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2025 October Cellar Specials

  • @ $39.99/ea

    2023 Clos du Moulin Aux Moines Pinot Noir

    (sale price $39.99)

    The Clos du Moulin aux Moines Vin de France Pinot Noir is a captivating example of natural Burgundy, crafted from a small hillside plot near Auxey-Duresses...(read more)

  • @ $29.99/ea

    2024 Casa d’Ambra Leninfe

    (sale price $29.99)

    Casa d’Ambra “Leninfe” first greets you with a straw-yellow hue. This white wine from the island of Ischia (located in the bay of Naples) is a blend...(read more)

  • @ $22.99/ea

    2019 Château Fongaban

    (sale price $22.99)

    Located in the northern part of the region, Chateau Fongaban, Puisseguin Saint Emilion is Biodynamically produce and a blend of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet...(read more)

  • @ $18.99/ea

    2023 Tenuta Il Bergo Gavi di Gavi

    (sale price $18.99)

    A classically styled Gavi di Gavi, the Tenuta Il Bergo is an outstanding example of what can be down with the Cortese grape. This white wine from Piedmont...(read more)

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Click here for map and directions. Store email: info@francoswine.com

About Francos

Service, selection and competitive pricing have been our legacy for 90 years.

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!

Store Hours

Tuesday, September 02, 2025

Tuesday - Friday 10:00AM - 7:00PM
Saturday 10:00AM - 6:00PM
Sunday 12:00PM - 4:00PM
Monday CLOSED
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.

2022 Holloran Pinot Noir — Pinot Perfection

Thursday, October 23, 2025
2023 Band of Vintners Sauvignon Blanc

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)

Band Of Vintners Sauvignon Blanc and Altruria Cabernet — California Dreamin'

Thursday, October 16, 2025
2023 Band of Vintners Sauvignon Blanc

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)

2019 El Goru Gold — Meet The Mad Hairy Fella

Thursday, October 09, 2025
2019 El Goru Gold "Mad Hairy Fella" Red Blend

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)

2023 Moulin Aux Moines Pinot Noir — Heritage Meets Harmony

Thursday, October 02, 2025
2023 Clos du Moulin Aux Moines Pinot Noir

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)

2021 Merum Priorati Inici — Spanish Stunner

Thursday, September 25, 2025
2021 Merum Priorati Inici

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 2023 Domaine Chavet La Côte Menetou-Salon ($24.99), 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)

2024 Casa d'Ambra Leninfe — Discover The Wine Of Ischia

Thursday, September 18, 2025
2024 Casa d’Ambra Leninfe

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 2020 Château Malleret Le Baron de Malleret ($26.99), a terrific Bordeaux from the Haut-Medoc. Pictured, the 2024 Casa d’Ambra Leninfe ($29.99) ... (read more)

2024 Cyprien Perchaud Sancerre — Legendary Loire

Thursday, September 11, 2025
2024 Cyprien Perchaud Sancerre

September is well underway, and while there are hints of the changing season in the air, there's still plenty of time to enjoy the summer bounty with wines from the Loire Valley. Sancerre pairs beautifully with fish, oysters, clams, and mussels and is a perfect way to extend the feeling of summer. So come with us today as we wander through the Loire and visit the estate of Cyprien Perchaud. The Cyprien Perchaud estate is based in Sainte-Gemme-en-Sancerrois, the northernmost village of Sancerre. Founded in 1990 by Daniel Reverdy, the domaine was later passed down to his son, Cyprien, a second-generation winemaker who studied oenology in Beaune and released his first solo vintage in 2021. Today, the family-run estate spans eight hectares across Sancerre and Pouilly-Fumé, with vines rooted in clay, limestone, and flint soils that lend the wines their distinctive minerality. Committed to expressing terroir, the domaine follows organic practices, employs green harvesting, and relies on meticulous hand harvesting with careful sorting both in the vineyard and in the cellar. Vinification is carried out in stainless steel vats with indigenous yeasts, a low-intervention approach that preserves purity, freshness, and the flinty character that defines Loire Valley Sauvignon Blanc. This brings us to their 2024 Cyprien Perchaud Sancerre ($39.99). This white wine is a radiant expression of Loire Valley Sauvignon Blanc, bursting with zesty lemon, grapefruit rind, and delicate elderflower, layered over a flinty, mineral core. On the palate, it is racy and refreshing, with bright acidity, stony tension, and just enough texture to carefully lead you into its long, lingering finish. The clay/limestone and silex soils impart a bright mineral tension which keeps this wine fresh, focused and impossible to resist. This Sancerre shines alongside fresh oysters, mussels, and ceviche, pairs beautifully with grilled white fish cooked with fresh herbs, and is a classic match for tangy goat cheese. It's a wine that feels like summer extended, with the structure to carry into fall. Please join us this Friday and Saturday as we pour the 2024 Cyprien Perchaud Sancerre ($39.99) along with the 2023 Mas de Gourgonnier Les Baux de Provence ($19.99), an enjoyable red wine from Provence. Pictured, the 2024 Cyprien Perchaud Sancerre ($39.99) ... (read more)

Welcome September with 2023 Delfaud Macon Verzé

Thursday, September 04, 2025
2023 Domaine Nicolas Delfaud Macon Verze

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 2023 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 2023 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 2023 Domaine Nicolas Delfaud Macon Verzé ($26.99) ... (read more)

Long Weekend, Long Pour — Château Les Valentines for Labor Day

Thursday, August 28, 2025
2023 Chateau Les Valentines Blanc de Blancs

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)

2023 Albanta Albariño — Your Late Summer Escape

Thursday, August 14, 2025
2023 Altos de Torona Albanta Albarino

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)

Leaving on a Jet Plane — 2024 Montepò JeT Rosé

Thursday, July 31, 2025
2024 Biondi Santi Castello di Montepo JeT Rose

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)

Three Otters Pinot Noir — Oregon's Playful Pour

Thursday, June 26, 2025
2023 Three Otters Pinot Noir

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)

Find the Perfect Wine for Dad — Cakebread Cellars Wine Tasting

Thursday, June 12, 2025
2021 Cakebread Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon

Father's Day is almost here, and if you're still searching for the perfect gift for Dad, Francos Wine Merchants has you covered. After all, what does Dad love more than firing up the grill and unwinding with a delicious steak and a great bottle of wine? This week we are highlighting an entire lineup from Cakebread Cellars where we are certain you can find something to Dad's liking. Founded in 1973 by Jack and Dolores Cakebread, Cakebread Cellars has long been a Napa Valley staple, celebrated for crafting wines that are as refined as they are food-friendly. Built on family values, sustainable practices, and an unwavering commitment to quality, the winery has earned its place among California's most respected producers. They now also have their Bezel by Cakebread line; this next generation line is expanding the family legacy, offering wines that are approachable, vibrant, and perfect for everyday enjoyment without sacrificing the craftsmanship Cakebread is known for. If you're looking for that pinnacle bottle for Father's Day, it doesn't get much better than the 2021 Cakebread Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon ($89.99). This flagship wine is 88% Cabernet Sauvignon, with the balance comprised of Merlot, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, and Syrah, all sourced from a range of Napa Valley appellations that lend the wine its remarkable complexity. If Dad plans to grill some fish or steam some lobsters, the Cakebread Cellars white wines take center stage. The 2023 Cakebread Cellars Chardonnay ($49.99) opens with aromas of apple and melon, followed by a palate layered with pear and apple, and finishing with a subtle mineral edge. If your menu calls for a wine with a bit more crispness, the 2023 Cakebread Cellars Sauvignon Blanc ($38.99) offers a bright bouquet of kiwi and grapefruit, leading to a citrus-driven finish that's as refreshing as it is refined. Are you hosting a large crowd? Well, there is no need to sacrifice quality for price with the Bezel by Cakebread wines. The 2023 Bezel Pinot Noir by Cakebread ($29.99) is vibrant and structured with aromas of tart cherry, plum and raspberry all smoothed out by refined tannins. But if your menu leans towards a white wine, the 2023 Bezel Sauvignon Blanc by Cakebread ($24.99) delivers flavors of citrus such as lime zest and pink grapefruit while remaining lively and crisp on the palate. It's perfect for grilled fish, cold pasta salad or sushi. Please join us this Friday and Saturday as we pour several of these Cakebread Cellar wines including the 2021 Cakebread Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon ($89.99), the 2023 Cakebread Cellars Chardonnay ($49.99), the 2023 Bezel Pinot Noir by Cakebread ($29.99) and the 2023 Bezel Sauvignon Blanc by Cakebread ($24.99). Pictured, the 2021 Cakebread Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon ($89.99) ... (read more)

Holloran Vineyard Winery — Willamette Wowzer

Thursday, June 05, 2025
2024 Holloran Stafford Hill Sauvignon Blanc

June has arrived, bringing with it a fresh selection of wines perfectly suited for the season. From casual get-togethers and backyard dinners to the many celebrations that make this month sparkle, there's a bottle for every kind of gathering. Today our wine journey brings us to Holloran Vineyard Winery in Oregon's Willamette Valley. This estate is fortunate to farm and harvest grapes from its own premium vineyards. Each site possesses unique characteristics that influence the style, tastes and aromas in their wines. Holloran Vineyard Winery sites are all farmed organic or biodynamic using traditional organic practices with all the key vineyard tasks performed by hand. New to our lineup and perfect for summer is the 2024 Holloran Stafford Hill Sauvignon Blanc ($24.99). This outstanding wine is a vibrant expression of the Sauvignon Blanc grape. It opens with inviting aromas of gooseberry, lemongrass, and crisp Granny Smith apple, setting the stage for a lively palate layered with ripe lemon, orchard fruit, and fresh summer herbs. Bright acidity and elegant minerality strike just the right balance, making it enjoyable on its own while also pairing effortlessly with a wide range of dishes — from seafood and poultry to your favorite vegetable pastas. Next, we move over to one of their signature wines, the 2022 Holloran Pinot Noir ($29.99). Their 2022 vintage is a blend of carefully selected barrels primarily from vineyard blocks in their Dundee Hills and Eola-Amity Hills vineyard sites. These sites are all volcanic-based sites covered in sedimentary soils. Upon uncorking, this wine shows off bright cherry aromas with a slight nuance of forest underbrush. In the mouth, flavors of dark fruit come forward that mesh with the wine's subtle minerality and balanced acidity. This all leads you into a soft and silky. So, whether it's a beautifully marbled Ribeye or Flatiron steak, or a fresh piece of salmon for the grill, this Willamette Valley Pinot Noir is ready to accompany a variety of menu choices. Please join us this Friday and Saturday as we pour both the 2024 Holloran Stafford Hill Sauvignon Blanc ($24.99) and the 2022 Holloran Pinot Noir ($29.99). Pictured, the 2024 Holloran Stafford Hill Sauvignon Blanc ($24.99) ... (read more)

Albanta Albariño — A Summer Breeze from Rías Baixas

Thursday, May 22, 2025
2023 Altos de Torona Albanta Albarino

As we head into Memorial Day Weekend, some of our favorite warm-weather wines are beginning to resurface. These crisp, refreshing bottles are ready to take on the heat. So what better way to kick off your Holiday Weekend than by taking a quick trip to Spain and rekindling our love for a summertime favorite, Albariño. Nestled in the O Rosal subregion of Rías Baixas, Spain, Albanta Vineyard is a family-owned estate with a rich heritage dating back to 1954. The Gómez family began cultivating grapes on the slopes of Mount Galeno, overlooking the Miño River and the Atlantic Ocean. Today, under the stewardship of Horacio Gómez, the vineyard spans approximately 94 hectares, dedicated to sustainable and ecologically mindful farming practices. The 2023 Altos de Torona Albanta Albariño ($23.99) is a testament to the vineyard's commitment to quality and expression of place. Fermented in stainless steel with native yeasts and aged on fine lees, this wine first greets you with a bright, straw yellow color with a slight greenish hue. Upon pouring, the wine releases vibrant aromas of white stone fruits and a fresh citrus minerality. On the palate, it offers a zesty and juicy profile with mouth-watering acidity and an apricot blossom finish. Its crisp and refreshing character makes it an excellent companion to a variety of dishes. Pair it with seafood such as oysters, mussels, or grilled octopus; white meats like chicken or pork; creamy cheeses like burrata or feta; and fresh vegetable dishes. This Albariño's versatility and brightness make it a delightful choice for warm-weather dining and beyond. Please join us this Friday and Saturday as we pour the 2023 Altos de Torona Albanta Albariño ($23.99) along with the 2023 Tunella Pinot Nero ($19.99), an Italian Pinot Noir and a perfect red wine for your Memorial Day pour. Pictured, the 2023 Altos de Torona Albanta Albariño ($23.99) ... (read more)

Wines of South Africa — Uncork the Unexpected

Thursday, May 15, 2025
2023 Botanica Wines Big Flower Cabernet Franc

If you've yet to explore the wines of South Africa, there's no time like the present. From the sun-drenched slopes of Stellenbosch to the cool breezes of Elgin, these wines tell a story of heritage and craftsmanship. This week, Francos Wine Merchants is proud to put two standout selections in the spotlight. Nestled in Stellenbosch's Devon Valley, Botanica Wines is the realization of American-born Ginny Povall's dream to craft distinctive, terroir-driven wines in South Africa. After acquiring the historic Protea Heights farm in 2008, Ginny planted the land with high-density vineyards. These vineyards, set on decomposed granite and sandstone soils, benefit from cooling afternoon breezes off False Bay, creating an ideal microclimate for many Bordeaux varietals. Today we introduce the 2023 Botanica Wines Big Flower Cabernet Franc ($23.99), crafted entirely from grapes grown on the estate's high-density vineyards in the Devon Valley. This is an elegant, full-bodied red wine displaying dark fruit flavors and savory, earthy undertones. While the tannins are firm, they are offset by a bright acidity that will pair well with any grilled meat or grilled vegetable dishes on your menu. Moving over to the Elgin Valley, Paul Clüver Family Wines is a fourth-generation estate that has been in the Clüver family since 1896. The estate is renowned for its commitment to sustainability, with over half of its land designated as a conservation area. Embracing regenerative farming practices, such as the use of cover crops to enhance soil health and carbon sequestration, Paul Clüver Wines produces elegant, terroir-driven wines that reflect both the unique Elgin terroir and a deep respect for the environment. Today we are featuring their 2024 Paul Clüver Sauvignon Blanc ($19.99). This wine greets you with a bright yellow hue followed by a lively bouquet of nettles, black currant and white flowers. On the palate, all these aromatics are complimented by undertones of passion fruit and gooseberry held together by a bracing salinity, creating a complex and lengthy mouthfeel. It is a fresh wine with balanced acidity and a lingering finish. This Sauvignon Blanc is an excellent pairing for seafood and salads, or enjoyed on its own as a refreshing aperitif. Pictured, the 2023 Botanica Wines Big Flower Cabernet Franc ($23.99) ... (read more)

Italy, Austria & France — Worldly Wines for Mom

Thursday, May 08, 2025
2023 Firriato Le Sabbie dell' Etna Bianco

May has arrived, and with it comes Mother's Day. If your Mother's Day celebration includes some wines for Mom, Francos Wine Merchants has you covered. This week, we're featuring a selection of wines from Europe — maybe one of her favorites is in the mix, or perhaps you'll discover something new she'll absolutely adore. Our wine selection this week comes from Enrico Battisti of SoilAir Selections. Since 2005, Enrico has been driven by a vision to bring an authentic collection of Europe's finest wines to the United States. His focus has always been on curating wines that deliver both quality and excitement. Today, SoilAir's ever-expanding portfolio includes exceptional wines from around the globe — and this weekend, we'll be pouring some standout selections from Italy, Austria, and France. Enrico Battisti of SoilAir Selections will be joining us on Friday as part of our Weekend Wine Tasting. Come by to hear firsthand about his journey, his passion for European wines, and the stories behind the bottles he's bringing to your table. Enrico will be here on Friday from 3:00 to 5:00PM — so please stop in. Starting off in Italy, we begin on the island of Sicily where we find Firriato Winery and their 2023 Firriato Le Sabbie dell' Etna Bianco ($29.99). This Sicilian white wine is blend of Carricante and Catarratto grapes that thrive in the island's volcanic soil. Opening up with citrus and green apple, once on the palate this wine springs to life with zesty lemon, pear and a touch of salinity. Vibrant and focused, this wine begs to be paired with any type of white fish as well as grilled vegetables. If Italian red is more mom's style, 2019 Poggiotondo Brunello di Montalcino ($55.99) is a terrific place to land. This Tuscan jewel greets you with a softness in the mouth followed by velvety tannins. The mature Sangiovese vines produce a wine that is not only full-bodied on the palate but leads you into an intense and textured finish. This wine exemplifies Poggiotondo's commitment to sustainable viticulture and traditional winemaking in Montalcino. Traveling to Austria, the 2023 Proidl Gruner Veltliner ($24.99) is a white wine that will brighten mom's day. Crisp and focused, it's a classic expression of Austria's signature grape. With notes of green apple, citrus, and a hint of white pepper, this lean, energetic wine is driven by vibrant acidity. If sushi is on the menu for mom, this bottle makes the perfect pairing. Our European tour ends in the sun-soaked hills of Provence with the 2024 Cuvée Agathe Rosé ($19.99), a crisp, dry rosé that's as elegant as it is refreshing. Bursting with aromas of ripe nectarines and red berries, this medium to full-bodied wine offers modest acidity and a clean, fresh finish that lingers just long enough. Crafted from organically grown Grenache Noir, Syrah, Rolle, Caldoc, and Cinsault, it's a beautiful expression of Provençal charm and a lovely choice for raising a glass to Mom. Pictured, the 2023 Firriato Le Sabbie dell' Etna Bianco ($29.99) ... (read more)

2023 Chavet La Côte — Your Sancerre Alternative

Thursday, May 01, 2025
2023 Domaine Chavet La Cote Menetou-Salon

Spring is here to stay — we can finally say it with confidence. So, let's turn our thoughts to wines for the warmer weather. Today we have an excellent choice from the Loire Valley in France. Menetou-Salon is located in the eastern part of the Loire Valley and is characterized by Kimmeridgian soil, a limestone-rich earth highly prized in viticulture for producing wines with excellent structure and minerality. A neighbor to Sancerre, Menetou-Salon not only cultivates Sauvignon Blanc like its more famous counterpart but also shares the same distinctive terroir of Kimmeridgian soil. Domaine Chavet is a family-owned estate recognized for producing elegant, expressive wines that honor tradition while embracing sustainable viticulture and a deep respect for the region's unique soils. Their wines are a true reflection of the family's dedication to quality and the singular character of Menetou-Salon. Today we focus on their 2023 Domaine Chavet La Côte Menetou-Salon ($24.99). Made from 100% Sauvignon Blanc grape, this wine greets you with a pale gold color while aromas of mineral and lemon burst from the glass. On the palate it is fresh and elegant and the lemony notes discerned in the nose are confirmed in the mouth, accentuated by a delicate mineral freshness that leads you directly to a clean, crisp finish. All the hallmarks of a great Sauvignon Blanc are present, making it an excellent alternative to Sancerre. As with many Loire Valley whites the 2023 Domaine Chavet La Côte Menetou-Salon ($24.99) is a perfect pairing for almost any seafood or shellfish menu. Please join us this Friday and Saturday as we pour the 2023 Domaine Chavet La Côte Menetou-Salon ($24.99) alongside a terrific Spanish red wine also perfect for the season, the 2020 Bodegas Riojanas Monte Real Reserva Rioja ($24.99). Pictured, the 2023 Domaine Chavet La Côte Menetou-Salon ($24.99) ... (read more)

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