On the Wine Side - Get Your Santa On in the Fine Wine Room!

Thu, Dec 14, 23

Tis the season for some really fine wine, and if you haven't ventured into our fine wine room in a while (or ever!), it's time. Here are some stand-out selections that make really great gifts and turn special meals into really memorable ones.

2021 Ramey Russian River Chardonnay

This wine scored 95 points from Wine Enthusiast, which noted, "Both agile and relaxed, this well-balanced, vibrant and concentrated wine carries layers of crisp apple, pastry crust and lemon curd on snappy acidity....its creamy, tangy finish lingers a long time." Ramey has helped define California Chardonnay for decades. Taste why!

2018 Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon

Jordan brings so much to any table. Since the 1970s the Alexander Valley, California, winery has been crafting wine that achieves balance among all components, no compromises. This Cab is a brilliant example, exuding flavors of blueberries, cassis, and blackberry with full and supple tannins and a beautiful mouthfeel. No wonder it's one of Cait's favorites.

2017 Opus One

If you're in the mood for a splurge, this is your bottle. Opus One is the co-creation Baron Philippe de Rothschild in Bordeaux and Robert Mondavi in Napa. The wine is singularly exquisite. The 2017 is a blend of 80% Cab, 9% Petit Verdot, 5% each Cab Franc and Merlot, and 1% Malbec. This seductive wine shows flavors of black cassis, black cherry and a hint of cocoa powder. Its plush tannins evolve into a long, supple finish. Drink now or lay down to enjoy years from now.

2018 Ciacci Piccolomini Brunello di Montalcino

A 98-points rated Italian wine that opens up to reveal "camphor, forest floor, wild berry and dark spice aromas" on the nose that yield to a "delicious palate of ripe Morello cherry, crushed raspberry, licorice and tobacco framed in tightly woven velvety tannins."

2018 Tardieu-Laurent Hermitage Red

A lovely French fred from the northern Rhone Valley that scored 96 points from Wine Enthusiast. Made from 100% Syrah, it's described as "gorgeous" wine with "beautifully concentrated blackberry and cassis flavors edged with firm, penetrating tannins." A big, beautiful wine.

And don't forget Champagne. We have the Grand Siecle from Laurent Perrier. Hand-crafted to be the very best offering from multiple cru vintages, this Champagne will delight and astound on so many levels. If exceptional is what you're looking for, this is it.

So many wonderful wines! Don't forget that our "Sourced and Certified," green tag wines are an additional 10% off if you buy 6 or more. Also, there is a great selection of Triple-Point wines at both the back and front of the store that can be a quick one-stop shop for you. I wrote about them in the previous "On the Wine Side" blog post.

We're here to help. Happy Holidays!

By Tyler Duma