The Rhône Valley stands among France’s most exciting and diverse regions, producing wines that balance power, elegance, and a deep sense of place. From the granite slopes of the north to the sun-soaked vineyards of the south, this month’s feature—curated by our Rhône Buyer, Keith Mabry—highlights the full spectrum of the region’s greatness: from new direct-import exclusives and exceptional Gigondas values to cellar-worthy Châteauneuf-du-Pape collectibles. Whether you’re discovering the Rhône for the first time or expanding a seasoned collection, these wines capture the essence of this legendary valley.
You may know Keith Mabry as our Rhône, Loire, and French Regional Buyer, but he's also responsible for Greece, Eastern Europe, and Mexico! Why would one person have such an eclectic list of categories? Because he's a hardcore enthusiast for off-the-beaten-path wines. He's also a big soil geek... ask him about his favorite dirt!
My recent trip through the Rhône was one of the most productive I can remember. I tasted with dozens of vintners, reconnected with many of our long-standing direct-import partners, and discovered several exciting new producers along the way. One of my favorite “finds” from this trip was the exceptional range from Laurent and Dominique Courbis.
On my last trip to the Rhône, the north yielded particularly fruitful new relationships. One of my favorite new additions to our Direct Import portfolio is Domaine du Chêne Vert. I first met co-owner Jordan Colin at a walkaround tasting just outside Tain-l’Hermitage, where the wines immediately caught my attention. Later that day, I visited the property and discovered that their production facility sits right next door to one of Crozes-Hermitage’s great icons—Alain Graillot.
Across Chile, Argentina, Uruguay, and beyond, a new generation of winemakers is redefining what the region’s wines can be—balancing deep-rooted tradition with modern precision and a profound respect for place. From the windswept plains of Patagonia to the sun-soaked valleys of Mendoza and Colchagua, South American wines have never been more exciting, delicious, or collectible. In this issue, we explore the incredible diversity and value this continent has to offer.
When most people think of Piedmont, their minds jump straight to Nebbiolo. They think of the regal tannins of Barolo and the perfumed elegance of Barbaresco. But just to the south, in the steep, high-altitude hills of Dogliani, another story is being told—a story of Dolcetto. And no one tells it with more passion, precision, and soul than Anna Maria Abbona.
The quality of South American wines has never been higher. With significant investment in vineyard management, cutting-edge winemaking technology, and a strong commitment to sustainable practices that highlight each site's unique terroir, today’s wines from the region are truly exceptional. The most collectible bottles are better than ever, and even at the value end of the market, there are incredible finds that shouldn’t be missed.
The top Bordeaux blends from Chile and Argentina often rival their European and North American counterparts in quality but remain undiscovered by many. With exceptional quality that seems to improve every vintage, however, these wines can stand shoulder-to-shoulder with Bordeaux, Napa, or even Barolo — and at a very attractive price point.
Bodega Chacra is not your average Argentine winery. Nestled in the remote Río Negro Valley of northern Patagonia, this biodynamic estate has quietly redefined what’s possible in South American winemaking—especially with Pinot Noir.
Another Champagne Tent Event is in the books, and we’re still riding the wave of excitement that follows an afternoon spent with so many remarkable producers. This month’s Champagne Newsletter celebrates that same spirit—spotlighting the unforgettable wines of Launois, sharing stories from Champagne Buyer Gary Westby, and inviting you to keep exploring through our Champagne Club and exclusive grower selections. As the holidays approach, we’ve also gathered a lineup of exceptional Champagne values to have on hand for every toast, dinner, and celebration to come. Raise a glass with us to another season of discovery, connection, and great bubbles.
On the occasion of Gary Westby’s 20th anniversary with K&L, we sat down and asked him all the questions that inquiring minds want to know. Find out more about the man behind our world-class Champagne program!
Italy never stops inspiring us. From mountain-grown Nebbiolo to the volcanic slopes of Sicily and the storied hills of Montalcino, each bottle tells a story of land, family, and tradition carried forward with passion. This month’s newsletter brings you everything from the unbeatable value of our new K&L Discovery Series arrivals to the unforgettable personality of Natalino Crognaletti and the reborn legacy of Giovinco. We're also featuring the soulful community of San Polino and a rare lineup of world-class collectibles like Masseto, Valdicava, and Castello di Ama.
