Please note that our reviews are based on a variety of sources: samples sent to our team, those we purchase in store, tasting events, those tasted in restaurants and while traveling domestically and internationally.
White Wine
Claude-Michel Pichon Chenin Blanc 2024, Loire I.G.P., France: Claude-Michel Pichon Chenin Blanc from Loire is a refined, light to medium-bodied white offering aromas of ripe golden apple, white blossom, and hints of crushed stone. It's dry with lively acidity and a silky texture. Serve it well chilled with pan-fried trout as the wine's crisp citrus and mineral character will enhance the delicate fish beautifully, or pair it with roasted chicken and herbs where the wine's balanced structure and persistent finish will complement the savory flavors perfectly. Claude-Michel Pichon, representing the sixth generation of his winemaking family, took over Château la Chevillardière in 2009 after working for 12 years as a cellar master and buyer in the Loire Valley. The estate has expanded from 40 hectares to 95 hectares of vineyards with vines averaging 30 years old, planted on gneiss, micaschist, and granite soils in the Nantes region, and Claude-Michel has pioneered modern techniques like cold maceration to express the natural fruit character while planting new varieties and expanding the IGP Val de Loire range. Enjoy now or cellar for 2-4 years. Chenin Blanc food pairings: pan-fried trout, roasted chicken with herbs, steamed mussels. Drink: 2026 - 2030 47322 12% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 89/100. March 2026. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart
Red Wine
R.López De Heredia Tondonia 2013, Rioja D.O.C.A., Spain: The 2013 Reserva Viña Tondonia features black-cherry and slate aromas that rise over a ribbon of wild herb and balsamic orchard fruit, while cedar-warmed vanilla threads weave through a core of gentle spice; medium-bodied with a chalk-dust grip and layered tertiary nuances that linger. Fabulous with roast lamb shoulder or aged Manchego. Food pairings: pork tenderloin, veal Porterhouse, roast chicken, prime rib roast, pork chops, veal cutlets. Drink: 2025 - 2055 356337 12.5% XD 750 mL $79.95 Score: 97/100. March 2026. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart