Winemaker Notes
This elegant Merlot reveals aromas of clove, dark fruit, cedar, and earth. The rich texture of this wine is elevated by dense flavors of black cherry and pomegranate on a complex mineral finish.
About Winery
Founded in 1983 in the Walla Walla Valley, L'Ecole No 41 is one of Washington State's most iconic and oldest family-owned wineries. Housed in the historic Frenchtown School depicted on our label, we have earned international acclaim for producing distinctive wines of the highest quality. We craft ultra-premium wines that reflect the unmistakable typicity of Washington State and the unique terroir of our Walla Walla Valley vineyards.
Growing and making 100% of our wines, each bottle is handcrafted with a commitment to quality in the vineyards and the winery. More than three decades of winemaking experience, ongoing investments in our Walla Walla Estate Ferguson and Seven Hills Vineyards, and long term relationships with many of the most prominent vineyards in Washington State are central to our well-known reputation for quality and consistency across our wine portfolio. These tenets will continue to sustain L'Ecole well into the future.
L'Ecole is one of the most honored wineries in Washington State. We are proud to be recognized by Wine & Spirits Magazine as a Top 100 Winery of the Year for fourteen consecutive years. In 2014, Decanter awarded our 2011 Estate Ferguson the International Trophy for Best Bordeaux Blend in the World! In 2016, the 2013 Ferguson won the International Trophy for Best New World Bordeaux Blend from the Six Nations Wine Challenge.
Winemaker Notes
The 2017 Catena Zapata Adrianna Vineyard River Stones Malbec is floral, exuberant, lengthy smooth tannins, metallic. Malbec is the ideal partner to a grilled meat dish or platter.
About Winery
Bodega Catena Zapata is one of Argentina's high-altitude Malbec pioneers. The Catena family began making wine in Mendoza in 1902. Nicolas Catena, third generation family vintner, was one of the first to see the potential of Mendoza's mountain vineyards for producing high quality Malbec. In 1994, he became the first Argentine to export a world-class bottling of Malbec under the Catena label. Nicolas is joined by his daughter, Dr. Laura Catena, in their relentless pursuit of world-class quality from the family's high-altitude vineyards. Laura has done extensive work in introducing Malbec and other varietal plant selections, soil and climate analysis, and sustainable practices throughout Mendoza. Head winemaker, Alejandro Vigil, has been at Catena Zapata since 2002 and works with Laura and Nicolas to make wines that express the family's vineyards and palate.
Winemaker Notes
This wine is so integrated, even from an early age, that you will never guess it is a blend of five different varieties off of our Paderewski and Catapult Vineyards. The entry is full and lush leading to an über long and velvety midpalate which encircles the mouth. While we revel in its plushness, it never feels too heavy or thick as the cohesive acid weaves its way through the sensations of black licorice, black cherry and raspberry, grilled meats and herbs, candied lavender, rose oil, warm underbrush, and vanilla bean.
About Winery
Founded in 2004 by geologists, Bill and Liz Armstrong, Epoch has quickly developed a big reputation for handcrafted, small-production wines with abundant personalities. Under the careful care of Winemaker, Jordan Fiorentini, Epoch is committed to producing world-class wines from Rhône, Zinfandel, and Tempranillo varieties grown on their three west Paso Robles vineyards – Paderewski, Catapult, and York Mountain. Epoch’s Tasting Room and Winery are located on the storied York Mountain which was once home to the first bonded winery on the central coast. Preserving the rich history found on this property as well as Paderewski Vineyard, a sight once owned and cherished by the late Polish Prime Minister and pianist, Ignacy Jan Paderewski, Epoch strives to carry on these legacies through their wines and the unique Epoch experience.
Through carefully managed, non-invasive farming, Epoch aims to bring the complex character of their vineyards into each bottle of wine they craft. All of Epoch's fruit comes from their three specific and unique sites: Paderewski, Catapult, and York Mountain Vineyard.
Winemaker Notes
Authenticity is a very authentic blend with primarily Syrah from one very steep limestone hillside at Paderewski and blended with a neighboring block of Mourvèdre to yield a supple, sultry and seamless wine that is classically Paderewski. Sometimes we co-ferment some Syrah with a neighboring Viognier block to add a little spice and freshness to the mix. This wine is deemed “The Bill Wine” because it has many gears – big and bold yet elegant and refined.
About Winery
Founded in 2004 by geologists, Bill and Liz Armstrong, Epoch has quickly developed a big reputation for handcrafted, small-production wines with abundant personalities. Under the careful care of Winemaker, Jordan Fiorentini, Epoch is committed to producing world-class wines from Rhône, Zinfandel, and Tempranillo varieties grown on their three west Paso Robles vineyards – Paderewski, Catapult, and York Mountain. Epoch’s Tasting Room and Winery are located on the storied York Mountain which was once home to the first bonded winery on the central coast. Preserving the rich history found on this property as well as Paderewski Vineyard, a sight once owned and cherished by the late Polish Prime Minister and pianist, Ignacy Jan Paderewski, Epoch strives to carry on these legacies through their wines and the unique Epoch experience.
Through carefully managed, non-invasive farming, Epoch aims to bring the complex character of their vineyards into each bottle of wine they craft. All of Epoch's fruit comes from their three specific and unique sites: Paderewski, Catapult, and York Mountain Vineyard.
Winemaker Notes
Always 100% Syrah. Always 100% Paderewski. Always 100% Block 13. The fruit for this wine hails from clone 174 vines grown on the east-facing Block 13, known as Block B, within our Paderewski Vineyard.
About Winery
Founded in 2004 by geologists, Bill and Liz Armstrong, Epoch has quickly developed a big reputation for handcrafted, small-production wines with abundant personalities. Under the careful care of Winemaker, Jordan Fiorentini, Epoch is committed to producing world-class wines from Rhône, Zinfandel, and Tempranillo varieties grown on their three west Paso Robles vineyards – Paderewski, Catapult, and York Mountain. Epoch’s Tasting Room and Winery are located on the storied York Mountain which was once home to the first bonded winery on the central coast. Preserving the rich history found on this property as well as Paderewski Vineyard, a sight once owned and cherished by the late Polish Prime Minister and pianist, Ignacy Jan Paderewski, Epoch strives to carry on these legacies through their wines and the unique Epoch experience.
Through carefully managed, non-invasive farming, Epoch aims to bring the complex character of their vineyards into each bottle of wine they craft. All of Epoch's fruit comes from their three specific and unique sites: Paderewski, Catapult, and York Mountain Vineyard.
Winemaker Notes
Petite Sirah is the leading grape of the 2018 Ingenuity and future vintages. It is still the “Paso Roblean Rhone Blend," but with a bit more identity, purpose and well, Petite-Sirah
About Winery
Founded in 2004 by geologists, Bill and Liz Armstrong, Epoch has quickly developed a big reputation for handcrafted, small-production wines with abundant personalities. Under the careful care of Winemaker, Jordan Fiorentini, Epoch is committed to producing world-class wines from Rhône, Zinfandel, and Tempranillo varieties grown on their three west Paso Robles vineyards – Paderewski, Catapult, and York Mountain. Epoch’s Tasting Room and Winery are located on the storied York Mountain which was once home to the first bonded winery on the central coast. Preserving the rich history found on this property as well as Paderewski Vineyard, a sight once owned and cherished by the late Polish Prime Minister and pianist, Ignacy Jan Paderewski, Epoch strives to carry on these legacies through their wines and the unique Epoch experience.
Through carefully managed, non-invasive farming, Epoch aims to bring the complex character of their vineyards into each bottle of wine they craft. All of Epoch's fruit comes from their three specific and unique sites: Paderewski, Catapult, and York Mountain Vineyard.
2019 | D 95
The 2019 Avinodos Cabernet Sauvignon from the Stags Leap District is a powerful yet elegant Napa Valley wine, showcasing ripe dark fruits such as blackberry, cassis, and plum, layered with notes of cocoa, tobacco, leather, and smoky oak. With firm tannins, lively acidity, and a grippy finish, it balances richness with structure, making it both approachable now and age-worthy through 2038. Aged in 100% French oak (50% new), this limited-production wine (125 cases) has earned critical acclaim, including 97 points and Best in Class at the Sunset International Wine Competition, highlighting its depth, complexity, and classic Stags Leap character.
About Winery
AvinoDos Winery was founded in 2012 by Dan Dexter and his wife Julie, built on a foundation of friendship and deep agricultural roots, with a vision to craft small-lot, single-vineyard Napa Valley wines that embody both quality and community.
AvinoDos, meaning “wines from two,” reflects the partnership and shared dream of its founders, who combined Dan’s Midwestern farming heritage with Napa’s winemaking tradition. From the beginning, the winery emphasized authenticity and connection—working closely with local growers, producing varietals like Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Zinfandel, Rosé, and Sauvignon Blanc, and inviting wine lovers of all backgrounds to share in the experience. The entrepreneurial spirit of the West shaped their philosophy: to make wines true to Napa’s essence while fostering a welcoming environment rooted in friendship. With guidance from respected winemaker Gustavo Brambila, AvinoDos quickly established itself as a boutique producer known for limited-production, award-winning wines that highlight the character of Napa Valley’s terroir.
Winemaker Notes
The 2019 Valserrano Reserva red wine has an intense and elegant aroma with hints of ripe red fruit, mineral notes, and toasted oak. On the palate, it is potent and appetizing, offering flavors of red fruits and toasted notes with a balanced oak influence. Made primarily from Tempranillo and Graciano grapes from the Rioja Alavesa region, the wine is characterized by its good structure and intense color, reflecting the "Excellent" 2019 vintage in Rioja.
About Winery
Valserrano, also known as Viñedos y Bodegas de la Marquesa, is a family-owned winery with a long history in Rioja Alavesa. Founded in 1880, it has been continuously managed by the same family for five generations. The winery's roots trace back to Francisco Javier Solano y Eulate, Marqués de la Solana, who, inspired by French winemaking techniques, began producing Médoc-style wines in the late 19th century. Today, Juan Pablo de Simón, his great-grandson, leads the winery, and his children are actively involved in the business.
Winemaker Notes
Catena Zapata Nicasia Vineyard Malbec is a dark violet Malbec. Ripe black-and-red currant, raspberries and an elegant touch of french oak are some of the aromas that we can appreciate from this special Malbec from one of the Catena´s highest family vineyards. Very complex and expressive palate, with a creamy violet flavor with ripe blueberries, cassis, vanilla and spice cake.
About Winery
Bodega Catena Zapata is one of Argentina's high-altitude Malbec pioneers. The Catena family began making wine in Mendoza in 1902. Nicolas Catena, third generation family vintner, was one of the first to see the potential of Mendoza's mountain vineyards for producing high quality Malbec. In 1994, he became the first Argentine to export a world-class bottling of Malbec under the Catena label. Nicolas is joined by his daughter, Dr. Laura Catena, in their relentless pursuit of world-class quality from the family's high-altitude vineyards. Laura has done extensive work in introducing Malbec and other varietal plant selections, soil and climate analysis, and sustainable practices throughout Mendoza. Head winemaker, Alejandro Vigil, has been at Catena Zapata since 2002 and works with Laura and Nicolas to make wines that express the family's vineyards and palate.
Winemaker Notes
This delightful red wine hails from Bordeaux, France, where centuries of winemaking tradition have shaped some truly remarkable blends. you’ll encounter rich, dark fruit notes—perhaps blackberries and plums—alongside a touch of spice. The tannins provide structure, making it a well-rounded choice.
About Winery
Owned by the Cardarelli family since 1949. The Cardarelli brothers, 3rd generation, have never stopped, like their parents and grandparents, developing and modernizing, in order to improve the quality of the wines. Today they still continue in this approach, but we place as much importance on the ecological and respectful aspect of production to achieve the High Environmental Value (HVE) standard. The Cardarelli vineyards' motto: "Produce well, good, and in respect with nature".
Winemaker Notes
The 2021 Le Pich Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley, crafted by winemaker Julien Fayard, is a bold yet elegant wine that showcases the exceptional quality of the vintage with deep blackberry, cassis, and blueberry notes accented by violet and subtle vanilla. On the palate, it delivers concentrated black cherry and ripe fruit wrapped in velvety tannins, offering both power and finesse with a long, smooth finish. Highly praised by critics, including a 95-point rating from Master Sommelier Kevin Vogt, this wine represents outstanding value compared to other Napa Cabernets and has the structure to age gracefully for over a decade.
About Winery
Le Pich is the sister label of Purlieu Wines in Napa Valley, founded by winemaker Julien Fayard, and its name comes from the Wappo Indian word for “golden eagle.”
Le Pich Wines was created as a more approachable counterpart to Purlieu, while still showcasing the same meticulous vineyard sourcing and winemaking expertise. Julien Fayard, originally from France, honed his craft at prestigious estates such as Château Lafite-Rothschild and Smith Haut Lafitte before moving to Napa Valley in 2006. After working at Quintessa and spending five years as Director of Winemaking at Atelier Melka, he launched Purlieu and later Le Pich to highlight Napa’s diverse terroirs with wines that balance power and elegance. The golden eagle symbolism reflects the grace and strength of the wines, often seen soaring above the vineyards. Today, Le Pich is recognized as one of Napa Valley’s best values, offering high-quality Cabernet Sauvignon that embodies both tradition and innovation.
Winemaker Notes (WE | 95)
In its first vintage as a Cabernet Sauvignon, TD-9 fills the glass with irresistible aromas and flavors of fresh black cherries, black currant, red plum, thyme, rose petal, and cocoa. Lush and mouth-filling, this 2021 offers the kind of complexity and structure that ensures many years of enjoyment ahead.
About Winery
Shafer Vineyards has produced classic Napa Valley wines for more than 40 years.
Shafer’s wines, including its signature Cabernet Sauvignon, Hillside Select, are found in collectors’ cellars and on wine lists in top luxury hotels and restaurants throughout the world.
The vineyard and cellar teams, led by winemaker Elias Fernandez, cultivate more than 200 acres of Shafer-owned vineyards, sources for the winery's celebrated Red Shoulder Ranch Chardonnay, TD-9, One Point Five, Relentless, and Hillside Select.
The winery has a decades-long commitment to sustainability. Beginning in the 1980s Shafer embraced farming techniques that eliminate insecticides and herbicides, and carefully conserve water resources. In 2004 Shafer became the first winery in the U.S. to go 100% solar.
Winemaker Notes
This blend of our generous and supple 2018 Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon is dominated by Oakville Ranch Vineyard. Located in the hills among famous neighbors Dalla Valle, Pedregal and Backus vineyards, Oakville Ranch produces powerful, rich, structured wines. Cabernet Sauvignon wines made from two other vineyards along Skellenger Lane were blended in to add expressive fruit character and lush tannins. Each component of this blend spent four weeks fermenting on skins to ensure that the tannins and fruit flavors were balanced. The resulting wine is rich and vibrant, offering vivid flavors of blackberry, raspberry, cassis and mocha.
About Winery
Sojourn Cellars was founded in 2001 by two tennis friends, Craig Haserot and Erich Bradley, who shared a passion for great wine and tennis. They started with small bottlings of Cabernet Sauvignon from exceptional vineyard sources. Over the years, Sojourn Cellars has grown into a boutique winery producing highly acclaimed Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Cabernet Sauvignon. Their hands-off winemaking style allows the character of the vineyard sites to shine through in the wines.
Winemaker Notes
The Catena Zapata Malbec Argentino shows a saturated dark violet color with ruby reflections; the nose offers cassis, blueberries and violets, along with a strong suggestion of soil tones. It combines density and sweetness on the one hand, with gripping, lightly saline flavors of mocha, dark berries, spice, and minerals; a palate-staining finish dominated by sweet black and blue fruits.
About Winery
Bodega Catena Zapata is one of Argentina's high-altitude Malbec pioneers. The Catena family began making wine in Mendoza in 1902. Nicolas Catena, third generation family vintner, was one of the first to see the potential of Mendoza's mountain vineyards for producing high quality Malbec. In 1994, he became the first Argentine to export a world-class bottling of Malbec under the Catena label. Nicolas is joined by his daughter, Dr. Laura Catena, in their relentless pursuit of world-class quality from the family's high-altitude vineyards. Laura has done extensive work in introducing Malbec and other varietal plant selections, soil and climate analysis, and sustainable practices throughout Mendoza. Head winemaker, Alejandro Vigil, has been at Catena Zapata since 2002 and works with Laura and Nicolas to make wines that express the family's vineyards and palate.
2022 | WE, 91 Pts
The 2022 vintage is described as "shattering the mold" with its off-the-charts intensity: Aroma: Opens with bold, layered scents of raspberry crème brûlée, cedar box, and hints of violet, dark chocolate, and cinnamon. Palate: Full-bodied and rich. You’ll find intense flavors of wild huckleberry, cherry pie, and juicy blackberries. There are unique "pastry" notes of butter croissant and toasted marshmallow, balanced by espresso and savory spices. Texture & Finish: The tannins are dry yet silky, leading into a "trembling," long, oak-inspired finish with lingering notes of mocha and spearmint cream.
About Winery
“Michael” and “David” are Michael and David Phillips, brothers whose family has farmed fruits and vegetables in the Lodi region since the 1850s and cultivated wine grapes for nearly a century. Michael and David constitute the 5th generation of grape growers in the Phillips family, with the 6th generation now joining the family business.
The Phillips family likes to emphasize the importance of quality wines with unique and fun labels. Wine makers Adam Mettler, Derek DeVries and Jeff Farthing specialize in producing Lodi’s famous Old Vine Zinfandels, as well as Rhone varietals such as Ancient Vine Cinsault and Syrah for Michael David Winery.
Farming with future generations in mind, the Phillips have adopted some of the most progressive sustainable farming practices in the state. All 800 acres of the family’s vineyards are third party certified, and the state’s first per ton bonus was issued for contracted growers to follow in the family’s footsteps.
Wine Enthusiast, 91 Pts
Winemaker Notes
This rich, burly Zin is off the charts in concentration and intensity! Opening with black cherry, dark chocolate and tobacco on the nose, this full-bodied Zinfandel exudes flavors of red berry, plum, cacao and cola leading to a spice laced finish that lingers until the next quake.
About Winery
“Michael” and “David” are Michael and David Phillips, brothers whose family has farmed fruits and vegetables in the Lodi region since the 1850s and cultivated wine grapes for nearly a century. Michael and David constitute the 5th generation of grape growers in the Phillips family, with the 6th generation now joining the family business.
The Phillips family likes to emphasize the importance of quality wines with unique and fun labels. Wine makers Adam Mettler, Derek DeVries and Jeff Farthing specialize in producing Lodi’s famous Old Vine Zinfandels, as well as Rhone varietals such as Ancient Vine Cinsault and Syrah for Michael David Winery.
Farming with future generations in mind, the Phillips have adopted some of the most progressive sustainable farming practices in the state. All 800 acres of the family’s vineyards are third party certified, and the state’s first per ton bonus was issued for contracted growers to follow in the family’s footsteps.
Winemaker Notes
This native-yeast-fermented Chardonnay features bright, zesty lemon aromas complemented by charming white flower notes. On the palate, it offers fresh and mouthwatering flavors of ripe pear, apple, quince, and hints of baking spice and chalky minerality
About Winery
Sojourn Cellars was founded in 2001 by two tennis friends, Craig Haserot and Erich Bradley, who shared a passion for great wine and tennis. They started with small bottlings of Cabernet Sauvignon from exceptional vineyard sources. Over the years, Sojourn Cellars has grown into a boutique winery producing highly acclaimed Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Cabernet Sauvignon. Their hands-off winemaking style allows the character of the vineyard sites to shine through in the wines.
Winemaker Notes
This native-yeast-fermented Chardonnay features bright, zesty lemon aromas complemented by charming white flower notes. On the palate, it offers fresh and mouthwatering flavors of ripe pear, apple, quince, and hints of baking spice and chalky minerality
About Winery
Sojourn Cellars was founded in 2001 by two tennis friends, Craig Haserot and Erich Bradley, who shared a passion for great wine and tennis. They started with small bottlings of Cabernet Sauvignon from exceptional vineyard sources. Over the years, Sojourn Cellars has grown into a boutique winery producing highly acclaimed Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Cabernet Sauvignon. Their hands-off winemaking style allows the character of the vineyard sites to shine through in the wines.
Winemaker Notes
Vivier Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast is generous, expressive and begging to be drunk! It has deep aromas of pomegranate, red cherries and blueberries with nuances of garrigue, Angostura bitters and orange peel. The medium-bodied palate is softly chalky and fresh, full of voluptuous, spicy fruit, with pretty botanical accents on the long finish.
About Winery
Winemaker Stephané grew up in Meloisey, Burgundy in the Hautes-Côtes de Beaune. He learned from a 70-year-old winegrower in Pommard. He obtained advanced degrees in viticulture and enology from Université de Bourgogne in Dijon, and subsequently worked in Switzerland, Sonoma and New Zealand. He was attracted to American vineyards where winemakers were not bound by tradition or AOC restrictions.
The winery was designed and developed to accommodate every aspect of de Villaine's winemaking philosophy of minimal intervention. Aubert de Villaine, former Co-Director of Domaine de la Romanée-Conti, married Larry Hyde’s cousin, Pamela, bringing the two families together.
To Stéphane, the best winemaker is one that largely keeps his hands to himself, allowing the alchemy of nature to do what it does best. He thinks of himself as a lazy winemaker, in the best sense that the wine is made in the vineyard and the winemakers best skill is staying out of the way of the fruit’s expression in the cellar. Today, Vivier is one of the United States’ most noted practitioners of the art of Pinot Noir.
Winemaker Notes
The Cave Blend is a complex and intriguing wine that is perfect for everyday enjoyment. The nose is awash in the aromas of dark, juicy berries, with hints of baking spices and cedar. The palate is smooth and silky, with a long, lingering finish. This wine would pair well with a variety of dishes, from hearty pasta dishes to grilled meats. It is also a great wine to enjoy on its own
About Winery
Although the Del Dotto story begins on our Rutherford Estate, it has expanded to include seven other specially selected appellations.
Currently our footprint consists of 437 acres with 121 acres planted of varietals including chardonnay, sauvignon blanc, pinot noir, syrah, cabernet sauvignon, cabernet franc, merlot and sangiovese. It took 18 years to find the ideal sites to cultivate each individually selected grape clone and to maximize the terroir flavors in the wines. Each vineyard is organically farmed, with no chemical sprays or fertilizers, and all weeding performed by hand. The plants are meticulously cared for by professional vineyard workers in order to maintain the quality of the crop that defines the Del Dotto reputation.
Winemaker Notes
The incredible diversity of our growing region is evident in this blend’s assemblage of vineyard lots. The flavors show remarkable synergy while showcasing the unique characteristics of each vineyard source. Dried lavender and rose potpourri aromas of the Williams Selyem Estate blend harmoniously with fresh herbal tarragon notes from Rochioli Riverblock. Rounding out the nose are red fruit and citrus rind scents from Drake Estate and Laguna Ranch. The components from Martaella and Olivet Lane Vineyards carry the palate, giving it both acidic freshness and substantial tannins. We hope you enjoy this blend as an introduction to our portfolio of Pinot Noirs. It is a wine that can be shared and enjoyed on any occasion.
About Winery
Like most good stories, the history of Williams Selyem owes much to serendipity. If a grower with an abundance of fruit hadn’t given Burt Williams a few tonnes of free grapes in the 1970s, Burt might never have discovered his love and flair for winemaking. And if Burt and his partner Ed Selyem had been able to afford the French Burgundies they both favoured, they might never have tried making their own pinot noir.
The two friends didn’t set out to produce wines for anyone but themselves. And they surely never imagined that their humble experiment in home winemaking would spawn a cult-status winery of international acclaim. Together, Burt and Ed set a new standard for American-made pinot noir, and elevated Sonoma County’s Russian River Valley to among the best wine growing regions in the world.
Now considered Russian River Valley royalty, Williams Selyem are responsible for some of the most sought-after handcrafted expressions of pinot noir across both the New World and Old.
Winemaker Notes
The Russian River Valley bottling is one of the most expressive wines that we offer. Sourced from a multitude of sites scattered throughout the appellation, the wine brings together unique and individual flavor profiles to provide a balanced and 360o perspective on the Russian River Valley. Red fruits, red and purple flowers, hints of English Breakfast tea wrap up with the woodsy, earthy side of Pinot Noir. Highlights of fennel and fresh herbs add an additional layer of interest and intrigue to the aromatics. Firmer in texture and tannin, the palate is saturated with red fruits and citrus flavors. The interplay of the acidity and tannin helps to stretch the palate out to give length. Allow this wine to develop a few years to reach its full potential.
About Winery
Like most good stories, the history of Williams Selyem owes much to serendipity. If a grower with an abundance of fruit hadn’t given Burt Williams a few tonnes of free grapes in the 1970s, Burt might never have discovered his love and flair for winemaking. And if Burt and his partner Ed Selyem had been able to afford the French Burgundies they both favoured, they might never have tried making their own pinot noir.
The two friends didn’t set out to produce wines for anyone but themselves. And they surely never imagined that their humble experiment in home winemaking would spawn a cult-status winery of international acclaim. Together, Burt and Ed set a new standard for American-made pinot noir, and elevated Sonoma County’s Russian River Valley to among the best wine growing regions in the world.
Now considered Russian River Valley royalty, Williams Selyem are responsible for some of the most sought-after handcrafted expressions of pinot noir across both the New World and Old.
*Vintage is subject to change without notice.
Winemaker Notes
A beautifully pale pink, which is pleasing to the eye and draws one in. Fresh red berry fruit characteristics with floral notes. Ripe and fleshy feel on the palate. Great concentration. Smooth and round finish.
About Winery
Château d’Esclans, a magical property, is situated in the heart of Provence, northeast of St. Tropez overlooking La Vallée d’Esclans (the Esclans Valley) with the Mediterranean coast in the faint distance. The vision of Sacha Lichine (Founder) with his acquisition of the Château in 2006 was to create the greatest rosés in the world igniting the “Rosé Renaissance”.
Patrick Léon (Founding Winemaker) became an essential part of the project bringing his many years of international winemaking experience to Château d’Esclans. He introduced new and innovative winemaking techniques to Provence which revolutionized the styles of rosés being produced from this appellation. This led to the creation of a world class rosé portfolio from Château d’Esclans including Whispering Angel, Rock Angel, Les Clans, and Garrus: a new generation of rosés characterized by elegance, depth, richness and complexity. Today, Patrick’s son Bertrand currently leads the winemaking team following in the footsteps of his father.
Sold in over 100 countries, these rosés are enjoyed globally from London to the Hamptons, and from St. Barth’s to the Swiss Alps. Whether you are relaxing by the beach, on a yacht, or in the mountains during “après ski”, Château d’Esclans rosés are a light and refreshing accompaniment to any destination. Whispering Angel is today’s worldwide reference for Provence rosé.
2021 | WE 91
firm tension to the palate, where melon flavors are cut by wet stone elements
2022 | WE 91
Soft strawberry and watermelon aromas are cut by tangerine peel on the nose of this bottling. The palate has earthy tones of wet rocks and chalk, with well-integrated acidity pumping into the finish.
About Winery
In the golden, oak-studded hills of Paso Robles' fabled west side, not far from William Randolph Hearst's magnificent castle, there is a man with a Homeric vision. His name is Daniel Daou and he is devoting his life and every imaginable resource to creating, first and foremost, a Cabernet Sauvignon that rivals the very best in the world.
Gracefully perched atop a stunning promontory at 2,200 feet, the DAOU Spanish Colonial style winery is embraced by a tangible serenity. Hawks wheel and bank while the all-day sun caresses close planted rows of lush, emerald green vines. The 100 percent calcareous soil makes no sound as it passes out nourishment and only a gentle breeze flows up through the Templeton Gap from the Pacific. The quiet is bewitching; you want to lay down roots here, just as the four-year-old vines have done. But the sense of peace belies the serious industry at work on this 100 acre estate. No effort is spared to create the luscious varietals and blends that flow from this limited production winery. This kind of synergy happens rarely: superlative climate and terroir, super intensive vineyard culture, and cutting edge viticultural practice. You're more likely to find it in Bordeaux than Central California. Coupled with the infectious passion and gracious, family style hospitality of the Daou brothers, Georges and Daniel, the result is pure magic. The kind of magic that comes in a bottle.