March is a month of awakening, where flavors bloom and the world of wines and beers showcases its finest through awards, accolades and high scores. At Freedom Beverage, we take pride in curating a selection that stands out for its excellence, distinguished by critics and connoisseurs alike. This month, we invite you to explore our portfolio’s award-winning gems, from bold Barolos and elegant Pinot Noirs to refreshing Chardonnays and vibrant Champagnes. Each bottle tells a story of dedication, terroir, and craftsmanship, promising an unforgettable experience for your customer’s palate.
Wines
Oddero Barolo Classico 2019
“The 2019 Barolo opens to a lean appearance with a very vibrant Nebbiolo color that shines with dark ruby highlights. There is dried cherry and candied fruit aromas on the bouquet. Those fruit layers cede to light spice, lilac and campfire ash. The beauty in this wine is the extreme balance achieved in this classic vintage. It delivers on all levels: intensity, length and joy. The fruit represents a blend of four MGS sites: Bricco Chiesa and Capalot in La Morra, Fiasco in Castiglione Falletto and Monvigliero in Verduno. These are the best wines I have tasted from Oddero.” Monica Larner – 95 points, Wine Advocate
Roccheviberti
Nestled within the cherished Barolo village of Castiglione Falletto, the Viberti family has nurtured their vineyards with love since 1946. As a third-generation winemaker, Claudio Viberti has infused the winery with passion and innovation since crafting his inaugural vintage in 2003. The acclaimed Barolo, sourced from ancient vines in the esteemed Rocche di Castiglione cru, has captivated wine enthusiasts, forming a devoted following.This is our entire allocation for the year, and it’s quite small. Don’t sleep on these one of a kind wines that are made for collectors.
- Roccheviberti Rocche Di Castiglione Barolo DOCG 2018 – 91 points, Vinous
- Roccheviberti Barolo del Comune di Castiglione Falletto 2018
- Roccheviberti Barolo Bricco Boschis 2018 – 90 points, Vinous
Arterberry Maresh
Maresh Vineyard stands as a beacon of excellence in Oregon’s winemaking landscape, revered for producing some of the region’s most coveted fruit. Arterberry Maresh boasts some of Oregon’s oldest Pinot vines, earning it the distinction of being the fifth oldest in the state and the pioneer of Worden Hill Road.
Winemaker Jim Maresh, representing the third generation of the Maresh family, continues to elevate their legacy. In 2018, Wine Advocate bestowed high praise upon his wines, extolling the remarkable layers of flavor, precise fruit expression, and impeccable balance found in his Pinot Noirs. Since then the vintages have only become more desirable. They noted the wines’ enduring appeal, exceptional tannic structure, and vibrant acidity. With Jim Maresh’s experimental Tan Fruit range, Wine Advocate praises the emergence of stunning Chardonnays that stand as some of Oregon’s finest.
- Arterberry Maresh Pinot Noir Maresh Vineyard 2018 – 95 points, Wine Advocate
- Arterberry Maresh Vineyard Pinot Noir 2021 – 98+ points, Wine Advocate
- Arterberry Maresh Vineyard Chardonnay 2021 – 96 points, Wine Advocate
- Arterberry Weber Vineyard Pinot Noir 2021 – 97 points, Wine Advocate
- Tan Fruit Cuvee Chardonnay 2021 – 97 points, Wine Advocate
- Tan Fruit Sophia’s Vineyard Chardonnay 2021 – 93 points, Wine Advocate
- Tan Fruit Fairview Vineyard Chardonnay 2021 – 95 points, Wine Advocate
- Tan Fruit Maresh Vineyard Chardonnay 2021 – 97 points, Wine Advocate
- Tan Fruit Oak Grove Vineyard Chardonnay 2021 – 97 points, Wine Advocate
Domaine de la Janasse Chateauneuf du Pape Chaupin 2021
Relatively black-fruited for a pure Grenache, it’s generous in fruit but not excessive, the alcohol is high of course (it’s pure Grenache), but it feels integrated. Long, pure, velvety – this is really stunning. Lifted plum fruit, dusted with dried oregano. It’s young, but already quite accessible. It will age well thanks to its freshness and balance. Parcels of Grenache planted on lieux-dits Chaupin, La Janasse and La Crau, mostly sandy soils, the oldest planted in 1912. – 96 points, Decanter
Domaine Roger Sabon
The Sabon family has deep roots in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, tracing back to 1540. Domaine Roger Sabon, founded in 1952 and currently managed by Denis and Gilbert Sabon, along with winemaker Didier Negron, embodies a rich legacy of winemaking tradition. With vineyards spanning 18 hectares in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, 8 hectares in Lirac, and 8 hectares in Côtes-du-Rhône, their terroir yields wines of both richness and nuance. Under Negron’s guidance, the domaine has shifted towards concrete and large French oak foudres for aging, enhancing the ethereal and delicate qualities of their Châteauneuf. While Grenache remains their cornerstone, they also cultivate an array of varietals including Syrah, Mourvedre, and Roussanne, with some vines exceeding 100 years in age, contributing to their prestigious cuvées.
- Roger Sabon Chateauneuf du Pape Le Secret des Sabon 2020 – 97 points, Jeb Dunnuck
- Roger Sabon Chateauneuf du Pape Les Olivets 2021 – 91 points, Vinous Media
- Roger Sabon Chateauneuf du Pape Reserve 2021 – 90 points, Jeb Dunnuck
- Roger Sabon Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Prestige 2020 – 95 points, Jeb Dunnuck
Domaine de Marcoux
Sophie and Catherine Armenier, the dynamic sisters behind Domaine de Marcoux, epitomize the inseparable bond between people and terroir in winemaking. Founded in 1989, their domaine, while relatively young, draws from vineyards with roots tracing back to the 13th century. Embracing organic and biodynamic practices long before they became trendy, Catherine and Sophie cultivate approximately 18 hectares in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, 8 hectares in Lirac, and over 2 hectares just north of Châteauneuf. Their wines, crafted with meticulous care in their modest yet timeless cellar, reflect the tranquil balance of their surroundings. With vineyards graced by diverse soils—from sandy to limestone to gravel—they primarily grow Grenache, alongside Mourvedre, Syrah, and a selection of other varietals. Fermented in stainless steel tanks and aged in concrete vats or French oak barrels, their cuvées, including the famed Châteauneuf-du-Pape Vieilles Vignes, express the exquisite potential of Grenache, akin to the Pinot Noir of the Mediterranean.
- Marcoux Châteauneuf du Pape 2020 – 93 points, Wine Advocate
- Marcoux Châteauneuf du Pape Vieilles Vignes 2020 – 99 points, Wine Advocate and 97 points, Jeb Dunnuck
Greywacke
Greywacke Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough 2023
“Fragrant aromas of candied citrus, guava and orange blossoms followed by nettles, sage and box trees. Medium-bodied, mouthwatering acidity. Vibrant and aromatic”. – 92 points, James Suckling
Grayson Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon
“This Cabernet shows a dark ruby color with blackberry and raspberry aromas. It’s full of artful fruit, provides a round mouth feel and a soft, lingering finish.” – rated 92 points and named “Best Buy” from Wine Enthusiast, March 2024
Champagne Françoise Bedel et Fils
Françoise Bedel’s journey into winemaking began as a mother’s desperate search for healing for her ailing son. Turning to homeopathic medicine after conventional treatments failed, she transformed her small winery into a beacon of biodynamic practices long before they gained widespread recognition. Today, her 8.4-hectare estate near Crouttes-sur-Marne stands as a testament to her unwavering commitment to her beliefs. While others favor Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, Françoise’s heart lies with Pinot Meunier, a variety she champions with passion. Her Champagnes, patiently aged for over six years on lees and often longer, boast low or zero dosage, reflecting her dedication to purity and authenticity.
- Champagne Francoise Bedel Comme Autrefois NV – 95 points, Wine Advocate
- Champagne Francoise Bedel & Fils Dis Vin Secret Extra Brut NV – 92 points, Wine Advocate
Castello di Bolgheri Superiore Red 2019
“Underbrush, pipe tobacco, leather and blackberry aromas come to the forefront on this full-bodied, classy red. Enveloping and delicious, the palate shows concentration but is almost weightless at the same time, doling out dried cherry, black plum, cocoa and licorice alongside velvety tannins. Drink through 2029.” – Kerin O’Keefe – 95 points, Wine Enthusiast
Chateau Pas de l'Ane St Emilion GC '16 750ML (6/case)
“A perfumed, new-wood matured wine with mint and spice flavors. They march alongside the black currant fruits and ripe tannins. The wine is just now ready, but with its juicy aftertaste will shortly age further.” – Roger Voss
93 points, Wine Enthusiast
Les Jamelles Syrah
“This is a generous syrah that shows black cherries, violets and peppercorns on the nose, with some sweet spice. Full-bodied and spicy, with a soft and warming finish. Drink now.” – 90 points, James Suckling
Daniele Conterno Barbera
“Aromas of dark cherries, currants, caramel and sweet spices. Medium body with velvety tannins. Silky and elegant palate with crunchy berry character and a fresh and juicy finish. Drink now.” – 90 points, James Suckling
Daniele Conterno Barolo
“A spicy nose with cherries, clay, earth and baking spices. It’s medium-bodied with fine tannins and bright acidity. Well-balanced and well-framed with a precise, lively finish. Drink or hold.” – 92 points, James Suckling
Fleuraison Blanc de Blanc
“The brilliance of the bubbles increases the vividness. Fine perfumes and flowers; “Fleauraison”means blooming. A nose of butter and hazelnut introduces a palate of brioche and almond. A lingering on the palate persists during the tasting.” – 91 points, Tasting Panel
Clos Hirissou Pet-nat Rose NV
“This sparkler displays integrated raspberry and lemon shortbread aromas. The palate is zesty but soft, with delicate bubbles that carry ripe red-fruit flavors into the lingering, citrus finish.” – Jacy Topps – 90 points, Wine Enthusiast
Beers
Uinta Brewing Golden Spike Hefeweizen
- Awarded Bronze at the Great American Beer Festival (GABF)
- “A refreshing unfiltered American style wheat beer, this medium-bodied ale has a delicate hop character. Pleasantly yeasty with malty influences. Notes of orange and lemon. Slight spiciness and floral quality. Lingering citrusy finish. Golden Spike Hefeweizen pairs well with citrus flavors; also with seafood such as mussels and clams.” – The Beer Connoisseur
Cascade Brewing Honey Ginger Lime Sour Rye Ale
Ranked top 3 beers from Oregon, Cascade Brewing’s Honey Ginger Lime “starts as a spicy rye beer that’s aged in wine barrels for ten months with candied ginger, lime peel, and wildflower honey. The result is a beer that’s not quite sweet but not quite tart. The spice from the rye base and ginger come through to create a complexity that we don’t find in many beers. Because it’s only 6% ABV, Honey Ginger Lime feels approachable as an anytime sipper, and it’s perfectly quenching on a hot day.” – Lindsay D. Mattison, Tasting Table.
Schneider Weisse Aventinus Eisbock
- Won Gold in the category of Ultra Strong Beer at the 2023 European Beer Star Awards.
- “Magic and a black soul – the mahogany coloured, almost black “Eisbock” for sensuous indulgence. Matured in a special freezing process following a special recipe, with a soft, elegant body, but still intensive. Spicy flavors of plum, banana and clove reveal themselves along with a hint of bitter almond and marzipan. Tempting as digestif, to crepes, dark chocolate, Tiramisu and fully ripe parmesan cheese.”
Tarboro Brewing Lonely Belle
- Won Gold at the NC Brewers Cup for Belgian Ale.
- “A Belgian single that has the color of a vintage Champagne. Cinnamon, coriander, and citrus rind, this beer screams summer. All of the flavors are a showcase of the La Chouffe yeast as no spices have been added to the brew.”
Moody Tongue Brewing Company
- Discover Moody Tongue Brewing Company, where beer becomes culinary art. Moody Tongue crafts balanced beers with layers of flavor to enhance and pair beautifully with food. With expansions including a fine dining restaurant and casual bar, Moody Tongue continues to innovate. Accolades from the MICHELIN Guide and a new venture in New York attest to their commitment to excellence. Cheers to Moody Tongue, where every sip is an experience!
- Juiced Lychee IPA rated 94 points, The Beer Connoisseur
- Orange Blossom Belgian Blonde rated 94 points, The Beer Connoisseur
The Bruery: Mischief
This wonderfully crafted golden ale undergoes a devilishly delightful dry-hopping process, enhancing its fruity, refreshing Belgian-style essence with added complexity. Aromas of citrus and resin mingle with hints of ripe melon, pear, and a subtle peppery spice, culminating in an award-winning brew that clinched the Gold Medal at the 2016 Great American Beer Festival in the American-Belgo-Style Ale category.