"product_code","no_of_cases","loose_bottles","bottles_per_case","bottle_format","vintage","post_title","grower","classification","wine_chateau_name","sub_region","region","country","colour_style","parker_scores","critics_initial","post_content","cost_per_case","duty_status","pack_size","packing",
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"LAFOCHAR12B6","1","n/a","6","75","2012","Meursault 1er Cru Les Charmes, Comtes Lafon","Comtes Lafon","1er Cru","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","94","JM","In magnum. A pale and fresh lemon yellow. The bouquet offers a wealth of fruit, without much detail available yet. A very fine weight to this and joie de vivre, still more to open out later on. Only a couple of years away from maturity but a little extra time will pay dividends. Tasted: June 2022","2000","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"DUBFCORBRE16B6","1","n/a","6","75","2016","Corton Bressandes Grand Cru, Dubreuil Fontaine","Dubreuil Fontaine","Grand Cru","Aloxe Corton","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","Red","94","AM","A discreet but not invisible touch of wood sets off the liqueur like aromas of plum, dark raspberries, earth and a pretty floral wisp. The finer if not denser flavours possess a taut muscularity while delivering even better depth and persistence on the impeccably well balanced finale. This is a classically styled Bressandes that should also amply repay extended keeping.","340","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"DUCLMR11B6","1","n/a","6","75","2011","Cote Rotie, Maison Rouge, Duclaux","Duclaux","AC","Cote Rotie","Northern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","92","JD","Slightly more masculine and muscular, yet still playing in the house style that emphasizes elegance over concentration, the 2011 Cote Rotie Maison Rouge exhibits classic Cote Rotie notes of bacon fat, crushed rock, flowers and blackberry styled fruit to go with medium bodied richness and depth on the palate. Seamless, pure and fresh, its beautifully done and can be consumed now, or cellared for a decade. ","240","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"FONTGIGFUT98B12","1","n/a","12","75","1998","Gigondas, Cuvee Futee, Font Sane ","Font Sane","AC","n/a","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","90","RP","The 1998 Gigondas Cuvee Futee (a barrique aged wine with some new oak) reveals a full bodied, tightly knit style with gobs of black cherry and blackberry fruit, toasty vanillin, and mineral characteristics. Dense, concentrated, and moderately tannic, it will be at its best between 2003 2015. ","300","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"GRASRUNR10M1","1","n/a","1","150","2010","Barolo Runcot, Riserva, Grasso (Elio)","Grasso (Elio)","DOCG","Barolo","Barolo","Piedmont","Italy","Red","96+","AG","Grasso`s 2010 Barolo Riserva Rüncot is fabulous. The flavours are bright, sculpted and finely nuanced throughout, with plenty of sweet red cherry, cranberry, mint and chalk overtones. Aging in French oak (all untoasted) gives the wine its signature feel and texture. I have seen the Rüncot develop beautifully with time in bottle. I imagine that will be the case here was well. Gianluca Grasso has really honed in a super appealing style that straddles classic and more modern styles effortlessly.","285","IB","1x150cl","OWC",
"GRASRUNR10M1","1","n/a","1","150","2010","Barolo Runcot, Riserva, Grasso (Elio)","Grasso (Elio)","DOCG","Barolo","Barolo","Piedmont","Italy","Red","96+","AG","Grasso`s 2010 Barolo Riserva Rüncot is fabulous. The flavours are bright, sculpted and finely nuanced throughout, with plenty of sweet red cherry, cranberry, mint and chalk overtones. Aging in French oak (all untoasted) gives the wine its signature feel and texture. I have seen the Rüncot develop beautifully with time in bottle. I imagine that will be the case here was well. Gianluca Grasso has really honed in a super appealing style that straddles classic and more modern styles effortlessly.","285","IB","1x150cl","OWC",
"HAAGGK12AUS11B6","1","n/a","6","75","2011","Brauneberger Juffer Sonnenuhr Riesling, GK #12, Auslese, Moselle, Haag (Fritz)","Haag (Fritz)","Auslese","n/a","n/a","Mosel Saar Ruwer","Germany","Sweet White","93","TWA","Spiced, white raisin laced mango chutney is mingled with nectarine preserves, nougat and honey in a Fritz Haag 2011 Brauneberger Juffer Sonnenuhr Auslese Gold Capsule A.P. #12 that exhibits little of the caramel characteristic of the Juffer gold capsule Auslese. Despite an almost paste like sense of confectionary and confitured concentration, this also harbors juicy fresh apple and orange that along with a lick of salt serve for saliva inducement and some genuine refreshment. A hauntingly lingering Auslese, it should be fascinating to follow over the next three decades.","350","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"LAMYTREMBHD17M1","1","n/a","1","150","2017","Puligny Montrachet, Les Tremblots `Haute Densite`, Domaine Hubert Lamy","Hubert Lamy","AC","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","93","JM","Pale fresh colour, exceptional density to the nose. Every dimension is more significant, weight, quality and acidity, compared to the regular though perhaps no advantage in terms of flavour profile. Tasted: October 2017","1850","DP","1x150cl","OC",
"HUETBOURG90B12","1","n/a","12","75","1990","Vouvray Moelleux, Clos du Bourg 1er Trie, Huet","Huet","AC","Vouvray","n/a","Loire","France","Sweet White","97+ ","TWA","Orange/amber in color with a greenish shimmer, the 1990 Vouvray Clos du Bourg Moelleux Premiere Trie has a super clear, precise, elegant and flinty bouquet of apricot oil and stewed or baked apricots along with some nougat and Turkish honey flavours. Very intense, rich and concentrated on the palate, with a beautifully fine acidity and finesse full minerality, this is a spectacular moelleux with lightness, great finesse, vitality, length and complexity. The finish is pure and precise and almost endless in its aromatics. Beautifully intense, vital and balanced. A gorgeous wine though not from the 100% perfect bottle.","1000","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"HUETBOURG05B12","1","n/a","12","75","2005","Vouvray Moelleux, Clos du Bourg 1er Trie, Huet","Huet","AC","Vouvray","n/a","Loire","France","Sweet White","94","TWA","The 2005 Vouvray Moelleux Clos du Bourg Moelleux 1er Trie announces its advanced botrytization with high toned honey, flowers, herbal distillate, framboise, and quince preserves, but comes onto the palate with an almost pulpy, juicy sense of vivid fresh citrus, accented by bitter sweet Seville orange rind and brown spices. Clear and pure, with wafting inner mouth florality and a persistent alternation of invigorating freshness with honeyed nobility of botrytis, pit fruit and berry preserves with fresh citrus, this is the longest finishing wine here today, and a great candidate for enjoying anywhere between seven and twenty some years of age.","850","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"HUETBOURG02B12","1","n/a","12","75","2002","Vouvray Moelleux, Clos du Bourg, Huet","Huet","AC","Vouvray","n/a","Loire","France","Sweet White","95","VM","Light golden amber. Exotic bouquet blends passion fruit, mango, poached pear, honey and chamomile with a lash of baking spices. Sappy, palate coating orchard fruit flavours are given a bitter edge by a hint of citrus pith. Very rich but surprisingly taut, finishing strong thrust and lingering spiciness. This is a beautiful interpretation of late harvest chenin blanc from a classic vintage.","600","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"KELLDHA2713B3","1","n/a","3","75","2013","Dalsheimer Hubacker, Auslese, #27, Keller","Keller","Auslese","n/a","n/a","Rheinhessen","Germany","Sweet White","95","TWA","Keller`s extremely well selected and precisely flavoured 2013 Dalsheim Hubacker Riesling Auslese *** opens with refreshingly flinty and limey as well as floral aromas on the nose. Still young, but expressing a lovely, precise and piquant character with its mineral vibrations, this noble sweet wine has a lingering salty and stimulating finish that is highly elegant and full of finesse and delicacy. The grippy finish is extremely promising. A terrific Auslese from the Hubacker, Keller`s most important vineyard in terms of size.","295","IB","3x75cl","RPK",
"TLIGCCH16M3","1","n/a","3","150","2016","Charmes Chambertin Grand Cru, Liger Belair (Thibault)","Liger Belair (Thibault)","Grand Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","88-90","NM","The 2016 Charmes Chambertin Grand Cru includes 70% whole cluster, the highest of the domaines Cuvees, in order to capture its freshness. That comes through on the nose: black fruit mixed with black truffle and hints of autumn leaves. The palate is medium bodied with firm and slightly brittle tannin with a slightly short finish. Fine, but missing a little excitement despite the acidity. I would just like more..."charm"?","850","IB","3x150cl","OWC",
"MUGMAR15M3","1","n/a","3","150","2015","Nuits St Georges 1er Cru Clos de la Marechale, Jacques-Frederic Mugnier","Mugnier","1er Cru","Nuits St Georges","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France"," Red","93+","TWA","Mugnier`s 2015 Nuits-Saint-Georges 1er Cru Clos de la Marechale is a terrific success in the 2015 vintage and is strongly reminiscent of the excellent 2005 rendition, opening in the glass with aromas of creamy cassis, ripe cherry, dark chocolate and grilled squab. On the palate, the wine is deep, full-bodied and sapid, with succulent acids, an ample chassis of rich tannins and excellent length. This is one of the rare cases of a great Burgundy from a great domaine that is available in some volume, and no one should fixate on Mugnier`s Chambolles at the expense of this lovely Nuits.","1020","IB","3x150cl","OWC",
"JMPCAIL15B12","1","n/a","12","75","2015","Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru Caillerets, Pillot (J M)","Pillot (J M)","1er Cru","Chassagne-Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","91-93","AM","A beautifully if subtly layered nose flashes really lovely complexity with its pure array of spiced pear, lavender, spice and citrus wisps. The equally pure and refined middle weight flavours possess an almost pungent minerality while offering fine depth and sneaky good length.","800","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"PILONPORC13M3","1","n/a","3","150","2013","Cote Rotie, La Porchette, Pilon","Pilon","AC","Cote Rotie","Northern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","92","JR","(made from a blend of fruit grown in the northern and southern sectors of the appellation): Bright purple. Heady mineral and spice accented aromas of red and dark berries and smoked meat, with a suave floral accent adding complexity. At once juicy and expansive on the palate, offering energetic black raspberry and violet pastille flavours and repeating smokiness. Finishes on a zesty mineral note, with very good clarity and even tannins.","175","IB","3x150cl","RPK",
"REMOCHAR16B6","1","n/a","6","75","2016","Charmes Chambertin Grand Cru, Remoissenet","Remoissenet","Grand Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","93-96","ST","Positively stunning in the glass, the 2016 Charmes Chambertin Grand Cru is dense, powerful and explosive. A wine of power and richness, the Charmes possesses notable texture and resonance from start to finish. Although naturally quite embryonic, the 2016 is endowed with striking richness and purity in its fruit. It is also one of the best young wines I have ever tasted at Remoissenet.","950","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"REMOECH15B6","1","n/a","6","75","2015","Echezeaux Grand Cru, Remoissenet","Remoissenet","Grand Cru","Flagey-Echezeaux","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","n/a","n/a","n/a","1100","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"ROCHCSD13B6","1","n/a","6","75","2013","Clos St Denis Grand Cru, Roche de Bellene","Roche de Bellene","Grand Cru","Morey St Denis","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","88-91","NM","The 2013 Clos Saint Denis Grand Cru has a lifted, candied nose (although it was waiting for some SO2 that will dampen that exuberance.) The palate is sweet again with kirsch and fresh strawberry and an orange sorbet finish that needs to learn some manners. Fine, but hopefully Nicolas will put a leash on this Grand Cru by the time of bottling.","550","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"ROUSCDR07B6","1","n/a","6","75","2007","Clos de la Roche Grand Cru, Armand Rousseau Pere et Fils","Rousseau","Grand Cru","Morey St Denis","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France"," Red","90-93","AM","A notably riper nose features more classic aromas of red and blue pinot fruit, violets, underbrush and this too offers a hint of jerky that complements the lightly spiced, rich, full and delicious medium weight plus flavours that possess an appealing textured quality to the energetic, sappy and mouth coating finish that is both balanced and impressively long. Excellent quality here and while not ultra powerful, this is certainly a step up in muscle compared to the Charmes and Mazis.","4200","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"ROUSMAZ07B6","1","n/a","6","75","2007","Mazis-Chambertin Grand Cru, Armand Rousseau Pere et Fils","Rousseau","Grand Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France"," Red","89-92","AM","Here the nose blends upper and lower register aromas that include cranberry, raspberry, cassis, rose petal and smoked jerky that merges into very pure and textured flavours that also have a certain delicate quality to them, yet the finish is robust, sauvage and displays very good phenolic maturity to the structural elements. This should age well as it`s balanced yet will be approachable young.","6000","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"SACHELM06B6","1","n/a","6","75","2006","Helmsman Cabernet Merlot, Sacred Hill","Sacred Hill","n/a","n/a","n/a","Hawke`s Bay","New Zealand","Red","90","NM","The 2006 Helmsman Cabernet/Merlot has a sweet, ripe sappy nose with dark cherries, touches of blueberry with an apricot/confit element in the background. Very pretty and feminine. The palate is full bodied with very ripe, sappy tannins, nice mouthfeel with layers of corpulent Merlot. Touches of thyme inflecting the black fruit, lovely balance and great purity. It remains rather linear on the finish when I am desperate for it to fan out, but it retains an intellectual lean. It should drink well over 2 5 years. ","240","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"HBOILCCOR16B3","2","n/a","3","75","2016","Corton-Charlemagne, Grand Cru, Henri Boillot","Boillot (Henri)","Grand Cru","Corton Charlemagne","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","95","JM","Pale lemon. Excellent weight of fruit on the nose which shows significant promise. White stone fruit and a few plums at the edges. With a very refreshing gunflint reductive minerality. This is very Corton-Charlemagne. Tasted: May 2019.","630","IB","3x75cl","OWC",
"HBOILGEN16B6","1","n/a","6","75","2016","Meursault 1er Cru, Genevrieres, Henri Boillot","Boillot (Henri)","1er Cru","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","94","AM","There is a whiff of natural exoticism to the strikingly elegant, wafting and overtly floral and spiced tea aromas of mostly white orchard fruit. The cool, precise and restrained flavors possess a wonderfully refined mouth feel while displaying an abundance of minerality on the bitter lemon-inflected, balanced and sneaky long finish. This stunningly good effort is an exercise is refinement and class.","750","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"HBOILCHAR16B6","1","n/a","6","75","2016","Meursault 1er Cru, Les Charmes, Henri Boillot","Boillot (Henri)","1er Cru","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","92","AM","A slightly more elegant if not necessarily more complex nose offers up smoke-tinged notes of citrus rind, hazelnut and essence of pear. Somewhat unusually, the middle weight flavors possess even better richness if not quite the same muscularity on the caressing mid-palate, all wrapped in a borderline salty and youthfully austere finale. This too will require at least some patience.","700","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"TORLAMI10B6","1","n/a","6","75","2010","Les Amis, Torbreck Barossa Valley, Australia","Torbreck","n/a","n/a","Barossa Valley","South Australia","Australia","Red","96+","TWA","It`s my opinion that the 2010 Les Amis is in a developmental trough at the moment, as it just wasn`t quite as expressive and flamboyant as either the 2009 or recent vintages, despite being a terrific year. It`s full bodied, ripe and silky in texture, with gorgeous floral aromatics, raspberry fruit and hints of vanilla and cedar lurking in the background. Still youthful, it should drink well through 2030 if properly cellared.","645","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"TORRUN04M1","2","n/a","1","150","2004","Torbreck Run Rig, Torbreck","Torbreck","n/a","Run Rig","Barossa Valley","South Australia","Australia","Red","99+","TWA","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+. ","240","IB","1x150cl","OWC",
"GPL15D1","1","n/a","1","300","2015","Grand Puy Lacoste, Pauillac","n/a","5eme Cru","Pauillac","Left Bank","Bordeaux","France","Red","91+","TWA","The 2015 Grand-Puy-Lacoste is medium garnet-purple coloured with a nose of red and black currants, cedar chest and roses with a touch of dusty earth. The medium-bodied mouth is chewy, with lively fruit and good balance.","250","IB","1x300cl","OWC",
"GPL15I1","1","n/a","1","600","2015","Grand Puy Lacoste, Pauillac","n/a","5eme Cru","Pauillac","Left Bank","Bordeaux","France","Red","91+","TWA","The 2015 Grand-Puy-Lacoste is medium garnet-purple coloured with a nose of red and black currants, cedar chest and roses with a touch of dusty earth. The medium-bodied mouth is chewy, with lively fruit and good balance.","500","IB","1x600cl","OWC",
"LEOBAR15I1","1","n/a","1","600","2015","Leoville Barton, St. Julien","n/a","2eme Cru","St. Julien","Left Bank","Bordeaux","France","Red","95","TWA","Deep garnet-purple coloured, the 2015 Leoville Barton offers up notions of warm red currants, black raspberries and dark chocolate with wafts of cigar box, violets and bay leaves. Elegant, medium-bodied and sporting great freshness, the taut, tightly wound palate of intense red fruits and floral accents is well-framed with firm, grainy tannins, finishing on a lingering mineral note.","625","IB","1x600cl","OWC",
"LEOPOY18I1","1","n/a","1","600","2018","Leoville Poyferre, St. Julien","n/a","2eme Cru","St. Julien","Left Bank","Bordeaux","France","Red","97","TWA","A blend of 64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 3% Petit Verdot and 3% Cabernet Franc, aged in 80% new oak barriques, the 2018 Leoville Poyferre comes bounding out of the glass with exuberant scents of Morello cherries, plum preserves and blackberry pie, giving way to nuances of cedar chest, unsmoked cigars, vanilla pod and sassafras, plus a waft of crushed rocks. The palate is full-bodied, rich and decadent, delivering hedonic black fruits and lots of spicy accents with a velvety texture and seamless freshness, finishing long and satisfyingly savoury. This is a very impressive showing that is delicious out of the gate but has the backbone to give a good 30 years or more of pleasure.","830","IB","1x600cl","OWC",
"LYNCH09D1","n/a","2","1","300","2009","Lynch Bages, Pauillac","n/a","5eme Cru","Pauillac","Left Bank","Bordeaux","France","Red","96","TWA","The medium to deep garnet coloured 2009 Lynch Bages is boldly scented of crème de cassis, blackberry pie and baked plums with chocolate box, incense and underbrush suggestions plus a waft of bay leaves. Medium to full-bodied, taut and well sustained in the mouth, it has a firm, grainy texture and a lively backbone lifting the black fruit core to a nice long finish.","860","IB","1x300cl","OWC",
"MARG15B6","1","n/a","6","75","2015","Margaux","n/a","1er Cru","Margaux","Left Bank","Bordeaux","France","Red","99","TWA","The 2015 Chateau Margaux is a blend of 87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot. Medium garnet-purple coloured, the nose features oh-so-seductive notes of warm blackberries, cassis and black forest cake with touches of forest floor, sandalwood, anise and cigar boxes plus a waft of lavender. Medium to full-bodied, it delivers taut, muscular, densely packed black fruits and exotic spice flavour layers supported by a very firm backbone of grainy tannins with oodles of freshness and a long, savoury finish. It is tightly knit and a little reticent at this very youthful stage; afford it at least 15 years in the cellar, and it will open out into a classic Chateau Margaux of incredible proportions. Readers may be interested to know that this wine is beautifully packaged in a special commemorative bottle honoring winemaker Paul Pontellier, who passed away in 2016. The gold-etched black bottle bears the message, Hommage à Paul Pontellier at the bottom. This 2015 is an achingly beautiful swan song from an incredibly gifted winemaker, taken from us too soon. In my view, this alone makes this vintage more than worth the investment for the many lovers of history in a bottle.","5180","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"MONT18I1","1","n/a","1","600","2018","Montrose, St. Estephe","n/a","2eme Cru","St. Estephe","Left Bank","Bordeaux","France","Red","98+","TWA","The 2018 Montrose is a blend of 72% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot. Very deep garnet-purple in colour, it needs a good amount of air to unlock the vibrant scents of crushed blackberries, preserved plums and cassis with suggestions of star anise, cedar chest, underbrush, Indian spices and iron ore, plus an emerging waft of violets. The full-bodied palate features the most exquisitely ripe tannins, offering a rock-solid backbone with tons of freshness lifting the taut, muscular fruit, finishing long and mineral laced. Going back to this wine over a period of hours and then days further reveals a Montrose of great opulence, richness and depth. Incidentally, the IPT level this year is 82, which indicates a very high level of tannins, and yet they are so, so ripe. The alcohol is around 14.5%. But sit back, close your eyes and forget the numbersthis is pure hedonism in its youth with a fantastic 40+ years of cellaring ahead of it, during the course of which do not be at all surprised if you are blown away by a three-digit experience.","1085","IB","1x600cl","OWC",
"RSEG15DM","1","n/a","1","300","2015","Rauzan Segla, Margaux","n/a","2eme Cru","Margaux","Left Bank","Bordeaux","France","Red","97","TWA","Deep garnet-purple in colour, the 2015 Rauzan-Segla offers up an expressive nose of baked blackberries, kirsch, warm cassis and baked plums with hints of cigar box and tilled soil. Full-bodied, rich and expansive in the mouth, it has layer upon layer of bold red and black fruit preserves with earthy accents and a velvety texture, finishing long and lively. The blend this year is 63% Cabernet Sauvignon, 33% Merlot, 3% Petit Verdot and 1% Cabernet Franc, harvested between September 10th and October 9th, at an average yield of 40 hectoliters per hectare. It was aged for 18 months in French oak, 65% new. The alcohol is 14%, and the pH is 3.7.","430","IB","1x300cl","OWC",
"RSEG15IMP","1","n/a","1","600","2015","Rauzan Segla, Margaux","n/a","2eme Cru","Margaux","Left Bank","Bordeaux","France","Red","97","TWA","Deep garnet-purple in colour, the 2015 Rauzan-Segla offers up an expressive nose of baked blackberries, kirsch, warm cassis and baked plums with hints of cigar box and tilled soil. Full-bodied, rich and expansive in the mouth, it has layer upon layer of bold red and black fruit preserves with earthy accents and a velvety texture, finishing long and lively. The blend this year is 63% Cabernet Sauvignon, 33% Merlot, 3% Petit Verdot and 1% Cabernet Franc, harvested between September 10th and October 9th, at an average yield of 40 hectoliters per hectare. It was aged for 18 months in French oak, 65% new. The alcohol is 14%, and the pH is 3.7.","765","IB","1x600cl","OWC",
"HBOILMPER16B6","1","n/a","6","75","2016","Meursault 1er Cru, Les Perrieres, Henri Boillot","Boillot (Henri)","1er Cru","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","94","AM","A strikingly pretty mélange of white orchard fruit aromas displays back ground notes of floral and wet stone hints. There is excellent density and plenty of punch to the sleek, pure and refined middle weight flavors that possess excellent definition and particularly so on the lingering finish that goes on and on. In a word, terrific.","1430","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"HBOILBON17B3","2","n/a","3","75","2017","Bonnes Mares, Grand Cru, Henri Boillot","Boillot (Henri)","Grand Cru","Chambolle-Musigny","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","94","JM","Rich deep colour here with lighter purple rim. This has a glorious plump fruit to it, myrtilles, but despite the richness of the fruit it dances very lightly, perhaps because the grapes comes from the terres blanches sector of Bonnes Mares. Beautiful stylish aftertaste with just the right acidity. Bravo. Tasted: November 2018.","750","IB","3x75cl","OWC",
"HBOILVOLCAIL17B6","4","n/a","6","75","2017","Volnay 1er Cru, Caillerets, Henri Boillot","Boillot (Henri)","1er Cru","Volnay","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","Red","94","JM","A richer denser purple, with a sensational intensity of brilliant dark cherry fruit. Raspberry touches too. This is absolutely glowing. It is very modern in a sense but such a pure and classy fruit, a little bit Cathiard in style. The fruit is supported by excellent structure at the back, altogether a really impressive Caillerets. Tasted: November 2018. 5* Wine.","430","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"HBOILCCOR17B6","1","n/a","6","75","2017","Corton-Charlemagne, Grand Cru, Henri Boillot","Boillot (Henri)","Grand Cru","Corton Charlemagne","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","96","AM","A distinctly smoky nose combines notes of green apple, white flower, spice and a hint of iodine. There is excellent density to the powerful and muscular broad-shouldered flavors that are blessed with so much dry extract that the mouth feel is almost chewy, all wrapped in a borderline painfully intense, compact and hugely long finish. This doesn`t have the inimitable class of the Montrachet or the Chevalier but for sheer flavor impact, this is just as impressive.","1500","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"HBOILGEN17B6","2","n/a","6","75","2017","Meursault 1er Cru, Genevrieres, Henri Boillot","Boillot (Henri)","1er Cru","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","93","JM","Very similar clear pale lemon colour. The nose has a fresh herb character. More the vineyard than reduction, with a tightly wound energetic elegance behind. Very concentrated. Some interesting peachy notes help to round out what could otherwise be quite lean.","885","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"HBOILMPER17B6","2","n/a","6","75","2017","Meursault 1er Cru, Les Perrieres, Henri Boillot","Boillot (Henri)","1er Cru","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","94","JM","From purchased grapes. Full bright primrose. This has the most reductive nose of the wines to date. Is it linked to the mineral style of Perrières? Quite good density, a saline touch at the back, huge energy to finish with an a very long finish. All at the back. Tasted: November 2018.","1600","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"HBOILPUC17B6","2","n/a","6","75","2017","Puligny Montrachet 1er Cru, Les Pucelles, Henri Boillot","Boillot (Henri)","1er Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","95","JM","Pure mid lemon yellow with power immediately apparent on the nose. No detail as yet. Another wine with excellent drive to it, more white fruit than yellow, very much sitting back on its haunches. A slight but engaging waxiness begins to emerge, and the fruit acid balance is impeccable. Tasted: July 2021.","1200","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"HBOILCCOR19B6","1","n/a","6","75","2019","Corton-Charlemagne, Grand Cru, Henri Boillot","Boillot (Henri)","Grand Cru","Corton Charlemagne","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","95","JM","Just a little more yellow in the colour, with a gorgeous bouquet, the energy and the ripeness well harnessed within the structure. This is a big beast but it carries the power very well and there is excellent acidity. This wine will need time unless you are happy to go with such a large frame (14.5% alcohol) before it has settled into its body. Drink from 2027-2038. Tasted: September 2023.","1250","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"HBOILMOU19B6","1","n/a","6","75","2019","Puligny Montrachet 1er Cru, Clos de la Mouchère, Henri Boillot","Boillot (Henri)","1er Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","94-97","JM","Gorgeous full yellow with lots of green reflections. A tiny bit of toast on the nose, which is one of the more reserved bouquets on show today, but suggests potential. Fabulous in the mouth here, retaining discretion, clinging to its toast, really very good all the way through and exceptionally long with a growth of minerals through the flesh. Tasted: October 2020. 5* Wine","895","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"HBOILPMPER19B6","1","n/a","6","75","2019","Puligny Montrachet 1er Cru, Les Perrières, Henri Boillot","Boillot (Henri)","1er Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","94-96","JM","Light lemon and lime, this is hugely classy with delicate dancing fruit and a sprightliness. Lovely balance to this, only a smattering of toast at the back, very harmonious, the fruit spreads out gorgeously while retaining precision. This showed brilliant potential even as grape juice Guillaume notes. Tasted: October 2020. 5* Wine","900","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"HBOILMOU20B6","1","n/a","6","75","2020","Puligny Montrachet 1er Cru, Clos de la Mouchère, Henri Boillot","Boillot (Henri)","1er Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","96","AM","Note: from 60+ year old vines and the vineyard is a whopping 4 ha monopole within Perrières
This is perhaps the most floral-suffused nose in the range with its aromas of essence of pear and plenitude of spice and citrus elements. Once again, the mid-palate mouthfeel of the medium-bodied flavors is absolutely gorgeous, which contrasts noticeably with the cuts-like-a-knife finish that remains ultra-refined, balanced and persistent. This is most impressive, particularly for the remarkably fine volume and power that is delivered with grace and class.","1100","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"LAFCHARM13B6","1","n/a","6","75","2013","Meursault 1er Charmes, Comtes Lafon","Comtes Lafon","1er Cru","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","92","AM","Once again the nose is quite firmly reduced so be sure to decant this if you`re not prepared to cellar if for at least a few years first. By contrast there is exceptionally good freshness and intensity to the impressively refined medium-bodied flavors that possess a sophisticated mouth feel as well as superb finishing depth and length. This strikingly stylish and balanced effort should amply repay extended keeping.","2185","IB","6x75cl","RPK",
"LAFCHARM14B6","1","n/a","6","75","2014","Meursault 1er Charmes, Comtes Lafon","Comtes Lafon","1er Cru","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","94","AM","There is a trace of matchstick character sitting atop the slightly riper aromas of acacia, citrus, pear, apple and soft spice nuances. The succulent and exceptionally round flavors possess a borderline creamy mouth feel that contrasts substantially with a clean, dry, focused and notably tight finale. I very much like the excellent complexity and when coupled with the fine balance this should make for a terrific wine in due course, provided you have the patience to wait at least a few years first.","2730","IB","6x75cl","RPK",
"LAFCHARM15B6","1","n/a","6","75","2015","Meursault 1er Charmes, Comtes Lafon","Comtes Lafon","1er Cru","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","92-94","AM","A beautifully layered nose combines notes of pear and white peach with those of acacia blossom, citrus and discreet wood influence. There is excellent density and intensity to the powerful, concentrated and slightly more complex middle weight flavors and this complexity continues onto the explosively long and mouth coating finish. Like the Genevrières this beauty should repay up to decade of bottle age.","2100","IB","6x75cl","RPK",
"DAUVPRE16B12","1","n/a","12","75","2016","Chablis, Les Preuses, Dauvissat","Dauvissat","Grand Cru","Chablis","Chablis","Burgundy","France","White","94","JM","Touch more colour here, softly oaked and warmly silky. Complex, teasing spicy, but just when you think it is a bit forward there is a youthful burst of acidity behind. Not quite the intensity of 2017 but very good Tasted: .","3285","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"DAUVFOR17B12","1","n/a","12","75","2017","Chablis 1er Cru, Forest, Dauvissat","Dauvissat","1er Cru","Chablis","Chablis","Burgundy","France","White","93-95","JM","Pale colour, exceptionally complex nose, the blue clay playing its part. Displaying a meaty aspect, this has a power on the palate that knocks even Montée de Tonnerre into the shade. But it is not luxuriantly flamboyant. Tasted: May 2018. 5* Wine.","1590","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"LATGMCDP13B6","1","n/a","6","75","2013","Meursault -Genevrieres, Cuvee des Pierre, Latour-Giraud","Latour Giraud","1er Cru","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","94","VM","(just three barrels, one of them new; this cuvée is always made from the same parcel of 55-year-old vines): Bright yellow with a green tinge. Musky, highly complex aromas of tangerine, lime, coconut and nut oil. Sweet and thick on entry, showing superb depth of fruit, then more precise and linear on the back half, boasting outstanding intensity and energy to its pineapple and lime flavors. This is higher in acidity than the regular Genevrières and finishes with terrific lift and grip.","900","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"COLCMCHEN18B6","2","n/a","6","75","2018","Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru, Chenevottes, Philippe Colin","Philippe Colin","1er Cru","Chassagne-Montrachet","n/a","Burgundy","France","White","92","VM","The 2018 Chassagne-Montrachet Les Chenevottes 1er Cru comes across quite closed on the nose. It is well defined but very tight, just a touch of reduction that bottle age should address. The palate is well balanced with a sappy, saline entry. Good intensity here, fresh and citrusy with orange rind notes surfacing towards the finish. Very fine. Give it another couple of years however. ","365","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"PIN14D1","1","n/a","1","300","2014","Le Pin, Pomerol","n/a","n/a","Pomerol","Right Bank","Bordeaux","France","Red ","98","JS","A ravishing red that pours out aromas of crushed raspberries, blueberries and dried flowers. Black truffle skins and undertones of violets. Full-bodied yet so tight and refined with incredible finesse and polish. The beauty and chic runs on for minutes on the finish. A truly endless and breathtakingly harmonious wine. It just rolls off the palate. Drink in 2022.","11100","IB","1x300cl","OC",
"VOERCER07B12","1","n/a","12","75","2007","Barolo Cerequio, Voerzio","Voerzio","DOCG","Barolo","Barolo","Piedmont","Italy","Red","98","AG","Voerzio`s 2007 Barolo Cerequio is a wonderful counter to the virile, imposing Brunate. Sweet red fruit, flowers and menthol are woven into a nuanced, textured fabric of notable class and elegance. The Cerequio possesses dazzling inner perfume, silky tannins and phenomenal length. It is a stunning, beautifully articulated Barolo blessed with tons of intensity and compelling overall balance. A final burst of red berries informs the long, explosive, perfumed finish. ","1780","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"MOUL09B12","1","n/a","12","75","2009","Chateau Moulinet, Pomerol ","n/a","n/a","Pomerol","Right Bank","Bordeaux","France","Red","89","ST","Medium red-ruby. Aromas of blackberry liqueur and dark cherry are lifted by a sexy floral topnote and complicated by leather, mint and smoky oak. Supple, fine-grained and moderately sweet, with fine-grained flavours of dark fruits and licorice. Finishes with smooth, building tannins and very good length. Not quite the personality for outstanding, but this is very good.","500","IB","12x75cl","OWC",
"MRISC04M1","n/a","1","1","150","2004","Rioja Reserva, Marques de Riscal","Riscal","n/a","n/a","Rioja","Rioja","Spain","Red","87","VM","Deep, vivid red. Pungent aromas of cherry, cured meat, graphite and cracked pepper. A distinctly wild style, offering flashy, sweet cherry and candied redcurrent flavours, with building spice and gamey character. Distinctly funky, but with good sweetness, finishing lift and persistence.","30","IB","1x150cl","RPK",
"DRCRSV06B6","2","n/a","6","75","2006","Romanee St Vivant, Domaine de la Romanee Conti","DRC","Grand Cru","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","95","TWA","The Domaine de La Romanee-Conti`s 2006 Romanee-St.-Vivant charts its own mysterious path, dissimilar to that of their Grands-Echezeaux, as well as reflecting the strides in quality that have manifestly been achieved in recent years in this site, more than at any other at this domaine. Iris, buddleia, and musky narcissus-like floral perfume; ripe purple plum and blackberry; sassafras and licorice; along with smoked meat and a hoisin-like amalgam of spices and soy all waft alluringly from the glass. The tannins here are ultra-refined and there is a vintage-typical sense of levity, despite all of the dark intrigue of enveloping black fruits, forest floor, fungal, and carnal flavors that persist on the palate. Here is an uncanny alliance of the sensual and thought-provoking such as only great red Burgundy among the world`s red wines can engender, and if this wine doesn`t stimulate in you cravings and wonder at once, the fault is doubtless in yourself and not the glass. It seems to marry the brightness and finesse of the 2002 with the texturally richness of the (unexpectedly fine) 2000, two standouts in recent tasting of Romanee-St.-Vivant that I was privileged to attend. But there is much more depth here, and I expect that this wine`s beauty will be worth pondering and savoring for at least two decades. The Domaine de La Romanee-Conti harvested from the 20th-25th of September (commencing with Richebourg) and subjected the crop to rigorous sorting. Understandably, the viticultural meticulousness at this estate as well as its team of some 60 highly-skilled and motivated pickers paid dividends in the context of a challenging vintage. Director Aubert de Villaine and cellarmaster Bernard Noblet vinified their 2006s with a lesser share of stems and whole clusters, and exposed them to new wood for a shorter period (thereafter racking into older barrels) than the corresponding 2005s.","17950","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"MASS98B6","1","n/a","6","75","1998","Masseto, Tenuta dell`Ornellaia, Bolgheri","Ornellaia, Tenuta","n/a","n/a","n/a","Tuscany","Italy","Red","18.5","Jancis","The vintage that was too cool inland but produced some lovely, just-ripe-enough wines in Bolgheri. Each vineyard lot was vinified and aged separately. The grapes were destemmed and gently pressed before fermentation in wooden casks where maceration took place over a period of 2025 days and during which time the wine completed its alcoholic fermentation at a temperature not exceeding 30 °C. The wine was then racked and introduced into new French oak barriques where it completed its malolactic fermentation and remained for 24 months. The wine was then bottled and remained in the cellars for a further 12 months before release.
Very deep crimson. Aromatic and Cabernet Franc-like on the nose. Lovely combination of Merlot ripeness and the vintages freshness. At a perfect stage of evolution. Tighter and more focused than the 2001.","5400","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"ROUSCHAM06B6","2","n/a","6","75","2006","Chambertin, Rousseau","Rousseau","Grand Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","96","AM","The Domaine de La Romanee-Conti`s 2006 Romanee-St.-Vivant charts its own mysterious path, dissimilar to that of their Grands-Echezeaux, as well as reflecting the strides in quality that have manifestly been achieved in recent years in this site, more than at any other at this domaine. Iris, buddleia, and musky narcissus-like floral perfume; ripe purple plum and blackberry; sassafras and licorice; along with smoked meat and a hoisin-like amalgam of spices and soy all waft alluringly from the glass. The tannins here are ultra-refined and there is a vintage-typical sense of levity, despite all of the dark intrigue of enveloping black fruits, forest floor, fungal, and carnal flavors that persist on the palate. Here is an uncanny alliance of the sensual and thought-provoking such as only great red Burgundy among the world`s red wines can engender, and if this wine doesn`t stimulate in you cravings and wonder at once, the fault is doubtless in yourself and not the glass. It seems to marry the brightness and finesse of the 2002 with the texturally richness of the (unexpectedly fine) 2000, two standouts in recent tasting of Romanee-St.-Vivant that I was privileged to attend. But there is much more depth here, and I expect that this wine`s beauty will be worth pondering and savoring for at least two decades. The Domaine de La Romanee-Conti harvested from the 20th-25th of September (commencing with Richebourg) and subjected the crop to rigorous sorting. Understandably, the viticultural meticulousness at this estate as well as its team of some 60 highly-skilled and motivated pickers paid dividends in the context of a challenging vintage. Director Aubert de Villaine and cellarmaster Bernard Noblet vinified their 2006s with a lesser share of stems and whole clusters, and exposed them to new wood for a shorter period (thereafter racking into older barrels) than the corresponding 2005s.","18000","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"PIN19B3","1","n/a","3","75","2019","Le Pin, Pomerol","n/a","n/a","Pomerol","Right Bank","Bordeaux","France","Red","94","VM","The 2019 Le Pin is more oak-driven on the nose than its peers, creamy black cherries and blueberry fruit, lacking the intellect that one might have expected at this stage. The palate is medium-bodied with a lot of oak tannins, creamy with a torrefactory, singed leather element towards the finish. I don`t quite understand this Le Pin at the moment and wonder how it will evolve? A great wine being outmaneuvered by its peers at the moment. Tasted blind at the Southwold annual tasting. By Neal Martin on January 2023.","7945","IB","3x75cl","OC",
"PRODSTEF13B6","1","n/a","6","75","2013","Barbaresco Montestefano, Produttori del Barbaresco","Produttori del Barbaresco","DOCG","Barbaresco","Barbaresco","Piedmont","Italy","Red","95+","AG","A dark, brooding wine, the 2013 Barbaresco Riserva Montestefano comes across as quite virile today, with huge tannins and equally imposing dark fruit. Smoke, leather, licorice and game add to an impression of raw, almost unrestrained, power. There is not a whole lot of finesse here at least not now. The Montestefano is a wine painted in broad brush strokes that emphasize power over elegance. Then again, that is Montestefano. Readers should be in no rush to open the 2013.","340","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"GAJTIL11B6","1","n/a","6","75","2011","Barbaresco Sori Tildin, Gaja","Gaja","DOCG","Barbaresco","Barbaresco","Piedmont","Italy","Red","96","AG","An absolutely brilliant wine, the 2011 Sorì Tildìn bristles with energy, precision and tension. In this vintage the higher altitude of Sorì San Tildìn vis a vis Costa Russi comes through loud and clear. Freshly cut flowers, small red berries, mint, white pepper and crushed rocks are all very much alive in a striking, nuanced Sorì Tildìn that expresses both the class of this site and the generosity of the year.","1325","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"GAJRBC16B6","2","n/a","6","75","2016","Rossj Bass Chardonnay, Gaja","Gaja","DOCG","n/a","n/a","Piedmont","Italy","White","n/a","n/a","n/a","310","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"LEFLBAT15B3","1","n/a","3","75","2015","Batard Montrachet, Leflaive (Domaine)","Leflaive","Grand Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","93-95","AM","A pungent and more expressive nose offers up a broad assortment of aromas that include notes of matchstick, white orchard fruit and in particular white peach, exotic tea and plenty of citrus nuances. The mouth feel of the big-bodied flavours is notably more refined than usual yet the underlying power of a fine Bâtard is certainly present and especially so on the hugely long, firm and built-to-age finish. In a word, impressive.
Note: from 3 different parcels, two on the Chassagne side and the third in the Puligny sector that is near the border dividing the two communes
Drink: 2027+","2400","IB","3x75cl","OC",
"ALARCRVCAIR09B6","1","n/a","6","75","2009","Cotes du Rhone Villages, Cairanne, Alary","Alary","AC","Cotes du Rhone","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","90","JR","Bright purple. Sexy aromas of black raspberry, potpourri and blood orange, with an exotic touch of apricot that builds with air. Seamless and alluringly sweet, offering vibrant red and dark berry flavours lifted by tangy minerality. Shows excellent clarity and intensity on the long, spicy, mineral accented finish.","120","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"ALARCRVCAIR09B6","1","n/a","6","75","2009","Cotes du Rhone Villages, Cairanne, Alary","Alary","AC","Cotes du Rhone","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","90","JR","Bright purple. Sexy aromas of black raspberry, potpourri and blood orange, with an exotic touch of apricot that builds with air. Seamless and alluringly sweet, offering vibrant red and dark berry flavours lifted by tangy minerality. Shows excellent clarity and intensity on the long, spicy, mineral accented finish.","120","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"ALESBOSC06B6","2","n/a","6","75","2006","Il Bosco, Alessandro","Alessandro","n/a","n/a","n/a","Tuscany","Italy","Red","92","AG","Check Wine Searcher Price","155","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"ALTBVA00B6","1","n/a","6","75","2000","Barolo Vigneto Arborino, Altare (Elio)","Altare (Elio)","DOCG","Barolo","Barolo","Piedmont","Italy","Red","95","AG","A fabulous example of the vintage, the 2000 Barolo Vigneto Arborina offers gorgeous exuberance, yet also retains considerable freshness, especially compared to so many other wines of the year. The flavours are dark and boldly sketched throughout, but it is the wine`s voluptuous, layered personality that stands out most. Like so many wines in this tasting, the 2000 is a wine I would have like to spend more time with, as it just keeps getting better and better in the glass.","700","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"ANGERCHAM08B12","1","n/a","12","75","2008","Volnay 1er Cru, Champans, Angerville","Angerville","1er Cru","Volnay","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","Red","91-93","AM","This is decidedly less elegant but actually a bit more complex with iron and earth notes adding interest to the cool red pinot fruit aromas that slide gracefully into rich and full-bodied flavors that are underpinned by quite firm and serious but ripe tannins and excellent length on the long, mouth coating and impressively intense finish. As it usually is, this is a relatively powerful wine with excellent aging potential.","1430","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"ANGERCHAM15B6","1","n/a","6","75","2015","Volnay 1er Cru, Champans, Angerville","Angerville","1er Cru","Volnay","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","Red","93-95","AM","**Note: from a huge 3.98 ha parcel**
This is the first wine to exhibit enough oak to warrant mentioning though it`s not so much to dominate the spicy and earth black cherry liqueur-like aromas. The sleek middle weight plus flavors are given shape by the fine but dense tannins that carry over to the impressively persistent finish that is exquisitely well-balanced. This is an exercise in harmony and grace that should be approachable after 6 to 8 years if desired. Outstanding. Drink 2027+","565","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"ANGERCHAM17B6","1","n/a","6","75","2017","Volnay 1er Cru, Champans, Angerville","Angerville","1er Cru","Volnay","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","Red","91-94","AM","Once again there is a highly appealing freshness to the essence of red cherry, raspberry and floral elements, the latter of which is reflected by the sleek and relatively refined medium-bodied flavors that possess excellent punch on the beautifully persistent though markedly structured finish. This isn`t as refined as the Caillerets but there is slightly better mid-palate density.","505","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"ANGFREM15B6","1","n/a","6","75","2015","Volnay 1er Cru, Fremiets, Angerville","Angerville","1er Cru","Volnay","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","Red","92-94","AM","**Note: from a 1.57 ha parcel**
A notably ripe nose stops just short of surmaturite while displaying notes of plum, black cherry, earth and a pretty lashing of spice elements. There is a bit more size, weight and mid-palate stuffing to the velvety and palate soaking flavors that are shaped by a markedly firm tannic spine on the gorgeously persistent finale where the only nit is a barely discernible hint of warmth. Lovely but once again, patience required.","450","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"ARLMSDRUC02B12","1","n/a","12","75","2002","Morey-Saint-Denis 1er Cru, Les Ruchots, Arlaud","Arlaud","1er Cru","Morey St Denis","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","90","Cellartracker","n/a","1500","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"ARNSUC06B6","1","n/a","6","75","2006","Vosne-Romanee 1er Cru, les Suchots, Arnoux (Robert)","Arnoux (Robert)","1er Cru","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","91-94","AM","**Note: from a .45 ha parcel situated at the very top of the vineyard**
A more complex and beautifully layered nose features aromas of ripe cassis, blueberry and bitter chocolate with a trace of roasted coffee that introduce stylish, pure and detailed flavors underpinned by obvious minerality and refined tannins that confer a silky texture onto the explosively long finish. I quite like this and while it`s not as powerful as either the Ech or the Clos de Vougeot, it`s more refined. Lachaux proves yet once again that this is the reference standard for the vineyard.","2700","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"ARNLCHAU13B6","1","n/a","6","75","2013","Vosne-Romanee 1er Cru Les Chaumes, Arnoux Lachaux","Arnoux Lachaux","1er Cru","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","90+","VM","(50% vendange entier; 50% new oak): Full medium red. Very sexy aromas of red raspberry, pomegranate, mocha, smoke and earth. A suave, energetic midweight that shows the tension of the vintage, with red and darker berry and mineral flavours accented by subtle peppery spices. Finishes with firm tannins that avoid dryness. This sinewy, upright wine shows excellent drive for the year but little in the way of early sweetness. Lay it down.","2725","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"ARNLVOS16B6","1","n/a","6","75","2016","Vosne Romanee, Arnoux-Lachaux","Arnoux-Lachaux","AC","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","91","NM","The 2016 Vosne-Romanee Village has a complex bouquet with brambly red fruit, smoke and a slight peatiness that develops with time. The palate is sappy on the entry with fine but firm tannin. There is impressive fruit concentration here with a grippy and quite masculine finish. Give this a couple of years in bottle. Excellent.","2380","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"ARNLHM12B12","1","n/a","12","75","2012","Vosne-Romanee, Les Hautes-Maizieres, Arnoux-Lachaux","Arnoux-Lachaux","AC","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","89-91","AM","Here too the reduction is sufficiently strong as to make a proper assessment of the nose impossible. There is a bit more size and weight to the medium-bodied flavors that possess a robust, even muscular mouth feel before terminating in a powerful and moderately austere finish that delivers fine length for a villages level wine. This too is worth a look.","3600","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"BARTCRAS06B12","1","n/a","12","75","2006","Chambolle Musigny 1er Cru Cras, Ghislaine Barthod","Barthod","1er Cru","Chambolle-Musigny","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","92","AM","The most elegant wine in the range with its superbly expressive and perfumed nose of airy red berry fruit that serves as the perfect introduction to the strikingly detailed, understated and pure flavors that seemed chiseled directly from liquid limestone on the linear finish. This is like rolling rocks around in your mouth with Zen like harmony as a kicker. An exceptionally impressive wine with driving energy and this should be a 20+ year wine.","2700","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"BARTCRAS99B12","1","n/a","12","75","1999","Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru, Les Cras, Ghislaine Barthod","Barthod","1er Cru","Chambolle-Musigny","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","95","JM","Still a fresh colour with only a minor brick elegant. Beautiful sensual red fruit, in a really happy place, fully open yet very youthful, raspberry and redcurrant. Seamless lingering yet still with plenty for the future. Tasted: December 2021.","3600","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"BSALBRUT02B6","1","n/a","6","75","2002","Billecart-Salmon, Brut","Billecart-Salmon","n/a","n/a","n/a","Champagne","France","Sparkling White","n/a","n/a","n/a","600","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"BIZVERG13B12","1","n/a","12","75","2013","Savigny les Beaune 1er Cru Aux Vergelesses, Simon Bize","Bize (Simon)","1er Cru","Savigny les Beaune","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","Red","89","AM"," A markedly earthier nose displays additional notes of attractively fresh plum and dark currant aromas. There is good volume as well as solid delineation to the supple and vibrant flavours that exude a fine bead of minerality on the ever so slightly drying finish. It`s not clear whether the dryness, even though slight, is from mildly under ripe tannins or the sulfur addition from the recent bottling. My score offers the benefit of the doubt and I would advise drinking this on the young side as it`s quite forward.","495","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"HBOILMONT07B6","1","n/a","6","75","2007","Montrachet, Grand Cru, Henri Boillot","Henri Boillot","Grand Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","97","AM","This is also strikingly pure, refined and fantastically elegant and while the kaleidoscopic nose is more restrained and primary still, the density of the fruit with its associated depth is quite simply sublime. Notes of white truffle, citrus, rose petal, anise, brioche and clove merge into concentrated, powerful, delineated and stony flavors that are big but not necessarily massive and culminate in a finish that is even more persistent than that of the Chevalier if not necessarily finer. Still, what this gives up in delicacy it more than makes up for in size, weight and power. A classically proportioned Monty. Drink 2017+.","5690","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"MONTCAIL05B12","1","n/a","12","75","2005","Puligny Montrachet, Les Caillerets, 1er Cru, Hubert de Montille","Hubert de Montille","1er Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","93","AM","**Note: from a .85 ha parcel purchased in late 1992** An elegant, pure and wonderfully detailed nose that is at once classy and stylish gracefully gives way to the gorgeous, linear and energetic medium weight plus flavors that are silky and refined and brimming with minerality on the long, understated and strikingly vibrant finish. I really like this wine as it`s complete and makes a statement in its own quiet way. A wine to contemplate.","1600","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"MONTCAIL07B6","1","n/a","6","75","2007","Puligny Montrachet, Les Caillerets, 1er Cru, Hubert de Montille","Hubert de Montille","1er Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","93","AM","**Note: from a .85 ha parcel purchased in late 1992**
A reserved, even cool but supremely elegant and equally high-toned green fruit and spiced pear nose is in perfect keeping with the precise, intense and racy mineral-infused medium full flavors that possess excellent mid-palate density and the ample dry extract coats the palate and buffers the firm acid spine on the wonderfully long finish. This is classy juice with a really wonderful mouth feel.","690","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"MONTCAIL07B6","1","n/a","6","75","2007","Puligny Montrachet, Les Caillerets, 1er Cru, Hubert de Montille","Hubert de Montille","1er Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","93","AM","**Note: from a .85 ha parcel purchased in late 1992**
A reserved, even cool but supremely elegant and equally high-toned green fruit and spiced pear nose is in perfect keeping with the precise, intense and racy mineral-infused medium full flavors that possess excellent mid-palate density and the ample dry extract coats the palate and buffers the firm acid spine on the wonderfully long finish. This is classy juice with a really wonderful mouth feel.","690","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"BOISCNDP03B12","1","n/a","12","75","2003","Chateauneuf du Pape, Bois de Boursan","Bois de Boursan","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","91","VM","Pale, brick tinged red color. Suave, floral nose hints at dried rose, lavender, talc and wild strawberry. Understated, elegant and complex, with dusty red berry and floral flavours framed by very fine tannins that do not dry the palate. Finishes supple and long, showing an intriguing, old school blend of dried fruits and wild herbs.","360","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"BOISFEL03B12","2","n/a","12","75","2003","Chateauneuf du Pape, Cuvee Felix, Bois de Boursan","Bois de Boursan","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","96","TWA","The 2003 Domaine Bois de Boursan Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee des Felix is superb. Showing a mature, yet still lively and fruit driven profile of sweet currants, saddle leather, truffle, and garrigue, it stays beautifully rich and seductive on the palate, with layers of sweet fruit, no hard edges and a great finish. Certainly a ripe vintage, yet everything is perfectly proportioned, the tannins are sweet and it is a joy to drink. A blend of 65% Grenache and the balance a mix of Mourvedre and Syrah, from 90 year old vines, it held up beautifully with air and is a raging success in the vintage. It can be consumed now or over the coming 5 8 years or more. ","445","DP","12x75cl","OC",
"BOISFEL03B12","1","n/a","12","75","2003","Chateauneuf du Pape, Cuvee Felix, Bois de Boursan","Bois de Boursan","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","96","TWA","The 2003 Domaine Bois de Boursan Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee des Felix is superb. Showing a mature, yet still lively and fruit driven profile of sweet currants, saddle leather, truffle, and garrigue, it stays beautifully rich and seductive on the palate, with layers of sweet fruit, no hard edges and a great finish. Certainly a ripe vintage, yet everything is perfectly proportioned, the tannins are sweet and it is a joy to drink. A blend of 65% Grenache and the balance a mix of Mourvedre and Syrah, from 90 year old vines, it held up beautifully with air and is a raging success in the vintage. It can be consumed now or over the coming 5 8 years or more. ","445","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"BBOURFEL01B12","1","n/a","12","75","2001","Chateauneuf du Pape, Cuvee Felix, Bois de Boursan (Versino)","Bois de Boursan (Versino)","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","95","RP","The noble, elegant, complex 2001 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee des Felix boasts a deeply pigmented ruby/purple color as well as a classy perfume of graphite, crushed stones, blueberries, acacia flowers, and plums. The outstanding aromas are followed by a wine with vigorous richness, excellent elegance, tremendous precision, and significant flavour authority allied with both power and finesse. This beauty is one of the appellations most distinctive offerings. Patience, however, is required.","525","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"BOISFEL04B12","1","n/a","12","75","2004","Chateauneuf du Pape, Cuvee Felix, Bois de Boursan (Versino)","Bois de Boursan (Versino)","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","94","TWA","Made by Jean Paul Versino and the top wine of the estate, the 2004 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee des Felix is a fantastic effort in the vintage. Smelling like a street market in the south of France with its cured meats, herbes de Provence, saddle leather, earth and sweet core of fruit, it is medium to full bodied, balanced, textured and has notable structure that emerges with time in the glass. In short, its a beautifully made, traditional Chateauneuf du Pape to enjoy over the coming decade.","390","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"BOLLGA02B6","1","n/a","6","75","2002","Bollinger, Grande Annee","Bollinger","n/a","n/a","n/a","Champagne","France","Sparkling White","94","AG","The 2002 Brut La Grande Annee is marvelous. The 2002 is an understated Grande Annee that caresses the palate with layers of effortless, weightless fruit. The mousse is exceptionally fine, which adds to the impression of total elegance. This is a relatively bright, floral Grande Annee with plenty of aromatic lift, inner perfume and no sense of heaviness at all. A rich, creamy finish adds the final note of complexity and pedigree. The 2002 is 60% Pinot Noir and 40% Chardonnay, 71% from Grand Cru villages and 29% from Premier Crus. Disgorged February 2011. ","785","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"HBONCHDPMB00B1","n/a","6","1","75","2000","Chateauneuf du Pape, Cuvee Marie Beurrier, Bonneau (Henri)","Bonneau (Henri)","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","89-91","JR","Deep red. Thick, smoky cherry and black walnut aromas, along with suggestions of espresso and bitter chocolate. Dense and concentrated, showing a dark fruit profile and big tannins that carry through the finish.","220","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"BQDPGGPER12B6","1","n/a","6","75","2012","Chateauneuf du Pape, A la Gloire de mon Grand Pere, Bosquet des Papes (Boiron)","Bosquet des Papes (Boiron)","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","93","JR","Brilliant ruby red. Heady aromas of candied raspberry, garrigue and Asian spices, with a peppery nuance adding lift. Supple, sweet and focused, offering sappy berry and floral pastille flavours with suggestions of licorice and mocha. Closes sweet, taut and very long, with an echo of fresh red berries and no obvious tannins.","190","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"BQDPMERL12B6","1","n/a","6","75","2012","Chateauneuf du Pape, Chante le Merle VV, Bosquet des Papes (Boiron)","Bosquet des Papes (Boiron)","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","93","JR","Opaque ruby. Ripe, expansive blackberry and cherry scents are lifted and sharpened by peppery spices and smoky minerals. Juicy and broad on the palate, offering sweet dark fruit and floral pastille flavours that display unlikely energy and lift for their density. The smooth, sweet, smoky finish is framed by velvety, harmonious tannins. The label here reads 15.5% alcohol but I don`t detect any undue heat.","215","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"CNERPIET01B6","1","n/a","6","75","2001","Pietradonice, Montalcino, Casanova di Neri","Casanova di Neri","n/a","Pietradonice","n/a","Tuscany","Italy","Red","n/a","n/a","n/a","440","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"CATHMAL10B6","1","n/a","6","75","2010","Vosne-Romanée, Malconsorts, 1er Cru, Sylvain Cathiard","Cathiard (S)","1er Cru","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","93-95","AM","A restrained application of wood is unobtrusive and does not impede the expressiveness of the gorgeously spiced black cherry and cassis infused nose. The rich, powerful and robust large-scaled flavors possess excellent mid-palate density and plenty of extract that imparts a suave mouth feel yet the overall impression is a wine of focus and exquisite balance and persistence. This marvelous effort will require plenty of cellar time and I wouldn`t consider opening a bottle until at least 2020.","6240","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"CDBCDR13B12","1","n/a","12","75","2013","Corton Clos du Roi Grand Cru, Chandon de Briailles","Chandon de Briailles","Grand Cru","Corton","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","Red","91-94","AM"," Reduction. As it almost always is, this is the biggest wine in the range with plenty of size, weight and power to the big bodied and mineral driven flavours that possess excellent complexity on the tight, structured and very serious finale. Once again the mouth feel is firm but not hard though make no mistake, this bad boy is expressly intended to cellar for the long term.","1275","IB","12x75cl","OWC",
"CHAPBRAC09B6","1","n/a","6","75","2009","Chateauneuf du Pape, Barbe Rac, Chapoutier","Chapoutier","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","92","JR","Dark ruby. Ripe cherry and dark berry aromas and flavours are complemented by dried flowers, smoky herbs and licorice. Deep, rich and powerful but carrying no excess weight. Closes with strong punch and a persistent note of dark fruit liqueur. A deeper, more serious wine than the Croix de Bois but I prefer that wine`s elegance today.","325","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"CHAUVPER02B12","1","n/a","12","75","2002","Nuits St. Georges 1er Cru, Perrieres, Chauvenet","Chauvenet","1er Cru","Nuits-Saint-Georges","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","90+","ST","Red-ruby. Pretty, scented aromas of red cherry, licorice, dark chocolate and flowers. Sweet, supple and fresh, with stony and floral notes-not to mention a menthol coolness-giving lift to the flavors. Quite spicy and aromatic in the mouth. Lingering finish features clove and chocolate.","1050","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"CHOPDAM16B6","1","n/a","6","75","2016","Nuits St Georges 1er Cru, Les Damodes, Chopin (Arnaud)","Chopin (Arnaud)","1er Cru","Nuits-Saint-Georges","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","94","VVW","(100% Pinot Noir). Profound, smoky, cool and noble, red and dark berries, still somewhat influenced by wood, multi-layered. Accessible on the palate, delicate, with pressure and an impressive structure, extremely juicy, with the finest tannins and a distinctly aromatic finish. That`s quite pleasant Pinot (translated from German) Adrian Van Velsen -VV Wine.ch","355","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"CIAPVDPR07B6","2","n/a","6","75","2007","Brunello di Montalcino, Vigna di Pianrosso, Riserva, Ciacci Piccolomini d`Aragona","Ciacci Piccolomini","DOCG","Brunello di Montalcino","Brunello di Montalcino","Tuscany","Italy","Red","90","AG","Dark red cherries, menthol, smoke, tar, licorice and game emerge from the 2007 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Vigna di Pianrosso Santa Caterina d`Oro. A surprisingly dark and tannic wine with little of the vintage 2007 sexiness, the Riserva is a bit of a mystery today. There is plenty of depth and power in the glass, but less in the way of finesse. I am not sure if the tannins will soften before the fruit begins to fade.","500","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"CAILQUA01B12","1","n/a","12","75","2001","Chateauneuf du Pape, Les Quartz, Clos du Caillou (Vacheron Pouizin)","Clos du Caillou (Vacheron Pouizin)","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","93","ST","Deep ruby red. Brooding aromas of medicinal dark fruits and bitter chocolate; showing its syrah side today. Then superripe and sweet, with a terrific creamy middle and deep red fruit flavours. This manages to be extremely primary and bright yet also pliant and approachable. Finishes with very ripe, sweet tannins and terrific length. Distinctly finer than the regular bottling.","640","DP","12x75cl","OC",
"CAILQUA12B12","1","n/a","12","75","2012","Chateauneuf du Pape, Les Quartz, Clos du Caillou (Vacheron Pouizin)","Clos du Caillou (Vacheron Pouizin)","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","94","JR","Vivid purple. Deeply pitched black and blue fruit scents are complicated by notes of licorice and cola. In quite a different style than the Safres, offering sweet boysenberry and black raspberry flavours and a touch of white pepper. Tighten up on the finish, which clings with resonating spiciness.","480","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"CAILBOUDG04B6","1","n/a","6","75","2004","Cotes du Rhone, Bouquet des Garrigues, Clos du Caillou (Vacheron Pouizin)","Clos du Caillou (Vacheron Pouizin)","AC","Cotes du Rhone","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","88","JR","Medium red. Fresh red berry scents, with a hint of orange peel. Crisp, lively and pure, with bright raspberry and strawberry flavours carrying through a long, tangy finish.","120","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"CAILBOUDG04B6","1","n/a","6","75","2004","Cotes du Rhone, Bouquet des Garrigues, Clos du Caillou (Vacheron Pouizin)","Clos du Caillou (Vacheron Pouizin)","AC","Cotes du Rhone","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","88","JR","Medium red. Fresh red berry scents, with a hint of orange peel. Crisp, lively and pure, with bright raspberry and strawberry flavours carrying through a long, tangy finish.","120","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"ARMEPE99B12","1","n/a","12","75","1999","Pommard 1er Cru, Clos des Epeneaux, Comte Armand","Comte Armand","1er Cru","Pommard","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","Red","94","AM","(from yields of <45 hl/ha where the fruit was macerated for almost 5 weeks; the `99 has a higher percentage of 30+ year old vines than usual as the higher yields allowed more of the younger vine fruit to be allocated to the Pommard and Pommard "1er"). A genuinely brilliant nose that is at once extravagant and highly expressive reflects intensely earthy and spicy aromas that remain completely primary before giving way to opulently rich, round and notably sweet medium full-bodied flavors that deliver flat out incredible length on the mocha, velvet and mouth coating finish. Despite the higher than normal yields, this is really quite concentrated, seamless and exquisitely harmonious. In sum, this is a Clos des Epeneaux that should age for years to come, particularly in magnum format. Bravo!","1975","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"MONTTAI08B6","1","n/a","6","75","2008","Volnay 1er Cru Les Taillepieds, de Montille","de Montille","1er Cru","Volnay","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","Red","90-91","TWA","A strikingly marine and shrimp shell-tinged nose and palate with bright red currant and tart cherry fruit mark the de Montille 2008 Volnay Les Taillepieds, which allies white wine refreshment and minerality to intensely persistent fruit and a sort of turf-meets-surf finish that incorporates metaphorically dark, fungal forest floor shadings. Serving more for head-scratching than head-turning, this intriguing expression of its great site nonetheless incorporates a subtly satiny texture thanks to its ultra-fine tannins, and in the course of the coming 12-15 years one can expect its incipient sensuality to rise to its level of fascinating complexity, and for it to serve adeptly at table.","535","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"MONTCHRI05B6","1","n/a","6","75","2005","Vosne-Romanee 1er Cru Aux Malconsorts Christiane, de Montille","de Montille","1er Cru","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","96-97","TWA","Vinified to mirror the regular cuvee and named for de Montilles mother is a separate 2005 Vosne-Romanee Les Malconsorts Christianne from a half-hectare plot (easy to spot on any detailed vineyard map) that jumps the road and juts into the original La Tache. The result is a totally different wine and what a wine it is! Subtle brown spices, jasmine, orange rind mingle with moss, mineral nuance, and black fruits. Raw red meat and savory soy notes emerge on the palate. This displays singular textural refinement and elegance, purity and clarity of fruit, and an ineffable complexity of mineral nuances from stem to stern. The billowing richness of folds of black fruits set up a harmonious, almost Riesling-like call and response with minerals. ","6250","IB","6x75cl","RPK",
"MONTMAL06B6","n/a","2","1","75","2006","Vosne-Romanee 1er Cru Les Malconsorts, de Montille","de Montille","1er Cru","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","92-93","TWA","De Montille`s 2006 Vosne-Romanee Les Malconsorts comes from a share of that cru which as explained in issue 171 was sold by Liger-Belair to Thomas-Moillard in the same year (1935) that they sold neighboring La Tache to the Domaine de la Romanee-Conti. Smoke- and floral-wreathed ripe purple plum and black raspberry lead to a palate of impressive richness, fine-grained tannins, and the mysterious depth of floral, mineral, and carnal elements that spell "great Vosne." Tasted last from barrel, this finishes with formidable length yet a sense of lift, and has excellent decade-or-more potential.","235","IB","1x75cl","RPK",
"VOGCM109B6","1","n/a","6","75","2009","Chambolle-Musigny, 1er Cru, de Vogüé","de Vogue","1er Cru","Chambolle-Musigny","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","93","AM","**Note: all from younger vines Musigny** A similar but slightly riper and much spicier nose includes blue berry and plum nuances that precede the more obviously mineral-driven medium-bodied flavors that brim with dry extract. The extremely pure and utterly delicious finish is shaped by the dense but fine tannins that are given added energy by the perfectly integrated acid spine. This is a seriously lovely effort.","2390","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"VOGCM05B6","1","n/a","6","75","2005","Chambolle-Musigny, de Vogue","de Vogue","AC","Chambolle-Musigny","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","90","AM","An extract of dark berry fruit nuanced with intense floral aromas combines with rich, full and naturally sweet flavors that possess excellent concentration, volume and plenty of sap that renders the firm tannins to the background. This is one of those exuberantly delicious wines that you feel like drinking yet there is real depth and weight. An excellent villages that will age. Drink 2013+","1780","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"VOGMUS05B6","1","n/a","6","75","2005","Musigny Grand Cru, Vieilles Vignes, de Vogue","de Vogue","Grand Cru","Chambolle-Musigny","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","99","AM","Prepare to be transported. A positively brilliant nose of violet and rose petal shines against a background of intensely spiced extravagant red and black pinot fruit nuanced by hints of earth and stone and this minerality continues onto the surprisingly supple flavors that convey a remarkable sense of energy and power on the almost unbelievably intense, focused and structured finish that seems to go on and on without end. And the `05 VV has what all truly great burgundies have which is that extra dimension of power without weight as this carries terrific punch and power yet delivers that explosiveness with impeccable class and grace. While I am duly mindful of the many legendary wines this domaine has produced (see the database for all vintages reviewed dating to 1919), the 2005 could very well join the list of the all time greats, there is really that much potential here. Whether it will ultimately transcend the heights achieved by the 1919 or the 1949 (among many others) remains an open question, I have zero doubt that 2005 will be a genuinely great vintage for this wine. Brilliance personified and absolutely a `wow` wine, in fact, this merits a double `wow`.","7940","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"VOGMUSVV06B6","1","n/a","6","75","2006","Musigny, Vieilles Vignes, Grand Cru, de Vogüé","de Vogue","Grand Cru","Chambolle-Musigny","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","96","AM","This is also extremely floral with a reserved nose that is an airy, spicy and ripe mélange ofred and blue pinot fruit that displays really lovely violet and rose petal notes that are picked up by the minerally, intense andharmonious flavors that are beautifully proportioned and are blessed with ample amounts of dry extract on the essence ofpinot and explosive, energetic and hugely long yet incredible precise finish that is also built on a base of firm minerality. Thisis almost exotic in character yet everything is in beautiful concordance. In a word, great.","4790","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"DEUXCHAR05B12","1","n/a","12","75","2005","Meursault, Les Charmes, 1er Cru, Maison Deux Montille Soeur et Frere","Deux Montille","1er Cru","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","17","Jancis","Broad and sweet and easy but with good acidity underneath and some astringence at the moment. Should get there eventually.","840","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"DEUXSASG07B6","1","n/a","6","75","2007","Saint-Aubin 1er Cru, Sur Gamay, Maison Deux Montille Soeur et Frere","Deux Montille","1er Cru","Saint Aubin","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","15.5","Jancis","Rather loose and slightly hot. Also a bit astringent.","300","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"DEUXSASG07B6","1","n/a","6","75","2007","Saint-Aubin 1er Cru, Sur Gamay, Maison Deux Montille Soeur et Frere","Deux Montille","1er Cru","Saint Aubin","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","15.5","Jancis","Rather loose and slightly hot. Also a bit astringent.","300","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"DIFCDVRS01B6","1","n/a","6","75","2001","Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee du Vatican, Reserve Sixtine, Diffonty","Diffonty","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","91","ST","(a blend of 40% grenache, 30% syrah and 30% mourvedre) Bright ruby red. Blackberry, bitter chocolate, violet, mint and spicy oak on the nose; intriguing suggestions of mourvedre. At once dense and penetrating, with rather oaky flavours of blackberry, violet and eucalyptus. Finishes with a hint of leather, but also a slight dryness from the wood element.","165","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"DIFCDVRS01B6","1","n/a","6","75","2001","Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee du Vatican, Reserve Sixtine, Diffonty","Diffonty","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","91","ST","(a blend of 40% grenache, 30% syrah and 30% mourvedre) Bright ruby red. Blackberry, bitter chocolate, violet, mint and spicy oak on the nose; intriguing suggestions of mourvedre. At once dense and penetrating, with rather oaky flavours of blackberry, violet and eucalyptus. Finishes with a hint of leather, but also a slight dryness from the wood element.","165","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"CLOSCROT09B12","1","n/a","12","75","2009","Nuits St. Georges, Les Crots, Dom des Clos","Dom des Clos","n/a","Nuits-Saint-Georges","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","16.5","Jancis","Pretty closed at the moment on the nose. Dark fruit and suggesting freshness to come. And fresh it is, and more red-fruited than I expected on the palate. Scented and bright, delicately structured but long. (JH)","720","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"GLANPSAUS11B12","1","n/a","12","75","2011","Pommard 1er Cru Les Saussilles, Domaine Bernard & Thierry Glantenay","Domaine Bernard & Thierry Glantenay","1er Cru","Pommard","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","Red","n/a","n/a","n/a","600","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"GLANPSAUS10B6","1","n/a","6","75","2010","Pommard 1er Cru, Les Saussilles, Domaine Bernard & Thierry Glantenay","Domaine Bernard & Thierry Glantenay","1er Cru","Pommard","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","Red","17","Jancis","80-year-old vines yield an intriguing nose. Rich and sweet on the palate more depth and richness than some of his reds. Juicy. Just a tiny bit simple on the palate but satisfying. Tastes as though it will mature a bit earlier than some Pommard premiers crus.","500","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"MONTCAIL08B6","1","n/a","6","75","2008","Puligny Montrachet 1er Cru, Le Cailleret, Hubert de Montille","Hubert de Montille","1er Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","91","CellarTracker","-","660","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"LAMBLAM06B12","1","n/a","12","75","2006","Clos des Lambrays, Grand Cru, Domaine des Lambrays","Domaine des Lambrays","Grand Cru","Morey St Denis","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","94","TWA","The 2006 Clos des Lambrays is darkly-shaded in aromatics to match its darker color vis-a-vis its two littler siblings. Ripe plum and blackberry, burley tobacco, resin, and tar in the nose are transported to a palate that shares the sappy intensity, cling, and invigoration - via tart, spicy and tactile mineral impingement - that are common to this year`s Domaine des Lambrays trio. Here, hints of violet perfume and a lurking sense of gaminess add mystery. Black pepper, cardamom, berry skins, chalk, salt, and resin are featured in a tenacious finish of vibratory energy. The longer this was open to the air, the more it fascinated. I see no reason to defer the pleasures of its company now, but would expect it to be well worth following for 10-12 years. In retrospect, this seems to me the unequivocal statement of grand cru depth and complexity that I have been seeking without complete satisfaction in so many previous vintages of Clos des Lambrays.","2800","IB","12x75cl","OWC",
"DUTISCR12B6","1","n/a","6","75","2012","Corton Rognet Grand Cru, Dupont Tisserandot","Dupont Tisserandot","Grand Cru","Aloxe Corton","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","Red","90-93","AM","Moderate wood stops just short of fighting with the spicy and earthy aromas of black fruit, leather and game scents. There is outstanding richness to the fleshy and very generous broad shouldered flavours that also possess an abundance of dry extract that adds a sense of volume to the dusty and mouth coating finish that exhibits excellent length. This is a big but balanced effort that should reward mid to longer term cellaring.","660","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"DUTISGCCAZ10B12","1","n/a","12","75","2010","Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru, Les Cazetiers, Dupont-Tisserandot","Dupont-Tisserandot","1er Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","92","AM","A more deeply pitched nose of black raspberry liqueur, earth and spice is also more sauvage in character. There is excellent mid-palate density to the powerful and broad-shouldered flavors that possess a textured mouth feel before culminating in a precise, intense, impressively complex and very stony finish that delivers excellent length and punch. I have pointed this out before but the Dupont Cazetiers always seems to be particularly successful and the 2010 version is no exception.","1200","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"DURGEV17B12","1","n/a","12","75","2017","Gevrey Chambertin, Duroche","Duroche","AC","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","87-90","AM","Reduction and wood make for a pungent introduction to the bigger and richer medium-bodied flavors that are not particularly complex but they are refreshing and persistent. If more depth develops with a few years of bottle age this should merit the upper end of my projected range. Note: from Brochon Drink: 2023+","900","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"ESMOFRUC09B6","1","n/a","6","75","2009","Ruchottes-Chambertin, Grand Cru, Esmonin (Frederic)","Esmonin (Frederic)","Grand Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","93","AM","A completely different nose of truffle, discreet earth plus red and dark berry fruit aromas that precedes the supple and seductive mineral-infused flavors that are linear and strikingly persistent. This is not quite as complex as the Mazis though there appears to be the underlying material present to allow this to develop with sufficient cellar time.","1200","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"FAIVBEZ12B3","1","n/a","3","75","2012","Chambertin Grand Cru, Clos de Beze, Faiveley","Faiveley","Grand Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","93-96","AM","A spicy, fresh and highly restrained nose offers up aromas of both red and dark berry fruit, earth, sandalwood and a touch of the sauvage. There is the same fine complexity to the detailed, punchy, powerful and gorgeously textured flavors that possess imposing size and weight yet the finish is a model of grace, balance and refinement. This is not particularly austere but it is going to require extended cellaring before it is ready so I would advise buying this only if you have the patience to cellar it for at least 12 years and more would be better.","705","IB","3x75cl","OWC",
"FAIVCORCOR06B6","1","n/a","6","75","2006","Corton Grand Cru, Clos des Cortons, Faiveley","Faiveley","Grand Cru","Aloxe Corton","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","Red","91-93","AM","Discreet if not invisible wood frames earthy red pinot fruit that leads to serious, vibrant and wonderfully intense flavors that possess impressive size and weight and a bit less rusticity than usual, all wrapped in a gorgeously long and deep finish. I find it interesting that this is a bit less structured than a number of the grands crus in the range as this is normally among the most age worthy wines here, not that this is exactly a shrinking violet.","525","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"FEVVAL10B6","1","n/a","6","75","2010","Chablis Grand Cru, Valmur, Fèvre (William)","F","Grand Cru","Chablis","Chablis","Burgundy","France","White","95","AM","A reserved but elegant, incredibly pure and airy nose of supremely layered and stylish aromas of white flowers, green fruit, wet stone, sea breeze and oyster shell. There is exquisite detail to the firm and extract-rich flavors that possess arresting precision on the bone dry and painfully intense finish that does not seem to end. There is an interesting contrast between the lushness of the mid-palate and the precision of the finish and overall this is a classic Valmur of inimitable class that indisputably qualifies as a `wow` wine.","480","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"FICHTESS12B6","1","n/a","6","75","2012","Meursault "Tessons", Fichet","Fichet","AC","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","91","ST","Pale, bright yellow. High pitched aromas of orange blossom, lavender sea salt and spices. Brisk and intense, offering a nicely tactile mouthfeel to the flavours of ripe citrus and stone fruits and spices. A real essence of Meursault fruit. Finishes dense, saline and classically dry, with a minty lift. This is excellent.","400","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"FICHTESS08B6","1","n/a","6","75","2008","Meursault, Le Tesson, Jean-Philippe Fichet","Fichet","AC","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","90","JM","Clear bright pale colour, refreshing. Youthful nose, a touch of ripe fennel, plenty still in the tank here. The palate is beginning to develop nicely but the backbone of Tesson stays nicely in place Tasted: June 2018.","380","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"FICHTESS07B6","1","n/a","6","75","2007","Meursault, Tessons, Fichet","Fichet","AC","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","93","TWA","The 2007 Meursault Les Tessons reflects a site that Fichet likes to points out was once rated (in his view correctly) as among the commune`s best. This is subtle at every level, from its creaminess; through the intricate interviewing of chalk, salt, and hard-to-pin-down mineral nuances with citrus, herbs, pit fruits and liquid narcissus and lily perfume; to a finish of persistent, wafting floral essences, chalk, and mouth-watering, saline, meat-reduction savor. I`m convinced there is an inner richness here that needs time to come to fruition and will make this already superb wine a haunting experience over the next 6-8 years. Not without reason does Fichet call this -my premier cru.","390","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"FICHREFER09B6","1","n/a","6","75","2009","Puligny Montrachet 1er Cru, Les Referts, Jean-Philippe Fichet","Fichet","1er Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","n/a","n/a","n/a","420","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"FICHREF07B6","1","n/a","6","75","2007","Puligny Montrachet, Les Referts, 1er Cru, Fichet","Fichet","1er Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","92","TWA","Fichet`s 2007 Puligny-Montrachet Les Referts smells of carnation, fresh lime, and ginger; introduces toasted nuts and grains on a firm, palpably dense, faintly oily palate; and finishes with exuberant energy and striking lift, if not (at least yet) enormous complexity. This has the makings of something extraordinary with a few years of bottle age, and I would expect it to be worth following for more than a half dozen.","445","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"FICHREF08B6","1","n/a","6","75","2008","Puligny Montrachet, Les Referts, 1er Cru, Fichet","Fichet","1er Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","89-92","AM","A very subtle touch of wood highlights a highly expressive nose of lemon peel, pear, apricot and dried rose petal that introduces rich but finely detailed medium-bodied flavors that deliver excellent volume on the sappy, intense and vibrant finish. There is a good level of dry extract present and this should reward medium term cellaring.","420","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"FICHREFER10B6","1","n/a","6","75","2010","Puligny Montrachet, Les Referts, 1er Cru, Fichet","Fichet","1er Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","91-93","AM","A discreet touch of wood toast and full-on reduction renders the nose hard to evaluate. There is the usual generosity of a typical Referts along with excellent complexity to the intense, balanced, long and very dry finish. I like the depth of material and there is a firm but ripe acid spine that maintains good focus and should enable this to age and improve for the better part of a decade.","445","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"FICHREFER11B6","1","n/a","6","75","2011","Puligny Montrachet, Les Referts, 1er Cru, Fichet","Fichet","1er Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","n/a","n/a","n/a","420","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"FOLARBRSV06B6","1","n/a","6","75","2006","Romanee St. Vivant, Follin-Arbelet","Follin-Arbelet","n/a","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","18.5+","JR","Very rich and complete and exciting. Beautifully done. Positively reverberates in the mouth. Still lots of oak but sufficient fruit concentration to pull through I think. One of the 2006 reds I tasted with the greatest potential to age. 2012 - 2020","2155","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"FONDPERS04B12","1","n/a","12","75","2004","Cotes du Ventoux, Persia, Fondreche","Fondreche","AC","n/a","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","17/20","Jancis","The most ambitious bottling by far from this hard working producer. Interesting, dense, sweet fruit and great value. 90% Syrah and 10% Mourvedre.","180","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"FONDPERS09B12","1","n/a","12","75","2009","Cotes du Ventoux, Persia, Fondreche","Fondreche","AC","n/a","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","17/20","Jancis","90% Syrah, 10% Mourvedre. Very dark purple. Rich, round and full of guts. This vintage signalled a new era of finesse for Fondreche whose winemaker is proud of the fact that the terroir leaves a stronger impression on this wine than the 2009 weather. Still admirably fresh. ","180","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"FDMGCEJ09B12","1","n/a","12","75","2009","Chateauneuf du Pape, Cuvee Elegance de Jeanne, Font de Michelle (Gonnet)","Font de Michelle (Gonnet)","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","92","RP","The top wine is the seductive, 100 year old Grenache cuvee from La Crau, the 2009 Chateauneuf du Pape Elegance de Jeanne. This wine`s light ruby color is somewhat deceptive given its rich, fruity, fleshy, pure, silky style. Medium to full bodied with copious notes of kirsch, licorice, incense and underbrush, this luscious, succulent offering represents all the good things Grenache can be when made from old vines and low yields. Drink it over the next decade or more.","400","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"FDMGCEG01B12","1","n/a","12","75","2001","Chateauneuf du Pape, Cuvee Etienne Gonnet, Font de Michelle (Gonnet)","Font de Michelle (Gonnet)","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","93","RP","The luxury cuvee of 2001 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Etienne Gonnet reveals a deep ruby/garnet color with a purple hue. A broad aromatic display offers up scents of roasted Provencal herbs, ground pepper, smoke, sweet black cherries, truffles, and black currants. Full bodied and heady, with over 14% alcohol, it possesses abundant glycerin, superb concentration, and a lusty, complex, provocative style that coats the palate. Drink it over the next 12 14 years.","550","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"FNTGAGBAT11B6","1","n/a","6","75","2011","Batard Montrachet, Grand Cru, Fontaine-Gagnard","Fontaine Gagnard","Grand Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","94","AM","**Note: from a .30 ha parcel in Chassagne** There is a trace of exoticism here as well with a similar set of aromas though here the floral elements are more pronounced and the overall complexity is enhanced relative to that of the Criots. There is excellent precision and punch to the broad-shouldered, concentrated and very serious flavors that are shaped by a firm acid spine on the linear, explosive and markedly saline finish. This is terrific and possesses outstanding development potential. In a word, impressive.","2100","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"FNTGAGMON10B3","1","n/a","3","75","2010","Le Montrachet, Grand Cru, Fontaine-Gagnard","Fontaine Gagnard","Grand Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","96","AM","This wonderfully fresh Montrachet possesses the most aromatically complex nose in the entire range though it displays its gifts with admirable restraint. As big, rich, intense and overtly powerful as the Criots and Bâtard are, this goes them one better as the full-bodied and seriously concentrated flavors are borderline painfully intense before culminating in an explosively long and mineral-driven finish. At present this closely resembles a block of stone and it`s clear that this will require ample cellar time to arrive at its full, and most impressive, potential.","2100","IB","3x75cl","OC",
"FOURCHAMP06B12","n/a","6","1","75","2006","Gevrey-Chambertin, Les Champeaux, 1er Cru, Fourrier (Domaine)","Fourrier (Domaine)","1er Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","89-92","AM","This is more elegant and refined still, which is interesting since Goulots and Champeaux abut one another with an expressive and airy nose of red berry fruit, violets and the barest hint of wood that precedes the fresh, bright and admirably concentrated flavors that are supple, detailed and punchy, all wrapped in a mineral-infused, punchy and linear finish. This is really quite stylish in an understated fashion.","270","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"FOURMAZO15B6","1","n/a","6","75","2015","Mazoyères-Chambertin, Grand Cru, Fourrier (J-M)","Fourrier (J-M)","Grand Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","90-92","NM","The 2015 Mazoyeres Chambertin Grand Cru has a lifted bouquet with dark cherry and mulberry scents, just a little loose-knit at the moment. The palate is medium-bodied with chewy tannin, a little uncouth at the moment (especially compared to the Charmes-Chambertin), but there is good grip on the finish. Give this 4-5 years to mellow.","1620","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"GAILROS04B12","1","n/a","12","75","2004","Cote Rotie, Rose Pourpre, Gaillard","Gaillard","AC","Cote Rotie","Northern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","88","RP","Gaillards top cuvee, the 2004 Cote Rotie Rose Pourpre exhibits sweeter fruit, plenty of smoke, pain grille, and cassis, and a hint of tapenade. It is a very good, deep, attractive wine to drink over the next 5 7 years.","600","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"GALAROC07B6","1","n/a","6","75","2007","Terra di Lavoro, Roccamonfina, Galardi","Galardi","n/a","Terra di Lavoro","n/a","Campania","Italy","Red","97","AG","The 2007 Roccamonfina Terra di Lavoro announces itself with a blast of smoke, ash, red berries, flowers and minerals, all of which come together in a heady, exotic expression of Aglianico and Piedirosso, two of Campania`s thoroughbred grapes. There is incredible clarity and nuance in the glass despite the wine`s massive concentration. The 2007 is a very unusual Terra di Lavoro for its open, accessible personality and ripe, silky tannins, both of which are on full display. I am fairly certain the wine will shut down in bottle but today it is nothing short of glorious. ","250","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"GAROROCH13B6","1","n/a","6","75","2013","Cote Rotie, Les Rochins, Garon","Garon","AC","Cote Rotie","Northern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","92","JR","Glass staining ruby. Intense red and dark berry liqueur, spicecake and floral pastille aromas show excellent clarity and pick up mineral, cola and olive nuances with aeration. Sappy and penetrating on the palate, offering appealingly sweet black raspberry and cherry cola flavours buffered by zesty acidity. A smoky mineral note emerges on the gently tannic, tenacious finish.","360","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"GOULSG05B12","n/a","6","1","75","2005","Nuits St. Georges, les St Georges, 1er Cru, Henri Gouges","Gouges","1er Cru","Nuits-Saint-Georges","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","94","AM","**Note: 55+ year old vines** As it always is, this is certainly more elegant and slightly more complex as well than the Vaucrains with dense but pretty red fruit aromas that introduce pure and refined medium full flavors that are complex and balanced on the gorgeously long finish. This is brimming with potential as well and while it too will require plenty of patience, its class and grace could allow it to be approached in its youth and then a few years later as it ages. In a word, brilliant.","215","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"GVENVV06B12","1","n/a","12","75","2006","Chateauneuf du Pape Vieilles Vignes, Grand Veneur","Grand Veneur","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","92","JR","Bright ruby. Alluring aromas of framboise, cherry vanilla, potpourri and smoky minerals. Completely stains the palate with sweet red and dark berry compote flavours sexed up by candied flowers and vanilla. For a wine with such flavour impact this is shockingly lithe, showing excellent finishing precision and persistence. And it`s awfully seductive right now.","580","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"GVENVV07B6","1","n/a","6","75","2007","Chateauneuf du Pape Vieilles Vignes, Grand Veneur","Grand Veneur","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","92-95","JR","Saturated purple. Stunning bouquet of mineral laced raspberry, boysenberry and potpourri, with a strong note of licorice emerging with air. Deep and sweet but energetic, showing powerful red and black fruit flavours and a strong underpinning of graphite and iron. The boysenberry note recurs on the finish, which is strikingly pure, focused and long.","390","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"GVENVV09B6","1","n/a","6","75","2009","Chateauneuf du Pape, Vieilles Vignes, Grand Veneur (Jaume)","Grand Veneur (Jaume)","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","93","JR","(50% grenache, 40% mourvedre and 10% syrah, from vines that reportedly are over 50 years of age, with some over a century old): Opaque purple. Black and blue fruits on the nose, with vanilla, anise and violet notes adding complexity. Lush, palate staining blackberry and boysenberry flavours show excellent depth and are lifted by a bright, spicy quality. Echoes the anise and vanilla notes on the finish, which clings with impressive tenacity. I underestimated this wine last year.","300","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"GVENVV09B6","1","n/a","6","75","2009","Chateauneuf du Pape, Vieilles Vignes, Grand Veneur (Jaume)","Grand Veneur (Jaume)","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","93","JR","(50% grenache, 40% mourvedre and 10% syrah, from vines that reportedly are over 50 years of age, with some over a century old): Opaque purple. Black and blue fruits on the nose, with vanilla, anise and violet notes adding complexity. Lush, palate staining blackberry and boysenberry flavours show excellent depth and are lifted by a bright, spicy quality. Echoes the anise and vanilla notes on the finish, which clings with impressive tenacity. I underestimated this wine last year.","300","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"GVENVV12B6","1","n/a","6","75","2012","Chateauneuf du Pape, Vieilles Vignes, Grand Veneur (Jaume)","Grand Veneur (Jaume)","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","93","JR","Opaque ruby. Highly perfumed bouquet of ripe dark berries, potpourri and sandalwood, with a mineral note adding vibrancy. Round and seamless on the palate, offering sweet black raspberry and boysenberry flavours and a strong jolt of candied rose. Quite suave and approachable, finising with solid punch, gentle tannins and lingering spiciness.","185","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"GRIVRIC13B3","1","n/a","3","75","2013","Richebourg, Grivot","Grivot","Grand Cru","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","96","NM","Tasted blind at the Burgfest tasting in Beaune, the 2013 Richebourg Grand Cru has a slightly smudged bouquet at the moment, though there is impressive purity here and it gains delineation in the glass: red cherries, wild strawberry and a touch of orange rind. The palate is medium-bodied with sappy black fruit. There is a fine line of acidity that lends this the tension it needs to offset the concentration. Tightly coiled and backward on the structured finish, give this 5-7 years to mellow into what will surely be an outstanding Richebourg.","3220","IB","3x75cl","OC",
"GRIVRIC13B3","1","n/a","3","75","2013","Richebourg, Grivot","Grivot","Grand Cru","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","96","NM","Tasted blind at the Burgfest tasting in Beaune, the 2013 Richebourg Grand Cru has a slightly smudged bouquet at the moment, though there is impressive purity here and it gains delineation in the glass: red cherries, wild strawberry and a touch of orange rind. The palate is medium-bodied with sappy black fruit. There is a fine line of acidity that lends this the tension it needs to offset the concentration. Tightly coiled and backward on the structured finish, give this 5-7 years to mellow into what will surely be an outstanding Richebourg.","3220","IB","3x75cl","OC",
"GRIVREI12B6","1","n/a","6","75","2012","Vosne-Romanee 1er Cru Aux Reignots, Grivot","Grivot","1er Cru","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","91-93","NM","There is a solitary barrel of the 2012 Vosne-Romanee 1er Cru Aux Reignots this year, which is one more than there will be for 2013. This 2012 is being raised in one first used for the 2010. It has an understated but alluring bouquet with dark berry fruit, forest floor and citrus aromas, the stoniness developing reluctantly with time. The palate is medium-bodied with a candied entry. It is light on its feet, succulent to its very core but does not quite own the complexity or the structure of Les Beaux Monts on the straight-laced finish. Whoever gets one of the 300-odd bottles do let me know how this works out, but like Cathiards own Aux Reignots, I was just expecting more given the repute of this premier cru.","2100","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"GRIVREI13B6","1","n/a","6","75","2013","Vosne-Romanee 1er Cru Aux Reignots, Grivot","Grivot","1er Cru","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","90-92","AM","A very toasty nose displays a hint of cigarette ash though there is a broad array of spice elements to the black cherry liqueur and violet scents. The exceptionally rich and suave flavours possess a velvety mouth feel where an intense mineral streak adds lift to the lush finale where the wood resurfaces. While this is certainly a seductive effort it is carrying a lot of wood, indeed to the point that I`m not convinced that it will ever be able to fully integrate all of it. To be sure this is a perfectly good wine, it`s just a markedly toasty one.","1810","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"GRIVBM02B12","1","n/a","12","75","2002","Vosne-Romanee 1er Cru Les Beaux Monts, Grivot","Grivot","1er Cru","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","92","AM","More elegant and finer than the Brulees though this doesn`t have the raw muscle, spicy exuberance or power. As is usually the case, there is an appealing note of minerality on both the nose and the slightly chalky, sappy, very stylish flavors that build in intensity to an astonishingly long finish. This too is blessed with impeccable balance and undeniable class.","4000","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"GRIVBM05B12","1","n/a","12","75","2005","Vosne-Romanee 1er Cru Les Beaux Monts, Grivot","Grivot","1er Cru","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","92","AM","This is gorgeously airy and fine with beautiful aromas of floral and spicy black fruit and subtle hints of soy, Asian spice and anise that can also be found on the rich, detailed and minerally middle weight flavors that possess excellent transparency and near perfect balance. This offers real drive and energy but note that it is very firmly if not aggressively structured and will require a decade plus to really be at its best.","3700","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"GRIVBM13B6","1","n/a","6","75","2013","Vosne-Romanee 1er Cru Les Beaux Monts, Grivot","Grivot","1er Cru","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","92+","NM","Tasted blind at the Burgfest tasting in Beaune, the 2013 Vosne-Romanee 1er Cru Les Beaux Monts has a rather leafy bouquet, perhaps some stem addition here, nicely defined with bay leaf and thyme. It seems to grow in stature in the glass. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannin, moderate acidity but it has clearly shut down towards the finish and feels static. There is a very impressive wine here, however it will need 4-5 years before it entertains the idea of drinkability. Tasted September 2016.","995","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"GROFBON12B6","1","n/a","6","75","2012","Bonnes Mares Grand Cru, Robert Groffier Pere et Fils","Groffier","Grand Cru","Chambolle-Musigny","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","91-94","ST","(vinified with 33% whole clusters; racked two days before my visit): Bright, dark red. Lively aromas of cherry, raspberry and musky brown spices. Fresher in the mouth today than the Bonnes-Mares, showing a juicy, sappy quality to its dense blueberry, menthol and earth flavors. This savory, lightly saline wine delivers lovely fruit ripeness with lift. Finishes with sweet tannins and piquant hints of herbs and pepper. Again, a rather thick style of Bonnes-Mares but shows very good spine and energy. The crop level here was 35 hectoliters per hectare, according to Nicolas Groffier.","2240","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"GROFAM18B6","1","n/a","6","75","2018","Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru Les Amoureuses, Robert Groffier Pere et Fils","Groffier","1er Cru","Chambolle-Musigny","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","95","JM","A deepish solid purple with at firsrt a slightly murky mulberry note to the nose. The palate is much more exciting with that sweet hedonistic mouth-filling fruit which is so typical of Amoureuses. There is just the right level of acidity and a fine persistent finish. Possibly a slight volatility, but below the threshold of interfering with the wine. A little bit of sweet and sour rhubarb. Complex and currently ungainly but there could very well be a significant upside. Enormous energy at the finish.","3070","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"GROFBGNR05B12","1","n/a","12","75","2005","Bourgogne Rouge, Robert Groffier","Groffier (Robert)","AC","Bourgogne","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","84-87","AM","There is a bit more aromatic elegance here with earthy and somewhat somber dark berry fruit aromas that lead to rich, round and dense medium weight flavors that are delicious and intense on the moderately rustic finish. Good quality for its level and worth a look. ","660","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"HERMMIL13B6","1","n/a","6","75","2013","Morey St Denis 1er Cru Millandes, Heresztyn Mazzini","Heresztyn Mazzini","1er Cru","Morey St Denis","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","91-93","AM","A notably floral melange of red and dark currant, smoke and earth suffused aromas introduces detailed and energetic middle weight flavours. There is an unusually refined mouth feel in the context of the appellation, all wrapped in a firm, long and beautifully well balanced finale. This too will need time as it`s not going to drink well without at least 6 to 8 years of bottle age.","395","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"HERMCSD13B6","1","n/a","6","75","2013","Clos St. Denis Grand Cru, Heresztyn-Mazzini","Heresztyn-Mazzini","Grand Cru","Morey St Denis","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","91-93","NM","The 2013 Clos Saint Denis Grand Cru contains about 40% whole-bunch fruit and matured in close to 50% new wood. It has a perfumed bouquet, floral and refined, with hints of black cherries and dark plum. The palate is medium-bodied with crisp, slightly chalky tannins. There is great purity to this Clos Saint Denis, and a thrilling sense of tension toward the finish that I hope remains in situ once in bottle. Look out for this gem.","730","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"HERMMIL12B6","1","n/a","6","75","2012","Morey St Denis 1er Cru, Millandes, Heresztyn-Mazzini","Heresztyn-Mazzini","1er Cru","Morey St Denis","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","91-93","NM","The 2012 Morey-Saint-Denis 1er Cru Les Millandes comes from 70-year-old vines that tend to produce small berries. This includes nearly 50% whole cluster fruit. It has a very well-defined bouquet with dark berry fruit, sous-bois, minerals and dried rose petals. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins, a keen thread of acidity and a very composed and focused finish. This is one of their best wines, full of energy waiting to burst from the glass.","295","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"HERMMIL13B6","1","n/a","6","75","2013","Morey St Denis 1er Cru, Millandes, Heresztyn-Mazzini","Heresztyn-Mazzini","1er Cru","Morey St Denis","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","87-89","NM","The 2013 Morey Saint Denis 1er Cru les Millandes, which was raised with 50% whole-bunch fruit, has a ripe and generous bouquet with delineated raspberry, cranberry and slightly ferrous aromas. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins, harmonious and smooth in the mouth, though it does not quite have the complexity of the Gevrey premier crus toward the finish. Still, this is a decent Morey Saint Denis.","395","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"GLANVCAIL10B6","1","n/a","6","75","2010","Volnay, Caillerets, 1er Cru, Domaine Bernard & Thierry Glantenay ","Domaine Bernard & Thierry Glantenay","1er Cru","Volnay","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","Red","n/a","n/a","n/a","480","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"FNTGAGCAI10B12","1","n/a","12","75","2010","Chassagne-Montrachet, Caillerets, 1er Cru, Fontaine-Gagnard","Fontaine Gagnard","1er Cru","Chassagne Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","92","AM","There is enough reduction present to dominate the nose though there is a lovely freshness to the citrus and mineral-inflected middle weight flavors that display excellent cut, tension and drive on the chiseled, bone dry and clean finish where a saline note arises. This is still a bit youthfully awkward and thus it`s possible that this wine`s full potential is still partially hidden.","1000","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"MUDMUR13B6","1","n/a","6","75","2013","Nuits St Georges 1er Cru Murgers, Hudelot Noellat","Hudelot Noellat","1er Cru","Nuits St Georges","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","91-93","NM","The 2013 Nuits Saint Georges 1er Cru Les Murgers has a cohesive bouquet with red currant, raspberry and just a touch of tinned peach, quite Vosne-like in style. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannin, the oak needing a little more time to fully integrate. But it is endowed with a pleasant, endearing spiciness, almost fieriness that lends the finish intrigue. This has finesse and focus, constituting and supremely well-crafted 2013.","730","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"HUDRSV12B3","1","n/a","3","75","2012","Romanee St. Vivant, Grand Cru, Hudelot Noellat","Hudelot Noellat","Grand Cru","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","96-98","NM","The 2012 Romanee-Saint-Vivant Grand Cru comes from 0.48-hectares of vine planted back in 1920 It already boasts a show-stopping mineral-rich bouquet that offers astounding definition and focus. Terroir, terroir and terroir. The palate is medium-bodied with superb definition and so much freshness it does not know what to do with itself. Beautifully focused, refined and feminine, this might be the quintessential R.S.V. of the vintage.","2395","IB","3x75cl","OC",
"JADCDR05B6","1","n/a","6","75","2005","Clos de la Roche Grand Cru, Jadot (Louis)","Jadot (Louis)","Grand Cru","Morey St Denis","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","92-94","AM","There is quite a bit of torrefaction on the expressive nose that includes notes of dark berry fruit, mocha and cafe on the wood spice infused nose that merges into rich, dense, powerful and palate drenching flavors that are impressively concentrated and despite the ripeness, retain a fine sense of precision and length.","1080","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"LBOILGCCHERB09B12","1","n/a","12","75","2009","Gevrey Chambertin 1er Cru, Les Cherbaudes, Domaine Louis Boillot ","Louis Boillot","1er Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","93","AG","The 2009 Gevrey-Chambertin Les Cherbaudes flows from the glass with tremendous depth and richness. Dark blue and black fruit, violets and licorice are some of the many nuances that emerge over time as the wine becomes more delicate and feminine with air. This is another 2009 endowed with considerable freshness and verve. Anticipated maturity: 2019-2029.
These five 2009s all met or exceeded my expectations based on what I tasted from barrel during my last visit. Over the last few years there has been no shortage of fabulous wines in this cellar.","1050","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"FJOBCHAR07B6","1","n/a","6","75","2007","Meursault 1er Cru, Les Charmes, Francois et Antoine Jobard ","Jobard (Fran","1er Cru","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","17.5","Jancis","Quite closed at the moment and pretty tart on the palate, especially after the Genevrières. But the texture is very fine creamy without any excess weight. Just a baby. (JH)","525","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"FJOBCHAR07B6","1","n/a","6","75","2007","Meursault 1er Cru, Les Charmes, Francois et Antoine Jobard ","Jobard (Fran","1er Cru","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","17.5","Jancis","Quite closed at the moment and pretty tart on the palate, especially after the Genevrières. But the texture is very fine creamy without any excess weight. Just a baby. (JH)","525","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"FJOBCHAR08B6","1","n/a","6","75","2008","Meursault 1er Cru, Les Charmes, Francois et Antoine Jobard ","Jobard (Fran","1er Cru","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","16.5","Jancis","Nutty, honeyed nose. Medium weight rather than full-on charm.","475","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"FJOBCHAR08B6","1","n/a","6","75","2008","Meursault 1er Cru, Les Charmes, Francois et Antoine Jobard ","Jobard (Fran","1er Cru","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","16.5","Jancis","Nutty, honeyed nose. Medium weight rather than full-on charm.","475","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"FJOBCHAR05B12","1","n/a","12","75","2005","Meursault, Les Charmes, 1er Cru, Francois et Antoine Jobard ","Jobard (Fran","1er Cru","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","n/a","n/a","n/a","950","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"DOROUBEZ02B6","1","n/a","6","75","2002","Chambertin Grand Cru, Clos de Beze, Joseph Drouhin","Joseph Drouhin ","Grand Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","92","WE","Power and tannins mark this smoky flavored wine. Chocolate and black fruit show through the dry flavors. This is a wine that needs at least 10 years in the bottle. WE- Wine Enthusiast - winemag.com","3750","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"VEDECCAP08B6","1","n/a","6","75","2008","Chateauneuf du Pape, Cotes Capelan, La Ferme du Mont (Vedeau)","La Ferme du Mont (Vedeau)","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","17.5/20","Jancis","A collaborative project between grower Gabriel Rey and winemakers Stephane Vedeau and Claude Serra.
Bright, healthy crimson. Sample a little tired on the nose. Lots of depth and ripeness on the palate. Really interesting! Rich and full of ripe red fruits. Hedonistic and throat warming. Lip smacking. ","150","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"MONAVACVV08B6","1","n/a","6","75","2008","Vacqueyras, Vielles Vignes, Domaine la Monardiere","la Monardiere","AC","n/a","n/a","Rhone","France","Red","16.5/20","Jancis","75% Grenache, 25% Syrah and Mourvedre. Earthy, creamy, mushroom and Marmite aromas. Very umami. Leathery, menthol notes too. Still quite fiercely structural, and the alcohol seems hot. Lovely aromatic breadth, but the structure doesn`t quite harmonise. (RH)","180","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"MONAVACVV08B6","1","n/a","6","75","2008","Vacqueyras, Vielles Vignes, Domaine la Monardiere","la Monardiere","AC","n/a","n/a","Rhone","France","Red","16.5/20","Jancis","75% Grenache, 25% Syrah and Mourvedre. Earthy, creamy, mushroom and Marmite aromas. Very umami. Leathery, menthol notes too. Still quite fiercely structural, and the alcohol seems hot. Lovely aromatic breadth, but the structure doesn`t quite harmonise. (RH)","180","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"SPINBARBMIX00B6","1","n/a","6","75","2000","Barbaresco, Mixed, Spinetta","La Spinetta","DOCG","Barbaresco","Barbaresco","Piedmont","Italy","Red","91-94","ST","n/a","555","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"LACHBEZ05B6","1","n/a","6","75","2005","Chambertin Grand Cru, Clos de Beze, Lachaux","Lachaux","Grand Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","n/a","n/a","n/a","2275","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"LACHAMO05B6","1","n/a","6","75","2005","Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru Les Amoureuses, Pascal Lachaux","Lachaux","1er Cru","Chambolle-Musigny","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","n/a","n/a","n/a","2100","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"LAFVOLCHEN03B12","1","n/a","12","75","2003","Volnay 1er Cru, Clos des Chenes, Lafarge","Lafarge","1er Cru","Volnay","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","Red","90-92","TWA","Sporting a medium to dark ruby/purple color, the 2003 Volnay Clos des Chenes (red) explodes from the glass with spices, rose petals, dark cherries, and blueberries. Seemingly the ripest of the Volnays, it expands on the palate with copious quantities of candied black fruits, cassis liqueur, tar, and licorice. Medium-bodied, it displays outstanding depth and an extended finish that exhibits additional waves of fruit as well as loads of ripe tannin. Projected maturity: 2010-2020.","2100","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"MACMES04B1","2","n/a","1","75","2004","Messorio, Le Macchiole","Le Macchiole","n/a","Messorio","n/a","Tuscany","Italy","Red","96","AG","The 2004 Messorio is clearly the most complete of these 2004s. It is a remarkably elegant Messorio endowed with a seamless, layered personality that exudes generous dark plums, prunes, mint, licorice, smoke, chocolate and toasted oak. Despite its considerable appeal, it is a powerful, structured wine with a significant tannic backbone that will require patience. It shows well integrated tannins, superb balance, and a seductive, inviting personality that is absolutely irresistible. ","210","IB","1x75cl","OWC",
"HBOILPUC09B6","1","n/a","6","75","2009","Puligny Montrachet, Les Pucelles, 1er Cru, Henri Boillot","Boillot (Henri)","1er Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","94","AM","A very mild trace of reduction does not completely hide the honeysuckle and spiced pear aromas that complement rich, generous and lightly mineral-inflected middle weight flavors that possess simply stunning refinement on the long, dry and classy finish. This is an exercise in finesse but with plenty of flavor authority.","1190","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"LBOILVCAIL09B12","1","n/a","12","75","2009","Volnay 1er Cru, Caillerets, Boillot (Louis)","Boillot (Louis)","1er Cru","Volnay","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","Red","90-93","AG","The 2009 Volnay Les Caillerets is a wine that impresses for its energy and vibrancy. The bright red fruit shows commendable focus and nuance, with plenty of substance. This is high class juice. Here the vines are 55 years old. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2024.
Louis Boillot remarked that he and his wife Ghislaine Barthod were the first to harvest in 2009, but the last in 2008. In 2009 Boillot was concerned with losing the singular expression of site, hence his decision to pick on the early side. The 2009s were made from 100% destemmed fruit, as is the custom here. New oak reached a maximum of 25-30%. Boillot is among the growers who prefers the 2008s to the 2009s, which he describes as more faithful and transparent to site.","1000","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"RLECGRI12B6","1","n/a","6","75","2012","Griotte-Chambertin Grand Cru, Leclerc (Rene)","Leclerc (Rene)","Grand Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","n/a","n/a","n/a","845","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"LEFLPUCELL10B6","1","n/a","6","75","2011","Puligny Montrachet 1er Cru Pucelles, Domaine Leflaive","Leflaive","1er Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","91-94","AM","A broad-ranging nose is comprised of honeysuckle, anise, clove, lemongrass, brioche and pear. There is an appealing sense of volume to the beautifully delineated, serious, textured and energetic flavors that are both classy and stylish, all wrapped in a hugely long yet impeccably balanced finish where a touch of wood influence surfaces. A classic Pucelles of generosity and refinement that should amply reward up to a decade of cellaring.","2675","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"HBOILMOU10B6","1","n/a","6","75","2010","Puligny Montrachet, Clos de la Mouchère, 1er Cru, Henri Boillot","Boillot (Henri)","1er Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","93","AM","**Note: from 60+ year old vines and the vineyard is a whopping 4 ha monopole within Perrières**
This is slightly riper and notably more complex than the straight Puligny villages but the aromatic composition is similar save for the trace of mineral reduction that is present here. The racy, intense and strikingly well-delineated flavors possess that really lovely sense of underlying tension that adds lift to the stony, linear and bone dry finish. This is a knockout.","1130","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"HBOILPUC10B6","1","n/a","6","75","2010","Puligny Montrachet, Les Pucelles, 1er Cru, Henri Boillot","Boillot (Henri)","1er Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","93","AM","Here too there is a hint of sulfur but it`s not enough to really affect the expressiveness of the honeysuckle, acacia blossom, pear and citrus peel suffused nose. The rich, generous and mouth coating flavors brim with dry extract that pushes the otherwise firm acid spine to the background on the complex, intense, linear and bone dry finish. Indeed this is unusually austere and restrained for Pucelles.","1190","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"LEFLCHAR10B6","1","n/a","6","75","2010","Charmes Chambertin Grand Cru, Leflaive et Assoc.","Leflaive et Assoc.","Grand Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","17.5","Jancis","NB vintage. Several parcels belonging to one proprietor, in conversion in 2010. Pale crimson. Lightly peppery top note. Truly charming with a attractively salty touch. Very refined and much easier to read than the 2011. Polished and accomplished. Not forced. Some whole bunch depending on vintage 100% in 2010.","1290","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"LERBR09B12","1","n/a","12","75","2009","Bourgogne Rouge, Leroy (Domaine)","Leroy (Domaine)","n/a","Bourgogne","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","n/a","n/a","n/a","1880","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"LIGMCMCJ09B6","1","n/a","6","75","2009","Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru, Cuvee Jules, Lignier Michelot","Lignier Michelot","1er Cru","Chambolle-Musigny","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","89-91","AM","Almost invisible wood frames elegant and ultra pure red berry fruit aromas that are liberally laced with mineral notes that are also reflected by the round flavours that possess an almost soft mid palate though the finish firms up quickly. This is certainly a very pretty wine and very Chambolle as well though it doesn`t have the vibrancy and freshness of the best of these 1ers.","660","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"LIGMCMCJ10B6","1","n/a","6","75","2010","Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru, Cuvee Jules, Lignier-Michelot","Lignier-Michelot","1er Cru","Chambolle-Musigny","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","90-92","AG","The 2010 Chambolle-Musigny Cuvee Jules is gorgeous for its fleshiness and open, accessible personality. Freshly cut flowers, sweet red berries and spices are woven together nicely in this supple, easygoing Chambolle. The Cuvee Jules is made from parcels in Feusselottes and Sentiers. Anticipated maturity: 2014- 2025.","550","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"LIGMCDLR07B6","1","n/a","6","75","2007","Clos de la Roche Grand Cru, Lignier-Michelot","Lignier-Michelot","Grand Cru","Morey St Denis","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","93","ST","Good full red. Captivating aromas of plum, red cherry, rose petal, spices and underbush. Silky, suave and full but without any undue weight. Harmonious acidity gives this wine excellent definition. Finsihes with fine-grained tannins and terrific rising length. Since 2004, this cuvee has been a blend of 40% purchased grapes from 50-year-old vines and 40% estate vines that are 20 years of age.","1200","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"LIGMSDVV07B6","2","n/a","6","75","2007","Morey St Denis, Vieilles Vignes, Lignier-Michelot","Lignier-Michelot","n/a","Morey St Denis","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","88","TWA","Soy; herbal concentrates; as well as almond and pistachio oil, are allied with rich roasted meat juices and ripe red berries on a satisfyingly juicy palate in Lignier-Michelots 2007 Morey-St.-Denis Vieilles Vignes, which adds subtle smokiness to the array of fruit, nut oils, and herbal extracts in its finish. This displays a certain leanness I might more have expected from the 2008, but its persistent complexity should also hold up for at least half a dozen years in bottle. I found Ligniers 2007 Chambolle premier cru Cuvee Jules oddly astringent and unknit as well as reduced in February, and did not have time to taste other of Virgile Ligniers premier crus from that vintage.","360","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"MILANCHARM10B6","1","n/a","6","75","2010","Charmes Chambertin, Aux Charmes Hautes, Grand Cru, Maison Ilan","Maison Ilan","Grand Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","91-94","AM","This too is reduced. The cool, pure, intense and utterly delicious medium weight flavors possess a very sophisticated mouth feel due to the presence of extremely fine tannins, all wrapped in a long and highly complex finish. This is very stylish and I very much admire the exquisite balance of fruit and the perfectly integrated structural elements.","745","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"MILANLCHAM09B6","1","n/a","6","75","2009","Le Chambertin, Grand Cru, Maison Ilan","Maison Ilan","Grand Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","92-94","AM","A notably cooler and more restrained nose offers up notes of ripe red currant, wet stone, warm earth and a game note that can also be found on the rich, full-bodied and tautly muscular flavors that possess outstanding detail and verve on the very firm and mildly austere finish that seems to go on and on. Despite the youthful austerity, the mouth feel is really quite silky and like the Charmes, there is a lovely sense of balance and proportion.","1000","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"MILANCHAFF09B6","2","n/a","6","75","2009","Morey St. Denis 1er Cru, Les Chaffots, Maison Ilan","Maison Ilan","1er Cru","Morey St Denis","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","89-92","AM","Mild reduction knocks down the nose though it`s clear that the fruit is ripe with rich and relatively full-bodied flavors that possess good mid-palate concentration and plenty of buffering extract, all wrapped in a delicious, intense and well-balanced finish.","275","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"ROYGCJUS12B6","1","n/a","6","75","2012","Gevrey-Chambertin "La Justice", Marc Roy","Marc Roy","AC","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","89","AM","There is a background touch of wood to the restrained and more refined nose of black currant, dark cherry and marked floral scents. The appealingly well detailed, intense and energetic middle weight flavours possess a touch of minerality before terminating in a harmonious and beautifully well balanced finish. This is more elegant than the old vines but is less powerful. A qualitative choice but both are lovely in their respective fashions.","450","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"ROYGCJUS13B6","1","n/a","6","75","2013","Gevrey-Chambertin "La Justice", Marc Roy","Marc Roy","AC","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","88","AM","Here the nose mixes hints of dried flowers, earth and spice nuances with red cherry, currant and an herbal tea nuance. There is an even finer mouth feel to the pure, elegant and lilting medium weight flavours that possess a fine bead of minerality on the balanced and lingering finish. This isn`t quite as complex or concentrated as the old vines Cuvee but it`s definitely finer. Note that this should drink well early.","400","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"ROYPRI12B6","1","n/a","6","75","2012","Gevrey-Chambertin, Clos Prieur, Marc Roy","Marc Roy","AC","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","91","NM","The 2012 Gevrey-Chambertin Clos Prieur is blessed with a fragrant bouquet with fresh raspberry and wild strawberry infused with star anise that becomes more pronounced with aeration. The palate is medium-bodied with commendable complexity, supple mouthfeel, nicely controlled and a persistent finish. This is one of the best wines from Alexandrine Roy this year. Drink now-2019.","395","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"ROYGCJUS13B6","1","n/a","6","75","2013","Gevrey-Chambertin, La Justice, Marc Roy","Marc Roy","AC","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","16.5","Jancis","Produced since 2011, bought in 2010. Just at the top of La Justice near the road. Lots of sand which brings minerality. Early developing vineyard.
Round and sweet again. Quite charming but not at all heavy. Good density. ","395","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"MARCCNDP08B6","1","n/a","6","75","2008","Chateauneuf du Pape, Domaine de Marcoux","Marcoux","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","91","JR","Ruby red. Lively aromas and flavours of raspberry, five spice powder, herbs and lavender. Lush on entry then tighter in the middle, showing sweet red fruit flavours and a sexy note of candied flowers. Already harmonious and complex, with very good finishing cut and lingering florality.","270","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"MARCCNDP08B6","1","n/a","6","75","2008","Chateauneuf du Pape, Domaine de Marcoux","Marcoux","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","91","JR","Ruby red. Lively aromas and flavours of raspberry, five spice powder, herbs and lavender. Lush on entry then tighter in the middle, showing sweet red fruit flavours and a sexy note of candied flowers. Already harmonious and complex, with very good finishing cut and lingering florality.","270","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"MARCCNDP10B6","2","n/a","6","75","2010","Chateauneuf du Pape, Domaine de Marcoux","Marcoux","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","93","RP","The 2010 Chateauneuf du Pape was fashioned from yields of 12 hectoliters per hectare and is a blend of 74% Grenache, 14% Mourvedre, 9% Syrah and 3% Cinsault aged primarily in cement tanks with one third spending time in truncated wood foudres. It exhibits a deep ruby/purple color, stunning concentration and lots of raspberry, cassis, blueberry and acacia flower notes. With plenty of glycerin, sweet tannin, a long, heady finish and 15%+ alcohol, it should evolve effortlessly for 15 or more years. ","295","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"MARCCDPVV04B12","1","n/a","12","75","2004","Chateauneuf du Pape, Vielles Vignes, Domaine de Marcoux","Marcoux","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","95","JR","Dark red. Incredibly fragrant nose offers intense scents of raspberry, blackberry and kirsch underscored by a vibrant mineral tone. Lush, creamy and very sweet, with strong red and dark fruit flavours, exotic spice accents and a smooth, velour like texture. Whatever tannins this might have are completely absorbed by the deep, concentrated fruit. Finishes very sweet, with exceptional length and bright mineral lift.","940","IB","12x75cl","OWC",
"MDBCDQ09B6","1","n/a","6","75","2009","Chateauneuf du Pape, Cuvee de Quet, Mas de Boislauzon","Mas de Boislauzon","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","90","JR","(80% grenache and 20% mourvedre): Opaque purple. Powerful aromas of roasted dark fruits, olive, licorice and potpourri. Broad and densely packed, offering ripe blackberry and cassis flavours and a touch of candied flowers. Extremely rich but shows surprising energy on the finish, with the licorice and floral notes echoing. Nothing shy about this wine.","280","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"MDBCDQ12B12","1","n/a","12","75","2012","Chateauneuf du Pape, Cuvee de Quet, Mas de Boislauzon","Mas de Boislauzon","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","93","JR","Opaque ruby. Deeply pitched black and blue fruit aromas are lifted and sharpened by a spicy nuance and a hint of fresh violet. The sappy, sharply focused blackberry and boysenberry flavours show a surprisingly light touch for their power. Closes supple and sweet, with velvety tannins lending shape. This suave wine is round, seamless and extremely appealing now but it has enough depth to ensure a slow and graceful evolution in bottle.","690","IB","12x75cl","OWC",
"LBOILVCAIL10B6","1","n/a","6","75","2010","Volnay 1er Cru, Caillerets, Boillot (Louis)","Boillot (Louis)","1er Cru","Volnay","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","Red","92-94","AG","The 2010 Volnay Les Caillerets explodes on the palate with layers of mineral-infused dark red fruit, flowers, mint and crushed rocks. There is an exuberance and energy here that is remarkable. I love the wines focus and sheer verve. Frankly, it is very hard to spit the Caillerets. This is a great showing. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2030.
The 2010 vintage was not especially kind to Louis Boillot. The December 2009 frost wiped out the vineyard Boillot used for his Bourgogne, so naturally that wine was not made. The Fixin yields were tiny (just one barrel) and that wine was blended into the Cote de Nuits Villages. Overall yields were down 40-50%, although some parcels were hit even harder. The Caillerets, Croix Noires and Cherbaudes were down 50% and the Pommard was down 60%. The harvest started on September 22 and lasted about a week. The wines were aged in 25-30% new oak. Malos were very slow and were not finished until September 2011, quite late even by standards of the year. On a much more positive note, the wines themselves are fabulous and deserve serious attention. Unfortunately, the 2010 Pommard Les Croix Noires and Chambolle-Musigny Beaux Bruns were too reduced to evaluate, so I will have to wait for another opportunity to taste those wines. I will report on the 2009s in the April issue.","540","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"HBOILMOU11B6","1","n/a","6","75","2011","Puligny Montrachet, Clos de la Mouchère, 1er Cru, Henri Boillot","Boillot (Henri)","1er Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","94","AM","A very mild hint of reduction reduces the expressiveness of the otherwise cool and pure floral, citrus rind, stone and soft spice notes. There is plenty of volume to the rich, intense and mouth coating middle weight flavors that exude a fine minerality on the gorgeously complex, strikingly well-delineated and bone dry finish. This saline-infused and clearly built-to-age effort is spectacular.","1020","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"HBOILPUC11B6","1","n/a","6","75","2011","Puligny Montrachet, Les Pucelles, 1er Cru, Henri Boillot","Boillot (Henri)","1er Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","94","AM","A strikingly well-layered, elegant and pure nose of honeysuckle, apple, pear and notably ripe white orchard fruit aromas are trimmed in soft wood. There is a lovely sense of freshness to the cool and restrained yet succulent medium weight flavors that possess a highly sophisticated mouth feel before terminating in a balanced, classy and stunningly intense finish. This offers absolutely crystalline purity and epitomizes Pucelles at its finest.","1080","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"MORDBOIS12B6","1","n/a","6","75","2012","Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Reine des Bois, Mordoree","Mordoree","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","95","JD","One of the blockbusters in the vintage, the inky coloured 2012 Chateauneuf du Pape La Reine des Bois 80% Grenache, completely destemmed and aged 12 months in 80% stainless steel and 20% old barrels offers fantastic richness and depth in its blackberry liqueur, graphite, wood smoke and crushed rock like aromas and flavours. An elegant, stylish and polished example of this cuvee, it comes closest in my mind to a lighter weight 2010. Medium to full bodied, concentrated and with fine tannin, it will drink well for 10 15 years.","210","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"MORDBOIS12B6","1","n/a","6","75","2012","Chateauneuf du Pape, Cuvee Reine des Bois, Mordoree","Mordoree","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","94","JR","Inky ruby. High pitched red and dark berry scents are complemented by suggestions of candied flowers and smoky Indian spices. Silky, sweet and palate staining, offering intense black raspberry and blueberry flavours and an exotic twist of blood orange. Manages to be both powerful and lithe, finishing with harmonious tannins and outstanding clarity and length.","210","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"MCOFFAIR05B12","1","n/a","12","75","2005","Chassagne Montrachet, Les Fairendes, 1er Cru, Morey-Coffinet","Morey-Coffinet","1er Cru","Chassagne Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","90","WS","-","840","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"MORTGCHVV06B12","1","n/a","12","75","2006","Gevrey Chambertin, Vieilles Vignes, Domaine Denis Mortet","Mortet (Denis)","AC","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","90","TWA","From 60-80 year old vines in En Champ, Combe du Dessus (by his cuverie) and several smaller estate parcels north of the village, Mortet`s 2006 Gevrey-Chambertin Vieilles Vignes received 75% new wood, but the evidence has been buried. Scents of rose hip, dark cherry, and indefinite floral perfumes lead into a silken, subtly saline and savory palate that strikes a thought-provoking as well as sensually satisfying balance between elements carnal, mineral, and fruity. This displays the lift and refinement that render so many 2006s charming, and while it will probably hold up well to 5-7 years of bottle age, I can see no reason for long-deferring the pleasure of its company.","2690","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"MORTGCHVV07B6","1","n/a","6","75","2007","Gevrey Chambertin, Vieilles Vignes, Domaine Denis Mortet","Mortet (Denis)","AC","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","89","AM","Less expressive cool dark pinot fruit aromas speak of earth, musk and sauvage notes that transfer over to the very round, rich and suave, indeed even lush medium full-bodied flavors that are supple and mouth coating as the amount of dry extract present is impressive, which confers a very textured and opulent mouth feel onto the solidly deep and persistent finish. This isn`t elegant but this should please those who enjoy very plush burgs. Note: from vines over 50 years of age","1350","IB","6x75cl","RPK",
"MORTGEV10B6","1","n/a","6","75","2010","Gevrey-Chambertin, Domaine Denis Mortet","Mortet (Denis)","AC","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","90-92","AG","The 2010 Gevrey-Chambertin is a very serious wine at this level. It boasts incredible finesse and sheer energy in a polished, pure expression of Gevrey. Ripe red berries, minerals and licorice are some of the notes that inform the wiry, intense finish. The average age of the vines is 40 years. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2025. TWA.","775","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"MUGCHA05B6","1","n/a","6","75","2005","Chambolle-Musigny, Jacques-Frederic Mugnier","Mugnier","AC","Chambolle-Musigny","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","90","AM","An elegant, ripe and seductive nose of red, blue and violet aromas that are pure and very fresh lead to refined, rich and again, ultra pure flavors that are delicious, vibrant and offer excellent volume at this level. A terrific villages of 1er quality and worth a close look.","3000","IB","6x75cl","RPK",
"MUGCHA06B3","n/a","2","1","75","2006","Chambolle-Musigny, Jacques-Frederic Mugnier","Mugnier","AC","Chambolle-Musigny","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","89","AM","Gorgeously pure ripe dark raspberry aromas complement nicely concentrated, rich, fresh and vibrant flavors that possess a seductive and mouth coating texture on the balanced, delicious and relatively forward finish. This is very Chambolle and worth a look as it is a fine villages.","332","IB","1x75cl","RPK",
"MUGCHA09B6","1","n/a","6","75","2009","Chambolle-Musigny, Jacques-Frederic Mugnier","Mugnier","AC","Chambolle-Musigny","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","87-89","AM","A very fresh and quite expressive red berry fruit nose displays a very subtle hint of spiciness that continues onto the rich, generous and mouth coating middle weight flavors that exude a fine minerality on the delicious and solidly lingering finish. This has the balance to age but with the fat to allow it to be enjoyed young.","2400","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"MUGMAR06B6","1","n/a","6","75","2006","Nuits St Georges 1er Cru, Clos de la Marechale, Jacques-Frederic Mugnier","Mugnier","1er Cru","Nuits-Saint-Georges","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","91","AM","Here the nose is understandably quite similar to the nose of the Fourche with an earthy and moderately sauvage nose of dark berry fruit, underbrush and a hint of stone that is picked up by the rich, sweet and intense yet stylish medium full flavors that are unusually pure for a typical Nuits while wrapped in a finish supported by quite firm, dusty and mouth coating tannins. This possesses really fine depth and the firm structure is sufficiently buried that the finish appears less structured than it really is.","995","IB","6x75cl","Not Known",
"MUGMAR08B12","1","n/a","12","75","2008","Nuits St Georges 1er Cru, Clos de la Marechale, Jacques-Frederic Mugnier","Mugnier","1er Cru","Nuits-Saint-Georges","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","90","AM","A distinctly earthy and anise-infused mix of sour cherry and blue berry fruit that displays whiffs of crushed herbs and pepper merges into detailed, pure and almost delicate middle weight flavors that possess a sophisticated mouth feel and fine length. I should point out though that while there is no rusticity present, the very firm tannins are not as refined as those of the Fuees.","1790","IB","12x75cl","OWC",
"MUGMAR09B6","1","n/a","6","75","2009","Nuits St Georges 1er Cru, Clos de la Marechale, Jacques-Frederic Mugnier","Mugnier","1er Cru","Nuits-Saint-Georges","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","92","AM","I clearly misjudged this because while this is slightly riper than its 2010 counterpart with its mildly exotic yellow fruit aromas of honey, straw, peach and mango, there is genuinely excellent depth to the textured and opulent middle weight flavors that really coat the palate with dry extract. But it`s the impressive length that really sets this apart from the 2010 because while this is a powerful vintage for the Clos de la Marechale, it is the moderately firm acid spine that shapes the finish and imparts a real sense of focus.","1245","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"MUGMAR10B6","1","n/a","6","75","2010","Nuits St Georges 1er Cru, Clos de la Marechale, Jacques-Frederic Mugnier","Mugnier","1er Cru","Nuits-Saint-Georges","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","91","AM","True to the Mugnier style, this is also wonderfully pure with its expressive nose of earthy red pinot fruit that also exhibits notes of underbrush and a mineral component that is picked up by the vibrant and well-delineated middle weight flavors. The mid-palate is relatively refined and the Nuits origins don`t really show up until the firm and mouth coating finish and even then it`s more in the way of muscle than rusticity. Lovely.","1190","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"MUGFOUR08B6","1","n/a","6","75","2008","Nuits St Georges, Clos des Fourches, Jacques-Frederic Mugnier","Mugnier","AC","Nuits-Saint-Georges","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","89","AM","An exceptionally fresh nose of earthy red currants is liberally laced with earth and herbal notes that lead to detailed, energetic and attractively intense middle weight flavors that possess good depth on the sour cherry finish that is clean, lingering and displays ample underlying tension. A fine villages.","1200","IB","6x75cl","RPK",
"GNOEVR12B6","1","n/a","6","75","2012","Vosne Romanee, Noellat (Georges)","Noellat (Georges)","AC","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","87-90","AM","Soft wood sets off the subtly spiced red berry fruit aromas that lead to round, delicious and admirably detailed middle weight flavors that possess a refined mouth feel, all wrapped in a balanced and lingering finish. This is lighter in style but the purity of expression is really lovely.","600","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"OGIERLANCE11B3","1","n/a","3","75","2011","Cote Rotie, Lancement, Domaine Michel et Stephane Ogier","Ogier","AC","Cote Rotie","Northern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","93","JR","Deep ruby. Highly expressive aromas of candied red and dark berries, along with suggestions of potpourri and smoky minerals. Sweet and seamless on the palate, offering intense raspberry and boysenberry flavours that become fleshier with air. Pure and precise, finishing with excellent clarity and lift thanks to juicy acidity. Fine grained tannins come in late and add shape to the long, spicy, floral finish. Ogier compared this wine to his 2007 and predicts that it will probably never really close down.","505","IB","3x75cl","OWC",
"OGIERLANCE11B3","1","n/a","3","75","2011","Cote Rotie, Lancement, Domaine Michel et Stephane Ogier","Ogier","AC","Cote Rotie","Northern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","93","JR","Deep ruby. Highly expressive aromas of candied red and dark berries, along with suggestions of potpourri and smoky minerals. Sweet and seamless on the palate, offering intense raspberry and boysenberry flavours that become fleshier with air. Pure and precise, finishing with excellent clarity and lift thanks to juicy acidity. Fine grained tannins come in late and add shape to the long, spicy, floral finish. Ogier compared this wine to his 2007 and predicts that it will probably never really close down.","505","IB","3x75cl","OWC",
"OGIERLANCE11B3","1","n/a","3","75","2011","Cote Rotie, Lancement, Domaine Michel et Stephane Ogier","Ogier","AC","Cote Rotie","Northern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","93","JR","Deep ruby. Highly expressive aromas of candied red and dark berries, along with suggestions of potpourri and smoky minerals. Sweet and seamless on the palate, offering intense raspberry and boysenberry flavours that become fleshier with air. Pure and precise, finishing with excellent clarity and lift thanks to juicy acidity. Fine grained tannins come in late and add shape to the long, spicy, floral finish. Ogier compared this wine to his 2007 and predicts that it will probably never really close down.","505","IB","3x75cl","OWC",
"OGIERLANCE12B3","1","n/a","3","75","2012","Cote Rotie, Lancement, Domaine Michel et Stephane Ogier","Ogier","AC","Cote Rotie","Northern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","95","JR","Glass staining ruby. Pungent, deep pitched red berry and spicecake aromas are complicated by suggestions of smoky minerals and candied flowers. Juicy, focused and pure on the palate, offering vibrant raspberry and boysenberry flavours that put on weight and become spicier with air. Finishes with outstanding energy and persistence, displaying lingering spiciness and velvety tannins that sneak in slowly.","585","IB","3x75cl","OWC",
"OGIERLANCE12B3","1","n/a","3","75","2012","Cote Rotie, Lancement, Domaine Michel et Stephane Ogier","Ogier","AC","Cote Rotie","Northern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","95","JR","Glass staining ruby. Pungent, deep pitched red berry and spicecake aromas are complicated by suggestions of smoky minerals and candied flowers. Juicy, focused and pure on the palate, offering vibrant raspberry and boysenberry flavours that put on weight and become spicier with air. Finishes with outstanding energy and persistence, displaying lingering spiciness and velvety tannins that sneak in slowly.","585","IB","3x75cl","OWC",
"OGIERLANCE12B3","1","n/a","3","75","2012","Cote Rotie, Lancement, Domaine Michel et Stephane Ogier","Ogier","AC","Cote Rotie","Northern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","95","JR","Glass staining ruby. Pungent, deep pitched red berry and spicecake aromas are complicated by suggestions of smoky minerals and candied flowers. Juicy, focused and pure on the palate, offering vibrant raspberry and boysenberry flavours that put on weight and become spicier with air. Finishes with outstanding energy and persistence, displaying lingering spiciness and velvety tannins that sneak in slowly.","585","IB","3x75cl","OWC",
"HBOILRUG12B6","1","n/a","6","75","2012","Pommard 1er Cru Rugiens, Henri Boillot ","Boillot (Henri)","1er Cru","Pommard","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","Red","92","AM","This is a notable step up in both aromatic elegance and complexity with its layered nose of plum, anise, violet and spice nuances. There is a wonderfully intense and refined mouth feel to the broad shouldered and punchy medium weight flavours that are built on a base of firm minerality. I very much like the depth and length here and while there is still enough unabsorbed wood to notice on the beautifully persistent finish it should be completely integrated with a few years of bottle age. Good stuff.","470","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"HBOILVOLCAIL12B6","1","n/a","6","75","2012","Volnay 1er Cru Caillerets, Henri Boillot","Boillot (Henri)","1er Cru","Volnay","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","Red","94","ST","Deep red-ruby. Highly complex aromas of currant, chocolate, menthol, minerals and wild herbs complemented by a sexy earthy perfume. Thick, dense and deep but without any heaviness to the superrich dark fruit and soil flavors. Utterly lush and seamless wine with suave, noble tannins and oustanding palate-staining persistence. I could barely tell when I had spit the wne as it finishes with uncanny cling.","445","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"POLROSE02B6","1","n/a","6","75","2002","Pol Roger Rose","Pol Roger","n/a","n/a","n/a","Champagne","France","Sparkling Rose","92","AG","(50% pinot noir, 35% chardonnay and 15% pinot meunier) Light, bright pink. Bright, expressive aromas of redcurrant, wild strawberry, white flowers and Asian spices, with a chalky undertone. Deeper cherry, licorice and subtle smoky qualities join the nervy red fruits on the velvety palate. Puts on weight with air, finishing with solid grip and lingering smoke and floral notes. This could still use some bottle age but there`s enough complexity for guilt-free drinking now.","585","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"POLBDB02B6","1","n/a","6","75","2002","Pol Roger, Blanc de Blancs","Pol Roger","n/a","n/a","n/a","Champagne","France","Sparkling White","95","VM","Pale gold. Intense, mineral-dominated aromas of candied citrus fruits, pear, anise, smoky lees and chamomile, plus a sexy floral nuance and a hint of sweet butter. Palate-staining orchard and citrus fruit flavours show outstanding depth and energy, picking up chalky mineral and spice notes with air. Strikingly concentrated and precise wine with strong finishing punch and noteworthy persistence. This concentrated, deftly balanced Champagne is built for a long, graceful evolution. Josh Raynolds - International Wine Cellar","650","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"POLWC02B6","1","n/a","6","75","2002","Pol Roger, Cuvee Sir Winston Churchill","Pol Roger","n/a","n/a","n/a","Champagne","France","Sparkling White","97","JS","Pol Roger Cuvee Sir Winston Churchill was just recently released in Italy where I have been spending most of the summer, and after trying some, it underlines just how great the 2002 vintage is for Champagne. It`s the last of the great cuvee Champagnes to be released on the market following Salon a few months earlier, and I think it is one of the best ever from Pol Roger. The 2002 Sir Winston shows surreal aromas of dried apples, cream, mangos, and ginger that follow through to a full palate with a velvety texture and a lively finish. It opens with air, which suggests decanting. (Yes. You can decant Champagne!) It`s extremely enjoyable to drink now, unlike a number of the top 2002 Champagnes at the moment that still need more bottle age. Don`t miss this one if you love Pol Roger. It`s a classic.","1175","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"POTCCH07B6","1","n/a","6","75","2007","Charmes Chambertin Grand Cru, Potel (N)","Potel (N)","Grand Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","93","ST","Medium red. Highly perfumed nose offers raspberry, rose petal and smoky minerality lifted by noble nuances of white pepper and blood orange. Sweet, smooth and intense, with lovely precision and inner-mouth floral character to the flavors of red fruits and minerals. An impeccably balanced and very sexy wine that finsihes with substantial ripe, dusty tannins and lingering floral perfume.","1000","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"REMCHAM12M1","3","n/a","1","150","2012","Chambertin Grand Cru, Remy (Louis)","Remy (Louis)","Grand Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","94-96","NM","The 2012 Chambertin Grand Cru is cut from a similar cloth to the Latricieres-Chambertin fragrant raspberry and wild strawberry fruit with hints of marmalade and orange rind. The palate is very well-balanced and shows a little more...determination than the Latricieres as it revels in a beautifully poised, dark cherry, cranberry and soy-tinged finish. Long and tender in the mouth, this Chambertin has both class and sophistication.","330","IB","1x150cl","OWC",
"ROCHBON08B6","1","n/a","6","75","2008","Bonnes Mares Grand Cru, Roche de Bellene","Roche de Bellene","Grand Cru","Chambolle-Musigny","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","n/a","n/a","n/a","780","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"ROCHBON09B6","1","n/a","6","75","2009","Bonnes Mares Grand Cru, Roche de Bellene","Roche de Bellene","Grand Cru","Chambolle-Musigny","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","94-96","NM","This deeply impressive Bonnes-Mares has an introspective, tertiary bouquet with a touch of tea leaf and dark berries. The palate has a peppery entry, firm tannins, good grip but rather brusque towards the finish. This needs to calm down and discover the joie-de-vivre of true Bonnes-Mares. ","1225","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"ROCHCHA12B12","1","n/a","12","75","2012","Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru Les Charmes, Roche de Bellene","Roche de Bellene","1er Cru","Chambolle-Musigny","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","89-91","ST","Bright medium red. High pitched aromas of raspberry, rose petal and licorice. At once rich and pungent, with an easygoing character to the sweet flavours of red berries, flowers, spices and menthol. Ripe acidity contributes to this wine`s early appeal.","740","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"ROCCCHA11B6","1","n/a","6","75","2011","Corton Charlemagne, Grand Cru, Roche de Bellene","Roche de Bellene","Grand Cru","Aloxe Corton","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","89+","VM","Good bright yellow. Stone fruits, brown spices and oak on the nose. Quite dry and youthfully imploded, with a hint of rhubarb giving the finish a slightly sour quality. I wanted more richness and depth. Did I catch this at an awkward stage?","1000","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"ROCMON09B6","1","n/a","6","75","2009","Montrachet Grand Cru, Roche de Bellene","Roche de Bellene","Grand Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","n/a","n/a","n/a","2700","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"ROCMON08B6","1","n/a","6","75","2008","Montrachet, Grand Cru, Maison Roche de Bellene","Roche de Bellene","Grand Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","17.5","Jancis","Two barriques. Very creamy and rich and not overwhelmed by oak. Though there is a little overlay of spiciness from it. Some florality and clearly superior though not quite the density of some. Very correct and fresh but without enormous intensity. Honey and balance, like a throat elixir. Impressive on the finish.","2500","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"ROCHMAL10B6","1","n/a","6","75","2010","Vosne Romanee, Malconsorts, 1er Cru, Roche de Bellene","Roche de Bellene","1er Cru","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","91-94","AM","This offers up the most complex nose of these three Vosne 1ers with an exuberantly spicy black fruit and cassis scents. There is excellent size and weight to the powerful and admirably concentrated broad-shouldered flavors that evidence plenty of muscle and punch on the mouth coating finish. The underlying tannins are exceptionally firm yet completely ripe and I very much like the explosive finale that seems to go on and on. In 2010, this easily delivers grand cru quality but note well that plenty of patience will be required.","695","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"ROUMBUS09B12","1","n/a","12","75","2009","Morey St. Denis, Clos Bussière, 1er Cru, Roumier (Dom G)","Roumier (Dom G)","1er Cru","Morey St Denis","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","92","AM","A very ripe nose speaks of cassis and liqueur of black raspberries that introduce the rich, intense and solidly voluminous flavors that possess a seductive mouth feel as the sap completely buffers the firm and ever-so-mildly rustic tannins on the impressively persistent and moderately robust finish. This should be excellent with 10 years or so of cellar time and it could very well be the best vintage for this wine since the fantastic 1961.","4190","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"SABSEC09B6","1","n/a","6","75","2009","Chateauneuf du Pape, Le Secret Sabon, Sabon (R)","Sabon (R)","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","94","TWA","Tasted at the estate, the 2009 Chateauneuf du Pape le Secret de Sabon is going through a bit of a middle aged awkwardness at the moment. It`s still dark in color, with barely visible bricking, and exhibits a fair bit of lively black cherry fruit, but it has begun to develop notes of dried fig, roasted meat and dark chocolate. Full bodied and rich, it`s savory and long on the finish. Drink or hold, but not for too much longer.","415","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"SDUCGG6612B6","1","n/a","6","75","2012","Gigondas, Grand Grenache 66, Santa Duc","Santa Duc","AC","n/a","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","91","JD","The 2012 Gigondas Grand Grenache 66 (100% Grenache from vines planted around the estate) is the lightest example of this cuvee I`ve tasted, and is a solid step back from prior vintages. Nevertheless, it`s still an outstanding wine that has beautiful Grenache typicity in its kirsch, framboise, dried flowers, white pepper and mint bouquet. This is followed by an elegant, medium to full bodied Gigondas that has a seamless, silky texture, fine tannin, bright acidity and solid length. Drink it anytime over the coming 7 8 years.","240","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"HBOILVOLCAIL13B12","1","n/a","12","75","2013","Volnay 1er Cru Caillerets, Henri Boillot","Boillot (Henri)","1er Cru","Volnay","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","Red","90","AM","A more restrained nose only grudgingly reveals its aromas of black pinot fruit, cinnamon, anise, exotic tea and cassis nuances. There is a beguiling texture to the energetic and overtly mineral driven medium weight flavours that also display moderate austerity on the lingering finish that isn`t dry though there is a touch of asperity to it. My score assumes that this will eventually dissipate though it may require a few years first.","705","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"SIGSENT07B12","1","n/a","12","75","2007","Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru Les Sentiers, Domaine Anne et Herve Sigaut","Sigaut","1er Cru","Chambolle-Musigny","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","89-92","AM","**Note: from vines planted in 1947** A discreet if not invisible touch of oak influence sets off ripe, serious and mildly somber red berry aromas nuanced by touches of earth, underbrush, minerality and fresh fennel that carries over to the delicious, rich, round and equally serious medium weight plus flavors that possess the best mid-palate concentration of any wine in the range while finishing with obvious minerality and excellent length. This is a wine of finesse and a certain delicacy yet it is blessed with the best overall material here.","1100","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"BIZVERG06B12","1","n/a","12","75","2006","Savigny-lès-Beaune 1er Cru, Aux Vergelesses, Simon Bize ","Simon Bize ","1er Cru","Savigny les Beaune","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","Red","17","Jancis","Struck-match aromas. Lots of pure fruit and great balance for current drinking. Liquorice length. Great stuff. Vegy nose.","550","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"TAUMRIO10B6","1","n/a","6","75","2010","Morey St Denis 1er Cru, La Riotte, Taupenot-Merme","Taupenot-Merme","1er Cru","Morey St Denis","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","91","AM","This is also quite ripe with earthy red cherry, plum, earth and spice hints preceding the solidly mineral-driven medium-bodied flavors that also possess unusually fine tannins that contribute to the refined mouth feel of the moderately structured and beautifully complex finish. As with virtually all of the wines in the Taupenot 2010 range, this has a palpable feel of energy to it and you just feel like drinking this, if for no other reason that all of the structural elements are in perfect harmony. Note however that despite the refinement this is firm, mildly austere and will need plenty of cellar time.","420","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"TSMCDPFEM09B6","1","n/a","6","75","2009","Chateauneuf du Pape, Feminessence, Tour St Michel","Tour St Michel","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","94","RP","The sensational 2009 Chateauneuf du Pape Feminessance, which is 75% Grenache and 25% Syrah aged in small oak, has the densest opaque color of all three cuvees. This wine has fabulous fruit concentration and comes across as a wonderful segue way between the traditional and the modern styles of Chateauneuf du Pape. Full bodied, pure and certainly a star of the vintage, this wine can be drunk now or cellared for up to 12 15+ years. It is a brilliant achievement in 2009, and I kept going back to the glass for another whiff of the kirsch and black raspberry notes.","240","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"TSMCDPFEM09B6","1","n/a","6","75","2009","Chateauneuf du Pape, Feminessence, Tour St Michel","Tour St Michel","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","94","RP","The sensational 2009 Chateauneuf du Pape Feminessance, which is 75% Grenache and 25% Syrah aged in small oak, has the densest opaque color of all three cuvees. This wine has fabulous fruit concentration and comes across as a wonderful segue way between the traditional and the modern styles of Chateauneuf du Pape. Full bodied, pure and certainly a star of the vintage, this wine can be drunk now or cellared for up to 12 15+ years. It is a brilliant achievement in 2009, and I kept going back to the glass for another whiff of the kirsch and black raspberry notes.","240","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"VOGEVF12B12","1","n/a","12","75","2012","Cornas, Les Vieilles Fontaines, Alain Voge","Voge (Alain)","AC","Cornas","Northern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","93","JR","Opaque ruby. Ripe dark berries, cola and fruitcake on the deeply perfumed nose. Plush and sweet on entry, then tighter in the middle palate, offering intense blackberry liqueur and bitter cherry flavours underscored and sharpened by juicy acidity. Finishes on a smoky mineral note, with outstanding energy and length and slow building tannins. This brawny Cornas really calls for patience, or at the very least a bit of time in a decanter.","1345","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"VOGECVV11B12","1","n/a","12","75","2011","Cornas, Vielles Vignes, Alain Voge","Voge (Alain)","AC","Cornas","Northern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","93","JR","(25% new oak): Opaque ruby. Dark berry and floral pastille aromas are complemented by hints of vanilla, cola and smoky Indian spices. Smooth, sweet and expansive on the palate, offering intense blueberry and cherry cola flavours and a building note of smoked meat. The gently tannic finish shows impressive energy and length and a whiplash of juicy dark berries.","475","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"VOGECVV13B12","1","n/a","12","75","2013","Cornas, Vielles Vignes, Alain Voge","Voge (Alain)","AC","Cornas","Northern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","94","JR","Glass staining ruby. A highly perfumed, complex bouquet evokes ripe cherry and blueberry, complicated by notes of candied violet, incense and Indian spices. Sappy and expansive on the palate, with intense dark berry liqueur and floral pastille flavours energized by juicy acidity. Shows superb vivacity and lift on the youthfully tannic, dark fruit dominated finish, which lingers with focus and tenacity.","415","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"ARNLPAG12B6","1","n/a","6","75","2012","Nuits St Georges 1er Cru Corvees Pagets, Arnoux Lachaux","Arnoux Lachaux","1er Cru","Nuits St Georges","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","90-92","AM","Very mild reduction does not completely obliterate the floral character and the underlying fruit seems quite ripe as well. As is usually the case the supporting structure here is notably finer than that of the Les Procès which imparts a refined mouth feel to the middle weight flavours. I like the underlying sense of tension and particularly the balance and while this is not presently quite as complex, it`s certainly more elegant.","2700","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"ARNLPAG12B6","1","n/a","6","75","2012","Nuits St Georges 1er Cru Corvees Pagets, Arnoux Lachaux","Arnoux Lachaux","1er Cru","Nuits St Georges","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","90-92","AM","Very mild reduction does not completely obliterate the floral character and the underlying fruit seems quite ripe as well. As is usually the case the supporting structure here is notably finer than that of the Les Procès which imparts a refined mouth feel to the middle weight flavours. I like the underlying sense of tension and particularly the balance and while this is not presently quite as complex, it`s certainly more elegant.","2700","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"ARNLPAG13B6","1","n/a","6","75","2013","Nuits St Georges 1er Cru Corvees Pagets, Arnoux Lachaux","Arnoux Lachaux","1er Cru","Nuits St Georges","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","90-92","AM","There is excellent complexity to the blend of plum, earth, soft spice and game hints. There is very good richness and volume to the sleekly muscular middle weight flavours that possess just enough minerality to notice, all wrapped in a balanced and velvety finish that is supported by moderately firm tannins. This should also drink well young but reward up to a decade of bottle aging.","1895","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"ARNLPRO12B6","1","n/a","6","75","2012","Nuits St. Georges 1er Cru Les Proces, Arnoux Lachaux","Arnoux Lachaux","1er Cru","Nuits St Georges","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","90-92","AM","An exceptionally fresh, pure and airy nose offers up notes of relatively elegant red currant aromas that enjoy added breadth in the form of floral, spice, earth and just enough wood influence to notice. There is good density and fine complexity to the medium weight flavours that possess lovely balance and length. This is sufficiently supple that it will be approachable young but the fine but dense tannins are such that this will require at least a decade of cellar time to realize its full potential.","2300","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"ARNLRSV12B6","1","n/a","6","75","2012","Romanee St. Vivant, Grand Cru, Arnoux Lachaux","Arnoux Lachaux","Grand Cru","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","94-96","AM","The strikingly elegant nose offers the most complexity of any wine in the range with its well-layered aromas of spice, plum, violet, dark cherry and sandalwood. There is a beguilingly velvety texture to the lightly mineral-driven medium weight flavours that possess plenty of mouth coating dry extract before terminating in a firm and impeccably well-balanced finish. Note that this beauty will also require ample patience.","8735","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"ARNLREI12B6","1","n/a","6","75","2012","Vosne-Romanee 1er Cru Aux Reignots, Arnoux Lachaux","Arnoux Lachaux","1er Cru","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","93","AM","A restrained, even brooding nose of spice, violets, plum and black cherry is trimmed in a bit of wood. There is a wonderfully vibrant mouth feel to the detailed and intensely mineral driven middle weight flavours that brim with dry extract on the dusty, intense, long and very serious finish. This is an exceptionally pretty but firmly structured effort so note well that plenty of time will be required for it to realize its full, and considerable, potential.","7000","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"ARNLCHAU12B1","n/a","2","1","75","2012","Vosne-Romanee 1er Cru Les Chaumes, Arnoux Lachaux","Arnoux Lachaux","1er Cru","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","90-93","AM","This is also quite floral and also a bit riper with aromas of spice, plum and cassis. The supple, round and seductively textured flavours are very Chaumes in character, all wrapped in a dusty, mouth coating and beautifully persistent finish. This is deeper than usual and really quite fine.","450","DP","1x75cl","RPK",
"ARNLCHAU12B6","1","n/a","6","75","2012","Vosne-Romanee 1er Cru Les Chaumes, Arnoux Lachaux","Arnoux Lachaux","1er Cru","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","90-93","AM","This is also quite floral and also a bit riper with aromas of spice, plum and cassis. The supple, round and seductively textured flavours are very Chaumes in character, all wrapped in a dusty, mouth coating and beautifully persistent finish. This is deeper than usual and really quite fine.","3000","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"ARNLSUC08B6","1","n/a","6","75","2008","Vosne-Romanee 1er Cru Les Suchots, Arnoux Lachaux","Arnoux Lachaux","1er Cru","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","91-93","AM","A classic Vosne nose that is ultra spicy, complex, layered and extremely stylish with rich and relatively powerful flavours that possess ample volume and are supported by very finely rendered tannins, a suave mouth feel and excellent length. Within the scope of the many outstanding vintages Lachaux has fashioned from this appellation, this is very good rather than stunning.","4800","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"BERGERCHEZ15B6","2","n/a","6","75","2015","Gevrey-Chambertin, Clos des Chezeaux, Berthaut Gerbet","Berthaut Gerbet","AC","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","89-91","AM","A notably floral nose is comprised by notes of spice, red currant, earth and a touch of the sauvage. I very much like the intensity and sleek mouth feel of the vibrant and again, tautly muscular flavours that possess a lovely sense of freshness on the lingering and balanced finale. Note that this will require at least a few years of cellar time first. Recommended.","450","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"BICHBON12B1","n/a","3","1","75","2012","Bonnes Mares Grand Cru, Albert Bichot","Bichot","Grand Cru","Chambolle-Musigny","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","n/a","n/a","n/a","200","IB","1x75cl","OWC6",
"BICHBON12B6","1","n/a","6","75","2012","Bonnes Mares Grand Cru, Albert Bichot","Bichot","Grand Cru","Chambolle-Musigny","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","n/a","n/a","n/a","1215","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"BICHCDR12B6","1","n/a","6","75","2012","Clos de la Roche Grand Cru, Albert Bichot","Bichot","Grand Cru","Morey St Denis","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","91-93","AM","Gentle but not invisible wood frames agreeably spicy red and black currant, earth and subtle game hints. There is plenty of volume to the solidly structured and powerful large-bodied flavours that possess plenty of tannin-buffering dry extract, all wrapped in a firm, balanced, complex and impressively long finish.","900","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"BICHCDR12B6","1","n/a","6","75","2012","Clos de la Roche Grand Cru, Albert Bichot","Bichot","Grand Cru","Morey St Denis","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","91-93","AM","Gentle but not invisible wood frames agreeably spicy red and black currant, earth and subtle game hints. There is plenty of volume to the solidly structured and powerful large-bodied flavours that possess plenty of tannin-buffering dry extract, all wrapped in a firm, balanced, complex and impressively long finish.","900","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"BICHLSJ12B6","1","n/a","6","75","2012","Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru Lavaux St Jacques, Albert Bichot","Bichot","1er Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","16.5","Jancis","Deep, translucent cherry red. Scented and oaky on the nose at the same time. Juicy, fresh but a bit tough on the finish. Could do with a little more fleshing out in the middle maybe this will come? (JH)","500","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"CATHTHO12B6","1","n/a","6","75","2012","Nuits St Georges 1er Cru Aux Thorey, Cathiard","Cathiard","1er Cru","Nuits St Georges","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","89-92","AM","Here too the nose is quite firmly reduced. The medium weight flavours possess a seductive mouth feel as there is plenty of dry extract buffering the otherwise moderately firm but ripe tannins on the lightly mineral-inflected finish. I very much like the balance and if this can add depth during its evolution it should merit the upper portion of my range.","1950","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"CATHORV12B3","1","n/a","3","75","2012","Vosne-Romanee 1er Cru En Orveaux, Cathiard ","Cathiard","1er Cru","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","90-93","AM"," A perfumed and altogether beguiling nose features notes of black pinot fruit, cherry, cassis, violet and a plethora of spice nuances. There is an ultra-refined mouth feel to the fleshy and generous medium weight flavours that possess a seductive texture before culminating in a balanced and harmonious finish. This is not as mineral-driven or persistent as the Reignots but it`s not far off.","2400","DP","3x75cl","RPK",
"DBACHCCH10B3","1","n/a","3","75","2010","Charmes Chambertin Grand Cru, VV, Denis Bachelet","Denis Bachelet","Grand Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","93-95","AM","Relatively prominent wood spice does not dominate the otherwise very ripe and densely fruited cassis and plum suffused nose that also displays plenty of Gevrey style pungent earth, underbrush and a hint of the sauvage. The intense earthiness continues onto the textured, seductive and mouth coating broad-scaled flavours that brim with dry extract, indeed so much so that the firm tannins are relegated to the background on the beautifully well-balanced and hugely long finish. This very serious effort is at once classic Bachelet in that the palate impression is suave and harmonious yet the wine is also the epitome of a textbook Charmes","3600","IB","3x75cl","OC",
"LAMBLAM13B6","1","n/a","6","75","2013","Clos des Lambrays, Grand Cru, Dom des Lambrays","Domaine des Lambrays","Grand Cru","Morey St Denis","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","93","AM","Here there is gentle wood setting off a similar if more complex nose that displays prominent floral and spice scents. There is very good volume to the utterly delicious medium weight and wonderfully vibrant flavours that possess really fine delineation before culminating in a mineral-inflected, saline and focused finish. I very much admire the sleek mouth feel as well as the impeccable balance. Lovely juice that is quite firmly structured and a bit less youthfully austere than usual.","1350","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"DUJCDR10B3","1","n/a","3","75","2010","Clos de la Roche, Dujac ","Dujac","Grand Cru","Morey St Denis","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","93-95","AM","A softly floral nose features notes of rose petals and lavender along with cool red berry fruit liberally laced with wet stone nuances. The taut and muscular broad-scaled and concentrated flavours are precise, intense and explosively long on the focused and stunningly persistent finish that is youthfully austere. This faultlessly well-balanced but very firm effort will require extended cellaring and 20 years is probably what the structure will require to completely resolve.","3750","DP","3x75cl","RPK",
"DURCHAR13B6","1","n/a","6","75","2013","Charmes Chambertin Grand Cru, Duroche","Duroche","Grand Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","90-93","AM","An airy and cool but ripe nose is comprised by elegant red berry fruit, floral and spice elements where the overall impression is less obviously Gevrey in character. There is a refined mouth feel to the delineated medium weight flavours that possess lovely complexity on the sneaky long and well-balanced finish. This is also a bit less structured than the Lavaut and should drink well a bit sooner.","1905","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"DURCHAR14B6","1","n/a","6","75","2014","Charmes Chambertin Grand Cru, Duroche","Duroche","Grand Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","92","AM","A pretty, fresh and layered nose also possesses plenty of classic Gevrey aromas of various red berries, humus and animale nuances that are trimmed in discreet but not invisible wood. There is good vibrancy to the detailed and tautly muscular flavours that terminate in a sneaky long and mildly austere finish.","1805","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"DURLSJ14M3","1","n/a","3","150","2014","Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru Lavaut St Jacques, Duroche","Duroche","1er Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","91","AM","A brooding nose is classic Gevrey in style with its gamy aromas of dark berries, earth, humus, underbrush and soft spice hints. The intense, muscular and concentrated flavours exude plenty of minerality on the tension-filled, moderately austere and impressively long finish. Worth considering.","1680","IB","3x150cl","OC",
"DURAET13B6","1","n/a","6","75","2013","Gevrey-Chambertin Aux Etelois, Duroche","Duroche","AC","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","92","TWA","The 2013 Gevrey-Chambertin Aux Etelois opens in the glass with a complex bouquet of Griotte cherries, cassis, citrus rind, warm spices and rich soil tones, framed by a deft application of cedary oak. Medium to full-bodied, bright and incisive, its deep core of vibrant fruit is girdled by racy acids and fine, powdery tannins. While this is already showing well, it`s still young and will be even better with another five or six years of age.","780","DP","6x75cl","RPK",
"DURLAT13M3","1","n/a","3","150","2013","Latricieres Chambertin, Grand Cru, Duroche","Duroche","Grand Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","94","NM","asted blind at the Burgfest tasting in Beaune, the 2013 Latricieres-Chambertin Grand Cru has a refined and delineated bouquet with vibrant red cherry and strawberry fruit, fine mineralite, an underlying cool stoniness. The palate is medium-bodied with supple red cherry and red plum notes, fine tannin and well integrated new oak. This has an almost seamless texture, gliding across the mouth, but also with wonderful freshness and tension from start to finish. This is an outstanding example from the 2013 vintage - this appears to be on an upward trajectory.","2200","IB","3x150cl","OWC",
"FOURCSJ12B3","1","n/a","3","75","2012","Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru Clos St Jacques, Fourrier","Fourrier","1er Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","93","AM","A remarkably elegant and exuberantly spicy nose features an airy and cool mix of raspberry, cherry, red currant and plenty of wet stone characters. There is superb intensity to the mineral-driven, pure and ultra-refined middle weight flavours that are shaped by very fine-grained tannins on the moderately austere, balanced, saline and wonderfully persistent finish. A classic Clos St. Jacques of class and grace.","2475","IB","3x75cl","OC",
"FOURCSJ15B3","1","n/a","3","75","2015","Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru Clos St Jacques, Fourrier","Fourrier","1er Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","92-94","AM","This also exhibits plenty of earth and sauvage elements yet the fruit profile is slightly higher-toned and a bit more elegant as well. There is a driving minerality and underlying tension to the succulent yet refined middle weight flavours that brim with dry extract on the impeccably well-balanced finale. This classy effort is at once built-to-age but not backward and should be accessible after only a few years.","2475","IB","3x75cl","OC",
"FOURCSJ16B3","1","n/a","3","75","2016","Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru Clos St Jacques, Fourrier","Fourrier","1er Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","91-94","AM","Here too notes of wood toast and menthol are present on the more elegant array of red currant, spice and a lovely range of floral elements. The sleeker and more refined medium weight flavours possess an appealing sense of underlying tension while delivering outstanding length on the balanced finale. This needs to add depth to merit the top end of my predicted range but the natural class of a fine CSJ is evident. Note that this too will need at least a decade to arrive at its peak.","1900","IB","3x75cl","OC",
"BARTCHAT15B6","1","n/a","6","75","2015","Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru Les Chatelots, Ghislaine Barthod","Ghislaine Barthod","1er Cru","Chambolle-Musigny","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","92-94","NM","The 2015 Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru Les Chatelots has a crisp and precise bouquet, here, a mixture of red and black fruit with a floral element, hints of crushed violet surfacing with time in the glass. The palate is medium-bodied with a velvety texture, a silver bead of acidity, veins of blood orange struck through the red cherry and crushed strawberry fruit, the openness on the finish belying the structure underneath. This is just superb.","1500","DP","6x75cl","RPK",
"GIASTEFRIS98B1","n/a","2","1","75","1998","Barbaresco, Santo Stefano, Red Label Riserva, Giacosa","Giacosa (Bruno)","DOCG","Barbaresco","Barbaresco","Piedmont","Italy","Red","94+","ST","(Released in 2003) Medium red. Deep, expressive aromas of red fruits, minerals, dried flowers, roasted herbs, tar and camphor; I might have picked this blind as Barolo. Complex, penetrating, traditionally made wine with great verve and insinuating inner-mouth perfume. Urgent cherry, floral and spice flavours. Hugely tannic and very long; this multidimensional Barbaresco went into a shell in the glass. My score may prove to be conservative.","425","DP","1x75cl","RPK",
"GRIVRIC13B3","1","n/a","3","75","2013","Richebourg, Grivot","Grivot","Grand Cru","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","96","NM","Tasted blind at the Burgfest tasting in Beaune, the 2013 Richebourg Grand Cru has a slightly smudged bouquet at the moment, though there is impressive purity here and it gains delineation in the glass: red cherries, wild strawberry and a touch of orange rind. The palate is medium-bodied with sappy black fruit. There is a fine line of acidity that lends this the tension it needs to offset the concentration. Tightly coiled and backward on the structured finish, give this 5-7 years to mellow into what will surely be an outstanding Richebourg.","3400","IB","3x75cl","OWC",
"GRIVRIC15B1","1","n/a","1","75","2015","Richebourg, Grivot","Grivot","Grand Cru","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","96+","TWA","Tasted blind, Grivot`s 2015 Richebourg Grand Cru showed brilliantly, soaring from the glass with a fragrant bouquet of peonies, rose petals, black raspberries, candied peel, exotic Asian spices and blood orange. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied, ample and elegant, with satiny tannins, succulent acids and a long, perfumed and beautifully delineated finish. This is a stunning Richebourg that exemplifies the new stylistic paradigm chez Grivot, where the wines seem to gain in finesse with every passing vintage.","1660","IB","1x75cl","OWC",
"GROFBON12B6","1","n/a","6","75","2012","Bonnes Mares Grand Cru, Robert Groffier Pere et Fils","Groffier","Grand Cru","Chambolle-Musigny","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","91-94","ST","(vinified with 33% whole clusters; racked two days before my visit): Bright, dark red. Lively aromas of cherry, raspberry and musky brown spices. Fresher in the mouth today than the Bonnes-Mares, showing a juicy, sappy quality to its dense blueberry, menthol and earth flavours. This savory, lightly saline wine delivers lovely fruit ripeness with lift. Finishes with sweet tannins and piquant hints of herbs and pepper. Again, a rather thick style of Bonnes-Mares but shows very good spine and energy. The crop level here was 35 hectoliters per hectare, according to Nicolas Groffier.","2440","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"GROFBON12B6","1","n/a","6","75","2012","Bonnes Mares Grand Cru, Robert Groffier Pere et Fils","Groffier","Grand Cru","Chambolle-Musigny","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","91-94","ST","(vinified with 33% whole clusters; racked two days before my visit): Bright, dark red. Lively aromas of cherry, raspberry and musky brown spices. Fresher in the mouth today than the Bonnes-Mares, showing a juicy, sappy quality to its dense blueberry, menthol and earth flavours. This savory, lightly saline wine delivers lovely fruit ripeness with lift. Finishes with sweet tannins and piquant hints of herbs and pepper. Again, a rather thick style of Bonnes-Mares but shows very good spine and energy. The crop level here was 35 hectoliters per hectare, according to Nicolas Groffier.","2440","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"GROFBON18B6","1","n/a","6","75","2018","Bonnes Mares Grand Cru, Robert Groffier Pere et Fils","Groffier","Grand Cru","Chambolle-Musigny","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","94","JM","Bright magenta. The nose initially tends to the pruny without overstatement. Better on the palate with a sweet fruit fleshing out the second half of the wine. Good length, there is something here to build on. Drink from 2030.","2720","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"GROFAMO15B6","1","n/a","6","75","2015","Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru Les Amoureuses, Robert Groffier Pere et Fils","Groffier","1er Cru","Chambolle-Musigny","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","93+","TWA","Tasted blind, Groffier`s 2015 Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru Les Amoureuses showed good potential, unwinding in the glass with aromas of espresso roast, cassis, cherries and dark chocolate. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied, firm and tangy, with an abundance of fine, chalky tannins and racy underlying acids. It will need some time in bottle to unwind, but it appears to be very promising.","3750","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"GROFAMO17B6","1","n/a","6","75","2017","Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru Les Amoureuses, Robert Groffier Pere et Fils","Groffier","1er Cru","Chambolle-Musigny","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","95","JM","Medium deep purple. The bouquet is going to need time, it is complex but not pretty at first. Some mocha. I see the power and intensity, but not especially Amoureuses. The acidity is quite high but there is a weight of fruit to surround it. My score on this kept moving up and down but eventually I have come down in favour of a wine which has enormous potential, but is not entirely seductive right now. ","3600","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"LAMYTREMBHD14B1","n/a","2","1","75","2014","Puligny Montrachet, Les Tremblots `Haute Densite`, Domaine Hubert Lamy","Hubert Lamy","AC","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France"," White","91-93","NM","The 2014 Puligny Montrachet les Tremblots Haut Densite has a very intense, almost exotic bouquet with a licorice aroma pervading the citrus fruit. The palate is well balanced with lively peach and nectarine notes, good density with lemongrass and a touch of star anise on the finish. This is certainly very different to the regular bottling - a fascinating Puligny for those that seek a little exoticism in their wine.","1650","DP","1x75cl","RPK",
"LAMYDERCEHD14B1","n/a","2","1","75","2014","Saint-Aubin 1er Cru Derriere Chez Edouard, Haute Densite, Hubert Lamy","Hubert Lamy","1er Cru","Saint Aubin","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","95","JM","Clear mid lemon. There is plenty of fruit immediately apparent but holding itself in restraint. Then it starts to build, offering a volume here that we have not seen before unless perhaps in 2009. Superbly nuanced too, each sniff adding a little touch of something. As much floral as on the fruit, while the palate adds salinity and even a touch of tannin. Crunchy and very long. To keep.","1800","DP","1x75cl","RPK",
"HUDMUR12B6","1","n/a","6","75","2012","Nuits St. Georges 1er Cru Murgers, Hudelot Noellat","Hudelot Noellat","1er Cru","Nuits St Georges","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","93","NM","Tasted blind at Flint Wines 2007/2012 Nuits Saint-Georges tasting in London. The 2012 Nuits Saint-Georges 1er Cru Aux Murgers was one of the standouts of this blind horizontal tasting. It has a crisp and well-defined bouquet with brambly red berry fruit, a touch of undergrowth and pressed rose petals. This is one of the most elegant wines of the lineup. The palate is medium-bodied with supple ripe tannin, crisp acidity, just a dash of black pepper and a cohesive, very focused and appetizing finish. It just "reeks" of class and it comes strongly recommended.","880","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"HUDMUR13B6","1","n/a","6","75","2013","Nuits St. Georges 1er Cru Murgers, Hudelot Noellat","Hudelot Noellat","1er Cru","Nuits St Georges","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","91-93","NM","The 2013 Nuits Saint Georges 1er Cru Les Murgers has a cohesive bouquet with red currant, raspberry and just a touch of tinned peach, quite Vosne-like in style. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannin, the oak needing a little more time to fully integrate. But it is endowed with a pleasant, endearing spiciness, almost fieriness that lends the finish intrigue. This has finesse and focus, constituting and supremely well-crafted 2013.","820","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"HUDBEAU13B6","1","n/a","6","75","2013","Vosne-Romanee 1er Cru Beaumonts, Hudelot Noellat","Hudelot Noellat","1er Cru","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","94","NM","Tasted blind at the Burgfest tasting in Beaune, the 2013 Vosne-Romanee 1er Cru Les Beaumonts has a loose-knit bouquet: brambly red fruit infused with decaying autumn leaves and a touch of tea leaf. The palate is medium-bodied with supple black cherry and black plum fruit, sweet in the mouth with good volume, plus wonderful salinity here that leaves the mouth "tingling" long after the wine has departed. This is top class, one of the wines from this premier cru in this vintage. ","1200","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"HUDMAL05B1","n/a","2","1","75","2005","Vosne-Romanee 1er Cru Les Malconsorts, Hudelot Noellat","Hudelot Noellat","1er Cru","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","91-93","AM","In a somewhat curious departure from all of the prior wines, the wood is borderline dominant and fights with the otherwise spicy and notably ripe black fruit nose that merges into rich, delicious and powerful flavours that possess plenty of punch and muscle on the exceptionally long finish. I asked for a second sample and it was much more balanced and more in keeping with the Hudelot style. I suspect with the impressive amount of dry extract present that once the final blend is made the oak will be successfully integrated and as such, my score awards the benefit of the doubt.","765","IB","1x75cl","RPK",
"LAFBEAUN15B6","1","n/a","6","75","2015","Beaune 1er Cru Greves, Lafarge","Lafarge","1er Cru","Beaune","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","Red","92-94","NM","The 2015 Beaune 1er Cru Greves comes from Lafarge`s oldest vinesnow a not too shabby 94 years old. It offers candied orange peel and red cherries on the nose, somehow quite "lighthearted" and "carefree" compared to others. The palate is fresh and vibrant, very focused with super-fine tannin, crisp acidity and a little more precision than the Beaune Aigrots. The salinity on the finish takes you back for another sip and by that time, you are telephoning your husband or wife or anyone nearby to back up the truck and load up on this outstanding Beaune.","838","DP","6x75cl","RPK",
"LAMRUE10B6","1","n/a","6","75","2010","La Grande Rue, Grand Cru, Lamarche ","Lamarche (F)","Grand Cru","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","95","AM","This is quite ripe though still fresh and bright with intensely spicy aromas of red berry and cherry liqueur. There is a seductively silky texture to the middle weight and delicious flavours that possess excellent depth as well as seriously impressive persistence. As with many wines in the range in 2010, the phenolically mature tannins possess a very fine grain and while firm, they are already well-integrated. The overall impression of this lovely effort is one of balance and harmony. In a word, terrific.","3060","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"LAMRUE11B6","1","n/a","6","75","2011","La Grande Rue, Grand Cru, Lamarche ","Lamarche (F)","Grand Cru","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","93","NM","Tasted blind at the Burgundy 2011 horizontal tasting in Beaune. The La Grande Rue Grand Cru has one of the most precocious bouquets of the 2011 grand cru tasted blind. It offers a surfeit of kirsch, redcurrant jam, raspberry preserve and candied orange peel all struck through with tangible minerality and tension. The palate is sweet and pure with ebullient red brambly fruit under a veneer of new wood, but the two are effortlessly in sync. It gently builds toward an ostentatious and almost ravishing finish only confined by the limitations of the growing season. This is a hedonistic and luxuriant delight - all while upholding the essence of the vineyard.","2550","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"LAMRUE15B3","1","n/a","3","75","2015","La Grande Rue, Grand Cru, Lamarche ","Lamarche (F)","Grand Cru","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","93","TWA","Offering up a rich but reticent bouquet of cassis, currant leaf and plums, the 2015 La Grande Rue Grand Cru performed a touch better than it did six months ago. While this full-bodied wine is somewhat firm and inscrutable, it does seem to possess some depth and substance.","1320","IB","3x75cl","OWC",
"LEFLBGNB14B6","3","n/a","6","75","2014","Bourgogne Blanc, Domaine Leflaive","Leflaive","AC","Bourgogne","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","White","88","NM","The 2014 Bourgogne Blanc has developed nicely during the remainder of its elevage since I tasted it from stainless steel tank, offering apple blossom, flint and smoky scents that possess much more character. The palate is fresh on the entry with citrus peel and fresh Granny Smith, well judged acidity and a bright and lively finish. This is precisely what you want from a Bourgogne Blanc.","675","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"LEFLCHEV12B1","n/a","1","1","75","2012","Chevalier-Montrachet Grand Cru, Domaine Leflaive","Leflaive","Grand Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France"," White","93-96","AM","A trace of reduction detracts only marginally from the appeal of the otherwise pretty and mildly exotic aromas of acacia blossom, pear, mandarin orange and wet stone aromas. The delicious, gorgeously elegant and pure imposingly-scaled flavours possess a silky palate impression on the concentrated, explosive and stunningly long finish that seems to be composed of liquid rock and a very firm spine of citrus-inflected acidity. This is a very big, indeed even huge Chevalier that is overtly powerful and one that should age effortlessly for decades. In sum this is an old school vintage for the Leflaive Chevalier so I would suggest buying it only with the clear intention of cellaring it for the long-term.","1300","DP","1x75cl","RPK",
"LEFLCHEV13B1","1","n/a","1","75","2013","Chevalier-Montrachet Grand Cru, Domaine Leflaive","Leflaive","Grand Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","95","NM","Tasted blind at the annual Burgfest tasting in Bouilland. The 2013 Chevalier-Montrachet Grand Cru has a powerful but controlled bouquet with scents of dried honey, brioche and orange blossom, a touch of mineralite tucked just behind. The palate is well balanced with crisp acidity, lively in the mouth with very impressive weight, retaining superb delineation and focus on the gunflint finish that has more to give, and it will with 4-5 years in bottle. This is sophisticated and entrancing. ","1100","DP","1x75cl","RPK",
"DEPAMOUT14B6","1","n/a","6","75","2014","Chablis La Moutonne, Long-Depaquit","Long-Depaquit","Grand Cru","Chablis","Chablis","Burgundy","France","White","94","ST","Very closed nose hints as wet stone, flint, anaise, grilled almond and hazlenut. Hugely rich and concentrated, conveying a powerful impression of dry extract to its flavours of yellow fruits, flowers and saline iodiney minerality. It`s hard to scrape this big, mouthfilling wine (13% alcohol) off your palate. Finishes full, broad and very long, with terrific energy and lift. Classic grand cru Chablis with superb aging potential.","950","DP","6x75cl","OWC",
"MOMTART08B6","1","n/a","6","75","2008","Clos de Tart, Grand Cru, Mommessin","Mommessin","Grand Cru","Morey St Denis","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","96","NM","Tasted at the pre-dinner vertical to mark Sylvain Pitiot`s retirement from the domaine, the 2008 Clos de Tart Grand Cru has an open and generous bouquet with wild brambly fruit, crushed strawberry, mineral and woodland scents. This is gentler than the 2009 or 2010, more open for business perhaps. The palate is (again) wonderfully balanced with rounded tannin. There is a savory edge here, a slight meatiness developing and a suggestion of Italian cured meats towards the finish, plus a saline edge. It feels satisfyingly long in the mouth with spice notes tingling right on the end of the aftertaste. Do not underestimate this excellent Clos de Tart, surely destined to be overshadowed by the 2009.","2700","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"MOMTART12B6","1","n/a","6","75","2012","Clos de Tart, Grand Cru, Mommessin","Mommessin","Grand Cru","Morey St Denis","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","97","NM","Tasted at the pre-dinner vertical to mark Sylvain Pitiot`s retirement from the domaine, the 2012 Clos de Tart Grand Cru has just a wonderful nose with more fruit intensity than the 2013, so pure and feminine with ebullient raspberry preserve and strawberry notes, sheer pinote! The palate is beautifully structured with fine tannin, tensile, refined and aristocratic. There is a brilliant focus here and an extraordinary sustained finish that leaves you desperate for the next sip. What it shares in common with the 2008 Clos de Tart Grand Cru is that it is predestined to be overshadowed by the 2009 and 2010. That should not be the case - it is a quite brilliant articulation of the Clos. Bon vin!","3150","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"MOMTART05B1","n/a","1","1","75","2005","Clos de Tart, Grand Cru, Mommessin","Monmessin","Grand Cru","Morey St Denis","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","96","AM","This hasn`t changed much from when I first reviewed it from bottle in 2007 though it has not shut down in the fashion of many `05s at this point. An expressive and very ripe black berry fruit, spice, mocha, fresh coffee and earthy nose is surrounded by a more moderate touch of oak that continues onto the rich, full, concentrated, powerful and sweet flavours that possess superb mid-palate density and huge length. This is an extremely rich and concentrated wine that will live for ages and in fact, about the only thing that has changed is that it appears even more structured than I initially thought. In a word, fantastic. Drink: Try from 2025+","675","DP","1x75cl","RPK",
"MORTLSJ13B3","1","n/a","3","75","2013","Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru Lavaux St. Jacques, Domaine Denis Mortet","Mortet (Denis)","1er Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","92","AM","Note: from 5 different parcels situated all over the appellation that total 1.17 ha; 60% new wood.
A brooding and more complex if slightly less elegant nose presents notes of assorted dark berries, pungent earth and discreet animale and herbal tea nuances. There is ample minerality apparent on the precise, focused and tautly muscular flavours that display fine power on the detailed and solidly persistent finish that possesses enough austerity to notice. This well-balanced effort will need at least a few years of bottle age first.","700","IB","3x75cl","RPK",
"MORTLSJ15B6","1","n/a","6","75","2015","Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru Lavaux St. Jacques, Domaine Denis Mortet","Mortet (Denis)","1er Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","93","AM","Outstanding
arkedly earthy and notably floral-scented aromas of black raspberry liqueur and plum are abundantly laced with sauvage and humus elements. There is excellent size, weight and richness to the big-bodied and intensely mineral-driven flavours that brim with dry extract before exploding on the wonderfully persistent finish where a hint of wood surfaces. Like the Champeaux this should be approachable after 7 to 8 years yet if you want to see it at its peak, it will need at least 12 to 15 years. Drink: 2027+","1895","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"MORTCHAMP18B3","n/a","1","1","75","2018","Gevrey-Chambertin, Les Champeaux, Domaine Denis Mortet","Mortet (Denis)","AC","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","93-96","JM","4 different plots, all old vines between 60 to 80 years, worked by hand and by horse. The two bigger plots are each in their own clos with 20cm earth while the two smaller plots are lower down with a touch more soil. Wood reduction, will be racked soon, nothing has been so far. Bottle April. A very elegant wine beneath, with a good thread of acidity balancing the ripe dark fruit. Very extensive finish. Lovely. ","217","IB","1x75cl","RPK",
"MORTCIN15B6","1","n/a","6","75","2015","Gevrey-Chambertin, Mes Cinq Terroirs, Domaine Denis Mortet","Mortet (Denis)","AC","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","90","AM","A ripe yet reasonably fresh nose is composed of notes of plum, warm earth and violet. There is good size, weight and power to the solidly concentrated and well-detailed medium-bodied flavours that possess excellent complexity and length for a villages level Gevrey. This excellent effort should drink well both young and with age is and well worth your attention.","550","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"GNOEVR13B6","1","n/a","6","75","2013","Vosne-Romanee, Noellat (Georges)","Noellat (Georges)","AC","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","88-91","AM","Mild reduction compresses the fruit though it definitely seems ripe. There is a lovely mouth feel to the fresh, elegant and admirably pure middle weight flavours that are shaped by fine-grained tannins on the complex and well-balanced finish. While this should reward 5 to 8 years of cellaring it should also be approachable young. Drink: 2019+","420","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"BERNCMLAV10B1","n/a","1","1","75","2010","Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru Les Lavrottes, Olivier Bernstein","Olivier Bernstein","1er Cru","Chambolle-Musigny","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","91+","ST","Full, bright red. Aromas of blackberry, violet and bitter chocolate. Savory and sharply delineated if youthfully reticent, with good energy and a restrained sweetness to the black fruit and mineral flavours. Finishes firmly tannic and minerally. This is evolving very slowly.","150","DP","1x75cl","RPK",
"ROUMBON15B1","1","n/a","1","75","2015","Bonnes Mares Grand Cru, Roumier (Dom G)","Roumier","Grand Cru","Chambolle-Musigny","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","96","AM","An overtly spicy and floral-scented nose reveals additional notes of plum, cassis, orange pekoe tea and plenty of earth. The rich, bold, powerful and firmly muscular large-scaled flavours possess superb mid-palate concentration where the abundant dry extract also buffers the presently unyielding tannic backbone on the massively long finish. This is, simply put, spectacular and about the only nit is a discreet touch of backend warmth.","2200","IB","1x75cl","RPK",
"ROUMAMO12B1","n/a","2","1","75","2012","Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru Les Amoureuses, Roumier","Roumier","1er Cru","Chambolle-Musigny","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","96","AM","Note: from a .40 ha parcel. An exuberantly spicy nose combines both red and black pinot liqueur-like fruit, sandalwood, anise, violets and plum scents. There is a beguiling sense of freshness and energy to the very firmly mineral-inflected medium-bodied flavours that exhibit terrific delineation and outstanding depth on the strikingly long finish. This is the picture of refinement from tip to toe and should also age impressively well. In a word, terrific.","3750","DP","1x75cl","RPK",
"ROUMAMO15B1","1","n/a","1","75","2015","Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru Les Amoureuses, Roumier (Dom G)","Roumier","1er Cru","Chambolle-Musigny","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","95","JM","Dense quite dark colour, a little touch of prune along with ripe crushed raspberry. Full, succulent, fleshy finish, complex.","4540","IB","1x75cl","RPK",
"EGL09B6","1","n/a","6","75","2009","Chateau L`Eglise Clinet, Pomerol","n/a","n/a","Pomerol","Right Bank","Bordeaux","France","Red","99+","RP","Proprietor Denis Durantou has produced a blockbuster Pomerol from a blend of 85% Merlot and 15% Cabernet Franc, tipping the scales at just over 14.5% natural alcohol. A riveting wine, pure, elegant, but at the same time, extremely powerful and concentrated, with stunning texture, opulence and density, the tannins are abundant, and the wine certainly in need of a decade of cellaring. Fabulous creme de cassis and cherry liqueur notes are intertwined with hints of licorice, truffle, and graphite. Full and rich, but still in an infantile state of development, this wine needs to be cellared for 10 years but should keep for five decades or more. This 2009 is absolutely profound.","1550","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"GROFBON20B12","1","n/a","12","75","2020","Bonnes Mares Grand Cru, Robert Groffier Pere et Fils","Groffier","Grand Cru","Chambolle-Musigny","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","94-96","JM","80 year old vines, 100% whole bunch vinification, one third new wood,13.2% alcohol, the first vines to be picked. Rich deep crimson colour. The bouquet suggests power but the detail must wait. A very rich ripe ball of fruit in the mouth, succulent, more a white soil style of Bonnes Mares. Very complete, with just a fraction of torrefaction to add character at the end. ","6520","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"GROFAMO20B12","1","n/a","12","75","2020","Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru Les Amoureuses, Robert Groffier Pere et Fils","Groffier","1er Cru","Chambolle-Musigny","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","95-98","JM","50% whole bunch, average age 40 years, old vines needed picking first. 25% new wood, 13.2% alcohol. Almost black with purple rim. The fruit comes across as more noble than the already delicious Bonnes Mares. The stem profile just adds a liveliness, not its own flavour. This is really beautiful on the palate, just the right acidity, waves of fruit keep rolling across the palate, a little touch of orange peel, no reason why this should not become a really great bottle of Amoureuses.","7160","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"GROFAMO20B6","1","n/a","6","75","2020","Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru Les Amoureuses, Robert Groffier Pere et Fils","Groffier","1er Cru","Chambolle-Musigny","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","95-98","JM","50% whole bunch, average age 40 years, old vines needed picking first. 25% new wood, 13.2% alcohol. Almost black with purple rim. The fruit comes across as more noble than the already delicious Bonnes Mares. The stem profile just adds a liveliness, not its own flavour. This is really beautiful on the palate, just the right acidity, waves of fruit keep rolling across the palate, a little touch of orange peel, no reason why this should not become a really great bottle of Amoureuses.","3580","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"GROFDOIX20B12","1","n/a","12","75","2020","Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru Les Hauts Doix, Robert Groffier Pere et Fils","Groffier","1er Cru","Chambolle-Musigny","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","92-95","JM","The second vineyard to be picked, 50% whole bunch vinification, with 25% new wood. This is a draining sandy soil which gets direct sun only in the morning, so not hot but dry. 12.8% alcohol. A dense dark black purple. For the moment the whole bunches speak quite loudly. Dark fruit, rather exciting, shows the oak a bit, not all together but there is a lot of wine here. When this does come together it will be rather impressive. Tasted: December 2021.","2060","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"GROFSENT20B12","1","n/a","12","75","2020","Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru Les Sentiers, Robert Groffier Pere et Fils","Groffier","1er Cru","Chambolle-Musigny","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","92-94","JM","80 year old vines grown on a clay soil which gets the afternoon sun, 13.5% alcohol, 100% whole bunch and 25% new wood. Another dense crimson purple colour. The bouquet has more of a fruit compote style. You can see the stems but they are more hidden in the fruit. There is a very substantial mouthful of plummy dark raspberry, good oak integration, plenty of spice and excellent persistence.","2080","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"BONCC09B6","1","n/a","6","75","2009","Corton Charlemagne Grand Cru, Bonneau du Martray","Bonneau du Martray","Grand Cru","Corton Charlemagne","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","93","AM","A fresh, ripe, elegant and quite floral nose evidences hints of green apple, pear and mildly exotic yellow fruit aromas that are trimmed in discreet wood toast. The rich, full-bodied and mouth coating broad-shouldered flavors possess excellent concentration and power and finally culminate in an explosive and fantastically long if somewhat chewy finish. This is perhaps a bit less elegant than it usually is but I suspect that as the underlying material, which is exceptionally dense, resolves that it will become more refined with age. Impressive and the supporting acidity is perfectly well integrated.","1900","DP","6x75cl","OC",
"CHACHEV13B6","1","n/a","6","75","2013","Chevalier Montrachet Grand Cru, Alain Chavy","Chavy (Alain)","Grand Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","91-93","TWA","There are two barrels of the 2013 Chevalier-Montrachet Grand Cru this year. It has a very detailed, slightly flinty, perhaps reserved bouquet that opens reluctantly in the glass. The palate is taut on the entry, hints of white chocolate infusing the citrus fruit, nicely balanced with a harmonious and elegant finish. While not as striking as the 2012 last year, this is a fine Chevalier-Montrachet to drink over the next 15 years.","2500","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"LAFCHAR07B12","1","n/a","12","75","2007","Meursault 1er Cru Charmes, Comtes Lafon","Comtes Lafon","1er Cru","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","94","AM","This is more expressive and a bit riper with ultra pure aromas of peach, apricot, pear and spiced white peach leading to ripe, concentrated and superbly precise flavors that display plenty of mid-palate fat and ample minerality that this part of Charmes always seems to impart to the wines and overall, this is a stunningly harmonious wine of finesse.","4800","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"FNTGAGMON16B2","1","n/a","2","75","2016","Le Montrachet Grand Cru, Domaine Fontaine Gagnard","Fontaine Gagnard","Grand Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","n/a","n/a","n/a","1400","IB","2x75cl","OC",
"DROICMDT08B12","1","n/a","12","75","2008","Chablis 1er Cru Montee de Tonnerre, Jean Paul & Benoit Droin","Jean-Paul & Benoit Droin","1er Cru","Chablis","Chablis","Burgundy","France","White","91","ST","Pale Yellow. Strong silex and orange scents ont the reticent nose. Densely packed with sweet fruit but showing a rather powerful spine of minerality today; this strikes me as a more harmonious version of the Mont de Milieu. Finishes saline, taur and very long, withtypical notes of scallop shell and iodiney minerality.","720","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"MOIBAT10B6","1","n/a","6","75","2010","Batard Montrachet Grand Cru, Lucien Le Moine","Le Moine","Grand Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","94-96","AG","The 2010 Batard-Montrachet is all about potential. Today it is impossibly raw, powerful and inward. Despite its unbridled power and sheer energy, the Batard possesses remarkable balance and purity. I can`t wait to taste this in another few years. Today, the Batard is a bit direct and frank, with little in the way of subtlety, but plenty of potential just the same. ","3335","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"MOICHEV10B6","1","n/a","6","75","2010","Chevalier Montrachet Grand Cru, Lucien Le Moine","Le Moine","Grand Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","95+?","ST","Very tight, high pitched aromas of peach, ginger, white pepper and crushed stone. Then almost shockingly rich and round on the palate, with compelling sucrosite to the ripe stone fruit and mineral flavours. Has the silkiness and deceptive accessibility of a great young Chevalier but really shows its class and reserve on the extremely long, fine-grained aftertaste. Not quite as penetrating as a barrel sample a year ago, but I suspect this wine will soon go into a shell in the bottle.","3600","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"MARBAT10B6","1","n/a","6","75","2010","Batard Montrachet Grand Cru, Pascal Marchand","Marchand","Grand Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","n/a","n/a","n/a","1800","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"PYCMREM09B12","1","n/a","12","75","2009","Saint Aubin 1er Cru En Remilly Pierre Yves Colin Morey","Pierre-Yves Colin-Morey","1er Cru","Saint Aubin","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","90","AG","The 2009 St. Aubin En Remilly is the most minerally and nuanced of these 2009 St. Aubins. It possesses gorgeous precision in an understated, graceful style that is very pretty. This is an exquisite wine that also happens to be one of the very finest values in white Burgundy. It is a staple at my house.","2100","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"RAVMDT06B12","1","n/a","12","75","2006","Chablis 1er Cru Montee de Tonnerre, François Raveneau","Raveneau","1er Cru","Chablis","Chablis","Burgundy","France","White","93","AM","A gentle touch of wood highlights airy yet slightly riper high-toned and admirably pure aromas of white flower, pear and quinine that gives way to supple, sweet, mouth coating and impressively concentrated flavors that exude a marvelous intensity on the long, powerful and driving finish supported by a solid acid spine. Definitely worth a look if you can find it but unlike most `06s, be prepared to have at least some patience as this is unusually firm for the vintage.","5400","DP","12x75cl","OC",
"ROCHBAT10B6","1","n/a","6","75","2010","Batard Montrachet Grand Cru, Maison Roche de Bellene","Roche de Bellene","Grand Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","n/a","n/a","n/a","1800","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"FEVBOUG05B6","1","n/a","6","75","2005","Chablis Grand Cru Bougros, William Fevre","William Fevre","Grand Cru","Chablis","Chablis","Burgundy","France","White","92","AM","This too displays a discreet touch of wood with citrus, oyster shell and algae notes that merge into big, muscular and robust flavors that are quite rich but not heavy or rustic, all wrapped in a sappy and palate staining finish. This is more mineral than usual as well as quite precise for such a big wine and I particularly like the sense of energy as this avoids any sense of heaviness, which is particularly impressive in the context of the vintage as some wines can be heavy.","490","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"JBOILBAT18B3","1","n/a","3","75","2018","Batard Montrachet Grand Cru, Jean Marc Boillot","Jean Marc Boillot","Grand Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","95","JM","Fine pale colour, almost a touch of curry on the nose. Exceptionally backward thereafter, chiselled minerals at the back. Significant weight, blocky, not wearing its heart on its sleeve now but with so much more to deliver. This will be a very fine and, despite the yields, concentrated. Lovely finish. Tasted: November 2019","1140","IB","3x75cl","OC",
"CATZAPWBC12B3","1","n/a","3","75","2012","Catena Zapata White Bones Chardonnay","Catena Zapata","n/a","n/a","Gualtallary ","Mendoza","Argentina","White","98","JS","A white with Chablis intensity and acidity with salt, sliced apple and stone character. Full body plus oyster shell and dried fruits. It goes on for minutes. This is clearly the best white wine of Argentina. Grand cru Burgundy quality. Drink now.","215","IB","3x75cl","OC",
"CATZAPWBC12B3","1","n/a","3","75","2012","Catena Zapata White Bones Chardonnay","Catena Zapata","n/a","n/a","Gualtallary ","Mendoza","Argentina","White","98","JS","A white with Chablis intensity and acidity with salt, sliced apple and stone character. Full body plus oyster shell and dried fruits. It goes on for minutes. This is clearly the best white wine of Argentina. Grand cru Burgundy quality. Drink now.","215","IB","3x75cl","OC",
"CATZAPWBC13B3","1","n/a","3","75","2013","Catena Zapata White Bones Chardonnay","Catena Zapata","n/a","n/a","Gualtallary ","Mendoza","Argentina","White","97","TWA","The superb, elegant and aromatic 2013 White Bones Chardonnay seemed to jump out of the glass with its perfumed personality. This is a selection of the more chalky soils of the Adrianna vineyard in Gualtallary. It has a spicy, nutty nose with minty freshness and a sensation of wet stones. The oak is perfectly integrated (in fact, none of the Adrianna whites showed any oak) and it has an elegant profile, a wine built around finesse and acidity. It finished with a chalky, mineral finish, definitively salty. Simply stunning! 2,100 bottles produced.","210","IB","3x75cl","OC",
"CATZAPWSC12B3","1","n/a","3","75","2012","Catena Zapata White Stones Chardonnay","Catena Zapata","n/a","n/a","Gualtallary ","Mendoza","Argentina","White","95","JS","A wonderful white with mineral, sliced apple and light honey character. Full-bodied, balanced and beautiful. This is fermented in used 600 liter barrels for seven months, and another six months in cask. Drink now.","230","IB","3x75cl","OC",
"CATZAPWSC12B3","1","n/a","3","75","2012","Catena Zapata White Stones Chardonnay","Catena Zapata","n/a","n/a","Gualtallary ","Mendoza","Argentina","White","95","JS","A wonderful white with mineral, sliced apple and light honey character. Full-bodied, balanced and beautiful. This is fermented in used 600 liter barrels for seven months, and another six months in cask. Drink now.","230","IB","3x75cl","OC",
"CATZAPWSC13B3","1","n/a","3","75","2013","Catena Zapata White Stones Chardonnay","Catena Zapata","n/a","n/a","Gualtallary ","Mendoza","Argentina","White","95","TWA","The 2013 White Stones Chardonnay had penetrating balsamic aromas that seemed to enter the nostrils leaving a trail of citric and herbal aromas, with great freshness, as it felt almost effervescent. The palate shows superb acidity, great clarity, purity and a mineral-driven finish. 1,600 bottles produced.","230","IB","3x75cl","OC",
"FAIVCC10B6","1","n/a","6","75","2010","Corton-Charlemagne Grand Cru, Faiveley","Faiveley","Grand Cru","Aloxe Corton","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","93-96","AM","**Note: from a .53 ha parcel in Ladoix**
In contrast to its two grands crus stable mates, this has already eaten almost all of its wood which allows the ripe green fruit, stone, apple and subtle spice hints to shine. There is very good richness to the precise and overtly muscular broad-shouldered flavors that culminate in a stunningly long and cuts-like-a-knife finish. This bone dry effort is almost painfully intense and there is a salinity that adds depth to what should be a masterpiece of wine in due time.","1100","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"JAVITET10B12","1","n/a","12","75","2010","Meursault Tête de Murger, Patrick Javillier","Javillier","n/a","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","92","VM","The 2010 Meursault Tête de Murgers has a limpid straw hue. Crisp and almost Chablis-like on the nose, it offers enticing scents of lanolin and dried grass clippings, and later crushed limestone. The palate has retained excellent balance and tension, and a judicious twist of bitter lemon keeps this Meursault on edge. Frankly equivalent to a Premier Cru in terms of overall quality. This has aged wonderfully. Tasted at Hatched restaurant in London.","800","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"LEFLFOL09B1","2","n/a","1","75","2009","Puligny-Montrachet 1er Cru Les Folatières, Domaine Leflaive","Leflaive","1er Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","92","VM","Bright yellow. Lovely floral lift to the soft citrus and vanilla aromas. Plenty of fruit here too, but this shows better grip and lift than the Clavoillons, more life in the mouth. At once lush and energetic, and firm and long on the aftertaste. Less obviously 2009 in style.","395","IB","1x75cl","RPK",
"LEFLFOL10B1","2","n/a","1","75","2010","Puligny-Montrachet 1er Cru Les Folatières, Domaine Leflaive","Leflaive","1er Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","91-93","AM","**Note: from 3 separate parcels spread out over the entire vineyard**
This is also notably ripe but more elegant with pure aromas of citrus, stone, pear and acacia blossom. The attractively energetic and precise flavors reflect the ripeness of the nose as this is more generous than it usually is, indeed it is unusually forward and approachable relative to its usual restrained feel at this early stage. As such the 2010 Folatières should drink well young but allow for extended aging too if desired.","440","IB","1x75cl","RPK",
"JMBOILCHAM10B12","1","n/a","12","75","2010","Puligny-Montrachet 1er Cru Champs Canet, Jean-Marc Boillot","Jean Marc Boillot","1er Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","93","VM","The 2010 Puligny-Montrachet Les Champs Canet is one of the more overt 2010s in this lineup. Floral, honeyed tones give the Champs Canet an element of voluptuousness and sheer viscosity. Although there was no botrytis in the fruit, there is an element of sweetness that gives the Champs Canet an exotic, at times, tropical air. I find considerable beauty in the glass, but I imagine the wine`s extroverted personality won`t appeal to everyone. According to Boillot yields in Champs Canet were down more than 50% in 2010. ","1440","IB","12x75cl","RPK",
"COLCHEV12B6","1","n/a","6","75","2012","Chevalier Montrachet Grand Cru, Domaine Philippe Colin","Philippe Colin","Grand Cru","Chevalier-Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","95","TWA","Tasted blind at the Burgundy 2012 tasting in Beaune. I must have severely under-estimated the 2012 Chevalier Montrachet Grand Cru from Philippe Colin for it put in a stellar performance in blind conditions. It has a quite brilliant bouquet that is beautifully defined, subtle flint and dandelion, stunning focus and tension. The palate is extremely well balanced with just the right amount of bitter lemon that is lending nervosite throughout this wine. It is nuanced and subtle, gradually building in intensity towards a compelling saline finish that will urge you take another sip. This is fabulous and my score stands corrected.","2200","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"COLDEM10B6","1","n/a","6","75","2010","Puligny-Montrachet 1er Cru Les Demoiselles, Domaine Philippe Colin","Philippe Colin","1er Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","93+","VM","Bright yellow. Reticent but pure aromas of mirabelle and honey; at once more exotic and less open than the Chenevottes. Ripe, powerful, saline and dry, with stubbornly closed flavors of ripe
stone fruits, flint, honey and lichee. Boasts impressive volume, but
this big boy is youthfully aggressive today. This is significantly
lower in acidity than the Vergers, according to Colin, but clearly needs extended cellaring.","1000","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"ARLCHAR10B6","1","n/a","6","75","2010","Charmes-Chambertin Grand Cru, Domaine Arlaud","Arlaud","Grand Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","91-94","AM","**Note: from a 1.2 ha parcel in Mazoyères**
While perfumed and strikingly complex, this pretty array of red pinot fruit and earth aromas is much more reserved compared to the nose of the Combottes. The pure and refined middle weight flavors are so fine that they border on the delicate and I especially appreciate the silky texture on the firm, lingering and mouth coating finish. This is not overly complex at present but there is sufficient mid-palate concentration that my range offers the benefit of the doubt that it will develop much more in time.","895","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"ROUSBEZ10B1","2","n/a","1","75","2010","Chambertin Grand Cru Clos de Bèze, Armand Rousseau","Armand Rousseau","Grand Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","97","AM","Very deeply colored, indeed this is the mostly deeply tinted of the Rousseau `10s. A gentle touch of wood offsets the highly complex and ultra-fresh nose that interweaves a superb range of floral, spice and distinctly ripe fruit elements. The seductively textured, detailed, pure and vibrant broad-shouldered flavors display a subtle minerality before terminating in an explosive, powerful and tautly muscled finish that delivers massive length. This is a relatively powerful Rousseau Bèze yet it remains quite refined as the underlying tannins are almost inexplicably fine-grained and like the Clos St. Jacques, it should age effortlessly for years. In sum, this is simply phenomenal.","2995","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"ROUSBEZ11B1","2","n/a","1","75","2011","Chambertin Grand Cru Clos de Bèze, Armand Rousseau","Armand Rousseau","Grand Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","97","AM","Very deeply colored, indeed this is the mostly deeply tinted of the Rousseau `10s. A gentle touch of wood offsets the highly complex and ultra-fresh nose that interweaves a superb range of floral, spice and distinctly ripe fruit elements. The seductively textured, detailed, pure and vibrant broad-shouldered flavors display a subtle minerality before terminating in an explosive, powerful and tautly muscled finish that delivers massive length. This is a relatively powerful Rousseau Bèze yet it remains quite refined as the underlying tannins are almost inexplicably fine-grained and like the Clos St. Jacques, it should age effortlessly for years. In sum, this is simply phenomenal.","1840","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"ROUSCHAM01B1","2","n/a","1","75","2001","Chambertin Grand Cru, Armand Rousseau","Armand Rousseau","Grand Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","94","AM","The expressive nose has always retained its genuinely stunning aromatic complexity and even with 14 years of age the still mostly primary black and red pinot fruit scents that are mixed with violets, dried rose petals and pungent soil notes, display only the first hints of secondary development. There is a bit more size, weight and richness compared to the `01 Clos de Bèze (see herein) on the moderately structured but overtly mineral-inflected middle weight plus flavors that are buffered by ample dry extract before culminating in a wonderfully long and still firm finale. As classic Chambertin goes, this is not especially massive but it is incredibly long and the intensity is simply breathtaking. To my taste this is still on the way up and while it could be enjoyed now if decanted for 30 minutes or so first, I would be inclined to hold it for another 5 to 8 years first. ","2400","DP","1x75cl","OC",
"ROUSCHAM02B1","2","n/a","1","75","2002","Chambertin Grand Cru, Armand Rousseau","Armand Rousseau","Grand Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","95","AM","his is very clearly still on the way up as the cool and ultra-pure nose remains relatively primary with only a touch of secondary development in evidence on the earthy, spicy and elegant dark berry fruit aromas. There is outstanding density to the big-bodied flavors that possess robust power and obvious muscularity all wrapped in a firm, focused and moderately austere finish that goes on and on. I particularly like the inner mouth perfume and while this is certainly a forceful, intense wine, it`s not a bruiser as there is lovely balance. In sum, this is a great effort that will, for my taste in any event, need another 7 to 10 years of cellar time to arrive at its apogee. ","3000","DP","1x75cl","OC",
"ROUSCHAM03B1","2","n/a","1","75","2003","Chambertin Grand Cru, Armand Rousseau","Armand Rousseau","Grand Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","93","AM","Somewhat curiously given the natural coolness of Chambertin, this seems noticeably riper than the `03 Clos de Bèze (see herein) with notes of mocha, spice, earth and markedly ripe black currant aromas. There is excellent size, weight, concentration and power to the big-bodied and extract-rich flavors that coat the mouth before culminating in a lightly mineral-inflected, velvety and as the nose suggests, mocha-tinged finish. This is more 2003 in basic character than the Bèze though as is usually the case, it`s more structured as well though with 45 minutes in a decanter, this too could be drunk now with pleasure. That said, I would be inclined to give this at least 6 to 10 more years first though please be aware that this will be capable of holding for decades.","2580","DP","1x75cl","OC",
"ROUSCHAM04B1","2","n/a","1","75","2004","Chambertin Grand Cru, Armand Rousseau","Armand Rousseau","Grand Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","93","AM","The difference between Chambertin and Clos de Bèze is sharply etched in 2004 as this is cooler, bigger, richer and more powerful though less elegant and with a more limited range of spices specifically and aromatic breadth in general. The medium full flavors are reserved, tight, precise and very pure with extraordinarily good punch and precision, all wrapped in a firm, dusty and linear finish. I particularly like the mouth coating quality of the flavors as there is ample dry extract here, which serves to perfectly buffer the firmly tannic spine. Outstanding stuff and while not a truly great Rousseau Chambertin, it`s knocking on the door.","2300","DP","1x75cl","OC",
"ROUSCHAM05B1","2","n/a","1","75","2005","Chambertin Grand Cru, Armand Rousseau","Armand Rousseau","Grand Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","98","AM","There is still some unabsorbed wood present on the notably ripe yet brooding nose that evidences a superb range of spice elements along with fresh black currant, plum, earth and game nuances. The superbly concentrated and overtly powerful big-bodied flavors are even bigger, richer and more mineral-inflected than those of the imposingly scaled 05 Clos de Bèze while delivering a full frontal palate assault on the hugely long finish. The Rousseau style is one of refinement and elegance and that is true even with this most masculine of burgundies yet in 2005 it would be fair to call this wine butch, as its definitely built along the lines of a take no prisoners style. As one might reasonably intuit from the description, this is nowhere near ready and I would not expect it to be for at least another 15 years and 20+ would not surprise me. A monument in the making. Drink 2030+","3380","DP","1x75cl","OC",
"ROUSCHAM06B1","1","n/a","1","75","2006","Chambertin Grand Cru, Armand Rousseau","Armand Rousseau","Grand Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","96","AM","It`s as though the Clos de Bèze and Chambertin have switched places in 2006 as here the nose is positively kaleidoscopic with a huge range of aromas and spice elements along with a hint of menthol. There is excellent freshness and vibrancy to the pure, round, rich and focused full-bodied flavors that carry obvious muscle and minerality on the deep, powerful and hugely long finish. This is an extremely impressive effort and one of the finest wines of the vintage. Not surprisingly, this hasn`t changed a great deal since my last review except that the length is now even more phenomenal and the supporting tannins are a bit more apparent. While it`s true that the balance is so good that that this could be enjoyed now, it would be unfortunate to leave so much upside potential unrealized and thus I would advise waiting for at least 5 more years first though it should easily be capable of rewarding 8 to 10. Tasted several times since my original review with consistent notes in the sense that they have become progressively more positive. ","2300","DP","1x75cl","OC",
"ROUSCHAM06B6","1","n/a","6","75","2006","Chambertin Grand Cru, Armand Rousseau","Armand Rousseau","Grand Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","96","AM","It`s as though the Clos de Bèze and Chambertin have switched places in 2006 as here the nose is positively kaleidoscopic with a huge range of aromas and spice elements along with a hint of menthol. There is excellent freshness and vibrancy to the pure, round, rich and focused full-bodied flavors that carry obvious muscle and minerality on the deep, powerful and hugely long finish. This is an extremely impressive effort and one of the finest wines of the vintage. Not surprisingly, this hasn`t changed a great deal since my last review except that the length is now even more phenomenal and the supporting tannins are a bit more apparent. While it`s true that the balance is so good that that this could be enjoyed now, it would be unfortunate to leave so much upside potential unrealized and thus I would advise waiting for at least 5 more years first though it should easily be capable of rewarding 8 to 10. Tasted several times since my original review with consistent notes in the sense that they have become progressively more positive. ","17100","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"ROUSCHAM07B1","1","n/a","1","75","2007","Chambertin Grand Cru, Armand Rousseau","Armand Rousseau","Grand Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","94","AM","By contrast to the Clos St. Jacques and the Bèze, the Cham has already eaten its wood which allows free rein for the spicy, pure, elegant and restrained earthy red pinot fruit with animale hints and ample mineral notes to dissolve seamlessly into dusty, textured, precise and palate staining big-bodied flavors that are exceptionally tight on the linear but hugely long finish. At present, the Bèze appears to have slightly better underlying material but we`ll see in time as both are sensational plus the Cham has a long demonstrated ability to add weight in bottle.","2200","DP","1x75cl","OC",
"ROUSCHAM10B1","1","n/a","1","75","2010","Chambertin Grand Cru, Armand Rousseau","Armand Rousseau","Grand Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","98","AM","Somewhat ironically, this is both more elegant and fresher than the Clos de Bèze with one of the most complex noses of the entire vintage as it combines a seemingly endless array of spice, mineral, fruit and Gevrey sauvage characters. The impressively rich, serious, mouth coating and broad-shouldered flavors possess superb volume and muscle on the sensationally persistent and explosive finish. This is even more backwards than the Bèze and should be capable of rewarding 20 plus years of cellar time as the tannins are also quite fine but very dense. At such an early juncture I honestly can`t say whether this will exceed the brilliant 2009 but it just might as the 2010 is clearly one of the best five wines of the vintage.","3900","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"ROUSCHAM11B1","2","n/a","1","75","2011","Chambertin Grand Cru, Armand Rousseau","Armand Rousseau","Grand Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","96","AM","This is completely different from the Bèze aromatically speaking as here the nose is brooding and recalcitrant and only aggressive swirling liberates fresh scents of spice, wet stone, game and dark berry fruits. There is outstanding richness to the powerful and impressively scaled flavors that possess an abundance of dry extract that imparts a velvety quality to the mid-palate while also buffering the tightly wound core of firm tannins on the driving mineral-inflected and hugely persistent finish. This is a stunner of a wine and one of the great wines of the 2011 vintage. Drink 2028+","2200","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"ROUSCHAR07B1","3","n/a","1","75","2007","Charmes-Chambertin Grand Cru, Armand Rousseau","Armand Rousseau","Grand Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","89-91","AM","A somewhat taciturn and narrow nose features a limited mix of wild red berries, warm earth and a touch of underbrush that continues onto the round, delicious, fresh and supple flavors that possess a certain delicate quality to them as well as a subtle touch of minerality on the persistent finish. This is a bit rounder than the Cazetiers with finer tannins as well. In sum, this is pretty rather than profound.","590","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"ROUSCHAR10B1","1","n/a","1","75","2010","Charmes-Chambertin Grand Cru, Armand Rousseau","Armand Rousseau","Grand Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","91-93","AM","This is much more deeply pitched than usual with notes of earth and violets and while there are traces of red berry aromas, this hails more from the dark berry side of the fruit spectrum. There is excellent volume to the very rich and round middle weight plus flavors that possess a velvety mouth feel on the focused and impressively long finish. This also exhibits more depth of material than it usually does and this is one of the better Rousseau Charmes of recent years.","790","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"ROUSCHAR11B1","2","n/a","1","75","2011","Charmes-Chambertin Grand Cru, Armand Rousseau","Armand Rousseau","Grand Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","89-92","AM","**Note: from a 1.4 ha parcel of roughly 20 year old vines that is situated one-third in Charmes proper and the remainder in Mazoyères**
In contrast to the reduction present in the prior wines this is really quite aromatically lovely with its expressive nose of very fresh red berry fruit, earth and humus scents. There are the same kinds of very fine-grained tannins underpinning the opulent yet reasonably precise medium weight flavors that culminate in a balanced and persistent if slightly less complex finish.","580","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"ROUSCDR09B1","1","n/a","1","75","2009","Clos de la Roche Grand Cru, Armand Rousseau","Armand Rousseau","Grand Cru","Morey St Denis","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","92-95","AM","This is riper still with a complex mélange of red and blue pinot fruit, violets, lavender, earth and a hint of spice that precedes the rich, supple and powerful flavors that are underpinned by sophisticated tannins and a balanced, minerally and gorgeously long finish. This is strikingly complex and by far and away the best showing of this wine that I have ever seen, at least at such an early juncture.","940","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"ROUSCDR10B1","2","n/a","1","75","2010","Clos de la Roche Grand Cru, Armand Rousseau","Armand Rousseau","Grand Cru","Morey St Denis","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","92-94","AM","A well-layered and dense nose features notes of anise, earth, underbrush, violets and both red and blue pinot fruit aromas. There is very good volume to the large-scaled and dense yet quite supple flavors that possess excellent length. This is impeccably well-balanced and should require 15 years or so to arrive at its peak.","950","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"ROUSCSJ06B6","1","n/a","6","75","2006","Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru Clos-St-Jacques, Armand Rousseau","Armand Rousseau","1er Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","93","AM","A gentle touch of wood frames the elegant and ultra-refined high-toned red pinot fruit nose that also evidences notes of spice, earth and soft floral nuances. There is ample minerality on the rich, sweet and sappy middle weight flavors that are almost delicate yet focused, pure and sneaky long as the flavor impact is really impressive. A strikingly intense wine of finesse and understatement in 2006 that still isn`t quite 100% ready yet it`s sufficiently close that this could easily be enjoyed now if desired. Drink 2018+","6780","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"ROUSMAZ04B1","1","n/a","1","75","2004","Mazy-Chambertin Grand Cru, Armand Rousseau","Armand Rousseau","Grand Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","89-91","AM","Here the nose is more deeply pitched with earth, game, iron, leather and underbrush aromas adding nuance to the bright red berry fruit notes that continue onto the very supple, indeed almost light flavors and there is slightly more structure than can be found with the Charmes. I like the complexity and precision as well as the overall sense of harmony but this is on the lighter side compared to its usual weight.","890","DP","1x75cl","OC",
"ROUSMAZ10B1","2","n/a","1","75","2010","Mazy-Chambertin Grand Cru, Armand Rousseau","Armand Rousseau","Grand Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","92-94","AM","A completely different nose features much more in the way of sauvage notes and the underlying fruit slides over to the blue side of the spectrum along with plenty of earth and soft spice nuances. The rich, round and beautifully textured flavors also enjoy an abundance of dry extract that coats the palate and buffers the firm tannins that will assist this mineral-driven and beautifully balanced effort to age for decades.","845","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"ARNLCM09B12","1","n/a","12","75","2009","Chambolle Musigny, Domaine Arnoux-Lachaux","Arnoux-Lachaux","AC","Chambolle-Musigny","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","87-90","AM","Deeply colored. An extremely ripe nose of cassis and blackberry stops just short of being jammy. The middle weight flavors that evidence a trace of underlying minerality are suave and round yet serious with fine concentration on the moderately long finish. This is not an especially elegant Chambolle but it is delicious and solidly complex.","2480","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"ARNLCDV09B1","3","n/a","1","75","2009","Clos de Vougeot Grand Cru, Domaine Arnoux-Lachaux","Arnoux-Lachaux","Grand Cru","Vougeot","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","91-93","AM","**Note: from vines next to the wall by Grands Echézeaux**
Moderate wood sets off ripe and intensely earthy aromas of red berries and plum that precede the rich, supple and relatively accessible middle weight flavors where very firm tannins provide structure and shape to the impressively long finish. Clos de Vougeot is often quite austere in its youth and while there is a trace, there is less than usual. Note that this will require patience.","1740","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"ARTPAGVR08B6","1","n/a","6","75","2008","Pagos Viejos Rioja, Artadi, Rioja","Artadi","n/a","n/a","n/a","Rioja","Spain","Red","95","TWA","The 2008 Pagos de Viejas was selected from three of the estate`s finest and most elevated sites with all of the vines over 75 years of age. The wine was aged for 18 months in new French oak. Deeply colored, it offers up a superb nose of pain grille, pencil lead, Asian spices, incense, and assorted black fruits. Rich, layered, and beautifully proportioned, this lengthy effort will evolve for 5-7 years and offer a drinking window extending from 2016 to 2028+.","315","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"ATAPINOT09B1","5","n/a","1","75","2009","Ata Rangi, Pinot Noir, Martinborough","Ata Rangi","n/a","n/a","n/a","Martinborough","New Zealand","Red","92","TWA","Pale ruby -colored, the 2009 Pinot Noir has black raspberry and black cherry aromas with a bit of spearmint, chocolate and anise. It has a good core of ripe and expressive fruit, a low to medium level of very fine tannins and a long finish.","37","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"ATAPINOT13B6","1","n/a","6","75","2013","Ata Rangi, Pinot Noir, Martinborough","Ata Rangi","n/a","n/a","n/a","Martinborough","New Zealand","Red","94","TWA","Savory, herbal and dark-fruited, the 2013 Pinot Noir is medium to full-bodied, quite supple but firm, with a backbone of wiry acids and a long, mouthwatering finish.","220","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"AALTOAPS12B6","4","n/a","6","75","2012","Aalto P.S., Bodegas Aalto","Bodegas Aalto","n/a","n/a","n/a","Ribera del Duero","Spain","Red","94","TWA","The 2012 Aalto PS was cropped from a warm, ripe vintage when the grapes were very healthy. This cuvée of selected old vineyards is always matured in new French oak barrels for some 22-24 months. It`s still a baby full of aromas of sweet spices, cinnamon and vanilla, also cloves and black peppercorns over the core of ripe plums, black cherries and a smoky, still oaky character. It has sweeter tannins and it is more accessible right now than the 2013 PS because it is rounder and fleshier. But in the long run the 2013 should age longer. This is a style that is very popular, ripe, showy and generously oaked. 20,000 bottles produced.","410","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"AALTOA08B6","2","n/a","6","75","2008","Aalto, Bodegas Aalto","Bodegas Aalto","n/a","n/a","n/a","Ribera del Duero","Spain","Red","95","TWA","A glass-coating opaque purple color, it is already displaying a complex aromatic array of sandalwood, smoke, espresso, lavender, Asian spices, and assorted blue and black fruits. Smooth-textured, succulent, and structured, it will evolve for 2-3 years and offer a drinking window extending from 2013 to 2028+. In the scheme of things, it offers great value in top-flight Ribera del Duero.","690","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"AALTOA09B6","2","n/a","6","75","2009","Aalto, Bodegas Aalto","Bodegas Aalto","n/a","n/a","n/a","Ribera del Duero","Spain","Red","91","NM","The 2009 Aalto has a rich decadent, floral bouquet with licorice-tinged dark berries with earthy, almost peaty aromas underneath the carapace of fruit. The palate is full-bodied with dense tannins, but good acidity and very fine harmony and focus. There are hints of star anis toward the multi-layered finish that possesses great length. Superb. Drink 2018-2030.","415","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"BVMSLV15B12","1","n/a","12","75","2015","Meursault Sous la Velle, Boisson-Vadot","Boisson-Vadot","n/a","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","n/a","n/a","n/a","1050","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"BQDPMERL15B6","1","n/a","6","75","2015","Châteauneuf-du-Pape Chante Le Merle, Domaine Bosquet des Papes","Bosquet des Papes","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","94","TWA","The final blend of the captivating 2015 Chateauneuf du Pape Chante le Merle Vieilles Vignes is 86% Grenache, with the balance equally split between Syrah and Mourvèdre. Delicate cherry and sandalwood perfumes rise from the glass, while the mid-palate delivers a full-bodied experience that seems almost weightless. The finish is long and silky, featuring a reprise of cherries and spice. It`s just a lovely, elegant wine.","260","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"CALERAMI12B1","3","n/a","1","75","2012","Calera Mills Vineyard Pinot Noir, Mount Harlan","Calera","n/a","n/a","Napa","California","USA","Red","96","TWA","The 2012 Pinot Noir Mills Vineyard comes from 26-year-old own-rooted vines and was harvest September 20 to October 17. Aged 18 months in 30% new French oak, its semi-opaque ruby color is followed by sensational notes of ripe currants and darker fruits, scorched earth, smoked meats, licorice and chalky minerality. Big, rich, full-bodied and layered, with a huge core of fruit that never seems over the top or heavy, this elegant, profound Pinot Noir can be enjoyed anytime over the coming decade or more.
These latest 2013s from Josh Jenson were superb across the board and at the top-end were some of the most impressive Pinot Noirs I was able to taste for this report.","55","DP","1x75cl","OC",
"CALERAJEN09B6","1","n/a","6","75","2009","Pinot Noir Jensen Vineyard, Calera, Mount Harlan","Calera","n/a","n/a","n/a","California","USA","Red","97","VM","The 2009 Pinot Noir Jensen Vineyard is a gorgeous wine for drinking now, as the aromatics are just beginning to show the first signs of complexity. Sweet tobacco, mint, cedar, herbs and dried cherries flesh out in ample, deeply expressive Pinot endowed with real depth. The 2009 should continue to drink well for another 10-15 years. Today, the 2009 is a bit shy relative to how it showed a few years ago, and may be going through an awkward phase as it makes the transition from a young Pinot to a more middle-aged wine.","700","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"LAPOSTCAP13B1","5","n/a","1","75","2013","Clos Apalta, Casa Lapostolle","Casa Lapostolle","n/a","n/a","n/a","Colchaga","Chile","Red","96","JS","Gorgeous aromas of dark fruits such as blueberry and raspberry. Licorice too. Full body, velvety tannins but not overdone. Seamless tannins. Pretty finish. Better in 2019. One of the most elegant Clos Apaltas.","70","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"LAPOSTCAP17B6","1","n/a","6","75","2017","Clos Apalta, Casa Lapostolle","Casa Lapostolle","n/a","n/a","n/a","Colchaga","Chile","Red","100","JS","What a stunning nose of crushed berries, fresh flowers, sandalwood and light vineyard dust. Black olives, too. Very complex. Full-bodied with a beautiful, dense palate of blackberries, chocolate, walnuts and cigar box. Fantastic length and composure. The tannin just rolls over the palate. Very structured. The most classically structured wine ever from here. Goes on for minutes. Outrageous and so polished. A blend of 48% carmenere, 26% cabernet sauvignon, 25% merlot and 1% petit verdot. Try after 2025.","320","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"SESTBRUN05B12","12","n/a","1","75","2005","Brunello di Montalcino Sesti, Castello di Argiano","Casetello di Argiano","n/a","Brunello di Montalcino","Brunello di Montalcino","Tuscany","Italy","Red","90","WE","Although this Brunello is from the newly released 2005 vintage, it has aromas and textures that remind you of a wine that is older still. There are sophisticated undertones here of smoke and licorice that peep up from behind candied fruit and black currants. There are also nicely integrated tones of exotic spice and mesquite wood at the back.","50","IB","1x75cl","RPK",
"CATZAPMALARG19B1","4","n/a","1","75","2019","Catena Zapata Malbec Argentino","Catena Zapata","n/a","n/a","n/a","Mendoza","Argentina","Red","99","JS","This is made from over 100-year-old vineyards and offers blackberries with blue fruit and dark chocolate. Shows bark and black truffle undertones, too. Tight and more focused than in past vintages. The quality of the tannins is more precise and fine. Blackberries and black truffles at the end. Drink or hold.","65","DP","1x75cl","OC",
"CATZAPMALARG19B1","4","n/a","1","75","2019","Catena Zapata Malbec Argentino","Catena Zapata","n/a","n/a","n/a","Mendoza","Argentina","Red","99","JS","This is made from over 100-year-old vineyards and offers blackberries with blue fruit and dark chocolate. Shows bark and black truffle undertones, too. Tight and more focused than in past vintages. The quality of the tannins is more precise and fine. Blackberries and black truffles at the end. Drink or hold.","65","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"CATZAPWBC15B3","1","n/a","3","75","2015","Catena Zapata White Bones Chardonnay","Catena Zapata","n/a","n/a","n/a","Mendoza","Argentina","White","96","TWA","I had two vintages to taste from the two whites from Adrianna Vineyard, which provided a fascinating comparison. Like all the rest, the 2015 White Bones Chardonnay had a long fermentation with wild yeasts and aged in French barriques for some 12 to 16 months, depending on the lot. It`s fascinating to compare this with the 2016 and with both years from the White Stones. This is the more exuberant, open, aromatic and balsamic of the four wines, while it is still very young and fresh. The palate is also very expressive and combines power with elegance and freshness. It`s long, tasty and mineral, with a salty finish. 4,500 bottles were filled in July 2016.","135","DP","3x75cl","OC",
"CATZAPWSC15B3","1","n/a","3","75","2015","Catena Zapata White Stones Chardonnay, Mendoza","Catena Zapata","n/a","n/a","Gualtallary ","Mendoza","Argentina","White","97","TWA","After a bit of a bumpy ride in previous vintages, the 2015 White Stones Chardonnay comes back as a phenomenal white with effervescent acidity that makes you salivate and makes the wine extremely long, providing a sensation of freshness and salty minerality. It`s austere, serious and a little closed, with subtle aromas and not much fruit, as it`s more about stones than grapes (pun intended!). The palate reveals a straight, vertical and laser-cut white, with a backbone of acidity that lifts it up and makes it very long. It finishes with salty flavors that linger on your palate for a very long time. 5,820 bottles produced. it was bottled in July 2016.","135","DP","3x75cl","OC",
"BEAUCDPB09B1","2","n/a","1","75","2009","Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc, Château de Beaucastel","Ch","n/a","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","White","96","TWA","The 2009 Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc is an amazingly open-knit, full-bodied, honeyed white boasting tons of orange marmalade, quince, white currant and creme brulee liqueur-like notes, stunning purity and richness, and a fabulous full-bodied, unctuously textured mouthfeel. Its richness is off the charts, and the wine offers a completely contrasting style with the more delineated, zesty 2010. I would opt for drinking the 2009 over the next 4-5 years.","70","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"DAGSIL12B1","6","n/a","1","75","2012","Pouilly-Fumé Silex, Didier Dagueneau","Didier Dagueneau","n/a","n/a","n/a","Loire","France","White","93","IWC","Greenish yellow. Lively but reticent aromas of citrus oil, ginger and wet stone. Gently sweet and tactile, with juicy citrus and yellow fruit flavors lifted by spicy nuances. Still needs time, but already displays stellar clarity and finishes with vibrant persistence. This is certainly one of the finest sauvignon blancs of the 2012 vintage.","140","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"BONGVCCTEJT15B12","1","n/a","12","75","2015","Viré-Clessé `Cuvée Tradition E.J. Thevenet`, Domaine de la Bongran","Domaine de la Bongran","n/a","n/a","n/a","Burgundy","France","White","94+","RP","The 2015 Viré-Clessé Cuvée E. J. Thevenet opens in the glass with notes of fresh peach, confit lemons, white flowers and clear honey. On the palate, it`s medium to full-bodied, satiny and layered, with striking concentration, lively acids and plenty of well-concealed structure. Long and penetrating, this is a Viré-Clessé with considerable potential for the long haul, and though it will be released later this year, simply because the winery hasn`t anything else to sell, I encourage readers to be as patient as possible. Gautier Thevenet suggests that this evokes the 2005 vintage, but it also bears more than a passing resemblance to the 1989which is drinking at its peak today, age thirty.","355","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"RAMVERG15B6","1","n/a","6","75","2015","Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru Les Vergers, Domaine Ramonet","Domaine Ramonet","1er Cru","Chassagne-Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","92","TWA","The 2015 Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru Les Vergers reveals a beautifully defined bouquet of citrus oil, lime, toasted nuts and fresh mintthe prelude to a medium-full, glossy wine with tensile acids, excellent depth and dimension and a long, precise finish. The Vergers often has one of the cooler profiles of the Ramonet`s Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Crus, and that characteristic has served it well in the warm 2015 vintage.","1410","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"RAMCHAMCAN15B3","1","n/a","3","75","2015","Puligny-Montrachet 1er Cru Champs Canet, Domaine Ramonet","Domaine Ramonet","1er Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","92","TWA","This premier cru is situated high on the Puligny slope and typically produces a comparatively crisp, tensile wine, but Jean-Claude Ramonet`s 2015 Puligny-Montrachet 1er Cru Champs-Canet is notably rich and ripe, bursting from the glass with an expressive nose of peach, toasted nuts, lemon oil and nutmeg. On the palate, the wine is glossy, full-bodied and concentrated, with almost chewy levels of extract and succulent rather than more typically racy acids. This should make for dramatic drinking in its youth.","900","IB","3x75cl","OC",
"SERPNEVENR14B6","1","n/a","6","75","2014","Evenstad Reserve` Pinot Noir, Domaine Serene","Domaine Serene","n/a","n/a","Willamette
Valley","Oregon","USA","Red","93","VM","(60% new French oak) Limpid ruby-red. Powerful, smoke-accented dark berry preserve, cherry cola and lavender pastille scents show very good clarity and pick up Indian spice and vanilla notes with air. Sweet and expansive on the palate, offering concentrated black raspberry, cherry liqueur and mocha flavors, along with energizing spiciness and a touch of smoky minerality. Weighty yet surprisingly graceful, finishing with strong thrust, slow-building tannins and lingering florality.","455","DP","6x75cl","OC",
"DRCTAC11B1","2","n/a","1","75","2011","La Tâche Grand Cru, Domaine de la Romanée-Conti","DRC","Grand Cru","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","96","AM","As it was from cask this is more restrained than usual and it requires aggressive swirling to coax the pure and spicy essence of red berry fruit aromas to emerge from the glass where there is a slight hint of herbal tea present. There is a similar reserve to the distinctly focused and linear flavors that enjoy a seemingly unlimited reserve of dry extract that renders the fine-grained and silky tannins almost invisible at present though I suspect that they will become much more apparent once the baby fat melts away. There is superb complexity and fantastic length and this mineral-driven effort should be capable of drinking well after only 12 years or so of bottle age but require a solid 20 before it`s completely mature. While La Tâche is almost by definition a superbly elegant wine there is also always an inner core of muscle. In 2011 it seems to have more of the former and a bit less of the latter, indeed this may the first vintage in quite a while where it is ready before the Richebourg.","3950","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"DRCRSV99B1","1","n/a","1","75","1999","Romanée-St-Vivant Grand Cru, Domaine de la Romanée-Conti","DRC","Grand Cru","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","97","TWA","The 2019 Romanée-St-Vivant Grand Cru wafts from the glass with breathtaking aromas of raspberries and strawberries mingled with bergamot, Indian spices, peonies and rose petals. Full-bodied, vibrant and perfumed, it`s finer boned than the more muscular Grands-Échézeaux, with a bright spine of acidity and beautifully refined tannins, concluding with a long, penetrating finish. Striking for its purity and elegance, my handwritten notes include the phrase "pure sensuality."","3295","DP","1x75cl","OC",
"EGONSCHARZSPAT17B1","5","n/a","1","75","2017","Scharzhofberger Riesling Spätlese, Egon Müller, Saar","Egon M","n/a","n/a","n/a","Mosel","Germany","Sweet White","96","RP","The 2017 Scharzhofberger Spätlese AP #6 offers a clear, fine, beautifully ripe and concentratedthough currently pretty closedbouquet that is still covered by sulfites. Crystalline and mouthfillingly lush and round on the palate, this is a very refined, frisky and playful Riesling with enormous finesse and dancing feather weight on the palate. There are delicate raisin and slate flavors in the aftertaste. This Spätlese has around 71 grams of residual sugar, yet you dont taste that much of it.","140","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"GUIGSJLTSTB16B6","1","n/a","6","75","2016","Saint Joseph Lieu-Dit St Joseph Blanc, Etienne Guigal","Etienne Guigal","n/a","n/a","Northern Rhone","Rhone","France","White","94","TWA","The 2016 Saint Joseph lieu dit Saint Joseph Blanc includes the old-vine fruit from the former Grippat estate. A blend of 92% Marsanne and 8% Roussanne fermented in 50% new oak and 50% second-fill barriques, its ripe and honeyed, marked by aromas of toasted grain, then eases into flavors of toasted marshmallow and orange marmalade before gliding to a long, spicy finish. This medium to full-bodied white looks to have the potential to last up to 10 years in bottle.","180","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"SAUZCHAMP15B6","1","n/a","6","75","2015","Puligny-Montrachet 1er Cru Champs-Canet, Etienne Sauzet","Etienne Sauzet","1er Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","91-94","AM","Sweet spot Outstanding
Once again firm reduction makes the nose a tough read. The rich, fresh and energetic medium-bodied flavors possess a beautifully elegant mouth feel that continues on to the refined, focused and impeccably well-balanced though notably firmer finish. Drink: 2025+","990","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"FAIVCDI10B12","1","n/a","12","75","2010","Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru Clos des Issarts, Faiveley","Faiveley","1er Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","89+","VM","Good bright, dark red. Reduced, rather wild aromas of cherry and mocha. Sweet and thick but a bit youthfully tart owing to firm acidity. Densely packed but disjointed today, with saline soil tones dominating the middle palate. Tannins are nicely ripe though. In a reductive phase and hard to assess with accuracy.","890","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"FAIVMAZ99B12","1","n/a","12","75","1999","Mazis-Chambertin Grand Cru, Faiveley","Faiveley","Grand Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","93","AM","(from 45+ year old vines). Always one of the most consistent performers in the Faiveley portfolio, the `99 Mazis is nothing short of superb with its beautifully dark ruby color and deep, brooding aromas of earth, iron, traces of leather and dried herbs followed by intense, penetrating, full-bodied, rich, slightly wild, gamey flavors all perfectly framed by outstanding fruit/acid balance. Though not quite as detailed and mineral-laden as the equally impressive `99 Latricières, this too is very long with terrific persistence and simply oozes the unmistakable class and power of a Gevrey grand cru. There is so much pinot baby fat that this is deceptively approachable now but it will age and improve for at least a decade and drink well for another. A very impressive effort. Drink 2009+","3240","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"FLPSAFF12B6","1","n/a","6","75","2012","Morellino di Scansano, Fattoria Le Pupille","Fattoria Le Pupille","n/a","n/a","n/a","Tuscany","Italy","Red","100","JS","A phenomenal Saffredi with so much structure and length. Its full-bodied yet remaines agile and lively. Aromas and flavors of currants, mint and wet earth. Full-bodied, chewy and powerful. A blend of cabernet sauvignon, merlot and petit verdot. This has a special label celebrating the 25th anniversary of the production of this wine. It`s the greatest Saffredi ever, cementing its reputation as the Lafite of Tuscany. This needs at least five years in bottle but its entrancing to drink now. A must-buy for Super Tuscan lovers.","210","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"FONTSOR12B6","1","n/a","6","75","2012","Chianti Classico Riserva Vigna del Sorbo, Fontodi","Fontodi","Riserva","Chianti Classico","Chianti","Tuscany","Italy","Red","98","VM","The 2012 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigna del Sorbo is stunningly beautiful. At the same time, I have to report that the window for tasting the 2012 as a young wine appears to be closing. The density of the fruit and creaminess of the tannins are still evident if somewhat less obvious than they were a year ago, while the aromatics aren`t quite as explosive as they have been in the past. The wine`s depth and intensity suggest the 2012 will be fabulous once it emerges from its current period of dormancy. In this tasting, the 2012 shows a more red fruit and lifted profile than the 2013, where the flavors are darker.","270","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"ROUSCSJ05B1","2","n/a","1","75","2005","Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru Clos-St-Jacques, Domaine Fourrier","Fourrier","1er Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","94","AM","Initially this was heavily reduced and required a full 45 minutes in a vigorously shaken decanter to really dissipate the funk. Like many `05s at this stage in their evolution this remains reserved and tight but the concentration and balance is seriously impressive. That said, the reserved nose, while offering glimpses of what is to come, it closed and the supporting tannins are still very, very firm. I remain highly optimistic that in time this is going to be a genuinely great Clos St. Jacques but for now it`s basically infanticide, even with extended aeration. I would advise just letting this slumber away for the better part of another decade as it`s going to need it but when it finally matures, we`re in for a real treat! Drink: Try from 2020+","740","DP","1x75cl","OC",
"FOURCHAMP05B1","3","n/a","1","75","2005","Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru Les Champeaux, Vieilles Vignes, Domaine Fourrier","Fourrier","1er Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","90-92","AM","Outstanding
Airy, indeed almost elusive but highly complex earth and mineral suffused red pinot fruit plus floral hints, particularly violets that can also be found on the vibrant, intense and textured medium full flavors that possess excellent delineation on the focused, punchy and linear finish that also displays a streak of minerality. This too is an ultra elegant and refined wine and recommended. Drink: 2013+","475","DP","1x75cl","OC",
"VERCOTVER15B1","3","n/a","1","75","2015","Condrieu Côteau de Vernon, Georges Vernay","Georges Vernay","n/a","n/a","Northern Rhone","Rhone","France","White","100","JD","One of the most singular, majestic Condrieu Ive ever tasted is the 2015 Condrieu Coteau De Vernon. I wish I could pour a taste of this heavenly wine for every reader. White peach, white flowers, hints of citrus oil, and subtle minerality all flow to a thrilling pure, elegant, yet powerful wine that could only come from this incredible terroir. Long and silky, with nothing out of place, it`s as good as Condrieu gets.","100","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"GVENVV16B6","1","n/a","6","75","2016","Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Vieilles Vignes, Domaine Grand Veneur - Alain Jaume","Grand Veneur","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","100","JD","The 2016 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Vieilles Vignes is up with the crème de la crème of the vintage and in the same league as the perfect 2010. Awesome notes of blackberries, crème de cassis, charred meats, licorice, and violets all soar from the glass. It`s powerful, opulent, and structured, with building tannin, a huge mid-palate, and a blockbuster finish, yet it never loses its sense of purity and elegance. It`s an incredible achievement from this estate. The blend is 45% Grenache, 45% Mourvèdre, and 10% Syrah, all aged in 55% new French oak.","470","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"GRASRUN06B6","1","n/a","6","75","2006","Barolo Riserva Rüncot, Elio Grasso","Grasso (Elio)","n/a","Barolo","Barolo","Piedmont","Italy","Red","96+","TWA","The 2006 Barolo Riserva Runcot is a huge, structured wine bursting at the seams with fruit. The French oak (100% new) is beautifully integrated. Today the wine is understandably quite reticent but its pedigree is hard to miss. Flowers, licorice and minerals linger on the finish. The 2006 Runcot needs time, most likely lots of it. Let me just say I cant wait to taste this powerhouse once it has had more time in bottle. It is a dazzling effort. Anticipated maturity: 2016-2031.","950","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"GRASRUN08B6","1","n/a","6","75","2008","Barolo Riserva Rüncot, Elio Grasso","Grasso (Elio)","n/a","Barolo","Barolo","Piedmont","Italy","Red","95+","AG","The 2008 Barolo Riserva Runcot is a drop-dead gorgeous beauty. Smoke, tar, licorice, menthol, plums and spices form a tapestry of undeniable class. The sweet, perfumed fruit typical of the 2008s here is evident in the glass. A rich, sumptuous wine, the 2008 Runcot is fabulous. The 2008 spent 45 months in new French oak, all of which it has handled with superb grace. Even though the Runcot is one of the few Barolos that handles new French oak this well, once again I wonder what it might taste like if aged like the rest of the Grasso Barolos. Dark red/black fruit, spices, new leather and smoke add the last nuances of complexity.","630","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"HUETCON15B6","1","n/a","6","75","2015","Vouvray Cuvée Constance, Domaine Huet","Huet","n/a","Vouvray","n/a","Loire","France","Sweet White","98","TWA","The orange colored 2015 Vouvray Cuvée Constance displays a clear, fresh, pure and concentrated bouquet of dried apricots, quince, pumpernickel, honey, green fig chutney, orange tea, black chocolate with bitter orange and red pepper berries. On the palate, this is a vital, fresh, straight, pure, tightly woven and salty noble sweet wine with great, almost electric tension, finesse and vitality. The fruit is lush and dense, but the mineral grip and acidity are mind-blowing. This is many years away from being at its peak, but it`s another fascinating Cuvée de Constance. Tasted in March 2019.","590","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"HUMCHAR15B6","1","n/a","6","75","2015","Charmes-Chambertin Grand Cru, Humbert Frères","Humbert Freres","Grand Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","92+","VM","Deep ruby-red. Very ripe but not at all roasted on the nose, offering sappy aromas of crushed black cherry, boysenberry and violet. Full, sweet and very ripe but a bit monolithic--even brutal--after the Estournelles, hiding more than it`s showing today. Finishes with substantial dusty, mouthcoating tannins that will require patience. I find this wine tough going, but I would not be at all surprised if it merited a higher score ten years from now.","690","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"HUMEST15B6","1","n/a","6","75","2015","Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru Estournelles-St-Jacques, Humbert Frères","Humbert Freres","1er Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","93","VM","Dark red. Aromas of blackberry, black cherry, dark plum, licorice and smoky minerals; a whiff of reduction quickly dissipated. Densely packed but also sharply delineated and taut, with its black fruit flavors lifted by licorice and rocky mineral notes. This wine showcases the breadth of the vintage while retaining superb finesse and energy. An outstanding showing, but this firmly structured wine will need at least several years of cellaring.","500","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"HACREKMVCS15B3","1","n/a","3","75","2015","Kayli Morgan Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Hundred Acre","Hundred Acre","n/a","n/a","Napa","California","USA","Red","100","TWA","The 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Kayli Morgan Vineyard has a medium garnet-purple color and is a little closed to begin, giving up red and black currants, violets, lilacs and spice box plus chocolate-covered coffee beans, menthol, tilled soil and cardamom. The palate is full-bodied, concentrated and built like a brick house, with loads of floral sparks and a very long, mineral-laced finish. Through the roof.","1800","IB","3x75cl","OC",
"CARDINALECS12B6","1","n/a","6","75","2012","Cabernet Sauvignon, Cardinale Estate, Jackson Family Wines","Jackson","n/a","n/a","n/a","California","USA","Red","n/a","n/a","n/a","960","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"KONGCHARD18B6","1","n/a","6","75","2018","Chardonnay, Kongsgaard","Kongsgaard","n/a","n/a","Napa","California","USA","White","94","VM","The 2018 Chardonnay is a gorgeous, luscious Chardonnay loaded with character. Plush fruit and soft contours bring out all of the natural richness of various Wente Clone Chardonnay selections. Almond paste, dried flowers, butter, chamomile, apricot and tropical fruit all build into a striking crescendo of flavors and textures. This is an especially oily, weighty style of Napa Valley Chardonnay. As always, the Napa Valley Chardonnay is a blend of fruit from Hudson and Hyde.","720","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"LOKCSHM12B6","1","n/a","6","75","2012","Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon, Lokoya Vineyard","La Lokoya Vineyard","n/a","Howell Mountain","Napa","California","USA","Red","99","TWA","From a high-elevation vineyard that was replanted in 2006, the 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain reveals an opaque purple color as well as notes of mulberries, graphite, blackberries and a hint of charcoal. This dramatic, ostentatious 2012 is in keeping with the stylistic characteristics of this vintage. Multidimensional, stunningly pure and rich, it is a beauty that flirts with perfection. Drink now-2032.","1440","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"CLIGROM17B3","1","n/a","3","75","2017","La Romanée Grand Cru, Domaine du Comte Liger-Belair","Liger Belair","Grand Cru","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","96","AM","A decidedly restrained but more elegant nose offers up various floral elements that include lavender and rose petal along with various spice and red berry fruit scents. Several of the wines in the range possess beautiful textures and mouthfeels but the exquisitely delineated, vibrant and stony flavors are silky to the point of resembling liquid lace if such a thing existed, while exhibiting stunningly good persistence on the harmonious and superbly well-balanced finish. This mildly austere effort is restrained and cool yet it cannot hide its evident class. In sum, this is simply at another level.","15000","DP","3x75cl","OC",
"ILMARBDNGRA17B6","1","n/a","6","75","2017","Brunello di Montalcino, Il Marroneto Madonna delle Grazie","Madonna Delle Grazie","n/a","Brunello di Montalcino","Brunello di Montalcino","Tuscany","Italy","Red","98","TWA","This is one of the icon wines of the appellation. The Il Marroneto 2017 Brunello di Montalcino Madonna delle Grazie shows an elegantly streamlined appearance with shiny ruby highlights. This warm-vintage expression does not have the same vertical lift that we saw in the glorious 2016 edition, but that wine sets the bar very high (and it earned a 100-point score). This vintage is perhaps shapelier and more saturated with rose, wild cherry, peat moss and blood orange. The house style embraces extreme finesse, and you get that here. Alessandro Mori has also expertly managed the tannins, with results that appear silky and almost glossy. Thanks to elevation and soils, this cool growing site north of Montalcino village performs very nicely in the hot vintages such as this. 2024-2048","1030","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"MARCAPN10B1","3","n/a","1","75","2010","Marcassin Pinot Noir, Marcassin Vineyard","Marcassin","n/a","n/a","Sonoma Coast","California","USA","Red","98","TWA","Not surprisingly, the finest wine of this trio is the 2010 Pinot Noir Marcassin Estate. Deep plum/ruby/purple-colored to the edge, it offers notes of boysenberries, mulberries and a hint of raspberries. The site`s minerality is well-positioned in the full-bodied flavors which continue the blue fruit invasion, so to speak, but with more forest floor and composty notes, and a complex, northern Cote de Nuits Vosne-Romanee or Morey-St.-Denis personality expressed in the gorgeous fruit. The sweetness of the tannin, the finish of 40+ seconds, and the great intensity this wine exhibits make it another compelling Pinot Noir from these two reclusive geniuses. Drink it over the next decade or more.","250","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"MASCBMP07B6","1","n/a","6","75","2007","Barolo Monprivato, Giuseppe e Figlio Mascarello","Mascarello","n/a","Barolo","Barolo","Piedmont","Italy","Red","97","TWA","The 2007 Barolo Monprivato is stunningly beautiful. Monprivato is seldom this rich when it is young. It is most often intensely aromatic, mid-weight and frequently out of balance, especially right after bottling. The 2007 is none of those things. It is a rich, dramatic wine endowed with tons of fruit and a sweeping, enveloping personality. It is also primary and at the beginning of what is likely to be a long, long life. Despite its seeming fragility, Monprivato is one of the most long-lived of all Baroli, even in its weakest vintages. The 2007 is spectacular, but it is very, very young and in need of significant cellaring to shed some its baby fat. Purists may prefer the 2006. I have not tasted both wines side by side from bottle, but 10 years from now it wont matter. Readers will be thrilled to own either. In 2007 Mascarello opted not to bottle his Riserva Ca dMorissio as he didnt think there was a huge difference between the Riserva and the straight Monprivato. I guess we will never know for sure, although my barrel tastings have always suggested otherwise. In any event, savvy readers know what happens when there is no Ca dMorissio in a good to great vintage. Recent examples include the 1999 and 2005. By now, its pretty clear the direction those wines have taken. Barolo lovers will not want to be without the 2007 Monprivato. It is a stratospheric Barolo in the making. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2037.","840","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"MASCMONP10B6","1","n/a","6","75","2010","Barolo Monprivato, Giuseppe e Figlio Mascarello","Mascarello","n/a","Barolo","Barolo","Piedmont","Italy","Red","97","TWA","Mauro Mascarello does not disappoint with his stunning 2010 Barolo Monprivato. This is an impeccable expression from Castiglione Falletto that imparts an immense sense of purity and elegance. The bouquet opens slowly to reveal pressed flower, cola, dried ginger, forest fruit and balsam herb. This is a magnificent expression of Nebbiolo that changes and shifts each time you come back to contemplate its aromas. That magical fluidity is also present in the mouth. The wine presents silky tannins and crisp fruit flavors. Given the sheer quality on display now, you can count on Barolo Monprivato to continue a slow and successful evolution in your cellar. This is a true beauty.","840","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"MASCVILL10B6","1","n/a","6","75","2010","Barolo Villero, Giuseppe e Figlio Mascarello","Mascarello","n/a","Barolo","Barolo","Piedmont","Italy","Red","92","TWA","The 2010 Barolo Villero is shaped in a classic style with 36 month of aging in botte grande. In line with tradition, it presents a sharp and streamlined style with a feminine and elegant personality. Instead of muscle and brawn, it boasts length and persistency. Its appearance is thin and bright with luminous garnet hues. In the mouth, the wine is focused and pristine with supple, silky tannins. It promises to flesh out further with additional cellar aging.","570","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"MAURTER04B1","3","n/a","1","75","2004","Terreus, Bodegas Mauro, Paraje de Cueva Baja, Vino de la Tierra de Castilla y Leon","Mauro","n/a","n/a","n/a","Rioja","Spain","Red","95","TWA","The 2004 Terreus, a wine made only in top vintages (2004 certainly qualifies), is taken from a single vineyard of old vine Tempranillo. It has a complex nose of toasty oak, mineral, violets, incense, blackberry, and black cherry that leaps from the glass. Thick, rich, and opulent, this powerful yet suave offering will benefit from 4-6 years of additional bottle age and drink well through 2034. This is an impressive set of wines.","115","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"MACMESSCRI08B6","1","n/a","6","75","2008","Le Macchiole Scrio, Bolgheri, Messorio","Messorio","n/a","n/a","Bolgheri","Tuscany","Italy","Red","97","TWA","The 2008 Messorio is simply marvelous in this vintage. Layers of dark fruit take shape beautifully in the glass as this reticent Messorio shows off its pedigree. The 2008 is a decidedly inward wine that, once again, stands apart from some recent vintages. The 2008 is a mid-weight, refined Messorio endowed with tons of balance and sheer finesse. It will be a fascinating wine to follow in the coming years. The 2008 Messorio was aged for 14 months in the standard French oak barrique (75% new), a move away from the smaller barrels that had been used in past years. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2028.","450","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"MISMAYPMCHARD16B6","1","n/a","6","75","2016","Puligny-Montrachet Chardonnay, Mischief and Mayhem","Mischief and Mayhem","n/a","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","n/a","n/a","n/a","300","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"PTOR13B6","1","n/a","6","75","2013","Le Pergole Torte, Montevertine","Montevertine","n/a","n/a","n/a","Tuscany","Italy","Red","98","TWA","Perhaps no Tuscan wine is a better vintage ambassador than the Montevertine 2013 Le Pergole Torte. This gorgeous wine seems to have captured the energy, the freshness, the spirt and the edginess of this classic vintage. It really speaks to my palate thanks to its silky consistency, its steady aromatic momentum and its understated elegance. The wine shows an uncanny level of the proverbial Tuscan nobility. The bouquet offers a delicate embroidery of wild berry and underbrush, with lingering tones of dark fruit and spice that appear on second nose. The mouthfeel is ethereal and polished with tannins that already show a superior level of integration despite the wine`s young age. The aging future looks very bright for the 2013 Le Pergole Torte.","1500","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"MUGAENEAR09B6","1","n/a","6","75","2009","Rioja Prado Enea, Gran Reserva, Muga","Muga","n/a","n/a","n/a","Rioja","Spain","Red","96","TWA","The most classic cuvée was not produced in 2007 or 2008, so we jumped to the phenomenal 2009 Prado Enea. It was produced with grapes from cooler vineyards that enjoyed 20 extra days of slow ripening compared with warmer zones, which provided them with perfect ripeness and deep flavors. This blend of 70% Tempranillo, 20% Garnacha and the remaining 10% between Mazuelo and Graciano had an extended élevage, in this case no less than three years (alternating newer and older barrels). This is still a baby and I know Winemaker Jorge Muga would like to keep it in bottle for longer before selling it, but the commercial pressure is tremendous, as there has been no wine since 2006. The wine has 14.1% alcohol and a surprising 3.34 pH, especially considering 2009 was generally a warm and ripe year. But somehow this cuvée seems to work very well in ripe vintages. The wine feels even younger on the palate, and it still needs to develop some further complexity and the silky texture for which this wine is famous. There is good balance here and all the elements are in place for a nice development in bottle. In fact, it feels like one of the great recent vintages of Prado Enea. There will be no Prado Enea in 2012 and 2013 either, but it`s produced in 2010, 2014 (small quantities) and 2015. At this quality level, the price seems like a real bargain. 90,000 bottles produced in 2009.","315","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"MUGRIC00B12","1","n/a","12","75","2000","Richebourg Grand Cru, Denis Mugneret","Mugneret","Grand Cru","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","93","CellarTracker","n/a","5400","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"MASS06B3","1","n/a","2","75","2006","Masseto, Tenuta dell`Ornellaia, Bolgheri","Ornellaia, Tenuta","n/a","n/a","n/a","Tuscany","Italy","Red","100","TWA","The wine that most delighted me at this historic tasting of Tuscany`s most iconic wines was the 2006 Masseto. This is a wine of sheer power, bliss, opulence, infinity and sublime seduction. This Merlot-based masterpiece hits all your senses with the grace of a ballerina and the power of a heavyweight. It is steady on its proverbial feet, but it also glides over the palate with a profound sense of elegance, harmony and rhythm. Among the prized vintages of Masseto, including 2001, 2004 and 2007, this edition is my favorite. The wine delivers an extra sense of tightness or firmness at the back that serves to stitch together its fleshy richness and general sumptuousness. The personality is sunny, expansive, articulate and sophisticated. You`ll remember that the 2006 vintage is celebrated for the elegance of its wines. In the coastal Bolgheri appellation, it is also remembered for the power of its wines. You get the best of both worlds with this stunning creation: elegance and power. These traits are particularly well suited to the versatile grape variety at the heart of this Tuscan all-rounder. This is a true Renaissance wine.","2000","IB","2x75cl","OC",
"MASS07B3","1","n/a","3","75","2007","Masseto, Tenuta dell`Ornellaia, Bolgheri","Ornellaia, Tenuta","n/a","n/a","n/a","Tuscany","Italy","Red","98","VM","Rich, sumptuous and exotically beautiful, the 2007 Masseto is off the charts. The year got off to a very warm, dry start, but then cooler weather in August allowed for the vines to find their balance. All the best elements of Masseto and the house style come together in this truly memorable wine. Dark red fruit, espresso, mocha and wild flowers flesh out in a resonant, stunningly beautiful Tuscan red that hits all the right notes. Wow!","2090","IB","3x75cl","OC",
"JABSTER18B6","1","n/a","6","75","2018","Hermitage Le Chevalier de Stérimberg, Paul Jaboulet Aîné","Paul Jaboulet A","AC","Hermitage","Northern Rhone","Rhone","France","White","95","TWA","There hasn`t been a La Chapelle Blanc since 2014, as Caroline Frey hasn`t found that special lot that warrants such an exalted designation. Fans of her whites have to make do with wines like the 2018 Hermitage Blanc Le Chevalier de Sterimberg. A blend of two-thirds Marsanne and one-third Roussanne, made mainly in concrete eggs but with a few 600-liter demi-muids in the mix, it offers up aromas of toasted cashews alongside ripe pear, melon and even peach. Medium to full-bodied, it`s lush in the mouthgenerous but structured, with a long, long finish of citrus and stones. 2021-2035","265","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"PENCRCS10B6","1","n/a","6","75","2010","Penfolds Cellar Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon","Penfolds ","n/a","n/a","n/a","Barossa","Australia","Red","92+","TWA","Deep garnet-purple in color and sporting a very forward and expressive, creme de cassis-led nose with hints of dried mint, dark chocolate and cigar boxes plus a whiff of dried herbs following, the full-bodied 2010 Cellar Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon is a rich, concentrated and classic Barossa Cabernet style shaped by medium to firm, grainy tannins and crisp acid. It finishes very long. Drink now to 2015+.","550","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"PMONGCBDBB08B6","1","n/a","6","75","2008","Brut Millésime Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs, Pierre Moncuit","Pierre Moncuit","n/a","n/a","n/a","Champagne","France","Sparkling","94","VM","The 2008 Brut Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru is a fabulous wine from this great Champagne vintage. Given the extended time on the lees (more than ten years) the 2008 shows quite a bit of complexity that has developed in bottle. Baked apple tart, spice, apricot, orange peel, spice, hazelnut and coffee are some of the many aromas and flavors that shape this wonderfully complex Champagne from Moncuit. The 2008 is in an ideal place for drinking now, as it offers a great deal of complexity. Dosage is 7 grams per liter. Disgorged November 2020.","230","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"PYCMCHARM18B3","1","n/a","3","75","2018","Meursault 1er Cru Les Charmes, Pierre-Yves Colin-Morey","Pierre-Yves Colin-Morey","1er Cru","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","91-93","AM","A restrained, and notably floral nose combines notes of apple, citrus zest and a wisp of mineral reduction. The palate impression of the middle weight flavors is relatively precise and especially so in the context of what is typical for the 2018 vintage while offering evident minerality and salinity on the balanced bitter lemon-inflected finish. This will need to add depth to achieve the upper end of my predicted range, but it may well do just that.","750","IB","3x75cl","OC",
"PIETVBARB12B6","1","n/a","6","75","2012","Pietradolce `Vigna Barbagalli` Etna Rosso","Pietradolce","n/a","n/a","Etna","Sicily","Italy","Red","95","TWA","When grapevines die and go to heaven, they wake-up in Pietradolce`s Barbagalli vineyard. I have only ever seen a handful of vineyards as beautiful as this spectacular terrestrial handshake between man and volcano. The 2012 Etna Rosso Vigna Barbagalli faithfully reflects the esthetic grandeur of this amphitheater of pre-phylloxera vines planted 900 meters up Etna`s blackened slope. On average, these knotted plants are more than 100-years-old. The wine opens to amazing intensity and purity with an enormous sense of integrity and balance. Dark berry fruit segues slowly to spice, leather, balsam herb and crushed mineral as the wine evolves in the glass. The wine`s finish is long and determined. Vigna Barbagalli is a revelation if you are looking for a reason to fall in love with Etna.","600","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"PINGFDP06B12","n/a","6","1","75","2006","Flor de Pingus, Dominio de Pingus","Pingus","n/a","n/a","n/a","Ribera del Duero","Spain","Red","95","TWA","The 2006 Flor de Pingus is deep purple in color with a superb bouquet of toasty oak, spice box, mineral, incense, black cherry, and blackberry. Youthful, full-bodied, intense, and powerful on the palate, it retains an elegant personality despite its size. Splendidly balanced, it will evolve for 4-6 years and deliver prime drinking from 2013 to 2026.","75","IB","1x75cl","OC12",
"PINGFDP08B12","n/a","6","1","75","2008","Flor de Pingus, Dominio de Pingus","Pingus","n/a","n/a","n/a","Ribera del Duero","Spain","Red","96","TWA","The 2008 Flor de Pingus had been in bottle for 2 weeks when I tasted it. It offers up an enticing nose of smoke, Asian spices, incense, espresso, black cherry, and blackberry. On the palate it displays outstanding volume, intensity, and balance. Rich, dense, and succulent, it has enough structure to evolve for 4-5 years and will offer prime drinking from 2015 to 2028.","78","IB","1x75cl","OC12",
"PINGUS12B6","1","n/a","6","75","2012","Pingus, Dominio de Pingus","Pingus","n/a","n/a","n/a","Ribera del Duero","Spain","Red","100","TWA","I finally tasted the 2012 Pingus in bottle, a wine I sampled last year before bottling, and even if it was the final blend, all of a sudden proprietor Peter Sisseck decided to delay the bottling. He cannot really explain the reason why; it was really a hunch, something he felt and he thinks the decision was right. The good news is that the wine delivers all that it promised before bottling. There are plenty of floral notes, violets, even lilies; it`s extremely aromatic, subtle and precise with just some Indian spices in the background to give it an exotic character. With time in the glass, there are some earthy, mineral (even diesel-like?) aromas. It has a rare combination of power and finesse, concentrated but delicate, with buttery, ultra-refined tannins, great balance, acidity, length and a silky texture, not easy to find in Ribera del Duero. This could very well be the best Pingus ever, in the style of 1996, a year of elegance and good acidity, more Burgundian/Atlantic (Peter Sisseck does not agree with the term Burgundian applied to Ribera del Duero) than the average. This wine has the conjunction of their knowledge and the improvements in the vineyards. This is stunning, simply perfect. It has all the components to age for 20+ years. 6,000 bottles were finally filled the first week of September 2014. As I explained last time, 2012 represents a big change in Pingus with 0% new oak used for its upbringing.
I visited Pingus (its two main vineyards, Barroso and San Cristobal) and tasted some lots of the extremely promising 2014 form barrel. I want to refrain myself from scoring such young wines as it should have some 16-20 more months in barrel, but it looks like a fantastic vintage that owner and winemaker Peter Sisseck compares to 1995, and thinks needs a long élevage. The key to 2014 was if you could harvest early, because there was rain later on. They had a problem of hail in the vineyards and thought they had lost the harvest, but they were able to recover from it and harvested some 15 barrels, when a normal year sees some 22. Anyway, I tasted 2012 in bottle; 2013 just before bottling (and a few weeks later a bottled sample); and a bottle of the first vintage, 1995, a wine that still feels young and has plenty of power, with developed aromas of tapenade and violets. 2012 represents the best wine Peter Sisseck has ever made (so far). Bravo!","4800","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"PRODMIX08B9","1","n/a","9","75","2008","Assortment Barbaresco, Produttori del Barbaresco","Produttori del Barbaresco","n/a","Barbaresco","Barbaresco","Piedmont","Italy","Red","91-96","AG","n/a","585","IB","9x75cl","OC",
"QUICAB15B12","2","n/a","12","75","2015","Cabernet Sauvignon, Quilceda Creek, Columbia Valley","Quilceda","n/a","n/a","Columbia Valley","Washington","USA","Red","99","JD","The flagship is the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon, 100% Cabernet Sauvignon mostly from Champoux with the balance from Palengat and Wallula vineyards. Crème de cassis, graphite, black licorice, unsmoked tobacco, and hints of chocolate and emerge from this beauty and it continues to gain depth and nuance with time in the glass. Full-bodied, deep, and layered with an incredible purity and elegance on the palate, it`s already accessible but has more than enough tannin, depth, and balance to evolve for two decades or more.","1280","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"QUINTADV07B6","2","n/a","6","75","2007","Amarone della Valpolicella Classico DOC, Quintarelli Giuseppe","Quintarelli","n/a","n/a","n/a","Veneto","Italy","Red","96","TWA","The 2007 Amarone della Valpolicella Classico was bottled seven months before I tasted it. Grapes undergo a four-month appassimento for extra concentration and intensity. Despite this heavy-handed winemaking technique (in which the clusters lose up to 30% of their water mass in the air-drying process), this is a surprisingly delicate and nuanced wine. The aging process has definitely broken down and assimilated any of the hard edges that come from dried grapes. In its wake, the wine is polished and tight with a long, silky texture. Drink 2019-2035.","1980","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"ARNECH03B6","1","n/a","6","75","2003","Echézeaux Grand Cru, Robert Arnoux","Robert Arnoux","Grand Cru","Flagey-Echezeaux","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","89-91","AM","Fairly strong wood spice with confit of black cherry and cassis aromas that introduce round, warm and punchy flavors that offer exceptionally good length yet are less robust and powerful than those of the Clos de Vougeot. This is a wine that stains the palate and lasts for minutes.","3600","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"LAVANTVAUD16B6","1","n/a","6","75","2016","Chablis Grand Cru Vaudesir, Roland Lavantureux","Roland Lavantureux","Grand Cru","Chablis","Chablis","Burgundy","France","White","n/a","n/a","n/a","360","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"LAVANTVAUD18B6","1","n/a","6","75","2018","Chablis Grand Cru Vaudésir, Roland Lavantureux","Roland Lavantureux","Grand Cru","Chablis","Chablis","Burgundy","France","White","95","VM","The 2018 Chablis Vaudésir Grand Cru comes from 0.4ha of 25-year-old vines and is matured in 80% oak barrels and 20% stainless steel. It has a fabulous nose of citrus fruit, orange blossom, crushed limestone and light fumé aromas. The oak here is beautifully knitted. The palate is very well balanced and poised, the oak perhaps a little prominent on the midpalate and masking some of the terroir at the moment. However, there is superb precision on the finish. This Vaudesir just needs 35 years in bottle to fully assimilate the wood. ","300","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"LAVANTVAUD19B6","1","n/a","6","75","2019","Chablis Grand Cru Vaudésir, Roland Lavantureux","Roland Lavantureux","Grand Cru","Chablis","Chablis","Burgundy","France","White","88","VM","The 2019 Chablis Vaudésir Grand Cru shows way too much new oak on the nose, completely obscuring any terroir expression. The palate is similarly very toasty and buttery, showing good depth but rendered generic by the oak regimen. I found this showing quite perplexing given the quality of the Vau de Vey.","370","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"ROSTLAN10B6","1","n/a","6","75","2010","Côte-Rôtie La Landonne, Réné Rostaing","Rostaing","AC","Cote Rotie","Northern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","99+","TWA","Am I being stingy in only awarding Rostaing`s 2015 Cote Rotie la Landonne 99+ points? This is a tremendous wine, showing immense richness and power without any apparent weight. Raspberries flood the palate in waves, accented by various spices in a wine that`s intensely tannic yet never hard or astringent. Breathtaking stuff. Drink Date 2025 - 2045","795","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"ROSTBLO15B6","1","n/a","6","75","2015","Côte-Rôtie, Côte Blonde, Réné Rostaing","Rostaing","AC","Cote Rotie","Northern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","100","TWA","I give Rostaing`s 2015 Cote Rotie La Cote Blonde the slightest of edges over the La Landonne for its more aromatic, floral nose. It shows that same unfathomable depth and richness married to a sense of weightlessness and elegance that marks the La Landonne, and it also shows those wonderfully pure raspberry flavors. It`s lush, velvety and incredibly long on the finish. Collectors fortunate enough to grab some of each will have great fun comparing the two over the next 30 years or so. Drink Date 2020 - 2045","950","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"SPREFCGIRC16B6","1","n/a","6","75","2016","Châteauneuf-du-Pape Collection Charles Giraud, Domaine Saint Préfert","Saint Prefert","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","99","TWA","The 2016 Chateauneuf du Pape Collection Charles Giraud is a 60-40 blend of Grenache and Mourvèdre, fermented with all the stems. There`s a hint of cocoa, but raspberries and strawberries are the dominant fruit flavors in this lively, zesty wine. Trace notes of mint, lavender and tea leaf add complexity. Full-bodied and velvety in texture, it`s intensely concentrated and rich yet not overly heavy or overripe (it weighs in at 15.5% alcohol), with a lingering, elegant finish. It`s a tour de force that should age for two decades or more, and it will be interesting to see how it compares to the perfect 2010 after it`s had a few years in bottle.","545","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"SPREFCC16B12","1","n/a","12","75","2016","Châteauneuf-du-Pape Cuvèe Classique, Domaine Saint Préfert","Saint Prefert","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","94","TWA","Loaded with scents of roses and exotic spices, the 2016 Chateauneuf du Pape is a super entry-level effort. It`s 85% Grenache aged in concrete, with the balance Cinsault, Mourvèdre and Syrah that`s aged in demi-muids. Full-bodied, velvety and long, it delivers opulent black raspberry fruit framed by silky tannins.","340","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"SPREFAUGF16B6","1","n/a","6","75","2016","Châteauneuf-du-Pape Réserve Auguste Favier, Domaine Saint Préfert","Saint Prefert","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","97","TWA","A blend of 85% Grenache and 15% Cinsault, the 2016 Chateauneuf du Pape Reserve Auguste Favier boasts enchanting floral aromas, intoxicating raspberry and cherry fruit and enthralling hints of Swiss cocoa. Full-bodied, rich and velvety, it nevertheless comes across as fresh and nearly weightless. The use of stems (the wine is all whole bunches) and an elevated proportion of Cinsault has certainly contributed to this wine`s soaring aromas and sense of freshness. It`s a fascinating wine.","265","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"SGRENPER09B6","1","n/a","6","75","2009","Percarlo, San Giusto a Rentennano","San Guisto","n/a","n/a","n/a","Tuscany","Italy","Red","95","RP","A pure expression of Sangiovese, the delicious 2009 Percarlo shows warm tones of leather, pipe tobacco, wet earth, dried cherry and red rose petal. Aged 22 months in French oak, theres enormous heft and determination at the back that does a great job holding up and matching the stunning intensity of the bouquet. Tight tannins, fresh acidity and a touch of sweet cherry characterize the mouthfeel. Its impeccably balanced with ample length, but give it five to ten more years to evolve. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2035.","540","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"SANDBOS03B6","6","n/a","1","75","2003","Barolo Cannubi Boschis, Sandrone","Sandrone","n/a","Barolo","Barolo","Piedmont","Italy","Red","92","TWA","Sandrone`s 2003 Barolo Cannubi Boschis reveals smoke, tar, licorice and dark plums with superb balance and a vibrant, engaging personality. Made in a sweeter, richer style than Le Vigne, its notable depth and well-integrated tannins make it one of the vintage`s successes. I have a slight preference for Le Vigne over Cannubi Boschis today but both wines are among the finest in this vintage. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2019.","115","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"SANDVIG08B6","1","n/a","6","75","2008","Barolo Le Vigne, Sandrone","Sandrone","n/a","Barolo","Barolo","Piedmont","Italy","Red","97","VM","A model of finesse and understatement, the 2008 Barolo Le Vigne is every bit as thrilling as it has always been. At nearly 10 years of age, the 2008 is still bright, precise and very fresh. Sweet red cherry, rose petal and mint notes are beautifully sketched in a Barolo that is pure and total class. In 2008, vineyard sources are Vignane, Merli, Ceretta and Conterni.","680","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"SENA06B6","1","n/a","6","75","2006","Seña, Edwardo Chadwick","SENA","n/a","n/a","n/a","Aconcagua","Chile","Red","95","TWA","The 2006 Sena is a blend of 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Merlot, 13% Petit Verdot, and the balance Carmenere and Cabernet Franc, all of the original Bordeaux grapes except Malbec. It was aged in new French oak for 18 months. It delivers a superb aromatic array of wood smoke, pencil lead, espresso, incense, blackcurrant, and blackberry. This is followed by a Pauillac-like, concentrated yet elegant wine with layers of spicy fruit, well-concealed structure, superb grip, and a fruit-filled, lengthy finish. Like a great vintage of Bordeaux, it will profit from a minimum of a decade of cellaring. Its prime drinking window will extend from 2019 to 2041.","590","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"SPOCAB17B6","1","n/a","6","75","2017","Cabernet Sauvignon, Spottswoode Estate","Spottswoode Estate","n/a","n/a","Napa","California","USA","Red","96","JS","A soft, velvety red with dark-berry, blackcurrant and plum aromas and flavors. Medium-bodied, creamy and delicious. Pretty tension of fruit and tannins. Very refined. 89% cabernet sauvignon, 7% cabernet franc and 4% petit verdot. Drink or hold.","725","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"NUMTER04B6","1","n/a","6","75","2004","Numanthia, Bodega Numanthia Termes","Termes","n/a","n/a","n/a","Toro","Spain","Red","94","TWA","The 2004 Termes received malolactic fermentation in barrel and was aged for 16 months in one-year-old French barriques. Inky purple-colored, it emits a beautiful bouquet of scorched earth, graphite, wild blueberry, and blackberry liqueur. This is followed by a full-bodied, layered, concentrated, intensely flavored wine with exceptional balance and length. The tannins are well concealed by the opulent fruit. Cellar this terrific wine for 6-8 years and drink it over the following 12-15. It is a fantastic value in great wine.","540","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"TORRUN03B6","1","n/a","6","75","2003","RunRig, Torbreck","Torbreck","n/a","n/a","n/a","Barossa","Australia","Red","99","TWA","The estates flagship cuvee is the virtually perfect 2003 Run Rig. Made from 8 separate Barossa vineyards (ranging in age from 94 to 158 years), it is primarily Shiraz with 4-5% co-fermented Viognier included in the blend. The wine was aged in French oak of which 60% is new. The sensational, inky/purple-tinged 2003 exhibits a stunningly sweet nose of blackberries, blueberries, litchi nuts, smoked meats, and a hint of apricots. Elegant yet super-powerful, rich, concentrated, and long, it is a tour de force in winemaking as well as a modern classic example of Barossa Shiraz. It should drink well for 20-25 years.","900","DP","6x75cl","OC",
"TUAPERSEMPS17B3","1","n/a","3","75","2017","Per Sempre Syrah, Tua Rita","Tua Rita","n/a","n/a","n/a","Tuscany","Italy","Red","98","TWA","This is one of my happy wines from Italy. You take three thingsSyrah, sunshine and Tuscanyand fit them magically together to create the 2017 Syrah Per Sempre. If I am happy with this wine, so is its creator Stefano Frascolla, who was downright giggly as he presented it to me. This vintage puts it all out there and misses nothing. There is dark, exuberant, rich black fruit followed by carefully measured concentration and velvety richness. Both the 2003 and 2009 vintages were similarly hot years, but those editions showed a hardness or roughness, especially within the first few years of their release. This wine is quite the opposite, showing seamless transitions with layers of spicy softness, velvety richness and supple fruit definition. This wine is a true beauty with a more immediate style that will reward those who chose to drink it in the medium term, or those who prefer to wait longer. This is also one of the highest scores I have awarded to any Italian wine from the 2017 vintage thus far. Bravo! 2020-2038","220","IB","3x75cl","OC",
"USSIMP16B12","1","n/a","12","75","2016","Châteauneuf du Pape Rouge, Cuvée Impériale Vieilles Vignes, Domaine Usseglio Raymond et fils","Usseglio","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","97+","JD","The flagship is the Grenache-dominated 2016 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Cuvée Imperiale, which comes from vines planted in 1902 and was destemmed and aged in concrete tanks. Awesome notes of blackberries, blueberries, crushed rocks, violets, and graphite all emerge from this tight, full-bodied, concentrated and backward Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Possessing incredible purity of fruit, a concentrated yet fresh, structured profile, and a huge finish, it just needs time to shine.","335","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"BAT04B12","2","n/a","12","75","2004","Chateau Batailley","n/a","Cru Classe","Pauillac","Left Bank","Bordeaux","France","Red","91","TWA","Tasted at the Chateau Batailley dinner at The Square. The 2004 Batailley is fresh and well defined on the nose compared to the 2002, which has less vigour. Here: notes of blackberry leaf, briary, cedar, tobacco and boysenberry. The palate is medium-bodied with a crisp, well-defined entry, pert acidity, quite tight towards the finish but good structure and focus, the finish demonstrating far more precision than I have noticed in the past. As usual, it has a foursquare finish thanks to the growing season, but a very commendable Batailley.","545","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"BAT06B12","2","n/a","12","75","2006","Chateau Batailley","n/a","Cru Classe","Pauillac","Left Bank","Bordeaux","France","Red","91","TWA","The 2006 Chateau Batailley has much more fruit intensity on the nose compared to Lynch Moussas: vibrant blackberry, raspberry coulis and cedar scents all vying for attention, the oak neatly assimilated. The palate is medium-bodied with supple ripe red berry fruit, a gentle grip in the mouth and a pleasing, ferrous finish. Give this another 2-3 years in bottle and you will have yourself a very fine Batailley.","495","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"CLINET13B12","1","n/a","12","75","2013","Chateau Clinet, Pomerol","n/a","n/a","Pomerol","Right Bank","Bordeaux","France","Red","91-93","TWA","A terrific success and star in this vintage, this blend of 90% Merlot, 9% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest Cabernet Franc came from a mere 25 acres of vineyard and averaged 33 hectoliters per hectare, with close to 13% natural alcohol. The entire harvest took place September 30-October 12. The wine is impressive in this vintage, its beautiful, dense, blue/black color is followed by a striking nose of creme de cassis, blackberry fruit, charcoal and a hint of camphor. The wine is rich and medium to full-bodied, displaying surprising texture, depth and breadth. This is a rich wine with good acidity and ripe tannin. It is a relatively big boy for the vintage and should drink well in 2-3 years and last up to 15 or more. It is so good, it is clearly a sleeper of the vintage, even though Clinet has been doing fabulous work for a number of years.","545","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"BRION00B12","1","n/a","12","75","2000","Chateau Haut-Brion","n/a","1er Cru","Pessac-Leognan","Left Bank","Bordeaux","France","Red","98","VM","The 2000 Haut-Brion has the upper hand over La Mission at the moment, and I don`t see that changing. It`s always been one of my favourite wines of the vintage. Blackberry and black olive, copious incense and terracotta notes almost hypnotize the senses. The palate is supremely well-balanced with finely sculpted tannins that frame the black fruit laced with white pepper and graphite. It`s just entering its drinking window but has the substance to last many years. Tasted at the Chateau. NM","6980","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"BRION00B6","1","n/a","6","75","2000","Chateau Haut-Brion","n/a","1er Cru","Pessac-Leognan","Left Bank","Bordeaux","France","Red","98","VM","The 2000 Haut-Brion has the upper hand over La Mission at the moment, and I don`t see that changing. It`s always been one of my favourite wines of the vintage. Blackberry and black olive, copious incense and terracotta notes almost hypnotize the senses. The palate is supremely well-balanced with finely sculpted tannins that frame the black fruit laced with white pepper and graphite. It`s just entering its drinking window but has the substance to last many years. Tasted at the Chateau. NM","3490","IB","6x75cl","RPK",
"PAPCLM13B6","1","n/a","6","75","2013","Chateau Pape Clement","n/a","Cru Classe","Pessac-Leognan","Left Bank","Bordeaux","France","Red","91","TWA","The 2013 Pape Clement has a not dissimilar bouquet to the Smith-Haut-Lafitte with blackberry, cedar and light tobacco scents gently unfolding in the glass. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannin and well judged acidity that binds it together. I like the detail here, one of the more precise 2013s with a tender finish that has a commendable persistence. This is an impressive 2013 that should bestow 12 to 15 years drinking pleasure.","270","DP","6x75cl","OC",
"PICHLAL11B6","2","n/a","6","75","2011","Chateau Pichon-Longueville Comtesse de Lalande","n/a","Cru Classe","Pauillac","Left Bank","Bordeaux","France","Red","93","JS","A 2011 with blackberry, dark-chocolate and smoked-meat character. Full body, silky tannins and a long, intense finish. All about balance and polish. Very fine. Needs three to four years to soften. Try in 2017.","595","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"TALB03B6","n/a","2","1","75","2003","Chateau Talbot, Cru Classe St-Julien","n/a","Cru Classe","St Julien","Left Bank","Bordeaux","France","Red","91","JS","Aromas of blackberry, currant and mineral follow through to a full-bodied palate, with fine tannins and a chocolate and light vanilla aftertaste. Subtle and long. Caressing texture. Hard not to drink now. Best after 2010. 31,785 cases made.","54","DP","1x75cl","RPK",
"TROPMON02B12","1","n/a","12","75","2002","Chateau Troplong-Mondot","n/a","Grand Cru Classe","St Emilion","Right Bank","Bordeaux","France","Red","90","TWA","Tasted blind at Farr`s 2002 Bordeaux tasting. This has a typically rounded, dense, opulent nose with a conspicuous slathering of new oak, quite Burgundian with an animally note developing..lush bilberry, kirsch and raspberry. The palate is smooth, precocious, ripe red-berried fruit, a citrus edge, real tingle on the tongue towards the finish. Good potential, but very backward. Tasted October 2009.","865","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"CLORA05B12","1","n/a","12","75","2005","Clos de l`Oratoire","n/a","Grand Cru Classe","St Emilion","Right Bank","Bordeaux","France","Red","94","TWA","From the Comte von Neipperg, his wines from this over-achieving estate always deliver an aromatic fireworks display of cedar wood, Christmas fruitcake, roasted herbs, black olive, cassis and sweet kirsch. The 2005 has all that as well as ripe, well-integrated, velvety tannin, and full body in a sexy, luscious, heady style to drink now and over the next 10-15 years. Drink 2015 - 2030.","680","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"CLMARQ10B6","1","n/a","6","75","2010","Clos du Marquis, St-Julien","n/a","n/a","St Julien","Left Bank","Bordeaux","France","Red","96","JS","This shows beautiful aromas of flowers, raspberries and blackberries that follow through to a full body with ultra silky tannins and a long, long finish. It lasts for minutes. Best in 2018 or later.","305","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"LATMART13B6","1","n/a","6","75","2013","Lagrave-Martillac Blanc, Chateau Latour-Martillac","n/a","n/a","Pessac Leognan","Left Bank","Bordeaux","France","White","95","JS","So much licorice and fennel seed on the nose with lemon and dried pear undertones. Full body, bright acidity and lots of stone, apple skin and citrus undertones. A solid and serious dry white that will deliver pleasure now but will improve for many years ahead.","175","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"ARTVEP16B6","1","n/a","6","75","2016","Vina el Pison, Artadi","Artadi","n/a","n/a","n/a","Rioja","Spain","Red","99","TWA","The flagship 2016 Viña El Pisón, from a vineyard planted in 1946 in Laguardia at 480 meters in altitude, showed an ethereal vintage with a vibrant palate and was extremely open, expressive, clean and approachable, with a lot less oak than when I tasted it from tank in early 2018 after only eight months in barrel. The wine has now been bottled and it`s as good as expected, reaching the upper limit of my estimation from last year. It has energy and power, with chalky minerality, austere and with finesse, less exuberant than years like 2015 or 2014. This is a wine that always benefits from more time in bottle. This has to be one of the finest vintages of El Pisón in recent times. It reminds me of the 2010, with a rare combination of elegance and power. 6,000 bottles produced.","1500","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"BICHLSJ16B6","1","n/a","6","75","2016","Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru Lavaux St Jacques, Albert Bichot","Bichot","1er Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","91-93","AM","This is also perfumed and exceptionally pretty with its broad ranging nose of both red and dark berry fruit, the sauvage, floral and soft wisps of earth and spice. There is excellent mid palate fat and volume that imparts a succulent mouthfeel to the powerful and muscular flavours where the minerality really comes up on the moderately austere, firmly structured and ever so slightly rustic finish. This is built to age and will need it.","450","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"CDLCHAPPVSF18B6","1","n/a","6","75","2018","Pernand Vergelesses 1er Cru Sous Fretille, Clos de la Chapelle","Clos de la Chapelle","1er Cru","Pernand Vergelesses","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","90-93","JM","East exposure. Pale lemon and lime. Lightly perfumed nose, a cool and chiselled style, with very good length, a lovely almost electric backbone than nicely judged fruit oak balance. A baby Corton-Charlemagne here. Tasted: November 2019","300","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"CLUROCRLGP16B12","1","n/a","12","75","2016","Cote Rotie, Les Grandes Places, Clusel Roch","Clusel Roch","AC","Cote Rotie","Northern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","94","JR","Inky purple. Explosively perfumed aromas of fresh blackberry, boysenberry, incense, licorice and smoky minerals. Deeply concentrated and alluringly sweet, offering palate staining dark berry preserve, licorice candy, bitter chocolate and violet pastille flavours, along with a touch of exotic spices that emerges on the back half. Finishes broad, chewy and impressively long, with steadily building tannins and lingering florality.","960","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"MONTGRE15B6","1","n/a","6","75","2015","Beaune 1er Cru Greves, de Montille","de Montille","1er Cru","Beaune","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","Red","16.5/20","Jancis","Bright crimson. Very aromatic with some aristocratic sinew. Firm and well sculpted. All structure rather than fruit at present.","360","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"ESMCHAM10B6","1","n/a","6","75","2010","Gevrey-Chambertin, Esmonin (Sylvie)","Esmonin (Sylvie)","AC","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","91-93","TWA","The 2010 Gevrey-Chambertin Vieilles Vignes emerges from the glass with super ripe black berries, blueberries, licorice and tar. The Vieilles Vignes impresses for its sheer depth and power, but despite its size, there is plenty of underlying minerality to support the fruit. It remains a big, muscular wine in need of considerable cellaring, though. Esmonin used 60% whole clusters on the Vieilles Vignes. Anticipated maturity: 2020 2030.","450","DP","6x75cl","RPK",
"FOURBGNR19B12","1","n/a","12","75","2019","Bourgogne Rouge, Fourrier (J M)","Fourrier (J M)","AC","Bourgogne","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","87-88","JM","All the fruit comes from the Côte de Nuits from Fixin through to Corgoloin. Glowing red purple with a juicy ripe cherry bouquet, and the same excellent structure at the back which is so important. Tasted: November 2020","550","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"GERMAINMLIM18B6","1","n/a","6","75","2018","Meursault Limozin, Henri Germain et Fils","Henri Germain","AC","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","89-92","AM","A slightly riper nose offers up aromas of white peach, lemongrass, hazelnut and spice hints that are in keeping with the equally ripe, round and nicely rich medium bodied flavours that aren`t quite as refined, all wrapped in a delicious and more complex finish. In a word, excellent.","595","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"HUDPVOU18B3","1","n/a","3","75","2018","Vougeot 1er Cru `Les Petits Vougeots`, Hudelot Noellat","Hudelot Noellat","1er Cru","Vougeot","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","91-94","JM","This is a strongly limestone soil, perhaps more typical of Chambolle. Lively bracing fresh red fruit, raspberry and redcurrant, very graceful with superb sweet and balanced fruit, elegance throughout. Amazing length. Tasted: November 2019","374","IB","3x75cl","OC",
"HUDPVOU18B6","1","n/a","6","75","2018","Vougeot 1er Cru `Les Petits Vougeots`, Hudelot Noellat","Hudelot Noellat","1er Cru","Vougeot","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","91-94","JM","This is a strongly limestone soil, perhaps more typical of Chambolle. Lively bracing fresh red fruit, raspberry and redcurrant, very graceful with superb sweet and balanced fruit, elegance throughout. Amazing length. Tasted: November 2019","750","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"LVDAENV18B6","1","n/a","6","75","2018","Envinate, Lousas Vinas de Aldea","Lousas Vi","DO","n/a","Ribeira Sacra","Galicia","Spain","Red","93","GP","n/a","120","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"MILLSAVLB17B6","1","n/a","6","75","2017","Savigny Les Beaune, Millot (J M)","Millot (J M)","AC","Savigny les Beaune","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","Red","16/20","Jancis","Mid cherry red. Gently perfumed with red fruit. A pretty sweetness on the nose. Light bodied, fresh, subtle and supple.","175","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"PIOBARORN15B6","1","n/a","6","75","2015","Barolo Ornato, Pio Cesare","Pio Cessare","DOCG","Barolo","Barolo","Piedmont","Italy","Red","93+","TWA","With powerful fruit from Serralunga d`Alba, the 2015 Barolo Ornato is a plush and dense red wine with a contemporary feel that prizes richness and overall accessibility. There is a level of softness here that permeates the entire wine and adds to the already intense aromas of red fruit, blackberry, spice, tar, asphalt and candied orange peel. This structured Barolo is best tasted with a platter of Alpine cheeses and jellied honey. Some 13,000 bottles were made.","375","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"ROAGBARO15B6","1","n/a","6","75","2015","Barolo del comune di Barolo, Roagna","Roagna","DOCG","Barolo","Barolo","Piedmont","Italy","Red","93+","AG","The 2015 Barolo del Comune di Barolo is a gorgeous entry level wine in this range. Succulent and forward, the 2015 offers quite a bit of immediacy and sheer appeal. Sweet red cherry fruit, spice, leather, mint, cedar and pipe tobacco are nicely pushed forward, but there is plenty of tannic spine underneath. This is an especially open knit wine from Luca Roagna, not that I think most readers will have an issue with that, especially those of us who remember the bruisers of the past. The Barolo del Comune di Barolo is one of the wines in this range savvy readers will want to focus on for its quality, value and sheer deliciousness. Sadly, there are fewer than 100 cases to go around.","419","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"ROAGPIRA15B6","1","n/a","6","75","2015","Barolo Pira, Roagna","Roagna","DOCG","Barolo","Barolo","Piedmont","Italy","Red","93","AG","The 2015 Barolo Pira is lifted and gracious in feel. In this vintage, the Pira is notably perfumed and restrained. Rose petal, mint, crushed flowers, dried cherry, star anise and cinnamon are some of the many notes that grace this delicate, lilting Barolo from Luca Roagna. The tannins are persistent and fine, lending a slightly nervous feel.","480","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"ROCHGCVV10B12","1","n/a","12","75","2010","Gevrey-Chambertin, Vieilles Vignes, Roche de Bellene","Roche de Bellene","AC","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","89-92","ST","Good bright red. Raspberry, licorice, crushed rock and a hint of tar on the nose. Sappy and suave, with mouthfilling texture and excellent energy to the dark fruit and mineral flavours. An impressively large scaled, even powerful, village wine with a broad, long finish featuring substantial spicy tannins.","850","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"VILLSJREF10B6","2","n/a","6","75","2010","St Joseph, Les Reflets, Villard","Villard","AC","St Joseph","Northern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","17/20","Jancis","100% Syrah. This is the red that Villard regards as his flagship, with older vines than his Côte Rôtie Gallet Blanc. Still quite uncommunicative on the nose. Very rich front palate and then lots of burly fruit and, especially, structure. Very exciting. Much tougher at this stage than the Gallet Blanc.","295","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"AKRATHASSYRT18B6","3","n/a","6","75","2018","Assyrtiko, Akrathos","Akranthos","n/a","n/a","n/a","Halkidiki","Greece","White","94","RV","The cheapest, and in my view definitely the most serious wine of the three ! No doubt it is cheapest because it comes from Halkidiki, not Santorini
","100","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"ALLECHAI15B6","1","n/a","6","75","2015","Cornas Les Chaillots, Thierry Allemand","Allemand (Thierry)","AC","Cornas","Northern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","96","JR","Deep lurid ruby. Heady, smoke and spice accented boysenberry, cherry liqueur and violet aromas show excellent clarity and pick up a hint of olive with aeration. Sweet and broad on the palate, offering deeply concentrated yet energetic dark berry preserve, cola and floral pastille flavours, plus a suggestion of spicecake. The extremely long, velvety finish features an echo of juicy, sweet blue fruit and harmonious tannins that come in late.","1200","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"APRSUCGREN17B12","n/a","2","1","75","2017","Sucette Grenache, An Approach To Relaxation","An Approach to Relaxation","n/a","n/a","n/a","Barossa","Australia","Red","94","VM","Shimmering ruby. Vibrant, sharply focused red fruit and floral scents are complicated by peppery spice, botanical herb and smoky mineral notes. Juicy and energetic on the palate, showing strong, spicy lift to its intense raspberry, cherry, lavender pastille and spicecake flavors, which deepen with air. Finishes sweet, seamless and impressively long, with polished tannins adding shape and gentle grip.","40","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"ANTHARM19B12","n/a","2","1","75","2019","Harmony Lane Pinot Noir, Anthill Farms","Anthill Farms","n/a","Occidental","Sonoma Coast","California","USA","Red","91.6","Cellartracker","n/a","28","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"ARNCORVP93B1","1","n/a","1","75","1993","Nuits St Georges 1er Cru Corvees Pagets, Arnoux","Arnoux ","1er Cru","Nuits St Georges","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","91"," Cellartracker","Secret ancient-vine gem in the Arnoux lineup. Of course, those vines weren`t quite so ancient back in 1993. This is now fully mature, with the old Burgundy sous bois aroma and the material, both fruit and structure, having transcended its liquid state to become pure ether. There is some remaining plumminess but more in tone and hue than in actual fruit. I think I liked it better a couple years ago when it still had some fresher sweet berry to it, but it`s not like this is feeble or anything. It is still in healthy form and bold enough to show vestiges of the the muscular form Nuits was associated with at this time.","240","DP","1x75cl","RPK",
"ARPROCES91B1","1","n/a","1","75","1991","Nuits St Georges 1er Cru Les Proces, Arnoux","Arnoux ","1er Cru","Nuits St Georges","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","n/a","n/a","n/a","240","DP","1x75cl","RPK",
"ATAPINOT20B6","1","n/a","6","75","2020","Ata Rangi Pinot Noir","Ata Rangi","n/a","n/a","n/a","Martinborough","New Zealand","Red","98","JS","A beautiful nose of sliced strawberries, crushed cherries, violets, grated nutmeg and a hint of white pepper. Some hibiscus, too. Supremely vibrant and perfumed with fine tannins that run the length of the medium-bodied palate. Textural. Ground spice and fresh fruit are intertwined, providing wonderful depth and complexity. So long as well. Seamless balance. Superb. ","295","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"BALLOTPERR13B6","1","n/a","6","75","2013","Meursault, 1er Cru, Les Perrières, Ballot Millot","Ballot-Millot","1er Cru","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","93","TWA","Tasted blind at the annual Burgfest tasting in Bouilland. The 2013 Meursault 1er Cru les Perrières was showing a faint reduction on the nose, but underneath there is a fine Perrieres here, sea spray and hazelnut notes beginning to surface as it opens in the glass. The palate is very well balanced with crisp acidity, fine tension here with citrus lemon, a touch of Cornice pear and plenty of salinity on the finish that shows real concentration. This is another superb Meursault Perrieres from the relatively unknown Ballot-Millot. ","720","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"BALLOTPOMCH19B6","n/a","4","1","75","2019","Pommard 1er Cru Charmots, Ballot-Millot","Ballot-Millot","1er Cru","Pommard","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","Red","92","AM","A markedly earthy and forest floor infused nose speaks mostly of very ripe aromas of red currant and dark raspberry. The lush, rich and relatively full bodied flavours coat the mouth with dry extract while also buffering the firm supporting tannins on the impressively powerful finish where a touch of mocha is to be found. This is definitely on the riper side, but I suspect that will progressively recede as the wine ages. Worth a look provided you have the patience to age it.","36","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"BEAUXBEAUX19B6","1","n/a","6","75","2019","Beaux Freres Vineyard Pinot Noir, Beaux Freres","Beaux Freres","n/a","n/a","Willamette
Valley","Oregon","USA","Red","98","TWA","The 2019 Pinot Noir The Beaux Frères Vineyard is super expressive this vintage, with scents of brambly fruit, rose petals, forest floor, sweet balsamic and blood orange. The palate has a weightless quality, its silty tannins and bright acidity highlighting an array of earthy accents, and it finishes very long.","565","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"BAUDCGUILL19B1","n/a","3","1","75","2019","Chinon Clos Guillot, Bernard Baudry","Bernard Baudry","n/a","n/a","Chinon","Loire","France","Red","95-97","VM","Just outside the village, Clos Guillot sits on a slope on clay over limestone. The 2019 Chinon is a serious barrel sample that melts in your mouth with its silken texture. No crushing, very little remontage and a year in used barrels all lend a very gentle touch. The tannins build gradually, coating the mouth with the finest of chalky textures. Excellent acidity keeps things fresh through the finish.","32","DP","1x75cl","OC",
"BAUDCGUILL19B12","3","n/a","12","75","2019","Chinon Clos Guillot, Bernard Baudry","Bernard Baudry","n/a","n/a","Chinon","Loire","France","Red","95-97","VM","Just outside the village, Clos Guillot sits on a slope on clay over limestone. The 2019 Chinon is a serious barrel sample that melts in your mouth with its silken texture. No crushing, very little remontage and a year in used barrels all lend a very gentle touch. The tannins build gradually, coating the mouth with the finest of chalky textures. Excellent acidity keeps things fresh through the finish.","375","DP","12x75cl","OC",
"BLANKESC21B6","n/a","1","1","75","2021","Escaroth Chardonnay, Blank Canvas","Blank Canvas","n/a","n/a","n/a","Marlborough","New Zealand","White","95","RV","Similar aromatics to the Reed initially, but once the reduction starts to blow away you find quite a different character on nose and palate. Here we have limeflower and grapefruit. Lemoney-verbena tinged freshness. I find the (aromatic) fruit character slightly cooler and more floral than that of the Reed. So the nose had me expecting the palate to be more rapier-like and brisk than the Reed - but I was confounded to find a slightly broader texture and creamy saline aspect to the abundant and gorgeous limey-grapefruit fruit. I love this - and knew immediately the village and even the vineyard sites that it conjured for me
..","23","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"BLANKESC21B6","2","n/a","6","75","2021","Escaroth Chardonnay, Blank Canvas","Blank Canvas","n/a","n/a","n/a","Marlborough","New Zealand","White","95","RV","Similar aromatics to the Reed initially, but once the reduction starts to blow away you find quite a different character on nose and palate. Here we have limeflower and grapefruit. Lemoney-verbena tinged freshness. I find the (aromatic) fruit character slightly cooler and more floral than that of the Reed. So the nose had me expecting the palate to be more rapier-like and brisk than the Reed - but I was confounded to find a slightly broader texture and creamy saline aspect to the abundant and gorgeous limey-grapefruit fruit. I love this - and knew immediately the village and even the vineyard sites that it conjured for me
..","135","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"BLANKREED21B6","1","n/a","6","75","2021","Reed Chardonnay, Blank Canvas","Blank Canvas","n/a","n/a","n/a","Marlborough","New Zealand","White","94","RV","Trademark smokey reductive notes on the nose, much like last years rendition to be honest. Takes a while for the reduction to recede in glass or decanter, but once it does vibrant citrus and spice notes emerge. Pure and bright and refreshing aromatics. On the palate this is vivid and lively, with tangerine fruit that almost hints at wild-strawberry. Also savoury and really very spicy, although surprisingly (?) this is a fractionally lighter textured wine than the Escaroth. The spice and orangey roundness is reminiscent of one Burgundian village in particular, to my mind. (Perhaps) fractionally more lithe and pretty - and less dense / rich than the 2020 ? Or is it just that I first tasted the 2020 nine months later ? Lovely, lovely wine. Even better after a couple of nights open so I am sure this will age beautifully, if that is what you want to do.","135","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"BLANKREED22B6","2","n/a","6","75","2022","Reed Chardonnay, Blank Canvas","Blank Canvas","n/a","n/a","n/a","Marlborough","New Zealand","White","96","Wine Magazine","5 Stars / 96 Distinct gunflint and smoke aromas overlay powerful notes of grapefruit, white nectarine and red apple. The palate is taut and focused with mineral-edged acidity providing poise and presence." Jane Skilton MW - The WINE Magazine, March 2023.","170","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"PESQRES18B6","2","n/a","6","75","2018","Pesquera Reserva, Bodegas Alejandro Fernandez","Bodegas Alejandro Fernandez","n/a","n/a","n/a","Ribera del Duero","Spain","Red","n/a","n/a","n/a","160","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"BORGSCALD19B6","n/a","1","1","75","2019","Derthona `Scaldapulce` Timorasso- Colli Tortonesi, Giacomo Borgogno & Figli","Borgogno (Giacomo) & Figli","n/a","n/a","Colli Tortonesi","Piedmont","Italy","White","n/a","n/a","n/a","100","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"BORGDERTH20B6","n/a","2","1","75","2020","Derthona Timorasso, Giacomo Borgogno & Figli","Borgogno (Giacomo) & Figli","n/a","n/a","Colli Tortonesi","Piedmont","Italy","White","n/a","n/a","n/a","34","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"BORGDERTH20B6","3","n/a","6","75","2020","Derthona Timorasso, Giacomo Borgogno & Figli","Borgogno (Giacomo) & Figli","n/a","n/a","Colli Tortonesi","Piedmont","Italy","White","n/a","n/a","n/a","200","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"BVALRBELLA18B6","3","n/a","6","75","2018","Bella` Rose, Bride Valley, 2018, Dorset","Bride Valley","n/a","n/a","n/a","Dorset","England","Sparkling Rose","17","JR","Estate-grown grapes from the chalk-based hills of Dorset. 70% Pinot Noir (cold macerated for 48 hours to extract colour and then very slowly pressed), 30% Chardonnay. The first vintage made with Steven Spurrier. Medium-pale pink and surely, surely, the Nutcracker Suite of strawberries
If strawberries had wings and inhabited Middle Earth and filled the sky at dawn with a susurrant chorus of silvery diaphanous song, whirling on point across luminous-green moss-clad rocks, peeling pink apple skins from pebbles, laying lime-sherbet land mines and dive-bombing dragonflies, and if you could turn this into liquid, you`d feel some of the empyrean magic of this wine. It has a child-like, playful, modest charm on the surface, but behind that lies something so much more. (TC)","150","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"BVALRBELLA18B6","2","n/a","6","75","2018","Bella` Rose, Bride Valley, 2018, Dorset","Bride Valley","n/a","n/a","n/a","Dorset","England","Sparkling Rose","17","JR","Estate-grown grapes from the chalk-based hills of Dorset. 70% Pinot Noir (cold macerated for 48 hours to extract colour and then very slowly pressed), 30% Chardonnay. The first vintage made with Steven Spurrier. Medium-pale pink and surely, surely, the Nutcracker Suite of strawberries
If strawberries had wings and inhabited Middle Earth and filled the sky at dawn with a susurrant chorus of silvery diaphanous song, whirling on point across luminous-green moss-clad rocks, peeling pink apple skins from pebbles, laying lime-sherbet land mines and dive-bombing dragonflies, and if you could turn this into liquid, you`d feel some of the empyrean magic of this wine. It has a child-like, playful, modest charm on the surface, but behind that lies something so much more. (TC)","150","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"BYFARRFARR21B6","1","n/a","6","75","2021","Farrside Pinot, By Farr","By Farr","n/a","n/a","Geelong","Victoria","Australia","Red","95+","TWF","Excellent Pinot Noir from the folks at By Farr. Substantial and svelte but meaty with it. Rhubarb and red cherry flavours with undergrowth motoring beneath. Dry, firm, cool and ripe. Tobacco soaked in cherries. Authoritative tannin. Twigs and earth. All the pinot things, flowing.","325","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"BYFARRGCCHARD22B6","1","n/a","6","75","2022","GC Cote Chardonnay, By Farr","By Farr","n/a","n/a","Geelong","Victoria","Australia","White","n/a","n/a","n/a","455","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"BFARPCOTE18B6","5","n/a","6","75","2018","RP Cote Pinot Noir, By Farr","By Farr","n/a","n/a","Geelong","Victoria","Australia","Red","97","TRR","Deepish red/purple, youthful colour. The bouquet is sweetly perfumed with floral and herbal nuances, traces of flake tobacco and multi layered, the palate full and rich, concentrated and beautifully poised with vitality and freshness from acidity and vibrant fruit. Long, long carry. Tannins in great harmony. Loads of charm, and the energy of the wine is most impressive. An outstanding wine. ","335","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"BFARPCOTE18B6","6","n/a","6","75","2018","RP Cote Pinot Noir, By Farr","By Farr","n/a","n/a","Geelong","Victoria","Australia","Red","97","TRR","Deepish red/purple, youthful colour. The bouquet is sweetly perfumed with floral and herbal nuances, traces of flake tobacco and multi layered, the palate full and rich, concentrated and beautifully poised with vitality and freshness from acidity and vibrant fruit. Long, long carry. Tannins in great harmony. Loads of charm, and the energy of the wine is most impressive. An outstanding wine. ","335","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"BYFARRSANG21B6","1","n/a","6","75","2021","Sangreal, By Farr","By Farr","n/a","n/a","Geelong","Victoria","Australia","Red","96","TRR","Deep-ish red with a rim of purple and a very complex and fragrant bouquet which encompasses violets, iodine, cherries, spicy whole-bunch nuances and balsamic herbs. There is succulent sweet fruit in the mid-palate followed by drying savoury tannins that cleanse the finish. Very long carry and excellent concentration. A pinot of succulence and deliciousness.","395","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"BYFARRSHIRAZ21B6","1","n/a","6","75","2021","Shiraz, By Farr","By Farr","n/a","n/a","Geelong","Victoria","Australia","Red","n/a","n/a","n/a","255","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"CANTB19B12","2","n/a","12","75","2019","Chateau Cantenac Brown","n/a","n/a","Margaux","Left Bank","Bordeaux","France","Red","95","NM","The 2019 Cantenac Brown has a fragrant and pure bouquet with blackberry, raspberry and wild heather scents, very winsome. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins, fleshy, and fine acidity. One of the more elegant and understated Margaux with a precise finish. I probably overlooked the nuances of this wine, which would explain my lower score than before, but I am convinced that bottle age will ensure its melioration. Tasted blind at the Southwold annual tasting. ","370","IB","12x75cl","OWC",
"CANTB19B12","n/a","8","1","75","2019","Chateau Cantenac Brown","n/a","n/a","Margaux","Left Bank","Bordeaux","France","Red","95","NM","The 2019 Cantenac Brown has a fragrant and pure bouquet with blackberry, raspberry and wild heather scents, very winsome. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins, fleshy, and fine acidity. One of the more elegant and understated Margaux with a precise finish. I probably overlooked the nuances of this wine, which would explain my lower score than before, but I am convinced that bottle age will ensure its melioration. Tasted blind at the Southwold annual tasting.","35","IB","1x75cl","RPK",
"TERLVORB20B6","1","n/a","6","75","2020","Vorberg, Riserva, Pinot Bianco, Cantina Terlan","Cantina Terlano","n/a","n/a","n/a","Alto Adige - Sudtirol","Italy","White","95","VM","The 2020 Pinot Bianco Riserva Vorberg is total class. A whiff of sweet smoke and dusty stone gives way to ginger and crushed yellow apple nuances. It envelopes the palate with rich, opulent fruits that coast along a balancing core of brisk, mineral-tinged acidity. The Riserva Vorberg finishes long and potent, yet youthfully backward, as the senses ache under its concentration and a salty flourish slowly tapers off. There is a huge potential, but it will take time for the 2020 to come fully into focus. Bury your bottles deep.","210","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"TERLVORB20B6","1","n/a","6","75","2020","Vorberg, Riserva, Pinot Bianco, Cantina Terlan","Cantina Terlano","n/a","n/a","n/a","Alto Adige - Sudtirol","Italy","White","95","VM","The 2020 Pinot Bianco Riserva Vorberg is total class. A whiff of sweet smoke and dusty stone gives way to ginger and crushed yellow apple nuances. It envelopes the palate with rich, opulent fruits that coast along a balancing core of brisk, mineral-tinged acidity. The Riserva Vorberg finishes long and potent, yet youthfully backward, as the senses ache under its concentration and a salty flourish slowly tapers off. There is a huge potential, but it will take time for the 2020 to come fully into focus. Bury your bottles deep.","210","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"CDABEL16B6","1","n/a","6","75","2016","Bellavista, Castello di Ama","Castello di Ama","n/a","n/a","Chianti","Tuscany","Italy","Red","98","AG","Ama`s 2016 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigneto Bellavista is a flat out stunner. Dark and brooding in its first impression, the 2016 races out of the glass with explosive vertical lift. This structured, potent Chianti Classico won`t be ready to drink anytime soon, but it is immensely promising. Savory herbs, crushed rocks, chalk and dried flowers add myriad layers of dimension. The 2016 is complex, nuanced and built for cellaring. 2026 2041","660","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"CAYBIOSY20B3","1","n/a","3","75","2020","Cayuse, Bionic Frog Syrah","Cayuse","n/a","n/a","Walla Walla Valley","Washington","USA","Red","95","TWA","Dark-fruited, bold and juicy aromas waft from the glass of the 2020 Syrah Bionic Frog with hints of black raspberries, soy, olive and crème de violette. The nose is fresh, floral and packed with notions of roasted herbs and succulent spiced cherries. Medium to full-bodied, the wine is balanced on the palate with savory flavors, an umami essence and a lingering, firm tannic edge that will remain food friendly for over a decade. The wine rested for a year and a half in about 20% new French oak barrels. 6,336 bottles produced.","800","IB","3x75cl","OC",
"CHACCINC20B12","n/a","3","1","75","2020","Cincuenta y Cinco Pinot Noir, Chacra","Chacra","n/a","n/a","n/a","Patagonia","Argentina","Red","98","JS","Extremely perfumed and beautiful with ripe strawberries and citrus fruit, as well as aromatic flowers. Full bodied with plenty of fruit and creamy, chewy tannins that are polished and very impressive. Long and linear. One of the best of this bottling. Drink after 2023, but already a gorgeous bottle.","42","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"CREMCDR16M3","4","n/a","3","150","2016","Clos de la Roche Grand Cru, Chantal Remy","Chantal Remy","Grand Cru","Morey St Denis","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","94","JM","Dense bright purple. There is plenty of oak on the nose but an exceptional fruit concentration as well. Very muscular with a rich succulent fruit in the middle, but still with the classical blue fruit of Clos de la Roche, more rough than raw silk, a few well integrated wood tannins. Just a bit burly at the back. Tasted: September 2019","590","IB","3x150cl","OC",
"CREMCDR13B6","2","n/a","3","150","2013","Clos de la Roche, Chantal Remy","Chantal Remy","Grand Cru","Morey St Denis","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","18/20","Jancis","Mid crimson. Very intense nose really in a cloud of essence of Pinot! Sweet and with lots of flattering fruit and an almost covered corset of tannin. Massive delivery of pleasure for those who value richness at a price.","670","IB","3x150cl","OC",
"CREMLAT13M3","3","n/a","3","150","2013","Latricieres Chambertin, Chantal Remy","Chantal Remy","Grand Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","90-93","AM","Mild reduction flattens the fruit though it does seem ripe. There is terrific energy and punch to the beautifully detailed mineral-driven middle weight plus flavours that are shaped by firm but not aggressive acidity and tannins on the lingering, balanced youthfully austere finale. This is focused and muscular and very Latricières in basic character and as such it will need at least 10 to 12 years to realize its full potential.","580","IB","3x150cl","OC",
"CREMLAT13B6","2","n/a","6","75","2013","Latricieres Chambertin, Chantal Remy","Chantal Remy","Grand Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","90-93","AM","Mild reduction flattens the fruit though it does seem ripe. There is terrific energy and punch to the beautifully detailed mineral-driven middle weight plus flavours that are shaped by firm but not aggressive acidity and tannins on the lingering, balanced youthfully austere finale. This is focused and muscular and very Latricières in basic character and as such it will need at least 10 to 12 years to realize its full potential.","585","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"BRANEC19B6","3","n/a","6","75","2019","Chateau Brane Cantenac","Chateau Brane Cantenac","n/a","Margaux","Left Bank","Bordeaux","France","Red","97","WK","Derived exclusively from the château`s holdings on the deep gravel soils of the plateau of Brane, the 2019 Brane-Cantenac has turned out brilliantly and merits a special effort to seek out. Wafting from the glass with aromas of wild berries, pencil shavings, violets, sweet loamy soil and cardamon, it`s medium to full-bodied, layered and concentrated, with lively acids, ripe tannins and a beautifully seamless, perfumed profile. Retaining all the estate`s signature elegance but with an extra dimension of depth and intensity, it`s the finest Brane-Cantenac of the modern era and one of the great successes of the 2019 vintage.","275","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"BRANEC19B6","n/a","2","1","75","2019","Chateau Brane Cantenac","Chateau Brane Cantenac","n/a","Margaux","Left Bank","Bordeaux","France","Red","97","WK","Derived exclusively from the château`s holdings on the deep gravel soils of the plateau of Brane, the 2019 Brane-Cantenac has turned out brilliantly and merits a special effort to seek out. Wafting from the glass with aromas of wild berries, pencil shavings, violets, sweet loamy soil and cardamon, it`s medium to full-bodied, layered and concentrated, with lively acids, ripe tannins and a beautifully seamless, perfumed profile. Retaining all the estate`s signature elegance but with an extra dimension of depth and intensity, it`s the finest Brane-Cantenac of the modern era and one of the great successes of the 2019 vintage.","50","IB","1x75cl","OWC",
"CDEMCHARMDES19B6","n/a","1","1","75","2019","Meursault 1er Cru Charmes Dessus, Chateau de Meursault","Chateau de Meursault","1er Cru","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","93-97","JM","Pale yellow. Rather a backward nose, this appears low key after the oaky sumptuous character of Perrieres, but it is a brilliant wine, all about the white fruit, ripe enough to include white peach flesh, but beautifully managed and with exceptional persistence. Almost saline in its minerality at the finish. Tasted: October 2020","70","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"CDEMGCDGC19B6","n/a","4","1","75","2019","Meursault Clos des Grands Charrons, Chateau de Meursault","Chateau de Meursault","AC","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","92-95","JM","Beautiful pale lemon. The bouquet delivers an immediate sense of class and finesse. Floral, summer flowers, yellow fruit, a lively fresh mineral thread throughout, once again a superb example. This is a great terroir, really well handled. Tasted: October 2020. 5* Wine.","60","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"CDEMEURSCHAMPC17B6","n/a","5","1","75","2017","Puligny Montrachet 1er Cru Champs Canet, Chateau de Meursault","Chateau de Meursault","1er Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","94","JM","There was alas only a very small crop this year from ancient vines. Fresh tense lemon, some reduction to the nose. Gunflint. Gives extra tension to this wine which is very compete on the palate, extra energy at the back, lively fruit, dense and mouth filling. Tasted: October 2018","100","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"CDEMEURSCHAMPC17B6","1","n/a","6","75","2017","Puligny Montrachet 1er Cru Champs Canet, Chateau de Meursault","Chateau de Meursault","1er Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","94","JM","There was alas only a very small crop this year from ancient vines. Fresh tense lemon, some reduction to the nose. Gunflint. Gives extra tension to this wine which is very compete on the palate, extra energy at the back, lively fruit, dense and mouth filling. Tasted: October 2018","600","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"MALARTIC19B12","n/a","8","1","75","2019","Chateau Malartic Lagraviere","Chateau Malartic Lagraviere","n/a","Graves","Left Bank","Bordeaux","France","Red","95","NM","The 2019 Malartic Lagravière presents a refined nose of blackberry, raspberry, cedar and light estuarine aromas, very well defined and focused. The palate is framed by fine-grained tannins, and the pure blackberry and raspberry notes are laced with blood orange. Maybe just a little more granular in texture than before, but still wonderfully balanced, with great length and nobility. This will age with style. A sophisticated Pessac-Léognan with a lot of potential.","29","IB","1x75cl","OWC",
"CLAVCDORV19B6","1","n/a","6","75","2019","Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru La Combe d`Orveaux Vielles Vignes, Bruno Clavelier","Clavelier","1er Cru","Chambolle-Musigny","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","93-96","JM","9 barrels of which 3 are new. Grown on a white oolitic soil with calcite crystals. Fine brisk pink purple, with beautiful elegance to the nose. Sublime deep sweet red fruit with rose petals, showing the oak a touch more. Really classy, mouth-filling wine with a long red fruit finish. Tasted: November 2020","1320","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"CLAVCDORV13B6","1","n/a","6","75","2013","Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru La Combe d`Orveaux Vielles Vignes, Clavelier","Clavelier","1er Cru","Chambolle-Musigny","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","94+","ST","Bright, dark red. Highly expressive tangy scents of cherry, wild strawberry, pomegranate, crushed stone and mint. Superrich, tactile, dense and chewy yet light on its feet. Conveys a powerful sense of dry extract and outstanding clarity and cut to its flavors of raspberry, cherry and minerals. The 2014 version shows riper, blacker fruits while this is more about acidulated wild red berries. Wonderfully silky, smooth wine with outstanding energy and thrust. The wine`s powerful fruit blows past its refined tannins on the palate-staining finish. Splendid!","700","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"CLAVCORTROG20B1","n/a","3","1","75","2020","Corton Le Rognet Grand Cru, Bruno Clavelier","Clavelier","Grand Cru","Corton ","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","Red","93-96","JM","Grown on a mixture of different limestones and marl. Medium deep purple. The bouquet is on the floral side of red fruit. Medium bodied but stretches out to an excellent length, offering a saline note with a classy red fruit and rose petal finish. A really stylish type of Corton. Tasted: December 2021","180","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"CLAVGEVCORB20B6","2","n/a","6","75","2020","Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru Les Corbeaux, Bruno Clavelier","Clavelier","1er Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","91-93","JM","The soil here is crinoidal limestone. No wine is tasted without Bruno expounding on the geology! Deep luxurious purple. Plenty of weight here as you might expect from the half crop (20 hl/ha). A depth of dark raspberry fruit with useful acidity behind. Not a wildly demonstrative wine but good. Tasted: December 2021","840","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"CLAVVRAUXBVV20B6","1","n/a","6","75","2020","Vosne-Romanee 1er Cru Aux Brulees Vielles Vignes, Bruno Clavelier","Clavelier","1er Cru","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","92-95","JM","Grown on fragmented grèzes litees rock which warms up well in the cool years, but imparts a flinty smoky flavour in hotter vintages, especially on the north side of the road (thus south facing) as Bruno Clavelier is. Dark purple, slightly more sultry bouquet with just a trace of the smoky style, less apparent than chez Jean-Pierre Guyon who picked much later. Very good acidity behind the deep raspberry, and well integrated oaking. Tasted: December 2021","1020","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"CLAVVRHM20B6","1","n/a","6","75","2020","Vosne-Romanee Haut Maizieres, Bruno Clavelier","Clavelier","AC","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","91-93","JM","Made from 75 year old vines, growing on clay over crinoidal limestone. Noticeably darker purple with some garrigue notes which are typical here. A little fuller, a little firmer, especially the final tannins, but with a wealth of fruit to cover them. Deep dark raspberry makes up the long finish. Tasted: December 2021","480","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"CLAVCBRUL06B12","1","n/a","12","75","2006","Vosne-Romanee La Combe Brulee Vielles Vignes, Bruno Clavellier","Clavelier","AC","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","87-90","AM"," more deeply pitched nose features both red and blue fruit plus violet and rose petal notes that complement the round and slightly more concentrated flavours underpinned by a bit more structure as well if perhaps not quite the complexity. Still, the hallmark purity of expression is here and this too is a first class villages.","2000","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"FRANTECH14B6","1","n/a","6","75","2014","Echezeaux, Domaine du Clos Frantin (Albert Bichot)","Clos Frantin (Albert Bichot)","Grand Cru","Flagey-Echezeaux","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","95","JM","Bright red of moderate depth. Immediate fruit on the nose, quite dark in style with a little spice. Oak appears prominently at the back, but the fruit holds on. Dark juicy fruit does a good job here. Tasted: September 2017","745","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"BICHECH18B6","2","n/a","6","75","2018","Echezeaux, Domaine du Clos Frantin (Albert Bichot)","Clos Frantin (Albert Bichot)","Grand Cru","Flagey-Echezeaux","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","97","JM","Bright and glowing colour. An intriguing elegance to the nose, though ripely floral as well. Freshens up more in the glass. Some orange blossom. Showing sweet and sour at the moment, but I think this is just a wine of extraordinary youth that will become absolutely beautiful. The bouquet becomes classier and classier with time in the glass, multi-faceted and engagingly fresh given the ripeness of the vintage. An incredible density of aftertaste. Drink from 2033. Tasted: September 2022","795","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"BICHECH18B6","1","n/a","6","75","2018","Echezeaux, Domaine du Clos Frantin (Albert Bichot)","Clos Frantin (Albert Bichot)","Grand Cru","Flagey-Echezeaux","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","97","JM","Bright and glowing colour. An intriguing elegance to the nose, though ripely floral as well. Freshens up more in the glass. Some orange blossom. Showing sweet and sour at the moment, but I think this is just a wine of extraordinary youth that will become absolutely beautiful. The bouquet becomes classier and classier with time in the glass, multi-faceted and engagingly fresh given the ripeness of the vintage. An incredible density of aftertaste. Drink from 2033. Tasted: September 2022","795","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"FRANTMALC15B6","1","n/a","6","75","2015","Vosne-Romanee 1er Cru Les Malconsorts, Domaine du Clos Frantin (Albert Bichot)","Clos Frantin (Albert Bichot)","1er Cru","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","96","JM","Very dense fresh purple red. The bouquet is discreet but suggests intensity which the palate then very much delivers. Intense dark raspberry, significant structure but does not dry the finish.","675","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"FRANTMALC15B6","1","n/a","6","75","2015","Vosne-Romanee 1er Cru Les Malconsorts, Domaine du Clos Frantin (Albert Bichot)","Clos Frantin (Albert Bichot)","1er Cru","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","96","JM","Very dense fresh purple red. The bouquet is discreet but suggests intensity which the palate then very much delivers. Intense dark raspberry, significant structure but does not dry the finish.","675","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"CLOSRENE19B6","1","n/a","6","75","2019","Clos Rene","Clos Rene","n/a","Pomerol","Right Bank","Bordeaux","France","Red","94","NM","The 2019 Clos René is a very beautiful wine. From bottle, the 2019 shows a touch more freshness than it did as a barrel sample. Inky dark fruit, licorice, chocolate, spice and new leather emerge first, followed by a whole range of floral and savory accents that liven things up. The Cabernet Franc is quite expressive. Tasted two times.","150","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"CLOSRENE19B6","n/a","2","1","75","2019","Clos Rene","Clos Rene","n/a","Pomerol","Right Bank","Bordeaux","France","Red","94","NM","The 2019 Clos René is a very beautiful wine. From bottle, the 2019 shows a touch more freshness than it did as a barrel sample. Inky dark fruit, licorice, chocolate, spice and new leather emerge first, followed by a whole range of floral and savory accents that liven things up. The Cabernet Franc is quite expressive. Tasted two times.","30","IB","1x75cl","RPK",
"Release using LAFOPORU17B12","1","n/a","12","75","2017","Meursault 1er Cru Porusots, Comtes Lafon","Comtes Lafon","1er Cru","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","92-94","AM","Here too there is a whiff of petrol suffusing the cool green fruit, hazelnut, lemon rind and discreet matchstick whiffs. There is once again excellent richness to the broad-shouldered flavours that coat the palate with dry extract before concluding in a muscular, powerful and citrus zest-infused finish. This is excellent though note that as usual, this is built-to-age and a wine that going to need it.","4200","IB","12x75cl","RPK",
"JJCBOUDOT97B1","1","n/a","1","75","1997","Nuits St Georges 1er Cru Boudots, JJ Confuron","Confuron","1er Cru","Nuits St Georges","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","87+","ST","Medium Red. Complex, slightly reduced aromas of dark berries and roasted coffee. The sweetest and best balanced to this point; solid, structured and persistent, if a touch dry on the finish. The Beaumonts, though, is silkier today.","120","DP","1x75cl","RPK",
"CONCOSBRUN18B6","3","n/a","6","75","2018","Brunello di Montalcino, Conti Costanti","Conti Constanti","DOCG","Brunello di Montalcino","Brunello di Montalcino","Tuscany","Italy","Red","99","K O`K","Perfumed berry, pine forest, new leather and violet aromas mingle with enticing scents of vineyard dust that segue into underbrush and nutmeg. Linear, lithe and all about elegance, the savory palate has great energy that lifts juicy red cherry, spiced cranberry, star anise and tangy saline notes that linger on the close. Tight but refined tannins and vibrant acidity keep it youthfully tense and impeccably balanced. Those who love power and might could be surprised by its almost ethereal quality, but lovers of finesse, depth and balance will swoon in delight. (Kerin OKeefe)","285","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"CONCOSBRUN19B6","4","n/a","6","75","2019","Brunello di Montalcino, Conti Costanti","Conti Constanti","DOCG","Brunello di Montalcino","Brunello di Montalcino","Tuscany","Italy","Red","100","K O`K","The 2019 Brunello from Costanti is breathtakingly gorgeous. Combining the intensity of the vintage and the hallmark finesse that defines the wines of this historic estate, this is a wine Brunello lovers will want in their cellars. It opens with heady aromas of fragrant blue flower, woodland berry, forest floor and new leather that on the palate segue into juicy Marasca cherry, wild raspberry, blood orange, menthol and baking spice. Firm, ultra-refined tannins offer support while bright acidity keeps it beautifully balanced and vibrant. What. A. Stunner. (Kerin OKeefe)","320","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"CONTIARDINGO19B6","2","n/a","6","75","2019","Ardingo, Conti Costanti","Conti Costanti","n/a","n/a","n/a","Tuscany","Italy","Red","94+","EG","Hauntingly dark and viral in the glass, the 2019 Ardingo reaches up with notes of sweet sage, blueberry compote, tobacco and hints of pine. It soothes the palate with a wave of silken red and blue fruits, taking on a graphite minerality over time, as notes of lavender and violet resonate throughout. The 2019 takes a turn toward the savoury spectrum with hints of olive and grilled herbs offsetting plum while finishing with impressive length and structurally balanced for the long haul. Its a must-have for fans of Costanti. ","295","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"CONCOSRES16B3","1","n/a","3","75","2016","Brunello di Montalcino Riserva, Conti Costanti","Conti Costanti","DOCG","n/a","n/a","Tuscany","Italy","Red","98","EG","A deeply sensual bouquet of freshly sliced plums, crushed violets, mentholated herbs and Tuscan dust rises up from the 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva. This is deeply textural while also cool-toned and refined, with mineral-tinged red and black berries cascading across a core of brisk acidity. Tension builds throughout, as grippy tannins mount toward the close, nicely contrasted by a burst of sour citrus. Theres a crystalline structure to the 2016 that tempts the imagination as to what the future will bring, and it tapers off long, youthfully poised, yet also remarkably fresh. Time will only increase the depths of the 2016 Riserva, a wine that I seriously look forward to tasting again in five to ten years. ","450","IB","3x75cl","OC",
"CONCOSRES16B3","3","n/a","3","75","2016","Brunello di Montalcino Riserva, Conti Costanti","Conti Costanti","DOCG","n/a","n/a","Tuscany","Italy","Red","98","EG","A deeply sensual bouquet of freshly sliced plums, crushed violets, mentholated herbs and Tuscan dust rises up from the 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva. This is deeply textural while also cool-toned and refined, with mineral-tinged red and black berries cascading across a core of brisk acidity. Tension builds throughout, as grippy tannins mount toward the close, nicely contrasted by a burst of sour citrus. Theres a crystalline structure to the 2016 that tempts the imagination as to what the future will bring, and it tapers off long, youthfully poised, yet also remarkably fresh. Time will only increase the depths of the 2016 Riserva, a wine that I seriously look forward to tasting again in five to ten years.","450","IB","3x75cl","OWC",
"CLFBOURGR22B6","1","n/a","6","75","2022","Bourgogne Rouge, Coquard Loison Fleurot","Coquard Loison Fleurot","n/a","n/a","n/a","Burgundy","France","Red","89-91","JM","A lovely bright purple, with a stunning bouquet. I want to gulp this straight way. Really classy on the palate, with a precise crisp finish. A joyous wine showing that you can make fabulous pinot at higher yields (55 hl/ha in this case) now that the grapes ripen properly. Drink from 2025-2028. Tasted: December 2023. 5* Wine.","150","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"CLFCCH16M1","1","n/a","1","150","2016","Charmes Chambertin Grand Cru, Coquard Loison Fleurot","Coquard Loison Fleurot","Grand Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","95-97","NM","The 2016 Charmes Chambertin Grand Cru comes from Mazoyeres, a 0.35 hectare parcel of vines just under 50 years old, and matured in 50% new oak. It has a seductive bouquet with ample dark cherry, bergamot and crushed strawberry scents that are beautifully defined. The palate is medium bodied with crunchy red berry fruit and a fine bead of acidity, quite elegant and maybe less opulent than your typical Charmes Chambertin, but what fantastic length. The manner in which it fans out on the finish is just glorious. This is one of the outstanding Charmes Chambertins of the vintage.","380","IB","1x150cl","RPK",
"CLFCDR22B6","1","n/a","6","75","2022","Clos de La Roche Grand Cru, Coquard Loison Fleurot","Coquard Loison Fleurot","Grand Cru","Morey St Denis","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","96-98","JM","A glowing fresh purple. Not reduction but just a mineral flinty top note above the fruit. Sitting back on its haunches but this lack of immediacy makes it even finer. All at the back of the palate and then additional waves come through thereafter, blue fruit indeed. So subtle yet striking as well. Drink from 2032-2040","1320","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"CLFGEVREY22B6","1","n/a","6","75","2022","Gevrey Chambertin, Coquard Loison Fleurot","Coquard Loison Fleurot","n/a","n/a","n/a","Burgundy","France","Red","90-93","JM","Similar glowing purple, this time with a spicier nose. An excellent core of predominantly raspberry fruit, a fine core to this throughout, with a little oak at the finish. Not quite so striking as the Morey but a lovely glass in the offing. Drink from 2028-2034. Tasted: December 2023.","315","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"CLFGEV19B6","2","n/a","6","75","2019","Gevrey-Chambertin, Coquard Loison Fleurot","Coquard Loison Fleurot","AC","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","89-92","AM","Here too there is an attractive freshness to the more deeply pitched aromas of pungent earth, smoke, various dark berry and poached plum scents. There is a lovely inner mouth perfume to the fleshy and dense medium bodied flavours that are surprisingly refined before culminating in a stony and youthfully austere finale. This is an excellent Gevrey villages.","255","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"CLFVOSNE22B6","6","n/a","6","75","2022","Vosne Romanee, Coquard Loison Fleurot","Coquard Loison Fleurot","n/a","n/a","n/a","Burgundy","France","Red","92-94","JM","Fresh bright purple. What a radiant nose, all the heady joy of Vosne, such stylish bright ripe cherry fruit with some mixed red berries behind. Seamless texture and very long. Sheer class. Drink from 2028-2035. Tasted: December 2023.","405","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"CLFVOSNE22B6","3","n/a","6","75","2022","Vosne Romanee, Coquard Loison Fleurot","Coquard Loison Fleurot","n/a","n/a","n/a","Burgundy","France","Red","92-94","JM","Fresh bright purple. What a radiant nose, all the heady joy of Vosne, such stylish bright ripe cherry fruit with some mixed red berries behind. Seamless texture and very long. Sheer class. Drink from 2028-2035. Tasted: December 2023.","405","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"COULCORNBRIS18B6","n/a","5","1","75","2018","Cornas Brise Cailloux, Domaine du Coulet","Coulet","AC","Cornas","Northern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","93-95","RV","Very deep colour. Not quite black but not far off. Very intense, vibrant scent with a huge hit of violetty perfume, then it calms and you get super primary notes of crushed red and black fruit, kirsch and tons and tons of lavender. Over three nights open, just with a cork shoved unceremoniously back in the bottle, this showed no aromatic degradation at all, although the evolution from night to night and glass to glass was huge. Very intense scent at all points ranging from fresh black currant through black cherry in the fruit spectrum, through raw steak and marmite in the savoury, through sage and lavender in terms of the floral aspect
..to wet granite, iron and ink in the
.errr
..mineral sphere. No kidding, this has a freakishly complex scent and the fact it doesnt seem to oxidise at all is surely a great sign of ageworthiness. The palate delivers a hit of vibrant blood orange, cherry and spice, running through savoury and liquoricey hints through to meaty compact, granitey, inky depths. There is a textural softness about this wine that makes it (relatively) easy to consume even at this young age, but its a pretty wild wine and really needs time to soften and become a bit more house trained. By night three the tannins, whilst very well managed and fine, were significant and prominent. Id give it 5 years++ to start with and probably way more. I cant help but feel that this blows away a lot of much more expensive Northern Rhone wines and makes a great argument for not using new wood at all with Syrah
","39","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"COULCORNBRIS19B6","n/a","4","1","75","2019","Cornas Brise Cailloux, Domaine du Coulet","Coulet","AC","Cornas","Northern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","96","JD","I loved the 2019 Cornas Brise Cailloux. This classic Barret wine boasts a saturated purple colour as well as smoking good notes of ripe plums, blueberries, candied violets, sandalwood, and pepper. Rich and full bodied, it has a round, layered textured, silky tannins, and a great finish.","28","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"COULCORNBRIS19B6","2","n/a","6","75","2019","Cornas Brise Cailloux, Domaine du Coulet","Coulet","AC","Cornas","Northern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","96","JD","I loved the 2019 Cornas Brise Cailloux. This classic Barret wine boasts a saturated purple colour as well as smoking good notes of ripe plums, blueberries, candied violets, sandalwood, and pepper. Rich and full bodied, it has a round, layered textured, silky tannins, and a great finish.","165","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"COULOURR19B6","3","n/a","12","75","2019","Cotes du Rhone `Petit Ours` Rouge, Domaine du Coulet","Coulet","AC","Cotes du Rhone","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","92","RV","Deepish crimson purple. Positively jumps out of the glass with scents of juicy blackberry, cherry and violet. Really exuberant. Gets a bit more serious as it calms down and some liquorice and game notes start to come through. Lush. Lovely textural wine, creamy without being extracted, and walks the line between luscious sweet fruit and savoury character beautifully. The much over used phrase gobs of (fruit) makes me cringe
..but in this case it is the only one that will do. Gobs of juicy black cherry flavour, overlaid with some game, a bit of bacon fat and some liquorice. But its the texture that is so beguiling. I think its the absence of oak and the very low sulphur that makes it so seductive. Plush, but you dont feel any sense of warmth. You can drink it now, but the grower (Matthieu Barret) thinks you can wait a few years. The whole bottle went down incredibly easily, pleasurably and quickly (my wife loved it also, and she positively frowns upon Syrah). Creamy and rounded. Yum.","160","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"COULOURR19B6","n/a","2","1","75","2019","Cotes du Rhone `Petit Ours` Rouge, Domaine du Coulet","Coulet","AC","Cotes du Rhone","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","92","RV","Deepish crimson purple. Positively jumps out of the glass with scents of juicy blackberry, cherry and violet. Really exuberant. Gets a bit more serious as it calms down and some liquorice and game notes start to come through. Lush. Lovely textural wine, creamy without being extracted, and walks the line between luscious sweet fruit and savoury character beautifully. The much over used phrase gobs of (fruit) makes me cringe
..but in this case it is the only one that will do. Gobs of juicy black cherry flavour, overlaid with some game, a bit of bacon fat and some liquorice. But its the texture that is so beguiling. I think its the absence of oak and the very low sulphur that makes it so seductive. Plush, but you dont feel any sense of warmth. You can drink it now, but the grower (Matthieu Barret) thinks you can wait a few years. The whole bottle went down incredibly easily, pleasurably and quickly (my wife loved it also, and she positively frowns upon Syrah). Creamy and rounded. Yum.","27","IB","1x75cl","RPK",
"COURCHAMP19B6","n/a","1","1","75","2019","Cornas Champelrose, Courbis","Courbis","AC","Cornas","Northern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","93-95","JR","Spice accented aromas of black raspberry, violet and smoky minerals, plus a hint of incense in the background. Concentrated yet lively and precise, offering intense dark berry, floral pastille and cracked pepper flavours and a bracing jolt of acidity that adds back end cut. Fleshes out slowly with air and shows excellent clarity and appealing sweetness on the long, gently tannic finish.","23","IB","1x75cl","RPK",
"CULLENKEVJ21B6","4","n/a","6","75","2021","Cullen, Kevin John Chardonnay","Cullen Estate","n/a","n/a","n/a","Margaret River","Australia","White","97","AM","The 2021 Chardonnay Kevin John is exceptional from start to finish. It is a beautifully pure and pristine expression of young Chardonnay that also carries excellent generosity of flavour. Precise grapefruit, pear, ginger and high quality spicy oak aromas provide a strong introduction. Energetic and vivacious, there is a delicious tension between crisp acidity and lively, youthful fruits, all beautifully balanced, before a long, chalky, zesty finish with extreme length. A benchmark Margaret River Chardonnay.","485","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"DLBELOUV15B1","n/a","2","1","75","2015","Savennieres Le Bel Ouvrage, Damien Laureau","Damien Laureau","n/a","Savennieres","Anjou","Loire","France","White","92","TWA","The 2015 Savennieres Le Bel Ouvrage is from two different plots, the Clos Bourcier (on rhyolite) and another one on gray schist. Fermented and aged in newer oak than Les Genets (new to three years old), this is a deep, ripe and intense Chenin with super ripe fruit flavours and fine mineral flavours from the rocky soils. On the palate, this is a full bodied intense, piquant and elegant Savennières with ripe, juicy and well concentrated fruit and fine tannins. The finish is long and aromatic as well as clean and well structured. It`s a powerful and intense but elegant and persistent Savennieres that should be aged for some years. Bottled in August 2017.","40","IB","1x75cl","OC12",
"DLSAVGENET15B6","n/a","3","1","75","2015","Savennieres Les Genets, Damien Laureau","Damien Laureau","n/a","Savennieres","Anjou","Loire","France","White","90","TWA","Bottled in late December 2017, the 2015 Savennieres Les Genets is from sandy soils covering gray schist. Fermented and aged in 400 liter barrels (three to 10 years old), this is a quite lactic flavoured Chenin sourced predominantly from two plots north of Savennieres. Fermented until May (including the malolactic), this is a full bodied, elegant and well structured Chenin with power, concentration, grip and vitality. The finish is quite salty and the tannins are a bit biting, but there is tension and minerality, which guarantees good aging in the bottle.","40","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"DLSAVGENET15B6","1","n/a","6","75","2015","Savennieres Les Genets, Damien Laureau","Damien Laureau","n/a","Savennieres","Anjou","Loire","France","White","90","TWA","Bottled in late December 2017, the 2015 Savennieres Les Genets is from sandy soils covering gray schist. Fermented and aged in 400 liter barrels (three to 10 years old), this is a quite lactic flavoured Chenin sourced predominantly from two plots north of Savennieres. Fermented until May (including the malolactic), this is a full bodied, elegant and well structured Chenin with power, concentration, grip and vitality. The finish is quite salty and the tannins are a bit biting, but there is tension and minerality, which guarantees good aging in the bottle.","250","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"MONTMALC18B6","1","n/a","6","75","2018","Vosne-Romanee 1er Cru Les Malconsorts, de Montille","de Montille","1er Cru","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","95-98","JM","Two thirds whole cluster picked 6th September, not racked. Glowing purple with medium plus density. This is properly noble, with a silky texture still showing through and sensational persistence. The nobility emerges at the finish. Great result.","1370","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"DEEPSINGCH18B6","n/a","1","1","75","2018","Deep Woods Estate, Single Vineyard Chardonnay","Deep Woods Estate","n/a","n/a","n/a","Margaret River","Australia","White","96","JS","A stunning chardonnay thats so subtle and refined from the outset, displaying limes and lemons, flint, sea shells, cloves, white pepper and nutmeg. Somehow, this manages to be pithy and incredibly dense and phenolic, but also laser sharp and mouthwatering. Drink now or hold.","25","DP","1x75cl","OC",
"DEEPSINGCH18B6","1","n/a","6","75","2018","Deep Woods Estate, Single Vineyard Chardonnay","Deep Woods Estate","n/a","n/a","n/a","Margaret River","Australia","White","96","JS","A stunning chardonnay thats so subtle and refined from the outset, displaying limes and lemons, flint, sea shells, cloves, white pepper and nutmeg. Somehow, this manages to be pithy and incredibly dense and phenolic, but also laser sharp and mouthwatering. Drink now or hold.","150","DP","6x75cl","OC",
"DIATOMCHARD21B6","1","n/a","6","75","2021","Diatom, Chardonnay Santa Barbara County","Diatom","n/a","n/a","Santa Barbara","California","USA","White","98","TWA","The Diatom 2021 Chardonnay has inviting poached pears, quince and lemongrass aromas with touches of baker`s yeast, honeycomb and acacia. The medium-bodied palate balances generous, exotic fruits and a touch of textural grip with bright waves of acidity, finishing long and flavorful. This Chardonnay is dynamic and so delicious!","180","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"DOMP13B6","4","n/a","6","75","2013","Dom Perignon","Dom Perignon","n/a","n/a","n/a","Champagne","France","Sparkling White","98","JS","A driven and serious DP with aromas of chalk, biscuits, apricot stones and lemons. Some spice and dried flowers, too. So sleek and sophisticated. Elegant. Yet, its long and powerful, with a sharp minerality. Tight and precise. Reminds me of bottles from the 1980s, such as 1988. It really takes off. Disgorged October 2021. Drinkable on release in January 2023, but better in a couple of years. A DP for the cellar. ","870","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"DCOTEBLOOMPN21B6","4","n/a","6","75","2021","Domaine de la Cote `Bloom`s Field` Pinot Noir,","Domaine de la Cote","n/a","n/a","Sta Rita Hills","California","USA","Red","97","JS","Riper fruit on the nose with ginger and perfectly ripened strawberries. Full-bodied, very tannic and powerful with density and length. Muscular and formed. Needs time to soften.","650","IB","n/a","OC",
"DCOTELACOTEPN21B6","2","n/a","6","75","2021","Domaine de la Cote `La Cote` Pinot Noir","Domaine de la Cote","n/a","n/a","Sta Rita Hills","California","USA","Red","98","JS","Cool yet ripe strawberries, together with crushed spices, such as cloves and cardamom. Then mushroom and bark. Full-bodied with a solid structure and layers of firm tannins. Great finish. But needs three to six years to soften.","750","IB","n/a","OC",
"DCOTEMEMOPN21B6","5","n/a","6","75","2021","Domaine de la Cote `Memorious` Pinot Noir","Domaine de la Cote","n/a","n/a","Sta Rita Hills","California","USA","Red","97","JS","Crushed stone, raspberry and strawberry character. Medium-bodied with density and a toned structured. White pepper notes come through. Racy and bright. Drink or hold.","650","IB","n/a","OC",
"DCOTEDDLCEST21B6","3","n/a","6","75","2021","Domaine de la Cote, DDLC `Estate` Pinot Noir","Domaine de la Cote","n/a","n/a","Sta Rita Hills","California","USA","Red","95","JS","This estate selection stands out for its vibrant and easily approachable fruit characteristics, setting it apart from the rest of the 2021 lineup. Its aromatic fruit profile combines luscious dark cherries with delicate notes of rose, carnation, achiote, and earthy undertones. On the palate, its well structured foundation showcases a rich core of dark fruits, adorned with hints of refreshing eucalyptus, Kalamata olives and robust herbaceuous nuances.","350","IB","n/a","RPK",
"TEMPROSE22B12","n/a","10","1","75","2022","Bandol Rose, Domaine Tempier","Domaine Tempier","n/a","n/a","Bandol","Provence","France","Rose","93","TWA","A classic Bandol, the 2022 Bandol Rose reveals stunning aromas of grapefruit, spring flowers, guava, lemon and iodine. The wine on the palate is medium to full bodied, combining a fleshy core of fruit abd racy acids with impressive substance on the finish. It needs a couple of years in bottle, but you can already see the potential.","25","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"TEMPROSE22B12","1","n/a","12","75","2022","Bandol Rose, Domaine Tempier","Domaine Tempier","n/a","n/a","Bandol","Provence","France","Rose","93","TWA","A classic Bandol, the 2022 Bandol Rose reveals stunning aromas of grapefruit, spring flowers, guava, lemon and iodine. The wine on the palate is medium to full bodied, combining a fleshy core of fruit abd racy acids with impressive substance on the finish. It needs a couple of years in bottle, but you can already see the potential.","300","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"DDBLAPOLA20B6","n/a","4","1","75","2020","Lapola, Dominio do Bibei","Dominio do Bibei","n/a","n/a","Ribera Sacra","Galicia","Spain","White","95-100","RV","Apparently made with a majority of Godello, supplemented with Albarino, Dona Blanca and Treixadura. A friend has frequently commented that Godello often starts well - but has a hole in the middle, like a doughnut ! This, does not ! Indeed, it has pretty much everything I look for in a white wine to be honest, with vibrant, racy acidity to the fore, but a layered, creamy texture giving body and weight. Some ageing on the lees, one would think ? The attack is mineral and bright not so unlike a white Burgundy perhaps, as is the mid-palate where you find orangey ripe citrus and a lovely waxiness, but just when one could be tempted to think this is a French classic, you meet with a hint of herb almost shiso something green and bright and intriguing that you cant quite pin-point - instead of the ubiquitous smokiness of oak. Utterly lovely. And cheap. I was transported to a stony terrace high above the Mediterranean with the wind blowing through. Bracingly beautiful. (This is their upmarket / limited production white wine by the way their other cuvee, Lalume, made from 100% barrel-fermented Treixadura I felt was nice enough
.but not that special)","19","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"COGCASNUO16B6","9","n/a","6","75","2016","Barolo Cascina Nuova, Elvio Cogno","Elvio Cogno","DOCG","Barolo","Barolo","Piedmont","Italy","Red","94","TWA","The 2016 Barolo Cascina Nuova is a terrific wine with impeccable balance. The bouquet offers dark fruit aromas, licorice, smoke, tar and spice. These aromatic pieces slide together with precision to create an intriguing and multifaceted puzzle. It shows good fruit weight and concentration, reinforced by firm tannins, freshness and a silky mouthfeel. This is a terrific go to Barolo from a classic vintage. The wine is fermented in stainless steel and then ages for two years in botte grande made with Slavonian oak.","180","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"COGNORAV19B6","7","n/a","6","75","2019","Barolo Ravera, Elvio Cogno","Elvio Cogno","n/a","Barolo","Barolo","Piedmont","Italy","Red","93","AG","The 2019 barolo Ravera marries finesse with the energy that is typical of all the wines from this part of the appellation. Tasted next to the 2018, it possesses gorgeous inner sweetness and captivating perfume to match its mid-weight personality. Hard candy, blood orange, mint, iron, spice and dried flowers all open in the glass. Here too, the tannins are admirably balanced for a young Ravera Barolo.","335","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"COGNORAV19B6","n/a","3","1","75","2019","Barolo Ravera, Elvio Cogno","Elvio Cogno","n/a","Barolo","Barolo","Piedmont","Italy","Red","93","AG","The 2019 barolo Ravera marries finesse with the energy that is typical of all the wines from this part of the appellation. Tasted next to the 2018, it possesses gorgeous inner sweetness and captivating perfume to match its mid-weight personality. Hard candy, blood orange, mint, iron, spice and dried flowers all open in the glass. Here too, the tannins are admirably balanced for a young Ravera Barolo.","56","IB","1x75cl","RPK",
"EQNAVLB115NVB6","n/a","5","1","75","NV","La Bota de Fino 115 Sherry, Equipo Navazos","Equipo Navazos","n/a","Fino","n/a","Jerez","Spain","Fortified White","95","TWA","The NV La Bota de Fino 115 is still 100% from Macharnudo Alto, and they are trying to make a slightly more fluid wine, not like a Fino Amontillado, which was the case with some bottlings coming from the selection of very old soleras. It`s slightly different from the previous edition, number 91; this is slightly younger, between seven and eight years of age, but it keeps the same style, just a little more approachable. It`s still an old Fino, with notes of esparto grass and volume in the palate. 6,000 bottles produced. This was bottled in August 2022 in 0.75-liter bottles.","23","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"EQNAVLBDF11421B6","n/a","3","1","75","2021","La Bota de Florpower 114 MMXXI Sherry, Equipo Navazos","Equipo Navazos","n/a","Not fortfied","n/a","Jerez","Spain","White","92?","TWA","I found a very young and tender 2021 La Bota de Florpower 114 MMXXI that was bottled 15 days before I tasted it. It has notes of green apples that are browning, but apparently all the Florpower wines suffer from bottling and need time. The palate shows the chalky texture, and it`s what you have to check with a wine like this. It`s difficult to read right now, but I`m optimistic about its development, in the style of 2018; but it`s still a bit of a question mark. 4,000 bottles were filled in June 2022.","18","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"EQNAVLB11118B6","n/a","1","1","75","2018","La Bota de Manzanilla 111 "Florpower" MMXVIII Sherry, Equipo Navazos","Equipo Navazos","n/a","Manzanilla","n/a","Jerez","Spain","Fortified White","94","TWA","The young and tender 2018 La Bota de Manzanilla 111 Florpower MMXVIII was shy and austere, but after bottling (it was bottled in February 2022), it was a bit dizzy in the nose, but the palate shows much better, like many of the 2018 wines I had seen in other bottlings. It`s a cooler year with balance and freshness and aging potential.","20","IB","1x75cl","OC",
" EQNAVLB109NVH6","n/a","5","1","37.5","NV","La Bota No 109, Amontillado `Viejísimo de Trebujena Bota Punta, Equipo Navazos","Equipo Navazos","n/a","Amontillado","n/a","Montilla-Moriles","Spain","Fortified White","98","TWA","The NV La Bota de Amontillado Bota Punta 109 is a very old wine they selected from the cooperative of Trebujena that had never been bottled before. The cooperative was created in 1970, but one of the members had these butts from before; their history was really unknown, but the wine has a profile of coastal Amontillado (from Sanlúcar or Trebujena) with less glycerin, sharp and saline, not as sharp or as bitter as the iconic NPI but with crazy numbersalcohol, acidity, dry extract and everything. It`s very intense but very balanced. An amazing wine that should live forever. It was bottled into 1,200 half bottles (one bota) in October 2021.","58","IB","1x37.5cl","OC",
"EQNAVLB73NVH6","n/a","3","1","37.5","NV","La Bota No 73, Amontillado `Viejísimo`, Equipo Navazos","Equipo Navazos","n/a","Not fortfied","n/a","Montilla-Moriles","Spain","White","97","TWA","Navazos releases a super-old wine from time to time, and this time it`s the turn of an Amontillado from Montilla-Moriles, produced with Pedro Ximenez grapes and sourced from the Perez Barquero winery. It`s presented as NV La Bota de Amontillado 73 Bota Aniversario. These old wines are always very concentrated and powerful, and the challenge here is to find one that is balanced. A similar wine was bottled as La Bota 26 to celebrate the fifth anniversary of the project, but it was never sold and instead was used for gifts for the core of Navazos customers from the bota 1. That 26 was taken from the bota `No`, and this 73, in order to not empty cask number 8 (the bota `no`), was blended with cask number 3. Despite being bottled with some 21% alcohol, this wine is supposedly not fortified, and the alcoholic degree is achieved by pure evaporation and concentration through old age. This is getting the character of a very old wine, with hints of rusty nails and noble woods, a volatile touch and lots of nut notes. The palate is powerful, with volume, sharpness, elegance, intensity and a very long finish with echoes of low tide and rusty nails. A unique wine. 1,100 half bottles produced.","57","IB","1x37.5cl","OC",
"EQNAVLB94NVH6","n/a","2","1","37.5","NV","La Bota No 94, Oloroso `Más allá del NO` Sherry, Equipo Navazos","Equipo Navazos","n/a","Oloroso","n/a","Jerez","Spain","Fortified White","99","TWA","The unique NV La Bota de Oloroso Más allá del NO 94 comes from a single butt of extremely old Oloroso from Valdespino. It`s a wine that goes beyond the Bota NO concept, because it`s an even older wine that has the signs of very old wine, with extreme concentration, evaporation and high alcohol and acidity. Often such wines are too much, and the rarity is to find a wine where you can mention elegance, as they can be aggressive (and sometimes even painful). This has notes of iodine, coconut, varnish and liqueur, finishing dry and long. Not long, eternal... They bottled 75 half bottles produced.","57","IB","1x37.5cl","OC",
"FAIVCAZ16B6","n/a","2","1","75","2016","Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru Cazetiers, Faiveley","Faiveley","1er Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","92-94","AM","Reduction and wood currently overshadow the underlying fruit. There is first rate intensity and power to the concentrated broad shouldered flavours that possess a velvet textured mid palate while delivering outstanding length on the balanced and only mildly rustic finale. If this can add even more depth it could very well merit the upper end of my predicted range. In sum, this is a classic example and as such, it`s very much destined for a long snooze in a cold cellar.","74","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"FAIVCAZ18B6","1","n/a","6","75","2018","Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru Cazetiers, Faiveley","Faiveley","1er Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","94-96","JM","Fine glowing crimson purple with a really well balanced nose, was delicate when just Faiveley but the Dupont sector brought more clay and more weight. It is certainly ripe but it is also totally in balance, giving a pure and concentrated deep red fruit with some spices round the edge, and as always for this vineyard that mineral feel at the finish. Tasted: November 2019. 5* Wine","405","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"FERRETPROUG20B6","n/a","2","1","75","2020","Pouilly Fuisse Clos des Prouges, Tete de Cuvee, J.A. Ferret","Ferret","AC","Pouilly Fuisse","Maconnais","Burgundy","France","White","93","NM","The 2020 Pouilly-Fuisse Clos des Prouges comes from marn soils. This has a finely-tuned and more mineral-driven bouquet compared to Les Perrières, hints of yellow plum, Vervane tea and crushed stones emerging with time. The palate is structured with fine substance and grip, a twist of sour lemon and quite a long, lingering saline finish. This could turn into one of J-A Ferret`s best 2020s.","36","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"FERRETPROUG20B6","5","n/a","6","75","2020","Pouilly Fuisse Clos des Prouges, Tete de Cuvee, J.A. Ferret","Ferret","AC","Pouilly Fuisse","Maconnais","Burgundy","France","White","93","NM","The 2020 Pouilly-Fuisse Clos des Prouges comes from marn soils. This has a finely-tuned and more mineral-driven bouquet compared to Les Perrières, hints of yellow plum, Vervane tea and crushed stones emerging with time. The palate is structured with fine substance and grip, a twist of sour lemon and quite a long, lingering saline finish. This could turn into one of J-A Ferret`s best 2020s.","215","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"FERRETMENET20B6","n/a","5","1","75","2020","Pouilly Fuisse Hors Classe Menetrieres, Ferret","Ferret","AC","Pouilly Fuisse","Maconnais","Burgundy","France","White","94+","WK","The king of the cellar is the 2020 Pouilly-Fuisse Hors-Classe Les Menetrières, a brilliant wine in the making that unfurls in the glass with notes of peach, pear, confit citrus, hazelnuts, nutmeg, vanilla pod and light reduction. Full-bodied, ample and satiny, with a textural attack that segues into a layered and enveloping core, this concentrated, vibrant wine concludes with a long, resonant finish.","48","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"FERRETMENET20B6","8","n/a","6","75","2020","Pouilly Fuisse Hors Classe Menetrieres, Ferret","Ferret","AC","Pouilly Fuisse","Maconnais","Burgundy","France","White","94+","WK","The king of the cellar is the 2020 Pouilly-Fuisse Hors-Classe Les Menetrières, a brilliant wine in the making that unfurls in the glass with notes of peach, pear, confit citrus, hazelnuts, nutmeg, vanilla pod and light reduction. Full-bodied, ample and satiny, with a textural attack that segues into a layered and enveloping core, this concentrated, vibrant wine concludes with a long, resonant finish.","285","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"FOURGRUEN16B6","1","n/a","6","75","2016","Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru Gruenchers, Fourrier","Fourrier","1er Cru","Chambolle-Musigny","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","92","AM","An exceptionally pretty nose blends both red and blue fruit nuances, spice and a hint of violet. The attractively textured, punchy and utterly delicious medium weight flavours already possess good depth and fine length on the balanced if still decidedly firm finish. I enjoyed this wine though it`s clear that it`s still at least 5 to 7 years away from its peak. In a word, lovely.","1410","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"FOURCSJ09B1","n/a","2","1","75","2009","Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru Clos St Jacques, Fourrier","Fourrier","1er Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","93","AM","This storied terroir often produces one of the most elegant and sophisticated of all the 26 Gevrey 1ers with the gorgeously refined red berry fruit and floral nose suffused by an almost pungent minerality that continues onto the supple, fresh and vibrant medium-bodied flavours that possess excellent concentration and a stunning, even explosive if firmly structured finish. This is an intense wine of harmony and drive with everything it needs for a long life.","665","DP","1x75cl","RPK",
"FOURGEVVV08M6","1","n/a","6","150","2008","Gevrey-Chambertin Vielles Vignes, Fourrier","Fourrier","AC","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","90+","ST","Palish red. Captivating, expressive aromas of cherry, smoke, mocha and underbrush; slightly exotic in a positive way. Sweet on entry, then sappy in the middle, thanks to firm acidity and a saline quality. Complex, soil-driven wine but not at all dry. "Will these wines shut down like the 1996s or will they be more like the 2001s?" wondered Fourrier, adding that "2008 is like a vintage of the `70s that came to visit us in an age of phenolic maturity."","2000","IB","6x150cl","OC",
"CHIDBAUD19B6","1","n/a","6","75","2019","Baudoin, Francois Chidaine","Francois Chidaine","n/a","n/a","Touraine","Loire","France","White","94","TWA","From 15-year-old vines on clays and white chalk, the 2019 Vin de France Baudoin has to be marketed as such because it is cultivated and harvested in Vouvray yet bottled in Montlouis (welcome to the 21st century). Bright, intensely aromatic yet refined and with delicate yellow-fleshed fruit aromas on the limestone-grounded nose, this is a delicate, pure and fresh, highly tensioned but also lush and perfectly balanced and juicy Chenin Blanc with fine tannin grip, sustainable salinity and remarkable finesse. This is too young to be served today, but this is a highly promising Chenin with the concentration that a wine needs for long aging capacity. Tasted in March 2021","170","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"CHIDMLHAB19B6","1","n/a","6","75","2019","Montlouis Clos Habert, Francois Chidaine","Francois Chidaine","n/a","n/a","Touraine","Loire","France","White","93+","TWA","From a soil composed of clay and coarse flint elements covering the subsoil made up of tuff, the 2019 Montlouis sur Loire Clos Habert opens with a very fine and delicate bouquet of finely concentrated yellow-fleshed fruit aromas along with herbal and flinty notes. Round and intense, with perfectly ripe fruit, fine tannins and delicate acidity, this is a sustainably intense and salty Chenin that is far too young to be served today but will age for some decades. Tasted in March 2021. ","115","IB","6x75cl","OC",
" (Release under CHIDMLTUF18B12)","n/a","1","1","75","2018","Montlouis Les Tuffeaux, Francois Chidaine","Francois Chidaine","n/a","n/a","n/a","Loire","France","White","94","AG","The 2018 Montlouis Les Tuffeaux is explosive in the glass. Soaring citrus, floral pear and slate infused aromatics lead into a rich, creamy palate that fills out beautifully. The 2018 is generous and so inviting, and yet remains airy, with beams of salinity that frame the subtle, nuanced finish. A wine of understatement and class, the 2018 is just gorgeous today. The balance of sweetness, acid and structure is compelling, with the sugar present and yet so well integrated, in the wines magical balance.","20","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"VAJRAV10B6","1","n/a","6","75","2010","Barolo Ravera, G.D. Vajra","G.D.Vajra","DOCG","Barolo","Barolo","Piedmont","Italy","Red","95+","AG","Vajra`s 2010 Barolo is striking. Freshly cut flowers, mint, crushed rocks, pine and aromatic spices all take shape in the 2010 Barolo Ravera. Vibrant and pulsating to the core, the 2010 impresses for its pure tension. Freshly cut flowers, mint and sweet spices add lift, but ultimately the 2010 is a dark, brooding Barolo that is going to require cellaring. There is so much to like here.","425","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"GAIAASSYRTTHAS21B6","n/a","3","1","75","2021","Assyrtiko Thalassitis, Gaia Wines","Gaia Wines","n/a","n/a","n/a","Santorini","Greece","White","94","RV","The 2017 of this wine was voted Greeces best Assyrtiko, and you can see why: this is extremely concentrated and really profound. Flavour-wise though, in my view it is quite unlike the other two, in which you find the flowery-citrus je-ne-sais-quoi of Assyrtiko. Is that Halkidiki vs Santorini ? Anyway - tasted blind, I think Id be guessing this as a top Loire Sauvignon maybe from Dageneau or Cotat. Its so concentrated. The fruit character seems quite different wet stone, flint, green apple, lime and quince. The depth is pretty remarkable. Full bodied. I only took a picture of the front label of this and have found varying assertions about the alcohol level, running from 13% flat to 14%. Apologies, cant remember. I think it was 13% but I couldnt be sure. Either way you dont notice the alcohol.","20","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"VERMAISON18M1","1","n/a","1","150","2018","Cote Rotie, Maison Rouge, Georges Vernay","George Vernay","AC","Cote Rotie","Northern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","95","AG","Opaque ruby. Assertively perfumed black and blue fruit aromas are complemented by suggestions of candied flowers, olive and exotic spices. In a concentrated, densely packed style, showing fine definition and spicy cut to its bitter cherry, cassis, fruitcake and violet pastille flavors. Conveys a suave blend of power and energy, finishing taut, spicy and impressively long, with youthfully gripping tannins and resonating florality. One-third whole clusters and 20% new oak. JR","165","IB","1x150cl","OC",
"GIAFAL15B6","1","n/a","6","75","2015","Barolo Falletto, Giacosa ","Giacosa","DOCG","Barolo","Barolo","Piedmont","Italy","Red","98","JS","Superb aromas of ripe fruit such as plums and berries with peaches and tar. Very intense. Full body, great depth and density. Incredible richness and power with superb length and persistence. One of the most dense and vertical Falletos I have tasted. Try in 2025.","615","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"GOUGCDPOR18B6","2","n/a","6","75","2018","Nuits St Georges 1er Cru Clos des Porrets, Gouges","Gouges","1er Cru","Nuits St Georges","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","94","JM","A fresher ruby purple. Delicious dense but lively fruit, the floral side of raspberry. A superb wine in the style of the vintage though with bracing acidity at the back. Tense and crunchy, yet covered by lots of fruit. All well harnessed, will age extremely well. Drink from 2033. Tasted: September 2022. 5* Wine","300","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"GRAGIN16B6","1","n/a","6","75","2016","Barolo Ginestra Case Mate, Grasso (Elio)","Grasso (Elio)","DOCG","Barolo","Barolo","Piedmont","Italy","Red","97","AG","Ample and creamy on the palate, with tremendous depth, the 2016 Barolo Ginestra Casa Mate is super impressive, even in the early going. Next to the Gavarini Chiniera, the Ginestra Casa Mate is a Barolo of textural resonance and volume. Black cherry, plum and a range of balsamic notes infuse the 2016 with tons of character. The is one of the real standouts of the year.","355","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"GROFBON16B12","1","n/a","12","75","2016","Bonnes Mares Grand Cru, Robert Groffier Pere et Fils","Groffier","Grand Cru","Chambolle-Musigny","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","95-98","JM","Rich deep purple, 100% whole bunch, one third new oak. This has a very complex nose worth delving into, darker fruit, even some blackberry. Gorgeous full mouthful, oak at the back then fruit once more, with a nice touch of acidity. The whole bunch effect sits seamlessly within the fruit. More red fruit at the finish, very elegant, long, and precise. Tasted: October 2017.","4280","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"GROFDOIX11B6","1","n/a","6","75","2011","Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru Les Hauts Doix, Robert Groffier Pere et Fils","Groffier","1er Cru","Chambolle-Musigny","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","88","ST","(the malo finishes three weeks before my visit; vinified with one-third whole clusters): Good full red-ruby. Wild, musky aromas of black raspberry, black cherry, licorice, roasted herbs and roast coffee. Concentrated, thick and very ripe, with Baker`s chocolate and mocha notes currently overwhelming the wine`s fruit. No shortage of acidity or tannins here but a bit heavy today and in an awkward stage. (By the way, the Groffiers` Passetougrains displayed excellent sucrosite and a lot of early personality, and appears to be one of the best vintages to date for this entry-level bottling.","1200","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"GROFHAUTD12B6","n/a","5","1","75","2012","Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru Les Hauts Doix, Robert Groffier Pere et Fils","Groffier","1er Cru","Chambolle-Musigny","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","91","ST","Bright medium red. Fruit-driven aromas of framboise and redcurrant complicated by red licorice, cotton candy and rose petal. Plush and sweet, offering lovely depth to its flavours of red fruits, minerals and spices. A touch of lavender perfumes the mid-palate and contributes to the impression of definition. At once broader and more refined than the Gevrey villages, finishing with a saline nuance and lovely Chambolle lift.","200","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"GROFHD13B6","1","n/a","6","75","2013","Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru Les Hauts Doix, Robert Groffier Pere et Fils","Groffier","1er Cru","Chambolle-Musigny","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","93","NM","Tasted blind at the Burgfest tasting in Beaune, the 2013 Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru Les Hauts Doix has a reserved, tightly wound bouquet, but there is decent fruit stored up here, black plum and raspberry coulis, damp earthy notes that become more accentuated in the glass. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannin, plenty of juicy red fruit laid over fine structure, plus there is fine mineralite surfacing on the finish to complete to a very well-made Chambolle-Musigny from Nicolas Groffier. Tasted September 2016.","1365","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"HAUTBAT19B6","5","n/a","6","75","2019","Chateau Haut Batailley","Haut Batailley","n/a","Pauillac","Left Bank","Bordeaux","France","Red","95","NM","The 2019 Haut-Batailley has a precise and quite understated bouquet with mineral-rich black fruit, cedar and mint, just a very slight floral note developing with aeration. The palate is medium-bodied with graphite infused black fruit, classic in style, very well balanced with wonderful tension. It fans out effortlessly on the finish. Superb. Tasted blind at the Southwold annual tasting. ","205","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"HAUTBAT19B6","n/a","2","1","75","2019","Chateau Haut Batailley","Haut Batailley","n/a","Pauillac","Left Bank","Bordeaux","France","Red","95","NM","The 2019 Haut-Batailley has a precise and quite understated bouquet with mineral-rich black fruit, cedar and mint, just a very slight floral note developing with aeration. The palate is medium-bodied with graphite infused black fruit, classic in style, very well balanced with wonderful tension. It fans out effortlessly on the finish. Superb. Tasted blind at the Southwold annual tasting.","40","IB","1x75cl","RPK",
"BDMSPHELI19B6","5","n/a","6","75","2019","Brunello di Montalcino, Helichrysum, San Polino","Helichrysum","n/a","n/a","Montalcino","Tuscany","Italy","Red","94+","VM","A cooling, mentholated freshness introduces the 2019 Brunello di Montalcino Helichrysum as black cherry, clove and dusty rose aromas evolve in the glass. This is a model of both purity and elegance, with textures of pure silk and depths of ripe wild berry fruits that are carried by a wave of vibrant acidity. The 2019 finishes incredibly long, structured and classically dry, yet still fresh, leaving a saturation of red plum and licorice under an inner floral air. The depth and concentration here are off the charts, as the Helichrysum holds its power in reserve. Be patient with this one. In a word, fantastic. ","300","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"HUMEST16B6","1","n/a","6","75","2016","Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru Estournelles Saint Jacques, Humbert","Humbert","1er Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","91-93","AM","Slightly less prominent notes of menthol and wood toast more easily allow the fresh, cool and admirably pure aromas of essence of red berries and floral hints to be appreciated. The tension filled and overtly stony middle weight flavours possess an elegant mouthfeel along with an almost pungent minerality, all wrapped in a focused, intense and sneaky long finish. Textbook ESJ.","565","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"HUMPCHAP16B6","2","n/a","6","75","2016","Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru Petite Chapelle, Humbert","Humbert","1er Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","90-92","AM","Once again wood and menthol elements can be found on the more elegant nose of plum, violet and dark berries. The super sleek, intense and equally pure medium bodied flavours exhibit notably more minerality on the slightly firmer and well balanced finale. This is at once generous yet refined and the only nit, at least today, is that the finish is a bit toasty though this will presumably be progressively absorbed as it ages.","450","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"HUMPOIS16B12","1","n/a","12","75","2016","Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru Poissenot, Humbert","Humbert","1er Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","90-92","AM","A combination of wood spice and very fresh if restrained red berry fruit liqueur aromas are laced with hints of spice and earth. The equally earthy, rich and attractively textured flavours possess good mid palate concentration before culminating in a complex, pure and impressively refined finish where a touch of wood resurfaces. As is usually the case this is intensely mineral driven and not nearly as structured as the Lavaut but even so, it is going to need at least some patience.","770","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"FAVFIANRIS19B6","1","n/a","6","75","2019","Fiano di Avellino, Pietramara Etichetta Bianca, I Favati","I Favati","n/a","n/a","Fiano di Avellino","Campania","Italy","White","n/a","n/a","n/a","180","DP","6x75cl","OC",
"FAVGRECORIS20B6","1","n/a","6","75","2020","Greco di Tufo Etichetta Bianca, I Favati","I Favati","n/a","n/a","n/a","Campania","Italy","White","93","TWA","In the bottle with the white label, the I Favati 2020 Greco di Tufo Riserva Etichetta Bianca Terrantica is quite beautiful and generous, with a level of taste intensity and textural richness that is not often associated with Greco. Made with late-harvest fruit and two years of aging, the bouquet is redolent of candied fruit, quince, lemon sherbet and honey. The wine glides smoothly over the palate, imparting a glycerin-rich approach along the way. You feel the hot vintage, but the wine is nicely balanced. Only 3,000 bottles were made.","200","DP","6x75cl","OC",
"INAMAFOSCA19B6","1","n/a","6","75","2019","Soave Classico Vigneti di Foscarino, Inama","Inama","n/a","n/a","n/a","Veneto","Italy","White","94","AG","n/a","120","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"GUITCORV19B6","n/a","2","1","75","2019","Ladoix 1er Cru La Corvee, Domaine Jean Guiton","Jean Guiton","1er Cru","Ladoix","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","Red","94+","RV","A pretty deep colour for Pinot. Deep ruby and saturated crimson virtually to the rim. No surprise that this is full-bodied. Deep and barrel-chested. Very primary morello cherry, blackberry and damson fruit. Cool, dark, sweet, structured and fresh with lovely acidity and tannins which are perfectly covered in an absolute wave of fruit. Gosh. At first I wondered if lots of fruit was it ? But gradually (over the evening and into the next couple of days open) the savoury notes emerged, the violet and chalky minerality. This is profound red Burgundy, made in quite an extracted style
..but brilliantly executed IMO. To me, a potential problem with more extracted Pinot is that you (can) loose the sensation of place and vineyard. As you step up in appellation hierarchy, you just get more and more concentration but little individuality. I found that about the (famous) Mortet wines of the 90s for example. However; the very best producers of more extracted Burgundian Pinot (eg Leroy) do manage to achieve deep colours, rich fruit and great aromatic individuality. This, I think, falls into that camp (as was shown when I tasted the next wine a few days later). A disclaimer. This wine has 14.5% alcohol on the label. Which is hard (for me anyway) to believe as it tastes fresh and excellently balanced - as well as rich. A kick-in-the-nuts to one of my pet theories about what constitutes great Burgundy then
. As no doubt, this is a rich, concentrated classic.","26","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"GUITCORV19B6","6","n/a","6","75","2019","Ladoix 1er Cru La Corvee, Domaine Jean Guiton","Jean Guiton","1er Cru","Ladoix","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","Red","94+","RV","A pretty deep colour for Pinot. Deep ruby and saturated crimson virtually to the rim. No surprise that this is full-bodied. Deep and barrel-chested. Very primary morello cherry, blackberry and damson fruit. Cool, dark, sweet, structured and fresh with lovely acidity and tannins which are perfectly covered in an absolute wave of fruit. Gosh. At first I wondered if lots of fruit was it ? But gradually (over the evening and into the next couple of days open) the savoury notes emerged, the violet and chalky minerality. This is profound red Burgundy, made in quite an extracted style
..but brilliantly executed IMO. To me, a potential problem with more extracted Pinot is that you (can) loose the sensation of place and vineyard. As you step up in appellation hierarchy, you just get more and more concentration but little individuality. I found that about the (famous) Mortet wines of the 90s for example. However; the very best producers of more extracted Burgundian Pinot (eg Leroy) do manage to achieve deep colours, rich fruit and great aromatic individuality. This, I think, falls into that camp (as was shown when I tasted the next wine a few days later). A disclaimer. This wine has 14.5% alcohol on the label. Which is hard (for me anyway) to believe as it tastes fresh and excellently balanced - as well as rich. A kick-in-the-nuts to one of my pet theories about what constitutes great Burgundy then
. As no doubt, this is a rich, concentrated classic.","155","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"GUITSLBPEU19B6","2","n/a","6","75","2019","Savigny Les Beaune 1er cru Les Peuillets, Domaine Jean Guiton","Jean Guiton","1er Cru","Savigny Les Beaune","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","Red","94","RV","Opening this a couple of days after the Ladoix (which I still had open for comparison) I wondered if the two wines would blur in homogeneity - and be less interesting to me as a result.
No danger of that as it turned out. The deep colour was in common, as was really excellent fruit concentration, but in terms of the aromatics and palate, these wines are as different as one could reasonably hope and expect. On the nose, the Savigny is a bit redder and sweeter in terms of fruit character (red cherry, plum) and has a slightly smokey, earthy, grilled character. A little more immediately savoury and a little more wild, less violet. On the palate also, we find crunchy, spicy red fruit initially, before you feel the weight of fruit and the flavours turn to plum and bramble. The tannic structure of this wine is also more apparent but in no way unattractive the finish note hints at game and smoke. Again, this is clearly a 20+ year wine, although one you can, again, enjoy very much now with your char-grilled rib-eye. As I did.","170","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"GUITSLBPEU19B6","]","5","1","75","2019","Savigny Les Beaune 1er cru Les Peuillets, Domaine Jean Guiton","Jean Guiton","1er Cru","Savigny Les Beaune","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","Red","94","RV","Opening this a couple of days after the Ladoix (which I still had open for comparison) I wondered if the two wines would blur in homogeneity - and be less interesting to me as a result.
No danger of that as it turned out. The deep colour was in common, as was really excellent fruit concentration, but in terms of the aromatics and palate, these wines are as different as one could reasonably hope and expect. On the nose, the Savigny is a bit redder and sweeter in terms of fruit character (red cherry, plum) and has a slightly smokey, earthy, grilled character. A little more immediately savoury and a little more wild, less violet. On the palate also, we find crunchy, spicy red fruit initially, before you feel the weight of fruit and the flavours turn to plum and bramble. The tannic structure of this wine is also more apparent but in no way unattractive the finish note hints at game and smoke. Again, this is clearly a 20+ year wine, although one you can, again, enjoy very much now with your char-grilled rib-eye. As I did.","29","IB","1x75cl","RPK",
"DROINHOMMAGE20B6","2","n/a","6","75","2020","Chablis Grand Cru, Hommage a Louis, Jean Paul & Benoit Droin","Jean-Paul & Benoit Droin","Grand Cru","Chablis","Chablis","Burgundy","France","White","94-97","JM","2020 marks the centenary of the first vintage of Les Clos made by Benoît Droins great-great-grandfather Louis (who was followed by Marcel, Paul, Jean-Paul and now Benoît. Les Clos is not mentioned on the label because of a current administrative spat where the Douanes (customs) and the INAO have a different opinion as to whether a particular plot should be classified as Clos or Valmur. With a bit of luck this should be resolved soon. In any case, the 2020 has a wonderful white fruit nose, really elegant and stylish. The grip here is exceptional with a spectacular intensity and no undue heat or sucrosity: a wonderful wine in the making.","500","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"JPBDROINGREN20B6","1","n/a","6","75","2020","Chablis Grenouilles Grand Cru, Jean-Paul et Benoit Droin","Jean-Paul & Benoit Droin","Grand Cru","Chablis","Chablis","Burgundy","France","White","92-95","JM","Fresh pale lemon yellow. The power is showing, but not yet the detail. This has the most oak in the blend, but I can scarcely see the wood. Rich pure and concentrated, with an impressive weight of fruit throughout, follows on nicely from Valmur. Generous gourmand sucrosity is present but the wine should retain its balance. Tasted: July 2021.","480","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"JPBDROINMDT20B6","n/a","4","1","75","2020","Chablis Montee de Tonnerre, Jean-Paul et Benoit Droin","Jean-Paul & Benoit Droin","n/a","Chablis","Chablis","Burgundy","France","White","92-94","JM","Very pale colour with a light green tint. Like the Mont de Milieu this has a lightly reductive overlay on top of a sunnier style of fruit. White flowers. There is an impressive intensity of white fruit, light sucrosity, power and minerality together","45","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"JPBDROINVALM20B6","1","n/a","6","75","2020","Chablis Valmur Grand Cru, Jean-Paul & Benoit Droin","Jean-Paul & Benoit Droin","Grand Cru","Chablis","Chablis","Burgundy","France","White","94-96","JM","Fine mid lemon yellow. There is more immediate weight than Vaudésir, in slightly yellower fruit, hugely expansive, a little more Côte dOr in style, which fits the profile of Valmur, with an astonishing quality of aftertaste. Broad-shouldered yet still fine. Tasted: July 2021. 5* Wine","420","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"JPBDROINVAUD20B6","1","n/a","6","75","2020","Chablis Vaudesir Grand Cru, Jean Paul & Benoit Droin","Jean-Paul & Benoit Droin","Grand Cru","Chablis","Chablis","Burgundy","France","White","93-95","JM","Bright clean fresh colour, the bouquet is concentrated but chiselled and backward. Crisp, concentrated pure white fruit, very Vaudesir, with excellent persistence. Finesse and class to finish","335","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"JPBDROINVAUD20B6","1","n/a","6","75","2020","Chablis Vaudesir Grand Cru, Jean Paul & Benoit Droin","Jean-Paul & Benoit Droin","Grand Cru","Chablis","Chablis","Burgundy","France","White","93-95","JM","Bright clean fresh colour, the bouquet is concentrated but chiselled and backward. Crisp, concentrated pure white fruit, very Vaudesir, with excellent persistence. Finesse and class to finish","335","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"JPBDROINVAUD20B6","1","n/a","6","75","2020","Chablis Vaudesir Grand Cru, Jean Paul & Benoit Droin","Jean-Paul & Benoit Droin","Grand Cru","Chablis","Chablis","Burgundy","France","White","93-95","JM","Bright clean fresh colour, the bouquet is concentrated but chiselled and backward. Crisp, concentrated pure white fruit, very Vaudesir, with excellent persistence. Finesse and class to finish","335","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"JLCHAVEHERM13B6","1","n/a","6","75","2013","Hermitage, JL Chave","JL Chave","AC","Hermitage","Northern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","94-97","TWA","Still in barrel at the time of this tasting, the 2013 Hermitage will certainly be one of the wines of the vintage. Offering classic, granite-induced notes of smoked dark fruits, graphite, searing minerality and bouquet garni, this sensational Hermitage has medium to full-bodied richness, beautiful mid-palate density and building tannin, all with the freshness and purity of the vintage. Reminiscent of a more backwards, tight, focused and granite-driven year (I asked Jean-Louis if there was a similar vintage he could recall, he commented that he couldn`t think of one), it has solid ripeness in its aromas and flavours, good sweetness in its tannin, and a great finish. I suspect it will need 7-8 years of cellaring and keep for 20-25 years or more.","1620","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"PRUMGRAHIMAUS19B6","1","n/a","6","75","2019","Johan Josef Prum Graacher Himmelreich Riesling Auslese","Johan Josef Prum","n/a","n/a","n/a","Mosel","Germany","White","95","TWA","The 2019 Graacher Himmelreich Auslese is clear, fresh and spicy on the deep, concentrated, very fine and flinty as well as vegetal and floral nose. Round and intense on the palate, this is a complex, tight and sustainably salty and refreshing Auslese in the digestible, food friendly style. Tasted at the domain in September 2020.","155","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"PRUMZELSONSPAT19B6","n/a","1","1","75","2019","Johan Josef Prum Zeltinger Sonnenuhr Riesling Spatlese","Johan Josef Prum","n/a","n/a","n/a","Mosel","Germany","White","95","TWA","The 2019 Zeltinger Sonnenuhr Spatlese is very delicate and intense on the ripe and aromatic, well concentrated and flinty bouquet with delicate slate and herbal aromas. Enormously complex and endless salty on the palate, this is a persistent, structured and sustainable ZSU with great aging potential. Tasted at the domain in September 2020.","19","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"PRUMZELSONSPAT19B6","1","n/a","6","75","2019","Johan Josef Prum Zeltinger Sonnenuhr Riesling Spatlese","Johan Josef Prum","n/a","n/a","n/a","Mosel","Germany","White","95","TWA","The 2019 Zeltinger Sonnenuhr Spatlese is very delicate and intense on the ripe and aromatic, well concentrated and flinty bouquet with delicate slate and herbal aromas. Enormously complex and endless salty on the palate, this is a persistent, structured and sustainable ZSU with great aging potential. Tasted at the domain in September 2020.","115","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"KFHYLCOUR17B12","n/a","10","1","75","2017","Hyland Vineyard Coury Clone Pinot Noir, Kelley Fox","Kelley Fox","n/a","n/a","Oregon","California","USA","Red","95","JR","Vivid red. Spice accented raspberry, cherry and rose pastille aromas, along with hints of woodsmoke, cola and baking spices. Silky and focused on the palate, offering lively red fruit, allspice and floral pastille flavours that deliver power with zero fat. Fine grained tannins frame a very long, spice tinged finish that shows outstanding clarity and building florality. 50% whole clusters.","50","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"LAFVOLSEL05B12","1","n/a","12","75","2005","Volnay Vendanges Selectionnes, Lafarge","Lafarge","AC","Volnay","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","Red","90","AM","A notably ripe yet elegant and refined nose offers red pinot and black cherry aromas nuanced by hints of earth and animale that can also be found on the rich, velvety and equally serious medium plus weight flavours that coat the mouth with dense but fine tannins and admirable levels of dry extract. Recommended though note that this will need at least 6 to 8 years to really be at its best.","1050","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"LAGRANGE19B12","1","n/a","12","75","2019","Chateau Lagrange","Lagrange","n/a","Saint Julien","Left Bank","Bordeaux","France","Red","95","NM","The 2019 Lagrange has an open-knit, classic Saint-Julien nose with black fruit, chimney soot, tobacco and a light sprinkling of white pepper. There is a little more earthiness here. The palate is understated and fleshy, gentle grip, more approachable than its peers, pure but without the same grip and backbone on the finish. Very seductive. Tasted blind at the Southwold annual tasting. ","390","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"LAGRANGE19B12","n/a","8","1","75","2019","Chateau Lagrange","Lagrange","n/a","Saint Julien","Left Bank","Bordeaux","France","Red","95","NM","The 2019 Lagrange has an open-knit, classic Saint-Julien nose with black fruit, chimney soot, tobacco and a light sprinkling of white pepper. There is a little more earthiness here. The palate is understated and fleshy, gentle grip, more approachable than its peers, pure but without the same grip and backbone on the finish. Very seductive. Tasted blind at the Southwold annual tasting.","35","IB","1x75cl","RPK",
"LAMPCHASMORG17B6","n/a","4","1","75","2017","Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru Morgeot, Lamy-Pillot","Lamy-Pillot","1er Cru","Chassagne-Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","91","AM","Here the nose is completely clean and quite floral with prominent citrus elements to the mostly pear and matchstick aromas. There is very good intensity to the delicious and impressively voluminous flavours that possess solid mid-palate density on the notably more complex and persistent finish. This is really very good and worth checking out.","135","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"LANGOAB19B6","1","n/a","6","75","2019","Chateau Langoa Barton,","Langoa Barton","n/a","St Julien","Left Bank","Bordeaux","France","Red","94+","WK","A timeless classic for patient readers with cold cellars, the 2019 Langoa Barton is performing beautifully in bottle, unwinding in the glass with a rich bouquet of cassis, plums, cigar wrapper, pencil shavings and loamy soil. Medium to full-bodied, deep and elegantly muscular, its concentrated core of fruit is framed by lively acids and ripe, powdery tannins that assert themselves on the youthfully firm finish. Forget it for a decade and reap the rewards for the following four.","185","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"LANGOAB19B6","n/a","2","1","75","2019","Chateau Langoa Barton,","Langoa Barton","n/a","St Julien","Left Bank","Bordeaux","France","Red","94+","WK","A timeless classic for patient readers with cold cellars, the 2019 Langoa Barton is performing beautifully in bottle, unwinding in the glass with a rich bouquet of cassis, plums, cigar wrapper, pencil shavings and loamy soil. Medium to full-bodied, deep and elegantly muscular, its concentrated core of fruit is framed by lively acids and ripe, powdery tannins that assert themselves on the youthfully firm finish. Forget it for a decade and reap the rewards for the following four.","35","IB","1x75cl","RPK",
"LGBOURGBLANC21B6","1","n/a","6","75","2021","Bourgogne Blanc, Latour-Giraud","Latour Giraud","n/a","Bourgogne","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","White","88-90","JM","Clean mid yellow. Takes time but some attractive fruit begins to come out. Then an extraordinary concentration, fresh pears. I could believe senior vineyards were declassified in to this but not the case. Very long finish. And a zesty fresh finish. Drink from 2024-2027. Tasted: November 2022.","165","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"LATGCHARM19B6","n/a","1","1","75","2019","Meursault 1er Cru Charmes, Latour Giraud","Latour Giraud","1er Cru","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","94","JM","Half comes from the upper part of Charmes and half below. One ouvree is from 1930. Bright lemon colour, just bottled on Tuesday but even through the light sulphur I can detect the soft weight of classic Charmes. Still some gas here, yellow fruit, a light butteriness but enough grip to maintain the balance. Really very good wine. Long and nuanced. Ripe lemon zest notes as well. Jean Pierre wants to avoid a massive Charmes and he succeeds. Tasted: February 2021","79","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"LATGCHARM20B6","1","n/a","6","75","2020","Meursault 1er Cru Charmes, Latour Giraud","Latour Giraud","1er Cru","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","92-95","JM","Two six ouvree plots top and bottom. Mid yellow, the bouquet is a little softer and the oak has a vanilla touch rather than toasty. Starts reasonably quietly but kicks on with real force behind, and then finishes on the lime-citrus acidity of the vintage, suggesting a lightly salted Roses lime juice. Fair intensity and persistence. Tasted: 10/1/2021","530","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"LGCHARMES21B6","1","n/a","6","75","2021","Meursault 1er Cru Charmes, Latour-Giraud","Latour Giraud","1er Cru","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","91-94","JM","Pure fresh yellow. The bouquet shows the voluptuous side of Charmes wearing a chiffon of oak. Some fresh lime notes provide the energy, while the body of clean white stone fruit is the main course. Too much body just to be called racy. I dont think this will take an enormous amount of time to come round, but all is there. Drink from 2026-2033. Tasted: November 2022.","600","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"LGCHARLESMAX21B6","1","n/a","6","75","2021","Meursault Cuvee Charles Maxime, Latour-Giraud","Latour Giraud","n/a","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","92-95","JM","23 barrels including small quantities of declassified 1er Crus Perrières, Bouchères and Porusots which could not be made separately. Full bright yellow with a little green in the background. A touch of bacon fat here, but very soon it is the pure full fat fruit of Meursault which comes to the fore. A fine volume of dense white fruit, it may not go full butter and hazelnuts, but seekers after a properly classical Meursault will get their moneys worth here. Fine fresh long finish with some ripe greengage and a ripe citrus touch. Drink from 2025-2031. Tasted: November 2022. 5* Wine.","280","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"LHPOMPERR19B6","n/a","5","1","75","2019","Pommard Perrieres, Launay-Horiot","Launay-Horiot","n/a","Pommard","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","Red","91-94","JM","From vines planted in 1902. Fine clear mid-purple in colour, this has a very classy nose and some deep sweet rich fruit. Then a fine fresh acidity behind. This is very exciting! Stunning bouquet of dark raspberry and nectarine, so the sunshine is clearly present, but this is gorgeously juicy rather than crass. Tasted: October 2019. 5* Wine.","42","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"LHPOMPERR19B6","2","n/a","6","75","2019","Pommard Perrieres, Launay-Horiot","Launay-Horiot","n/a","Pommard","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","Red","91-94","JM","From vines planted in 1902. Fine clear mid-purple in colour, this has a very classy nose and some deep sweet rich fruit. Then a fine fresh acidity behind. This is very exciting! Stunning bouquet of dark raspberry and nectarine, so the sunshine is clearly present, but this is gorgeously juicy rather than crass. Tasted: October 2019. 5* Wine.","250","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"LISAGEVIOG22B6","2","n/a","6","75","2022","Age of Grace Viognier, Lismore","Lismore Estate","n/a","n/a","Overberg","Western Cape","South Africa","White","95","NM","The 2022 Viognier The Age of Grace comes from five parcels, is oxidatively handled, whole bunch pressed, and 30% raised in concrete egg, spending 11 months on the lees. Intoxicating on the nose, this offers citrus fruit, frangipane, beeswax and orange blossom scents, very perfumed but not as overpowering as this grape variety can be. The palate is well-balanced with yellow fruit, orange rind and nectarine, a silver bead of acidity and wonderful precision on the sustained finish. So Crystalline! A triumph. Drink 2024-2040.","104","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"LISCHARDRES22B6","1","n/a","6","75","2022","Chardonnay Reserve, Lismore Estate","Lismore Estate","n/a","n/a","Overberg","Western Cape","South Africa","White","96","NM","The 2022 Chardonnay Reserve comprises fruit from the Greyton homestead, which is oxidatively handled and fermented for 11 months in 500-liter barrels (25% new). After swirling to address the reduction, it reveals concentrated scents of dried honey, melted candle wax, orange blossom and a touch of grilled walnut. The palate is well-balanced with mineral-infused slightly tropical fruit, quince and hints of guava that merge into a more mineral-driven taut finish. Quite multi-faceted Chardonnay, this will age with style and panache. If that Corton-Charlemagne is a bit over-priced
and it probably is
then you know where to come. Drink 2024-2040."","200","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"LISBARREL17B6","5","n/a","6","75","2017","Lismore Barrel Fermented Sauvignon","Lismore Estate","n/a","n/a","n/a","Overberg","South Africa","White","93","NM","The 2017 Barrel Fermented Sauvignon Blanc was matured 75% in 500 liter barrels and 25% in concrete eggs. This has a more vivacious and slightly more fruit driven bouquet of yellow plum and light nectarine notes, complemented by touches of crushed stone and gooseberry. Perhaps one of the finest Sauvignon Blanc aromatics I have encountered this vintage. The palate is well balanced with gorgeous orange peel, light black currant and gooseberry notes, just about perfect acidity and a very precise, long finish. It is an outstanding follow up to the 2016, perhaps even better.","108","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"LISBARREL17B6","n/a","4","1","75","2017","Lismore Barrel Fermented Sauvignon","Lismore Estate","n/a","n/a","n/a","Overberg","South Africa","White","93","NM","The 2017 Barrel Fermented Sauvignon Blanc was matured 75% in 500 liter barrels and 25% in concrete eggs. This has a more vivacious and slightly more fruit driven bouquet of yellow plum and light nectarine notes, complemented by touches of crushed stone and gooseberry. Perhaps one of the finest Sauvignon Blanc aromatics I have encountered this vintage. The palate is well balanced with gorgeous orange peel, light black currant and gooseberry notes, just about perfect acidity and a very precise, long finish. It is an outstanding follow up to the 2016, perhaps even better.","18","IB","1x75cl","RPK",
"LISRESSYRAH21B6","2","n/a","6","75","2021","Reserve Syrah, Lismore Estate","Lismore Estate","n/a","Overberg","Cape South Coast","Western Cape","South Africa","Red","n/a","n/a","n/a","275","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"LITTCHEINTZ20B6","1","n/a","6","75","2020","Charles Heintz Chardonnay, Littorai","Littorai","n/a","n/a","Sonoma Coast","California","USA","White","93","AG","The 2020 Chardonnay Charles Heintz Vineyard is endowed with notable density and power. Orchard fruit, white flowers, almond and strong mineral accents are front and center. Texturally, the 2020 has a phenolic-like quality that is distinctive, but not especially typical of Heintz Chardonnays. I would give it another year or two in bottle to see if some of the edges soften.","475","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"LITTHAVEN21M1 ","1","n/a","1","150","2021","Haven Pinot Noir, Littorai","Littorai","n/a","n/a","n/a","California","USA","Red","98","TWA","The 2021 Pinot Noir The Haven Vineyard is notable for its elegant structure and powerful flavor. Pale ruby-purple, it has fantastically layered aromas: cranberry sauce and rhubarb are complemented by endlessly shifting tones of juniper, sage, lilac, tea leaves, cracked pepper and earth. The medium-bodied palate is just as alluring with its powerful, slowly unfurling layers of spicy fruit. It has a seamless structure and a tremendously long finish with a fan of botanical spice. Only 300 cases were made.","350","IB","1x150cl","RPK",
"LITTHIRS18B6","1","n/a","6","75","2018","Hirsch Vinyard Pinot Noir, Littorai","Littorai","n/a","n/a","Sonoma Coast","California","USA","Red","94+","TWA","The 2018 Pinot Noir Hirsch Vineyard is beautifully expressive, with a delicate frame and classic flavours. The nose offers fresh black fruits with touches of tea leaves, mushroom and tar, and the palate is earthy and perfumed, with a pleasant chalkiness and long, uplifted finish. This will improve with another couple years in bottle.","750","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"LITLAR17B12","n/a","2","1","75","2017","Littorai Les Larmes Pinot Noir","Littorai","n/a","n/a","Anderson Valley","California","USA","Red","90","Cellartracker","n/a","49","DP","1x75cl","OC",
"LITLAR17B1","n/a","1","1","75","2017","Littorai Les Larmes Pinot Noir","Littorai","n/a","n/a","Anderson Valley","California","USA","Red","90","Cellartracker","n/a","49","DP","1x75cl","RPK",
"LITONE17B12","n/a","4","1","75","2017","Littorai One Acre Vineyard Pinot Noir","Littorai","n/a","n/a","Anderson Valley","California","USA","Red","93+","AG","The 2017 Pinot Noir One Acre is a dense, powerful wine laced with generous spicy, earthy notes that give it a wild, slightly rough around the edges character. Dried cherry, mint, wild flowers, cinnamon, cedar and tobacco give this brawny Pinot a good deal of aromatic complexity. This is another 2017 that will benefit from time in bottle. ","85","DP","1x75cl","OC",
"LITPIV17B12","n/a","6","1","75","2017","Littorai The Pivot Vineyard Pinot Noir","Littorai","n/a","n/a","Sonoma Coast","California","USA","Red","94","AG","The 2017 Pinot Noir The Pivot Estate Vineyard is one of the more elegant, perfumed wines in this range. Crushed flowers, sweet red berry, mint and rose petals give the 2017 a good bit of aromatic freshness to match is lifted, mid weight personality. This is an especially layered, nuanced Pinot. ","85","DP","1x75cl","OC",
"LMICHCLOS20B6","2","n/a","6","75","2020","Chablis Grand Cru Les Clos, Louis Michel","Louis Michel","Grand Cru","Chablis","Chablis","Burgundy","France","White","94+","TWA","The 2020 Chablis Grand Cru Les Clos is full-bodied, textural and muscular, evocative of citrus zest, crisp green apple, white flowers, freshly baked bread, almond paste and ripe peaches. Layered and concentrated, it`s the richest, broadest wine in the range, yet it remains nicely defined.","400","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"MCOLINMONCEAU19B12","n/a","2","1","75","2019","St Aubin 1er Cru En Montceau, Marc Colin","Marc Colin","1er Cru","Saint Aubin","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","92-95","JM","Pale yellow colour. A vineyard, which has really benefitted from a bit of warming, Damien thinks. It certainly remains chiselled and fresh in bouquet. Nice reduction. Very complete, it has the minerality then finishes more on the flesh. A fascinating dichotomy, once you get your head round that its a great wine. 5*","43","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"MARCCDPB06B1","6","n/a","1","75","2006","Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc, Domaine de Marcoux","Marcoux","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","White","94","RP","The 2006 Chateauneuf du Pape blanc was aged almost totally in tank except for two small barrels of Roussanne. It is a superb, full-bodied, dry white that was not put through malolactic, and therefore reveals very good acidity. A gorgeous perfume of honeysuckle, rose petals, currants, and white peaches is followed by a wine with beautiful texture, freshness, and purity. Enjoy this superb dry white over the next 4-5 years, although I tend to underestimate the aging ability of these whites.","35","DP","1x75cl","RPK",
"MARVV16B1","n/a","4","1","75","2016","Chateauneuf du Pape Vieilles Vignes, Domaine de Marcoux","Marcoux","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","98","VM","Vivid ruby red. Powerful raspberry liqueur, cherry pie, incense, potpourri and spicecake aromas show outstanding clarity and pick up a vibrant mineral nuance with aeration. Sweet and seamless in the mouth, offering deeply concentrated but shockingly lithe raspberry, cherry liqueur, five spice powder and lavender pastille flavours given lift and spine by a jolt of juicy acidity. Blends richness and delicacy with a deft hand and finishes wonderfully long and precise, with pliant tannins adding shape and gentle grip. Is this the wine of the vintage? It`s definitely on the (very) short list.","85","IB","1x75cl","OWC",
"MARVV16B6","1","n/a","6","75","2016","Chateauneuf du Pape Vieilles Vignes, Domaine de Marcoux","Marcoux","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","98","VM","Vivid ruby red. Powerful raspberry liqueur, cherry pie, incense, potpourri and spicecake aromas show outstanding clarity and pick up a vibrant mineral nuance with aeration. Sweet and seamless in the mouth, offering deeply concentrated but shockingly lithe raspberry, cherry liqueur, five spice powder and lavender pastille flavours given lift and spine by a jolt of juicy acidity. Blends richness and delicacy with a deft hand and finishes wonderfully long and precise, with pliant tannins adding shape and gentle grip. Is this the wine of the vintage? It`s definitely on the (very) short list.","590","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"MARVV16B12","1","n/a","12","75","2016","Chateauneuf du Pape Vieilles Vignes, Domaine de Marcoux","Marcoux","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","98","VM","Vivid ruby red. Powerful raspberry liqueur, cherry pie, incense, potpourri and spicecake aromas show outstanding clarity and pick up a vibrant mineral nuance with aeration. Sweet and seamless in the mouth, offering deeply concentrated but shockingly lithe raspberry, cherry liqueur, five spice powder and lavender pastille flavours given lift and spine by a jolt of juicy acidity. Blends richness and delicacy with a deft hand and finishes wonderfully long and precise, with pliant tannins adding shape and gentle grip. Is this the wine of the vintage? It`s definitely on the (very) short list.","1190","IB","12x75cl","OWC",
"MARCNDP16B6","3","n/a","6","75","2016","Chateauneuf du Pape, Domaine de Marcoux","Marcoux","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","93","VM","Vivid ruby red. Powerful raspberry liqueur, cherry pie, incense, potpourri and spicecake aromas show outstanding clarity and pick up a vibrant mineral nuance with aeration. Sweet and seamless in the mouth, offering deeply concentrated but shockingly lithe raspberry, cherry liqueur, five spice powder and lavender pastille flavours given lift and spine by a jolt of juicy acidity. Blends richness and delicacy with a deft hand and finishes wonderfully long and precise, with pliant tannins adding shape and gentle grip. Is this the wine of the vintage? It`s definitely on the (very) short list.","200","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"MARCNDP16B6","n/a","5","1","75","2016","Chateauneuf du Pape, Domaine de Marcoux","Marcoux","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","93","VM","Vivid ruby red. Powerful raspberry liqueur, cherry pie, incense, potpourri and spicecake aromas show outstanding clarity and pick up a vibrant mineral nuance with aeration. Sweet and seamless in the mouth, offering deeply concentrated but shockingly lithe raspberry, cherry liqueur, five spice powder and lavender pastille flavours given lift and spine by a jolt of juicy acidity. Blends richness and delicacy with a deft hand and finishes wonderfully long and precise, with pliant tannins adding shape and gentle grip. Is this the wine of the vintage? It`s definitely on the (very) short list.","34","IB","1x75cl","RPK",
"MDALESME19B6","1","n/a","6","75","2019","Chateau Marquis d`Alesme","Marquis d`Alesme","n/a","Margaux","Left Bank","Bordeaux","France","Red","95","NM","The 2019 Marquis d`Alesme Becker was very impressive from barrel. Now in bottle, it has retained those engaging aromas of blackberry, raspberry, cedar and a pinch of spice, well defined and quintessentially Margaux. The palate is understated on the entry, smooth and sensual in texture, with gorgeous, very pure red fruit. I adore the harmony of this wine, and the way it sashays toward the finish. Deceptively approachable, this will mature beautifully in bottle.","165","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"MDALESME19B6","n/a","2","1","75","2019","Chateau Marquis d`Alesme","Marquis d`Alesme","n/a","Margaux","Left Bank","Bordeaux","France","Red","95","NM","The 2019 Marquis d`Alesme Becker was very impressive from barrel. Now in bottle, it has retained those engaging aromas of blackberry, raspberry, cedar and a pinch of spice, well defined and quintessentially Margaux. The palate is understated on the entry, smooth and sensual in texture, with gorgeous, very pure red fruit. I adore the harmony of this wine, and the way it sashays toward the finish. Deceptively approachable, this will mature beautifully in bottle.","29","IB","1x75cl","RPK",
"MAUPALLUD90B1","n/a","2","1","75","1990","Gevrey-Chambertin En Pallud, Domaine Bertrand Maume","Maume","AC","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","89","RP","All of his 1990 offerings are typical of Maume`s style of winemaking. They are darkly-colored, powerful, dense, and backward. Most of them will require 7-10 years of cellaring. Consider Maume`s 1982s, a vintage when most red burgundies are in complete decline. His wines are just beginning to reach full maturity. It is hard to pick a favorite from among the four premiers crus in Gevrey-Chambertin, as they are all extremely tannic, tough-textured, super-concentrated, and powerful. The Gevrey-Chambertin-En Palud appears to have the sweetest fruit, the Champeaux the most tannins, and the Lavaux St.-Jacques the most balance and length, as well as the potential to achieve an outstanding rating in 5-7 years. None of these wines should be drunk before the late nineties. All of them should last for 10-15 years into the next century.","150","DP","1x75cl","RPK",
"MAYACAMCAB15B12","n/a","2","1","75","2015","Mayacamas Cabernet Sauvignon, Mayacamas","Mayacamas","n/a","n/a","Napa","California","USA","Red","97+","AG","Another stellar wine from Mayacamas, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon continues to be quite reticent, which is probably a very good thing for its long term prospects. Even so, the 2015 is dense, powerful and super concentrated, with a level of finesse in its tannins that separates it from so many wines in this challenging vintage. Time in the glass brings out graphite, menthol, licorice, sage and spice notes that add a sense of gravitas. I would prefer to cellar the 2015 for at least a few years to allow some of the baby fat to melt away. I expect the 2015 will always remain an exotic, full throttle wine relative to the norm here. I can`t wait to see how it ages.","85","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"ODOULFREMIER17B6","n/a","4","1","75","2017","Chambolle-Musigny "Les Fremieres", Domaine Odoul-Coquard","Odoul Coquard","1er Cru","Chambolle-Musigny","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","93","Cellartracker","n/a","50","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"ODOULARGIL16B6","n/a","1","1","75","2016","Nuits St Georges Les Argillats, Odoul-Coquard","Odoul Coquard","AC","Nuits St Georges","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","n/a","n/a","n/a","40","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"ODOULARGIL16B6","1","n/a","6","75","2016","Nuits St Georges Les Argillats, Odoul-Coquard","Odoul Coquard","AC","Nuits St Georges","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","n/a","n/a","n/a","245","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"OLEFLPUC17B6","n/a","2","1","75","2017","Puligny Montrachet 1er Cru Les Pucelles, Olivier Leflaive","Olivier Leflaive","1er Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","96","JM","Clear full lemon colour. The bouquet suggests very considerable power to follow, not yet revealing all. Very understated but not lightweight. There follows quite an astonishing burst of fruit on the palate, so nuanced, here a little lemon verbena note, there a very light touch of wax, predominantly crunchy white fruit and a serene finish. Tasted: July 2021","217","IB","1x75cl","OWC",
"PIUMDT19B6","1","n/a","6","75","2019","Chablis 1er Cru Montee de Tonnerre, Patrick Piuze","Patrick Piuze","1er Cru","Chablis","Chablis","Burgundy","France","White","93","NM","The 2019 Chablis Montee de Tonnerre 1er Cru is a little richer on the nose than the Les Butteaux, offering touches of butterscotch mixed with dried flowers, all very open and expressive. The open knit palate is rounded and honeyed on the entry, and the minerally finish lingers in the mouth. Superb.","300","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"RAVENTSERRAL10B3","n/a","2","1","75","2010","Mas de Serral, Pepe Raventos","Pepe Raventos","n/a","n/a","n/a","Catalonia","Spain","Sparkling White","96","LG","I loved the complexity and nuance of the 2010 Mas del Serral that I tasted next to the 2011 and 2012. This had the advantage of time and developed great aromatic, spicy notes of curry and an herbal touch of celery, deep flavours with pungent notes that last for a very long time and a creamy texture from the abundant small bubbles. It has a nice compromise between youth and development and power and elegance. It`s tasty, finishing with an almost salty twist, and with time in the glass, it developed a peaty and smoky nose that made me think of some Islay malt whisky. 2,047 bottles and 494 magnums produced. All bottles carry the disgorgement date, but this wine always spends a minimum of 100 months in bottle. The bottle I tasted was disgorged in April 2022, so with a longer time sur lie.","115","IB","1x75cl","OWC",
"RAVENTSERRAL10M1","2","n/a","1","150","2010","Mas de Serral, Pepe Raventos","Pepe Raventos","n/a","n/a","n/a","Catalonia","Spain","Sparkling White","96","LG","I loved the complexity and nuance of the 2010 Mas del Serral that I tasted next to the 2011 and 2012. This had the advantage of time and developed great aromatic, spicy notes of curry and an herbal touch of celery, deep flavours with pungent notes that last for a very long time and a creamy texture from the abundant small bubbles. It has a nice compromise between youth and development and power and elegance. It`s tasty, finishing with an almost salty twist, and with time in the glass, it developed a peaty and smoky nose that made me think of some Islay malt whisky. 2,047 bottles and 494 magnums produced. All bottles carry the disgorgement date, but this wine always spends a minimum of 100 months in bottle. The bottle I tasted was disgorged in April 2022, so with a longer time sur lie.","210","IB","1x150cl","OWC",
"RAVENTSERRAL10B3","3","n/a","3","75","2010","Mas de Serral, Pepe Raventos","Pepe Raventos","n/a","n/a","n/a","Catalonia","Spain","Sparkling White","96","LG","I loved the complexity and nuance of the 2010 Mas del Serral that I tasted next to the 2011 and 2012. This had the advantage of time and developed great aromatic, spicy notes of curry and an herbal touch of celery, deep flavours with pungent notes that last for a very long time and a creamy texture from the abundant small bubbles. It has a nice compromise between youth and development and power and elegance. It`s tasty, finishing with an almost salty twist, and with time in the glass, it developed a peaty and smoky nose that made me think of some Islay malt whisky. 2,047 bottles and 494 magnums produced. All bottles carry the disgorgement date, but this wine always spends a minimum of 100 months in bottle. The bottle I tasted was disgorged in April 2022, so with a longer time sur lie.","345","IB","3x75cl","OWC",
"RAVENTSERRAL11B3","1","n/a","3","75","2011","Mas de Serral, Pepe Raventos","Pepe Raventos","n/a","n/a","n/a","Catalonia","Spain","Sparkling White","95","LG","2011 was a year of good ripeness and dry weather, similar to 2015 or 2019, a traditional Mediterranean year, when the 2011 Mas del Serral also showed a more traditional profile, with more toasty notes, some hints of cereals, honey and a touch of caramel, a little more oxidative than the 2012. It has 12.5% alcohol and a pH of 3.05, produced by pressing the full grapes and fermenting the juice in stainless steel and concrete eggs, kept with the lees for at least nine months and put to referment in bottle with Champagne neutral yeasts, and then matured with lees in bottle for 100+ months. It`s a long-aging sparkling wine with high minerality and an austere mouthfeel, developing slowly in the glass and unfurling Mediterranean notes of fennel and esparto grass. It finishes very dry. This seems to be aging a little faster than the 2012.","325","IB","3x75cl","OWC",
"PERMCCB15B6","1","n/a","6","75","2015","Chambertin Clos de Beze, Perrot-Minot","Perrot-Minot","Grand Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuis","Burgundy","France","Red","95-97","TWA","The 2015 Chambertin Clos de Bèze Grand Cru has a comely, sumptuous and yet beautifully defined bouquet of wild strawberry, red cherries, minerals and crushed rose petals. It is total seduction. The palate is medium-bodied with very fine tannin, crisp acidity, not a hair out of place. The silkiness of the texture is just wonderful and the length is as good as you will find in the Côtes de Nuits this vintage. This is a stunning 2015 from Perrot-Minot, perhaps the best in recent years.","5950","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"PBBB14B12","2","n/a","12","75","2014","Bourgogne Blanc, Pierre Boisson","Pierre Boisson","AC","Bourgogne","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","n/a","n/a","n/a","345","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"PMONGCBDBB08B6","1","n/a","6","75","2008","Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru, Brut Millesime, Pierre Moncuit","Pierre Moncuit","Grand Cru","n/a","n/a","Champagne","France","Sparkling White","94","AG","Moncuit`s 2008 Millesime Blanc de Blancs is a fairly accessible wine for the year. Lemon peel, crushed rocks, white flowers and pastry are all nicely delineated in the glass. The 2008 captures an attractive interplay of depth and crystalline translucence. Hints of sage, mint and chamomile are some of the notes that meld into the expressive finish. developed in bottle. Baked apple tart, spice, apricot, orange peel, spice, hazelnut and coffee are some of the many aromas and flavours that shape this wonderfully complex Champagne from Moncuit. The 2008 is in an ideal place for drinking now, as it offers a great deal of complexity. Dosage is 7 grams per liter. Disgorged November 2020.","230","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"PMONGCBDBB08B6","n/a","5","1","75","2008","Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru, Brut Millesime, Pierre Moncuit","Pierre Moncuit","Grand Cru","n/a","n/a","Champagne","France","Sparkling White","94","AG","Moncuit`s 2008 Millesime Blanc de Blancs is a fairly accessible wine for the year. Lemon peel, crushed rocks, white flowers and pastry are all nicely delineated in the glass. The 2008 captures an attractive interplay of depth and crystalline translucence. Hints of sage, mint and chamomile are some of the notes that meld into the expressive finish. developed in bottle. Baked apple tart, spice, apricot, orange peel, spice, hazelnut and coffee are some of the many aromas and flavours that shape this wonderfully complex Champagne from Moncuit. The 2008 is in an ideal place for drinking now, as it offers a great deal of complexity. Dosage is 7 grams per liter. Disgorged November 2020.","39","IB","1x75cl","RPK",
"PMONGCBDBXB08B6","3","n/a","6","75","2008","Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru, Extra Brut Millesime, Pierre Moncuit","Pierre Moncuit","Grand Cru","n/a","n/a","Champagne","France","Sparkling White","94","AG","Moncuit`s Extra Brut Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Millesime shows a different facet of its personality in this version, with lower dosage vis a vis the Brut version. Here the flavours are brighter and more sculpted throughout. Hints of toastiness, almond and tangerine oil add an exotic flair that makes the Extra Brut absolutely beguiling. Lower dosage seems to exalt the minerality and bright acids of the year, while pushing the fruit a bit into the background. Both Brut and Extra Brut bottlings are terrific; choosing among them comes down to personal preference. Dosage is grams per liter. Disgorged November 2020.","230","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"PYCMPERNANDBF18M3","1","n/a","3","150","2018","Pernand Vergelesses Les Belles Filles, Pierre-Yves Colin-Morey","Pierre-Yves Colin-Morey","AC","Pernand Vergelesses","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","88-90","JM","Very pretty faint lime-green colour. Again the sulphur is apparent on the nose but theres plenty of vibrant fresh fruit too, and it is really lovely on the palate, brilliantly extending to the back. Very pure, dancing fruit from this cooler site. This is a classically focussed Pernand-Vergelesses.","355","IB","3x150cl","OC",
"PYCMPERNANDCOMB18M3","1","n/a","3","150","2018","Pernand Vergelesses Les Combottes, Pierre-Yves Colin-Morey","Pierre-Yves Colin-Morey","AC","Pernand Vergelesses","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","86-88","JM","Palish colour with a green tint. The sample was taken belatedly and was quite cold, so there was not much in the way of bouquet. Yet there is really impressive weight here, green apple and fuller pear notes, more volume than Belles Filles, yet less chiselled purity. Tasted: October 2019","350","IB","3x150cl","OC",
"PYCMFOLAT18B3","1","n/a","3","75","2018","Puligny Montrachet 1er Cru Folatieres, Pierre-Yves Colin-Morey","Pierre-Yves Colin-Morey","1er Cru","Saint Aubin","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","N/A","n/a","n/a","850","IB","3x75cl","OC",
"PYCMREM18B6","2","n/a","6","75","2018","St. Aubin, en Remilly, 1er Cru, Pierre-Yves Colin-Morey","Pierre-Yves Colin-Morey","1er Cru","Saint Aubin","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","91","AM","Here the SO2 is quite strong, indeed so much so that it overshadows the underlying fruit. Otherwise there is excellent punch to the beautifully precise and mineral-driven flavors that deliver fine length and complexity on the balanced lemon-tinged finale. This is a bit more tightly wound and will need at least some patience first.","945","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"PYCMREM20B6","2","n/a","6","75","2020","St. Aubin, en Remilly, 1er Cru, Pierre-Yves Colin-Morey","Pierre-Yves Colin-Morey","1er Cru","Saint Aubin","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","91","AM","Smoky aromas are comprised by the hallmark citrus nuances of a classic En Remilly while being complemented by cool notes of apple, pear and white flowers. There is again excellent underlying tension to the beautifully textured middle weight flavors that are at once precise and moderately austere on the mineral-driven finish. This isn`t quite as concentrated as the Chatenière but it`s finer.","895","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"PINSONFORET19B12","n/a","2","1","75","2019","Chablis 1er Cru Forets, Pinson","Pinson","1er Cru","Chablis","Chablis","Burgundy","France","White","93","AM","This was sufficiently reduced that I would recommend giving it a thorough aeration if you`re going to try a bottle young. There is very good volume to the markedly powerful and concentrated flavours that terminate in a serious, citrusy and impressively long finish. This is not a La Forêt of particular refinement, but it does offer plenty of frank character as well as exceptionally good depth. One to consider.","32","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"PINSFOUR17B12","n/a","1","1","75","2017","Chablis 1er Cru Fourchaume, Pinson","Pinson","1er Cru","Chablis","Chablis","Burgundy","France","White","93","AG","Soft and silky, Pinson`s 2017 Chablis Montmain 1er Cru is a very pretty and expressive wine that will drink nicely with minimal cellaring. Chamomile, crushed flowers, hazelnut, marzipan, spice and lemon confit inform a Chablis that is a model of sensuality and grace.","23","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"PHVINT14B6","7","n/a","6","75","2014","Piper Heidsieck Brut","Piper Heidsieck","n/a","n/a","n/a","Champagne","France","Sparkling White","98+","DEC","98+ POINTS PLATINUM MEDAL Superb! This has a nose of oatmeal, plum, quince, and a hint of lanolin; impressive palate weight, good autolytic definition; richly resonant and long. A delight.","195","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"PHRAREROSE12B3","5","n/a","3","75","2012","Rare Rose, Piper Heidsieck","Piper Heidsieck","n/a","n/a","n/a","Champagne","France","Sparkling Rose","95","IWC","Deep salmon colour. Youthful, linear floral flavours with strawberry. A fine bead, complex, delicate and poised.","560","IB","3x75cl","OC",
"PHRARE06M1","2","n/a","1","150","2006","Rare, Piper Heidsieck (in Magnum Gift Box)","Piper Heidsieck","n/a","n/a","n/a","Champagne","France","Sparkling White","94","TWA","The 2006 Brut Cuvee Rare is a rich, gourmand rendition of this prestige bottling, unfurling in the glass with a complex bouquet that mingles aromas of yellow orchard fruit, pears and fresh pineapple with nuances of buttered toast, iodine and smoke. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied, broad and textural, while remaining fresh and surprisingly tight-knit at the core, concluding with a long and saline finish. There`s sufficient structural tension here to promise more than a decade`s graceful evolution, and although this is nicely balanced, it`s a generous, sun kissed rendition of the Cuvee Rare that reflects the warm vintage. The blend is 70% Chardonnay and 30% Pinot Noir.","275","IB","1x150cl","OC",
"PONSOTCDRVV19B1","n/a","2","1","75","2019","Clos de la Roche, VV, Domaine Ponsot","Ponsot","Grand Cru","Morey St Denis","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","96","TWA","Ponsot`s 2019 Clos de la Roche Grand Cru Cuvee Vieilles Vignes was picked in multiple passages, beginning with earlier-ripening massale selections on September 17, followed by the rest of the domaine`s holdings on September 2223. Wafting from the glass with aromas of sweet raspberries and plums mingled with licorice, peony and cinnamon, it`s full-bodied, fleshy and seamless, with a rich core of fruit, lively acids and a long, saline finish. This is aging gracefully and underlines the additional precision Alex Abel has brought to Ponsot`s winemaking in recent years.","395","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"PRODFICR15B6","2","n/a","6","75","2015","Barbaresco Montefico Riserva, Produttori del Barbaresco","Produttori del Barbaresco","DOCG","Barbaresco","Barbaresco","Piedmont","Italy","Red","93+","AG","The 2015 Barbaresco Riserva Montefico is powerful, intense and very much wound up. Then again, we are talking about Montefico. It`s hard not to think the 2015 will be a more complete and engaging wine in time. Today, though, energy and tension dominate. Time in the glass brings out hints of sweet red cherry, mint, tobacco, wild herbs and crushed flowers, all with supporting beams of Montefico tannin. The 2015 is going to need at least a few years to be at its best. Even when that happens, though, the Montefico will be a wine of vintage more than site. 2022 2040","215","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"PRODPORR14B6","1","n/a","6","75","2014","Barbaresco Pora Riserva, Produttori del Barbaresco","Produttori del Barbaresco","DOCG","Barbaresco","Barbaresco","Piedmont","Italy","Red","94","AG","When I tasted this wine, it had just completed its three year aging time in oak and was about to be bottled. This preview tasting of the 2014 Barbaresco Riserva Pora reveals dark fruit intensity with bright aromas of blackberry and wild cherry. There is a strong underlying signature of primary fruit in this mild vintage with a cool summer and warm autumn. The wine also shows distinct floral tones of lavender and violet. The 2013 vintage has a tighter tannic structured compared to this wine, but the 2014 offers a vibrant, sweet and lighthearted quality of fruit instead.","215","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"PRODBARB17B6","n/a","3","1","75","2017","Barbaresco, Produttori del Barbaresco","Produttori del Barbaresco","DOCG","Barbaresco","Barbaresco","Piedmont","Italy","Red","94","AG","The 2017 Barbaresco shows just how appealing this vintage can be. In 2017, the warm, dry growing season gave the Barbaresco an extra kick of richness that fills out its frame and adds so much immediacy. Sweet red berry fruit, cinnamon, rose petal and mint are open in the glass, but it is the wines seductive radiance that wins the day. Pora, Ovello, Montestefano, Muncagota and Rio Sordo are the main vineyards used for the straight Barbaresco. The 2017 is such an inviting and expressive wine. Dont miss it! 2020 2032","20","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"QUIEXULT21B6","1","n/a","6","75","2021","Fiano di Avellino `Exultet`, Quintodecimo","Quintodecimo","n/a","n/a","Fiano di Avellino","Campania","Italy","White","n/a","n/a","n/a","190","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"RPALASSORT20B6","4","n/a","6","75","2020","As Sortes Val do Bibei, Rafael Palacios","Rafael Palacios","n/a","n/a","Valdeorras","Galicia","Spain","White","95+","TWA","As with the other wines, I also tasted the 2020 As Sortes next to the 2019. The vineyards and process were the same, native fermentation in 500-liter French oak barrels, where the wine matured with fine lees for eight months. But 2020 is riper than 2019 (14.4% vs 14%), and it also has a lower pH and higher acidity. Like the Louro, this feels closed, primary and a little reductive at first. It took time in the glass to open up. The vineyards here are able to cushion the effect of the vintage, and the viticulture they have been doing (organic and biodynamic) makes for concentrated wines that are also more closed early on and then need more time in bottle. The palate references a very mineral wine with a powerful mineral strike. It improved tremendously in the glass over the course of a couple of hours. 18,500 bottles produced. It was bottled in June 2021.","223","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"RATHBDB18B6","3","n/a","6","75","2018","Rathfinny Blanc de Blancs","Rathfinny","n/a","n/a","n/a","Sussex","England","Sparkling White","95+","RV","Normally a Blanc de Blancs lover, it was the Blanc de Noirs that stole my heart on this occasion - but I dont think there was actually a qualitative distinction, its just that I drink so little genuinely gorgeous Blanc de Noirs that the above wine came as even more of an exciting fine. This (the Blanc de Blancs) is obviously just a bit prettier and perhaps more lacy and subtle ? The beautiful, fine mousse abounds with lemon zest, grapefruit and other citrus notes. The house signature of maritime, ozoney salinity comes a bit later and the wine is more citrusey and less meaty / nutty. But you can taste that house style, particularly on the finish. I honestly dont know why people arent buying up oodles of 2018 English sparkling wines. Its like 2008 for Champagne. Just buy them whilst they are still on the market and then dont bother until 2022. I mean until I try to sell some 2019 that is ?? and find I have shot myself in the foot, obviously. So, one last time: 2018 IS the greatest vintage ever released for English Sparkling wines. ","155","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"RATHBND18B6","2","n/a","6","75","2018","Rathfinny Blanc de Noirs","Rathfinny","n/a","n/a","n/a","Sussex","England","Sparkling White","96+","RV","I found it interesting that the reviews for this wine were from over a year ago, either from before it was released (May 2022) or very shortly afterward. Most of the (good !) reviews had fairly marginal correlation with what I tasted as they tended to focus on primary fruit - which I suspect was all that was evident in January 2022 but the note on Jancis site from 2022 does at least start to describe the wine I tasted, so is included. The wine I tasted: lovely, clean nose poised perfectly between ripeness and freshness. Profoundly savoury in the most positive way I can imagine there is an abundance of fresh fruit, sure, but there is an autolytic, oyster shell and ozone element that I adore. Some best of Chablis type aromatics here, despite it being a Blanc de Noirs. Then behind that you get the weight of sweetly nutty fruit. No oxidation, no bitterness, no wood, just a wealth of saline, meaty Pinot-ey fruit. Pretty much a perfect Blanc de Noirs (for me) and going to get better and better and better. Rathfinny recommend this with beef tartare, which I think would be an absolute dream. This absolutely obliterates lots of significantly more expensive Champagne for complexity.","165","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"RATHBND18B6","n/a","3","1","75","2018","Rathfinny Blanc de Noirs","Rathfinny","n/a","n/a","n/a","Sussex","England","Sparkling White","96+","RV","I found it interesting that the reviews for this wine were from over a year ago, either from before it was released (May 2022) or very shortly afterward. Most of the (good !) reviews had fairly marginal correlation with what I tasted as they tended to focus on primary fruit - which I suspect was all that was evident in January 2022 but the note on Jancis site from 2022 does at least start to describe the wine I tasted, so is included. The wine I tasted: lovely, clean nose poised perfectly between ripeness and freshness. Profoundly savoury in the most positive way I can imagine there is an abundance of fresh fruit, sure, but there is an autolytic, oyster shell and ozone element that I adore. Some best of Chablis type aromatics here, despite it being a Blanc de Noirs. Then behind that you get the weight of sweetly nutty fruit. No oxidation, no bitterness, no wood, just a wealth of saline, meaty Pinot-ey fruit. Pretty much a perfect Blanc de Noirs (for me) and going to get better and better and better. Rathfinny recommend this with beef tartare, which I think would be an absolute dream. This absolutely obliterates lots of significantly more expensive Champagne for complexity.","28","IB","1x75cl","RPK",
"FOREYGAUD15B6","1","n/a","12","75","2015","Vosne-Romanee 1er Cru Gaudichots, Regis Forey","Regis Forey","1er Cru","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","94","AM","The expressive and ripe nose of red and black pinot fruit and plum is nuanced with lovely notes of violet, anise and sandalwood. There is excellent punch to the mineral driven and suave naturally sweet flavours that possess good volume while being underpinned by chewy but not rustic tannins on the serious, sappy and dusty finish that evidences just a hint of warmth. Ample patience will be required as this is also very clearly built to age. In a word, terrific.","4720","DP","12x75cl","OC",
"BOUVGEVJUST19M3","4","n/a","3","150","2019","Gevrey-Chambertin La Justice, Rene Bouver","Rene Bouvier","AC","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","91","JM","Attractive royal purple colour. The bouquet has some raspberry touches which its predecessors in the tasting have not. Sensual in style, as it is showing today. A wine which is always open, thinks Bernard. I like the way the fruit deepens at the back, adding some ripe cherry to the raspberry. Correct but not invasive acidity with delicious length. Tasted: January 2021","195","IB","3x150cl","RPK",
"GEVRACVV18B6","n/a","4","1","75","2018","Gevrey-Chambertin Racine du Temps Tres Vielles Vignes, Rene Bouvier","Rene Bouvier","AC","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","93","JM","Mostly from En Creot, 90 year old vines with some dating back to 1922. Dense, dark colour with a deep red fruit nose, very engaging, white pepper notes too. Dense and complex behind, very well balanced intensity, this is grand vin. Very persistent too of course. Tasted: August 2020","47","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"BOUCRACVV19M3","1","n/a","3","150","2019","Gevrey-Chambertin Racines du Temps Tres Vielles Vignes, Rene Bouvier","Rene Bouvier","AC","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","93","JM","From 80+ year old vines in several plots, notably Le Creot. 30% new wood. Medium deep purple. The nose is really quite special. This is concentrated from chez concentrated says Bernard. Goes deep and goes long but stays fresh, a few spicy notes help the freshness. Note the long and sensual finish of this superb Gevrey-Chambertin.","350","IB","3x150cl","RPK",
"BOUVMARSCDR19B6","n/a","5","1","75","2019","Marsannay Clos du Roy Vielles Vignes, Rene Bouvier","Rene Bouvier","AC","Marsannay","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","91","JM","70 plus year old vines. Good depth of crimson purple in colour, but the bouquet is hidden below a level of reduction which needs to blow off. The palate is clean and clear-cut, with delicious sweet red fruit with excellent balance, and very fine length. Lovely finish here. Tasted: January 2021","25","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"BOUVMARSCDR19B6","3","n/a","6","75","2019","Marsannay Clos du Roy Vielles Vignes, Rene Bouvier","Rene Bouvier","AC","Marsannay","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","91","JM","70 plus year old vines. Good depth of crimson purple in colour, but the bouquet is hidden below a level of reduction which needs to blow off. The palate is clean and clear-cut, with delicious sweet red fruit with excellent balance, and very fine length. Lovely finish here. Tasted: January 2021","155","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"RHYSBEARP19B6","4","n/a","6","75","2019","Bearwallow Pinot Noir, Rhys Vineyards","Rhys Vineyards","n/a","Santa Cruz Mountains","San Fransisco Bay","California","USA","Red","96+","AG","The 2019 Pinot Noir Bearwallow Vineyard is a powerful, searing wine. I am not sure I have tasted a Bearwallow with this much sheer intensity. Black cherry, mocha, gravel, cloves and licorice imbue this somber, backward Pinot with quite a bit of complexity. Readers should be in no rush here. The 2019 is an exceptional Bearwallow.","395","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"RHYSBEARP18B6","1","n/a","6","75","2018","Bearwallow Vineyard Pinot Noir, Rhys Vineyards","Rhys Vineyards","n/a","Santa Cruz Mountains","San Fransisco Bay","California","USA","Red","94","AG","The 2018 Pinot Noir Bearwallow Vineyard marries the forward fruit that is so typical of this site with the brisk acids and freshness that are such signatures of this great Pinot vintage. Sweet floral and spice notes lead into a core of red berry fruit as this polished, classically built Pinot reveals its considerable charms. The 2018 has plenty to offer. I wouldnt be in a rush to open it, but for readers who cant resist, it is the most approachable of these wines.","390","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"RHYSHORSEHILL17M1","n/a","1","1","150","2017","Horseshoe Hillside Vineyard Pinot Noir, Rhys Vineyards","Rhys Vineyards","n/a","n/a","n/a","California","USA","Red","94","AM","Once again there is a distinct restraint to the more deeply pitched and slightly riper nose of poached plum, dark raspberry, spice and violet scents. There is fine volume and power to the concentrated, serious and tautly muscular flavors that coat the palate with dry extract on the robust and grippy finale that also flashes a touch of bitter pit fruit character. This is a big but balanced wine but unlike several of the foregoing wines, this broad-shouldered effort will need a long snooze in a cool cellar.","450","IB","1x150cl","RPK",
"RHYSHORSS13B12","n/a","2","1","75","2013","Horseshoe Syrah, Rhys Vineyards","Rhys Vineyards","n/a","Santa Cruz Mountains","San Fransisco Bay","California","USA","Red","95","AG","One of the highlights in this range, the 2013 Syrah Horseshoe Vineyard is superb. A host of cool climate Syrah aromatics make a strong first impression. Black pepper, game, smoke, tobacco, licorice, black olives, lavender and spices are all beautifully delineated in the glass. The expression of fruit is pure California in its radiance and overall depth. Complete and impeccably balanced, the 2013 Horseshoe Syrah has it all.","60","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"RHYSHORSCH19B50","1","n/a","12","50","2019","Horseshoe Vineyard Chardonnay, Rhys Vineyards","Rhys Vineyards","n/a","Santa Cruz Mountains","San Fransisco Bay","California","USA","White","96","AG","The 2019 Chardonnay Horseshoe Vineyard is laced with the essence of crushed rocks, white pepper, orchard fruit, white flowers, chalk and mint. It is a bit less forthcoming than the Alpine Chardonnay. Saline notes build into the palate staining finish. This classically austere young Chardonnay just needs time in bottle. Tasted next to the Alpine, the Horseshoe has more mid palate weight and feeling of phenolic intensity. The differences between the two are remarkable considering the sites are just 400 yards apart. The Horseshoe is planted on Monterey shale, while the soils at Alpine are Purisima, a formation that is about 8 million years younger. Such is the complexity of the Santa Cruz Mountains","650","IB","12x50cl","OC",
"RHYSHORSCH19B50","n/a","6","1","50","2019","Horseshoe Vineyard Chardonnay, Rhys Vineyards","Rhys Vineyards","n/a","Santa Cruz Mountains","San Fransisco Bay","California","USA","White","96","AG","The 2019 Chardonnay Horseshoe Vineyard is laced with the essence of crushed rocks, white pepper, orchard fruit, white flowers, chalk and mint. It is a bit less forthcoming than the Alpine Chardonnay. Saline notes build into the palate staining finish. This classically austere young Chardonnay just needs time in bottle. Tasted next to the Alpine, the Horseshoe has more mid palate weight and feeling of phenolic intensity. The differences between the two are remarkable considering the sites are just 400 yards apart. The Horseshoe is planted on Monterey shale, while the soils at Alpine are Purisima, a formation that is about 8 million years younger. Such is the complexity of the Santa Cruz Mountains","55","IB","1x50cl","RPK",
"RHYSHORSECH19B6","3","n/a","6","75","2019","Horseshoe Vineyard Chardonnay, Rhys Vineyards","Rhys Vineyards","n/a","Santa Cruz Mountains","San Fransisco Bay","California","USA","White","96","AG","The 2019 Chardonnay Horseshoe Vineyard is laced with the essence of crushed rocks, white pepper, orchard fruit, white flowers, chalk and mint. It is a bit less forthcoming than the Alpine Chardonnay. Saline notes build into the palate staining finish. This classically austere young Chardonnay just needs time in bottle. Tasted next to the Alpine, the Horseshoe has more mid palate weight and feeling of phenolic intensity. The differences between the two are remarkable considering the sites are just 400 yards apart. The Horseshoe is planted on Monterey shale, while the soils at Alpine are Purisima, a formation that is about 8 million years younger. Such is the complexity of the Santa Cruz Mountains","485","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"RHYSHORSECH19B6","1","n/a","6","75","2019","Horseshoe Vineyard Chardonnay, Rhys Vineyards","Rhys Vineyards","n/a","Santa Cruz Mountains","San Fransisco Bay","California","USA","White","96","AG","The 2019 Chardonnay Horseshoe Vineyard is laced with the essence of crushed rocks, white pepper, orchard fruit, white flowers, chalk and mint. It is a bit less forthcoming than the Alpine Chardonnay. Saline notes build into the palate staining finish. This classically austere young Chardonnay just needs time in bottle. Tasted next to the Alpine, the Horseshoe has more mid palate weight and feeling of phenolic intensity. The differences between the two are remarkable considering the sites are just 400 yards apart. The Horseshoe is planted on Monterey shale, while the soils at Alpine are Purisima, a formation that is about 8 million years younger. Such is the complexity of the Santa Cruz Mountains","485","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"RHYSHORSP18B6","2","n/a","6","75","2018","Horseshoe Vineyard Pinot Noir, Rhys Vineyards","Rhys Vineyards","n/a","Santa Cruz Mountains","San Fransisco Bay","California","USA","Red","97","AG","The 2018 Pinot Noir Horseshoe Vineyard is dense and brooding. Black cherry, licorice, spice, leather, herbs and mineral accents shape this ample, beautifully resonant Pinot Noir. Diatomaceous Monterey soils estimated to be 11 15 million years old yield a Pinot of notable breadth, texture and complexity.","600","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"RHYSPAJAROCH19B6","4","n/a","6","75","2019","Mt Pajaro Chardonnay, Rhys Vineyards","Rhys Vineyards","n/a","Santa Cruz Mountains","San Fransisco Bay","California","USA","White","95","AG","The 2019 Chardonnay Mt. Pajaro Vineyard is magical. Slate, crushed rocks, white pepper and a very light touch of reduction give the 2019 its utterly captivating bouquet. Bright and vibrant, but with gorgeous mid palate depth, the Mt. Pajaro Chardonnay is simply fabulous. This is Rhyss first high density Chardonnay planting, and probably wont be the last.","420","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"RHYSPAJAROCH19B6","n/a","4","6","75","2019","Mt Pajaro Chardonnay, Rhys Vineyards","Rhys Vineyards","n/a","Santa Cruz Mountains","San Fransisco Bay","California","USA","White","95","AG","The 2019 Chardonnay Mt. Pajaro Vineyard is magical. Slate, crushed rocks, white pepper and a very light touch of reduction give the 2019 its utterly captivating bouquet. Bright and vibrant, but with gorgeous mid palate depth, the Mt. Pajaro Chardonnay is simply fabulous. This is Rhyss first high density Chardonnay planting, and probably wont be the last.","65","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"RHYSPAJAROP19B6","2","n/a","6","75","2019","Mt Pajaro Pinot Noir, Rhys Vineyards","Rhys Vineyards","n/a","Santa Cruz Mountains","San Fransisco Bay","California","USA","Red","96","AG","The 2019 Pinot Noir Mt. Pajaro Vineyard emerges from a site in the southern part of the Santa Cruz Mountains and therefore has a completely different personality than the rest of the other SCM wines in the range. Here the flavours are darker while the tannins are more incisive. Black cherry, plum, licorice, cloves and gravel infuse this brooding, muscular Pinot with tons of complexity.","385","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"RHYSPORCP19B6","4","n/a","6","75","2019","Porcupine Hill Pinot Noir, Rhys Vineyards","Rhys Vineyards","n/a","Santa Cruz Mountains","San Fransisco Bay","California","USA","Red","97","AG","The 2019 Pinot Noir Porcupine Hill is a beautifully translucent, nuanced Pinot that shows the heights of finesse that are possible in Anderson Valley. A wine of unreal subtlety and nuance, the Porcupine Hill hits so many high notes. Crushed red berry, mint, spice, tobacco, cedar, rose petal and espresso build over time. As always, the Porcupine Hill Pinot is sourced from high-density blocks on the property and is done with minimal whole clusters. ","545","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"RHYSHILLHORS19B6","1","n/a","6","75","2019","Rhys Horseshoe Vineyard, Hillside, Pinot Noir","Rhys Vineyards","n/a","Santa Cruz Mountains","San Fransisco Bay","California","USA","Red","98","AG","The 2019 Pinot Noir Horseshoe Hillside takes all of the structure of this site and fills out the layers with striking fruit. An absolute stunner, the Hillside has so much of everything. Dark red/purplish fruit, rose petal, spice, blood orange and mint are some of the many notes that build in the glass. High-density blocks on the upper rim of Horseshoe vineyard form the core of the Hillside bottling.","1200","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"RHYSCSPINOT20B6","4","n/a","6","75","2020","Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir, Rhys Vineyards","Rhys Vineyards","n/a","n/a","Santa Cruz","California","USA","Red","95","RV","Lovely, fullish ruby colour as deep as you want Pinot to be before you start wondering if it might taste over extracted; and it certainly is anything but that. ","200","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"RHYSSKYLINEP13B6","1","n/a","6","75","2013","Skyline Pinot Noir, Rhys Vineyards","Rhys Vineyards","n/a","n/a","Santa Cruz","California","USA","Red","95","TWA","One of the most exotic Pinots in the lineup, the 2013 Pinot Noir Skyline Vineyard has a killer nose of rose garden, wild flowers, strawberries, blueberries and crushed rocks. Medium-bodied, silky, elegant, and beautifully light on its feet and nuanced, it has the vibrant streak of acidity and tension that will keep it drinking nicely for 10-15 years.","1200","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"RHYSSKYLINEP13B6","n/a","3","1","75","2013","Skyline Pinot Noir, Rhys Vineyards","Rhys Vineyards","n/a","n/a","Santa Cruz","California","USA","Red","95","TWA","One of the most exotic Pinots in the lineup, the 2013 Pinot Noir Skyline Vineyard has a killer nose of rose garden, wild flowers, strawberries, blueberries and crushed rocks. Medium-bodied, silky, elegant, and beautifully light on its feet and nuanced, it has the vibrant streak of acidity and tension that will keep it drinking nicely for 10-15 years.","200","IB","1x75cl","RPK",
"RHYSSKYLINEP14B6","3","n/a","6","75","2014","Skyline Pinot Noir, Rhys Vineyards","Rhys Vineyards","n/a","n/a","Santa Cruz","California","USA","Red","94+","VM","A huge, tannic wine, the 2014 Pinot Noir Skyline Vineyard is at least several years from delivering true pleasure. Sweet floral notes add aromatic presence, but the 2014 remains a tightly wound ball of energy. White pepper, cherry jam and chalk meld into the deep, searing finish marked by Nebbiolo-like tannin.","1000","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"RHYSSKYLINEP19B6","1","n/a","6","75","2019","Skyline Pinot Noir, Rhys Vineyards","Rhys Vineyards","n/a","n/a","Santa Cruz","California","USA","Red","n/a","n/a","n/a","900","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"RHYSSWANP19B6","2","n/a","6","75","2019","Swan Terrace Pinot, Rhys Vineyards","Rhys Vineyards","n/a","Santa Cruz Mountains","San Fransisco Bay","California","USA","Red","95","AG","The 2019 Pinot Noir Swan Terrace emerges from 1.5 acre parcel in Alpine planted with the Swan clone of Pinot Noir. It is, as always, distinguished by bright, red toned fruit. In 2019, the Swan Terrace has a bit more tannic grip than is often the case, mostly a reflection of a cooler year. That wont be an issue in time, but it does rob the wine of some of the charm it often has in its youth. The 100% whole clusters are not especially evident, as all the elements are so harmonious in their balance. ","750","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"ROAGMONT12B6","n/a","2","1","75","2012","Barbaresco Montefico, Vecchie Viti, Roagna","Roagna","DOCG","Barbaresco","Barbaresco","Piedmont","Italy","Red","96","AG","A wine of classic elegance, poise and energy. Scents of orange peel, star anise, spice and rosewater give the Montefico a decidedly exotic feel. The firm Montefico tannins are present, but the 2012 is a Barbaresco that favors finesse over power. As always, the Montefico has a very distinctive tannic grip as one of its key signatures. Today, the Montefico is perfumed, ethereal and exquisitely beautiful. ","158","IB","1x75cl","OWC",
"ROAGMONT12B6","3","n/a","6","75","2012","Barbaresco Montefico, Vecchie Viti, Roagna","Roagna","DOCG","Barbaresco","Barbaresco","Piedmont","Italy","Red","96","AG","A wine of classic elegance, poise and energy. Scents of orange peel, star anise, spice and rosewater give the Montefico a decidedly exotic feel. The firm Montefico tannins are present, but the 2012 is a Barbaresco that favors finesse over power. As always, the Montefico has a very distinctive tannic grip as one of its key signatures. Today, the Montefico is perfumed, ethereal and exquisitely beautiful. ","950","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"RNFRANC19B6","1","n/a","6","75","2019","Saumur Champigny Franc de Pied, Roches Neuves","Roches Neuves","n/a","n/a","Saumur champigny","Loire","France","Red","94","VM","Glorious, sensual, seductive nose and palate, completely consistent with each other. The blood orange, dark cherry, plum and mulberry fruit fruit is silky, textural and utterly lovely. Overlaid with delicate hints of liquorice, undergrowth, mint. Finishes long, clean and pure with a repeat of the sweet blood-orange-mulberry note and just the barest hint of vanilla pod. This is gorgeous, silky, refined, elegant, sensual. Not the biggest or heftiest, but really ravishingly pretty. Can be drunk now with enormous pleasure, but knowing Rhys history for wines that age well, itll probably go ten years without problem. A beauty. ","175","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"RNFRANC19B6","1","n/a","6","75","2019","Saumur Champigny Franc de Pied, Roches Neuves","Roches Neuves","n/a","n/a","Saumur champigny","Loire","France","Red","94","VM","Hailing from a sandy site planted in 2004, the 2019 Saumur Champigny Franc de Pied is the last wine that its maker Thierry Germain serves up. It`s like a fondant potato melting in your mouth with its silken ease; it has breadth too, although with the seeming weight of air. This is a touch savory, and a hint of leather sits in the background, but it adds rather than detracts from the complexity. Scented, lengthy finish.","175","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"RNMEMOIRES19B6","1","2","6","75","2019","Saumur Champigny Les Memoires, Roches Neuves","Roches Neuves","n/a","n/a","Saumur champigny","Loire","France","Red","96","VM","From vines planted in 1904 that sit on both flint and limestone, which is a rare combination in Saumur Champigny, the 2019 Les Memoires is all purity of coulis like fruit. It offers incredible concentration yet floats in the mouth like a weightless cloud. If there were a Cabernet Franc equivalent of Chambolle-Musigny, this would be it. I love it. The finest of chalky tannins are just present on the finish, as if to remind you this is a red wine","220","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"ROCKRIFLE18B6","n/a","4","1","75","2018","Rifle Range Cabernet, Rockford","Rockford","n/a","n/a","Barossa Valley","South Australia","Australia","Red","94","CellarTracker","n/a","50","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"JVOILCCAI16B6","n/a","3","1","75","2016","Volnay 1er Cru Cailleret, Joseph Voillot","Joseph Voillot","1er Cru","Volnay","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","Red","93","AM","Here the nose is quite similar to that of the Fremiets save for the fact that it is notably spicier. There is a beguiling inner mouth perfume to the super sleek, delineated and mineral driven flavours that possess even better depth and persistence on the beautifully well balanced and harmonious finish. This is very classy and should drink well young and with extended aging.","60","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"SJOROSAUS19H12","n/a","5","1","37.5","2019","Riesling Auslese Rosalack, Schloss Johannisberg, Rheingau","Schloss Johannisberg","n/a","n/a","n/a","Rheingau","Germany","White","98","SP","A super elegant Auslese that balances exactly the creamy and racy aspects of nobly sweet riesling, in a way that anybody who doesn`t hate sweetness (e.g. rejection of sugar in espresso) will have no problem enjoying! What beautiful, peach compote character and what a graceful finish! Drink or hold.","28","IB","1x37.5cl","OC",
"SJOBLAUTBA19H3","2","n/a","3","37.5","2019","Riesling Blaulack Trockenbeerenauslese, Schloss Johannisberg","Schloss Johannisberg","n/a","n/a","n/a","Rheingau","Germany","White","100","SP","Breathtaking clarity and purity, but also stunning, caramelized rhubarb character that stands out from the crowd of BA/TBAs with honey and dried fruit character. Enormously concentrated and staggeringly long finish that has countless, subtle, spicy nunaces. Drink or hold.","800","IB","3x37.5cl","OC",
"SJOGRUNS19B6","3","n/a","6","75","2019","Riesling Grunlack Spatlese, Schloss Johannisberg, Rheingau","Schloss Johannisberg","n/a","n/a","n/a","Rheingau","Germany","White","100","SP","What do you say about a wine that almost literally knocks you off your chair? All the flowers and fruits of the tropics, but so delicate and refined that you can hardly get a grip on it. Such brilliance and such precise balance enables this medium sweet riesling to defy effortlessly the rules of the category and confidently swim directly against the current of wine fashion. Supernatural freshness at the finish. Taste this before you die! Drink or hold.","220","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"SJOGRUNS20B6","n/a","2","1","75","2020","Riesling Grunlack Spatlese, Schloss Johannisberg, Rheingau","Schloss Johannisberg","n/a","n/a","n/a","Rheingau","Germany","White","99","JS","Very cool and reserved at the front, but this is an enormously deep and complex wine that has staggering mineral intensity. The lime and oolong tea freshness effortlessly swallows up the unfermented grape sweetness, as if it didnt really exist. Some will criticize, saying that this is too radical, but thats what creates the great excitement! The herbal freshness at the finish is really astounding. Drinkable now, but best from 2023.","25","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"SJOGRUNS20B6","29","n/a","6","75","2020","Riesling Grunlack Spatlese, Schloss Johannisberg, Rheingau","Schloss Johannisberg","n/a","n/a","n/a","Rheingau","Germany","White","99","JS","Very cool and reserved at the front, but this is an enormously deep and complex wine that has staggering mineral intensity. The lime and oolong tea freshness effortlessly swallows up the unfermented grape sweetness, as if it didnt really exist. Some will criticize, saying that this is too radical, but thats what creates the great excitement! The herbal freshness at the finish is really astounding. Drinkable now, but best from 2023.","150","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"SJOSILBER19B6","n/a","5","1","75","2019","Riesling Silberlack Großes Gewachs Trocken, Schloss Johannisberg, Rheingau","Schloss Johannisberg","n/a","n/a","n/a","Rheingau","Germany","White","98","SP","Very complex, golden mirabelle and licorice nose with a lot of flinty complexity. Stunning concentration for the sleek body, but this is still so tightly wound. Ravishing finish, in spite of its noble austerity. Enormous aging potential. Drink or hold.","35","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"SJOBRONZT20B6","1","n/a","6","75","2020","Riesling Trocken Bronzelack, Rheingau, Schloss Johannisberg","Schloss Johannisberg","n/a","n/a","n/a","Rheingau","Germany","White","95","JS","The mandarin orange, nectarine, peach and papaya aromas, plus notes of citrus blossom and tropical flowers pour from the glass. Then, on the very focused palate the wine turns in a radically mineral direction that takes your breath away, Finally, all that fruit bursts back at the salty and vibrant finish. Drink or hold","150","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"SJOBRONZT20B6","n/a","4","1","75","2020","Riesling Trocken Bronzelack, Rheingau, Schloss Johannisberg","Schloss Johannisberg","n/a","n/a","n/a","Rheingau","Germany","White","95","JS","The mandarin orange, nectarine, peach and papaya aromas, plus notes of citrus blossom and tropical flowers pour from the glass. Then, on the very focused palate the wine turns in a radically mineral direction that takes your breath away, Finally, all that fruit bursts back at the salty and vibrant finish. Drink or hold","25","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"S&SLENSPINOT21B6","1","n/a","6","75","2021"," Lenswood Pinot Noir, Adelaide Hills, Shaw & Smith","Shaw & Smith","n/a","n/a","Adelaide Hills","South Australia","Australia","Red","97","TRR","Medium depth red with tints of purple and a bouquet of dark berry/cherry and forest-floor. The palate follows on from the nose and is medium-weight and quite focused, with good intensity of flavour and balanced tannins that provide a good firm backbone. A pinot of real structure which will age well (The Real Review)","245","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"SIMHACHA17B6","n/a","3","1","75","2017","Rao Chardonnay, Domaine Simha","Simha","n/a","n/a","n/a","Tasmania","Australia","White","99","SM","Grand Cru Burgundy in its structure, complexity and certainly, one of the most intense Australian Chardonnays I have tasted. The bouquet is heavenly scented with buttered citrus, sweet pastry, buttered popcorn, lemon oil, beeswax and wafts of sea spray. Just incredible. The palate is full bodied, powerful, texturally perfect with a depth beyond the fathoms Montrachet in all its magnificence. Clearly, a wine which offers a degree of indulgence, but the acidity provides the perfect frame. The finish is super long, luxurious with wonderful hints of minerals and a touch of saltiness. Totally exquisite. Served with Zalto Bordeaux glassware. Decant for 20 minutes, this is drinking divinely now and will continue to do so for a further 8 10 years.","40","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"SUGRUETROUBLE18B6","1","n/a","6","75","2018","The Trouble With Dreams, Sugrue South Downs","Sugrue South Downs","n/a","n/a","n/a","n/a","England","Sparkling White","n/a","IEW","Five years after this incredible vintage, the 2018 Trouble is a classic: it displays all the qualities of the excellent growing season effortless ripeness, balance and poise and the typical characteristics of this now firmly established wine style: precision, purity, drive and freshness, and a focussed textural balance achieved by fermentation in large, old Burgundian barrels (in this case 500 L barrels).
The 2018 vintage is made from 60% Chardonnay and 40% Pinot Noir from predominantly Jenkyn Place Vineyard, with some from Mount Harry and Storrington Priory. Floral and expressive, the wine was disgorged in early January 2023, so it has now benefitted from several months on cork and will continue to age perfectly. The dosage is just 6g/L, with only 5,200 bottles produced.","230","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"TALLEYROSECH20B6","n/a","2","1","75","2020","Rosemarys Vineyard Chardonnay, Talley Vineyards","Talley Vineyards","n/a","San Luis Obispo","Central Coast","California","USA","White","95+?","RV","Talleys Rosemary Chardonnay is my favorite Chardonnay from the Arroyo Grande AVA. Sometimes, I think it is my favorite from anywhere. When you consider that Chardonnay is made all over the world, that may be saying a lot. Maybe its the sea. Perhaps. Im sure its more nuanced than that. Either way we have been buying this wine for more than a decade. Voila. Meanwhile; my own notes of last summer read: Taut, lacy, stoney, long. Pineappley. Lemon Sherbet and orange. Limey acidity. Salty-saline and waxy. Flavoursome. Really delicious stuff. Racy and long. This is a joyous wine, that deserves to be sipped in the sunshine. Really inexpensive for this extremely high quality. Whenever the sunshine returns
. I think this can be a now wine or a ten-year+ wine equally well.","50","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"TALLEYROSECH20B6","1","n/a","6","75","2020","Rosemarys Vineyard Chardonnay, Talley Vineyards","Talley Vineyards","n/a","San Luis Obispo","Central Coast","California","USA","White","95+? ","RV","Talleys Rosemary Chardonnay is my favorite Chardonnay from the Arroyo Grande AVA. Sometimes, I think it is my favorite from anywhere. When you consider that Chardonnay is made all over the world, that may be saying a lot. Maybe its the sea. Perhaps. Im sure its more nuanced than that. Either way we have been buying this wine for more than a decade. Voila. Meanwhile; my own notes of last summer read: Taut, lacy, stoney, long. Pineappley. Lemon Sherbet and orange. Limey acidity. Salty-saline and waxy. Flavoursome. Really delicious stuff. Racy and long. This is a joyous wine, that deserves to be sipped in the sunshine. Really inexpensive for this extremely high quality. Whenever the sunshine returns
. I think this can be a now wine or a ten-year+ wine equally well.","300","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"TALLEYROSEP20B6","n/a","2","1","75","2020","Rosemarys Vineyard Pinot Noir, Talley Vineyards","Talley Vineyards","n/a","San Luis Obispo","Central Coast","California","USA","Red","96+?","RV","Darker colour that the estate Pinot, but not a densely extracted sort of colour by any means. Pinot-ey loveliness. Not quite dark cherry - because it has more lift there is some blood orange, and the fruit is overlaid by oyster-shell and earthy notes
.On the palate the fruit has that indefinable (but Ill try) animal-mineral-vegetable complexity that swirls around your palate one minute its bright pure fruit, the next it hints at liquorice or undergrowth, the next its earthy and saline - and finally there is a hint of dark chocolate or mocha. But it eludes definition. Texturally, I dont think this is particularly DRC to be honest. This is more the (ethereal) weight of a young Cathiard. Flat out gorgeous. You are going to love it even if you drink it now, but if you are patient and give it the decade it deserves, this will be Grand Vin. And if the evolution of the 2014 is anything to go by (and I am sure it is) this will get that Soy / umami savouriness that I love, with age. (Its provisionally a better vintage than my 2014). This stuff is still really cheap with Burgundy prices where they are there are now Bourgogne Rouges that cost more than this. ","67","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"TALLEYROSEP20B6","2","n/a","6","75","2020","Rosemarys Vineyard Pinot Noir, Talley Vineyards","Talley Vineyards","n/a","San Luis Obispo","Central Coast","California","USA","Red","96+?","RV","Darker colour that the estate Pinot, but not a densely extracted sort of colour by any means. Pinot-ey loveliness. Not quite dark cherry - because it has more lift there is some blood orange, and the fruit is overlaid by oyster-shell and earthy notes
.On the palate the fruit has that indefinable (but Ill try) animal-mineral-vegetable complexity that swirls around your palate one minute its bright pure fruit, the next it hints at liquorice or undergrowth, the next its earthy and saline - and finally there is a hint of dark chocolate or mocha. But it eludes definition. Texturally, I dont think this is particularly DRC to be honest. This is more the (ethereal) weight of a young Cathiard. Flat out gorgeous. You are going to love it even if you drink it now, but if you are patient and give it the decade it deserves, this will be Grand Vin. And if the evolution of the 2014 is anything to go by (and I am sure it is) this will get that Soy / umami savouriness that I love, with age. (Its provisionally a better vintage than my 2014). This stuff is still really cheap with Burgundy prices where they are there are now Bourgogne Rouges that cost more than this. ","400","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"TALLSTONPIN19B6","n/a","2","1","75","2019","Stone Corral Pinot Noir, Talley Vineyards","Talley Vineyards","n/a","n/a","n/a","California","USA","Red","94","JR","Brilliant red. Ripe red berries, botanical herbs and candied flowers on the nose; a smoky mineral accent builds in the glass. Sappy, energetic and penetrating on the palate, offering intense bitter cherry, raspberry preserve and spicecake flavours that fan out through the back half. Chewy and precise on the persistent finish, which features resonating spiciness and mounting tannins (JR)","63","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"TALLSTONPIN19B6","5","n/a","6","75","2019","Stone Corral Pinot Noir, Talley Vineyards","Talley Vineyards","n/a","n/a","n/a","California","USA","Red","94","JR","Brilliant red. Ripe red berries, botanical herbs and candied flowers on the nose; a smoky mineral accent builds in the glass. Sappy, energetic and penetrating on the palate, offering intense bitter cherry, raspberry preserve and spicecake flavours that fan out through the back half. Chewy and precise on the persistent finish, which features resonating spiciness and mounting tannins (JR)","375","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"TALLRINCCHARD19B6","n/a","1","1","75","2019","Talley Vineyards Rincon Vineyard Chardonnay","Talley Vineyards","n/a","n/a","n/a","California","USA","White","94","JR","Pale gold. Powerful aromas of pear nectar, white peach and jasmine, along with suggestions of vanilla, fennel and smoky minerals. Fleshy and seamless in texture, offering juicy orchard and pit fruit, chamomile and candied ginger flavours and a hint of smokiness. Finishes chewy, focused and extremely long, with repeating floral and pear notes and a bracing suggestion of bitter lemon pith. ","40","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"TALLRINCPIN19B6","n/a","1","1","75","2019","Talley Vineyards Rincon Vineyard Pinot Noir","Talley Vineyards","n/a","n/a","n/a","California","USA","Red","95","JR","Bright red. Intensely perfumed aromas of fresh red fruits, candied flowers, baking spices and mocha, along with suggestions of vanilla and blood orange. Concentrated but lively as well, offering juicy, mineral-laced raspberry, cherry cola, candied rose and spicecake flavours that show outstanding clarity and back-end lift. Closes impressively long and silky, with reverberating red fruit character and fine-grained tannins lending subtle grip.","63","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"TALLRINCPIN19B6","5","n/a","6","75","2019","Talley Vineyards Rincon Vineyard Pinot Noir","Talley Vineyards","n/a","n/a","n/a","California","USA","Red","95","JR","Bright red. Intensely perfumed aromas of fresh red fruits, candied flowers, baking spices and mocha, along with suggestions of vanilla and blood orange. Concentrated but lively as well, offering juicy, mineral-laced raspberry, cherry cola, candied rose and spicecake flavours that show outstanding clarity and back-end lift. Closes impressively long and silky, with reverberating red fruit character and fine-grained tannins lending subtle grip.","375","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"T&DCATS20B6","2","n/a","6","75","2020","Cat`s Cradle Chenin Blanc, Thorne & Daughters","Thorne & Daughters","n/a","n/a","Swartland","Western Cape","South Africa","White","94","NM","The 2020 Cat`s Cradle has one of my favorite Chenin Blanc noses of the vintage. Whereas some have come across a little anemic, this delivers gorgeous yellow plum, egg whites, jasmine and light stony aromas. The palate is very well balanced with a keen line of acidity, orange peel and dried apricot intermingling with saline notes and crushed stone on the finish. Fantastic wine from John Seccombe.","115","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"T&DPAPER20B6","1","n/a","6","75","2020","Paper Kite Semillon, Thorne & Daughters, Swartland","Thorne & Daughters","n/a","n/a","n/a","Western Cape","South Africa","White","92","NM","The 2020 Paper Kite is pure Semillon pressed in an old basket press. The tightly knit bouquet features grilled walnuts and hazelnuts, almond, a light fume note and touches of orange peel. The harmonious palate is well balanced with fine delineation and good weight, and the nutty/smoky theme continues through to the aftertaste. Very fine, but personally I would give this a couple of years in bottle.","115","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"T&DROCKING20B6","3","n/a","6","75","2020","Rocking Horse, Thorne & Daughters","Thorne & Daughters","n/a","n/a","n/a","Western Cape","South Africa","White","96","NM","The 2020 Rocking Horse is a blend of 35% Semillon, 28% Roussanne, 16% Chardonnay, 15% Chenin Blanc and 6% Clairette Blanche, whole bunch pressed and matured in used oak. It has a well defined, flor like bouquet offering brioche, grilled walnut, bales of straw and smoke. The fabulous palate presents a sensual honeyed texture effortlessly counterbalanced by acidity. Very harmonious, revealing dried honey, walnut and ginger on the finish. This is a masterclass in winemaking and it will age brilliantly in bottle... if you can resist pulling that cork.","103","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"TOLPPINOT22B6","n/a","5","1","75","2022","Tolpuddle Pinot Noir","Tolpuddle","n/a","n/a","Coal River Valley","Tasmania","Australia","Red","98/100","HH","Impressively deep, rich purple-red colour, unusual in Australian pinot noir. The bouquet is loaded with black cherry, blackberry and spice aromas, a hint of smoky oak adding charcuterie and fivespice nuances, while the palate is voluptuously full and rich, decadently flavoured, with luxurious flesh and fruit, abundant fine/soft tannins and terrific length. There are some whole-bunch nuances which are beautifully incorporated into the wide array of flavours. A totally convincing and thoroughly impressive Aussie pinot noir to compare with the best in the world.","50","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"JNGCAILLERET20B6","5","n/a","6","75","2020","Chassagne Montrachet 1er Cru Caillerets, Jean-Noel Gagnard","Jean-Noel Gagnard","1er Cru","Chassagne Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","94-97","JM","34 hl/ha. Fine pale lemon, with a very distinct Caillerets nose - all the stones you could want - to support the pure white fruit. Impeccable density on the palate, now including some bright yellow plum fruit, racy acidity, layers on layers here, boding well for the future. Perfect balancing acidity, this has the power to age extremely well. Tasted: November 2021. 5* Wine.","895","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"TORTLAV16B6","n/a","5","1","75","2016","Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru Lavaux St Jacques, Tortochot","Tortochot","1er Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","91","AM","An all but mute nose reluctantly offers up softly spicy aromas of brooding and exceptionally cool dark berries, forest floor, game and that humus character that Gevrey so often shows. The sleek, intense and tautly muscular medium bodied flavours exude a subtle minerality on the lingering and powerful finish that is youthfully austere to the point of being borderline strict. As is almost always the case with a well made LSJ, this is going to need time to unwind and flesh out as it very tight at present.","57","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"TORTLAV19B6","n/a","3","1","75","2019","Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru Lavaux St Jacques, Tortochot","Tortochot","1er Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","92","AM","This is sufficiently reduced that I would strongly advise giving it a thorough aeration if you`re tempted to try a bottle young. The sleek, intense and delicious bigger bodied flavours possess excellent verve while offering impressive persistence on the compact, tightly wound and youthfully austere finale. This should amply repay extended keeping.","51","IB","1x75cl","RPK",
"TRAPCHAMB19B6","1","n/a","6","75","2019","Chambertin Grand Cru, Trapet Pere et Fils","Trapet","Grand Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","96-98","JM","Rich dense dark purple. The bouquet has an appropriate sense of majesty, absolutely in the out on the rim Trapet style, but with the nobility of its terroir. A wonderful wealth of fruit, a wine full of emotion as well as its own innate quality. Full of fruit yet backward at the same time, exuberant but with finesse.","3190","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"VAJRABRICCO19B6","3","n/a","6","75","2019","Barolo Bricco delle Viole, Vajra","Vajra","n/a","Barolo","Barolo","Piedmont","Italy","Red","97","AG","The 2019 Barolo Bricco delle Viole offers a beguiling combination of depth and energy. Dark and potent in the glass, yet also quite reticent, the 2019 is going to take a number of years to come around. Black cherry, graphite, crushed rocks, mint, sage and incense all open in the glass, but only with quite a bit of reticence. I especially like the way the 2019 opens up on its resonant, expansive finish, but it remains a decidedly brooding Barolo whose best days are off in the future.","380","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"VAJRABRICCO19B6","n/a","3","1","75","2019","Barolo Bricco delle Viole, Vajra","Vajra","n/a","Barolo","Barolo","Piedmont","Italy","Red","97","AG","The 2019 Barolo Bricco delle Viole offers a beguiling combination of depth and energy. Dark and potent in the glass, yet also quite reticent, the 2019 is going to take a number of years to come around. Black cherry, graphite, crushed rocks, mint, sage and incense all open in the glass, but only with quite a bit of reticence. I especially like the way the 2019 opens up on its resonant, expansive finish, but it remains a decidedly brooding Barolo whose best days are off in the future.","64","IB","1x75cl","RPK",
"VERNSG16B12","n/a","3","1","75","2016","Nuits St Georges, Verdet","Verdet","AC","Nuits St Georges","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","n/a","n/a","n/a","40","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"JNGCAILLERET20B6","1","n/a","6","75","2020","Chassagne Montrachet 1er Cru Caillerets, Jean-Noel Gagnard","Jean-Noel Gagnard","1er Cru","Chassagne Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","94-97","JM","34 hl/ha. Fine pale lemon, with a very distinct Caillerets nose - all the stones you could want - to support the pure white fruit. Impeccable density on the palate, now including some bright yellow plum fruit, racy acidity, layers on layers here, boding well for the future. Perfect balancing acidity, this has the power to age extremely well. Tasted: November 2021. 5* Wine.","1200","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"VOEALBAPR07M3","2","n/a","3","150","2007","Barbera d`Alba Pozzo dell`Annunziata Riserva, Voerzio","Voerzio","DOCG","Barbera","Barbera","Piedmont","Italy","Red","95","AG","The 2007 Barbera d`Alba Riserva Vigneto Pozzo dell`Annunziata (magnum) shows off gorgeous, silky fruit, finessed tannins and superb length. Dark fruit, graphite and spices emerge over time, adding further shades of complexity and depth. This shows marvelous intensity, but it is years away from showing its hand. The Pozzo usually starts drinking well around age ten, but given the sheer concentration of the 2007 and the magnum format, that may turn out to be an overly optimistic view. His is an absolutely beautiful, harmonious Barbera that only requires patience. Anticipated maturity: 2017 2032.","490","IB","3x150cl","OWC",
"WSANNECHARD21B12","1","n/a","12","75","2021","Cuvee Anne Chardonnay, Walter Scott","Walter Scott","n/a","n/a","n/a","Oregon","USA","White","95-97","TWA","A tank sample, the 2021 Chardonnay Cuvee Anne has beautiful aromas of apple pie, quince and elderflower with streaks of matchstick and roasted almonds. The light-bodied palate has a quietly intense core of honeyed fruit, tangy acidity, and a touch of textural presence lengthens the mineral-driven finish. Tremendously energetic, it`s shaping up to be an age-worthy Chardonnay!","385","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"WSFREEDOMPIN21B6","1","n/a","12","75","2021","Freedom Hill Pinot Noir, Walter Scott","Walter Scott","n/a","n/a","n/a","Oregon","USA","Red","95-97","TWA","Still in barrel, the 2021 Pinot Noir X Novo Vineyard features pure scents of rhubarb, cranberry and licorice with botanical and flinty nuances. The light-bodied palate is soft and refreshing with a deep core of fragrant fruit and a long, floral finish.","595","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"WSSOJ18B12","2","n/a","12","75","2018","Sojeau Vineyard Pinot Noir, Walter Scott","Walter Scott","n/a","n/a","n/a","Oregon","USA","Red","94","JR","Vivid ruby red. Powerful red berry liqueur, potpourri, spicecake and incense aromas show outstanding clarity, and a smoky mineral nuance builds in the glass. Concentrated yet lively black raspberry, bitter cherry, mocha and floral pastille flavours turn sweeter as the wine opens up. Gains weight with air and finishes bright, gently tannic and extremely long, delivering resonating spice and floral notes. This vineyard was formerly called "Sojourner." 35% new oak.","595","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"WSSOJ18B12","n/a","5","1","75","2018","Sojeau Vineyard Pinot Noir, Walter Scott","Walter Scott","n/a","n/a","n/a","Oregon","USA","Red","94","JR","Vivid ruby red. Powerful red berry liqueur, potpourri, spicecake and incense aromas show outstanding clarity, and a smoky mineral nuance builds in the glass. Concentrated yet lively black raspberry, bitter cherry, mocha and floral pastille flavours turn sweeter as the wine opens up. Gains weight with air and finishes bright, gently tannic and extremely long, delivering resonating spice and floral notes. This vineyard was formerly called "Sojourner." 35% new oak.","50","IB","1x75cl","RPK",
"WSJUSTICECHARD21B6","1","n/a","12","75","2021","Walter Scott, Justice Vineyard, Chardonnay","Walter Scott","n/a","n/a","n/a","Oregon","USA","White","96-98","JD","Its not shy with flinty reduction, ripe with pear and tropical fruit of papaya and melon. The palate is long and floral, with ripe peach, orange flowers, and oak spice that frame the fruit attractively.","800","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"WSCVCHARD21B12","1","n/a","12","75","2021","Walter Scott, La Combe Verte Chardonnay","Walter Scott","n/a","n/a","n/a","Oregon","USA","White","96","TWA","The 2021 Chardonnay La Combe Verte opens from matchstick to intense peach perfume and nuances of beeswax, almonds and acacia. The medium-bodied palate explodes with layer after layer of powerful fruit, delivered in a luxuriously silky texture and tempered by focused acidity. The Combe Verte offers fantastic length, concentration and energy!","300","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"WSX-NOVOPIN21B6","1","n/a","12","75","2021","X-Novo Pinot Noir, Walter Scott","Walter Scott","n/a","n/a","n/a","Oregon","USA","Red","94-96","TWA","Still in barrel, the 2021 Pinot Noir X Novo Vineyard features pure scents of rhubarb, cranberry and licorice with botanical and flinty nuances. The light-bodied palate is soft and refreshing with a deep core of fragrant fruit and a long, floral finish.","750","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"SPINCAMP16B6","1","n/a","6","75","2016","Barolo Versu Vigneto Campe, La Spinetta","n/a","DOCG","Barolo","Barolo","Piedmont","Italy","Red","96","JS","As always, this shows loads of dried flowers and dried peaches and persimmons; its a ripe and unique wine. A cascade of tannins follows, enveloping the mouth in chewy sensations from top to bottom, flanked in dried berry flavours. Full bodied and dense, but agile and inviting. Drink from 2026.","475","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"MILL16B12","n/a","1","1","75","2016","Chateau de Millery","n/a","Grand Cru Classe","St Emilion","Right Bank","Bordeaux","France","Red","96","AG","The 2016 Millery is one of the most rapturously beautiful, seductive wines I tasted during my December trip to Bordeaux. Thierry Manoncourt, the late owner of Figeac, purchased this small property in 1942, when he was in the French Army. The tiny vineyard spans less than one hectare and is planted to 95% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc. For decades, Millery remained more of a small family property, its wine destined for personal consumption, rather than a commercial venture. There are just about 4,000 bottles made each year, and most of it disappears very quickly. A wine of pure and total finesse, Millery is simply exquisite. The dark red fruit, floral, licorice and spice notes show the delineation of a pencil sketch in their fine lines and precision. Figeac Technical Director Frederic Faye made the 2016 with input from consulting winemaker Thomas Duclos, who has helped Canon, Troplong Mondot and other estates make huge strides in quality in recent years. Most importantly, though, the 2016 is flat out delicious. Run, don`t walk. And you heard it here first....","44","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"DESC21B6","n/a","1","1","75","2021","Chateau d`Esclans Rose","n/a","n/a","n/a","n/a","Provence","France","Rose","97/100","DEC","One of the biggest challenges facing our judges every year are the daunting flights of rose. We want to find the best, but when quality (as is the case, almost uniquely, for rose) is defined by understatement, nuance, suggestion and a drinkability hard to gauge in the tasting context, then the levels of concentration required on the part of judges are considerable. After no fewer than three succeeding rounds of scrutiny, this wine emerged above its peers thanks to its impeccable grain and nuance. Look out for pristine fresh red fruits balanced by a surreptitious richness on the nose. On the palate, the misty sheen of fruit meets the quiet vitality of soft-focus strawberry and redcurrant. The use of Rolle and Tibouren in the blend brings creaminess, marrow and just enough warmth and glycerol to the wine to carry it through repeated sipping without every cloying or catching. Masterful composition, for those who care to look.","26","IB","1x75cl","OWC",
"DESC21B6","6","n/a","6","75","2021","Chateau d`Esclans Rose","n/a","n/a","n/a","n/a","Provence","France","Rose","97/100","DEC","One of the biggest challenges facing our judges every year are the daunting flights of rose. We want to find the best, but when quality (as is the case, almost uniquely, for rose) is defined by understatement, nuance, suggestion and a drinkability hard to gauge in the tasting context, then the levels of concentration required on the part of judges are considerable. After no fewer than three succeeding rounds of scrutiny, this wine emerged above its peers thanks to its impeccable grain and nuance. Look out for pristine fresh red fruits balanced by a surreptitious richness on the nose. On the palate, the misty sheen of fruit meets the quiet vitality of soft-focus strawberry and redcurrant. The use of Rolle and Tibouren in the blend brings creaminess, marrow and just enough warmth and glycerol to the wine to carry it through repeated sipping without every cloying or catching. Masterful composition, for those who care to look.","155","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"FEYTIT19B6","n/a","2","1","75","2019","Chateau Feytit Clinet","n/a","n/a","Pomerol","Right Bank","Bordeaux","France","Red","94-96","NM","The 2019 Feytit Clinet was cropped at 34hl/ha between 18 September and 3 October and matured in 70% new oak for an expected 16 months. It is understated at first and demands coaxing from the glass. It rewards you with pure black fruit, freshly shaved black truffles and touches of crushed stone. The palate is magnificent: precise tannins, a perfect line of acidity, impressive complexity and amazing focus. Oddly it reminds me of a Lafleur, though there is much less Cabernet Franc here. Unquestionably, this is the best Feytit Clinet that Jeremy Chasseuil has overseen and I cannot wait to taste it in bottle.","50","IB","1x75cl","OWC",
"GPL19B6","n/a","2","1","75","2019","Chateau Grand Puy Lacoste, Pauillac","n/a","5eme Cru","Pauillac","Left Bank","Bordeaux","France","Red","n/a","n/a","n/a","50","IB","1x75cl","OWC",
"GPL19B6","4","n/a","6","75","2019","Chateau Grand Puy Lacoste, Pauillac","n/a","5eme Cru","Pauillac","Left Bank","Bordeaux","France","Red","n/a","n/a","n/a","275","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"LAROQ19B6","15","n/a","6","75","2019","Chateau Laroque, St Emilion, ","n/a","Grand Cru Classe","St Emilion","Right Bank","Bordeaux","France","Red","95-97","TWA","Composed of 97% Merlot and 3% Cabernet Franc, the 2019 Laroque was harvested from the 30th of September to the 10th of October. Yields were 43 hectoliters per hectare this year. Alcohol came in at 14.5%, with a relatively low pH of 3.44. Deep garnet purple in color, it bursts from the glass with bold scents of blueberry preserves, Black Forest cake, dark chocolate and lilacs with underlying hints of aniseed, espresso and pencil lead plus a waft of smoked meats. Medium to full bodied, the palate is completely filled with dark, seductive berry layers and a whole myriad of savory nuances, framed by wonderfully soft, velvety tannins and fantastic freshness, finishing very long and perfumed. Beautiful!","115","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"LAROQ19B6","n/a","3","1","75","2019","Chateau Laroque, St Emilion, ","n/a","Grand Cru Classe","St Emilion","Right Bank","Bordeaux","France","Red","95-97","TWA","Composed of 97% Merlot and 3% Cabernet Franc, the 2019 Laroque was harvested from the 30th of September to the 10th of October. Yields were 43 hectoliters per hectare this year. Alcohol came in at 14.5%, with a relatively low pH of 3.44. Deep garnet purple in color, it bursts from the glass with bold scents of blueberry preserves, Black Forest cake, dark chocolate and lilacs with underlying hints of aniseed, espresso and pencil lead plus a waft of smoked meats. Medium to full bodied, the palate is completely filled with dark, seductive berry layers and a whole myriad of savory nuances, framed by wonderfully soft, velvety tannins and fantastic freshness, finishing very long and perfumed. Beautiful!","22","IB","1x75cl","RPK",
"DOMDECHEVR19B6","2","n/a","6","75","2019","Domaine de Chevalier (Rouge)","n/a","n/a","Pessac-Leognan","Left Bank","Bordeaux","France","Red ","97","TWA","The 2019 Domaine de Chevalier is a magical wine in the making, wafting from the glass with aromas of wild plums, crushed blackcurrants and violets mingled with hints of pencil shavings, subtle spices and coniferous forest floor. Medium to full-bodied, deep and seamless, with a vibrant core of fruit, beautifully refined tannins and lively acids, it`s exquisitely elegant and harmonious, concluding with a long, perfumed finish. Stylistically, this wine exhibits a much closer affinity with the great Domaine de Chevalier of yesteryear than much of what was produced here in the early 2000s. It`s a masterclass in what contemporary Bordeaux can deliver, and worth a special effort to seek out.","295","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"DOMDECHEVR19B6","n/a","4","1","75","2019","Domaine de Chevalier (Rouge)","n/a","n/a","Pessac-Leognan","Left Bank","Bordeaux","France","Red ","97","TWA","The 2019 Domaine de Chevalier is a magical wine in the making, wafting from the glass with aromas of wild plums, crushed blackcurrants and violets mingled with hints of pencil shavings, subtle spices and coniferous forest floor. Medium to full-bodied, deep and seamless, with a vibrant core of fruit, beautifully refined tannins and lively acids, it`s exquisitely elegant and harmonious, concluding with a long, perfumed finish. Stylistically, this wine exhibits a much closer affinity with the great Domaine de Chevalier of yesteryear than much of what was produced here in the early 2000s. It`s a masterclass in what contemporary Bordeaux can deliver, and worth a special effort to seek out.","55","IB","1x75cl","OWC",
"DOMDECHEVR19M3","7","n/a","3","150","2019","Domaine de Chevalier (Rouge), Graves","n/a","n/a","Pessac-Leognan","Left Bank","Bordeaux","France","Red ","97","TWA","The 2019 Domaine de Chevalier is a magical wine in the making, wafting from the glass with aromas of wild plums, crushed blackcurrants and violets mingled with hints of pencil shavings, subtle spices and coniferous forest floor. Medium to full-bodied, deep and seamless, with a vibrant core of fruit, beautifully refined tannins and lively acids, it`s exquisitely elegant and harmonious, concluding with a long, perfumed finish. Stylistically, this wine exhibits a much closer affinity with the great Domaine de Chevalier of yesteryear than much of what was produced here in the early 2000s. It`s a masterclass in what contemporary Bordeaux can deliver, and worth a special effort to seek out.","275","IB","3x150cl","OWC",
"GPL16B6","1","n/a","6","75","2016","Grand Puy Lacoste, Pauillac","n/a","5eme Cru","Pauillac","Left Bank","Bordeaux","France","Red","94+","TWA","The deep garnet purple colored 2016 Grand Puy Lacoste gives up pure kirsch and red and black currants with violets and baking spices. Medium bodied, firm and grainy, it`s very expressive with good concentration and length.","320","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"ESCROCK21B6","n/a","1","1","75","2021","Rock Angel, Chateau d`Esclans","n/a","n/a","n/a","n/a","Provence","France","Rose","93","JS","A very pure and incisive nose with refined mineral chalkiness to the fresh strawberry and grapefruit aromas. Again, pure is the word to describe the linear, dry palate, which delivers crisp yet textured acidity, together with elegant, freshly chopped raspberries and strawberries. A truly outstanding Rose here. Drink now.","18","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"ESCROCK21B6","5","n/a","6","75","2021","Rock Angel, Chateau d`Esclans","n/a","n/a","n/a","n/a","Provence","France","Rose","93","JS","A very pure and incisive nose with refined mineral chalkiness to the fresh strawberry and grapefruit aromas. Again, pure is the word to describe the linear, dry palate, which delivers crisp yet textured acidity, together with elegant, freshly chopped raspberries and strawberries. A truly outstanding Rose here. Drink now.","105","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"GRAHAM00B12","n/a","7","1","75","2000","W&J Graham`s Vintage Port","n/a","n/a","n/a","n/a","Douro","Portugal","Fortified","94","TWA","Grapy, unformed, black raspberry liqueur and licorice infused cassis notes leap from the glass of this opaque purple colored wine. Sweet, plush, rich, and accessible, it is a forward, lush, concentrated effort that should drink well for two decades. While not one of Graham`s most profound ports, it should evolve rapidly, providing immense crowd appeal.","42","IB","1x75cl","OWC",
"HBOILPOMBLANC22B6","1","n/a","6","75","2022","Pommard 1er Cru Clos Blanc, Henri Boillot","Henri Boillot","1er Cru","Volnay","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","Red","91-93","JM","Replanted in 2012. An even crimson colour. The oak gives a light covering to the nose. Stylish red fruit beneath, no more than medium intensity. And not over ripe. A certain amount of spice from the barrel, some tannins but not in excess, fresh strawberries to finish. Drink from 2029-2036. Tasted: December 2023.","400","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"GIRCCDR05B12","1","n/a","12","75","2005","Corton Clos du Roi Grand Cru, Camille Giroud","Camille Giroud","Grand Cru","Aloxe Corton","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","Red","91-93","AM","When Clos du Roi is on its game, there is no other climat in Corton that can match it for sheer size, weight, power or depth. In the case of this `05, it`s almost a blend of the Chaumes and Rognets with its layered ripe black fruit aromas and massive, rich and powerful flavours that preserve a fine sense of balance and exceptional depth though at present the superbly persistent finale is linear to the point of strictness. I like the subtle minerality and this may require up to 15 years in the cellar to really blossom so no point buying this if you`re in a rush to drink it.","1200","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"LAFOSAN99B12","1","n/a","12","75","1999","Volnay 1er Cru Santenots du Milieu, Comte Lafon","Comtes Lafon","1er Cru","Volnay","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","Red","94","AM","While the Clos des Chênes performed as expected relative to the cask sample, the final Santenots was even better than the cask sample. Wonderfully expressive with massive amounts of spicy black fruit and seductive flavours; the wine has an enormous amount of underlying material and is incredibly complex. But it`s the length that defines this wine as it simply goes on and on. It`s not hard to see why Lafon believes this is one of the finest wines ever produced at the Domaine. Simply magnificent.","2100","IB","12x75cl","?",
"GRAHAM94B1","n/a","6","1","75","1994","W&J Graham`s Vintage Port","Grahams","n/a","Duoro","n/a","Porto","Portugal","Fortified","96","RP","In a port tasting, tasting Graham`s is almost like tasting a big, rich, succulent Merlot after a group of blockbuster, tannic Cabernets. Sweeter and more obvious than many ports, the opaque purple colored 1994 is fruity, powerful, and rich, with an addictive hedonistic quality. It will be ready to drink in 8 10 years and keep for up to 30. As always, this is a showy, flamboyant port that has the advantage of being slightly sweeter than other 1994s. A great Graham`s. Anticipated maturity: 2002 2035.","64","DP","1x75cl","OWC",
"JADCDR05B6","1","n/a","6","75","2005","Clos de la Roche Grand Cru, Jadot","Jadot","Grand Cru","Morey St Denis","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","92-94","AM","There is quite a bit of torrefaction on the expressive nose that includes notes of dark berry fruit, mocha and cafe on the wood spice infused nose that merges into rich, dense, powerful and palate drenching flavours that are impressively concentrated and despite the ripeness, retain a fine sense of precision and length.","1080","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"LVDJ90B1","2","n/a","1","75","1990","Chateauneuf du Pape, Le Vieux Donjon","Le Vieux Donjon","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","95","JD","A big, ripe and full bodied effort thats fully mature, the 1990 Chateauneuf du Pape offers fabulous character and depth, and is about as classic as they comes. Showing an amber/mature color, it has loads of garrigue, spice meats, red currants, licorice and pepper as well as a rich, layered and seamless profile on the palate. Its a thrilling wine, but its not going to get any better, so drink up.","150","DP","1x75cl","RPK",
"VOUVOUCRAS99B6","2","n/a","6","75","1999","Vougeot 1er Cru Les Cras, Domaine de la Vougeraie","Vougeraie","1er Cru","Vougeot","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","88","AM","As the wines of Vougeot often are, this is dominated by earth notes and dusty fruit with rustic, full bodied flavours that offer solid complexity and good underlying structure. This has added both volume and weight since I last tasted it in barrel. Quite good in a frank, direct manner.","600","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"BQDPCGREN99B6","1","n/a","6","75","1999","Chateauneuf du Pape, Cuvee Grenache, Bosquet des Papes,","Bosquet des Papes","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","89","RP","The saturated ruby 1999 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Grenache is a light, fruit forward effort, with a deep mid section. There is a lot to like in this undeniably disarming 1999. Its black cherry, raspberry, roasted herb, peanut, and spice scented bouquet is followed by a medium to full bodied, deep, supple wine to enjoy over the next 8 10 years.","125","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"BQDPCGREN99B1","6","n/a","1","75","1999","Chateauneuf du Pape, Domaine Bosquet des Papes","Bosquet des Papes","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","90","RP","The 1999 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Classique reveals a dark ruby color with a pink rim. Its superb aromatics offer notions of roasted herbs, meat juices, sweet cherries, pepper, and spice box. Full-bodied, fleshy, and charming, with no hard edges and plenty of glycerin, it will drink well for a decade.","35","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"BOUSCMADVV97B1","3","n/a","1","75","1997","Madiran Vieilles Vignes, Chateau Bouscasse","Bouscasse","n/a","n/a","Madiran","Sud Ouest","France","Red","90.3","Cellartracker","n/a","35","DP","1x75cl","RPK",
"BOUSCMADVV98B6","1","n/a","6","75","1998","Madiran Vieilles Vignes, Chateau Bouscasse","Bouscasse","n/a","n/a","Madiran","Sud Ouest","France","Red","n/a","n/a","n/a","165","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"DELVERG96B12","1","n/a","12","75","1996","Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru Les Vergers, Colin Deleger","Colin Deleger","1er Cru","Chassagne-Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","93","TWA","I was blown away by Colin`s Chassagne-Montrachet Les Vergers, undoubtedly the finest and most ageworthy of his `96 Chassagnes. Displaying a deep, rich, and spicy nose, this magnificent wine combines stellar ripeness with classy refinement. Exotic and juicy white fruits, minerals, and steel are found in its expansive, medium to full bodied and oily textured personality. Complex, elegant, powerful, and gloriously persistent, it will provide superb pleasure in the short and mid to long term. Anticipated maturity: 2001 2010.
1996 was a spectacular year for Colin`s wines. The bright, bracing, focus providing acidity that characterizes the vintage married magnificently well with his trademark plump, ripe, rich, and concentrated wine style.","1800","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"LAUCM98B6","1","n/a","6","75","1998","Chambolle-Musigny, Dominique Laurent","Dominique Laurent","AC","Chambolle-Musigny","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","87-90","ST","From vines planted in 1902. Ripe, slightly musky aroma of black fruits and menthol. Sweet, thick and dense, but quite oaky today. Finishes long and expressive, but I pick up a lot of evidence of oak tannins. Laurent says this wine went into new barrel rather late, and it possible that the new oak component has not yet been absorbed. Hard to judge today.","480","DP","6x75cl","OC",
"LAUCDV99B1","2","n/a","1","75","1999","Clos de Vougeot Grand Cru, Dominique Laurent","Dominique Laurent","Grand Cru","Vougeot","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","88-91","AM","Austere and regal in its reserve yet the density is breathtaking. A good deal more structured than the Clos de la Roche and not nearly as forward yet there is more finesse here than most young Clos de Vougeots offer. Solid in every respect.","175","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"LAUVRBEAU99B6","1","n/a","6","75","1999","Vosne-Romanee 1er Cru Les Beaux Monts, Dominique Laurent","Dominique Laurent","1er Cru","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","88-91","AM","Quite a bit of gas and reduction but the underlying character of this wine immediately pushed its way to center stage with incredible spice, positively explosive fruit, deep, rich concentration with a panoply of different aromas, especially blueberries and blackberries and grand cru length; quite structured and quite particular in nature but impressive as hell.","1200","DP","6x75cl","OC",
"GOUPRU05B12","1","n/a","12","75","2005","Nuits St Georges 1er Cru Les Pruliers, Domaine Henri Gouges","Gouges","1er Cru","Nuits St Georges","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","90-92","AM","This is a bit finer with more emphasis on spice and mineral infused earth notes that can also be found on the complex and classic Nuits flavours that are at once robust but not really rustic, all wrapped in a sappy, dense and equally serious finish that offers outstanding length. This too possess terrific aging potential and is recommended.","1200","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"GOULSG96B6","1","n/a","6","75","1996","Nuits St Georges 1er Cru Les St Georges, Domaine Henri Gouges","Gouges","1er Cru","Nuits St Georges","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","88","AM","Very ripe, in fact so ripe that there is a trace of surmaturite plus hints of torrefaction and chocolate that lead to medium weight flavours of good intensity if not especially good density. This finishes with lovely length and plenty of acid support. This will continue to age well but it is clearly not in the league of the excellent `95.","1350","DP","6x75cl","OC",
"DGPRVDP94B1","3","n/a","1","75","1994","Domaine de la Grange des Peres, Vin de Pays de l`Herault","Grange des Peres","IGP","Pays d`Herault","n/a","Longuedoc Roussillon","France","Red","92","Cellartracker","n/a","640","DP","1x75cl","OC",
"DGPRVDP96B1","4","n/a","1","75","1996","Domaine de la Grange des Peres, Vin de Pays de l`Herault","Grange des Peres","IGP","Pays d`Herault","n/a","Longuedoc Roussillon","France","Red","89+","ST","Saturated ruby red. Big, ripe nose of bitter chocolate, black raspberry, resiny oak and a whiff of raisin. Very rich, sweet and thick but rather dumb today and lacking nuance. Suggestions of espresso and dark chocolate. Firm acids and substantial tannins give this a fairly sizable structure. Best today on the long finish.","390","DP","1x75cl","OC",
"DGPRVDP9B12","1","n/a","12","75","1997","Domaine de la Grange des Peres, Vin de Pays de l`Herault","Grange des Peres","IGP","Pays d`Herault","n/a","Longuedoc Roussillon","France","Red","88-91","TWA","Different lots that will be assembled to craft the 1997 La Grange des Peres red were tasted, and the above range of scores reflects this hypothetical blend. The dark ruby colored Cabernet lot (from yields of 14 hectoliters per hectare) offers complex, spicy, blackberry aromas, and elegant, black cherry, spice, herb, and rose flavours. The Mourvedre (harvested at 16.5% natural potential alcohol) was incredibly Rayas like in taste. This hedonistic fruit bomb reveals candied cherry, kirsch aromas that give way to a mouthful of mocha covered red berries. This is a delicious, sultry, creamy wine on its own, and will ultimately be a substantial part of the final blend. The bottled 1997 will most assuredly be an outstanding wine, and certainly one of the finest efforts from this difficult vintage. ","4920","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"DGPRVDP98B12","1","n/a","12","75","1998","Domaine de la Grange des Peres, Vin de Pays de l`Herault","Grange des Peres","IGP","Pays d`Herault","n/a","Longuedoc Roussillon","France","Red","93","TWA","The saturated, dark ruby colored 1998 Vin de Pays de l`Herault (red) bursts from the glass with candied red and black fruits. It is a powerful, medium to full bodied wine with oodles of blackberries, cherries, currants, and spices that conquer the palate and seemingly never dissipate. Superbly pure, detailed and possessing loads of exquisitely ripened tannin, this is a wine that can be consumed in its youth or cellared for over a decade. Anticipated maturity: now 2015.","4960","DP","12x75cl","OC",
"DGPRVDP99B12","1","n/a","12","75","1999","Domaine de la Grange des Peres, Vin de Pays de l`Herault","Grange des Peres","IGP","Pays d`Herault","n/a","Longuedoc Roussillon","France","Red","90+","ST","(a blend of syrah, mourvedre and cabernet) Full red. An exotic head shop of a nose: blackberry, orange peel, roasted meat, mace, clove, grilled nuts. Then extremely intensely flavoured and dense with extract; combines an almost confectionary late harvest sweetness with bracing acid structure. Distinctly peppery, salty finish, like steak au poivre Laurent Vaille told me in the spring of 2000 that he brought in some of his mourvedre in `99 with potential alcohol as high as 18.5%! An extremely idiosyncratic, fascinating wine that gives the impression of coming from fruit picked weeks later than that at nearby Mas de Daumas Gassac.","4960","DP","12x75cl","OC",
"DGPRVDP00B12","1","n/a","12","75","2000","Domaine de la Grange des Peres, Vin de Pays de l`Herault","Grange des Peres","IGP","Pays d`Herault","n/a","Longuedoc Roussillon","France","Red","94","TWA","Profound aromas of peppered blackberries, and garrigue emanate from the glass of the 2000 Vin de Pays de lHerault (red). This juicy, fresh, concentrated wine is a powerfully elegant beauty. Dark cherries, black raspberries, flowers, and assorted red fruits are found in its seamless personality as well as in its luxurious finish. Anticipated maturity: now 2014.","6335","DP","12x75cl","OC",
"DGPRVDP01B12","1","n/a","12","75","2001","Domaine de la Grange des Peres, Vin de Pays de l`Herault","Grange des Peres","IGP","Pays d`Herault","n/a","Longuedoc Roussillon","France","Red","90","TWA","Huge amounts of spices and expressive black fruits are found in the aromatic profile of the 2001 La Grange des Peres (red). A more focused and structured effort than in some of this wines more successful vintages, it is medium bodied, powerfully concentrated, and densely packed with black fruits that are marked by herbaceous notes from the Cabernet Sauvignon used in the blend. A slight hint of alcoholic warmth was detected in this efforts lengthy, ripe tannin filled finish. Drink it between 2006 and 2012.","4300","DP","12x75cl","OC",
"HUGELRIESHJH97B6","1","n/a","6","75","1997","Hugel et Fils, Riesling Hommage a Jean Hugel","Hugel","n/a","n/a","n/a","Alsace","France","White","90","ST","Aroma of ripe apples and liquid stone. Moderately sweet and very rich, with a flavour of wet stones. Broad and large scaled in the style of the vintage. A gentle, seamless wine with a ripe, persistent aftertaste.","300","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"JABPAR45R95B12","1","n/a","12","75","1995","Cotes du Rhone Parallele 45 Rouge, Paul Jaboulet Aine","Jaboulet Aine","AC","Cotes du Rhone","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","89","RP","Jaboulet`s 1995 southern reds offer plenty about which to get excited, particularly some of the value priced wines from less prestigious appellations. Readers looking to stock up on a gutsy, medium to full bodied, delicious red wine should check out the 1995 Cotes du Rhone Parallele 45. The color is deep purple, and the wine reveals plenty of peppery, black raspberry, cassis, and cherry fruit, surprising density, medium to full body, a velvety texture, and a long, heady finish. Interestingly, much of this cuvee is Syrah, which the Jaboulets believe was incredibly successful in the 1995 vintage in the southern Rhone. This is an outstanding bargain. It will last for a decade. This wine was tasted between June 1 and June 16, 1996.","240","DP","12x75cl","OC",
"JABSTJPOMP97B1","5","n/a","1","75","1997","St Joseph, Le Grand Pompee, Paul Jaboulet Aine","Jaboulet Aine","AC","St Joseph","Northern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","87-89","RP","The 1997 St. Joseph Le Grand Pompee is superior. After a maceration period that lasted over a month, this offering reveals an opaque ruby/purple color, and rich, chocolatey, smoky, blackberry flavours that suggest the super ripeness the Jaboulets achieved in this vintage. The wine possesses excellent, nearly outstanding concentration, plenty of structure and tannin, and a sweet mid palate and length. An excellent, nearly outstanding St. Joseph Le Grand Pompee, it is among the finest ever made at this estate.","25","DP","1x75cl","RPK",
"JADVRSUC02B12","1","n/a","12","75","2002","Vosne-Romanee 1er Cru Les Suchots, Louis Jadot","Jadot","1er Cru","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","89-92","AM","This too is very high toned with an expressive and very spicy black fruit nose nuanced with touches of game and leather, followed by detailed and impressive complex flavours that display mouth coating richness and outstanding length. This is really lovely juice and quite classy as well.","2640","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"JDROUBG199B6","1","n/a","6","75","1999","Beaune 1er Cru Greves, Joseph Drouhin","Joseph Drouhin","1er Cru","Beaune","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","Red","85-87","AM","Beautiful nose of black pinot fruits, medium weight flavours and moderate structure with ripe tannins. The finish is nicely long though slightly austere.","600","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"JDROUCM199B6","1","n/a","6","75","1999","Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru, Joseph Drouhin","Joseph Drouhin","1er Cru","Chambolle-Musigny","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","89","AM","Quite dark for a Drouhin wine with predominantly black fruit that is bright and racy with a bit of the sauvage, touch of earth and more structure than the villages Chambolle. Very ripe, very rich pinot flavours yet there is no sense of heaviness. It will be tempting to drink this young because of all the pinot baby fat but it should age well as there is good acidity and structure beneath the richness.","1300","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"KARTEITRSPAT99B12","1","n/a","12","75","1999","Eitelsbacher Karthauserhofberg Riesling Spatlese, Karthauserhof","Karthauserhof","n/a","n/a","Ruwer","Mosel","Germany","White","n/a","n/a","n/a","360","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"COURTCDPR95B1","3","n/a","1","75","1995","Domaine La Courtade Cotes de Provence Rouge","La Courtade","n/a","n/a","Cotes de Provence","Provence","France","Red","n/a","n/a","n/a","20","DP","1x75cl","RPK",
"KREYCREBPG00B6","1","n/a","6","75","2000","Clos Rebberg Pinot Gris, Domaine Marc Kreydenweiss","Marc Kreydenweiss","n/a","n/a","n/a","Alsace","France","White","95","TWA","Medium bodied and massively intense, the 2000 Pinot Gris Clos Rebberg Aux Vignes is a white wine of Herculean proportions. Medium to full bodied, chewy, and velvety textured, it is jam packed with smoky pear, apple, apricot, white peach and fennel aromas as well as flavours. This rich, muscular behemoth appears to have the density expected of top Selection de Grains Nobles yet without the sweetness. Anticipated maturity: 2006 2018.","180","DP","6x75cl","OC",
"KREYPGMON00B6","1","n/a","6","75","2000","Pinot Gris Grand Cru Moenchberg, Marc Kreydenweiss","Marc Kreydenweiss","Grand Cru ","n/a","n/a","Alsace","France","White","91","TWA","A floral wine, the 2000 Pinot Gris Moenchberg Le Moine sports 20 grams of imperceptible residual sugar. It reveals outstanding depth to its highly detailed, elegant character. This feminine offering exhibits stone, mineral, pear, and spice flavours in a delicate, lace like manner yet remains intensely flavourful. Drink it between 2004 and 2014.","140","DP","6x75cl","OC",
"LMICHMONT96B12","1","n/a","12","75","1996","Chablis 1er Cru Montmains, Louis Michel","Michel","1er Cru","Chablis","Chablis","Burgundy","France","White","90","TWA","The Chablis Montmain exhibits strong smoky scents and a beautifully ripe, concentrated, highly structured yet thick and rich medium to full body. Complex layers of chalk dust, minerals and traces of honey are found in this wine`s exciting flavour profile. Anticipated maturity: 2000 2006. Michel was so impressed with the health and acidity levels of his grapes that he decided, for the first time, to age his Chablis on their fine lees. He feels this technique brought additional richness and body to the wines. Even though he is (justifiably) quite proud of his 1996s, he feels he might have been able to produce better wines if he could have extended their elevage beyond the scheduled shipping date imposed by his US importer.","450","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"LMICHGREN00B6","1","n/a","6","75","2000","Chablis Grand Cru, Grenouilles, Louis Michel","Michel","Grand Cru","Chablis","Chablis","Burgundy","France","White","89-91","ST","Reticent, youthful nose of green apple and minerals. Broad but not yet filled in on the palate; a rather large-scaled but slightly blurry wine that does not currrently show the precision of the estate other grand crus. Seems distinctly lower in acidity. But finishes with good length.","360","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"MONTUSMCP97B1","3","n/a","1","75","1997","Madiran Cuvee Prestige, Chateau Montus","Montus","n/a","n/a","Madiran","Sud Ouest","France","Red","n/a","n/a","n/a","30","DP","1x75cl","RPK",
"MONTUSMCP01B6","1","n/a","6","75","2001","Madiran Cuvee Prestige, Chateau Montus","Montus","n/a","n/a","Madiran","Sud Ouest","France","Red","90.1","Cellartracker","n/a","300","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"MONTUSM94B1","6","n/a","1","75","1994","Madiran, Chateau Montus","Montus","n/a","n/a","Madiran","Sud Ouest","France","Red","n/a","n/a","n/a","50","DP","1x75cl","RPK",
"RAMCMRBOU95B12","1","n/a","12","75","1995","Chassagne-Montrachet Rouge 1er Cru Clos De La Boudriotte, Noel Ramonet","Noel Ramonet","1er Cru","Chassagne Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","Red","n/a","n/a","n/a","1800","DP","12x75cl","OC",
"BERGABDRS03B12","1","n/a","12","75","2003","Bernkasteler Alte Badstube am Doctorberg Riesling Spaetlese, Dr Pauly Bergweiler, Mosel","Pauly Bergweiler","n/a","n/a","Bernkastel","Mosel","Germany","Sweet White","n/a","n/a","n/a","300","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"BERGEPRA99B12","1","n/a","12","75","1999","Erdener Pralat Riesling Auslese, Weingut Dr.Pauly Bergweiler","Pauly Bergweiler","n/a","n/a","n/a","Mosel","Germany","Sweet White","n/a","n/a","n/a","360","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"ROYGIRPOMRUG96B12","1","n/a","12","75","1996","Pommard 1er Cru Les Rugiens Bas, Le Royer Girardin","Royer Girardin","1er Cru","Pommard","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","Red","n/a","n/a","n/a","720","DP","12x75cl","OC",
"SYMVES00B6","1","n/a","6","75","2000","Quinta do Vesuvio, Symington","Symington","n/a","n/a","n/a","Douro","Portugal","Fortified red","n/a","n/a","n/a","199","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"TARDCDLBDR98B6","1","n/a","6","75","1998","Cotes du Luberon Bastides de Rhodares, Tardieu Laurent","Tardieu Laurent","AC","n/a","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","90-91","RP","The 1998 Domaine Bastide de Rodares Cotes du Luberon is an astonishing value. There are approximately 650 cases of this blend of 60% Grenache (from 40 year old vines that achieved 14.9% alcohol naturally) and 40% Syrah. The saturated blue/purple color is followed by spectacularly jammy notes of black fruits, smoke, mineral, and spice. Dense, medium to full bodied, with thrilling purity, this layered, concentrated, immense Cotes du Luberon must be tasted to be believed. Its opulence will serve it well in its youth, but do not be surprised to see this wine improve over the next 5 6 years; it should last for a decade or more.","90","DP","6x75cl","OC",
"TARDHERMB97B6","1","n/a","6","75","1997","Hermitage Blanc, Tardieu Laurent","Tardieu Laurent","AC","Hermitage Blanc","Northern Rhone","Rhone","France","White","91","ST","Lively, deep aromas of apricot, apple, minerals and spring flowers. Fat and ripe but quite fine and not at all heavy or alcoholic. The subtle oak frames and extends the flavours. Long, spicy aftertaste.","420","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"VJULCDPRES99B1","6","n/a","1","75","1999","Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Reservee, Domaine de la Vieille Julienne","Vielle Julienne","n/a","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","95","RP","One of the undeniable stars of the vintage, the 1999 Chateauneuf du Pape Reserve is a blockbuster in a year that did not generally produce wines of such power and richness (of course, it includes the declassified Vieilles Vignes cuvee in the blend). A deep purple color is followed by aromas of cassis, kirsch liqueur, flowers, plums, and blackberries. Full bodied, multi layered, and fabulously extracted, with low acidity, sweet tannin, and magnificent purity, this is a sumptuous, prodigious Chateauneuf du Pape that should drink well for 15 20 years. It is hard to believe that something this special could have been produced in 1999, but there are a half dozen or so wines at this level in 1999.","85","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"VJULCDP99B1","6","n/a","1","75","1999","Chateauneuf du Pape, Domaine La Vieille Julienne","Vielle Julienne","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","90","RP","A stunningly beautiful effort, the 1999 Chateauneuf du Pape offers a dense, saturated ruby color as well as a gorgeous nose of cedar, spice box, cherries, kirsch liqueur, and pepper. Expansive, full bodied, lush, and seductive/sexy, this voluptuously textured, long Chateauneuf reveals a seamlessness typical of the vintage`s finest efforts. Drink it over the next 10 15 years.","35","IB","1x75cl","OC",
"VHOVEOHRA99B12","1","n/a","12","75","1999","Oberemmeler Hutte Riesling Auslese, Von Hovel","Von Hovel","n/a","n/a","n/a","Saar","Germany","White","n/a","DS","Apple jelly and honey in the nose and mouth, scented with brown spices. This is quite sweet, somewhat suggesting mulled cider or root beer. Again, though, I find it a bit too laden with sweetness. "Analytically speaking," explains von Kunow, "there is little difference among my `99 Auslesen. But there a big difference in taste."","600","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"VHOVESRA09B12","1","n/a","12","75","2009","Scharzhofberger Riesling Auslese, Von Hovel","Von Hovel","n/a","n/a","n/a","Saar","Germany","White","89","TWA","The subtly flower wreathed von Hovel 2009 Scharzhofberger Riesling Auslese is cider like in its tart edged and spice tinged apple fruit. Extremely delicate, and with thankfully restrained sense of sweetness, it strokes the palate gently and finishes with soothing understatement but relative simplicity. Rather than the attractively soft edges and transparency of this year`s Hohecker Riesling, I find this Scharzhofberger Auslese just a tad blurry. I would enjoy this pretty very but far from profound Auslese over the next 12 15 years, and do not envision its ever approaching the level of interest or seduction generated by the corresponding Spatlese.
A dreadful health crisis from which he is thankfully now slowly recovering put proprietor Eberhard von Kunow entirely out of commission at critical junctures in the evolution of his 2009 crop, one result of which was a collection abbreviated at the upper end of Oechsle.","400","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"VSCHUMGARS99B12","1","n/a","12","75","1999","Maximin Grünhauser Abtsberg Riesling Spatlese, Von Schubert","Von Schubert","n/a","n/a","Ruwer","Mosel","Germany","White","n/a","DS","Sweet herbs and subtle wet stone notes in the nose are a gateway to a loose, generous expression of Ruwer brown spices and white peach. Finishes on the sweet side.","360","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"BELLE01B6","1","n/a","6","75","2001","Clos de la Belle, Vin de Pays du Gard","n/a","IGP","IGP Gard","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","n/a","n/a","n/a","240","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"LAMBMSD10M3","1","n/a","3","150","2010","Morey St Denis, Domaine des Lambrays","Domaine des Lambrays","AC","Morey St Denis","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","90","ST","(bottled in April of 2012): Good bright, deep red. Very pure, Chambolle like aromas of flowers, minerals, earth, herbs and pepper. Then silky and smooth in the mouth, with a saline quality and smoky minerality carrying through the rising finish. Perhaps a bit warm at 13.25% natural alcohol, but this silky, lightly peppery wine is long for village wine.","655","DP","3x150cl","RPK",
"CMARZ09M6","1","n/a","6","150","2009","Certan Marzelle","n/a","n/a","Pomerol","Right Bank","Bordeaux","France","Red","91-93","RP","Readers looking for an unabashedly exotic, seductive, sexy Pomerol should check out this 100% Merlot cuvee from Christian Moueix. Its dark ruby/plum color is accompanied by an unbridled display of sweet black and blue fruits and spring flowers. Full bodied and opulent with silky tannins and juicy fruit, this hedonistic wine should provide plenty of pleasure over the next 10 12 years. (Tasted once.)","595","IB","6x150cl","OWC",
"FELTRPNCP07B6","1","n/a","6","75","2007","Pinot Noir Cornish Point, Felton Road","Felton Road","n/a","n/a","n/a","Bannockburn","New Zealand","Red","92","NM","The 2007 Cornish Point Vineyard Pinot is imbued with a pure, red cherry and wild strawberry tinged nose with great clarity and lift. The palate is very well balanced, extremely well focused with good acidity, quite firm but fine tannins with a dry, almost reserved bergamot and cranberry-infused finish. Quite simply: crisp and delicious.","420","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"FELTRPNCP11B6","1","n/a","6","75","2011","Pinot Noir Cornish Point, Felton Road","Felton Road","n/a","n/a","n/a","Bannockburn","New Zealand","Red","92+","TWA","The 2011 Cornish Point Pinot Noir has a pale to medium ruby-purple color with fragrant, crushed red cherry, wild strawberry and rose petal aromas laced with hints of cinnamon stick, Nutella on toast and lavender. Full-bodied and opulent in the mouth, it is already very expressive, showing a good fruit concentration, with spicy notes and framed by a medium level of fine tannins and refreshing acidity. It finishes long.","295","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"BSEJB00B12","1","n/a","12","75","2000","Chateau Beau-Sejour Becot","n/a","Grand Cru Classe B","St Emilion","Right Bank","Bordeaux","France","Red","92","RP","This full-bodied, modern-styled St.-Emilion offers a sensational perfume of smoky barbecue, jammy black currants, kirsch, licorice, and a touch of pain grille. Fleshy, savory, and full-bodied, it has shed much of its tannin, but still possesses abundant structure. It is an intense, modern-styled, mouthfilling, sumptuous, attention-getting wine to drink over the next decade.","815","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"ARM96B12","1","n/a","12","75","1996","Chateau d`Armailhac","n/a","5eme Grand Cru Classe","Pauillac","Left Bank","Bordeaux","France","Red","89","NM","The 1996 d`Armailhac is fully mature on the nose with dark plum, briary, cloves and quite a strong violet aroma. The palate is slightly aggressive on the entry with chalky tannin. The acidity is quite pronounced here, firm in the mouth, masculine for d`Armailhac with less flesh than other vintages, although there is decent freshness and spiciness towards the finish. You could drink this now but I might just afford it another 3 4 years to show its mettle. Tasted July 2016.","790","DP","12x75cl","OWC",
"LADOM00B12","1","n/a","12","75","2000","Chateau La Dominique","n/a","n/a","St Emilion","Right Bank","Bordeaux","France","Red","93","NM","The 2000 La Dominique is a wine that I thoroughly enjoyed out of barrel but never tasted in bottle. It still has a deep colour with little ageing on the rim. The bouquet is refined and focused, almost broody dark fruits that gradually unfurl: blackberry, briary, a touch of menthol and 5 spice. The palate is medium bodied with supple red and black fruit laced with white pepper and just a touch of dried blood. There is a little meatiness towards the (again) Pomerol inspired finish, but the finesse and precision here surpasses all the preceding vintages. There is also a subtle note of liquorice on the aftertaste. Excellent. Tasted at the vertical tasting at La Dominique.","595","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"LAF99B12","1","n/a","12","75","1999","Chateau Lafite","n/a","n/a","Pauillac","Medoc","Bordeaux","France","Red","95","RP","The 1999 Lafite Rothschild sports an engraved "1999" on the bottle along with an eclipse to mark that significant historical event of August, 1999. It is a quintessential offering from Lafite Rothschild. This prodigious wine is both elegant and intensely flavored, and almost diaphanous in its layers that unfold with no heaviness. An opaque ruby/purple color is accompanied by a complex bouquet of lead pencil, graphite, cedar, creme de cassis, toast, and vanilla. It is medium-bodied, with extravagant layers of richness yet little weight, and a finish that is all sweetness, ripeness, and harmony. This extraordinary Lafite increasingly appears to be a modern day clone of the majestic 1953. A mere one-third of the crop made it into the grand vin! Anticipated maturity: 2007-2030.","6210","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"AGROSRIC01B12","1","n/a","12","75","2001","Richebourg, Anne Gros","Anne Gros","Grand Cru","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","94","AM","The now fully mature dark pinot fruit aromas display notes of earth, spice and a whiff of exotic tea. There is still fine intensity to the substantial broad-shouldered flavours that possess a discreet minerality on the delicious if slightly edgy and raspy finish that stops just short of dryness. I would note that this is still very good and certainly quite stylish, the balance isn`t perfect. For my taste this has arrived at its full maturity and there is no further upside potential to realize. With that said, neither is there any need to rush to drink up as the `01 Richebourg should continue to hold for at least another decade. I would further note that I have had this several times over the years with mixed results as two bottles have been somewhat inexpressive even with extended airing and others have been largely like what I describe above. My scores have ranged from 91 to 94.","15750","IB","12x75cl","OC ",
"AGROSRIC09B6","1","n/a","6","75","2009","Richebourg, Anne Gros","Anne Gros","Grand Cru","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","95","AM","Here too there is noticeable wood influence but it`s less obvious and does not really interfere with the transparency of the spicy nose of red currants, blue berries and cassis that is cool and restrained. There is outstanding intensity to the mineral-driven big-bodied flavours that are both slightly tighter but notably finer than those of the Clos de Vougeot, not to mention more serious and longer with notably less of the overt sweetness. While certainly a big and muscular effort, it is actually quite refined and should be exceptional in time.","5400","IB","6x75cl","OC ",
"ARNECH08B6","1","n/a","6","75","2008","Echezeaux, Arnoux Lachaux","Arnoux","Grand Cru","Flagey-Echezeaux","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","91-94","AM","A more expressive and notably spicier nose offers up notes of anise and clove together with the quite ripe red and black pinot fruit aromas that precede the rich yet finely detailed flavours that display a touch of minerality on the delicious, textured, balanced and strikingly long finish. Impressive.","4000","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"ARNRSV06B6","1","n/a","6","75","2006","Romanee St. Vivant, Arnoux","Arnoux","Grand Cru","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","93","AM","A relatively high-toned spicy red and black fruit pinot liqueur nose of real class and elegance merges seamlessly into fresh, vibrant and detailed flavours brimming with both minerality and an underlying sense of tension that adds real energy to the perfectly balanced and gorgeously long finish that doesn`t quite have the overall depth of the 2007 but it`s not far off either. This should age well for up to a decade, perhaps a bit longer and should be worth the wait though I take pains to note however that it will certainly be capable of holding for much longer. A wine of obvious breed and class.","4500","IB","6x75cl","OC ",
"ARNCHAU08B6","1","n/a","6","75","2008","Vosne-Romanee 1er Cru Les Chaumes, Arnoux-Lachaux","Arnoux","1er Cru","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","89-92","AM","A more complex and, not surprisingly, notably spicier nose of layered red and blue pinot fruit with plum and violet nuances that complement well the rich, full and concentrated medium-bodied flavours that are on the somber side today before culminating in a firmer and more obviously structured finish that delivers excellent length. This should improve for up to a decade.","2340","IB","6x75cl","OC ",
"ARNSUC08B6","1","n/a","6","75","2008","Vosne-Romanee 1er Cru Les Suchots, Arnoux","Arnoux","1er Cru","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","93","AM","A classic Vosne nose that is ultra spicy, complex, layered and extremely stylish with rich and relatively powerful flavours that possess ample volume and are supported by very finely rendered tannins, a suave mouth feel and excellent length. In a word, terrific.","3600","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"BERTAM13B3","1","n/a","3","75","2013","Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru Amoureuses, Bertheau","Bertheau","1er Cru","Chambolle-Musigny","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","93","AM","The ultra-spicy nose of anise, clove, cinnamon, rose petal and pure essence of red pinot fruit introduces seductively and finely textured middle weight and mineral-inflected flavours before culminating in a detailed and mildly austere finish where a hint of bitter cherry appears. I very much like the overall complexity and this possesses excellent development potential.","990","IB","3x75cl","OC ",
"BERTCHAR12B6","1","n/a","6","75","2012","Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru Les Charmes, Bertheau","Bertheau","1er Cru","Chambolle-Musigny","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","92","AM","This is ever so slightly more aromatically refined with its nose of plum, violets and red and dark currant liqueur scents. There is a very round, lush and seductive quality to the mouth feel of the medium-bodied flavours that possess a silky palate impression on the well-balanced finish that delivers very fine depth and length. In sum, this tender yet entirely serious effort is really very pretty. Worth considering.","1020","IB","6x75cl","OC ",
"BERTCM13B6","1","n/a","6","75","2013","Chambolle-Musigny, Bertheau","Bertheau","AC","Chambolle-Musigny","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","89","AM","An exuberant yet elegant, airy and distinctly cool array of various red berry fruit scents, especially pomegranate, is nuanced by hints of spice and tea. There is good energy and a lovely sense of detail to the lightly mineral-inflected middle weight flavours that terminate in a lacy and balanced finish. This is very Chambolle in style and recommended.","295","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"BIZLIARD15B12","1","n/a","12","75","2015","Savigny Les Beaune, Grands Liards, Simon Bize ","Bize (Simon)","AC","Savigny les Beaune","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","Red","88-91","AM","An attractively fresh nose is composed by notes of herbal tea, dried flowers, spice and liqueur-like dark cherry aromas. There is both fine detail and a lovely sense of energy to the delicious and appealingly textured medium weight flavours that possess fine mid-palate concentration, all wrapped in a lingering and mildly austere finish. This should reward 5 to 8 years of cellaring but could be enjoyed young too.","535","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"CATHMAL11B3","1","n/a","3","75","2011","Vosne-Romanee 1er Cru Aux Malconsorts, Sylvain Cathiard","Cathiard","1er Cru","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","94","AM","A combination of oak and natural spice elements add considerable range to the cool red currant, plum and violet infused nose. There is excellent richness and power to the robust and tautly muscular big-bodied flavours that display a very firm minerality yet the supporting tannins are more refined than is typical with this wine. There is outstanding complexity and even in the context of the relatively forward 2011 vintage this is a wine that is clearly built to age. In a word, marvelous.","1750","IB","3x75cl","OC",
"CLAIRBEZ06B12","1","n/a","12","75","2006","Chambertin Grand Cru, Clos de Beze, Bruno Clair","Clair (Bruno)","Grand Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","92","AM","An explosive and impressively broad nose combines the classic spiciness of a fine Clos de Bèze with a myriad of other nuances, including game, smoke, damp earth, red and blue berry fruit and touches of underbrush and a trace of wood toast that is also picked up on the rich, full and notably serious flavours that are both sweet and intense on the powerfully long finish that displays real size and weight. This is a big wine by the standards of the vintage and be prepared to let this beauty slumber for at least a decade, perhaps a bit more.","4090","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"ARMEPE03B6","1","n/a","6","75","2003","Pommard, Clos des Epeneaux, Comte Armand","Comte Armand","1er Cru","Pommard","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","Red","90","AM","The nose is very ripe yet there is solid freshness and no sense of prune or stewed notes, indeed it`s best described as extract of ripe pinot. The big, very concentrated, plumy flavours are blessed with buckets of pinot extract that buffer the firm tannic spine and extend out to a hugely long finish. This is definitely an atypical effort yet one that is most impressive anyway.","595","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"DARVBOND15B6","1","n/a","6","75","2015","Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru, Bondues, Darviot Perrin","Darviot Perrin","1er Cru","Chassagne-Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","Red","88-91","AM","Very ripe yet still reasonably fresh aromas of liqueur-like black cherry, pepper and earth lead to rich, full-bodied and solidly concentrated flavours that exhibit a hint of bitter cherry on the sneaky long finish. This isn`t elegant but it doesn`t lack for density and power.","300","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"MONTBPER15B12","1","n/a","12","75","2015","Beaune 1er Cru Les Perrieres, de Montille","de Montille","1er Cru","Beaune","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","Red","88","JM","DIAM 30. Beautiful purple colour with a sublime, elegant but still rich fruit to the nose, the bouquet is lovely for Beaune. The palate is a touch leaner than expected, and the acidity shows through a little firmly, with some greener notes. Tasted: September 2018","435","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"MONTMAL07B12","1","n/a","12","75","2007","Vosne-Romanee 1er Cru Les Malconsorts, de Montille","de Montille","1er Cru","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","93","AM","A spicy, pure and wonderfully elegant nose offers up plenty of floral character along with a plenitude of spice elements on the mostly red berry fruit scents that remain quite primary, which is not surprisingly given the large format bottling. There is a fine sense of vibrancy to the intensely mineral-driven middle weight flavours that possess solid mid-palate concentration as well as impeccably good balance on the balanced and Zen-like finale. This is not an especially big wine but I very much like the sense of harmony. Note that it will need plenty of time in bottle to reach its apogee in magnum.","4000","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"LAMMAL09B12","1","n/a","12","75","2009","Vosne-Romanee 1er Cru Les Malconsorts, Domaine Lamarche","Domaine Lamarche","1er Cru","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","93","AM","A noticeable if not really intrusive application of wood sets off the very ripe black fruit nose that is lavishly spiced and complements well the dense, serious and robustly powerful flavours that possess a very firm (but not aggressive) tannic spine that is pushed to the background by the extract-rich and impressively persistent finish. The velvety mouth feel is quite seductive yet the overall impression is one of a muscular wine very much in the vein of a classic Malconsorts.","3340","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"LAUCDV99M1","n/a","4","1","150","1999","Clos Vougeot, Dominique Laurent","Dominique Laurent","Grand Cru","Vougeot","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","88-91","AM","Austere and regal in its reserve yet the density is breathtaking. A good deal more structured than the Clos de la Roche and not nearly as forward yet there is more finesse here than most young Clos de Vougeots offer. Solid in every respect.","340","DP","1x150cl","RPK",
"LAURRUCH01B6","1","n/a","6","75","2001","Ruchottes-Chambertin Grand Cru, Dominique Laurent","Dominique Laurent","Grand Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","90","ST","Nearly mute on the nose today. Sweet, supply, creamy but I don`t get a sense of great concentration. The finish shows obvious wood tannins but avoids dryness. This does not seem to possess the matiere primaire of most of Laurent`s grand crus in 2001.","1800","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"DROUBEZ05B6","1","n/a","6","75","2005","Chambertin Grand Cru, Clos de Beze, Drouhin-Laroze","Drouhin-Laroze","Grand Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","93-95","AM","A pungent mix of wood spice, earth, red berry fruit, game, smoke and natural spice highlights the moderately sauvage character of the rich, full, refined and pure flavours underpinned by ripe and very firm tannins that culminate in an austere and very backward finish. This will require lots of cellar time to be at its best and like the Clos de Vougeot, this will be a long-distance runner.","1190","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"DUJCDR04B6","1","n/a","6","75","2004","Clos de la Roche, Dujac ","Dujac","Grand Cru","Morey St Denis","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","91","AM","A very densely fruited and wonderfully complex nose redolent of plum, red fruits, earth, game, smoke, underbrush and spice hints introduce impressively concentrated, textured and precise medium full flavours that stain the palate while coating it on the solidly persistent finish. This too is a serious and cool effort that will require ample time to arrive at its peak though it`s not quite as structured as the Bonnes Mares.","3600","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"MUGGVOS10B12","1","n/a","12","75","2010","Vosne-Romanee, Georges Mugneret/Mugneret-Gibourg","Georges Mugneret/Mugneret-Gibourg","AC","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","89","AM","Here the nose is actually similar to that of the Bourgogne though there are two small differences in that this is a bit more refined and slightly spicier as well. There is good richness and volume to the supple and admirably refined flavours that possess a seductive mouth feel and excellent length for a villages level wine. Moreover, this is a classic Vosne and altogether lovely.","4020","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"GRIVRIC01B6","1","n/a","6","75","2001","Richebourg, Grivot","Grivot","Grand Cru","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","93","AM","This is a remarkably complete wine with its astonishing combination of power and precision with none of the usual rusticity that often marks young Richebourg. A cornucopia of earthy, floral black and blueberry fruits introduces big, powerful, ultra intense extremely ripe flavours of jaw dropping intensity underpinned by forceful, ripe buried tannins and a mouth coating, dusty, beautifully textured finish. The complexity here is simply phenomenal and this should be capable of at least two decades or more of prime drinkability. A superb effort.","5355","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"GRIVSUC01B12","1","n/a","12","75","2001","Vosne-Romanee 1er Cru Les Suchots, Grivot","Grivot","1er Cru","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","90-93","AM","In contrast to the prior Vosne 1ers, this is much more aromatically opulent and expressive with intense, pure, unadulterated black fruits and sappy, large-scaled, wonderfully detailed, seductively complex flavours and striking length. This is more forward and less structured but the sheer class and harmony of this make for a complete wine.","3360","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"GROFBON06B6","1","n/a","6","75","2006","Bonnes Mares Grand Cru, Robert Groffier Pere et Fils","Groffier","Grand Cru","Chambolle-Musigny","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","90-93","AM","This too carries subtle wood toast coupled with a bit of wood spice that sets off the layered black fruit and slightly sauvage notes that are clearly picked up by the rich, full, muscled and notably powerful flavours that seemed less structured than they really are because of the velvety mouth feel and huge length. This is very fresh and energetic yet there is the classic young Bonnes Mares reserve which suggests that this will require the better part of a decade to reach full maturity, indeed perhaps even a bit longer.","2640","DP","6x75cl","OC",
"HBOILVOLCAIL13B12","1","n/a","12","75","2013","Volnay 1er Cru Caillerets, Henri Boillot","Henri Boillot","1er Cru","Volnay","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","Red","90","AM","A more restrained nose only grudgingly reveals its aromas of black pinot fruit, cinnamon, anise, exotic tea and cassis nuances. There is a beguiling texture to the energetic and overtly mineral-driven medium weight flavours that also display moderate austerity on the lingering finish that isn`t dry though there is a touch of asperity to it. My score assumes that this will eventually dissipate though it may require a few years first.","705","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"HERMAZ13B12","1","n/a","12","75","2013","Gevrey-Chambertin VV, Heresztyn-Mazzini","Heresztyn-Mazzini","AC","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","89-91","AM","This displays plenty of Gevrey character with its overtly sauvage aromas of warm earth, plum and humus. There is an abundance of old vine sap present on the medium-bodied flavours that buffers the moderately firm tannic spine on the firm and mildly rustic finale. I like the overall depth and this should also be approachable young yet reward 6 to 9 years of cellaring too. Recommended.","560","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"LIGNGCPER13B6","1","n/a","6","75","2013","Gevrey-Chambertin, La Perriere, Hubert Lignier","Hubert Lignier","1er Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","86","AM","An earthy and moderately somber nose features mostly notes of various red berries along with hints of underbrush and humus. There is good punch and detail to the lightly mineral-inflected flavours that exhibit a distinct edginess on the otherwise saline and lingering if slightly clipped finish. Most people will likely find the level of acidity too much for their liking as it imparts a distinct austerity and as such I would be disinclined to age this for very long.","440","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"LIGNMSDRIO12B6","1","n/a","6","75","2012","Morey St Denis 1er Cru La Riotte, Hubert Lignier","Hubert Lignier","1er Cru","Morey St Denis","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","90-92","AG","The 2012 Morey-St.-Denis La Riotte comes across as a bit more airy and floral than the Chaffots. Sweet floral notes meld into dark cherries, spices and sweet herbs. The mid-weight, lifted style seems best suited to near and medium term drinking.","530","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"HUDBAIBON13B3","1","n/a","3","75","2013","Bonnes Mares Grand Cru, Hudelot Baillet","Hudelot Baillet","Grand Cru","Chambolle-Musigny","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","93-95","NM","As usual, a tiny production of Bonnes-Mares, in 2013 just two barrels. The 2013 Bonnes Mares Grand Cru has a glorious bouquet, very pure with just the right amount of opulence: small black cherries, a touch of cassis, violets following later. The palate is very well balanced with fine tannins that have an edginess to them, neatly counterbalancing the opulence of the fruit. There is a superb spicy note near the finish that is long and mineral-driven. Superb, if just a shade off last year`s stunning 2012.","690","IB","3x75cl","OC",
"HUDBAICHARM05B12","1","n/a","12","75","2005","Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru Les Charmes, Hudelot Noellat","Hudelot Noellat","1er Cru","Chambolle-Musigny","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","88-91","AM","A superbly elegant red berry fruit nose, especially cherry and raspberry, that complement perfectly the supple, round and relatively easy middle weight flavours supported by dusty tannins and subtle minerality on the precise, punch, long and intense finish. The complexity however is limited as this is largely a fruit-driven wine at present, no matter how pretty.","3000","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"HUDRIC06B6","1","n/a","6","75","2006","Richebourg, Hudelot Noellat","Hudelot Noellat","Grand Cru","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","95","AM","(opened from personal storage). Still quite deeply colored. An intensely spicy and strikingly layered dark berry fruit nose displays only a trace of secondary character, indeed it`s almost hard to believe that this is already 15 years of age. There is excellent intensity to the tautly muscular, restrained but rich and mineral-inflected big-boned flavours that are supported by a firm tannic spine on the powerfully long and driving finish. This is still very much on the way up and while it could certainly be enjoyed now, particularly with some air, I would be inclined to wait for at least another 5ish years first as more improvement is almost certainly in the offing.","4800","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"HUDRSV05B6","1","n/a","6","75","2005","Romanee St. Vivant, Hudelot Noellat","Hudelot Noellat","Grand Cru","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","95","AM","A very densely fruited nose is composed mostly from the black side of the fruit spectrum along with notes of menthol, spice and Asian tea nuances. There is excellent concentration to the intense and attractively well-detailed middle weight flavours that possess a suave and highly seductive mouth feel before terminating in a mouth coating, complex and hugely long finish. This is an unusually powerful RSV that is less elegant than usual yet one that is still very much on the way up, indeed I would suggest allowing it at least another 5 to 7 years of celar time as it`s very much still a baby.","6950","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"HUDMAL05B1","n/a","6","1","75","2005","Vosne-Romanee 1er Cru Les Malconsorts, Hudelot-Noellat","Hudelot Noellat","1er Cru","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","91-93","AM","In a somewhat curious departure from all of the prior wines, the wood is borderline dominant and fights with the otherwise spicy and notably ripe black fruit nose that merges into rich, delicious and powerful flavours that possess plenty of punch and muscle on the exceptionally long finish. I asked for a second sample and it was much more balanced and more in keeping with the Hudelot style. I suspect with the impressive amount of dry extract present that once the final blend is made the oak will be successfully integrated and as such, my score awards the benefit of the doubt.","590","IB","1x75cl","OC12",
"PRIEUMUS05B6","1","n/a","6","75","2005","Le Musigny, Jacques Prieur","Jacques Prieur","Grand Cru","Chambolle-Musigny","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","93-96","AM","This is also exceptionally classy and refined with spicy and fresh black and blue berry fruit aromas that complement to perfection the rich, powerful and massive flavours that manage to retain a wonderful sense of detail on the almost sternly structured finish yet the sap buffers any austerity. This is a big Musigny but for all the size and weight, the balance is impeccable. Potentially the best wine in the range if only barely.","4200","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"JADBON00B6","1","n/a","6","75","2000","Bonnes Mares Grand Cru, Jadot","Jadot","Grand Cru","Chambolle-Musigny","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","92","AM","There is a vague whiff of reduction lurking in the background of the clearly ripe and moderately secondary nose that reflects notes of earth, sauvage and mostly dark berry fruit scents. There is excellent richness to the equally ripe and palate coating broad-shouldered flavours that coat the palate with dry extract, all wrapped in a robust, rustic and noticeably warm finale. The balance isn`t quite dialed in but this certainly can`t be faulted for a lack of character. As to the current state of evolution, it`s an open question as to whether the fruit will out live the tannins but I would be inclined to either serve it over the next few years with an appropriate dish or allow it another 6 to 8 years first to at least resolve some of the presently very grippy structure.","1090","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"JADECH05B6","1","n/a","6","75","2005","Echezeaux, Jadot","Jadot","Grand Cru","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","91-94","AM","An elegant, spicy and pure ripe red and black berry nose introduces sappy, rich, full and sweet big-boned flavours that are very Vosne in character as this is seductive, sweet and mouth coating on the velvety finish. There is real breed here and while Echezeaux is routinely criticized for not delivering a grand cru experience, this isn`t one of those examples as the material is persuasively impressive.","1330","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"JADMUS03B6","1","n/a","6","75","2003","Le Musigny, Jadot","Jadot","Grand Cru","Chambolle-Musigny","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","92-95","AM","While it is often extremely difficult to find, this may be vintage in and vintage out Jadot`s finest red and not surprisingly, only the Clos de Bèze really challenges it in `03. The immensely complex nose is backward, tight and brooding yet vigorous swirling reveals reluctant nose of violets, dark cherry and oriental spices that seamlessly merge into big, rich, opulent and exceptionally classy flavours that are round, sweet, deep and completely coat the palate on the powerfully long finish that goes on and on. The tannins are suave with a velvety texture and gorgeous mouth feel. A flat out superb effort that will age for decades.","4500","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"DROUMUS01B12","1","n/a","12","75","2001","Le Musigny, Joseph Drouhin","Joseph Drouhin","Grand Cru","Chambolle-Musigny","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","94","AM","The initial hints of bricking are present on the color. The moderately reticent nose reveals seriously lovely complexity and the barest hints of maturing fruit but otherwise it remains entirely primary with terrific spice and earth notes that merge into detailed and pure middle weight flavours that exude class and grace. As one would expect, the finish remains firmly but not aggressively structured and this is a wine that will require a minimum of another 5 years in bottle and it wouldn`t surprise me if 10 were required to really see this wine at its ultimate peak. Multiple, and consistent, notes save for one bottle that seemed very advanced on the nose with noticeably finishing dryness.","9960","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"LEMOIVRADM11M3","1","n/a","3","150","2011","Vosne-Romanee 1er Cru Au Dessus de Malconsort, Lucien Le Moine","Le Moine","1er Cru","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","91-93","AM","Reduction dominates the nose at present though there is good freshness to the finer and more obviously mineral-driven flavours that by contrast do not have the power, size, weight or muscle. Still, this is not without its own appeal as this is really quite refined and pure in addition to being well-balanced and solidly persistent.","1100","IB","3x150cl","OC",
"MOIMAL08B6","1","n/a","6","75","2008","Vosne-Romanee 1er Cru Aux Malconsorts, Lucien Le Moine","Le Moine","1er Cru","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","91-94","AM","This is very fresh, pure, spicy and ripe with a mix of red and black earth-infused aromas that introduce textured, sweet and layered full-bodied flavours that possess a taut muscularity and perfect balance on the strikingly long finish that seems to go on and on. As is its wont, this is a very serious effort built to age.","1500","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"MEOCOR13B6","1","n/a","3","75","2013","Corton, Perrieres, Meo Camuzet","Meo Camuzet","Grand Cru","Corton","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","Red","91-94","AM","Here the nose is mildly reduced though not so much that undertones of earth, sauvage and oak are hidden. There is excellent volume to the suave and mouth coating big-bodied flavours that possess evident power and minerality, all wrapped in an austere and lingering finish that is underpinned by a firm core of bright acidity. This is solidly structured at present but I suspect that it will be approachable after only 7 or 8 years.","585","IB","3x75cl","OC",
"MEOMUR09B6","1","n/a","6","75","2009","Nuits St Georges 1er Cru Murgers, Meo Camuzet","Meo Camuzet","1er Cru","Nuits St Georges","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","90-93","AM","A ripe, fresh and much more sauvage and classic Nuits nose of humus, earth and dark berry fruits that precedes rich, intense and rather suave medium-bodied flavours blessed with ample amounts of dry extract that smooth out the ever-so-slightly rustic and very firm tannins on the gorgeously long finish. This should age very well as the balance is spot on.","1730","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"MORTGEVVV09B6","1","n/a","6","75","2009","Gevrey-Chambertin VV, Domaine Denis Mortet","Mortet (Denis)","AC","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","89","AM","A floral and lightly spiced nose with an abundance of earth and very ripe dark berry fruit aromas introduces mocha-infused medium weight plus flavours that are rich, generous and impressively concentrated. There is a palate staining and lingering finish with good power and length and white this is notably ripe, it stops short of falling over into surmaturite.","900","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"MUGCHA08B6","1","n/a","6","75","2008","Chambolle-Musigny, JF Mugnier","Mugnier","AC","Chambolle-Musigny","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","89","AM","An exuberant, fresh and ultra pure essence of red berry fruit nose is nuanced by wet stone and herbal hints and leads to detailed and equally stony middle weight flavours that are still quite primary and supported by a firm but ripe acid spine and fine length. A classic Chambolle that should make for a lovely villages.","1990","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"LACHCDR05B6","1","n/a","6","75","2005","Clos de la Roche, Pascal Lachaux","Pascal Lachaux","Grand Cru","Morey St Denis","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","n/a","n/a","n/a","1570","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"LACHCSD06B6","1","n/a","6","75","2006","Clos St Denis, Pascal Lachaux","Pascal Lachaux","Grand Cru","Morey St Denis","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","89-91","AM","This sports an interesting contrast of upper and lower register aromatic elements with both cranberry and raspberry fruit notes layered with warm earth and a hint of the sauvage that can also be found on the detailed and deeper medium full flavours that deliver excellent if not truly exceptional length.","1500","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"MARBEZ11B6","1","n/a","6","75","2011","Chambertin Grand Cru, Clos de Beze, Pascal Marchand","Pascal Marchand","Grand Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","92-94","AM","This is appealingly fresh if quite reserved with subtle spice and stone notes characterizing the spicy red pinot and red currant infused nose. There is a highly sophisticated mouth feel to the complex and very classy flavours that possess well-integrated fine-grained tannins before culminating in a markedly persistent finish.","1640","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"MARCHAMB11B6","1","n/a","6","75","2011","Chambertin Grand Cru, Pascal Marchand","Pascal Marchand","Grand Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","92-95","AM","This is much more floral and not quite as spicy as the Bèze with relatively high-toned yet complex and serious notes of primarily stone-inflected wild red berries. There is outstanding intensity to the delicious, mouth coating and solidly well-concentrated medium-bodied flavours that exude a fine minerality on the superbly persistent, firm and austere finish. This is not quite as refined as the Bèze but it`s slightly more complex and a bit longer as well.","1600","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"MARCDV10B6","1","n/a","6","75","2010","Clos de Vougeot, Pascal Marchand","Pascal Marchand","Grand Cru","Vougeot","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","91-94","ST","(vinified with 30% whole clusters): Red cherry, orange zest and a sweaty note of cumin on the oak-spicy nose. Juicy and taut in the mouth, with dark cherry and spice flavours firmed by unerlying minerality. Very pure an dyouthfully imploded wine; less suave than the Echezeaux but more powerful. Finishes with substantial tongue-coating tannins and excellent length.","1060","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"MARCSD12B6","1","n/a","6","75","2012","Clos St Denis, Pascal Marchand","Pascal Marchand","Grand Cru","Morey St Denis","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","90-93","AM","A subtly spicy array of fresh red pinot and dark berry aromas is also liberally laced with earth and floral elements. There is a lovely refinement to the rich and pure medium weight flavours that brim with dry extract that buffers well the firm but not strict tannic spine on the dusty and balanced finish. This is very classy juice and while it doesn`t quite have the sheer depth of the best in the range, it is exceptionally pretty.","1000","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"MARSUC10B6","1","n/a","6","75","2010","Vosne-Romanee 1er Cru Les Suchots, Pascal Marchand","Pascal Marchand","1er Cru","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","92-95","ST","(all whole clusters; 50% new oak; from 60 year old vines in the upper part of the vineyeard, near Richebourg): Good bright red. Exhilarating aromas of red cherry, raspberry, citrus zest, cocoa powder and flowers. Complex and razor sharp, with tightly wound flavours of red berries, citrus peel and flowers. Really extraordinary brooding energy here. Almost painful on the very long, firmly tannin back end. This wonderfully precise wine is likely to require extended cellaring. Has the class of a grand cru.","900","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"PERMCMVV14B6","1","n/a","6","75","2014","Chambolle-Musigny VV, Perrot-Minot","Perrot-Minot","AC","Chambolle-Musigny","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","89-91","AM","This is also pure, elegant and airy with its perfumed array of rose petal, sandalwood, anise and essence of red pinot fruit. There is an ultra-fine mouth feel and plenty of minerality present on the well-delineated flavours that possess fine concentration before culminating in a clean, polished and beautifully well-balanced finale. The presence of so much 1er juice is evident as this is a classic Chambolle of lace and grace. Recommended.","400","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"PONSGRI06B6","1","n/a","6","75","2006","Griotte Chambertin, Ponsot","Ponsot","Grand Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","93","AM","Still quite deeply colored. An elegant, fresh and pure nose reflects only a whisper of secondary development on the softly spicy and earth red berry fruit-scented nose. There is a lovely sense of energy to the utterly delicious and fleshy medium-bodied flavours that exude evident minerality on the long if slightly warm finish. This is very clearly still very much evolving though that is no surprise in magnum format.","1750","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"PONMSDCA08B6","1","n/a","6","75","2008","Morey St Denis, Cuvee Alouettes, Ponsot","Ponsot","1er Cru","Morey St Denis","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","91-93","AM","A ripe but brooding and very primary nose of plum, earth and a sauvage hint that can also be found on the extremely rich and full bodied flavours that are supported by very firm tannins and an impeccably balanced finish of stunning length. In the last few years, this has consistently delivered outstanding quality and is well worth considering.","890","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"POTCECH02B12","1","n/a","12","75","2002","Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru Aux Echanges, Nicolas Potel","Potel","1er Cru","Chambolle-Musigny","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","86-88","AM","The first wines to display noticeable oak spice with densely fruit red fruit aromas followed by slightly rustic flavours and decent length. Still, at present the oak sits above the flavours and the prominent tannins below and one wonders whether they will ever successfully integrate.","1200","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"POTLAT02B6","1","n/a","6","75","2002","Latricieres Chambertin, Nicolas Potel","Potel","Grand Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","n/a","n/a","n/a","1200","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"POTVOLCHAMP05B6","1","n/a","6","75","2005","Volnay 1er Cru Champans, Nicolas Potel","Potel","1er Cru","Volnay","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","Red","90-92","AM","Deep ruby. Strong reduction hides the nose but it`s clear that the fruit underlying the funk is exceptionally ripe and this ripeness also characterizes the rich, supple and forward flavours that are much more refined and I like the mouth feel as there are refined tannins and plenty of the classic minerality on the persistent finish.","420","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"ROCHCHAM08B6","1","n/a","6","75","2008","Chambertin Grand Cru, Roche de Bellene","Roche de Bellene","Grand Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","n/a","n/a","n/a","990","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"ROCHCHAM09B6","1","n/a","6","75","2009","Chambertin, Roche de Bellene","Roche de Bellene","Grand Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","93-93","AM","Moderate wood toast sets off earth and very cool mineral-laced red currant, plum and underbrush-infused aromas that complement well the supple and generous flavours that culminate in a linear and persistent finish where the wood resurfaces. The structural elements are very firm, indeed to the point where this is borderline strict, which in and of itself is not unusual for Chambertin but it is unusual within the context of the 2009 vintage.","990","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"ROCHCDR08B6","1","n/a","6","75","2008","Clos de la Roche, Roche de Bellene","Roche de Bellene","Grand Cru","Morey St Denis","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","n/a","n/a","n/a","570","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"ROCHCDR10B6","1","n/a","6","75","2010","Clos de la Roche, Roche de Bellene","Roche de Bellene","Grand Cru","Morey St Denis","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","n/a","n/a","n/a","685","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"ROCHLSJ12B6","1","n/a","6","75","2012","Gevrey-Chambertin, Lavaux Saint Jacques, Maison Roche de Bellene","Roche de Bellene","1er Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","90-92","AM","Generous wood fights somewhat with the ripe and fresh aromas of wild red berries that display a top note of menthol. There is excellent volume and concentration to the lightly mineral-inflected middle weight flavours that possess good power on the mocha-infused and highly persistent finish. This is a bit woody for my taste but the underlying material is in place to eventually absorb it.","385","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"ROCHMAZ12B6","1","n/a","6","75","2012","Mazis-Chambertin, Roche de Bellene","Roche de Bellene","Grand Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","94","AM","This is even more aromatically complex with its highly spiced nose of floral elements, earth, sauvage hints along with ripe but fresh dark berry fruit liqueur scents. The spice continues onto the intensely mineral-driven big-bodied flavours that possess superb concentration and terrific vibrancy, all wrapped in a hugely long finish. This is very impressive.","725","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"ROUMAM01B1","n/a","3","1","75","2001","Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru Amoureuses, Roumier ","Roumier","1er Cru","Chambolle-Musigny","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","n/a","n/a","n/a","2500","DP","1x75cl","RPK",
"ROUMCRAS08B12","1","n/a","12","75","2008","Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru Les Cras, Domaine G Roumier ","Roumier","1er Cru","Chambolle-Musigny","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","91","AM","Here there is no reduction and the cool, airy and pure red pinot fruit and stone notes dissolve seamlessly into the equally mineral-driven, detailed and precise medium-bodied flavours that are at once seductive yet nervy with a silky mouth feel and really lovely focus on the tension-filled finish. Roumier always seems to succeed with this wine and the `08 version is no exception. I would give this 7 to 9 years in the cellar first.","7200","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"ROUSCSJ03B6","1","n/a","6","75","2003","Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru Clos St Jacques, Armand Rousseau Pere et Fils","Rousseau","1er Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","92","AM","A ripe but reasonably cool combination reflects notes of red and dark berry aromas where background aromas of earth, forest floor and discreet spice nuances. The exceptionally ripe, concentrated and powerful large-scaled flavors that coat the palate with
sappy dry extract, all wrapped in a grippy, background and slightly warm finish. This is a very good 2003 but I confess that it is not what I personally look for in fine Clos St. Jacques. I would further note however that I have had some bottle variation with this
wine as a bottle tried in 2017 was sufficiently bretty as to be undrinkable, at least for me.","7200","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"ROUSCHAM11B6","1","n/a","6","75","2011","Gevrey-Chambertin, Armand Rousseau Pere et Fils","Rousseau","AC","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","88-91","AM","There is a touch of reduction to the nose that takes out the top part of the red berry fruit and earth aromatic profile. There is a restrained character to the cool and pure flavours that are supported by notably fine-grained tannins on the clean, balanced and ever-so-mildly austere finish.","1960","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"TAUPBELAIR13B6","1","n/a","6","75","2013","Gevrey-Chambertin, Bel Air, Taupenot-Merme","Taupenot-Merme","1er Cru","Gevrey-Chambertin","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","91","AM","This is also cool and airy with its classic Gevrey nose of earth, underbrush and humus nuances that add breadth to the ripe mix of both red and dark berry aromas that are trimmed in hints of green tea. There is evident minerality on the detailed, intense and delicious medium-bodied flavours that possess fine depth on the balanced and beautifully lingering finish. Lovely and this sleek effort should age well.","370","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"TAUPPRUL10B6","1","n/a","6","75","2010","Nuits St George, Les Pruliers, Taupenot-Merme","Taupenot-Merme","1er Cru","Nuits St Georges","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","92","AM","A densely fruited and notably ripe mix of red currant, plum, cassis and plenty of pungent and warm earth influence. The density continues onto the impressive concentrated medium weight plus flavours that possess good power and a plenitude of dry extract that confers a velvety palate impression, all wrapped into the mouth coating, explosive and outstandingly long finish. This is firmly structured, indeed it`s presently quite chewy, yet strikingly complex effort is excellent and well worth a look. In short, this is a classic Nuits that should amply reward long-term cellaring.","560","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"TLIGNSGSG13B6","1","n/a","6","75","2013","Nuits St Georges 1er Cru Les St Georges, Thibault Liger-Belair","Thibault Liger-Belair","1er Cru","Nuits St Georges","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","93","AM","A floral, cool and restrained nose once again only reluctantly offers up notes of plum, red berries and pungent earth that exhibits barely discernible hints of wood spice. There is good muscle to the powerful and almost painfully intense big-bodied flavours that offer excellent richness and drive on the strikingly long, well-balanced and beautifully well-delineated finish. This moderately austere effort should be excellent if you have the patience to wait.","510","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"VERDVOS15B6","1","n/a","6","75","2015","Vosne-Romanee, VV, Verdet","Verdet","AC","Vosne-Romanee","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","Red","n/a","n/a","n/a","360","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"ARAUALT11B6","1","n/a","6","75","2011","Altagracia, Winery Direct Cuvee Red, Araujo Estate","Araujo Estate","n/a","n/a","Napa Valley","California","USA","Red","n/a","n/a","n/a","650","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"ARAUEISC06B6","1","n/a","6","75","2006","Eisele Vineyard, Cabernet Sauvignon, Araujo Estate","Araujo Estate","n/a","n/a","Napa Valley","California","USA","Red","94","CellarTracker","Deep color and lots of deep fruit in the nose and flavour. Not a big wine but very well balanced and an incredibly smooth medium to long finish. Does not have the same level of complexity as experienced in some other vintages, but still a very enjoyable food wine.","1200","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"LONGCS97B6","1","n/a","6","75","1997","Cabernet Sauvignon, Long Meadow Ranch","Long Meadow Ranch","n/a","n/a","Napa Valley","California","USA","Red","88","ST","Good bright red-ruby colour. Cassis, black cherry, plum syrup, licorice, bitter chocolate and leather on the nose; reminded me of Saint-Julien. Concentrated and rather powerful, with slightly inky flavours of cassis and dark chocolate and a faint herbal streak. Dense and solidly built. Finishes with strong, tongue-dusting tannins.","700","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"VIADV00B6","1","n/a","6","75","2000",""V", Viader","Viader","n/a","n/a","n/a","California","USA","Red","90","ST","(a blend of 63% cabernet sauvignon and 37% cabernet franc) Bright ruby red. Aromatic nose combines currant, black raspberry, violet, dark chocolate and sexy oak tones. Soft and appealing, with moderate density and firm acidity. Finishes with dusty, light tannins and very good length and grip. Slightly disjointed today, in need of a year or so to absorb its acidity.","400","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"FALMON01B6","1","n/a","6","75","2001","Montiano, Falesco","Falesco","n/a","n/a","n/a","Lazio","Italy","Red","93","TWA","The 2001 Montiano, 100% Merlot, offers the luxuriously sweet and expansive nose which has always characterized the wine. Full of plum, raspberry, and dark chocolate scents, along with a dense, deep, and velvety palate, it is full and round, with the super-polished tannins which make it one of Italys touchstone Merlot bottlings.","190","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"KUSUDAPN11B6","1","n/a","6","75","2011","Kusuda Pinot Noir, Kusuda","Kusuda","n/a","n/a","n/a","Martinborough","New Zealand","Red","93+","TWA","Pale ruby-colored, the 2011 Pinot Noir is a very different but equally impressive style to the 2010 vintage and gives a wonderfully perfumed nose of red roses, lavender and violets over a core of kirsch and raspberry coulis. The palate offers beautiful elegance and finesse with a seamless line of uplifting acid and low level of silky tannins before finishing with excellent length. ","1100","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"MITSAV02B6","1","n/a","6","75","2002","Savitar Shriaz, Mitolo","Mitolo","n/a","n/a","n/a","McLaren Vale","Australia","Red","94-96","RP","The saturated blue/purple coloured 2002 Shiraz Savitar offers gorgeous aromas of white flowers, liquid minerals, blackberries, blueberries, earth, and tree bark. Ripe and full bodied, with great intensity, this prodigious effort will require 2 3 years of cellaring. Anticipated maturity: 2006 2018. Barrel samples of three 2002s revealed tremendous potential in what appears to be the finest efforts Mitolo has yet produced. There are 300 400 cases of each, and all three are scheduled to be bottled in October. Kudos to young importer (31 years old!) Ben Hammerschlag for unearthing these potential superstars.","215","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"PAHMER07B6","1","n/a","6","75","2007","Merlot, Pahlmeyer","Pahlmeyer","n/a","n/a","n/a","Napa","USA","Red","93","TWA","Medium to deep garnet in color with a touch of purple, the 2007 Merlot reveals quite an earthy nose of damp soil, fungi, mossy bark and fallen leaves over a core of sauteed herbs, stewed plums and dried mulberries. The full-bodied palate offers mouth-filling black fruit preserves laced with herbal accents and with a soft texture, finishing with great freshness.","900","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"SHAFHIL08B6","1","n/a","6","75","2008","Shafer Vineyards, Hillside Select, Cabinet Sauvignon, Stags Leap District","Shafer","n/a","n/a","Stags Leap","Napa","USA","Red","96","AG","The estates 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Hillside Select is one of those rare wines that looks like it will be absolutely delicious pretty much at any point in its life. Super-refined and silky, the 2008 caresses the palate with layers of deeply expressive dark fruit. The 2008 is a wine of exceptional textural finesse and pedigree. According to Doug Shafer, cool weather in the spring resulted in small clusters with high skin to juice ratios, always a plus for high quality wines. Today the 2008 does not look like a huge Hillside Select, but is rather a wine built on polish and elegance. It will be interesting to see if the 2008 fills out in bottle, or it remains more restrained in its personality","1145","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"CONTBARBCF15B12","1","n/a","12","75","2015","Barbera d`Alba Cascina Francia, Giacomo Conterno ","Conterno (Giacomo)","n/a","Barbera","Barbera","Piedmont","Italy","Red","94","TWA","Boasting immediate depth and dimension, the 2015 Barbera d`Alba Vigna Francia is a commanding and confident wine. Tasted from barrel, the wine`s color is dense and very dark. Youthful fruit tones of blackberry confit and black currant give the wine a solid aromatic foundation. That base creates an appropriate framework for ethereal notes of licorice, black olive, spice and campfire ash. It is very difficult to achieve this level of complexity with Barbera, but Roberto Conterno does so with flawless perfection. The mouthfeel is round and plump, but the opulence of the wine is also reined in by its lively acidity.","535","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"CONFANSGIN04B6","1","n/a","6","75","2004","Barolo Sori Ginestra, Conterno-Fantino","Conterno-Fantino","n/a","Barolo","Barolo","Piedmont","Italy","Red","96","AG","Conterno-Fantino have once again produced one of the vintages finest wines with their stunning 2004 Barolo Sori Ginestra, which is just as impressive in bottle as it has been on the several occasions I have tasted it from barrel. This explosive, heady Barolo bursts onto the palate with seamless layers of ripe dark fruit, black cherries, menthol, cinnamon, pine and minerals, revealing profound depth and richness. It offers superb length, gorgeous, sweet tannins and a finish that lasts forever. Although it is a surprisingly accessible Sori Ginestra at this stage, I expect it will close down at some point in the near future. Readers who have an opportunity to taste this wine in the next few months should not hesitate to do so. This is a remarkable Barolo in every way","495","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"MASCBMP07B6","1","n/a","6","75","2007","Barolo Monprivato, Guiseppe Mascarello","Mascarello (Guiseppe)","DOCG","Barolo","Barolo","Piedmont","Italy","Red","97","AG","The 2007 Barolo Monprivato is stunningly beautiful. Monprivato is seldom this rich when it is young. It is most often intensely aromatic, mid-weight and frequently out of balance, especially right after bottling. The 2007 is none of those things. It is a rich, dramatic wine endowed with tons of fruit and a sweeping, enveloping personality. It is also primary and at the beginning of what is likely to be a long, long life. Despite its seeming fragility, Monprivato is one of the most long-lived of all Baroli, even in its weakest vintages. The 2007 is spectacular, but it is very, very young and in need of significant cellaring to shed some its baby fat. Purists may prefer the 2006. I have not tasted both wines side by side from bottle, but 10 years from now it wont matter. Readers will be thrilled to own either. In 2007 Mascarello opted not to bottle his Riserva Ca dMorissio as he didnt think there was a huge difference between the Riserva and the straight Monprivato. I guess we will never know for sure, although my barrel tastings have always suggested otherwise. In any event, savvy readers know what happens when there is no Ca dMorissio in a good to great vintage. Recent examples include the 1999 and 2005. By now, its pretty clear the direction those wines have taken. Barolo lovers will not want to be without the 2007 Monprivato. It is a stratospheric Barolo in the making. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2037.","810","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"SANDCAN98B6","1","n/a","6","75","1998","Barolo Cannubi Boschis, Sandrone","Sandrone","n/a","Barolo","Barolo","Piedmont","Italy","Red","94-96","RP","The deep ruby/purple-colored 1998 Barolo Cannubi Boschis boasts a spectacular bouquet of mineral-infused black cherry liqueur, new saddle leather, and pain grille. This powerful, ripe 1998 offers full-bodied flavours, silky tannin, low acidity, gorgeous levels of glycerin, and a creamy mouthful of complex, layered, superbly pure Nebbiolo fruit. ","1150","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"SANDVIG98B6","1","n/a","6","75","1998","Barolo Le Vigne, Sandrone","Sandrone","n/a","Barolo","Barolo","Piedmont","Italy","Red","95","RP","The multidimensional 1998 Barolo Le Vigne possesses huge layers of black cherry fruit infused with rose petals, tar, balsam wood, mineral, and subtle new oak notes. Full-bodied, awesomely concentrated, and extraordinarily pure.","840","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"SCAVFIA00B12","1","n/a","12","75","2000","Barolo, Bric del Fiasc, Paolo Scavino","Scavino","n/a","Barolo","Barolo","Piedmont","Italy","Red","98","JS","Very, very ripe fruit with strawberries and plums galore. Turns to Indian spices and cedar. Full bodied with an exquisite palate of ultra ripe tannins that turn to velvet. long, long finish. Cashmere. Great from barrel, great from bottle. This is the best Bric del Fiasc ever. 98 Points, James Suckling","1200","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"SCAVFIA06B12","1","n/a","12","75","2006","Barolo, Bric del Fiasc, Paolo Scavino","Scavino","n/a","Barolo","Barolo","Piedmont","Italy","Red","98","AG","The 2006 Barolo Bric del Fiasc is a dramatic, sweeping wine that bursts onto the palate in a powerful expression of this Castiglione Falletto vineyard. Dark red fruits, smoke and grilled herbs are just some of the nuances that come to life as this imposing, focused Barolo opens up in the glass. Today, the wine is a touch austere, but in a few years the structure should fill out nicely. It is impossible to ignore the sheer pedigree and class here.","1050","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"SCAVCAN06B12","1","n/a","12","75","2006","Barolo, Cannubi, Paolo Scavino","Scavino","n/a","Barolo","Barolo","Piedmont","Italy","Red","94","AG","Scavino`s 2006 Barolo Cannubi opens with an attractive, finely-knit bouquet that leads to an open, soft core of perfumed fruit. Rich, and expansive on the palate, this textured, vivid Barolo reveals terrific length on the palate and finessed tannins that inform the silky finish. Though medium in body, the wine packs plenty of punch and is almost certain to put on weight in the bottle.","1200","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"BEAUCDP00B12","1","n/a","12","75","2000","Chateauneuf du Pape, Beaucastel","Beaucastel","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","94","RP",""Super-ripe blackberry and cassis fruit dominate the 2000`s aromatics. Reminiscent of a fuller, beefier version of the 1985, this low acid, accessible Beaucastel is likely to be bottled earlier than normal according to Francois Perrin. A classic blend of 30% grenache, 30% mourvedre, 10% syrah, 10% counoise with the remainder misc varietals, this deep ruby purple coloured 2000 possesses a sweet nose dominated by black fruits, loads of glycerin, full body, and superb purity. It will be atypically delicious young, yet will last 15-20 years."","685","DP","12x75cl","OC",
"BEAUCDP03B6","1","n/a","6","75","2003","Chateauneuf du Pape, Beaucastel","Beaucastel","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","92+","RP","The 2003 Beaucastel Chateauneuf du Pape turned out as well as I could have hoped and is certainly an outstanding wine, deep ruby/purple with a tight but promising nose of black fruits, loamy, earthy notes intermixed with pepper, smoke, licorice, and dried herbs. The wine is somewhat closed in the mouth (but it had been bottled 30 days prior to my visit), has full bodied, moderately high, slightly rustic tannins, but big-impact flavours with plenty of texture, density, and purity. Give this wine 3-5 years of bottle age, and drink it over the following 20 years.","325","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"BEAUCDP08M6","1","n/a","6","150","2008","Chateauneuf du Pape, Beaucastel","Beaucastel","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","93","WS","Ripe and very sleek, with a dense core of cassis, blackberry and anise framed by violet and spice. The long finish drips with juicy fruit and subtle toast, with a flash of iron boding well for cellaring. Shows great freshness and balance for the vintage. Drink now through 2024. 9,166 cases made.","495","IB","6x150cl","OC",
"CHAPBRAC08B6","1","n/a","6","75","2008","Chateauneuf du Pape, Barbe Rac, M. Chapoutier","Chapoutier","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","91","VM","Ruby-red. Bright, high-pitched red and dark berries on the nose, with a complex array of floral and spice qualities gaining strength with air. Lively, focused and alluringly sweet, with deep but spirited raspberry and cherry flavours and a nervy mineral spine. The finish leaves spice and floral notes behind, along with a hint of rose pastille.","325","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"CHAPCROZVAR07B6","1","n/a","6","75","2007","Crozes-Hermitage Les Varonniers, M. Chapoutier","Chapoutier","AC","Crozes Hermitage","Northern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","90-92","RP","The 2007 Crozes-Hermitage Les Varonnieres is a lighter effort displaying an attractive deep ruby/purple hue as well as outstanding concentration and purity, but not quite the weight and nuances of the 2006. More flattering and upfront stylistically, it should drink well for 15 years.","300","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"NERTCDCAD98B6","1","n/a","6","75","1998","Chateauneuf du Pape, Cuvee des Cadettes, Chateau La Nerthe","Chateau La Nerthe","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","96","TWA","Possibly the greatest vintage ever for this cuvee (we`ll see if the 2010 tops it in another decade), the 1998 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee des Cadettes is up with the creme de la creme of the vintage. Still fresh, concentrated and lively, with medium to full-bodied richness and polished tannin, it reveals a vibrant ruby color to go with tons of garrigue, leather, chocolate, cured meats and spice. A blend of 37% Mourvedre, 36% Grenache and the rest Syrah that spent 12 months in small barrels followed by six months in tank, it`s an incredible, modern-styled Chateauneuf du Pape that`s drinking spectacularly today.","595","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"CAILCDP01B6","1","n/a","6","75","2001","Chateauneuf du Pape, Domaine Clos du Caillou","Clos du Caillou","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","92","RP","The deep ruby/purple-colored 2001 Chateauneuf du Pape possesses a big, exotic nose of Asian spices, incense, ground pepper, blackberries, kirsch, and licorice with a notion of smoke in the background. This layered, medium to full-bodied, supple-textured, gorgeously proportioned Chateauneuf du Pape can be drunk now as well as over the next 10-12 years. Perhaps the biggest sleeper selection from Domaine du Caillou is their Les Quarts cuvee. This offering is frequently over-looked, but every time I have it, whether it`s the 2001, 2000, or 1999, it is stunning.","280","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"CAILQUA00B6","1","n/a","6","75","2000","Chateauneuf du Pape, Les Quartz, Domaine Clos du Caillou","Clos du Caillou","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","94","RP","The 2000 Chateauneuf du Pape Les Quartz is beautiful as well, with complex garrigue, spiced meats, bouquet garni and pepper emerging from the glass. It has a full-bodied, open, sexy and yet concentrated feel on the palate, and I love its overall purity of fruit. While its more evolved than the 2001, it should cruise for another couple of years, although certainly, there is no reason to hold off.","360","DP","6x75cl","OC",
"CAILQUA03B12","1","n/a","12","75","2003","Chateauneuf du Pape, Les Quartz, Domaine Clos du Caillou","Clos du Caillou","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","94","TWA","As expected, the 2003 Chateauneuf du Pape Les Quartz is a ripe, exuberant effort. Plum, figs, licorice, roasted herbs and roasted meats are just some of the nuances here, and it has full-bodied richness, good concentration and sweet tannin. Drink it over the coming couple of years.","600","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"CAILQUA04B12","1","n/a","12","75","2004","Chateauneuf du Pape, Les Quartz, Domaine Clos du Caillou","Clos du Caillou","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","93","TWA","Similar to when I tasted it late last year, the 2004 Chateauneuf du Pape Les Quartz offers pretty kirsch and red currants, spice, saddle leather and herbes de Provence in its full-bodied, balanced, nicely concentrated and even elegant style. In short, its a classic Chateauneuf thats drinking at point.","355","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"CAILSAF05B12","1","n/a","12","75","2005","Chateauneuf du Pape, Les Safres, Domaine Clos du Caillou","Clos du Caillou","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","92","TWA","I loved the two 2005s from Clos du Caillou and this team knocked it out of the park in this vintage. The 2005 Chateauneuf du Pape les Safres is still inky colored, with fabulous aromas and flavours of sweet blackberries, currants, toasted spice, camphor and licorice. Full-bodied, ripe and layered, with sweet tannin, this is a borderline fruit bomb that dishes out loads of pleasure. Much more open and exuberant than when I tasted it earlier this year, it should continue to shine for another 5-7 years.","360","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"CAILCRES04B12","1","n/a","12","75","2004","Chateauneuf du Pape, Reserve, Domaine Clos du Caillou","Clos du Caillou","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","94","TWA","In stark contrast, the 2004 Chateauneuf du Pape Reserve Le Clos du Caillou was open for business, with a perfumed, layered and balanced profile that was begging to be drunk. Made from 60% Grenache and 40% Mourvedre, it offers plenty of black raspberry, chocolate, spring flowers and spice, full-bodied richness, and a multi-dimensional, layered and seamless style. Drink it over the coming decade. ","720","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"JEANCDP10B12","1","n/a","12","75","2010","Chateauneuf du Pape, Clos Saint-Jean","Clos St Jean","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","93","RP","The classic-styled 2010 Chateauneuf du Pape exhibits plenty of kirsch, Christmas fruitcake, pepper, spice box, smoked herbs and loads of raspberry and black cherry fruit. It is a full-bodied, slightly more reserved and less exuberant effort than the 2007 was at a similar age. It will benefit from 2-3 years of bottle age, and last for 10-15 years.","350","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"JANCDPVV00B12","1","n/a","12","75","2000","Chateauneuf du Pape, Vieilles Vignes, Domaine de la Janasse","Domaine de la Janasse","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","97","TWA","The 2000 Chateauneuf du Pape Vieilles Vignes is even better, with another layer of texture and depth. Chocolate-laced fruits, cured meats, spice, crushed rock and sweet spice all show from this perfumed, up-front, sweetly fruited Chateauneuf, and it still has a core of concentrated fruit and solid tannin structure. I see no reason to hold off, but it too will thrill over the coming 3-5 years.","750","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"MORDBOIS04B6","1","n/a","6","75","2004","Chateauneuf du Pape, Cuvee de la Reine des Bois, Domaine de la Mordoree","Domaine de la Mordoree","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","94","RP","The 2004 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee de la Reine des Bois is also a beauty full-bodied, not as tannic as most young vintages of this cuvee tend to be, with an inky ruby/purple color and a beautiful sweet nose of smoked meats, creme de cassis, raspberries, licorice, graphite, and camphor. Full-bodied, ripe, with moderately sweet tannin, this is a wine that uncharacteristically can be drunk at a relatively early age for Mordoree but should last for 10-15 years.","265","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"MORDLIRRDB07B6","1","n/a","6","75","2007","Lirac, Cuvee de la Reine des Bois, Domaine de la Mordoree","Domaine de la Mordoree","AC","Lirac","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","94","RP","The outrageously superb 2007 Lirac La Reine des Bois (equal parts Grenache, Mourvedre, and Syrah) may be the finest wine Delorme has yet made. Its dense purple color is accompanied by a sumptuous perfume of black fruits, licorice, earth, and pepper. The fruit quality is deep, textured, and pure, and the 35-second finish is superb. This knock-out wine should drink well for 7-8 years.","210","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"CNDPVJ05B12","1","n/a","12","75","2005","Chateauneuf du Pape, Domaine de la Vieille Julienne","Domaine de la Vieille Julienne","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","95","TWA","The most masculine and structured of the group, the 2005 Chateauneuf du Pape is locked and loaded, with serious concentration, big tannin and no shortage of length on the finish. Coming from a year that featured a cool summer and then scorching temps around harvest, this beauty doles out loads of creme de cassis, licorice, graphite and crushed rock-like minerality, as well as a seamless, perfectly balanced profile. Give it another 2-3 years and drink it through 2025.","480","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"CNDPVJ07B12","1","n/a","12","75","2007","Chateauneuf du Pape, Domaine de la Vieille Julienne","Domaine de la Vieille Julienne","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","95","RP","While the beautiful 2007 Chateauneuf du Pape is already accessible, it will benefit from 2-3 years of cellaring, and should last for two decades or more. It exhibits an inky/ruby/purple color, a great texture, and a gorgeous nose of boysenberries, blueberries, blackberries, acacia flowers, licorice, and incense. There is wonderful freshness and vibrancy (because of the good acids) as well as a terrific finish. Jean-Paul Dauman is one of a handful of Chateauneuf du Pape proprietors who believes his 2005s are better than what he produced in 2007, and I find it difficult to disagree relative to this estate`s wines. True lovers of Chateauneuf du Pape will probably want to have both vintages in their cellars.","450","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"PEGCAP98B12","1","n/a","12","75","1998","Chateauneuf du Pape, Cuvee Laurence, Domaine du Pegau","Domaine du Pegau","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","93","TWA","A classic, old-school style of Chateauneuf du Pape, Laurence`s 1998 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Laurence is more mature and evolved than the Cuvee Reservee and shows lots of saddle leather, dried herbs and cedar in its core of kirsch and mulled blackberry fruit. Mouth-filling, concentrated, powerful and rustic, it should be consumed over the coming 5+ years or so. At this point, I prefer the fresher, more seamless and polished feel of the Cuvee Reservee.","1320","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"GVENORI03B12","1","n/a","12","75","2003","Chateauneuf du Pape, Les Origines, Domaine Grand Veneur","Domaine Grand Veneur","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","95","RP","The 2003 Chateauneuf du Pape Les Origines is dazzling stuff and one of the vintages top efforts. Deep purple to the rim with a gorgeous nose of blackberry liqueur intermixed with blueberries, smoke, licorice, roasted meats, and herbs, the wine has fabulous concentration, a multi-layered mid-palate, and a blockbuster finish with sweet tannin and plenty of opulence.","395","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"GVENORI07B6","1","n/a","6","75","2007","Chateauneuf du Pape, Les Origines, Domaine Grand Veneur","Domaine Grand Veneur","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","93","TWA","The full-bodied 2007 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee les Origines continues to drink well, although I don`t expect it to get any better than it is now. Hints of hoisin sauce and leather accent plummy fruit in this plush, creamy, luxurious example of Chateauneuf du Pape. This sort of welcoming generosity is why the appellation has won so many fans over the ages.","175","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"GVENCDPVV06B12","1","n/a","12","75","2006","Chateauneuf du Pape, Vieilles Vignes, Domaine Grand Veneur","Domaine Grand Veneur","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","97","TWA","The first vintage for the cuvee, the 2006 Chateauneuf du Pape Vieilles Vignes is a blockbuster thats up with the top two to three wines of the vintage. Giving up terrific notes of blackberries, currants, bouquet garni, licorice and a kiss of barrique, this beauty is full-bodied, has stunning purity of fruit, sweet tannin, and an overall elegant feel that belies its underlying concentration and density. Made from 50% Grenache, 40% Mourvèdre and 10% Syrah that spent 16 months in equal parts concrete tanks and smaller barrels, its a thrill ride of a drink today, but has another 10-15 years of overall longevity.","570","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"GAILCRBB03B12","1","n/a","12","75","2003","Cote Rotie Brune et Blonde, Gaillard","Gaillard","AC","Cote Rotie","Northern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","n/a","n/a","n/a","900","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"GAILROS05B12","1","n/a","12","75","2005","Cote Rotie Rose Pourpre, Gaillard","Gaillard","AC","Cote Rotie","Northern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","91+","RP","The 2005 Cote Rotie Rose Pourpre, from the Rozier site on pure schist, is fabulous. Deep ruby/purple with notes of blackberries, anise, pain grille, tar, and flowers, the wine is full-bodied, pure, ripe, intensely concentrated, and superbly etched and structured. ","960","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"BARRFIA05B6","1","n/a","6","75","2005","Chateauneuf du Pape, Fiancee, La Barroche","La Barroche","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","90+","TWA","Still tight and backward, the 2005 Chateauneuf du Pape Fiancee (50/50 Grenache and barrel-aged Syrah) was showing its oak elevage on this occasion, yet had terrific cassis, blackberry, graphite and leathery aromas and flavours that developed with time in the glass. Modern-styled, balanced and fresh, it`s still youthfully concentrated and structured on the palate and will be a long-lived Chateauneuf du Pape. It needs another year or two in the cellar and will drink nicely over the following decade.","300","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"BARRFIA06B6","1","n/a","6","75","2006","Chateauneuf du Pape, Fiancee, La Barroche","La Barroche","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","92+","TWA","Harvest before the rains and hitting a whopping 16.2% alcohol, the 2006 Chateauneuf du Pape Fiancee (an equal split of Grenache and Syrah) certainly has a modern flair, but is nevertheless a smoking effort that`s loaded with notions of cassis, blackberry, truffle, olive tapenade and pepper. Big, voluptuous, concentrated and full-bodied, it`s still young and unevolved, and will have more than two decades of overall longevity.","280","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"BARRFIA07B6","1","n/a","6","75","2007","Chateauneuf du Pape, Fiancee, La Barroche","La Barroche","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","92","TWA","In the same league as the `06, the 2007 Chateauneuf du Pape Fiancee is the same blend of equal parts Grenache and Syrah that saw the Grenache aged in tank and the Syrah in 1- and 2-year-old barrels. Showing the incredibly perfumed style of the vintage, with tons of smoked meats, sweet blackberry fruit, liquid pepper and leather, this full-bodied, hedonistic and voluptuous effort doesn`t pull any punches, yet always stays balanced, pure and nicely focused. It`s a fun drink already, but given the mid-palate depth and overall concentration, it will still be drink nicely at age 20.","295","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"BARRSIG06B12","1","n/a","12","75","2006","Chateauneuf du Pape, Signature, La Barroche","La Barroche","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","92","TWA","The first vintage where the name was changed from Reserve to Signature, the 2006 Chateauneuf du Pape Signature shows more purity and freshness than the `03-`05 releases. Julien commented that he found the older releases rustic, and started in 2006 to use less old foudre and to focus on cleaning up the cellar with the goal of getting more purity in the wine. This 2006 has terrific depth and full-bodied richness, classic black cherry, blackberry, licorice and spice aromas and flavours and an elegant, layered texture. ","380","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"BARRSIG07B12","1","n/a","12","75","2007","Chateauneuf du Pape, Signature, La Barroche","La Barroche","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","94","TWA","Probably the best vintage of this cuvee to date (the `10 will give it a run for its money), the 2007 Chateauneuf du Pape Signature is a decadent, voluptuous and concentrated Chateauneuf made in a hard-to-resist, pedal-to-the-metal style. Beautifully ripe and textured, yet still fresh and lively, with tons of sweet black raspberry, licorice, leather and Provencal garrigue, it does just fine when tasted beside its big brother and is drinking beautifully today. ","395","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"BARRSIG10B12","1","n/a","12","75","2010","Chateauneuf du Pape, Signature, La Barroche","La Barroche","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","94+","TWA","The most structured of the Signature releases, the deep ruby/purple-colored 2010 Chateauneuf du Pape Signature (65% Grenache, 15% Mourvedre, 12% Syrah and the balance other permitted varieties) is still backward and tight. Giving up classic notes of black raspberries, black cherry, crushed rocks, pepper and garrigue, this full-bodied, concentrated, pure and fabulously textured red needs to be forgotten for another 2-3 years. It will have two decade of overall longevity.","335","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"MARCCDP06B6","1","n/a","6","75","2006","Chateauneuf du Pape, Domaine de Marcoux","Marcoux","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","93","TWA","Ive had numerous bottles of the 2006 Chateauneuf du Pape recently and it is always impressive. Always a rough blend of 80% Grenache and 20% Syrah and Mourvèdre, aged all in concrete tanks, this classic beauty is loaded with notions of kirsch liqueur, wild strawberries, gamy meats and olive tapenade. Medium to full-bodied, seamless, silky and elegant, you can`t go wrong here, and this will provide immense drinking pleasure anytime over the coming decade (although I see no need to delay gratification).","295","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"MARCCDPVV06B6","1","n/a","6","75","2006","Chateauneuf du Pape, Vieilles Vignes, Domaine de Marcoux","Marcoux","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","97","TWA","One of the wines of the vintage is the 2006 Chateauneuf du Pape Vieilles Vignes, and I still remember tasting this beauty at the domaine on release. Almost all Grenache and aged in tank, it has sensational notes of wild strawberries, raspberries, flowers, olive and Provencal garrigue all literally soaring from the glass. This gives way to a full-bodied, utterly seamless, weightless 2006 that has fabulous depth of fruit, fine tannin and a finish that just wont quit. Its flat out great today, but will continue knocking your socks off for another decade.","595","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"ROSTBLO05B12","1","n/a","12","75","2005","Cote Rotie Cote Blonde, Rostaing","Rostaing","AC","Cote Rotie","Northern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","96","RP","The 2005 Cote Rotie Cote Blonde is pure sex, with about 3% Viognier in the blend. The wine has a dark ruby color to the rim and an extraordinary nose of exotic tropical fruits intermixed with kirsch, blackberry, licorice, and pepper. The wine is incredibly seductive aromatically, but then in the mouth, the full-bodied power and tannins of the vintage come through. It reminds me stylistically of a 1983, but better balanced. This is a beauty that will probably need several years of bottle age, and should drink well for another 15 or more years.","1685","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"ROSTLAN05B12","1","n/a","12","75","2005","Cote Rotie La Landonne, Rostaing","Rostaing","AC","Cote Rotie","Northern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","96","NM","Tasted twice with virtually identical notes. A fabulous nose of blackberry, smoke, oyster shells and garrigues. Just a faint hint of anis on one of the samples. The palate is full-bodied and beautifully balanced, simply bursting with character. Firm tannins, mushroom, spice, black olives and graphite. Stunning definition and focus, this has a definite swagger of confidence about it. Great persistency on the finish. Simply stunning. ","1800","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"ROSTCB00B12","1","n/a","12","75","2000","Cote Rotie, Cote Blonde, Rostaing","Rostaing","AC","Cote Rotie","Northern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","92","JD","Easier to read than the 2001, the 2000 Côte Rôtie Côte Blonde is upfront and ready to go, with classic olive, red and black raspberry, iron and spice laced aromas and flavours. Offering beautiful complexity, medium bodied depth and richness and notable purity of fruit, drink it anytime over the coming 7 8 years.","1800","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"COSMECR05B6","1","n/a","6","75","2005","Cote Rotie, Saint Cosme","Saint Cosme","AC","Cote Rotie","Northern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","94","RP","The 2005 Cote Rotie has a deep ruby/purple color and a beautiful, intense bouquet of black olives, a touch of pain grille, cassis, cherries, and incense. The wine is medium to full bodied, a classic display of Cote Rotie that will probably benefit from 2 3 years of bottle age and last for 12 15 years. ","295","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"TARDROT01B6","1","n/a","6","75","2001","Cote Rotie, Tardieu-Laurent","Tardieu-Laurent","AC","Cote Rotie","Northern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","86-88","RP","One of the least impressive Cote Roties Michel Tardieu has produced is the 2001. Refined, elegant, medium-bodied, and restrained, it lacks volume, density, and length. A dark ruby color is followed by tell-tale aromas of bacon fat, flowers, raspberries, and other black fruits. Whats there is pleasant, but the wine is excessively delicate, with an abrupt finish.","300","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"TARDROT03B12","1","n/a","12","75","2003","Cote Rotie, Tardieu-Laurent","Tardieu-Laurent","AC","Cote Rotie","Northern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","n/a","n/a","n/a","520","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"TARDHERM01B12","1","n/a","12","75","2001","Hermitage, Tardieu-Laurent","Tardieu-Laurent","AC","Hermitage","Northern Rhone","Rhone","France","Red","88-91","RP","The dark purple-colored 2001 Hermitage offers notes of creme de cassis interwoven with mineral, vanilla, and new oak characteristics, a sweet attack, and moderate tannin in the finish.","750","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"DEAD97B6","1","n/a","6","75","1997","Dead Arm Shiraz, d`Arenberg","d`Arenberg","n/a","n/a","McLaren Vale","South Australia","Australia","Red","95","RP","Year in and year out d`Arenberg`s finest cuvee is their spectacular Shiraz made from 100+ year old, head-pruned vines. It is an exquisite, multi-dimensional wine that is sure to make a formidable impression with readers. It is aged in 100% new oak, tipping the scales at a whopping 14.9% alcohol, yet has a glorious level of fruit and extract. The 1997 Dead Arm Shiraz exhibits an opaque purple color as well as a sweet nose of vanillin, blackberries, and licorice. The wood frames this enormously concentrated, rich, chewy wine. Multi-layered, with phenomenal concentration and length as well as moderately high tannin levels, it will be at its finest after 2-5 years of cellaring, and will keep for two decades.","360","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"DEAD97B6","1","n/a","6","75","1997","Dead Arm Shiraz, d`Arenberg","d`Arenberg","n/a","n/a","McLaren Vale","South Australia","Australia","Red","95","RP","Year in and year out d`Arenberg`s finest cuvee is their spectacular Shiraz made from 100+ year old, head-pruned vines. It is an exquisite, multi-dimensional wine that is sure to make a formidable impression with readers. It is aged in 100% new oak, tipping the scales at a whopping 14.9% alcohol, yet has a glorious level of fruit and extract. The 1997 Dead Arm Shiraz exhibits an opaque purple color as well as a sweet nose of vanillin, blackberries, and licorice. The wood frames this enormously concentrated, rich, chewy wine. Multi-layered, with phenomenal concentration and length as well as moderately high tannin levels, it will be at its finest after 2-5 years of cellaring, and will keep for two decades.","360","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"DEAD98B6","1","n/a","6","75","1998","Dead Arm Shiraz, d`Arenberg","d`Arenberg","n/a","n/a","McLaren Vale","South Australia","Australia","Red","94+","RP","One of the most backward wines included in the June tasting, this 1998 needs another 4-5 years to reach full maturity. Everything is here, including a dense ruby/purple color, and subtle but impressive notes of damp earth, roasted meats, herbs, spice box, pepper, and black fruits. Tannic, full-bodied, and youthful, it is capable of lasting another 25-30 years.","330","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"DEAD98B6","1","n/a","6","75","1998","Dead Arm Shiraz, d`Arenberg","d`Arenberg","n/a","n/a","McLaren Vale","South Australia","Australia","Red","94+","RP","One of the most backward wines included in the June tasting, this 1998 needs another 4-5 years to reach full maturity. Everything is here, including a dense ruby/purple color, and subtle but impressive notes of damp earth, roasted meats, herbs, spice box, pepper, and black fruits. Tannic, full-bodied, and youthful, it is capable of lasting another 25-30 years.","330","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"DEAD99B6","1","n/a","6","75","1999","Dead Arm Shiraz, d`Arenberg","d`Arenberg","n/a","n/a","McLaren Vale","South Australia","Australia","Red","96","RP","This estate`s most renowned offering is their old vine Shiraz (90+ year old vines) called The Dead Arm. The unfined/unfiltered 1999 The Dead Arm Shiraz (2,000 cases) was aged in 100% new oak, of which 70% was American and 30% French. It is about as natural and unmanipulated a product of the vineyard as one can find. Full-bodied and awesomely rich, notes of black pepper, licorice, and blackberry as well as cherry liqueur cascade over the palate with enormous concentration and intensity, high tannin, and a structured, muscular style. Give it 3-4 years of cellaring, and consume it over the following 2-3 decades. It is a timeless museum piece made in a style that can only be produced in Barossa or McLaren Vale.","300","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"DEAD99B6","1","n/a","6","75","1999","Dead Arm Shiraz, d`Arenberg","d`Arenberg","n/a","n/a","McLaren Vale","South Australia","Australia","Red","96","RP","This estate`s most renowned offering is their old vine Shiraz (90+ year old vines) called The Dead Arm. The unfined/unfiltered 1999 The Dead Arm Shiraz (2,000 cases) was aged in 100% new oak, of which 70% was American and 30% French. It is about as natural and unmanipulated a product of the vineyard as one can find. Full-bodied and awesomely rich, notes of black pepper, licorice, and blackberry as well as cherry liqueur cascade over the palate with enormous concentration and intensity, high tannin, and a structured, muscular style. Give it 3-4 years of cellaring, and consume it over the following 2-3 decades. It is a timeless museum piece made in a style that can only be produced in Barossa or McLaren Vale.","300","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"DEADLMAG01B6","1","n/a","6","75","2001","Laughing Magpie, d`Arenberg","d`Arenberg","n/a","n/a","McLaren Vale","South Australia","Australia","Red","93","RP","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.","240","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"PENGRA00B6","1","n/a","6","75","2000","Grange, Penfolds","Penfolds","n/a","n/a","n/a","South Australia","Australia","Red","93","RP","Penfolds renowned 2000 Grange is only the fifth vintage to be made from 100% Shiraz (the others being 1951, 1952, 1963, and 1999). It is also, atypically, 100% Barossa fruit. While it is not considered to be one of the great Granges, the 2000 exhibits outstanding potential, and is much more accessible than usual. One of the top wines I tasted from this vintage (which has had to take a back seat to subsequent years), its dense ruby/purple color is followed by a big, sweet nose of blackberries, cherries, chocolate, and earth. With decent acidity, ripe, silky tannin, superb intensity, wonderful equilibrium, and a more open-knit, softer, accessible style than usual, it can be drunk now or cellared for 15-16 years. While this is no wimpy wine, it is an ideal example for readers who are unwilling to invest the patience required for the big, blockbuster Granges.","1490","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"STANDRSV07IMP1","1","n/a","1","600","2007","The Relic Shiraz Viognier, Standish","Standish","n/a","n/a","Barossa Valley","South Australia","Australia","Red","94+","TWA","The 2007 Shiraz-Viognier (4%) The Relic was sourced from the same parcel. Wild-fermented, it offers up a sexy bouquet of floral notes, bacon, smoked meat, incense, and blueberry. Dense, sweet and layered on the palate, it will offer much pleasure over the next 8-10 years. It does not get much better than this from the 2007 vintage.","600","IB","1x600cl","OC",
"TORLAM04IMP1","1","n/a","1","600","2004","Les Amis, Torbreck","Torbreck","n/a","n/a","Barossa Valley","South Australia","Australia","Red","98","RP","The brilliant 2004 Les Amis (100% Grenache aged 18 months in new oak) is fashioned from a vineyard planted in 1903. While it does not have quite the size and power of the 2002 Les Amis, it is still a Grenache on steroids. With wonderful purity, more elegance than the 2002, and remarkably well-integrated oak, I suspect it will shut down at some point, require 4-5 years of patience, then re-emerge and last for two decades or more.","800","IB","1x600cl","OC",
"TORBRR99B6","1","n/a","6","75","1999","Torbreck Run Rig, Torbreck","Torbreck","n/a","Run Rig","Barossa Valley","South Australia","Australia","Red","99","TWA","Deep garnet coloured, the 1999 RunRig presents an incredible nose with complex and layered aromas of smoked bacon, dried mulberries, kirsch and leather intermingling with sandalwood, anise and potpourri nuances. Medium to full bodied, this is a very elegant wine with vibrant acid and concentrated fruit, structured with medium levels of grainy tannins through the long and layered finish. It is just beautiful. Drink it now to 2024+. ","900","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"VERIHAN01B6","1","n/a","6","75","2001","Shiraz Hanisch, Veritas","Veritas","n/a","n/a","Barossa Valley","South Australia","Australia","Red","92","RP","The 2001 Shiraz Hanisch Vineyards perfume is reminiscent of some of the great Diamond Creek Cabernets of the mid and late seventies. Scorched earth, creme de cassis, blackberry, licorice, and smoky aromas emerge from this dense purple coloured Shiraz. Opulent, rich, and full bodied, with more forward fruit than the Heysen cuvee, and a 45 second finish, this stunning effort should be at its finest between 2005 2016.","420","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"BURNCPN14B6","1","n/a","6","75","2014","Pinot Noir, Burn Cottage","Burn Cottage","n/a","n/a","Central Otego","South Island","New Zealand","Red","93+","TWA","Medium ruby-purple colored, the 2014 Burn Cottage Vineyard Pinot Noir has a profoundly perfumed nose with well-defined notes of violets, lavender, red roses and fragrant earth over a core of black cherries and mulberries plus a waft of cloves. Medium-bodied with a seamless backbone of finely grained tannins and lively acid, it gives an abundance of pure black and red berry flavours, finishing with superb length.","390","DP","6x75cl","OC",
"BURNCPN14B6","1","n/a","6","75","2014","Pinot Noir, Burn Cottage","Burn Cottage","n/a","n/a","Central Otego","South Island","New Zealand","Red","93+","TWA","Medium ruby-purple colored, the 2014 Burn Cottage Vineyard Pinot Noir has a profoundly perfumed nose with well-defined notes of violets, lavender, red roses and fragrant earth over a core of black cherries and mulberries plus a waft of cloves. Medium-bodied with a seamless backbone of finely grained tannins and lively acid, it gives an abundance of pure black and red berry flavours, finishing with superb length.","390","DP","6x75cl","OC",
"ARGBRUN99B6","2","n/a","6","75","1999","Brunello di Montalcino, Argiano","Argiano","DOCG","Brunello di Montalcino","Brunello di Montalcino","Tuscany","Italy","Red","89","TWA","The 1999 Brunello di Montalcino opens to a dark garnet appearance with browning edges and bold concentration that has remained reasonably toned throughout the years. It shows jammy fruit aromas with prune, cassis and strawberry preserves. The mouthfeel is smooth and silky with an inherent earthiness on the finish that suggests it is far along on its evolutionary track. But it also doles out a good level of acidity that keeps it alive. Drink: 2014 2023.","340","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"CIAPBRU99B6","1","n/a","6","75","1999","Brunello di Montalcino, Ciacci Piccolomini","Ciacci Piccolomini","DOCG","Brunello di Montalcino","Brunello di Montalcino","Tuscany","Italy","Red","91+","ST","Good red ruby. Subtly complex nose melds cassis, truffle and expensive oak; shows an almost liqueur like sweetness. Then supple, dense and bright, with a pliant texture and excellent depth of flavour. This is ripe and fleshy but also classically dry, structured and elegant, with lovely inner mouth perfume. Very penetrating, long wine, finishing with suave tannins that are firm but fine. ","300","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"FALMARC01B6","1","n/a","6","75","2001","Marciliano, Falesco","Falesco","n/a","n/a","n/a","Umbria","Italy","Red","95","TWA","The 2001 Marciliano, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, is dazzlingly good in this exceptionally fine vintage for Italy with its powerful and focused aromas of cassis and blackberries, minerals and Mediterranean herbs, its dense, packed palate of superb structure and balance, and a noble austerity and complexity which should guarantee another 20 years of life.","240","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"SPORTVF01B6","1","n/a","6","75","2001","Villa Fidelia, Sportoletti","Sportoletti","IGT","n/a","n/a","Umbria","Italy","Red","95","TWA","The estates top wine, the 2001 Villa Fidelia Rosso, a Bordeaux blend in which, unlike the first versions, the Cabernet now tends to predominate, is simply superlative, with only the 1999 among the past vintages arriving close to its level. A deep, glowing ruby red, its superbly ripe nose of black currants and raspberries, graphite, tar, and licorice is supported by a dense, sensual, caressing palate, deep and velvety, outstanding in its definition, focus, and balance. A cunning wine, deceptively ready but with an important aging potential in its packed structure","205","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"FELTRCHARD214B6","1","n/a","6","75","2014","Chardonnay, Block 2, Felton Road","Felton Road","n/a","n/a","n/a","Bannockburn","New Zealand","White","91+","TWA","The 2014 Block 2 Chardonnay has fresh peach, honeyed pear and grapefruit notes with hints of struck flint, baker`s yeast and marzipan. Very elegant and refined in the mouth, the light to medium-bodied palate has a lovely satiny texture and tight-knit citrus and savory flavours, finishing long and minerally.","300","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"DMCHEVBLC03B12","1","n/a","12","75","2003","Domaine de Chevalier Blanc","n/a","Cru Classe","Pessac-Leognan","Left Bank","Bordeaux","France","White","90-91","ST","(tasted from cuve after the fining) Pale silver straw color. Aromas of exotic fruits, lemon, lichee, gingerbread and vanillin, resiny oak. Supple, round and full in the mouth, with the gingerbread character repeating. More powerful than the 2004 but less complex and aromatic. But this has plenty of fat and fruit.","740","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"BGAGCAI15M6","1","n/a","6","150","2015","Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru Caillerets, Blain Gagnard","Blain Gagnard","1er Cru","Chassagne-Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","91","AM","(opened from personal storage). A ripe yet reasonably fresh and still relatively primary nose features notes of spiced pear, apple compote, floral and citrus aromas. There is fine richness and volume to the unusually full-bodied flavours that exhibit a touch less minerality than usual yet there is impressive persistence on the lingering finish that really fans out as it sits on the palate. While this could already be enjoyed with pleasure, I would be inclined to continue to cellar it for a few more years first as there seems to be at least some untapped development potential.","860","IB","6x150cl","OC",
"BGAGCRI12B6","1","n/a","6","75","2012","Criots-Bâtard-Montrachet, Grand Cru, Blain-Gagnard","Blain-Gagnard","Grand Cru","Chassagne Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","95","NM","Coming from 0.21-hectares of vine between Roger Belland and Fontaine-Gagnard, the oldest of which rooted in 1929, the 2012 Criots- Batard -Montrachet Grand Cru has a wonderful, effervescent bouquet with candied orange peel, apricot blossom and quince that just grows and grows in the glass. The palate is medium-bodied with a fine line of acidity. It is more reticent at the moment on the nose, but there is a real undertow of minerals and a show-stopping marine influence on the cerebral finish. Superb but just one and a half barrels this year.","1780","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"BGAGMONT13B3","1","n/a","3","75","2013","Le Montrachet, Grand Cru, Blain-Gagnard","Blain-Gagnard","Grand Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","95","NM","The 2013 Montrachet Grand Cru has a strict and linear bouquet: brilliantly defined and overflowing with mineral scents flint and granite. The palate is very well defined, quite powerful, with extremely well-judged acidity, touches of freshly sliced melon and white peach, long and somehow languorous on the persistent finish. This is a magnificent Montrachet from Jean-Marc Blain, however there is just a single barrel this year.","2675","IB","3x75cl","OC",
"BVCHEV13B12","1","n/a","12","75","2013","Meursault 1er Cru, Les Chevalieres, Bernard Boisson-Vadot","Boisson-Vadot","1er Cru","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","17.5","Jancis","I thought this smelt more like a Coche-Dury wine than the Coche 2013 Meursault served alongside it. Very reductive on the nose but with a fine skein of pure fruit underneath. Still has masses of acidity and seems likely to have a very long life. Admirable for a wine below premier cru level.","3300","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"BVMGEN13B3","1","n/a","3","75","2013","Meursault, 1er Cru Les Genevrières, Bernard Boisson-Vadot","Boisson-Vadot","1er Cru","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","n/a","n/a","n/a","1590","IB","3x75cl","RPK",
"BVMGC10B12","1","n/a","12","75","2010","Meursault, Les Grands Charrons, Pierre Boisson - Boisson-Vadot","Boisson-Vadot","AC","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","93","Falstaff","Medium greenish-yellow. Fine mineral nuances, a hint of flint, underlaid with pleasant yellow apple fruit, delicate hazelnut and candied lemon zest, multifaceted bouquet. Full-bodied, elegant, fine extract sweetness, finesse-rich acidity, shows a good length, nuances of pears and mango in the finish, mineral retaste, good ripening potential.(translated from German).","3565","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"BVMGC13B12","1","n/a","12","75","2013","Meursault, Les Grands Charrons, Pierre Boisson - Boisson-Vadot","Boisson-Vadot","AC","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","n/a","n/a","n/a","2845","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"BONMARCC11M3","1","n/a","3","150","2011","Corton-Charlemagne, Grand Cru, Bonneau du Martray","Bonneau du Martray","Grand Cru","Aloxe Corton","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","92","AM","This is coming along very nicely and the still restrained nose is now beginning to display good depth along with hints of madarin orange, apple, pear and white flower. There is good if not excellent underlying tension to the attractively mineral-infused flavors that finish. My sense is that this is just about ready though I would give in another 1 to 3 years first. Tasted thrice, (the last was in February 2017) with consistent notes.","1390","IB","3x150cl","OWC",
"BONMARCC13M3","1","n/a","3","150","2013","Corton-Charlemagne, Grand Cru, Bonneau du Martray","Bonneau du Martray","Grand Cru","Aloxe Corton","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","93","AM","There is a very subtle hint of sulfur to the mildly exotic, cool and fresh aromas of apple, floral and discreet spice and oak scents. The delicious and overtly stony broad-shouldered flavors possess a really lovely mouth feel before terminating in a moderately austere and impressively persistent finish. I like the textured quality of the mid-palate and while I don`t see the same development potential here that I see in the 2014, this notably firm effort should certainly be more than respectable if allowed sufficient bottle age.","1680","IB","3x150cl","OWC",
"BOUCOR08B6","1","n/a","6","75","2008","Corton-Charlemagne, Grand Cru, Bouchard Père & Fils","Bouchard P","Grand Cru","Aloxe Corton","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","96","AM","This is a classic example of Corton-Charlemagne with its impressively layered floral, green fruit, lime and stone-infused nose that precedes citrusy, precise and powerful mineral-driven flavors that possess real muscle on the almost painfully intense and steely finish that delivers striking length. While it`s not quite as great as the Montrachet, it easily holds its own. A wine to own but note that only the patient will ever see it at its best as this is likely to evolve glacially.","890","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"BOUZGEN13B6","1","n/a","6","75","2013","Meursault 1er Cru Les Genevrieres, Michel Bouzereau","Bouzereau (M)","1er Cru","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","n/a","n/a","n/a","595","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"LAFCHAR08B6","1","n/a","6","75","2008","Meursault 1er Cru Les Charmes, Comtes Lafon","Comtes Lafon","1er Cru","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","93","AM","**Note: a blend of fruit coming from 35+ and 75+ year old vines all in Charmes Dessus, which is the best part directly below Perrières and abutting Combettes**
A discreet but not invisible touch of oak frames the ripe orchard fruit aromas, particularly peach and apricot, as well as pretty floral notes. The fresh, intense and notably sweet flavors possess excellent intensity and vibrancy before culminating in a generous and mouth coating finish that displays real verve. I really like the sense of underlying tension and the abundant amount of dry extract confers an almost chewy quality on the gorgeously long finish. In a word, terrific.","2280","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"LAFCHARM12B12","1","n/a","12","75","2012","Meursault 1er Cru Les Charmes, Comtes Lafon","Comtes Lafon","1er Cru","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","94","JM","In magnum. A pale and fresh lemon yellow. The bouquet offers a wealth of fruit, without much detail available yet. A very fine weight to this and joie de vivre, still more to open out later on. Only a couple of years away from maturity but a little extra time will pay dividends. Tasted: June 2022","3990","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"LAFCHARM13B12","1","n/a","12","75","2013","Meursault 1er Cru Les Charmes, Comtes Lafon","Comtes Lafon","1er Cru","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","92","AM","Once again the nose is quite firmly reduced so be sure to decant this if you`re not prepared to cellar if for at least a few years first. By contrast there is exceptionally good freshness and intensity to the impressively refined medium-bodied flavors that possess a sophisticated mouth feel as well as superb finishing depth and length. This strikingly stylish and balanced effort should amply repay extended keeping.","4370","IB","12x75cl","OWC",
"DARVGEN10B6","1","n/a","6","75","2010","Meursault 1er Cru Genevrieres, Darviot Perrin","Darviot Perrin","1er Cru","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","91-93","AM","A spicy, elegant and admirably pure nose of lightly spiced and ever-so-mildly exotic pear and white peach aromas complement perfectly the detailed, precise and beautifully balanced flavours that are blessed with good mid-palate fat that culminate in notably dry finish that receives an attractive mineral-based lift.","650","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"DARVEL15B6","1","n/a","6","75","2015","Meursault Clos de la Velle, Darviot Perrin","Darviot Perrin","AC","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","87-89","AM","This is also softly exotic with its interesting nose of white orchard fruit and mandarin orange peel aromas. There is good richness to the round and appealingly energetic middle weight flavours that possess acceptable depth but very fine length. This seductive effort should drink well young if desired.","345","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"DAUVFOR12B6","1","n/a","6","75","2012","Chablis 1er Cru Forest, Dauvissat","Dauvissat","1er Cru","Chablis","Chablis","Burgundy","France","White","94","ST","Soil-driven aromas of apple, biscuit, chlorophyll, fern, anise and flowers. Quite rich, sappy and concentrated, conveying a strong impression of dry extract and stony minerality. Powerful, very solidly built premier cru with a very long finish tinged by licorice. I would not be surprised if this wine needs a good seven or eight years of cellaring to approach its peak.","770","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"DAUVCLOS03B12","1","n/a","12","75","2003","Chablis Grand Cru, Les Clos, Dauvissat","Dauvissat","Grand Cru","Chablis","Chablis","Burgundy","France","White","91","AM","Very subtly spiced with more aromatic elegance and no tropical notes at all. The big yet completely pure flavours are round and suave with a touch of pain grille to the superbly long finish. There is a real sense of controlled grip and power here, especially on the slightly warm backend. A really fine effort for the vintage and this too will require time to fully come together.","4500","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"DAUVCFOR11B12","1","n/a","12","75","2011","Chablis 1er Cru La Forest, Dauvissat-Camus","Dauvissat-Camus","1er Cru","Chablis","Chablis","Burgundy","France","White","92","AM","A beautifully layered nose features notes of ripe citrus, sea breeze, dried flowers, quinine and mineral reduction. The punchy medium-bodied flavors are built on a base of minerality that adds lift to the tension-filled finish that coats the mouth with acid buffering dry extract. This is not especially refined but it really fans out on the wonderfully long finale and should reward 7 to 10 years of bottle age.","1590","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"MONTCAIL06B6","1","n/a","6","75","2006","Puligny Montrachet 1er Cru Les Caillerets, de Montille","de Montille","1er Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","n/a","n/a","n/a","595","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"MONTCAIL12B6","1","n/a","6","75","2012","Puligny Montrachet 1er Cru Les Caillerets, de Montille","de Montille","1er Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","n/a","n/a","n/a","570","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"MONTCAIL13B6","1","n/a","6","75","2013","Puligny Montrachet 1er Cru Les Caillerets, de Montille","de Montille","1er Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","91-93","AM","Here there is no such reduction as the expressive nose is composed of acacia blossom, pear and lemon zest. As with all of the whites in the de Montille stable there is an intense minerality to the citrusy medium-bodied flavors that possess the best concentration in the range, all wrapped in a well-balanced, complex and strikingly persistent finish. Patience will of course be required but this should be excellent in time.","575","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"VOGBLC05B6","1","n/a","6","75","2005","Bourgogne Blanc, de Vogue","de Vogue","AC","Bourgogne","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","White","n/a","n/a","n/a","5150","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"VOGBLC09B6","1","n/a","6","75","2009","Bourgogne Blanc, de Vogüe","de Vogue","AC","Bourgogne","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","White","92","AG","The rarely seen 2009 Bourgogne Blanc is made from young Chardonnay vines planted in Musigny. The 2009 impresses for its textural elegance. Lemon, pastry, white flowers, crème brulee and hints of tropical fruit wrap around the finish. A subtle note of minerality acts to balance some of the wine`s more overt tendencies. This is a lovely effort.","2900","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"VOGBLC10B6","1","n/a","6","75","2010","Bourgogne Blanc, de Vogüe","de Vogue","AC","Bourgogne","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","White","n/a","n/a","n/a","3300","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"FAIVBIEN11B6","1","n/a","6","75","2011","Bienvenues Batard Montrachet, Grand Cru, Faiveley","Faiveley","Grand Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","91-94","AM","There is ample wood to the ripe, expressive and solidly complex nose of honeysuckle, pear, white peach and discreet spice nuances. The medium-bodied flavors possess a sophisticated mouth feel and plenty of palate coating dry extract before culminating in a wonderfully long finish. The complexity displayed by the nose is further reflected on the palate and this is really very stylish.","1585","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"FAIVCOR10B6","1","n/a","6","75","2010","Corton-Charlemagne, Grand Cru, Faiveley","Faiveley","Grand Cru","Aloxe Corton","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","95+","ST","Palish bright yellow. Tight, vibrant nose offers white peach, pineapple, nut oils and brown spices. Juicy and sweet but kept under wraps today by powerful acidity. Still, this remarkably intense wine does not come across as austere owing the full ripeness of the fruit. Wonderfully classy Corton-Charlemagne with a penetrating, dusty, extremely long finish. This held up brilliantly in the recorked bottle. I suspect this wine will shut down in the next couple years.","990","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"FAIVCOR11B6","1","n/a","6","75","2011","Corton-Charlemagne, Grand Cru, Faiveley","Faiveley","Grand Cru","Aloxe Corton","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","n/a","n/a","n/a","1020","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"FAIVCOR12B6","1","n/a","6","75","2012","Corton-Charlemagne, Grand Cru, Faiveley","Faiveley","Grand Cru","Aloxe Corton","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","91-93","AM","This also has that phenolic character of olive oil hints along with relatively strong reduction that renders the fruit impossible to read. There is reduction in the mouth as well though there is good vibrancy to the exceptionally rich and voluminous flavours that evidence plenty of muscle and minerality on the saline, clean and dry finish. While quite awkward today my predicted range assumes that it will harmonize in due time as the requisite concentration and ripeness levels are present to allow it to do so.","1125","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"FAIVCOR13B6","1","n/a","6","75","2013","Corton-Charlemagne, Grand Cru, Faiveley","Faiveley","Grand Cru","Aloxe Corton","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","16.5","Jancis","Broad and an attractive mix of honey and flowers on the nose and a suggestion of oak still. Something a little medicinal and herby and massive acidity. Painful at the moment. ","1090","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"FEVCLOS02B12","1","n/a","12","75","2002","Chablis, Les Clos, Grand Cru, William Fèvre ","F","Grand Cru","Chablis","Chablis","Burgundy","France","White","95","AM","As terrific as the Côte de Bouguerots is, this raises the bar in terms of elegance and this is one of the most elegant young Chablis that I have ever had the privilege of trying as the purity of expression here is almost beyond belief. Stunningly focused and detailed and this wine has it all with power, muscle, sap, style, complexity, typicity, concentration, depth and a palpable sense of minerality as the flavors seem as though they`re cut from liquid stone. The finish left me dumbfounded as I didn`t think it was possible for this to be longer than the Bouguerots. A great, great Les Clos that is worth a special search to find.","1425","IB","12x75cl","OWC",
"GOUPER11B6","1","n/a","6","75","2011","Nuits St Georges 1er Cru, La Perriere Blanc, Henri Gouges","Gouges","1er Cru","Nuits St Georges","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","White","n/a","n/a","n/a","480","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"HBOILBAT11B3","1","n/a","3","75","2011","Batard Montrachet, Grand Cru, Henri Boillot","Henri Boillot","Grand Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","95","AG","Boillot`s 2011 Bâtard-Montrachet is striking. Pear, almond and spice notes open up in the glass, leading to bright fruit and expressive floral notes. In 2011 the Bâtard is linear, powerful and intense. This statuesque Burgundy is best left alone for at least several years.","1275","IB","3x75cl","RPK",
"HBOILBIEN08B6","1","n/a","6","75","2008","Bienvenue Batard Montrachet, Grand Cru, Henri Boillot","Henri Boillot","Grand Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","n/a","n/a","n/a","2795","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"HBOILCHEV02B12","1","n/a","12","75","2002","Chevalier Montrachet, Grand Cru, Henri Boillot","Henri Boillot","Grand Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","94+","ST","Pure, vibrant aromas of apple, wet stone and white flowers. Wonderfully sweet and concentrated, with fruit-driven flavors of apple, pear, minerals and white flowers. Very dense but vibrant and light on its feet. A beauty.","6600","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"HBOILCCOR10B6","1","n/a","6","75","2010","Corton-Charlemagne, Grand Cru, Boillot (Henri)","Henri Boillot","Grand Cru","Aloxe Corton","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","95","AM","This is presently sufficiently reduced that I would strongly recommend decanting it if you`re tempted to try one young. Here the aromatic profile is distinctly different from any of the preceding grands crus as the primary fruit element is green rather than white or yellow though there are apple, pear and plenty of mineral notes in the background. The rich, powerful and focused big-bodied flavors exhibit almost painful intensity as there is a plethora of mouth coating extract that buffers the very firm tannic spine that allows all of this size and weight to remain exquisitely well-balanced. This is not quite as complex or persistent as the Montrachet but it`s not far off and in any case, it does precisely what it`s supposed to do which is to be an excellent example of Corton-Charlemagne, not Montrachet.","1780","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"HBOILCC04B12","1","n/a","12","75","2004","Corton-Charlemagne, Grand Cru, Henri Boillot","Henri Boillot","Grand Cru","Aloxe Corton","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","94","AM","Discreet aromas of green apple, spice and crushed minerals leads to superbly intense, structured, racy and precise flavors that despite their size retain a fine sense of underlying definition and punch. This explodes like a bomb on the finish and while it is not the most refined effort here, there is a clear sense of stature and class.","4155","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"HBOILCCOR06B6","1","n/a","6","75","2006","Corton-Charlemagne, Grand Cru, Henri Boillot","Henri Boillot","Grand Cru","Aloxe Corton","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","95","AM","Here the incredibly fresh and vibrant yet discreet nose reveals aromas of green apple, pear and wet stone, all of which introduces tautly muscled, broad-shouldered yet tangy full-bodied, notably ripe and sophisticated flavors of striking depth and length plus absolutely impeccable balance. What is perhaps most impressive though is that such a big wine retains such solid precision that continues on to a palate staining, wonderfully intense and bone dry finish. In short, this is a seriously impressive, indeed brilliant Corton-Charlemagne that should age for years.","1780","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"HBOILCCOR09B6","1","n/a","6","75","2009","Corton-Charlemagne, Grand Cru, Henri Boillot","Henri Boillot","Grand Cru","Aloxe Corton","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","96","AM","Here too there are residual sulfur notes that are only background nuances to the otherwise very fresh and dense green fruit and stone aromas that introduce intensely mineral-driven, firm, rich and enveloping flavors that display a taut muscularity on the strikingly powerful, focused and bone dry finish that is really quite explosive. Like the Montrachet, this should reward at least a decade of long-term cellaring. A brilliant example of the appellation.","1675","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"HBOILCCOR10B6","1","n/a","6","75","2010","Corton-Charlemagne, Grand Cru, Henri Boillot","Henri Boillot","Grand Cru","Aloxe Corton","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","95","AM","This is presently sufficiently reduced that I would strongly recommend decanting it if you`re tempted to try one young. Here the aromatic profile is distinctly different from any of the preceding grands crus as the primary fruit element is green rather than white or yellow though there are apple, pear and plenty of mineral notes in the background. The rich, powerful and focused big-bodied flavors exhibit almost painful intensity as there is a plethora of mouth coating extract that buffers the very firm tannic spine that allows all of this size and weight to remain exquisitely well-balanced. This is not quite as complex or persistent as the Montrachet but it`s not far off and in any case, it does precisely what it`s supposed to do which is to be an excellent example of Corton-Charlemagne, not Montrachet.","1780","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"HBOILCCOR12B12","1","n/a","12","75","2012","Corton-Charlemagne, Grand Cru, Henri Boillot","Henri Boillot","Grand Cru","Aloxe Corton","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","94","AM","This is aromatically restrained to the point of being almost mute and only grudgingly displays notes of citrus peel, green apple, white flowers and wet stone. There is excellent verve and intensity to the detailed and mineral-inflected broad-shouldered flavors that culminate in a focused, complex and powerfully long finish that is markedly austere and saline. This superbly long effort will need plenty of time to unwind as it`s presently very, very tight but it should handsomely repay extended cellaring.","2790","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"HBOILCCOR13B6","1","n/a","6","75","2013","Corton-Charlemagne, Grand Cru, Henri Boillot","Henri Boillot","Grand Cru","Aloxe Corton","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","91","ST","(from a crop level under 15 hectoliters per hectare, according to Boillot): Superripe aromas of orange blossom and smoky silex verge on exotic. Then fat, sweet and rich for young Corton-Charlemagne, even a bit honeyed, but without the precision and energy of the stunning 2014. This has plenty of mineral spine but is less taut and energetic than the 2014--as well as a bit less phenolic than it appeared to be out of barrel a year ago.","1485","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"HBOILCCOR13B6","1","n/a","6","75","2013","Corton-Charlemagne, Grand Cru, Henri Boillot","Henri Boillot","Grand Cru","Aloxe Corton","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","91","ST","(from a crop level under 15 hectoliters per hectare, according to Boillot): Superripe aromas of orange blossom and smoky silex verge on exotic. Then fat, sweet and rich for young Corton-Charlemagne, even a bit honeyed, but without the precision and energy of the stunning 2014. This has plenty of mineral spine but is less taut and energetic than the 2014--as well as a bit less phenolic than it appeared to be out of barrel a year ago.","1485","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"HBOILCRI09B6","1","n/a","6","75","2009","Criots Bâtard-Montrachet, Grand Cru, Henri Boillot","Henri Boillot","Grand Cru","Chassagne Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","94","AM","n/a","2180","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"HBOILCHAR07B6","1","n/a","6","75","2007","Meursault 1er Cru Les Charmes, Henri Boillot","Henri Boillot","1er Cru","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","93","AM","A subtle hint of wood toast sets off a more expressive nose of orchard fruit, anise and straw hints that complement the detailed, rich and exceptionally precise middle weight flavors that possess excellent volume on the classy, pure, lingering and palate staining finish. This is a terrific effort.","1050","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"HBOILMPER07B6","1","n/a","6","75","2007","Meursault 1er Cru Les Perrieres, Henri Boillot","Henri Boillot","1er Cru","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","94","AM","Subtle pain grille hints serve as the smoky backdrop to an elegant nose of rose petal andlemon rind that introduces mineral-driven flavors that seem like the extract of liquid rock as the purity and detail are flat outstunning. Like the best of these wines, that is an ineffable sense of class on the driving finish. A `wow` wine. 2014+","1365","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"HBOILPER08B6","1","n/a","6","75","2008","Meursault 1er Cru Les Perrieres, Henri Boillot","Henri Boillot","1er Cru","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","92","AM","Initially, this is restrained to the point of being almost mute and only aggressive swirling coaxes aromas of green apple and lemon-lime to grudgingly emerge. The lively, detailed and intensely mineral-driven medium-bodied flavors possess a chiseled, driving and explosively long finish. This would not be a good candidate for early consumption but should handsomely repay 6 to 8 years of cellar time.","1190","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"HBOILMPER10B6","1","n/a","6","75","2010","Meursault 1er Cru Les Perrieres, Henri Boillot","Henri Boillot","1er Cru","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","91","AM","Here the sulfur is more visible and not surprisingly really knocks down the nose as the fruit is tight and compressed and presently showing very little. On the plus side the ultra-refined and pure medium weight flavors ooze a very fine minerality, indeed this is like drinking liquid rock. There is a distinct saline character to the linear and focused finish that offers good if not genuinely exceptional depth but overall, I very much like the underlying material even if this is on the awkward side today.","1335","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"HBOILGEN09B12","1","n/a","12","75","2009","Meursault, Genevrieres, 1er Cru, Henri Boillot","Henri Boillot","1er Cru","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","93","AM","As with the Pucelles, the trace reduction and sulfur notes aren`t enough to completely mask the naturally spicy and ever-so-subtly exotic fruit aromas. The detailed, vibrant and stony medium weight flavors possess excellent verve and are shaped by the moderately firm acid spine on the balanced, long and notably dry finish. There is ample richness and dry extract that confers a generous mouth feel to the mid-palate but overall, this is a classy wine of refinement and precision. Drink 2015+","1960","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"HBOILMGEN12B6","1","n/a","6","75","2012","Meursault, Genevrieres, 1er Cru, Henri Boillot","Henri Boillot","1er Cru","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","94","ST","Healthy bright yellow. Stone fruits, spices, white flowers and a leesy, Champagne-like suggestion of baked bread. Very ripe, layered and rich, but with enticing spicy lift keeping the wine from coming off as heavy. An impression of alcohol gives the finish a touch of sweetness. Probably for drinking before the 2013 version.","990","IB","6x75cl","RPK",
"HBOILGEN13B6","1","n/a","6","75","2013","Meursault, Genevrieres, 1er Cru, Henri Boillot","Henri Boillot","1er Cru","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","93","AM","Mild reduction can`t completely hide the slightly exotic and strikingly elegant aromas of spiced tea, lemon-lime, white peach, pear and acacia blossom aromas. There is first-rated detail to the ultra-intense and cuts-like-a-knife medium weight flavors that exude plenty of minerality on the bone dry, complex and wonderfully persistent finish. This beauty of a Genevrières is impressive in every respect and should amply reward mid-term cellaring.","990","IB","6x75cl","RPK",
"HBOILMOU12B6","1","n/a","6","75","2012","Puligny Montrachet 1er Cru Clos de la Mouchere, Henri Boillot","Henri Boillot","1er Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","93","AM","The nose is markedly reduced and I would strongly suggest decanting this if you`re tempted to try a bottle young. The intensely mineral-driven middle weight plus flavours possess outstanding mid-palate concentration with an abundance of palate coating dry extract, all wrapped in a wonderfully vibrant and highly persistent finish. I very much like the balance as this is a big yet stylish effort that should amply repay medium-term cellaring.","1200","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"HBOILPCAIL08B6","1","n/a","6","75","2008","Puligny Montrachet 1er Cru Les Caillerets, Henri Boillot","Henri Boillot","1er Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","92","AM","Here the nose is cool, airy and restrained with Chablis-like notes of mineral reduction, citrus and saline nuance that can also be found on the textured and highly sophisticated medium-bodied flavours that are admirably pure, even crystalline, and wrapped in a balanced and ultra intense finish. This is very stylish.","890","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"HBOILPUC07B6","1","n/a","6","75","2007","Puligny Montrachet 1er Cru Les Pucelles,Henri Boillot","Henri Boillot","1er Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","94","AM","This too carries a background hint of wood on the honeysuckle, spice andlemony nose that displays excellent freshness that continues onto the textured, satiny and lightly mineral suffused flavors thatfinish with a bone dry finale. This is wine that oozes class and refinement. Highly recommended. 2014+
","1190","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"HBOILMOU09B6","1","n/a","6","75","2009","Puligny Montrachet 1er Cru, Clos de la Mouchère, Boillot (Henri)","Henri Boillot","1er Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","95","AM","There is also a trace of reduction and sulfur remnants present on the nose though there is a brilliant purity to the refined and penetratingly mineral-driven flavors that possess outstanding precision and cut on the powerful finish that is quite dry for the vintage with almost painful intensity. A real stunner.","1285","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"HBOILMOU07B6","1","n/a","6","75","2007","Puligny Montrachet 1er Cru, Clos de la Mouchère, Henri Boillot","Henri Boillot","1er Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","94","AM","(from 60+ year old vines and the vineyard is a whopping 4 ha monopolewithin Perrières). An almost invisible touch of wood influence allows the elegant, ripe and ultra pure aromas of citrus blossom,spice and orchard fruit to have center stage while the focused, textured and almost painfully intense flavors culminate in abone dry, silky and seriously long finish. As good as the Perrières is, and it`s indeed very good, there is simply anotherdimension present here. Along with the Pucelles, this is highly recommended. 2013+","1110","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"HBOILMOU09B6","1","n/a","6","75","2009","Puligny Montrachet 1er Cru, Clos de la Mouchère, Henri Boillot","Henri Boillot","1er Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","95","AM","There is also a trace of reduction and sulfur remnants present on the nose though there is a brilliant purity to the refined and penetratingly mineral-driven flavors that possess outstanding precision and cut on the powerful finish that is quite dry for the vintage with almost painful intensity. A real stunner.","1285","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"HBOILMOU10B6","1","n/a","6","75","2010","Puligny Montrachet 1er Cru, Clos de la Mouchère, Henri Boillot","Henri Boillot","1er Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","93","AM","**Note: from 60+ year old vines and the vineyard is a whopping 4 ha monopole within Perrières** This is slightly riper and notably more complex than the straight Puligny villages but the aromatic composition is similar save for the trace of mineral reduction that is present here. The racy, intense and strikingly well-delineated flavors possess that really lovely sense of underlying tension that adds lift to the stony, linear and bone dry finish. This is a knockout.","1130","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"HBOILFOL13B6","1","n/a","6","75","2013","Puligny Montrachet 1er Cru, Les Folatieres, Henri Boillot","Henri Boillot","1er Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","94","ST","Bright light yellow. Peach oil and a sexy smoky note on the nose; smells concentrated! Dense, sweet and fat, conveying a tactile impression of strong dry extract. Very classy and concentrated wine with superb smoky, saline length and exhilarating sucrosite for a wine that reportedly finished its fermentation with barely one gram per liter of residual sugar. A splendid Folatieres at grand cru level.","840","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"HBOILPM13B6","1","n/a","6","75","2013","Puligny Montrachet, Henri Boillot","Henri Boillot","AC","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","89","ST","Medium yellow. Very ripe aromas of mandarin orange, lemon and nut oil, plus a slightly exotic suggestion of noble rot. Fat, round and sweet; quite silky for village wine. The orange note carries through to a serious, dry finish.","495","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"JMPCAIL15B12","1","n/a","12","75","2015","Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru Caillerets, Jean-Marc Pillot","Jean-Marc Pillot","1er Cru","Chassagne-Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","91-93","AM","A beautifully if subtly layered nose flashes really lovely complexity with its pure array of spiced pear, lavender, spice and citrus wisps. The equally pure and refined middle weight flavours possess an almost pungent minerality while offering fine depth and sneaky good length.","800","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"MOICOR09B6","1","n/a","6","75","2009","Corton Charlemagne, Grand Cru, Lucien Le Moine ","Le Moine","Grand Cru","Aloxe Corton","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","93-95","AG","The 2009 Corton-Charlemagne is a striking wine graced with tons of finesse in its understated fruit and sweet, floral notes. It shows gorgeous persistence and plenty of aromatic lift in a layered, subtle style that is highly appealing. The Corton-Charlemagne is made from vineyards in Pernand.","1600","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"MOICOR10B6","1","n/a","6","75","2010","Corton Charlemagne, Grand Cru, Lucien Le Moine ","Le Moine","Grand Cru","Aloxe Corton","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","91-93","NM","The 2010 Corton-Charlemagne Grand Cru, which comes from the west side of the hill in Pernand, was never racked and had its first dose of sulphur not until July 2012. It has a heavenly bouquet with subtle scents of white peach and shaved almond that show wonderful definition and typicite. The palate is well-balanced with pleasing volume and depth on the entry, those leesy characteristics brimming to the surface but never obscuring the terroir. It is a very focused Corton-Charlemagne, exerting a gentle but insistent grip with a slight creaminess to the texture on the finish that needs just a soupcon more complexity to justify the promise of the nose. Drink now-2028+","1750","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"MOICOR13B6","1","n/a","6","75","2013","Corton Charlemagne, Grand Cru, Lucien Le Moine ","Le Moine","Grand Cru","Aloxe Corton","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","92-94","ST","(from vines on the Pernand side of this grand cru): Crystalline aromas of lemon oil, mandarin orange, flint and lavender, plus a whiff of warm, dry stones that`s unusual for a wine from the wetter side of the appellation. Densely packed, silky and weightless, with terrific mineral lift to its very dry citrus and crushed rock flavors. Extremely backward and austere but the vibrant, very long finish leaves the palate coated with dusty stone.","1355","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"MOICHARM13B6","1","n/a","6","75","2013","Meursault 1er Cru Charmes, Lucien Le Moine ","Le Moine","1er Cru","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","92-94","ST","Aromas of crystallized lemon and lime peel and linden flower; reminded me of a mojito. Dense and very ripe yet weightless on the palate, with urgent fruit intensity perfectly complemented by a powerful impression of chewy dry extract. This outstanding mineral expression really reverberates on the very dry, deep finish. This is a blend of Charmes du Haut and du Bas, notes Saouma, adding that these vines never yield more than 20 hectoliters per hectare. An outstanding Charmes in the making.","790","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"MOIGEN09M3","1","n/a","3","150","2009","Meursault 1er Cru Genevrieres, Lucien Le Moine","Le Moine","1er Cru","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","91-94","AM","A curious nose of lactic acid and spice elements merges into naturally sweet, pure and well-detailed flavours that possess superb complexity on the mouth coating, balanced, linear and explosive finish where notes of fennel and wood toast surface. This possesses knockout length and this seems exceptionally promising.","750","IB","3x150cl","OC",
"MOIMGEN13B6","1","n/a","6","75","2013","Meursault 1er Cru Les Genevrières, Lucien Le Moine ","Le Moine","1er Cru","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","92-94","ST","Pale, bright yellow. Reticent, very pure aromas of ripe pear and flowers. Classy and linear in the mouth, offering intense but shy flavors of lime and lavender. Penetrating-verging-on-sharp and still a bit youthfully inscrutable but boasts terrific energy and refinement for the vintage. The flavors of citrus oil and spices build slowly on the very long finish. This wine should evolve gracefully.","840","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"MOIPER08B6","1","n/a","6","75","2008","Meursault 1er Cru Perrieres, Lucien Le Moine","Le Moine","1er Cru","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","91-94","AM","An ultra elegant, restrained and notably cool white flower and citrus-suffused nose merges seamlessly into fine, precise and intensely stony flavours that explode onto a bone dry finish that, interestingly, exhibits both a vaguely saline and noticeable iodine character. The nose isn`t at all like Chablis but the finish could pass for one. A knock out that is built to age and should provide at least 6 to 8 years of upside development.","1000","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"LEMOIMPER11B6","1","n/a","6","75","2011","Meursault 1er Cru Perrieres, Lucien Le Moine ","Le Moine","1er Cru","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","94","ST","Precise, high-pitched aromas of pineapple, crushed stone and smoke. At once seamless and animated, conveying a strong limestone impression to the flavors of ginger, pepper and saline oyster shell. Outstanding finesse and incipient complexity here, but the wine`s terrific inner-mouth tension suggests that several years of patience will be rewarded. Finishes with serious building length.","990","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"LEMOIMPER12B6","1","n/a","6","75","2012","Meursault 1er Cru Perrieres, Lucien Le Moine ","Le Moine","1er Cru","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","94","ST","Crystalline aromas of white peach, crushed stone and saline minerality. As dense as a solid in the mouth but with terrific delineation to its palate-staining flavors of citrus and stone fruits and rock. Really reverberates in the mid-palate and on the extremely long aftertaste. Conveys serious weight without heaviness. Should make a great--and long-lived--example of the vintage: premier cru at grand cru level.","990","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"LEFLBGNB14M3","1","n/a","3","150","2014","Bourgogne Blanc, Domaine Leflaive","Leflaive","AC","Bourgogne","Cote de Nuits","Burgundy","France","White","86-89","AM","A discreet hint of wood frames wonderfully fresh aromas of pear, white peach and lavender scents. There is a really lovely underlying tension to the racy yet plump middle weight flavours that also conclude in a clean and dry finale. If this can add depth with a few years of bottle age it should make for an outstanding Bourgogne.","605","IB","3x150cl","OC",
"LEFLFOL07B6","1","n/a","6","75","2007","Puligny Montrachet 1er Cru Folatieres, Domaine Leflaive","Leflaive","1er Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","90-92","AM","In contrast to the expressiveness of the Clavoillon, here the nose is restrained and backward with more primary notes of lemon peel and rose petal with spiced pear nuances that can also be found on the pure, racy, intense and strikingly detailed medium-bodied flavours brimming with an almost pungent minerality on the explosive, complex and driving finish. I really like the underlying sense of personality despite how primary this wine is compared to the preceding examples.","2700","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"LEFLBAT13B3","1","n/a","3","75","2013","Batard Montrachet, Grand Cru, Domaine Leflaive","Leflaive (Domaine)","Grand Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","93-96","AM","**Note: from 3 different parcels, two on the Chassagne side and the third in the Puligny sector that is near the border dividing the two communes**
Here the nose is restrained to the point of being all but mute and only aggressive swirling coaxes the grudging aromas of pear, white peach, apricot, acacia blossom and discreet menthol nuances. As is usually the case there is more size, weight and muscle to the medium weight plus flavors that possess a hint of bitter lemon on the massively long finish. What I find interesting about the 2013 Bâtard is not only that it is more elegant then usual but also that it manages to deliver so much volume and power without any appreciable weight. In a word, brilliant.","1985","IB","3x75cl","OWC",
"LEFLCHEV13B3","1","n/a","3","75","2013","Chevalier-Montrachet, Grand Cru, Domaine Leflaive","Leflaive (Domaine)","Grand Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","94-97","AM","Like the Puligny villages the expressive nose plays right on the edge of exoticism with its dried yellow orchard fruit elements that add breadth if not necessarily elegance to the citrus, floral, spice and discreet herbal tea nuances. There is absolutely stunning intensity to the ultra-precise and stony flavors that are akin to rolling small rocks around in the mouth, all wrapped in a saline and kaleidoscopically complex finish that reminds me a great deal of a grand cru Chablis with its compact and linear finish. This is breathtakingly good though note well that it`s going to require a long snooze in a cool cellar as this is nowhere near ready and I very much doubt that it will be young.","2590","IB","3x75cl","OWC",
"LEFLPUC12B6","1","n/a","6","75","2012","Puligny Montrachet 1er Cru Les Pucelles, Domaine Leflaive","Leflaive (Domaine)","1er Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","95","NM","Tasted blind at the Burgundy 2012 tasting in Beaune. The 2012 Puligny Montrachet 1er Cru Pucelles from Anne-Claude Leflaive has an outstanding bouquet: very well defined, surfeit of mineralite with flinty, smoky notes developing after. There is real intensity and focus here. The palate is clean and fresh, almost clinical, with hints of lime cordial and citrus fruit, a dash of spice on the finish that is long and penetrating. This has a long future ahead - the best showing of Leflaive`s 2012s in this blind tasting.","2690","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"LEFLCLAV11B12","1","n/a","12","75","2011","Puligny Montrachet 1er Cru, Clavoillon, Domaine Leflaive","Leflaive (Domaine)","1er Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","89-92","AM","A markedly floral and distinctly riper nose displays notes of white peach, apricot and pain grille are trimmed in pretty citrus notes. There is good concentration to the sappy and mouth coating medium-bodied flavors where there is a real sense of volume and dry extract. The 2011 version is a relatively powerful wine and is really quite good though it doesn`t have the precision or mineral character of the best here.","3575","IB","12x75cl","OWC",
"PMTCMCAIL10B6","1","n/a","6","75","2010","Chassagne Montrachet 1er Cru, les Caillerets, Marchand-Tawse","Marchand-Tawse/Pascal Marchand","1er Cru","Chassagne Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","17","Jancis","Lately of Pousse dOr. Great quality fruit nerve, verve, and curves. Treads between fruit weight and brisk acid. Finely honed. Very good. (RH)","535","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"MATMPER07B12","1","n/a","12","75","2007","Meursault 1er Cru Perrieres, Matrot","Matrot","1er Cru","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","n/a","n/a","n/a","1485","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"MATMPER09B12","1","n/a","12","75","2009","Meursault 1er Cru Perrieres, Matrot","Matrot","1er Cru","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","93+","ST","Very reticent nose suggests ripe stone fruits, lemon peel, minerals, crushed stone and white truffle. Sweet and thick on entry, with ripe white peach and mirabelle flavors dominating. The wine`s mineral element kicks in on the back, giving it a light touch and good inner-mouth perfume. Finishes broad, aromatic and dry, with a whiplash of flavor and a slight youthful aggressiveness. Needs six or seven years in the cellar.","1385","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"PERNPMFOL13B6","1","n/a","6","75","2013","Puligny Montrachet, Les Folatières, Paul Pernot","Pernot","AC","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","91","Cellartracker","Another 2013 that is better now vs when last tasted (in 2017), with an enticing sweet/ tart combination. Seems nearly rich, but also green-tinged and lean. Lots here, just slightly lacking the concentration I would want for a top 1er Cru.","645","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"JPRICHEV08B6","1","n/a","6","75","2008","Chevalier-Montrachet, Grand Cru, Jacques Prieur","Prieur","Grand Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","92-95","AM","An ultra elegant nose features notes of citrus, pear and rose petal that precede the racy, gorgeously intense and seriously pure mineral-driven flavors that are textured, naturally sweet and mouth coating on the energetic and penetrating finish that delivers spectacular length. A wine of sheer class.","2375","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"JPRICOR10B6","1","n/a","6","75","2010","Corton Charlemagne, Grand Cru, Jacques Prieur","Prieur","Grand Cru","Aloxe Corton","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","95","TA","n/a","1380","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"RAVCHAB11B6","1","n/a","6","75","2011","Chablis, Raveneau","Raveneau","AC","Chablis","Chablis","Burgundy","France","White","89","AM","A fruity and very fresh nose of mixed white and yellow orchard fruit aromas leads to attractively intense and racy middle weight flavors that are a bit more forward than is typical with this wine, all wrapped in an easy-to-like but punchy finish of fine depth and length for the appellation.","1450","DP","6x75cl","OC",
"ROULBOU12B6","1","n/a","6","75","2012","Meursault 1er Cru Clos des Bouchères, Roulot","Roulot","1er Cru","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","93","AM","A gorgeous, elegant and pure nose offers up aromas of white flowers, citrus rind, pear, apple and discreet mineral notes. The ultra-refined and intense middle weight flavors possess excellent delineation before culminating in a relatively dry, linear and focused finish that displays real drive. This strikingly pretty and well-balanced effort is an exercise in harmony and finesse with a delicate mouth feel. While this will probably be approachable after only 5 to 7 years, it should be capable of repaying up to a decade of cellar time. ","2700","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"ROULPOR11B6","1","n/a","6","75","2011","Meursault 1er Cru Le Porusot, Roulot","Roulot","1er Cru","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","90-93","AM","A tight and distinctly restrained nose of green fruit, lemon peel, spice and herbal tea hints slides into sleekly muscular and quite powerful medium weight plus flavors that possess plenty of punch and citrus character on the linear, compact and strikingly persistent finish. This is a robust effort and very Porusots in style. Note that plenty of patience will be required as this is unlikely to drink especially well young.","2790","IB","6x75cl","RPK",
"ROULPOR13B3","1","n/a","3","75","2013","Meursault 1er Cru Le Porusot, Roulot","Roulot","1er Cru","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","91-93","AM","A distinctly smoky nose is composed of green fruit, white orchard fruit and acacia blossom and once again there is ample citrus influence present. The muscular middle weight plus flavors possess more size and weight as well as mid-palate concentration that coats the mouth on the impressively complex and persistent finish. As is usually the case this is the biggest wine in the range yet there is absolutely no sense of undue weight. Lovely.","1255","IB","3x75cl","OC",
"ROULMTMP07B6","1","n/a","6","75","2007","Meursault, Tessons Clos Mon Plaisir, Roulot","Roulot","AC","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","92","AM","An expressive nose of lemon, lime, white peach, spice hints and ripe pear gives way to rich and fuller-bodied flavors that possess excellent intensity and detail on the powerful, focused, chiseled and moderately austere finish that displays a beguiling mouth feel. As good as the Tillets is, there is another dimension present here. Either way, you can`t lose. ","2185","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"ROULMTMP13M1","1","n/a","1","150","2013","Meursault, Tessons Clos Mon Plaisir, Roulot","Roulot","AC","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","17+","Jancis","Introvert and carefully sculpted. A bit of weight and breadth. Refined green vegetation and a massive appetite encourager. Medium weight and extremely precise. Very long and promising.","760","IB","1x150cl","RPK",
"ROULTIL12B3","1","n/a","3","75","2012","Meursault, Tillets, Roulot","Roulot","AC","Meursault","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","90","AM","A cool, pure and equally well-layered nose is comprised by notes of mineral reduction, citrus and a beautiful array of floral elements. There is a really lovely sense of refinement and precision to the mineral-inflected middle weight flavors that possess a delicate mouth feel that culminates in a subtle and lingering finish. This is textbook Tillets.","995","IB","3x75cl","OC",
"SAUZCHEV09B3","1","n/a","3","75","2009","Chevalier-Montrachet, Grand Cru, Etienne Sauzet","Sauzet","Grand Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","96","AM","Mild sulfur detracts only faintly from the ultra-elegant white flower, pear, citrus, spice and wet stone nuances where the latter element suffuses the detailed and crystalline pure flavors that display borderline painful intensity on the driving, linear and impeccably well-balanced finish. This incredibly refined effort is sheer class in a glass with Zen-like harmony and poise.","2700","IB","3x75cl","OWC",
"SAUZFOL08B12","1","n/a","12","75","2008","Puligny Montrachet 1er Cru Folatieres, Etienne Sauzet","Sauzet","1er Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","92","AM","This too is impressively refined and ultra pure with a stylish and highly attractive nose of wet stone, white flower, spice hints and white orchard fruit aromas that precede similarly mineral-driven medium-bodied flavours that are energetic, tension-filled and gorgeously delineated on the faultlessly well-balanced finish.","1920","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"SAUZREF02B12","1","n/a","12","75","2002","Puligny Montrachet 1er Cru Les Referts, Etienne Sauzet","Sauzet","1er Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","90","AM","A gentle, indeed almost invisible touch of wood with fuller and richer aromas and flavours but no where near the same level of minerality. To be sure, this is by no means devoid of a mineral component but it doesn`t drive and shape the flavours the way it does those of the Garenne. Delicious, intense and long with plenty of punch.","2400","IB","12x75cl","OC",
"SAUZFOL10B6","1","n/a","6","75","2010","Puligny Montrachet 1er Cru, Les Folatières, Etienne Sauzet","Sauzet","1er Cru","Puligny Montrachet","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","91-93","AM","**Note: from a parcel in the sub-climat En la Richarde plus another in Folatières proper toward Champ Gain at the very top of the vineyard; vine age is 30+ years and it was aged in 1/3 new oak**
A beautifully complex nose features hints of pear, white peach, acacia blossom and mineral reduction. The mineral character also completely informs the chiseled, intense and tension-filled flavors that culminate in a citrusy, austere, bone dry and saline finish. This is terrific and absolutely textbook Folatières.","985","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"FEVCLOS13B6","1","n/a","6","75","2013","Chablis, Les Clos, Grand Cru, William Fèvre ","William Fevre","Grand Cru","Chablis","Chablis","Burgundy","France","White","93-96","AM","**Note: from 4 separate parcels totaling 4.11 ha, 3 of which are all at the top of the slope**
The perfumed and penetrating nose is unusually expressive for a young Les Clos and there is so much iodine, mineral reduction and oyster shell nuances present that this could be from nowhere else but Chablis. The big, powerful and imposingly scaled flavors ooze both dry extract and a pungent minerality yet the balance is perfect on the intensely saline finish that is markedly dry but once again not really austere. This should be terrific though note that patience will be required.","445","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"FEVPREU13B6","1","n/a","6","75","2013","Chablis, les Preuses, Grand Cru, William Fèvre","William Fevre","Grand Cru","Chablis","Chablis","Burgundy","France","White","93","AM","**Note: from two parcels of vines that total 2.55 ha, or 22% of the entire appellation**
A discreet application of wood sets off a cool and ultra-elegant nose that offers up scents of pear, pineapple, white flowers, sea water and oyster shell. There is excellent volume to the medium-bodied and admirably concentrated flavors yet this is not really a powerful wine so much as it is focused and harmonious; indeed the word Zen describes the gorgeously well-balanced finish. This will be approachable young but I would advise holding it for 5 to 8 years.","375","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"BEAUROU05B6","1","n/a","6","75","2005","Chateauneuf du Pape Roussanne VV, Beaucastel","Beaucastel","AC","Chateauneuf du Pape","Southern Rhone","Rhone","France","White","96","RP","The 2005 Beaucastel Chateauneuf du Pape blanc Vieilles Vignes is a knock-out wine in this vintage, 100% Roussanne from very old vines with 50% of it kept in tank and 50% barrel-fermented and the blend done prior to bottling. The wine has fabulous intensity, a big, sweet nose of exotic fruit, fig, marmalade, and honeysuckle, huge body, decent acidity, and an unctuous palate. It is a gorgeous wine to drink over 3-4 years or assume the risk that it is going to rebound in 10-12 years, which it most frequently does.","900","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"CHAPORE00B6","1","n/a","6","75","2000","Hermitage Blanc de L`Oree, M. Chapoutier","Chapoutier","AC","Hermitage Blanc","Northern Rhone","Rhone","France","White","100","RP","Chapoutier believes his 2000 Ermitage Cuvee de l`Oree is even better than his 1999. Its light medium gold color is accompanied by gorgeous aromas of flowery fruit, high levels of concentration, abundant muscle as well as structure, but a closed, backward style. Although voluminous and weighty in the mouth (and no doubt a 50-year wine), it is not as easy to see through its transparent expression of terroir as compared to the bottled 1999. Nevertheless, this is a compelling, full-bodied, massively-endowed white that should be even better after bottling. Along with Gerard and Jean-Louis Chave, Chapoutier is producing the finest expressions of white Hermitage. His single vineyard cuvees are to die for if you like these eccentric, idiosyncratic, mammoth dry whites.","1050","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"CHAPORE00B6","1","n/a","6","75","2000","Hermitage Blanc de L`Oree, M. Chapoutier","Chapoutier","AC","Hermitage Blanc","Northern Rhone","Rhone","France","White","100","RP","Chapoutier believes his 2000 Ermitage Cuvee de l`Oree is even better than his 1999. Its light medium gold color is accompanied by gorgeous aromas of flowery fruit, high levels of concentration, abundant muscle as well as structure, but a closed, backward style. Although voluminous and weighty in the mouth (and no doubt a 50-year wine), it is not as easy to see through its transparent expression of terroir as compared to the bottled 1999. Nevertheless, this is a compelling, full-bodied, massively-endowed white that should be even better after bottling. Along with Gerard and Jean-Louis Chave, Chapoutier is producing the finest expressions of white Hermitage. His single vineyard cuvees are to die for if you like these eccentric, idiosyncratic, mammoth dry whites.","1050","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"CHAPORE99B6","1","n/a","6","75","1999","Hermitage Blanc, de L`Oree, M. Chapoutier","Chapoutier","AC","Hermitage Blanc","Northern Rhone","Rhone","France","White","99","RP","The awesome 1999 Ermitage Cuvee de l`Oree flirts with perfection. It is full-bodied, with an incredible bouquet of liquid minerals, licorice, honeysuckle, citrus, and a hint of tropical fruits. One-hundred percent new oak aging has been completely absorbed by the wine`s fruit and glycerin. This is a winemaking tour de force, made from exceedingly low yields of 12-15 hectoliters per hectare (less than one ton of fruit per acre). However, readers should understand that these are often unusual wines to drink because they tend to show exceptionally well for 4-5 years after bottling, then close up until about age 12. They can last for 4-5 decades. Anticipated maturity: now-2006; 2012-2050. Along with Gerard and Jean-Louis Chave, Chapoutier is producing the finest expressions of white Hermitage. His single vineyard cuvees are to die for if you like these eccentric, idiosyncratic, mammoth dry whites.","835","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"CHAPORE06B6","1","n/a","6","75","2006","Hermitage Blanc, de L`Oree, M. Chapoutier","Chapoutier","AC","Hermitage Blanc","Northern Rhone","Rhone","France","White","99","RP","Nearly perfect, the beautiful 2006 Ermitage Cuvee de l`Oree offers up sensational aromas of quince, honeyed hazelnuts, white currants, flowers, and a liqueur of crushed rocks. Incredible glycerin as well as zesty acids give this enormously-endowed, thick, massive wine surprising lift and laser-like focus. It should drink well for half a century!","710","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"CHAPERMB01B6","1","n/a","6","75","2001","L`Ermite Ermitage Blanc, M. Chapoutier","Chapoutier","AC","Hermitage Blanc","n/a","Rhone","France","White","95-98","RP","The 2001 Ermitage lErmite blanc is aged in demi-muids on its lees with malolactic in the barrel, considerable lees stirring, and bottled unfined and unfiltered. Displaying a liqueur of nut-like character along with hints of lychees, orange blossoms, and citrus oils in its pure, intensely mineral-styled personality, it is a prodigious effort that will have to take a back seat to the singular/remarkable 2000 lErmite. The 2001 should be at its finest between 2008-2030.","1800","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"CHAPERMB04B6","1","n/a","6","75","2004","L`Ermite Ermitage Blanc, M. Chapoutier","Chapoutier","AC","Hermitage Blanc","n/a","Rhone","France","White","100","RP","A compelling, profoundly great wine is the 2004 Ermitage lErmite blanc. This is extremely limited in availability, but the light gold color offers up a liqueur of pears, wet rocks, and honey. Citrus oil, viscosity, extraordinary richness, and acidity make this wine (like all of these Ermitages, made from 100% old-vine Marsanne) just exquisite. There is nothing like these wines anywhere in the world, and the fact that the single vineyard Ermitages are aged in 100% new oak, yet show no trace of oak whatsoever is mind-boggling. This is exquisite wine that you either drink in its first 3-4 years or forget for two decades.","1490","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"GUIGVOTB03B6","1","n/a","6","75","2003","Hermitage Ex-Voto Blanc, E.Guigal","Guigal","AC","Hermitage","Northern Rhone","Rhone","France","White","96","RP","The 2003 Hermitage Ex-Voto blanc is the quintessential white Hermitage, a blend of 95% Marsanne and 5% Roussanne with extraordinary honeyed licorice, quince, marmalade, and truffle notes, an unctuous texture, great purity and richness, and a profound mouthfeel and length. This is extraordinary wine and certainly one of the most profound dry whites I ever tasted. It seems to be set for an amazingly long life. Drink 2004-2054","600","DP","6x75cl","OC",
"PYCMPERNANDSF18B6","1","n/a","6","75","2018","Pernand Vergelesses 1er Cru Sous Fretilles, Pierre-Yves Colin-Morey","Pierre-Yves Colin-Morey","1er Cru","Pernand Vergelesses","Cote de Beaune","Burgundy","France","White","88-90","JM","Lemon and lime in colour, a little fuller in nose than Belles Filles. First to be picked in this sector. White fruit, some fresh pears, more body than the village wines and rather riper, with the fruit sitting agreeably towards the back of the palate, with a slight saline touch. Tasted: October 2019","460","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"ISSAN19B6","5","n/a","6","75","2019","Chateau d`Issan","n/a","n/a","Margaux","Left Bank","Bordeaux","France","Red","97","JS","Fresh currants and raspberries pop out of the glass, together with oranges and cedar. Such purity of fruit in the nose. Full-bodied, yet so refined and vertical. It goes deep and long with tight, compressed tannins that are pure and exciting. Really tight and focused. Precise. Try after 2026.","215","IB","6x75cl","OWC",
"GPL16B6","n/a","2","1","75","2016","Grand Puy Lacoste, Pauillac","n/a","5eme Cru","Pauillac","Left Bank","Bordeaux","France","Red","94+","TWA","The deep garnet purple colored 2016 Grand Puy Lacoste gives up pure kirsch and red and black currants with violets and baking spices. Medium bodied, firm and grainy, it`s very expressive with good concentration and length.","60","IB","1x75cl","OWC",
"CANON19B6","1","n/a","6","75","2019","Chateau Canon","n/a","n/a","St Emilion","Right Bank","Bordeaux","France","Red","100","LPB","Composed of 74% Merlot and 26% Cabernet Franc, the 2019 Canon is deep garnet-purple in color. It offers up fragrant notes of mocha, violets, and licorice over a core of plum preserves and wild blueberries, plus a waft of Indian spices. The full-bodied palate is full-on gorgeous, delivering bright, energetic black and blue fruit layers with a lively backbone and super-fine, perfectly ripe tannins, finishing long, long, long.","510","IB","6x75cl","OC",
"MONTRROSE19B6","2","n/a","6","75","2019","Chateau Montrose, St. Estephe","n/a","2eme Cru","St. Estephe","Left Bank","Bordeaux","France","Red","100","VM","The 2019 Montrose is very clearly one of the wines of the vintage. Rich, inky and towering in concentration, the 2019 possesses off the charts intensity and tons of structure to back it up. Succulent black cherry, plum, tobacco, gravel and licorice infuse the 2019 with striking depth. The 2019 is not quite as opulent as some recent vintages, and that`s a good thing. Readers will find a regal wine that marries elegance with power. Unforgettable. Tasted two times. 2034 - 2069","750","IB","6x75cl","OWC",