Vinous - Neal Martin (93)

Limpid gold in color, the 2001 Doisy-Védrines offers beeswax, honeysuckle and quince jelly on the nose; hints of gingerbread emerge with time. The oak comes through a bit here, which is odd after two decades. The palate is vibrant and tensile on the entry, delivering the weight one expects from this Barsac, allied with a fine bead of acidity that imparts tension. Tangy marmalade and quince notes appear toward the finish. This is a fine Doisy-Védrines that is à point.

Burghound (94)

There is a hint of exoticism to the cool and admirably pure citrus, pear and green apple suffused nose that is presently trimmed in a noticeable, if very slight, touch of reduction. The rich and extremely fresh middle weight plus flavors possess an impressive amount of dry extract as well as ample mineral influence on the austere and ultra-pure finish that seems to go on and on. This powerful and impeccably well-balanced effort is still very much on the way up and will need another 5 to 7 years before it reaches its full apogee. Tasted twice recently with consistent notes.

The Domaine de Bellene Coteaux Bourguignons L'Eclos des Abeilles 2020 is produced in the heart of Burgundy, France. A delight to fine wine enthusiasts, this wine is an expression of the bespoke dedication and artistry of winemaker Nicolas Potel. Domaine de Bellene, founded in 2005, exemplifies Potel's commitment towards environmental sustainability and valorising terroir. This wine hails from vineyards cultivated using biodynamic principles, yielding an organic blend of Gamay and Pinot Noir grapes.

The 2020 vintage is distinct, promising a bold yet nuanced profile. A nose of ripe cherries, spices and undergrowth, precedes a palate that boasts of juicy ripe tannins and crisp acidity. Seductive red fruit and earthy tones harmonise, culminating in a balanced, savoury finish - a testament to the high quality of Bellene's traditional winemaking techniques. The Domaine de Bellene Coteaux Bourguignons L'Eclos des Abeilles 2020 is a remarkable and essential addition to any discerning wine collection.

Among the pantheon of exquisite French wines, Domaine de Bellevue Muscadet Gabbro Clos des Bouquinardieres 2021 holds its prestigious pedigree. Expertly crafted in the renowned Loire Valley in Brittany, France, it is the brainchild of Domaine de Bellevue, a esteemed winemaking house with generations of viticulture heritage. The 2021 vintage exemplifies the unique terroir of the Gabbro soils, distinctively volcanic in nature, adding complexity and minerality to the wine.

Grown from Melon de Bourgogne vines, the 2021 edition offers a sophisticated bouquet of white flower notes, green apples, and crisp citrus, culminating in a fresh, yet lingering finish. The traditional Muscadet making method, 'sur lie' ageing, added depth to the palate, lending the wine a refined and creamy texture. Domaine de Bellevue Muscadet Gabbro Clos des Bouquinardieres 2021 is an elegant embodiment of nature's poetry captured in a bottle.

Relish in the masterly crafted Domaine de Bellevue Muscadet Gaia Cuvee Ovoide 2019, an elegant embodiment of the Loire Valley. This particular vintage exclusively utilises the Melon de Bourgogne grape, a regional star of northwestern France. The wine's intrigue lies in its rare ovoid concrete vat fermentation and ageing - a meticulous process honed by winemaker Jérôme Bretaudeau. Domaine de Bellevue adheres to organic and biodynamic principles, yielding a pure expression of terroir.

The 2019 Cuvee Ovoide unfolds an impressive complexity with aromatic layers of white flowers, citrus tones, and subtle saline notes. Its palate greets with razor-sharp acidity, combined with an underpinning minerality and a textured mouthfeel that envelopes into a long-lasting harmonious finish. This Domaine de Bellevue Muscadet Gaia Cuvee Ovoide 2019 is best paired with seafood creations, making it a lifestyle cellar essential for the cultured palate.

James Suckling (97-98)

This is dense and very structured with phenolic tension and depth. Full-bodied, lightly phenolic with sliced apples, cooked pears and lemons. Lively and intense. Solid as a rock. This is one to watch.

Introducing a distinguished white wine, the Domaine de la Cras Bourgogne Coteaux de Dijon Cras Chardonnay 2022. Tucked into stunning French viniculture regions, Domaine de la Cras offers expressive wines, rooted deeply in the terroir of the Coteaux de Dijon. This Chardonnay blend highlights the true character of Burgundy with its distinct minerality and balanced acidity.

Matured in French oak barrels, the 2022 vintage boasts a desirable mix of ripe tropical fruit flavours complemented by a vibrant lemon zest. Subtle undertones of vanilla and butterscotch lend complexity on the finish, making it an exemplary representation of Burgundy Chardonnay's charm.

Domaine de la Cras follows natural winemaking principles, producing environmentally-conscious wines while preserving artisanal traditions. As a certified organic vineyard, they foster biodiversity, cultivating vines on clay-limestone soils which impart richness and depth into the Domaine de la Cras Bourgogne Coteaux de Dijon Cras Chardonnay 2022.

Derived from the world-class terroirs of the Burgundy region, the Domaine de Montille Bourgogne Blanc Clos du Chateau 2020 expertly displays its remarkable origins with every sip taken. This indulgent white Burgundy wine, crafted by Domaine de Montille, a small, family-run Burgundy producer with deep historical roots and a reputation for meticulously fine-tuned wines, is exceptionally fine and balanced on the palate. Bottled in the year 2020, it's perfect for those who appreciate extraordinary richness and depth.

Hailing from the coveted 'Clos du Chateau' vineyard offering undulating slopes and prime southeastern exposures, this evocative, full-bodied Burgundian white offers classic notes of almond, peach, and subtle oak undertones. With its careful vinification in oak barrels, it perfectly balances delicacy and intensity. Enjoy Domaine de Montille Bourgogne Blanc Clos du Chateau 2020 now or cellar to savour its evolving complexities. This wine is a brilliant illustration of the art of winemaking and the beauty of Burgundy.

Vinous (87-89)

The 2021 Chassagne-Montrachet Village has a light apple blossom bouquet that opens teasingly over four or five minutes...but I still want more. The palate is nicely balanced with a dab of ginger on the entry, opening with aeration and has a fine saline finish. This should drink well for several years.

Vinous (88-90)

The 2018 Chassagne-Montrachet Enseigneres, which sees 15% new oak, has an appealing bouquet with touches of walnut and hazelnut lending a Meursault-like character. The well-balanced palate features clementine and light mango notes. Quite linear and strict, demonstrating fine precision toward the finish. This will be a "correct" Chassagne-Montrachet.

Wine Advocate (91-93)

The 2014 Puligny-Montrachet 1er Cru les Perrières has a terroir-driven, mineral-rich bouquet, flint and cold limestone. The palate is fresh and saline on the entry, good density here with a little more spiciness than Sauzet's other premier crus. There is an edginess here, tensile and animated with impressive weight on the finish. This is very fine and probably deserves 2-3 years in the cellar. This is one of the domaine's best premier crus in 2014.

Wine Advocate (92+)

Tasted blind, the 2015 Puligny-Montrachet 1er Cru Les Perrières also put in a solid performance, displaying scents of ripe citrus, white flowers, crushed chalk and struck match, with some nicely integrated creamy new oak in the background. On the palate, the wine is medium to full-bodied, tense and bright, with a tangy line of acidity and a mouthwatering, focused finish. With some more bottle age, it could be even better—assuming it ages consistently.

Vinous (88)

Pale, slightly green-tinged color. Moderately ripe nose suggests menthol and white pepper, plus an herbal element. Offers good texture and a touch of sweetness but not the purity of the better '16s at this address. With its juxtaposition of a marzipan hint and underlying minerality, this village wine comes across as a bit disjointed in the early going.

Steeped in tradition, the Fabien Coche Meursault 2021 exemplifies the exceptional craftsmanship hailing from the esteemed Burgundy region of France. This top-tier white wine, produced by Fabien Coche, the scion of a winemaking dynasty renowned since the 1970s, radiates excellence. The Coche family's respectful cultivation of noble Chardonnay grapes, using meticulous, sustainable viticulture methods on the iconic limestone-rich soils of Meursault, imbues distinguished character into this vintner's delight.

Revealing a delicate balance of buttery richness and vibrant minerality, Fabien Coche Meursault 2021 offers a sensory tour-de-force through the heart of acclaimed Burgundian terroir. Its subtle oak nuances and focused citrus and floral tones convey the élévage prowess that only boutique wineries like Domaine Coche can achieve. Complementing a truly luscious, well-rounded palate, is an innately complex aroma, rounding off this white wine extraordinaire. When it comes to defining Meursault's quintessential Chardonnay expression, Fabien Coche Meursault 2021 etches a sublime, unforgettable testament."

Vinous (87-89)

The 2021 Meursault Chevalières has a pretty nose that unfurls with each swirl: yellow plum and mirabelle and just a touch of crushed stone. Understated at first, it soon finds its voice. The palate is quite sharp and lively on the entry, a touch of sour lemon with a finish that just lacks the complexity of the vintage's top Meursault.

Experience the opulence of French wine with the prized Fabien Coche Meursault Luchets 2021. Nestled in the heart of Burgundy, the Coche family has been passionate winemakers since the 18th century. Now, steered by the talented Fabien Coche, the vineyard thrives with Chardonnay grapes, meticulously tended and hand-harvested. The Meursault Luchets is a true testament to Coche's expertise, showcasing the características of the Meursault terroir.

The 2021 vintage delivers a beautifully balanced Chardonnay, brimming with complex aromas of white flowers, ripe apricots, and a touch of spice. On the palate, it unravels with rich flavours, underpinned by a harmonious acidity and a creamy, smooth texture.

Produced with respect for traditional viticulture and minimal intervention, the Fabien Coche Meursault Luchets 2021 embodies Burgundian winemaking at its finest—a charming exemplar for any fine wine enthusiast.

Experience the tantalising allure of Ferraton Pere & Fils Cotes-du-Rhone Blanc Samorens 2002, an exceptional expression of classic Rhone Valley viticulture. Honed by the skilled hands of Michel Chapoutier, the Ferraton estate is renowned for their commitment to bio-dynamic and organic farming practices. This sumptuous white, cultivated in the heart of the Cotes-du-Rhone appellation, exhibits an invigorating balance of intensity and elegance.

An enchanting blend of diverse local grape varieties, including Grenache Blanc, Clairette, and Roussanne, this 2002 vintage unfurls flavours with intricate layers of ripe white fruit, underscored by a charming minerality and vibrant acidity. Its cellar potential is exceptional, with the lush fruit complexity and intense mineral core deepening over time.

Revel in the brilliance of Ferraton Pere & Fils Cotes-du-Rhone Blanc Samorens 2002, a tribute to the dedicated craftsmanship and unique terroir of one of France's most esteemed wine regions.

Vinous (94)

The 2020 Chassagne-Montrachet Morgeots 1er Cru, over towards the Santenay side, usually takes longer to ripen. The nose is well balanced with fine delineation, touches of honeysuckle and pressed white flowers. The palate is well balanced with a lovely white peach and white chocolate opening, fine salinity, very poised and tensile towards the finish. Superb.

Jancis Robinson (17)

Very neat and rich as well, should be very satisfying. Approachable already. Some lively zestiness and a hit of citrus peel but lots underneath.

Wine Advocate (88)

The 2018 Chassagne-Montrachet Village exhibits notions of pear, green apple and white flowers, followed by a medium-bodied, elegantly textural palate that's lively but open-knit. This is an immediate, front-loaded bottling from Fontaine-Gagnard that's adapted to near-term consumption.