WELCOME!
Hi there! Thank you for visiting wine-sense online. We hope to be as interactive, passionate, and knowledgeable on this website as we are in person.
Our approach is simple. We keep the seasons in mind and pair to the foods we’re cooking with at each time of year. OK, so we might be over-thinking a bit. But that’s why you love us!
If you’ve shopped in the store, you know our wines move fast and the selection changes often. So be sure to check back frequently for latest finds, our new obsessions, and recently allocated bottles. We’ll also share upcoming events and sales so, you can grab them while they’re in stock. – Samanta
WS•Essentials
“Nurturing Tradition: The Story of Domaine de la Cadette”

In my last newsletter, I emphasized the importance of not only discovering new talented producers but also supporting our existing ones—those whose vintage releases we eagerly anticipate each year. One such producer is Domaine de la Cadette, located in the village of Saint-Père, near a small creek southeast of Vézelay in Burgundy. This region has a long history of winemaking, but estate bottling remains relatively recent. In fact, when Jean and Catherine Montanet planted their first vineyards in 1987, the grapes were initially intended for vinification at their local cooperative cellar, which produced its first bottled vintage in 1990.
“By 1997, the INAO (Institut National des Appellations d’Origines) granted Vézelay its own AOC, a decision that added credibility to the esteemed efforts of the Montanets. They began organic farming in 1999, a bold move considering the significant physical and financial commitment required in a region where most wine is sold in bulk. Feeling constrained at the cooperative and eager to continue their organic practices, the Montanets eventually decided to form their own label, Domaine de la Cadette, taking their vineyards with them. Their son Valentin joined the family business in 2010 and now manages the estate, upholding his parents’ philosophy of organic farming and natural vinification to produce fresh, mineral-driven white and red wines.” K.L.
TASTING NOTES DOMAINE DE LA CADETTE – LA CHATELAINE 2022: In the glass, a pale hue with deep golden highlights captures attention. The ripe, expressive nose offers aromas of white fruit, such as pear and apple, along with candied lemon and a subtle floral note. On the palate, a lively initial impression gives way to a long, mouthwatering saline finish.
LIMITED OFFER: 10% discount on 4 bottles or more.
Regular price: $45. Offer: $40.50 per bottle
Wine and Stuff
FEBRUARY Club•WS | red
The Club is available for pickup as of Thursday, February 5th.
FRENCH CABERNET
Located in the Cabardès appellation of the Languedoc region in France, Maison Ventenac is owned by Stéphanie and Olivier Ramé, third generation vignerons dedicated to organic farming and non-interventionalist winemaking…to learn more, join our club!
Food Pairings: Swedish Meatballs (see included recipe)
MONASTRELL
Bullas has a rich winemaking tradition dating back to Roman times, as evidenced by artifacts such as the “Child with the Grapes”…to learn more, join our club!
Pairings: Pairs well with good company!
CHIANTI
The Grati family has been growing grapes and olives in the Rufina hills for five generations. Their two estates, Vetrice and Galiga...to learn more, join our club!
Food Pairings: Earthy Soups
DOURO TINTO
The vineyards that form Lavradores de Feitoria are located across the Douro wine region, encompassing both the Lower and Upper Corgo, as well as the Upper Douro…to learn more, join our club!
Food Pairings: Stromboli
For the love of wine!
Don’t miss out on an unforgettable experience with Emily Carr at a specially focused tasting of Domaine de Mourchon!
While we might struggle with the pressures of the Valentine’s Day “Hallmark Holiday,” it’s essential to remember the true message: amidst our busy lives and the ups and downs we face, there’s always someone who cares, someone who notices, and someone who feels joy when we smile. (Okay, that’s as romantic as I get!)
Join us for this unique opportunity to explore the incredible story of Domaine de Mourchon, rooted in the journey of the McKinlay family. It all began in 1970s Scotland, when Walter and his wife, Ronnie, chose a remarkable Vacqueyras as the house wine for their restaurant at The Udny Arms Hotel in Aberdeenshire. Years later, after selling their businesses, they embarked on a quest for a small, established vineyard in the Southern Rhône Valley where they could begin a new chapter as winemakers.
This tasting promises to be an exquisite experience you won’t want to miss! Bring your love for wine and come taste with us.
FREE TASTING
Alcohol-Free OPTION
Unified Ferments, Jasmine Green
“Jasmine Green tea has been scented in the traditional style with eight different lots of fresh, whole jasmine buds. The resulting jasmine-laden tea allows us to not only ferment the tea but also the flowers that flavor it. Jasmine Green pairs nicely with saltwater fish, rich, clear broths like pho or consommé, or anything deep and mild, which could benefit from a highly aromatic pairing.”
