Mon - Fri 10:00AM - 7:00PM
Sat 10:00AM - 6:00PM
Sun 12:00PM - 4:00PM
Local delivery orders received after the Sat
cutoff time will be delivered on Tue.
*To dismiss tap outside this box.
Francos specializes in fine wine and single malt scotch, with selections from throughout the world. We have excellent wines from France — with a large selection from the Burgundy and Bordeaux regions — and from Italy, Australia, Spain, and the US including many outstanding California wines.
While we have wine from the larger known vineyards such as Cakebread, Caymus, Silver Oak, Far Niente, Jadot, and Latour, we also have a wide selection of boutique wines from throughout the world. Our champagne selection includes Dom Perignon, Cristal, and Grand Dame from Veuve Clicquot.
We also take pride in our wide selection of single malt scotch.
Please sign up for our email newsletter, and follow us on Twitter and Facebook for the latest on new arrivals, tastings and events. But, most importantly of all, come visit us at the store!
Monday - Friday 10:00AM - 7:00PM
Saturday 10:00AM - 6:00PM
Sunday 12:00PM - 4:00PM
Local delivery orders received after the Saturday cutoff time will be available for "in store" pick up on Sunday, otherwise will be delivered on Tuesday.
As the holidays barrel toward us, everyone's juggling a little bit of everything; planning menus, sorting out gatherings, and hunting for the perfect gifts for the wine lovers in their lives. At Francos Wine Merchants, we're here to make that part easy. This week we've handpicked a terrific wine from Tuscany that will take the guesswork out of some of these questions. Tuscany is home to the Biondi Santi family, whose name has been synonymous with Brunello di Montalcino for seven generations. In the 1970s, the family partnered with the University of Florence to identify over 40 distinct clones of the Sangiovese grape, the most famous of which is now known as Brunello Biondi Santi-11. Today, Jacopo Biondi Santi and his son, Tancredi, have shifted their focus to Castello di Montepò, a property the family purchased 45 years ago. It is on this picturesque coastal Tuscan estate that they produce the 2023 Jacopo Biondi Santi Castello di Montepò Sassoalloro ($39.99), crafted from the Brunello Biondi Santi-11 Sangiovese clone named in their honor. The name "Sassoalloro" refers to an erratic volcanic boulder near the estate. The 2023 Jacopo Biondi Santi Castello di Montepò Sassoalloro ($39.99) shows off a bright ruby-red color with violet highlights and immediately offers aromas of vibrant red fruits such as cherry, raspberry, and red currant. These nuances are lifted by floral notes, gentle spice, and a subtle balsamic/herbal touch. On the palate, it is full-bodied, soft, and elegant, with smooth, well-integrated tannins that carry its fruity and spicy character through a long, structured finish. Beautifully balanced, it delivers rich fruit flavors with hints of cherry, blackberry, and sage, all supported by a firm core that makes the wine wonderfully approachable now. This is a bottle perfectly poised to elevate your holiday table, whether you're serving an Italian classic like porchetta or something more continental like Beef Wellington. Please join us this Friday and Saturday as we pour the 2023 Jacopo Biondi Santi Castello di Montepò Sassoalloro ($39.99) along with a terrific white Burgundy, the 2024 Domaine Frantz Chagnoleau Macon Villages Clos Saint Pancras ($33.99). Pictured, the 2023 Jacopo Biondi Santi Castello di Montepò Sassoalloro ($39.99) ... (read more)
December is upon us and there is no stopping the holiday season. As we enter this month Francos Wine Merchants will have some great suggestions and some great In-Store Wine Tastings, so don't miss out. We will start off this holiday month with a trip to Tuscany, Italy where we find the wines of Poggiotondo. The Poggiotondo story starts in 1968, when Carlo Antonini, a teacher and beekeeper purchased what had once been the lands of the noble Conti Guidi family near Cerreto Guidi in Tuscany. Over the years, his son Alberto Antonini and his wife Alessandra have taken the reins, expanding it into 50+ hectares. These vineyards, situated between Florence and Pisa, rest on soils of marine origin, full of fossilized seashells and calcareous sediments, which impart a distinctive minerality, energy, and sense of place to the wines. Since 2014, the estate's vineyards and wines have been certified organic, signaling Poggiotondo's commitment to sustainable, terroir-driven viticulture. The 2019 Poggiotondo Brunello di Montalcino ($55.99) is 100% Sangiovese from Montalcino, carrying the character of its hillside terroir and the respectful, organic winemaking of Poggiotondo. In the glass it shows a bright ruby-red color. On the nose, the wine reveals aromas of ripe red fruit such as black cherry and strawberry. Once in the mouth floral notes and hints of cedar and tobacco emerge, underpinned by a touch of herbaceous/earthy characters. The palate is medium to full-bodied, with velvety yet firm tannins, a lively acid backbone that adds freshness and tension, and a mineral-driven structure that makes the wine feel grounded and classic. The finish is long and graceful with a lingering combination of fruit and savory herbs. For the Italian wine lover on your gift list, the Poggiotondo Brunello represents a beautiful expression of Montalcino from a producer committed to organic, terroir-driven winemaking. Please join us this Friday and Saturday as we pour an exciting lineup of wines. We will start off with the 2019 Poggiotondo Brunello di Montalcino ($55.99). We will also have the 2022 The Conspirator Napa Cabernet Sauvignon ($59.99) and the 2024 Casa d’Ambra Leninfe ($29.99), a delicious white wine from the southern Italian island of Ischia. Pictured, the 2019 Poggiotondo Brunello di Montalcino ($55.99) ... (read more)
Friday 3:00PM - 6:00PM & Saturday 1:00PM - 5:00PM Please join us this Friday and Saturday as we pour the 2022 Pighin Collio Pinot Grigio ($33.99) and the 2019 Podere Casanova Rosso di Montepulciano ($24.99), two easy drinking wines perfect for holiday leftovers. Pictured, the 2022 Pighin Collio Pinot Grigio ($33.99).
As Thanksgiving approaches, we at Francos Wine Merchants are ready to help with those final holiday preparations. Below, we revisit some of the exceptional wines we've highlighted over the past few weeks. For white wines, you can stay with an American selection by heading to California for either the 2023 Flowers Sonoma Coast Chardonnay ($55.99) or, from Napa, the 2023 Cakebread Cellars Chardonnay ($49.99). If Sauvignon Blanc is more your style, the 2023 Band of Vintners Sauvignon Blanc ($27.99) and the 2023 Groth Napa Valley Sauvignon Blanc ($27.99) are two outstanding options. If you prefer wines with a more European slant, we have four terrific choices: the 2024 Louis Jadot Pouilly Fuissé ($35.99) and the 2024 Hippolyte Reverdy Sancerre ($43.99) are excellent selections from France. And for those who favor Italian wines, the 2024 I Clivi A Tessa Ribolla Gialla ($26.99) and the 2024 Samas Isola dei Nuraghi ($24.99) are both solid picks. Moving over to red wines from California's Napa Valley, we have the 2022 The Conspirator Napa Cabernet Sauvignon ($59.99) and the 2021 Cakebread Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon ($89.99). If Europe is calling, you can't beat the 2023 Louis Jadot Beaune Premier Cru ($59.99) from Burgundy. Bordeaux is another popular destination, and the 2023 Château Angelus Tempo d' Angelus ($39.99) definitely hits the mark. For a touch of Italian flair, the 2011 Famiglia Anselma Barolo ($64.99) offers a fantastic opportunity to enjoy a wine with some beautiful bottle age. For you spirit lovers, don't forget about our bourbons, ryes, and Scotch whiskies. You can browse our full selections by clicking on the Small Batch American Whiskey and Single Malt Scotch links. And for the end of the night, nothing is more traditional than a Vintage Port to perfectly finish your Thanksgiving dinner. Be sure to explore our full list of Vintage Ports and Tawny Ports under the Port link. All of these links can be found on our Home page. Pictured, the 2023 Flowers Sonoma Coast Chardonnay ($55.99) ... (read more)
Thanksgiving is a week away, and if you haven't yet decided what to serve with your meal, Francos Wine Merchants has an incredible tasting lined up for the weekend to help make your decision easier. The 2023 Louis Jadot Beaune Premier Cru ($59.99) is a standout choice for Thanksgiving. Crafted from 100% Pinot Noir and aged 16-18 months in large oak barrels, it offers a balance of power and elegance. The palate shows deep dark-berry notes layered with earth and spice, supported by firm yet polished tannins and a long, graceful finish. This Beaune Premier Cru has the structure to complement all the rich, savory dishes on the table, from herb-roasted turkey to root vegetable gratin, right down to the sage-buttered mashed potatoes. This wine adds an elevated touch to the meal while remaining versatile enough to appeal to a wide range of palates. Give it a brief decant before dinner, and it will bring both elegance and warmth to your holiday table. Also from Louis Jadot, we have the perennial holiday favorite, the 2024 Louis Jadot Pouilly Fuissé ($35.99). This Pouilly Fuissé is a beautiful expression of southern Burgundy's Mâconnais region, crafted entirely from Chardonnay. This particular vintage benefited from ideal sunshine and well-timed rainfall, allowing the fruit to ripen gracefully. The wine shows inviting aromas and flavors of toasted nuts and citrus, with a harmonious, medium-bodied texture that retains elegance and freshness. With its bright acidity and subtle oak influence, it pairs beautifully with a variety of Thanksgiving dishes. If you or your guests have more of an American palate for wines, we have from Cakebread Cellars, the Bezel line of wines. The 2023 Bezel Sauvignon Blanc by Cakebread ($24.99) with its vibrancy and bright acidity, is a perfect addition to your Thanksgiving table. The Bezel Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with starters and appetizers yet still has enough structure to stand up to the abundance of flavors on the holiday menu. Its zippy acidity refreshes the palate and complements the richness of the feast while providing a lively, cleansing contrast. Also from Bezel we have the 2024 Bezel Pinot Noir by Cakebread ($29.99) which brings a lively yet refined energy to your table. Grown in the cool-climate coastal vineyards of California's San Luis Obispo Coast, this 100% Pinot Noir displays inviting aromas of tart red cherry, coastal sage and a hint of toasted vanilla. On the palate you'll find bright acidity, light-to-medium body, and crunchy tannins that carry flavors of dried strawberries, wild raspberries and subtle earthy spice. With its lively fruit and fresh structure, this wine is a strong match for Thanksgiving fare. Not only will it hold up beautifully to the turkey and its fixings, but this wine is versatile enough to let the side dishes shine without overpowering them. Please join us this Friday and Saturday as we pour all of these Thanksgiving favorites: the 2023 Louis Jadot Beaune Premier Cru ($59.99), the 2024 Louis Jadot Pouilly Fuissé ($35.99), the 2023 Bezel Sauvignon Blanc by Cakebread ($24.99) and the 2024 Bezel Pinot Noir by Cakebread ($29.99). We will also be pouring the Nozeco Sparkling Spritz Non Alcoholic ($16.99) — a surprisingly enjoyable alcohol-removed Spritz that is delicious on its own or on the rocks with an orange slice. Pictured, the 2023 Louis Jadot Beaune Premier Cru ($59.99) ... (read more)
Thanksgiving is just two weeks away and as you plan your meal, don't forget to give your wine selection some attention too. We've got some great wines to suggest, all of which we'll be pouring at our wine tasting this weekend. Famiglia Anselma traces its roots back to the early 20th century in the village of Serralunga d'Alba in Italy's Piedmont region. The family has long been devoted to the noble Nebbiolo grape, crafting wines that reflect the terroir of the Langhe hills with discipline and tradition. Over generations they have balanced respect for old-school methods with thoughtful evolution; today their wines are recognized for precision, power and age-worthiness. Today we offer to you their 2011 Famiglia Anselma Barolo ($64.99). On the nose you'll find cherry and raspberry fruit edged with petals of rose and hints of forest floor. The palate is full-bodied and robust, with firm, silky tannins and layers of cherry, rose, and truffle, and all the complexity that only time can bring. It's a rare treat these days to find a wine with this much bottle age at peak maturity, and it happens to be an ideal match for Thanksgiving dinner. Please note that we also have a limited amount of the 2016 Famiglia Anselma Barolo ($69.99) and the 1999 Famiglia Anselma Barolo ($224.99). Hailing from the coveted Oakville sub-AVA in Napa Valley, the 2022 The Conspirator Napa Cabernet Sauvignon ($59.99) is from Goldschmidt Vineyards which crafts this high-performance Cabernet Sauvignon, offering a serious pedigree for an incredible price. The 2022 vintage is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, aged 16 months in 100% French oak which gives it a refined yet powerful profile. On the nose you'll find deep black cherry, plum and blueberry fruit with hints of vanilla and toasty oak; the palate is full-bodied, round and lush, with supple tannins and a long, layered finish. With its richness, structure and ripe dark fruit, it stands up beautifully to a Thanksgiving table. We also have two other wines that would make excellent choices for your table: The 2022 Holloran Pinot Noir ($29.99) from Oregon's Willamette Valley comes from the estate's own deeply-rooted, organically and biodynamically farmed sites in Dundee Hills and beyond. This wine opens with vibrant aromas of bright cherry, raspberry and hints of forest floor, and on the palate you'll find dark cherry and black-berry fruit overlaid with clove and subtle spice. With its silken texture and well-defined acidity this Pinot Noir offers immediate appeal at a comfortable price. The 2024 I Clivi A Tessa Ribolla Gialla ($26.99), crafted by I Clivi in the Venezia Giulia region of northeastern Italy, showcases the indigenous Ribolla Gialla grape grown on marl and sandstone soils near the Slovenia border. This wine presents a straw-yellow hue and a nose of lemon peel and delicate white flowers, followed by a bright, sapid palate with crisp citrus acidity and a saline-mineral finish. Fermented and matured in stainless steel to preserve freshness, this white wine is clean and elegant with enough character to stand out. Lastly, for those of you looking for a Non-Alcoholic choice for some of your dinner guests, we have the Nozeco Sparkling Rosé Non Alcoholic ($16.99). This vegan-friendly alcohol-removed sparkling rosé is well-balanced and enjoys aromas of red berries, and is perfect for those who want sparkle and celebration without the alcohol. Please join us this Friday and Saturday as we pour all of these Thanksgiving favorites: the 2011 Famiglia Anselma Barolo ($64.99), the 2022 The Conspirator Napa Cabernet Sauvignon ($59.99), the 2022 Holloran Pinot Noir ($29.99), the 2024 I Clivi A Tessa Ribolla Gialla ($26.99) and the Nozeco Sparkling Rosé Non Alcoholic ($16.99). Pictured, the 2011 Famiglia Anselma Barolo ($64.99) ... (read more)
November is upon us! In these last few weeks of the month, let's take some time to explore the many wonderful options out there. This week, we turn our attention to Bordeaux. Château Angélus stands as one of the crown jewels of Saint-Émilion, a region celebrated for producing some of Bordeaux's most elegant and age-worthy wines. Founded in the 18th century and still family-run today, the estate takes its name from the Angélus bells that once rang from three local churches. Over the years, Angélus has built its reputation on crafting wines of remarkable depth, grace, and longevity. Its striking balance of tradition and innovation has made it one of Bordeaux's most admired châteaux. Currently we have two vintages in stock, their 2015 Château Angelus ($499.99) and the 2016 Château Angelus ($569.99); today, we are going to instead focus on their second label. For those unfamiliar, a second label wine offers a glimpse into the style and craftsmanship of a great estate, made with grapes not ready for the grand vin but still reflecting the same care and character of the vineyard and winemaker. The 2023 Château Angelus Tempo d' Angelus ($39.99) embodies that spirit beautifully, all at once vibrant, polished, and immediately expressive. This Bordeaux blend opens with notes of ripe black cherry, plum, and violet, followed by subtle hints of cedar and spice. The palate is supple and generous, framed by fine tannins and a fresh, harmonious finish. Perfectly approachable in its youth, it is a wine that will pair seamlessly with your Thanksgiving menu. Tempo d'Angélus captures the rhythm of Saint-Émilion — elegant, inviting, and unmistakably Angélus. Please join us this Friday and Saturday as we pour the 2023 Château Angelus Tempo d' Angelus ($39.99) along with the 2024 Samas Isola dei Nuraghi ($24.99), a terrific Vermentino/Chardonnay blend from Sardinia. Pictured, the 2023 Château Angelus Tempo d' Angelus ($39.99) ... (read more)
As we barrel through October, the weather bids farewell to the warmer days, and we begin to settle into our autumn routines. But that doesn't mean our wine choices have to follow suit. At Francos Wine Merchants, we're always looking for ways to elevate your usual selections, and we're delighted to introduce a beautiful new bottle from Oregon that is an ideal companion for crisp evenings and comforting autumn meals. Today our wine journey takes us to Holloran Vineyard Wines in Oregon's renowned Willamette Valley, where tradition and terroir go hand in hand. This family-run estate farms and harvests fruit exclusively from its own vineyards scattered across the valley — each site offering its own distinctive soil, elevation, and microclimate that shape the character of their wines. All vineyards are organically or biodynamically farmed, with every key task — from pruning to harvest — done meticulously by hand to preserve purity and balance in every bottle. What better expression of Holloran's craft than their introductory 2022 Holloran Pinot Noir ($29.99). This vintage is a blend of carefully chosen barrels sourced primarily from estate vineyard blocks in the Dundee Hills and Eola-Amity Hills — sites defined by volcanic bedrock layered with sedimentary soils. Upon uncorking, the wine opens with vibrant cherry aromas and a hint of forest floor. On the palate, dark fruit notes mingle with subtle minerality and bright, balanced acidity, leading to a soft, silky finish that invites another sip. Drinking much higher than its price-point and ready to rise to any occasion, this wine will pair beautifully with a perfectly marbled ribeye, a flatiron steak, or fresh salmon on the grill. Please join us this Friday and Saturday as we pour both the 2022 Holloran Pinot Noir ($29.99) and the 2023 Château Les Valentines Blanc de Blancs ($29.99), an incredible wine made from a blend of white grapes from the Côtes de Provence. Pictured, the 2022 Holloran Pinot Noir ($29.99) ... (read more)
October chill may be in the air and summer vacations behind us, but you can still do a little California Dreamin' with two new arrivals from the Golden State. Today, our trip to the West Coast takes us to the sun-soaked hills of Napa Valley and the rolling vineyards of Sonoma County. Band of Vintners is a collective of seven Napa Valley wine professionals who came together with a shared passion for crafting high-quality wines that overdeliver for the price. What began as a small tasting group united by a love of great wine and honest value has evolved into a collaborative project focused on producing expressive, regionally authentic wines that showcase the best of Napa Valley. Today we present to you their 2023 Band of Vintners Sauvignon Blanc ($27.99). This wine is a Napa Valley standout example of how freshness and finesse can coexist in perfect balance. This wine bursts from the glass with lively aromas of grapefruit zest, white peach and jasmine, followed by a crisp, mouthwatering palate that's both bright and polished. Notes of citrus, green apple, and a hint of minerality carry through to a clean, refreshing finish. Entirely dry and beautifully textured, it's the kind of Sauvignon Blanc that feels tailor-made for herb rubbed chicken, seafood salads, or simply an enjoyable glass on a brisk, autumn evening. Altruria is a wine project born from a shared passion for what great Cabernet Sauvignon can express when it's balanced, expressive, and grounded in place. The vineyards are located in the eastern reaches of Sonoma County, areas known for their warm days, cooling fog, and diverse soils that bring richness and nuance to red wines. Under winemaker Britt Nichols and Master Sommelier Desmond Echavarrie, Altruria focuses on creating Cabernet Sauvignons that are soulful, accessible, and reflective of Sonoma's history and terroir. The 2022 Altruria Cabernet Sauvignon ($27.99) offers a warm, inviting aroma of dark cherry, violets, and cardamom spice, with savory hints of sage. On the palate, there's a rich core of cassis, blackberry and plum offset by spice notes of vanilla bean, clove and nutmeg, all framed by round, velvety tannins that support good structure and a long, dry finish. For pairings, this is a wine that shines with hearty red meats like grilled flank steak or ribeye, or roasted lamb. This wine also pairs beautifully with a beef ragu or seasonal meat stew as well as aged cheeses that have a bit of spice or smoke which complement the darker fruit and oak-spice elements of the Cabernet grape. Please join us this Friday and Saturday as we pour both the 2023 Band of Vintners Sauvignon Blanc ($27.99) and the 2022 Altruria Cabernet Sauvignon ($27.99). Pictured, the 2023 Band of Vintners Sauvignon Blanc ($27.99) ... (read more)
As autumn rolls along and the excitement of a new season settles in, it's time to reacquaint ourselves with old favorites like that well-worn college hoodie or a favorite sweater. It's also the perfect moment to revisit some of our favorite wine regions, starting today with Jumilla in Spain. Ego Bodegas is a relatively young Spanish winery, founded in 2011 by Santos Ortiz and Ioana Paunescu "con palicos y canicas", literally, from very humble means, without much capital but with plenty of vision and drive. Their estate sits near Jumilla in Murcia, Spain, encompassing about 35 hectares of vineyards, many planted with old Monastrell (Mourvèdre) vines. From the beginning, their philosophy has been to blend traditional methods, such as hand harvesting and separate fermentations, with modern techniques and design, aiming for a careful balance of quality, image, and value. Their flagship "El Goru / Gorú" line draws inspiration from regional mythology. Goru is a figure from local legend (a shaman, wanderer, and teacher) whose name evokes mystery, generosity, and a deep connection to the land. Over time, Ego Bodegas has grown its international reputation, exporting to numerous countries while maintaining the expressive character of Jumilla's terroir. The 2019 El Goru Gold "Mad Hairy Fella" Red Blend ($16.99) is a bold, concentrated wine built around Monastrell (Mourvèdre), Syrah, and Cabernet Sauvignon. It spends 12 months aging in a mix of new and used French, American, and Romanian oak barrels, which helps integrate structure and spice with rich fruit complexity. On the nose, it opens with ripe fig, blackberry, black cherry, oolong tea, and hints of violet. The palate is layered and velvety, with black fruit unfolding into red fruit on the finish, all framed by firm yet polished tannins. This wine pairs beautifully with grilled or roasted red meats with its intensity perfectly complementing lamb or beef dishes, but it is also equally at home alongside a comforting meatloaf or your first beef stew of the season. Please join us this Friday and Saturday as we pour the 2019 El Goru Gold "Mad Hairy Fella" Red Blend ($16.99) along with the 2024 Aquamarine Sauvignon Blanc ($15.99), which is one of our favorite white wines from New Zealand. Pictured, the 2019 El Goru Gold "Mad Hairy Fella" Red Blend ($16.99) ... (read more)
As October arrives, summer is still putting up a fight. Warm days give way to crisp, sweater-worthy evenings, and our menus are in transition too. It's the perfect moment for a wine that feels just right when it's sunny at 5 p.m. yet cozy by 7. Burgundy is always a reliable source for such versatility, so this week let's take a trip to Clos du Moulin aux Moines. Clos du Moulin aux Moines traces its roots to the 10th century, when Cluny monks chose this stream-side site between Auxey-Duresses and Meursault for its limestone slopes, fertile prairies, and natural hydropower. Their mill, dairy, dovecote, orchard, and bread oven nourished nearby villages and shaped the local economy, weathering wars, the changing farming practices, and the phylloxera crisis. Over a millennium, only five owners have guided the estate, each preserving its spirit of innovation and stewardship. After a period of decline, the Rollin family and winemaker Willy Roulendes began a careful revival in 2008. At the heart lies the walled "Monopole" vineyard that gives the estate its name — three hectares of historic vines surrounded by stone walls — while 16 hectares across twenty Côte de Beaune appellations carry forward a legacy of thoughtful viticulture and winemaking. The 2023 Clos du Moulin Aux Moines Pinot Noir ($39.99) comes from "Les Saunots," a small plot opposite the historic estate at the meeting point of Meursault, Auxey-Duresses, and Monthelie. Though outside any formal appellation, the site's original streambed soils, first planted in 1962, give striking character. Farmed organically and biodynamically, the vines thrive without chemicals, with winter cover crops enriching the soil. Hand-harvested grapes undergo a slow, wild-yeast fermentation with up to 100% whole clusters, followed by six months of stainless-steel aging. The wine is bottled unfiltered, unfined, and with minimal sulfites, preserving purity and vibrant fruit. Bright, savory, and gently structured, this Vin de France Pinot Noir pairs effortlessly with autumn stews, roasted poultry, and hearty meats, reflecting the estate's thousand-year heritage and natural, minimalist winemaking. Please join us this Friday and Saturday as we pour the 2023 Clos du Moulin Aux Moines Pinot Noir ($39.99) along with a stunning Spanish white wine, the 2023 Altos de Torona Albanta Albariño ($23.99). Pictured, the 2023 Clos du Moulin Aux Moines Pinot Noir ($39.99) ... (read more)
Autumn announced itself this week with a welcome chill in the air. Our thoughts naturally turn to heartier meals and wines with a bit more heft to warm these cool evenings. Today we're featuring a terrific bottle from Spain that is perfect for these seasonal nights. Merum Priorati stands among the most important wine estates in Spain's Priorat region, where steep, rugged mountains allow only the hardiest vines to thrive, and yields are naturally tiny but intensely flavorful. Founded in 2004 by two Catalan families near the picturesque village of Porrera, the estate crafts just three limited wines, each offering serious complexity wrapped in vibrant modern fruit. Its three vineyard plots (Les Foreses, Plana Marjot, and Les Escomelles) cover 103 hectares of dramatic, terraced slopes. Garnacha, Cariñena, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot flourish here, producing artisanal wines of remarkable depth and adventure. Today we present to you their 2021 Merum Priorati Inici ($39.99). This stunning Spanish wine is a bold, estate-grown Priorat red rooted in Porrera's rugged llicorella slate vineyards, a hallmark of the region's distinctive minerality. Crafted from 60% Garnacha with equal parts Cabernet Sauvignon, Carinyena, and Syrah, it pours a deep cherry red and opens with rich aromas of black cherry, blueberry, redcurrant, and anise, touched by vanilla, cedar, and a whisper of smoked stone. On the palate, ripe black fruit mingles with fresh raspberry and pomegranate, framed by balanced acidity, velvety yet firm tannins, and a warm, persistent finish. Barrel aging adds creamy complexity and subtle smoky nuances, giving the wine both elegance and power. A beautifully structured tribute to classic Priorat terroir, it's an ideal match for most any red meat dish as well as a decadent board of artisan cheeses, but also works with something creative like duck breast with sweet potatoes and grape sauce or, for those very adventurous, partridge with truffles and wild mushrooms. Please join us this Friday and Saturday as we pour the 2021 Merum Priorati Inici ($39.99) along with the 2024 Domaine Chavet La Côte Menetou-Salon ($25.99), a very enjoyable Sauvignon Blanc from the Loire Valley. For those of you who are new to our store, you might want to take a minute (literally) to view our short video about the services we offer. Check out the Francos Wine Minute on our Home Page. Pictured, the 2021 Merum Priorati Inici ($39.99) ... (read more)
While vacation season may be over for most of us, we can still enjoy a European escape by exploring wines from our favorite countries. Today, we journey to Italy's sun-drenched Amalfi Coast and the enchanting island of Ischia located in the bay of Naples. This is where we find estate of Casa d'Ambra. Our story begins in 1888 when Francesco "Don Ciccio" D'Ambra left Calabria for the island of Ischia and planted the seeds of a winemaking legacy in Forio on the western side of the island. His wines quickly earned acclaim in Naples, putting Ischia on the viticultural map. In 1952, his sons Mario, Michele, and Salvatore, took the reins, expanding operations to Panza and building D'Ambra Vini d'Ischia. Mario later revitalized the winery, championing local grapes and broader markets. Today, Don Ciccio's grandson Andrea, with his daughters Marina and Sara, carry on the family torch to keep Casa d'Ambra a living testament to Ischia's rich wine heritage. Through their dedication to tradition, innovation, and sustainability, Casa d'Ambra continues to produce wines that reflect the unique character of Ischia, offering a taste of the island's rich history and culture. Today we offer to you their 2024 Casa d’Ambra Leninfe ($29.99). This unique white wine is a blend of Falanghina, Malvasia di Candia Aromatica, Greco, and Trebbiano grapes. Upon pouring this wine, it shimmers in the glass with an inviting, straw-yellow hue. Vinified in stainless steel for freshness, the wine opens with an expressive bouquet of ripe orchard fruit and aromatic Mediterranean herbs. On the palate, it is dry, savory, and harmonious, balancing bright acidity with a subtle mineral edge. Elegant yet versatile, it pairs effortlessly with vegetarian dishes, pasta al pesto, spicy Asian or Middle Eastern flavors, fresh seafood, and of course it absolutely shines with the island's signature rabbit dish, Coniglio all'Ischitana. Please join us this Friday and Saturday as we pour the 2024 Casa d’Ambra Leninfe ($29.99) along with the 2021 Château Malleret Le Baron de Malleret ($29.99), a terrific Bordeaux from the Haut-Medoc. Pictured, the 2024 Casa d’Ambra Leninfe ($29.99) ... (read more)
The days are growing cooler, school is back in session, and September is in full swing. Today, our journey brings us back to Burgundy, France. Traveling south from Dijon, we arrive in Burgundy's Mâconnais where we find Domaine Nicolas Delfaud, a new, rising star in the region. Nicolas began his career in the early 2000s as a sommelier in Paris which led him to pursue a formal education in viticulture at the agricultural school in Davayé. From there Nicolas went on to a stint at Château des Rontets in Pouilly-Fuissé before embarking on his own wine journey in Verzé, Mâconnais. Through his hard work and determination by 2015 he was farming several of his own hectares of vines right in the heart of Verzé. The limestone-rich soils in Verzé are perfectly suited to Chardonnay, with some of the existing vines dating back to the 1960s. Nicolas' vineyards are all farmed organically and guided by biodynamic practices. This approach means avoiding synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, and herbicides, relying instead on natural, holistic methods that promote soil health and ecosystem balance. The 2024 Domaine Nicolas Delfaud Macon Verzé ($26.99) is a flagship expression of the estate, crafted entirely from hand-harvested fruit on limestone-rich slopes. Bright and elegant on the nose, it opens with notes of fresh yellow apple, citrus, and a whisper of baking spice. The palate is lively yet layered, balancing a rich texture with a subtle mineral backbone, all carried by a modest alcohol level that keeps the wine fresh and precise. This wine is fermented entirely in stainless steel tanks, and is generally from his younger vines offering a fresh expression of the Chardonnay grape. Versatile at the table, it pairs beautifully with something as simple as roast chicken or a classic croque-monsieur, yet it can also elevate some seasonal dishes like Scallops Provençal. Please join us this Friday and Saturday as we pour the 2024 Domaine Nicolas Delfaud Macon Verzé ($26.99) alongside the 2021 Expression Chinon - Pascal et Alain Lorieux ($21.99) — a delicious Loire Valley red wine made from Cabernet Franc that showcases Chinon's mineral-rich terroir. Pictured, the 2024 Domaine Nicolas Delfaud Macon Verzé ($26.99) ... (read more)
Labor Day weekend is the perfect time to entertain and what better way than with a quick trip to Provence, courtesy of Château Les Valentines. Established in 1997 by Gilles Pons and Pascale Massenot, Château Les Valentines transformed a century-old vineyard in Provence's Côtes de Provence La Londe appellation into an award-winning organic estate. This estate property thrives on roughly 50 hectares of mica-schist soils near La Londe-les-Maures, where Mediterranean sunshine, the cooling winds, and southern exposure combine to shape its distinctive, balanced wines. Today, several grape varieties are cultivated under organic and regenerative farming practices, including Grenache, Syrah, Cinsault, Mourvèdre, Cabernet Sauvignon, Carignan, Rolle, Clairette, and Ugni Blanc. We start off with the 2023 Château Les Valentines Blanc de Blancs ($29.99), a certified organic white that captures the elegance and freshness of Provence. Crafted from a refined blend of Vermentino, Ugni Blanc, and Clairette, it delivers vibrant aromatics and a pure, precise palate. Bright citrus notes mingle with a hint of ginger and delicate exotic fruit, creating a wine that is both refreshing and sophisticated. Its lively character makes it a natural partner for oysters, grilled shrimp, or seared scallops. Next, we have the 2024 Château Les Valentines Rosé ($29.99). This rosé is the estate's flagship wine and is a refined blend of 50% Grenache and 50% Cinsault. The nose opens with delicate notes of cranberry and wild berries, while the palate reveals layers of citrus and subtle exotic fruit, lifted by a whisper of minerality that carries into a smooth, lingering finish. Elegant yet approachable, this rosé shines alongside fresh seafood platters, grilled salmon, or Niçoise salad, and pairs beautifully with Mediterranean fare such as olive tapenade, charcuterie, or summer vegetable tarts. Lastly, we come to their red wine, the 2022 Château Les Valentines Rouge ($29.99). This wine shows a deep ruby hue that immediately draws you in with its seductive aromatics. Rich and full-bodied, it reveals layers of ripe dark fruit, warm toasted spice, and a touch of Mediterranean herbs. Crafted from Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre, Carignan, and Cabernet Sauvignon, this expressive red wine strikes a balance of power and elegance, making it remarkably versatile at the table. It pairs beautifully with grilled steaks, lamb chops, or rosemary chicken and also with aged cheeses and charcuterie. Please join us this Friday and Saturday as we pour all three of these wines from Château Les Valentines: the 2023 Château Les Valentines Blanc de Blancs ($29.99), the 2024 Château Les Valentines Rosé ($29.99) and the 2022 Château Les Valentines Rouge ($29.99). Pictured, the 2023 Château Les Valentines Blanc de Blancs ($29.99) ... (read more)
Wherever you find yourself this month, near or far, a great bottle of wine has a way of enhancing the moment. Today, our journey in the glass takes us to Spain. Tucked within the O Rosal subregion of Spain's Rías Baixas, Albanta Vineyard has been in the care of the Gómez family since 1954. Their grape-growing journey began on the sunlit slopes of Mount Galeno, with sweeping views of the Miño River and the Atlantic. Today, guided by Horacio Gómez, the estate encompasses about 94 hectares devoted to eco-conscious and sustainable viticulture. The vines thrive in granite and sand-based soils, planted on terraces and trained along wires, an approach that contrasts with the region's more common pergola system. This distinctive combination of terrain and method lends an invigorating brightness and lift to their wines, most notably their signature Albariño. The 2023 Altos de Torona Albanta Albariño ($23.99) captures the spirit of the estate with precision and charm. Fermented in stainless steel using native yeasts, then matured on fine lees, it pours a luminous straw yellow touched with green highlights. Aromas of ripe white stone fruit mingle with a briny citrus minerality. On the palate, it's lively and mouthwatering, with zesty acidity, juicy texture, and a lingering apricot blossom note. Its crisp energy makes it an ideal match for summer's seafood bounty of oysters, mussels, or charred octopus. If you are more of a land lover, this wine is equally at home alongside grilled chicken, grilled pork, or creamy cheeses like burrata and feta. Versatile, bright, and full of character, it's a wine that shines from warm evenings to year-round tables. Please join us this Friday and Saturday as we pour the 2023 Altos de Torona Albanta Albariño ($23.99) along with the 2023 Alois Lageder Schiava ($19.99), a terrific Italian red from the Dolomites. Pictured, the 2023 Altos de Torona Albanta Albariño ($23.99) ... (read more)
As we welcome August, let's celebrate the final weeks of summer in style. Francos Wine Merchants has some fantastic seasonal wines to recommend, and today we are highlighting an outstanding Rosé from Italy. Castello di Montepò is a historic estate in Tuscany's Maremma region, dating back to the Middle Ages. In the 1990s, it was purchased by Jacopo Biondi Santi, heir to the famed Brunello di Montalcino legacy. With a vision to craft noble wines rooted in tradition yet driven by innovation, Jacopo established Montepò as the new home of the Sangiovese Grosso clone — Brunello Biondi Santi-11 — developed by his family. Today, the estate is a multi-generational project, with Jacopo's son Tancredi Biondi Santi now working alongside him, continuing the legacy with renewed energy and a deep respect for the land and history that defines Castello di Montepò. Today we would like to highlight their 2024 Biondi Santi Castello di Montepò JeT Rosé ($29.99). This Rosato, made from 100% Sangiovese using the estate's BBS11 clone, shows off a vibrant pink hue both in the bottle and the glass. Once poured, aromas of strawberries, raspberries, and peach rise up to greet you. On the palate, bright red berry flavors are wrapped in crisp acidity and lively minerality, leading to an elegant, dry, and persistent finish. It's a perfect match for seafood and shellfish, but if you're relaxing on the patio, it also pairs beautifully with soft cheeses, rustic crostini, and bruschetta. Please join us this Friday and Saturday as we pour the 2024 Biondi Santi Castello di Montepò JeT Rosé ($29.99) along with the 2022 Planet Oregon Pinot Noir ($23.99). Pictured, the 2024 Biondi Santi Castello di Montepò JeT Rosé ($29.99) ... (read more)
Summer officially announced its arrival this week with a full-blown heat wave, and with it comes backyard barbecues, poolside hangs, and casual evenings with friends. When the temperatures climb, we naturally start reaching for wines that can keep things cool. This week, we're heading to the refreshing climate of Oregon to find just the thing. Fullerton Wines began when Eric Fullerton met his future wife Suzanne in Stockholm while traveling through Europe in pursuit of his growing passion for wine. Marriage soon followed, along with a shared enthusiasm for tasting, savoring, and cellaring wine. Their mutual love of wine eventually brought them to Oregon, where they started a family. Their son Alex studied economics at the University of Oregon, landed an internship at Penner-Ash and went on to hone his craft in both Oregon and New Zealand. In 2011, he returned to Oregon and teamed up with his father to produce their first Pinot Noir in the family garage. Fullerton Wines was born and remains a deeply personal, family-run label dedicated to crafting elegant wines that reflect the distinctive terroir of Oregon's Willamette Valley. Contracting with about a dozen vineyard sites all of which are farmed in an organic, biodynamic or sustainable fashion, they produce about 8,000 cases a year. Today, we're excited to share their 2023 Three Otters Pinot Noir ($22.99). This light ruby-red wine opens with inviting aromas of fresh red berries, autumn leaves, crushed rock, and earthy moss. On the palate, it strikes a beautiful balance: soft and approachable yet structured, delivering generous layers of strawberry, raspberry, and cherry, complemented by hints of tanned leather, fine herbs, and a touch of cinnamon spice. It's the perfect red for summer — light enough to enjoy in warm weather, and even better with a slight chill. Whether you're grilling, picnicking, or just keeping it casual on the porch, this wine works well in all these scenarios. Please join us this Friday and Saturday as we pour the 2023 Three Otters Pinot Noir ($22.99) along with the 2023 Altos de Torona Albanta Albariño ($23.99) — a delicious, refreshing white wine from Spain that is perfect for these hot, summer days. Pictured, the 2023 Three Otters Pinot Noir ($22.99) ... (read more)
130 Elm Street, New Canaan, CT | 203.966.9571 | info@francoswine.com
Hours: Tue-Fri: 10am-7pm Sat: 10am-6pm Sun: 12pm-4pm
Privacy Policy |
©2001-2025 by Francos Wine Merchants