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 (100)
Another wine that topped out on my scale, the 523-case 2012 Ermitage l'Ermite is as profound an Hermitage as you can find. Coming from the granite soils located around the Chapel on the top of Hermitage hill, it's always the most tight, backward and structured of the releases, even more so than the Pavillon, which always seems to have another layer of sweet fruit to me. The 2012 is deeper and richer than the 2011, yet as with most 2012s, it more approachable and forward than the 2010 (and 2009 in this case). Exhibiting awesome notes of powdered rock, creme de cassis, liquid violets and lite gunpowder, it hits the palate with full-bodied richness, awesome mid-palate depth and building, ultra-fine tannin that frame the finish. It's an incredible wine that will won't start to become approachable until a decade after the vintage, and then will keep for three decades.Inc. VAT£1,381.24 -
Wine Advocate (100)
White wine simply doesn't get any better than the 2012 Ermitage l'Ermite Blanc. A massive, concentrated, yet insanely pure and focused effort, it has an incredible bouquet (almond paste, orange rind, caramelized peach), full-bodied richness, no hard edges and finish that just won't quit. Of all the 2012 whites, this has the most minerality, purity and precision. I'd happily drink it anytime over the coming 3-4 decades.Inc. VAT£3,295.24 -
Wine Advocate (100)
Sharing some similarities to the le Meal (yet its from a very different terroir), with its full-bodied, decadent, heavenly profile that somehow stays pure, poised and elegant, the 2012 Ermitage le Pavillon (767 cases) offers an extraordinary perfume of cassis, raspberries, crushed flowers, powdered rock and smoked earth. Coming all from the granite soils of the les Bessards lieu-dit, which produces some of the most muscular, concentrated wines on the planet, this serious 2012 is more approachable than either the 2009 or 2010, yet certainly is at the same level of quality. Give it 6-7 years in the cellar and enjoy it through 2042.Inc. VAT£1,491.64 -
Wine Advocate (97)
A wine I've been lucky enough to have multiple times recently, the 2012 Ermitage les Greffieux is a full-bodied, deeply fruited, concentrated and blockbuster effort that's stays elegant, polished and balanced. Exhibiting incredible amounts of bloody meat, olive tapenade, campfire and sweet, expansive fruit, it needs 4-5 years in the cellar, and will drink nicely through 2034.Inc. VAT£975.64 -
Vinous (92)
(20% new oak): Opaque ruby. Intense, mineral-driven aromas of ripe blackberry, smoked meat and incense. Pliant, supple and sweet, with a distinct smokiness to its dark berry and spicecake flavors. Finishes with slow-building tannins, repeating smokiness and strong floral persistence. A very strong showing for this bottling.Inc. VAT£420.00 -
Wine Advocate (96+)
In complete contrast to the sexy, flamboyant les Granits, the tiny production 2012 Saint Joseph le Clos (which comes from a vineyard just a couple kilometers from the les Granits) is firm, tight and structured, with edgy notes of cassis, blackberry, powdered rock and ground herbs. Full-bodied, concentrated and rich, it needs 3-4 years in the cellar, and will have two decades of longevity. This is almost non-existent in the marketplace, but it's worth the effort to track down.Inc. VAT£1,005.64 -
Andreas Larsson (96)
Bright light golden colour with fine and lively bubbles. Nice purity on the nose, chalky and flinty with ripe but fresh yellow fruit like peach, passion fruit, lemongrass, fresh butter, brioche and floral notes. The palate shows a nice bite and precision, lovely freshness, fine extract, rounded creaminess with layers of succulent stone fruit, crushed nuts and pastry notes. Very long and lingering finish, still in a youthful stage but great potential here.Inc. VAT£484.84 -
Burghound (95)
Here the nose is similar to the regular cuvée from a compositional standpoint but the fruit is denser, slightly riper and more complex as well. The very concentrated broad-shouldered flavors possess excellent concentration as the copious dry extract both coats the palate and buffers the extremely firm tannic spine on the explosively long but impeccably well-balanced finish. This is distinctly old school in style and will require extended cellaring to arrive at its peak. I would not recommend buying this ultra-serious effort unless you have the express intention of cellaring it over the longer-term.Inc. VAT£1,327.24 -
Vinous (93)
The 2012 Vacqueyras Réserve sports a flamboyant perfume of cherry liquor and strawberry compote mixed with delicate notions of tobacco and dried lavender. Enveloped in silky tannins, this full-bodied beauty is packed with ample concentration and finesse. It seamlessly glides across the palate and concludes with an expansive finish. This utterly seductive 2012 red has reached its plateau of maturity and is ready for business.Inc. VAT£2,713.78 -
Indulge in the exquisite sensation of the Chateau Pommard Clos Marey-Monge Monopole 2012, the unrivalled product of a renowned winery nestled within the Burgundy wine region of France. This high-profile monopole, born from the combined soils of iron-rich clay and deadly limestone, promises a dense, deeply layered Pinot Noir. The grapes, hand-picked at optimal maturation, follow a prudent vinification process ensuring preservation of inherent character and quality.
Considered a stellar vintage, 2012 was marked by challenging climatic conditions, which ultimately led to a smaller but supremely fine yield. The end result is a wine of elegant complexity, exhibited through an array of ripe red fruit, earthy undertones and delicate tannins. On the palate, the Chateau Pommard Clos Marey-Monge Monopole 2012 unfolds with incredible balance, escalating into a lasting, intensely flavoured finish. This is a profound reflection of meticulous winemaking in harmony with respect for terroir - a captivating portrayal of Pommard's Monopole heritage.
Inc. VAT£522.41 -
Indulge in the exquisite sensation of the Chateau Pommard Clos Marey-Monge Monopole 2012, the unrivalled product of a renowned winery nestled within the Burgundy wine region of France. This high-profile monopole, born from the combined soils of iron-rich clay and deadly limestone, promises a dense, deeply layered Pinot Noir. The grapes, hand-picked at optimal maturation, follow a prudent vinification process ensuring preservation of inherent character and quality.
Considered a stellar vintage, 2012 was marked by challenging climatic conditions, which ultimately led to a smaller but supremely fine yield. The end result is a wine of elegant complexity, exhibited through an array of ripe red fruit, earthy undertones and delicate tannins. On the palate, the Chateau Pommard Clos Marey-Monge Monopole 2012 unfolds with incredible balance, escalating into a lasting, intensely flavoured finish. This is a profound reflection of meticulous winemaking in harmony with respect for terroir - a captivating portrayal of Pommard's Monopole heritage.
Inc. VAT£680.03 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (90)
The 2012 Puygueraud is a soft, supple red to drink now and over the next handful of years. Licorice, tobacco, menthol, plums and earthy notes are all laced together nicely in the glass. Medium in body and already quite forward, the 2012 is an excellent choice for drinking over the next handful of years. An intriguing array of sweet and savory notes lingers on the inviting finish. The tannins are a bit gritty, but this is a solid effort nonetheless. The 2012 is 80% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Franc and 5% Malbec.Inc. VAT£288.07 -
Jeb Dunnuck (96+)
A step up over the 2011, the 2012 Chateau Cheval Blanc offers a similar medium to full-bodied, elegant style yet has slightly more freshness and purity. Smoked black fruits, cassis, tobacco leaf, and sappy flower notes all emerge from this thrillingly textured, balanced, focused 2012. It opens up with time in the glass, has ripe, sweet tannins, and it’s another one of those wines that offers pleasure today yet will cruise for decades. The final blend is the usual 54% Merlot and 46% Cabernet Franc. Readers should be happy to have bottles in their cellars.Inc. VAT£2,998.84 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (93+)
The 2012 Clerc Milon is dark, bold and exuberant in the glass. Plums, black cherries, tobacco and graphite are all pushed forward. Even with its considerable creaminess and overall depth, the 2012 has plenty of tannin lurking underneath, so readers would be well served cellaring the wine for at least a few years.Inc. VAT£706.84 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (90)
The 2012 Clos Badon is bold, dark and enticing, with striking aromatics to match the intense, voluptuous fruit. Black cherry, plum, crème de cassis and sweet spices are laced together in an open-knit, supple Saint Emilion with tons of near-term appeal. One of the hidden gems of the vintage, the Clos Badon should drink well for at least another handful of years. The blend is 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc.Inc. VAT£539.38 -
Wine Advocate (97)
Tasted at the pre-dinner vertical to mark Sylvain Pitiot's retirement from the domaine, the 2012 Clos de Tart Grand Cru has just a wonderful nose with more fruit intensity than the 2013, so pure and feminine with ebullient raspberry preserve and strawberry notes, sheer pinoté! The palate is beautifully structured with fine tannin, tensile, refined and aristocratic. There is a brilliant focus here and an extraordinary sustained finish that leaves you desperate for the next sip. What it shares in common with the 2008 Clos de Tart Grand Cru is that it is predestined to be overshadowed by the 2009 and 2010. That should not be the case - it is a quite brilliant articulation of the Clos. Bon vin!Inc. VAT£3,319.24 -
Vinous (95)
Inky ruby. Explosive aromas of red and dark berries are complicated by suggestions of star anise, potpourri and smoky minerals. Rich yet lithe on the palate, offering sweet black raspberry and cola flavors and an intense note of candied lavender. Made in a rich yet graceful style, finishing with superb clarity and length and sneaky tannins that come on late. One of my favorite wines of the vintage and almost shockingly approachable now.Inc. VAT£1,607.38 -
Wine Advocate (95)
Another inky, opaque, purple-colored wine with beautiful blackcurrant, black raspberry, licorice and earthy undertones, this full-bodied, opulent, dense, rich 2012 (90% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc, and 14.3% alcohol) is a tour de force in this vintage. This over-achieving estate has hit a home run, which is especially impressive in 2012. This wine ideally needs several years of bottle age and should drink well for 15 or more years.Inc. VAT£551.09 -
Indulge in the coveted Clos Margalaine 2012; an eloquent manifestation of winemaking skill, hailing from the prestigious Pauillac appellation of Bordeaux. Crafted by an esteemed producer, the considerable attention given to its making is evident in every sip. The illustrious terroir offers an exemplary Cabernet Sauvignon blend with Merlot, embodying a splendid balance, abundance of flavours and skilful structure.
Fermented in stainless steel vats, the Clos Margalaine 2012 portrays an essence that brims with robust red-fruit flavours, partnered with refined tannins and an enduring finish. The 14-month maturation in oak barrels lends a charming complexity and depth, resulting in a wine that requires patient cellaring yet rewards abundantly when uncorked.
A sure delight for the discerning palate, the Clos Margalaine 2012 stands a testament to the fine interplay between superb grapes, masterful vinification, and the magnificent Bordeaux terroir. Appreciate the timeless artistry of this extraordinary representation of French viticulture.
Inc. VAT£551.38 -
Discover the exceptional Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2012, a stunning expression of Loire Valley Cabernet Franc. This renowned wine hails from the prestigious Clos Rougeard winery in the Saumur-Champigny AOC, a region famed for its optimal climatic conditions that yield well-balanced, fruity wines. The French wine estate has upheld a family legacy of superb winemaking since 1664, emphasised by meticulous biodynamic practices.
The exquisite Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2012 undergoes traditional vinification in oak barrels, matured in cellars dug in the tuffeau limestone for up to two years. The result is a harmonious blend of complexity and elegance, boasting a pure, velvety mouthfeel with luscious ripe red fruit and subtle spice notes, underpinned by a firm structure and silky tannins.
Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2012 is the epitome of French sophistication and tradition, appealing to discerning wine enthusiasts seeking the true taste of the Loire Valley.
Inc. VAT£2,500.01 -
Exclusively from the renowned Loire Valley, the Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2012 is a revered expression of French winemaking. Produced by the eminent Foucault brothers, famed for their impeccable biodynamic practices, this fine Cabernet Franc stands as a testament to their meticulous craftsmanship. The result of hand-picked grapes aged in old oak barrels, revealing an elegant, full-bodied wine. Cherished complexity accentuates notes of ripe plums, blackcurrants, and a hint of earthiness, harmonised with balanced acidity and an exceptional finish. The timeless nature of this vintage, combined with the incredible rarity of Foucault's production, solidifies Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2012 as a treasure amongst collectors. Garnering the consistent admiration of critics, with its impeccable structure and aging potential, it stands as one of the most prestigious offerings from the distinguished appellation of Saumur-Champigny. A drinking experience to be savoured, the Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2012 epitomises the transformative essence of truly fine wine.
Inc. VAT£3,505.24 -
Wine Advocate (96)
The 2012 Châteauneuf du Pape la Combe des Fous is another gorgeous wine from this estate that offers incredible richness while never seeming heavy, cumbersome or over-the-top. A blend of 60% Grenache, 20% Syrah and the rest Muscardin, Vaccarese and Cinsault, it exhibits thrilling cassis, black raspberry, chocolate, crushed flowers and exotic spice. Full-bodied, seamless and incredibly elegant, it has the polish and balance to drink nicely now, but will evolve for 15 years or more.Inc. VAT£759.02 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (92)
The 2012 Clos Saint-Julien is a deep, powerful wine. Inky crème de cassis, wild flowers, mint, lavender and sage are some of the notes that burst forward as this deep, opulent wine shows off its personality. Clos Saint-Julien is more obvious and juicy than proprietor Catherine Papon-Nouvel's Petit Gravet Ainé. This small property is planted to 60% Merlot and 40% Cabernet Franc.Inc. VAT£532.18 -
Vinous (94)
Opaque ruby. Blackberry, candied plum, cassis, licorice, bitter chocolate and potpourri on the complex, intensely perfumed nose. Dense, concentrated and seamless on the palate, offering primary black and blue fruit and floral pastille flavors and a smoky mineral accent that adds back-end vivacity. Finishes with broad, supple tannins, an echo of licorice and outstanding mineral-driven persistence.Inc. VAT£589.20 -
Vinous (93)
Inky ruby. Complex aromas of fresh red berries, cherry compote, smoky minerals and potpourri, with spicecake and anise nuances emerging with aeration. Smooth, sappy and sweet, displaying very good focus to its intense red fruit preserve, violet pastille and allspice flavors. Shows excellent energy and lift on the floral finish, which is firmed by supple, harmonious tannins.Inc. VAT£516.00 -
Wine Advocate (97+)
Raphel Coche told me that the 2012 Corton Charlemagne was the only vineyard that escaped hail damage this year. It has a very succinct nose, not predisposed to go out and grab you by the lapels. The aromatics unfurl with a sense of ease prioritizing finesse over power: beeswax, linden, lemon thyme and fresh pear. The palate is exquisitely balanced with fleeting glimpses of Seville orange and apricot. But there is more about the tension, the effortlessness and that it just rolls out across the finish like a huge Turkish rug. This is the kind of wine that exhausts superlatives.Inc. VAT£5,242.40 -
Wine Advocate (97+)
Raphel Coche told me that the 2012 Corton Charlemagne was the only vineyard that escaped hail damage this year. It has a very succinct nose, not predisposed to go out and grab you by the lapels. The aromatics unfurl with a sense of ease prioritizing finesse over power: beeswax, linden, lemon thyme and fresh pear. The palate is exquisitely balanced with fleeting glimpses of Seville orange and apricot. But there is more about the tension, the effortlessness and that it just rolls out across the finish like a huge Turkish rug. This is the kind of wine that exhausts superlatives.Inc. VAT£11,404.01 -
Tim Atkin MW (96)
Drawn from three parcels within Les Perrières, this is another very impressive bottling from the Coches, père et fils. It's quite a forward wine, even in barrel, but it certainly doesn't lack the acidity or concentration to age. Sweetly oaked, floral and creamy, it has flavours of lemon zest and orange peel with an overtone of honey.Inc. VAT£3,963.20 -
Vinous (92)
Saturated ruby. Intense dark berry and cherry cola scents are complemented by suggestions of olive paste, candied flowers, vanilla and woodsmoke. Offers palate-coating blackberry and bitter cherry flavors, and peppery spice and mocha qualities building on the back half. Manages to be both rich and lively, with no excess fat. The juicy, seamless finish is framed by silky, harmonious tannins and leaves behind a suave dark berry liqueur note.Inc. VAT£1,510.87 -
Tim Atkin MW (96)
I tasted this wine on three occasions (including from barrel) this year and it's one of the best releases I've ever tasted from the domaine. Benjamin Leroux has crafted a very fine Pommard, especially in the circumstances. It's a very refined wine, with perfume, crunchy red fruits and medium weight tannins all pulling in the same direction.Inc. VAT£912.04
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Wine Advocate (100)
Another wine that topped out on my scale, the 523-case 2012 Ermitage l'Ermite is as profound an Hermitage as you can find. Coming from the granite soils located around the Chapel on the top of Hermitage hill, it's always the most tight, backward and structured of the releases, even more so than the Pavillon, which always seems to have another layer of sweet fruit to me. The 2012 is deeper and richer than the 2011, yet as with most 2012s, it more approachable and forward than the 2010 (and 2009 in this case). Exhibiting awesome notes of powdered rock, creme de cassis, liquid violets and lite gunpowder, it hits the palate with full-bodied richness, awesome mid-palate depth and building, ultra-fine tannin that frame the finish. It's an incredible wine that will won't start to become approachable until a decade after the vintage, and then will keep for three decades.In Bond£1,135.00 -
Wine Advocate (100)
White wine simply doesn't get any better than the 2012 Ermitage l'Ermite Blanc. A massive, concentrated, yet insanely pure and focused effort, it has an incredible bouquet (almond paste, orange rind, caramelized peach), full-bodied richness, no hard edges and finish that just won't quit. Of all the 2012 whites, this has the most minerality, purity and precision. I'd happily drink it anytime over the coming 3-4 decades.In Bond£2,730.00 -
Wine Advocate (100)
Sharing some similarities to the le Meal (yet its from a very different terroir), with its full-bodied, decadent, heavenly profile that somehow stays pure, poised and elegant, the 2012 Ermitage le Pavillon (767 cases) offers an extraordinary perfume of cassis, raspberries, crushed flowers, powdered rock and smoked earth. Coming all from the granite soils of the les Bessards lieu-dit, which produces some of the most muscular, concentrated wines on the planet, this serious 2012 is more approachable than either the 2009 or 2010, yet certainly is at the same level of quality. Give it 6-7 years in the cellar and enjoy it through 2042.In Bond£1,227.00 -
Wine Advocate (97)
A wine I've been lucky enough to have multiple times recently, the 2012 Ermitage les Greffieux is a full-bodied, deeply fruited, concentrated and blockbuster effort that's stays elegant, polished and balanced. Exhibiting incredible amounts of bloody meat, olive tapenade, campfire and sweet, expansive fruit, it needs 4-5 years in the cellar, and will drink nicely through 2034.In Bond£797.00 -
Vinous (92)
(20% new oak): Opaque ruby. Intense, mineral-driven aromas of ripe blackberry, smoked meat and incense. Pliant, supple and sweet, with a distinct smokiness to its dark berry and spicecake flavors. Finishes with slow-building tannins, repeating smokiness and strong floral persistence. A very strong showing for this bottling.Inc. VAT£420.00 -
Wine Advocate (96+)
In complete contrast to the sexy, flamboyant les Granits, the tiny production 2012 Saint Joseph le Clos (which comes from a vineyard just a couple kilometers from the les Granits) is firm, tight and structured, with edgy notes of cassis, blackberry, powdered rock and ground herbs. Full-bodied, concentrated and rich, it needs 3-4 years in the cellar, and will have two decades of longevity. This is almost non-existent in the marketplace, but it's worth the effort to track down.In Bond£822.00 -
Andreas Larsson (96)
Bright light golden colour with fine and lively bubbles. Nice purity on the nose, chalky and flinty with ripe but fresh yellow fruit like peach, passion fruit, lemongrass, fresh butter, brioche and floral notes. The palate shows a nice bite and precision, lovely freshness, fine extract, rounded creaminess with layers of succulent stone fruit, crushed nuts and pastry notes. Very long and lingering finish, still in a youthful stage but great potential here.In Bond£388.00 -
Burghound (95)
Here the nose is similar to the regular cuvée from a compositional standpoint but the fruit is denser, slightly riper and more complex as well. The very concentrated broad-shouldered flavors possess excellent concentration as the copious dry extract both coats the palate and buffers the extremely firm tannic spine on the explosively long but impeccably well-balanced finish. This is distinctly old school in style and will require extended cellaring to arrive at its peak. I would not recommend buying this ultra-serious effort unless you have the express intention of cellaring it over the longer-term.In Bond£1,090.00 -
Vinous (93)
The 2012 Vacqueyras Réserve sports a flamboyant perfume of cherry liquor and strawberry compote mixed with delicate notions of tobacco and dried lavender. Enveloped in silky tannins, this full-bodied beauty is packed with ample concentration and finesse. It seamlessly glides across the palate and concludes with an expansive finish. This utterly seductive 2012 red has reached its plateau of maturity and is ready for business.In Bond£2,223.00 -
Indulge in the exquisite sensation of the Chateau Pommard Clos Marey-Monge Monopole 2012, the unrivalled product of a renowned winery nestled within the Burgundy wine region of France. This high-profile monopole, born from the combined soils of iron-rich clay and deadly limestone, promises a dense, deeply layered Pinot Noir. The grapes, hand-picked at optimal maturation, follow a prudent vinification process ensuring preservation of inherent character and quality.
Considered a stellar vintage, 2012 was marked by challenging climatic conditions, which ultimately led to a smaller but supremely fine yield. The end result is a wine of elegant complexity, exhibited through an array of ripe red fruit, earthy undertones and delicate tannins. On the palate, the Chateau Pommard Clos Marey-Monge Monopole 2012 unfolds with incredible balance, escalating into a lasting, intensely flavoured finish. This is a profound reflection of meticulous winemaking in harmony with respect for terroir - a captivating portrayal of Pommard's Monopole heritage.
In Bond£430.00 -
Indulge in the exquisite sensation of the Chateau Pommard Clos Marey-Monge Monopole 2012, the unrivalled product of a renowned winery nestled within the Burgundy wine region of France. This high-profile monopole, born from the combined soils of iron-rich clay and deadly limestone, promises a dense, deeply layered Pinot Noir. The grapes, hand-picked at optimal maturation, follow a prudent vinification process ensuring preservation of inherent character and quality.
Considered a stellar vintage, 2012 was marked by challenging climatic conditions, which ultimately led to a smaller but supremely fine yield. The end result is a wine of elegant complexity, exhibited through an array of ripe red fruit, earthy undertones and delicate tannins. On the palate, the Chateau Pommard Clos Marey-Monge Monopole 2012 unfolds with incredible balance, escalating into a lasting, intensely flavoured finish. This is a profound reflection of meticulous winemaking in harmony with respect for terroir - a captivating portrayal of Pommard's Monopole heritage.
In Bond£556.00 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (90)
The 2012 Puygueraud is a soft, supple red to drink now and over the next handful of years. Licorice, tobacco, menthol, plums and earthy notes are all laced together nicely in the glass. Medium in body and already quite forward, the 2012 is an excellent choice for drinking over the next handful of years. An intriguing array of sweet and savory notes lingers on the inviting finish. The tannins are a bit gritty, but this is a solid effort nonetheless. The 2012 is 80% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Franc and 5% Malbec.In Bond£208.00 -
Jeb Dunnuck (96+)
A step up over the 2011, the 2012 Chateau Cheval Blanc offers a similar medium to full-bodied, elegant style yet has slightly more freshness and purity. Smoked black fruits, cassis, tobacco leaf, and sappy flower notes all emerge from this thrillingly textured, balanced, focused 2012. It opens up with time in the glass, has ripe, sweet tannins, and it’s another one of those wines that offers pleasure today yet will cruise for decades. The final blend is the usual 54% Merlot and 46% Cabernet Franc. Readers should be happy to have bottles in their cellars.In Bond£2,483.00 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (93+)
The 2012 Clerc Milon is dark, bold and exuberant in the glass. Plums, black cherries, tobacco and graphite are all pushed forward. Even with its considerable creaminess and overall depth, the 2012 has plenty of tannin lurking underneath, so readers would be well served cellaring the wine for at least a few years.In Bond£573.00 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (90)
The 2012 Clos Badon is bold, dark and enticing, with striking aromatics to match the intense, voluptuous fruit. Black cherry, plum, crème de cassis and sweet spices are laced together in an open-knit, supple Saint Emilion with tons of near-term appeal. One of the hidden gems of the vintage, the Clos Badon should drink well for at least another handful of years. The blend is 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc.In Bond£411.00 -
Wine Advocate (97)
Tasted at the pre-dinner vertical to mark Sylvain Pitiot's retirement from the domaine, the 2012 Clos de Tart Grand Cru has just a wonderful nose with more fruit intensity than the 2013, so pure and feminine with ebullient raspberry preserve and strawberry notes, sheer pinoté! The palate is beautifully structured with fine tannin, tensile, refined and aristocratic. There is a brilliant focus here and an extraordinary sustained finish that leaves you desperate for the next sip. What it shares in common with the 2008 Clos de Tart Grand Cru is that it is predestined to be overshadowed by the 2009 and 2010. That should not be the case - it is a quite brilliant articulation of the Clos. Bon vin!In Bond£2,750.00 -
Vinous (95)
Inky ruby. Explosive aromas of red and dark berries are complicated by suggestions of star anise, potpourri and smoky minerals. Rich yet lithe on the palate, offering sweet black raspberry and cola flavors and an intense note of candied lavender. Made in a rich yet graceful style, finishing with superb clarity and length and sneaky tannins that come on late. One of my favorite wines of the vintage and almost shockingly approachable now.In Bond£1,301.00 -
Wine Advocate (95)
Another inky, opaque, purple-colored wine with beautiful blackcurrant, black raspberry, licorice and earthy undertones, this full-bodied, opulent, dense, rich 2012 (90% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc, and 14.3% alcohol) is a tour de force in this vintage. This over-achieving estate has hit a home run, which is especially impressive in 2012. This wine ideally needs several years of bottle age and should drink well for 15 or more years.In Bond£440.00 -
Indulge in the coveted Clos Margalaine 2012; an eloquent manifestation of winemaking skill, hailing from the prestigious Pauillac appellation of Bordeaux. Crafted by an esteemed producer, the considerable attention given to its making is evident in every sip. The illustrious terroir offers an exemplary Cabernet Sauvignon blend with Merlot, embodying a splendid balance, abundance of flavours and skilful structure.
Fermented in stainless steel vats, the Clos Margalaine 2012 portrays an essence that brims with robust red-fruit flavours, partnered with refined tannins and an enduring finish. The 14-month maturation in oak barrels lends a charming complexity and depth, resulting in a wine that requires patient cellaring yet rewards abundantly when uncorked.
A sure delight for the discerning palate, the Clos Margalaine 2012 stands a testament to the fine interplay between superb grapes, masterful vinification, and the magnificent Bordeaux terroir. Appreciate the timeless artistry of this extraordinary representation of French viticulture.
In Bond£421.00 -
Discover the exceptional Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2012, a stunning expression of Loire Valley Cabernet Franc. This renowned wine hails from the prestigious Clos Rougeard winery in the Saumur-Champigny AOC, a region famed for its optimal climatic conditions that yield well-balanced, fruity wines. The French wine estate has upheld a family legacy of superb winemaking since 1664, emphasised by meticulous biodynamic practices.
The exquisite Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2012 undergoes traditional vinification in oak barrels, matured in cellars dug in the tuffeau limestone for up to two years. The result is a harmonious blend of complexity and elegance, boasting a pure, velvety mouthfeel with luscious ripe red fruit and subtle spice notes, underpinned by a firm structure and silky tannins.
Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2012 is the epitome of French sophistication and tradition, appealing to discerning wine enthusiasts seeking the true taste of the Loire Valley.
In Bond£2,078.00 -
Exclusively from the renowned Loire Valley, the Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2012 is a revered expression of French winemaking. Produced by the eminent Foucault brothers, famed for their impeccable biodynamic practices, this fine Cabernet Franc stands as a testament to their meticulous craftsmanship. The result of hand-picked grapes aged in old oak barrels, revealing an elegant, full-bodied wine. Cherished complexity accentuates notes of ripe plums, blackcurrants, and a hint of earthiness, harmonised with balanced acidity and an exceptional finish. The timeless nature of this vintage, combined with the incredible rarity of Foucault's production, solidifies Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2012 as a treasure amongst collectors. Garnering the consistent admiration of critics, with its impeccable structure and aging potential, it stands as one of the most prestigious offerings from the distinguished appellation of Saumur-Champigny. A drinking experience to be savoured, the Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg 2012 epitomises the transformative essence of truly fine wine.
In Bond£2,905.00 -
Wine Advocate (96)
The 2012 Châteauneuf du Pape la Combe des Fous is another gorgeous wine from this estate that offers incredible richness while never seeming heavy, cumbersome or over-the-top. A blend of 60% Grenache, 20% Syrah and the rest Muscardin, Vaccarese and Cinsault, it exhibits thrilling cassis, black raspberry, chocolate, crushed flowers and exotic spice. Full-bodied, seamless and incredibly elegant, it has the polish and balance to drink nicely now, but will evolve for 15 years or more.In Bond£612.00 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (92)
The 2012 Clos Saint-Julien is a deep, powerful wine. Inky crème de cassis, wild flowers, mint, lavender and sage are some of the notes that burst forward as this deep, opulent wine shows off its personality. Clos Saint-Julien is more obvious and juicy than proprietor Catherine Papon-Nouvel's Petit Gravet Ainé. This small property is planted to 60% Merlot and 40% Cabernet Franc.In Bond£405.00 -
Vinous (94)
Opaque ruby. Blackberry, candied plum, cassis, licorice, bitter chocolate and potpourri on the complex, intensely perfumed nose. Dense, concentrated and seamless on the palate, offering primary black and blue fruit and floral pastille flavors and a smoky mineral accent that adds back-end vivacity. Finishes with broad, supple tannins, an echo of licorice and outstanding mineral-driven persistence.Inc. VAT£589.20 -
Vinous (93)
Inky ruby. Complex aromas of fresh red berries, cherry compote, smoky minerals and potpourri, with spicecake and anise nuances emerging with aeration. Smooth, sappy and sweet, displaying very good focus to its intense red fruit preserve, violet pastille and allspice flavors. Shows excellent energy and lift on the floral finish, which is firmed by supple, harmonious tannins.Inc. VAT£516.00 -
Wine Advocate (97+)
Raphel Coche told me that the 2012 Corton Charlemagne was the only vineyard that escaped hail damage this year. It has a very succinct nose, not predisposed to go out and grab you by the lapels. The aromatics unfurl with a sense of ease prioritizing finesse over power: beeswax, linden, lemon thyme and fresh pear. The palate is exquisitely balanced with fleeting glimpses of Seville orange and apricot. But there is more about the tension, the effortlessness and that it just rolls out across the finish like a huge Turkish rug. This is the kind of wine that exhausts superlatives.In Bond£4,366.00 -
Wine Advocate (97+)
Raphel Coche told me that the 2012 Corton Charlemagne was the only vineyard that escaped hail damage this year. It has a very succinct nose, not predisposed to go out and grab you by the lapels. The aromatics unfurl with a sense of ease prioritizing finesse over power: beeswax, linden, lemon thyme and fresh pear. The palate is exquisitely balanced with fleeting glimpses of Seville orange and apricot. But there is more about the tension, the effortlessness and that it just rolls out across the finish like a huge Turkish rug. This is the kind of wine that exhausts superlatives.In Bond£9,498.00 -
Tim Atkin MW (96)
Drawn from three parcels within Les Perrières, this is another very impressive bottling from the Coches, père et fils. It's quite a forward wine, even in barrel, but it certainly doesn't lack the acidity or concentration to age. Sweetly oaked, floral and creamy, it has flavours of lemon zest and orange peel with an overtone of honey.In Bond£3,300.00 -
Vinous (92)
Saturated ruby. Intense dark berry and cherry cola scents are complemented by suggestions of olive paste, candied flowers, vanilla and woodsmoke. Offers palate-coating blackberry and bitter cherry flavors, and peppery spice and mocha qualities building on the back half. Manages to be both rich and lively, with no excess fat. The juicy, seamless finish is framed by silky, harmonious tannins and leaves behind a suave dark berry liqueur note.In Bond£1,227.00 -
Tim Atkin MW (96)
I tasted this wine on three occasions (including from barrel) this year and it's one of the best releases I've ever tasted from the domaine. Benjamin Leroux has crafted a very fine Pommard, especially in the circumstances. It's a very refined wine, with perfume, crunchy red fruits and medium weight tannins all pulling in the same direction.In Bond£744.00
