France
The vast and diverse wine regions of France, each with its own unique terroirs, grape varieties, and winemaking techniques, are a treasure trove.
In Bordeaux, the birthplace of some of the world's most iconic wines, esteemed vineyards such as Château Lafite Rothschild, Château Margaux, Château Latour, and Château Haut-Brion produce exceptional red wines, showcasing the art of blending Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Malbec. The region is also renowned for its exquisite white wines, with vineyards like Château d'Yquem and Domaine de Chevalier producing legendary sweet wines.
Moving to Burgundy, the vineyards of Domaine de la Romanée-Conti, Domaine Leroy, and Domaine Armand Rousseau capture the essence of the region's revered terroir, crafting exquisite red wines from the Pinot Noir grape. Meanwhile, Domaine Leflaive and Domaine Coche-Dury are celebrated for their world-class white wines, predominantly made from Chardonnay.
The Champagne region, known for its sparkling wines, boasts illustrious houses such as Krug, Dom Pérignon, and Moët & Chandon, as well as grower-producers like Pierre Péters and Jacques Selosse. These vineyards create exceptional sparkling wines using the traditional method, offering a symphony of delicate bubbles, elegant flavors, and vibrant acidity.
In the Rhône Valley, iconic vineyards like Chapoutier, E. Guigal, and Château de Beaucastel produce remarkable red wines in the northern appellations of Hermitage, Côte-Rôtie, and Cornas, showcasing the elegance and power of Syrah. Further south, Châteauneuf-du-Pape is celebrated for its rich and full-bodied red blends, with Château Rayas and Clos des Papes leading the way.
In Alsace, vineyards such as Domaine Zind-Humbrecht and omaine Trimbach craft exquisite white wines, including Riesling, Gewürztraminer, and Pinot Gris, expressing the region's unique terroir and varietal character.
These are just a few highlights among the diverse array of wines that France offers. From the Loire Valley's crisp whites and elegant reds to the Languedoc-Roussillon's bold and robust wines, each region presents its own vinous treasures.
France
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Wine Advocate (91-93)
.Inc. VAT£448.84 -
Terre de vins (96-97)
Very intense ruby colour, the smell is intense as well, between liquorice, violet and smooth spicy notes. A very sensual first in the mouth, with black fruits coating the palate, lingering tannin. 7% of PV bring nice structure and bring character. Une couleur rubis très intense. Le nez l’est tout autant, entre la réglisse, la violette et les notes douces d’épices. L’attaque est voluptueuse, le fruit noir enveloppe le palais, les tannins travaillent en largeur comme en longueur. Les 7% de Petit Verdot structurent encore davantage et apportent de la race. Très beau Margaux 2019.Inc. VAT£314.44 -
James Suckling (94-95)
Blackberry and blackcurrant with some licorice and tar on the nose. It’s medium-to full-bodied with intense yet polished tannins and a long, beautiful finish. The quality of the tannins is an upgrade here.Inc. VAT£547.78 -
James Suckling (94-95)
Blackberry and blackcurrant with some licorice and tar on the nose. It’s medium-to full-bodied with intense yet polished tannins and a long, beautiful finish. The quality of the tannins is an upgrade here.Inc. VAT£403.24 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (93-95)
The 2021 Marquis de Terme is inky, vibrant and super-expressive. Dark fruit, bittersweet chocolate, spice and licorice are all dialed up. A whole range of floral and savory nuances lingers on the close. Readers will find a Margaux endowed with terrific depth as well as character. I am very much looking forward to tasting this from bottle.Inc. VAT£378.29 -
James Suckling (93-94)
Blackcurrant, black olive and black berry aromas and flavors. Full and chewy with very polished tannins. It’s all integrated and focused. Solid young wine here.Inc. VAT£428.69 -
Feast your senses on the sublime Marquis de Terme 2023, a delightful vintage from the prestigious Margaux appellation of Bordeaux, France. Solely using grapes from their exclusively owned vineyards, Château Marquis de Terme meticulously apply traditional winemaking techniques to craft this majestic red. With a harmonious blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, and Cabernet Franc, the Marquis de Terme 2023 graces the palate with intricate layers of flavour. The wine's nose hints at an artful balance of fruit and aromatic spices while providing a robust and pleasing finish upon tasting. Marquis de Terme is renowned for its meticulous maturation process, allowing this 2023 vintage to age in French oak barrels for 18 months, further enhancing its complexity. Scores from experts promise excellent ageing potential. A sumptuous choice for the discerning collector or connoisseur, the Marquis de Terme 2023 epitomises the lasting elegance and sophistication of Bordeaux's famed wine heritage.
Inc. VAT£239.09 -
Introducing the exquisite Marquis de Terme Cuvee 1762 2018; the epitome of fine French winemaking hailing from the prestigious Margaux appellation of Bordeaux, France. Rooted in a rich heritage dating back to 1762, the Marquis de Terme estate showcases the artistry of master vintners, leveraging the region's impeccable terroir to cultivate expressive, full-bodied wines.
The Marquis de Terme Cuvee 1762 2018, a harmonious blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot, offers a splendid sensory experience that speaks volumes of its time-honoured craftsmanship. The meticulous, hand-harvested selection boasts an intense bouquet of blackberry and cassis, coupled with earthy undertones.
On the palate, the Cuvee 1762 2018 seduces with its robust tannins, nuanced by subtle oak ageing, complemented by a lingering, velvety finish. This complex yet balanced wine is a testament to the Marquis de Terme's adherence to tradition while embracing innovative viticulture. A timeless addition to any discerning wine collection.
Inc. VAT£270.04 -
Handcrafted with expertise, the enchanting Marquis de Terme Cuvee 1762 2019 hails from Margaux, one of France's most prestigious wine regions. As a classic Bordeaux blend, this wine mirrors the region's rich winemaking tradition. With an emphasis on sustainable viticulture, the renowned Château Marquis de Terme invests careful attention from grape cultivation to barrel ageing.
This vintage's unique character is developed from a meticulously balanced blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot and 5% Petit Verdot. Its deep ruby hues captivate the eye, while the palate is indulged by delectable dark fruit flavours, subtle oak undertones and satiny tannins. Perfectly structured for cellar ageing, the Marquis de Terme Cuvee 1762 2019 marries vibrant youthfulness with the promise of more complex expressions to come.
For the connoisseur yearning for a true Bordeaux experience, Marquis de Terme Cuvee 1762 2019 is the epitome of grace, finesse, and timeless elegance.
Inc. VAT£281.09 -
Wine Spectator (89-91)
Soft and silky, with lots of ripe berry and raspberry character, a full body and silky tannins. Pretty. Score range: 89-91Inc. VAT£535.98 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (92)
The 2019 Monbrison is classy, polished and elegant, just as it was in barrel. Crushed flowers, sweet berries, spice, mint and sweet pipe tobacco give this understated, expressive Margaux an air of finesse that is unmistakable.Inc. VAT£322.84 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (88-91)
The 2021 Monbrison is a very pretty, perfumed Margaux marked by strong aromatics and fine balance, in the classic, mid-weight style of the year. Dried leaves, tobacco, blood orange, cedar and mint lend notable presence throughout.Inc. VAT£269.09 -
Wine Advocate (100)
Tasted at the Château Palmer vertical in London, two bottles of 1961 Château Palmer were opened and compared. The first was a great bottle of wine, beautifully balanced and complex, and yet not quite living up to its status as one of the legendary bottles of the 20th century. That said, I still scored it around the 96 or 97 point mark. The second lived up to the billing. Coming from the late great John Avery's cellar, that is to say, purchased on release and never moved, the first difference is the slightly deeper color compared to the first bottle. The bouquet is difficult to capture in words. Heavenly, ethereal, moving and profound - they are all applicable here. It is still a wine in its prime, with dark berry fruit, hints of graphite and mineral, a touch of wilted violet petals. Its ineffable purity knocks you sideways. The palate is defined by its filigree framework of tannin - precise and lace-like, lending it the texture of a mature Richebourg. Yet it is unmistakably Margaux because there is stunning structure on the finish, astounding precision and a never-ending aftertaste that is borderline supernatural. This bottle reminds me of the first time I tasted the 1961 Palmer several years ago when I gave a perfect score without hesitation. This is exactly the same: a perfect wine and a bona fide legend. Tasted May 2015.Inc. VAT£6,920.00 -
Inc. VAT£494.40 -
Inc. VAT£562.80 -
Vinous - Stephen Tanzer (93)
: Full, deep red. Spicy aromas of cassis and rose petal, with a whiff of meat. Then wonderfully penetrating and classy, with bright acidity giving the wine superb clarity and thrust. This has terrific structure. Finishes very long and fine, with excellent grip. By far the finest bottle I've tasted to date of this wine, and one of the real surprises of the tasting. (My second bottle showed roasted redcurrant, leather, meat and smoky oak on the nose; and a sweet, suave, broad palate without quite the structure and grip of the first sample. But this wine, too, offered compelling sweetness and rated 91 points.) Drink now through 2015.Inc. VAT£625.20 -
Wine Advocate (96)
Tasted at the Château Palmer vertical in London, the 1989 Château Palmer has always been my favourite vintage from that decade after the 1983. The first bottle was unfortunately corked. The second was as it should be: the nose tensile with red berries, sous-bois, potpourri and strawberry pastille - lively and energetic. The palate is medium-bodied and vibrant right from the start, silky in texture with plenty of citrus fruit, gently building to a harmonious and detailed finish that lingers in the mouth. This is a magnificent Château Palmer that continues to effortlessly dish out so much vinous pleasure. Tasted May 2015.Inc. VAT£7,773.67 -
Jancis Robinson (18)
Magnum. Deep ruby. Completely rich, sweet and gorgeous with a hint of graphite on the nose. Beautiful lift and elegance but on the finish it was a real throat warmer. Just my sort of wine. But after 45 minutes or so, it lost a bit of fruit in the glass and the acidity became much more obvious, suggesting it may not have that much more to give, even from a magnum.Inc. VAT£4,468.87 -
Wine Spectator (89)
Exuberant aromas of new wood, chocolate and tobacco. Medium- to full-bodied, yet wonderfully refined with cedar, tobacco, cherry and berry flavors. Really a joy to taste. Drink or hold. 14,000 cases made. -JSInc. VAT£1,530.04 -
Wine Advocate (94)
A successful wine for the vintage, this blend of 52% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot, and 8% Petit Verdot boasts complex notes of menthol, black currants, plums, licorice, and a hint of cappuccino in its stunning aromatics. Dense, medium to full-bodied, with high levels of tannin in a big, full-bodied style (much in the spirit of such classic Bordeaux vintages as 1966, 1986, and 1996), this wine possesses superb purity and serious length, but should be purchased only by those with considerable patience and a good, cold cellar, since it will need plenty of time. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2028.Inc. VAT£3,778.87 -
Wine Advocate (94)
A successful wine for the vintage, this blend of 52% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot, and 8% Petit Verdot boasts complex notes of menthol, black currants, plums, licorice, and a hint of cappuccino in its stunning aromatics. Dense, medium to full-bodied, with high levels of tannin in a big, full-bodied style (much in the spirit of such classic Bordeaux vintages as 1966, 1986, and 1996), this wine possesses superb purity and serious length, but should be purchased only by those with considerable patience and a good, cold cellar, since it will need plenty of time. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2028.Inc. VAT£1,547.63 -
Wine Advocate (94)
This stunning wine is one of the vintage’s great successes. Administrator Thomas Duroux has fashioned a modern day version of Palmer’s brilliant 1966. Displaying a rare combination of power and elegance, this dense purple-colored offering exhibits notes of blackberries, truffles, flowers, incense, and camphor. Long, classic, and medium to full-bodied with stunning texture and richness, this superb effort is a candidate for the finest Margaux of the vintage. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2025+. Also tasted: 2004 Alter Ego de Palmer (88)Inc. VAT£3,123.67 -
Wine Spectator (100)
Opulent and flamboyant are the two words that come to mind with this wine. Aromas of blackberries, dark chocolate and toasted oak follow through to a full-bodied palate, with big, chewy tannins (yet they are refined and silky) and a long, long finish. This is a full-throttle Palmer. Superripe and delicious. Score range: 95-100Inc. VAT£2,460.83 -
Wine Advocate (92)
Tasted at BI Wine & Spirits' 10-Years-On tasting, the 2007 Palmer has an opulent bouquet for the vintage, something almost Mediterranean tincturing the lifted red berry fruit laced with sage and even a suggestion of oregano. The palate is medium-bodied with silky smooth tannin, a fine bead of acidity, gentle and caressing but with a powerful, almost heady finish. If you are looking for an extravagant wine this vintage, then Palmer is the place to come, though maybe it has just dispensed a little of its luster since I last tasted it. Tasted February 2017.Inc. VAT£3,338.47 -
Vinous - Neal Martin (95)
The 2008 Palmer has a very intense bouquet with blackberry, raspberry, crushed violet and iris scents, blossoming in the glass whilst retaining superb delineation. The palate is medium-bodied with fine but quite rounded tannin that frame the pure blackberry and raspberry fruit. There are touches of white pepper and clove towards the finish, completing quite a superb Margaux from Thomas Duroux. Equal with Château Margaux? It might even be better...Inc. VAT£3,118.87 -
Vinous - Neal Martin (95)
The 2008 Palmer has a very intense bouquet with blackberry, raspberry, crushed violet and iris scents, blossoming in the glass whilst retaining superb delineation. The palate is medium-bodied with fine but quite rounded tannin that frame the pure blackberry and raspberry fruit. There are touches of white pepper and clove towards the finish, completing quite a superb Margaux from Thomas Duroux. Equal with Château Margaux? It might even be better...Inc. VAT£3,192.07 -
Inc. VAT£4,078.87 -
Decanter (98)
One of the great years of Bordeaux now at 10 years old and showing why this is such an unusual vintage in terms of the depth of structure and muscular concentration that was achieved. In fact, I am upping the drinking window from the last time I tasted this, as there is such a pulse of life and grip that shows no signs of going anywhere. The initial layers are starting to be peeled back, but this retains primary black and blue fruits that are still full of flesh alongside baked earth, tons of liquorice and black chocolate with a grippy tannic structure, fresh acidities and a serious attitude. Brilliant stuff, that is clearly going to power on for decades. Harvest September 22 to October 20.Inc. VAT£4,124.47 -
Decanter (98)
One of the great years of Bordeaux now at 10 years old and showing why this is such an unusual vintage in terms of the depth of structure and muscular concentration that was achieved. In fact, I am upping the drinking window from the last time I tasted this, as there is such a pulse of life and grip that shows no signs of going anywhere. The initial layers are starting to be peeled back, but this retains primary black and blue fruits that are still full of flesh alongside baked earth, tons of liquorice and black chocolate with a grippy tannic structure, fresh acidities and a serious attitude. Brilliant stuff, that is clearly going to power on for decades. Harvest September 22 to October 20.Inc. VAT£366.20 -
Decanter (98)
One of the great years of Bordeaux now at 10 years old and showing why this is such an unusual vintage in terms of the depth of structure and muscular concentration that was achieved. In fact, I am upping the drinking window from the last time I tasted this, as there is such a pulse of life and grip that shows no signs of going anywhere. The initial layers are starting to be peeled back, but this retains primary black and blue fruits that are still full of flesh alongside baked earth, tons of liquorice and black chocolate with a grippy tannic structure, fresh acidities and a serious attitude. Brilliant stuff, that is clearly going to power on for decades. Harvest September 22 to October 20.Inc. VAT£1,029.62
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Wine Advocate (91-93)
.In Bond£358.00 -
Terre de vins (96-97)
Very intense ruby colour, the smell is intense as well, between liquorice, violet and smooth spicy notes. A very sensual first in the mouth, with black fruits coating the palate, lingering tannin. 7% of PV bring nice structure and bring character. Une couleur rubis très intense. Le nez l’est tout autant, entre la réglisse, la violette et les notes douces d’épices. L’attaque est voluptueuse, le fruit noir enveloppe le palais, les tannins travaillent en largeur comme en longueur. Les 7% de Petit Verdot structurent encore davantage et apportent de la race. Très beau Margaux 2019.In Bond£246.00 -
James Suckling (94-95)
Blackberry and blackcurrant with some licorice and tar on the nose. It’s medium-to full-bodied with intense yet polished tannins and a long, beautiful finish. The quality of the tannins is an upgrade here.In Bond£418.00 -
James Suckling (94-95)
Blackberry and blackcurrant with some licorice and tar on the nose. It’s medium-to full-bodied with intense yet polished tannins and a long, beautiful finish. The quality of the tannins is an upgrade here.In Bond£320.00 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (93-95)
The 2021 Marquis de Terme is inky, vibrant and super-expressive. Dark fruit, bittersweet chocolate, spice and licorice are all dialed up. A whole range of floral and savory nuances lingers on the close. Readers will find a Margaux endowed with terrific depth as well as character. I am very much looking forward to tasting this from bottle.In Bond£296.00 -
James Suckling (93-94)
Blackcurrant, black olive and black berry aromas and flavors. Full and chewy with very polished tannins. It’s all integrated and focused. Solid young wine here.In Bond£338.00 -
Feast your senses on the sublime Marquis de Terme 2023, a delightful vintage from the prestigious Margaux appellation of Bordeaux, France. Solely using grapes from their exclusively owned vineyards, Château Marquis de Terme meticulously apply traditional winemaking techniques to craft this majestic red. With a harmonious blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, and Cabernet Franc, the Marquis de Terme 2023 graces the palate with intricate layers of flavour. The wine's nose hints at an artful balance of fruit and aromatic spices while providing a robust and pleasing finish upon tasting. Marquis de Terme is renowned for its meticulous maturation process, allowing this 2023 vintage to age in French oak barrels for 18 months, further enhancing its complexity. Scores from experts promise excellent ageing potential. A sumptuous choice for the discerning collector or connoisseur, the Marquis de Terme 2023 epitomises the lasting elegance and sophistication of Bordeaux's famed wine heritage.
In Bond£180.00 -
Introducing the exquisite Marquis de Terme Cuvee 1762 2018; the epitome of fine French winemaking hailing from the prestigious Margaux appellation of Bordeaux, France. Rooted in a rich heritage dating back to 1762, the Marquis de Terme estate showcases the artistry of master vintners, leveraging the region's impeccable terroir to cultivate expressive, full-bodied wines.
The Marquis de Terme Cuvee 1762 2018, a harmonious blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot, offers a splendid sensory experience that speaks volumes of its time-honoured craftsmanship. The meticulous, hand-harvested selection boasts an intense bouquet of blackberry and cassis, coupled with earthy undertones.
On the palate, the Cuvee 1762 2018 seduces with its robust tannins, nuanced by subtle oak ageing, complemented by a lingering, velvety finish. This complex yet balanced wine is a testament to the Marquis de Terme's adherence to tradition while embracing innovative viticulture. A timeless addition to any discerning wine collection.
In Bond£209.00 -
Handcrafted with expertise, the enchanting Marquis de Terme Cuvee 1762 2019 hails from Margaux, one of France's most prestigious wine regions. As a classic Bordeaux blend, this wine mirrors the region's rich winemaking tradition. With an emphasis on sustainable viticulture, the renowned Château Marquis de Terme invests careful attention from grape cultivation to barrel ageing.
This vintage's unique character is developed from a meticulously balanced blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot and 5% Petit Verdot. Its deep ruby hues captivate the eye, while the palate is indulged by delectable dark fruit flavours, subtle oak undertones and satiny tannins. Perfectly structured for cellar ageing, the Marquis de Terme Cuvee 1762 2019 marries vibrant youthfulness with the promise of more complex expressions to come.
For the connoisseur yearning for a true Bordeaux experience, Marquis de Terme Cuvee 1762 2019 is the epitome of grace, finesse, and timeless elegance.
In Bond£215.00 -
Wine Spectator (89-91)
Soft and silky, with lots of ripe berry and raspberry character, a full body and silky tannins. Pretty. Score range: 89-91In Bond£421.00 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (92)
The 2019 Monbrison is classy, polished and elegant, just as it was in barrel. Crushed flowers, sweet berries, spice, mint and sweet pipe tobacco give this understated, expressive Margaux an air of finesse that is unmistakable.In Bond£253.00 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (88-91)
The 2021 Monbrison is a very pretty, perfumed Margaux marked by strong aromatics and fine balance, in the classic, mid-weight style of the year. Dried leaves, tobacco, blood orange, cedar and mint lend notable presence throughout.In Bond£205.00 -
Wine Advocate (100)
Tasted at the Château Palmer vertical in London, two bottles of 1961 Château Palmer were opened and compared. The first was a great bottle of wine, beautifully balanced and complex, and yet not quite living up to its status as one of the legendary bottles of the 20th century. That said, I still scored it around the 96 or 97 point mark. The second lived up to the billing. Coming from the late great John Avery's cellar, that is to say, purchased on release and never moved, the first difference is the slightly deeper color compared to the first bottle. The bouquet is difficult to capture in words. Heavenly, ethereal, moving and profound - they are all applicable here. It is still a wine in its prime, with dark berry fruit, hints of graphite and mineral, a touch of wilted violet petals. Its ineffable purity knocks you sideways. The palate is defined by its filigree framework of tannin - precise and lace-like, lending it the texture of a mature Richebourg. Yet it is unmistakably Margaux because there is stunning structure on the finish, astounding precision and a never-ending aftertaste that is borderline supernatural. This bottle reminds me of the first time I tasted the 1961 Palmer several years ago when I gave a perfect score without hesitation. This is exactly the same: a perfect wine and a bona fide legend. Tasted May 2015.In Bond£5,764.00 -
Inc. VAT£494.40
-
Inc. VAT£562.80
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Vinous - Stephen Tanzer (93)
: Full, deep red. Spicy aromas of cassis and rose petal, with a whiff of meat. Then wonderfully penetrating and classy, with bright acidity giving the wine superb clarity and thrust. This has terrific structure. Finishes very long and fine, with excellent grip. By far the finest bottle I've tasted to date of this wine, and one of the real surprises of the tasting. (My second bottle showed roasted redcurrant, leather, meat and smoky oak on the nose; and a sweet, suave, broad palate without quite the structure and grip of the first sample. But this wine, too, offered compelling sweetness and rated 91 points.) Drink now through 2015.Inc. VAT£625.20 -
Wine Advocate (96)
Tasted at the Château Palmer vertical in London, the 1989 Château Palmer has always been my favourite vintage from that decade after the 1983. The first bottle was unfortunately corked. The second was as it should be: the nose tensile with red berries, sous-bois, potpourri and strawberry pastille - lively and energetic. The palate is medium-bodied and vibrant right from the start, silky in texture with plenty of citrus fruit, gently building to a harmonious and detailed finish that lingers in the mouth. This is a magnificent Château Palmer that continues to effortlessly dish out so much vinous pleasure. Tasted May 2015.In Bond£6,446.00 -
Jancis Robinson (18)
Magnum. Deep ruby. Completely rich, sweet and gorgeous with a hint of graphite on the nose. Beautiful lift and elegance but on the finish it was a real throat warmer. Just my sort of wine. But after 45 minutes or so, it lost a bit of fruit in the glass and the acidity became much more obvious, suggesting it may not have that much more to give, even from a magnum.In Bond£3,692.00 -
Wine Spectator (89)
Exuberant aromas of new wood, chocolate and tobacco. Medium- to full-bodied, yet wonderfully refined with cedar, tobacco, cherry and berry flavors. Really a joy to taste. Drink or hold. 14,000 cases made. -JSIn Bond£1,259.00 -
Wine Advocate (94)
A successful wine for the vintage, this blend of 52% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot, and 8% Petit Verdot boasts complex notes of menthol, black currants, plums, licorice, and a hint of cappuccino in its stunning aromatics. Dense, medium to full-bodied, with high levels of tannin in a big, full-bodied style (much in the spirit of such classic Bordeaux vintages as 1966, 1986, and 1996), this wine possesses superb purity and serious length, but should be purchased only by those with considerable patience and a good, cold cellar, since it will need plenty of time. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2028.In Bond£3,117.00 -
Wine Advocate (94)
A successful wine for the vintage, this blend of 52% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot, and 8% Petit Verdot boasts complex notes of menthol, black currants, plums, licorice, and a hint of cappuccino in its stunning aromatics. Dense, medium to full-bodied, with high levels of tannin in a big, full-bodied style (much in the spirit of such classic Bordeaux vintages as 1966, 1986, and 1996), this wine possesses superb purity and serious length, but should be purchased only by those with considerable patience and a good, cold cellar, since it will need plenty of time. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2028.In Bond£1,279.00 -
Wine Advocate (94)
This stunning wine is one of the vintage’s great successes. Administrator Thomas Duroux has fashioned a modern day version of Palmer’s brilliant 1966. Displaying a rare combination of power and elegance, this dense purple-colored offering exhibits notes of blackberries, truffles, flowers, incense, and camphor. Long, classic, and medium to full-bodied with stunning texture and richness, this superb effort is a candidate for the finest Margaux of the vintage. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2025+. Also tasted: 2004 Alter Ego de Palmer (88)In Bond£2,571.00 -
Wine Spectator (100)
Opulent and flamboyant are the two words that come to mind with this wine. Aromas of blackberries, dark chocolate and toasted oak follow through to a full-bodied palate, with big, chewy tannins (yet they are refined and silky) and a long, long finish. This is a full-throttle Palmer. Superripe and delicious. Score range: 95-100In Bond£2,040.00 -
Wine Advocate (92)
Tasted at BI Wine & Spirits' 10-Years-On tasting, the 2007 Palmer has an opulent bouquet for the vintage, something almost Mediterranean tincturing the lifted red berry fruit laced with sage and even a suggestion of oregano. The palate is medium-bodied with silky smooth tannin, a fine bead of acidity, gentle and caressing but with a powerful, almost heady finish. If you are looking for an extravagant wine this vintage, then Palmer is the place to come, though maybe it has just dispensed a little of its luster since I last tasted it. Tasted February 2017.In Bond£2,750.00 -
Vinous - Neal Martin (95)
The 2008 Palmer has a very intense bouquet with blackberry, raspberry, crushed violet and iris scents, blossoming in the glass whilst retaining superb delineation. The palate is medium-bodied with fine but quite rounded tannin that frame the pure blackberry and raspberry fruit. There are touches of white pepper and clove towards the finish, completing quite a superb Margaux from Thomas Duroux. Equal with Château Margaux? It might even be better...In Bond£2,567.00 -
Vinous - Neal Martin (95)
The 2008 Palmer has a very intense bouquet with blackberry, raspberry, crushed violet and iris scents, blossoming in the glass whilst retaining superb delineation. The palate is medium-bodied with fine but quite rounded tannin that frame the pure blackberry and raspberry fruit. There are touches of white pepper and clove towards the finish, completing quite a superb Margaux from Thomas Duroux. Equal with Château Margaux? It might even be better...In Bond£2,628.00 -
In Bond£3,367.00
-
Decanter (98)
One of the great years of Bordeaux now at 10 years old and showing why this is such an unusual vintage in terms of the depth of structure and muscular concentration that was achieved. In fact, I am upping the drinking window from the last time I tasted this, as there is such a pulse of life and grip that shows no signs of going anywhere. The initial layers are starting to be peeled back, but this retains primary black and blue fruits that are still full of flesh alongside baked earth, tons of liquorice and black chocolate with a grippy tannic structure, fresh acidities and a serious attitude. Brilliant stuff, that is clearly going to power on for decades. Harvest September 22 to October 20.In Bond£3,405.00 -
Decanter (98)
One of the great years of Bordeaux now at 10 years old and showing why this is such an unusual vintage in terms of the depth of structure and muscular concentration that was achieved. In fact, I am upping the drinking window from the last time I tasted this, as there is such a pulse of life and grip that shows no signs of going anywhere. The initial layers are starting to be peeled back, but this retains primary black and blue fruits that are still full of flesh alongside baked earth, tons of liquorice and black chocolate with a grippy tannic structure, fresh acidities and a serious attitude. Brilliant stuff, that is clearly going to power on for decades. Harvest September 22 to October 20.In Bond£302.50 -
Decanter (98)
One of the great years of Bordeaux now at 10 years old and showing why this is such an unusual vintage in terms of the depth of structure and muscular concentration that was achieved. In fact, I am upping the drinking window from the last time I tasted this, as there is such a pulse of life and grip that shows no signs of going anywhere. The initial layers are starting to be peeled back, but this retains primary black and blue fruits that are still full of flesh alongside baked earth, tons of liquorice and black chocolate with a grippy tannic structure, fresh acidities and a serious attitude. Brilliant stuff, that is clearly going to power on for decades. Harvest September 22 to October 20.In Bond£850.00
