And just like that, as 2022 fades into yesteryear, let us take a moment to celebrate all the things that make life worth living. Friends, family, tradition, good health, good food, and, of course, wine.
With a nod to tradition, the December case of the month has been assembled with thought and care. There are some lovely finds here that are not your everyday drinkers - but tis the season to be festive! We've procured this special holiday case because we know you deserve it.
May you all have a safe and happy holiday season. Make it yours, make it wonderful, make the memories, and make it all the better with some amazing wine. From all of us to all of you, thank you, truly, and cheers.
Bubbles
(France) Champagne Geoffroy Expression Brut Premier Cru NV $60
Grapes: Pinot Meunier, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir
Notes: Perfect and Classic Champagne. Lovely Brioche on the nose and concentrated fruit on the palate. Elegant, crisp, beautiful round bubbles, and stunning - a true gift that will keep on giving until the very (sad) last sip. Think of this as our gift to you. Enjoy!
Whites
(Washington) 2021 Townshend Pinot Gris $15
Grapes: Pinot Gris
Notes: Be it visions of sugarplums or the perfect white for your meal, one doesn't often think of Washington when dreaming of Pinot Gris under the tree, but we have found one that is sure to please. A solid minerality is well proportioned with plenty of citrus and a dab of honey to create a full, rich mouthfeel without being over the top. A faint suggestion of kiwi on the nose is quickly overtaken by a bit of buttered popcorn on a bed of pale straw. The well integrated pear and granny smith apple lend to a bright, clean finish. A perfect beginning for a perfect holiday.
(France) 2015 Hugues Beaulieu Picpoul de Pinet $15
Grapes: Picpoul
Notes: This is what happens when a grape is grown in its favorite terroir. For those who stick to Northwest tradition, grab your crabs and newspapers and lay your table with a bottle of this lovely wine. It is absolutely perfect for your shellfish feast. The pale yellowness of the luscious liquid is elegant and fresh, with the typical focusing one can expect from the perfect balance of fruit and zesty acidity. This wine, in a word? Well, two words. Simply delicious.
(France) 2020 Aline Beaune Montagny $36
Grapes: Chardonnay
Notes: Aged and primarily fermented in stainless steel tanks, this wine has a purity that is not masked by oak and butter. A melon-ly start leads into a peachy surprise sprinkled with nutmeg and vanilla. Bright and fresh, the fruity finish has honeyed notes throughout this easy-drinking white Burgundy.
Reds
(Oregon) 2019 Timothy Malone White Label Pinot Noir $17
Grapes: Pinot Noir
Notes: Mr. Malone makes wines that are worth seeking out. Classic Willamette Valley Pinot, think red currant, bing cherry, violet petals and a pure ruby robe of well-buffered tannins kissed by a hint of french oak. Maybe it is the season, or maybe there is a suggestion of Frankincense on the hauntingly intriguing finish. If you see Tim around the neighborhood, be sure to thank him for this gem.
(Oregon) 2021 Planet Oregon Pinot Noir $20
Grapes: Pinot Noir
Notes: If there was an Oregon Pinot Noir for every day, Tony Soter (always) delivers. This young, new world Pinot is light, bright, and simply fruity without being too much so. Perfect on its own or with your steelhead, this is a fun wine to share at all your holiday gatherings, as it will never disappoint. Finding an Oregon Pinot of this quality at this price makes this wine a gift worth giving...and receiving!
(Washington) 2019 Lady Hill Cabernet Sauvignon $21
Grapes: Cabernet Sauvignon
Notes: Made in Oregon and sourced from Washington, this classic Cab has all the parts yet shows respectful restraint. Hints of vanilla, leather, blackberry cobbler and tobacco with a nice earthy grip yet well balanced and pleasantly structured while still being soft. There is a hint of flint on the finish, which makes for a solid experience.
(Italy) 2018 Avignonesi Cantaloro Toscano $16
Grapes: Merlot, Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon
Notes: Notably organic, biodynamic and vegan, give this wine a moment in the glass to open up, and you will be well rewarded. The initial black raspberry nose transforms into an oaked Turkish cherry with just a touch of a balsamic drizzle. The slightly spicy finish adds to the overall enjoyment of this classic Italian delight.
(Spain) 2016 Viña Amezola Crianza Rioja $18
Grapes: Tempranillo, Mazuelo
Notes: Sharp acidity balances the oakiness in this lovely Rioja, and although quite dry, it still presents a light, bright red fruit note. This wine is surprisingly soft and comfortable, perfect for sipping on a cozy winter evening by the fire.
(Portugal) 2019 Casa Santos Lima Escapada Vinho Tinto $10
Grapes: Touriga Nacional, Castellao, Allcante Bouschet
Notes: Talk about delicious and value at the same time. This little known phenom from Portugal presents a ripe red fruit nose that would rival Rudolph's. The color is a beautiful deep ruby with just a touch of violet. The palate leans into dark cherry and black currant with some persistent oak and firm yet smooth tannins. The finish is pleasant and lingering, perfect with dinner or on its own, or this could be your new hot tubbing go-to wine!
(Italy) 2021 Ampeleia Unlitro $21
Grapes: Carignan, Grenache
Notes: This Tuscan winsomeness is highly allocated and a great score when you can find it. Light, although not thin, chilled or not, there is a subtle juiciness without being overly fruity. The tannins are well incorporated and balanced with a fascinating minerality that makes this easy-going and even easier to drink. Thank goodness it is a full liter!
(Italy ) 2017 Felsina Rancia Chianti Classico Riserva $60
Grapes: Sangiovese
Notes: Always a critics darling, this consistently high-ranking Chianti is reminiscent of ripe black plum resting on the forest floor - deeply intense and earthly oaky.Very complex on the nose as well as the palate. Definitely refined, has excellent structure, is distinctive and has a commanding finish. You should leave a glass for the guy in the red suit instead of cookies this year!