The avant-garde Bruno is surely one of the most fascinating producers in Alsace. Part of the "Gang of Five" with Pierre Frick, Christian Binner, Jean-Pierre Rietsch, and Patrick Meyer, the are pushing the boundarys for what Alsace wine is really all about. Low sulphor, small quantities, wines that are really alive and vibrant. Bruno is somewhat of an under-rated leader of the natural wine movement as well, where a procession of bright young things including Kenjiro Kagami have passed under his wing to learn his meticulous and experimental methods of working.
The avant-garde Bruno is surely one of the most fascinating producers in Alsace. Part of the "Gang of Five" with Pierre Frick, Christian Binner, Jean-Pierre Rietsch, and Patrick Meyer, the are pushing the boundarys for what Alsace wine is really all about. Low sulphor, small quantities, wines that are really alive and vibrant. Bruno is somewhat of an under-rated leader of the natural wine movement as well, where a procession of bright young things including Kenjiro Kagami have passed under his wing to learn his meticulous and experimental methods of working.
The avant-garde Bruno is surely one of the most fascinating producers in Alsace. Part of the "Gang of Five" with Pierre Frick, Christian Binner, Jean-Pierre Rietsch, and Patrick Meyer, the are pushing the boundarys for what Alsace wine is really all about. Low sulphor, small quantities, wines that are really alive and vibrant. Bruno is somewhat of an under-rated leader of the natural wine movement as well, where a procession of bright young things including Kenjiro Kagami have passed under his wing to learn his meticulous and experimental methods of working.
The avant-garde Bruno is surely one of the most fascinating producers in Alsace. Part of the "Gang of Five" with Pierre Frick, Christian Binner, Jean-Pierre Rietsch, and Patrick Meyer, the are pushing the boundarys for what Alsace wine is really all about. Low sulphor, small quantities, wines that are really alive and vibrant. Bruno is somewhat of an under-rated leader of the natural wine movement as well, where a procession of bright young things including Kenjiro Kagami have passed under his wing to learn his meticulous and experimental methods of working.
The avant-garde Bruno is surely one of the most fascinating producers in Alsace. Part of the "Gang of Five" with Pierre Frick, Christian Binner, Jean-Pierre Rietsch, and Patrick Meyer, the are pushing the boundarys for what Alsace wine is really all about. Low sulphor, small quantities, wines that are really alive and vibrant. Bruno is somewhat of an under-rated leader of the natural wine movement as well, where a procession of bright young things including Kenjiro Kagami have passed under his wing to learn his meticulous and experimental methods of working.
Tokay Pinot Gris Clos St Imer Cuvee La Chapelle Burn
The Clos Saint Imer vineyard is a true clos (unlike many so-called in Alsace) within the larger Goldert Grand Cru. Their plot is towards the upper slopes, by the church, after which this cuvee is named. A rare domaine in that their Muscat and Pinot Gris is prized as highly as the Riesling. Ageing of the PG is 15+ years in a typical vintage.
Tokay Pinot Gris Clos St Imer Cuvee La Chapelle Burn
"Tobacco smoke-infused peaches can be discerned in the aromatics of the 1998 Tokay-Pinot Gris Clos St. Imer La Chapelle Goldert. Medium to full-bodied, dense, plump, and rich, it reveals layers of botrytis-infused peaches, apricots, cloves, and fresh herbs. This outstanding Pinot Gris should be at its best between 2003 and 2012." 91 Points Pierre Rovani
Tokay/Pinot Gris Altenbourg SGN Albert Mann (Half)
One of the best domaines in Alsace without a shadow of a doubt, of their 19 hectares, 5 are in Grand Cru sites. Very rich SGNS like this one. Lots of botryitis character.
Tokay/Pinot Gris Clos St Imer Cuvee La Chapelle Burn
The Clos Saint Imer vineyard is a true clos (unlike many so-called in Alsace) within the larger Goldert Grand Cru. Their plot is towards the upper slopes, by the church, after which this cuvee is named. A rare domaine in that their Muscat and Pinot Gris is prized as highly as the Riesling. Ageing of the PG is 15+ years in a typical vintage.
"D'Arenberg continues to do exceptionally well with their newest offering, The Laughing Magpie. The inky/purple-colored 2001 (a blend of 95% Shiraz and 5% Viognier) exhibits knock-out aromas of violets, blackberry liqueur, honeysuckle, and toasty new French oak. With extraordinary richness, full body, opulence, intensity, and a seamless as well as majestic finish this killer red will be at its finest between 2005-2018. " 93 Points Robert Parker
"The 2008 Pinot Noir is about a 50 / 50 blend of Yarra and Beechworth fruit. “Yarra on its own can be a little too pure with less structure, and Beechworth can be a little overpowering in that area,” Rick informed me. The grapes were fermented with a small percentage of whole bunches but was mainly de-stemmed and lightly crushed with a 3 week maceration followed by around 15 months of maturation in oak, 40% new. The wine has a medium ruby color and nice intensity of wild ferment and game aromas over black cherry and ripe raspberry with subtle notes of violets, cinnamon stick, tar, loam, anise and espresso. Medium-high acid and a medium level of fine grained tannins provide solid structure to the savory, forest-floor, espresso and beetroot flavors opening out on the palate. This is an elegant, medium-bodied Pinot with a long finish; 350 cases were produced. Though delicious now, this wine should be even better in 12 months, cellaring through 2018+"94 Points Lisa Perotti-Brown
An iconic Barossa style, famously served at breakfast. Made from a solera system that is aged in French oak. After a year resting on its lees, it is bottled with a pep of Pedro-Ximenez.
"Made from 100% Shiraz, the massive, full-bodied 1999 Octavius continues the succession of profound efforts from Yalumba. Tremendously rich, intense, and multidimensional, it offers up notes of blackberries, sweet smoke, and melted asphalt. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2025" 96 Points Robert Parker
"A renowned Barossa icon is Yalumba’s Shiraz The Octavius. The 2003 is a 100% Shiraz aged 22 months in a combination of American barrels (coopered at Yalumba) and French 300 liter hogsheads. This beauty offers up aromas of sweet blueberries, black truffles, blackberries, melted road tar, pepper, and espresso roast. Full-bodied, powerful, and rich, with sweet tannin, decent acidity, and a superb finish, this is a wine to drink over the next 15 or more years." 97 Points Robert Parker
"This stunning Shiraz is one of the greatest wines made in South Australia. The 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon/Shiraz The Reserve (a blend of 74% Cabernet Sauvignon and 26% Shiraz aged 20 months in 70% new French hogsheads and 30% in neutral French wood) boasts superb intensity, richness, body, and power. Smoky, truffle-like aromas intermixed with blackberries, cassis, burning embers, charcoal, and licorice soar from the glass of this opaque purple-colored, full-throttle, meaty, super-rich and concentrated wine. Superbly well-balanced, it is a candidate for 20-30 years of aging." 96+ Robert Parker
"The 2016 Brouilly comes from young vines between about 4 and 35 years in age. It has a tightly wound bouquet: plenty of fruit here although it will obviously need some bottle age to stretch its wings. The palate is well balanced with sappy red fruit: red cherries, crushed strawberry and a touch of spice, leading to a slightly conservative but nicely focused finish." 88 Points Neal Martin.
From a selection of vines older then 60 years old. Dark in colour and quite dense.
Un vin grenat sombre, presque noir. Ses parfums très fins évoquent la violette et
la pivoine. Ferme à l'attaque, plus végétal au palais, il reste équilibré et fait preuve d'une
bonne longueur.
"The 2009 Moulin-a-Vent (Clos du Tremblay) comes from a two-hectare parcel of 80- to 100-year-old vines that comes from “Les Burdelines” (formerly “Le Tremblay”). It is whole cluster fermented and spends 10 months on butts. It has a deep purple color that seems to show little sign of its modest bottle age. The bouquet is more modern and Cote d’Or in style, with ripe dark cherry and cassis scents that are well-defined. The palate demonstrates good extraction with a fine level of acidity, although the finish shows just a touch of heat that detracts from its delineation. I might have given this another 12 months in bottle to settle down. Drink 2015-2020." 88 Points Neal Martin
"The 2009 Moulin-a-Vent (Domaine des Vignes du Tremblay) comes from 6.5 hectares of vines in several parcels, the vines aged between 25 and 100-years old, whole cluster fermented and aged for eight months in butts. It has more character on the nose than the “Clos du Tremblay” with rather broody black fruit, tertiary scents and a hint of black olive. The palate is medium-bodied with a sweet, ripe cassis-tinged opening. Silky smooth in the mouth with good balance, this demonstrates fine tension with a succulent finish that caresses. Quintessential Moulin-a-Vent. Drink now-2019." 90 Points Neal Martin
“The 2017 Moulin-à-Vent Les Trois Roches is superb—and likely the king of the cellar chez Chermette this year—wafting from the glass with a beautiful bouquet of raspberries, potpourri, orange rind and rose petal. On the palate, it’s medium to full-bodied, layered and supple, with the most depth and amplitude of any wine in the portfolio and the most held in reserve, too. This is a fantastic expression of Moulin-à-Vent from one of Beaujolais’s greatest winemakers, and it comes warmly recommended.” 95 Points William Kelley, Wine Advocate.
On of the greatest values in the Breton range in my opinion, the grapes come from the hills between the Côte de Brouilly and the Côte du Py of Morgon. The heart of the wine is a parcel of 100 year old vines that Guy inherited from his grandfather, that give the wine real detail and preciseness.
"The 2014 Régnié Vieilles Vignes has a very harmonious bouquet with fresh blackberry, briary and cold stone scents—great transparency here. The palate is very well balanced with fine acidity, more harmonious perhaps than the Brouilly Vieilles Vignes, fanning out with confidence on the finish. This is worth seeking out." 91 Points Neal Martin.
"A deep garnet hue. The nose is typical 1990 with game, dried blood and a touch of beef on the precocious, fat nose. With aeration there is a stronger sense of black cherry cheesecake. The palate if full-bodied, very well focused with fine tannins. Not as “hot” as other 1990’s with more control and elan. Firm structure, this is a solid Canon with bold Cabernet Franc notes towards the long finish. Excellent. Drink 2010-2035. Tasted September 2007." 93 Points Neal Martin
"In this tiny garagiste operation in the Cotes de Castillon making very concentrated wines, the quality is very high but the production is very limited. One of the oldest Merlot vines (140+ years of age) is one of Clos Louie's most important constituant parts" Robert Parker
"A spectacular wine, and one that could have been bought for a song when it was released, this blend of 73% Cabernet Sauvignon and 27% Merlot was cropped at 33 hectoliters per hectare. Strutting all of its nobility, richness and majesty in 2014, it boasts abundant notes of cedarwood, creme de cassis, licorice and a hint of lead pencil shavings. Full-bodied, rich, dense and fully mature, it is capable of lasting another 7-10 years. This beauty is a big-time sleeper of the vintage." 94 Points Robert Parker
"A great Langoa - nose slowly opening up. Dark black fruits with masses of pencil-lead aromas. Good depth with structured inky black fruits. This is an excellent well-made wine. Tasted May 2000." 90-92 Points Neal Martin
"One of the most impeccably run properties of St.-Emilion, Larmande's 1996 is a big, toasty, rich, licorice, Asian spice, fruitcake, and smoky black cherry-scented and flavored wine. It reveals medium body, good richness, moderate tannin, and a long, concentrated finish. The 1996 will benefit from 2-4 years of cellaring, and keep for 15 or more years." 88 Points Robert Parker
"An excellent wine with deep, sweet, blackcurrant and mineral-scented fruit, pure, ripe flavors, medium body, and well-integrated acidity and tannin; it will drink well for 10-15 years" 86-87 Robert Parker
"Much more fruit concentration on the nose. Blackberry, redcurrant and cranberry. Good intensity and lift. Well-structured, slightly peppery palate with firm tannins. Good balance and delineation. Pain grille, blackberry and earth. Focused and good length. Very fine. Tasted September 2006." 90 Points Neal Martin
"Dark red. Blackberry and blueberry on the nose. A step up in complexity and depth from the Aigrots, offering good sweetness and cut to its dark berry flavors. Finishes fresh and firmly tannic, with lovely lingering perfume. (Incidentally, the badly hailed-on Pommard Pezerolles went into the estate's Bourgogne in 2013" 89-91 Stephen Tanzer
"The 2016 Bourgogne Passetoutgrain l'Exception has a simple but pure bouquet with vivid blueberry and blackcurrant. The palate is pretty with vivid blue fruit mixed with cassis, with a pretty and joyful finish. Delightful." 87 Points Neal Martin
"Denis Bachelet's 2010s are fabulous across the board. I find the wines more harmonious and complete than the 2009s. The cool, long growing season provided a lovely counterpoint to the rich, fruit-driven aromas and flavors that are typical in these wines, and that marks some vintages (such as 2009) to a significant degree. The 2010 Bourgogne is classy, energetic and beautifully focused. A ripe, almost exotic bouquet leads to blackberries, blueberries, licorice and tar. The Bourgogne is plump, juicy and flat-out delicious, especially for a wine at this level. I loved it." 87-89 Antonio Galloni
"From vines in the locale of Chambolle-Musigny, the 2013 Bourgogne Les Bon Batons has slightly darker fruit than the regular Bourgogne Rouge. The palate is medium-bodied with bright red fruit, a keen line of acidity with touches of orange zest toward the finish. This comes recommended, for me a better wine than the regular Bourgogne Rouge and it should be good value when released." 87 Points Neal Martin
"A classic and elegant Clos de Bèze nose is composed of spicy and earthy if restrained red currant and floral aromas that are nuanced by subtle wisps of humus and exotic tea. The sense of elegance is reinforced by the fine-grain of the tannins on the wonderfully pure and intense broad-shouldered flavors that possess a lovely minerality on the hugely long, balanced and harmonious finish. This is good stuff that should amply repay extended cellaring" 93-95 Points Allen Meadows
"Moderate wood sets off ripe and intensely earthy aromas of red berries and plum that precede the rich, supple and relatively accessible middle weight flavors where very firm tannins provide structure and shape to the impressively long finish. Clos de Vougeot is often quite austere in its youth and while there is a trace, there is less than usual. Note that this will require patience." 91-93 Points Allen Meadows
"Medium red. Very reticent, slightly reductive aromas of licorice and menthol. Silky on entry, then minerally and tight in the middle and youthfully austere. But this pure, intense wine finishes with superb lift and perfume and firm tannins that show no sign of hardness. This will need a good six or seven years of patience. I would not be at all surprised if the Mugnerets' compellingly pure 2001 grand crus merited higher scores with time in bottle." 91+ Stephen Tanzer
Francois Feuillet is a Burgundy loving magnate who succesfully brought most of the remains of the legendary Raymond Trollat estate. These vines he intrusts to David Duband, who has become stylistically much more inclined towards a more traditional style of vinification, a la Dujac or DRC. Touted as a 'Rising Star' in a recent issue of Noble Rot. This is an estate with a great future and for the moment, very reasonable prices.
"The 2012 Fixin Le Rozier is atypically quite reticent on the nose, but it is certainly well-defined and natural, with raspberry leaf and fresh strawberry notes accompanied by a touch of sous-bois. The palate is medium-bodied with a firm, quite grippy opening. There is a good deal of extraction here but it maintains good balance, with a chewy, slightly rustic finish. I suggest that you pour with hearty culinary fare rather than on its own. Drink now-2023." 87 Points Neal Martin
"The 2017 Gevrey-Chambertin Les Jeune Rois has a giving bouquet with perfumed red cherries and crushed strawberry laced with lavender and pot pourri scents, though these do not overpower the terroir expression. The palate is medium-bodied with fleshy red cherry and crushed strawberry fruit, a fine line of acidity, gentle in terms of grip with a caressing, velvet smooth finish. Gorgeous" 92 Points Neal Martin
A very exciting new name, Hasard who started his domaine in 1997, makes this cuvee from a miniscule 0.5 hectare plot of 30 year old vines. Low yields (circa 25 hl/ha) give the domaine's wines realy concentration - unusual for the region by and large.
"(From a yield of 33 hl/ha, according to Marie-Christine Mugneret) Palish medium red. Wonderfully sexy, explosive nose combines red cherry, rose petal and a whiff of game. Suave and tangy in the mouth, with harmonious acidity giving the wine superb tension and inner-mouth aromatic character. Dense, vibrant and perfumed, with a mineral pungency accentuating the impression of lightness. Extremely refined finish features dusty tannins and lovely perfumed persistence. A knockout." 93 Points Josh Reynolds
Santenay 1er Comme Tastevinage Mestre Pere et Fils
For those unintiated in such things, Tastevingage refers to the seal that is bestowed on a selection of wines by the Confreres de Tastevin, an ancient group of Burgundy notables who meet to drink, gossip and sing songs about the glories of Burgundy. They base their selection on wines they feel show the best qualities on Burgundy of a particular year. Usually, Mestre are not considered to be one of the top names in Santenay (or anywhere) but there's a fair bit of positive tasting notes on this wine around the web.
"The estate’s 2009 Volnay Clos du Chateau des Ducs saturates the palate with its deep, persistent fruit. The aromas and flavors build in the glass towards the rich, multi-dimensional finish. This shows marvelous staying power and fabulous overall balance. The Clos du Chateau des Ducs is more overtly fruit-driven and structured but perhaps a touch less aromatically expressive than the Mitans. Anticipated maturity: 2019-2039. " 93-95 Points Antonio Galloni
"Good bright, dark red. Pure aromas of black fruits and minerals. Almost surprisingly pliant and fat with fruit, offering redcurrant and rust flavors and good aromatic lift. Finishes vibrant and long, with floral and menthol nuances and firm tannins. This has turned out well. Incidentally, with the 2006 vintage Leroux stopped using silicone treatments for his corks." 90 Points Steven Tanzer
"The 2012 Volnay Village is a mixture of several parcels that include two premier crus that are normally blended due to their diminutive size. It has a crisp, floral bouquet with bright Morello and redcurrant scents that are nicely focused. The palate is medium-bodied with fine, quite supple tannins. The acidity here is nicely judged, the finish structured but nicely focused with a decent spicy tail. This is a well-crafted village cru." 90 Points Neal Martin
"The 2016 Volnay Village was reduced to a single cuvee just like it was back in 2012. It has a lovely, detailed bouquet with red cherries, crushed strawberry and crushed stone aromas. The palate is a mixture of Pommard’s structure and the elegance of Volnay, saline in the mouth so that you can feel the saliva flowing. I love the energy and vivid character of this Volnay that will give several years, possibly a decade of drinking pleasure." 90-92 Points Neal Martin
"Wood toast and lovely black fruit and cassis aromas are enhanced by plenty of Vosne spice notes. This too is delicious, generous, indeed even fleshy with buried tannins and fine length though it's a bit toastier than I personally prefer. Still, this is a wine of obvious quality though the style will best please those who enjoyed higher toast burgs." 90 Points Allan Meadows
From the family who farm and own many of the vineyards that go into the wines of Mugneret-Gibourg. Damaudes is a quite wonderful vineyard that lies directly above Malconsorts.
Bourgogne Aligote Pierre Morey [Primeur] [Transit]
"Bottled just after the harvest, the 2017 Bourgogne Aligoté, from vines within the Meursault appellation, has a gorgeous lemon curd and honeysuckle scented bouquet with touches of nutmeg. The palate is well balanced and generous to the point where you would not think it is raised in 85% stainless steel, the rest in used oak. It just misses a little substance on the finish, but otherwise this is a lovely Aligoté." 89 Neal Martin.
"The 2017 Bourgogne Blanc, which has been blended in vat, offers attractive walnut and white chocolate scents on the well defined nose, gaining intensity with aeration. The palate is very well balanced with a fine bead of acidity, very expressive with very impressive complexity towards the finish. This Bourgogne Blanc punches well above its status and comes highly recommended." 89-91 Neal Martin
Abstract-expressionist Chardonnay from a producer whose wines can be polarising, but they were greatly appreciated by no less then Anne-Claude Leflaive for their acidic vibrancy and low-intervention celler work.
"You should buy all that you are allocated – I found this to be the greatest white wine cellar in the Côte d’Or in 2013 – as such, it made no sense to me, to pick out individual wines…" Bill Nanson
A vineyard in the Sutter Creek region of Amador County, which for Steve Edmunds is "One of the finest I've ever seen" producers for this wine, equal parts of Grenache, Tempranillo and Mouvedre.
""The 2016 Pinot Noir Elliot Vineyard is distinguished in this range by its vertical sense of structure. Translucent, deep and super-expressive, the Elliott is wonderfully resonant and yet also somehow quite delicate. The 2016 is perhaps a bit less exuberant than other vintages have been, but it is just as compelling. Although a bit reticent today, the 2016 should blossom nicely with more time in bottle. My sense is that the Elliott still has much to say." 95+ Vinous
Named for the surrounding redwood forest, this southwest facing vineyard sits on an elevated
bench just above the valley floor, a stone’s throw from the town of Navarro.
"One of the stars in this range, the 2016 Pinot Noir Hellenthal Vineyard Old Block Shop is simply magnificent. A rush of dark red/purplish fruit makes a strong opening statement. Rich, pliant and enveloping, the 2016 captivates all the senses with its statuesque beauty. Power and finesse are seldom this well balanced in wine. At this stage, the 2016 stands out for its remarkable textural depth and nearly seamless feel." 96 Points Antonio Galloni
"An even split of Syrah and Grenache, the 2013 Syrah Grenache John Sebastiano Vineyard (No So2) is a fruity, supple and rounded red that gives up tons of strawberry, raspberry and even a hint of blueberry on the nose. Bottled with no added sulfites (which is crazy/absolutely ridiculous in my opinion, but buyer beware), it has a big, medium to full-bodied texture, no hard edges, tons of fruit on the mid-palate and sweet tannin on the finish. Given that most reds are consumed within hours of purchase these days, I can't complain too much with no So2 approach (sure I can, did I mention I think it's ridiculous?), and it's certainly showy and delicious out of the gate. However, it needs to drunk up over the coming couple of years at the most. As I commented last year, make sure these are well stored." 92 Points Jeb Dunnock
From Barsotti Ranch, in the high Sierra Foothills. A tiny production in 2016 - only about 400 cases, "Intense, medium purple-red, in color; the nose is fresh, yet also distinctly earthy; sous-bois beneath fraises des bois. Flavors in fine balance around sneaky acidity. Lovely texture, supple tannins round on the finish, which lasts and lasts. 13.5% alcohol." —Steve Edmunds
"Usually one of the more overt wines in the range, the 2016 Chardonnay Charles Heintz Vineyard gives the impression that it needs more time in bottle to be at its most expressive. As always, the Heintz is distinguished by its layered, creamy palate feel. The aromatics and fruit still need to emerge, but all the elements are nicely woven together. Even so, I expect the 2016 will always be a relatively understated Heintz Chardonnay." 93 Points Antonio Galloni
A blend of Charles Heintz fruit with younger vine from from Porter-Bass. Less destined for the long-haul, this offers superbly elegant drinking on release with the ability to add extra xomplexity if you can restrain.
A blend of Charles Heintz fruit with younger vine from from Porter-Bass. Less destined for the long-haul, this offers superbly elegant drinking on release with the ability to add extra xomplexity if you can restrain.
Nestled high in the hills at 1,800 feet, above the town of Saratoga, lays Peter Martin Ray
vineyard. One of two sites Ceritas farm in the Santa Cruz mountains, the vineyard is steeped in history dating back to 1943, when stockbroker-turned-winemaker Martin Ray planted the original Chardonnay vines.
When Martin Ray’s son, Peter Martin Ray, took over the farming of this site, he replanted to the
Mt. Eden clone of Chardonnay in the early 1980s. What makes this fruit so remarkable is a
direct result of the vines’ constant struggle: raw farmed with minimal manmade input; the
vines are constantly seeking water, nutrients and sustenance from deep in the hillside.
Nestled high in the hills at 1,800 feet, above the town of Saratoga, lays Peter Martin Ray
vineyard. One of two sites Ceritas farm in the Santa Cruz mountains, the vineyard is steeped in history dating back to 1943, when stockbroker-turned-winemaker Martin Ray planted the original Chardonnay vines.
When Martin Ray’s son, Peter Martin Ray, took over the farming of this site, he replanted to the
Mt. Eden clone of Chardonnay in the early 1980s. What makes this fruit so remarkable is a
direct result of the vines’ constant struggle: raw farmed with minimal manmade input; the
vines are constantly seeking water, nutrients and sustenance from deep in the hillside.
Trout Gulch has a maritime influence being only 3.5 miles from the ocean. At 750 feet above the hamlet of Aptos in the southern Santa Cruz Mountains. The vineyard was planted in 1980 to Wente Chardonnay and Mt Eden Pinot Noir and is carefully tended to by winemaker/vigneron Richard Alfaro.
Sauvignon Blanc Livermore Valley Reserve Kalin Cellars
"The 2001 Sauvignon Blanc Reserve is a blend of 80% Sauvignon Blanc and 20% Semillon, all from the Wente Estate in Livermore Valley. Leighton has been excelling with this wine for decades, and the 2001, at age 14, is an incredibly fresh, exuberant wine, with beautiful caramelized citrus, honeysuckle, lanolin, medium to full body, great acidity and a long, heady finish. This is a gorgeous wine that was bottled without filtration after aging sur lie in French oak, of which 50% was new. It will certainly last for at least another decade or more." 93 Points Robert Parker
One of Germany's best Pinot Noirs. From 45 year old vines in Baden, aged in barrels from Dujac, this is one of the most exciting wineries in Europe. Only 2 hectares are worked. Not an easy excercise given the demands of farming with such attention to detail. Achieved some fame when their wines tasted blind bested many a Grand and Premier Cru Burgundy.
Brauneberger Juffer-Sonnenuhr Spätlese F. Haag (Half)
The Juffer Sonnenuhr, lies within the heart of the rocky slopes of the Juffer vineyard. The hillside is marked by inclinations of up to 80% and gentle wave troughs as it rises vertically. It provides a sustainable microclimate that stamps the character of the wines produced from the grapes that grow here. These very fine, slaty soils – some deep, some rocky – are planted exclusively with Riesling grapes. They yield wines that have tremendous longevity and unmistakable potential.
The Juffer Sonnenuhr, lies within the heart of the rocky slopes of the Juffer vineyard. The hillside is marked by inclinations of up to 80% and gentle wave troughs as it rises vertically. It provides a sustainable microclimate that stamps the character of the wines produced from the grapes that grow here. These very fine, slaty soils – some deep, some rocky – are planted exclusively with Riesling grapes. They yield wines that have tremendous longevity and unmistakable potential.
"Aromatically smoky, the 2003 Riesling Spatlese Eitelsbacher Karthauserhofberg attacks the palate with appealing lemon/lime flavors. Light to medium-bodied, this otherwise enjoyable wine is marred by a short, dry, dusty finish. Drink it over the next 3-4 years." 86 Points Pierre Rovani
The southerly/south-westerly aspect of the Saarstein ensures perfect sun exposure. The grey shale soil warms up easily and stores the heat of the day. It is the perfect basis for the Riesling grape, which is grown on more than 90 percent of the vineyard. Only the oldest sites are used.
The southerly/south-westerly aspect of the Saarstein ensures perfect sun exposure. The grey shale soil warms up easily and stores the heat of the day. It is the perfect basis for the Riesling grape, which is grown on more than 90 percent of the vineyard. Only the oldest sites are used.
The southerly/south-westerly aspect of the Saarstein ensures perfect sun exposure. The grey shale soil warms up easily and stores the heat of the day. It is the perfect basis for the Riesling grape, which is grown on more than 90 percent of the vineyard. Only the oldest sites are used.
"The 2005 Suisassi (Syrah) was fermented and aged entirely in 225-liter French oak barrels (70% new), which D’Attoma likes to use for Syrah to give the wine more oxygen during fermentation which he believes softens the texture, sweetens the tannins and reduces the gamey qualities the variety can sometimes yield. This full-bodied, ample Syrah reveals enticing aromas and flavors of roasted coffee beans, spices, plums, earthiness, game and minerals with notable complexity and structure. It is a beautiful, elegant wine made all the more notable by the difficult vintage. In short, this is a terrific effort from Duemani. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2017." 92 Points Antonio Galloni
"“Tobacco, violets and blackish stone fruits all jump from the glass as the 2010 Syrah Migliara shows off its personality and pedigree. Wonderfully alive and vibrant, the 2010 is intense and impeccably resonant, but never heavy. The Migliara possesses remarkable finesse for such a big wine. This is without question one of the best wines I have ever tasted from the property." 96 Points Antonio Galloni
The Chateau Chalon - top cuvee of the domaine has received five stars from La Revue du Vin de France, its highest rating. Usually needs about 10 years to peak, where it'll continue to slowly improve for a generation.
The Chateau Chalon - top cuvee of the domaine has received five stars from La Revue du Vin de France, its highest rating. Usually needs about 10 years to peak, where it'll continue to slowly improve for a generation.
Bourdy are one of the great names of Chateau Chalon and they always keep stocks of their older wines in order to release them later with significant bottle age. They use an old school method of offering 'first tranche' pricing on the current release then putting the rest in the cellar where it increases in cost every 12 months thereafter.
Bourdy are one of the great names of Chateau Chalon and they always keep stocks of their older wines in order to release them later with significant bottle age. They use an old school method of offering 'first tranche' pricing on the current release then putting the rest in the cellar where it increases in cost every 12 months thereafter.
The Chateau Chalon - top cuvee of the domaine has received five stars from La Revue du Vin de France, its highest rating. Usually needs about 10 years to peak, where it'll continue to slowly improve for a generation.
The Chateau Chalon - top cuvee of the domaine has received five stars from La Revue du Vin de France, its highest rating. Usually needs about 10 years to peak, where it'll continue to slowly improve for a generation.
Bourdy are one of the great names of Chateau Chalon and they always keep stocks of their older wines in order to release them later with significant bottle age. They use an old school method of offering 'first tranche' pricing on the current release then putting the rest in the cellar where it increases in cost every 12 months thereafter.
Bourdy are one of the great names of Chateau Chalon and they always keep stocks of their older wines in order to release them later with significant bottle age. They use an old school method of offering 'first tranche' pricing on the current release then putting the rest in the cellar where it increases in cost every 12 months thereafter.
Bourdy are one of the great names of Chateau Chalon and they always keep stocks of their older wines in order to release them later with significant bottle age. They use an old school method of offering 'first tranche' pricing on the current release then putting the rest in the cellar where it increases in cost every 12 months thereafter.
Bourdy are one of the great names of Chateau Chalon and they always keep stocks of their older wines in order to release them later with significant bottle age. They use an old school method of offering 'first tranche' pricing on the current release then putting the rest in the cellar where it increases in cost every 12 months thereafter.
Bourdy are one of the great names of Chateau Chalon and they always keep stocks of their older wines in order to release them later with significant bottle age. They use an old school method of offering 'first tranche' pricing on the current release then putting the rest in the cellar where it increases in cost every 12 months thereafter.
Bourdy are one of the great names of Chateau Chalon and they always keep stocks of their older wines in order to release them later with significant bottle age. They use an old school method of offering 'first tranche' pricing on the current release then putting the rest in the cellar where it increases in cost every 12 months thereafter.
Cotes du Jura Julian Jean-Francoise Ganevat (Magnum)
"Sourced from a 50-year-old vineyard that was planted by Jean-François Ganevat's father, the 2016 Pinot Noir Cuvée Julien is an elegant version of the grape, from an old clone that produces very aromatic and pale wines. There are notes of violets, lilies and blood oranges. Some call this la Romanée-Conti from the Jura!"
Since Sanzay took control of a portion of his father's vineyards that usually was destined for the co-op, he has had a level of expectation put on him. He has a bigger parcel of Poyeaux, than Clos Rougeard. He is farming organically, and his wines had admirable purity and expression.
Coteaux du Layon Cuvee Carbonifera Delesvaux (50cl)
"Philippe Delesvaux's 1997s are to Coteaux du Layon what Mr. Universe is to manhood - huge freaks of nature that are both fascinating and unreal. The 1997s may be over-the-top. The 1997 Coteaux du Layon Carbonifera contains 459 grams of residual sugar per liter. It is anybody's guess as to how it will cope with cellaring as there is no empirical basis with which to judge the ageworthiness of such an unusual wine with relatively low alcohol and acidity combined with such stratospheric sugar levels. My instincts suggest consumption over the next 5-6 years." 95 Points Pierre Rovani
Muscadet Sevre et Maine Sur Lie Clos du Chateau l’Oiselinière Carre
From a four-hectare enclave of octogenarian wines at the Château. Pristine, brilliantly focused, long on the palate and only 12% alcohol. Well recognised for its ageing potential too.
"I fancy that Charly Foucault would feel more at home here at La Porte Saint Jean than at Clos Rougeard now that it has been bought by Martin Bouygues. While I with Sylvain, Pauline and Francoise Foucault, visiting Sylvain, I felt a strong sense that Charlie’s esprit lives on here”." Jim Budd
"I fancy that Charly Foucault would feel more at home here at La Porte Saint Jean than at Clos Rougeard now that it has been bought by Martin Bouygues. While I with Sylvain, Pauline and Francoise Foucault, visiting Sylvain, I felt a strong sense that Charlie’s esprit lives on here”." Jim Budd
The Malo is blocked for this delicious dry Chenin Blanc. The wine comes from 40-year old vines planted in flinty soil. A gentle pressing is followed by a short vinification in stainless steel.
The last vintage of Sauvignon Blanc at Dry River was 2006. The style of these older wines was always want designed to be expressive but capable of excellent improvement in the cellar in the style of such Loire greats as Cotat and Dagueneau.
The last vintage of Sauvignon Blanc at Dry River was 2006. The style of these older wines was always want designed to be expressive but capable of excellent improvement in the cellar in the style of such Loire greats as Cotat and Dagueneau.
All syrah, so has a bit more tautness and tannin, than the Grenache based cuvees. Natural style from a winemaker that is still, as far as I know, living in a caravan next to his vineyards.
"One cannot forget what is undoubtedly the finest wine to emerge from the appellation of Coteaux d'Aix en Provence. Chapoutier's luxury cuvee called Domaine des Beates Terra d'Or. The 2000 Terra d'Or is a blend of 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Syrah, and 20% Grenache aged in 100% new oak, and bottled with neither fining nor filtration. It is a classy, opaque ruby/purple-colored wine offering up gorgeous aromas of creme de cassis, graphite, kirsch, and smoke. Dense, full-bodied, closed and tannic, with monster concentration as well as incredible purity and a sense of both place and elegance, this cuvee should not be touched for 5-6 years. It will last for 20-25 years. " 94 Points, Robert Parker
"Slightly more ripe, voluptuous and textured than the more Syrah-dominated l’Esquerda, the translucent purple-colored 2013 Cotes du Roussillon Villages Latour de France Occultum Lapidem comes from the schist soils around the village of Latour de France. A blend of 50% Syrah, 40% Grenache and 10% Carignan that was harvest on September 15 and aged all in concrete tanks, it’s a fabulous wine that offers elegant notes of red and black raspberries, roasted herbs, pepper, melted licorice and asphalt. These flow to a medium to full-bodied 2013 that has a full, layered mid-palate, beautiful fruit, fine tannin and a classically focused, dry finish. It continues to freshen up in the glass, has integrated acidity and lots of class. Buy this brilliant wine by the case and drink it over the coming decade." 94 Points Jeb Dunnock
The Grenat refers to old-vine Grenache, which is taken from Sablet in the Rhone to the cellars of the insanely talented vigneron Romain Chapuis in Pommard. So, what you have in the bottle is very interesting, it’s a cool-style of Grenache, with lots of pinosity and a real sense of freshness.
Based in Costiere de Nimes, The wines of Chateau d'Or et de Gueules, bear some resemblance to those of Chateauneuf-du-Pape. This small production wine,“La Bolida” (or small cuvee) takes its name from a century-old Mourvèdre vines that yield a tiny 10 hectoliters per hectare.
Based in Costiere de Nimes, The wines of Chateau d'Or et de Gueules, bear some resemblance to those of Chateauneuf-du-Pape. This small production wine,“La Bolida” (or small cuvee) takes its name from a century-old Mourvèdre vines that yield a tiny 10 hectoliters per hectare.
Based in Costiere de Nimes, The wines of Chateau d'Or et de Gueules, bear some resemblance to those of Chateauneuf-du-Pape. This small production wine,“La Bolida” (or small cuvee) takes its name from a century-old Mourvèdre vines that yield a tiny 10 hectoliters per hectare.
Based in Costiere de Nimes, The wines of Chateau d'Or et de Gueules, bear some resemblance to those of Chateauneuf-du-Pape. This small production wine,“La Bolida” (or small cuvee) takes its name from a century-old Mourvèdre vines that yield a tiny 10 hectoliters per hectare.
Based in Costiere de Nimes, The wines of Chateau d'Or et de Gueules, bear some resemblance to those of Chateauneuf-du-Pape. This small production wine,“La Bolida” (or small cuvee) takes its name from a century-old Mourvèdre vines that yield a tiny 10 hectoliters per hectare.
Aged in tank for about 8 months, these cuvee's are comprised of Muscat, Macabeo and Chardonnay and generally comprise the younger vines on the estate, although in this case, that means between 20-50 years.
Aged in tank for about 8 months, these cuvee's are comprised of Muscat, Macabeo and Chardonnay and generally comprise the younger vines on the estate, although in this case, that means between 20-50 years.
Monbazillac Château Tirecul-la-Gravière Cuvee Madame (50cl)
"It is an understatement to say these are the greatest wines I have ever tasted from Monbazillac; in fact, they are among the greatest sweet wines I have tasted ... from anywhere!" Robert Parker
From 100 year vines of mostly Grenache, this is made using a sem-cabonic maceration technqiue, a la Allemand (and the rest). Elevage in barrique and demi-muid. The yields of less then 10hl/ha give some power but above all elegance and precision, at almost impossible levels given the natural warmth of the region.
"ruby robe, with a still sound core and a bright veneer. Pretty nose, has a really nice, savoury tone, with prune, syrup and a bit of peppery plum : there is a palette of varied aromas. The palate is more reserved than the nose, and is peppered from its tannins – the vintage grips it tightly. Has good core richness now. There is a firm, evolving finish, with hints of the second phase – there are sweet date, tea effects late on. 2021-2" **** John Livingstone-Learmonth
"The only 2006 I was able to taste from proprietress Isabel Ferrando for this retrospective, the 2006 Chateauneuf du Pape Reserve Auguste Favier, did not disappoint. Made from 80% Grenache, 10% Cinsault and the rest Syrah and Mourvèdre, mostly from rolled pebble soils, it was completely destemmed and had the Grenache aged in tank and the balance in three-year-old barrels. Giving up elegant, perfumed notes of kirsch, blackberries, licorice and roasted meats, it’s seamless and sexy, with the vintage’s charming, elegant character front and center. This is a beautiful wine to enjoy anytime over the coming 5-8 years." 95 Points Jeb Dunnock
"The nose is starting to close, has a saline, crushed pistachio shells, hay and dry soil statement, grilling, along with licorice and violet. The fruit within resembles black berries. The bouquet gives the sense of an important wine of proper authority. The palate comes forward on sealed, dark fruits, lissom and live tannins, a joyful abundance that delivers a polished, partly mysterious experience, especially on the later stages, where matters start to integrate. It reaches out very well, travelling both forwards and sideways. Its great ace is its harmony and progression, a perfect Everly Brothers duet. Excellent wine – as it should be in 2010" ****** John Livingstone-Learmonth
"Mind blowing stuff, the 2010 Chateauneuf du Pape is most likely the greatest wine ever from this estate. Still inky colored, it has a powerful, slightly backward feel in its crushed rocks, cassis, kirsch, toasted spice, licorice and dried flower-like aromas and flavors. Massively concentrated, thick, rich and textured, it delivers a serious lashing of tannin, yet nevertheless is perfectly balanced, ultra-pure, precise and long. It's the quintessential Clos des Papes and will have 30+ years of longevity. Note, yields were a miniscule 16 hectoliters per hectare, so there's not much of this out there." 99+ Points Jeb Dunnock
"A step up, the 2011 Chateauneuf du Pape Collection Charles Giraud is a smoking wine that’s up with the top wines of the vintage. Made from 60% Grenache and 40% Mourvedre, it has perfumed kirsch, black raspberry, licorice, dried flowers and roasted meat-like qualities soaring from the glass. As with the Reserve Auguste Favier, this has put on more mid-palate weight, has beautifully sweet fruit, and ripe tannin that emerges on the finish. It can be consumed anytime over the coming 10-12 years." 95 Points Jeb Dunnock
"Two brilliant successes are Brunel’s cuvees of 2007 Chateauneuf du Pape. His limited cuvee of approximately 500 cases of the 2007 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Centenaire (made from 80% Grenache aged in foudre, and the balance Syrah and Mourvedre aged in one- to three-year-old small barrels) comes primarily from a parcel of 120-year-old vines in the northern part of the appellation in the lieu-dit known as Farguerol. This cuvee has only been made in vintages such as 1989, 1990, 1995, 1998, 2000, 2001, 2003, 2005, 2006, and now 2007. Deep ruby/purple in color, the wine exhibits very up-front, precocious, sexy plum, black currant, and sweet cherry notes intermixed with some floral hints, licorice, and garrigue. It is dense, full-bodied, much more supple and silky-textured than the 2005 or 2001, but seemingly more concentrated than the 2000 version of this wine. It is a brilliant, full-throttle, seamless Chateauneuf du Pape capable of lasting for up to two decades, although few people will be able to resist its exuberant youthfulness." 96 Points Robert Parker
Chateauneuf-du-Pape Cuvee Gonnet Font de Michelle [Transit]
"Quite a full red with some black tints. Solid, well made aroma, shows meaty tones at this young age, with a herbal touch. Well-knit, stone fruit flavour that progresses well through the palate, and finishes nice and long. Square shape on the finish, its tannins demand being left until 2009. Holds bonny red fruit at its heart, is stylish and not overforced in any way. 2020-23" **** John Livingstone-Learmonth
"This is a great Vieux Télégraphe. Red robe, ruby inflexion. There is a sweet air that expresses Grenache, has a beautiful width, real range in the aroma. It was opened for 1 hour, then decanted; there is a click of dry bounty on the end of the nose. Once decanted, it becomes more Pinoté - a supreme red fruits air – while there is the release of a tiny fungal air as well. This nose is fantastic – always growing and expanding, moving on to honey, raisin notes, always full. Its fruit aroma is a rather thrilling red berry or raspberry – this is a seductive nose. On the palate the wine gives a meaty, red fruits combination – it is wholesome and absolutely as one, all together. It ends on a crinkly, pebbly dash with a long licorice and varied spice aftertaste. Very good balance, lovely today – a wine of beautiful richness. 2019-21" ***** John Livingstone-Learmonth
"Very intense robe; all power on the nose – ripeness, raisin airs, aromas of the garrigue – a powerful show of southern climes in the bouquet. The palate is a mass of flavour, still tightly rolled up. Has funky power. Dark fruit and tannins emerge on the aftertaste, are really well set into it. Big wine indeed. I rate it among the best of the 1990s, since many are too blousy and loose. This really is promising. It is chock full of gutsy content, but has been well fashioned" ***** John Livingstone-Learmonth
"Broad, expansive, rich, and impressively endowed, the dark ruby/purple-colored 2003 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Prestige is dense, chewy, and meaty with high levels of alcohol, hints of roasted meats, kirsch liqueur, herbes de Provence, creme de cassis, and melted licorice. It is a broad, mouthfilling Chateauneuf du Pape that is classic and substantial. Drink it over the next 12-15 years." 92 Points Robert Parker
"Lastly (of the non-Hermitage 2011s), the 2011 Cornas Domaine de Saint Pierre is a knockout Cornas that does everything right. Medium to full-bodied, rich and textured, with classic creme de cassis, raspberry, licorice and tinges of vanilla (it is 100% Syrah aged 12 months in new oak) aromas and flavors, it can be consumed now, or cellared for a decade or more." 93 Points Jeb Dunnock
"Dark robe; resin, plenty of pine and cedar in the top aroma – this is a profound bouquet with a ripe heart – the fruit is ripe and layered, with elder and cassis fruit, and a near acetate note. The palate has a wide brim start, serious concentration in its blackcurrant fruit, which persists with tasty droplets on the aftertaste. The tannins are well seasoned and beneficial in providing added depth. A lot in the glass here. South slopes, core Cornas here (tasted blind). A wine of flair – an unusual word for Cornas of old. The texture is oily, and that gras is still present on the finish. From 2016. 500 cases" ****(*) John Livingstone-Learmonth
The Pur Granit is from younger vines of pure Granite (funnily enough) in the Chataignier climat, just above Chaillot – just a single hectare – vinification is pretty similar, but slightly shorter time in foudre – stylistically, more towards the violet, floral style of Allemand than the density of Clape if we can position it like that.
"Has a nicely wavy blackberry aroma with cards to play – the nose is just peeping out, has a soil/floral backing. The palate is tight, crunchy, close-knit: this is dark, direct wine with juice pretty intense. It is camouflaged by its rocky surrounds. It gives a clear zing, while its tannins are demanding, with dry notes in them for now. The shape is upright. Take your time here: it is long and good and fresh. " **** John Livingstone-Learmonth
Every year Ludovic makes better wines and his 2016s are superb. More chiselled than the 15s but with the greater definition he seems to find every year through more and more careful management of the vineyard health.
"Dark, tarry nose, rather narrow and brooding, smoky from its oak. Very good bounce of fruit out of the starting gate. Excellent core to the fruit, holds a genuine middle zone style with its underlying warmth. The fruit has been done with a light touch. Cornas at its elegant best, is broad and savoury towards the finish. Very beau. From 2009" ***** John Livingstone-Learmonth. Note a blend of Verset and Robert Michel juice.
Friends with Stephan Otheguy and following a similar non-interventionalist style. Only about a single barrel every year, drawn I believe mostly from vineyards in the Southern part of the appellation.
"Dark cherry colour; there is a vibe of chunky black fruit on the nose, but plenty of potential, with a game/gibier note. The palate is similar – black fruits with a clean-cut tone, they are nice and wide, and persist well. Really good, this palate – dark flavours with genuine length and excellent core richness. STGT in the making actually, once the oak is absorbed, so rich is it. A good dance in this wine – lots of pleasure to come. 2010 on." ***** John Livingstone-Learmonth
"Stable red robe; mild strawberry fruit in the bouquet – this has fragrant potential, runs on its own terms, nothing bold or brassy. The palate has restricted sides, with tannin on both sides; this has the upright shape of the vintage, and is closing up now – means it is stiff today. The length is well-set – this will be more fine and open than 2005. It is a slow-burn, not obvious wine, its interior layered with red fruits. Fragrant aftertaste here. From 2011. 2018-19" **** John Livingstone-Learmonth
"The nose gives some reduction, and goes almost towards Grenache with cooked plum. Light muskiness, floral, a sense of strawberry coulis, mocha and cocoa. There is a spice-pepper theme along the palate, which bears black fruits, the sign of a “dark” vintage; this is a spinal wine, with tannins pushing forward drily. It’s interesting, not a facile wine. The juice has thickness, and the tannins are butty. It is pretty much a rectangle in shape – it is serious, dark Côte-Rôtie that will live well. It will be good to cellar this – take your time with it. 12.5°. “It is starting to round out; it wasn’t possible to get into when it was young, unless you decanted it, and drank it with game. It is more rich, and has more structure than the 2014,” **** John Livingstone-Learmonth
"Ruby with a brick top rim, fair depth in the robe. Gentle, savoury bouquet with traces of game, cedar, laurel herbs, red fruits, some sous-bois, damp forest or dead leaf. There is a lovely couch of flavour that is mature and aromatic on the palate. The length is still nice, offers a final point of sweetness in a prune jam flavour. This has great style and lingering quality, ends on dark flavours. “This was not a big vintage,” Jean-Pierre Perrin." ***** John Livingstone-Learmonth
"The nose reflects its raising via crushed nutshells, comes with blue fruit, licorice, a degree of mystery. It’s broad and full of promise. The palate is tightly drawn together, with a compressed juice at its heart, real rocky fissure wine here, released in limited amounts. The strength of the vintage is apparent. It goes long, with a bundle of lip-smacking tannins to conclude in a cool setting. This is big, manly Côte-Rôtie, and needs to be left until 2022. 13.5" ***** John Livingstone-Learmonth
About 300 cases produced - “Massales” is produced from 50-60 year old vineyards on the lieu-dits Leyat and Bonivière. The vineyards are planted to Serine.
"Brilliant ruby. Highly expressive, smoke-accented black raspberry, potpourri, game and peppery spice aromas carry a minerally topnote that gains strength as the wine opens up. Intense red and dark berry, floral pastille and spicecake flavors are braced by a spine of juicy acidity. Puts on weight on a persistent, sharply delineated finish that echoes the berry and smoke qualities and leaves behind allspice and cracked pepper notes." 92 Points Josh Reynolds
"Dark red-purple, violet tinted robe. Has a real classic Côte-Rôtie nose, perfume with freshness, bright appeal. The fruit sparkles. There’s a note of licorice. The palate gives a real good buzz, a crisp black fruit, with finesse, measured pebbly touches, powder in the tannins. There’s a good stream of fruit. This is almost w.o.w. wine – toot toot in the CHR restaurant trade. The tannins need 18 months, but this is highly stylish and frank. The fruit resembles loganberry, good blackberry. This is naked wine a Go Go. “It can live for eight to 10 years because it is fresh, has good acidity,” Maxime Champet." **** John Livingstone-Learmonth
"The nose is close-knit, wide. The palate holds a dense black jam flavour, is more southern than northern, with black olives, vigorous but also bright tannins, a sturdy make-up that shows the effect of the hot summer. It’s inky on the finish. This is thick wine, less floral than usual, on stewed black fruits it is. “It’s concentrated,” Maxime Champet. 13°. From 2021. 2034-36 March 20" **** John Livingstone-Learmonth
"Gleaming dark red robe; the nose is rather chunky, on cherry fruits, raspberry, is dense, a bit unyielding, has a dab of rock smoke. The palate is also compact, firm, frees up enough for black berry juice which is thick. There’s a surge of wide tannins at the end, the close gummy, layered. This is structured to live, and not be drunk early. It brings on vegetal assertion, and is demanding on the close. “It has a bit more flesh and length than Le Vin des Amis this year,” Olivier Clape. 13°. Bottled Aug 2018. From 2021 – it’s best to wait. 2034-36" **** John Livingstone-Learmonth
"Has a neatly collected blackberry fruit aroma, with minting, good beat in the fruit. The palate links closely, holds suave content and tannins with its cassis, ripe fruit; the content is fleshy and pliant. It’s touch low on acidity, ends roundly. There is a real sphere here, a rolling ball. It’s an open pleasure wine. 2022-23" ***(*) John Livingstone-Learmonth
"As for the 2009 Cotes du Rhones, which are all in bottle, the 2009 Cotes du Rhone-Villages Seguret Tradition has a dark ruby color and the telltale kirsch liqueur with some earthy and loamy soil notes in the background, as well as hints of pepper and spice. It is a classic example of a Provencal wine. Medium to full-bodied and supple, it should continue to drink well for another 4-5 years. " 89 Points Robert Parker
"The less expense wines, which are much more abundant, start with the 2010 Cotes du Rhone-Villages Seguret Tradition. This blend of two-thirds Grenache and a big chunk of Syrah (about 25%) and old vine Carignan exhibits a peppery, garrigue-dominated, black cherry and black fruited nose and flavors. Full-bodied, spicy and concentrated, with silky tannins, this beauty displays classic Provencal characteristics and is remarkably full-flavored and dense. It should drink nicely for 5-6 years, if people can resist it." 91 Points Robert Parker
Cotes du Rhone Villages Seguret Grande Reserve Dom de Mourchon
"The top cuvee for most vintages is the Grande Reserve, which is often a blend of about 55% Grenache and the rest Syrah. Yields are very small, in the 20-25 hectoliters per hectare range. The 2005 is stunning, inky bluish/purple to the rim, with a beautiful nose of creme de cassis, licorice, a touch of pepper, and roasted meats. It is dense, full-bodied, moderately tannic, and will benefit from 2-3 years of cellaring and keep for 12-15 years. It is an ambitious and brilliant Cotes du Rhone." 91 Points Robert Parker
Cotes du Rhone Villages Seguret Grande Reserve Dom de Mourchon
"The outstanding 2013 Seguret Grande Reserve is an old vine blend of Grenache and Syrah that's from higher elevation vineyards and limestone soils located above the village of Seguret. More tight, focused and reserved than normal for this cuvee, it still has fabulous intensity in its black raspberry, licorice, violet and peppery garrigue aromas and flavors. Medium-bodied, nicely concentrated, with ripe tannin, it makes the most of this difficult vintage and will have a decade of longevity." 90 Points Jeb Dunnock
"Bacon – wow! - on the nose, honey with it, and the baked stone-pebble aspect of 2003 – lavender, fennel here. The plum fruit of the Grenache is at the front end of the fruit aroma. Softening red fruits lead the palate, that has lots of garrigue-herbal expression. Warm, but not overdone in any way – this is fine, but also has a “dark” trail which I like. Within there are coffee, dark chocolate notes sprinkled without excess weight. A good surprise for its elegance. It ends on a slightly baked note, but is absolutely OK with food, so no worries on that score. Kid, young goat, or pork would do well with this." ***(*) John Livingstone-Learmonth
"A rich, structured Crozes Hermitage, Jaboulet’s 2012 Domaine de Thalabert offers first-rate notes of blackcurrants, peppery herbs, leather, black olive and scorched earth. Aged 12 months in 20% new French oak, it’s medium-bodied, juicy and balanced, with enough underlying depth and structure to keep it evolving nicely through 2023." 91 Points Jeb Dunnock
"Coming from a small three-hectare plot of granite soils in the northern part of the appellation (which is the prime terroir), the blockbuster 2012 Crozes Hermitage Domaine Raymond Roure exhibits incredible minerality in its black raspberry, olive tapenade, spring flower, and subtle chocolate-laced aromatics. Tasting like it was filtered through a bed of rocks, it’s full-bodied, thrillingly concentrated and has superb underlying structure. In short, it’s a smoking Crozes Hermitage to drink anytime over the coming 15+ years. Unfortunately, there’s only 500 cases made." 94 Points Jeb Dunnock
"Has an extraordinarily inky, dark robe. Has an oily, sunny, savoury nose with a little raisin evident. The palate is tightly packed, marked by violet and black berry jam – a sweet-toned black cherry. Has a lozenge flavour, with a rounded, slightly jam finish. A real one-off with this sweet amplitude, one that drinks OK now. 2018-21 Dec 2006 Previously Sept 2005 **** full, dark-tinted robe. Tight-knit black fruits on a smoky bouquet, deep-seated vintage ripeness, meaty and violet mix also. Lightly scented black berry flavour, has a sound mid-palate, runs on harmoniously, there is attractive vinosity here. Meaty, southern, with olive tinges, the oiled finale gives hope for its longevity. Drinkable now. From 2007. 2017-21" **** John Livingstone-Learmonth
"The robe is tawny, has a Madeira tone with a lot of heart – looks like a Rancio, a Banyuls with youth, as it were. Holds a wide, silken, evolved aroma, led by plum jam, with ground coffee beans and toffee, also some fungal, not especially clean, notes. The palate is sealed, with red stone fruits, plum, nuts and dates present. It persists really well, the texture is indeed woven and compact all through. Its richness is delivered with a tender touch - this is a very “sensible”, orderly wine. Some animal shows up late on – not excessive. Is a bit fundamental and reduced, a wine of some muscle and shoulders still. At first, there is a fungal manner, then it becomes more round and rich on the finish as it airs. From the old school of winemaking, truth rather than cellar artifice handed out to the drinker. Not for the squeaky clean brigade. 2023-2" ****** John Livingstone-Learmonth
"Brewed, smoky toasted nose - coffee/mocha, warm cooked stone fruit - it is deep and varied. It has an assertive, dry-toned texture with a warm centre. Southern tones here - raspberry fruit with good underlay. There is some richness, oil at the end. It is upright at this stage, has likeable punch. It develops a more prune flavour with air. It reminds me of 1960s-1970s Chapelles. It is a bit dumb now, was more exuberant. 2007-08 on. 2022-2" **** John Livingstone-Learmonth
"Inky, glass-staining ruby. An exotically perfumed bouquet evokes dark fruit liqueur, smoky Indian spices, potpourri and cracked pepper. Deep but lively, offering palate-coating blueberry and cherry-cola flavors and a sexy note of candied violet. This wine opens up dramatically with a little air and shows a very suave blend of power and finesse. An energizing mineral note comes on strong on the endless finish, which features sexy floral and spicecake nuances." 96 Points Josh Reynolds
"Bright purple. Sexy, highly perfumed scents of ripe boysenberry, cherry cola, smoky Indian spices and potpourri take on a vibrant mineral quality in the glass. Smooth, expansive and impressively deep, showing a surprisingly delicate touch to the sweet black and blue fruit, floral pastille and spicecake flavors. Smooth, slow-building tannins come up slowly and add focus to an extremely long, juicy, mineral- and floral-driven finish." 95 Points Josh Reynolds
"Bright, sound red colour. Bouquet displays the classic roundness of Le Méal, suave and beguiling red jam aroma. Harmonious start to palate, and a quick burst of live raspberry/wild berry fruit. This holds good core juice, with a silken texture in mid-palate. There is a show of tannin at the end that is lightly done and adds life. STGT. Very beau on a lesser scale than usual. Burgundian shape and nuances. 2020-22" ***(*) John Livingstone-Learmonth
" From what is unquestionably the greatest Hermitage vintage since 1961, this wine is black in color, with a huge, developing bouquet of jammy cassis, mineral, spicy, floral, and licorice scents. Massively endowed, with frightfully high levels of glycerin, extract, and tannin, this is an old-style, super concentrated, beautifully pure, well-delineated Hermitage. Wow! Anticipated maturity: 2005-2040" 96 Points Robert Parker
1979 Syrah from Sécheras, 80% whole bunch, 2-week fermentation, pumping overs, 2-week maceration, aged 75% 4-5 year oak 550-litre casks, 25% vat 12 months, unfined, unfiltered, first wine 2003. 350 cases. "This is whole bunch fermentation (3 week maceration) and then ageing in Spanish amphorae (tinajas). Intense, vivid black cherry fruit with lovely freshness. Has good structure with supple fruit. Such lovely structure here. 95/100" Jamie Goode
"Has an easy, expressive blackberry fruit aroma, soaked red cherries also – it a good, calm and rounded nose. The palate gives supple, well-fruited black fruit content, does just what a St Jo should do – ça passe. It’s good and genuine country wine, with touches of spice, black pepper along the palate. It ends on a small cluster of tannic grip. It’s real good w.o.w. wine for the CHR, bistrot trade. 12.5°. 1,500 b. To 2022" ***(*) John Livingstone-Learmonth
"More classic in style, with a masculine, meaty profile of smoked Syrah fruit, truffle, chocolate, spice and licorice, the 2006 Saint Joseph Vignes des Hospice is full-bodied, rounded and concentrated on the palate, with significant underlying structure. I love the purity here, and it is well worth seeking out. " 93 Points Jeb Dunnock
"An incredible wine, the 600-case 2015 Saint Joseph L'Olivaie comes from 60-year-old vines and is aged in 25% new French oak. Crushed rocks, blackberries, blueberries, lavender, wet rock and hints of truffle all emerge from this full-bodied, incredibly pure, elegant wine that will drink well in a handful of years and keep for over a decade." 94-96 Points Jeb Dunnock
"There’s a good hit of raspberry fruit, clear lines through it, on the nose, as well as a tinkle of flowers, roses, which comes through also on the palate – a rose hip-violet presence there. It bears small, keenly cut red fruits, is immediately charming. It takes on darkness towards the finish. The inclusion of young vines Côte-Rôtie fruit and Côtes du Rhône fruit adds depth and freshness. There is the definite DNA traces of Côte-Rôtie within this w.o.w. wine. It’s great now, excellent with Christmas turkey or the aperitif. There’s a spot of spice in it." **** John Livingstone-Learmonth
"This is the second of the two bottlings, in September, a year after the harvest: has a safe bet red robe. Mulberry, cherry liqueur airs, a spot of eau de vie and violet perfume feature on the nose. This is tight, mineral, a bit on the wire, but aided by floral/rose, primrose touches. The finish has dry notes, vegetal. The nose leads the palate – it is aromatic, quietly round. The palate is more challenging, spare. “There is white tobacco on the palate,” Jean-Luc Jamet. 2022-23 Mar 2018" *** John Livingstone-Learmonth
"There is light reduction on a nose of sound depth of cooked black fruits, some summer warmth, violets. This swings along well with juicy generosity on the palate, gives plenty of entertainment, finishes on soaked black cherries, with some tar and an unkempt nature there. The nose and the first half of the palate are very good; the finish needs to absorb. 2) used 228-litre cask) **** dark red. Tea leaves, soaked black cherries and a vegetal verve show on the nose. There is smooth flow all through the palate, with juicy appeal, a good swing in its step. The finish is fleshy, rounded. It has good nerve, some mineral. This will be good vin de pays, VALUE at €14" ***(*) John Livingstone-Learmonth
"The 2006 Chateauneuf du Pape blanc (80% Clairette and 20% Roussanne) is a superb example of the appellation, displaying a flowery, orange rind, white citrus, lemon zest, and crushed rock-scented perfume. It is long, rich, full-bodied, dry, crisp, and delicate as well as intense. A beauty, it is a naked expression of fruit and terroir. Drink it over the next 5-6 years." 92 Points Robert Parker
"The 2010 Chateauneuf du Pape blanc, which is 80% Clairette and 20% Roussanne, has wonderfully crisp minerality as well as hints of poached pear, lemon zest and nectarines in a fragrant, medium to full-bodied, crisp and generous, dry white Chateauneuf du Pape." 90 Points Robert Parker
"Caramelised fruits, mineral/custard, has gone past pear/floral. Good grip on palate, very profound. Some mineral/tannin near end. Great refinement, complex, stylish. Best from 2005." ****(*) John Livingstone-Learmonth
"Formidable nose – broad and open and inviting, with pear and white peach in the background; notes of some potency hover on top: this bouquet is a real stormer. The palate is a mix of richness and grip – meaning there is a central spine of a near tannic nature though it. Flavour is of apricot and white fruit, with traces of oak that are not overdone – with dried white raisins here, too. Finishes roundly, with plenty late on. The alcohol – 15° - is at the limit, but can live on with its pretty correct acidity." **** John Livingstone-Learmonth
One of the most talented vignerons in the Rhone right now. After working with Trapet, Chave and Cuilleron he founded his 2 hectare estate in 2010. His low-intervention, high-fidelity wines have a growing following in France.
"Ogier’s limited production white wines include the 2009 Condrieu La Combe de Malleval. Aged in old wood, it reveals abundant notes of lychee nuts, white peaches, honeysuckle and rose water, good minerality, medium to full body and a long finish" 92 Points Robert Parker
"Shiny pear colour in an off cream robe; the nose is rich, leads with banana and flan or custard, but stops short of being voluptuous, has an oily, ripe centre, shows a light air of hazelnut – it is shutting down a little now. The palate is fine, bears gentle, aromatic pear fruit that has a good, firm foundation under it – there is a bonny mix of elements in this. The finish is reserved, but there is plenty in it – it lengthens on some discreet power. Best with food. 14°. To 2018" **** John Livingstone-Learmonth
"The bouquet is easing into its armchair, softening with a pear, guava, cooked lemon aroma, some low-key oak toast. The palate has notably Roussanne, with Viognier forward on the attack, is aromatic, has a white plum, peach flavour with a steady, direct run into the finish, where there is spearmint. The Marsanne only shows on the finish – there is some ginger tang there, orange marmalade. It’s at a good stage, has good length, is near its summit. I like the touch of the salt on the aftertaste. To 2020" ***(*) John Livingstone-Learmonth
Marsanne / Roussanne blend ". Has a nicely open nose, pear and apricot with a thread of infused tea, clarity, dried fruits. There is comfortable gras on the attack, with swift grip, a tightening after the squeezy first delivery. White fruits, saline moments appear towards the finish, as well as a touch of honey. This has good character. The Viognier leaves a good plumpness and texture. It has structure, nice length. “It is well balanced, is a good table wine,” Jean-Luc Jamet. 13°" ***(*) John Livingstone-Learmonth
"Readers should not overlook the 2007 Cotes du Rhone Coudoulet blanc. Always one of the appellation’s finest white wines, the outstanding 2007 is a blend of equal parts Viognier, Marsanne, and Bourboulenc with a dollop of Clairette. It displays aromas and flavors of tropical fruits, lychee nuts, white peaches, and flowers offered in a deep, medium to full-bodied style with great fruit as well as terrific acidity." 90-92 Points Robert Parker
"Opulent, thick, and juicy, the 2004 Hermitage Cuvee Emilie blanc has intense notes of acacia flowers, litchi, honeyed apricot, and oily citrus. The wine has admirable ripeness, full-bodied power, and a long, heady finish." 91 Points Robert Parker
100% Marsanne from 0.38 hectare on Combe (granite soils, 1950s Marsanne, worked by MB since 2012) & from 0.2 hectare on Biousse (clay-limestone, mid-late 1990s Marsanne, worked by MB since 2006), fermented, raised 4-6 year 400-litre oak casks 12 months, malo completed, fined, 2-3,000 b. Rising star.
An older vintage, only the 2nd produced under the ownership of the former proprietor of Pichon Lalande in Pauillac. Intent is serious here with the winemaker having past spells at Rustenberg and Angelus. The estate is located in the Ida Valley, in the Stellenbosch region, the premier spot for fine, Bordeaux like reds, usually possesing more heft and clout then their Northern Hemisphere counterparts.
"The 2011 Camino is a blend of Garnacha, Syrah, Tempranillo and Cabernet from granite soils with a straightforward, fruit-driven nose with aromas of pomegranate, ripe cherries and raspberries. The palate is juicy, with some chunky tannins that call for food and moderate acidity. Drink now-2016." 86 Pointd Luis Guttierez
"Even better than the 1990, the 1982 Unico is simply one of the very best wines I have tasted in some time. Powerful, fleshy and full of energy, the 1982 Unico is another wine that is almost overwhelmingly beautiful. A striking mélange of savory herbs, smoke and tobacco add complexity, but the 1982 is about the total package. And the 1982 has it all going on. In a word: Magnificent." 98 Points Antonio Galloni
