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2021 Berry Bros. & Rudd Pouilly-Fuissé by Olivier Merlin, BurgundyMâconnais maestro Olivier Merlin fermented and aged this rich, toasty, citrus-edged E1 exclusive in oak.Jane MacQuitty, White Wine I’ve Fallen in Love With, The Times (October 2023)The Merlin family have made our Pouilly-Fuissé from vines in the villages of Vergisson, Chaintré and Fuissé. Fermented and aged entirely in oak, it is complex and layered. The nose is restrained and floral; the palate is rounded, with generous citrus and melon fruit. The finish is crisp and mineral, with a waft of toasty oak. Enjoy this with seafood and hard cheese.Drink now to 2026Adam Bruntlett, Senior Buyer, Berry Bros. & Rudd (November 2022)2021 Berry Bros. & Rudd Pouilly-Fuissé by Olivier Merlin, Burgundy2021 Berry Bros. & Rudd Pouilly-Fuissé by Olivier Merlin, BurgundyBottle Price 75 cl $45.00Was $50.00
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2021 Berry Bros. & Rudd White Burgundy by Collovray & TerrierThis is a thirst-quenching and versatile white wine. Citrus, green apple and pear aromas combined with notes of fresh butter, subtle oak toast and chalky, wet-stone touches. Enjoy it with cheeses, salads, seafood and white meat dishes.
Drink now to 2024
Adam Bruntlett, Burgundy Buyer, Berry Bros. & Rudd2021 Berry Bros. & Rudd White Burgundy by Collovray & Terrier2021 Berry Bros. & Rudd White Burgundy by Collovray & TerrierBottle Price 75 cl $36.00Was $40.00 -
Champagne Bollinger, Special Cuvée, Brut
This is gleaming gold in the glass. The nose entices with yellow fruit, ginger and hot buttered scones, while the palate is softly foaming, powerful and utterly delicious. The fine mousse aids textural complexity. Flavours weave between the immediate satisfaction of baked plum crumble with cream, and serious, savoury Pinot musk from the thoroughbred chalk terroir, the maturity of the base vintages and evolution in bottle. The finish is mineral, golden, expansive and dangerously moreish.
Davy Żyw, Senior Buyer, Berry Bros. & RuddChampagne Bollinger, Special Cuvée, BrutChampagne Bollinger, Special Cuvée, BrutBottle Price 75 cl $96.00 -
2021 Berry Bros. & Rudd Provence Rosé by Château la Mascaronne
Our deliciously fresh 2021 Provence Rosé is once again made for us by the brilliant Ch. la Mascaronne. Sweet strawberry dominates the nose with a hint of fennel, wild oregano and garden sage. A mineral purity here makes the wine extremely clean and refreshing. A twist of wild raspberries lingers on the long, balanced and sophisticated finish.
Catriona Felstead MW, Senior Buyer, Berry Bros. & Rudd
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2022 Berry Bros. & Rudd Provence Rosé by Château la MascaronneWe are delighted to work once again with the superb Ch. la Mascaronne for our Provence Rosé. Nestled in the rolling hills of Provence, the rocky terrain here is hard to work. However, it is perfectly suited to Grenache, Cinsault and Rolle, the classic grapes in Provence rosé.
The Grenache brings beautiful ripe red fruit character, with a hint of herbs added by the Rolle. This wine is the perfect example of what Provence has to offer; relatively light in body, with plenty of subtle flavour. Serve straight from the fridge alongside fish, charcuterie or salads.2022 Berry Bros. & Rudd Provence Rosé by Château la Mascaronne2022 Berry Bros. & Rudd Provence Rosé by Château la MascaronneBottle Price 75 cl $35.00Was $39.00 -
2020 Berry Bros. & Rudd Sancerre by Domaine David Sautereau, LoireThe 2020 vintage in the Loire was one of the earliest on record, the warm and dry conditions giving concentrated wines with both weight and freshness. David has crafted a complex and mineral wine with notes of gooseberry, cut grass and pink grapefruit. This is a benchmark example of Loire Valley Sauvignon Blanc.
Drink 2022 - 2025
Adam Bruntlett, Senior Buyer, Berry Bros. & Rudd2020 Berry Bros. & Rudd Sancerre by Domaine David Sautereau, Loire2020 Berry Bros. & Rudd Sancerre by Domaine David Sautereau, LoireBottle Price 75 cl $41.00Was $45.00 -
2017 Savigny-lès-Beaune, Benjamin Leroux, BurgundyThis is deliciously moreish, with sweet strawberry fruit and cranberry bite for lift. The final blend included some wine aged in large foudres (three out of the thirteen barrels made), which adds a heartier, richer texture and rounds out the wine. While this is simple, it is far from one-dimensional. The wine comes from vines in Les Conardises and the village section of Les Fourneaux vineyards. This is very appealing and at its peak now.
Mark Pardoe MW, Wine Director, Berry Bros. & Rudd (January 2024)2017 Savigny-lès-Beaune, Benjamin Leroux, Burgundy2017 Savigny-lès-Beaune, Benjamin Leroux, BurgundyBottle Price 75 cl $75.00 -
2018 Pouilly-Fuissé, Clos des Quarts, Château des Quarts, BurgundyFrom the very first nose, this wine is utterly charming, with exuberant fruit and an undercurrent of chalky minerals. The palate is at once creamy and stony, with real finesse and elegance courtesy of a saline, citrus acidity. What’s most impressive, however, is the level of detail, which is more than a match for many a grander name in the Côte de Beaune.
Drink 2021-2028. -
2014 Coteaux Bourguignons, Blanc, Les Glapignys, Domaine Guyon, Burgundy
The excellent Domaine Guyon in Vosne Romanée has been below most people’s radar Eperhaps because Jean-Pierre Guyon spends as much of his time as possible out in the vineyards, which have been farmed organically since 2006, certified from 2012. The wines are extraordinarily good, yet are priced very sensibly indeed, a winning combination.This range of wines is hugely impressive, from the simple Bourgogne Rouge up to the Grand Crus. Finding high quality Vosne Romanée at this pricing level is a rare thing indeed.
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2017 Morgon, Côte du Py, Jean Foillard, Beaujolais
We finished with a 2017 Morgon Côte du Py from Jean Foillard, which showed up the Kiwi Pinot. The color was iridescent, the bouquet pure Gamay in full flight: copious blueberries, cassis, crushed violets and blood oranges, all delivered with superb delineation and brightness.
The palate harnessed the vivacity and unpretentiousness of Gamay with fine tannins, pure, tart black and red fruit and veins of blueberry. There was a gentle but insistent grip on a finish of supreme length. An outstanding Beaujolais wine, but frankly, I expected nothing less from this producer.
Drink 2020 - 2031
Neil Martin, vinous.com (July 2019)
2017 Morgon, Côte du Py, Jean Foillard, Beaujolais2017 Morgon, Côte du Py, Jean Foillard, BeaujolaisBottle Price 75 cl $70.00 -
2004 Château Brane-Cantenac, Margaux, BordeauxTasted at the Brane-Cantenac vertical at the chteau, the 2004 Brane-Cantenac is a blend of 67% Cabernet Sauvignon, 28% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc. It has an agreeable, classic bouquet with tobacco-infused redcurrant and cranberry fruit that is well-defined and gains intensity in the glass, a distant autumnal woodland scent in the background developing in the glass.
The palate is medium-bodied with fine, supple tannin, a fine line of acidity, the finish moving towards secondary flavors with hints of brown sugar, tobacco and a hint of dried blood. This is a fine Margaux for the vintage and it should offer another decade of pleasure.
Neal Martin, Wine Advocate (December 2016)2004 Château Brane-Cantenac, Margaux, Bordeaux2004 Château Brane-Cantenac, Margaux, BordeauxBottle Price 37.5 cl $106.00 -
2016 Champagne Leclerc Briant, Millésime, Extra BrutBrilliant but challenging vintage in Champagne, resulting in bright, classical wines which Hervé draws akin to the legendry 88 vintage. From their biodyanamic vineyards the is a cuvée of 50% Pinot Noir, 35% Chardonnay & 15% Pinot Meunier. Vinified and matured for 10 months in second fill barriques, hailing from Ch. Y’Quem & Haut Brion barrel. Richly fruited, marzipan and fresh figs on the nose, the palate is seductively foaming, marrying vinous musk, bright fruit and chalky tension.
Disgorged in February 2022, 2.83g dosage.
Drink now
Davy Żyw, Senior Buyer, Berry Bros. & Rudd (September 2023)2016 Champagne Leclerc Briant, Millésime, Extra Brut2016 Champagne Leclerc Briant, Millésime, Extra BrutBottle Price 75 cl $102.00 -
2015 Viña Arana, Gran Reserva, La Rioja Alta, Rioja, SpainAs always, Viña Arana delivers. Sitting alongside 890 & 904, this wine offers earlier drinking than its bigger siblings. Grippy tannins with a brilliant array of ripe red fruits and black cherry, there’s a sweet coconutty vanilla nose, with cinnamon and toasted coffee-bean notes. This wine is drinking beautifully now, though it has the quality to develop much further in the bottle for those of you who like the more earthy, meaty, mushroom undernotes that come with maturity.
Drink now to 2036
Joshua Friend, Account Manager, Berry Bros. & Rudd (March 2022) -
2009 Barolo, Serra, Giovanni Rosso, Piedmont, Italy
I recall picking La Serra in 2009 as if it were yesterday! The sun was just up, flooding the ESE facing, cliff-like face of the white La Serra with bursting orange light. Davide’s father Giovanni had had a bad night (he died the following January) so there had been a slight delay, even though their house lies close to the vineyard. They were one of the very last to harvest. The result: an uplifting, soaring wine, the emphasis on the high tone redcurrant notes, exhibiting both pulpy grasso and saline flavours. A joyful wine despite the sad circumstances.
David Berry Green2009 Barolo, Serra, Giovanni Rosso, Piedmont, Italy2009 Barolo, Serra, Giovanni Rosso, Piedmont, ItalyBottle Price 75 cl $140.00 -
Berrys' Amontillado Estilo, Medium Dry, Jerez, 18.5%The House of Lustau is one of the greatest names in Sherry, and it pioneered a system of working closely with the smaller producers, known as Almacenistas, who blend and age sherries of great individuality. Long-term partnerships of this nature have resulted in a range peerless in its diversity and quality.
The Amontillado Estilo has been especially blended for us by one of these merchants and aged in Solera for several years to achieve a unique depth of flavour and richness of texture. An Amontillado is essentially and aged Fino, that is to say it maintains the tangy delicacy of the Flor-matured Fino, but then has been, over time, deliberately oxidised to add nutty complexity and an extraordinary depth of flavour to its yeasty core.
Hugely under-rated, sherry is one of the great drinks of the world; the Estilo is a more than worthy ambassador for the category.
Simon Field MW, BBR Buyer -
2020 Côtes du Rhône Villages, Massif d'Uchaux Garance, Domaine la CabotteThis rewarding blend of Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre is named after the ‘Wild Madder Eplant that grows around the village of Massif d’Uchaux. The sunshine of E0 has imbued the wine with aromas of ripe red cherry and blackcurrant. It has depth and generosity on the palate, featuring red and black hedgerow fruit and fine mineral acidity. This is elegant and delicious.
Drink 2022 to 2026
Catriona Felstead MW, Senior Wine Buyer, Berry Bros. & Rudd (Mar 2022) -
2020 Pouilly-Fuissé, Vieilles Vignes, Olivier Merlin, BurgundyFrom vines around 80 years old, mostly from the village of Chaintré, in fact not far from the Premier Cru Chevrières. None was made in 2021, but there is lots going on this year, with resonant and imposing notes of quince, peach and white hawthorn flower. The length of finish is equally impressive.
Drink 2025 - 2035 -
2016 Château Potensac, Médoc, BordeauxJean-Hubert Delon considers this to be very close in style to his delicious 2016. The long summer was especially beneficial to the later-ripening vineyards in the northern Médoc and this Potensac shows a sunnier face as well as its more usual linear profile. The tannins have the necessary bite and the fruit is bright cassis. Drink 2022-2032.
Blend: 45% Merlot, 36% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Cabernet Franc, 1% Petit Verdot2016 Château Potensac, Médoc, Bordeaux2016 Château Potensac, Médoc, BordeauxBottle Price 75 cl $76.00 -
2019 Bourgogne Rouge, Camille GiroudThis cuvée is from the usual sources in Volnay and Pommard, old vines in Mercurey and a bit more from the Hautes-Côtes de Beaune to replace the Givry. Made without whole bunches, the wine has an appealing purity and lightness of touch. The Hautes-Côtes component gives a chalky lift; easy, bright cherry flavours round out the finish.
Drink 2021 - 20272019 Bourgogne Rouge, Camille Giroud2019 Bourgogne Rouge, Camille GiroudBottle Price 75 cl $49.00 -
2012 Château Montrose, St Estèphe, BordeauxCh. Montrose is at the leading edge of low-impact winemaking in Bordeaux. For more than 15 years, the property has been improving biodiversity and vineyard health energy use Eplus, all the CO2 from fermentation is captured and turned into bicarbonate of soda. “Ch. Montrose is in the middle of nature, Esays spokesperson Lorraine Watrin. “Our vision here is to reveal the beautiful riches of the terroir. Ebr>
In 2010, Ch. Montrose purchased 22ha of prime land from their neighbours, Ch. Phélan-Ségur. The vineyard borders Montrose on its western side and is planted with 2/3 Merlot and 1/3 Cabernet Sauvignon. According to who you speak with, this may be Phélan’s best parcel, and the Merlot is especially prized. This has given the Montrose team a short-term puzzle, resulting in a higher-than-usual proportion of Merlot in the blend for the Grand Vin. This will be adjusted over the coming years as existing Montrose Merlot on excellent Cabernet land near the river is replanted to the latter. Still, there is an embarrassment of fine Merlot on the estate. Not that this is a problem: in 2012, Merlot excelled.
This wine, with 57% Cabernet Sauvignon, 37% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot, is dense and spicy, with the very low-yielding Cabernet fully ripe and giving an earnest backbone to some high-quality Merlot. This is perhaps not a traditional Montrose, but it is undoubtedly a beguiling one.
Mark Pardoe MW, Wine Buying Director, Berry Bros. & Rudd2012 Château Montrose, St Estèphe, Bordeaux2012 Château Montrose, St Estèphe, BordeauxBottle Price 75 cl $182.00 -
2009 Echo de Lynch-Bages, Pauillac, BordeauxThe 2009 Echo De Lynch Bages is succulent and pure, with dark cassis fruit and earthy complexity. Very juicy and fresh, yet very structured, this is still hiding some power and could do with a few more years Eageing in cellar to really shine. As ever, though, the attention to detail from the team at Lynch Bages is clear. This is a wine of utmost quality.
Drink 2016 - 20362009 Echo de Lynch-Bages, Pauillac, Bordeaux2009 Echo de Lynch-Bages, Pauillac, BordeauxBottle Price 75 cl $121.00 -
2011 Champagne Taittinger, Comtes de Champagne, Blanc de Blancs, BrutThe 2011 Taittinger Comtes de Champagne is superb with generous, bright aromas of lemon cream, stone fruits, baked pastry and almonds. The palate has a subtle verve: rich but not overbearing and its weight is carried with deftness and elegance. There is freshness here and a fine mousse brings a lively energy. Beautiful acidity and with extraordinary length, it finishes with a twist of salinity leaving you reaching for a second sip.
Drink 2022 - 2038
Larissa Buckley, Account Manager, Berry Bros. & Rudd (Oct 2022) -
2016 Moulin-à-Vent, Olivier Merlin, Beaujolais
Offering a touch more colour than the 2014, with a sweeter weight of fruit before the spice and tannins at the back. Some elegance too. This will drink well in the near future.Offering a touch more colour than the 2014, with a sweeter weight of fruit before the spice and tannins at the back. Some elegance too. This will drink well in the near future.
Jasper Morris MW, insideburgundy.com (Decemner 2019)2016 Moulin-à-Vent, Olivier Merlin, Beaujolais2016 Moulin-à-Vent, Olivier Merlin, BeaujolaisBottle Price 75 cl $50.00 -
2015 Gevrey-Chambertin, Vieilles Vignes, Domaine Rossignol-Trapet, Burgundy
Rossignol-Trapet's biodynamic 2015 Gevrey-Chambertin is drinking beautifully. This refreshing burgundian Pinot Noir delivers a charming bouquet of red cherry, crushed strawberry, forest floor and rose petals. The sweet red fruit, keen thread of acidity and chalky tannins make it the ideal match for goose or duck.
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2011 Brunello di Montalcino, Biondi-Santi, Tuscany, ItalyFollowing the 2010 will always be challenging, but I’m relieved that 2011 Biondi Santi was an absolute joy. The nose and palate are refined and pure, exhibiting a beautiful, airy red cherry interwoven with subtle oak characteristics.
This is wine evidently still growing into itself, almost like a great young Volnay; there is headroom for the palate to expand. Most impressive is the length; wonderful tannins taper and build exquisitely.
The 2010 will impress with its weight and power, but the 2011 will impress equally with its finesse and ethereal finish. -
2019 Bourgogne Aligoté, Camille Giroud
These are old vines of Aligoté Doré near Pernand-Vergelesses. The Doré is the oldest and best clone of the variety; Jasper Morris MW states in Inside Burgundy that old Aligoté from around Pernand is supposed to resemble Corton-Charlemagne with time. Carel raises this wine in large barrels (460-600 litres). It is completely delicious, both creamy and apple-tart.
2019 Bourgogne Aligoté, Camille Giroud2019 Bourgogne Aligoté, Camille GiroudBottle Price 75 cl $40.00 -
2014 Château Beau-Séjour Bécot, St Emilion, BordeauxThe 2014 Beau-Sejour Becot was tasted on two or three occasions. It has a generous and sensual bouquet with ample macerated red cherries, wild strawberry, vanilla pod and orange sorbet aromas. This is endowed with superb delineation and focus. The palate is medium-bodied with filigree tannin, beautifully integrated new oak, real depth and focus. You could argue that it needed to demonstrate more persistence on the finish but that would be clutching at straws. There is so much freshness and vivacity in this Saint Emilion that it really is a must-buy.
- Wine Advocate 93/1002014 Château Beau-Séjour Bécot, St Emilion, Bordeaux2014 Château Beau-Séjour Bécot, St Emilion, BordeauxBottle Price 75 cl $141.00 -
2016 Vosne-Romanée, Domaine Coquard Loison-Fleurot, BurgundyThe 2016 Vosne-Romanée Village comes from three vineyards covering 1.5 hectares and sees one-third new oak. It has a fragrant bouquet with ebullient strawberry and raspberry fruit entwined with cold stone aromas and discrete sous-bois aromas. The palate has a little more substance than its fellow village crus even if it does not quite deliver the same finesse as the Morey-Saint-Denis or the Gevrey-Chambertin. Still, I appreciate the deft spicy note that sustains the finish.
- Wine Advocate 89-91/100 -
2009 Château Suduiraut, Sauternes, Bordeaux
Intense and luscious with ripe notes of orange peel and pineapple, the 2009 vintage from Château Suduiraut is one of the best Sauternes wines on the market. The palate has a wonderful depth of rich citrus and passionfruit flavours, while a vanilla cream note adds to the lush, honeyed character. Crisp acidity brings a layer of freshness to the wine, making this an absolutely delicious dessert wine.
2009 Château Suduiraut, Sauternes, Bordeaux2009 Château Suduiraut, Sauternes, BordeauxBottle Price 75 cl $116.00 -
Berrys' Meredith, 5-year-old, Full Rich MadeiraBerrys Erevamped Madeira wine range is now available in the popular 50cl format The range of four covers the gamut of styles, and all wines have been up-graded from 3 and 5 year old to the 5 Year Old Premium category. All, most importantly, have been matured by the superior 'canteiro' method, whereby the ageing is achieved naturally by allowing the casks to mature in the lofts of the lodges.
The Meredith is part of the traditional ship-series nomenclature, an evocation of C19th colonial life where trade and war (and indeed trade wars) were often carried out at sea, indeed always carried out at sea for a remote Atlantic island such as Madeira. The Meredith is the richest member of the family, made in the Malmsay/Malvasia style; its characteristic mahogany colour leading to encyclopaedic notes of figs, toffee, dried fruits and roasted nuts. The counterpoint between sugar and acidity is astonishing; the wine is wonderfully full-bodied, sweet and exceptionally long.
Simon Field, MW - Wine BuyerBerrys' Meredith, 5-year-old, Full Rich MadeiraBerrys' Meredith, 5-year-old, Full Rich MadeiraBottle Price 50 cl $45.00 -
2014 Barolo, Mosconi, E. Pira di Chiara Boschis, Piedmont, ItalyBarolo. Tasted blind. Lustrous concentrated ruby with orange tinges. Firmer, more concentrated, and less finesse than the Cannubi of the same vintage. Compact fruit with muscular tannins that remind me a little of Serralunga. Long, cool raspberry fruit and firm structure which demands ageing.
Drink 2020 - 2030
Jancis Robinson MW, jancisrobinson.com (April 2018) -
2012 Barolo, Le Vigne, Sibi et Paucis, Luciano Sandrone, Piedmont, Italyhe expansive nose of red fruits, violets and pomegranate is followed by an expressive, delicate and balanced palate, with lovely ripe tannins and a surprisingly good freshness, given the heat of August 2012. The Barolo Le Vigne 2012 shows grace, volume and lift, with the steely acidity an unexpected and welcome trait from such a warm finish to the growing season.
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2008 Château Grand-Puy-Lacoste, Pauillac, Bordeaux
Ch. Grand-Puy-Lacoste has been in excellent form over the last few years and the 2008 continues in this impressive vein. This boasts the generous fruit of the vintage but with a classic, Pauillac seam running right through the core. Once again feminine in style, this is stylish and elegant with crisp acidity and fine-grained but structured tannins; this represents excellent value in 2008.
2008 Château Grand-Puy-Lacoste, Pauillac, Bordeaux2008 Château Grand-Puy-Lacoste, Pauillac, BordeauxBottle Price 75 cl $141.00 -
2008 Pinot Gris, Heimbourg, Domaine Zind-Humbrecht, Alsace
The wines of Olivier Humbrecht MW need little introduction, possessing great depth and exactitude, as well as generosity… much like the man himself. The Humbrecht family’s viticultural roots can be traced back to 1620. Today they own 40 hectares across five villages in the Haut-Rhin, the southern half of the picturesque vineyards overlapping the Vosges foothills, treasured for its idyllic climate and tapestry of terroirs, as much for its half-timbered houses.
This is a delicious white showing structure, firm acidity and subtle hints of exquisite white peach. Combine this with a zesty lemon complexity and several pleasing saline notes. A match for simple preparations of chicken, fish and shellfish. Drink now and over the next five years. -
2020 Vosne-Romanée, Les Hauts Beaumonts, Pierre Girardin, BurgundyPierre Girardin is known for his meticulous approach to winemaking. He practices sustainable viticulture, taking great care of his vineyards and working with low yields to ensure the concentration and quality of the grapes. In the cellar, he employs traditional winemaking techniques focusing on minimal intervention to allow the expression of the terroir.
The wines of Pierre Girardin are often described as elegant, precise, and expressive, showcasing the distinct characteristics of each vineyard: the white wines balance fruit flavors, minerality, and a beautiful texture. The red wines, primarily made from Pinot Noir, exhibit complexity, finesse, and a sense of place. -
2017 Nuits-St Georges, Les Pruliers, 1er Cru, Domaine Jean Grivot, Burgundy
This is one of the firmer and denser wines in the range, influenced more by the clay, which is more evident here than in the neighbouring Roncière wines. A compact and positive wine that will require a little more patience. Drink 2023-2029.
Jean Grivot, whose name continues to appear on the labels, took over from his father Gaston in 1955 and handed the estate on to his son Étienne in the early 1980s. Étienne, married to Marielle Bize from Savigny, has been through a number of incarnations as winemaker here. When he took over, his father’s style was for gentle, graceful wines which perhaps were a little weak in the lesser vintages. Since then Étienne has found his own voice and made a range of increasingly fine wines. The drive to reduce yields and fine-tune his work in the vineyards and cellar since the mid-2000s continues to enhance quality. The succession to the next generation is now well underway, with Mathilde and Hubert increasingly influential, under their father’s experienced and wise guidance.
Here the decision was to wait for a bit of rain, to get the skins and berries fully ripe. The rain did the trick and the resulting wines are among the best of the Côte this year. Adjectives tumbled from Étienne during the tasting: seductive and precise, glamorous, graphite and saline, luminous and suave. We both agreed we rather liked “resonant E Volumes are up 50 percent but Étienne warned us that the run of short vintages has depleted their reserves, and as such allocations this year will not move up in line. -
2016 Champagne Claude Cazals, La Chapelle du Clos, Blanc de Blancs, Grand Cru, Oger, Brut
Although Chapelle du Clos is pitched as the “second wine Eof Champagne Cazals, it is an altogether different expression of its unique terroir to their “tête de cuvée E Crafted from 50-year-old vines which were grown on raw chalk, this wine is a pure expression of Oger. The palate is rich in spring meadow flower aromas, and flavours of golden apple tartlets, pithy lemon and cool, chalky fruit. It’s truly compelling.
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2016 Gevrey-Chambertin, Benjamin Leroux, Burgundy
The Gevrey-Chambertin is becoming somewhat totemic for Ben, produced mostly in a beautiful 35hl foudre which Ben feels gives the wine more elegance, finesse and precision than traditional 228-litre barrels. With gorgeous, sweet red cherry fruit, a charming softness and supple tannins, it is hard to disagree with his assessment.
2016 Gevrey-Chambertin, Benjamin Leroux, Burgundy2016 Gevrey-Chambertin, Benjamin Leroux, BurgundyBottle Price 75 cl $149.00 -
2015 Riesling, Cuvée Frédéric Emile, Trimbach, Alsace
The power of the solaire vintage is on show in the 2015 Frederic Emile which sits more in the broad shouldered camp that it’s sometimes slatey, lean style. Small, concentrated berries have yielded around a third less than normal. This is a FE of immense power and concentration I think will have the capacity for even longer ageing than normal but the luscious fruit also makes it highly approachable today Eas shown by the Trimbach family’s generous donation of the vintage for us to show at our recent 325th Anniversary party. This is a great Freddie Emile!
2015 Riesling, Cuvée Frédéric Emile, Trimbach, Alsace2015 Riesling, Cuvée Frédéric Emile, Trimbach, AlsaceBottle Price 75 cl $106.00 -
2005 Clos Blanc de Vougeot, 1er Cru, Domaine de la Vougeraie, BurgundySylvie Poillot, General Manager, farms the estate’s 42 hectares biodynamically. “We do this to preserve the fertility of soils and to have a perfect balance between the soil and the plant’s health, Eshe explains. It’s not just the soil health that’s changed: two decades from their conversion to biodynamics, the wines are evolving too: “The wines are more aromatic and more expressive year after year, Eshe says.
One of the most backward wines in the cellar is pale lemon with some green tints. A fine core of flesh and fruit is evident alongside some other fermentation flavours, with very appley notes behind. The density, integrity, and wealth of flavour are set to be an exceptional wine. -
1998 Puligny Montrachet F Gaunoux
From soil full of clay, limestone and stone. This Puligny Montrachet is very floral and unapologetically fruity, with aromas of citrus fruits and more exotic fruits like papaya and mango, combined with some ripe minerality and aromas of roasted nuts. In the mouth the acidity is light and bright, and a slightly sweet side from the ripe vintage is evident. Very well balanced and absolutely delicious white Burgundy.
1998 Puligny Montrachet F Gaunoux1998 Puligny Montrachet F GaunouxBottle Price 75 cl $159.00 -
1995 Beaune, Le Clos des Mouches, 1er Cru, Domaine François Gaunoux,Burgundy
This is a classic. Vinous, round and fleshy Pinot Noir. Tons of fruit. Enjoy now and into the next century. The walled vineyard is filled with history, generally considered the pinnacle of 1er Crus in Beaune.
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2016 Brunello di Montalcino, Scopetone, Tuscany, Italy
From Scopetone’s original vineyards, this is a sleeping beauty. It’s matured in large oak casks for three years, followed by 12 months in cement, allowing the tannins to smooth out. The results are astonishing: the wine is composed and feels glossy, but has a lightness of touch. It combines the very best of Sangiovese: power, purity and perfume. Drink 2026-2038.
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2006 Frankland Estate, Olmo's Reward, Frankland River, AustraliaThe price of the 75cl bottle, reduced from £45.50 previously, includes a 30% discount. This offer is valid until midnight on 31st January and does not apply to BBX listings.
Named after Dr Harold Olmo, who first identified the potential of vines in the remote Frankland River region, this fully mature wine is a blend of 52% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Franc and 8% Cabernet Sauvignon. The nose shows dried blackberry and forest floor aromas, complemented by woodsmoke and a hint of marzipan. The palate is rich and smooth, with the Cabernet Franc adding spice and a firm grip of tannins on the finish. This Margaret River wine is miles away Eboth stylistically and quite literally Efrom the fruity reds of the Barossa.
Drink now to 2024
Barbara Drew MW, Content Officer, Berry Bros & Rudd (May 2022) -
2018 Rosso di Montalcino, Poggio di Sotto, Tuscany, ItalyThis was grown as Brunello, with tiny yields from fossil-filled vineyards. It was spontaneously fermented in botti before spending two years in smaller casks. This is bright, pretty and vivacious, with incredible aromatics. The palate is elegant and complex, superior to many Brunellos. This is a work of the highest craft: Brunello intensity meets Burgundian finesse.
Drink now to 2032. -
1997 Taylor's, Port, Portugal
Taylors have triumphed with their 1997. Even by their standards, this is an exceptional effort. The nose is extraordinarily elegant; a taut tapestry of the sweet and the savoury. Finesse on the palate ensures a completely harmonious integration of sweetness, alcohol and fruit with tight-knit tannins and a real intensity on the finish that emphasises the quality of this Port with measured authority. For many this is the wine of the vintage.
1997 Taylor's, Port, Portugal1997 Taylor's, Port, PortugalBottle Price 75 cl $167.00 -
2004 Château Haut-Bailly, Pessac-Léognan, Bordeaux
Experts on the subject of soil will tell you that Haut Bailly boasts one of the finest terroirs in the Pessac-Leognan appellation. The wine made here has always been fine but in recent years it has reached a new level of excellence, rivalling some of the great Haut-Medoc Cab. Sauvignon-dominated wines. For me this new departure began with the 2004 vintage, not hailed as a great vintage in Bordeaux but bearing the hallmark of what the British call a "classic vintage", meaning a wine of finesse and elegance, with cool, sweet fruit supported by ripe tannins and balancing acidity. A joy to drink now and over the next 8 years.
2004 Château Haut-Bailly, Pessac-Léognan, Bordeaux2004 Château Haut-Bailly, Pessac-Léognan, BordeauxBottle Price 75 cl $156.00 -
2020 Bourgogne Blanc, Domaine Antoine JobardAs usual, this comprises fruit from the lieux-dits L’Ormeau, Sous la Velle, La Monatine, Les Herbeaux and Lameroses Ewhich all lie in the middle and to the north of the appellation. Twenty percent of the wine is in barrel. There is lots of creamy fruit, a well-textured body and an open Meursault style, finishing with satisfying tension.
Drink 2022-2028.2020 Bourgogne Blanc, Domaine Antoine Jobard2020 Bourgogne Blanc, Domaine Antoine JobardBottle Price 75 cl $61.00 -
2014 Riesling, Cuvée Frédéric Emile, Trimbach, AlsaceIn my opinion, Trimbach are the benchmark amongst Alsace Riesling and at the forefront of this is their flagship Ethe Cuvée Frédéric Emile. Against such expectations some wines can disappoint but that has never been the case with the Frédéric Emile. The 2014 is no exception as it excels with citrus notes, honey, and apple at the forefront with a lip-smacking acidity that just makes me want more. I would recommend this as the perfect foil for Thai food, but realistically the food is unnecessary for this taste of absolute deliciousness.
Drink 2022 to 2034+.
Markus Ljunghammar, Account Manager (April 2022)2014 Riesling, Cuvée Frédéric Emile, Trimbach, Alsace2014 Riesling, Cuvée Frédéric Emile, Trimbach, AlsaceBottle Price 75 cl $101.00 -
2018 Bourgogne Blanc, Benjamin LerouxBeautiful white burgundy from the wine whizz kid Benjamin Leroux, with lots of fine, smoky-toasty, hazelnut style.
Jane MacQuitty, The Times (May 2021)
A blend of wines from the Hautes-Cotes de Beaune and outlying vineyards around Meursault put together with great skill by this new-generation negociant. Neat, fresh and pure. Creamy texture with a slice of lemon. Just the ticket. The only disadvantage of the wine is that you know it would have cost half as much quite recently. It's also at its peak at the moment. Not for the cellar.
Jancis Robinson MW, ft.com (March 2021)
As always, this is a very superior generic white Burgundy, based on vineyards in the Hautes Côtes (where the quality is superb in 2018) and Côte d’Or vineyards around Meursault. The beautiful ripeness of the Hautes Côtes gives a lemon and stone-fruit character, and good acidity; while the Meursault component is lush and joyous.
Drink now to 2023.2018 Bourgogne Blanc, Benjamin Leroux2018 Bourgogne Blanc, Benjamin LerouxBottle Price 75 cl $55.00 -
2002 Champagne Dom Pérignon, BrutThe 2002 Dom Pérignon is unforgettable. Rich, sumptuous and flamboyant to the core, the 2002 captures all of the radiance of a year in which ripeness in the Chardonnays was pushed to the edge. The 2002 is oily and viscous on the palate, with tremendous textural resonance in all of its dimensions.
Tropical fruit, pastry and exotic floral notes all build as the 2002 opens up with air. I can still remember the first time I tasted the 2002, here in the Hautvillers cloister, with former Chef de Caves Richard Geoffroy. It was thrilling back then, and is every bit as memorable today.
Antonio Galloni, Vinous.com (March 2019)2002 Champagne Dom Pérignon, Brut2002 Champagne Dom Pérignon, BrutBottle Price 75 cl $454.00 -
2016 La Fleur Vivaltus, Ribera del Duero, SpainThe 2016 is the first vintage from Bodega Vivaltus Ea joint venture between the Yllera and Martínez families and Jean-Claude Berrouet, most renowned for his 44 years at Petrus.
La Fleur de Vivaltus is the estate’s second wine and possesses much of the elegance, finesse and balance of the grand vin. Predominantly Tempranillo, with a touch of Cabernet Sauvignon, the wine sees 11 months in French oak barrels with 20% new oak.
A wonderful floral nose develops in the glass with delicate red fruit appearing on the palate. The tannins are soft and the finish is well-balanced with great acidity and length.
Drink now to 2030
Olly Hallworth, Buying Assistant, Berry Bros. & Rudd (Jan 2023)2016 La Fleur Vivaltus, Ribera del Duero, Spain2016 La Fleur Vivaltus, Ribera del Duero, SpainBottle Price 75 cl $76.00 -
Berrys' Rainwater, 5-year-old, 19%Berrys Erevamped Madeira wine range is now available in the popular 50cl format. The range of four covers the gamut of styles, and all wines have been up-graded from 3 and 5 year old to the 5 Year Old Premium category . All, most importantly, have been matured by the superior 'canteiro' method, whereby the ageing is achieved naturally by allowing the casks to mature in the lofts of the lodges.
Berrys' Rainwater is a medium-dry Madeira. Shrouded in historical mists of Atlantic crossings and open casks absorbing rainfall on the beaches of Funchal, this is a subtle and evocative wine. The Rainwater style, traditionally associated with the Verdehlo grape variety has an inimitable, timeless quality with notes of almonds and dried fruit underpinned by a firm streak of acidity and a smoky backdrop.
Simon Field, MW - Wine BuyerBerrys' Rainwater, 5-year-old, 19%Berrys' Rainwater, 5-year-old, 19%Bottle Price 50 cl $50.00 -
5 Year Old Reserve Madeira, Broadbent Selection, 19%Imported from Madeira, a volcanic island 400 miles off the North African coast, Broadbent Madeira is the product of Michael and Bartholomew Broadbent, both world-renowned Madeira experts. The wines were hand-selected on the island by Michael Broadbent, the world's most experienced taster of Madeira and his son Bartholomew, who is deemed one of the world's foremost authorities on Port and Madeira, and is credited with spearheading the revival of Madeira in America.
Aged in oak casks for at least five years, this is a delicious, full-bodied and rich dessert wine, with an excellent balance between sweetness and acidity. -
2005 Champagne Thiénot La Vigne aux Gamins
Made from Chardonnay grapes from an old, 100 % Grand Cru vineyard in Avize, La Vigne aux Gamins is a unique Cuvee full of love and flavour. The wine has a very clear, almost limpid colour and delicate bubbles. The nose develops very subtly Aromas of prune whilst aerating the wine reveals notes of cooked fruits, brioche and the lovely lingering finish of a great terroir. La Vigne aux Gamins is free of all embellishments, making it an exceptionally pure Champagne.
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2005 Champagne Thiénot La Vigne aux GaminsChampagne2005 Champagne Thiénot La Vigne aux GaminsBottle Price 75cl $158.00Was $176.00 -
The King's Ginger, 41%
The King’s Ginger may be celebrating its 117th birthday, but it remains a timeless liqueur. On the nose, there’s fresh natural ginger and zesty lemon; on the palate, you’ll find ginger-syrup sweetness, fresh ginger and lemon Edelicious on its own, or mixed in a cocktail. This year, The King’s Ginger is appearing in its new bottle. Its updated design is a nod to the saddle flask, and to King Edward’s love of the outdoors.
{***} {maturity}drink-now{maturity} {maturity-text}Drink now{maturity-text} {ratings} {ratings} {***}
The King's Ginger, 41%The King's Ginger, 41%Bottle Price 50 cl $68.00Was $75.00 -
2020 Bourgogne Rouge, Benjamin LerouxBen chose not to include any Dames Huguettes (Hautes-Côtes de Nuits) this year; the grapes had become too expensive. The origin of the fruit here is all Côte de Beaune. The wine is raised two-thirds in foudres, one-third in barrel. This is an accomplished and pretty example of the vintage: juicy, perfumed and with pure red-fruit notes.Drink 2022-20282020 Bourgogne Rouge, Benjamin Leroux2020 Bourgogne Rouge, Benjamin LerouxBottle Price 75 cl $61.00
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2019 Savigny-lès-Beaune, Le Clos du Village, Domaine Liger-BelairJust two barrels made from the 40 year old vines on limestone. Pale lemon and lime colour. The nose is on the heated side. Really energetic attack, lemon scented melons, sherbet touch to finish, quite exotic but less heated at the finish.
- Jasper Morris MW -
2012 Barolo, Cannubi Boschis, Sibi et Paucis, Luciano Sandrone, Piedmont, ItalyThe late-season warmth of 2012 shows in the expansive and cleanly delineated fruit of the Cannubi Boschis Barolo which shines thru on the nose and palate.
The characteristic ripeness is evident in the red fruits, roses and berries on the nose and palate. While the wine is drinking well already, the wine will continue to benefit from a few more years of patience. The significant, silky and ripe tannins Ea hallmark of the Cannubi hillside Eare deliciously long and sweet, while the forward fruit of the vintage balances out the fresh acidity. -
2010 Meursault, Dominique Lafon, Burgundy
The 2010 Meursault emerges from the glass with notable elegance and class. This is a slightly more restrained, nervous style than fans of Comtes Lafon have become used to over the years. The 2010 is made from parcels in Petit Montagne, Charmes and Narvaux that belong to Dominique Lafon and that were once used in the Comtes Lafon Meursault
Antonio Galloni - eRobertParker.com #202 - Aug 20122010 Meursault, Dominique Lafon, Burgundy2010 Meursault, Dominique Lafon, BurgundyBottle Price 75 cl $222.00 -
2008 Rare Champagne, Millésime, Brut
The Millésime Rare is an absolutely delicious Champagne, and a wonderful example of the quality of the 2008 vintage. Made up of 70% Chardonnay and 30% Pinot Noir, all grapes for the wine were sourced from Grand Cru villages. Initially delicate on the nose, it opens up in the glass to show aromas of sweet peach, dried flowers, almonds and white pepper. The palate is ripe with a rich mousse; it’s zesty and refreshing, with hints of pineapple, blood orange, liquorice and freshly-baked pastries.
Drink 2022 E2035
Paul Keating, Private Account Manager, Berry Bros. & Rudd (Nov 2021)2008 Rare Champagne, Millésime, Brut2008 Rare Champagne, Millésime, BrutBottle Price 75 cl $293.00 -
2008 Champagne Charles Heidsieck, Millésimé, Brut
Dense nose and obvious evolution. More evolved, in fact, than many 2008s. Creamy rather than angular. Light toast. Lively but not as punchy as some other 2008s.
Drink 2018 - 2028
Jancis Robinson MW, JancisRobinson.com (September 2019)2008 Champagne Charles Heidsieck, Millésimé, Brut2008 Champagne Charles Heidsieck, Millésimé, BrutBottle Price 75 cl $202.00 -
1995 Château Gruaud Larose, St Julien, Bordeaux
The 1995 Château Gruaud Larose has a complex nose with intense aromas of ripe black cherry, graphite and dark chocolate mixed with leather and smoke. Layers of soft berry fruit and damp grass unfold on the palate, leading into fresh tobacco. The palate is supple, with juicy acidity and elegant, fine tannings playing a supporting role. This would be a perfect match with hard cheeses or game meats.
Drink now to 2028
Barbara Drew MW, Content Officer, Berry Bros. & Rudd (January 2023)1995 Château Gruaud Larose, St Julien, Bordeaux1995 Château Gruaud Larose, St Julien, BordeauxBottle Price 75 cl $227.00 -
2016 Meursault, Les Narvaux, Dominique Lafon, BurgundyA pale lemon colour with light green tints, this cuvée displays a very backward nose with a touch of beneficial reduction. In the mouth it is very classy, building to the back, quite generous, with a lovely aftertaste. The fruit keeps on coming. Drink 2019-2025.
Jasper Morris MW, Wine Buyer
The whites were picked from 28th August with a good crop for the Bourgogne Blanc (see page XX), rather less in the other white vineyards. The reds Emore wine than in 2014 or 2016 but far from a full crop Eare superb, having been vinified with very light extraction, given the health and beauty of the raw material. While all the whites count as domaine wines, there are now two excellent cuvées of Premier Cru Beaune from purchased grapes to go alongside the domaine-owned Beaune Épenottes and the two Volnays. -
2005 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Rouge, Château de Beaucastel, Rhône
This wine is built mainly around Mourvèdre, Grenache and Syrah, but the palate reveals it to be a careful construction from all thirteen Châteauneuf-du-Pape varieties. Counoise lends smoky, tannic complexity, while Cinsault adds softness and elegance. All in all it’s a classic Beaucastel, with black fruits, truffles, spice and bitter chocolate notes all present.
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2020 Morey-St Denis, Les Monts Luisants, 1er Cru, Pierre Girardin, Burgundy"Pierre Girardin is known for his meticulous approach to winemaking. He practices sustainable viticulture, taking great care of his vineyards and working with low yields to ensure the concentration and quality of the grapes. In the cellar, he employs traditional winemaking techniques focusing on minimal intervention to allow the expression of the terroir.
The wines of Pierre Girardin are often described as elegant, precise, and expressive, showcasing the distinct characteristics of each vineyard: the white wines balance fruit flavors, minerality, and a beautiful texture. The red wines, primarily made from Pinot Noir, exhibit complexity, finesse, and a sense of place. -
2017 Morey St Denis, Les Forges du Tart, 1er Cru, Clos de Tart, Burgundy
A fresh and ripe nose features notes of both red and dark cherry that are trimmed in floral, herbal tea and wood hints. The agreeably textured and rich flavors are not super-dense though neither are they light, all wrapped in a juicy, pliant, refreshing and ever-so-mildly warm finale. This youthfully austere effort offers good quality and is a wine that should drink reasonably well young if that's your preference. - Wine Advocate
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2014 Réserve de la Comtesse, Pauillac, Bordeaux
What a beautiful opening to this, with stunning cassis fruit and just a touch of wood spice that adds complexity. The palate is graceful and fresh, with the cherry fruit emerging again with liquorice and a lovely peppery finish. This is the best Comtesse I have tried for some years and will be an absolute joy to drink in 5-8 years time. I suspect given its fine balance it will drink for 10+ years.
2014 Réserve de la Comtesse, Pauillac, Bordeaux2014 Réserve de la Comtesse, Pauillac, BordeauxBottle Price 75 cl $199.00 -
2008 Champagne Henriot, Cuvée Hemera, Brut
About to be released. A classic year with typical weather and 'perfect parameters' according to chef de cave Alice Tétienne. Dosage 5 g/l (Brut no longer appears on the front label). Disgorged November 2022.
Discreet nose, lovely tight-knit texture and lots of energy. Chiselled and not nearly at peak but with a really long and interesting aftertaste.2008 Champagne Henriot, Cuvée Hemera, Brut2008 Champagne Henriot, Cuvée Hemera, BrutBottle Price 75 cl $253.00 -
2005 Château Ducru-Beaucaillou, St Julien, Bordeaux
A Second Growth in 1855, Château Ducru-Beaucaillou regularly gives the First Growths a run for their money Eespecially since the arrival of third-generation owner Bruno Borie in 2003. Bruno never saw such an “easy vintage Eas 2005, apparently: he considered every bunch “perfect E Some 18 years on, this is only starting to come into its own, with the promise of spectacular things to come.
There are pronounced, complex aromatics of fresh black fruits, leather, liquorice, dried leaves and cigars, though this is only a hint of what further ageing will bring. This is a dense, mouth-filling Claret with a lot of structure, a real concentration of fruit and lively, refreshing acidity. Approach it now if you are that way inclined, though it will evolve wonderfully for decades yet.
Bruno is famed for his cooking, and this standout wine deserves a special dish: a côte de boeuf or grilled portobello mushrooms would work very well.2005 Château Ducru-Beaucaillou, St Julien, Bordeaux2005 Château Ducru-Beaucaillou, St Julien, BordeauxBottle Price 75 cl $445.00 -
2019 Bourgogne Chardonnay, Jean-Claude Ramonet
The 2019 Bourgogne Chardonnay is a medium to full-bodied, round and fleshy wine evocative of peach, fresh mint, pastry cream and vanilla pod. Open and demonstrative, it will drink well young. - Robert Parker
2019 Bourgogne Chardonnay, Jean-Claude Ramonet2019 Bourgogne Chardonnay, Jean-Claude RamonetBottle Price 75 cl $184.00 -
2010 Côte-Rôtie, Ampodium, Domaine René Rostaing, RhôneQuite reserved on entry, with fine linear acidity and a pure, long finish. The harvest was relatively late after a mild August; and René praises the resulting wine for its ‘belle tension E The wine has ripe yet restrained fruit, with subtle aromatics of violets and forest floor, and beautifully silky tannins at the back of the mouth. Extremely promising.
Simon Field MW, Wine Buyer
A brilliant vintage for Côte-Rôtie, this is René’s favourite vintage of the past 20 years. Long maceration and low temperatures preserve the crystalline focus, yet the ripeness of the fruit gives a balance of opulent richness that makes this wine approachable in youth. There is finesse with black fruit precision with a touch of wet stone minerality, floral jasmine notes and herbs de provenance on the finish. Personally, I feel this wine as it represents the best of the Côte-Rôtie at a reasonable price. Though approachable now, this has the structure to age happily for a decade or more and will continue to give and give. If you have a case of this, I would open a bottle a year and track its progress.
Fine Wine Team
M Rostaing, or RR as we affectionately call him, is something of an enigma, a man giving all semblance of being a classicist, yet whose winemaking philosophy, with its use of rotary fermenters and pragmatic approach to destemming, is far from the old-school. His vocabulary, however, is pleasingly old-fashioned; he likes the 2010 vintage, as there is Ene belle rigueur E describing it as ‘Jansenist Ein temperament. The classicism now extends to the names of the wines; the wine formerly known as ‘Cuvée Classique Ehas been renamed Ampodium, the Roman name for the town of Ampuis, and the location of his winery. -
2022 Miraval Rosé, Côtes de Provence
As one of the leading lights in Provence, Miraval continues to strive for excellence and the 2022 vintage certainly continues in this manner. Raspberries, candied strawberry, pear and white flowers combine beautifully on the nose and the palate is just as generous, with explosions of ripe white peach, lemon peel and pear all in perfect harmony. Beautifully pale in colour and with wonderful acidity, this really is the perfect drink for summer.
2022 Miraval Rosé, Côtes de Provence2022 Miraval Rosé, Côtes de ProvenceBottle Price 75 cl $41.00Was $46.00 -
2016 Cornas, Les Vieilles Vignes, Alain Voge, RhôneIn almost every vintage, it's worth the price difference to step up to Voge's Vieilles Vignes bottling. Certainly, the 2016 Cornas Vieilles Vignes is another huge success, with hints of cracked pepper and briars accenting red plums and then picking up licorice on the long, softly dusty finish. Full-bodied, concentrated and supple, it's approachable now yet looks sure to evolve gracefully for at least a decade.
Drink 2019 - 2030
Joe Czerwinski, Wine Advocate (Dec 2018)2016 Cornas, Les Vieilles Vignes, Alain Voge, Rhône2016 Cornas, Les Vieilles Vignes, Alain Voge, RhôneBottle Price 75 cl $140.00 -
2016 St Aubin, En Remilly, 1er Cru, Domaine Hubert Lamy, BurgundyThis vineyard is on the western side of the Mont Rachet, close to Puligny-Montrachet. This has a plumper feel to the palate, with more of the mealy, oaty character of that appellation. Not to be underestimated, there is splendid intensity to match the fruit and energy of the wine. Drink 2021-2027. Adam Bruntlett, Burgundy Buyer
There have been Lamys growing vines in St Aubin since 1640 Etoday the domaine is run by Olivier Lamy in succession to his father Hubert. Olivier ceased supplying négociants in 1997, grubbing up and selling off peripheral vines, keeping only the best and oldest sites. He has been experimenting with different planting densities in a quest to capture an even greater expression of terroir. Every single one of Olivier Lamy’s vineyards in St Aubin was completely frosted; only Santenay escaped. In a strange way, this was a benefit because, when the vines began to re-flower, they did so all at the same time and there was an homogeneity of growth and maturity. Furthermore, without two differently maturing sets of grapes to contend with, the crop made up the two-week delay imposed by the frost and Olivier was able to start harvesting in Santenay on 15th September, finishing his Bourgogne Blanc from his highest vineyards in St Aubin 10 days later. Olivier suggests the style is like a lighter version of 2014. Overall his production is down about one third. -
2014 Louis Roederer Brut
71% Pinot Noir, 29% Chardonnay with 25% vinified in oak tuns and 20% malolactic fermentation. RS 8 g/l.
There is real savour of age on the nose of this wine, which seems to have considerable development. Something very appetising on the palate but with the intrigue of the age on the nose. It may have 8 g/l dosage, but it tastes bone dry and extremely vibrant on the end. Only 20% malo presumably had an effect. Lots of wild-flower flavours Ea bit of a wild card overall.
Drink 2019 - 2027
Jancis Robinson MW, JancisRobinson.com (October 2021)2014 Louis Roederer Brut2014 Louis Roederer BrutBottle Price 75 cl $130.00 -
2012 Viña Real, Gran Reserva, C.V.N.E., Rioja, Spain
Brilliant ruby-red. Smoke- and mineral-accented aromas of dark berry preserves, dried cherry, pipe tobacco, vanilla and incense. Stains the palate with intense blackcurrant and bitter cherry flavors that become sweeter with air. Packs a serious punch but comes off as lithe and precise, finishing with strong cut and length and silky tannins that come up slowly.
2012 Viña Real, Gran Reserva, C.V.N.E., Rioja, Spain2012 Viña Real, Gran Reserva, C.V.N.E., Rioja, SpainBottle Price 75 cl $115.00 -
1999 Champagne Laurent-Perrier, Late Disgorged Vintage, Brut (22/04/21)Only in magnum. 52% Chardonnay, 48% Pinot Noir form top crus. Disgorged on 22 April 2021. Dosage 7 g/l.
Honeyed straw colour. Tingly, vibrant nose with great energy even if without a massively deep undertow. Real grip and presence on the palate. And impressive persistence. But it's a sprightly wine rather than one in which pronounced autolysis has been sought.
Drink 2022 - 2026
Jancis Robinson, jancisrobinson.com (Jun 2022) -
2010 Champagne Dom Ruinart, Blanc de Blancs, Brut
At first glance, the champagne looks golden yellow, with light greenish hues and a fine, persistent sparkle.The first nose reveals a powdery, floral and mineral note evoking the chypre universe of perfumery. The second nose brings together toasted and spicy notes such as nutmeg mace, roasted hazelnut and almond, and a hint of coffee. Fig leaf aromas mingle with notes of black tea and fresh spices in the mouth. A lingering fresh finish is elevated by an elegant bitterness.
2010 Champagne Dom Ruinart, Blanc de Blancs, Brut2010 Champagne Dom Ruinart, Blanc de Blancs, BrutBottle Price 75 cl $343.00 -
2007 Barbaresco, Rio Sordo, Cascina CruciataCascina Bruciata, Barbaresco "Rio Sordo" DOCG -is elegant red wine from the Nebbiolo varieties of berries collected in the vineyards in the area Rio Sordo. This wine is characterized by a special harmony velvet tannins and a pleasant dry in taste.
Vinification made in a traditional Barbaresco style, the wine is dark ruby in colour with a nose and palate of dried fruit, cedar wood and tobacco.2007 Barbaresco, Rio Sordo, Cascina Cruciata2007 Barbaresco, Rio Sordo, Cascina CruciataBottle Price 75 cl $280.00 -
No.3 London Dry Gin (46%)Know your Bourdeaux from your Burgundy? Then you’ll also be familiar with Britain’s oldest wine and spirits merchants, Berry Bros & Rudd, aka the brains behind this bottle. It’s a suitably classy affair, delivering a strong herbaceous note, warming spice and a whiff of citrus Eand at 46% ABV, they’re not mucking about. We’d serve it with a light tonic and fresh herb garnish.
Stacey Smith and Millie West, Esquire Magazine (November 2023)
No.3 perfectly balances three essential flavours: juniper, citrus and spice, making for the most refreshing gin and tonic, clean, crisp martini or distinctive negroni.
It took us two years to create our masterpiece, working with master distillers, top mixologists, and Dr David Clutton - the only person in the world to have a PhD in gin. We spent months selecting the best botanicals to create a truly classic London Dry Gin.
To meet our exacting standards, we distil our spirit and botanicals in a unique 100-year-old, brick-encased copper pot still in Holland - the home of gin. With the best ingredients, the know-how of the world’s leading gin experts, and perseverance, we created No.3 Gin.
No.3 is the only gin awarded ‘World’s Best Efour times (2012, 2013, 2015, and 2019) at the International Spirits Challenge (ISC).No.3 London Dry Gin (46%)No.3 London Dry Gin (46%)Bottle Price 70cl $116.00Was $129.00 -
1991 Berry Bros. & Rudd Vintage Port, Portugal
Our Own Selection wines, handpicked by our experts, are produced in collaboration with some of the world’s leading wineries. The range contains classic examples at excellent prices from over 50 fine wine regions, offering a wine for every occasion.
1991 Berry Bros. & Rudd Vintage Port, Portugal1991 Berry Bros. & Rudd Vintage Port, PortugalBottle Price 75 cl $131.00 -
2015 Le Clou 34, Domaine Naudin-Ferrand, Vin de France
Classified as Vin de France. From five parcels of old vines planted between 1902 and 1953. Fresh and mineral, pleasant fruit weight with a slight tropical edge, pure and elegant style, ripe and juicy acidity, just a hint of yeast, crème patissière, good length. Not a very typical Aligoté, but a lovely wine.
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2021 Leeuwin Estate, Art Series Riesling, Margaret River, AustraliaCrisp, with pure lime leaf and citrus zest aromas. A firm, linear racy acid line lifts the elegant palate that shows concentrated citrus fruits. Refined and delicate palate texture. Great potential for further ageing in the bottle.
Drink now until 2030
Adrian Brice, Fine Wine Buyer, Berry Bros. & Rudd (March 2023) -
2002 Nuits-St Georges, Aux Murgers, 1er Cru, Domaine Sylvain Cathiard, BurgundyMedium depth of colour with a delicate, fragrant nose, very glossy, a delicious volume of fruit, fair depth, brisk red fruit with plenty of acidity. Fully ready but holding up nicely; no hurry.
Jasper Morris MW, insideburgundy.com (January 2018) -
2014 Château les Carmes Haut-Brion, Pessac-Léognan, BordeauxChange continues apace at this estate, which has been under new ownership since 2010, with their new cellar and tasting room opening in summer 2015. Displaying a lighter, more ethereal style, the 2014 has notes of menthol, tobacco and sweet blackcurrants, with violets and floral aromatics. Medium-bodied with a dark, plum-like colour, there is some sour cherry in the mix too. Earthy, mineral and with plenty of acidity, the luscious fruit balances out really nicely alongside the savoury edge. Persistent on the finish, spice and green pepper linger on the palate. The wine is quite powerful and serious, with layers of complexity. The 2014 is a very good effort.
55% Cabernet Franc, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot -
2015 Chambolle-Musigny, Les Charmes, 1er Cru, Domaine Michèle & Patrice Rion, BurgundyThis site was planted in or around 1945. The Rions have used some whole bunches here to balance the softer style of the cuvée, providing more structure and minerality. The raspberry fruit fills the middle of the palate, leading to an exquisite finish.
Drink 2022-2030.
Jasper Morris MW, Wine Buyer
With more than 35 vintages under his belt, Patrice Rion considers that 2015 is the finest of his career, offering elegance, acidity and persistence. They began picking on 5th September and finished before the rain which arrived the following weekend. The only sorting that needed doing was to remove any dried-out berries. The yields were acceptable, just 10 percent down in volume on the previous vintage. Unusually, Patrice and his son Maxime have used some whole bunches on certain cuvées, notably the Clos des Argillières and Clos St Marc. -
2001 Château Rauzan-Ségla, Margaux, BordeauxCh. Rauzan-Ségla and Mouton Rothschild were considered the leading Second Growth Bordeaux properties during the 19th century; however, while the fortunes of Mouton prospered in the 20th century, Rauzan-Ségla's reputation dwindled, and a succession of disappointing wines were produced.
In the early 1980s, the property was sold, and the Renaissance began. Now with the might and wealth of Chanel behind this château (since April 1994), the wines here have gone from strength to strength. Rauzan-Ségla is once again worthy of its Second Growth status.
The 2001 vintage is dense with a concentrated cassis nose, supported by graceful fruit and ripe tannins. Despite its power, this has real class, showing elegance, restraint and subtlety. This has all the majesty of great Margaux.
Drink now
Berry Bros. & Rudd (July 2023)2001 Château Rauzan-Ségla, Margaux, Bordeaux2001 Château Rauzan-Ségla, Margaux, BordeauxBottle Price 75 cl $252.00 -
2018 Condrieu, Les Vieilles Vignes de Jacques Vernay, Stéphane Ogier, RhôneThis limited production cuvée is made with ageing in mind and only in the best vintages. It is released only when Stéphane judges it to be at the beginning of its drinking window at 4-5 years after the harvest. It is rich and succulent, packed full of ripe stone and tropical fruits, underlaid with notes of ginger and honey and orange blossom highlights. There is also a hint of sweet spice and creaminess owing to the 7 months it spends in new but large oak foudres.
It is unctuous and silky but far from overbearing. A bite of fresh citrus fruit and crushed stone minerality brings balance and purity to the mid-palate and the assurance of many fine years of drinking ahead. It is one of only a handful of wines to challenge the concept that Condrieu is best drunk young.
Drink now to 2030+ -
2001 Château Léoville Barton, St Julien, BordeauxThe 2001 Léoville Barton is still a few years from full maturity. Unwinding in the decanter and glass with aromas of blackcurrant, licorice, loamy soil, cigar wrapper and vanilla pod, it's medium to full-bodied, rich and muscular, with a deep, concentrated core of fruit, lively acids and ripe but firm tannins that still assert themselves on the finish. If Léoville Poyferré is in its prime today, this Léoville Barton still ideally deserves a few more years' patience.
Drink 2021 - 2041
William Kelley, Wine Advocate (February 2022)2001 Château Léoville Barton, St Julien, Bordeaux2001 Château Léoville Barton, St Julien, BordeauxBottle Price 75 cl $242.00 -
2005 Domaine de Chevalier, Pessac-Léognan, BordeauxDomaine de Chevalier is among the few Graves estates producing first-class reds and whites. The property was purchased by the Ricard family in 1865 and remained in their hands until it was bought by the Bernard distilling company in 1983.
I fell in love with this, first in the barrel and then bottle. The best wines of 2005 show an irrepressible energy, and as soon as the aromatics of the Chevalier hit you, you can feel the vigour in the rich, intoxicating black fruit and the mineral, gravelly overtones that only great Graves can offer.
The seemingly endless finish and perfect harmony of this wine, combined with the firm yet supple tannins, immensely concentrated fruit and life-giving acidity, look set to make this a legendary Domaine de Chevalier.
Rich, ripe, intense and complex nose. Generous, full, concentrated palate with rich fruit, vanilla and spices.""
Highly Recommended 4/5 Stars
Pessac & Graves Tasting Panel (December 2008)2005 Domaine de Chevalier, Pessac-Léognan, Bordeaux2005 Domaine de Chevalier, Pessac-Léognan, BordeauxBottle Price 75 cl $182.00 -
2018 Cervaro della Sala, Antinori, Umbria, ItalyCompared to the 2017 vintage, which shows a more accessible and full-bodied style, the 2018 Cervaro della Sala is a classic edition—it’s about as classic as I have ever tasted this landmark white from Umbria to be. This cooler vintage prizes finesse and elegance, and those traits are matched by efforts in the winery to accomplish that same goal.
On many levels, the 2018 vintage opens a new chapter for Cervaro della Sala, emphasising preserved lemon, crisp pear and crushed mineral. The wine offers beautiful freshness and linearity. I must also mention that this vintage is released while the fruit is still a bit closed or shy. That slightly reductive approach bodes very well for the wine’s future evolution.
Drink 2020 E2035
Monica Larner, Wine Advocate (October 2019)2018 Cervaro della Sala, Antinori, Umbria, Italy2018 Cervaro della Sala, Antinori, Umbria, ItalyBottle Price 75 cl $109.00Was $121.00 -
2011 Savigny-lès-Beaune Blanc, Les Planchots, Domaine Guyon, BurgundyThe Savigny Blanc Planchots Guyon is a wonderful example of aged white Burgundy, made from old vines on the sandy gravel soils of Savigny-lès-Beaune. Notes of peach, almond and hazelnut combine with a touch of acacia honey and a salty tang to deliver a wine of generosity and freshness. This would be equally at home as an aperitif with charcuterie, or as an accompaniment to the cheeseboard.
Adam Bruntlett, Senior Wine Buyer, Berry Bros. & Rudd (April 2021) -
2019 Bourgogne Rouge, Les Grands Chaillots, Domaine Thibault Liger-BelairOne-third is from domaine fruit from Nuits with, since 2017, two hectares in Chambolle, including Bons Bâtons. There’s usually about 20% whole-bunch. The UK sample showed sweet and ripe fruit, a svelte undertone and a whiff of cinnamon. The palate was round and ample, very complete for this level. Finishing with strawberry fruit, it’s a classy, well-composed wine.
Drink 2021-2028. -
2010 Chambolle-Musigny, Dujac Fils & Père, BurgundyHere the nose offers excellent complexity on the primarily red berry fruit and soft earth aromas that introduce energetic, rich and round flavors that display moderate wood influence on the linear finish that isn't quite as complex as what the nose promises. Still, this is a lovely villages of fine balance and solid persistence.
- Burghound2010 Chambolle-Musigny, Dujac Fils & Père, Burgundy2010 Chambolle-Musigny, Dujac Fils & Père, BurgundyBottle Price 75 cl $404.00 -
2016 Chianti Classico, Marchese Antinori, Riserva, Tignanello, Tuscany, ItalyAlluring aromas of cranberry, pomegranate and oak-driven spice shape the nose. The aromas follow through to the elegant, savory palate along with vanilla, star anise and a hint of coconut while bright acidity and supple tannins provide support and finesse.
Drink 2021 E028.
- Wine Enthusiast 92/100 -
2017 Vosne-Romanée, Aux Malconsorts, 1er Cru, Domaine Sylvain Cathiard, BurgundyThe 2017 Vosne-Romanée Aux Malconsorts 1er Cru is matured in 62% new oak and underwent a slightly later malolactic fermentation than the other cuvées. It has a very pure, detailed bouquet of precise blackberry, briar and crushed stone aromas. The palate is medium-bodied with sappy red and black fruit, displaying more grip and backbone than the Les Suchots, and the bold finish perhaps offering less charm. It will certainly require several years in bottle.
- Vinous 93-95/100 -
2017 Pommard, Rugiens-Hauts, 1er Cru, Benjamin Leroux, BurgundyRugiens is arguably Pommard's greatest vineyard, of which the lower section is perhaps the finest, but Ben's plot is in the lower part of Rugiens-Hauts and thus very adjacent. This is a big, stern and meaty wine, with dense tannins, but perfume and rigour too. Very serious and age-worthy.
Drink 2025-2030.
It is fair to say that Ben is very happy with 2017, describing it as the kind of vintage he would sign up for every year. The whites, he says, are beautiful, and not far from 2014 in style, with purity, finesse, great definition and balance. He describes the reds as pretty, appealing and with body to support ageing, while highlighting the importance of lower-yielding old vines for serious ageing. He eloquently explains that there is no ''black sheep''Ein 2017, that no village has underperformed. For reason of space, the limited volumes of Grands Crus have not been included in this brochure. Since the 2014 vintage, all white wines are bottled under screwcap -
2018 Blagny, La Pièce Sous le Bois, 1er Cru, Benjamin Leroux, BurgundyThis comes from the same vineyard that produces Ben’s Meursault. As with the white, Ben is building his position whenever he can. Why Blagny? In the best years it can make some of the most individual wines of Burgundy Elean, powerful, understated and intensely mineral. Warmer summers are now adding a further layer of downy comfort. From last year’s four and a bit barrels, Ben can offer 13 barrels this year.
Drink 2025 - 2032 -
2019 Barbera d'Alba, Scarrone, Vigna Vecchia, Vietti, Piedmont, Italy
Deep ruby purple color. Pronounced and intense aromas of ripe red and black cherries and blackberries, paired with notes of spices and a hint of tar. Full bodied, with intense fruit on the palate that is paired with refreshing acidity. The single vineyard Scarrone has finesse, excellent balance, great complexity and a long lingering aftertaste.
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2006 Barolo, Le Vigne, Luciano Sandrone, Piedmont, ItalySoaring aromatics make a strong first impression in Luciano Sandrone's 2006 Barolo Le Vigne (Library Release). Stunningly beautiful and vivid, the 2006 possesses tons of pedigree. Silky tannins, expressive floral notes and delineated, red-toned fruit set the stage for powerful, voluptuous Barolo that satisfies all the senses. Like the Cannubi Boschis, the 2006 Le Vigne is in a gorgeous spot to deliver phenomenal drinking pleasure now and over the next 10-15 years, perhaps longer.
- Vinous 97/100 -
2007 Barolo, Le Vigne, Luciano Sandrone, Piedmont, ItalyThe 2007 Barolo Le Vigne presented a beguiling combination of explosive, ripe fruit and finessed silky tannins, making it a thrilling wine to taste, even at this stage in its development. Small red berries, minerals, crushed flowers, vanillin and sweet spices are woven together in a fabric of indescribable elegance. The French oak has never been better balanced, while the vibrant, crystalline finish leaves a lasting impression.
The 2007 Le Vigne has all the potential to develop into a spectacular wine; it already is. This is a stunning bottle of Barolo. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2027. Luciano Sandrone’s wines have never been more elegant than they are today. The French oak is increasingly well balanced, and the at-times excessive heaviness of some prior vintages is long gone.
Simply put, Luciano Sandrone is at the top of his game.
Never one to be satisfied, this year Sandrone showed me several experimental wines, including a barrel sample of 2009 Barolo Le Vigne vinified with 100% stems, an approach that is virtually unheard of in Piedmont. Although this wine will ultimately be blended into the Barolo Le Vigne, the all-stems Barolo was huge, explosive, and compelling. Sandrone fans have much to look forward to, as the 2008s and 2009s appear promising at this early stage. As for the 2007s, they are off the charts.
Drink 2015 - 2027
Antonio Galloni, Wine Advocate (February 2011) -
2017 Volnay, Les Lurets, 1er Cru, Dominique Lafon, BurgundyIn contrast to the village wine from the same parcel, this displays more complexity, with subtle spice notes joining the berry fruit and violet on the nose. The palate is dense and concentrated with some warmth and rich strawberry fruit, all the while retaining the elegance of Volnay.
Drink 2022-2029.
After the famine of 2016, this year is something of a feast, at least in the case of the reds. Sadly, the whites, which Dominique praises as having excellent clarity, are in slightly smaller volumes than 2016. The good news is that the full range of red wines has been made, and in good volume too. Dominique is effusive in his praise for the 2017 reds, describing them as appealing, with beautiful balance, a lightness of touch, refined tannins and a floral character with stunning red fruit. -
2017 Chambolle-Musigny, Vieilles Vignes, Domaine Thibault Liger-Belair
For more than two decades, Thibault Liger-Belair has been following organic and biodynamic practices. He believes that winemaking starts not with the fruit, but with the soil. “We all talk about terroir, but my focus is on the soil and putting what it needs first, EThibaut explains. His wines are pure, focused and desirable.
The 2017 is a blend of Thibault’s five village Chambolle vineyards, but in 2018 he expects to make three cuvées. The vines are at least 50 years old and 40 percent whole-bunch was used. There is lots of pretty, floral fruit here and an intensely silky, seductive texture that is impossible not to love.
Drink 2020-2026.
Thibault continues to keep himself busy, having bought more vineyards in Moulinà-Vent. In the Côte d’Or he waited until 13th September to pick, feeling that the skins were not ripe until that point. He describes the vintage as transparent, where each vineyard’s identity is clearly visible, and one where those with large yields will not be able to hide. In the Beaujolais, hail was again a significant factor, reducing the average yield for those wines he made to an eye-watering 8hl/ha. The damage was so bad that it cost more to pick the grapes than he will make on the wines, but he felt a duty to harvest and vinify the fruit. With careful use of the vibrating sorting table, he was able to carefully select only the clean fruit and has made exceptional wines. -
2008 Champagne J.L. Vergnon, Confidence, Blanc de Blancs, Brut NatureA gifted and well-known oenologue, Christophe Constant at Vergnon has excellent raw materials to work with, helped by the situation of his vines. His philosophy is to nurture ripe and mature Chardonnay, usually from old vines, to eschew malolactic fermentation, and to allow the wines a lengthy maturation pre (and post) disgorgement, to facilitate integration and presage a potential for lengthy ageing. A very sound philosophy indeed it would seem.
Barrel-fermented with zero dosage, this is a definitive statement, if one puts thoughts of Krug’s Clos de Mesnil momentarily to one side, of oak-fermented Champagne from Le Mesnil-sur-Oger. The oak does not mask the steely linear purity that has made this village’s wines so famous, but adds texture and hints of sourdough, tarte tatin and fig; resplendent complexity, in other words, to adorn a cerebral core.2008 Champagne J.L. Vergnon, Confidence, Blanc de Blancs, Brut Nature2008 Champagne J.L. Vergnon, Confidence, Blanc de Blancs, Brut NatureBottle Price 75 cl $120.00Was $133.00 -
2010 Château Guiraud, Sauternes, BordeauxAcquired in 2006 by Olivier Bernard from Domaine de Chevalier, together with three other vignerons and the Peugeot Family, this property can only be on the road to success. It has great intensity on the nose with touch of oranges, apricots and pineapple, and a delicious, viscous, yet fresh mid-palate. The energy in this wine makes you reach for another sip and the finish is intense and very persistent: a lovely wine.
Max Lalondrelle, BBR Bordeaux Wine Buyer2010 Château Guiraud, Sauternes, Bordeaux2010 Château Guiraud, Sauternes, BordeauxBottle Price 75 cl $103.00 -
Berrys' Spy, 5-year-old, Dry Madeira, 19%Berrys Erevamped Madeira range is now available in the popular 50cl format. The range of four covers the gamut of styles, and all wines have been up-graded from 3 and 5 year old to the 5 Year -Old Premium category. All, most importantly, have been matured by the superior 'canteiro' method, whereby the ageing is achieved naturally by allowing the casks to mature in the lofts of the lodges.
Berrys' ""Ship Series"" of Madeiras reflects the practice, common until the mid 19th century, of naming wines after the ships that carried them. The Spy was a sloop from Bermuda, carrying grain to Madeira and wine back to the West Indies until shipwrecked off Funchal in 1714. Spy 5-year-old is the driest Madeira in Berrys' Own range; it has a pale topaz colour with golden highlights, a characterisitc bouquet of dried fruit and old school libraries, then an attractive 'burnt' flavour, which in turn belies an astonishing freshness on the finish. A great aperitif.
Simon Field, MW - Wine BuyerBerrys' Spy, 5-year-old, Dry Madeira, 19%Berrys' Spy, 5-year-old, Dry Madeira, 19%Bottle Price 50 cl $48.00 -
Berrys' Boreas, 5-year-old, Medium Rich Madeira, 19%Berrys Erevamped Madeira wine range is now available in the popular 50cl format. The range of four covers the gamut of styles, and all wines have been up-graded from 3 and 5 year old to the 5 Year Old Premium category. All, most importantly, have been matured by the superior 'canteiro' method, whereby the ageing is achieved naturally by allowing the casks to mature in the lofts of the lodges.
Berrys' ""Ship Series"" of Madeiras reflects the practice, common until the mid 19th century, of naming wines after the ships that carried them. The frigate Boreas visited Madeira in 1784 on its way to Antigua, taking on board four casks for the Governor of Domenica and a quarter for its 26-year-old captain, Horatio Nelson. Berrys' Boreas is a medium-sweet, Bual style Madeira, with characteristic amber colouring with gold highlights. The attractive nose of toffee apple and vanillin is carried through to the palate, which at 19 degrees of alcohol, has a wonderful balancing sweetness and characterisitic firm supporting acidity. Perfect with puddings, fruit and cheeses.
Simon Field, MW Wine Buyer -
2002 Riesling, Eiswein, Erdener Treppchen, Dr. Loosen, MoselRich and graceful, this '02 eiswein layers its apricot, peach and mineral flavors on a firm structure, leaving the essence of peach and a hint of vanilla on the finish. It ends with a tangy note. Drink now through 2015. 100 cases made.
94/100 points. (Wine Spectator - Mar-2004) -
2008 Berry Bros. & Rudd 10-Year-Old BenRiach, Cask Ref. 149, Year of the Rat, Bottled 2019, Speyside, Single Malt Scotch Whisky
This special cask has been bottled to mark Chinese New Year and the start of the new zodiac cycle with the Year of the Rat. A beautifully balanced Speysider, it offers exceptionally vibrant aromas of fresh fruit salad and bags of lime zest. A little time in the glass brings out orange and soft peach notes. The pleasingly viscous palate gives more peachy fruit notes with lashings of manuka honey, and a touch of dried tobacco. A long finish brings banana bread, some delicate oak spice and the merest suggestion of wood-smoke. A worthy dram to toast.
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Junipero Gin, Original Pot Distilled, 49.3%Junípero Gin is a London Dry Gin has been distilled with twelve botanicals together in a small copper pot still. The result is a traditional juniper heavy flavour, with a pronounced spiciness. While the final botanical list remains secret, citrus elements as well as coriander and liquorice play their part in complementing a classic, timeless gin profile.
Although the nose is subtle, there is little more to say about the spirit that is exactly what its name suggests Ejuniper predominant gin with no aspirations to be anything other than a typical London Dry. Allegedly the name Junípero ESpanish for juniper, is also a word play that refers to Junípero Serra, an important figure in San Francisco and California’s history. As with many stronger, traditional tasting gins (bottled at 49.3% ABV), Junípero makes for a great Martini.
Made by Anchor Distilling in Potrero Hill in San Francisco, California, Junípero was launched in 1998 and was truly one of the first in the new wave of gins to reach the market during the category’s recent resurgence.
Anchor Distilling Company, based on Potrero Hill in San Francisco, was established just over 20 years ago in 1993, but has a long history connected to it before that. The first owner of Anchor Distilling Company, Frederick Louis Maytag III (also known as Fritz), established it as a parallel business to his already thriving Anchor Brewing Company. The expansion of the Brewery in 1979, when Fritz moved it to the current location where it still resides today, meant that he was able to do expand the business, giving himself the title of owning the first brewery in the world with it’s own in-house distillery.Junipero Gin, Original Pot Distilled, 49.3%Junipero Gin, Original Pot Distilled, 49.3%Bottle Price 70 cl $111.00 -
Berrys' Own Selection Jamaican Rum 2000, 13-year-old, 46.0%Amaica produces some of the heaviest character rums in the Caribbean, often with high ester content resulting in rich aromatics and full flavours. This fine pot still example epitomises the fuller style from the island Intense aromas of brown sugar sprinkled bruised bananas, a hint of pineapple and some nice honey notes display.
The palate gives sensational tarry richness as it swells with burnt treacle and smokiness. One to linger over. -
Berrys' Guyanan Rum 1998, 15-year-old, 46.0%During the 1650s the British introduced the art of distilling to Guyana’s sugar plantations spawning the country’s vibrant rum industry. Within two decades there were more than 300 stills in operation. Today only one survives, Diamond distillery on the banks of the Demerara river.
Deep fruity aromas evolve giving raisin and prune notes. A little vanilla softens the intensity. The palate has some toasted oak notes and balancing sweetness from the fruit. Bruised apples and pears come to mind.Berrys' Guyanan Rum 1998, 15-year-old, 46.0%Berrys' Guyanan Rum 1998, 15-year-old, 46.0%Bottle Price 70 cl $120.00 -
2005 Champagne Thiénot Cuvée Stanislas Blanc de Blancs
Firm and focused, with a creamy mousse supporting a subtle weave of lemon meringue pie, poached white peach, toasted almond and honey, showing a pronounced vein of smoky minerality that echoes on the finish. Drink now through 2025.
Wine Spectator 92/100{***} {region}Champagne{region} {color}White{color} {maturity}drink-now{maturity} {maturity-text}Drink now{maturity-text} {vintage}2005{vintage} {ratings} []Wine Enthusiast::92/100 {ratings}{***}
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2007 Champagne Thiénot Grande Cuvée Alain Thiénot
Dark black currant, plum violet and spicy aromatics lead to a silky elegantly textured palate showing great depth, tension and persistence.
{***} {region}Champagne{region} {color}White{color} {maturity}drink-now{maturity} {maturity-text}Drink now{maturity-text} {vintage}2007{vintage} {ratings} []Wine Enthusiast::94/100 {ratings}{***}
2007 Champagne Thiénot Grande Cuvée Alain ThiénotChampagne2007 Champagne Thiénot Grande Cuvée Alain ThiénotBottle Price 75 cl $146.00Bottle Price 150 cl $330.00 -
Champagne Thiénot Brut
This blend of the three classic Champagne grape varieties forms the signature Thiénot style of finesse, fruit and freshness, offering springtime notes, magnificent balance and a lingering finish. The Champagne House’s great classic.
Champagne Thiénot BrutChampagne Thiénot BrutBottle Price 37.5 cl $59.00 -
2006 Champagne Thiénot Cuvée Stanislas Blanc de Blancs
With fruit from the chalk vineyards of the Côte des Blancs, this wine named after Alain Thiénot's son Stanislas is tightly textured, mineral-driven, steely and crisp. Apple skins and lime juice feature along with a continuing freshness despite the wine's age.
{***} {region}Champagne{region} {color}White{color} {maturity}drink-now{maturity} {maturity-text}Drink now{maturity-text} {vintage}2006{vintage} {ratings} []Wine Enthusiast::92/100 {ratings}{***}
2006 Champagne Thiénot Cuvée Stanislas Blanc de BlancsChampagne2006 Champagne Thiénot Cuvée Stanislas Blanc de BlancsBottle Price 75cl $125.00Was $139.00 -
Champagne Krug, Grande Cuvée, 170ème Édition, Brut
The latest edition of Grande Cuvée is a release I await with anticipation every year. This wine doesn’t disappoint in the slightest, although I was surprised at the delicacy of the wine vs. other recent vintages. The nose opens with fresh aromas of crushed flint, dried flowers and ripe citrus fruit. As the wine develops in the glass, richer notes of apricot, pineapple, marzipan and warm patisserie emerge. The palate is lively and mouthwateringly refreshing, with hints of lemon compote enveloped in Grande Cuvées trademark rich and nutty character. As is so often the case, I daydream of sipping alongside some fresh oysters.
Drink from 2024-2034.
Paul Keating, Account Manager, Berry Bros. & RuddChampagne Krug, Grande Cuvée, 170ème Édition, BrutChampagne Krug, Grande Cuvée, 170ème Édition, BrutBottle Price 75 cl $343.00 -
2000 Château Latour, Pauillac, Bordeaux
2000 saw a warm, dry July and August with a small amount of rain from mid-September onward. Composed of 77% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc and 3% Petit Verdot, the 2000 Latour has a deep garnet color and is showing a good amount of evolution, sporting mature notes of fried exotic spices, hoisin, unsmoked cigars and fruitcake with hints of incense, potpourri, cast iron pan and charcuterie.
Medium-bodied, soft, plush and savory in the mouth, it has a long, mineral-tinged finish. 14,000 cases were made this year, representing 48% of production.
Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate (February 2019)2000 Château Latour, Pauillac, Bordeaux2000 Château Latour, Pauillac, BordeauxBottle Price 75 cl $1,716.00 -
2020 Bourgogne Blanc, Benjamin Leroux
This is now almost entirely Meursault fruit, with small contributions from the Hautes-Côtes behind Pernand-Vergelesses, and a few barrels of Chardonnay from Vosne. Fermented and raised in foudre and 600-litre barrels, this is, as ever, excellent. Mealy and citrussy on the nose, there’s crisp stone-fruit and sizzling mineral freshness on the palate. This is juicy, pure and cleansing.
Drink 2022-2027.2020 Bourgogne Blanc, Benjamin Leroux2020 Bourgogne Blanc, Benjamin LerouxBottle Price 75 cl $61.00 -
2019 Meursault, Les Grands Charrons, Pierre Girardin, Burgundy
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2019 Bourgogne Blanc, Clos-du-Château, Domaine de MontilleWith the vineyard now well over 30 years old Esince its conversion from an orchard in 1986 Ethere’s increasing gravitas to be found in this ostensibly generic wine. An enclosed biodynamic vineyard for 15 years, the wine increasingly resembles a miniature Puligny-Montrachet, with notes of citrus and white flower, and a spicy back note.Drink 2021 - 2027
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2018 Petit Chablis, Domaine Raveneau, Burgundy
There is both good freshness and reasonably good typicity to the white orchard fruit scents that are laced with soft citrus nuances. The vibrant and nicely concentrated medium weight flavors possess a caressing and succulent mouthfeel while delivering fine depth and persistence though there is a bit of perceptible backend warmth. This is a quality Petit Chablis that could be enjoyed young or cellared for a few years first.
Drink 2023+
Burghound (Nov 2020)2018 Petit Chablis, Domaine Raveneau, Burgundy2018 Petit Chablis, Domaine Raveneau, BurgundyBottle Price 150 cl $640.00 -
2018 Opus One, Napa Valley, California
The 2018 Opus One is absolutely exquisite. Bright red berry fruit, crushed flowers, mint and spice are all finely cut. The 2018 impresses with its energy and focus. It's a gorgeous wine, and is also showing especially well today, with all of the potential I first saw in barrel very much on display. Bright acids linger on the persistent finish. The 2018 is supremely elegant.
Drink 2028-2048
Antonio Galloni, Vinous.com (January 2022)___
The 2018 Opus One is incredibly elegant and polished, right out of the bottle. Silky tannins and lifted, perfumed aromatics add to an impression of finesse that distinguishes the 2018 from some of the preceding vintages in a pretty big way. It will be interesting to see if the 2018 gains body with a bit of time in bottle. It is pretty rare for Opus One to be so approachable at this stage.
Drink 2024 - 2043
95/100 - Antonio Galloni, Vinous.com (January 2021)2018 Opus One, Napa Valley, California2018 Opus One, Napa Valley, CaliforniaBottle Price 75 cl $525.00 -
2018 Meursault, Limozin, Domaine François Mikulski, Burgundy
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2018 Leeuwin Estate, Art Series Cabernet Sauvignon, Margaret River, Australia
The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon is all you could hope for from Australian Cab. This is already showing a nice development, with woodsmoke and gentle pepper underneath the rich blackberry, cassis and eucalyptus character. The palate is rich, concentrated and yet silky smooth, with tannins than show subtle grip. The tobacco and polished leather character on the mid-palate bring real balance and lift. A real reminder of why I love Australia Cabernet Sauvignon.
Drink 2026 - 2044+
Paul Keating, Account Manager, Berry Bros. & Rudd -
2018 Barbera d'Alba, Francia, Giacomo Conterno, Piedmont, ItalyThe 2018 Barbera d'Alba Vigna Francia is an explosion of floral, savory and mineral notes. Like the Cerretta, the Francia Barbera is quite delicate in this vintage. It has a bit darker fruit, stronger savory undertones and a touch more depth. It is a beguiling, beautifully layered wine that unfolds graciously over time.
Drink: 2023-2033.
- Vinous 94/100 -
2017 Pommard, Les Rugiens-bas, 1er Cru, Domaine de Montille, Burgundy
Firm reduction knocks down the underlying fruit at present. There is more size and power to the equally mineral-driven flavors that aren't especially dense, though neither are they dilute, while offering outstanding depth and persistence on the notably firm finale. Patience suggested.
Drink 2034+
Burghound (Apr 2019) -
2017 Opus One, Napa Valley, California (Magnum)
A remarkable wine for the year, the 2017 Opus One is a dense, full-throttle beauty. Plush fruit and soft, silky contours give the 2017 its racy personality. Exotic, beautifully perfumed and impeccable in its balance, Opus One is one of the most complete wines of the vintage. In 2017, Opus One has a distinctly red-toned fruit profile that distinguishes it from the surrounding vintages.
Antonio Galloni, vinous.com2017 Opus One, Napa Valley, California (Magnum)2017 Opus One, Napa Valley, California (Magnum)Bottle Price 150 cl $1,211.00 -
2017 Mazoyères-Chambertin, Grand Cru, Arnaud Mortet, Burgundy
A cool, pure and airy nose reluctantly expresses notes of red cherry and whiffs of spice, humus and freshly turned earth. There is good power to the succulent and enveloping medium weight plus flavors that offer even better minerality if, somewhat surprisingly, a bit less concentration, on the youthfully austere and mildly awkward finish as there is just enough dryness to mention. This may well come together as the supporting tannins seem ripe but that is not a certainty.
Drink 2029+
Burghound (Jan 2019) -
2017 Côte-Rôtie, La Landonne, Domaine René Rostaing, RhôneThis famous vineyard is currently shared by five vignerons. Rostaing uses only whole-bunch on the fruit from their plot. Inky black in appearance, the nose reveals youthful bramble fruit with heady violets creeping through. The palate is textured and muscular, the dark blackberry fruit combined with a hint of pepper and iron. The finish is very long and the tannins fine, adding to the wine’s finesse.
Drink 2022-2042.
Oliver Barton, Buying Assistant -
2016 Vosne-Romanée, Domaine Sylvain Cathiard, Burgundy
A very late malolactic fermentation Efinishing only on 17th September, allowing extended time on lees Ehas given this wine a fabulous texture. Aged in new (50 percent) and second-fill barrels, this is benchmark Vosne, with expressive aromas and a nugget of fruit at its core. Just 13 barrels were made. Drink 2020-2027.
Adam Bruntlett, Wine Buyer
Sylvain Cathiard’s grandfather, a foundling from Savoie, came to work in Vosne-Romanée, subsequently buying a few parcels of vineyards for himself. His son André Cathiard began to bottle some of the crop. In due course Sylvain began work with his father but then separated to start his own small domaine, until, on his father’s retirement in 1995, Sylvain could take back the family vineyards on a renting agreement. He has now passed the domaine on to his son Sébastien and a spacious new cellar has been constructed. There is a sense of frustration about Sébastien Cathiard this year. Of course, the loss of so much fruit sets the tone, but he also had to take emergency action to control the aggressive mildew, losing his organic status in the process. Who can blame him? Thus he states a preference for 2015, a significantly easier vintage and one for the long-term, but there are still some very notable wines here. The vintage began on 28th September and was over in three days, as the small berries on the frosted vines had caught up after the welcome September rains. He describes the year as gourmand, balanced and pure. -
2016 Opus One, Napa Valley, California (Magnum)
Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2016 Opus One bursts from the glass with ripe blueberries, black cherry jam and cr?me de cassis with hints of violets, dark chocolate, cedar chest and cardamom, plus a touch of charcoal. Full-bodied, rich and concentrated, the palate delivers layer upon layer of opulent stewed black fruit with amazing tension and firm, ripe, fine-grained tannins, finishing long with a whole array of exotic spices coming through.
Drink 2021 - 2055
Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate (Feb 2021)2016 Opus One, Napa Valley, California (Magnum)2016 Opus One, Napa Valley, California (Magnum)Bottle Price 150 cl $1,413.00 -
2016 Clos de Vougeot, Grand Cru, Domaine Henri Rebourseau, Burgundy
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2015 Nuits-St Georges, Les Damodes, 1er Cru, Domaine de la Vougeraie, BurgundyA fine, precise Nuits-St Georges from a hillside site, this was late to finish its malolactic fermentation, so the fruit is more backward. Bright purple, with a darkish style of fruit, it is pleasingly intense, with weight, persistence and some mineral notes. Drink 2022-2028.
Jasper Morris MW, Wine Buyer
This year Pierre Vincent has been able to achieve his aim of an ideal barrel rotation. Each of these wines has been matured in one-third new wood, one-third one-year-old and one-third two-year-old. Because of the exceptional health of the grapes in 2015, he has also been able to vinify all the wines without de-stemming. His 2015 reds are wines of grace and elegance, while the white wines (picked from 28th August) have an impressive tension alongside a concentration of fruit. -
2015 Gevrey-Chambertin, Aux Combottes, 1er Cru, Domaine Dujac, BurgundyThe 2015 Gevrey-Chambertin Aux Combottes 1er Cru has quite a stemmy bouquet beneath an attractive carapace of black and red fruit. It is certainly well defined, charming and full of character. The palate is detailed and structured, yet endowed with thrilling focus. There is still a little new oak to be assimilated, but the tannins are very fine and there is wonderful mineral tension all the way through to the classy, ever so slightly lactic finish. This will require several years in bottle, but it will reward those with patience. Tasted blind at the annual Burgfest tasting.
[Neal Martin, 13/11/2018] Vinous- 93/100 -
2015 Château Haut-Bailly, Pessac-Léognan, Bordeaux
The nose here is as seductive as ever. With refined, creamy black cherry and redcurrant fruit and a powerful yet feminine charm, the 2015 is another irresistible Haut-Bailly. There is a silky texture, and a beautifully seductive nose. It is immediately appealing. Serious, grown-up and presentable, it is full of lovely sweet spice. Plump, generous and long on the finish, it is a Claret of great depth and complexity, and unmistakably a wine which shows true faith to its origins in Pessac-Léognan.
Blend: 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 36% Merlot, 4% Petit Verdot2015 Château Haut-Bailly, Pessac-Léognan, Bordeaux2015 Château Haut-Bailly, Pessac-Léognan, BordeauxBottle Price 75 cl $232.00 -
2015 Chambolle-Musigny, Jacques-Frédéric Mugnier, BurgundyAs is usually the case this is both more elegant and more aromatically complex with its wonderfully broad-ranging nose of sandalwood, violet, plum, lavender, Asian-style tea and dark cherry scents. The gorgeously refined, intense and mineral-driven medium-bodied flavors are pure silk while delivering plenty of punch on the impeccably well-balanced finish. This is both classy and graceful and importantly for those who prefer their wines on the younger side, this should be reasonably approachable young meaning after 7 to 8 years. In a word, gorgeous.
Burghound 96/100 -
2015 Chambolle-Musigny, Aux Beaux Bruns, 1er Cru, Domaine Ghislaine Barthod, BurgundyThe 2015 Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru Aux Beaux Bruns has a slightly more austere, reserved bouquet compared to the Les Chatelots, but still compelling with precise, cold stone-influenced red berry fruit. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannin, sharing the same linearity and precision as the Chatelots, but with more depth and grip towards the finish. It has a disarming sense of purity, just the right tinge of salinity to beckon another sip. This is excellent.
- Wine Advocate 91-93/100 -
2014 Château Figeac, St Emilion, Bordeaux
On the palate, the subdued fruit on the attack is a reminder that the right bank struggled in 2014 to achieve the same level of success as the exceptional 2015s and 2016s. But this is not a wine to dismiss in any way.
A blend of 40% Merlot, 32% Cabernet Sauvignon and 28% Cabernet Franc, there is dark cassis fruit here, with well-worked silky tannins and a restrained elegance that is given a smile by a coffee bean and smoked almond edge.
A well-placed wine, working cleverly within its confines, not overstepping them, with huge potential for enjoyment. Drink in six to eight years, which needs to soften a little.
Drink 2022 - 2038
Janes Anson, JaneAnson.com2014 Château Figeac, St Emilion, Bordeaux2014 Château Figeac, St Emilion, BordeauxBottle Price 75 cl $298.00 -
2012 Corton-Charlemagne, Grand Cru, Patrick Javillier, Burgundy
This wine receives extra time in barrel compared to the Meursaults. A little touch of menthol, very good energy, the stony quality is certainly there. It is very backward, but will be all there. Superb persistence and a tangy mineral feel at the back, all enrobed in judicious oak.
Jasper Morris MW, Burgundy Wine Director
Though there are variations from one vineyard to another, Patrick has made about half a crop in 2012. He pressed the grapes very gently in 2012 to avoid mashing the skins and has thus managed to retain elegance in wines which are naturally full of power. His skills in the cellar have once again paid handsome dividends. A beautiful range of wines in 2012. -
2012 Clos de la Roche, Grand Cru, Domaine Dujac, Burgundy
There is enough reduction to notice though not so much as to completely dominate the floral-suffused nose. This also possesses relatively fine-grained tannins though there is notably more size, weight and power as well as a bit more complexity to the mineral-driven and impeccably well-balanced finish that is both explosive and palate staining. This is most impressive as it manages to deliver stunning intensity and depth of material without any undue heaviness. Note however that this is one very structured wine that will require a lengthy stay in a cool cellar to arrive at its full peak.
Allen Meadows - burghound.com - Jan 20152012 Clos de la Roche, Grand Cru, Domaine Dujac, Burgundy2012 Clos de la Roche, Grand Cru, Domaine Dujac, BurgundyBottle Price 75 cl $1,918.00 -
2012 Barolo, Francia, Giacomo Conterno, Piedmont, Italy
Since the 2010 vintage, this wine is named Francia (not Cascina Francia) to keep with the new Menzioni Geografiche Aggiuntive (or official cru naming) in Barolo and Barbaresco. The 2012 Barolo Francia is a seductive and silky expression that flows gracefully over the palate with power and determination.
The nose is expressive, and decidedly more articulate than many of the more muted wines made by neighboring estates in this warm vintage. The quality of the mouthfeel is of special interest. This beautiful Barolo already shows stunning texture, richness and integrity, despite this very early preview tasting.
I tasted this wine in barrel shortly before bottling.
Drink 2020 - 2050
Monica Larner, Wine Advocate (June 2016) -
2011 Flaccianello della Pieve, Tenuta Fontodi, Tuscany, Italy
The 2011 Flaccianello della Pieve is 100% Sangiovese aged 24 months in new French oak and two months in large oak cask. I’m not sure how Fontodi does it, but this edition of Flaccianello is simply beautiful. It is a seamless expression with lingering tones of red cherry, coffee, spice, truffle and red rose that flow harmoniously into unison. In the mouth, the wine shows great opulence and textural richness that is pushed forward by the stylistic softness of the tannins and the wine’s inner freshness. Pretty menthol tones appear on the finish. Drink: 2015-2030.
Following the glorious performance of Fontodi in 2010, I had lowered my expectations with regard to 2011. The 2010 Flaccianello della Pieve was one of my favorite wines tasted last year. Although the 2011 vintage does indeed result in softer, plusher wines, the Fontodi magic is delivered in droves nonetheless.
95/100 points Monica Larner, eRobertParker.com #215 Oct 2014 -
2010 Flaccianello della Pieve, Tenuta Fontodi, Tuscany, Italy
A rush of intense blue and black stone fruits, tobacco, smoke, licorice, spices and new leather hits the palate in the 2010 Flaccianello. A wine of considerable immediacy and intensity, the 2010 captivates all the senses with its magnificent richness and pure texture. There is so much to like here.
Antonio Galloni, Vinous (May 2014)___
Dark, rich and powerful, the 2010 Flaccianello wraps around the palate with serious depth and density. The aromas and flavors are totally alive in the glass. Smoke, tobacco and savory herb notes add complexity over time. Initially quite muscular, the 2010 finds quite a bit of finesse with time in the glass. The 2010 Flaccianello is exceptional, but the competition is tough this year at Fontodi! Still, the sensation of tannin is virtually nonexistent in a Flaccianello that is all about elegance and pure refinement.
96+/100 - Antonio Galloni, Vinous (August 2013) -
2010 Clos de Tart, Grand Cru, Clos de Tart, BurgundyTasted at the pre-dinner vertical to mark Sylvain Pitiot's retirement from the domaine, the 2010 Clos de Tart Grand Cru would have been made by angels if not Sylvain Pitiot (angels that had graduated from University of Dijon with a degree in oenology). The nose is so ineffably pure that it is guaranteed to bring a tear to the eye. In a strange way it reminds me of a top Armand Rousseau with its awe-inspiring transparency. The palate is ethereal - divine balance, a gentle grip, a saline edge and poise on the finish that takes your breath away. Iron fist in a velvet glove, etc. This is surely legend in the making.
Wine Advocate 98/1002010 Clos de Tart, Grand Cru, Clos de Tart, Burgundy2010 Clos de Tart, Grand Cru, Clos de Tart, BurgundyBottle Price 75 cl $1,413.00 -
2010 Champagne Dom Pérignon, Brut
Generous and expressive on the nose with initial classic Dom Perignon notes of lifted citrus fruit and precise flinty minerality broadening to a creamy textured richness.... with brioche, ripe stone and exotic fruit and heady hints of white flowers.... Chardonnay seems to be to the fore at this stage with Winemaker Vincent Chaperon describing Chardonnay in 2010 as their 'best ever'.
Suave, supple and glossy on the palate with a flamboyant fluid mid-palate nicely balanced by freshness and a fine polished finish. Hard not to enjoy now... and perhaps the perfect foil to 2008 which will need some time to show its full potential.
Adrian Brice, Fine Wine Buyer, Berry Bros. & Rudd (July 2020)2010 Champagne Dom Pérignon, Brut2010 Champagne Dom Pérignon, BrutBottle Price 75 cl $358.00 -
2010 Castillo Ygay, Gran Reserva Especial, Marqués de Murrieta, Rioja, SpainA blend of Tempranillo with 15% Mazuelo (Cariñena) vinified separately in stainless steel for 11 days and matured for 26 months in American and French oak barrels.Perfumed bouquet with notes of dried cherries, smoke and sweet spices. Intense palate lifted by a linear acidity and the tannins that support the evolving fruit. Elegant and refined finish.Marien Rodriguez, Fine Wine Junior Buyer, Berry Bros. & Rudd (March 2023)
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2009 Flaccianello della Pieve, Tenuta Fontodi, Tuscany, Italy
The 2009 Flaccianello della Pieve is a bit of a shock to the palate after 20+ older vintages. Still, it is impossible to miss the wine’s striking purity and finesse. Today the 2009 is a bit of a brute, but it should mellow out over the next 5-7 years as the tannins start to soften. Firm tannins frame layers of ripe, juicy fruit in this young, extroverted Flaccianello.
Antonio Galloni - Wine Advocate - Issue#201 Jun 2012 -
2009 Ermitage Rouge, Ex Voto, E. Guigal, Rhône
This Ermitage from the top Rhone producer Guigal is nothing short of astonishing. The nose is reticent and shy to come out but shows fruits of the forest, liquorice, black olive tapenade. The palate is lush, mouthcoating and full, tannins are incredibly well integrated and balanced and yet there is still an underlying power that will keep this beauty into the next two decades.
Stuart Rae, Private Account Manager2009 Ermitage Rouge, Ex Voto, E. Guigal, Rhône2009 Ermitage Rouge, Ex Voto, E. Guigal, RhôneBottle Price 75 cl $557.00 -
2009 Clos Monlleó, Celler Sangenís i Vaqué, Priorat, Spain
If you're interested in how Priorat wines age, this blend of Garnacha and Carignan is an excellent way to find out. Deep cherry colour, with lots of aromas of rich blackberries and plum cake on the nose with a touch of earthiness. Whilst the palate seeks powerful notes of cassis, stewed fruits, leather, chocolate, and liquorice to follow with a sweet spicey finish and an impressive length. It is wonderfully enjoyable at this stage of life.
Drink 2021 - 2032
Josephine Owen, Account Manager, Berry Bros. & Rudd (November 2021) -
2008 Flaccianello della Pieve, Tenuta Fontodi, Tuscany, ItalyHere's a vintage that came out of left field and knocked me flat with delight. The 2008 Flaccianello della Pieve is just my kind of Sangiovese with a gorgeous level of silkiness and smoothness, all followed by tangy menthol freshness and balsam herb that give so much momentum to the vertical lift and drive of the bouquet. The wine's complexity is enhanced by drying mineral notes with barbecue smoke and mesquite. There is a slight hint of ripeness here that you taste in the sweetness of the tannins and the satiny nature of the finish. I love the balance between the wine's natural acidity and the softer side of its fruit. This vintage is drinking beautifully at the moment. Don't miss this exciting window.
- Wine Advocate, 96+/100 -
2008 Champagne Veuve Clicquot, La Grande Dame, Brut
Very pale with a greenish tinge. Fresh, pretty youthful nose. Masses of acidity and very definitely not ready yet. Still seems embryonic. But it certainly isn’t too sweet!
Jancis Robinson, jancisrobinson.com (June 2020)2008 Champagne Veuve Clicquot, La Grande Dame, Brut2008 Champagne Veuve Clicquot, La Grande Dame, BrutBottle Price 300 cl $1,615.00 -
2007 Ermitage Blanc, l'Ermite, M. Chapoutier, RhôneAnother candidate for perfection is the 2007 Ermitage l’Ermite blanc. A nectar of rocks, honeysuckle, quince, pears, and white peaches, this super-expressive, full-bodied, thick, glycerin-endowed wine is another example of a massive white Hermitage that can not be found anywhere else in the world. It should last for 35-50 years.
- Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate 2009, 99/1002007 Ermitage Blanc, l'Ermite, M. Chapoutier, Rhône2007 Ermitage Blanc, l'Ermite, M. Chapoutier, RhôneBottle Price 75 cl $581.00 -
2007 Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Hommage à Jacques Perrin, Château de Beaucastel, RhôneThe star of the show was the 2007 Châteauneuf du Pape Hommage À Jacques Perrin, which in this vintage is a classic blend of 60% Mourvedre, 20% Syrah, and the rest Counoise and Grenache. Inky colored and insanely perfumed, with to-die-for notes of lavender, Provencal herbs, roasted meats, black cherries, truffle, crème de cassis and licorice, it flows onto the palate with massive concentration, a stunning mid-palate and a thick, rich texture that never gets heavy or cumbersome. This is blockbuster stuff that just could not get any better. Drink it anytime over the coming 3-4 decades. 100/100
The Wine Advocate -
2007 Charmes-Chambertin, Grand Cru, Domaine Sérafin Père & Fils, BurgundyDeep red-ruby. Black cherry, minerals on the nose, with a suggestion of dark berry syrup. Sweet, lush and superripe but not yet as aromatic or complex in the middle palate as the Cazetiers. But this is wonderfully dense, silky and round. Finishes very long and sweet, with greater complexity emerging as the wine opens in the glass. Serafin suggests pairing this wine with beef and the Cazetiers with game, but I hope he wasn’t suggesting I do this anytime soon.
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous 94+ -
2007 Champagne Bollinger, RD, Extra Brut
Bollinger’s 2007 R.D. is superb, but it is also a wine that reflects the nature of a unique and challenging growing season. In most vintages the R.D. is marked by the distinct creaminess and breadth of Aÿ Pinot Noir. Two thousand seven, though, was a difficult year marked by very dry weather, rain at the end of the growing season and an early harvest in August, something that was not as common as it has become. Selection was essential. For the 2007, the blend is composed of just 14 villages compared to the more typical 18-25. Verzenay is the main Pinot component while Cramant plays the leading role in the Chardonnays. For these reasons, the 2007 is an R.D. driven by more focus, energy and tension than readers are used to seeing. Lemon confit, dried flowers, sage, mint, crushed rocks, almond and ginger are some of the aromas and flavors that give the 2007 its complex, multi-faceted personality.
The 2007 can be enjoyed now, but I would prefer to cellar it for a few years. It will age effortlessly for decades as it moves through the various phases of its life. I was reminded of the way Champagne can magically traverse time by magical bottles of the 1976 R.D. and 1996 Vieilles Vignes Françaises I tasted recently. The blend is 70% Pinot Noir and 30% Chardonnay, 91% Grand Cru fruit and the rest Premier Cru. Bollinger fans will notice the return of the original label, with the disgorgement date clearly visible, a tribute to Madame Bollinger, who was a pioneer in so many ways. Disgorged: July 10, 2020. Dosage is 3 grams per liter.
Drink 2022-2047.2007 Champagne Bollinger, RD, Extra Brut2007 Champagne Bollinger, RD, Extra BrutBottle Price 75 cl $343.00 -
2004 Hermitage Rouge, Domaine Jean-Louis Chave, Rhône
The 2004 red Hermitage, which was given a much longer time in barrel and small foudre than normal because the Chaves determined the tannins and the acids needed a longer time to integrate, is a beauty. The wine exhibits a dense ruby/purple color, a big, sweet nose of creme de cassis, black cherry, licorice, pepper, and a hint of olive paste. It is a full-bodied wine that tastes atypical for this vintage with its beautifully integrated acidity and sweet tannin. The wine is structured, more masculine and backward than the over-the-top, full-throttle 2003. Readers could probably think of it as an improved, modern-day version of the 1988 or 1998.
Robert M. Parker, Jr., Wine Advocate (April 2007)2004 Hermitage Rouge, Domaine Jean-Louis Chave, Rhône2004 Hermitage Rouge, Domaine Jean-Louis Chave, RhôneBottle Price 75 cl $747.00 -
1999 Torresilo, Cillar de Silos, Ribera del Duero, Spain
The 1999 Torresilo from Cillar De Silos is astonishingly youthful, given its 20+ years of age. There is barely a hint of garnet on the rim of this intense wine. The nose is initially full of wild strawberry and red cherry fruit, which develops into darker, earthy bramble aromas alongside a hint of cured meat. This is a wonderfully pure, perfumed red with aromas that burst from the glass, of scented petals and hints of cherry blossom.
Catriona Felstead MW, Senior Wine Buyer, Berry Bros. & Rudd (Mar 2021) -
1997 Charmes-Chambertin, Grand Cru, Domaine Dujac, BurgundyConcentrated layers of black fruits are intermingled with red berries, stones and Asian spices in its character, as well as in its 30+ second finish.
- The Wine Advocate -
1994 Masseto, Tuscany, Italy
The 1994 Masseto is not a wine I have had often, but it is so compelling tonight. The aromatics alone are totally beguiling. A whole range of floral, savory and spice notes are woven throughout a core of red-toned fruit. Delicate and nuanced, the 1994 is utterly beguiling. I absolutely loved it. Readers who own it should be thrilled. The growing season was marked by an early flowering but normal harvest time, which means the cycle was on the longer side. Maybe that explains why the 1994 is such a complete and alluring wine.
Drink 2018-2028
Antonio Galloni, Vinous (Jan 2018)1994 Masseto, Tuscany, Italy1994 Masseto, Tuscany, ItalyBottle Price 75 cl $1,817.00