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.
"Deep ruby. Expressive aromas of blackcurrant, dark cherry, spice cake, molasses, Cuban tobacco, anise and loamy earth, accented by exotic oak spices. Firm, structured and deep, showing flavors of spicy cherry, kirsch, clove and cinnamon. This really benefited from aeration, showing a rich, broad, suave texture and finishing with ample but ripe tannins and lingering licorice and pepper. . " 93 Points Josh Reynolds
"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 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.
"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
"Full-blown aromas of caramel, toffee, honey, white chocolate and damp earth; slightly Tokaj-like. Hugely concentrated and layered in the mouth; extraordinary sweetness cut by harmonious acidity. As with the best vintages of Yquem, the finish goes on for a minute or more. Stains, and stuns, the palate. A huge wine, surprisingly extravagant on the nose (earlier bottles have been far more restrained) but completely unevolved and a bit musclebound on the palate. May ultimately merit a higher score." 94 Points Stephen Tanzer
"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
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 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.
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 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
"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.
"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
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.
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
"The 1995 Chardonnay “Cuvée D” from Terry and Frances Leighton’s Kalin Cellars is the long-awaited ’95 Dutton Ranch bottling, where the couple has not (to my knowledge) been buying fruit from for many years, and I believe that this is the last Dutton Ranch bottling from Kalin in the winery’s extensive cellars. The wine is fully into its apogee at twenty-four years of age, showing a lovely golden color and a deep and complex bouquet of tangerine, fresh apricot, salty minerality, hazelnut, a touch of butter, dried flowers, citrus zest and a lovely base of vanillin oak. On the palate the wine is crisp, full-bodied, complex and à point, with excellent focus and grip, a deep core and a long, complex and beautifully balanced finish. This is a ripe chardonnay, coming in at 13.5 percent octane, but it is pure and in perfect harmony today. 2019-2030+." 92 Points John Gilman
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.
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.
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!"
One of the greatest Cabernet Francs in the world, and available at a fraction of iterations from elsewhere. 2016 was a small vintage but one worth seeking and cellering to enjoy one of the wonders of the Loire valley.
Saumur-Champigny Franc de Pied Domaine de Roche Neuve
1.2 hectares of ungrafted Cabernet Franc. Horse-worked and carefully husbanded by Thierry who is one of the leaders of the appellation since changing the direction of the domaine in the mid 2000s.
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
"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.
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.
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
"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
"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
"My favorite of the lineup was easily the 1990 Chateauneuf du Pape and it has to-die-for aromatics that continue to change and evolve in the glass. Garrigue, seaweed, olive, game and ripe red and black fruits all flow to a medium to full-bodied, seamless and elegant red that has fine tannin and a sunny, graceful personality that's about as gulpable as they come. It's fully mature and I see no need to delay gratification. " 95 Points Jeb Dunnock
"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
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.
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.
"Inky ruby. Powerful, deeply perfumed aromas of black and blue fruit preserves, licorice and olive, along with a sexy floral overtone. Coats the palate with juicy blackberry, boysenberry, violet pastille and spicecake flavors, while a smoky mineral flourish adds vibrant lift. Chewy tannins shape an impressively long, mineral-accented finish that shows very good power and spicy thrust" 93 Points Josh Reynolds
"From La Sabarotte, in the southern part of the vineyard. dark; very intense bouquet. Earthy tones prevail over fruit. Excellent attack, nicely weighted wine with length. Has structure and class. 2024-2" ***** PS - All Noel Verset fruit from his 1912 vineyard.
"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
"The nose is full, goes across with a couch of simmered dark berries, raspberry. It has a steady depth, and can emerge well. It is very much on the fruit without extras for now. The attack is tasty, open, has an uncomplicated presentation. There are loose channels of fruit, a mild texture, fine late tannins that involve powder, oak, licorice. Good CHR (Café Hotel Restaurant), bistrot restaurant wine. It is savoury and round with its aromatic red berry fruit. Honest Côte-Rôtie. A little will be bottled June 2016, the majority Dec 2016. From spring 2018. 2024-26" ***(*) 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.
"Dark red. Light grilling, oak-toast, a neat red berry, mulberry inner aroma with notes of roses. This has good, cosy style at its heart. The palate moves fluidly, is gourmand, and well-juiced sweetness is present. This has finesse, and gives a good, steady and consistent flow, musky notes. It’s an open and willing, pleasure wine. From 2021. 2034-36 Mar 2018" **** John Livingstone-Learmonth
"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
Cotes du Rhone La Sagesse Gramenon (Magnum [Transit]
"Bright red, purple robe. An aroma of blackberry coulis features in a rounded bouquet that is on the back foot now; there’s a good funnel of pleasure to come. The palate is tight, has early gras richness before a crunchy, vegetal stretch (it’s 50% whole bunch). The flavour involves red cherry, damson plum. The length is fresh, zoom! This has character, just makes it to ****" 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
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
"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
"The first “live” vintage of Hermitage La Chapelle that I experienced: hail and a much reduced crop, a wine of enormous inkiness in its first months. Fine red robe, slight black at the top, a little see-through there, but has held up well, given it was so dark at the start. The nose is varied, led by iodine, salty plum, lavender and baked stones. After 45 to 60 minutes, it amplifies and deepens. The palate debut is on red fruit, with a good line of acidity, a menthol freshness at the end. It extends well, its little red fruit berries nicely present and declaring well in much finesse. It ends on its traditional Southern glow. Has a good charge in it, the finish well-balanced and lifted by salty, menthol touches. I like its sustained glow and clarity together. Good wine, especially for its age. 2023-25" **** John Livingstone Learmonth
"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
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
St-Joseph Rouge Les Sabots de Coppi Domaine de L'Iserand
"Hit by hail this year, so the wine only came from Ozon: dark robe. There’s a cassis-blueberry mix on the nose, blood, red meats, violets. The palate is tight, drawn in, needs time, is iron filled, currently a bit rigorous, though it displays juice all through, and is clear. There are restrained, vegetal notes on the finish. From mid-2020 at the earliest. 3,500 b. 100% whole bunch." ***(*) John Livingstone Learmonth
"Deep bright-rimmed ruby. Powerful, mineral-accented black and blue fruit, floral and licorice aromas are energized by a suggestion of cracked pepper. Juicy and broad on the palate, offering ripe boysenberry, blueberry and floral pastille flavors that tighten up steadily with aeration. Densely packed yet energetic as well, finishing with excellent clarity, smooth tannins and mineral-driven persistence." 91 Points Josh Reynolds
"Right, full red robe; the nose offers live black fruit, black cherry, engages well, has good zoom. There is good refinement in the palate’s black fruit, with detail and purity, is a successful w.o.w. wine with a lovely simplicity. It’s all destemmed. 85% Gren, 15% Gamay" ***(*) John Livingsone-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
From 1.1 hectares on Cote Chatillon, Gerard's top terroir: "There is inner ripeness, strength on the nose, which has a subdued, pear aroma, is pretty classic, if not out and about as yet. There’s a wee peach air. The palate holds a calm, rather thick gras richness, is solid without being static, but has a red wine profile, and will benefit from more time, decanting, and will then require white meats, full fish such as halibut, turbot. Pear, pear skin, white strawberry mingle on the finish, where it shows tannin. It has STGT definition, is a true, quietly muscular Châtillon. The length is good, thorough" **** John Livingstone-Learmonth
"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.
"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
"Yellow robe; the nose mixes airs of nuts, beeswax, quince plums, has cut, definition. The palate gives a good, springy start, is flavoured with peach and apricot, holds soft gras, then good grip – a nice sequence of events from the attack, then the gras – floral, plump - then the grip. It lasts well, has character. Bottled end August 2018. “It has nerve,” François Ribo. 67% Rouss, 33% Marsanne. 2027-28 Nov 2018" **** John Livingstone-Learmonth
"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.
"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
