FEBruary 2026 EDITION
the jm zell report
Where fine wine, good company, and commercial real estate intersect
All,
February is a month that rewards good taste. It’s the perfect time to revisit the classics, explore a benchmark producer, or pull a bottle that has been waiting patiently for the right night!
Cheers,
Jeff & the JM Zell Team
WHAT WE’RE DRINKING:
6 Bottle Tasting Featuring the Best of Bordeaux - Ristorante Tosca
This month we returned to Tosca! The off-menu meal highlighted the best of the winter season, black truffles, root vegetables, braised veal ravioli, and Wagyu tenderloin, creating the perfect accompaniment to the wine. Executive chef, Fortunato Nicotra, visited the table for a few moments to explain the meal progression and ogle the wine, while John Neata (Manager) handled our food and wine service personally. As you would expect, service shined and the comfortable dining room provided the perfect setting for a memorable evening with friends. The pairing of the night was the Wagyu tenderloin with herb and beef reduction, and the 1983 Château Latour, Pauillac.
Our notes on the other great bottles from the evening:
2021 Bodegas Rafael Palacios Sorte O Soro:
A singular expression of Godello from one of Spain’s most revered sites, Sorte O Soro showcases precision and depth. White peach, citrus oil, and crushed stone are layered with subtle floral notes and a touch of saline minerality. Textured yet finely cut, with vibrant acidity and a long, focused finish, this is a powerful and age-worthy white built to evolve beautifully over time. VIEW WINE DETAILS ≫
1996 Clos de Vougeot Grand Cru, Domaine Georges Roumier (Burgundy):
From one of Burgundy’s most historic Grand Cru vineyards, this Clos de Vougeot reflects Roumier’s signature finesse. Red fruit, earth, and delicate spice are supported by fine tannins and quiet power. Layered and structured, with the ability to evolve gracefully over time. VIEW WINE DETAILS ≫
1986 Château Margaux, Margaux (Bordeaux):
The 1986 Château Margaux shows classic Left Bank structure with mature secondary character. Notes of cedar, tobacco, dried red fruit, and subtle earth unfold with polish and restraint. Firm yet resolved tannins carry a long, composed finish. A traditional and age-worthy expression of Margaux. VIEW WINE DETAILS ≫
1983 Château Latour, Pauillac (Bordeaux):Powerful and structured, the 1983 Latour reflects Pauillac’s depth and gravitas. Dark fruit, graphite, leather, and cigar box define the profile, with firm tannins still providing backbone. A commanding wine that balances intensity with control. VIEW WINE DETAILS ≫
1996 Insignia, Joseph Phelps Vineyards (California):
A benchmark Napa Valley blend from a standout vintage. The 1996 Insignia shows dark cassis, plum, and integrated oak with polished structure and balanced acidity. Mature yet vibrant, it reflects both site and disciplined winemaking. VIEW WINE DETAILS ≫
2003 Château d’Yquem, Sauternes (Bordeaux):The 2003 d’Yquem offers richness and concentration with apricot, honey, candied citrus, and botrytis-driven depth. Despite its opulence, vibrant acidity provides lift and clarity. Luxurious yet balanced, with remarkable length and aging potential. VIEW WINE DETAILS ≫
WHAT Jeff is Buying:
2023 Saint-Aubin “Le Ban,” Thierry Pillot (Burgundy):Purchased alongside the wine below, the 2023 “Le Ban” from Thierry Pillot is precise and mineral-driven, showing citrus, white orchard fruit, and a focused backbone. Fresh acidity and restrained oak keep the wine balanced and structured, highlighting the clarity of the Saint-Aubin site. VIEW WINE DETAILS ≫
2023 Saint-Aubin 1er Cru “Charmois,” Domaine Paul Pillot (Chablis):Acquired together with “Le Ban,” the 2023 “Charmois” Premier Cru offers added depth and texture while maintaining lift and tension. Notes of citrus, stone fruit, and subtle reduction are supported by clean acidity and a composed finish. A layered expression of Saint-Aubin with both immediacy and aging potential. VIEW WINE DETAILS ≫
2023 Chablis Les Bouguerots Grand Cru, Domaine Laroche (Rhone):
Recently added to the cellar, the 2023 Les Bouguerots is driven by minerality and precision. Bright citrus, saline notes, and firm structure define the profile, with length and energy that speak clearly to its Grand Cru site. A confident and age-worthy Chablis. VIEW WINE DETAILS ≫
2021 Domaine Jamet Côte Rôtie Côte Brune (Rhone):
A benchmark expression of Côte Brune, the 2021 from Jamet is layered and refined. Dark berries, smoked meat, olive tapenade, and crushed violet unfold with depth and precision. Silky yet structured, with savory intensity and a long, resonant finish, this is a classic Northern Rhône built to evolve beautifully over time. VIEW WINE DETAILS ≫
2021 Domaine Jamet Côte Rôtie (Rhone):
Pure and expressive, the 2021 Côte Rôtie highlights Jamet’s signature elegance. Red and black fruits are intertwined with pepper, herbs, and subtle earth. Lifted aromatics and fine tannins carry through to a balanced, persistent finish. A beautifully composed vintage that will reward both near-term enjoyment and patient cellaring. VIEW WINE DETAILS ≫
NEW PRODUCTS & PURVEYORS:
KIRBY ALLISON:
From Saphir shoe creams and polishes to elegant humidors, ashtrays, and finely crafted belts, each product is rooted in tradition and attention to detail.
Saphir
Widely regarded as the gold standard in shoe care, Saphir products are crafted in France using time-honored formulas and high-quality ingredients that nourish, protect, and restore fine leather. VIEW MORE DETAILS ≫
Ashtrays
These ashtrays combine refined materials and thoughtful proportions, elevating a simple object into a statement piece for any study or lounge. VIEW MORE DETAILS ≫
Belts
Handcrafted from premium leathers and finished with understated hardware, these belts are built to age beautifully and complement a timeless wardrobe.
VIEW MORE DETAILS ≫
TUSTING:
Founded in England and still family-owned, Tusting is known for producing a wide variety of beautifully crafted leather goods. Each piece is made with meticulous attention to detail, combining traditional techniques with understated, timeless design.
Silverstone Tote
One of Jeff’s signature bags (though there are many); dependable, versatile, and built for everyday use. Crafted from durable canvas with refined leather trim, it’s equally suited for work, travel, or a full day out. Timeless, practical, and effortlessly polished. VIEW MORE DETAILS ≫
This newsletter is created for JM Zell’s friends, clients, business associates, trusted vendors, and professional partners. Please enjoy and share responsibly.
JM Zell is offering its opinions only in this newsletter and is not a representative or advocate for any of the wine, restaurants, suppliers, or growers discussed in this newsletter. JM Zell receives no remuneration for its recommendations.