citrusy acidity and a Pinot Noir with bright red fruit flavors, supported by distinct Alpine herbs that enhance its delicate structure. These wines would make a wonderful pairing for a winter meal.

Celebrate 50 Years of Tignanello: The 2021 Super Tuscan is Here!

We have an exciting new arrival at the Bottle Shop! This historic Tuscan blend from Antinori celebrates its 50th vintage with the 2021 bottling, considered one of the best vintages to date.

This bottling showcases Sangiovese's world-class elegance. The Cabernet Sauvignon varieties contribute earthy, herbaceous notes and warmly spiced undertones from aging in small oak barrels. The tannins are robust and reminiscent of rich tobacco.

It can be cellared for a special occasion in the future or enjoyed this holiday season with those who appreciate the finer things in life. It would also make a remarkable gift!

In Tuscany, as in many Old World wine-producing regions, there are strict regulations regarding the types of grapes that can be used in wines from the area. Sangiovese is the dominant grape in wines from Chianti, Chianti Classico, Brunello di Montalcino, and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano.

Blending with other grape varieties is either restricted or prohibited if a vintner wants to label their wine with a regional DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita). Otherwise, even high-quality wines may fall into the lower IGT (Indicazione Geografica Tipica) category, which typically reduces market value.

In the 1970s, a few Tuscan producers began using their finest Sangiovese grapes to create blends with Bordeaux varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. These wines were initially reserved for estate use but were eventually released to the market under IGT status, generating significant attention. They became known as "Super Tuscans," and their popularity has grown ever since.

Antinori is a 600-year-old estate in the Chianti Classico region. It is renowned for its elegant, red-fruited, high-toned, and complex Sangiovese, which is cultivated at a higher altitude than in Chianti. The grapes for this wine are grown in Tignanello, which is regarded as one of the best vineyards in the world.

Come pick up a bottle at the Shop, or explore other wines from the Wine Spectator's Top 100 list for 2024!