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.
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.
`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.
`The flagship 2004 Run Rig is 96.5% Shiraz and 3.5% Viognier with the Shiraz component aged for 30 months in a mixture of new and used French oak. Yields were a minuscule 14 hl/ha (about 1 ton per acre). Saturated opaque purple/black, it has a remarkably kinky, exotic perfume of fresh asphalt, pencil lead, smoke, pepper, game, blueberry and black raspberry. Full-bodied and voluptuous in the mouth, the wine is dense and packed, with amazing purity, sweet tannins, and a complex collection of sensory stimuli. The wine demands 10 years of cellaring and will provide hedonistic delights through 2035+. 99+` 99 Points, Jay Miller
`Still tight and taut, the glorious 2006 RunRig looks capable of aging through at least 2030. Floral notes appear on the nose, along with ripe raspberries. This is surprisingly young, vibrant and fresh, with a long, silky finish.` 97 Points, Joe Czerwinski
`Co-fermented with a splash of Viognier, the 2007 RunRig gives a very deep garnet-purple color and a perfumed nose of warm cassis, crushed blackberries and blueberries over anise, cassia, cloves, tea leaves, rose hips plus earthy hints of black truffles and tilled loam. The full-bodied palate offers rich, ripe but not over-ripe fruit with a taut structure of firm grainy tannins and crisp acid, finishing very long with a gamey/savory character coming through with some cedar and baking spices. Not a style to be broached too early, consider drinking this from 2015 to 2025` 98 Points, Lisa Perotti-Brown
`Very floral on the nose with white blossoms and honeysuckle, the 2010 Chardonnay Art Series gives way to notes of orange preserves, toasted nuts, baking bread and clover honey. Evolving gracefully, this medium-bodied wine is still lively, long and spicy.` 95 Points, Lisa Perotti-Brown (2016)
Late release - so little old oak aging/ tiny sulphur - but singing right now still 5-10 years of evolution - this is from the (steep!) field blend of 7+ varietals I find I always prefer to the more expenstive ex vero Sauvignon Chard blends - Has real intensity at a cooling 11%!
`Opaque, bright-rimmed ruby. A highly perfumed, expansive bouquet evokes fresh red/blue fruits, exotic spices and potpourri, along with building minerality. Stains the palate with intense raspberry and boysenberry flavors that are underscored by a spicy element and a core of smoky minerality. Shows excellent clarity and spicy thrust on a very long, gently tannic finish that leaves a succulent herb note behi` 93 Points Josh Reynolds, Vinous
`Opaque, bright-rimmed ruby. A highly perfumed, expansive bouquet evokes fresh red/blue fruits, exotic spices and potpourri, along with building minerality. Stains the palate with intense raspberry and boysenberry flavors that are underscored by a spicy element and a core of smoky minerality. Shows excellent clarity and spicy thrust on a very long, gently tannic finish that leaves a succulent herb note behi` 93 Points Josh Reynolds, Vinous
Chenas Les Carrieres Thillardon (Magnum) [Pre-Arrival]
`Lurid ruby-red. Primary red fruit aromas are given lift and a spicy edge by a suggestion of white pepper. Silky and open-knit in the mouth, offering energetic raspberry, cherry and floral pastille flavors that pick up a smoky mineral nuance on the back half. Gentle tannins build steadily and add shape the fruit-driven finish, which shows excellent persistence.` 93 Points Josh Reynolds, Vinous
Shimmering magenta. Expressive red/blue fruit and licorice aromas show excellent clarity and pick up mineral and exotic spice flourishes as the wine opens up. Broad and fleshy on entry
`Limpid ruby. Vibrant, mineral-accented raspberry, cherry and potpourri scents are complemented by an expanding floral accent. Juicy and broad on entry, then tighter in the midpalate, offering primary, densely packed red fruit preserve, exotic spice and lavender pastille flavors that show outstanding clarity and back-end lift. Finishes on a resonating mineral note, displaying impressive persistence and polished tannins that lend framework and subtle grip.` 94 Points Josh Reynolds
`Translucent ruby-red. Smoky, mineral-tinged red fruit, spicecake, game and potpourri aromas are complemented by suggestions of allspice and licorice. Juicy bitter cherry and red currant flavors slowly flesh out and turn sweeter with aeration. Fine-grained tannins lend gentle grip to a long, red-fruit-dominated finish that hangs on with strong, spicy tenacity.` 93 Points Josh Reynolds
`Glistening ruby. Vibrant, spice-accented red and blue fruits and pungent flowers on the highly perfumed nose. Sappy and seamless in the mouth, the spine of juicy acidity adding energy to plush boysenberry and raspberry preserve flavors. Shows sharp definition and repeating florality on the persistent, gently tannic finish, which leaves sweet red fruit and smoky mineral notes behind.` 93 Points Josh Reynolds
`Brilliant violet. Vibrant, mineral- and spice-accented red and blue fruit and floral scents convey outstanding purity and sharp focus. Silky and penetrating on the palate, offering sappy raspberry, boysenberry, candied rose and smoky mineral flavors that deepen and turn sweeter with aeration. Closes impressively long and precise, with resonating florality and polished tannins that sneak in late.` 94 Points Josh Reynolds
`The 2019 Morgon Bellevue Sable is showing beautifully, wafting from the glass with aromas of raspberries, cherries, orange rind and plums. Medium to full-bodied, supple and succulent, it`s bright and fleshy, with powdery tannins and a generous core of fruit, girdled by lively acids. Bottled only a week before I tasted it, I suspect it will perform even better with six months` bottle age. As readers will remember, this cuvée comes from younger vines, planted on Viala rootstock in sandy soils—as the Sable" newly added to its label makes clear." 93 Points William Kelley"
Morgon Corcelette Vieilles Vignes Daniel Bouland [Pre-Arrival]
`The 2019 Morgon Bellevue Sable is showing beautifully, wafting from the glass with aromas of raspberries, cherries, orange rind and plums. Medium to full-bodied, supple and succulent, it`s bright and fleshy, with powdery tannins and a generous core of fruit, girdled by lively acids. Bottled only a week before I tasted it, I suspect it will perform even better with six months` bottle age. As readers will remember, this cuvée comes from younger vines, planted on Viala rootstock in sandy soils—as the Sable" newly added to its label makes clear." 93 Points William Kelley"
Morgon Cuvee Corcelette Jean Foillard [Pre-Arrival]
Among the elite of Beaujolais, Breton`s 3000 case production is spread quite thinly, he has a big following in the restaurant sector in France, owing, largely I think to the way in which poise, elegance and ageability and combined with sheer, joyous drinkability.
`Deep magenta. Mineral-inflected red and blue fruits on the assertively perfumed nose, along with hints of incense, exotic spices and pungent flowers. Alluringly sweet and penetrating in the mouth, offering intense boysenberry, raspberry and lavender pastille flavors braced by an undercurrent of juicy acidity. Fine-grained tannins add gentle grip to a wonderfully long, juicy finish that strongly echoes the red fruit and mineral notes.` 93 Points Josh Reynolds
`Lapierre`s 2020 Morgon offers up aromas of plummy fruit and raspberries mingled with hints of petals and spices. Medium-bodied, satiny and enveloping, its succulent core of fruit is framed by melting tannins and mouthwatering acids. This thirst-quenching, fruit-driven Morgon is one of the purest, most precise young wines I`ve tasted from this address in recent years.` 91 Points William Kelley
`Lapierre`s 2020 Morgon offers up aromas of plummy fruit and raspberries mingled with hints of petals and spices. Medium-bodied, satiny and enveloping, its succulent core of fruit is framed by melting tannins and mouthwatering acids. This thirst-quenching, fruit-driven Morgon is one of the purest, most precise young wines I`ve tasted from this address in recent years.` 91 Points William Kelley
Among the elite of Beaujolais, Breton`s 3000 case production is spread quite thinly, he has a big following in the restaurant sector in France, owing, largely due to the way in which poise, elegance and ageability and combined with sheer, joyous drinkability.
Among the elite of Beaujolais, Breton`s 3000 case production is spread quite thinly, he has a big following in the restaurant sector in France, owing, largely I think to the way in which poise, elegance and ageability and combined with sheer, joyous drinkability.
`Vivid ruby-red. Aromas of fresh red and blue fruits, candied flowers and baking spices take on a smoky mineral flourish with air. Finely detailed and appealingly sweet, offering juicy boysenberry and raspberry flavors and emerging floral and mocha nuances. The floral note carries through a very long, lively finish framed by discreet, even tannins` 92 Points Josh Reynolds
Among the elite of Beaujolais, Breton`s 3000 case production is spread quite thinly, he has a big following in the restaurant sector in France, owing, largely I think to the way in which poise, elegance and ageability and combined with sheer, joyous drinkability.
`Dark, bright-rimmed magenta. Bright and energetic on the perfumed nose, displaying intense red and blue fruit, exotic spice and lavender qualities and a hint of smoky minerality. Sappy and precise on the palate, offering penetrating black raspberry, bitter cherry and floral pastille flavors; hints of licorice and succulent herbs build with air. Fine-grained tannins add grip a very long, penetrating finish that echoes the mineral note and leaves a hint of smoky bacon behind.` 92 Points Josh Reynolds
`The 1985 vintage of Château Ausone was not particularly touted when it was released, but this is a great wine that should ultimately prove to be one of the greatest Ausones of the decade of the 1980s. The bouquet is deep, pure and youthfully exotic, as it soars from the glass in a very vibrant blend of baked cherries, blood orange, menthol, woodsmoke, glorious soil tones, a touch of dill and a potpourri of other more classic fresh herb tones. On the palate the wine is deep, full-bodied, complex and very intensely flavored, with a sappy core of fruit, great soil inflection, ripe, well-integrated tannins and superb length and grip on the tangy finish. A classic Ausone in the making, I would not touch the ’85 for another decade, despite the fact that it is already quite accessible. There are just too many layers of complexity still to unfold here to be opening bottles right now! (Drink between 2020-2070)` 94 Points John Gilman
`The 1996 Branaire-Ducru is a delightful vintage and represents the pinnacle of that decade. It has an exquisite bouquet that is defined and focused: blackberry, pencil lead, tobacco and a touch of chimney soot after time. The palate is very pure with really fine tannin. There is a sense of panache and class about this 1996: detailed and utterly harmonious with hints of blue fruit towards the Margaux-like finish. Classic Branaire-Ducru` 92 Points Neal Martin
`I had not tasted the 1961 Canon since late in 2001, so naturally, after writing my historical feature on the estate back in the summer of 2010, I crossed paths with an absolutely pristine example of the wine in November of that year! Clearly, I underestimated this wine a decade before, as the most recent bottle was absolutely stunning, soaring from the glass in a beautiful blend of dark berries, a hint of blood orange, coffee, cigar ash, a superbly complex base of soil and a touch of sealing wax in the upper register. On the palate the wine is deep, full-bodied and gloriously complex, with great focus and balance, lovely mid-palate depth and purity and a very, very long, elegant and à point finish that lasts and lasts. A great, great example of the vintage with decades of life still ahead of it! (Drink between 2010-2050)` 96 Points John Gilman
Clos Puy Arnaud was written about in Feret`s early guide to Bordeaux’s wines in 1874 where it was described as a 1st growth and `one of the more researched wines of the country`. Since then, owner Thierry Valette has fashioned CPA into a most interesting domaine, with an emphasis on biodynamics.
The home estate of Stephane Derancourt, advisor to the great and the good of Bordeaux. This 11 hectare spot in a prime location of Saint Colombe in the Cotes Castillon has a mixed set of parcels, producing elegant, floral accented Merlot.
`Another unbelievably rich, multidimensional, broad-shouldered wine, with slightly more elegance and less weight than the powerhouse 1996, this gorgeously proportioned, medium to full-bodied, fabulously ripe, rich, cassis-scented and flavored Grand-Puy-Lacoste is a beauty. It should be drinkable within 4-5 years, and keep for 25-30. This classic Pauillac is a worthy rival to the other-worldly 1996. Anticipated maturity: 2002-2025.` 95 Points Robert Parker
`Tasted from an ex-château bottle in Bordeaux, I was not surprised to find the 2000 Château Haut-Brion flirting with perfection. The nose is simply breathtaking - quintessential Haut-Brion with ebullient red berry fruit, roasted herbs, gravel, terracotta tiles on a warm summer`s day...it is simply wave after wave of intoxicating scents that could bring even the most stoic person to tears of joy. The palate displays heavenly balance, pitch-perfect acidity, perhaps spicier than previous bottles that I have tasted, and what depth and dimension in this outstanding wine. That hint of graphite on the finish is a cheeky nod to Pauillac, as if to thumb its nose at the First Growths, because alongside Château Latour, almost by stealth, the Haut-Brion is one of the greatest Bordeaux in this millennial year. Tasted November 2014. Drink: 2020 - 2060.` 99+ Neal Martin
`One of the fabulous surprises, although I had suggested last year that it could jump in quality, of my tastings, the 2006 Lafite Rothschild is a great, great wine made from a blend of 82% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Merlot, and 2% Petit Verdot. When I tasted it from barrel, it reminded me of their successful 1988, but it is dramatically superior to that vintage. Frankly, it may turn out to be as good as the 2005, which in all of Bordeaux is a far greater vintage than 2006. Lafite`s severe selection process (42% made it into the grand vin) resulted in a full-bodied wine boasting an extraordinary perfume of charcoal, truffles, lead pencil shavings, and sensationally sweet, ripe black currant and cedar notes. A wine of extraordinary intensity, texture, and depth with silky tannins as well as awesome concentration, this has turned out to be a remarkable Lafite Rothschild that should be drinkable much earlier than the 2005, but age for three decades. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2035+.` 97 Points Robert Parker
`One of the fabulous surprises, although I had suggested last year that it could jump in quality, of my tastings, the 2006 Lafite Rothschild is a great, great wine made from a blend of 82% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Merlot, and 2% Petit Verdot. When I tasted it from barrel, it reminded me of their successful 1988, but it is dramatically superior to that vintage. Frankly, it may turn out to be as good as the 2005, which in all of Bordeaux is a far greater vintage than 2006. Lafite`s severe selection process (42% made it into the grand vin) resulted in a full-bodied wine boasting an extraordinary perfume of charcoal, truffles, lead pencil shavings, and sensationally sweet, ripe black currant and cedar notes. A wine of extraordinary intensity, texture, and depth with silky tannins as well as awesome concentration, this has turned out to be a remarkable Lafite Rothschild that should be drinkable much earlier than the 2005, but age for three decades. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2035+.` 97 Points Robert Parker
`The 2000 Latour is very deep in color. The nose is backward and demands coaxing from the glass, eventually revealing intense black fruit, cedar, graphite and very subtle Japanese nori aromas. The palate is medium-bodied with an arching structure that grips the mouth. The tannins are a little bolder than the 2001. This unfolds swirl by swirl, with hints of licorice emerging with time, and fanning out audaciously on the finish.` 99 Points Neal Martin
`The 1964 Latour initially feels a little overawed by the openness and opulence of the 1962, a tad reserved and bashful on the nose, the palate missing the same depth and complexity. However, observing the wine over two hours, it simply blossoms in the glass, revealing beguiling autumn leaves, aniseed and cigar box scents on the exquisitely defined nose. The palate is medium-bodied, with fine tannin, cedar and graphite infusing the black fruit with a classic, regal finish that leaves me in awe. I mention in my previous tasting note that the 1964 can be startling. This is one of the finest examples that I have met. Just do not be afraid to give a 30 minute decant. Tasted from a bottle bought on release and tasted at “Brat” restaurant in London. 2018 - 2032` 96 Points Neal Martin
`The bouquet does not quite have the vivacity, the chutzpah of the 1990 Barton, a little more introverted with notes of cigar box, earth, wet sand and chestnut. The palate is medium-bodied, quite elegant, refined and harmonious with a firm mid-palate. Cedar, sandalwood and dried herbs. Unlike the 1990, the 1989 has a crescendo of flavours towards the finish that demonstrates great structure and persistency. Austere, conservative but classy, there is a chance that the `89 may outlast the `90. Drink 2009 -2025.` 91+ Neal Martin
`Believe it or not, the 1990 Leoville Barton can actually be drunk - something that cannot be said about the broodingly backward, still excruciatingly tannic 1982. The exceptionally concentrated 1990 reveals more polished, sweeter tannins along with a big, sweet kiss of black currant, forest floor, cedar, and spice box notes. While it still has some tannins to shed, this full-bodied, powerful, long wine is approachable. It should continue to evolve for another two decades.` 93+ Robert Parker
`The 1950 Montrose is another success here, and another vintage (like 1947) that is typically of greater stature in Pomerol than the northern Médoc. While not quite as concentrated as the 1945, this is also a very dense, savoury wine, with a bouquet of crisp red fruits, cassis, cedar and summer truffle. Still firmly in the post-war paradigm.` 94 Points William Kelley
`The final blend of 64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 32% Merlot and 4% Cabernet Franc was harvested between September 14 and October 3. The spring was cold, yet summer was extremely hot and dry - one of the hottest vintages since 1949. The fact that virtually no rain fell in September served as a catalyst to get all the grapes ripe and in cellars. Some bottles of this wine have a definite brett population that gives off the notes of sweaty horses, but this one did not. The ones I have had from my cellar - where I have had it frequently - are quite pure and clean. I suspect that the brett population is in all of them, but unless the wine hits some heat along the transportation route or in storage, the wine will not show any brett. This one tasted at the chateau, as well as those I`ve had from my cellar, have been pristine and not showing the sweaty horse notes that can be in evidence in brett populations that have flourished in the bottle because of external temperatures. This wine has an incredibly complex nose of spring flowers, blackberry and cassis liqueur, scorched earth and barbecue spice. It is full-bodied, majestic and opulent, with low acidity and fabulous fruit. It is close to full maturity. The wine should continue to drink well for at least another 30 or more years, but it is showing secondary nuances in the perfume. The wine is absolutely magnificent, broad, savory and mouth-filling. This is one of the all-time modern legends from Bordeaux as well as Chateau Montrose.` 100 Points Robert Parker
`The Pavie Macquin is a blend of 85% Merlot, 14% Cabernet Franc and 1% Cabernet Sauvignon picked between 13th and 18th October at 30hl/ha. It has a gorgeous, sumptuous bouquet with pure dark cherries, Hoi Sin and oyster shells that is extremely pure and beautifully defined. The palate has a cashmere texture, wonderful finesse and very well judged acidity. It is a stunning wine from Pavie-Macquin in a difficult vintage. This would be one of my top picks on the Right Bank.` 94-96 Points Neal Martin
A wine made by Chateau Canon from lesser plots then go into the Grand Vin and distributed by their negociant who have similar arrangements with other class A producers in the region - Rausan Segla, Latour, Pichon Baron as far as I remember.
`The 1971 Coutet is a Barsac that I have drunk several times but to be frank, I cannot remember one as sensational as this. Funnily enough, the last time I had this was back in October 2010 for Jasper Morris’s book launch and the same man is sharing this bottle eight years later. Refulgent golden in colour it has an explosive bouquet with vivacious scents of quince, blood orange, Manuka honey and just that hint of petrol. There are few Sauternes of this age that match the vigour of this and that comes through on the palate: viscous in texture, a killer line of acidity that slices effortlessly through the honeyed fruit with fabulous tension on the rich, slightly Germanic finish. I would love to rack this up against the 1971 Yquem so they can fight it out for best Bordeaux of the vintage!` 96 Points Neal Martin
`The 2012 Château Olivier Blanc is quite good this year, with again, just a touch too much new wood for its own good, but lovely complexity and mid-palate stuffing. The fine bouquet offers up scents of green apple, fresh fig, grassy tones, lime peel and vanillin oak. On the palate the wine is deep, full-bodied, complex and intensely flavored, with a fine core, crisp acids and very good length and grip on the finish. The oak here is a bit heavy-handed on the palate, but the wine has enough stuffing to carry it. Not bad and could have been exceptional with better wood philosophy.` 88 Points John Gilman
Beaune 1er Les Chouacheux Chantal Lescure (Bin Soiled) [Pre-Arrival]
From an English Cellar where the wines have sat since purchase - superlative storage and levels but some damage to some labels - please enquire for pics
Beaune 1er Les Chouacheux Chantal Lescure [Pre-Arrival]
From an English Cellar where the wines have sat since purchase - superlative storage and levels but some damage to some labels - please enquire for pics
From an English Cellar where the wines have sat since purchase - superlative storage and levels but some damage to some labels - please enquire for pics
Charmes-Chambertin Tres Vielles Vignes Joseph Roty
`Deep ruby. Brooding, profound aromas and flavors of blackberry, boysenberry, black cherry, licorice and animal fur, complicated by smoky soil tones. Wonderfully thick and dense; primary and backward but not at all hard. Most impressive today on the refined back end, finishing with noble, seamless tannins, intense black cherry and violet lift, and terrific pungent stony minerality. Another stunning wine in the making from a vineyard that was planted in 1882. This Charmes is Chambertin-like in its soil complexity, power and grip.` 96-98 Points Steven Tanzer
`Sweetly ripe black fruits in the nose of the Ponsot 2006 Clos de La Roche Cuvee Vieilles Vignes prepare the way for a more succulently, generously sweet fruit, plush texture, and generally sunny disposition than that presented by the corresponding Clos St.-Denis. Ripe cherry and red currant flood the creamy, silken palate with sweetness, while some of the same notes of citrus oil, floral perfume (here iris), and peat as exhibited in the Clos St.-Denis swirl about, too. Saline, chalky suggestions help offer contrast and a sounding board to the fruit, and this finishes with exhilarating lift, riveting interplay, and phenomenal length. Here is a combination of textural allure and backbone for which velvet gloves and iron fists seem inappropriately mundane -- not merely archaic -- metaphors. Blind -- I must confess (and did, to Ponsot) -- that I would more likely have guessed this to be Musigny than Clos de la Roche. In an extreme instance of a phenomenon shared by many of the best 2006s, I find this irresistible now; find it hard to imagine its having ornery or sulking phases; yet expect it will be worth following for 20 year` 97 Points. David Schildknecht
`Heavy reduction blocks the nose though it`s possible to discern that beneath the funk lies very ripe fruit. By contrast, the vibrant and powerful big-bodied flavors are wonderfully fresh and culminate in a robust and well-muscled finish that avoids any rusticity because of the huge amounts of dry extract on the palate saturating finale. I really like the sense of perfect balance plus the combination of a textured and velvety mouth feel juxtaposed against the precision and tension of the flavors and finish. In a word, terrific (but lots of patience required).` 94-96 Points, Allan Meadow
` A discreet application of wood does not reduce the considerable appeal of the ripe, pure and airy nose with its broad mélange of wild red berry fruit liqueur, earth, spice, violets and a hint of animale. The broad-shouldered flavors possess superb mid-palate concentration that enrobes the buried but still quite firm tannins while culminating in a beautifully balanced, muscular and explosively long finish. This is also very clearly built to age yet like the Clos St. Denis, there is so much sap that this could be drunk now with pleasure. A `wow` wine.` 95-97 Points Allan Meadows
From an English Cellar where the wines have sat since purchase - superlative storage and levels but some damage to some labels - please enquire for pics
Mercurey Clos La Framboisiere Faiveley [Pre-Arrival]
From an English Cellar where the wines have sat since purchase - superlative storage and levels but some damage to some labels - please enquire for pics
`One producer folks might not have heard of is Alain Hasard of Domaine Les Champs de l`Abbaye. He does everything right (massale selections, high density, organic, hand harvesting at maturity, classical winemaking with well-chosen barrels and long élevage: the things that make great e.g Givry just as surely as they make great Gevrey!) and his wines are very sensual and charming—and age well, too. The wines were a revelation to me and I highly recommend them.` William Kelley
Monthelie Clos des Champs Fulliot Bouchard [Pre-Arrival]
From an English Cellar where the wines have sat since purchase - superlative storage and levels but some damage to some labels - please enquire for pics
From an English Cellar where the wines have sat since purchase - superlative storage and levels but some damage to some labels - please enquire for pics
Morey-St-Denis Clos des Ormes Georges Lignier [Pre-Arrival]
From an English Cellar where the wines have sat since purchase - superlative storage and levels but some damage to some labels - please enquire for pics
From an English Cellar where the wines have sat since purchase - superlative storage and levels but some damage to some labels - please enquire for pics
`There will not be much 2012 Moreau Caillerets to go around either in this vintage, but it will be well worth making a special search to find some of this superb young Volnay. The deep and very classy nose wafts from the glass in a black fruity mélange of black cherries, dark berries, espresso, a beautifully complex base of soil tones, a touch of bonfire and a nice dollop of cedar. On the palate the wine is pure, full-bodied and nascently complex, with a rock solid core, outstanding focus and balance, ripe, well-integrated tannins and simply superb length and grip on the young and very, very promising finish. Great juice. (Drink between 2022-2060)` 93+ Points John Gilman
Volnay 1er Clos des Chenes Faiverley [Pre-Arrival]
From an English Cellar where the wines have sat since purchase - superlative storage and levels but some damage to some labels - please enquire for pics
Volnay 1er Cru Domaine de Montille (Bin Soiled) [Pre-Arrival]
From an English Cellar where the wines have sat since purchase - superlative storage and levels but some damage to some labels - please enquire for pics
From an English Cellar where the wines have sat since purchase - superlative storage and levels but some damage to some labels - please enquire for pics
The 3 labels chez Boisson belie the fact the wines are identical. Ceated collaboratively at the family’s Meursault cellars. Pierre Boisson with his dad making the wines, which are amongst insiders - some of the smartest picks of the appellation. This Bourgogne Blanc is sourced from a variety of parcels all in the village of Meursault.
The 3 labels chez Boisson belie the fact the wines are identical. Ceated collaboratively at the family’s Meursault cellars. Pierre Boisson with his dad making the wines, which are amongst insiders - some of the smartest picks of the appellation. This Bourgogne Blanc is sourced from a variety of parcels all in the village of Meursault.
From an English Cellar where the wines have sat since purchase - superlative storage and levels but some damage to some labels - please enquire for pics
From an English Cellar where the wines have sat since purchase - superlative storage and levels but some damage to some labels - please enquire for pics
From an English Cellar where the wines have sat since purchase - superlative storage and levels but some damage to some labels - please enquire for pics
Vire-Clesse Cuvee EJ Thevenet Domaine de la Bongran [Pre-Arrival]
`The 2016 Viré-Clessé Cuvée E. J. Thevenet is showing beautifully, unfurling in the glass with notes of elderflower, beeswax, pear, white flowers and peach. Medium to full-bodied, satiny and precise, it`s lively and concentrated, concluding with a saline finish. This is a more elegant, less muscular wine than the 2015, nodding to the style of the lovely 2013. I vividly remember visiting the domaine in October 2016, in pouring rain, when everyone else in the neighborhood had finished picking and Gautier Thevenet hadn`t yet begun!` 94 Points William Kelley
` Some of the top wines from this spectacular vintage are starting to close down, including this impressive beauty. Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2016 Proprietary Red EE Tench Vineyard is a blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Cabernet Franc and 5% Merlot. Just a little more subdued than when I last tasted it, the nose features gorgeous blueberry pie, molten chocolate, plum preserves and mulberries notions with hints of camphor, cloves, earth and cigar box. Full-bodied and voluptuously endowed, with decadently velvet-textured tannins, the acid sits perfectly balanced in the background, finishing with epic length and so many layers. The way this is headed, I would not be surprised if it emerges in a few years hitting glorious, three-digit perfection.` 99 Points Lisa Perroti-Brown
`The highlight in this range, the 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon captures the richness and exuberance of the vintage while keeping a classic, mid-weight feel. Sweet red cherry, plum, cedar, herb and smoke add shades of nuance in a hugely appealing Cabernet Sauvignon that will drink well for another two decades plus. This is the first Frog`s Leap Cabernet Sauvignon made from estate fruit.` 93 Points Antonio Galloni
`While the 2016 Ontogeny Red Wine might be the least expensive wine in the lineup, it’s unquestionably at the same quality level as the top tier releases. Boasting a saturated purple color and sensational notes of plums, currants, chocolate, and graphite, this beauty hits the palate with full-bodied richness, incredible opulence and decadent, no hard edges and perfect overall balance. It’s the real deal, and readers should snatch up this beauty.` 98 Points Jeb Dunnock
`Another perfect wine is Bevan’s equal part blend of Merlot and Cabernet Franc, the 2012 Proprietary Red Sugarloaf Mountain. Notes of unsmoked cigar tobacco, forest floor, pen ink mulberries, blackberries and spring flowers soar from this inky/purple-colored 2012. The wine possesses great intensity, remarkable unctuosity and thickness, and perfect integration of acidity, alcohol, tannin and wood. Aged in equal parts new Gamba and Darnajou barrels, there are 225 cases of this fabulous wine. Drink now-2032.` 100 Points, Robert Parker
Voted the best domestic rose by Eric Asimov in the NYT a year or so ago - the first vintage was 2006 and he was inspired by a Beaujolais vigneron who was doing the same thing. He thinks there`s a tenderness to the aromas and textural nature of the grape that amplifies the juicieness and energy of the wine. Fruit from Witters vineyard, about 1000 meters up - on red, volcanic clay. Also a bit from Barsotti which is more granitey and gives a little more structure.
Voted the best domestic rose by Eric Asimov in the NYT a year or so ago - the first vintage was 2006 and he was inspired by a Beaujolais vigneron who was doing the same thing. He thinks there`s a tenderness to the aromas and textural nature of the grape that amplifies the juicieness and energy of the wine. Fruit from Witters vineyard, about 1000 meters up - on red, volcanic clay. Also a bit from Barsotti which is more granitey and gives a little more structure.
`The most remarkable thing about the 2002 Extra Brut R.D. is how tense and structured it is. Despite having been disgorged over two years ago, the 2002 is very much tightly wound. After several hours, the power and resonance of the vintage start to come through, along with the natural richness of Pinot from Aÿ. Whereas most 2002 Champagnes are quite ripe in profile, the 2002 R.D. has plenty of depth, but it is depth through concentration as opposed to elevated ripeness. The low dosage style further adds to that sensation. Hints of chamomile, sage, dried flower and red fruits emerge over time, but only with reluctance. I would prefer to cellar the 2002 for at least a few years. If that is not possible, readers should open the wine at least a few hours in advance. Even so, the 2002`s best drinking lies somewhere in the future. My sense is that the 2002 will be at its best between the ages of 20 and 30. Disgorged: September 11, 2015.` 95 Points Antonio Galloni
Champagne Les Parcelles XVII Bouzy Grand Cru Pierre Paillard
Les Parcelles is made from 22 plots all from Grand Cru plots in the Montagne de Reims Grand Cru village of Bouzy, and as such is a pinot-dominant (70%) blend with chardonnay. This release is based on the 2017 vintage. `Deep bronze colour. Surely lots of oak here? Rich on the nose. Almost sweet, which makes the Extra Brut all the more remarkable. Pretty full-on mousse. This is almost more like a pale red burgundy that happens to have bubbles. It has a suggestion of Pinot Gris perfume about it too. Quite a statement! And not a silly price for the distinctive character it offers. A labor of love? *Good Value` 18 Points Jancis Robinson
`An explosion of aromas, flavors and textures emerges from the 1989 Cristal Rosé (magnum). In this warm vintage the Pinot is especially evident in the wine’s intensity, color and sheer breadth. A Champagne of striking inner perfume and sweetness, the 1989 caresses the palate with stunning depth and seemingly endless resonance. Sweet floral and spice notes lead into the creamy, exquisitely beautiful finish. What a surprise and what a wine! Moreover, the 1989 appears to still be ascending. In this tasting, it is just riveting. It’s as simple as that. This is a 2002 disgorgement.` 99 Points Antonio Galloni
`A wine of sublime delicacy and finesse, the 2009 Cristal Rosé is simply magnificent. The 2009 is surprisingly refined, silky and nuanced for a wine from a warm vintage. The red and floral-infused overtones are quite attractive, but it is the wine`s exceptional balance that places it among the best new releases of the year. Over the years, I have had the chance to taste many vintages of Cristal Rosé, a Champagne that needs bottle age to be at its very best. I suspect that will be the case here as well. Don`t miss it.` 97 Points Antonio Galloni
Mes Favorites 1er Cru VV Marc Hebrart (Disgorged Jan 19)
`The NV Brut Mes Favorites Villes Vignes is a blend of several lieux-dits in Mareuil, 60% 2014, 20% 2013 and 20% 2012. A gorgeous wine, the Favorites wraps around the palate with sumptuous depth as it reveals its considerable charms and allure. Readers will find a Champagne of wonderful immediacy that is easy to drink and enjoy with minimal fanfare. Kirsch, plum, spice and hazelnut accents linger with effortless grace. Dosage is 6.5 grams per liter` 92 Points Antonio Galloni
`The 2013 Brut Special Club Millesime is wonderfully amped up and radiant. Honey, pastry, vanillin, apricot and lemon confit open up in a weighty Champagne built on power and intensity. The Special Club offers notable density, even if it has a bit less textural finesse than most of the other wines in this range. Even so, the Special Club is an attractive wine, just not the meaningful step up it should be. I would give the 2013 at least a year or two in bottle to unwind. The blend is 55% Pinot Noir and 45% Chardonnay. Disgorged: December 6, 2017.` 93 Points Antonio Galloni
`The 2012 Special Club is a pretty rich, heady Champagne by Lassalle standards, and yet it remains wonderfully lifted and gracious. Orchard fruit, white flowers, lemon confit and light butter notes are nicely delineated. Like all of these wines, the 2012 Special Club is incredibly delicate and sensual from start to finish. (Drink between 2020-2032)` 94 Points Antonio Galloni
From a really talented young producer who tends his family vinyard, Roccalini - A spot the professor Bruno Giacosa long knew was a source of fine grapes as he was one of the first customers for Paulo Veglio when he was starting off.
`Is Giacomo Conterno’s 2006 Barolo Cascina Francia a traditional or modern Barolo? Great question. Texturally, the 2006 boasts marvelous depth and a level of pure intensity not often seen in traditionally made wines, yet the aromatics, tannin and overall structure are all super classic. This is another austere, tannic Barolo best left alone.` 97+ Points Antonio Galloni
`The 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Tenuta Nuova drawing you in with a display of exotic brown spice, mint and cedar dust. Further coaxing unlocks depths of cherry, plum, hints of dark chocolate and roses. It coasts along a medium-bodied frame with velvety richness, complemented by polished red and black fruits while contrasted by brisk acids and hints of sour citrus. This coats the teeth in concentration, as if you can feel the pulp, seeds and skins of its fruit, while a layer of fine tannin slowly grounds you back to earth. The Tenuta Nuova already has so much to give, yet it will be many years before it reaches its apex. Wow. Thinking back to my tasting of the 2015, I can’t say that the 2016 is necessarily a better wine, just a little less immediate. Either way, both wines are beautiful expressions of vintage.` 96 Points Eric Guido, Vinous
Carema Riserva Produttori Nebbioli di Carema [Pre-Arrival]
`The 2016 Carema Riserva is another knock-out effort from the Produttori di Carema, the local cooperative that has really been on fire these last few vintages. Open-knit and inviting, but with all the complexity that is so typical of the appellation, the 2016 is superb. Crushed flowers, mint, sweet tobacco, cedar and licorice are all woven together in a super-expressive Carema that offers tons of complexity in a relatively accessible style for a young wine from the appellation. The Riserva is a selection of the best casks in the cellar, with the wine aged for an added year in cask, so three years’ in neutral oak in total. That extra year in oak vis-à-vis the Classico does take with it some of the fruit while emphasizing more savory and mineral qualities. Power and finesse come together so well in this textbook Carema.` Score: 95 Antonio Galloni, Vinous.com
A small 3 hectare estate on the on the island of Pantelleria off the Sicilian Coast. Francesco Ferreri is one of the partners and native to the Island. After seeing his Grandfather make wines he wanted to return to the island and refind the pathways of the old hands that made wine on this extraodinary place before the youth left and big agriculture and lazy winemaking took over.
`Interestingly, the 2011 Disobedient is a bit fresher than the 2010 tasted alongside it. Of course, the 2011 is in barrel, while the 2010 has been bottled recently (and may be recovering from bottle shock), but today, the 2011 has a slight edge over the 2010. Ample, layered and voluptuous on the palate, the 2011 is simply gorgeous today. Ripe, silky tannins wrap around a core of deeply spiced notes, menthol, sage, licorice and dark fruit. The creamy, enveloping finish only adds to the wine`s considerable appeal. My impression today is that the 2011 will reward readers with a long and broad window of pure drinking pleasure. This is a fabulous showing`. 93-95 Pts Antonio Galloni
A small 3 hectare estate on the on the island of Pantelleria off the Sicilian Coast. Francesco Ferreri is one of the partners and native to the Island. After seeing his Grandfather make wines he wanted to return to the island and refind the pathways of the old hands that made wine on this extraodinary place before the youth left and big agriculture and lazy winemaking took over.
A small 3 hectare estate on the on the island of Pantelleria off the Sicilian Coast. Francesco Ferreri is one of the partners and native to the Island. After seeing his Grandfather make wines he wanted to return to the island and refind the pathways of the old hands that made wine on this extraodinary place before the youth left and big agriculture and lazy winemaking took over.
A small 3 hectare estate on the on the island of Pantelleria off the Sicilian Coast. Francesco Ferreri is one of the partners and native to the Island. After seeing his Grandfather make wines he wanted to return to the island and refind the pathways of the old hands that made wine on this extraodinary place before the youth left and big agriculture and lazy winemaking took over.
A small 3 hectare estate on the on the island of Pantelleria off the Sicilian Coast. Francesco Ferreri is one of the partners and native to the Island. After seeing his Grandfather make wines he wanted to return to the island and refind the pathways of the old hands that made wine on this extraodinary place before the youth left and big agriculture and lazy winemaking took over.
A small 3 hectare estate on the on the island of Pantelleria off the Sicilian Coast. Francesco Ferreri is one of the partners and native to the Island. After seeing his Grandfather make wines he wanted to return to the island and refind the pathways of the old hands that made wine on this extraodinary place before the youth left and big agriculture and lazy winemaking took over.
Raphael Monnier is transitioning from ‘young talent’ to established star of the Jura. But he still keeps one foot in the world away from wine. He spends half of the time as a teacher, the other half as a winemaker – thus “Ratapoil” - local slang word for a hobby winemaker. He has about 2.5 hectares which is just about manageable on this scale. His grapes are mostly sourced from around Arbois, and they are a little more traditional then Catherine’s which are a bit more wild. They are very drinkable, and full of energy.
Raphael Monnier is transitioning from ‘young talent’ to established star of the Jura. But he still keeps one foot in the world away from wine. He spends half of the time as a teacher, the other half as a winemaker – thus “Ratapoil” - local slang word for a hobby winemaker. He has about 2.5 hectares which is just about manageable on this scale. His grapes are mostly sourced from around Arbois, and they are a little more traditional then Catherine’s which are a bit more wild. They are very drinkable, and full of energy.
When Catherine decided to start as a vigneron, she pitched up with Emmanuel Houillon and his mentor, Pierre Overnoy and gradually started putting together a small Domaine – She has about 3.2 hectares around Marnoz and Arbois. She exploits about 1.5 hectares of this, ploughing with a donkey and a horse.
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.
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.
Cotes du Jura Trousseau Rouge L`Hopital Peggy Buronfosse
Based in Rotalier, where Ganevat and Labet are neighbours and early guides, the small 4 hectare Buronfosse domaine is turning out some of the best natural Jura wines that are still below the radar. Like Labet they specialise in the Ouille style on the white`s where they look more for tension and minerality and less for oxidative flavours. At a level oxidation can add to complexity, but too heavy, as Pierre Overnoy once put it and `Is not terroir - it`s oxidation!`
Vin de France Sous Poids (Male) Allante & Boulanger [Pre-Arrival]
An offshoot from the Labet domaine, Christian has been making wines with Julian and co for over 15 years and decided to go his own way. Piecing together a domaine slowly making wines in the tradition of their mentors Labet and Ganevat (who they have picked up a few parcels from). Sulphor free wines with organic farming.
`The les Granges bottling from Mathieu Baudry is his young vine cuvée, made to be drunk young and crafted from twenty-five year-old vines that grow in alluvial deposits of gravel and sandy soils right on the flats near the banks of the Vienne River. The 2020 version is quite stylish, offering up a deep and nascently complex bouquet of sweet dark berries, cassis, tree bark, cigar smoke and a lovely base of gravelly soil. On the palate the wine is bright, fullish and tangy, with a good core, fine soil signature and grip, moderate tannins and a long, well-balanced and classy finish. Though this is certainly approachable out of the blocks, a couple of years in the cellar will certainly pay dividends with more complexity and melted tannins. It is so nicely balanced in 2020 that I could easily see it keeping twenty-five years in bottle, despite it being made to drink young!` 91+ John Gilman
`Sourced from a single vineyard located at the bottom of Chinon`s slope on alluvial/clay soils, the 2019 Chinon Les Grézeaux is currently a bit shy in terms of revealing its fruit flavors. It’s also a hint reductive with its smoky bacon characters, but that`s unimportant. What matters is the core of fruit and excellent focus. It`s very relaxed and fluid with mouthwatering acidity. The tannins are more serious than the front and midpalate would have suggested and betray a little grittiness. Aged 15 months in cement, this could be opened in one to two years, but the concentration and structure offer drinking over a decade.` 93 Points, Rebecca Gibb, Vinous
This cuvee was a short-lived excustion by the Bretons into one, if not the best vineyards in Chinon - Their agreement with the sharecropper ended in 2004, so an extinct animal now. It can stand toe-to-toe with their top Bourgueil bottling - Les Perrieres - Due mostly to the old vines in this vineyard, and thier identical elevage. Ex-Cellar Parcel
`The 2020 Bourgueil Rosé d`Equinoxe is a Blanc de Noirs made from Cabernet Franc. It`s dry and matured in oak, giving a seamless roundness while lending structure. A twist of tannic grip on the finish makes this a really pleasing, food-friendly win.` 90 Points, Rebecca Gibb, Vinous
`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
A lovely wine - from the Vendee - the closest appellation to the sea where the maritime influence rules. The jewel of the estate - the Clos Saint Andre, was purchased from the Taittinger family in 2006. Aged it concrete eggs, it`s a Chenin-Blanc / Chardonnay blend from a vineyard that has historically been prized - but has only just been replanted and is producing at an elite level.
Savennieres Coulee De Serrant Clos De La Serrant Nicolas Joly
`Bright. Yellow/green. Some reduction on the nose. Smokey and tight and not very giving. Terpine aromas. Very lean and austere with good intensity to the finish. The reduction has helped to preserve this, so still relatively youthful and should age further. (06/04)` Richard Kelley
`The 1997 Vouvray Moelleux Reserve, a luxury cuvee crafted only in the finest vintages, displays scents of cumin, yellow plums, and loads assorted spices. It is a magnificently focused and balanced wine that is crammed with kumquats, blood oranges, quince, peach, candied grapefruit, and flowers. This medium-to-full-bodied, exceptionally pure and elegant wine will easily last 30 years. Bravo! ` 95 Points Pierre Rovani
Altiesse en Paradis Le Grès Les Grangeons de l`Albarine
The result of a three-week carbonic maceration of three red grape varieties, Cab Franc and Sauv and Merlot. Aged in stainless steel vats. The wine is lighter; fruity and more supple then the Anciens cuvee.
The result of a three-week carbonic maceration of three red grape varieties, Cab Franc and Sauv and Merlot. Aged in stainless steel vats. The wine is lighter; fruity and more supple then the Anciens cuvee.
A hommage to the greatness of the Mouvedre grape. One of the greatest wines in Bandol, the grapes are never destemmed, so these wines can age breathtakingly well and never offer anything less then a beaker of the warm south, with an abundance of character.
`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 result of a three-week carbonic maceration of three red grape varieties, Cab Franc and Sauv and Merlot. Aged in stainless steel vats. The wine is lighter; fruity and more supple then the Anciens cuvee.
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.
`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
This cuvee was a short-lived excustion by the Bretons into one, if not the best vineyards in Chinon - Their agreement with the sharecropper ended in 2004, so an extinct animal now. It can stand toe-to-toe with their top Bourgueil bottling - Les Perrieres - Due mostly to the old vines in this vineyard, and thier identical elevage. Ex-Cellar Parcel
`Except for Henri Bonneau`s 2007 Reserve des Celestins (which is still in barrel), the last 2007 Chateauneuf du Pape to be released will be Xavier Vignon’s Anonyme. This sensational wine spent three years in a combination of demi-muids and small oak. It boasts an inky/purple color along with a sweet nose of underbrush, garrigue, licorice, blackberries and black currants. Full, thick, unctuously textured and even flamboyant, this stunning 2007 should drink well for another 15-20 years... Fashioned from the best fruit from old vines planted in the finest parcels is the Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Anonyme. Drink through 2032.` 96 Points Robert Parker
`The nose is wide, willing, has an aroma of blackberries with some sweetness, touches of sweet herbs, rosemary present. The palate sets off with bright fruit, dark berries and a slightly tarry set of tannins that are well within its main frame. I sense this is starting to tighten up after some early flamboyance, and will darken and tighten over the next stage of its evolution. There is concentration in its juice, a sound couch from that. Its power is under control thanks to the depth of content, but the aftertaste reveals a little of that power. A good, sturdy, genuine Châteauneuf with good length here. 15°. From 2020-21` **** John Livingstone Learmonth
Chateauneuf du Pape Hommage a Jacques Perrin Chateau De Beaucastel
`The 2000 Chateauneuf du Pape Hommage a Jacques Perrin is a blend of 60% Mourvedre, 20% Grenache, 10% Counoise, and 10% Syrah, the standard blend for this cuvee except for the 1998, which had 60% Grenache and only 20% Mourvedre. The 2000 possesses an impenetrable black/purple color as well as a sumptuous bouquet of melted licorice, creosote, new saddle leather, blackberry and cherry fruit as well as roasted meats. Sweet and full-bodied, with great intensity, huge power, and a finish that lasts for 67 seconds by my watch, this is an amazing tour de force in winemaking. Even in a flattering, forward-styled vintage such as 2000, it will need 7-8 years of cellaring. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2040.` 97 Points Robert Parker
The importer of Rayas in the US, only carries only two other CNDPs - Santa Duc and Jerome Gradassi`s. Lofty company, but testatment to what Jerome has done with his Grandfathers own vines in only a few years. The smallest producer in the town, with only 800 cases being produced in a typical year - the artisanal methods are still at play here - in the early years moving fermented juice from the ancient fermentation tanks by hand with only a rope and bucket as there was no other way to do it. He works with cooler climates: mostly the lieux-dits of Palestor, Bois Dauphin, and Cabrière, where he aims for elegance rather then pure power. These are artisanal CNDPs in the old school and are a brilliant value.
`(Tardieu-Laurent Cornas Coteaux) (this is reportedly all petite serine): Inky purple. Highly perfumed, exotic bouquet of raspberry and blueberry preserves, incense, violet and minerals, with a smoky topnote. At once ripe and lively, offering palate-staining berry and cherry-cola flavors and intense back-end floral character. Finishes spicy and long, with impressive energy and lingering spiciness.` 92 Points Josh Reynolds
`Shiny, quite full red robe; red fruit with caramel casing, some Southern paste effect in the fruit, blood notes, a touch of reduction. The attack is expressive, comes with good freedom, clear, clean threads, iron filings, is very Burgundian, to grow into its frame and to expand. It has much restraint, more blood with firm cherry notes towards the finish. It’s not an evident wine – it requires patience, then study. Decant it. From 2023` **** John Livingstone-Learmonth
`Shiny, quite full red robe; red fruit with caramel casing, some Southern paste effect in the fruit, blood notes, a touch of reduction. The attack is expressive, comes with good freedom, clear, clean threads, iron filings, is very Burgundian, to grow into its frame and to expand. It has much restraint, more blood with firm cherry notes towards the finish. It’s not an evident wine – it requires patience, then study. Decant it. From 2023` **** John Livingstone-Learmonth
`The nose has a serene roundness, is speckled with violets, is up a gear from the Granit 60, has a beau interior of black fruits, all calmly set up, with ripe appeal. The palate texture is oily, glistens, the old vine sève [sap] on display, with ripe, classy tannins that bring velvet allure. Violets, rose petals, with iron feature along the second half. It shows sun, but not in excess. The 100% whole bunch has helped its length and coolness. It has definite links to his uncle Robert Michel’s La Geynale that preceded this. It’s worthy of a very good table, is symphonic wine. From 2026-27. 2049-51` ***** John Livingstone-Learmonth
`Vivid purple. Suave, mineral-tinged scents of blackberry, cassis, cherry and exotic spices are accompanied by a steadily emerging floral nuance. Sappy and energetic on the palate, showing powerful, concentrated black/blue fruit, floral pastille and spicecake flavors. Finishes extremely long and precise, with intense mineral thrust, a hint of cracked pepper and youthfully chewy tannins that add framework and grip.` 94 Points Josh Reynolds
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
`Opaque violet color. Precise, mineral-accented scents of blackberry, cassis and exotic spices are accompanied by a slowly emerging floral nuance. Sappy and energetic on the palate, displaying sharp delineation to its concentrated black/blue fruit, floral pastille, olive and allspice flavors. Finishes extremely long and spicy, with intense mineral thrust, a hint of candied violet and subtly chewy, harmonious tannins that make a late appearance.` 95 Points Vinous
`The robe is still quite a dark red, full in style. The bouquet has inner intensity, led by brambly berries, smoke from oak. It is juvenile, and appealing on that score. The palate gives a fluid run of en finesse red fruit with oak close by, inset along its sides. This has scope, and the body to handle the oak. It is joli vin, will please with its floral notes and fine juice. 13.5°. 2034-36 (2015)` ****(*) John Livingstone-Learmonth
`Full red; has an open, rolling nose, raspberry with iodine, damp moss, cherries, hints of rose. The palate has a saline start, Morello black cherry with fine spine, tension, has a marked straight line run to the finish, some sense of late strength, firmness which is just under the surface. The finish is compact, with quite thick juice there. It needs time to open, is well grounded. The aftertaste is smoky. “it’s very Burgundian,” J-M Stéphan. Harvested 24 Sept, pH 3.43, 12.2°. From 2022. 2038-40 **** John Livingstone-Learmonth"
`Full red; has an open, rolling nose, raspberry with iodine, damp moss, cherries, hints of rose. The palate has a saline start, Morello black cherry with fine spine, tension, has a marked straight line run to the finish, some sense of late strength, firmness which is just under the surface. The finish is compact, with quite thick juice there. It needs time to open, is well grounded. The aftertaste is smoky. “it’s very Burgundian,” J-M Stéphan. Harvested 24 Sept, pH 3.43, 12.2°. From 2022. 2038-40 **** John Livingstone-Learmonth"
`very clear red robe; the nose is shapely, aromatic, on red fruit, is pure, floral with red cherry and raspberry. There’s a kind sweetness underpinning it, a pastille effect. The palate moves with Burgundian finesse, bears red cherries, has firm sides, comes from within, has iron, is structured. It’s aromatic with a touch of suave gras near the close, gras encouraged by the Viognier. It’s intricate, grippy, unusual, delivers interest. A granite blend would have more sucrosity. The aftertaste is rocky, finely powdered. Harvested before the rain which helped the Coteaux de Tupin. From 2022-23. 2042-44` Only 600 bottles **** 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
One of the icons of traditional Cote Rotie, Maxime Champet continues to stick to the principles of the family, in guiding the Northern sector fruit to a long lived, well-balanced wine where a core of iron is intermingled with secondary flavours that reach quite mind-boggling levels of complexity by ten years. Luckily, prices remain affordable for the time-being.
Gramenon are arguably the finest producer of Cotes de Rhone in the South. Their cheaper wines are simple, but expressive - and as you go up in the range, you get close to levels of complexity and soul that you rarely see outside mythical domaines like Rayas and Bonneau
Only the second vintage for this new domaine headed by Aurelian Houillon, the chosen child, who moved in to work with Pierre Houillon from 2014. Super pure, natural wines with beautiful labels made from traditional paper in the ancient style - from plants by his wife Charlotte who studied paper-making in China and Ethiopia. This is the top cuvee, expensive and rare - made from 90% Syrah and 10% Grenache.
`A true blockbuster, the Grenache-dominated 2012 IGP Vaucluse comes all from clay and limestone soils around Rasteau, and spent 24-36 months in a combination of foudres and demi-muids. Loaded with notions of black cherries, black currants, crushed rocks, licorice and roasted herbs, this beauty is full-bodied, voluptuous, sexy and gorgeously textured. And while it has tons of richness, it also has notable purity, good freshness and ripe tannin that frame the finish nicely. It’s already hard to resist, but it will continue to knock your socks off for another 10-15 years`. 95 points, Jeb Dunnuck, WA
`The Chambolle-Musigny of the Rhône, the 2015 IGP Vaucluse from Jerome Bressy is a totally sensational blend of 50% Grenache and the balance a mix of Mourvèdre, Carignan, Counoise, Vaccarèse, Cinsault, Syrah, and Terret Noir (we`re getting close to all the varieties). Aged in a mix of concrete tanks, foudre, demi-muids, and barrels, bottled unfined and unfiltered, this naked beauty has just about everything you could want from a bottle of wine. Notes of rose petals, kirsch, blackberries, garrigue, and spice all emerge from this pure, elegant and gorgeous red that offers full-bodied richness, no hard edges and a killer finish. It got more than a few Wows in my notes and is an ethereally textured southern Rhône that needs to be tasted to be believed. Anticipated maturity: 2017 - 2030` 97 points, Jeb Dunnuck
`The greatest wines Chave has produced since 2003 are the two cuvées of 2009 Hermitage. The 2009 Hermitage exhibits a black/purple color along with a sumptuous nose of roasted meats, ground pepper, black currants, blackberry jam, and subtle smoke and licorice. The extraordinary bouquet is followed by a wine of extravagant intensity as well as tremendous focus and precision. While not as powerful as the blockbuster 2003, the amazing 2009 may turn out to be a modern day version of their magnificent 1990 (which is drinking incredibly well at present). Anyone who loves Hermitage and has a cold cellar should be lining up to get a few bottles of this beauty. ` 100 Points Robert Parker
The ‘Confidential Wine Culture’ of St-Joseph has long clutched Domaine de Gouye tight to its chest, as it did his neighbour and long-time friend Raymond Trollat. The Gouye family have most of their vines in the lieux-dit of Gouye, high up on the hills over St-Jean de Muzols. Separated by a ravine from Aubert and Pichonnier, Trollat’s old plots. Philippe has 3 hectares here mostly planted between 1955 and 1975. Due to its high altitude, the wines manage to retain freshness even in warm years. It is a phenomenal terroir, worked with absolute conviction in the old methods by Philippe Desbos. As well as Trollat, he had much in common with Elizabeth Fogier, a female vigneron of St-Jean de Muzols who defended the old style in the 1980s and 1990s, living an unpretentious and steady farmers existence like Philippe and his family do now. Hens cluck at your feet, a horse to plough. Not much changes here.
The ‘Confidential Wine Culture’ of St-Joseph has long clutched Domaine de Gouye tight to its chest, as it did his neighbour and long-time friend Raymond Trollat. The Gouye family have most of their vines in the lieux-dit of Gouye, high up on the hills over St-Jean de Muzols. Separated by a ravine from Aubert and Pichonnier, Trollat’s old plots. Philippe has 3 hectares here mostly planted between 1955 and 1975. Due to its high altitude, the wines manage to retain freshness even in warm years. It is a phenomenal terroir, worked with absolute conviction in the old methods by Philippe Desbos. As well as Trollat, he had much in common with Elizabeth Fogier, a female vigneron of St-Jean de Muzols who defended the old style in the 1980s and 1990s, living an unpretentious and steady farmers existence like Philippe and his family do now. Hens cluck at your feet, a horse to plough. Not much changes here.
St-Joseph Clos des Cessieux Herve Souhat [Pre-Arrival]
After Philippe`s recent retirement, his son Tony has taken over at the domaine - the quality of the wines remains excellent, altough the new labels are not to everyone`s tastes!
`Saturated magenta. Smoke-accented black/blue fruits, pipe tobacco, violet and a strong black pepper note on the fragrant nose. Juicy and appealingly sweet, offering supple cassis and boysenberry flavors that turn spicier on the back half. Highly accessible and fruit-driven, with just a trace of supple tannins on the nicely persistent finish. This wine is made from young vines on Malsert`s 1.5 hectare Domaine de l`Iserand estate and augmented by some purchased fruit. (fermented in neutral demi-muids and amphoras and raised in neutral demi-muids_)` 90 Points Josh Raynolds
The wines of Dard & Ribo enjoy a loyal following because they are totally delicious from the traps, but they are a noteworthy domaine for being one of the very first to work in a completely natural way, that prized juiciness and drinkability through low-fi vinifcation and meticulous organic farming.
`Dark red, with purple in it. Has a live black cherry fruit aroma, notes of black olives, some reduction. The palate gives keen black fruits, Morello cherry, with cut in the tannins, shows nerve on the second half, a wee violet indicating its granite origins. It comes with inner depth, strength, rocks well. There are blood and iron notes, it has good energy, and surges well towards the finish. From mid-late 2020. 2028-30 Feb 2019` **** John Livingstone-Learmonth
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
The ‘Confidential Wine Culture’ of St-Joseph has long clutched Domaine de Gouye tight to its chest, as it did his neighbour and long-time friend Raymond Trollat. The Gouye family have most of their vines in the lieux-dit of Gouye, high up on the hills over St-Jean de Muzols. Separated by a ravine from Aubert and Pichonnier, Trollat’s old plots. Philippe has 3 hectares here mostly planted between 1955 and 1975. Due to its high altitude, the wines manage to retain freshness even in warm years. It is a phenomenal terroir, worked with absolute conviction in the old methods by Philippe Desbos. As well as Trollat, he had much in common with Elizabeth Fogier, a female vigneron of St-Jean de Muzols who defended the old style in the 1980s and 1990s, living an unpretentious and steady farmers existence like Philippe and his family do now. Hens cluck at your feet, a horse to plough. Not much changes here.
The result of a three-week carbonic maceration of three red grape varieties, Cab Franc and Sauv and Merlot. Aged in stainless steel vats. The wine is lighter; fruity and more supple then the Anciens cuvee.
The result of a three-week carbonic maceration of three red grape varieties, Cab Franc and Sauv and Merlot. Aged in stainless steel vats. The wine is lighter; fruity and more supple then the Anciens cuvee.
Vin de Pays de Seyssuel L`Ame Soeur Stephane Ogier
`Violets issue from a reserved, rocky nose, mulberry fruit and licorice present – it is a most interesting bouquet that provokes by mystery and its possibilities. The palate leads on an encased red fruit with lissom tannins either side. There is a sprinkle of dusted tannin, minor complexity. The fruit on the finish is suave and works well, along with fine tannin. Decant this. From spring 2018` **** John Livingstone-Learmonth
The ‘Confidential Wine Culture’ of St-Joseph has long clutched Domaine de Gouye tight to its chest, as it did his neighbour and long-time friend Raymond Trollat. The Gouye family have most of their vines in the lieux-dit of Gouye, high up on the hills over St-Jean de Muzols. Separated by a ravine from Aubert and Pichonnier, Trollat’s old plots. Philippe has 3 hectares here mostly planted between 1955 and 1975. Due to its high altitude, the wines manage to retain freshness even in warm years. It is a phenomenal terroir, worked with absolute conviction in the old methods by Philippe Desbos. As well as Trollat, he had much in common with Elizabeth Fogier, a female vigneron of St-Jean de Muzols who defended the old style in the 1980s and 1990s, living an unpretentious and steady farmers existence like Philippe and his family do now. Hens cluck at your feet, a horse to plough. Not much changes here.
`Shiny yellow robe. Aniseed, greengage plum fruit, a hint of orange and citrus tang from the Marsanne feature on the nose. The palate is rounded, smooth, carries some spark in the fruits that last well, persisting nicely. There’s good depth, too. It’s full, convincing, a good table wine suited to the likes of spaghetti all vongole, clams. 13.9°` **** John Livingstone-Learmonth
The result of a three-week carbonic maceration of three red grape varieties, Cab Franc and Sauv and Merlot. Aged in stainless steel vats. The wine is lighter; fruity and more supple then the Anciens cuvee.
`Light, vivid yellow. Expansive, smoke-tinged orchard and pit fruit aromas show excellent clarity, and a sexy floral element emerges with air. Sappy, palate-coating pear nectar and nectarine flavors show serious depth and complicating notes of honey and candied ginger, while a gingery element adds spicy lift. The pear note returns on the chewy finish, which hangs on with superb tenacity and repeating florality.` 93 Points Vinous
150 cases roughly made every year from this small 0.53 hectare plot of Marsanne (80%) I think Julian is one of the greatest exponents of this under-rated appellation -so he should be - big boots to fill - he is the nephew of legendary old-timer Jean-Louis Grippat - whose labels Julian`s gently reference with the same typeface.
The result of a three-week carbonic maceration of three red grape varieties, Cab Franc and Sauv and Merlot. Aged in stainless steel vats. The wine is lighter; fruity and more supple then the Anciens cuvee.
`Deep, bright ruby-red. Cherry, licorice and smoked meat at the outset; then exploded with raspberry fruit. Lush, smooth and silky, with lovely inner-mouth perfume. Highly complex flavors of raspberry, minerals, bitter chocolate and smoky oak convey an extraordinary sweetness without any excess weight. Expands wonderfully on the extremely long, aromatic finish, which features noble, palate-dusting tannins. From the recorked bottle, the wine again began with dominant smoky, tarry torrefaction notes, and within minutes was taken over by red berries and flowers. More classic than the `03, but the 2003 may be even richer.` 95 Points Stephen Tanzer
Terme de Guiu La Plana Laureano Serres (Magnum) [Pre-Arrival]
Laureano Serres farms six hectares of vineyards in Terra Alta, near Priorat - spread over parcels in El Pinell at around 170 metres of altitude and higher up where they reach some 500 metres above sea level. This height, and his taste, tends to lend the wines real freshness and vibrancy.
Terme de Guiu La Plana Laureano Serres [Pre-Arrival]
Laureano Serres farms six hectares of vineyards in Terra Alta, near Priorat - spread over parcels in El Pinell at around 170 metres of altitude and higher up where they reach some 500 metres above sea level. This height, and his taste, tends to lend the wines real freshness and vibrancy.
`Deep red. High-pitched aromas of redcurrant, dried cherry, potpourri and spicecake. Silky in texture and alluringly spherical, offering seamless red fruit and floral pastille flavors and late notes of blood orange and Asian spices. Nothing heavy or fat here and yet this delivers the impact of a large-scaled wine. The finish is expansive and extremely persistent, leaving notes of rose and sweet red fruits behind. I find this to be drinking extremely well now but have no doubt that it will live a long life on its balance.` 95 Points, Jay Reynolds
Laureano Serres farms six hectares of vineyards in Terra Alta, near Priorat - spread over parcels in El Pinell at around 170 metres of altitude and higher up where they reach some 500 metres above sea level. This height, and his taste, tends to lend the wines real freshness and vibrancy.
Laureano Serres farms six hectares of vineyards in Terra Alta, near Priorat - spread over parcels in El Pinell at around 170 metres of altitude and higher up where they reach some 500 metres above sea level. This height, and his taste, tends to lend the wines real freshness and vibrancy.
