Saturday, December 16, 2006
SHIPPING WOES
It’s official, Seattle is officially the WORST place to ship wine to from Europe in the lower 48! Steamship Line consolidations and other ‘market forces’ have made even Portland better than here. As an example, my last container from France took 3 weeks to get to Portland, then another week to Seattle, then – and this is truly appalling – it took a week to get the can out of NW Container and deliver it to my door! A week, for three lousy miles! While 'they' don't make it easy for me, I continue to make it easy for you, providing unique, authentic and acclaimed wines at unbeatable prices. So in a sense, my suffering becomes your satisfaction when you enjoy a bottle from MILLESIME - it's what all the hair-pulling and frustration are about! Thanks for your support!
Wednesday, November 08, 2006
ANWILKA
Bruno Prats of Cos d'Estournel and Hubert de Bouard of l'Angélus have entered into a joint venture with Klein Constantia to produce Anwilka, and 2005 is the début. Parker calls it “the finest red wine I have ever had from South Africa....”
2005 Stellenbosch Cabernet Syrah “Anwilka”
42,000 bottles were produced, of which 12,000 were kept for South Africa. Out of the remaining 30,000 bottles for the ENTIRE WORLD, Millesime has secured a significant portion of this historical wine at one of the better prices around - the wine will arrive around the end of November in time for the Alcoholiday Season - reserve some now!
Full Parker 'tease' posted on the Bulletin Board 03/18/06:
"Funny to me commenting on this wine after tasting 225+ rather astonishing 2005 Bordeaux this week,but this is the finest red wine I have ever had from South Africa....a partnership of Bruno Prats,Hubert de Bouard,and the Klein Constantia folks.This debut release, the 2005,a blend of 37% syrah and the balance cabernet sauvignon,is world class stuff....as one might expect from the people behind it....the first release...there are 42,000 bottles from their vineyards in Stellenbosch,and it is priced to sell for about $40-45 in the USA...release is imminent....exceptional wine...."
Wednesday, November 01, 2006
Domaine du Coulet - Cornas
Another major 'coup' for MILLESIME is top-drawer Cornas producer, Matthieu Barret of Domaine du Coulet. Last year's 2003 version of Barret's 'entry level' Cornas "Terrases du Serre" made Parker flip: "unquestionably one of the appellation’s “wines of the vintage", 91-94pts.
The "Billes Noires" however is more a La Mouline, a 150 case micro-cuvee that is by definition limited. Yields are 5-8hl/ha, and we thought the 15hl/ha of the Terrasses was impressive! Introduced in the 2004 vintage, "Les Billes Noires", or "Black Marbles" from the Arlettes vineyard is completely destemmed before vinification. Both the Terrasses and the Billes are very impressive, primal, dense and tarry wines that are dripping with terroir. Barret's vineyards are indeed exceptional and have long been coveted by the big names in Cornas. Barret has exploded to the top level of the appellation in just a few years. A certain 'star' broker in New York somehow alienated Monsieur Barret, resulting in Millesime securing a third of the production of Billes Noires, of which I have 180 blles left to sell. There are 180 blles of the "Terrasses" Cuvee as well.
The domaine has always been managed in 'biodynamie' and was recently certified by Ecocert and Biodyvin.
2004 CORNAS "TERRASSES DU SERRE"
2004 CORNAS "BILLES NOIRES"
Tuesday, October 24, 2006
Holiday Bubbles
CHAMPAGNE BARON-FUENTEMillésime is proud to be the US source for Champagne Baron-Fuenté. I spent 3 years in Champagne and have a fair bit of experience with these wines. This small house has everything I was looking for: tiny bead, great intensity, that heavenly creamy texture that comes only from prolonged ageing on the lees, awards across Europe, and very competitive prices!
Baron-Fuente is a small family-run House located in the Aisne making champagnes that stand up to those of the 'fancy' (90+ rated) villages of the Marne with a much better QPR. Gabriel Baron and his wife Dolorès Fuentes founded Champagne Baron-Fuenté in 1967 from one single hectare of vineyards. Today Baron Fuenté produce a wide range of exceptional Champagne from 50 hectares of vineyards (of which the House of Champagne Baron-Fuenté owns half). Located in Charly-sur-Marne, these vineyards are planted on the best sites overlooking the river Marne. A full range of superbly crafted, elegant champagnes is produced that are regulars in the various winners’ circles, from Brussels to Mâcon by way of Paris and the Guide Hachette.
GRANDE RESERVE EXTRA BRUT (3G/L)
MDO Bruxelles, Mâcon 2005
60% Meunier
30% Chardonnay
10% Pinot Noir
Superb creamy champagne with exquisite richness and definition.
CUVEE GALIPETTES BRUT ORGANIC ECOCERT
MDO Mâcon 2006
70% Meunier
25% Chardonnay
5% Pinot Noir
BRUT ROSE "DOLORES"
Gold Medal Effervescents du Monde 2005
Gold Medal Best Rosé London Wine Challenge 2003
Gold Medal Mondial de Bruxelles 2003
Gold Medal Mâcon 2003
40% Meunier
40% Chardonnay
20 % Pinot Noir
This is easily the best rose champagne around for anything near the price.
1999 BRUT "GRAND MILLESIME"
Gold Medal Mâcon 2006
45% Chardonnay
40% Meunier
15% Pinot Noir
Superb Vintage example.
CAVAS HILLThe origins of this winery with the funny English name "Cavas Hill" goes back to the 1660s when a certain Joseph Hill immigrated to the Penedes and began growing vines at the "El Maset" estate. In 1887 his descendents founded a winery bearing the name Hill. In 1918, underground cellars were dug and production of first-rate sparkling wines (cavas) began.
These cavas are "méthode champenoise" and in the case of the Reserva Oro exceeds minimum champagne aging standards by 250%! They are superb examples that easily stand up to French champagnes that are 3x the price. Cheaper cavas are needless to say utterly dwarfed by these wines. Having lived three years in the heart of Champagne (I lived first in Bisseuil then in Epernay, I worked in Aÿ), I mean it when I say that these cavas are superior in quality and complexity to many available French champagnes. Not for mimosas! Enjoying top quality sparkling wines does not need to break the bank.
Reserva Oro Brut Nature:
45% Macabeo
40% Parellada
15% Xarel.lo
Aged a minimum of 30 months on the lees (French champagne has a minimum of 12 months), the bead is tiny, the nose toasty, doughy, floral and mineral. On the palate, a most seductive, creamy richness.
Reserva Artesania Brut de Brut 2003:
45% Macabeo
35% Xarel.lo
20% Parellada
Aged a minimum of 3 years on the lees, the same as for vintage champagnes, but for around 1/4 of the cheapest French vintage. 1g/l dosage. Microscopic bubbles. Toasty doughy nose of 'viennoiserie'. Absolutely stunning richness, class, and value! Amazingly silky, creamy and elegant texture.
Reserva Artesania Brut Rosado:
60% Garnacha
40% Monastrell
Aged 24 months on the lees. Vibrant, lively rosé that is really hard to compete with.
Monday, September 18, 2006
Fall Arrivals
CHAMPAGNE BARON-FUENTE
Small family-run House located in the Aisne making champagnes that stand up to those of the 'fancy' (90+ rated) villages of the Marne. A full range of superbly crafted, elegant champagnes is produced and we will have a few standouts for the alcoholidays.
GRANDE RESERVE EXTRA BRUT (3G/L)
CUVEE GALIPETTES BRUT ORGANIC ECOCERT
BRUT ROSE "DOLORES"
1999 BRUT "GRAND MILLESIME"
LUC ET FABRICE MARTIN
This pair has fashioned some of the hottest insider wines in the Loire over the last decade, piling up awards at Paris and other top shows. They make very little of each wine and all are very tough to come by, even in France. It’s almost impossible to find older vintages and a number of US importers have tried to gain the rights to this property over the last several years but the winery is not interested in being just another Loire winery in a crowded portfolio. They know what they have and that is at the level of the top names in the region. As an example, past vintages of their SGN are somewhat mythical in Europe.
2005 COTEAUX DU LAYON “VIEILLES VIGNES”
2004 COTEAUX DU LAYON “PRESTIGE” (MDO PARIS)
2002 COTEAUX DU LAYON “SGN” (500ML LYS, TROPHEE OR)
CHATEAU LES QUATRE FILLES
Le Quatre Filles is one of the last unknown decorated vintners in the
Rhone that ‘le Grand Bob’ has yet to discover (thus the outstanding
price/value). This is their 7th straight award winning vintage in
France and I'm quite sure 2005 has produced examples that will
be very highly sought after by collectors around Europe and the
world. I am one of two US sources. All wines are certified organic ECOCERT.
2005 COTES DU RHONE ROUGE (GOLD MEDAL SIGNATURE BIO)
2005 COTES DU RHONE VILLAGES CAIRANNE ROUGE
2005 COTES DU RHONE VILLAGES ROCHEGUDE ROUGE
DOMAINE DES ESCARAVAILLES
This estate is named for a medieval order of penitent monks known as the scarabs who had their abbey on the property. The current philosophy practiced is much more pleasing to the senses with rich and hedonistic wines that have caught the attention of “le Grand Bob”, as well as an 18/20 in Decanter for the Rasteau “La Ponce”. The consulting oenologist is the celebrated Philippe Cambie and the wines have more than a little ‘chateauneuf’ to them. Yields are miniscule and interventions are minimal. Millesime has the lowest prices in the US for these wines.
2005 COTES DU RHONE VILLAGES CAIRANNE ROUGE “LE VENTABREN”
2004 COTES DU RHONE VILLAGES RASTEAU ROUGE “LA PONCE” WA87-90
2005 COTES DU RHONE VILLAGES RASTEAU ROUGE “HERITAGE 1924”
CHATEAU LA DECELLE
John Beal dealt with this estate back in the 80s and since those days they have been unavailable here. Over the years, I've noticed solid marks from Decanter and lots of medals in France. I figured I'd get the ball rolling with their top cuvee, the Saint Paul. Inky, explosive, and plenty classy. Gold Medal winner at the "Concours des Vignerons Independants" 2006.
2004 COTES DU RHONE VILLAGES VALREAS ROUGE “SAINT PAUL”
DOMAINE DU COULET
Another major 'coup' for MILLESIME is top-drawer Cornas producer, Matthieu Barret of Domaine du Coulet. Last year's 2003 version of Barret's entry level Cornas "Terrases du Serre" made Parker flip: "unquestionably one of the appellation’s “wines of the vintage", 91-94pts.
The "Billes Noires" however is more a La Mouline, a 150 case micro-cuvee that is by definition limited. Yields are 5-8hl/ha!!! A certain 'star' broker in New York somehow alienated Monsieur Barret, resulting in Millesime securing a third of the production, of which I have 120 blles left to sell. There are 120 blles of the "Terrasses" Cuvee as well.
2004 CORNAS "TERRASSES DU SERRE"
2004 CORNAS "BILLES NOIRES"
ANWILKA - STELLENBOSCH
MILLESIME's first ever South African wine. 42000 bottles were produced with only 30000 for the market outside of South Africa. Millesime has secured and sold a significant percentage, with 360 blles left for sale. RP posted the following comment on his board on 03/18:
"Funny to me commenting on this wine after tasting 225+ rather astonishing 2005 Bordeaux this week,but this is the finest red wine I have ever had from South Africa....a partnership of Bruno Prats,Hubert de Bouard,and the Klein Constantia folks.This debut release, the 2005,a blend of 37% syrah and the balance cabernet sauvignon,is world class stuff....as one might expect from the people behind it....the first release...there are 42,000 bottles from their vineyards in Stellenbosch,and it is priced to sell for about $40-45 in the USA...release is imminent....exceptional wine...."
2005 STELLENBOSCH RED
Small family-run House located in the Aisne making champagnes that stand up to those of the 'fancy' (90+ rated) villages of the Marne. A full range of superbly crafted, elegant champagnes is produced and we will have a few standouts for the alcoholidays.
GRANDE RESERVE EXTRA BRUT (3G/L)
CUVEE GALIPETTES BRUT ORGANIC ECOCERT
BRUT ROSE "DOLORES"
1999 BRUT "GRAND MILLESIME"
LUC ET FABRICE MARTIN
This pair has fashioned some of the hottest insider wines in the Loire over the last decade, piling up awards at Paris and other top shows. They make very little of each wine and all are very tough to come by, even in France. It’s almost impossible to find older vintages and a number of US importers have tried to gain the rights to this property over the last several years but the winery is not interested in being just another Loire winery in a crowded portfolio. They know what they have and that is at the level of the top names in the region. As an example, past vintages of their SGN are somewhat mythical in Europe.
2005 COTEAUX DU LAYON “VIEILLES VIGNES”
2004 COTEAUX DU LAYON “PRESTIGE” (MDO PARIS)
2002 COTEAUX DU LAYON “SGN” (500ML LYS, TROPHEE OR)
CHATEAU LES QUATRE FILLES
Le Quatre Filles is one of the last unknown decorated vintners in the
Rhone that ‘le Grand Bob’ has yet to discover (thus the outstanding
price/value). This is their 7th straight award winning vintage in
France and I'm quite sure 2005 has produced examples that will
be very highly sought after by collectors around Europe and the
world. I am one of two US sources. All wines are certified organic ECOCERT.
2005 COTES DU RHONE ROUGE (GOLD MEDAL SIGNATURE BIO)
2005 COTES DU RHONE VILLAGES CAIRANNE ROUGE
2005 COTES DU RHONE VILLAGES ROCHEGUDE ROUGE
DOMAINE DES ESCARAVAILLES
This estate is named for a medieval order of penitent monks known as the scarabs who had their abbey on the property. The current philosophy practiced is much more pleasing to the senses with rich and hedonistic wines that have caught the attention of “le Grand Bob”, as well as an 18/20 in Decanter for the Rasteau “La Ponce”. The consulting oenologist is the celebrated Philippe Cambie and the wines have more than a little ‘chateauneuf’ to them. Yields are miniscule and interventions are minimal. Millesime has the lowest prices in the US for these wines.
2005 COTES DU RHONE VILLAGES CAIRANNE ROUGE “LE VENTABREN”
2004 COTES DU RHONE VILLAGES RASTEAU ROUGE “LA PONCE” WA87-90
2005 COTES DU RHONE VILLAGES RASTEAU ROUGE “HERITAGE 1924”
CHATEAU LA DECELLE
John Beal dealt with this estate back in the 80s and since those days they have been unavailable here. Over the years, I've noticed solid marks from Decanter and lots of medals in France. I figured I'd get the ball rolling with their top cuvee, the Saint Paul. Inky, explosive, and plenty classy. Gold Medal winner at the "Concours des Vignerons Independants" 2006.
2004 COTES DU RHONE VILLAGES VALREAS ROUGE “SAINT PAUL”
DOMAINE DU COULET
Another major 'coup' for MILLESIME is top-drawer Cornas producer, Matthieu Barret of Domaine du Coulet. Last year's 2003 version of Barret's entry level Cornas "Terrases du Serre" made Parker flip: "unquestionably one of the appellation’s “wines of the vintage", 91-94pts.
The "Billes Noires" however is more a La Mouline, a 150 case micro-cuvee that is by definition limited. Yields are 5-8hl/ha!!! A certain 'star' broker in New York somehow alienated Monsieur Barret, resulting in Millesime securing a third of the production, of which I have 120 blles left to sell. There are 120 blles of the "Terrasses" Cuvee as well.
2004 CORNAS "TERRASSES DU SERRE"
2004 CORNAS "BILLES NOIRES"
ANWILKA - STELLENBOSCH
MILLESIME's first ever South African wine. 42000 bottles were produced with only 30000 for the market outside of South Africa. Millesime has secured and sold a significant percentage, with 360 blles left for sale. RP posted the following comment on his board on 03/18:
"Funny to me commenting on this wine after tasting 225+ rather astonishing 2005 Bordeaux this week,but this is the finest red wine I have ever had from South Africa....a partnership of Bruno Prats,Hubert de Bouard,and the Klein Constantia folks.This debut release, the 2005,a blend of 37% syrah and the balance cabernet sauvignon,is world class stuff....as one might expect from the people behind it....the first release...there are 42,000 bottles from their vineyards in Stellenbosch,and it is priced to sell for about $40-45 in the USA...release is imminent....exceptional wine...."
2005 STELLENBOSCH RED
Tuesday, May 23, 2006
June French Arrivals
CHATEAU LES BERTRANDS
I 'discovered' this estate back in 2000 at a Bordeaux satellite trade show in France. Bertrands wines are always dark, lush and quite delightful examples. The Chateau's regularity of quality over the years is really quite exceptional.
2005 PREMIERES COTES DE BLAYE BLANC - 85% sauvignon blanc, 15% muscadelle. Super attractive with nice weight.
2003 PREMIERES COTES DE BLAYE ROUGE "TRADITION" - Those of you who enjoyed the 2000 and 2002 will find a lot to like here in this lusty claret, composed of 70% merlot and 30% Cab. Franc. Very deep, with cassis and other dark fruits.
2003 PREMIERES COTES DE BLAYE ROUGE "PRESTIGE" - Those of you who enjoyed the 2001 will find much more to like here in this hedonistic example, composed of 60% merlot and 35% Cab. Sauv., 5% Cab. Franc. Very deep, with cassis and other dark fruits on a frame of velvety tannins, with delicate and judicious oak. One of the best QPR wines I've seen in ages!
2003 BLAYE ROUGE "NECTAR DES BERTRANDS" - Sorry, SOLD OUT. There will be 2004 down the road...
CH. MERCIER
- Philippe Chéty of Mercier is the originator of the minimally interventionist "culture raisonée" philosophy. The wines are regulars in the various Winner's Circles.
2003 COTES DE BOURG ROUGE "PRESTIGE" - Those who loved the 2001 will be delighted to discover the 2003, also a Gold medal winner at the Paris Concours Général.
2003 COTES DE BOURG ROUGE "CLOS DU PIAT" - Those who fondly remember the 2000 will be delighted with this fine claret.
VIGNOBLES JEAN PETIT
-These two fine libournais wines make their return to Seattle with the triumphant 2003s.
2003 COTES DE CASTILLON CH. LA BRANDE - Juicy, dusty, superb 'baby' St-Emilion.
2003 SAINT-EMILION GRAND CRU CH. MANGOT - Gold medal winner at the 2005 CVI Competition. That's the "Concours des Vignerons Independants", wines produced under the "Vigneron Independant" label.. Looking for a superb SEGC at a great price? look no further.
CH. FERRAN
- A new estate and a new category for Millesime - Pessac Leognan. Ferran is not to be confused with the more widely available Ferrande. These are extremely limited, special wines that I am proud to bring in for you!
2004 PESSAC LEOGNAN BLANC
2003 PESSAC LEOGNAN ROUGE - Sorry, sold out! I will try and get more of this delightful Graves.
CH. LYNCH MOUSSAS
What's this? A Cru Classé? OK it's only a fifth growth but Lynch Moussas was a real overachiever in 2003, getting a ***** Decanter award along with Cos and Latour - with special mention for value, unlike those two. Parker has traditionally hated this wine as the style is rather more English than what he typically likes but he grudgingly gave 88 to the 2003.
2003 PAUILLAC 5IEME CRU CLASSE
TBC
I 'discovered' this estate back in 2000 at a Bordeaux satellite trade show in France. Bertrands wines are always dark, lush and quite delightful examples. The Chateau's regularity of quality over the years is really quite exceptional.
2005 PREMIERES COTES DE BLAYE BLANC - 85% sauvignon blanc, 15% muscadelle. Super attractive with nice weight.
2003 PREMIERES COTES DE BLAYE ROUGE "TRADITION" - Those of you who enjoyed the 2000 and 2002 will find a lot to like here in this lusty claret, composed of 70% merlot and 30% Cab. Franc. Very deep, with cassis and other dark fruits.
2003 PREMIERES COTES DE BLAYE ROUGE "PRESTIGE" - Those of you who enjoyed the 2001 will find much more to like here in this hedonistic example, composed of 60% merlot and 35% Cab. Sauv., 5% Cab. Franc. Very deep, with cassis and other dark fruits on a frame of velvety tannins, with delicate and judicious oak. One of the best QPR wines I've seen in ages!
2003 BLAYE ROUGE "NECTAR DES BERTRANDS" - Sorry, SOLD OUT. There will be 2004 down the road...
CH. MERCIER
- Philippe Chéty of Mercier is the originator of the minimally interventionist "culture raisonée" philosophy. The wines are regulars in the various Winner's Circles.2003 COTES DE BOURG ROUGE "PRESTIGE" - Those who loved the 2001 will be delighted to discover the 2003, also a Gold medal winner at the Paris Concours Général.
2003 COTES DE BOURG ROUGE "CLOS DU PIAT" - Those who fondly remember the 2000 will be delighted with this fine claret.
VIGNOBLES JEAN PETIT
-These two fine libournais wines make their return to Seattle with the triumphant 2003s.2003 COTES DE CASTILLON CH. LA BRANDE - Juicy, dusty, superb 'baby' St-Emilion.
2003 SAINT-EMILION GRAND CRU CH. MANGOT - Gold medal winner at the 2005 CVI Competition. That's the "Concours des Vignerons Independants", wines produced under the "Vigneron Independant" label.. Looking for a superb SEGC at a great price? look no further.
CH. FERRAN
- A new estate and a new category for Millesime - Pessac Leognan. Ferran is not to be confused with the more widely available Ferrande. These are extremely limited, special wines that I am proud to bring in for you!2004 PESSAC LEOGNAN BLANC
2003 PESSAC LEOGNAN ROUGE - Sorry, sold out! I will try and get more of this delightful Graves.
CH. LYNCH MOUSSAS
What's this? A Cru Classé? OK it's only a fifth growth but Lynch Moussas was a real overachiever in 2003, getting a ***** Decanter award along with Cos and Latour - with special mention for value, unlike those two. Parker has traditionally hated this wine as the style is rather more English than what he typically likes but he grudgingly gave 88 to the 2003.
2003 PAUILLAC 5IEME CRU CLASSE
TBC
Monday, March 27, 2006
May French Arrivals
New French wines have arrived at Millesime! This is the best group that I've put together thus far, really amazing wines here, including a number of firsts.
DOMAINE TABORDET
After superb 2002s, extraordinarily successful 2003s, we are back to form with the more classic 2004s and now 2005. This team of brothers produces exquisitely racy floral and mineral laden wines. Critically acclaimed in France, where they are bistrot favorites, in Seattle they are priced several trade levels below the competition.
2005 SANCERRE BLANC - Balanced, fruity, floral and mineral effort. This is easily the best Sancerre Blanc available in Seattle for the price.
2004 POUILLY FUME - Weightier than the Sancerre, this qualifies as a 'screaming deal' - a stunning example priced well below market. ** in the 2006 Guide Hachette with the best qp/r in the entire appellation.
2005 SANCERRE ROSE - Love them or hate them, global warming has been good to Sancerre Rose (and also the Red). Delicate, but in no way wimpy, hight-toned fruit with great class.
CAVE DE SAUMUR
Speaking of a return to the classics, the 2004 Saumurs fit the bill. Lots more acidity than 2003, but still plenty juicy, with much better balance.
2004 SAUMUR BLANC RESERVE DES VIGNERONS - More like the 2002, but richer and with excellent acid.
2005 CABERNET DE SAUMUR RESERVE DES VIGNERONS - Delightful rosé of Cabernet Franc, practically unheard of in the USA.
2004 SAUMUR ROUGE RESERVE DES VIGNERONS - This is much more typical than the 2003 which was something of an oddball. Very good color and concentration nevertheless in this medium-bodied example, with nothing like the weediness of past years.
2004 SAUMUR-CHAMPIGNY "LES POYEUX" - The cheapest champigny available is also a deeply colored, rich example of great Loire Cab. Franc that is eminently satisfying.
VIGNERONS DE LA NOELLE
When I tried these guys' wine I became a believer, and I never thought that I'd say that about Muscadet! Well, I'm still staying away from Gros Plant!
2005 MUSCADET DE SEVRE ET MAINE SUR LIE "L'AUBINIERE" -
DOMAINE AUX MOINES
I became familiar in the 1990s (and fell in love) with this estate during my days working for a broker in France. It answers my desire for higher end Chenin quite nicely.
2004 SAVENNIERES ROCHE AUX MOINES SEC - Crazy complex, citrus, flowers, mineral, super classy.
2002 SAVENNIERES ROCHE AUX MOINES MOELLEUX "CUVEE DES NONNES" - This wine won a ** Coup de Coeur in the 2005 Guide Hachette. This is the late-harvest or 'moelleux' style with residual sugars tempering the raciness of the Chenin. Citrus, white flowers, and a finish a mile long. Shockingly, the domaine still had some left of this. Link to GH review is here: GH pdf
CHATEAU LES BERTRANDS
I 'discovered' this estate back in 2000 at a Bordeaux satellite trade show in France. Bertrands wines are always dark, lush and quite delightful examples. The Chateau's regularity of quality over the years is really quite exceptional.
2003 PREMIERES COTES DE BLAYE ROUGE "PRESTIGE" - Those of you who enjoyed the 2001 will find much more to like here in this lusty claret, composed of 60% merlot and 35% Cab. Sauv., 5% Cab. Franc. Very deep, with cassis and other dark fruits on a frame of velvety tannins, with delicate and judicious oak. One of the best QPR wines I've seen in ages!
DOMAINE LES GRAVES D'ARDONNEAU
- First time ever imported to the USA! This Blaye estate is regularly on top of the field with two Coup de Coeurs in the 2006 Guide Hachette.
2004 PREMIERES COTES DE BLAYE BLANC "PRESTIGE"
2003 PREMIERES COTES DE BLAYE ROUGE "PRESTIGE"
2003 PREMIERES COTES DE BLAYE ROUGE "GRAND VIN"
CH. MERCIER
- Philippe Chéty of Mercier is the originator of the minimally interventionist "culture raisonée" philosophy. The wines are regulars in the various Winner's Circles.
2003 COTES DE BOURG ROUGE - Those who missed their chance the last time around on the 2001 will be delighted to discover this fine claret. Gold medal at Bourg, i.e. a tasting of its peers.
2003 COTES DE BOURG ROUGE "PRESTIGE" - Those who loved the 2001 will be delighted to discover the 2003, also a Gold medal winner at the Paris Concours Général.
DOMAINE DU CORNE LOUP
- This gold medal winning estate returns with a lovely Tavel. The domaine’s name derives from the dark days when a villager was designated to signal the arrival of wolves by blowing a horn.
2005 TAVEL – While Tavel is one of France’s great rose wines, it need not be one of the most expensive. Again, this is what happens when you work directly with the producers - a superb 2005 at a 90s price!
DOMAINE DES ESCARAVAILLES
Interest was strong for the BUG wines, before they got the press! MILLESIME has the lowest prices in the country for these incredible wines. Some of the wines (not even the best ones) were reviewed in the 02/06 WA, and the importer named is Martin Scott in NY. The prices quoted are interesting, in the sense that shipping from France to NY costs about half of shipping to Seattle, and Martin Scott certainly isn't paying more for the wine than I do. Basically my prices are a FRACTION of theirs. How? Why? I guess I'd rather make friends than money. Maybe I have some things to learn...
2004 COTES DU RHONE ROUGE "ANTIMAGNES" - The entry level red is 70% Grenache, 30% Syrah. Big, powerful wine for its price range. reviewed by Parker 02/06 (barrel tasted last September)) 85-87
2003 COTES DU RHONE VILLAGES ROUGE RASTEAU "LA PONCE" - **** 18/20 in Decanter, 90WA. The experts agree. The best price in the USA, by a MILE.
2003 COTES DU RHONE VILLAGES ROUGE "SASSIRA" Up to now unreviewed, but watch the price when it does... 85% Syrah, this wine is nothing like any CDRV I've tasted, it's rather more like a good Cote-Rotie.
2004 COTES DU RHONE VILLAGES RASTEAU "HERITAGE 1924" - So named for the vineyard, planted in 1924. Parker refers to the "Ponce" as the "star of the portfolio", but that's only because he hasn't tasted this. When he does, watch out! Dwarfs just about any Chateauneuf, let alone the CDRVs in its price range.
2003 RASTEAU VIN DOUX NATUREL ROUGE - 100% "Very old" grenache. Deeply colored, rich and unctuous concoction of fruits chocolate and spices. Finish several miles long EXTREMELY rare, yet priced the same as the Rasteau Co-op offering in this market. I've actually tasted the entire range of Rasteau VDN at the Cave itself and can tell you that they have never made one to compete with this.
DOMAINE TABORDET
After superb 2002s, extraordinarily successful 2003s, we are back to form with the more classic 2004s and now 2005. This team of brothers produces exquisitely racy floral and mineral laden wines. Critically acclaimed in France, where they are bistrot favorites, in Seattle they are priced several trade levels below the competition.
2005 SANCERRE BLANC - Balanced, fruity, floral and mineral effort. This is easily the best Sancerre Blanc available in Seattle for the price.
2004 POUILLY FUME - Weightier than the Sancerre, this qualifies as a 'screaming deal' - a stunning example priced well below market. ** in the 2006 Guide Hachette with the best qp/r in the entire appellation.
2005 SANCERRE ROSE - Love them or hate them, global warming has been good to Sancerre Rose (and also the Red). Delicate, but in no way wimpy, hight-toned fruit with great class.
CAVE DE SAUMUR
Speaking of a return to the classics, the 2004 Saumurs fit the bill. Lots more acidity than 2003, but still plenty juicy, with much better balance.
2004 SAUMUR BLANC RESERVE DES VIGNERONS - More like the 2002, but richer and with excellent acid.
2005 CABERNET DE SAUMUR RESERVE DES VIGNERONS - Delightful rosé of Cabernet Franc, practically unheard of in the USA.
2004 SAUMUR ROUGE RESERVE DES VIGNERONS - This is much more typical than the 2003 which was something of an oddball. Very good color and concentration nevertheless in this medium-bodied example, with nothing like the weediness of past years.
2004 SAUMUR-CHAMPIGNY "LES POYEUX" - The cheapest champigny available is also a deeply colored, rich example of great Loire Cab. Franc that is eminently satisfying.
VIGNERONS DE LA NOELLE
When I tried these guys' wine I became a believer, and I never thought that I'd say that about Muscadet! Well, I'm still staying away from Gros Plant!
2005 MUSCADET DE SEVRE ET MAINE SUR LIE "L'AUBINIERE" -
DOMAINE AUX MOINES
I became familiar in the 1990s (and fell in love) with this estate during my days working for a broker in France. It answers my desire for higher end Chenin quite nicely.
2004 SAVENNIERES ROCHE AUX MOINES SEC - Crazy complex, citrus, flowers, mineral, super classy.
2002 SAVENNIERES ROCHE AUX MOINES MOELLEUX "CUVEE DES NONNES" - This wine won a ** Coup de Coeur in the 2005 Guide Hachette. This is the late-harvest or 'moelleux' style with residual sugars tempering the raciness of the Chenin. Citrus, white flowers, and a finish a mile long. Shockingly, the domaine still had some left of this. Link to GH review is here: GH pdf
CHATEAU LES BERTRANDS
I 'discovered' this estate back in 2000 at a Bordeaux satellite trade show in France. Bertrands wines are always dark, lush and quite delightful examples. The Chateau's regularity of quality over the years is really quite exceptional.
2003 PREMIERES COTES DE BLAYE ROUGE "PRESTIGE" - Those of you who enjoyed the 2001 will find much more to like here in this lusty claret, composed of 60% merlot and 35% Cab. Sauv., 5% Cab. Franc. Very deep, with cassis and other dark fruits on a frame of velvety tannins, with delicate and judicious oak. One of the best QPR wines I've seen in ages!
DOMAINE LES GRAVES D'ARDONNEAU
- First time ever imported to the USA! This Blaye estate is regularly on top of the field with two Coup de Coeurs in the 2006 Guide Hachette.2004 PREMIERES COTES DE BLAYE BLANC "PRESTIGE"
2003 PREMIERES COTES DE BLAYE ROUGE "PRESTIGE"
2003 PREMIERES COTES DE BLAYE ROUGE "GRAND VIN"
CH. MERCIER
- Philippe Chéty of Mercier is the originator of the minimally interventionist "culture raisonée" philosophy. The wines are regulars in the various Winner's Circles.2003 COTES DE BOURG ROUGE - Those who missed their chance the last time around on the 2001 will be delighted to discover this fine claret. Gold medal at Bourg, i.e. a tasting of its peers.
2003 COTES DE BOURG ROUGE "PRESTIGE" - Those who loved the 2001 will be delighted to discover the 2003, also a Gold medal winner at the Paris Concours Général.
DOMAINE DU CORNE LOUP
- This gold medal winning estate returns with a lovely Tavel. The domaine’s name derives from the dark days when a villager was designated to signal the arrival of wolves by blowing a horn.2005 TAVEL – While Tavel is one of France’s great rose wines, it need not be one of the most expensive. Again, this is what happens when you work directly with the producers - a superb 2005 at a 90s price!
DOMAINE DES ESCARAVAILLES
Interest was strong for the BUG wines, before they got the press! MILLESIME has the lowest prices in the country for these incredible wines. Some of the wines (not even the best ones) were reviewed in the 02/06 WA, and the importer named is Martin Scott in NY. The prices quoted are interesting, in the sense that shipping from France to NY costs about half of shipping to Seattle, and Martin Scott certainly isn't paying more for the wine than I do. Basically my prices are a FRACTION of theirs. How? Why? I guess I'd rather make friends than money. Maybe I have some things to learn...2004 COTES DU RHONE ROUGE "ANTIMAGNES" - The entry level red is 70% Grenache, 30% Syrah. Big, powerful wine for its price range. reviewed by Parker 02/06 (barrel tasted last September)) 85-87
2003 COTES DU RHONE VILLAGES ROUGE RASTEAU "LA PONCE" - **** 18/20 in Decanter, 90WA. The experts agree. The best price in the USA, by a MILE.
2003 COTES DU RHONE VILLAGES ROUGE "SASSIRA" Up to now unreviewed, but watch the price when it does... 85% Syrah, this wine is nothing like any CDRV I've tasted, it's rather more like a good Cote-Rotie.
2004 COTES DU RHONE VILLAGES RASTEAU "HERITAGE 1924" - So named for the vineyard, planted in 1924. Parker refers to the "Ponce" as the "star of the portfolio", but that's only because he hasn't tasted this. When he does, watch out! Dwarfs just about any Chateauneuf, let alone the CDRVs in its price range.
2003 RASTEAU VIN DOUX NATUREL ROUGE - 100% "Very old" grenache. Deeply colored, rich and unctuous concoction of fruits chocolate and spices. Finish several miles long EXTREMELY rare, yet priced the same as the Rasteau Co-op offering in this market. I've actually tasted the entire range of Rasteau VDN at the Cave itself and can tell you that they have never made one to compete with this.
Saturday, March 25, 2006
June Spanish Arrivals
An exciting shipment of Spanish wines arrives at MILLESIME in early
june.
BODEGAS BLEDA
2005 CASTILLO DE JUMILLA MONASTRELL ROSADO - Bandol this! Superb and complex rose for a joke of a price.
2004 CASTILLO DE JUMILLA MONASTRELL This is the best entry level mourvedre wine that I have ever seen. The proof that southern Spain is best suited to this 'difficult' varietal.
2003 DIVUS MONASTRELL - The high end wine from Bleda is I think the finest expression of the mourvedre for the price. I have never had a Bandol that I liked better than this wine.
CAVAS HILL - These cavas can easily stand against many available Champagnes at a fraction of the price. They are toasty, doughy, very rich, and bone-dry!
RESERVA ORO BRUT ROSADO - Selected by the Guia Penin, this is one superb sparkling rosado - 60% grenache 40% mourvedre.
2003 RESERVA ARTESANIA BRUT NATURE - The vintage version offers up even more 'Bolly' style dough with an incredible creamy texture.
NINO JESUS - A US exclusive for Millésime with a real cult following. NJ has some of the oldest grenache vines in Spain, with great natural balance and power! I got in on the ground floor with their second vintage (2001), and those of you who have tasted any of the 2003s know that they were stellar. This time around, we have:
2004 ESTECILLO BLANCO - 100% macabeo. I ordered the 2005, but they shipped 2004 by 'mistake'. I said 'guys, you're going to have to slash the price' - they did and you win. Rich, oily and nutty wine is way more complex than its price.
2004 ESTECILLO ROSADO - 100% garnacha, rich Tavel-weight rose. Same scenario as above on the vintage.
2004 ESTECILLO TINTO JOVEN - A blend of 85% Garnacha and 15% Tempranillo. It has major extraction and depth, with stunning length of finish. There are a number of good wines now available from Calatayud (many more than last year when I started with Niño Jesús), but I don't think any of them are up to the level of this Estecillo, which is powerful like the 2003, but much more elegant.
2003 ESTECILLO "LEGADO" VINAS VIEJAS - Pure old-vine grenache from high-altitude vineyards, the finest block of vines in all of Calatayud create this utterly breathtaking wine. Those of you know and love the 2001 will be blown away by the 2003. The last of several shipments of this truly memorable wine.
june.
BODEGAS BLEDA
2005 CASTILLO DE JUMILLA MONASTRELL ROSADO - Bandol this! Superb and complex rose for a joke of a price.
2004 CASTILLO DE JUMILLA MONASTRELL This is the best entry level mourvedre wine that I have ever seen. The proof that southern Spain is best suited to this 'difficult' varietal.
2003 DIVUS MONASTRELL - The high end wine from Bleda is I think the finest expression of the mourvedre for the price. I have never had a Bandol that I liked better than this wine.
CAVAS HILL - These cavas can easily stand against many available Champagnes at a fraction of the price. They are toasty, doughy, very rich, and bone-dry!
RESERVA ORO BRUT ROSADO - Selected by the Guia Penin, this is one superb sparkling rosado - 60% grenache 40% mourvedre.
2003 RESERVA ARTESANIA BRUT NATURE - The vintage version offers up even more 'Bolly' style dough with an incredible creamy texture.
NINO JESUS - A US exclusive for Millésime with a real cult following. NJ has some of the oldest grenache vines in Spain, with great natural balance and power! I got in on the ground floor with their second vintage (2001), and those of you who have tasted any of the 2003s know that they were stellar. This time around, we have:
2004 ESTECILLO BLANCO - 100% macabeo. I ordered the 2005, but they shipped 2004 by 'mistake'. I said 'guys, you're going to have to slash the price' - they did and you win. Rich, oily and nutty wine is way more complex than its price.
2004 ESTECILLO ROSADO - 100% garnacha, rich Tavel-weight rose. Same scenario as above on the vintage.
2004 ESTECILLO TINTO JOVEN - A blend of 85% Garnacha and 15% Tempranillo. It has major extraction and depth, with stunning length of finish. There are a number of good wines now available from Calatayud (many more than last year when I started with Niño Jesús), but I don't think any of them are up to the level of this Estecillo, which is powerful like the 2003, but much more elegant.
2003 ESTECILLO "LEGADO" VINAS VIEJAS - Pure old-vine grenache from high-altitude vineyards, the finest block of vines in all of Calatayud create this utterly breathtaking wine. Those of you know and love the 2001 will be blown away by the 2003. The last of several shipments of this truly memorable wine.
Friday, January 27, 2006
More Milestones!
More milestones have been passed by Millesime! 2000 invoices have been written thus far for one, but more importantly, my pending container will be first for me to be paid off BEFORE the wine arrives! This is a double edged sword in that many of the wines are sold out, so lots of you out there won't have a crack at them. On the upside, however, the turnaround time has been drastically reduced - I am already ordering wines for the next French one. Many of those wines are also presold, so there will be a third French container in time for summer, in addition to a Spanish container arriving late Spring. Yes, there will be a number of 2005 rosés as well as more serious wines. I continue my tireless efforts to bring you the best wines for the money in this market. Thanks to your support, Millesime will continue to grow! Thank you all for taking this trip with me.
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