It’s Cold Outside – 3 Bottles We Recommend!

Champagne Frederic Savart, L’accomplie, NV, Premier Cru

Truly seductive bubbles. This is a rich, deep and stylish Champagne, yet with bags of elegance, charm and delicate balance. Bright and zesty citrus notes are filled out with dried pear, brioche and baked apple flavours for a gorgeous mouthful, which finishes fresh and long. This is one of the most sought after Champagnes in the Sommelier community – not only is Fred Savart a star “artisan” Champagne maker amongst those who know, but this is one of his most delicious creations. An impressive bottle for celebrations… or treats!

Monterosso | Etna Bianco Crater, 2017

A Wine Source exclusive and one that is close to our hearts – we all agree that right inside this wine is the essence of Sicily. Fresh lemons and salty minerality from the slopes of Mount Etna… think Chablis with an eruptive soul.

Racines | Pinot Noir, La Rinconada Vineyard, Sta. Rita Hills, 2017

“Racines is a single wine brand created by some of the finest hands of the winemaking world – we are talking Burgundy royalty teaming up with California genius. Etienne de Montille, proprietor of iconic Burgundy estate Domaine de Montille founded in the 17th century, and his Chef de Cave, Brian Sieve, have collaborated with Rodolphe Péters of cult Champagne house Champagne Péters and renowned, hugely in demand winemaker Justin Willett of Santa Barbara AVA, USA with a shared vision to create some of the most exceptional wines in the world from the finest vineyards in the land, stunning vineyards which are hugely in demand with the most savvy and ambitious winemakers.

From the upper plantings at the La Rinconada Vineyard, neighboring the famous Sanford & Benedict Vineyard. Consisting of deep, dark, rocky soils. This is a selection of Mt. Eden clippings that Richard Sanford brought down from Northern California years ago. In the cellar two thirds whole cluster, and fermented similarly to the Sta. Rita Hills cuvee. Put down to a third new barrels for 18 months before bottling.

VINOUS – 93 pts. “The 2017 Pinot Noir La Rinconada is powerful and explosive in the glass, with tremendous structural intensity driving a deep expression of site. Lavender, sage, mint, savory herbs and rich blue-toned fruit give the 2017 a distinctly virile, somber personality. Readers will have to be patient, as the 2017 is going to need time to be at its best.” – Antonio Galloni”