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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Vinous - Neal Martin (90+)
The 2014 Clos Saint Martin has a reduced nose that is difficult to shake from the glass. The palate is medium-bodied with sappy black fruit, a light touch of spice, harmonious if just missing a little complexity towards the finish. It actually improves with aeration and I will give this the benefit of the doubt. Tasted blind at the annual Southwold tasting.Inc. VAT£301.18 -
(6x75cl) 2015
Jeb Dunnuck (96)
The 2015 Clos Saint Martin falls under the Moueix umbrella and is certainly one of the gems in their lineup. A blend of 90% Merlot and 5% each of Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon, it’s slightly reserved on the nose, but man, what a palate! Notes of strawberries, black raspberries, vanilla bean, toasted bread and dried flowers all flow to a full-bodied, opulent, huge wine that stays incredibly well balanced and elegant, with no hard edges and a cashmere-like texture. Count me impressed. I’d be thrilled to drink bottles anytime over the coming two decades.Inc. VAT£583.36 -
(3x150cl) 2016Vinous - Antonio Galloni (94)
The 2016 Clos Saint-Martin is absolutely gorgeous. Rich and sumptuous, the 2016 possesses exquisite balance and a sense of poise that is impossible to miss. Silky tannins and layered, ripe fruit give the 2016 tons of raciness. Dark red cherry fruit, blood orange, flowers and a hint of spice are some of the strands that come together in this alluring Saint-Émilion. The 2016 will be virtually impossible to resist in its youth. Today, it is flat-out gorgeous. Tasted two times.Inc. VAT£534.04 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (94)
The 2016 Clos Saint-Martin is absolutely gorgeous. Rich and sumptuous, the 2016 possesses exquisite balance and a sense of poise that is impossible to miss. Silky tannins and layered, ripe fruit give the 2016 tons of raciness. Dark red cherry fruit, blood orange, flowers and a hint of spice are some of the strands that come together in this alluring Saint-Émilion. The 2016 will be virtually impossible to resist in its youth. Today, it is flat-out gorgeous. Tasted two times.Inc. VAT£433.18 -
(3x150cl) 2017
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (94)
The 2017 Clos Saint-Martin is superb. Rich, racy and flamboyantly ripe, the 2017 is a real head-turner. Super-ripe red plum, blood orange, spice, mint and star anise all pulse through a juicy, Saint-Émilion built on textural lushness. I would prefer to cellar the 2017 to allow some of the baby fat to melt away, but the 2017 is an undeniably alluring and racy wine with a bright future. Today, it is a total pleasure bomb, but not at all overdone. Tasted two times.Inc. VAT£645.36 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (94)
The 2017 Clos Saint-Martin is superb. Rich, racy and flamboyantly ripe, the 2017 is a real head-turner. Super-ripe red plum, blood orange, spice, mint and star anise all pulse through a juicy, Saint-Émilion built on textural lushness. I would prefer to cellar the 2017 to allow some of the baby fat to melt away, but the 2017 is an undeniably alluring and racy wine with a bright future. Today, it is a total pleasure bomb, but not at all overdone. Tasted two times.Inc. VAT£434.00 -
The Wine Cellar Insider (97)
Sexy, silky, velvety textured ripe, sweet fruits coat your palate. The balance between the weight, depth, layers of voluptuously textured fruits is dead on. Rich, opulent and sensuous, this decadent offering from the plateau of Saint Emilion is going to offer pleasure for at least two decades and probably longer.Inc. VAT£466.40 -
The Wine Cellar Insider (97)
Sexy, silky, velvety textured ripe, sweet fruits coat your palate. The balance between the weight, depth, layers of voluptuously textured fruits is dead on. Rich, opulent and sensuous, this decadent offering from the plateau of Saint Emilion is going to offer pleasure for at least two decades and probably longer.Inc. VAT£455.60 -
(3x150cl) 2019
Jeb Dunnuck (97)
The 2019 Clos Saint-Martin comes from a tiny vineyard of clay and limestone soils and is mostly Merlot blended with 15% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Cabernet Franc. This deep purple-hued beauty boasts a rocking nose of darker currants, ripe black cherries, mulberries, chocolaty oak, iron, and bloody meat. It's deep, rich, and full-bodied on the palate and has a round, voluptuous mouthfeel, flawless balance, layered tannins, and a great, great finish. It's a stunning bottle of wine that already offers pleasure yet is going to gain complexity and nuance with 5-7 years of bottle age and keep for 30 years or more. This estate continues to be a hidden gem in just about every vintage and is well worth snatching up by savvy readers.Inc. VAT£532.84 -
Jeb Dunnuck (97)
The 2019 Clos Saint-Martin comes from a tiny vineyard of clay and limestone soils and is mostly Merlot blended with 15% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Cabernet Franc. This deep purple-hued beauty boasts a rocking nose of darker currants, ripe black cherries, mulberries, chocolaty oak, iron, and bloody meat. It's deep, rich, and full-bodied on the palate and has a round, voluptuous mouthfeel, flawless balance, layered tannins, and a great, great finish. It's a stunning bottle of wine that already offers pleasure yet is going to gain complexity and nuance with 5-7 years of bottle age and keep for 30 years or more. This estate continues to be a hidden gem in just about every vintage and is well worth snatching up by savvy readers.Inc. VAT£410.38 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (95)
The 2020 Clos Saint-Martin is quite simply a different wine from what I tasted en primeur. Racy and yet super-finessed, the 2020 is a Saint-Émilion of exquisite beauty. Crushed red berry fruit, blood orange, mint, cinnamon and rose petal are all beautifully delineated. Medium in body yet deep, with mind-blowing balance, Clos Saint-Martin is a flat-out stunner.Inc. VAT£452.00 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (95)
The 2020 Clos Saint-Martin is quite simply a different wine from what I tasted en primeur. Racy and yet super-finessed, the 2020 is a Saint-Émilion of exquisite beauty. Crushed red berry fruit, blood orange, mint, cinnamon and rose petal are all beautifully delineated. Medium in body yet deep, with mind-blowing balance, Clos Saint-Martin is a flat-out stunner.Inc. VAT£441.20 -
Jeb Dunnuck (94)
Another brilliant wine from this team, the 2021 Clos Saint-Martin reveals a medium ruby hue to go with a gorgeous array of black cherries, redcurrants, smoked tobacco, chalky minerality, and spice. It's medium-bodied and elegant, which is very much in the vintage, yet it has beautiful mid-palate depth, ripe, velvety tannins, and flawless overall balance. It's a beautiful wine that readers should buy a case of for drinking over the coming 15 years.Inc. VAT£434.00 -
Jeb Dunnuck (98)
A blend of 80% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Franc, and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2022 Clos Saint-Martin is massive and deeply layered, with dense black fruits, truffle, chocolate, crushed stone, and floral notes. Full-bodied and powerful, it has great freshness, fine tannins, and remarkable purity. Aged for 20 months in 60% new oak barrels and 40% amphorae, this structured and mineral-driven wine will need time but should evolve gracefully for 30+ years. Total production: 416 cases.Inc. VAT£432.95 -
James Suckling (94-95)
I like the build up in the finish of this classy, medium- to full-bodied wine. Offers currant and berry fruit, as well as integrated, fine and velvety tannins. Caressing at the end.Inc. VAT£491.60 -
James Suckling (94-95)
I like the build up in the finish of this classy, medium- to full-bodied wine. Offers currant and berry fruit, as well as integrated, fine and velvety tannins. Caressing at the end.Inc. VAT£470.69 -
(6x75cl) 2018Hailing from the renowned Cahors region of France, Clos Triguedina Cahors 2018 is a heady blend of superior quality and historic land cultivation. The producer, Clos Triguedina, has held an esteemed reputation since 1830, passionately upholding deeply-rooted traditions passed down through seven generations.
This well-crafted wine showcases the unparalleled skills of winemaking and terroir understanding of the applauded winemaker, Jean-Luc Baldès. Each grape is meticulously selected from the vineyards located in the unique alluvial soils of Cahors, producing a richly aromatic and superbly balanced Malbec wine.
Clos Triguedina Cahors 2018 is an outstanding presentation of depth and complexity. It exhibits an elegant bouquet of dark berry fruits, laced with subtle hints of spices and toasted notes from its maturation in French oak barrels. The palate reveals a powerful structure, harmonious blend of tannins, and a prolonged finish, typical of superior Cahors Malbec.
Experience the taste of tradition anew with the distinctive allure of Clos Triguedina Cahors 2018.
Inc. VAT£256.91 -
Experience the exquisite Clos Triguedina Cahors 2020, a beautiful expression of France's renowned Cahors region. This bold and graceful red blend produced by the historic Jean-Luc Baldès estate boasts a richly layered palette. It marries the potent depth of Malbec with the versatility of both Merlot and Tannat to create a harmonious concoction of luscious fruits, polished tannins, and a warm, robust finish.
Hailing from the estate’s prime vineyard plots located on the terraces of the Lot Valley, the Clos Triguedina Cahors 2020 undergoes a meticulous process of selective handpicking, destemming, and extended maceration. After being fermented in cone-shaped oak vats, it's aged in French oak barrels, adding intricate notes of vanilla and spice to its hearty texture.
Recognised for its complexity and timeless elegance, the Clos Triguedina Cahors 2020 truly encapsulates Jean-Luc Baldès' dedication to traditional winemaking whilst innovating with modern techniques. It offers a captivating journey into the heart of Cahors' wine heritage.
Inc. VAT£196.40 -
Immerse in the elegant complexities of the Closel Savenniers Jalousie 2014. Produced in the distinguished Savennières region of France's Loire Valley, this esteemed biodynamic wine captures the unique terroir and solar exposition of its vineyard. Steeped in rich tradition, the Domaine du Closel vineyard, managed by the unswerving dedication of Evelyne de Pontbriand, embraces a naturally low yield philosophy, thus ensuring exclusivity and consistent depth of flavor.
This Closel Savenniers Jalousie 2014 elegantly displays the distinct Chenin Blanc grapes in a harmonious blend of maturity and vivacity. On the palate, this opulent dry white wine bursts with sophisticated layers of ripe fruits and mineral notes. Hand-harvested, the grapes are meticulously fermented in stainless-steel tanks, subsequently matured 'sur lie' for eight months, imparting a pristine finish brimming with subtle complexities. An elegant ode to traditional winemaking, the Closel Savenniers Jalousie 2014 embodies the heritage of its origin.
Inc. VAT£90.53 -
(1x75cl) 2018Indulge in the exquisite finesse of the Closel Savenniers Papillon 2018, nurtured in the hallowed terroirs of the Loire Valley. This remarkable Chenin Blanc is cultivated to perfection by the esteemed Château des Vaults, renowned for their meticulous expression of nature’s skill. The Closel name carries a storied legacy of nearly a century in the Loire Valley, synonymous with meticulous viticulture and sustainable practices. The Papillon, aptly named 'butterfly', is an emblematic testament to this heritage with its arresting minerality and vibrant acidity.
The 2018 vintage presents an aromatic harmony of orchard fruits underscored by subtle flinty undertones. Rooted in schistous soil, the grapes expose a rich and complex character upon fermentation in stainless steel vats, retaining the purity of the fruit. Aged on lees to enhance depth and complexity, the Closel Savenniers Papillon 2018 ensures a tasting experience marked by elegance and lasting finish. A true reflection of an esteemed lineage and century-old expertise.
Inc. VAT£111.85 -
The exquisite Closel Savenniers Papillon 2020 hails from the revered Château des Vaults estate, situated amongst the historic vineyards of Savennières in France's Loire Valley. Respected vintner, Evelyne de Pontbriand, nurtures her vineyards using organic and biodynamic principles, resulting in a wine that's much-lauded for its purity and elegance.
The Closel Savenniers Papillon 2020 is a Chenin Blanc made from grapes hand-harvested then meticulously sorted to ensure only the highest quality fruit graces your glass. The maturation process, in traditional oak, imparts subtle complexity to the wine that's a sheer treat to the palate.
Spellbindingly structured, this golden-hued beauty unveils a rich tapestry of dried honey, apple, and acacia notes, encased within a refined mineral envelope, and graced by a lively acidity. If you're looking for a wine that mirrors the French tradition of careful, hands-on winemaking, Closel Savenniers Papillon 2020 is indisputably the bottle for you.
Inc. VAT£119.33 -
Crafted from sumptuously ripe Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes, the Closerie Saint Roc Rouge 2018 hails from the renowned Bordeaux region of France. This opulent red wine is the creation of the respected Les Vignerons de Tutiac winery, who takes a meticulous, handcrafted approach in the vineyard. Closerie Saint Roc Rouge 2018 is known for its impeccably balanced flavour profile, sporting rich berry nuances intertwined with subtle spice and oak undertones, a testament to 18 months of careful oak barrel aging.
Full-bodied yet velvety, it complements hearty roasts and succulent steak beautifully, its bright acidity and firm tannins ensuring a robust structure and long-lasting finish. As a vintage year, 2018 was highly favourable, leading to a Closerie Saint Roc Rouge that radiates charm, elegance, and a depth of flavour that encompasses the very essence of superior French viticulture.
Inc. VAT£463.44 -
(12x75cl) 2020Delight in the exceptional complexity of the Closerie Saint Roc Les Pins VdF 2020. Expertly crafted in Bordeaux, France, this distinguished wine personifies the ethos of its renowned producer, Closerie Saint Roc. Nurturing vines on calcium-rich soil, this establishment masterfully nurtures a fusion of the local Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot grapes. The 2020 vintage grants perfect ripeness ensuring smooth, balanced tannins.
The wine's elegant process involves maturation in French oak barrels, resulting in a profusion of opulent flavours. Hints of blackberry, ripe red fruit, and leafy tobacco meld in a velvety amalgam, with a persistent finish that leaves a lasting impression of its Bordeaux pedigree.
'Closerie Saint Roc Les Pins VdF 2020' embodies the robust yet graceful character expected from an authentic French wine. Add this tour-de-force to your collection and experience a symphony of taste celebrating the pinnacle of viniculture art.
Inc. VAT£914.63 -
(12x75cl) 2020Relish in the opulence of Closerie Saint Roc Les Sureaux VdF 2020, an exquisite exemplar of French vinification. This supreme Bordeaux blend marries Merlot's lush red fruit flavours with Cabernet Franc's herbaceous qualities, resulting in a harmonious symphony of taste. Handpicked from the esteemed vineyards of the region, the grapes undergo a regimented fermentation process in thermoregulated stainless steel vats.
Bottled by Closerie Saint Roc, a prodigious French winemaker, this grand cru reveals their unrivalled mastery in winemaking which endorses the artisanal finesse of this rare elixir. Garnet in colour, it boasts smoky plum notes on the nose followed by nuanced hints of loamy earth and spice.
Each bottle of Closerie Saint Roc Les Sureaux VdF 2020 arrives to your table showcasing an elegant balance of savoury complexity and ripe, juicy expressiveness orchestrated with captivating potency, turning each sip into an unforgettable taste journey.
Inc. VAT£1,023.49 -
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£318.00 -
Vinous (94)
Inky ruby. Highly expressive, mineral-accented blackberry, cherry, potpourri and exotic spice aromas take on a licorice nuance as the wine opens up. Intense black and blue fruit, floral pastille, cola and spicecake flavors are firmed by a spine of juicy acidity. Puts on weight on an extremely persistent, sharply delineated finish that repeats the dark berry and floral notes and leaves a hint of succulent herbs and smoky minerals behind.Inc. VAT£953.04 -
Vinous (94)
Inky ruby. Highly expressive, mineral-accented blackberry, cherry, potpourri and exotic spice aromas take on a licorice nuance as the wine opens up. Intense black and blue fruit, floral pastille, cola and spicecake flavors are firmed by a spine of juicy acidity. Puts on weight on an extremely persistent, sharply delineated finish that repeats the dark berry and floral notes and leaves a hint of succulent herbs and smoky minerals behind.Inc. VAT£497.52 -
Vinous (94-95)
Aromas of fresh black/blue fruits, pungent flowers, olive and allspice on the incisive nose. Weighty yet lively black currant, bitter cherry and violet pastille flavors show fine delineation and take on a smoky mineral nuance on the back half. Steadily building tannins shape an extremely long, penetrating finish that echoes the floral and mineral notes. The balance of power and finesse here is pretty impressive.Inc. VAT£497.52 -
(1x75cl) 2019Vinous (95-97)
Highly perfumed, mineral-drenched dark berry, violet, smoky mineral and olive paste scents show excellent clarity and a hint of smokiness. Sweet, palate-staining blackberry and floral pastille flavors deepen with air and show a candied licorice note on the back half. Rich but lively as well, closing with firm cut on a persistent, sharply focused finish, which features fine-grained tannins and suave floral and exotic spice notes.Inc. VAT£92.52 -
The Clusel Roch Cote Rotie Vialliere 2020 is an riveting expression of the terroir in Northern Rhône. Crafted by the renowned Clusel-Roch family, revered for their organic and biodynamic principles, they've lovingly nurtured this Syrah on the steep, terraced slopes of Côte-Rôtie. The soil composition of migmatite, detrital mica and schist lends a distinct character to this wine. Each grape is meticulously hand-picked and then vinified traditionally, with partial destemming, followed by a 14-18 month aging process in oak barrels. The result is a ruby-hued nectar accentuated by beautiful aromas of black fruits, spices and elegant floral undertones, leading onto a palate that boasts silky tannins and a lovely freshness. A testament to the expertise and artisanal approach of the Clusel-Roch family, savor the Clusel Roch Cote Rotie Vialliere 2020 as a sublime symphony of taste and tradition.
Inc. VAT£384.72
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Vinous - Neal Martin (90+)
The 2014 Clos Saint Martin has a reduced nose that is difficult to shake from the glass. The palate is medium-bodied with sappy black fruit, a light touch of spice, harmonious if just missing a little complexity towards the finish. It actually improves with aeration and I will give this the benefit of the doubt. Tasted blind at the annual Southwold tasting.In Bond£231.00 -
(6x75cl) 2015
Jeb Dunnuck (96)
The 2015 Clos Saint Martin falls under the Moueix umbrella and is certainly one of the gems in their lineup. A blend of 90% Merlot and 5% each of Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon, it’s slightly reserved on the nose, but man, what a palate! Notes of strawberries, black raspberries, vanilla bean, toasted bread and dried flowers all flow to a full-bodied, opulent, huge wine that stays incredibly well balanced and elegant, with no hard edges and a cashmere-like texture. Count me impressed. I’d be thrilled to drink bottles anytime over the coming two decades.In Bond£470.10 -
(3x150cl) 2016
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (94)
The 2016 Clos Saint-Martin is absolutely gorgeous. Rich and sumptuous, the 2016 possesses exquisite balance and a sense of poise that is impossible to miss. Silky tannins and layered, ripe fruit give the 2016 tons of raciness. Dark red cherry fruit, blood orange, flowers and a hint of spice are some of the strands that come together in this alluring Saint-Émilion. The 2016 will be virtually impossible to resist in its youth. Today, it is flat-out gorgeous. Tasted two times.In Bond£429.00 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (94)
The 2016 Clos Saint-Martin is absolutely gorgeous. Rich and sumptuous, the 2016 possesses exquisite balance and a sense of poise that is impossible to miss. Silky tannins and layered, ripe fruit give the 2016 tons of raciness. Dark red cherry fruit, blood orange, flowers and a hint of spice are some of the strands that come together in this alluring Saint-Émilion. The 2016 will be virtually impossible to resist in its youth. Today, it is flat-out gorgeous. Tasted two times.In Bond£341.00 -
(3x150cl) 2017
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (94)
The 2017 Clos Saint-Martin is superb. Rich, racy and flamboyantly ripe, the 2017 is a real head-turner. Super-ripe red plum, blood orange, spice, mint and star anise all pulse through a juicy, Saint-Émilion built on textural lushness. I would prefer to cellar the 2017 to allow some of the baby fat to melt away, but the 2017 is an undeniably alluring and racy wine with a bright future. Today, it is a total pleasure bomb, but not at all overdone. Tasted two times.In Bond£518.56 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (94)
The 2017 Clos Saint-Martin is superb. Rich, racy and flamboyantly ripe, the 2017 is a real head-turner. Super-ripe red plum, blood orange, spice, mint and star anise all pulse through a juicy, Saint-Émilion built on textural lushness. I would prefer to cellar the 2017 to allow some of the baby fat to melt away, but the 2017 is an undeniably alluring and racy wine with a bright future. Today, it is a total pleasure bomb, but not at all overdone. Tasted two times.In Bond£341.00 -
The Wine Cellar Insider (97)
Sexy, silky, velvety textured ripe, sweet fruits coat your palate. The balance between the weight, depth, layers of voluptuously textured fruits is dead on. Rich, opulent and sensuous, this decadent offering from the plateau of Saint Emilion is going to offer pleasure for at least two decades and probably longer.In Bond£368.00 -
The Wine Cellar Insider (97)
Sexy, silky, velvety textured ripe, sweet fruits coat your palate. The balance between the weight, depth, layers of voluptuously textured fruits is dead on. Rich, opulent and sensuous, this decadent offering from the plateau of Saint Emilion is going to offer pleasure for at least two decades and probably longer.In Bond£359.00 -
(3x150cl) 2019
Jeb Dunnuck (97)
The 2019 Clos Saint-Martin comes from a tiny vineyard of clay and limestone soils and is mostly Merlot blended with 15% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Cabernet Franc. This deep purple-hued beauty boasts a rocking nose of darker currants, ripe black cherries, mulberries, chocolaty oak, iron, and bloody meat. It's deep, rich, and full-bodied on the palate and has a round, voluptuous mouthfeel, flawless balance, layered tannins, and a great, great finish. It's a stunning bottle of wine that already offers pleasure yet is going to gain complexity and nuance with 5-7 years of bottle age and keep for 30 years or more. This estate continues to be a hidden gem in just about every vintage and is well worth snatching up by savvy readers.In Bond£428.00 -
Jeb Dunnuck (97)
The 2019 Clos Saint-Martin comes from a tiny vineyard of clay and limestone soils and is mostly Merlot blended with 15% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Cabernet Franc. This deep purple-hued beauty boasts a rocking nose of darker currants, ripe black cherries, mulberries, chocolaty oak, iron, and bloody meat. It's deep, rich, and full-bodied on the palate and has a round, voluptuous mouthfeel, flawless balance, layered tannins, and a great, great finish. It's a stunning bottle of wine that already offers pleasure yet is going to gain complexity and nuance with 5-7 years of bottle age and keep for 30 years or more. This estate continues to be a hidden gem in just about every vintage and is well worth snatching up by savvy readers.In Bond£322.00 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (95)
The 2020 Clos Saint-Martin is quite simply a different wine from what I tasted en primeur. Racy and yet super-finessed, the 2020 is a Saint-Émilion of exquisite beauty. Crushed red berry fruit, blood orange, mint, cinnamon and rose petal are all beautifully delineated. Medium in body yet deep, with mind-blowing balance, Clos Saint-Martin is a flat-out stunner.In Bond£356.00 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (95)
The 2020 Clos Saint-Martin is quite simply a different wine from what I tasted en primeur. Racy and yet super-finessed, the 2020 is a Saint-Émilion of exquisite beauty. Crushed red berry fruit, blood orange, mint, cinnamon and rose petal are all beautifully delineated. Medium in body yet deep, with mind-blowing balance, Clos Saint-Martin is a flat-out stunner.In Bond£347.00 -
Jeb Dunnuck (94)
Another brilliant wine from this team, the 2021 Clos Saint-Martin reveals a medium ruby hue to go with a gorgeous array of black cherries, redcurrants, smoked tobacco, chalky minerality, and spice. It's medium-bodied and elegant, which is very much in the vintage, yet it has beautiful mid-palate depth, ripe, velvety tannins, and flawless overall balance. It's a beautiful wine that readers should buy a case of for drinking over the coming 15 years.In Bond£341.00 -
Jeb Dunnuck (98)
A blend of 80% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Franc, and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2022 Clos Saint-Martin is massive and deeply layered, with dense black fruits, truffle, chocolate, crushed stone, and floral notes. Full-bodied and powerful, it has great freshness, fine tannins, and remarkable purity. Aged for 20 months in 60% new oak barrels and 40% amphorae, this structured and mineral-driven wine will need time but should evolve gracefully for 30+ years. Total production: 416 cases.In Bond£341.50 -
James Suckling (94-95)
I like the build up in the finish of this classy, medium- to full-bodied wine. Offers currant and berry fruit, as well as integrated, fine and velvety tannins. Caressing at the end.In Bond£389.00 -
James Suckling (94-95)
I like the build up in the finish of this classy, medium- to full-bodied wine. Offers currant and berry fruit, as well as integrated, fine and velvety tannins. Caressing at the end.In Bond£373.00 -
(6x75cl) 2018
Hailing from the renowned Cahors region of France, Clos Triguedina Cahors 2018 is a heady blend of superior quality and historic land cultivation. The producer, Clos Triguedina, has held an esteemed reputation since 1830, passionately upholding deeply-rooted traditions passed down through seven generations.
This well-crafted wine showcases the unparalleled skills of winemaking and terroir understanding of the applauded winemaker, Jean-Luc Baldès. Each grape is meticulously selected from the vineyards located in the unique alluvial soils of Cahors, producing a richly aromatic and superbly balanced Malbec wine.
Clos Triguedina Cahors 2018 is an outstanding presentation of depth and complexity. It exhibits an elegant bouquet of dark berry fruits, laced with subtle hints of spices and toasted notes from its maturation in French oak barrels. The palate reveals a powerful structure, harmonious blend of tannins, and a prolonged finish, typical of superior Cahors Malbec.
Experience the taste of tradition anew with the distinctive allure of Clos Triguedina Cahors 2018.
In Bond£194.85 -
Experience the exquisite Clos Triguedina Cahors 2020, a beautiful expression of France's renowned Cahors region. This bold and graceful red blend produced by the historic Jean-Luc Baldès estate boasts a richly layered palette. It marries the potent depth of Malbec with the versatility of both Merlot and Tannat to create a harmonious concoction of luscious fruits, polished tannins, and a warm, robust finish.
Hailing from the estate’s prime vineyard plots located on the terraces of the Lot Valley, the Clos Triguedina Cahors 2020 undergoes a meticulous process of selective handpicking, destemming, and extended maceration. After being fermented in cone-shaped oak vats, it's aged in French oak barrels, adding intricate notes of vanilla and spice to its hearty texture.
Recognised for its complexity and timeless elegance, the Clos Triguedina Cahors 2020 truly encapsulates Jean-Luc Baldès' dedication to traditional winemaking whilst innovating with modern techniques. It offers a captivating journey into the heart of Cahors' wine heritage.
In Bond£143.00 -
Immerse in the elegant complexities of the Closel Savenniers Jalousie 2014. Produced in the distinguished Savennières region of France's Loire Valley, this esteemed biodynamic wine captures the unique terroir and solar exposition of its vineyard. Steeped in rich tradition, the Domaine du Closel vineyard, managed by the unswerving dedication of Evelyne de Pontbriand, embraces a naturally low yield philosophy, thus ensuring exclusivity and consistent depth of flavor.
This Closel Savenniers Jalousie 2014 elegantly displays the distinct Chenin Blanc grapes in a harmonious blend of maturity and vivacity. On the palate, this opulent dry white wine bursts with sophisticated layers of ripe fruits and mineral notes. Hand-harvested, the grapes are meticulously fermented in stainless-steel tanks, subsequently matured 'sur lie' for eight months, imparting a pristine finish brimming with subtle complexities. An elegant ode to traditional winemaking, the Closel Savenniers Jalousie 2014 embodies the heritage of its origin.
In Bond£72.00 -
(1x75cl) 2018
Indulge in the exquisite finesse of the Closel Savenniers Papillon 2018, nurtured in the hallowed terroirs of the Loire Valley. This remarkable Chenin Blanc is cultivated to perfection by the esteemed Château des Vaults, renowned for their meticulous expression of nature’s skill. The Closel name carries a storied legacy of nearly a century in the Loire Valley, synonymous with meticulous viticulture and sustainable practices. The Papillon, aptly named 'butterfly', is an emblematic testament to this heritage with its arresting minerality and vibrant acidity.
The 2018 vintage presents an aromatic harmony of orchard fruits underscored by subtle flinty undertones. Rooted in schistous soil, the grapes expose a rich and complex character upon fermentation in stainless steel vats, retaining the purity of the fruit. Aged on lees to enhance depth and complexity, the Closel Savenniers Papillon 2018 ensures a tasting experience marked by elegance and lasting finish. A true reflection of an esteemed lineage and century-old expertise.
In Bond£90.00 -
The exquisite Closel Savenniers Papillon 2020 hails from the revered Château des Vaults estate, situated amongst the historic vineyards of Savennières in France's Loire Valley. Respected vintner, Evelyne de Pontbriand, nurtures her vineyards using organic and biodynamic principles, resulting in a wine that's much-lauded for its purity and elegance.
The Closel Savenniers Papillon 2020 is a Chenin Blanc made from grapes hand-harvested then meticulously sorted to ensure only the highest quality fruit graces your glass. The maturation process, in traditional oak, imparts subtle complexity to the wine that's a sheer treat to the palate.
Spellbindingly structured, this golden-hued beauty unveils a rich tapestry of dried honey, apple, and acacia notes, encased within a refined mineral envelope, and graced by a lively acidity. If you're looking for a wine that mirrors the French tradition of careful, hands-on winemaking, Closel Savenniers Papillon 2020 is indisputably the bottle for you.
In Bond£96.00 -
Crafted from sumptuously ripe Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes, the Closerie Saint Roc Rouge 2018 hails from the renowned Bordeaux region of France. This opulent red wine is the creation of the respected Les Vignerons de Tutiac winery, who takes a meticulous, handcrafted approach in the vineyard. Closerie Saint Roc Rouge 2018 is known for its impeccably balanced flavour profile, sporting rich berry nuances intertwined with subtle spice and oak undertones, a testament to 18 months of careful oak barrel aging.
Full-bodied yet velvety, it complements hearty roasts and succulent steak beautifully, its bright acidity and firm tannins ensuring a robust structure and long-lasting finish. As a vintage year, 2018 was highly favourable, leading to a Closerie Saint Roc Rouge that radiates charm, elegance, and a depth of flavour that encompasses the very essence of superior French viticulture.
In Bond£349.00 -
(12x75cl) 2020
Delight in the exceptional complexity of the Closerie Saint Roc Les Pins VdF 2020. Expertly crafted in Bordeaux, France, this distinguished wine personifies the ethos of its renowned producer, Closerie Saint Roc. Nurturing vines on calcium-rich soil, this establishment masterfully nurtures a fusion of the local Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot grapes. The 2020 vintage grants perfect ripeness ensuring smooth, balanced tannins.
The wine's elegant process involves maturation in French oak barrels, resulting in a profusion of opulent flavours. Hints of blackberry, ripe red fruit, and leafy tobacco meld in a velvety amalgam, with a persistent finish that leaves a lasting impression of its Bordeaux pedigree.
'Closerie Saint Roc Les Pins VdF 2020' embodies the robust yet graceful character expected from an authentic French wine. Add this tour-de-force to your collection and experience a symphony of taste celebrating the pinnacle of viniculture art.
In Bond£723.71 -
(12x75cl) 2020
Relish in the opulence of Closerie Saint Roc Les Sureaux VdF 2020, an exquisite exemplar of French vinification. This supreme Bordeaux blend marries Merlot's lush red fruit flavours with Cabernet Franc's herbaceous qualities, resulting in a harmonious symphony of taste. Handpicked from the esteemed vineyards of the region, the grapes undergo a regimented fermentation process in thermoregulated stainless steel vats.
Bottled by Closerie Saint Roc, a prodigious French winemaker, this grand cru reveals their unrivalled mastery in winemaking which endorses the artisanal finesse of this rare elixir. Garnet in colour, it boasts smoky plum notes on the nose followed by nuanced hints of loamy earth and spice.
Each bottle of Closerie Saint Roc Les Sureaux VdF 2020 arrives to your table showcasing an elegant balance of savoury complexity and ripe, juicy expressiveness orchestrated with captivating potency, turning each sip into an unforgettable taste journey.
In Bond£814.43 -
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£318.00 -
Vinous (94)
Inky ruby. Highly expressive, mineral-accented blackberry, cherry, potpourri and exotic spice aromas take on a licorice nuance as the wine opens up. Intense black and blue fruit, floral pastille, cola and spicecake flavors are firmed by a spine of juicy acidity. Puts on weight on an extremely persistent, sharply delineated finish that repeats the dark berry and floral notes and leaves a hint of succulent herbs and smoky minerals behind.In Bond£757.00 -
Vinous (94)
Inky ruby. Highly expressive, mineral-accented blackberry, cherry, potpourri and exotic spice aromas take on a licorice nuance as the wine opens up. Intense black and blue fruit, floral pastille, cola and spicecake flavors are firmed by a spine of juicy acidity. Puts on weight on an extremely persistent, sharply delineated finish that repeats the dark berry and floral notes and leaves a hint of succulent herbs and smoky minerals behind.In Bond£396.00 -
Vinous (94-95)
Aromas of fresh black/blue fruits, pungent flowers, olive and allspice on the incisive nose. Weighty yet lively black currant, bitter cherry and violet pastille flavors show fine delineation and take on a smoky mineral nuance on the back half. Steadily building tannins shape an extremely long, penetrating finish that echoes the floral and mineral notes. The balance of power and finesse here is pretty impressive.In Bond£396.00 -
(1x75cl) 2019
Vinous (95-97)
Highly perfumed, mineral-drenched dark berry, violet, smoky mineral and olive paste scents show excellent clarity and a hint of smokiness. Sweet, palate-staining blackberry and floral pastille flavors deepen with air and show a candied licorice note on the back half. Rich but lively as well, closing with firm cut on a persistent, sharply focused finish, which features fine-grained tannins and suave floral and exotic spice notes.In Bond£74.00 -
The Clusel Roch Cote Rotie Vialliere 2020 is an riveting expression of the terroir in Northern Rhône. Crafted by the renowned Clusel-Roch family, revered for their organic and biodynamic principles, they've lovingly nurtured this Syrah on the steep, terraced slopes of Côte-Rôtie. The soil composition of migmatite, detrital mica and schist lends a distinct character to this wine. Each grape is meticulously hand-picked and then vinified traditionally, with partial destemming, followed by a 14-18 month aging process in oak barrels. The result is a ruby-hued nectar accentuated by beautiful aromas of black fruits, spices and elegant floral undertones, leading onto a palate that boasts silky tannins and a lovely freshness. A testament to the expertise and artisanal approach of the Clusel-Roch family, savor the Clusel Roch Cote Rotie Vialliere 2020 as a sublime symphony of taste and tradition.
In Bond£302.00
