Join the Liquid Kosher Wine Club
As we transition from the warmth of summer to the golden hues of fall, I’m excited to share with you a collection of wines that perfectly capture the essence of the season. Our “Fall Classics” selection includes three remarkable wines, each with its own unique story and a reflection of the challenges and triumphs of recent harvests. Excited to present you with three unique wines from three different regions, vintages, and blend: 2020 Clos Lavaud, from Lalande de Pomerol, 2021 Haut Breton Larigaudière from the Margaux region of Bordeaux, and the 2022 Timbre Winery Pinot Noir from Riverbench Vineyard in California’s Central Coast. This set is truly a unique exploration of vintage through winemaking styles and approaches.
The 2020 Bordeaux harvest is one for the history books—long awaited and much celebrated. Ideal growing conditions yielded wines of extraordinary depth and structure, and the 2020 Clos Lavaud is no exception. This Lalande de Pomerol is a true gem, with layers of dark fruit, subtle spice, and a velvety finish that speaks to the excellence of the vintage. For those who have been following this favorite of ours, it would be a great opportunity to compare this release with contemporary favorites from 2018 and 2019 (and if you’re a real die hard, compare to the 2015 and 2016). Similar to the pair of excellent vintages in 2015 and 2016, everyone will have a preference as to which they prefer between another pair or excellent vintages, 2019 and 2020. Try them side by side and experience the power of nature’s influence in winegrowing. Regardless of which is your favorite vintage of Clos Lavaud, the 2020 is certainly a wine that promises to impress now and for years to come.
In contrast, the 2021 vintage in Bordeaux presented significant challenges. Cool and wet weather made it a tough year for many, but there are always exceptions, and the 2021 Haut Breton Larigaudière is a shining example. Similar to its local cousin, the Castelbruck, this year’s Haut-Breton defied the odds, delivering a wine of surprising elegance and balance. With its delicate fruit, refined tannins, and a hint of Margaux’s signature floral notes, Cabernet lovers are taking note that this is a wine of great significance and quality. Consider opening this vintage alongside the 2020 Haut-Breton release, or the 2018 if you have it. This lovely and powerful wine stands out as a testament to the skill and dedication of its winemakers (paired with a generous wink from nature as well.) In every vintage there are rule breakers, and Margaux seems to be the hot tip from 2021.
Closer to home, the 2022 harvest in California was marked by both challenges and rewards. A warm, dry season led to lower yields, but the quality was exceptional, especially for those who managed their vineyards with care. The 2022 Timbre Winery Pinot Noir from Riverbench Vineyard is a standout from this vintage, recently receiving an overwhelming 94 points from noted wine critic Antonio Galloni. This Pinot Noir captures the vibrant character of the Central Coast, with bright cherry and raspberry notes, underpinned by a touch of earthiness. It’s a wine that beautifully reflects the unique terroir of Riverbench Vineyard. Try this wine after a couple hours of breathing time, no decanting necessary, and wait patiently for it to show its stuff. I love this wine today, but very much looking forward to a fantastic future with proper cellaring and care.
As you enjoy these wines, I hope they bring warmth and richness to your fall gatherings, just as they have brought joy to me in selecting them for you. Thank you for being a part of our wine club. Here’s to a season of wonderful wines and the memories they help create.
