May 2026 | Terroir Wine Club

Ermes Pavese 2024 Blanc de Morgex et de La Salle

Prié Blanc is a unique varietal found exclusively in the Valle d’Aosta, distinguished by its vibrant acidity and an explosive citrus profile that features delicate notes of lemon flowers. As the region's oldest documented grape - dating back to manuscripts from January 1691 - its name is derived from the French word prier, meaning "to pray," reflecting its historical use in religious Mass. This wine also comes from the highest vineyard in Europe with a view of Mount Blanc; the estate is iconic.

Cultivated in morainic alluvial soils, the wine truly begins to shine about ten minutes after opening as its chalky texture and floral aromatics expand. While the initial palate is marked by aggressive acidity, two hours of aeration allow the wine to integrate beautifully, revealing rich pineapple notes, lemon oils, and a pleasant pithiness that shows best just above refrigeration temperature. By the second day, the wine remains remarkably consistent but evolves toward a more savory, leesy character; the fresh citrus transforms into a creamy lemon curd, maintaining a well-integrated acidity that confirms its exceptional structure and longevity.

Given how racy and bright the wine is, for food pairings I would opt for fatty seafare or creamed vegetables, think scallops or potato gratin. Drink now - 2036 and serve in all-purpose stemware just above refrigeration temperature.

Valfaccenda 2020 Roero Rosso Valmaggiore 

This gorgeous red wine hails from a place typically associated with white wine, but grows exceptional Nebbiolo. From incredibly sandy soils with a kiss of clay, the vines struggle and create powerful berries. This single vineyard bottling comes from plantings so steep they can only be manually harvested, the wine spends years in large casks and years in bottle before it even reaches the customer.

This wine is truly remarkable, exhibiting elegance right from the start. This wine opens with a gorgeous bouquet of fresh violets, blueberry, and raspberry tea, accented by a bright streak of blood orange. While the tannins are initially apparent and the acidity sits at a refreshing moderate-plus level, just ten minutes of air amplifies the fruit profile, introducing notes of Luxardo cherry and red Jolly Rancher that, despite a slight sense of warmth, present a charming "cherry candle" aromatic. After two hours, the wine becomes even more lifted and refined, taking on a sophisticated medicinal quality as the acidity sharpens and the tannins tighten into a classic Nebbiolo structure. By the second day, the wine reaches its most captivating state; the palate softens significantly, revealing blood orange oils, dried rose petals, and a hint of light brown sugar. This evolution results in a beautifully integrated structure that drinks with effortless elegance, showcasing classic Piedmontese Nebbiolo grace and strength.

For food pairings I would opt for truffle red sauce with pasta, rare grilled steaks, or seasonal grilled vegetables with too much olive oil, salt, and pepper. Drink now - 2034 and serve in large-bowl stemware at cellar temperature.

Domaine Gallois 2018 “Combe Aux Moines” 1er Gevrey Chambertin

The Combe aux Moines parcel was planted in 1954, leading to naturally low yields from clay and limestone soils over sheer rock; the organic material on this vineyard is minimal. I was very lucky to find this wine at peak performance and was thrilled I could offer it at an unexpected price point that could fit into the club offerings.

Upon opening, the wine reveals a dark cherry hue in the glass and shifts toward an earth-driven aromatic core of fresh violet, wet leather, and petrichor, complemented by savory notes of Niçoise olives, wet thyme, and a hint of underripe pear. After two hours of aeration, the character transforms into a vibrant display of black tea, ollaliberries, and bergamot, where integrated tannins allow the bright acidity and raspberry sorbet finish to shine. By the second day, the wine becomes more brooding and perfumed with high-toned purple fruit and a unique acidity; as it warms, it develops a rounded mid-palate rich with saffron spice, brandied cherry, and marionberry. While the tannins have largely receded by day two, the wine remains elegant and expressive, though its acidity is diminished relative to day one (a positive mark for some, but neither here nor there). 

For food pairings I would opt for beef bourguignon, lamb tagine, or baked squash. Drink now and serve in large-bowl stemware at cellar temperature.