{"title":"Cellar Treasures","description":"","products":[{"product_id":"2016-chateau-haut-brion-pessac-leognan-1st-classified-growth","title":"2016 Château Haut Brion Pessac Léognan 1st Classified Growth","description":"\u003c!-- split --\u003e\u003c!-- accordion --\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReviews\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eStunning black fruit with plenty of forest berries in there, the whole picture cool and very delicate, also on the concentrated and highly structured palate. The tannins are very fine-grained, but decisively austere and, together with the vibrant acidity, they propel the finish out towards infinity and leave a breathtaking final impression. A blend of 56 per cent merlot, 37.5 per cent cabernet sauvignon and 6.5 per cent cabernet franc. Very long aging potential, but you could try it in 2023. ~100 JS\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe 2016 Haut-Brion is blended of 56% Merlot, 37.5% Cabernet Sauvignon and 6.5% Cabernet Franc. Medium to deep garnet-purple colored, the nose is at once profound and arresting, offering drop-dead gorgeous Morello cherries, lilacs and red rose scents with a core of Black Forest cake, warm blackcurrants and blueberry preserves plus wafts of sandalwood and underbrush. Medium-bodied, the elegantly crafted palate is completely packed with intense floral, mineral and cassis-laced flavors with a firm frame of very finely pixelated tannins and seamless freshness, finishing very long and achingly stunning. ~100 WA\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAs to the reds, the 2016 Haut Brion is a prodigious, legendary wine in the making, although it’s not for those seeking instant gratification. Deeper colored and more concentrated than the La Mission Haut Brion, it reveals a purple\/ruby color as well as a sensational bouquet of blackcurrants, cassis, cigar tobacco, cold fireplace, violets, and lead pencil. Deep, masculine, structured, and mineral-laced, it has a stacked mid-palate, full-bodied richness, building tannins, and a firm, blockbuster styled finish that lasts for close to a minute. A wine for the ages, don’t even think about opening bottles for at least 7-8 years. It should keep for half a century. The blend in 2016 is 56% Merlot, 37.5% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 6.5% Cabernet Franc. 98+ Jeb Dunnuck\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"bt-body\"\u003eLarge and in charge, this has a prodigious core of steeped plum, black currant and loganberry fruit flavors that show both compote and coulis aspects. While that steeps, this delivers a sturdy frame of roasted mesquite, smoldering tobacco and incense, surrounding a muscular spine of worn cedar and tar. Still rather backward, this will be showing well when most others from the vintage have had their day. Best from 2025 through 2045. 11,600 cases made. ~98WS \u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Chateau Haut Brion","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":19853645316199,"sku":"BHW-89705881","price":624.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0150\/0646\/products\/2016-chateau-haut-brion-pessac-leognan-1st-classified-growth-1.jpg?v=1605992608"},{"product_id":"2016-chateau-haut-brion-pessac-leognan-1st-classified-growth-1","title":"2016 Château Haut-Brion Pessac Léognan 1st Classified Growth","description":"\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAwarded 5 Times 100 Point Scores!\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\"Even More Magnificent From Bottle Than It Was From Barrel\" ~100 VM\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\"One of the Finest for Many Years\" ~100 WE\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFree Shipping on 12 or More Bottles\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c!-- split --\u003e\u003c!-- accordion --\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eAbout the Wine\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChateau Haut Brion is the pinnacle of Cabernet production\u003c\/strong\u003e and has been regarded as such for centuries. This wine has such a long history of excellence that America's Founding Fathers were regular fanatics of the estate with Thomas Jefferson even purchasing 24 cases to bring home. (an order that size is a testament in its own right) With the quality of wine overall going up, Chateau Haut Brion has done the same in its time since the founding of the US and has \u003cb\u003ebeen on a streak of great vintages this side of 2000. \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNamed after the ancient Celtic term \"Briga,\" meaning a rise in the land, this estate boasts a legacy spanning over six centuries, a testament to its enduring charm.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIn the wine-making realm, Haut-Brion leads the way in innovation since 1961.\u003c\/strong\u003e Picture this: shiny stainless steel fermentation tanks basking in the Bordeaux sunlight, a symbol of Haut-Brion's dedication to quality. But it doesn't end there. With careful attention to detail, Haut-Brion selects the perfect grape varieties, ensuring each sip is perfection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eClassified as a 1st Growth estate in 1855, Haut-Brion has left its mark on wine history. It's not just about prestige; it's about passion.\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is bottle is backed by a long history, it is a wine that \u003cstrong\u003ewill age gracefully for the better part of a century if you let it\u003c\/strong\u003e. There isn't a real need for truly extensive aging but it will certainly benefit from a couple of years of alone time in a cold dark place. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eDark, intense red color. The initial impression on the nose is deep, spicy, and incredibly complex, undiscovered by ripe black fruit aromas. Starts out soft and well-structured on the palate, becoming full-bodied with impressive volume and smooth tannin. The finish is incredibly long, enhanced by rich flavors that are neither heavy nor harsh. Unquestionably a very fine Haut-Brion!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eCritical Reviews\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis has a little more reticence initially on the nose than La Mission, but after a few minutes the rich texture begins to reveal itself, with charcoal, tobacco, dark plum and damson fruits that are straining at the leash. It has hidden power and subtle oak toasting - this clearly feels no need to shout about its presence, but there will be plenty to discover over time.\u003cstrong\u003e You can feel those tannins licking around your teeth, building up one layer at a time. A great wine En primeur that has settled into greatness.\u003c\/strong\u003e ~100 Decanter\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eStunning black fruit with plenty of forest berries in there, the whole picture cool and very delicate, also on the concentrated and highly structured palate. The tannins are very fine-grained, but decisively austere and, together with the vibrant acidity, they propel the finish out towards infinity and leave a breathtaking final impression. A blend of 56% Merlot, 37.5% Cabernet Sauvignon and 6.5% Cabernet Franc. \u003cstrong\u003eVery long aging potential, but you could try it in 2023.\u003c\/strong\u003e ~100 James Suckling\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe 2016 Haut-Brion is blended of 56% Merlot, 37.5% Cabernet Sauvignon and 6.5% Cabernet Franc. Medium to deep garnet-purple colored, the nose is at once profound and arresting, offering drop-dead gorgeous Morello cherries, lilacs and red rose scents with a core of Black Forest cake, warm blackcurrants and blueberry preserves plus wafts of sandalwood and underbrush. Medium-bodied, the \u003cstrong\u003eelegantly crafted palate is completely packed with intense floral, mineral and cassis-laced flavors with a firm frame of very finely pixelated tannins and seamless freshness, finishing very long and achingly stunning\u003c\/strong\u003e.~100 Wine Advocate\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe 2016 Haut-Brion is quite possibly even more magnificent from bottle than it was from barrel.\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cstrong\u003ePowerful and rich, yet not at all heavy, the 2016 is a wine of nearly indescribable beauty.\u003c\/strong\u003e Haut-Brion is often a thrilling wine, but it is rarely this finessed in its youth. Gravel, cure meat, tobacco and cedar are some of the many nuances that develop with air, but it is an \u003cstrong\u003eextraordinary sense of harmony that really stands out. What a wine!\u003c\/strong\u003e ~100 Vinous Media\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImmensely tannic, this is a great Haut-Brion, one of the finest for many years\u003c\/strong\u003e. It shows the severe side of this estate, with a dense structure to match the powerful black fruits. Rich with berry flavors and lifted by enough acidity, the wine will age for many years.  ~100 Wine Enthusiast\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAs to the reds, the 2016 Haut Brion \u003cstrong\u003eis a prodigious, legendary wine in the making,\u003c\/strong\u003e although it’s not for those seeking instant gratification. Deeper colored and more concentrated than the La Mission Haut Brion, it reveals a purple\/ruby color as well as a sensational bouquet of blackcurrants, cassis, cigar tobacco, cold fireplace, violets, and lead pencil. Deep, masculine, structured, and mineral-laced, it has a stacked mid-palate, full-bodied richness, building tannins, and a firm, blockbuster styled finish that lasts for close to a minute. \u003cstrong\u003eA wine for the ages, don’t even think about opening bottles for at least 7-8 years. It should keep for half a century.\u003c\/strong\u003e ~98+ Jeb Dunnuck\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLarge and in charge, this has a prodigious core of steeped plum, black currant and loganberry fruit flavors that show both compote and coulis aspects\u003c\/strong\u003e. While that steeps, this delivers a sturdy frame of roasted mesquite, smoldering tobacco and incense, surrounding a muscular spine of worn cedar and tar. Still rather backward, this will be showing well when most others from the vintage have had their day. ~98 Wine Spectator\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e ***Free Shipping on 12 or More Bottles of This Wine***\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Chateau Haut-Brion","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44723662618859,"sku":"CHHB16","price":694.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0150\/0646\/files\/2018-Chateau-Haut-Brion-Pessac-Leognan-1st-Classified-Growth_b7f09591-6262-4185-963f-f29fd9ec227c.jpg?v=1744961955"},{"product_id":"2019-domaine-ramonet-morgeot-chassagne-montrachet-premier-cru","title":"2019 Domaine Ramonet Morgeot Chassagne-Montrachet Premier Cru","description":"\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\"Among Burgundy's Most Revered \u0026amp; Mysterious Producers\" ~Decanter\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOne of the Best White Wine Producers on the Planet\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHighly Allocated, 600 Cases Produced\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFree Shipping on 12 or More Bottles\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!-- split --\u003e\u003c!-- accordion --\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eAbout the Wine\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"Considered one of the masters of white wine in the Côte de Beaune, Domaine Ramonet is among Burgundy's most revered and mysterious producers.\" ~Decanter\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStep into the world of Burgundy's legendary cult winery, Domaine Ramonet, where tradition, terroir, and taste converge to create unparalleled wines\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRooted in the heart of Burgundy, \u003cstrong\u003eDomaine Ramonet stands as a beacon of winemaking excellence. \u003c\/strong\u003eFrom the visionary Pierre Ramonet, who carved his path in the 1920s, to the present-day stewardship of grandsons Noël and Jean-Claude, each bottle carries the legacy of generations past. \u003cstrong\u003eTheir commitment to the land and the craft has elevated Ramonet to iconic status in the world of wine.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNestled North of the village of Chassagne-Montrachet lies the prestigious Les Vergers vineyard\u003c\/strong\u003e. With its East-facing orientation and limestone-rich soil, this hallowed ground yields grapes of unparalleled quality. \u003cstrong\u003eHere, amidst 40 rows of vines planted in 1944, the magic of Domaine Ramonet unfolds.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDomaine Ramonet, one of the first Burgundy Domaines to bottle and export to the USA in 1935,\u003c\/strong\u003e continues its tradition of excellence under the third-generation offering 22 appellations, including Premiers Crus and Grands Crus, Domaine Ramonet \u003cstrong\u003eremains a benchmark of quality and distinction in the world of wine.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis bottling hails from three adjacent parcels near the Abbey of Morgeot, just south of Chassagne-Montrachet. Its name is a nod to the ancient hamlet dating back to 864 AD. In the 12th century, Cistercian monks received generous donations and established a communal farm and chapel nearby, lending the appellation \"La Chapelle\" to the surrounding vineyard plots. \u003cstrong\u003eThe soil of Morgeot is a blend of heavy red clay and limestone, giving rise to wines of bold, rich character.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAging: 12 to 15 months in French oak barrels (30-35% new)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003e100% Chardonnay. It exhibits citrus, floral and white orchard fruit flavors, with medium toast notes that are intertwined with vanilla and graphite accents. With a good capacity to age up to 20 years depending on the vintage.  Vines were planted in 1972.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eCritical Reviews\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eProduced from the Champ Jeandreau section of Morgeot, at the bottom of the premier cru slope\u003cstrong\u003e, this is impressive, regal wine,\u003c\/strong\u003e with a ripe apple fruit laced with white blossoms and spice on the initial attack that opens with time on the palate. \u003cstrong\u003eThis wine shows great substance with a rich, creamy texture balanced by plenty of structure and vibrancy that lasts through a satisfyingly long finish\u003c\/strong\u003e. ~95 Decanter\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e***Free Shipping on 12 or More Bottles of This Wine***\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Domaine Ramonet Morgeot","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44761362563307,"sku":"DRMCM19","price":289.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0150\/0646\/files\/2019_Domaine_Ramonet_Morgeot_Chassagne-Montrachet_Premier_Cru_Bottles_Square_2.png?v=1744877083"},{"product_id":"2021-masseto-toscana-igt","title":"2021 Masseto Toscana IGT","description":"\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAwarded Double 100 Point Perfect Scores!\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\"May Be the Best Vintage of This Cuvée That I Have Tasted to Date\" ~100JD\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\"The Most Exquisite, Refined Young Masseto I Have Ever Tasted\" ~100VM\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e2021 Masseto Returns to Its Original 100% Merlot Concept\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFree Shipping on 12 or More Bottles\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c!-- split --\u003e\u003c!-- accordion --\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eAbout the Wine\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eOpening a bottle of 2021 Masseto is like uncorking the soul of Tuscany. This is a rare blend of raw power and polished sophistication.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e2021 brought a perfect balance to the Tuscan coast. A rainy winter gave way to a warm, dry summer, with the grapes thriving in these ideal conditions. The result? \u003cb\u003eExceptionally concentrated fruit with unparalleled depth and structure.\u003c\/b\u003e Masseto’s vineyard—perched on the rugged Bolgheri hills and kissed by the Mediterranean breeze—delivered grapes that captured the essence of the land’s raw beauty and energy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eThe vineyard’s unique blue clay soil, formed over millions of years, is the secret behind Masseto’s power\u003c\/b\u003e. These rock-hard ‘massi’ clusters lock in the vineyard’s history, creating a wine that’s steeped in both geology and genius. Masseto isn’t just wine—it’s earth in a glass.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eAt Masseto, less is more\u003c\/b\u003e. The winemaking philosophy here is about letting the land take the lead. The vines battle the elements, and the winemaking team steps in only when absolutely necessary. No fancy tricks, no overcomplication—\u003cb\u003ejust pure, powerful grapes expressing their full potential.\u003c\/b\u003e This is a wine made with respect for its environment and a dedication to simplicity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003e“Everything revolves around an extraordinary, fragile vineyard, and a wine crafted with the utmost care. We have tanks. We have barrels. We have gravity flow. And we have people who live for this wine. That’s our philosophy.”\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e ~ Lamberto Frescobaldi, Marchesi Frescobaldi President\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eFor over 700 years, the Frescobaldi family has been shaping Tuscany’s winemaking history\u003c\/b\u003e. Masseto is their crowning glory—a testament to tradition, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAging: 24 Months in 100% New French barrels.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e100% Merlot. \u003cbr\u003eSee Critical Reviews for detailed tasting notes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eCritic Review\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe 2021 Masseto is a stunner.\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eIt also shows how much the estate has evolved in recent years.\u003c\/strong\u003e I was reminded of that recently when I drank the 2001, considered by many observers, including this one, to be one of the greatest wines ever made here. The 2021 represents a move towards a more refined style. There’s less of the bombastic intensity and extraction that were once the norm here. I remember young vintages that were impossible to taste young. The 2021, on the other hand,\u003cstrong\u003e is an absolute delight\u003c\/strong\u003e. Crushed flowers, spice, blood orange and bright, red-toned fruit all grace the palate. Floral aromatics and saline underpinnings are at times reminiscent of the Cabernet Franc found in the 2019 and 2020, but the 2021 is back to the classic 100% Merlot. Readers will find a Masseto built on linear energy more than volume. \u003cstrong\u003eThe 2021 is quite simply the most exquisite, refined young Masseto I have ever tasted.\u003c\/strong\u003e Aging was 24 months in 100% new French oak. ~100 Vinous Media\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTasted from barrel, the 2021 Masseto pours a youthful magenta hue and brings forward an inviting bouquet with some blue fruit coming through and more chocolate aromas as well with to me it is fresh with blackberry, and purple violet flowers. It boasts outstanding concentration and depth, with a plush, cushiony texture at this stage, incredible finesse and balance, and a wonderful mineral aroma of wet asphalt coming through. A harmonious wine with well-integrated oak, t\u003cstrong\u003ehis may be the best vintage of this cuvée that I have tasted to date. \u003c\/strong\u003e~98-100 Jeb Dunnuck\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eIn 2021, \u003cstrong\u003eMasseto returns to its original 100% Merlot concept\u003c\/strong\u003e, following two years which saw the inclusion of 15% Cabernet Franc. Following a mild and wet winter, spring was dry and the summer was characterised by higher than average temperatures and periods of drought. Luckily, the vines were quenched by the water reserves built up at the beginning of the year. \u003cstrong\u003eMasseto 2021 really has everything: it's vertical in shape and saline in character, with succulence of fruit, freshness of profile and finesse of tannins.\u003c\/strong\u003e Mediterranean herbs accompany ripe dark fruit scents and flavours which are yet to reveal all their depth and charm. ~99 Decanter\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eOur entire adult lives are spent trying to reclaim the wonder of our childhood—the enchantment of Disney World, the legend of Santa Claus, the belief in miracles that is slowly eroded with age. Masseto is always a wine that brings back that magic, but Gaia allows you to get up out of your seat and watch her sleight of hand from a nose-length. \u003cstrong\u003eI dare you to figure out how she does it, and I defy you not to gasp with delight at the reveal\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003cstrong\u003e Drink now or hold until you next feel your faith faltering.\u003c\/strong\u003e ~99 Wine Enthisiast\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBlueberries and black olives with violets and hints of sage, as well as rosemary flowers. Full and powerful with lots of fruit and vanilla on the palate. \u003cstrong\u003eA rich and flavorful red, yet held together beautifully. Muscular and powerful.\u003c\/strong\u003e Needs five or six years to come together. Give it time. ~98 James Suckling\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe 2021 Masseto is back to being 100% Merlot.\u003c\/strong\u003e Recent past vintages saw a tiny part of Cabernet Franc. That second varietal in the blend represents the proverbial \"tax\" one must pay in the face of climate change, especially when making wine on the sun-drenched Tuscan Coast. This is a very rich and elaborate expression with the extract, tannic tightness and the hefty 15.5% alcohol content to match. It comes off as quite big-boned or monotone. The wine is redolent of blackberry confit and cooked cherry, with a wide range of sweet oak spices to close. \u003cstrong\u003eThere is dark chocolate with a thin lining of creamy mint filling. Within the context of that fullness and generous fruit weight, Masseto is quite a commitment in terms of price and further cellaring\u003c\/strong\u003e. More bottle aging is an absolute requirement. ~95 Robert Parker's Wine Advocate\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eConcentrated grapes in a hot vintage means expect this to be a\u003cstrong\u003e rich, concentrated Masseto, exuberant with luxurious tannins\u003c\/strong\u003e. Beautiful depth on the aromatics from the first moment, with rich fruit flavours that flood the palate, tons of liquorice, olive pit, chocolate shavings, cocoa bean, rosemary, freshly cut herbs, underbrush, opulent and powerful, flash of heat that subsides after a moment but is evident on the opening. Marco Balsimelli winemaker, Marchesi Frescobaldi owners. 11ha vineyard, 24 months ageing in barrel then 12 months in bottle before release, \u003cstrong\u003e100% new oak. Back to 100% Merlot in this vintage.\u003c\/strong\u003e ~95 Jane Anson, Inside Bordeaux\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e***Free Shipping on 12 or More Bottles of This Wine***\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Masseto","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45898287218923,"sku":"MASSETO21","price":898.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0150\/0646\/files\/2021-Masseto-Toscana-IGT.jpg?v=1752931818"},{"product_id":"2023-chateau-margaux-margaux-pre-arrival","title":"2023 Château Margaux Margaux FUTURES - Pre-Arrival","description":"\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\"One of the Wines of the Vintage\" ~100JS\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e Iconic 1st Classified Growth, Best Shape it has Ever Been!\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eChateau Dates Back Almost a Millennium\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFree Shipping on 12 or More Bottles\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c!-- split --\u003e\u003c!-- accordion --\u003e","brand":"Chateau Margaux","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45938818351339,"sku":"CM23IND","price":569.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0150\/0646\/files\/2023-Chateau-Margaux-Margaux-FUTURES---Pre-Arrival.jpg?v=1746591852"},{"product_id":"2021-hundred-acre-fortunate-son-the-warrior-napa-valley","title":"2021 Hundred Acre Fortunate Son The Warrior Napa Valley","description":"\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOne of Napa's Most Sought After Wineries\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSingle Vineyard 100% Cab from Oakville\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e95-98 Point \"Fabulous \u0026amp; Limited\" Vintage\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eExtremely Rare Allocation\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFree Shipping on 12 or More Bottles\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c!-- split --\u003e\u003c!-- accordion --\u003e","brand":"Hundred Acre","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46014717788395,"sku":"HAFSTW21","price":389.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0150\/0646\/files\/2022-Hundred-Acre-Fortunate-Son-The-Warrior-Napa-Valley.jpg?v=1769026137"},{"product_id":"2019-chateau-smith-haut-lafitte-pessac-leognan-kosher","title":"2019 Chateau Smith Haut Lafitte Pessac Leognan Kosher","description":"\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTriple 99 Point Reviews, Kosher Certified\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\"A Whole and Thought-Provoking Wine.\" ~99 JS\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e97 Point Vintage ~Vinous Media\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFree Shipping on 12 or More Bottles\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c!-- split --\u003e\u003c!-- accordion --\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eAbout the Wine\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChateau Smith Haut Lafitte is a Grand Cru Classified Château from Graves.\u003c\/strong\u003e The story of this estate dates back to the 14th century when George Smith, a Scottish wine businessman, acquired the estate and renamed it after him.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe property passed through the hands of different owns, but it was in 1990, with the acquisition of Daniel and Florence Cathiard, that this winery finally exploit its potential, and became synonymous with \u003cstrong\u003epremium, high-quality wines in Bordeaux\u003c\/strong\u003e, and as Wine Spectator said, \u003cstrong\u003e“rejuvenated into one of Bordeaux’s elite properties.” \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Cathiard family are wine legends in the business. They own 5 different Châteaux in Bordeaux, and recently acquired Flora Springs in Napa Valley. They say their \u003cstrong\u003e\"philosophy can be summed up in one sentence: to do everything possible to make each vintage of red and white wine worthy of its magnificent terroir.”\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince 1990, the 200-acre vineyard has been managed under \u003cstrong\u003esustainable and organic practices\u003c\/strong\u003e. In 2019, the estate was organically certified and started to implement biodynamic viticulture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis Château owes its reputation as \u003cstrong\u003e“the quintessential tomb”\u003c\/strong\u003e to the smoky notes of its wines and its mountainous terroir, made up of the \u003cstrong\u003eriver and semi-precious stones deposited by the Garonne millions of years ago. \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e2019 was a great vintage for the Lef Bank. Vinous Media blessed this year with a 97-point review and said: \u003cstrong\u003e\"Two thousand-nineteen is unquestionably a Left Bank vintage.\"\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAging: \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e18 months in barrels (60% new)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e 59% Cabernet Sauvignon, 36% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc, and the rest Petit Verdot.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eCritical Reviews\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIntense blackberry and graphite character coming out of the glass, together with dried violets, ink and some asphalt. \u003cstrong\u003eFull-bodied with wonderfully integrated tannins that spread across the palate and then draw you deep into the wine\u003c\/strong\u003e. Lead-pencil and blackcurrant aftertaste. Tightly wound with a cashmere-like texture. \u003cstrong\u003eA whole and thought-provoking wine. \u003c\/strong\u003eTry after 2028 and beyond. ~ 99 James Suckling \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSumptuous, seductive and extremely poised.\u003c\/strong\u003e This inches forward with layers of bitter chocolate, smoked caramel, liquorice root, fresh mint leaf, rosebud and black truffle. Behind all this sits caressing, slate-filled tannins that give real grip to the palate. Within 15 minutes of opening you feel even more volume in the mid palate, before things close in towards a mouthwatering salinity on the finish. ~99 Jane Anson, Inside Bordeaux\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e~99 Wine Independent\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReminding me a little of the 2009, the 2019 Château Smith Haut Lafitte has a rich, powerful style in its cassis,\u003c\/strong\u003e blueberry, and black raspberry fruit as well as its chalky minerality, smoked earth, tobacco, and lead pencil shaving-like aromas and flavors. A blend of 59% Cabernet Sauvignon, 36% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc, and the rest Petit Verdot, this rich, unctuously textured beauty has terrific concentration, sweet tannins, and the vintage's hallmark elegance and finesse. \u003cstrong\u003eOne of the most concentrated, powerful wines in the vintage, it needs 4-5 years of bottle age (or a healthy decant) and will evolve for 30+ years if stored properly\u003c\/strong\u003e. Not enough can be said about what proprietors Daniel and Florence Cathiard, as well as winemaker Fabien Teitgen, continue to achieve at this estate. ~98 Jeb Dunnuck\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eA wine that has great richness with spice, one of a line of great whites from this estate. Tropical fruits and generosity give a ripe, full-bodied wine, that is immediately attractive. The wine is going to age further, drink from 2024. Organic and biodynamic.  ~ 96 Wine Enthusiast\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eThe 2019 Smith Haut Lafitte has turned out very well indeed,\u003c\/strong\u003e unwinding in the glass with a complex bouquet of dark berries, cassis, forest floor, pencil shavings, licorice and spices. Full-bodied, broad and velvety, it's layered and elegantly muscular, underpinned by rich structuring tannins and lively acids, and it concludes with a long, expansive finish. T\u003cstrong\u003ehis is another estate where the viticultural and stylistic evolutions of the last decade have delivered a beautifully balanced, harmonious 2019\u003c\/strong\u003e. ~96 Robert Parker's Wine Advocate\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eA broad, rich and caressing wine\u003c\/strong\u003e, with a lovely display of cassis, plum puree and blackberry pâte de fruit notes. There's form thanks to a buried alder note, along with sweet tobacco and iron accents on the finish. A strong showing. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Best from 2024 through 2036. 10,000 cases made, 2,400 cases imported. ~95 Wine Spectator\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" class=\"tw-data-text tw-text-large tw-ta\" data-placeholder=\"Translation\" id=\"tw-target-text\" dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Y2IQFc\" lang=\"en\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e***Free Shipping on 12 or More Bottles of This Wine***\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Chateau Smith Haut Lafitte","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46045970923755,"sku":"CSHLPLK19","price":359.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0150\/0646\/files\/2019-Chateau-Smith-Haut-Lafitte-Pessac-Leognan-Kosher.jpg?v=1745298001"}],"url":"https:\/\/www.bighammerwines.com\/collections\/cellar-treasures.oembed","provider":"BigHammerWines.com","version":"1.0","type":"link"}