Embodying the epitome of fine viniculture, the exquisite Carlmagnus 2019 is a testament to centuries of refined winemaking. This timeless creation originates from the revered vineyards of the Franconian region, Germany, known for its idyllic winemaking conditions. Meticulously crafted by the esteemed Müller-Catoir winery, a family-owned establishment steeped in wine tradition since the 18th century, the Carlmagnus 2019 symbolises years of expertise and dedication.

The wine is environmentally conscious, produced organically with intricate fermentation methods in wooden barrels. Its tantalising profile boasts depth and finesse, presenting an elegant melange of fruit and spice. Dominant notes of ripe pear, white peach and a teasing hint of exotic spice dance on the palate, making the Carlmagnus 2019 a sublime choice for the discerning wine enthusiast. This captivating wine personifies the essence of meticulous German winemaking, ensuring a luxuriously unforgettable experience with every sip.

Vinous - Antonio Galloni (89)

The 2016 Croix Canon is a plump, juicy wine that can be enjoyed with minimal cellaring when it is released in a few years' time. Black cherry, gravel, smoke, leather and spice all run through this pleasantly hearty, rustic Saint-Émilion. I would prefer to drink it over the near and medium term.

Classified as a Premier Grand Cru Classé “B” in St-Émilion, there is talk of a potential upgrade to the promised land of Classé “A” just next year – a testament to the extraordinary quality of Château Canon over the past few vintages. A whopping 90% of Canon’s vines are planted on the plateau of St-Émilion, 70% of which is Merlot with the rest Cabernet Franc. A stunningly picturesque vineyard as it happens, workers during the harvest here are treated to gorgeous views of two church spires including the ancient St-Martin-de-Mazerat. This beauty is certainly translated through the vineyard’s terroir into a wine of transcendent polish and lifted elegance.

Classified as a Premier Grand Cru Classé “B” in St-Émilion, there is talk of a potential upgrade to the promised land of Classé “A” just next year – a testament to the extraordinary quality of Château Canon over the past few vintages. A whopping 90% of Canon’s vines are planted on the plateau of St-Émilion, 70% of which is Merlot with the rest Cabernet Franc. A stunningly picturesque vineyard as it happens, workers during the harvest here are treated to gorgeous views of two church spires including the ancient St-Martin-de-Mazerat. This beauty is certainly translated through the vineyard’s terroir into a wine of transcendent polish and lifted elegance.

James Suckling (94)

Ripe plums and berries with hints of dried flowers and cedar, following through to a medium-to full-bodied palate with a chalky and stony undertone to the plum and cherry character. It’s finely textured and long. Drink after 2025.

James Suckling (95-96)

A fantastic second wine with a dense center palate of tight, racy tannins and dark fruit. Spicy and almost salty. It’s full, yet very compact with excellent structure and length. Very serious.

James Suckling (94-95)

Crunchy and pretty fruit with orange-peel, currant, earth and bark character. It's medium-bodied with racy tannins and a fresh finish. Vivid.

Vinous - Neal Martin (92)

The 2017 Dalem is vinified without SO2 and sees 40% new oak. It has a clean and precise bouquet with perfumed blackberry and freshly picked mint aromas. The palate is medium-bodied with fine grain tannins. One of the most elegant Dalem wines that I have tasted in recent years with a clean and precise finish that is top drawer. This has kicked on since bottling and is turning into a very lovely Fronsac. Tasted twice with consistent notes.

Wine Advocate (92-94+)

.

Vinous - Neal Martin (93)

The 2020 Dalem, the first vintage under the consultancy of Eric Boissenot, has a tertiary, sous-bois infused bouquet with a mixture of red and black fruit, discrete at first but opening beautifully in the glass. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins, citrus-fresh with impressive focus, gradually building towards the clean and precise finish. This is a top-notch Fronsac that will give pleasure for 20-25 years.

Wine Advocate (88-90)

.

Imbued with palette-pleasuring complexity, Huste 2020 2020 is a regal indulgence for the discerning wine lover. Expertly crafted in the renowned vineyards of South West France, this esteemed vintage resonates with the region's unique terroir, delivering rich layers of flavour that speak volumes about its provenance.

The dedicated team at the Huste estate meticulously curates each batch, ensuring the essential characteristics of the premium grapes are preserved. Bursting with vibrant red fruit undertones, the wine's captivating aroma is matched only by its robust, distinctly earthy finish.

Time-honoured viticulture methods are flawlessly combined with modern winemaking techniques at Huste, resulting in a splendidly harmonious balance of depth and sophistication in every glass of the 2020 vintage.

Whether savoured alone, or paired with a distinctly flavoured dish, Huste 2020 is a true testament to the artful mastery of winemaking, offering a delightfully transcendent drinking experience.

Vinous - Antonio Galloni (93)

The 2019 La Dauphine is a total knock-out. Rich, heady and explosive, La Dauphine possesses terrific energy and tons of volume. Super-ripe dark cherry, plum, tobacco, spice, new leather and chocolate all build in the glass. The 2019 is drop-dead gorgeous. Don't miss it.

Vinous - Neal Martin (91)

The 2017 La Vieille Cure has a clean and well defined bouquet with blackberry, raspberry and light cedar aromas. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins, a fine bead of acidity, well integrated oak with a detailed, characterful finish that is very satisfying. This Fronsac has certainly developed nicely since its showing in barrel and comes recommended.