Some rather interesting wines have arrived at Renegade this week from a 1996 Portuguese red to a Macedonian sparkling that impresses. We invite you to take a peek, and as always,

Read, Relax, Enjoy!

2023 Karanika Cuvée Speciale Extra Brut (Greece, Macedonia, Amyndaio) $42 This was a delightful find! A sparkling wine from Macedonia: 90% Xinomavro - 10% Assyrtiko.  Details: Destemmed, crushed and lightly pressed in pneumatic press to obtain free run juice. Temperature controlled fermentation at 18 -22 degrees Celsius. Low sulphur use, organic. 2nd fermentation in bottle. Sur latte for 16 months. Released 3 months after disgorging. Taste: Aromas of citrus, orchard fruit, red berry... beautifully textured creamy mouse with everlasting tiny bubbles in perfect contrast with the electric/savory acidity. Balanced. Loooong finish...  ...a sensation from Macendonia.

2025 Kysela Pere & Fils Picpoul de Pinet (France, Languedoc Roussillon, Languedoc, Picpoul de Pinet) $16 Yes! Our very favorite wine from Picpoul (and that's the name of the grape too; Picpoul) is back in stock. If there was ever a white wine that over delivers it's this one. Bright, lip-smacking acidity, mineral-driven finish, and vibrant citrus with green melon/pale orchard fruit notes. Shellfish, ceviche, oysters on the menu? This is your wine.

2024 Quentin Cailleau Patience schistes & grès (France, Loire Valley, Anjou-Saumur) $28 Few grapes capture the essence of terroir quite like Chenin Blanc, and in the hands of Quentin Cailleau, it becomes a study in purity, texture, and balance. Sourced from the rocky schist slopes of the Hyrome Valley, this organically farmed, hand-harvested expression of Chenin is crafted with meticulous care, resulting in a wine that is both vibrant and profound. The nose is expansive yet precise, with aromas of white peach, quince, and wildflower honey, underpinned by a distinct mineral edge: wet stone, sea spray, and a touch of beeswax. On the palate, the wine is densely structured yet weightless, with a chiselled, saline-driven finish that lingers with remarkable clarity. Don't miss this one.

1996 Caves São João Bairrada Reserva Quinta do Poço do Lobo (Portugal, Beiras, Bairrada) $60 Celebrating 30 years? Birthday? Anniversary? This is a great bottle for a celebration.  A fascinating, very old‑school Bairrada red: a long‑aged Quinta do Poço do Lobo (the vineyard) Reserva from Caves São João (the winery); current release too (amazing).  West of Dao in Portugal, Bairrada is home to the Caves São João winery whos fame is their deep cellars. Wines 30, 40, 50+ years old resting comfortably. This 30 year old red was just released from their cold cellars and has made its way to Renegade.  There's still plenty of freshness here, great acidity meets the palate like an old friend...a kaleidoscope of spices emerge, mint, anise, cardamom, beside balsamic notes and a fun Burgundy-like forest floor motif, then the fruit makes an appearance -strawberry, raspberry, blackberry, plum compote, and somewhere a wisp of dried rose petals, and violets...very layered, and unique...quite an experience. Mostly Baga with Castelao Nacional and Moreto blended in. Serve cellar temp., decant if you like (30ish minutes), and if you'd like to pair a dish, grilled rib-eye or lamb with wild mushrooms. And one more thought: If you or a friend happens to have a 1996 Bordeaux in the cellar, taste it next to this one (blind / not blind), as it makes for an interesting wine conversation.