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opaque ruby in the glass, the nose is filled with dark fruit, and abundant spices. Weighty on the palate, the rich fruit shines through, with an elegant and persistent finish.($ 27.99)
( 93) Pascual Toso Brut NV( Argentina). A lovely, exceptionally well-priced sparkling wine, it is nearly all chardonnay, and utilizes the Charmat, or“ in tank,” method for producing the carbonation. Green / yellow in the glass, on the nose and in the mouth, the wine provides plenty of clean stone tree fruit aspects, with an engaging combination of clean fruit, and velvety texture.($ 14.99)
( 93) Gratien & Meyer Cremant dé Loire NV( France). With a preponderance of pinot noir and chardonnay, and extended aging before release, the complexity and elegance are immediately evident. Bright pink in the glass, the nose is dominated by clean red fruit, with citrus hints. On the palate, the fine effervescence and bright fruit confirm the wine ' s pedigree and high level of quality.($ 20)
( 93) Bouvet Ladubay " Saphir " 2022( France). A lovely blend of chenin blanc and chardonnay provides the base for an elegant and versatile sparkling wine. Brilliant pale gold in the glass, the nose and palate showcase the stone fruit aspects of the wine, with attractive floral hints, a touch of roasted nuts, and spice. Exceptionally food friendly.($ 21)
( 93) District Series Sauvignon Blanc 2023( CA). If you’ re looking for a classic California sauvignon blanc, look no further. Fresh and clean on the palate with notes of guava,
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citrus and kiwi. Harmonious in the blending of tropical aromas and delicate white blossoms.($ 26.99)
( 93) The Calling Dutton Ranch Russian River Chardonnay 2022( CA). The chardonnay has the classic profile of rich and savory with control. Buttery tones, with hints of caramel and a touch of granny smith apple are all encapsulated in a soft pillow of structure.($ 26)
( 93) Aveleda Espumante Bruto NV( Portugal). The half-and-half blend of native Portuguese varieties, arinto and loureiro, work together to create a balanced wine, with both excellent fruit and acidity. A very pale yellow with green hints, the attractive nose of tree and stone fruit is followed by great texture, a fine mousse and long finish. A great bargain!($ 12.99)
( 92) Schnaer Family Chardonnay 2023( OR). A classic Oregon chardonnay offers bright acidity, balanced richness and a sense of place. Expect aromas of citrus blossom, green apple and pear, with subtle hints of toasted almond and wet stone. On the palate, vibrant lemon curd and ripe pear flavors are complemented by a creamy texture. The finish is crisp yet lingering, with a minerally edge that reflects Oregon’ s cool climate.($ 22.99)
( 92) Willamette Valley Vineyards Chardonnay 2022( OR). Jim Bernau’ s vision from its founding in 1983 continues to mature and excel. Classic chardonnay with all elements very balanced. Medium-bodied with light touches of oak. Sourced from the Estate and
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Elton vineyard and picked at perfect ripeness. Whole cluster pressing, French and stainless for fermentation, with partial malacotic, and lees stirring all add depth and complexity. Clean, crisp with apricot, nectarine and papaya notes. Perfect with lemon-buttered scallops.($ 28.99)
( 92) Pappas Wine Co. Pinot Noir( OR). Pappas is the second label of Portland’ s Boedecker Cellars. This lively pinot noir has ample black cherry and raspberry, with a touch of baking spice. It’ s medium bodied, but still a substantial wine. It makes a great accompaniment to Oregon salmon.($ 20)
( 92) Greenwing Cabernet Sauvignon 2022( WA). A newer part of the expanding Duckhorn portfolio, and it utilizes the shared sourcing and winemaking experience of the Duckhorn brand. 85 % cabernet with touches of malbec and syrah for complexity. Dark black fruits dominate, with hints of toasted coconut and a hint of minerality. Very complex, concentered, with a smooth finish. Overdelivers for the money— a great value.($ 19.99)
( 92) 1858 Chardonnay 2022( CA). From Caymus Vineyards, this wine is a lovely golden yellow color, which hints at the oak aging with pops of tropical fruits on the nose. Nice weight on the palate. Notes of golden apple and pineapple that balance out the touch of butter.($ 24.99)
( 92) Rockview Reserve Chardonnay 2023( CA). Butterscotch and vanilla welcome you to the glass, but it is less buttery than your nose would have you think. Bright green apple and tropical fruits like
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melon greatly balance out the oak on this wine($ 27.99)
FOUR STARS
( 91) Muirwood Chardonnay 2023( CA). Soft aromas of hazelnut, baked apple and pineapple followed by pear and citrus notes on the palate, balanced by oak, which gives added complexity. Full-bodied and rounded creamy texture leaves you with a pleasant, lingering finish.($ 16.99)
( 91) Goose Ridge G3 Merlot 2021( WA). Classic NW merlot. Concentrated flavors with black cherry, spice and mocha notes. Second label for the Monson family’ s famed Goose Ridge Estate winery. All estate grown, sourcing from the famed Goose Gap AVA, which is located between Red Mountain and Horse Heaven Hills. 94 % merlot and 6 % cabernet. Aged for 15 months in a blend of French and American oak. This is a merlot to discover and share with friends. We enjoyed it with a grilled pork loin.($ 15.99)
( 91) Daou Paso Roble Cabernet Sauvignon 2022( CA). The structure of this wine leads you to believe it is in a different weight class, but as it opens it has amazing approachability. Dense berry fruit and firm, yet balanced tannin and rounded acidity give way to an amazingly satisfying finish and lingering savor.($ 27)
( 91) Hugl Gruner Veltliner 2024( Austria). The 2024 Hugl gruner veltliner is a bright, refreshing white wine with crisp acidity and vibrant citrus notes. Aromas of green apple and a touch of minerality give it a classic Austrian character.
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