Below is a sampling of the exciting new wines arriving in stock at PJ’s on a regular basis. To find additional new arrivals please use our Wine Finder and Search feature on your favorite regions and producers regularly.

Argentina | Australia | Chile | France | Germany | Greece | Italy | Spain | USA

Argentina

’06 Viña Cobos “El Felino” Mendoza Malbec $15.99
The El Felino Viña Cobos Malbec, simply put, is a world-class wine that is in a class by itself. It is produced only in exceptional vintages and is made from 80 year old vines. It exhibits levels of concentration and power rarely achieved in Argentina. Varietal correctness, concentration and a great emphasis on the wine’s terroir are the focus of this Argentine standout. The nose is packed with aromas of ripe black cherry and crushed juicy plum, fig and hints of guava paste, cigar ash and warm vanilla bean. Spicy notes of juicy red cherry dominate the palate and are backed by delicate hints of honey blossom, fresh fig, blackberry syrup, warm saddle leather and integrated notes of French oak. This explosive and dramatic Malbec is an elegant and affordable red that is perfect with roast pork or grilled steak.

Australia

’06 Mitolo “Jester” Cabernet Sauvignon (Net) $14.97
“The 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon “Jester” includes 20% dried grapes in the style of Amarone. Purple-colored, it has a fragrant bouquet of black fruits, tar, and violets. This leads to a smooth-textured, layered, dense wine with enough structure to evolve for 4-6 years. It has a long, pure finish and can be enjoyed over the next 15-20 years. It is a superb value in Cabernet Sauvignon.” —WA 92

’06 Torbreck Shiraz “Woodcutter's Shiraz” $15.97
“The 2006 Woodcutter’s Shiraz was sourced from six sub-regions of the Barossa. The wine was aged for 12 months in large, neutral French oak and was bottled unfined and unfiltered. Purple-colored, it has an attractive array of pepper, spicy blackberry, black cherry, and blueberry muffin aromas. Full-bodied and opulent on the palate, the wine delivers gobs of meaty, full-flavored blue and black fruits to accompany its forward, easy-going personality. Drink this incredible value over the next 4-6 years. Torbreck, under the leadership of owner/winemaker David Powell, remains a Barossa Valley benchmark as well as one of the world’s greatest wine estates.” —WA 92

Chile

’06 Terra Andina Valle de Leyda Pinot Noir Reserva $9.99
This wine is proof that Chile can make serious value Pinot Noir — that is, Pinot that tastes like Pinot and delivers ample concentration and liveliness! The nose is an enticing mélange of fresh cut strawberry and hints of orange zest and cranberry. The palate is silky and harmonious with a fantastic spine of acidity that supports more ripe strawberry and hints of plum as well as gentle spice nuances. The structure is ample enough to pair this wine with a wide variety of foods or it can be enjoyed on its own. This is a tremendous value in Pinot Noir!

France

’07 Bieler Père et Fils “Sabine” Coteaux d’Aix en Provence Rosé $9.99
This fruity and refreshing rosé is one of the best values in French rosé available on the market today. The enchanting nose begins with scents of ripe red berry and strawberry plus hints of soft spice and rose petals. The palate is fresh and succulent with red fruit flavors and a hint of mineral spice. It’s excellent on its own, yet it has enough fruit and freshness to pair with foods such as grilled vegetables, charcuterie, seafood and even chicken.

’04 Bruno Colin “Charmois” St. Aubin 1er Cru $43.99
St. Aubin has some of the best white Burgundy values in all of the Côte D’Or, and this excellent Charmois shows why. There is a deft use of wood here, which highlights orange blossom and peach flower aromas on the nose that are backed by unfiltered honey. On the palate, the blossoms round out into ripe peach and orange nectar, which are laced with squeezed apricot and a touch of cereal grain. There is very good ripeness here, and a touch of plush give. The 2004 vintage is an excellent one for white Burgundy and we suggest you snap this up before it’s too late.

’05 Domaine de Chantegut Vacqueyras Grenache Blend $18.99
Grenache is the dominant variety here and it truly thrives in these stony, arid vineyards. The aromatic components Grenache offers up in the glass are a dramatic note of dried orange peel, crushed plum, powerful notes of licorice, tobacco and truffle. The Syrah in this cuvée provides an interesting backdrop of bacon fat, black pepper a dusting of smoked meat scents and saddle leather. The palate is a complex and compelling expression of deep orange-infused chocolate blossoms, blackberry syrup, blueberry pie flavors sans the whip cream on top but with plenty of caramelized crust, crushed stones and a hint of black licorice. The tannis on this gem are beautifully integrated to the wine’s fruit and moderate acidity. This Vacqueyras is is perfect with grilled meat dishes like lamb, pork chops, steak and goat. This is a great winter red that is affordable and drinking very well right now.

’05 Marc Colin “Montceau” St. Aubin 1er Cru $44.99
Give this incredible value in white Burgundy about an hour in a decanter. The nose of this very clean and precise St. Aubin displays beautiful notes of lemon oil and crunchy Granny Smith apple accented by hints of mineral and unsalted butter. On the palate, green apple flesh and green apple skin expand through the mouth where it is joined by candied lemon and hints of almond, grain and wet stone. A great value just hinting at its potential.

’05 Marc Colin et Fils “La Combe” Bourgogne $25.99
Made with fruit from Puligny vines, the nose of this Bourgogne blanc stunner begins with fresh cut lemon that floats in a bowl of cool, lightly salted cream. This is followed by an expansive cloud of stone-infused white truffle that lingers deliciously. On the palate, there is elegant compactness. A rich and creamy mouthfeel leads into crisp apple, accented by fresh toast, a touch of earth and more sexy white truffle.

’05 Marc Colin et Fils “Les Encégnières” Chassagne-Montrachet $59.99
This outstanding single vineyard Chassagne-Montrachet hales from a parcel just beneath Bâtard that has less clay and more limestone than the Puligny side. It is a rich and powerful Chassagne-Montrachet, with a nose of crushed hard apples in a mineral broth, accented by hints of lemon zest, pineapple and rich grain. On the palate, its ample fat is buoyed by a firm spine of acidity, while ripe apple, bread dough, almond skin and crushed stones shift from background to foreground then back again. Finishes with an intriguing silky flex of its muscles.

’05 Domaine du Cros “Lo Sang del Païs” Marcillac $9.99
Now back in stock! Inky and lively, this deep ruby red has aromas that are redolent of violet, black plum, cherry, iron and damp earth. It also offers subtle undertones of Nicoise olive and green pepper. The palate is fresh and supple with ripe and fleshy plum skin flavors and notes of orange rind, more iron and a touch of chocolate. The finish is long, satisfying and inflected with hints of pepper and pansies. Enjoy this delightful wine with a variety of richer dishes like braised chicken, game hen stewed with prunes, succulent veal ravioli in a rich mushroom sauce or roasted lamb with a side of earthy parsnips.

’06 Domaine du Deffends “Rosé d’une Nuit” Coteaux Varois en Provence Rosé $16.99
This medium-bodied Grenache-based rosé is very bright and refreshing, perfect for sipping while sitting on the beach overlooking the sea. The nose is layered with dried red berry notes plus tones of fresh sliced peach and gentle hints of spice. On the palate it is firm and crisp with berry flavors plus hints of dried orange and cranberry. Lively and classic, this superb rosé should not be missed.

’00 Bernard Faurie Hermitage $112.99
This classically styled Hermitage exhibits superb balance and fruit. The nose begins with mélange of dark fruit, iron, violet and hints of wild woody mushrooms. On the palate there is a firm core of minerality around which blackberry and cherry as well as red meat and smoke tones swirl. The finish is long and laced with spice and black truffle plus dried orange peel and iron. Have this wine with a rare, prime strip streak.

’01 Bernard Faurie “Vieilles Vignes” St. Joseph $53.99
Cut from classic cloth this St. Joseph VV shows the vintage’s deep, ripe fruit tempered by a firm, earth-driven minerality. Black cherry and game flirt with licorice and iron on the nose and on the palate there is great concentration and a firm spine of acidity which adds buoyancy to the ample fruit. Drink this St. Joseph with a braised lamb shank and watch the flavors and aromas dilate.

’07 Laurens Marcillac Fer Servadou Rosé $11.99
For those of you who became fans of the compelling little Marcillac Rouge we offered this past winter, we urge you to try this rosé interpretation of Marcillac’s Fer Servadou grape. The nose shows great blackberry and spicy black currant scents plus a characteristic hint of iron and loamy soil. On the very vibrant palate blackberry, cranberry and tart orange flavors are joined by savory minerals and a touch of earth that is offset by modest tannins. This is a mouth-filling and very food friendly wine to quaff or pair with charcuterie, grilled poultry or even richly charred burgers.

’90 Robert Michel Cornas Syrah $77.99
Time has done only favors for this granite-laden Cornas. The nose exudes ripe dark plum followed by beautiful secondary aromas of smoked orange peel, spice, crushed stone and purple flowers. It rolls silkily onto the palate and delivers lacy black fruit and finely crushed stones plus ground flower petals and copious iron tones. Buy a bottle and see how tremendously well a Cornas can age.

’02 Domaine Didier Montchovet Hautes Côtes de Beaune Rouge $17.99
This traditionally styled Burgundy gem is from the excellent 2002 vintage and is both affordable and drinking superbly right now. The nose is all about red fruit with notes of crushed ripe raspberry and strawberry preserves framed by classic Burgundian tones of soil and just a hint of mint leaf. On the palate, you are treated to more of the same pure and concentrated red fruit that weaves effortlessly through the rich earth tones. Overall, the balance between earth and fruit is impeccable and the purity here is very admirable. Enjoy with triple cream brie or pungent cheeses such as Epoisses, rosemary crusted chicken, earthy braised rabbit or rare roast beef.

’05 Roger Neveu Sancerre Rosé $29.99
This Pinot Noir rosé is an exceptional example of the balance and refined quality that can be achieved in Sancerre. The elegant nose shows strawberry and watermelon notes that are interwoven with flinty mineral earth tones. On the palate an ample and integrated acidity lifts the strawberry and watermelon and sets them atop a firm pillar of crushed rocks. Very crisp and refreshing but with enough weight for food, drink this with fresh grilled trout, tuna steaks, sea bass drizzled with olive oil and dusted with fresh herbs, or poultry.

’05 Domaine Parent Bourgogne Pinot Noir $14.99
The nose of this incredible 2005 bargain begins with notes of pure raspberry and dark cherry, backed by game and earth tones plus hints of charcoal. On the light- to medium-bodied palate, very pure cherry flavors lead the way and are supported by more raspberry notes and tones of strawberry and earthy charcoal. Further notes of soft leather and earth unfurl on the balanced finish. This wine is superbly proportioned and pairs very well with charcuterie, roast chicken or pork with an earthy side of mushrooms.

’05 Vincent Paris “Granit 30” Cornas $33.99
“Very juicy, with lots of dark blackberry and boysenberry fruit backed by ripe, fully imbedded tannins. Has fine cut, with a chalky minerality that lurks underneath. Compact for now, this should blossom in the cellar. ” —WS 92

’05 André Perret St. Joseph Grisière $34.99
This great value in northern Rhône is a transparent expression of the powerful yet balanced 2005 vintage. Black fruit and iron meld with smoke and saline on the nose and follow through onto the palate where they are backed by fat and juicy plum. The youth and vigor of this wine make it an excellent choice for pairing with rare beef or braised lamb shank.

’06 Domaine de Pouy VdP des Côtes de Gascogne White $7.99
This bright and very pure white, made from Ugni Blanc and Colombard, shows crushed yellow apple and sweet straw scents on the nose. In the mouth it is crisp and refreshing, showing additional notes of well-defined apple and mineral. This is a perfect everyday white and is great for entertaining.

’03 Redortier Gigondas Grenache Blend $34.99
Plump fruit and a distinctly animal quality are the defining features of this rich Gigondas. The nose is filled with ripe blackberry and black cherry fruit plus hints of fur, game and pepper. On entering the mouth the wine presents dense and juicy fruit that is balanced by iron and black pepper inflections as well as inky nuances. On the long finish peppered black raspberry and meat tones echo. Drink this with thick and succulent pork chops or braised beef.

’07 Domaine de Triennes Provence Rosé $14.99
Talk about pedigree! This winery was started by Jacques Seysses, founder of Domaine Dujac, and Aubert de Villaine, co-owner of Domaine de la Romanée-Conti. A gorgeous pale pink color, the nose of this Provençal standout offers pretty strawberry scents followed by touches of orange peel and mineral spice. The palate is succulent and refined with lively flavors of strawberry and apple melded to hints of lemon peel, chalk and herbs. Racy, rich and very long.

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’05 J. J. Vincent Pouilly-Fuissé $15.99
This PJ's favorite is a brilliant straw yellow with a green tint in the glass. Elegant, white flower and lemony aromas on the nose lead to round, fresh, citrus and mineral flavors on the palate. This Chardonnay has a very clean and balanced character in the mouth and pairs beautifully with seafood, chicken or goat's milk cheeses.

Germany

’06 Schäfer-Fröhlich Riesling Spätlese $28.99
A tremendous wine from Schäfer-Fröhlich. It opens with a cloud of pulverized stone layered among rich peach, nectarine, strawberry and cherry pit tones. The palate is very focused, with more stone fruit riding a pillar of minerality, through which weaves a backbone of vibrant acidity. This is high class juice that can be enjoyed with a variety of foods, from oh-so-hot Szechuan or Thai to grilled bratwurst buried under saurkraut.

’05 Bert Simon Serrig Würtzberg Riesling Spätlese $29.99
Another example of German excellence in 2005. This exceptional Riesling shows its excellence from start to finish. Bright straw in color the nose is rich and layered with scents of lemon, lime, white peach and crushed stone minerality; then accented with lychee, pear and lime pith notes. The palate is deep, succulent, refined and well-structured, expanding with beautiful acidity into a very long, complex and mineral laden finish. Simply a beauty—through and through.

Greece

’05 Pavlou-Kagas “Kappa P35” Xinomavro Greek Rosé $17.99
This is a serious rosé with both weight and structure that is beautifully combined with refreshing crispness. The nose opens with notes of plump, some might say fat, red cherry and spiced red fruit that is backed by tones of damp clay and earth. The palate is outright delicious, with more spiced red fruit followed by sappy cherry and crunchy red apple tones. Finishes with just a hint of orange peel and spice. This wine is a perfect match with char-grilled octopus, or try it with monkfish, chicken or marinated lamb chops.

Italy

’05 Braida “Monte Bruna” Barbera $24.99
Monte Bruna has a deep ruby color in the glass. On the nose, an initial hint of tar opens to spicy cherry and red plum fruit. A dash of oak and a fairly high (14%) alcohol level are all seamlessly integrated in the wine. The Monte Bruna is, however, most exciting on the palate. Cherry liqueur, ripe red fruit, a hint of vanilla and soft but present tannins are beautifully balanced by a thrilling, racy acidity. The finish is persistent and spicy.

’07 Cantalupo “Il Mimo” Nebbiolo Rosé $13.99
This perennial favorite does not disappoint in 2007. In fact, the current vintage is more focused than the 2006, displaying plenty of Il Mimo’s trademark juicy red cherry. The expressive nose opens with expansive red cherry and just a hint of tangy orange zest and cranberry plus inflections of fresh potting soil. The palate is full-bodied for rosé with more red cherry notes that really sing, buoyed by ample and integrated acidity and an exceptionally round texture. Just a hint of fruity sweetness makes this the perfect rosé to pair with barbeque or burgers with all the trimmings.

’01 Cascina Ebreo “Segreto” Barbera $52.99
This tremendous wine from the producer of Torbido! is a paragon of purity and depth. The nose begins with dazzling fresh mountain berry notes that are surrounded by tones of violet and hints of licorice, toast and mineral. On the palate the vibrant fruit continues, with more red and black berry plus a touch of minerally plum, hints of spice and earthy nuances. On both the nose and palate the there is very impressive focus, depth and roundness. This is a wine that will make you rethink what Barbera can be.

’06 Castello Sonnino Chianti Montespertoli $10.99
From what looks to be an outstanding vintage in Tuscany, this flavorful and balanced Chianti is a great value find. Inky purple in color, it’s loaded with ripe black cherry and plum scents along with hints of Tuscan earth. It really shines on the palate with rich, supple cherry flavors, good depth and great balance. Super drinkable Chianti.

’06 Falesco “Vitiano” IGT Umbria Rosé $7.99
From value star Falesco, this fun and easy drinking rosé is a great everyday sipper or perfect for a party. The nose shows notes of ripe strawberry and hints of watermelon and mineral. On the palate notes of strawberry shortcake are joined by a drizzle of honey and touches of refreshing minerality that follow through on the round finish. A great case buy!

’01 La Fiorita Brunello di Montalcino Riserva $79.99
This is an extremely low production offering and a stunner in 2001. With aeration, the nose of this supple Riserva is very giving, showing ripe cherry and plum notes that intermingle with roasted meat and hints of baking spices. These elements glide onto the velvety smooth palate where they are joined by complex notes of iron, earth, and hints of warm saddle leather. The long finish takes on nuances of freshly dug truffles and field flowers. Gorgeously rich and supple. Decant to serve now.

’01 La Fornace Brunello di Montalcino $57.99
This deeply structured beauty from small, family-run producer La Fornace has blossomed into a gorgeously rich and elegant Brunello. A cross between traditional and modern in style, it was very firm at release. However, the painstaking efforts of young winemaker and owner Fabio Giannetti are beautifully evident now. A resonant bouquet of deep black cherry, earth and dried flowers initiate the nose. Additional scents of wild herbs, cured game and a touch of tar emerge. On the palate, richly expressive, velvety cherry and plum flavors are laced with minerals, red earth tones and hints of chocolate, smoke and vanilla. Seamlessly integrated acidity adds lift and carries into a very long and harmonious finish. Powerful and elegant, this is flat out fantastic Brunello. PJ 94

’01 La Fornace Brunello di Montalcino Riserva $87.99
With all the stuffing and more found in the normale release, this wine has finally had time to evolve in the bottle and now shows that special magic that can only be achieved in a truly great vintage. Singingly expressive with plenty of aging potential and showing far more richness and complexity now than at first release. Decant for current drinking. The following note captures the essence of the wine, although we feel the score falls well short of the mark. “Shows loads of crushed blackberry, with hints of vanilla and spices. Full-bodied, with intense fruit, from raisin to black cherry. Gorgeous, with silky, beautiful tannins and a long, caressing finish.” —WS 92, PJ 95+

’04 Maccario “Berro” Barbera $8.99
This bright and fresh Barbera is a fantastic every day food-red and a great way to get to know the grape. The nose has very pretty red raspberry and plum notes that are supported by hints of leather and flowers. On the palate ample acidity buoys the fresh fruit tones and makes this an excellent choice for pairing with simple sliced meats, pannini and pizza.

’05 Perrini Primitivo IGT $16.99
The purest, freshest most impressive Primitivo of the last hundred we’ve tasted and it’s no surprise that this comes from their Perrini’s best sites and is vinified in stainless steel to show only the vibrant fruit. The nose is perfectly ripe, delivering beautiful red raspberry plus blackberry and black plum. Underneath the primary fruit are scintillating underbrush tones that add a mountainous aura. On the palate the wine is super-vibrant, gushing red and black berry fruit, hints of mineral and brambles. There is excellent length on the finish and overall the wine shows superb balance and integration.

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’04 Scarzello Langhe Nebbiolo $21.99
This is a plump and juicy Langhe Nebiolo ready for drinking right now. The nose is filled with very ripe plum notes that intermingle with hints of asphalt, earthy wood and wet stone. The palate is very racy and fresh, with more plum as well as cherry pit notes that are accompanied by roasted meat and mineral tones. Very accessible, affordable and appealing.

’01 Scarzello ”Vigna Meren” Barolo $65.99
This is a vibrant, elegantly styled Barolo from a superb vintage. The nose opens with ripe plum and crushed strawberry notes that are backed by iron-rich clay aromas and hints of leather. On the impressively proportioned palate more plum notes are joined by dried red and black cherry flesh, hints of leather and copious quantities of firm mineality. This dense mineral core melds with vibrant acidity and small, firm tannin to lend impressive structure to an already impressive wine.

’04 Weingut Nusserhof Lagrein Riserva $26.99
This is a pristine expression of Lagrein. The nose shows floral and pure blackberry tones followed by wax, bee pollen and honey plus hints of smoked meat and black pepper. As it moves to the palate the fresh crushed blackberry notes pick up tones of leather which intermingle with more smoky meat and bees wax. The balance is excellent and the wine retains great freshness, with good acidity and chewy tannin. This is a very expressive wine with that special dynamism in the glass that makes you think of wine as alive.

Spain

’05 Alto Moncayo Campo de Borja Garnacha (Net) $30.97
A dense, dark purple in the glass with a nose of rich raspberries, black cherries, dried orange peel, a dusting of black chocolate, and blackberry syrup. This is a massive red with an impressive concentration of red and black fruit flavors, multifaceted mineral notes and accents of sweet tar and licorice. Warm wood (the wine sees a year in new French Oak) and powerful tannins and understated acidity hold this dazzling flavor-bomb in place. Impressive and full of surprises this wine needs to aerate in the decanter for at least a half an hour before drinking. We recommend serving it with veal stew, braised short ribs, leg of lamb, or char-broiled steaks. Grab it now before the reviews come out!

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’01 Viña Amezola Rioja Crianza $10.99
This is an amazing traditionally styled Rioja for the money. The nose beams with ripe strawberry notes that are backed by well-oiled leather and hints of cedar and lightly smoked meat. On the palate there is exceptional definition and silkiness. Notes of strawberry interweave with tones of mint and hints of bacon, and that strawberry-mint-smoke mélange continues onto the exceptionally long finish.

’05 Bodegas Arrocal Ribera del Duero $12.99
“The 2005 Arrocal is 100% Tempranillo aged 4 months in a mixture of new and used French and American oak. Purple-colored, it offers up fragrant aromas of cedar, spice box, blueberry, and blackberry. Supple-textured, the wine has gobs of sweet fruit, soft tannins, and excellent balance.” —WA 90

’05 Berberana “Viña Alarde” Rioja $6.99
Now back in stock! This remarkable value captures Rioja at a price that makes make you think we dropped the first digit. The nose shows ripe definition, with lovely notes of red berries followed by hints of cocoa and cedar-tinted vanilla. The palate is light to medium weight and silky, with buoyant acidity supporting more bright cherry fruit and spice tones from front to back. The quality exhibited in this unassuming red is a strong indication of just how great the 2005 vintage is in Rioja.

’96 Briego Ribera del Duero Reserva $19.99
This rich, elegant and expressive Ribera is drinking beautifully now and proof that you don't need to spend a fortune to enjoy a properly aged bottle of wine. It is a strikingly clear ruby color and the nose begins with notes of blue plum and blueberry tart which are interlaced with smoky bacon and damp earth tones. The palate is balanced, smooth and stately from age in bottle, showing black cherry, more blueberry and hints of vanilla, sweet hay, game and subtle olive tones. Layers of ashy minerality and damp earth add to the black cherry fruit that lingers on the finish. Break out this ready-to-go bottle with grilled lamb chops, pan seared duck breast or steaks of all sorts.

’96 CVNE “Viña Real” Rioja Gran Reserva $38.97
“Ruby-red. Suave, floral scents of cherry, strawberry preserves, raspberry, smoked meat, vanilla bean and mocha. Medium in weight but packing serious flavor, with sweet red berry and cherry flavors beautifully complemented by earthier notes of cured tobacco, musky underbrush and fresh herbs. A silky, wonderfully pure wine with superb balance and the texture and brightness of a major-league Burgundy. Finishes supple and long, on a note of ripe cherry. ” —IWC 92

’01 CVNE “Viña Real” Rioja Reserva $26.99
This 2001 Viña Real Reserva shows how the great depth and ripeness of the vintage can be crafted into an elegant and balanced wine. The nose begins with pulverized fresh black cherry notes that are quickly followed by milk chocolate, salted red meat, licorice, spicy cedar and crushed rocks. On the palate there is more very juicy cherry sap, which is interlaced with cocoa powder, vanilla and just a touch of sweet tobacco. Finishes with cherry pit and dark chocolate tones. This outstanding Rioja is still very youthful and will benefit from decanting for serving now, or will cellar easily for another ten years.

’04 Dos Victorias “Elias Mora” Toro Crianza $23.99
“The 2004 Elias Mora Crianza is an opaque purple with intense aromas of cedar, spice box, blueberry, and blackberry jam. On the palate it is larger in scale than the 2003, richer and sweeter, and more smoothly textured.” —WA 92

’04 Bodegas Hornillo Ballesteros “Mibal” Tempranillo $17.99
“The 2004 Mibal was aged for 12 months in previously used French oak. A glass-coating opaque purple color, the wine’s aromatics need to be coaxed from the glass, a demonstration of this wine’s youth. On the palate the raw materials are there, densely packed and tightly wound. The ripe black fruit flavors are still undeveloped but very promising. All of the components are in harmony needing only 4-6 years in bottle to strut their stuff. It is hard to believe that so little money can buy so much wine. If I were a young collector unable to afford Bordeaux or boutique Cabernet, I’d be buying the 2004 Mibal by the case. A true “garage” Bodegas (the winery is in a garage in the town of Roa), these small production cuvees of 100% Tempranillo are uniformly outstanding.” —WA 91

’04 El Arte de Vivir Ribera del Duero $10.99
When we first tasted this wine, we couldn't believe it would sell for under $20! The effusive nose features fresh mixed berries and juicy plum notes joined by touches of smoke, game, forest floor, cinnamon and vanilla. The palate is bright, open and balanced with blackberry and blueberry notes, which are followed by creamy vanilla, cinnamon and subtle clove tones plus hints of eucalyptus and smoke. Red fruit and spice nuances resonate on the long and very persistent finish. A remarkable wine for the price.

’97 López de Heredia “Viña Tondonia” Rioja Rosado $21.97
This beautiful, complex and singular rosé (a blend of Grenache and Tempranillo) has become something of a cult classic among wine cognoscenti. The nose begins with notes of wild strawberry and dried orange peel that intermingle with delicate wood smoke, rose hip, and hints of flower pollen and leather. On the palate more strawberry and dried orange notes ride a spine of integrated but mouthwatering acidity into an exceptionally long finish, on the way delivering myriad ancient armoire wood spice nuances. This rich and subtle wine is a classic and will pair beautifully with a huge array of warm weather fare from bouillabaisse to herbed chicken to charcuterie, or rare lamb chops.

’03 Los 800 Priorat Grenache Blend $16.99
“Bright red. Fresh raspberry and candied cherry on the nose, plus a jolt of minerals adding energy. Crisp, nervy red berry flavors are underscored by zesty minerality and gain sweetness on the finish. Very fresh and elegant, especially for the price.” —IWC 90

’04 Marqués de Murrieta Rioja Reserva $19.99
This fantastic value maintains its traditional heritage while expressing deep, plump fruit. The nose is replete with blackberry, red cherry, cranberry and minerally chalk tones, plus just a hint of fresh tobacco leaf. On the palate it is velvety with rich cherry and classic Ygay orange peel notes that intermingle with chocolate and mineral tones. Overall the wine is focused and lively with very good length. It can be enjoyed now with a wide variety of foods, from cured meats to rich poultry dishes or grilled meats like seared duck breast.

’00 Marqués de Murrieta “Castillo Ygay” Rioja Gran Reserva Especial $39.99
This rich and suave Gran Reserva reflects its structured and age-worthy vintage. The nose shows red berry and ripe plum notes that are framed by dark chocolate, cedar and orange zest tones. More red fruit emerges on the velvety palate and is suspended over beautifully integrated acidity and ripe, submerged tannins. Smoke, dried orange and cocoa tones add complexity. Still showing its baby fat, this plush and powerful wine will benefit from additional ageing. Decant to serve now with herb crusted rack of lamb or a thick porterhouse steak for a totally luxurious experience.

’04 Marqués de Tomares Crianza $14.99
The Montaòa family has been making wine in Rioja for three generations. To this day, the family is directly involved in all the aspects of winemaking at this world-class and world-renowned Rioja winery.

’05 Finca Torremilanos “Cyclo” Ribera del Duero $35.97
This outstanding Ribera del Duero is the best Cyclo yet. The nose opens with beautiful, slightly minty fresh black cherry notes followed by deep minerality, accents of beef bouillon and hints of crushed red rose petals and carnations. As the wine enters the palate you immediately notice great intensity and density. Loads of black fruit, especially black cherry and blackberry, wash over the palate. The primary fruit is followed by an almost shocking array of nuances, including cinnamon, cardamom, nutmeg, clove, coffee, espresso, bitter chocolate, bay leaf, pine needles and bergamot oil. It is extraordinarily well integrated and long on the finish, which echos with crushed stone and fresh black truffles over black cherry pulp. Showing remarkably well now with plenty of baby fat, this masterpiece will pair beautifully with dry aged prime beef. Or cellar for 10+ years.

’00 Bodegas Uvaguilera “Palomero” Ribera del Duero $44.99
The nose of this richly refined super cuvée is immediately captivating, beckoning you to delve deeper into this now price-slashed find. Crushed black cherry and blackberry notes are enveloped in a wave of complex earthy aromas, including summer hay, saddle leather, wet fence post and freshly lathered horse. On the palate, it is round, deep and balanced. Supple black cherry and berry flavors are framed by mineral and game tones with hints of vanilla and moist earth. Polished and seamlessly integrated, this wine is drinking exceptionally well right now and will continue to improve in the cellar for another five to ten years. For now, decant to amplify its impressive complexity in the glass. Top-class wine. Not to be missed. PJ 95

United States of America

California

’07 Copain “Les Printemps” California Pinot Noir Rosé $13.99
This light and refreshing rosé is always a favorite of both our staff and customers. The nose shows pure cantaloupe and lighter tones of red cherry and strawberry that are backed by hints of orange blossom. On the palate it is dry and crisp, displaying melon flavors on the front of the palate that meld into lighter strawberry tones infused with fine minerality on the back end. It finishes with a snap and a lovely echo of citrus peel and stony minerals. Pure, clean and delicious.

’06 Cuvaison Carneros Napa Valley Pinot Noir $24.97
Impressive as soon as you pull the cork, the nose of this ripe and focused Napa Pinot begins with notes of smoky cherry and vanilla-laced red berry compote and continues to expand into a cinnamon driven spice-box profile. On the palate the tannins are ripe and chewy and the wine delivers a beam of pure red cherry flavor that is highlighted by smoke and spice nuances. The finish is long and tinged with iron inflected minerality. A pure, juicy and balanced California Pinot Noir. Drinks superbly with roast chicken, sausages or rare lamb chops.

’05 Liberty School Central Coast Chardonnay $10.99
Tropical and balanced, Liberty School's 2005 Chardonnay is a great value. The nose is full of apple, pineapple, a hint of mango and just a whiff of caramel aroma. The palate is surprisingly lively and focused, keying on yellow apple flavors with a hint of the tropics on the finish. Great balance keeps this Chard fresh and buoyant.

’05 Liberty School Central Coast Syrah $11.99
An incredible bargain, Liberty School's 2005 Syrah just seems to keep on giving. Plum, blackberry and orange peel are backed by iron and roasted meat tones. In the mouth the wine is full-bodied with plush tannin and excellent structure. More orange, blackberry, meat and mineral notes are supported by bright acidity not usually found in California Syrah, never mind California Syrah at this price range. Very drinkable.

’05 Lockwood “Block 7” Monterey Pinot Noir $15.99
This is one of the best bargains in California Pinot Noir we have found in years of searching. The nose is traditional Pinot with strawberry and plump cranberry notes, followed by a gentle hint of bacon fat and, as the wine opens with air, fresh picked flowers. In the mouth, the strawberry notes continue, now joined by red cherry flesh and a hint of iodine and mineral. Very well balanced with a supple roundness, this wine can be enjoyed with food or without, each option yielding equal pleasures.

’02 Palmaz Vineyards Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon $69.99
Made by winemaking legend Randy Dunn, this wine is a great example of Dunn’s emphasis on structure and illustrates how this structure can support a tremendous amount of fruit. Immediately, the nose announces ripeness with big notes of cassis and blueberry followed by red licorice, fresh bay leaf, nutmeg, pine needles/sap and hints of graphite. On the palate, the wine shows great structure with ample integrated acidity and very firm and fine tannins. Red berry and more cassis notes intermingle with chocolate, tanned leather and lanolin tones as well as cured tobacco. Finishes long and broad, with expansive cassis, spice box and mineral tones. It will continue to unfold for the next 20 years. Very impressive wine and a steal for this price. Quantities are limited.

’04 Palmaz Vineyards Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon $89.99
This lush yet precise Cabernet begins with a high-toned nose of raspberry coulis and ripe cassis, which are followed by milk chocolate and bay leaf tones with hints of cinnamon, allspice and vanilla. On the palate, the wine is very supple and the mouthfeel exceptionally plush and pliant. Pure and intense black cherry and black raspberry flavors are perfectly framed by hints of high-grade vanilla and cocoa undertones. The finish is long and sensuous, echoing with velvety cherry notes. This is a beautiful marriage of opulent California fruit and deftly controlled winemaking. Drink up, or watch it develop over the next 15 years.

’04 Rombauer Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon $29.99
”Nicely textured and well balanced with spicy cranberry and mint aromas and flavors.” —NYT ***, Best Value

’05 White Rock Napa Chardonnay $24.99
There are only 620 cases made of this very pretty and elegant Napa Chardonnay. On the nose, fresh apple and toasty banana are backed by hints of unsalted butter and pounded stone. To the ripe apple and toasty banana notes the palate adds tones of papaya and chalk. In the mouth, there is an impressive focus on minerality and balance. This wine shows far more elegance than 90% of the California Chardonnay produced today. This is both an excellent value and a great example of what California Chardonnay can be when done right.

’02 White Rock Napa Claret $40.99
Here is a vibrant and elegant claret that shows the classic Napa berry concentration and mineral density. The nose begins with intense and creamy fresh red cherry and mixed crushed berry as well as spicy cassis, dark chocolate and a hint of smoke. On the palate, there is mouthfilling volume and excellent flavor density with more cassis and cherry mingling with hints of cocoa powder and iron. The finish is very long and expressive, echoing cherry flesh and mineral tones plus a touch of sweet leather. Superb!

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