Wine Club
A gift for yourself, A Special Someone, Or Both…
Each month, these selections are sure to bring a smile to both the aficionado and novice.
Why? Because nobody is more qualified than the Wise Buyers at Hi-Time Wine Cellars who have been scouring the globe to seek out wine treasures for more than 50 years.
No long-term commitment: Simply choose the program and let us know when you want to stop and we'll take care of the rest. We'll send an announcement to the gift recipient along with background information and tantalizing tasting notes on each wine.
Gold Selection Plan 1 - 29.95
2 Bottles of Red Wine (tax & shipping not included)
BONNY DOON 2023 PROPRIETARY RED "CIGARE VOLANT"
Grape Varietal: 69% Grenache, 15% Syrah, 14% Cinsault, 2% Petite Sirah
Origin: Central Coast, California
We have been enjoying wines from Bonny Doon and Randall Grahm for many decades now and hope to continue this trend indefinitely. He is one of the original "Rhône Rangers" in California, one of a handful of winemakers who pioneered working with Rhône varietals in California's Central Coast to try and create wines that reflect their place of origin, their terroir. While Grahm initially sought to make the 'great American Pinot Noir,' he soon discovered that the climate and soils he was working with were much better suited for grapes popularized in the Rhône region in France: Syrah, Grenache, Mourvedre, etc. His first release of "Le Cigare Volant" (or 'flying cigar' referenced below) was the 1984 vintage and was his homage to Châteauneuf-du-Pape. We remember that first vintage of "Le Cigare" and are ecstatic that all these years later we are still enjoying the fruits of Randall's labor and that his wine captured our top spot for September.
Background Story: In 1954, the village council of Chateauneuf-du-Pape was quite perturbed and apprehensive that flying saucers or "flying cigares" might do damage to their vineyards, were they to land therin. So right-thinking men all, they passed an ordinance prohibiting the landing of flying saucers or flying cigares in their vineyards. The ordinance further states that flying saucers or flying cigares that did land were to be taken immediately to the pound. While many believe this was more of a publicity stunt to highlight the region's wines at the time, we applaud the bravery of Mr. Grahm to continue vigilance against potential extraterrestrial invaders.
Our Notes: The '23 Cigare is expressive. Wild strawberry, rhubarb, black pepper, and tobacco, with background hints of dark berries, forest floor and a touch of minerality, make this an easy-drinking, elegant choice. This year's blend is comprised of 69% Grenache, 15% Syrah, 14% Cinsault and 2% Petite Sirah. 14.5 % abv.
LUCENTE 2022 TOSCANA
Grape Varietal: 40% Corvina, 30% Corvinone, 25% Rondinella, 5% Molinara
Origin: Tuscany, Italy
JAMES SUCKLING 93 POINTS - "This is round and creamy, offering ripe blackberries, blueberries and hints of chocolate and cedar. Medium- to full-bodied with succulent fruit and fine tannins. Compact and focused, with good length and balance overall. Drink or hold."
Lucente is the gateway wine for Luce and a wonderful introduction to the winery and Tuscany-- it normally sells for around $25 so this quite a deal! The wine itself is the result of a careful selection of the estate's vineyards that are particularly suited for the production of a fruity and very pleasant wine. Like Luce, it is made from Sangiovese and Merlot, which prevails in the blend.
The story of Tenuta Luce began when Vittorio Frescobaldi met Robert Mondavi in the early 1990s; from this meeting a new chapter in Toscana wines was written highlighting the Tuscan sun, terroir and beauty of Montalcino. The Frescobaldi family first started making wines in Italy in the early 1300s. Robert Mondavi is a California pioneer and champion of Napa Valley; his parents emigrated to the USA from the Marche region in Italy. This is, in a way, a coming home story, one that brings the 'new world' and 'old world' together in terms of winemaking-- and it works wonderfully.
Tasting Notes - Lucente shows a ruby red color. On the nose, it expresses the sunny character of the vintage
with notes of pomegranate, blackberries, and violets that combine with elegant spices, notes of balsa wood and wild flowers. On the palate, the entry is enveloping, balanced by a lovely freshness with perfectly ripe tannins that leave a savory and vibrant finish. Concentrated red and blue berry flavors blend with notes of plum, persimmon, spice and cola berry.
Gold Selection Plan 2 - 29.95
1 Bottle of Red Wine and 1 bottle of White Wine (tax & shipping not included)
BONNY DOON 2023 PROPRIETARY RED "CIGARE VOLANT"
Grape Varietal: 69% Grenache, 15% Syrah, 14% Cinsault, 2% Petite Sirah
Origin: Central Coast, California
We have been enjoying wines from Bonny Doon and Randall Grahm for many decades now and hope to continue this trend indefinitely. He is one of the original "Rhône Rangers" in California, one of a handful of winemakers who pioneered working with Rhône varietals in California's Central Coast to try and create wines that reflect their place of origin, their terroir. While Grahm initially sought to make the 'great American Pinot Noir,' he soon discovered that the climate and soils he was working with were much better suited for grapes popularized in the Rhône region in France: Syrah, Grenache, Mourvedre, etc. His first release of "Le Cigare Volant" (or 'flying cigar' referenced below) was the 1984 vintage and was his homage to Châteauneuf-du-Pape. We remember that first vintage of "Le Cigare" and are ecstatic that all these years later we are still enjoying the fruits of Randall's labor and that his wine captured our top spot for September.
Background Story: In 1954, the village council of Chateauneuf-du-Pape was quite perturbed and apprehensive that flying saucers or "flying cigares" might do damage to their vineyards, were they to land therin. So right-thinking men all, they passed an ordinance prohibiting the landing of flying saucers or flying cigares in their vineyards. The ordinance further states that flying saucers or flying cigares that did land were to be taken immediately to the pound. While many believe this was more of a publicity stunt to highlight the region's wines at the time, we applaud the bravery of Mr. Grahm to continue vigilance against potential extraterrestrial invaders.
Our Notes: The '23 Cigare is expressive. Wild strawberry, rhubarb, black pepper, and tobacco, with background hints of dark berries, forest floor and a touch of minerality, make this an easy-drinking, elegant choice. This year's blend is comprised of 69% Grenache, 15% Syrah, 14% Cinsault and 2% Petite Sirah. 14.5 % abv.
Nisia 2024 Old vine Verdejo
Grape Varietal: 100% Verdejo
Origin: Rueda, Spain
Practicing Organic Farming
VINOUS 92 POINTS - "The 2024 Nisia Old Vine Verdejo was made from bush-trained vines planted in 1950, fermented in old barrels and was aged on the lees. Yellow in color, it opens with delicate oak, butter, lees, pastry and green apple aromas. The palate is creamy and fresh, with good volume. It leaves behind white fruit flavors and a hint of concentration." - Joaquin Hidalgo
"...60% of the volume is racked into large format, 500L & 600L Burgundian oak puncheons and demi-muids for fermentation. These barrels are all third use through older neutral barrels from the foundation of the winery in 2011. The remaining 40% of the must remains in stainless steel for fermentation. The fermentation is carried out and the wine remains on the lees for 6-8 months after the fermentation, depending on the harvest and vintage conditions." - JORGE ORDONEZ SELECTIONS
Nisia is a wine produced with mostly ungrafted vineyards of Verdejo planted in the southeastern subzone of D.O. Rueda, the only part of the appellation that completely resisted phylloxera due to the sandy quality of the soils. The philosophy of the winery is to produce authentic Verdejo the old-fashioned way, by working with traditional vineyard sites and using old school winemaking techniques.
Platinum Selection 1 - 49.95
Vieille Julienne Cotes du Rhone Clavin
Grape Varietal: Grenache Noir, Cinsault, Syrah, Mourvèdre, Bourboulenc, Clairette and Grenache Blanc
Origin: Southern Rhone, France
Biodynamically Certified
At this point, La Vieille Julienne needs little introduction and has become an icon in the most famous appellation from the Southern Rhone, Chateauneuf du Pape. We have long been fans of these wines where 5th generation owner and winemaker Jean-Paul Daumen has propelled this property into the elite of both Chateauneuf and the Rhone Valley. The reviews for these wines reflect the quality of the estate, the winemaking and the excellent 2022 vintage.
We brought in a good supply of the Cotes du Rhone Lieu Dit Clavin which performs like a "baby Chateauneuf." This 90 Pointer is delicious and offers compelling drinkability at a great price. Dunnuck called it, "a little gem of a wine," "that I always buy if I see it."
Farming Biodynamically, Daumen refuses to use herbicides, fungicides, fertilizers and chemical products. He uses indigenous yeasts only and his wines certainly reflect the purity of his approach. All the wines are certified biodynamic by Demeter.
Make no mistake, these delicious Chateauneuf du Papes from Vieille Julienne are world class highly collectible, which would make excellent additions to your cellar.
We are thrilled to offer all of these wines at the lowest prices in the country.
JEB DUNNUCK 90 POINTS - "The 2022 Côtes Du Rhône Clavin is a little gem of a wine that has ripe darker cherry and blackberry fruits as well as some peppery, leather, and dried garrigue-like aromatics. It's medium-bodied, balanced, has fine tannins, and outstanding length. This is one of those wines that I always buy if I see it."
Chateau Pierre 1er 2020 Saint Emilion
Grape Varietal: Merlot and Cabernet Franc
Origin: Saint-Emilion, France
The 2020 Chateau Pierre 1er Saint-Emilion Grand Cru is a shining example of how careful craftsmanship, prime terroir, and a strong family legacy can yield wines of elegance and depth. Owned by the Riviere family, respected stewards of several Saint-Emilion estates, this vintage delivers classic Right Bank power with modern finesse.
James Suckling gave this wine 94 Points noting its juicy blue fruits! Think crushed blueberries, blackberry, plum and crème de cassis wrapped in velvety tannins.
At the helm is Jean-Pierre Riviere, whose background in viticulture informs his quality-focused approach to management of his family's estate. The vineyards lie on limestone-clay soils just south of Saint-Emilion's medieval village which are ideal for Merlot and Cabernet Franc. The estate practices small-scale, parcel-by-parcel vinification and uses a mix of traditional and modern techniques, including aging in 100% French oak barrels for 12 to 16 months.
The 2020 Vintage in Bordeaux marked the third in an exceptional trio of Bordeaux vintages. After a rainy spring, the warm, dry summer delivered small, concentrated berries with excellent ripeness. Saint-Emilion, in particular, produced wines with balance, purity, and vibrant structure making them appealing both young and giving them the ability to age if that is your preference.
The 2020 Chateau Pierre 1er opens with a deep ruby hue, tinged with purple, hinting at both its youth and concentration. On the nose, it delivers a vibrant bouquet of violets, ripe blackberry, blueberry and vanilla.
The palate is plush and expressive, offering a generous core of ripe dark fruit wrapped in silky tannins and balanced by fresh acidity. Toasted oak lends warmth and structure as well as depth and elegance. The wine finishes long and focused, with lingering notes of plum, spice, and gentle earthiness that promise even greater complexity with age.
This rich, full-bodied wine is ready to go, offering drinking pleasure at an incredible value. Enjoy!
JAMES SUCKLING 94 POINTS - "Juicy fruit with crushed stone and a crunchy undertone. Blue fruits. Floral. Medium body. Linear fine tannins and a crisp finish. Citrusy undertones. Salty and minerally, too. Drink after 2025."
Platinum Selection 2 - 49.95
1 Bottle of Red Wine and 1 Bottle of White Wine (tax & shipping not included)
Vieille Julienne Cotes du Rhone Clavin
Grape Varietal: Grenache Noir, Cinsault, Syrah, Mourvèdre, Bourboulenc, Clairette And Grenache Blanc
Origin: Southern Rhone, France
Biodynamically Certified
At this point, La Vieille Julienne needs little introduction and has become an icon in the most famous appellation from the Southern Rhone, Chateauneuf du Pape. We have long been fans of these wines where 5th generation owner and winemaker Jean-Paul Daumen has propelled this property into the elite of both Chateauneuf and the Rhone Valley. The reviews for these wines reflect the quality of the estate, the winemaking and the excellent 2022 vintage.
We brought in a good supply of the Cotes du Rhone Lieu Dit Clavin which performs like a "baby Chateauneuf." This 90 Pointer is delicious and offers compelling drinkability at a great price. Dunnuck called it, "a little gem of a wine," "that I always buy if I see it."
Farming Biodynamically, Daumen refuses to use herbicides, fungicides, fertilizers and chemical products. He uses indigenous yeasts only and his wines certainly reflect the purity of his approach. All the wines are certified biodynamic by Demeter.
Make no mistake, these delicious Chateauneuf du Papes from Vieille Julienne are world class highly collectible, which would make excellent additions to your cellar.
We are thrilled to offer all of these wines at the lowest prices in the country.
JEB DUNNUCK 90 POINTS - "The 2022 Côtes Du Rhône Clavin is a little gem of a wine that has ripe darker cherry and blackberry fruits as well as some peppery, leather, and dried garrigue-like aromatics. It's medium-bodied, balanced, has fine tannins, and outstanding length. This is one of those wines that I always buy if I see it."
Serge Dagueneau 2024 Pouilly sur Loire Chasselas
Grape Varietal: 100% Chasselas
Origin: Loire, France
This branch of the Dagueneau family headed by father Serge is based in Saint Andelain and owns 19 hectares of old vineyards across several of the prime sites of the appellation as well as 3 hectares in the nearby appellation of Cotes de la Charite. Today the estate is run by Serge's daughter Valerie, cousin of the late Didier Dagueneau, and Serge still helps in the vineyard.
While the calcareous soil in the vineyards give the wines ample structure and the ability to age gracefully, the vineyards of Pouilly Fumé typically have more clay and depth than the poorer more chalky soils of neighbouring Sancerre. This is particularly so in the prime area of Saint Andelain where most of the family's vineyard holdings are located.
100% Chasselas from vines planted 1895. The fruit is picked by hand, and the vinification is in stainless steel, and it is bottled within a few months of the harvest. Restrained and racy with intriguing notes of anise and almost briny oyster shell minerality on the super sleek and delicately sculpted palate.
All White Selection - No more than $49.95
2 Bottles of White Wine (tax & shipping not included)
Serge Dagueneau 2024 Pouilly sur Loire Chasselas
Grape Varietal: 100% Chasselas
Origin: Loire, France
This branch of the Dagueneau family headed by father Serge is based in Saint Andelain and owns 19 hectares of old vineyards across several of the prime sites of the appellation as well as 3 hectares in the nearby appellation of Cotes de la Charite. Today the estate is run by Serge's daughter Valerie, cousin of the late Didier Dagueneau, and Serge still helps in the vineyard.
While the calcareous soil in the vineyards give the wines ample structure and the ability to age gracefully, the vineyards of Pouilly Fumé typically have more clay and depth than the poorer more chalky soils of neighbouring Sancerre. This is particularly so in the prime area of Saint Andelain where most of the family's vineyard holdings are located.
100% Chasselas from vines planted 1895. The fruit is picked by hand, and the vinification is in stainless steel, and it is bottled within a few months of the harvest. Restrained and racy with intriguing notes of anise and almost briny oyster shell minerality on the super sleek and delicately sculpted palate.
Giacometti 2024 Patrimonio Blanc Cru des agriates
Grape Varietal: 100% Vermentinu
Origin: Patrimonio, Corsica, France
Organic and Biodynamic Farming
The Giacomettis have long made a generous, approachable style of Patrimonio, similar to what has traditionally been served by the pitcher at the Corsican dinner table.
"To get to Domaine Giacometti, one must take the narrow, winding road between Calvi and Saint-Florent that cuts through the wilderness known as the Désert des Agriates. The road is flanked by scented scrubland made up of plants like immortelle and myrtle, each turn offering a stunning view of either Corsica’s dramatic mountains or the distant blue of the Mediterranean coast. Upon arriving at the tiny hamlet of Casta, a sign points down a dirt road leading to the domaine. After several minutes of dusty, bumpy off-roading, the Giacometti home and cellars, surrounded by beautifully tended vineyard plots, come into view.
It is in this remote land of granite that Simon Giacometti grows organic Vermentinu grapes for the family's Patrimonio white. The fruit is all hand-harvested and ferments spontaneously in stainless steel, completing its malolactic to give a delightful balance of palate-coating stone fruit and crisp citrus. Notes of herbs and sea salt further distinguish this dry and refreshing Corsican elixir, which shines served cool with grilled fish or summery salads." — Anthony Lynch
Champagne Selection - No more than $49.95
1 Bottle of Champagne (tax & shipping not included)
Lancelot Royer Brut Nature Blanc de blancs Grand Cru
Grape Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
Origin: Cramant, Grand Cru
What you discover with Domaine Lancelot-Royer Champagne is not only the purest expression of Chardonnay-based wine in the Côte des Blancs but also a work of vinous art that has been meticulously guided from grape to glass.
Winemaker Michel Chauvet is one of the last artisans who chooses to craft his Champagne exclusively by hand, the way it was made in the early 1900s before machines replaced manual labor. While Chauvet certainly makes “grower” Champagne, his methods are so much more; if you seek truly authentic Champagne, Lancelot-Royer is the obvious choice.
It is this dedication to the lost traditions of Champagne that captivated us back in the 1990s when we first met Chauvet and witnessed as he painstakingly capped and labeled dozens of bottles by hand—wines too that he had personally riddled and disgorged months before.
Lancelot-Royer is certainly one of the smallest domaines in Champagne, yet this is a boon for a craftsman as dedicated to quality as is Chauvet. Each bottle is uncompromisingly faithful to the lemony delicacy that characterizes Cramant and the crystalline purity of the finest blanc de blancs wines.