50 collection wines edition

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Dad would love toenjoy and collect

The 48 hrs deal:

Take an extra 10%from the special price

from Wednesday, June 17th, 10am

thru Friday, June 19th 12noon

Check our great Summer Values & Fine Selections for the Bar

Dear WineLife Members & Friends,

All the wines included in this WineLife Father’s Day Edition will be on sale from June 17th until June 30th.

So what’s the rush?

Well, you can take advantage of the additional 10% off the total of your purchase only if you place your order anytime from Wednesday 17th through Friday 19th noon time.

Use the form provided in the next pages, as a checklist. You may also fill in the quantity before the wine name, and fax the form to us. We’ll call you to confirm your order and coordinate picking or delivery.

I take the opportunity to invite you to sign up as a WineLife member since we are working on a few ‘Members Only’ perks, that will surely be attractive for wine lovers and collectors at all levels.

In the meantime, we trust that you enjoy the monthly wine selections presented to you in each edition of WineLife PR, as well as the convenience of getting your daily news from a very friendly and easy to navi-gate website, WineLife Today, at www.winelifepr.com

For more information and to place your order:

By phone787.781.2070 X 1339

By webwww.plazacellars.com

By fax787.783.64.75

PINOT NOIR, page 6 Reg Price Sale 48hrs

___Vision Cellars Pinot Noir Rosella’s Vineyard 2005, S. Lucia, CA $55.67 $45.06 $39.66 90 WS___El Molino Rutherford Pinot Noir 2004, Napa Valley, California $73.50 $59.67 $52.49 92 WS | 91 WA___Saintsbury Pinot Noir Carneros 2005, California $39.00 $31.75 $27.79 92 CGC | 91 IWS___Ponzi Pinot Noir 2006, Willamette Valley, Oregon $43.50 $35.25 $30.88 90 RP | 90 WS___Domaine Drouhin Pinot Noir 2005, Willamette Valley, Oregon $50.67 $41.04 $36.10 90 WA | 90 IWC___Donum Estates Carneros Pinot Noir 2004 $96.33 $78.03 $68.64 95 CGC___Grand Detour 2005 Landmark Vineyards Sonoma Valley, CA $34.33 $27.81 $24.46 93 WE | 91 IWC | 90 WC___King Estate Pinot Noir Domaine 2006, Willamette Valley, Oregon $33.33 $27.00 $23.75 91 WE | 90 WS

RED BLENDS, page 10 Reg Price Sale 48hrs

___Chaleur Estate Red DeLille Cellars Red Mountain 2005 $77.67 $62.91 $55.34 94 WE | 93 WA | 93 WS___D2 DeLille Cellars, Columbia Valley 2005 $43.00 $34.83 $30.64 91 ST | 91 WS___Harrison Hill DeLille Cellars 2004 $71.00 $57.51 $50.59 94 VTS | 93 WA___Col Solare Red Premium Antinori/ Ste. Michelle 1999 $77.00 $62.37 $54.86 92 WE | 91 WS___NorthStar Stella Maris 2002, Columbia Valley, Washington $36.00 $29.16 $25.65 90 WS___L’Ecole #41 Merlot Columbia Valley 2004 $35.67 $28.89 $25.41 Excellent WPNW | 90 WE | 90 W&S___Navarro Correas Ultra Premium Tinto 2004 $40.00 $32.50 $28.50 91 WA___Miguel Torres Conde Superunda 2002, Curicó Valley, Chile $45.00 $36.45 $32.06 92 WA | 92 PT | 90 WE___Laurona 6 Vinyes 2004, Montsant, Spain $62.00 $50.22 $44.18 92 RP

SYRAH / SHIRAZ, page 15 Reg Price Sale 48hrs

___Clarendon Hills Hickinbotham Syrah 2004, Mac Laren Vale, AU $121.67 $98.55 $86.69 96 WE | 95 WA | 95 WS | 95 ST___Elderton Command Single Vineyard Shiraz 2003 $96.33 $78.03 $68.64 94 WA | 94 ST | 93WE___L’Ecole #41 Syrah Columbia Valley 2003 $30.33 $24.57 $21.61 Outstanding WPNW | Silver Medal North West Wine Summit___Taberner Huerta de Albalá, Cádiz, Spain $37.75 $30.75 $26.84

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WINE CHECKLIST / ORDER FORM

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CABERNET SAUVIGNON, MERLOT & ZINFANDEL, page 17 Reg Price Sale 48hrs

___Caymus, Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2006 $89.33 $72.36 $63.65 92 WS | 90 CGC___Ramey Wine Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon Jericho Canyon 2004 $116.33 $94.47 $85.74 94 RP | 93 ST___Rubicon Cask Cabernet Sauvignon 2003, Rutherford, Napa Valley $79.00 $63.99 $56.29 95 WE___Spottswoode Cabernet Sauvignon 2005, Napa Valley, CA $157.67 $127.71 $112.34 97 WE | 96 RP___Silverado Solo 2005, Napa Valley, California $86.50 $70.00 $61.51 93 RP

OTHER FABULOUS REDS, page 19 Reg Price Sale 48hrs

___Clarendon Hills Blewitt Springs Grenache 2004 $87.00 $70.47 $61.99 “...extraordinary,exotic,flamboyant”,93RP___Gei Berra Single Vineyard 2004, Lulunta, Mendoza $40.50 $32.75 $28.74 93 WA | 91 WS | 91 WN___Gran Cabernet Franc 2006, Pulenta Estates, Mendoza $30.33 $24.57 $21.61 Gold Medals, IWC & Hyatt Mendoza Competition___Trus 2004, Ribera del Duero, Spain $64.00 $51.84 $45.60 Inthe“superRibera”league.___Roda I Reserva 2004, DOC Rioja, Spain $72.33 $58.59 $51.54 Gold Medal, International Wine Challenge (London) | Silver Medal, Decanter

SPARKLING , page 20 Reg Price Sale 48hrs

___Champagne Bollinger Special Cuvée NV $77.00 $62.50 $54.86 91 WS___Champagne Laurent Perrier Grand Siecle Brut $146.00 $118.50 $104.03 94 ST | 94 WN

WHITES, page 21 Reg Price Sale 48hrs

___Chaleur Estates Blanc Columbia Valley 2006, WA $39.67 $32.13 $28.26 91 WA | 90 ST___L’Ecole #41 Chardonnay 2006, WA $28.33 $22.95 $20.19 Gold Medal, Washington State Wine Competition___Eroica Riesling Columbia Valley 2006, WA $31.00 $25.11 $22.09 93 W&S | 91 WA___Mer Soleil Chardonnay 2006, Santa Lucia Highlands, CA $39.33 $31.86 $28.03 93 WE___Mer Soleil Silver Chardonnay 2006, S. Lucia Highlands, CA $39.33 $31.86 $28.03 92 WS___Landmark Overlook Chardonnay 2005, Sonoma Valley, CA $33.67 $27.27 $23.99 90 WE | 90 RP___Ramey Hyde Vineyard Chardonnay 2005, Napa- Carneros, CA $65.67 $53.19 $46.79 95 RP | 94 ST


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SUMMER TREATS, page 26 Reg Price Sale 48hrs

___Domaine Ste Michelle NV Sparkling Brut $19.00 $15.50 $13.54

___Navarro Correas Extra Brut NV, Mendoza, Argentina $20.00 $16.25 $14.25

___Ch D’Esclans Whispering Angel, Provence 2007, France $22.67 $18.36 $16.15

___Paul Jaboulet Cotes du Rhone Parallele 45 Rosé 2008, France $17.50 $14.25 $12.35 ___Pulenta Estates La Flor Malbec Rosé 2008, Mendoza, Argentina $14.67 $11.88 $10.45

___Bonterra Chardonnay 2005, Mendocino County, California $19.67 $15.93 $14.01

___Chateau Ste Michelle Gewurztraminer Columbia Valley 2006 $16.33 $13.23 $11.64

___Santa Rita, Sauvignon Blanc Reserva 2008, Chile $14.00 $11.50 $ 9.98

___Plozner, Pinot Grigio, Grave Friuli, Italy $20.00 $16.20 $14.25

___Jermann Pinot Grigio IGT, Friuli, Italy $17.33 $14.04 $12.35

BAR SELECTIONS, page 28 Reg Price Sale 48hrs

___Ketel One Vodka $37.00 $30.00 $26.36

___Chopin Vodka $46.75 $38.00 $33.25

___Belvedere Vodka $46.75 $37.50 $32.78

___Van Gogh Vodka Collection (Flavors) $29.50 $24.00 $20.90

___Hendricks Gin $46.75 $38.00 $33.25

___Cognac Courvoisier Napoleon $117.67 $69.50 $61.04

___The Balvenie Doble Wood 12 Years $48.75 $39.50 $34.68 ___Glenfiddich 12 Years $34.50 $28.00 $24.46

___Graham’s 30 Years Port $117.67 $95.31 $83.84

___Dow’s Colheita 1994 Port $111.00 $89.91 $79.09


PINOT NOIR

Vision Cellars Pinot Noir Rosella’s Vineyard 2005Santa Lucia Highlands90, Wine SpectatorAdelicatestyle,yetwithplentyofsubstance,showingripe,vividwildberryandblackcherryfruit,withatouchofcedar,nutmegandforestfloor.Tightandcomplex,thetanninsclampdownonthefinish,lettingjustenoughfruitthroughto tempt you. Best from 2008 through 2012.

Regular Price: $55.67

El Molino Rutherford Pinot Noir 2004OUTSTANDING ACHIEVER!91 Wine Advocate93 Pinot Report92 Allen Meadows Burghound92 Wine Spectator90 California Grapevine88 Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellars

91, Wine Advocate #174The2004PinotNoircomesfromtheStarVineyardinRutherfordfromablockofPinotplantedin1991.Beautifullysweetcurrant,plum,blackcherry,andfloralnotesemergefromthismediumtodarkruby-coloredwine.Expansivebutlight,thewineisfleshy,haswonderfulacidity,beautifularomatics,andisaclassicPinotwithlength,richness,andnuancedcomplexity.Thisisabeautytodrinkoverthenext3-4years.-RobertParker,December2007

93, Pinot ReportMediumrubycolor;earthy,spiceredcherryaromas;rich,ripe,dustyredcherryflavorswithspiceandearthynotes;sweetoak;goodstructureandbalance;longfinish.Earthyandspicy,thisisacomplexPinotwithalotofinterestingcharacter.

92, Allen Meadows’ BurghoundAdistinctlyripebutnotjammyandintenselyspicyredberryfruitandsubtlyflo-ral nose complements the fresh, rich, detailed and equally intense and medium tofull-bodiedflavorsthatculminateinadustyfinishandsomewhatsurprisingly,thiscarriesitsconsiderablealcoholwithgraceandalmostnotraceofwarmth.Themostlywholeclusterfermentationdoesrevealitselfasthedecidedlyfirmstemtanninsaddsomeneededbackbonetobuffertherichnessandsweetnessof the alcohol and the overall effect is one of real character, depth and excellent balance.RecommendedandreadersknowthatIrarelyendorsepinotscarryingthiskindofalcoholbutthisonethatreallyisworthaseriouslook.92/2011+

92, Wine SpectatorArarebuthighlysuccessfulRutherfordPinotNoir.Richandintense,withdeepredcurrant,raspberryandwildberryflavorswoventogetherwithspice,mush-roomandcleanforestfloorscents,whichgiveitcomplexityanddepth,endingwith a touch of anise.

90, California GrapevineMediumrubycolor;attractive,veryforward,intense,sweetblackcherryfruitaromawithovertonesofcinnamonandvanilla;fullbody;forward,rich,herbal,plumy,ripeblackraspberryfruitflavorswithafull,roundedmouthfeel;firmlystructured;medium-fulltannin;lingeringaftertaste.Astylishwinewithintenseforward fruit and overtones of spicy new oak. Very highly recommended. First place.

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88, Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine CellarGood full red. Pungent cherry and sandalwood aromas. Juicy and spicy in the mouth,withafirmedgetotheredberryandredcherryflavors.Ataddryandherbalonthebackbutjuicyandrefreshing.May/June2007


Saintsbury Pinot Noir Carneros 2005“...anexampleofthedeepintensityandstructurethatcanbeobtainedfromasinglevineyardintheCarnerosAVA--MaggieFox,Gary’sWineandMarket-place 92 pts Connoisseurs Guide to California Wines91 pts International Wine Cellar

Merchant ReviewsNovember2007PremiereClubSelection.WinemakingpartnersDickWardandDavidGravesbeganmakingwineinCarnerosin1981,whentherewaslittleinterestinthe“hard,green,slightlyanemic”PinotNoirsthatplaguedmuchofCalifornia. So they made it their goal to prove California’s potential for produc-ingworld-classPinot,muchthewayotherlocalwinemakershadrecentlyproventhestate’sabilitytocompeteinCabernetandChardonnay.--MaggieFox,Gary’sWineandMarketplace,November30,2007

92,Connoisseurs’GuidetoCaliforniaWines,Feb08Itlookslikeabig-timereturntoformforawinethathasoftenratedveryhighlywithus.Thefirstinvitingsniffofsweetcherriesisimmediatelyjoinedbynotesofpiecrust,cremebrulee,smokeandhintsofviolets,andthewinefollowsonthepalatewithfullandbalancedimpressionsofripecherries,creamyoakandtheelusivehintoftealeafsmokethatfirstshowedupinthenose.Tanninsriseratherstarklyinthelatterpalate,buttimeisonthiswine’sside,andawaitofsomethreetosixyearswillbringitamoreinviting,velvetytexture.

91,StephenTanzer’sInternationalWineCellar,Jan/Feb07Gooddeepred.Complexandpureonthenose,witharomasofraspberry,flow-ers,pepperandsubtlebloodorange.Suaveandenergetic,withrestrainedpinotredfruitsnicelyframedbyapositivepeppery/herbalelement.Firmlybuiltbutnotaustere.Finisheswithafinedustingoftannins.Structured,nuancedpinotthatshouldblossomwithabitofbottleaging.Alsotasted:2005PinotNoirStanly Ranch Carneros.


Ponzi Pinot Noir 2006, Willamette Valley, Oregon90ptsRobertParker90 pts Wine Spectator

“Chaitea,roseandblackcurrantaromasleadtoamouthofclassicPinotNoirflavors;spicedcherries,coffee,chocolateandgrenadine.Thefinishisfirmandbrightwithgoodlength.“Winemaker Luisa Ponzi

“Onthelighterside,withfloralandroastedbeetaromaswaftingthroughthecherryandredberryflavors,persistingnicelyontheelegantfinish.Drinknowthrough2013.”WineSpector,90

Fromtheirearliestdaysinbarrel,the2005PinotNoirshavebeendeep,densewines.Incontrasttothemoredelicate2004,the2005isbuiltonlargershoul-

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ders,withastrongbackbonethatwillcertainlyrewardwithextendedaging.PinotNoir’smoredelicateheartbeatsbeneath,butfornowthe2005istruetothevintage.Ofcourse,onecanhappilyenjoythewinenowwithitsexpressivenoseoflilacandvioletblossoms,andawildarrayofredandblackfruits,whitepepper,cloveandorangepeel.Thebodyisrichandthefinishlongandsilky,sug-gesting a minimum aging of 7 to 10 years.


Domaine Drouhin Pinot Noir 2005, Willamette Valley, Oregon90 pts Wine Advocate90 pts International Wine Cellar

Fromtheirearliestdaysinbarrel,the2005PinotNoirshavebeendeep,densewines.Incontrasttothemoredelicate2004,the2005isbuiltonlargershoul-ders,withastrongbackbonethatwillcertainlyrewardwithextendedaging.PinotNoir’smoredelicateheartbeatsbeneath,butfornowthe2005istruetothevintage.Ofcourse,onecanhappilyenjoythewinenowwithitsexpressivenoseoflilacandvioletblossoms,andawildarrayofredandblackfruits,whitepepper,cloveandorangepeel.Thebodyisrichandthefinishlongandsilky,sug-gesting a minimum aging of 7 to 10 years.

90“Mediumruby-colored,ithasafragrantbouquetofraspberryandblackcherry.Medium-bodied,ithasalithetexture,abroadbandofspicy,sweetredfruits,excellentbalanceandapurefinish.Drinkitoverthenext8-10years.”JayMiller, The Wine Advocate90“Mediumredwithabrightrim.Vibrantredcurrant,raspberry,roseandcinnamon aromas show striking clarity and are reminiscent of a wine from one ofBurgundy’smoreelegantclimats.Spicyandsweet,withenergeticredberryflavorsdeepenedbysuggestionsofmuskyunderbrushandtarragon.Anelegant,tangymidweight,finishingonzestynotesofbloodorangeandminerals.”JoshRaynolds, International Wine Cellar


Donum Estates Carneros Pinot Noir 200595 pts Connoisseurs’ Guide to California Wine

Depthanddelicacydefinethesweetblackberriesshadedbywildstrawber-ries,leatherandmineral.layersoflushblackcherries,raspberries,andgraphiteentwinewithgracefultanninsformingawineofmassiveweightandfinish.100%CarnerosPinotNoir.Burgundiancooperage14monthsin75%newfrenchoak.The2004wineshavegreatlength,fullbody,neitherhotnorharshasisoftenseeninahotgrowingseason.Fruitandtanninsarenicelybalanced.Thesewineswillageandbringyoujoyinyearstocome”.

“Concentratedblack-cherryfruitisliberallyseasonedwithsweet,slightlytoastyoakinthiscompleteanddeeplydrawnopus,andthewineshowsthefleshy,slightlyvelvetyfeelthatcomesonlywiththebestPinotNoir.Itscomplexflavorsofminerals,cherriesandnutmeg-likespicearefirmedbytherightmixofacidsandtannins,and,althoughatouchhot,itsinsistentfinishisverylongonandgenerouslyendowedwithwonderfullywell-focusedfruit.Thereisplentytolikenow,butabitoftimeinthebottlewillseethisonethroughtobetteryet.”CGCW, 95pts


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Grand Detour 2005 Landmark Vineyards Sonoma Valley, California100%PinotNoir

93, Wine Enthusiast91, California Connoisseur Guide90,RobertParker

Totallycaptivating,thismediumbodiedPinotrevealsnohardedges,asavorytexture, and impressive purity. It reminded me of a premier cru from the Cote deBeaune.Drinkitoverthenext4-6years.RobertParker

America’s27BestValuePinotNoirbyFood&WineThewineyardsourcesofLandmark’sGrandDetourPinothavevaried,butthewine’squalityisashighasever.Madefromfivewellregardedproperties,the’06isintricatelydetailed,withcomplexflavorsofdriedcherries,redcurrants,mocha,licorice,sautéedmushroomssplashedwithbalsamicandsmoky,vanilla-infusedoak.Thesilkytextureandspicyfinishmakeitirrestible.

The2005GrandDetourPinotNoirisablendoffourSonomaCoastvineyards:Kanzler, Keller Estate, Flocchini and Armagh. There is also some fruit from the SolomonHillsVineyardinSantaBarbara.Theresultisawinethatexhibitsgreattypicityandelegantbalance.Theinitialaromasofblackcherry,raspberryandcinnamonspiceareunderpinnedbytoastyFrenchoak.Suppletanninscontrib-utetoalong,silkyfinish.

Food Pairing: This wine will pair well with game, duck and salmon as well as mushroom accented dishes.


King Estate Pinot Noir Domaine 2006, Willamette Valley, Oregon100%PinotNoirFromtheEstate’sCertifiedOrganicVineyards

Abeautifulblendofsixoutstandingpinotnoirclonesfromninedifferentplant-ingblocks.Acarefuldecidedstainlesssteelfermentationseparatedbyinocula-tion with four distinct yeast strains. Further enhancement comes from the 16 monthsinFrenchoakbarrels(53%new,33%1year,14%2year).Cherry,floral,currant,cranberryanddriedrosepetal.Sweetentrywithflavorsofcherry,vanilla, caramel and pepper spice on exit.

91, Wine SpectatorThisisvelvety,showingbeautifullyripeflavorsthatfocusintoalovelybeamofblackberryandredplumfruit,nicelydefinedandlingeringeffortlesslyonthedeftlybalancedfinish.Drinknowthrough2014.

90 Wine EnthusiastTheDomainebottlingfromKingEstateisthelabelwithallthesignaturesonit;it’sacomplexblendofclonesandblocksfromtheexpansive,organicallyfarmedestatevineyard.Fragrancessuggestapleasingmixofflowersandberries,classicOregoncherry/berryfruit,herb/spice.Balanceisrighttosuggestmedium-termaging potential.


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RED BLENDS

Chaleur Estate Red DeLille Cellars Red Mountain 2005“1001WinesYouMustTasteBeforeYouDie”,UniversePublishing,2008PrefacebyHughJohnson,andwinesselectedandreviewedby“LeadingInternationalCritics”.

DeLille Cellars 2005 Chaleur Estate Red (page 518): “From its inception in 1992,thepartnershipbehindDeLilleCellarshasdesirednothingmorethantoproduce exceptional wines – the powerful ones founder Chris Upchurch loves. When others focused on varietal wines, DeLille staked its claim on the synergy ofblendedgrapes.Upchurchbelievesinblendingnotjustvarieties,butdiffer-entvineyardsites.AlthoughChaleurEstateisessentiallyawarm-climate,RedMountainwine,Upchurchfindsbalancebyblendingcooler-climateMerlotfromBousheyVineyardtosoftentheripe,buttannicCabernetSauvignon.CabernetFranc adds aromatic complexity. Petit Verdot, Upchurch says, elevates all. This is a wine that coheres harmoniously.

ChaleurEstateusuallyagesin100percentFrenchOakbarrelsforeighteenmonths,primarilyfornaturalclarificationandfreshspicenotes.Thewineisfinedbutneverfiltered.The2005vintageisregardedasthebestinWashingtonState for at least ten years. Even young, the seamlessly structured, complex, and richChaleurexhibitsglorious,high-tonedfruitsaboveaconcentratedcoreofherbs,darkfruits,andminerality.Drinkto2017+.LisaGranikM.W.”

65%CabernetSauvignon,25%Merlot,9%CabernetFranc,1%PetitVerdot

91+,StephenTanzer’sInternationalWineCellarThiswineexhibitsapowerhousenoseofblueberries,grapesandexoticblackfruits, cassis, tar and star anise. This is the most concentrated Chaleur Estate to datewithcurrants,blueberries,flowers,sweetwhiskey,blackolivesandcreamflavors.Allthispleasurewithfirmripetannins,aseamlessstructureandamile-longfinish.

SilverMedal–DeLilleCellars2005ChaleurEstate(red)-SouthFloridaFineWine CompetitionSecondAnnualAmericanFineWineCompetition(AFWC).November,2008Brightruby-red.Cassis,boysenberry,tarandbrownspicesonthenose.Sweetandsexyonentry,thenpowerfulandabityouthfullyaggressiveinthemiddle,withabitofalcohol(actually14.9%)currentlymutingtheblackfruitflavors.Thissolidlystructuredwinefinisheswithexcellenttannicgripbutiscurrentlyabitclenched.I’dgiveitfiveyearsofcellaring,atwhichtimeIsuspectitwillmeritahigher score.

“Critic’sChoiceRedWineoftheYear”award,SunsetMagazine(2005Vintage)Thejudgesareamixofwineeducators,winebuyers,chef’s,aMasterSommelier,Sommeliers,andwinewriters,andthejudgingisconductedblindly.Toreceiveamedalfromanyoneofthepanelsisaterrificachievement.The“DoubleGoldMedal”winnersrequiredaunanimousvoteofthepanel,whilea“GoldMedal”required75%ofthepanel’sapproval.

94 & Editor’s Choice, Paul Gregutt, Editor, Wine EnthusiastThisyearthecompetitionwasexceptionallystiff.Workinginteams,ourjudges(wine writers, educators, and sommeliers from up and down the West Coast) blind-tastedmorethan200winesnominatedacrossfourpriceranges-averi-tableWesternwinehalloffame.ChaleurEstatestoodoutinthelineup!

TheTop100NorthwestWines,Wine#5-SeattleMetropolitan(2005Vintage)ChaleurEstateisDeLille’sfinestredwine;thisvintageismorerefined,elegant

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andprecisethateverbefore.The2005is65%CabernetSauvignon,25%Mer-lot,9%CabernetFrancand1%PetitVerdot;it’sespeciallyripeandexpressive.Lovely details of ripe cherry, plum and cassis fruit are dappled with intriguing gracenotesofsweetgrass,freshherbandcracker.Thewinehasgraceandlength,andthefinishcombinesearth,herb,rockandlighthintsoftoast.“Here’sawinethatgivesBordeaux’sbestbottlesarunfortheirmoney.”

93, Wine SpectatorSmooth,roundandharmonious,offeringanelegantmouthfulofcreamy,spice-accentedblackcherrycurrantandplumflavors,nicelyfashionedtobreezethroughaveiloffinetanninsonthebeautifullyfocusedfinish.CabernetSauvi-gnon,Merlot,CabernetFrancandPetitVerdot.

93,JayMiller,RobertParker’sWineAdvocate(2005Vintage)Theflagship2005ChaleurEstateissourcedlargelyfromtheRedMountainAVAandisthesameblendastheHarrisonHill.Itisamorestructuredwinewith4-6yearsofagingpotentialandgobsofblackcherryandblackberryfruit.Thisnicelybalanced,lengthyeffortwillbeatitsbestfrom2013to2025.DeLilleCellarsandDoyennearesisterlabels,theformerforBordeaux-stylewinesandthelatterforRhone-stylewines.Theywillbereviewedseparately.-J.M.


D2 DeLille Cellars, Columbia Valley 200591, Wine SpectatorSuppleandgenerous,thisseamlesswinedeliversalithemouthfuloftobacco-andspice-accentedblackcherryandberryflavors,addingsavory,mintynotesasthefinishsailson.Merlot,CabernetSauvignon,CabernetFrancandPetitVerdot.

91, Stephen TanzerDeepruby-red.Sweetblackcherry,violetandgraphiteonthenose.Concen-trated,livelyandpenetrating,withredfruitandmineralflavorsnicelyframedbyripeacidity.Thiscombinesafirmspinewithanattractivelyplianttextureandenticing sweetness. Classy wine for the price.

51%Merlot,38%CabernetSauvignon,8%CabernetFranc,3%PetitVerdot

OnlygrapesfromtheoldestandbestvineyardsinWashingtonStateareac-quired.Theyarehandpickedanddoublehandsortedatcrush,insuringthatonlythefinestberryclustersenterfermentation.Ourwinesareagedin100%newFrenchOakbarrelseachandeveryyearandareneverfiltered.

Concentratedblackraspberries,plumsanddeepblackcherriesintertwinewitha violets and pencil snap nose. The 2005 D2 is super concentrated with layers ofplumsandcherrypieflavorsthatarenicelybalancedwithtoastymocha,andsweettobacco-oaknuances


Harrison Hill DeLille Cellars 2004The 2004 Harrison Hill comes from a single Yakima Valley vineyard, the second oldestinthestate.Thewineiscomposedof65%CabernetSauvignon,25%Merlot,9%CabernetFranc,and1%PetitVerdot.Darkruby-colored,itexhibitsafragrantperfumeofminerals,leather,pepper,cedar,cassis,blackcherry,andblackcurrantswhichjumpsfromtheglass.Richlytextured,thewineissuppleandsweetonthepalatewithlayersofcomplexflavors,well-concealedtannins,andalong,smoothfinish.Givethisseamlesseffort3-4yearsoffurtherbottle

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age and drink it through 2024. The winery offered the 1994 Harrison Hill to demonstratetheagingpotentialofthiswine.Exhibitingcomplexity,elegance,andpower,ithasthestuffingtocontinueitsevolutionforanother5-7years.94pts, Wine Advocate

MadefromCabernetSauvignon,Merlot,CabFrancandPetitVerdot,withasenseofgravelorvolcanicrockthatisreminiscentofayoungSt.-Estephewine.Withitsmediumacidlevels,thiswineshouldbeenjoyedrelativelyyoung.93pts,VinTrust Sommeliers Selection.


Col Solare Red Premium Antinori/ Ste. Michelle 199992 pts Wine Enthusiast91 Wine Advocate

ColSolareisawinemakingpartnershipbetweenTuscany’sMarchesiAntinoriandWashingtonState’sChateauSte.MichellethatbeganinthevineyardsoftheColumbiaValleywithPieroAntinori’son-goingattractiontouniqueviticulturalregions.In1992,PieromadehisfirsttriptotheColumbiaValley.ImpressedbythequalityanddiversityofWashingtonwines,Antinoribegandiscussingapart-nershipwithChateauSte.Michellethatwouldchallengethembothtostepoutof their own proven perspectives to achieve something new. The idea took hold, andColSolarewasbornwiththe1995vintage.

70%CabernetSauvignon,25%Merlot,3%Syrah,2%Malbec

Sensationalchocolateandcaramelaromasjoinwithanearthynoteandahintoftobaccotointroduceawinewithgenerousblackcurrantandblackcherry,setoffbyatraceofallspice.Silky,withbothabundant,softtanninsandplentyofmuscle,thisisawineofsignificantdimension.

The winery’s 30 acre estate vineyard planted predominantly of six unique clones ofCabernetSauvignon,alongwithindividualblocksofMerlot,PetitVerdot,Mal-bec,CabernetFrancandSyrah.

Col Solare wines harness the promise of Red Mountain’s climate, terroir and precision viticulture. The meticulously planned vineyard stretches out emulating raysofsun.Individualblockswereselectivelyplantedwithspecificationsonvinedensity, slope, wind and sun direction.

The1999(ColSolare)ismediumtodarkruby-coloredandrevealsspicyblackberryaromas.Ablend70%CabernetSauvignon,20%Merlot,andtheremaining10%dividedbetweenSyrahandMalbec,itexhibitsgorgeousbreadthtoitsmedium-bodied,concentratedpersonality.Thiswell-extractedwinehasoutstandingdepthoffruit.Intense,juicy,andpowerful,itcoatsthetaster’spalatewithblackberries,cassis,andspices.91pts,WineAdvocate

ThispartnershipbetweenChateauSte.MichelleandAntinoriisalwaysaqualitywine.The’99isablendof70%CabernetSauvignon,25%Merlot,3%Syrahand2%Malbec.Theclassiccassisandchocolatearomashaveanaccentofcaramel.Flavorsincludeintenseblackcurrantsandatouchofspice.Thewineisasel-egantasitisdeep,withalong,complexfinish.92ptsand“Editor’sChoice”,WineEnthusiast


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NorthStar Stella Maris 2002 Propietary Red, Columbia Valley, Washington90 & Highly Recommended, Wine Spectator

“Awell-balanced,approachableBordeauxblendlayeredwithattractive,ripeplum,cherryandblackcurrantflavorsandnotesofvanilla,clovesandchocolate.TheadditionofMalbecgivesthiswinealushmouthfeelandcontributestothegenerousfinish.”GordyHill,winemaker

Special,verylimitedredblendofCabernetandMerlotfromNorthstar,whoalsobringyousuperbMerlots.Justlovely-hugenoseofroastingespressobeanandmocha,smooth,richflavorsofblackcherry,redcurrant,bigoakybutwellintegrated tannins. A worthy little sister to Northstar’s $60 Merlot.

“Polished,elegantstylebrimswithcherryandberryfruit,lightlyaccentedwithtoast,coffeeandgreenoliveflavors.MerlotandCabSauv.Drinknowthrough2010. Wine Spectator


L’Ecole #41 Merlot Columbia Valley 200480%Merlot,12%CabernetFranc,6%CabernetSauvignon,2%PetitVerdot

“Thisisaclassy,sophisticatedwine,blendedfromawiderangeofWashingtonvineyards.It’sreallyaRightBank-styledBordeauxblend,80%Merlot,12%CabFranc,andasmatteringofCabernetSauvignonandPetitVerdot.Berriesandspice,chocolateandherb,andmanyotherlightlyappliednuancesmakethisapleasuretosip.”90pts,WineEnthusiast

“Deepgarnetcolorwithabrickrim.Darkchocolatecoveredfruit,mocha,androastednutaromas.Aroundentryleadstoadry-yet-fruitymedium-fullbodiedpalatewithbakedplum,baker’schocolate,andspicy,mochaflavors.Finisheswithalong,toastyoakandfreshplumskinfade.Nicebalanceoffruitandwoodnoteswithexcellentstructures.”GoldMedal,WorldWineChampionshipTastingNotes

TheMerlotinthisblendisfromseveralpremiumvineyardsincluding:MilbrandtVineyards;WillardFamilyFarms;CanoeRidge(Ste.MichelleWineEstates);WyckoffFarm(WahlukeSlope);WahlukeSlopeVineyards;ourEstateSevenHillsVineyard;Weinbau;GooseRidgeandCandyMountain.SmallquantitiesofCabernetFranc,CabernetSauvignonandPetitVerdotwereaddedtotheblendfor complexity.

Eachlotwasharvestedripeandgentlycrushedintoone-tonstainlesssteelfer-menters.Themustwasinoculatedwithyeastandpuncheddownbyhandduringfermentation to maximize fruit extraction. When the fermentation was com-pleteorwewereotherwisesatisfiedwiththeleveloftanninandflavorextract,the must was gravity fed into the press. After a gentle pressing, the wine was rackedtotankandallowedtosettle.Thewinewasthenrackedto100%smalloakbarrels,withapproximately40%new,andwasbarrelaged18monthswithfourrackings.Thefinalblendwasbottledunfinedandunfilteredtopreserveitsnaturalflavors.

“Thisisallburleduponitselfatfirst,givingoffaromasofblackcoffeeandmushroomsanddense,wildflavorslikeblackberry,spiceandbeefconsommé.Afteraday,theflavorsarelooserandmorefocusedonplumandblackberryfruit.Decantandservewithsomethingsavory,liketurkeymole.”,90pts,Wine&Spirits

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“ThehistoricfreezeinWallaWallapromptedMartyClubbtoaskabigfavorofSte.Michelle,anditobligedwithfruitfromCanoeRidgeEstateVineyard.TheblendalsoincludedMilbrandt,Willard,Wyckoff,SevenHills,Weinbau,GooseRidgeandCandyMountain,creatingawinethatproducesmoreenjoymentwitheachsip.Darkcherries,strawberries,greenpeppercorns,cedarandcharredoakformthearomatics.Blackcurrantsticklethetonguefromstarttofinish,joinedbystewedplumsonthemidpalateandtanninsthatshouldmellowwithage.Orenjoynowwithamarbledsteakorroast.”Excellent,WinePressNorthWest

“L’EcoleN°41doeswellwithBordeauxvarietals.The2004MerlotColumbiaValleyhas12%CabernetFranc,6%CabernetSauvignon,and2%PetitVerdotintheblend.Drawnfromanumberofvineyards,thewinespent18monthsinFrenchoak,40%new.Itwasbottledunfinedandunfiltered.Darkruby-colored,ithasanattractivenoseoftoastyredandblackfruits,especiallycassisandblackcherry.Thewineisforwardandsupple-texturedwithplentyofripe,sweetfruitandexcellentbalance.Itcanbeenjoyednowandoverthenext6years.”88pts,Wine Advocate


Navarro Correas Ultra Premium Tinto 200450%Malbec,36%Merlot,14%CabernetSauvignon

91, Wine Advocate“Deepredwithvibrantrubyhighlights.Riperedfruitandblackcurrantim-partedbytheCabernetSauvignonandMerlot,underscoredbydelicatetracesofvanilla.Full-bodiedandrobust,withrichfruitflavorsandspicynuancestypicalofMalbec.Concludesinapowerfulfinish.”

“A tremendous wine! Bold, ripe and extremely complex. Layers of mature dark fruit,licoriceandgraphiteblendseamlesslywithspiceynuances.Watchthiswine’sluxuriousflavorandaftertasteunfoldwithtimeintheglass”-JuanE.Marco, Winemaker

91, Wine AdvocatePurple-colored,ithasanattractiveperfumeofpaingrille,clove,smoke,pencillead,cassis,andblackcherry.Mediumtofull-bodied,ithasasolidcoreofripefruit,afirmstructure,andexcellentbalance.Itwillunfoldoverthenext5-7years and drink well through 2025

Goodfreshruby-redcolor.Nuanced,freshnoseoffersblackberry,violet,lico-rice, roast coffee, mint and leather. Suave, sweet and rather elegant, with harmo-niousacidityandavioletelementgivingitlovelymid-palatelift.Nicelyairywine,withnothingheavyoroverextractedaboutit.Finisheswithsweettanninsandlingering perfume.


Laurona 6 Vinyes 2004, Montsant, Spain

Foundedin1999asajointventurebetweenChristopherCannan,ownerofEu-ropvinSA,andReneBarbierofthefamousClosMogador,Lauronaisapioneerin the newly appointed appellation of Montsant, which surrounds the famous Priorat zone in Catalonia. Laurona is located in the southern portion of the area. It is a mountainous region with climate and soils (silica, iron and clay) that arewell-suitedforgrowingredgrapes.Laurona2004showsintensearomasofblackcurrant,blueberryandripeplum.Thefinishshowsatouchofvanillaandasurprisingfloralaccent.Itisablendof55%GrenacheandCarignan,22%Merlot,15%Syrahand8%CabernetSauvi-gnon.Itisagedfor12monthsin500-literFrenchoakbarrels.


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Miguel Torres Conde Superunda 2002, Curicó Valley, Chile

92, Wine Advocate90, Wine Enthusiast92, Patricio Tapia, Best Propietary Red Blend

22%CabernetSauvignon,3%Carmenère,15%Monastrell,60%Tempranillo

The name of Superunda “Lord of the waves“ makes reference to the interven-tionofthisSpanishnoblein1746duringthetragicseaquakeofCallao,whenwoodenvesselsappearedtoaidtepeopleaffectedbythegreattidalwave.

Elegantanddensearomawithhintsofdarkfruits(plum,cranberries)overabackgroundoftoastedbread.Complex,fleshyandnicelybalancedonthepalate,prolongedwithhintsofjamandtobbacotoapleasantexquisitefinish.


SYRAH / SHIRAZ

Clarendon Hills Hickinbotham Syrah 2004, MacLaren Vale, Australia96, Wine Enthusiast95, Stephen Tanzer95,RobertParker95, Wine Spectator

“One of McLaren Vale’s most astonishing Syrahs is Clarendon Hills’ amazing 2004SyrahHickinbotham”,RobertParker

Planted in the Onkaparinga Valley in the Clarendon Hills area, this wine is always very peppery and spicy with nuances of Leather and minerals. A most individual wine-alwaysverydeeplycolouredandwithabundanttannin.

96, Wine Enthusiast“OneofthemoreobviouslyageworthyofferingsfromClarendonHills,the2004HickinbothamSyrahboastsawonderfullyperfumedbouquetofflowers,miner-alsandspice.Thenitbacksupthosecaptivatingaromaticswithrichblueberryfruitshadedwithmintandcrackedpepperandalong,firmlytannicandminer-allyfinish.

95, Stephen TanzerInkypurple.Expansivebouquetofdarkfruitliqueur,withpotentspicecakeandcoffeeaccents.Amajormouthful,thespicydarkberryflavorsthreateningtoblowyourheadoff,withdeepertarandespressotonesaddingasensationofdepth.Firmtanninshelptomaintainfocus,butthisisaserious,scorched-earthwine,withtheconcentrationandsheerflavorintensitytoobliteratealmostanydish that I can think of. By Josh Raynolds.

95,RobertParker“One of McLaren Vale’s most astonishing Syrahs is Clarendon Hills’ amazing 2004SyrahHickinbotham.Itsinky/blue/purplehueisaccompaniedbyaromasandflavorsofcremedecassis,smokedmeats,meltedlicorice,coffeebeans,graphite,andbaconfat.Extremelyfull-bodied,powerful,andrich,withmoder-ately high tannin, huge structure as well as massive concentration and intensity, butasenseofelegance,balance,andequilibrium,itshouldbecellaredfor2-3years, and drunk over the following two decades. “

95, Wine Spectator“Dense,deepandbeautifullyfocused.Ablastofredfruits,fromcherrytoSanta

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Rosaplum,zipsalong,carriedbymouthwateringacidityandsuperrefinedtan-nins.Anopen-texturedwinewithbreathtakingpurityofflavorandextraordi-narylength.Bestfrom2008through2020.500casesimported.–HS”


Elderton Command Single Vineyard Shiraz 200394, Wine Advocate94, Wine Spectator93, Stephen Tanzer

The Elderton Command Shiraz grapes are grown on a selected portion of the Elderton Estate vineyard, from vines planted in the early 1900’s. Grown on rich riversiltsoilsandredbrownearthoverlimestone,inaMediterraneanclimate,with cropping levels less than 4 tonnes per hectare. 2004 was a dream year viti-culturally, with mild and dry, summer conditions continuing all the way through toearlylateautumn.Thestrengthandmagnificenceofthesevinesshineseffort-lesslythroughinthequalityofwhatisinthebottle.

Winemaker’s Notes:Thisisoneofthosewinesthatdefiesgravity.AllthefruitissourcedfromtheoldestblocksontheEldertonEstate.Itisunashamedlyanintenseanddensewine.Foritspoweranddepthofflavor,itdisplaysawonderfulelegance.Darkdensesweetfruit,withplum,blackberrynotesinabundance,minglewithhintsofearth,spice,andchocolate.Thewineislush,sexyandtheflavorsjustlingerforever. A wine that will age for 10 to 15 years if you have the willpower.

94,The Wine AdvocateWhilethedeepplum/ruby/garnet-tinged2003ShirazCommandisslightlylessnuancedthanthe2002,itisjustaspowerfulandfull-bodied,offeringcopiousquantities of fruit, glycerin, tannin, and muscle. This chewy, rich offering appears tobeonafasterevolutionarytrackthanits2002counterpart.Giveitanother2-3yearsofbottleage,andconsumeitoverthefollowing12-15.

94, Wine SpectatorBig,ripeandgenerous.Thisisaplushmouthfulofcherry,spiceandmineralfla-vorsthatrushonthefinish,managingtostayinperfectbalance.Hasdepthandgrace. Best from 2009 through 2018.

93, Stephen TanzerSaturatedruby.Rich,oak-spicynoseshowsliqueur-likeboysenberry,candiedplum and kirsch aromas, plus a good whack of vanilla. Outsized and thick, with dense,sweetdarkberryflavorsandanalmostviscoustexture.Andyetthismassive wine comes across as energetic and surprisingly elegant. The long, sappy finishfeaturespowerfuldarkberryliqueurflavorsthatwon’tquit.ByJoshRayn-olds.

93, Wine Enthusiast“Thecurrentrelease,2003,isanexcellentwine,butthisvintagekicksitupanotch.It’sbrighter,fresherandmorevibrantthanitsamplyendowedprecursor,burstingwithpepperyraspberries.Creamyandrich,yetwonderfullybalanced,andwhileyoucoulddrinkitnow,itwillalsocellarfor10-plusyears.”


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L’Ecole #41 Syrah Columbia Valley 200398%Syrah,2%Carmenère

Silver Medal NorthWest Wine Summit 10th Annual competition, 2005The 2005 NorthWest Wine Summit concluded its 10th Annual competition with the selection of the superlative wines in an event that evaluated over 1,000 wines.

“Abitcloseddownatthisstageoflife,thewine’ssavoryscentsofWorcester-shireandmochamasktheblackcurrantfruitthatliesbeneath.Giveitsometimeinthecellar,andthenserveitwithsmokedporkchops.”87pts,Wine&Spirits

ThisSyrahisablendoffivepremiervineyardsincluding:33%MilbrandtVineyard;32%WillardFamilyFarms;16%BacchusB5;7%CandyMountain;and7%fromour Estate Seven Hills Vineyard.

“WhenitcomestoSyrahofthisqualitycomingoutofWallaWalla-areawiner-ies,considerthisabargain.MilbrandtandWillardFamilyFarmsgrapesaccountfortwo-thirdsofthisbottle,whichservesupanoseofcherries,blackcurrants,licorice,blackpepper,horehoundandoak.Inside,itisdenseblackberries,darkblackcherriesandblackcurrantswithchocolateandblackpepperinthefinish,thelatterperhapsaresultofthe2%splashofCarmenere.”Outstanding,WinePress NorthWest


CABERNET SAUVIGNON, MERLOT & ZINFANDEL

Caymus, Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2006

92,WineSpectatorInsider:“Full-blown,ripeandrich,withintenseandsharplyfocuseddriedcurrant,wildberryandblackberryfruitthat’sstillfairlytannicatthisstage.Endswithalong,persistentfinish.Bestfrom2010through2015.”

90 points and one star from the Connoisseurs’ Guide to California Wine: “Ripe-nessandsweetoakarethegoverningtraitsofthisveryrichandwide-openwine, and it is more geared to dark chocolate and caramelly sweetness than itistoclassicCabernetfruit.Thatsaid,itispositivelyplushonthepalatewithextract to spare, so much so, in fact, as to make its hard turn to tannin and heat anacceptablesin.”

Establishedin1972CaymusVineyardsisoneofthebenchmarkcabernetsau-vignonproducersinNapaValley,withanenviabletrackrecordofproducingsomeofNapa’sfinestreds.The2006isaworthysuccessorinthislineageoffull-bodied,fruit-forward,opulentcabs.Awineofimmensesize,structureandcomplexitythe2006CaymusCabernetSauvignonisahigh-octanewinethatwillhandsomelyrewardthepatientconsumerin5-10years.(AlexPross,WineClubDirector)


Ramey Wine Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon Jericho Canyon 2004

94,RobertParkerThe2004CabernetSauvignonJerichoCanyonVineyardhasaninkydarkruby/purplecolor,awonderfullysweetnoseofespressoroast,fudge,blackberry,andcassiswithahintofincenseandsmoke.Thewineisfull-bodied,broadlyflavored,

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opulent, and voluptuous, and that in itself seems to give the wine its current ap-peal, although I think this is a candidate for at least two decades of cellaring.

93 Steven Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar Inkypurple.Graphite-andtobacco-accentedcherryandcassisaromasre-mindedmeoftop-endSaint-Julien.Focused,purered-andblackcurrantflavorsareenergizedbyimpressiveminerallift.Thisremarkablyconcentratedcabernetfinisheswithfirmbutharmonioustanninsandexplosivesweetness.


Rubicon Cask Cabernet Sauvignon 2003, Rutherford, Napa Valley95, Wine Enthusiast“This is a glamorous wine, tremendous now, and will hold and develop through 2020.”

TheCASKCabernetSauvignonepitomizestheproperty’sillustrioushistoryandtraditionofwinemaking,andpaystributetoJohnDaniel,Jr.andtheInglenookCask wines that made this property legendary.


Spottswoode Cabernet Sauvignon 200597, Wine Enthusiast96,RobertParker93, Wine Spectator

Gorgeouspurplehue.Incrediblenose—richandvibrant.Extremelyvivacious,al-mostboisterous.Youthful,butwithgreatdepth.Ripefruitnose,fullofblueberry,cherry,blackberry,cream,vanilla,brownsugar,cinnamonspice,andviolets.Won-derfulpower,concentration,andbalance.Thetanninsareelegantandrefined,thefinishlong.Veryimpressive.

The1,850-casecuveeof2004CabernetSauvignonEstate(97.3%CabernetSauvignonandtherestCabernetFranc)boastsadeepruby/purplecoloraswellasabeautifulnoseofleadpencilshavings,violets,blueberries,andblackcur-rants.Itbuildsincrementallyonthepalatewithsuperbpurity,mediumtofullbody,sweettannin,andalong,40+secondfinish.Thisbeautycanbedrunknoworcellaredfortwodecades.Theprodigious2005CabernetSauvignonEstatemaybeSpottswoode’sstrongesteffortsincetheirsuperb2002and2001.Adeepruby/purplecolorisaccompaniedbyaclassicbouquetofviolets,graphite,blueberries,andcremedecassiswithhintsoflicoriceandcedar.

96, Wine AdvocateStunninglypureandelegantaswellassubstantialandauthoritativelyflavored,thisisalong,rich,concentratedwinewiththegraceofaballerina.Giveit2–3yearsofbottleageandconsumeitoverthefollowing20–25+years.

97,WineEnthusiast.TastedinabiglineupofSt.HelenaCabernets,Spott-swoods’smagnificent05’stoodout.It’samassivepowerhouse,explosiveinblackcurrant,cherrypie,plum,chocolate,aniseandcedarflavorsthatarede-tailedandprecise.However,thewine,whichwasblendedwithalittleCabernetFranc,isgracefulandbalanced.Drinkablenowduetoit’ssoftlyrefinedtannins,buthastheintergritytorideouttheyears.


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Silverado Solo, Cabernet Sauvignon 2005, Napa Valley CA

93points“Abrillianteffort,the2005CabernetSauvignonSolo(100%CabernetSauvignon)exhibitsadarkruby/purplehueinadditiontoaclassicbouquetofgraphite,licorice,blackcurrants,darkcherries,underbrush,andfruitcake.Broad,full-bodied,anddeepwithmoderatetannin,andterrificsweetnessandlength,itisanelegant,butsubstantial,authoritativelyflavoredCabernetSauvignonthatwillbenefitfrom2-4yearsofcellaring,andshouldlastfortwodecadesormore.”-RobertParker

AnexampleofclassicStagsLeapCabernetSauvignon-intensedarkriperedfruitaromaswithdriedherbandspiceleadstoabroadlystructuredpalatewithlayersofberryfruitcompote,bittersweetchocolateandvanilla.


OTHER FABULOUS REDS

Clarendon Hills Blewitt Springs Grenache 200493,RobertParker,“...extraordinary,exotic,flamboyantpersonality”,RobertParker

This vineyard is in the Blewitt Springs area and always produces deeply coloured andveryrichwinewithfullupfrontraspberryfruitandalongaftertastewithabundanttannininthefinish.Thiswinerepayscellaringverywell.

93,RobertParkerAs usual for this cuvee, the 2004 Grenache Blewitt Springs possesses an ex-traordinary,exotic,flamboyantpersonalitythatcausesRomanBratasiuktosayit’shis“DollyParton-styledwine.”Terrificnotesofblackberries,raspberries,andrichkirschliqueurareaccompaniedbyanopulent,flamboyantwinewithtremendousviscosityandrichnessaswellasalusty,headyfinish.Inshort,it’samouthfilling,full-bodiedredtodrinkduringitsfirst5-7yearsoflife.Wealsohaveafewmagnumsofthisbeauty!


Gei Berra Single Vineyard 2004, Lulunta, Mendoza93, Wine Advocate91, Wine Spectator91, Wine News90, Wine & Spirits

100%MalbecThesinglevineyardsprojectwasdesignedasatributetotheirindependentgrapegrowersandanexhibitionofhowthecharacteroftheMalbecgrapecanvary at different altitudes and terroirs within Mendoza. Each year, the Trapiche teamchoosesthebestthreeMalbeclotsoftheharvestandhonorsthemwiththeirownsingle-vineyardbottlings.Theresultisthreeofthefinest100%Mal-becsavailabletoday.

93, Wine AdvocateAfull-bodied,juicy,andelegantlyperfumedMalbecfromLunlunta,RobertParkerrecentlyspokeofSr.CarlosGeiBerra’swineashaving“asuperbperfumeofpaingrille,pencillead,spicebox,blackcherryandblackberryliqueur...suppletexture,seriousdepth,andalongfinish.”Hefinishedbysaying,“IfIwereayoungcollector,I’dbestashingtheseawayinmycellar.”

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91, Wine Spectator“The2004MalbecVinaCarlosGeiBerraispurple/blackincolorwithasuperbperfumeofpaingrille,pencillead,mineral,spicebox,blackcherry,andblack-berryliqueur.Thisisfollowedbyamediumtofull-bodiedwinewithasuppletexture,layersoffruit,spicyblackfruitflavors,seriousdepth,andalong,slightlytannicfinish.Giveit5-7yearsinthecellaranddrinkitthrough2030.”


Gran Cabernet Franc 2006, Pulenta Estates, Mendoza, ArgentinaDeepred-purplecolor,anintensearomaofredpepper,eucalyptusandspices.Once in the mouth, it is sweet and pleasant due to the presence of round, ripe andsofttannins.itsIts12monthsaginginnewFrenchoakbarrelsgrantsitanelegantandlongfinish.

Gold Medal, International Wine Challenge (London Fair)Gold Medal Hyatt Wine Awards in Mendoza


Trus 2003, Ribera del Duero, SpainApristinewinerywithasinglewine,singlevineyardprojectwhichhasbeentrusted to Juan Carlos Martínez (previously at Arzuaga). Less than 40,000 bottlesafterwinehasspent18monthson100%newfrenchoakvats,whichtames the exchange of wood tannins as well as the rhythm of such exchange to createawineofelegantstructureembodyingthestrengththathasmadeRiberadel Duero famous, the charm of the great, classic wines and the very attractives personalitythatfine,contemporarypalatesappreciatenowadays.GreatpressandscoresalsomakeTrusagreatcollectiblelabel.Inthe“superRibera”league.


RODA I 2004, DOC Rioja, SpainShowsbig,blackcherry,blackberryandwildherbaromasanddense,powerful,spicy and mineral fruit on the palate. RODA I is a wine with serious structure, harmonious,balancingacidityandripe,softtannins.

17.5/20,JancisRobinsonVery dark crimson. Wonderfully smooth and caressing – quite sweet in overallimpact.AsortofNapaValleyRioja!Lotsofpleasure.

Silver Medal, Decanter MagazineGold Medal, International Wine Challenge (London Wine Fair)


SPARKLING

Champagne Bollinger Special Cuvée NV91, Wine Spectator

The Spécial Cuvée is the purest expression of Champagne Bollinger’s style, prestigiousbrandofChampagne.AlltheHouse’sknowhowisrequiredinordertocreate,yearafteryear,ablendthatisconstantbothinstyleandquality.Ithasauniquecombinationofpowerandfinesse,depthandbalance,anditisthroughSpécialCuvéethatBollingerestablishesitsdifferenceandshowsitscommit-menttoquality.Itisamultivintageblend.Thankstoitsfinesseandfreshness,SpécialCuvéeisbyessenceanidealaperitifwine,andisfinecompaniontoseafoodandfish.Itsstructureandpoweralsomakeitagoodmatchtoawhitemeat.20

Bollingerisaqualityminded,familyownedhousebasedinAy.Unusuallytheyfermenttheirwinesinbarrelsratherthaninvats,producinganespeciallydrychampagnewhichhasbeenalongtimefavouriteoftheBritish.

Foundedin1829itsiscurrentlyheadedbyChristiandeMontgolfier,greatnephew of the legendary Madame Bollinger. Sticking to its traditional methods, thehouseproducesuncompromisingquality.70%ofthegrapes,anunusuallyhigh proportion in champagne, come from their own 144 hectares of vine-yardslocatedprimarilyintheGrandsandPremiercrus.ThemajorityoftheseareplantedwithPinotNoirwhichdominatestheblendsandgivesBollinger’sunmistakablefullcharacter.LengthyagingisatthecoreofBollinger’sphilosophyandtheequivalentoffiveyears’productionliesintheircellarsatAytoensurethecontinuityofBollinger’sstyle.60%PinotNoir,25%Chardonnay,15%PinotMeunier


Champagne Laurent Perrier Grand Siecle Brut94, Steven Tanzer94, Wine News

Inthe17thCentury,duringthereignofLouisXIV,Franceenjoyeditsmostillus-triousera.LouisXIVbecameknownasthe“SunKing”forhisbenevolenceandhispatronageoftheArts,whichbecamethefoundationofFrance’srichartisticheritage.AtthePalaceofVersaillesLouisXIVwasthefirstFrenchKingtodrinkChampagne.

LouisXIV’serabecameknownastheGrandSiècle-the“GreatCentury”.Bottledinareplicaofa17thCenturybottleevokingtheradianceofthatperiod,Laurent-Perrier’sprestigecuvéesembodyluxury,magnificenceandelegancefitfor a king. When it came to his prestige cuvée, Bernard de Nonancourt decided tohighlighttwoofChampagne’straditionalrealmsofproficiency:theblendingofdifferentcrusanddifferentvintages.GrandSiècleistheepitomeofCham-pagnecuvées,asitblendscomplementarywinesfromLaurent-Perrier’sverybestgrowthsandmostsuccessfulvintageyears.

GrandSiècleismadewithapinotnoirandchardonnayblend,withthelatterbeingslightlydominant.Twelveofthemostprestigiousvillagessupplythesegrapes;allofthemclassifiedat100%GrandsCrussuchasAmbonnay,Verzenay,Mailly,Avize,Cramant,ChouillyandLeMesnil-sur-Oger.Withinthevineyardsofthesevillages,onlytheverybestplotsareselected,asarethefinestmustsfromthe pressings.

Ithasabrightcolor,withabrilliantyellowhue.Itssubtlearomasofhoney,hazel-nuts,grilledalmondsandbrioche,makethistheperfectcompanionforrefineddishes.Itpairsjustaswellwithpoultryandtrufflesasitdoeswithvealandmorel mushrooms.


WHITES

Chaleur Estates Blanc Columbia Valley 2006

RichandSmoky,thisSauvignonBlanc-Semillonblenddeliversanosesuggest-inggoldenraisins,ripefigs,whitepeachesandlightstreaksofbutter,honeyandcaramel.Thefruitandwoodarebalancedandthealcoholisamoderate13.5%.

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Everything here is in proportion, layered, smooth and seductive. More than past vintages, this is a Chaleur Estate Blanc that seems destined to age and develop over the next decade or more. 94pts, Wine Enthusiast

#8, Top 100 Washington Wines, Seattle Times61%SauvignonBlanc,39%Semillon

Rich,smokyaromasoffig,toastandcrèmebruléecombinedwiththesweetstraw of the Sauvignon Blanc. This is a powerhouse white wine that is youthful andcomplex.Pear,straw,honeydewmelonsandcitruspeelflavorsexpandinthe mouth. Silky, creamy textures add to the personality of the wine.

OnewhitewineisproducedundertheDeLillelabel.The2006ChaleurEs-tateBlancisablendof61%SauvignonBlancand39%Semillon.Thewinegoesthroughfullmalolacticfermentationwithleesstirring.Mediumstraw-colored,ithasanenticingbouquetofspringflowers,melon,andfreshherbs.Toasty,complex,andmouth-coating,thisfull-flavoredwinecouldeasilypassforatopPessac-LeognanlikeFieuzal.Itcanbeenjoyednowandoverthenextseveralyears. 91pts, Wine Advocate

Paleyellow.Aromasoflemon,toastandstraw;verymuchinawhiteBordeauxstyle.Ripe,denseandquitedrybutwithanintriguinglysaline,tactilequalityandahoneyednuancegivingitasubtlesweetness.Finishesripeandpersistent,withlatehintsofhoneyandherbs.WinemakerPetersonhascutbackontheper-centageofnewoak(it’snow80%ratherthan100%),andthisisalltothegood.90pts, Stephen Tanzer


L’Ecole #41 Chardonnay 2006, Columbia Valley, WashingtonGold Medal, Washington State Wine Competition

“SomeofthebestChardonnaysinWashingtonStatearegrownintheslightlycooler growing conditions of Yakima Valley and in the northern latitudes of the ColumbiaValley.TheDunningtonandFairAcreVineyards(YakimaValley)provideripetropicalfruit,whileEvergreen(latitude47ontheColumbiaRiver)contrib-utes crisp acidity and minerality. The old vines at the warmer Bacchus Vineyard provide a nuance of ripe pear on this sophisticated and contemporary Burgun-dianstyleChardonnay.”100%Chardonnay

Thiswineisablendoffourdistinguishedvineyards:42%DunningtonVineyard(formerlypartofFairAcre),35%Evergreen,12%Bacchusand11%FairAcre.

Elegantlybalanced,thisBurgundianstyleChardonnayshowsFujiapple,Asianpearandripepineappleandtropicalflavorswithsubtlemineralandspicethatgaincomplexityonalong,robustfinish.

Thefruitwaslightlywhole-clusterpressedtotankandallowedtosettle.ThejuicewasthenrackedoffofthesolidsintonewandsecondyearFrenchoakbarrelswhereitwasagedsurlieforsevenmonths.Malolacticfermentationwasintroducedinbarrel,resultinginarichmouthfeelandacreamyfullfinish.


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Eroica Riesling Columbia Valley 2006

“….Sincetheprojectbegan,thishasconsistentlybeenamongthebestnon-dessert Rieslings produced in the USA and the 2006 continues in that tradition. Lightstraw-colored,itoffersupalovelyfloral,mineral,honeysucklebouquet,crispflavorsfeaturingmelonandpineapple,excellentbalance,andalong,pure,refreshingfinish.ThiswinemaywellevolveinthemannerofoneofDr.Loosen’sgreatMoselRieslings.Stashingafewbottlesisaverysafebet.”91pts, Wine Advocate

100%Riesling“Witheachvintage,Eroica,thejointventurebetweenDr.LoosenandChateauSte.Michelle,hasgrownmoreassured.The2006fromjointwinemakersBobBertheau and Ernie Loosen is simply invigorating, a mineral wine of moderate, kabinett-levelripenessthatshowsupthewine’sgenerousfruitwithoutbeingsweetintheleast.Aromasofgoldenapplewithahintofpeachblossomlead;theflavorsaredeeper,morepearlike,finishingwithabrisk,vibrantminerality.”93 pts, Wine & Spirits and One of the 100 Best Wines of the Year

“The2006Eroicadeliversfreshmandarinorangeandlimearomasandflavorswithsubtlemineralandslatenotes.ThisEroicashowsthewarmvintagethroughitsslightlyricher,bolderstylethanthepreviousvintage.Althoughslightlymorefruit forward, the 2006 Eroica still achieves complexity from the diverse mix of vineyardswesourcefrom--includinghigherelevationvineyardsonthefringesoftheColumbiaValley,aswellasthemoretraditionaloldervinesfromtheYakimaValley.”BobBertheau,Winemaker

FoodPairing:Asiandishes,Indiancurries,crab,scallops


Mer Soleil Chardonnay 2006, Santa Lucia Highlands, California100% Chardonnay

93, Wine Enthusiast“Yearinandyearout,MerSoleil’sChardonnayisoneofthebiggest,mostdistinctiveonesinCalifornia.The‘06isalmostlikealate-harvestdessertwine,richinapricotjam,pineapplecustardandnewoakbutterscotchflavors,butforall the opulence, it’s entirely dry and has zesty Monterey acidity. Almost a food groupinitself,itwillchallengechefstorisetotheoccasion.”(04/09)

MerSoleilistheprojectofCharlieWagner,sonandprotégéofCaymusfounderChuck Wagner. The winery’s Central Coast Chardonnay comes from the Santa Lucia Highlands, where the sea and the sun work in consort to create a won-derfulenvironmentforthevarietal.ACalifornia-stylechardonnaywithlotsofupfronttropicalfruit,spiceandabuttery-richmid-palate.”

Softgoldcolor.Richlyperfumednose,withlightnotesofhoneysuckle,truffleandbutteryoak.Full,layeredflavorsoftropicalfruitarebalancedbyabrightacidityofsweetcitrus,andlingerthoughthelong,creamyfinish.

Withthisvintage,theMerSoleilChardonnaylabelnowproudlydisplaystheSantaLuciaHighlandsappellation.Wearepleasedtobeabletospecifythegrowingareaofourfruitandallitrepresentsinthebottle.OurChardonnayfrom the Mer Soleil Vineyard, located in this cool, dry part of Monterey County onlandwebegancultivatingin1988,isnowatfullmaturity.


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Mer Soleil Silver Chardonnay 2006, Santa Lucia Highlands, California100% Chardonnay

92, Wine SpectatorDelicious, with pure, rich, concentrated pear, citrus, honeysuckle and spicy apple flavorsthatarecomplexandwell-focused,withalong,juicyaftertaste.OwnedbytheWagnersofCaymusfame,theMerSoleilSilverisanun-oakedwinethatshows tremendous richness and complexity. The amazing thing is that the wine’s richnessanddepthisentirelyfromthefruit.Aperfectwhitetoenjoywithfood!

This“Silver”ChardonnayfromMerSoleilis,asthenamesuggests,analternativetothegoldlabel.ThereisnooakontheSilverandnotmuchthatisheavy,orrichandbutteryeither.Whatthereisisplentyofrefreshinglycleanandminer-ally Chardonnay fruit. Delicious poolside!


Landmark Overlook Chardonnay 2005, Sonoma County, CAThe 20 plus separate vineyards that comprise this year’s Overlook include such distinguished growers as Sangaciomo, Bien Nacido, Martinelli, Lorenzo and Heintz.AllthewineintheOverlookbottlingisbarrelfermentedusingindig-enous yeasts and undergoes full malolactic fermentation. The wine is aged sur lie fortenmonthsinBurgundianbarrelsandrackedtotanksforblending.

90, Wine EnthusiastThearomasoftoastedalmonds,caramelandcoconutarefollowedbycrispgreenappleandlemonrindflavorsthatconveycertainminerality.Thiswinewillpairwellwithseafoodsandshellfish,andcomplementpastaswithcreamsauces,as well as roast chicken and pork roast with fruit.

90, Wine Advocate“Areliablewinerywitharealisticpricingpolicy,oneofCalifornia’sfinestChar-donnaysforthemoneyisLandmark’sChardonnayOverlook.The2005(74%So-noma,16%SantaBarbara,and10%Montereyfruit)exhibitsalightgreen/strawcolor as well as attractive aromas of honeyed citrus, tropical fruits, and spices. Excellentacidity,alovelytextureandmouthfeel,andmediumbodysuggestthiscomplex Chardonnay will drink well for several years. It represents a hypotheti-calblendofaclassicwhiteBurgundyandaCaliforniaChardonnay.”

Regular Price: $ 33. 67

Ramey Hyde Vineyard Chardonnay 2005, Napa- Carneros, California

Located in gently rolling terrain north of Carneros Highway, the soils are quite heavyclay.VineselectionisOldWente,RobertYoungandLongVineyards-eachaWenteselectionthemselves-ranginginagefrom7to26yearsold.TheWenteismarkedbyverysmallgrapeclusters,withsmallberries,andtheso-called“hen-and-chick”--largeandsmallberrieswithinthesamecluster.

TheWenteproducesaclassic,Burgundian-stylewine,withoutthetropicalfruittonesofsomeCaliforniaChardonnays.TheLongVineyardsselectionaddsaflo-ral note, and the Hyde Vineyard wines often seem charming and feminine. High natural acidity plays a prominent role.

95RobertM.ParkerJr.’sTheWineAdvocateDecember2007Astunningeffort,the2005ChardonnayHydeVineyardboastsgreatintensityalongwithhugetropicalfruitnotesinterwovenwithnotionsofspringflowers,

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orangemarmalade,whitepeaches,andsteelyminerals.Itsabundantfruitcon-cealsanyevidenceofwood.Well-delineated,withoutstandingacidityaswellasalayered,sumptuousfinish,itshouldagenicelyfor4-5years,possiblylonger.

90CaliforniaGrapevine,Vol.332,No.6,Dec2007-Jan2008Medium-lightgoldenyellow;attractive,floral,ripepearandspicedapplearomawithhintsofnutmegandtoastedhazelnut;fullbody;forward,rich,spicy,ripepearandgreenappleflavorswithnotesofcitrusandcreamyoak;wellbalancedandstructured;lingeringaftertaste.Veryappealingtotastenowthoughdeserv-ingofseveralmoreyearsofbottleaging.Veryhighlyrecommended.

94StephenTanzer’sInternationalWineCellarMay/June2008Yellow-gold.Stunninglynuancedaromasofsmokylemon,lime,poachedpear,licoriceandiodinecomplicatedbydustytalcandwhiteflowers.Impressivelychewyanddeeplyconcentrated,offeringstrongcitrusandorchardfruitflavorsunderscoredbysmokymineralsandsucculentherbs.Thisextremelycomplexwinehastheconcentrationandbalancetorewardpatience.


Special Prices are valid until June 30th, 2009,

while supplies last.

The“48hrsdeal”beginsonWednesday,June17th

and ends on Friday June 19th at noon.

Nofurtherdiscountsareapplicable.

For more information, please contact our

Telephone/OnlineSalesExecutiveat

787.781.2070 X 1339.

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SummerTreats

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Summer officially starts on June 21st, right on Father’s Day Weekend. Which means we still

have 100 days to take it a bit easier, enjoy our friends and family and celebrate the gorgeous summers we are world famous for.

To kick off the season, here are 12 lay back wines that can also match

local cuisine and turn a just so so afternoon into a real sunset treat!

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Domaine Ste Michelle NV Sparkling BrutBrightacidityandeffervescencecleansesthepalate,whilethedelicateflavorscomplimentawidearrayofdishes.Sipwithbagelsandloxforarelaxingweekendbrunch.”Regular Price: $19.00 Special Price:

Navarro Correas Extra Brut NV, Mendoza, ArgentinaMadewith60%Chardonnayand40%PinotNoir.Mediumstructure.Goodfinish.Excellentwithscallopsandlightrisottos.Well-integrated,toasty,nuttyandstrawnotes.Methodechampenoise.Regular Price: $20.00 Special Price:

Ch D’esclans Whispering Angel 2007, Provence, FranceThiswineisablendofGrenacheandRolle.Verylightpinkincolor,trulyvingrisincolor.Anaro-maticnosewithherbaceousplantsandflowers.Strawberries,lavendar,mineralsonthepalatewithadry,cleanfinish.Regular Price: $22.67 Special Price:

Paul Jaboulet Cotes du Rhone Parallele 45 Rosé 2008ClassicGrenacheRosé.Excellentforsunsetjustbyitself.Pairsgreatwithtuna,carpaccio,chistorra,prosciutto.Regular Price: $17.50 Special Price:

Pulenta Estates La Flor Malbec Rosé 2008, Mendoza, ArgentinaAdelightfulwine!OneofthefewMalbecRosesavailableinPuertoRico.theintensecolorisanadvancenoteofitsnoticeablefruitfreshberriescharacter.Regular Price: $14.67 Special Price:

Bonterra Chardonnay 2005, Mendocino County, California“TheBonterra2005MendocinoCountyChardonnaybringsthefragranceoflemonandthefresh-nessofgreenappletothenose,withsomebacknotesoftropicalpineappleandadistinctmineralpresence. Regular Price: $19.67 Special Price:

Chateau Ste Michelle Gewurztraminer Columbia Valley 2006Bright,refreshingmedium-drywinewithinvitingaromasoflycheenutsnutmegandclovespice.ThisGewürztraminerisnicelybalancedbetweenfruitandthegrape’snaturalcrispcharacter,whilestillbeinglush.Regular Price: $16.33 Special Price:

Santa Rita, Sauvignon Blanc Reserva 2008, ChileExcellentchoicefor“chilloalaplancha”,.Verycrisp,cleanfinish.Regular Price: $14.00 Special Price:

Plozner, Pinot Grigio, Grave Friuli, ItalyCrisp,mediumbodiedwithmineralundertonesandcleanfinish.Focusedapples,freshfigsanddryfruit accents.Regular Price: $20.00 Special Price:

Jermann Pinot Grigio IGT, Friuli, ItalyFullbodiedPinotGrigio,withbalancedacidity,greataromaticsandpersistent,longfinish.Regular Price: $17.33 Special Price:

B A RA fine cocktail or very special liquor is like

giving a rose. Because nothing else will do!

aCheck out these selectionsfor those moments in life.

Ketel OneVodka

Regular Price:$

Special Price:

ChopinVodka

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BelvedereVodka

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Van GoghCollectionVodka

Regular Price:$

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Graham’s 30 Years Port

Regular Price:$

Special Price:

The BalvenieDouble Wood12 Years

Regular Price:$

Special Price:

Dow’sColheita 1994

Regular Price:

Special Price:

Glenfiddich12 Years

Regular Price:$

Special Price:

CognacCourvoisierNapoleon

Regular Price:$117.67

Special Price:

Hendricks Gin

Regular Price:$

Special Price:

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50 collection wines edition

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