New Arrivals
Updated 12/11/08
Below is a sampling of the exciting new wines arriving in stock at PJs on a regular basis. To find additional new arrivals please use our Wine Finder and Search feature on your favorite regions and producers regularly.
Argentina | Australia | Austria | Chile | France | Germany | Italy | New Zealand | Portugal | South Africa | Spain | USA
Argentina
06 Trapiche “Broquel” Mendoza Cabernet Sauvignon $12.99
Australia
05 D’Arenberg “The Footbolt” McLaren Vale Shiraz $14.97
05 Peter Lehmann "Clancy's" Barossa Valley Shiraz/Cabernet Sauvignon Blend $12.99
07 Mollydooker "Blue Eyed Boy" McLaren Vale Shiraz $48.97
07 Mollydooker "Enchanted Path" McLaren Vale Shiraz/Cabernet Sauvignon $87.97
07 Mollydooker "Maitre D'" McLaren Vale Cabernet Sauvignon $23.97
07 Mollydooker "The Scooter" McLaren Vale Merlot $23.97
07 Mollydooker "The Violinist" McLaren Vale Verdelho $23.97
06 R Wines “Boarding Pass” Barossa Valley Shiraz $17.99
07 Torbreck "Woodcutter's" Barossa Valley Shiraz $19.97 "Inky ruby. Sexy dark berry and cherry compote on the nose, with subtle mocha and incense notes. Sweet blackberry and cherry-cola flavors pick up some dusty tannins with air. Pleasantly juicy and fresh, with clean finishing fruit and a late jolt of licorice. This became more floral and minerally with air while maintaining its seductively fruity personality." IWC 90
Austria
07 Huber “Hugo” Traisental Grüner Veltliner $9.99 A holy grail value in Grüner Veltliner! The nose gives up mouthwatering scents of papaya, cereal grain and creamy minerals, plus delicate hints of field flowers. On the palate the wine is quite racy, showing lemon zest, green apple and a beam of pure crushed rocks. The wine has very good density and concentration, and makes for a fantastic match with grilled vegetables, roasted chicken with olive oil, sea salt and cracked pepper or sautéed pork chops with braised fennel.
07 Huber Obere Steigen Traisental Grüner Veltliner $14.99 This deeply floral and effusive Grüner is one of the most expressive we have had in a long time-showing a level of quality more like a wine costing twice the price.Gorgeous white flower and pear scents are joined by orange blossom tones and a hint of nutmeg. The palate is bright and intense, exploding with apple and white peach flavors that are joined by notes of chalk and white pepper. Very long and lingering. An outstanding find.
06 Huber Traisental Zweigelt $12.99
Adventurous fans of great quality European Pinot Noir should seek out this affordable red gem. This medium-bodied Zweigelt opens with a nose of juicy crushed blackberry, which is followed by loamy notes of earth and grass-tufted soil. On the palate it has impeccable balance, featuring juicy blackberry flavors intertwined with sour cherry, leather and mineral notes. Racy acidity and structured tannins mesh perfectly with impressive fruit extract to produce a firm, beautifully proportioned drinking experience. This wine is a great match with beef carpaccio, a wild mushroom omelet, or thinly sliced duck breast.
France
L’Anglore “2007 Cuvée de la Pierre Chaude” Vin de Table Red $20.99
The L'Anglore Cuvée de la Pierre Chaude is a Rhône blend of Grenache and Clairette. On the nose it is immediately apparent that this is no ordinary Rhône. Sour orange skin and fresh crushed red cherry juice mingle with ginger and ground clove tones plus hints of damp, dark earth and brewers yeast. On the palate the wine shows great concentration and balance. Notes of cherry, blackberry and fresh squeezed orange stand toe to toe with iron, beef blood, and yeast, all of which are accented by hints of barnyard and spice.
07 L'Anglore “Cuvée des Traverses” Côtes du Rhône Red $21.99
L'Anglore Cuvée des Traveres is an old vines blend of 60% Syrah, 30% Mourvèdre, and 10 % Grenache. The nose carries lovely notes of herbs de Provence, black olive tapenade, a dusting of lavender, smoked meats, saddle leather and a soft inflection of sandy soil. In true organic style, the wine is somewhat cloudy in the glass, due to the lack of added sulfites. The palate is round and gently expressive with flavors of ripe black berry fruit, smoky terroir and lavender that roll along the palate simultaneously. It will pair well with a wide array of hearty dishes like lamb stew, grilled steak or strong aged cheeses.
07 Domaine des Aubuisières "Cuvée de Silex" Vouvray $14.99
07 Michel Bailly & Fils "Les Loges" Pouilly-Fumè White $18.99
On Re-order 07 Paul Blanck “Classique” Pinot Blanc $13.99
This crisp and precise Pinot Blanc offers pear and peach fragrances that emerge from a thicket of damp autumn leaves mingled with hints of wax and mineral on the delicate yet expressive nose. On the palate the wine is medium-bodied with excellent balance. Flavors of ripe green apple and pear glide across the palate supported by well integrated acidity and an elegant minerality. This is a great wine to drink on its own or with medium-weight fish dishes.
07 Paul Blanck “Classique” Riesling $17.99
An elegant and quenching Riesling, the nose of the 07 Classique begins with peach blossom scents that move into spiced ripe peach aromas accented with hints of white flowers, white pepper and crushed stone. On the palate the wine is elegant yet zesty. Peach pit and green apple notes mingle with mineral and floral tones which carry through onto the stony, pit fruit inflected finish. Drink this with a Cobb salad, fried white fish, or porkchops with herb butter.
07 Paul Blanck “Classique” Gewürztraminer $24.99
As you might expect, the nose of this elegant Gewürz is highly aromatic. Classic scents of lychee, white flower blossoms and peach mingle with delicate hints of sandalwood and lavender. On the palate the wine shows a well-modulated richness which it carries beautifully via streamlined acidity. White peach and spice flavors spread across the tongue and lychee and sandalwood hints linger on the long finish. Try this with Chinese take-out or your own ginger and scallion chicken stir fry. It also works wonderfully with fried calamari, white sausages with mustard or Wiener schnitzel.
05 Bertagna “Les Croix Blanches” Bourgogne Red $21.99 This single vineyard Bourgogne Rouge from the great 2005 vintage is a delight. The nose is very vibrant, with ripe red raspberry scents woven through with notes of mint, wood ash and a hint of rare beef. On the palate the wine is downright racy, delivering sappy red raspberry and red cherry flavors with great impact as they ride through to the soil and mineral laden finish. Drink this with high fat dishes like braised pork belly with Dijon mustard, pan seared duck breast or a rare and richly marbled ribeye steak.
06 Alain Burguet Chambolle-Musigny Les Chardannes Red $89.99
06 Alain Burguet Gevrey-Chambertin Premier Cru Les Champeaux Red $116.99
06 Domaine du Château de Chorey "Château Germain Vieilles Vignes" Bourgogne Rouge Red $21.99
06 Domaine de Chardignon Côte-de-Brouilly Red $12.99
06 Pierre Damoy Bourgogne Rouge $49.99
06 Faillenc Sainte Marie Corbières $13.99 A PJ's Staff Pick By Brian: There is no other way to say it: PJ Wine offers no better value in the 15 and under price range than the Faillenc Sainte Marie Corbières Rouge.In fact, I would be surprised, given its extraordinary sense of complexity and balance, that a nose would turn upward at even twice its shelf price. The nose is suffused with briny, meaty notes that carry along tones of blackberry, orange, crayon, pepper and spice. The mouthfeel is quite silky and elegant, while bright, juicy black raspberries and a touch of smoke and meat lead to a long, complex mineral finish, bolstered by supple and chewy tannins. Try this with pan seared shoulder lamb chops, roast duck or a rustic sausage and potato stew. Decant to serve now.
05 Le Galantin Bandol Red $18.99
06 Humbert Frères Charmes-Chambertin Grand Cru Charmes-Chambertin Red $199.99
05 Château Malescasse Haut Médoc $24.99
The ‘05 Malescasse shows all the terroir we have come to expect from Malescasse, particularly from a top vintage like 2005. The beguiling nose is very expressive, showing sweet black cherry, black plum and red currant scents which intertwine with dried pine sap, graphite and brown clay notes, all of which are bolstered by subtle hints of brown leaf, seared pancetta and brown sugar. On the palate the wine displays lots of stuffing and excellent balance. Copious brown clay notes mingle with cassis and red apple skin flavors and are accented by hints of allspice, cinnamon and dried leather. The finish is very long and resonant with minerals and earth. We suggest decanting this wine for an hour prior to drinking to enjoy its full complexity now. Or cellar for 10 to 20 more years. This is outstanding under-the-radar Left Bank Bordeaux.
07 Albert Mann "Cuvée Albert" Alsace Riesling $21.99
06 Mersiol Alsace Riesling $14.99
05 Plaimont "1907" Madiran $13.99
06 Nicolas Potel Savigny-Lès-Beaune Premier Cru Hauts Jarrons Red $45.99
06 Nicolas Potel "Vieilles Vignes" Vosne-Romanèe Red $58.99
06 Nicolas Potel Echézeaux Grand Cru Echézeaux Red $166.99
06 Nicolas Potel Vougeot Grand Cru Clos-de-Vougeot Red $166.99
06 Jacques Prieur Beaune Premier Cru Champs Pimont Red $63.99
06 Jacques Prieur Vougeot Grand Cru Clos-de-Vougeot Red $214.99
07 Château Soucherie Anjou Chenin Blanc $11.99
99 Tour Pibran Pauillac Premier Cru Red $19.99 We were extremely happy to find a Pauillac drinking this well at this price! It shows great balance, classic claret elegance and the touch of age has done nothing but favors, teasing out delicate secondary nuances. On the nose notes of black currant and mixed berry are backed by pencil lead , rosemary and black earth aromas. On the palate supple currant and berry flavors expand to reveal notes of truffley earth, mint, pencil lead, black olive and a hint of smoke. Excellent balance and finesse carry the mid-palate into a silky finish of impressive length and integration. Drink this now with rare lamb chops or filet mignon.
06 Domaine Zind-Humbrecht Alsace Riesling $19.99
07 Willaim Fevre “Champs Royaux” Chablis White $19.99
05 Mas Foulaquier “Les Tonillières” Coteaux du languedoc-Pic Saint-Loup Red $17.99
06 Clos du Mont Olivet Châteauneuf-du-Pape $32.99
07 Hervé Souhaut Saint Joseph Red $37.99
07 Terres Doreès “Chardonnay Beaujolais Blanc” Beaujolais White $13.99
06 Verget “Le Clos Saint-Pierre” Mâcon-Charnay White $19.99
05 Vieux Château Brun Pomerol Red $34.99
It is becoming increasingly difficult to find Pomerol of this high quality at at such a low price, especially from the great 2005 vintage. The nose of this beautifully calibrated Pomerol begins with scents of cassis interwoven with cedar, lavander, licorice and black cherry tones. On the palate there is great purity, concentration and balance. Rich flavors of red and black currant and crushed black cherry are accented by touches of crushed stone, graphite and tea leaf along with hints of creamy truffle and spice. The juicy mid-palate rides into a plush finish of chewy ripe tannins. Drink now or cellar for another ten years. Serve with thick cut roast pork, braised lamb with herbs or a juicy New York Strip steak.
Germany
05 Dr. Hermann Urziger Würzgarten Mosel Riesling Spätlese $21.99
From the great '05 vintage and one of the Mosel's top vineyards comes this well-priced find from Dr. Hermann. Pale gold in color with slight greenish highlights around the rim of the glass. The nose is a delectable expression of freshly picked apricot and nectarine skin scents with hints of candied herbs. It is drinking beautifully right now, with its creamy-fresh white peach flavors and heady, cool lychee in syrup and lavender-lined cotton candy notes that are backed by supple slate-driven acidity. Enjoy by itself or with spicy Asian dishes, traditional German fare or triple cream cheeses on warm, homemade bread.
07 Josef Leitz Rüdesheimer Drachenstein “Dragonstone” Rheingau RieslingÊ $14.99
“The latest installment of a
proverbial hit, Leitz’s 2007 Rudesheimer
Drachenstein Riesling Dragonstone
continues (as its full name demonstrates) to come from a single vineyard, one
from which by now Leitz takes a significant
percentage of the crop. There has never been a better example of the electric
intensity and uncanny balance Leitz is able to
achieve in this site between taut, invigorating acidity and a high level of
residual sugar that comes off as barely sweet. Zesty lime, peach, pink grapefruit, and red currant ally themselves to cinnamon
spice, salts, and wet stones, and finish with simultaneous penetration and
delicacy. Enjoy this great value anytime over the next 3-4 years.” —WA 90
07 Mönchhof “Estate” Mosel Riesling QBA $15.99 This is an estate Riesling of exceptional quality, showing wonderful purity and harmony. On the nose citrus and peach scents are interwoven with well defined smoky slate notes. The palate is racy with impressive density and great integration. Ripe nectarine and lime tones mingle with pretty and elegant tones of wood ash to make this one of the best entry level Rieslings of the vintage.
07 Mönchhof Ürzig Würzgarten Mosel Riesling Spätlese $26.99 This is a succulent and pure 2007 expression of the famed Ürziger Würzgarten vineyard. Smoky slate scents expand into elegant bergamot notes, interwoven with lime confit and white flowers aromas. On the palate lime and hard peach flavors are backed by white pepper and black tea tones which follow through onto the long and slate drenched finish. An outstanding 2007 Riesling.
02 Müller-Catoir Haardter Bürgergarten Pfalz Riesling Spätlese $34.99
This is a gorgeous late release from the outstanding 2002 vintage. Blooming orange, baked pear and candied lychee scents dominate the nose. Ginger zest and lemon peel backed by a scintillating touch of quartz-driven minerality that slowly sinks into a supple and creamy kiss of fresh pineapple flavors constitute the jaw-dropping, kaleidoscopic palate. The acidity that rounds out the finish is beautifully integrated to the fruit. The duality that exists on the palate between the wine’s fruit and its mineral driven acidity is something that must be tasted to be believed. “This represents the botrytized portion of the crop from Catoir's clos in Burgergarten. Orange blossom, talcum and pear nectar in the nose. Lovely creaminess allied to delicacy and brightness on the palate. This rises to an almost extreme sense of sweetness, but then backs off in the finish, which reveals refined, persistent honey, vanilla, lime, brown spices and musk.” IWC Potential 2 stars.
07 Dr. F. Weins-Prüm Wehlener Sonnenuhr Mosel Riesling Kabinett $20.99 The nose of this intense Kabinett begins with scents of zesty green apple and lime peel which are backed by crunchy mineral tones. The palate shows great intensity and verve. Hard apple and pear notes are followed by hints of orange tea, lime and stone. This is a great value, offering fantastic intensity for those who are looking for a bigger and more structured Kabinett. A whole lot of Riesling for the price.
07 Schäfer-Fröhlich Nahe Kabinett $27.99 Incredible vibrant stone is at the heart of this impressive Kabinett. On the nose strawberry and nectarine scents are interlaced with iodine hints and pierced by beams of pulverized rock. In the mouth the wine is racy and elegant, with apricot, peach and strawberry flavors spread across a palate of slate. This wine has excellent focus and elegance, and is screaming for Wiener schnitzel, corned beef or kielbasa with spicy mustard.
07 Schäfer-Fröhlich Bockenauer Felseneck Nahe Riesling Spätlese $36.99 From a producer who almost always makes our head spin with stone-infused pleasure comes this mineral driven, single vineyard marvel. The nose is fantastic, with candied white peach, pear gelée, and crystaline sugarcane scents suspended in a cloud of wet stone and powdered rocks. It is still quite firm on the palate with delicate flavors of candied pear skin, peach pit and a dusting of white pepper wrapped around a pure mineral core and a vibrant spine of acidity. Impeccable balance and great length are just two more features of this Nahe stunner. Grab this while it lasts.
07 Schloss Lieser “Lieser” Niederberg Helden Mosel Riesling Spätlese $30.99 >From one of the steepest vineyards in the Mosel, this wine displays a highly expressive, intoxicating perfume of nectarine, peach pit, smoky rose petal, bergamot jelly, moss and mineral. On the palate slatey peach and nectarine are joined by light smoke tones, white pepper, earth and spice. In the mouth it is both dense and elegant, with great finesse and a long and melodious finish. This is very complex, aromatic and distinctive. It is rare to find such radiant scents and flavors so elegantly delivered.
07 Schloss Saarstein “Saarstein” Mosel Riesling QbA $10.99
Italy
On Re-order
06 Brovia "Vigna Villej" Dolcetto d'Alba $17.99 This Dolcetto d'Alba is breathtakingly pretty and nearly perfectly proportioned. On the effusively fragrant nose, red cherry and red raspberry scents brush up against hints of moist clay and purple florals. On the suave palate extraordinarily well integrated acidity carries very pure red and black cherry flavors that are accompanied by sandy soil and crushed stone tones. This is a very silky and round red with beautifully buffed tannins. Drink this with a variety of cured meats, rich roasts like porchetta or serve with ripe soft cheeses like Robialla or Tallegio on country bread.
01 Le Chiuse Brunello di Montalcino $44.99
On Re-order 07 Convento Cappuccini Brachetto d'Acqui Semi-Sweet Brachetto $15.99
05 Masciarelli Montepulciano d'Abruzzo $7.99
04 Fratelli Rivetti "Cairel" Vigneto Rainè Nebbiolo d'Alba $23.99
03 Tenuta Sant'Antonio "Selezione Antonio Castagnedi" Amarone della Valpolicella Classico $39.99
06 Talamonti "Moda" Montepulciano d'Abruzzo $9.99
The nose of this tremendous bargain begins with sweet red cherry scents that are backed by hints of chocolate and leather. In the mouth the wine is supple and balanced, with great polish and follow-through. Cherry and plum flavors intermingle with hints of red and black licorice and creamy vanilla tones which follow through to the elegant finish. Because of its medium weight and great drinkability, this is destined to be a big hit at parties.
04 Taurino Salice Salentino $12.49
06 Le Tobele Valpolicella Ripasso $13.99
This baby Ripasso is a real bargain, offering Ripasso richness in a super drinkable package. Ripe black cherry and dried blackberry fruit scents are joined by notes of dark chocolate, marzipan and toast. On the palate the wine is rich, juicy and supple with black cherry, cherry pit and plum flavors and dried tea nuances that make way for a long finish. Easy-going, delicious and ready to enjoy now.
06 Altesino “Rosso di Altesino” IGT Tuscany $14.99
This accessible Sangiovese blend from acclaimed Brunello producer Altesino is showing beautifully now. From what so far looks to be a great Tuscan vintage in 2006, it offers plenty of black cherry and earth scents. The palate is medium-bodied, silky and well-balanced. Flavors of black cherry and dried blackberry are accented by truffle and wild herb tones that lead into a long smooth finish. This highly drinkable red is sure to satisfy your craving for an elegant and affordable taste of Tuscany.
05 Avignonesi Vino Nobile di Montepulciano $23.99
01 La Cá Növa Barbaresco $39.99
01 G. Camerano e Figli Cannubi San Lorenzo Barolo $66.99 This gorgeous Barolo from the great 2001 vintage is a spectacular find and a tremendous value considering its upper escheleon quality. From the San Lorenzo section of the Cannubi cru, it displays that distinctive, sun-kissed touch of fragrant ripeness and depth that only Cannubi can offer. The nose is intensely effusive offering up scents of strawberry, red plum, bing cherry, asphalt and smokey dirt. The palate is beautifully sensuous and elegant, commencing with an explosive and silky attack of juicy red berry flavors, most notably strawberry. A seamless, underlying line of damp brown earthy minerality extends across the palate and into the extremely long and smooth finish, accented by lingering dried cherry, chocolate and cinnamon nuances. Founded in 1875, Camarano is a fifth generation and highly traditional producer, little known outside the Barolo commune due to their tiny size, but well worth discovering as this beautiful Barolo resoundingly attests. It is showing singingly now and will continue to develop over the next 15 years. A revelation that will put a smile on any Barolo lover's face. This is the good stuff.
01 Cascina Bruni Batistot Barolo Riserva $64.99
06 C. C. Guidobono Barbera d'Alba $12.99
The 2006 Guidobono Barbera d’Alba displays a rich garnet color in the glass that leads to a terrific nose of violets and blackberry jam. On the palate this medium bodied Piedmontese has plush fruit flavors that fuse beautifully with hints of smoke, anise seed and juniper berry. Lively acidity with moderate tannins keeps this wine bright and balanced propelling it to a very satisfying finish. Earthy and delicious, the 2006 Guidobono Barbera d’Alba screams for a slice of great brick-oven pizza or pasta with Bolognese sauce. A terrific value!
04 Francesco Rinaldi & Figli Barbaresco $39.99
06 Mastroberardino IGT Campania Aglianico $19.99
On Re-order 07 Elio Perrone “Sourgal” Piedmont Semi-Sweet Moscato $14.99
06 Terre Nere Guardiola Etna Rosso $39.99 “Medium ruby. Soft, sweet aromas of smoky red cherry, sexy vanilla and cream soda. Lovely juicy entry, with flavors of blueberry jam, red cherry and minerals nicely framed by fine acids and soft tannins. Finishes long and spicy, with a lovely impression of sweetness and depth. From 60-to-90-year-old vines in a north-facing vineyard 3,000 feet above sea level.” —IWC 92
Sold Out due to intense interest. No more available for re-order.
06 Villa Pillo IGT Tuscany Sangiovese/Cabernet Sauvignon Blend $12.99
“Aromatic, with blackberry, black cherry and licorice. Full-bodied, with firm, silky tannins and a long, beautiful finish. Gorgeous. Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.” WS 92
New Zealand
07 Mud House Marlborough Pinot Noir $13.99
06 Fairhill Downs "Single Vineyard" Marlborough Pinot Noir $24.99
Portugal
64 J.B. Blandy's Madeira Semi-Sweet Bual $224.97
76 J.B. Blandy's Madeira Semi-Sweet Terrantez $183.97
77 J.B. Blandy's Madeira Semi-Sweet Bual $148.97
68 J.B. Blandy's Madeira Semi-Sweet Verdelho $168.97
22 D'Oliveira Madeira Semi-Sweet Bual $442.99
Very Limited, Phone Orders Only
This gorgeous Bual offers a highly complex nose of caramel, jellied lime peel, iodine, ink and soft doughy vanilla tones laced with mineral undertones. The deep palate is tighly wound and requires opening in advance, after which the silky palate yields a panoply of caramel, nut, dough and citrus tones. Bright acidity is counterbalance with moderate sweetness. The finish is intense and long with lingering lime zest and mineral notes. Outstanding, complex Madeira with decades of agebility still ahead. Ponder its profundity with caramelized desserts or deservedly on its own.
77 D'Oliveira Madeira Semi-Sweet Terrantez $125.97
From a great Madeira vintage this racy Terrantez offers great intensity and length. The nose is packed with lime pith and zest scents backed by mineral ash and mineral tones and hints of caramelized nut. The palate is rich and expansive with a strong line of buoyant acidity and an integrated touch of sweetness. The long finish is marked with chewey, grippy lime tinged tannins that linger with subtle touches of ash and grape pulp. A superb apéritif or after dinner wine.
South Africa
07 Indaba Western Cape Chardonnay $6.99
Spain
05 Abadia Retuerta "Selección Especial" Sardon de Duero $17.99
Back in stock
06 Bodegas Añadas "Care" Cariñena Syrah/Tempranillo/Garnacha $9.99
Rated 90 in The Wine Advocate this superb value is reminiscent of a high quality Côte de Rhône. It is a blend of equal proportions Syrah, Garnacha and Tempranillo begins with notes of spicy black cherry which are followed by an elegant bouquet of garrigue plus hints of crushed stone, black olive and lavender. On the palate it is ripe and juicy, with a racy spine that supports ample fruit. Bright blackberry and black cherry flavors are interwoven with myriad spice tones and hints of grilled bread, an almost creamy minerality and touches of black coffee. Drink this outstanding everyday buy on its own or with medium weight fare like roasted root vegetables drizzled with olive oil and sea salt, ham and Gruyère on a baguette or roasted pork shoulder.
04 Ismael Arroyo "Val Sotillo" Ribera del Duero Crianza $25.99
On Re-order 01 Ismael Arroyo "Val Sotillo" Ribera del Duero Reserva $46.99
07 Arzuaga "Finca la Planta" Ribera del Duero $9.99
05 Borsao "Selección" Campo de Borja Crianza $13.99 "Dense and balanced, this polished red carries plum, blackberry, black pepper and tar flavors. Muscular tannins are well-integrated, and fresh acidity carries coffee, floral and mint notes through the finish." —WS 92
04 Dehesa de Cadozos "Cadozos" VT Castilla y León $43.99
This deep, fragrantly expressive and singular Castilla y León is for those in search of the the cutting edge in Spanish reds. It is a full-bodied and sleek blend of approximately 75% Tinta de Toro (Tempranillo) and 25% Pinot Noir. Yes Pinot Noir! While offering the powerful elegance of a high-end Ribera del Duero or Toro, the Pinot Noir adds extra dimensions of both fragrance and flavors in the form of sweet strawberry, red cherry and red apple notes. Excellent depth combined with high altitude vineyard freshness make this an exciting new take on the big reds of the Ribera del Duero and Toro areas. Serve with grilled lamb chops, braised lamb with wild herbs, or steaks with mushrooms and garlic.
05 La Solana "Pago Florentino" VT de Castilla Tempranillo $13.49
The new edition of this perennial value favorite. The nose is fragrant with blackberry scents with hints of smoke and minerals. On the palate it is balanced and supple with loads of juicy blackberry and cherry flavors. The finish is bright and long, tinged with spice tones. This is a superb everyday red, ideal for pairing with a range of casual fare.
76 López de Heredia “Viña Tondonia” Rioja Gran Reserva White $119.97
This gorgeous old style white Rioja is at its zenith and will hold for another five to ten years with proper storage. It is immensely complex on the nose with a bouquet of lemon zest, dried pineapple, almond, hazelnut, baked apple, saddle leather and chalk. The palate is vibrant, supple, smooth and equally complex, expanding on the notes on the nose, marked by a delicate yet striking spine of lemon laced acidity. Very long with lingering pineapple and layered mineral notes. Those not used to this style of aged white may find it on the oxidative side. For those who have acquired a taste for traditional white Rioja, this is a rare and sensuous treat.
90 Lustau "Añada" Jerez-Xérès-Sherry Oloroso $35.99
NV Lustau Jerez-Xérès-Sherry Palo Cortado VOS $89.99
05 Montebaco Ribera del Duero Crianza $22.99 A PJ's Staff Pick by Justin: The stylish 2005 Montebaco Crianza displays both beautifully expressive fruit and supple elegance. Inky dark purple in color, the nose is replete with blackberry and black raspberry scents, complemented by deep mineral notes and hints of garrigue, cured meat and earthy forest floor. The silky and impeccably balanced palate offers pure flavors of ripe, black cherry, blackberry and raspberry. Seamlessly integrated acidity and understated oak tones make for a supple and deftly plush mouthfeel. Ripe, chewy tannins emerge on the back palate along with subtle, old vine earth tones and notes of gunpowder, milk chocolate and pepper that linger on a very long finish. This is a first rate Ribera that is showing well now, and at a price that won't break the bank. A great choice to serve with rich lamb or beef fare.
07 Bodegas Nekeas "El Chapparral de Vega Sindoa" Navarra Garnacha $12.99 “Bright ruby. Extremely rich nose displays black raspberry, plum and flowers. Juicy dark berry flavors are liqueur-like in depth and power but given lift by zesty minerality. Finishes with expansive red and dark berry flavors and excellent persistence. It's amazing that this can sell for under $30, much less $15.” —IWC 91
06 Olegario Falcón Piniero "Don Olegario" Rías Baixes Albariño $17.99
05 Vinos de Terruños "Mas Negre" Priorat Red $30.99
05 Marqués de Tomares Rioja Crianza Red $14.99 The exceptionally expressive nose of this high performing Crianza begins with gorgeous notes of plum flesh and red cherry scents that meld with chocolate and crushed stone tones and hints of vanilla and cedar. On the palate the wine displays exceptional density, structure and extract, plus very impressive polish. Vibrant red berry flavors glide into tones of plum and black cherry pit, which wrap up in mineral, vanilla bean and cocoa tones. The wine is both pliant and chewy in the mouth, with racy acidity and superb balance. You can drink it now or cellar it for ten years. Either way you'll be well rewarded.
05 Vinos de Arganza “Flavium” Bierzo Crianza Red $8.99 The Wine Advocate tried this incredible value and rated it 90 points, although no tasting note was given. We tried it and were wow'd. The richly fragrant nose features sweet cherry and earthy blackberry scents intertwined with notes of smoked cured meat and vanilla bean, plus hints of charcoal minerality and tobacco leaf. On the palate it is every bit as impressive. Juicy blackberry, plum and cherry flavors meld with rich iron, game and sage tones that lead into the long and spicy, vanilla and berry inflected finish. The medium to full body is well supported by an integrated spine of good acidity and ripe tannins which make this a great match with food, from charcuterie to herb roasted pork loin, roast beef or braised lamb. Superb for everyday drinking!
06 Vinos de Arganza “La Mano Roble” Bierzo Mencía $8.99
Rated 90 points by the The Wine Advocate, this value standout is modern, forward and packed with fruit that is rounded off by integrated oak and vanilla tones. On the nose and palate dark plum and berry fruit flavors are complemented by mineral and damp earth accents. The mid-palate is full and concentrated and leads into a long, juicy finish that is capped by inky berry and soft toasty vanilla flavors. A lot of wine for the price.
07 Ateca “Atteca Old Vines” Calatayud $13.99
“Inky purple. Ripe boysenberry and blueberry on the nose, with licorice and graphite adding complexity. Juicy dark berry preserve flavors show palate-saturating depth and impressive clarity, picking up smoky minerals with air. Energetic finishing notes of blackberry skin and candied licorice linger with impressive tenacity. According to the importer, the yield for this wine, made from vines reportedly 80 to 120 years of age, was less than one ton per hectare.” —IWC 91
07 Cellers Can Blau “Can Blau” Montsant $13.47 “Dark purple. Sexy aromas of blackberry, blueberry, Asian spices and smoked meat. Supple and open-knit, with sweet dark berry preserve flavors, velvety texture and good mineral bite. Manages to be both nervy and concentrated, with very good finishing clarity and cut. Leaves strong blue fruit notes behind and repeats the spicy quality.” —IWC 91
06 Bodegas Nekeas “Vega Sindoa” Navarra Cabernet Sauvignon/Tempranillo Blend $10.99
07 Jorge Ordoñez & Co. “Botani” Sierras de Málaga Moscatel $20.99 ”There is one dry wine in the portfolio, the 2007 Botani, made from 100% Moscatel. The wine was fermented in 70% stainless steel and 30% French oak. Light straw with a green tint, it has a fragrant nose of spring flowers, honey, melon, and tropical fruits. Dry, crisp, and well-balanced, notes of citrus emerge on the mid-palate.” —WA 90
07 Pazo de Senorans Rías Baixes Albariño $25.99 This elegant and minearal-lined Albariño offers pretty scents of peach, lemon verbena and a touch of honeysuckle blossoms on the delectable nose. The palate is a supple expression of creamy white fruit-from Bartlett pears to white peach flavors-that is buoyed by a silky infusion of bright acidity underlaid with flinty minerals. Serve this graceful standout with pan-seared sea scallops, chicken pasta dishes, or a hearty bouillabaisse with a spicy dollop of aioli. This new vintage just arrived and will benefit from opening one half hour before serving to unleash its penetrating inner core.
87 La Rioja Alta “Viña Arana” Rioja Reserva $86.99
A beautiful example of classic Rioja drinking at its peaktaking on its second life. The nose offers a medley of wild strawberry, dried cherry, smoke, leather and mineral scents. The palate is silky smooth, nuanced, complex and long with all the notes found on the nose emerging in layered procession across the palate. Additional notes of damp earth, vanilla, and rose petals intermix and are lifted by bright acidity that rides into a long smooth finish. This is what matured Rioja is all about!
07 Txomin Etxaniz Getariako Txakolina $19.99
07 Viña Godeval Valdeorras Godello $16.99
07 Bodegas Volver “Paso a Paso” La Mancha Verdejo $8.99
07 Bodegas Volver "Paso a Paso" La Mancha Red $8.99
“The 2007 Paso a Paso Tinto is 100% Tempranillo sourced from vineyards averaging 40 years of age. The color is a saturated purple with fragrant aromas of mineral, scorched earth, and blackberry. The wine has a big core of fruit with enough structure to evolve for 1-2 years. This savory, lengthy effort can be enjoyed now but will be at its best from 2010 to 2014.” —WA 89+
05 Bodegas Volver “Volver” La Mancha Red $13.99 Rated 90 points in The Wine Advocate, this rich and expressive value hales from the eastern reaches of La Mancha. The nose opens with ample scents of blackberry and cherry awash with notes of smoked meat, wild herbs and eucalyptus, followed by hints of coffee and cedar. On the palate it is full and juicy with blackberry and fresh squeezed cherry flavors that ride along with notes of venison bacon, coffee, menthol and lead pencil tones. Big, chewy tannins ride into the lingering smoke inflected finish. This is quite a lot of wine for the price.
United States of America
California
07 Belle Glos “Meiomi” Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir $29.99
Here is a fruit laden Pinot from the Wagner Family, founders of Caymus Vineyards. On the nose ripe and brambly cherry and strawberry jam are complemented by cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice and clove, plus just a hint of toast. On the palate the wine is rich and juicy, delivering dark cherry and plum flavors in copious quantities, backed by spicebox tones and hints of earth. Finishes long. Drink this with pork chops with browned butter and sage, rustic country pâté and crusty bread, or a rare ribeye.
05 Bogle "Phantom" California Petite Sirah/Zinfandel/Mourvèdre $17.99
06 Frogs Leap Napa Cabernet sauvignon $41.99
06 Gnarly Head California Chardonnay $8.99
06 Gnarly Head "Old Vine Zin" Lodi Zinfandel $7.99
05 William Knuttel "Robin K." Sonoma Cabernet Sauvignon Blend $13.99 This California Cabernet lover's value opens with decadent scents of blueberry and cassis which are accompanied by lush coffee, dark chocolate and vanilla bean tones. In the mouth the wine is very well balanced, with creamy blueberry and mocha flavors mingling with a fine line of chalky minerality plus tones of black coffee and leather. The tannins are fine and firm and lead into a lingering black currant and dry earth laced finish. Drink this gem with hot pastrami on rye, bacon cheeseburgers or hanger steak with rough cut fries.
05 Lewelling Vineyards Napa Cabernet Sauvignon $44.97 "The 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon exhibits a dense purple color along with a lovely perfume of burning charcoal embers and exceptionally pure creme de cassis fruit. Full-bodied with sweet tannin, stunning purity, a layered mouthfeel, and a long finish, it is an excellent Cabernet available at a bargain basement price by Napa Valley standards." -WA 92
05 Lost Canyon Saralee's Sonoma-Russian River Valley Pinot Noir $37.99
05 Lost Canyon Stage Gulch Sonoma Coast Syrah $32.99
05 Opus One Napa Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon Blend $179.97
04 Saint Francis "Red" California Red Blend $8.99 Very juicy from the start, this blend of 60% Merlot, 29% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Cabernet Franc and 4% Zinfandel opens with a nose of red fruit and black currant backed by earth and hints of baking spice. On the palate the wine shows ample size and density. Chewy chocolate covered cherry flavors are joined by tones of chalky terroir that carry through onto the plump finish. This is a great everyday red that works well on its own or with BLT sandwiches, pizza topped with fresh mozzarella and ground sausage or a blue cheese burger.
05 Sequoia Grove Napa Cabernet Sauvignon $28.97
05 Ampelos “Lambda” Ampelos Vineyard Santa Rita Hills Pinot Noir $35.99
This ample Pinot opens with concentrated scents of creamy Bing cherry, strawberry, and black cherry fruit which are backed by ashy smoke, cinnamon and clove hints, accented by just a touch of crème brulee. On the palate red cherry and blackberry jam notes are supported by milk chocolate, black soil, mineral and bramble tones, all seemlessly integrated around a solid spine of acidity. Drink this with herb roasted chicken with root vegetables, cider glazed pork loin, or a hearty beef stew.
06 Ayana Edna Valley Pinot Noir $15.99
A ripe and approachable Pinot Noir, Ayana offers red plum and strawberry jam tones plus hints of cola and spice on the nose. In the mouth it displays a medium body with good grip, acidity and length. Sliced strawberry and plum flavors meet a firm and pleasing chalk tones on the mid-palate and continue through onto the lightly toasty finish. This is a great everyday Pinot with a lively, classic profile. Try it with orange accented roasted game hen, sausages with mustard, or a roast beef sandwich au jus.
05 Burch Hall Central Coast Cabernet Sauvignon BlendÊ $18.99
This is a fruit-filled and pliant Cabernet Sauvignon that is sure to satisfy your craving for California plushness. Small amounts of Cabernet Franc and Merlot add to its roundness and complexity. On the nose deep and softly spiced black currant and black cherry scents are framed by mineral laced fudge tones and hints of vanilla bean. In the mouth it is juicy, supple and well-balanced. Lush flavors of crushed black currant and cherry mingle with melted milk chocolate and earthy iron hints and follow through onto the long and velvety finish. Simply great stuff; ready to drink now.
07 Castle Rock California Pinot Noir $11.49
06 Caymus Napa Cabernet Sauvignon $62.97
07 Edna Valley Vineyard Paragon San Luis Obispo-Edna Valley Chardonnay $10.99
06 Girasole “Organic” California Chardonnay $14.99
07 Joel Gott California Zinfandel $14.99
06 Norton Ridge Napa Valley Cabernet SauvignonÊ $15.99
This outstanding Napa Valley bargain offers a silky restraint and balance (only 13.8% alcohol!) rarely found in California these days. For those seeking the elegance of California Cabs of old, this affordable offering is a major find. The nose is loaded with sweet, ripe red currant and plum scents that are accented by hints of chocolate and scorched earth. The palate is juicy and silky, buoyed by well-integrated acidity. Rich currant and plum flavors are balanced by excellent grip and complimented with mineral, cedar, dried fruit and creamy chocolate tones. The finish is long and refined. This is impressive Cabernet Sauvignon, showing well now.
06 Pride “58% Sonoma 42% Napa” California Merlot $60.99
04 Silver Oak Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon $67.99
Oregon
06 Dusky Goose Willamette Valley-Dundee Hills Pinot Noir $61.97 This Oregon Pinot from the Dundee Hills, made by Lynn Penner-Ash, is one of our favorite domestic Pinot Noirs, blending a Burgundian sense of terroir with near perfect ripeness. On the nose, round and ripe scents of cherry and blueberry pie mingle effortlessly with damp earth, chocolate dust, and myriad cake spices. On the palate the wine shows great purity, complexity and power. Generous red cherry and spiced cranberry compote flavors are interlaced with iron, game and black earth tones to produce an elegant yet intense wine with a sensual, singular profile. In order to fully enjoy its complexity, drink this with relatively simple foods such as spit roasted game bird or rare filet mignon with pink sea salt and a drizzle of butter.
06 Beaux Frères “Willamette Valley” Willamette Valley Pinot Noir $46.99 “Soft, open-textured and appealing for its plum, currant and earthy mineral aromas and flavors, which linger against a burr of tannins. Gains richness and complexity with every sip.” —WS91
Washington
05 Hedges Family Estate “Three Vineyards” Columbia Valley-Red Mountain Red $19.99 This wine is one of the best values out of Washington and the Red Mountain AVA, offering a sensual mix of plushness and structure. The nose opens with scents of freshly crushed dark cherry and cassis then expands to display chocolate, toast, pen ink, smoke and earthy nuances. On the palate the wine is very well balanced, holding creamy plum and cherry tones up to lightly smoked vanilla bean, mocha and chalk. Fine chewy tannins and well integrated acidity combine with a spine of firm minerality to make this a complete and completely pleasurable drinking experience. Have it with grilled lamb chops, pan-seared filet mignon, or a rich beef stew.
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