$1,000 - $3,000

This 2017 Columella is the first of  Ehe drought years Eto be bottled and this very wine stands as evidence of the great stability to be achieved in a region with multiple varieties and vineyards planted in diverse sites. It shows that the greatest and most stable quality is to be achieved by a selection of vineyards rather than just one. The expression of a singular site has its place, but there is simply no better strategy than the combination of a bigger variety of terroirs to build up the most stable representation of our region. This wine is the result of 12 months ageing in barrels (8% new) and thereafter an additional 12 months in old, big oval casks. This 2017 vintage has incredible tension and density and is very much ‘locked in E The firmness of the wine suggests that it is a great keeper. It does exhibit amazing herbal, spicy and perfumed aromas and there is more than enough fruit  Ebut it is a highly-strung wine that needs time. The tannins are fine, powdery and almost silky with  lower acidity and more expanded palate than the 2014 and 2016. The wine is super-tight and will require at least 2 hours of decantation if opened prior to 5 years of age in the bottle. 

Review 27th April 2020 by Eben Sadie & Paul Jordaan:
Perplexing, in that there is almost no point of entry on the wine from an aromatic or taste aspect and the wine is still holding its cards to the chest. It does have some of the earthy aspects that were found in the early 2006 vintage. This wine is incredibly dry and restrained at this point but shouts of potential into the future. It will possibly develop into the same incredible complexities as was the case in the 2002 & 2004 vintage, but it needs the next 20 years to reveal itself.

{***}
{region}Swartland{region}
{color}Red{color}                                                               {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}
{***}

Shopping for someone else but not sure what to give?
Give them the gift of choice with a Berry Bros. & Rudd (HK) gift card.

Gift cards will be delivered by email or SMS text to you, where you can forward it to the gift recipient. Alternatively if you email us a request we can send the electronic gift card on behalf of you.

Gift cards can only be redeemed on our Hong Kong online shop, with 1 year of validity upon purchased date.
Note our gift cards do not have additional shipping charges or processing fees, and are not included in the minimum spending for receiving complimentary wines.

{***}{label_price}Price{label_price}{***}

{***}{region} Vougeot {region}
{color} Red {color}                                                              

 {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}
{ratings}
{ratings}{***}

This 2021 vintage of Columella displays extremely bright red fruit aromas. The wine is incredibly fresh, and the 24 months of ageing in old casks are unmarked; it almost seems like the fruit is still hanging on the vine. Some velvety spicey herbal aromas of the bush come through on the aromatics, and then violets and perfumes followed. There are darker, deeper lines of graphite, black olive and cedarwood aromatics, and the structure of the wine is quite seamless; the tannins flow into the acidity at the end of the palate. It is incredibly balanced, and delicate layers of stitching make up this wine. Time is your friend on this one.

The 2018 Mâcon-Pierreclos Tri de Chavigne is showing brilliantly, unwinding in the glass with notes of citrus oil, crisp Anjou pear, blanched almonds, white flowers and nutmeg. Medium to full-bodied, deep and concentrated, it's searingly intense, with an elegantly textural attack and a racy spine of acidity. Still tightly wound after its recent bottling, this has a long and glorious future ahead of it. This cuvée was produced from three picks—spread over the course of 12 days—in Guffens's higher-altitude holdings in Le Chavigne, and it was raised in barrels, some 30% of which were new. Drink 2025-2045. - Wine Advocate

{***}
{region} Mâcon{region}
{color} White {color}                                                             

  {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}{***}

The secret of Tempranillo seems to reside in its hidden depth; gregarious and initially appearing far too attractive to be remotely serious, this wine gradually revels the true depth of its personality; the black fruits are ripe of course , but are backed by notes of laurel, licorice, garrigue and forest floor; the tannins are finely-tuned needless to say, but are swathed in a fine minerality; all in all this is clearly very fine indeed. Juan Carlos thinks it more closely resembles 2004 than 2001, but is sure that it will be better than both of them.

{***}
{region}Rioja{region}
{color}Red{color}                                                                                          {maturity}ready-keep{maturity}
 {maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2007{vintage}
{ratings}
[]The Wine Advocate:: 98/100
{ratings} 

Insanely aromatic notes of potpourri, raspberry, white pepper, soot, funk and earth are followed by bright, fresh, focused, rich fruit and savory flavors. It shows a sense of delicacy and intensity with unparalleled balance. There is no end to the finish. What makes this Grenache-driven wine so extraordinary? God only knows. *Top 100 Cellar Selections of 2019* - Wine Enthusiast

{***}{region}Washington, USA{region}
{color}Red{color}
{vintage}2016{vintage}
{maturity}ready-keep{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{ratings}
[]The Wine Advocate ::95/100

[]Wine Enthusiast ::98/100

[]James Suckling::94/100

[]Vinous::94/100

{ratings} {***}

This property seem to be able to deliver exceptional wines whatever the weather due to arguably one of the best terroir in Bordeaux and a dedicated wine making team who is adverse to trends and do not manufacture their wines. This year is no exception, the nose is intense and layered with cassis and blackberries. Once on the palate the power and drive is instant, covering all parts with meaty, powerful black fruits. The length is firm and focused but the tannins are very ripe. This vintage will open up quite quickly but with such power and balance this is also built for the long term.

Max Lalondrelle, Fine Wine Buying Director, Berry Bros. & Rudd

{***}{region} Champagne{region}
{color}White{color}                                                              

 {maturity}drink-now{maturity} {maturity-text}Drink now{maturity-text}
{vintage}2005{vintage}

{ratings} []Jeb Dunnuck:: 95/100

[]Jancis Robinson:: 18.5/20

{ratings}

{***}

{***}
{region}Champagne{region}
{color}White{color}
{maturity}drink-now{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{ratings}        
[]Jancis Robinson:: 17.5/20    

{ratings}{***}    

The 2001 Calon-Ségur has a delightful bouquet, very pure and a little more vivacious than the preceding vintage, featuring lovely brambly red fruit, rose petals, autumn leaves and a touch of cigar box, all well defined and focused. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins, a little more cohesive than the 2000, and slightly granular in texture, with a graceful, elegant and quite persistent finish. This is one of the few châteaux where it's difficult to choose between the 2001 and 2000. Drinking perfectly now. Drink 2021 - 2045

Neal Martin, vinous.com (Sep 2021)

{***}
{region}St Estèphe{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}ready-keep{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2001{vintage}
{ratings}
[]Vinous:: 94/100

{ratings} {***}

With an intense, complex nose and dense bramble and spice notes on the palate, the 71% Cabernet, 29% Merlot blend is concentrated with dark fruit gravitas and a long, mineral finish. The richness of the fruit is very evident here and brings to mind the 2001, but the crisp acidity is a reflection of the unique character of 2008. The richness of the fruit is very evident here and brings to mind the 2001, but the crisp acidity is a reflection of the unique character of 2008. Pichon-Baron may be classed as a 2ème Cru Classé, but 2008 they produced a wine of first-growth quality.

Berry Bros. & Rudd

The alcohol this vintage is 14%, while the residual sugar is 129.4 grams per litre, and the total acidity is 4.5 grams per litre of H2SO4.

Pale to medium gold coloured, the 2002 d'Yquem strides confidently out of the glass with forthright notions of spiced pears, baked pineapple, apricot preserves and orange blossoms with touches of graham crackers, praline, ginger nut and lemon curd. The palate lends an understated earthy/savoury character with seamless freshness and a satiny texture paving the long, perfumed finish. 

Open-knit, expressive and yet still packing some primary fruit flavours, this vintage has entered its drinking window for those who love Yquem while it still possesses bags of vivacity. Five to seven more years in bottle should begin to yield more of the toffee, toasted nuts and savoury elements for those who love that more evolved phase.

Drink 2019 - 2040

Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate (August 2019)

{***}{region} Champagne{region}
{color}White{color}                                                              

 {maturity}drink-now{maturity} {maturity-text}Drink now{maturity-text}
{vintage}2008{vintage}

{ratings} []Jasper Morris MW:: 98/100

[]Antonio Galloni, Vinous:: 98+/100

[]Wine Advocate:: 98/100

[]Jancis Robinson:: 17++/20

{ratings}

{***}

Vinification with the stems gives these wines a notable character on the nose, with floral, spice and rose petals all coming to the fore, and an impressive density on the palate. This is a very graceful wine, and the finish shows a touch of tannin to maintain structure.
Jasper Morris MW

Domaine de Montille picked between the 18th and 26th September in 2010. The red wines, made by American Brian Sieve (one of two winemakers in this catalogue born in Indianapolis!) under the surveillance of Etienne de Montille, now show a consistency of style and quality that perhaps was not entirely there a few years ago. The whites are the responsibility of Etienne’s sister Alix and maintain the class of recent times. Together they have produced a fine result in 2010.

{***}{region}Pommard{region}
{color} Red{color}                                                             

  {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2010{vintage}
{ratings}   [] The Wine Advocate:: 91-93/100     {***}

Inky ruby. Intensely perfumed aromas of ripe red/blue fruits, potpourri and smoked meat show excellent clarity and spicy lift. Offers deeply concentrated boysenberry, black raspberry, spicecake and violet pastille flavors. Hints of candied licorice and cracked pepper build on the back half. Finishes on a suave, alluringly sweet note of blue fruit liqueur, with slowly emerging tannins and outstanding focus. - Vinous

{***}{region} Rhône{region}
{color} Red {color}          

{maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2015{vintage}

{ratings}[]Wine Spectator:: 97/100
[] Wine Advocate:: 95/100

[] Vinous:: 94/100{ratings}

{***}

Tasting at Ch. Léoville Poyferré was one of our ‘wine moments’ of the 2009 en primeur week. It is, quite simply, astonishing. Very perfumed, with a delicious, juicy density on the palate, this has layer upon layer of gorgeous fruit (blackberries freshly picked from the hedge) with a wonderful, gravel minerality and earthy complexity. Supple, ripe tannins melt on the palate and the length is incredible. This is one of the most exciting wines of its level in 2009; an absolute must-buy.

A charming nose that is both pronounced but also incredibly delicate. Touches of Amalfi lemons, oranges, stewed green apples and fresh pastries entice. The palate feels surprisingly settled, given the relatively recent disgorgement and the gentle mousse, a hallmark of the cuvée. Vibrant citrus, lemon compote, apple Tarte Tatin and a steely backbone.

Delicate floral aromas give a really refreshing feel, but there is considerable potential to age. This will cellar for 4 years or 40; the choice is yours. What is clear is that Grand Siècle has been, and still is, hugely underappreciated. 60% Chardonnay and 40% Pinot Noir coming from 2008, 2007 and 2006. 12 years lees ageing.

Paul Keating, Private Account Manager, Berry Bros. & Rudd (April 2022)

Massolino's 2011 Barolo Riserva Vigna Rionda is a more than worthy follow-up to the stellar 2010. Silky, perfumed and incredibly inviting, the 2011 will also give up its considerable charms much earlier. Sweet red cherry, rose petal, spice, hard candy, and mint give the 2011 its inner sweetness. Above all else, the 2011 captures a compelling middle ground that balances the warmth of the year with a classic sense of structure. The 2011 is a racy, alluring Rionda that will be nearly impossible to resist, even young.

Brothers Franco and Roberto Massolino decided to give their single-vineyard 2013 Barolos a bit more time in barrel than normal. Tasted from bottle, those wines are every bit as impressive as they were from barrel. Massolino has made compelling Barolos for several decades. Still, in recent years, they have made additional investments that include a greater focus on quality, acquiring more vineyards and completing a significant cellar expansion. As for the wines themselves, they have never been better. 

Drink 2021 - 2036 

Antonio Galloni, Vinous.com (October 2017)

Deep ruby, softening in colour around the rim, packed with pencil lead, cigar box, slate, mint leaf, chewy tannins, great quality with an innate confidence. It has walls to scale and a ton of life ahead, an exceptionally enjoyable 2000 vintage that remains young—70% new oak.

Drink 2022 - 2040

Jane Anson, JaneAnson.com (March 2022)

{***}
{region}St Estèphe{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}ready-keep{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2005{vintage}
{ratings}
[]The Wine Advocate:: 97/100

[]Robert Parker:: 94+/100    

[]Jancin Robinson:: 18.5/20    

{ratings} {***}

A graceful tint of pale purple. Floral, with appealing sweet red fruit, clearly some concentration to the cherry and raspberry fruit, while there is clearly much more to emerge later on.
Jasper Morris MW - Wine Buyer

{***}{region}Morey-St Denis{region}
{color}Red{color}                                                                  

                              {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2013{vintage}{***}

The 2007 Solaia saturates the palate with a heady array of super-ripe black cherries, plums, cassis, mocha and sweet French oak. There is an exotic quality to the Solaia I find totally irresistible. Despite its considerable ripeness and opulence, the 2007 Solaia is never heavy, rather it impresses for its extraordinary finesse and balance. Minerals, graphite and crushed rocks frame a long, seductive finish. This is a wonderful Solaia loaded with vintage and vineyard character. The 2007 Solaia is 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Sangiovese and 5% Cabernet Franc, aged in 100% new oak.
Antonio Galloni, The Wine Advocate

In Burgundy, Mounir Saouma is not a big fan of red wines made with stems, but he says he loves the effect of stems of old-vine Grenache in Châteauneuf - though other red varieties are destemmed. This pale wine is fresh, graceful and lifted, a haunting combination of sweet woodland strawberry fragrance with something much stonier, denser and meatier. The 36 months on lees have left the wine textured, juicy, full and savourous. It appears grippy under analysis, yet the tannins are so well clad that they don’t perturb. It’s an ample, searching and fine red wine, proving that width and finesse can go together in Châteauneuf.

Drink 2020 - 2030

Andrew Jefford, Decanter.com (April 2018)

In a vintage in which so many wines are all about intensity, 2009 Marquis d’Angerville’s Volnay Champans (magnum) impresses for its perfume, delineated fruit and fabulous overall balance. Refined and impeccable in its sense of restraint, the 2009 is so very pretty and expressive. Silky tannins round out the racy, polished finish. What a gorgeous wine this is. - Vinous

{***}{region}Volnay{region}
{color}Red{color}                                                              

 {maturity}ready-keep{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2009{vintage}
{ratings}

[] Vinous:: 94/100 

[] Burghound:: 93/100 

[] Wine Spectator:: 93/100 

{ratings} {***}

The 2015 Cuvée Sir Winston Churchill from Pol Roger shows opulent aromas of brioche, apricot and honeydew melon on the nose. This is followed by a lively palate of tangy lemon, apple and gingerbread. The finish is long and luxurious, leaving behind a lasting impression of creamy vanilla and toasted almond. This is an absolutely stunning expression

Drink 2027 - 2045

Joshua Friend, Senior Account Manager, Berry Bros. & Rudd (March 2023)

The glass is brimming with the aroma of wild berries, violet and fresh mint,
intertwined with the scent of spices like pepper. The first thing that strikes the
palate is the upright and structured acidity brought by the high-altitude cool
climate. The tannins are elegant and delicate, maintaining a subtle balance,
restrained yet lively. The length is clean and long, with an enticing aroma of mixed
fruit tart.

From a great site in the Russian River Valley and just about all destemmed and aged 16 months in 55% new French oak, the 2017 Pinot Noir Treehouse Vineyard reveals a slightly deeper ruby/purple hue as well as more black cherry and slightly darker fruits that give way to more spice, violet, bouquet garni, and white flower notes with time in the glass. Medium to full-bodied and balanced, with ripe tannins and a classic Burgundian style, it's another stunning Pinot Noir from this estate that can be drunk today or cellared for over a decade. Drink 2020-2032

{***}{region}California, USA{region}
{color}Red{color}
{vintage}2017{vintage}
{maturity}ready-keep{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{ratings}

[]James Suckling::97/100

[]Wine Advocate::92/100

[]Wine Spectator::95/100

[]Jeb Dunnuck::96/100 {ratings} {***}

The 2008 Brut Rosé Celebris is an absolutely gorgeous Champagne that captures the essence of the Gosset house style. Bright and ethereal in feel, the 2008 is deceptive in its first impression, but it has plenty of depth to match its decidedly regal, understated personality. The 6.5-gram dosage feels perfectly judged, just enough to fill out the layers and avoid some of the starkness these wines can show, but not so much as to be overpowering. Crushed red berry fruit, chalk, mint and white pepper build as this finely-sculpted Rosé shows off its charms. This is beautifully done. The dosage is 6.5 grams per litre. 

Disgorged: April, 2021

Drink 2021 - 2031

Antonio Galloni, Vinous.com (November 2021)

Cerbaiona was bought in the fall of 2015 by a large group of friends led by Gary Rieschel and Matthew Fioretti. The latter was the owner of Summa Vitis, a US wine import company, which he closed in 2009 in order to fulfill his dream of being a full-time wine producer. Fioretti couldn’t have been any happier when Cerbaiona, one of Montalcino’s most admired estates, came up for sale. Reportedly, the group paid an astronomical 5.8 million euros for the property, which has made some of Montalcino’s most sought after Brunellos in the last twenty years. However, anyone visiting the estate didn’t have any trouble realizing that the failing health and increasing age of owners Diego and Nora Molinari had led to a slightly rundown feel at the winery and that work was needed in the vineyards too (the day I visited, Fioretti greeted me in work clothes as he had been busy working in the vineyards up until that moment). The estate has replanted another 1.4 hectares Sangiovese (sourced from France’s famous Guillaume nursery) to add to the three hectares it currently owns. Fioretti has also bought some new barrels, and is looking to use 10, 17 and 20 Hl oak barrels (Molinari used to use smaller 500L tonneaux).- Vinous 2017

{***}{region}Tuscany{region}
{color}Red{color}                                                         

    {maturity}ready-keep{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2016{vintage}
{ratings}         
[]Jancis Robinson :: 17.5+/20
{ratings}         {***}

The yield is down by 40 percent but Frédéric likes its character. The wine is structured, with a lovely fresh top note, a hint of spice; it’s neat and controlled with a bit of crunch. This is very silky for a Nuits-St Georges. Frédéric kindly also showed the 2015 at the same time. By comparison it is full-bodied and savoury, clearly a wine for the long term and needing time. The 2016 will be drinking beautifully until the 2015 is ready. Drink 2021-2030.

{***}{region} Nuits-St Georges {region}
{color}Red{color}                                                               

{maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2016{vintage}

{ratings}

[] Wine Advocate:: 93/100

{ratings}

{***}

A ripe yet cool nose features notes of cherry liqueur, raspberry, stone and soil-tones, all of which can be found on the rich, generous and beautifully well-detailed middle weight flavors that exude an equally fine minerality on the driving, punch and strikingly long finish where the hallmark touch of austerity in a young Taillepieds is in evidence. A lovely effort of class and grace that is less forbidding than usual. *Sweet Spot, Outstanding* - Burghound

{***}{region}Volnay{region}
{color}Red{color}                                                              

 {maturity}drink-now{maturity} {maturity-text}Drink Now{maturity-text}
{vintage}2009{vintage}
{ratings}

[] The Wine Advocate:: 90-91/100 

[] Burghound:: 93/100 

[] Wine Spectator:: 90/100 

{ratings} {***}

The 2016 Syrah Cailloux Vineyard is co-fermented with 4% Viognier in a Côte-Rôtie style that delivers a red and black-fruited nose with a floral grip and rustic rockiness. It is medium to full-bodied on the palate, with a soft smokiness and olive notes, resulting in an exquisite and structured wine with a focus on terroir. It is thoughtfully balanced on the long-lingering finish with a tannic edge and lifting acidity. This is really well-made wine with a production of only 829 cases. Drink 2019 - 2040. Anthony Mueller, Wine Advocate (Dec 2019)

{***}{region}Washington, USA{region}
{color}Red{color}
{vintage}2017{vintage}
{maturity}ready-keep{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{ratings}
[]The Wine Advocate ::97/100

[]James Suckling::94/100

{ratings} {***}

Bright crimson. Meaty, really savoury nose with great life. Medium weight and beautiful balance. Some light inkiness and a little marked by the oak at present but a really beautiful whole. Fragrant, roses with life and lift again. The wine is relatively high in acidity but, most unusually, surrounded by the ripe fruit. Easy to see a relationship with the beautiful 2006 served after this. Drink 2020 - 2040.

Jancis Robinson MW, jancisrobinson.com (Jul 2016)

{***}
{region}Pomerol{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}ready-improve{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2014{vintage}
{ratings}
[]Jancis Robinson:: 18.5/20

[]Wine Advocate:: 96/100

{ratings} {***}

The 2007 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee de Mon Aieul is just now starting to shed a tiny amount of its abundant baby fat that's been front and center since release. Still, it pulls no punches in its thrilling aromas and flavors of kirsch liqueur, roasted garrigue, black raspberries, incense, cured meats and licorice, and it is about as quintessential Grenache as you can find. Thrillingly concentrated, intense, perfumed and layered with incredible balance, this full-bodied beauty should hit its peak in another 2-3 years and keep for at least a decade after that.

{***}{region} Rhône{region}
{color} Red {color}                   {maturity}drink-now{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2007{vintage}

{ratings}
 [] The Wine Advocate:: 99/100        
{ratings} 

{***}

{***}
{region}St Julien {region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}ready-keep{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2009{vintage}
{ratings}
[]The Wine Advocate:: 100/100

[]Jancis Robinson :: 16.5/20   

[]Robert Parker:: 100/100  

[]Wine Spectator:: 94-97/100

{ratings} {***}

We normally find tasting Giscours at this stage a tad underwhelming to be honest, tending to buy large quantities (far more expensively I may add) when it’s singing, four to six years after the vintage. Not this year!!! Really generous without being pushed, intense and concentrated with an amazingly long finish, this could easily be their greatest vintage, and it actually surpasses the brilliant 2005. Fantastic.

Berry Bros. & Rudd

The 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

The wine has ruby color with a purplish edge and a glossy sheen. On the first nose,
there are scents of fresh, ripe red and black fruits: cherry, berries, blackcurrant,
and mulberry, accompanied by a refreshing hint of mint. As the wine breathes and
the temperature rises, Mu Xin 2021 Red reveals more layers and aromas, floral
scents and sweet spices emerging. The aroma is complex, precise, mature yet light.
The palate senses purity, maturity, and a crisp juiciness. 2021 has more tannin,
and it’s silky in quality. The wine has excellent concentration and structure, with
lively and well-defined acidity. The crisp fruit and floral aromas and tannins slowly
finish, leaving a lingering aftertaste. Harmonious, elegant, and balanced.

The 2021 Chardonnay is deep, pure, clear and fresh on the nose that, is as slatey as chalky as well as floral and reveals a fine concentration of ripe fruits. Full-bodied, intense and elegant on the palate, this is a pure yet rich, concentrated, enormously saline and finely tannic Chardonnay with a long, intense, complex finish. 

A great wine that already drinks with great pleasure but can also hold for about two decades. 13.5% stated alcohol. Natural cork.

Drink 2023 - 2040

Stephan Reinhardt, Wine Advocate (June 2023)

{***}{region} Switzerland{region}
{color} White {color}                                                              

 {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2021{vintage}
{ratings}
[] Wine Advocate:: 96/100{ratings}
{***}

The 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 quite promising at this early stage. As for the 2007s, they are off the charts. Drink 2015 - 2027. Antonio Galloni, Wine Advocate (February 2011)

{***}{region}Piedmont{region}
{color}Red{color}                 

{maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2007{vintage}

{ratings}   

[] The Wine Advocate:: 96/100    

{ratings}

{***}

Of these three offerings from Horsepower, the 2015 Syrah The Tribe Vineyard will require the most time, as it's the most tight-knit at this early stage, slowly unwinding in the glass with savory aromas of raw cocoa, tapenade, nori and ripe blackberries. On the palate, it's full-bodied, deep and concentrated, with a rich chassis of satiny structuring tannins and a layered, umami-laden core of fruit. At 13.6% alcohol, it's also beautifully balanced. Drink 2022 - 2040. William Kelley, Wine Advocate (Jun 2018)

{***}{region}Washington, USA{region}
{color}Red{color}
{vintage}2015{vintage}
{maturity}ready-keep{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{ratings}
[]The Wine Advocate::98/100

[] James Sucklinge::98/100

{ratings} {***}

{***}
{region}Pauillac{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}laying-down{maturity}
{maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2014{vintage}
{ratings}
[]The Wine Advocate:: 94/100          []Jancis Robinson MW:: 17+/20   
{ratings}  {***}

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{***}{label_price}Price{label_price}{***}

Also a stunning wine, the 2003 Pavillon Rouge du Chateau Margaux is a sleeper of the vintage. Much fresher and less evolved than I would expect a second wine to be from this vintage, it is a Margaux-like effort with a flowery character, good precision and freshness, red and black currant notes, and an attractive, medium-bodied, surprisingly concentrated mouthfeel. It is clearly one of the finest second wines made in this vintage.

Robert M. Parker, Jr., Wine Advocate (August 2014)

Incredibly impressive from the outset, the colour is deep for Nebbiolo, reminiscent of Grand Cru Pinot Noir from the Cotes de Nuits. The nose is majestic with notes of ripe black cherries, liquorice, ripe plums and spice. It’s difficult to stop smelling the wine, so compelling is the bouquet. The palate is well worth the wait though, as it is beautiful in the mouth, the same black and red fruit characters on the nose are complimented by more earthy, meaty notes, crisp acidity and the finest and ripest of tannins. Everything is perfectly in balance, with all the elements pulling in the same direction. Long and fine the finish goes on for a minute or more. Effortless superb are the words that springs to mind, like the finest vintages of Bordeaux first growth and Grand Cru red Burgundy this is truly majestic and what fine wine is all about in my opinion.
Chris Pollington - Italian Specialist

The concentration and density of this wine are evident from the outset. Tightly packed structural elements support the rich, scented, and dark fruit. The tannins are gloriously silky, and the cooling acidity provides a perfect counterpoint. This wine will reward patience.

Berry Bros. & Rudd

A heady perfume of meaty red fruit and spice rises from the glass on the bouquet. Rich and mouth-filling on the palate, a real vino di piacere with ripe red and black, spicy fruit vying for attention, brought together by rapier-like acidity and meltingly fine tannins. This delicious Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Sangiovese blend from Bolgheri is not trying to be Sassicaia nor Ornellaia; it’s very much its own wine, more akin to Tignanello, but different again from the wine from Chianti Classico. It’s a delightful wine—delicious now but capable of up to a decade’s cellaring. 

Drink 2024 - 2032

Chris Pollington, Senior Account Manager, Berry Bros. & Rudd

A pronounced bouquet swarms the glass with generous notes of ripe red fruit, black cherry, herbal notes and touches of cedar. Grattamacco were among the first to blend Cabernet into their wines in Bolgheri. They have been mastering these blends far longer than the likes of other Super Tuscans; this is a wine with fantastic depth and richness, silky integrated tannins and brilliant intensity. I was rather impressed with this wine; I must agree with the critics on this one. It’s really pleasurable to drink now, but of course, it will benefit from a couple of years in the cellar. 

Drink 2024 - 2032

Joshua Friend, Senior Account Manager, Berry Bros. & Rudd

Readers will find a silky, nuanced Barolo in the 2012 Riserva Vigna Rionda. Rose water, orange zest, cinnamon, sage, mint and dried cherry are some of the many nuances that give the 2012 its aromatic top notes, and all of the elements fall into place effortlessly. Relatively open-knit for a young Rionda, this should drink well with minimal cellaring. The 2012 doesn't quite have the explosive energy of vintages like 2010, 2013 or 2014, but it will offer tons of pleasure sooner than any of those wines. I loved it.

Massolino has really been on a roll over the last few vintages. The 2014s are truly impressive wines that further solidify the estate's place among the elite producers of Barolo. While these wines have been terrific for quite some time, in recent years Massolino has found an added element of finesse and nuance. Readers should note that Massolino did not bottle their Barolo Parussi in 2014.

Drink 2022 - 2037

Antonio Galloni, Vinous.com (February 2018)

The 2012 Extra-Brut Blanc de Blancs Les Blanches Voies is elegant, weightless and crystalline in its purity. Lemon peel, white flowers, crushed rocks and marzipan abound. Another six months has done the 2012 wonders. A wine of transparency and crystalline purity. Even with more than two years of disgorgement, the 2012 is very tightly wound. It’s all understatement and class here. -Antonio Galloni

A fine, bright mid-purple, this has a restrained bouquet but then a palate laden with rich, ripe, supple fruit and a gorgeous mineral finish. This is as good as I have tasted here. There is an exceptional intensity of dark fruit, dry and dense, with similar tannins to ‘05 but a bit of the juiciness of 2010. Drink 2023-2030.
Jasper Morris MW, Wine Buyer

Nicolas and David Rossignol report a healthy crop in quality and quantity, though a little reduced in the Grands Crus. They began on 7th September, using around 50 percent whole bunches, and avoided any punching down during vinification as there was no need to search for extraction, preferring a daily pumping-over and aeration. As ever there is only a modest use of new oak and sulphur levels are kept low. They have made unquestionably brilliant wines this year.

Smoky bonfires on the nose and fresh fruit with some gaminess and fine tannins. Very delicate and ambitious for its appellation. - Jancis Robinson

The 2017 Wiltinger Braune Kupp Spätlese (AP #4) is coolish, pure and stony on the crunchy and concentrated nose. Lush, sweet and round on the palate, with piquant, racy acidity and pervasive minerality, this is a complex and intense, lush and concentrated Spätlese with a lingering salinity and a long, precise finish. A fabulous and promising Spätlese. 

Drink 2030-2060

Stephan Reinhardt, Wine Advocate (June 2019)

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)

{***}{region}Tuscany{region}
{color}Red{color}                             
  {maturity}drink-now{maturity} {maturity-text}Drink Now{maturity-text}
{vintage}2010{vintage}{***}

{ratings}
 [] The Wine Advocate:: 96/100

[] Vinous:: 96/100

{ratings} {***}

Brought up in 45% new French oak, the 2017 Pinot Noir Bootlegger's Hill Vineyard reveals a medium ruby/translucent color as well as a complex bouquet of redcurrants, leafy herbs, damp earth, iodine, and spice. Medium to full-bodied, with an elegant texture, lots of classic Russian River spice, and outstanding length. it shows the more elegant streamlined style of the vintage, yet I suspect it's going to age gracefully. Give bottles 2-3 years and it should keep for a decade. Another estate that has changed their style (for the better, I think), Kosta Browne’s latest 2018s have beautiful purity and elegance as well as richness. They’re certainly in the top handful of wines in this report. Drink 2022-2032.
Jeb Dunnuck, jebdunnuck.com (May 2020)

{***}{region}California, USA{region}
{color}Red{color}
{vintage}2017{vintage}
{maturity}ready-keep{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{ratings}

[]James Suckling::96/100

[]Wine Advocate::91/100

[]Wine Spectator::91/100

[]Jeb Dunnuck::94/100 {ratings} {***}

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)

{***}{region}Pommard{region}
{color}Red{color}              {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}

{ratings}

[] Burghound:: 91-94/100

{ratings}

{***}

Maria-Theresa Mascarello's 2011 Barolo is one of the more refined wines of the year, with less size than many other 2011s and plenty of immediacies. Racy and giving on the palate but with a good underlying structure, 2011 impresses for its juxtaposition of the riper elements of the vintage and more classic attributes that are such signatures at this address.

Bright red stone fruits, strawberries and crushed flowers are some notes that grace the exquisite finish. 2011 is an excellent choice to drink while some more age-worthy recent vintages sleep in the cellar. I will not be surprised to see 2011 improve from where it is today. 

Drink 2018 - 2041

Antonio Galloni, Vinous.com (November 2014)

Nearly as good as the la Côte Blonde, the 2016 Cote Rotie La Belle Helene is plump, round and full in the mouth, yet it lacks some of the former wine's exotic perfume. It still shows lovely purity, with baskets of ripe red berries, a plush, creamy mouthfeel and a long finish. It's a terrific wine that suffers only by comparison. With its terrific concentration and balance, it should drink well for two decades or more.

{***}{region} Rhône{region}
{color} Red {color}                  

 {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2016{vintage}

{ratings}
 [] The Wine Advocate:: 92-94/100        
{ratings} 

{***}

This Close de Vougeot glows an imperial purple with exceptional quality and real nobility. Fine and taut on the palate, with black fruit notes, it has a superb tannic structure and therefore the potential for long term ageing.

This has been one of the most exciting cellars in the whole of Burgundy for the last few vintages, a fact which is beginning to be reflected in the pricing. The significant reduction in crop this year, which Etienne Grivot ascribes more to the extreme winter cold than poor flowering, is also a factor. Etienne has been working hard to refine the tannins in his wines, and has surely succeeded in 2010, by producing wines of great energy but with suave, sophisticated finishes. These are brilliant wines that unfortunately, are in short supply.

Berry Bros. & Rudd

100% Chardonnay. 0g/L dosage.

Lovely nose of peaches, white apricots, jasmine, lemon curd, olives and almonds. Distinct salty and chalky undertones. Medium body with fine bubbles. Elegant and refined, with a very long and fine finish.

Drink or hold

James Suckling, JamesSuckling.com (July 2022)

The 2014 Extra-Brut Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Les Chemins d'Avize continues to show brilliantly, unfurling in the glass with aromas of citrus oil, freshly baked bread, white flowers, fresh mint, pastry cream and blanched almonds. Full-bodied, layered and vinous, it's chiseled and concentrated, with racy acids, chalky structure and a long, saline finish. This is a terrific bottle that exemplifies the Larmandier-Bernier style. 2021-2038 - Wine Advocate

Fine crimson purple. The fruit comes across as a touch richer than the Chambolle, but still nicely in balance. No more than medium bodied, much more about finesse and balance, good acidity, peppery finish after the perfumed fresh strawberry fruit. -Jasper Morris MW

Cheval Blanc’s second wine, the 2005 Le Petit Cheval, possesses some of the character of its bigger sibling. Revealing a slight green streak among the cranberry and black cherry fruit along with medium body and a soft, plush texture, it is ideal for drinking over the next decade.
Robert Parker - Wine Advocate - 30-Apr-2008

Cabernet Sauvignon 75%, Merlot 18%, Petit Verdot 5%, Cabernet Franc 2%.

Although the overall production at Ch. Margaux is down about a quarter, the proportion of Pavillon Rouge is up slightly (31% of production). Aurélien Valance feels this is indicative of the quality, that even more of the harvest than usual was up to the mark for this cuvée. The bouquet is more accented in crunchy red fruit than the grand vin, and the tannins feel more pronounced. But the ineffable polish and grace of Ch. Margaux remains fundamentally woven into the wine’s persona. This is elegant and perhaps a little more open-textured than the ’19, but there’s still sufficient tension to leave the wine irresistible.

Drink 2028 - 2045

Berry Bros. & Rudd

The tannins are still young and present, but aromatically, it is beginning to open, and this is a good time to drink this Les Forts - blueberries abound, with a delicious spicy black pepper and rosemary edge. 0.5% Cabernet Franc completes the blend. 43% of production in Forts. Harvest September 12 to 26.

Drink 2021 - 2045

Jane Anson, Decanter.com (February 2021)

Charred caramel and liquorice aromatics, with sappy acidity accompanying generous olive tapenade, blackberry and raspberry fruits on the opening beats. Deceptively silky tannins, they are tactile and supple at first then close in through the mid palate, revealing a more serious Ornellaia with layers of graphite, savoury cassis, sage, bay leaf, underbrush and white truffle spices. A touch of sweet salted caramel returns after half an hour in the glass, this is well structured and will be giving its best after five or six years in bottle, and for several decades. A hot dry summer followed by cooler weather during harvest has given finesse and complexity, and a wine to savour. All varieties are aged separately for 12 months then blended and then put back in barrel for 6 months, followed by 12 months in bottle. 70% new oak. Director Axel Heinz, oenologist Olga Fusari. Drink 2026 to 2044.

Jane Anson, Inside Bordeaux (March 2022)

Butter and grassy nose then ‘into the mash tun aromas E Floral notes soft and plant-like, then dried fruits, humbugs and cloverflower honey, marzipan and toffee. Powerful in ABV it takes to water delivering a delicious waxiness, lillies and herbs with spices and jute on the memorable finish.

The Domaine de Courcel produces Pommard with very traditional methods. Wines undergo a relatively warm fermentation, with at least three weeks of maceration and two to three punchings of the "cap" per day, resulting in a fine extraction of fruit, colour and tannins. The wines have been made by Vosne-Romanée vigneron Yves Confuron since 1996. The grapes are vinified with their stems after a severe sorting process. They are then matured in barrel for 18 months or more, without racking. There is not much reliance on new oak. The resulting wines have subtlety and richness that accompany a remarkable ability to age.

{***}{region}Pommard{region}
{color} Red{color}                                                               

{maturity}drink-now{maturity} {maturity-text}Drink Now{maturity-text}
{vintage}2011{vintage}
{ratings}

[] Allen Meadows, Burghound:: 92/100

{ratings} {***}

{***}
{region}Gevrey-Chambertin{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}ready-improve{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2015{vintage}

{ratings} [] Wine Advocate:: 90-92/100

{ratings}

{***}

Of Vietti's new releases, this wine is most definitely the most shut down and less expressive at this young stage. The 2012 Barolo Rocche di Castiglione will require many years of bottle aging before it comes into its own. In general, many of the Barolo protagonists are sluggish in this vintage and this is a common theme. The bouquet moves slowly to release dark fruit, dried cherry, tobacco, grilled herb and pressed blue flowers. The mouth is powerful and determined, however, with solid structure and a tight build. Put this bottle at the back of your cellar.

{***}{region}Piedmont{region}
{color}Red{color}                 {maturity}ready-keep{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2012{vintage}

{ratings} [] Wine Advocate:: 94/100

{ratings}

{***}

A cool site giving low pH wines (higher acidity). Mid purple in colour with no great depth, an elegant light red fruit nose, strict, fresh raspberry and alpine strawberry. - Jasper Morris MW

{***}{region}Gevrey-Chambertin{region}
{color}Red{color}                                                               

 {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}
{ratings}      [] Jasper Morris :: 89-93/100   
 
{ratings}{***}

The vine comes from a great gene pool. It is regular and has many millerandage berries. The wine has the typical structure of Nuits-Saint-Georges, but the tannins are elegant and reflect the near Vosne-Romanée. The Nuits Saint-Georges 1er Cru Aux Cras is tasty and dynamic, always with a good balance. The flesh, very present, with notes of juicy black fruit (blackberries, blueberries, blackcurrants) is enriched with floral nuances (elder, heather) and spicy.

{***}{region} Nuits-St Georges {region}
{color}Red{color}        {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}{***}

{***}
{region}St Julien {region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}laying-down{maturity}
{maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2010{vintage}
{ratings}
[]The Wine Advocate:: 98+/100

[]Robert Parker:: 98+/100

[]Jancis Robinson:: 17.5/20

[]Wine Spectator:: 92-95/100

{ratings} {***}

{***}
{region}Pomerol{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}laying-down{maturity}
{maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}
{ratings}

[]Wine Advocate:: 96-98/100

{ratings} {***}

Dark red with a purple hue, the nose is redolent of black fruit with some mocha and coffee notes. Fresh and full-bodied, there are crisp tannins with a finely tuned layer of spice giving way to a well-balanced, long finish.

Blend: Cabernet Sauvignon 62%, Merlot 35%, Cabernet Franc 3%

Very dark crimson – looks much bluer than the 1996. Still bluer than the 2004. Savoury, complex, really rather gorgeous nose even if far from the first flush of youth. Sumptuous nose even if on the palate it’s more austere than the nose suggests. Quite grainy tannins on the finish but lovely balance. Very fresh.

Drink 2012 - 2025

Jancis Robinson MW, JancisRobinson.com (October 2015)

The 2021 Balocchi di Cabernet Franc is arrestingly beautiful. A new and extremely limited addition to the Balocchi series, just 1,200 bottles of this precious cuvée were produced from old Cabernet Franc vines in Olmo, Fiesole. The nose is complex and defined, moving from heady, red and blue berries, to pretty dried violet and rose petal. The palate is sculpted from marble, so light on its feet as it delivers waves of red and black cherry, dried strawberry and plum, accented by blood orange and floral perfume. This is ethereal, showing the power, minerality and fragility of old vine Cabernet Franc. It saw a maturation of 24 months in old 225l barrique.

Charlie Leech, Buying Assistant, Berry Bros. & Rudd

This is made with 55-year-old vine fruit from an exquisite site, right in the heart of a natural amphitheatre close to the village of Barbaresco itself, the soil rich in chalk. Blood-red colour, the nose seduces, as always, with gorgeous, sweet raspberry, kirsch cassis, a hedonistic, velvety texture – held tight with sinewy structure. The palate swells with sumptuous fruit, yet it is chalky and pure, sensational, with such detail – brimming with superlatives.

The father and son team of Alfredo and Luca Roagna are celebrating the completion of their new cantina in Castiglione Falletto, in the heart of La Pira vineyard, a prime location they’ve owned since 1989, but had bought fruit from since the 1950s. Both in their Barolo and Barbaresco estates (15 hectares in total), they pride themselves on their organic, grassed-over vineyards. They’re fortunate to have a wealth of oldvine fruit at their disposal which, of course, they vinify traditionally with extended maceration in large oak barrels.

Only about 1,500 bottles were made from Roagna's south-west-facing plot that adjoins that of Bruno Giacosa. The sandy talc element of the calcareous soil gives an intriguing clementine-skin character, along with rose-petal purity. Crunchy-cool poise, packed with harmonious detail, a glint of kirsch cassis and red cherry-stone, impeccably dressed; it sets the pulse racing.

The father and son team of Alfredo and Luca Roagna are celebrating the completion of their new cantina in Castiglione Falletto, in the heart of La Pira vineyard, a prime location they’ve owned since 1989, but had bought fruit from since the 1950s. Both in their Barolo and Barbaresco estates (15 hectares in total), they pride themselves on their organic, grassed-over vineyards. They’re fortunate to have a wealth of oldvine fruit at their disposal which, of course, they vinify traditionally with extended maceration in large oak barrels.

Only 2,000 bottles of the old-vine La Pira, located under the castello di Castiglione Falletto, were made by the Roagna family in this excellent vintage; rather unsurprisingly given the oldest vine was planted in 1937. Compared to their normal La Pira, this oldvine version is super-suave, with velvety cassis-fruit, underpinned by a cool white-stone – almost marble – core and minerality. It's got that extra gear of fruit but also of purity and balance. This was particularly excellent in 2010; a wine to challenge Mascarello's Monprivato for purity and poise.

The father and son team of Alfredo and Luca Roagna are celebrating the completion of their new cantina in Castiglione Falletto, in the heart of La Pira vineyard, a prime location they’ve owned since 1989, but had bought fruit from since the 1950s. Both in their Barolo and Barbaresco estates (15 hectares in total), they pride themselves on their organic, grassed-over vineyards. They’re fortunate to have a wealth of oldvine fruit at their disposal which, of course, they vinify traditionally with extended maceration in large oak barrels.

Crushed flowers, tobacco, mint, licorice and dried cherries lift from the glass in Pira's 2009 Barolo Pira Vecchie Viti. Interestingly, within Roagna's range the old vines in Pajè confer power, but here they seem to add finesse. Sweet tobacco, menthol and worn-in leather add nuance on the open, expressive finish. The 2009 Pira Vecchie Viti is a bit more forward than the straight Barolo Pira. It will be interesting to see how both wines age.
Antonio Galloni - vinousmedia.com - Sept 2014

Noticeable but not invasive wood and menthol frame a slightly riper array of aromas that are quite similar to those of the regular cuvée. Here too there is outstanding density and power to the even more concentrated broad-shouldered and robust flavors that possess even better depth and persistence on the impeccably well-balanced, saline and palate coating finish. This is presently extremely primary and while it's clear that this offers huge upside development potential it's also clear that plenty of patience will be required.
Drink 2031+
95 points, Allen Meadows, Burghound.com, Jan 2016, Issue #61

In 2018 we return to a more classical style in Bolgheri, with great freshness and complexity. Due to this, it is one of winemaker Luca Marrone’s favourite vintages. Naturally fermented in open top tinelli, this is a blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot 15% Sangiovese. Blackcurrant, redcurrant, wild mint, dried roses and cherry smoke entice on the nose. The palate also has incredible elegance. Vivid fruit, red cherry and bramble are enveloped in fine tannins – all polished by 18 months in French oak.

Drink 2022 - 2040

Davy Żyw, Senior Buyer, Berry Bros. & Rudd

The 2007 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva wraps around the palate with gorgeous depth. Plums, smoke, liquorice, tobacco and mocha all develop in the glass. The 2007 gives the impression of being shaped a little more by the oak because of its voluptuous texture. A huge, explosive finish rounds things out nicely. This is an especially bombastic, rich wine for Costanti, but it is also quite fine and loaded with personality. There is plenty of pedigree in the glass. Still, more often than not, I find myself gravitating towards the straight Brunello bottling here.

Drink 2015 - 2027

Antonio Galloni, Wine Advocate (June 2013)

The 2006 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva emerges from the glass with freshly cut flowers, sweet red berries, liquorice and spices, all wrapped around a sensual, elegant frame of the notable class. Considerable aeration is needed to bring out the wine’s depth and textural richness. This is an excellent wine, but more often than not I am attracted more to the straight Brunello here, as is the case again in 2006. Costanti gave the 2006 Riserva 36 months in oak, 18 months in medium-sized barrels, followed by 18 months in cask.

Drink 2016 - 2026

Antonio Galloni, Wine Advocate (April 2012)

A step up over the other two single vineyard releases, the 2011 Cote Rotie la Landonne is an incredible wine that knocks it out of the park in the vintage. Its inky purple/ruby color is followed by to-die-for notes of cassis, black olives, truffles, graphite and crushed rock. Full-bodied, massively concentrated, thick and unctuous, it has the vintages flamboyant fruit profile, yet backs it up with a stacked mid-palate, serious amounts of tannin and a finish that just wont quite. Its relatively approachable now due to its glycerin and fat, yet needs a decade of cellaring and will knock your socks off over the following two decades or more.
Jeb Dunnuck - 31/12/2015

The 2011 Cote Rotie la Turque is about as seamless and sexy as wine gets, and this cuvee continues to put on weight and richness with every passing year. Offering a monstrous nose of Asian spices, kirsch liqueur, blackcurrants, pepper and smoked meats, this full-bodied Cote Rotie has layers of sweet tannin, no hard edges and a killer finish. It's already hard to resist today, but has three decades of prime drinking to go.
Jeb Dunnuck - 28/12/2016

Bottled July 2016, disgorged May 2019. Zero dosage.

This is the second release from Leclerc Briant’s new clos in Montagne de Reims; the panoramic site was chosen for the longevity it gives its wines, and for their lucid nature. The 2015 vintage was vinified in mixed oak barrels – including second fill from Haut-Brion Blanc – giving it added texture. The nose is pretty and tightly coiled, with white flowers, green apples, nectarines and wild honey. The palate is cleansing, with racy white-and-yellow fruits, sweet hay, camomile and much more; it’s got lip-puckering tension and salinity. This is finely woven, with beautifully integrated mousse and minerality.

Drink 2024 - 2035

Davy Żyw, Senior Buyer, Berry Bros. & Rudd

Disgorged in 2022 after 36 months in tirage, the NV Extra-Brut Blanc de Noirs Les Maillons (2018) is based on the 2018 vintage, incorporating fully 60% reserve wines from the 2017 vintage. 

Opening in the glass with scents of sweet mirabelle plum, honeycomb, orange oil, bee pollen and spices, it’s full-bodied fleshy and seamless, with a satiny attack that segues into a vinous, enveloping mid-palate that’s complemented by a fine, pillowy mousse. 

Concluding with a sapid, penetrating finish, 2018 was the first vintage in which Collin employed his new Coquard press, and it doesn’t seem fanciful to imagine that this contributes to the notable finesse of this release.

Drink 2022 - 2035

William Kelley, Wine Advocate (August 2022)

Deep, glass-staining ruby. Deep-pitched aromas of cherry liqueur, blackberry, fruitcake and incense on the highly perfumed nose. Stains the palate with vibrant black and blue fruit liqueur, allspice and violet pastille flavors, enlivened by a smoky mineral nuance that builds with aeration. Shows a suave blend of richness and vivacity, and no rough edges. Spicy and expansive on the strikingly long, sappy finish, which features resonating dark berry character and youthfully chewy tannins.

Drink 2026 - 2038

Josh Raynolds, Vinous.com (April 2020)

Emmanuel Brochet derives from a farming family in a part of Champagne that converted from viticulture to agriculture (more lucrative, given their proximity to Reims) in the aftermath of phylloxera. One of the remaining outposts of the vine is the Mont Benoît, where his grandparents had some 2.5 hectares contracted out. So, in 1997, Brochet took over and started a project of his own—a choice he made freely and enthusiastically, he emphasizes, rather than out of obligation.

Emmanuel Brochet's brilliant NV Extra-Brut Le Mont Benoit is the finest rendition of this cuvée that he has produced to date. Unwinding in the glass with aromas of waxy citrus rind, crisp stone fruit, bread dough, beeswax and nutmeg, it's medium to full-bodied, deep and vinous, exhibiting terrific concentration without weight, uniting the full maturity of the vintage with the pillowy, chalky signature of the Mont Benoit. Complex and compelling, this release underlines Brochet's status as one of the reigning champions of artisanal Champagne.

Drink 2023 - 2040

William Kelley, Wine Advocate (December 2023)

Brilliant ruby. High-pitched, mineral-tinged aromas of fresh dark berries and pungent flowers show outstanding clarity and lift. Smooth, sweet and energetic on the palate, offering intense blackberry and floral pastille flavors sharpened by an exotic Asian spice flourish. The extremely long, focused finish is given shape by smooth tannins that sneak in slowly.

Josh Raynolds, Vinous.com (April 2016)

Sweet rose petal, mint, chiseled red-toned fruit and chalk give the 2014 Barbaresco Sorì Tildìn its sculpted, brilliant personality. All the elements are in the right place. A wine of translucent energy and weightless elegance, the Sorì Tildìn is hauntingly beautiful today. A host of floral notes and red berry fruit infuse the persistent, chiseled finish in this fabulous Barbaresco. As it so often is, the Barbaresco Sorì Tildìn is a wine of pure charm and seduction.

Drink 2026 - 2044

Antonio Galloni, Vinous.com (October 2017)

Inky violet colour. Highly perfumed, mineral-tinged aromas of ripe black and blue fruits, smoky bacon, olive paste and incense, and suggestions for woodsmoke and exotic spices.
Offers palate-staining, appealingly sweet and intensely concentrated blueberry, cassis, floral pastille, smoked meat, liquorice and fruitcake flavours that show excellent concentration and are supported by a core of juicy acidity.
Finishes sweet, broad and extremely long, with resonating floral and chewy tannins that build steadily.

 Drink 2031 - 2044

Josh Raynolds, Vinous.com (December 2022)

After a long day of tasting young Barolo, I craved Champagne. There is a sort of symbiotic relationship between Champagne and Piedmont that I can’t explain except to say I enjoy it tremendously. The growers seem to be on the same wavelength in so many ways, so when I saw Jérôme Prévost’s NV Les Béguines, I grabbed it. 

The Béguines (2019 disgorgement) is wonderfully fresh, open-knit, and expressive. Sometimes I think we open these wines too soon after release; I know I do. But with a few years on the cork, the Béguines offers up pear, spice, ginger and dried flowers, all with notable freshness and verve.

Drink 2022 - 2028

Antonio Galloni, Vinous.com (December 2022)

The 2018 Gevrey-Chambertin Le Clos was the first parcel that Duroché picked. It delivers plenty of raspberry, wild strawberry and damp earthy aromas, though perhaps not showing quite the same delineation as the Gevrey Champs at the moment. The palate is medium-bodied with fine-grained tannin, a lovely bead of acidity and more flesh than the Champs, as well as a little more depth on the finish. Very approachable in style, this should drink nicely over the next 12 to 15 years. - Vinous

Part of a contract by, which they run the vineyards and then buy the grapes. The vines are well situated at the top, according to Pierre. 90% whole bunch vinification. Rich dense purple, with a rather reductive nose at the moment. Very concentrated colour and the nose cleans up. This is a dense Suchots, which doesn’t close down in the middle, but the tannins are a little rougher than expected at the finish  Ethough this might be the reduction speaking. If that is the explanation then this wine may well merit a fourth star rating.

{***}{region} Nuits-St Georges{region}
{color}Red{color}        {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2020{vintage}{***}

Pierre-Yves Colin described the 2016 vintage as 'one where the growing season is still painful to think about as we had almost no vines that were spared from frost damage. It's depressing to know at the very beginning that your yields are going to be seriously reduced, which in this case means that they were off between -20 and -90%. Add to this a virulent attack of mildew that kept all of us constantly on edge as the wet weather made it difficult to treat exactly when we wanted. Thankfully the second half of July, August and September were basically ideal and in the end the vines managed to ripen what fruit remained to more than respectable levels. In fact, the way I choose to look at it is that the fine weather in the second half of the growing season didn't save the quantities but it did save the quality. We chose to begin picking on the 22nd of September and the fruit was so clean that there was essentially no sorting of any consequence. Sugars were very good as were the associated acid levels. Despite this some wines refused to cooperate in the cellar as some didn't want to finish their alcoholic fermentations and others balked at finishing their malos. As to the quality, I would describe my 2016s as ranging from very good to excellent though they're not monuments.

Allen Meadows, Burghound.com 

{***}{region} Nuits-St Georges {region}
{color}Red{color}                                                               

{maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2016{vintage}

{ratings}

{ratings}

{***}

A more elegant nose offers up lovely aromatic layering that includes notes of cool red currant, dark raspberry, plum and freshly turned earth. There is more size, weight and richness to the larger-scaled flavours that possess a seductive texture before culminating in a naturally sweet, complex and sneaky long finish. 

This, too, is very promising for the longer term, yet it is a wine that should be approachable after only 6 to 8 years. Drink from 2029 onward

Allen Meadows, Burghound.com (April 2020)

{***}
{region}Volnay{region}
{color}Red{color}                               {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}

{***}

The 2012 Chateau d’Avize is an ethereal Champagne that personifies the meticulous processes at Leclerc Briant. The nose shows layered citrus fruits, pear, white flowers, and fresh patisserie. The palate is ripe and shows notes of brioche and toast underpinning the white fruits. Drink 2023-2033.

Paul Keating, Account Manager, Berry Bros. & Rudd (Oct 2022)

{***}{region}Champagne{region}
{color}White{color}                                                                                                {maturity}ready-keep{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2012{vintage}
{ratings}
{ratings}        {***}

This rare and exclusive Clos is nestled above the domaine above the town of Avize. 2012 marks its introduction into the Waris Hubert range, which marries the extraordinary quality of the vintage and matured in barrique, 50% in inox tank.

This rich and complex Champagne takes its position amongst the finest Clos in Champagne. The nose is seductive, with a distinct crepe suzette character. There is autumnal spice on the palate, and foam surges over golden apple and roasted stone fruit, typical of Avize village, which added richness to the 2012 character. Mineral, poised and brimming with energy. 

Drink 2023 - 2040+

Davy Żyw, Senior Buyer, Berry Bros. & Rudd (September 2023)

{***}{region}Champagne{region}
{color}White{color}                                                                                                {maturity}ready-keep{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2012{vintage}
{ratings}
{ratings}        {***}

Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2018 La Mondotte strolls nonchalantly out of the glass with expressive scents of plum preserves, blueberry compote and chocolate-covered cherries, followed by suggestions of candied violets, licorice, hoisin and black truffles with a waft of ground cloves. It's medium to full-bodied with seriously impressive tension and wonderfully ripe, velvety tannins supporting the generous black fruit preserves layers, finishing with amazing length and loads of panache. It will require a good 4-5 years to unlock some of its finer nuances, then drink this powerhouse over the next 25+ years. - Wine Advocate

{***}{region}St Emilion{region}
{color} Red{color}                {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}
{ratings}
 [] Wine Advocate:: 97/100

[] James Suckling:: 98/100

[] Vinous:: 96/100   

{ratings} {***}

This is from the northern end of Chambolle, immediately under Bonnes Mares, with which it shares some personality: this is a stronger style of Chambolle. There’s plenty of intent about the wine, and it has the shoulders to carry it off. A forthright and assertive wine, the slightly ferric tannins play a key role, underpinned by spicy oak. Drink 2027-2038. 

{***}
{region}Chambolle-Musigny{region}
{color}Red{color}

{maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text} 

{vintage}2019{vintage}

{ratings} {ratings}

{***}

{***}
{region}Pauillac{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}laying-down{maturity}
{maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2005{vintage}
{ratings}
[]The Wine Advocate:: 93/100

[]Robert Parker:: 93/100  

{ratings} {***}

Pale cherry-red, the nose swoons with delicate notes of camphor and fresh, wild Amarena cherry, along with a fragrant rose-water character. To taste, this glides: it’s so pretty, so effortless with gentle redcurrant fruit and tannins so finely curated that they’re invisible.

{***}{region}Piedmont{region}
{color}Red{color}                 

{maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2011{vintage}

{ratings}[] Wine Advocate:: 94/100

{ratings}

{***}

The legendary Ygay property is at an altitude of 500m in the heart of the Rioja Alta. The 2004 Gran Reserva Especial is a blend of 93% Tempranillo and 7% Mazuelo. After fermentation in stainless steel, the wine has been allowed to age in barrique for 29 months, of which nearly a third has been spent in new barrels.

To complement this generous intervention is the natural benevolence of the vintage; 2004 is now lauded in the same way as 2001 and 1994. This is borne out by the quality of the fruit, the pedigree of the aromas and the impressive length. Earth, spice and black cherry dance with dexterity over the palate, and there is great finesse and charm on the finish.

Berry Bros. & Rudd

Mainly Tempranillo, Graciano, Mazuelo. The 890 is produced only in the best vintages. 40-year-old vines planted on calcareous soils. Very long ageing, six years in self-built American oak barrels. 12 rackings during ageing. 15,000 bottles produced.

The wine totally fulfils expectations for a classic rioja style. Very complex and open nose, woody and spicy showing liquorice, cloves, vanilla and earthiness. It has an acceptable touch of nail varnish. On the palate it is extremely polished and savoury, almost texture-free for a red wine. Very leathery aftertaste. It has concentrated flavours and is delicate in the mouth.

Drink 2016 - 2030

Ferran Centelles, JancisRobinson.com (June 2016)

This is a fabulous vineyard, nestling up to Le Montrachet and Chevalier-Montrachet. The Bouzereau parcel sits directly beneath that which was upgraded to Chevalier in 1974. The wine has a fine, aristocratic, blossoming tautness across both bouquet and palate. Drink 2023-2031.

The harvest started on 30th August in Cailleret and Charmes, and was finished by 9th September. The Pinot Noir and Chardonnay flowered in warm weather at the same time but, while the Pinot loved the heat, Chardonnay did not, with the resulting coulure and millerandage restricting yields to around 50hl/ha. Jean-Baptiste looked to get texture into his wines with skin contact and an extended fermentation rather than through bâtonnage, seeking to capture as much of the vital balancing freshness as possible.

The traditional one-quarter of a hectare around Vosne and Vougeot has been supplemented by a new plot in Les Croix Blanches in Vosne-Romanée, doubling the size of the cuvée. Unusually, there’s 20% new oak this year. The new parcel provides a little more spice and structure, but the wine remains exceptionally long for its humble appellation. Drink 2021-2027. 

Here the nose is distinctly different as it combines overt sauvage scents with those of pomegranate and dark cherry liqueur aromas, all of which is trimmed in plenty of warm earth nuances. There is fine volume and plenty of power to the muscular, powerful and robust big-bodied flavors that possess excellent mid-palate concentration as well as impressive persistence. What this doesn't have, at least not yet is the outstanding depth and thus my predicted range is somewhat wider than it usually is. The requisite underlying material does appear to be in place so that this additional complexity can develop and I am optimistic that it will in time.
Allen Meadows - burghound.com - Jan 2015

This Latricires-Chambertin Grand Cru from Domaine Rossignol-Trapet has beautiful, elegant, deep red fruit and is very graceful and subtle. The fine fruit stretches all the way to a lovely finish with an amazingly perfumed aftertaste.

With its smooth, creamy, black and red fruit and massive, super-suave tannins, this is a silky, powerful, sexy wine with the plump, ripe fruit of the vintage and a refreshing, mineral backbone. Well-balanced and with fine tannins, this has the elegance and finesse of its heritage with a fragrant, enticing nose that will draw you back for more. This is at a really good price for the quality and is really worth considering.

From six different lieux-dits.

Here, too, there is a whiff of herbal tea character sitting atop the earthier and more sauvage-influenced red berry fruit aromas. The sleek and delicious medium-bodied flavours are not quite as rich, though they are more precise and more mineral-driven on the impressively long and well-balanced finale. This is a fine Gevrey Villages that is worth thinking about.

Drink from 2028 onward

Allen Meadows, Burghound.com (January 2023)

This is a delightful and fresh Pinot Noir vibrating with enchanting fruit-driven notes. From Bourgogne's natural wine legend Yann Durieux, it’s a 100% Pinot Noir from selected parcels near the commune of Villers-la-Faye, not far from Les Grands Ponts, on the border between Hautes Côtes de Nuits and Hautes Côtes de Beaune. Natural wild fermentation, and nothing added or taken away, with no hint of added SO2.

A heavenly, heady bouquet enthrals the nose whilst supple, vigorous black fruit flavours dance across the palate. This may have a firm, tannic finish but there is so much fruit here that this will develop beautifully over a decade or more.

Ideal with a 2-hour carafe.

Finesse and savoury black fruits and mint leaf with gentle rosemary. It has a quiet concentration, together with layers of graphite, and slate, and a mouthwatering finish. Both quiet and yet powerful, it gives an insight into what makes Lafite so singular, and that is all you can really ask of a 2nd wine. Interesting also how it differs from Petit Mouton, such a brilliant distillation of the difference between the two estates.

Drink 2022 - 2034

Jane Anson, JaneAnson.com (March 2022)

The annual release of 10 year old Château Palmer, and this time it's an often-underrated but delicious vintage that sits in the shadow of the most prestigious years of the last decade. Proof of how slowly this wine ages, it is packed with blueberry and cassis fruits, a shot of mint leaf, mandarin peel, sage and dark chocolate, with shoulders and a serious architecture, bigger than you might expect for a vintage with such an easy-drinking, gourmet reputation.

I last tasted this vintage around eight months ago and it has opened up further since then, often the case as wines shift around the decade mark, and this is an upscore. A moment when Palmer was fully committing to farming biodynamically, doubling its coverage to almost 15 hectares, and had just unveiled a new cellar. Harvest October 1 to 15, Sabrina Pernet technical director, Thomas Duroux director. 68% new oak. No rush to drink, and has many decades ahead, but you can begin thinking about it.

Drink 2023 - 2042

Jane Anson, JaneAnson.com (July 2022)

This great terroir sandwiched between Vieux Chteau Certan, Petrus and La Fleur Petrus, on the high plateau of Pomerol, has been owned for many years by the Barrau-Badar family. Beautiful coffee, cedar wood, Christmas fruitcake, black cherry and blackcurrant fruit jump from the glass of this full-bodied, rich, multi-layered, and very impressive Certan de May. I dont remember it showing this well in barrel and post-bottling, but it is strutting its stuff at age 10, and has a good 20 years of upside left to it. This is a beauty. I especially admire the layered, textural style of the wine. Drink it over the next 20 years.
Robert M. Parker, Jr. - 29/06/2015

The 2014 Extra Brut Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Minéral is a powerful, intense Champagne that captures all of the natural power of these old vines in Avize and Cramant. Aptly named, the Minéral is infused with tremendous mineral and soil inflections that give a real feeling of gravitas. Crushed rocks, slate, chalk and citrus accents are some of the many nuances that emerge with a bit of time in the glass. This release is fabulous. It is also a reticent wine, though, so at least a year or two in bottle will help soften.  - Antonia Galloni

Precision, pleasure & elegance is what I always associate with Billecart Salmon. And in a vintage as fabled as 2008, these hallmark traits are revealed in greater detail. The Billecart Vintage 2008 is pure joy, tiny, steady bubbles stream through wild gold in the glass.The nose is filled with baked russet apples, waxy lemons and the golden crumb of cherry crumble, all supported by the noble Pinot vinosity of Grand Cru terroir.

The palate is a roasted medley of peach, Red Macintosh and white cherry, very seductive, very classy. Pinot noir leads the mid palate, earthy and richly textured, with the hallmark tension of the vintage extending the palate with an electric Cotes des Blancs, mouth-watering tang. The mousse is silky and seamless, the finish is tart tartin with saffron flecked Chantilly cream. The wine has benefitted from time in bottle, drinking beautifully now.

Davy Zyw, Senior Buyer, Berry Bros. & Rudd

Wow, this really is a magnificent vintage Champagne. Tasted side by side with the 2006, the 2007 Blanc des Millénaires was fresh, precise and zippy. I preferred it! With bright acidity, red apple and brioche notes, Cellar Master Cyril Brun calls 2007 a ‘dangerous champagne.’ Sensational now but with lots of potential for further ageing. The 2007 is linear, crisp with flint stony notes with a finish that goes on and on. Purity is the word that springs to mind when tasting, a perfect aperitif that is both refreshing and complex.

Drink 2022 - 2034

Berry Bros. & Rudd

Les Comtes is one of the greatest of all Chardonnay Champagnes, its fruit sourced from the finest Grand Cru sites of the Côte des Blancs. Blue chip provenance includes the villages of Avize, le Mesnil-sur-Oger, and Cramant; it is the best of the best. Or, doubly appropriate given its luxuriant gustatory profile; la crème de la crème. 5% of the wine is aged in wood before spring bottling and the ensuing lengthy somnolence wherein the alchemical process of autolysis weaves its patient magic over nearly a decade.

2004 was an abundant crop, but also, unusually given its volume, one of high quality, especially in the south of the appellation and for the Chardonnay grape. Aromas of pear, greengage, bergamot and white flowers prove immediately attractive; the palate boasts precision, focus and a wonderful mousse bead. The immediate impression is of freshness and vitality; this is complemented by a profound yet subtle intensity that more than justifies the supreme reputation of this wine.

Ready to drink

Berry Bros. & Rudd

The 2012 vintage continues to prove it is one of the greatest of this millennium. It was sunny, but low yielding and the resulting wines have concentration, opulence and are worthy of time in the cellar. This unique parcel, late disgorged exclusively for Berry Bros. & Rudd, gives the palate richer golden depth, but also freshness.

A blend of 60% Pinot Noir and 40% Chardonnay, the nose entices with roasted citrus, fig tarts and musky floral lift. The palate is a celebration of drinkability and complexity. The texture has a soft flow of fine mousse which carries the vintage’s richness in a cloud-like embrace. There are notes of peach, lemon meringue, the chewy corners of pâtisserie, and some depth of hazelnuts from evolution.

The finish is driven and typifies the grandeur of the vintage, but also the Grand Cru vineyards of Pol Roger. Everlasting, mineral elegance. Our 325th anniversary edition Pol Roger 2012 is testament to our enduring alliance with Pol Roger, but also the quality of their wines and the vintage.

Drink now to 2045

Davy Zyw, Senior Buyer, Berry Bros. & Rudd (October 2023)

The 2019 Meursault 1er Cru Les Perrières is brilliant, unwinding with scents of citrus oil, crisp Anjou pear, green apple, white flowers, crushed chalk and toasted wood. Medium to full-bodied, chiseled and incisive, it's electric and tightly wound, with terrific concentration, appreciable structuring dry extract and a long, mineral finish. As I've written before, Pierre Morey farmed this 0.55-hectare parcel before acquiring it at the end of the 1980s, and the composition of the soils suggests that this was the location where rejected stones from the quarry that lends the climat its name were discarded. - Wine Advocate 94-96/100

A remarkable wine in this vintage, LEglise Clinets 2008 has a color almost as dark as the barrel sample of 2010. Classic mocha and caramel-infused creme de cassis and black cherry notes, with hints of licorice and loamy soil soar from the glass of this opaque ruby/purple, aromatically compelling wine. Opulent, expansive, and savory, with a broad texture, a full-bodied mouthfeel, terrific purity and a layered finish, this is another big, massive wine that transcends the vintage character, and will probably need 7-10 years of bottle age. It should keep for 20 or more years as well.
Robert M. Parker, Jr. - 02/05/2011

The 2019 Extra-Brut Rosé de Saignée is produced from organically farmed old-vine Pinot Meunier grown in Villers Aux Noeuds that Brochet purchases from another grower. Bursting with aromas of raspberries, plums, sweet berries, peonies and orange, it's medium to full-bodied, fleshy and layered, with a textural, enveloping profile and a broad, expansive finish. Avoiding any of the ponderousness that can sometimes mar this style of rosé, especially when the grapes get very ripe, shows all the precision typical of this producer's style.

Drink 2021 - 2026

William Kelley, Wine Advocate (August 2022)

Brand new to the Place de Bordeaux this year is a passion project by Ernie Loosen in Oregon's Willamette Valley that began in 2005. 'A great wine starts with the idea of a great wine' Ernie believes and his idea was to create a new world Pinot Noir (Burgundian vineyards were and are too expensive) but released when the wines are starting to be ready to drink - 10 years!

Smoked meat, fragrant strawberries and rose petals on the nose, delightfully beguiling and really draws you in on the first smell. Succulent and silky from the start, bright and piercing almost but then immediately softens bringing vanilla, clove, herbal raspberries, orange peel, touches of leather and meat into the mix. Still very much on the fruit but with accents of maturity that bring intrigue. 

Light and fresh, immediately so drinkable so feel free to pull the corks but this will also continue to improve with more age. Delicate yet layered with a certain push and style from the start and a real lingering of spice on the finish. Still a baby, only just starting to show what it's made of. 

Drink 2023 - 2034 

Georgina Hindle, Decanter.com (August 2023)

Pale colour, more density, a little more sunshine. Richer on the palate but still with enough structure, plenty of density here.

 
Jasper Morris MW, insideburgundy.com (November 2021)

The 2017 Meursault Les Grands Charrons is excellent, unwinding in the glass with notes of citrus oil, pear, beeswax and wheat toast. Medium to full-bodied, racy and precise, it's concentrated and multidimensional, with a bright spine of acidity and an integrated, complete profile. This superior communal climat typically produces 15-20 barrels of wine, making it one of the domaine's more significant cuvées—and as readers will remember, it was formerly released under the Boisson-Vadot label.

Drink 2023 - 2040

William Kelley, Wine Advocate (February 2020)

There is a completeness that is evident in 2005 Clarets, and this is what immediately strikes with 2005 Cantemerle. It has bags of fruit, tannin and acidity, all tied up in an impeccably-balanced, polished package. Sweet cassis fruit is accompanied by a spicy edge and a long, fresh lift. This is very pretty now but ideally wants another five years to really get going, and will easily keep for another five after that.

Tom Cave, Cellar Plan Manager

Relatively subtle wood treatment allows the notably floral red berry fruit, humus and earth-inflected aromas to shine. There is excellent volume to the delicious and tension-filled medium-weight plus flavours that exhibit fine depth and length on the moderately austere and saline-inflected finish. This is quite firm and somewhat rustic and the supporting tannins aren't especially refined, so once again patience will be required.

Drink from 2026 onward

Allen Meadows, Burghound.com (April 2016)

Philippe Pacalet buys grapes from a high site planted with old vines in Corton Bressandes, making the wine for only the second vintage in 2018. The grip and muscularity of the site combine nicely with the sappy, stemmy 100% whole bunches to produce a savoury, complex, chalky wine wit floral, red cherry and bramble fruit and the faintest echo of oak. (Tim Atkin)

This is the second release from Leclerc Briant’s new clos in Montagne de Reims; the panoramic site was chosen for the longevity it gives its wines, and for their lucid nature. The 2015 vintage was vinified in mixed oak barrels  Eincluding second fill from Haut-Brion Blanc  Egiving it added texture. The nose is pretty and tightly coiled, with white flowers, green apples, nectarines and wild honey.

The palate is cleansing, with racy white-and-yellow fruits, sweet hay, camomile and much more; it’s got lip-puckering tension and salinity. This is finely woven, with beautifully integrated mousse and minerality. Bottled July 2016, disgorged May 2019. Zero dosage.

Drink now to 2035

Davy Zyw, Wine Buyer, Berry Bros. & Rudd (September 2021)

{***}{region}Champagne{region}
{color}White{color}                                                                                                {maturity}ready-keep{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2015{vintage}
{ratings}
{ratings}        {***}

This was the first of Ghislaine’s vineyards to be harvested this year, sitting a bit lower on the slope. It’s a more opulent style, generous, but still with a good backbone of tannin, taking this element from its proximity to Morey. Drink 2022-2028.

Ghislaine Barthod’s domaine originated in the 1920s with Marcel Noëllat whose daughter married Gaston Barthod, a soldier stationed in Dijon who came to buy some wine and got the girl as well. He gave up military life for the vineyards in 1960. His daughter, Ghislaine, and her partner Louis Boillot bought their current premises overlooking Premier Cru Les Feusselottes in 1986. Though they share the team who work the vineyards, the vinification and commercial aspects of their businesses are kept completely separate. The domaine has an incomparable range of ChambolleMusigny terroirs, with eight separate Premier Cru bottlings.

Given the carnage here last year, one could have been concerned that yields might have been high, but these worries were needless. Although there was a certain amount of green harvesting on the younger vines, the old vines (of which there are lots here), if properly pruned and with excess buds eliminated, regulated themselves to reasonable yields well below 50hl/ha. The harvest started on 3rd September and was completed in eight days, with everything beautifully healthy. For Ghislaine, 2016 was about energy; 2017 is about purity.

Dark shades of blue/blackish fruit grace the palate in Lafarge's 2012 Volnay Clos des Chenes. This is an unusually supple, resonant young Clos des Chenes. Whereas the Caillerets possesses energy from its tannin and minerality, the Clos des Chenes is round and virtually seamless in texture, with all of the structural elements seemingly folded into the fruit. The 2012 is perhaps a bit atypical in its richness, but it is a real stunner just the same. - Vinous

Purchased grapes from all three communes of the appellation. Mid lemon yellow colour, a tight nose, harder to assess because served after the Montrachet. Very intense, backwards, quite ripe, and the necessary stones, along with the weighty yellow fruit, appear in due course.

Jasper Morris MW, InsideBurgundy.com (October 2021)

Interestingly, this seems to possess elements of all three of the preceding wines as the cool and ultra-elegant nose exhibits a broad range of spice and floral elements on the black cherry and plum-suffused aromas. There is almost painful intensity to the chiseled, focused and stony medium weight flavors that coat the palate with dry extract on the youthfully austere, powerful and very serious finish. This is very clearly built to age and a wine that should really not be touched for at least a decade. In a word, terrific.  - Burghound

The complex and subtle aroma of champagne is dominated by tones of candied citrus fruits and ripe stone fruits, decorated with delicate nuances of dried apricots, almonds and minerals. The fresh, concentrated acidity in the champagne flavor maintains the brightness and richness of the bouquet. Notes of green apple, lemon and cherry in a long aftertaste are set off by salty and yeasty touches. 

{***}{region}Champagne{region}
{color}White{color}                                                                                                {maturity}ready-keep{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2012{vintage}
{ratings}
{ratings}        {***}

A tightly wound yet succulent Barbaresco with aromas of graphite macerated plum and cherry giving way to rose hip mineral and more fruit flavors. Packs plenty of energy courtesy of the firm vibrant structure. Long complex finish. Bordering on racy with terrific harmony and class. Best from 2025 through 2043. 94 cases made. - Wine Spectator

{***}{region}Piedmont{region}
{color} Red{color}           {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}
{ratings}

{ratings} {***}

You have to work on this in the glass, but it’s well worth the effort. It’s initially reticent on the nose, but what emerges are the purest red fruit aromas – très Pinot. Its fresh acidity and resistant tannins speak of the vineyard’s 300-metre altitude and limestone mother-rock. Drink 2026-2032. 

{***}{region}Corton{region}
{color}Red{color}                      {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2019{vintage}

{ratings} [] Burghound:: 92-95/100

{ratings}

{***}

Guffens produced the 2021 Mâcon-Pierreclos Deuxième Vendange de Chavigne from a second picking some three weeks later of second-generation fruit that had attained full maturity, along with the very early stages of botrytis (when the berries turn rose-coloured but before they begin to degrade and shrivel), known in Mâconnais parlance as "levrouté."

This has turned out beautifully, picking up additional texture and depth with élevage and revealing complex aromas of freshly baked bread, confit citrus, toasted nuts, white flowers and clear honey. Medium to full-bodied, satiny and complete, with lively acids and a saline finish, it's built to age with grace.

Drink 2025 - 2045

William Kelley, Wine Advocate (October 2023)

{***}{region} Mâcon{region}
{color}White{color}                                                               

{maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2019{vintage}{***}

Bernard Dugat lost around 30% of his 2014 Pommard la Levrière Vieilles Vignes due to hail damage, and it necessitated a lot of sorting. Still, it was worthwhile because it has quite an intense, pure bouquet of blackberries and wild strawberry despite just a little reduction. The palate is bolstered by firm, grainy tannin on the entry. There is good weight in the mouth, a little oaky on the finish but there is a keen line of acidity. - Wine Advocate

{***}{region}Pommard{region}
{color} Red{color}                                                               

{maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For Laying Down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2016{vintage}
{ratings}
 [] The Wine Advocate:: 90/100{ratings}        {***}

This 35% polished Junmai Daiginjo has been matured under -5 degree Celsius for 3 years. It is a medium to full bodied sake with intense and complex favours of rice and fruit and balanced with rich umami. This below zero degree aged sake is far more refined and mellowed than one that is freshly brewed, but because of the low temperature, it retains its youthful charm and pureness. Packaged in a beautiful limited-edition red-and-gold droplet bottle including a gift box, this is an experience not to be missed. This is ideally enjoyed slight chilled, with more intense favoured richer sashimi or even wagyu shabu shabu.

The 1998 Nuits Saint-Georges Les Saint-Georges 1er Cru has an impressive bouquet, one that is both fresh and focused with redcurrant, juniper, clove and light cigar box notes. The palate is medium-bodied with very fine and noble tannin. The texture is quite chalky. There is a surfeit of energy and tension towards the finessed finish. Bon vin! Tasted at the Gouges retrospective at La Cabotte. 

{***}{region} Nuits-St Georges {region}
{color}Red{color}                                                               

{maturity}ready-keep{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}1999{vintage}

{ratings}[] Burghound:: 91-93/100

[] Wine Advocate:: 89-91/100

[] Jancis Robinson:: 17.5/20

{ratings}

{***}

En Remillys usual forceful personality and solid structure shows on the weighty, ripe nose of this wine. It needs more time to show at its bright best, but the length shows an early mark of quality.
Jasper Morris MW, Burgundy Director

Olivier Lamy decided on an unusually early start of 14th September in 2010, having closely monitored the ripeness of his grapes. He has also significantly reduced the amount of new oak this year, preferring to use one year old barrels from the plentiful 2009 vintage. He now has a substantial barrel park of 600 litre demi-muids to draw from. Olivier is not a fan of lees stirring: his style is for pure, precise concentrated wines.

{***}{region}St Aubin{region}
{color}White{color}                                                 

             {maturity}drink-now{maturity} 

{maturity-text}Drink Now{maturity-text}
{vintage}2010{vintage}
{ratings}
   {ratings}        {***}

La Grande Dame 2015 is an exceptional sunny vintage for a wine full of tension and elegance. It reveals this great wine’s verticality thanks to the Pinot Noirs harvested from our historical Grands Crus

{***}{region} Champagne{region}
{color}White{color}                                                               {maturity}ready-keep{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2015{vintage}

{ratings} [] Wine Spectator:: 95/100

[] James Suckling:: 93/100

{ratings}

{***}

The 2016 Syrah The Tribe Vineyard has complex aromas of peppercorn-crusted meat, iodine and smoke along with crushed violets and a wet river rock minerality. The wine is medium to full-bodied on the palate, showing soft tones of underbrush that add to the range of the expressions on the palate, later moving to a delicate stemmy note with a flutter of Sakura. The finish is thoughtful and complete, with good focus and balance.  Wine Advocate (Dec 2019)

{***}{region}Washington, USA{region}
{color}Red{color}
{vintage}2016{vintage}
{maturity}laying-down{maturity}
{maturity-text}For Laying Down{maturity-text}
{ratings}
[]The Wine Advocate::95/100

[] James Suckling ::96/100

{ratings} {***}

The 2005 Red Rock Terrace has a slightly more saturated, ruby/purple color, with a little more backward and introspective personality, more noticeable tannin, and a blacker, more primordial personality. Fuller-bodied and denser, it is rich, young and seems years behind the more precocious and evolved Gravelly Meadow. There is great acid buttressing a youthful, promising, budding superstar of the vintage. Forget it for another 5-6 years, and drink it over the following two decades plus. (RP) 95+ 

{***}{region}Napa Valley{region}
{color} Red{color}                                                             

{maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2005{vintage}
{ratings}
 [] The Wine Advocate:: 95+/100

[] Robert Parker:: 95+/100

{ratings} {***}

A very pretty and airy nose features notes of red cherry, raspberry and spice with a shading of soft wood and earth. On the palate though this is not nearly as concentrated though there is still perfectly good concentration and a sleek muscularity on the vibrant, detailed and lingering finish. While this is by no means light, it is a Charmes built more along the lines of finesse than power. Drink 2028+

Burghound (Apr 2018)

{***}{region} Gevrey-Chambertin {region}
{color}Red{color}                                                             

{maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2016{vintage}

{ratings} 

[] Burghound:: 91-94/100

{ratings}

{***}

{***}
{region}Pauillac{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}laying-down{maturity}
{maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2009{vintage}
{ratings}
[]The Wine Advocate:: 96/100

[]Robert Parker:: 98/100    

[]Jancis Robinson:: 18/20

[]Wine Spectator:: 92-95/100    

{ratings} {***}

The 2017 Syrah en Chamberlin Vineyard is unmistakable on the nose, boasting an intensely framed Syrah that offers up generous and juicy dark fruit, framed by meaty, umami and savory expressions of olive tapenade, black pepper and charcuterie before drifting back to aromas of violets and lavender. Full-bodied and firmly structured, the wine is built like a tank, revealing layers of complexity and elegance that are supported by fine-grained tannins and rocky minerality across the mid-palate. With power and finesse, the wine somersaults in the mouth, before leading to a long, impressive conclusion that continues to develop in length. Only 365 cases were produced of this stellar wine. Yum!  - The Wine Advocate

{***}{region}Washington, USA{region}
{color}Red{color}
{vintage}2017{vintage}
{maturity}ready-keep{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{ratings}
[]The Wine Advocate ::97/100

[]Wine Enthusiast ::93/100

[]James Suckling::96/100

[]Vinous::93/100

{ratings} {***}

The 2017 Bellevue Mondotte is just as impressive from bottle as it was en primeur. Powerful and structured, with tremendous intensity in all of its dimensions, the 2017 is all class. Inky dark fruit, graphite, menthol and licorice all come together with time in the glass. This tiny vineyard on very poor limestone subsoil gives wines of real power and structure. The 2017 is a gorgeous Saint-Émilion endowed with tons of energy and tension. Drink 2027-2042
Antonio Galloni, Vinous (Mar 2020)

{***}{region}St Emilion{region}
{color}Red{color}                                                              

{maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}
{ratings}
[] Wine Advocate:: 96-98/100

[] Antonia Galloni, Vinous:: 96/100

{ratings}{***}

Domaine Boisson-Vadot, run by father and son team of Bernard and Pierre Boisson, is one of the rising stars in Meursault. The philosophy of the Domaine revolves around careful, hands-on vineyard management to coax the greatest potential of each vintage out of the various plots, and low-impact winemaking in the cellars that allows the unique terroir of each vineyard to surface. New oak is very minimal, no more than 30% for the top cuvées, and much more restraint in  the village wines and in Bourgogne Blanc.

Pierre Boisson produces a village Meursault from his grandmother’s vineyards (50 year old vines in the lieu-dits of Criots and Perchots) that is hailed an model wine for the appellation. 

{***}{region}Pommard{region}
{color}Red{color}              {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}

{ratings}

[] Vinous:: 94/100

{ratings}

{***}