Responsible Indulgence August 2026
Pressed for Thought
Summer is flying faster than anyone wants, so our theme this month is stopping to smell the roses! To encourage you to do so, we selected wines that have wonderful aromatics and will encourage you to take a moment when you pop that cork out of the bottle, inhale deeply, exhale, and smile.
We talk about aromatics a lot around here, and in truth, I think we begin to enjoy the bottle with our eyes and our hands with the aesthetics of the bottle and the labels, even the ritualistic opening of the bottle. Whether it is the pop of that cork or the crack of the screwcap, both issue out a commend to prepare for enjoyment! As we pour, the splash of the wine into our glass is like the ocean calling you to swim. The aromas rise from the glass, enticing us. Not to over dramatize, but close your eyes, and inhale deeply. This is your very first taste of the wine, as you exhale feel the sides of your lips rise into a smile in anticipation of refreshment, flavor, and joy.
I hope this gives you an excuse to steal a moment to slow the pace and enjoy a shared summertime experience with friends!
Cheers,
Maria
Wine Notes
Value Wines
25' Tiny Whale Malbec
The 2025 Tiny Whale Malbec from Mendoza, Argentina is a smooth, fruit-forward red that showcases the vibrant character of Mendoza Malbec. Aromas of ripe blackberry, plum, and black cherry are complemented by subtle notes of violet, cocoa, and a touch of spice. Medium to full-bodied, it offers soft tannins, balanced acidity, and a velvety finish, making it an approachable yet satisfying everyday red. Enjoy it alongside grilled steak, burgers, barbecue, roasted lamb, hearty pasta with meat sauce, or aged cheeses. Tiny Whale is a proprietary label produced by Bodega Norton, one of Argentina's most respected wineries. Founded in 1895 in Mendoza, Bodega Norton is renowned for crafting wines that express the region's high-altitude vineyards while combining more than a century of winemaking tradition with modern techniques.
25' Tiny Whale Sauvignon Blanc
The 2025 Tiny Whale Sauvignon Blanc from Mendoza, Argentina is a bright, refreshing wine with vibrant aromas of grapefruit, lime, passion fruit, and fresh-cut herbs. Crisp acidity and lively citrus flavors are balanced by subtle tropical fruit notes, leading to a clean, refreshing finish. This versatile Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with fresh seafood, grilled shrimp, oysters, goat cheese, salads, sushi, and herb-roasted chicken. Founded in 1895, Bodega Norton is recognized for crafting expressive wines from the region's high-altitude vineyards, blending more than a century of winemaking expertise with modern techniques to produce approachable, fruit-driven wines for everyday enjoyment.
24' Cabriz Rosé
The 2024 Cabriz Rosé from Portugal's Dão DOC is a fresh, elegant rosé crafted from an equal blend of Touriga Nacional and Alfrocheiro, two of the region's signature red grape varieties. Touriga Nacional contributes floral aromas and vibrant berry fruit, while Alfrocheiro adds bright red fruit flavors, freshness, and a silky texture. Notes of strawberry, raspberry, and cherry are complemented by crisp acidity and a clean, refreshing finish. An excellent match for grilled seafood, Mediterranean salads, sushi, light pasta dishes, soft cheeses, or simply enjoyed as an aperitif. With vineyards rooted in the area's granite soils and a commitment to showcasing Portugal's native grape varieties, Cabriz has earned an international reputation for producing expressive, approachable wines that deliver exceptional value.
22' Caprice de Clementines Rouge
2022 was an exceptionally warm year, but it somehow produced many elegant, balanced and mineral driven wines. Le Caprice de Clémentine Rouge from France's Côtes de Provence is an elegant Mediterranean red blend of Syrah, Grenache, and Carignan. Syrah brings dark berry fruit, spice, and structure, Grenache contributes ripe red fruit and supple texture, while Carignan adds freshness, subtle earthiness, and lively acidity. Aromas of black cherry, cassis, violet, and Provençal herbs lead to a smooth palate with hints of pepper and warm spice, finishing with silky tannins. A wonderful companion to grilled lamb, beef tenderloin, roast chicken, mushroom dishes, charcuterie, or aged cheeses. Produced by Château Les Valentines, a family-owned estate in Provence, the winery is known for its sustainable vineyard practices and meticulous care of its hillside vineyards overlooking the Mediterranean. Their wines reflect the region's sunny climate and limestone-rich soils, emphasizing balance, freshness, and the expressive character of southern French grape varieties.
24' Kermit Lynch Cotes du Rhone
Kermit Lynch is one of the great importers or wines into the United States. We always try to carry his wines when we can. But, did you know that Kermit Lynch has their own wine label? Try it for yourself! The 2024 Côtes du Rhône Cuvée Kermit Lynch is a classic Southern Rhône blend of 50% Grenache, 39% Syrah, 1% Cinsault, 6% Carignan, and 3% Mourvèdre. Grenache provides ripe red berry fruit and generosity, Syrah adds black fruit, pepper, and structure, while the remaining varieties contribute floral notes, savory spice, freshness, and complexity. Aromas of blackberry, cherry, black olive, rosemary, and dried herbs lead to a medium-bodied palate with supple tannins and a smooth, lingering finish. A natural pairing for grilled lamb, roast chicken, burgers, sausages, ratatouille, hearty stews, or aged cheeses. This cuvée is part of the Selected by Kermit Lynch collection, created in collaboration with Les Vignerons d'Estézargues, an organically certified cooperative in the Southern Rhône. Drawing on decades of relationships with top growers, renowned importer Kermit Lynch works each year to craft a custom blend that captures the authentic character, value, and easy-drinking appeal of the Rhône Valley.
24' Castello Sonnino Toscana Bianco
This will be one of your favorite summer sippers. The 2024 Castello Sonnino Toscana Bianco is a fresh, vibrant Tuscan white blend of Trebbiano, Malvasia, and Sauvignon Blanc. Trebbiano provides crisp acidity and citrus notes, Malvasia contributes delicate floral aromas and a soft texture, while Sauvignon Blanc adds lively flavors of grapefruit, white peach, and fresh herbs. Bright and refreshing, the wine finishes with clean minerality and balanced acidity, making it an ideal aperitif or companion to seafood, grilled fish, shellfish, light pasta dishes, salads, fresh cheeses, and herb-roasted chicken. Produced by Castello Sonnino, a historic family estate in Montespertolidating back to the 13th century, the winery has been owned by the Sonnino family for over 200 years. Today, the estate is celebrated for crafting estate-grown wines that combine traditional Tuscan grape varieties with modern winemaking, showcasing the distinctive character of the Chianti Montespertoli terroir.
Select Wines
23' Clos la Coutale Cahors
The 2023 Clos la Coutale Cahors is a fantastic introduction to the original home of Malbec, offering a fresh yet deeply rooted expression of one of France's most historic wine regions. Crafted from a blend of 80% Malbec and 20% Merlot, the wine balances Malbec's signature dark fruit and firm structure with Merlot's supple texture and approachability. Expect aromas of ripe blackberry, black plum, violets, and baking spice, followed by flavors of juicy black cherry, cocoa, cracked pepper, and a hint of earthy minerality. Fine-grained tannins and vibrant acidity keep everything beautifully balanced, making this an ideal partner for grilled meats, duck, mushroom dishes, or aged cheeses.
Clos la Coutale has been in the Bernède family for six generations, with the estate's original cellar dating back to 1779. Today, Philippe Bernède continues the family's tradition of producing benchmark Cahors while farming approximately 100 hectares across the appellation's famed gravel, clay, and limestone terraces. The estate emphasizes sustainable vineyard management, carefully limiting yields, maintaining healthy soils, and using thoughtful vineyard practices that encourage vine balance and fruit quality. This dedication to both the land and tradition has helped establish Clos la Coutale as one of Cahors' enduring classic producers, proving that the region's legendary "Black Wine" can be both powerful and remarkably elegant.
22' Veramonte Estate Chardonnay
The 2022 Veramonte Estate Chardonnay is a bright, coastal expression of 100% Chardonnay from Chile's renowned Casablanca Valley, where cool Pacific breezes help craft wines with remarkable freshness and balance. Aromas of ripe pear, crisp green apple, white peach, and Meyer lemon mingle with delicate hints of citrus blossom, toasted hazelnut, and wet stone. The palate is lively yet creamy, offering layers of orchard fruit, lemon zest, and a touch of vanilla, all supported by vibrant acidity and a long, mineral-laced finish. Whether paired with grilled shrimp, roast chicken, creamy risotto, or simply enjoyed on its own, this Chardonnay is equal parts refreshing and sophisticated.
Founded in 1990, Veramonte was among the pioneering wineries to recognize the extraordinary potential of the Casablanca Valley for producing world-class cool-climate wines. Today, the estate is dedicated to certified organic farming, nurturing its vineyards without synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or fertilizers while promoting biodiversity, healthy soils, and long-term sustainability. Grapes are harvested with an emphasis on preserving their natural freshness, and winemaking is intentionally gentle to allow the vineyard's character to shine through. The result is a Chardonnay that beautifully reflects its coastal origins—proof that great wine can be both thoughtfully grown and effortlessly enjoyable.
25' Domaine de Fontsainte Rosé Gris de Gris
The 2025 Domaine de Fontsainte Rosé Gris de Gris is sunshine in a glass, delivering the effortless charm that has made this southern French rosé a perennial favorite. Produced primarily from Grenache Gris, with small amounts of Carignan and Mourvédre, this pale, blush-hued wine bursts with aromas of wild strawberries, white peach, pink grapefruit, and delicate citrus blossoms. The palate is crisp and refreshing, offering flavors of ripe melon, red berries, and juicy citrus wrapped around a distinctive mineral streak that keeps each sip lively and inviting. Dry, elegant, and endlessly drinkable, it's just as happy alongside fresh seafood, Niçoise salad, grilled vegetables, or a picnic under blue skies.
Nestled in the heart of the Corbières appellation in France's Languedoc region, Domaine de Fontsainte has been family-owned for generations and has earned a devoted following for crafting authentic, terroir-driven wines that consistently overdeliver. The estate practices sustainable viticulture, carefully managing its vineyards to promote healthy soils, biodiversity, and balanced vines while minimizing chemical inputs and respecting the surrounding environment. The unique "Gris de Gris" style comes from gently pressing the pinkish-gray Grenache Gris grapes, producing an exceptionally delicate rosé that captures both freshness and finesse. It's a wonderful reminder that some of the world's most enjoyable wines don't need to shout—they simply invite you back for another glass.
24' Rocche Costamagna Dolcetto d'Alba Murrae
The 2024 Rocche Costamagna Murrae Dolcetto d'Alba is proof that Dolcetto can be every bit as captivating as its more famous Piedmont neighbors. Made from 100% Dolcetto, this vibrant red greets you with aromas of black cherry, wild blackberry, violets, and a hint of almond. The palate is juicy and energetic, layering ripe plum, dark berries, licorice, and a touch of spice over soft tannins and bright acidity. Medium-bodied and wonderfully food-friendly, it's the kind of wine that feels equally at home with wood-fired pizza, pasta with sausage and mushrooms, roasted pork, or an overflowing antipasti board. Chill it slightly, and it becomes the ultimate red for warm evenings and lively dinner tables.
Founded in 1841, Rocche Costamagna is one of the historic estates of La Morra, in the heart of Piedmont's Langhe region. For more than six generations, the family has cultivated vineyards that showcase the character of the area's famed calcareous marl soils while honoring the traditions that have defined the region for nearly twocenturies. The estate practices sustainable viticulture, emphasizing biodiversity, cover crops, careful canopy management, and minimal intervention in both the vineyard and cellar to preserve the health of the vines and the purity of the fruit. The Murrae Dolcetto captures this philosophy beautifully, offering a fresh, expressive snapshot of Piedmont that is approachable in its youth yet unmistakably rooted in place—a delicious reminder that some of Italy's greatest everyday wines are often its most rewarding.
21' Herdade do Esporao Reserva
The 2021 Herdade do Esporão Reserva Red is a bold yet beautifully balanced blend that captures the warmth and character of Portugal's Alentejo region. Crafted from Aragonez (Tempranillo), Alicante Bouschet, Touriga Nacional, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Syrah, this full-bodied red opens with expressive aromas of ripe blackberry, black cherry, plum, violets, and baking spice, accented by hints of cedar, dark chocolate, and fresh herbs. Rich flavors of black fruit, cocoa, espresso, and cracked pepper unfold across a velvety palate, while polished tannins and vibrant acidity provide structure and lift through a long, savory finish. This is the kind of wine that shines alongside grilled lamb, slow-braised beef, hearty stews, or aged Manchego, but it's equally rewarding when enjoyed by the fire with good conversation.
Founded in 1973, Herdade do Esporão has become one of Portugal's most respected wineries, with roots that stretch back much further thanks to the estate's historic tower dating to the 15th century. Located in the heart of Alentejo, the estate is a leader in certified organic farming, cultivating its vineyards without synthetic herbicides, pesticides, or fertilizers while promoting biodiversity, healthy soils, and the long-term vitality of the land. Careful vineyard management, hand-harvesting of select parcels, and thoughtful winemaking allow each vintage to express the unique character of the estate's diverse terroir. The Reserva Red embodies Esporão's philosophy perfectly—a modern Portuguese classic that honors tradition while delivering remarkable depth, elegance, and a genuine sense of place.
25' Kuentz-Bas Alsace Blanc
The 2025 Kuentz-Bas Alsace Blanc is a bright, aromatic white that showcases the elegance and versatility of one of France's most celebrated wine regions. This classic Alsatian blend combines Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, Riesling, and Sylvaner, creating a wine that is both expressive and beautifully balanced. Fragrant aromas of white peach, crisp pear, citrus blossom, and green apple are complemented by subtle notes of honeysuckle and wet stone. On the palate, lively flavors of lemon zest, orchard fruit, and ripe melon are carried by refreshing acidity and a delicate mineral backbone, finishing clean, vibrant, and ready for another sip. Whether paired with seafood, roast chicken, creamy cheeses, or your favorite charcuterie board, this is a wonderfully versatile white that feels right at home on any table.
Founded in 1795, Domaine Kuentz-Bas is one of Alsace's historic family estates, with vineyards stretching across some of the region's most prized sites. After generations of winemaking, the domaine embraced a renewed focus on expressing the unique character of its vineyards through thoughtful, low-intervention practices. Today, the estate farms its vineyards using certified organic and biodynamic methods, encouraging biodiversity, nurturing healthy soils, and allowing the vines to thrive naturally without synthetic herbicides or pesticides. Gentle cellar practices preserve the purity of the fruit and the distinct personality of each vintage, resulting in wines that are fresh, expressive, and unmistakably Alsatian. The Alsace Blanc is a perfect introduction to the estate's philosophy—approachable, energetic, and packed with the kind of charm that keeps you reaching for just one more glass.
Collector Wines
22' Ottin Torrette Superieur
The 2022 Ottin Torrette Supérieur is a captivating taste of Italy's smallest and highest elevation wine region, the breathtaking Valle d'Aosta, where vineyards cling to steep Alpine slopes beneath the shadow of Mont Blanc. This mountain-grown blend is led by Petit Rouge, complemented by traditional native varieties including Cornalin, and Fumin, creating a wine that is as distinctive as the rustic landscape from which it comes. The nose bursts with aromas of wild blackberry, alpine strawberry, violet, black pepper, and fragrant mountain herbs, while the palate unfolds with juicy red and black fruits, hints of licorice, crushed stone, and warm baking spices. Silky tannins and vibrant acidity give the wine remarkable energy and finesse, leading to a long, savory finish that keeps you coming back for another sip. Whether paired with grilled lamb, mushroom risotto, charcuterie, or hearty Alpine cheeses, this is the kind of wine that turns an ordinary dinner into an unforgettable occasion.
The Ottin family has become one of Valle d'Aosta's modern standard-bearers, championing the region's indigenous grapes and dramatic mountain terroir. Founded by Elio Ottin, the winery farms vineyards perched at elevations of up to 900 meters, where cool days, crisp nights, and mineral-rich soils produce wines of exceptional freshness and complexity. The estate follows sustainable farming practices, working each vineyard largely by hand due to the steep terrain, minimizing chemical inputs, maintainingnatural ground cover, and carefully preserving the fragile Alpine ecosystem. In the cellar, the philosophy is one of restraint, allowing the purity of the fruit and the character of the mountains to shine through. The Torrette Supérieur is a perfect expression of that vision—wild, elegant, and unmistakably Alpine. It's a bottle that rewards the adventurous wine lover, proving that some of Italy's most extraordinary wines are still among its best-kept secrets.
23’ Ottin Canto X Chardonnay
The 2022 Ottin Canto X Chardonnay is an exceptional expression of high-altitude Chardonnay from Italy's Valle d'Aosta, where alpine vineyards and glacial soils produce wines of remarkable precision and elegance. Made from 100% Chardonnay, this wine highlights the varietal's ability to reflect its terroir with purity and finesse. Aromas of ripe orchard fruit, citrus blossom, bergamot, and tropical fruit are complemented by hints of crushed stone, baking spice, and flint. The palate is beautifully textured, offering layers of yellow apple, lemon zest, mountain herbs, and a lingering mineral-driven finish that is both vibrant and refined.
The grapes are hand-harvested from steep, south-facing vineyards before undergoing gentle whole-cluster pressing and fermentation in French oak tonneaux. The wine is then aged for twelve months on its fine lees in French oak barrels while completing malolactic fermentation, creating a seamless balance of creamy texture, subtle oak influence, and bright alpine freshness. This careful approach preserves the wine's purity while adding exceptional depth and complexity.
Founded in 1989 by Elio Ottin, the Ottin estate has become one of the leading producers in the Valle d'Aosta. Now run by Elio and his son Nicolas, the family is dedicated to sustainable farming and crafting wines that faithfully express the region's unique mountain terroir. The result is a Chardonnay of outstanding elegance, minerality, and balance that stands among Italy's finest mountain-grown white wines.
