Clos


A French term also used in other countries, referring to a vineyard completely surrounded by a wall, typically made of stone.

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A French term also used in other countries, referring to a vineyard completely surrounded by a wall, typically made of stone. Clos Vougeot is the largest of these in Burgundy. Clos d’Ambonnay owned by Krug, Clos Saint Hilaire by Billiecart in Champagne, and, Clos Sainte Hune owned by Trimbach in Alsace are just a few examples.

A Clos can be incredibly small, I’ve seen several in Burgundy that are literally the backyard of a house!

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Straight from the cellars from one of Barolo's great years! Although not a Cru in its own right, Rocche Rivera is recognised as a position within the Scarrone Cru of great importance. Rocche Rivera has dizzying slopes to say the least, in the same vein as the adjacent Rocche di Castiglione, and generally shows an extra touch of perfumed elegance.I haven't had the chance to try one of these yet, looking at the only vintage chart I have ever seen worth consideration, by Giuseppe Vajra, 2010 is
$395
$385ea in any 3+
$375ea in any 6+
Moderate wood frames the ripe and fresh aromas of plum and dark cherry that are laced with earth and sauvage wisps. There is both good verve and richness to the lightly mineral-inflected middleweight plus flavors that possess a seductive mid-palate mouthfeel thanks to the relatively fine-grained tannins shaping the powerful, serious and compact if slightly warm finish. From a texture standpoint, this excellent and highly complex effort walks a fine line as it's not an elegant wine though it's no
Finally got my laughing gear around this (Aug 2024). Classic structured Monforte! A day of air brings out the perfume and harmonises and softens the tannins. A classic tar and roses profile lifts from the glass with sour cherry and blood playing around red and blue fruits with baking spice and a cleansing sappiness. The elegance and transparency of the fruit profile is dominated by some serious tannin of very high quality so typical of Monforte. It will take time to resolve full, when it does th
$72
$69ea in any 3+
$66ea in any 6+

Giacomo Conterno Barbera d’Alba ‘Francia’ 2018

Barbera | Serralunga d'Alba, Barolo

The 2018 Barbera d'Alba Vigna Francia is an explosion of floral, savory and mineral notes. Like the Cerretta, the Francia Barbera is quite delicate in this vintage. It has a bit darker fruit, stronger savory undertones and a touch more depth. It is a beguiling, beautifully layered wine that unfolds graciously over time.Antonio Galloni, Vinous 94 Points
$249
$242ea in any 3+
$235ea in any 6+