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 (95)
Perhaps the most Sauvignon-esque of all the vintage, the 2020 Buisson Renard is richly aromatic with distinctive lime, elderflower, ginger and honeysuckle aromas. It is currently most appealing for its tension as if a strong muscle is being stretched taut. It has masses of concentration and curves in the right places with an attractive sense of bitterness on the long finish. This is even better than when I tasted it from tank last year.Inc. VAT£723.12 -
Introducing the Didier Dagueneau Pouilly-Fume Intouchables 2019, a formidable vintage from one of the most venerated producers in the Loire Valley. Precision, intensity and finesse are the hallmarks of Didier Dagueneau's commitment to expressing the true essence of his terroir. Famed for its flinty soil, the vineyards yield an extraordinary Sauvignon Blanc, infused with complex mineral character.
This 2019 vintage is the product of meticulous winemaking and an exceptional growing season. Hand-harvested grapes, low-yield vines, and a temperature-controlled fermentation process contribute to the wine's unique complexity and richness. The resulting wine encapsulates impeccable balance, with vibrant acidity complementing ripe fruit notes and a luxurious mouthfeel.
With limited bottles available, the Didier Dagueneau Pouilly-Fume Intouchables 2019 represents an excellent opportunity to savour a sensation from an iconic winemaker known for his relentless pursuit of purity and perfection. A truly unrepeatable experience for the discerning palate.
Inc. VAT£2,097.20 -
Inc. VAT£820.69 -
(1x150cl) 2018Vinous (94)
Sourced from a south-facing single vineyard on flint and clay over chalk, the 2018 Pur Sang is all white flowers and spiced apple pastry. Seemingly effortless and silken, its Sauvignon edges rounded out in barrels. It offers excellent concentration on the mid-palate, a line of acidity acting like a thread and holding the core together like a ball. Delectably textured, with a hint of tannic sensation holding the mouth gently on a lengthy conclusion that's drawn-out and precise. A complex, multifaceted wine.Inc. VAT£360.24 -
Vinous (94)
Sourced from a south-facing single vineyard on flint and clay over chalk, the 2018 Pur Sang is all white flowers and spiced apple pastry. Seemingly effortless and silken, its Sauvignon edges rounded out in barrels. It offers excellent concentration on the mid-palate, a line of acidity acting like a thread and holding the core together like a ball. Delectably textured, with a hint of tannic sensation holding the mouth gently on a lengthy conclusion that's drawn-out and precise. A complex, multifaceted wine.Inc. VAT£762.72 -
Vinous (96)
What I love most about the 2019 Pur Sang is its focus and precision; the compact, light bodied core carries masses of fragrance across the palate and beyond on the long finish. There's clarity and freshness, with a thread of acidity and minerality pulling the wine through like a needle and thread. It is starting to show the very first hints of time in bottle with a hint of almond alongside the ripe melon notes and nettle tea character. Impressive stuff from this three-hectare parcel in the village of Saint Laurent l'Abbaye, about 5km northeast of the Dagueneau domaine.Inc. VAT£937.92 -
Vinous (94-95)
The 2020 Pur Sang is a compact and focused style with excellent concentration. It is as pure as glacial water. While tender and charming at first, it offers excellent precision, which is not a word you'd normally associate with the warm 2020 season. There is fine tension and structure with an integrated use of nutty oak combining with a fresh nectarine fragrance on the finish. Tasted as a tank sample, this is a 3-ha vineyard that's about 5km away from Dagueneau HQ, sitting on flint over a bedrock of chalk.Inc. VAT£741.49 -
Vinous (94-95)
The 2020 Pur Sang is a compact and focused style with excellent concentration. It is as pure as glacial water. While tender and charming at first, it offers excellent precision, which is not a word you'd normally associate with the warm 2020 season. There is fine tension and structure with an integrated use of nutty oak combining with a fresh nectarine fragrance on the finish. Tasted as a tank sample, this is a 3-ha vineyard that's about 5km away from Dagueneau HQ, sitting on flint over a bedrock of chalk.Inc. VAT£728.29 -
Vinous (92)
Pale gold. Vivid aromas of lime zest, quince and anise, with suave floral qualities adding another dimension. Opulent but finely etched, offering zesty citrus fruits, dusty minerals and an exotic note of green cardamom. Heady and fleshy but with a strikingly long finish that's focused and pure.Inc. VAT£2,120.00 -
Wine Advocate (93-94+)
From an enclave just outside the cuverie in Saint Andelain, the Dagueneau 2009 Blanc Fume de Pouilly Silex delivers an almost inordinate diversity of floral, herbal, citrus (predominately grapefruit), and pit-fruit (predominately nectarine) elements, with the bitterness of fruit pits, smoky pungency of red currant and crushed stone, as well as notes of shrimp shell reduction and iodine inflecting a long, bittersweet, yet at the same time vibrant, buoyant finish. This silken textured seducer should gain with time in bottle and be worth following for ten or a dozen years.Inc. VAT£1,995.53 -
Jancis Robinson (17+)
Cool and without obvious richness. Really refreshing and with great substance and density. More approachable in youth than I remember some Silex bottlings. You could happily enjoy this layered wine now but it should age well too. It really does taste flinty!!Inc. VAT£1,258.32 -
(1x150cl) 2019Vinous (93)
The 2019 Pouilly Fumé Silex shows an initial tenderness, sitting quietly and not shouting that it's made it into your glass. This is a wine that has its act together, feeling integrated and balanced with plentiful concentration and a savory long finish. A delicate dill note, which is a characteristic of oaked Sauvignon peeks out amid the hush.Inc. VAT£402.41 -
Vinous (93)
The 2019 Pouilly Fumé Silex shows an initial tenderness, sitting quietly and not shouting that it's made it into your glass. This is a wine that has its act together, feeling integrated and balanced with plentiful concentration and a savory long finish. A delicate dill note, which is a characteristic of oaked Sauvignon peeks out amid the hush.Inc. VAT£1,351.55 -
(6x75cl) 2020Vinous (93-94)
While this was a warm season leading to richness in many wines from the region, the Silex 2020 shows ripe fruit, but there's no sense of being overblown. The fine line that races through many wines relying on flint-based parcels is there, carrying the nectarine and oak-derived vanilla flavors, but its influence never tips into austerity nor firmness. There's a sense of tenderness that runs through its core while remaining light in body.Inc. VAT£1,318.32 -
Vinous (94)
The 2022 Silex is not a lot of fun upon release; dry and tense, it really needs time to mellow. There's flesh from the clay element of its clay-flint soils, which is felt on entry but tightens up as it moves through the mouth. This remains a wine of drive, firmness and upright structure; it speaks of the place it comes from rather than its variety. Aromatics are almost a forgotten element; this is a wine about structure and texture. There is a lemony, wild goat cheese-like note and a distinct flinty whiff. SIlex, after all, means flint in French.Inc. VAT£983.89 -
(6x75cl) 2018An exemplary offering produced by the acclaimed winemaker, the Didier Fornerol Cote-de-Nuits Villages 2018 captivates the palate with an elegant blend of fruit, floral, and earthy notes. This red wine hails from the revered vineyards of Burgundy, a region in France esteemed for its Pinot Noir-style wines. The eponymous Didier Fornerol, trusted for his meticulous techniques, displays his deftness in this particular vintage. He kept the yield low and harvested the grapes at optimum ripeness, ensuring the wine's character and complexity. The grapes underwent fermentation in old oak barrels, thus infusing the wine with soft tannins and a rounded depth. Although ready to enjoy, the Didier Fornerol Cote-de-Nuits Villages 2018 will age graciously, promising a more luxurious experience with time. This wine is a testament to Fornerol's unwavering commitment to creating beautiful expressions of the terroir's potential.
Inc. VAT£394.08 -
Experience the true essence of French viticulture with the Didier Forneol Cote Nuits Villages 2019. This exquisitely crafted red wine hails from the revered vineyards of Burgundy's Côte de Nuits region, renowned globally for its distinguished Pinot Noir. The wine is the brainchild of Didier Forneol, a respected French winemaker with decades of expertise, who carefully cultivates each grape cluster with exceptional attention to detail. Boasting a brilliant ruby hue, the Didier Forneol Cote Nuits Villages 2019 unveils an intricate bouquet of ripe redberries and soft spices upon opening, giving way to a palate graced with elegant tannins and balanced acidity. Its complex flavour profile and enduring finish render it the perfect accompaniment to a host of gastronomic delights. Offering a sophisticated demonstration of Forneol's winemaking prowess, the Didier Forneol Cote Nuits Villages 2019 is an undeniable testament to the art of fine wine production.
Inc. VAT£350.26 -
Didier Fornerol Cote-de-Nuits Villages 2021 is an exquisite embodiment of distinct Burgundy elegance. Crafted by the skilled winemaker Didier Fornerol, this red wine truly captures the unique terroir of the Cote-de-Nuits region in its every sip. Renowned for his meticulous attention to detail, Didier Fornerol employs traditional winemaking techniques, ensuring a wine of impressive balance and harmony. The careful vinification process involves hand-harvesting and fermentation in stainless steel vats, followed by maturation in oak barrels for a refined finish.
Expressing polished ruby hues, the Didier Fornerol Cote-de-Nuits Villages 2021 presents sumptuous aromas of ripe red berries and delicate floral notes. On the palate, its well-integrated tannins and bright acidity provide a captivating complexity, leading to an enduring finish. Whether you're a dedicated oenophile or just beginning your fine wine journey, this offering from Didier Fornerol is truly a testament to the excellence of the Cote-de-Nuits Villages 2021 vintage.
Inc. VAT£223.49 -
Immerse yourself in the velvety richness of Didier Morion Saint Joseph Cranilles 2017, a delightful contribution to the universe of fine wines. Acclaimed oenophile Didier Morion, the mastermind behind this distinct vinous experience, meticulously cultivates Syrah grapes in Rhone Valley's elevated slopes. The vineyard's unique terroir imparts the wine an exceptional flavour profile.
Exhibiting the 2017 vintage's climatic characteristics, this red wine marries sophistication and power with a delicate balance. Delight in the unfolding drama of dark fruit notes, intertwined with hints of black olives, pepper, and slight minerality; a testament to Didier Morion's dedication to quality and authenticity.
Each step of the winemaking process is a testament to centuries-old French techniques, evolving under Didier's stewardship. Stainless steel fermentation, partial de-stemming, and considerable maturation in neutral oak barrels lend this Didier Morion Saint Joseph Cranilles 2017 its class and complexity. Savour its long-lasting finish and pay homage to the timeless art of fine winemaking.
Inc. VAT£150.80 -
(6x150cl) 2008Indulge in the extraordinary Diebolt-Vallois Fleur de Passion Brut 2008, a coveted Champagne bursting with character. Produced in Cramant, the heart of the Côte des Blancs, this 100% Chardonnay is sourced from Grand Cru vineyards. The Diebolt-Vallois family, esteemed winemakers since 1920, approach winemaking as an artform, culminating in this exceptional vintage. Curated through traditional vinification in oak barrels, 'Fleur de Passion' embodies the perfect balance of power and finesse. It offers profound complexity with vibrant acidity and an enveloping creamy texture. The palate reveals nuanced flavours of ripe lemon and brioche, layered with a mineral-chalky undertone and outstanding length. Critics have lauded its elegance, describing it as a triumph from this celebrated producer. A remarkable embodiment of the terroir, Diebolt-Vallois Fleur de Passion Brut 2008 is indeed a connoisseur's choice, tantalising the palate and captivating the senses with every sip. A standout toast to the inimitable Diebolt-Vallois craftsmanship.
Inc. VAT£4,437.67 -
(6x75cl) 2008Indulge in the extraordinary Diebolt-Vallois Fleur de Passion Brut 2008, a coveted Champagne bursting with character. Produced in Cramant, the heart of the Côte des Blancs, this 100% Chardonnay is sourced from Grand Cru vineyards. The Diebolt-Vallois family, esteemed winemakers since 1920, approach winemaking as an artform, culminating in this exceptional vintage. Curated through traditional vinification in oak barrels, 'Fleur de Passion' embodies the perfect balance of power and finesse. It offers profound complexity with vibrant acidity and an enveloping creamy texture. The palate reveals nuanced flavours of ripe lemon and brioche, layered with a mineral-chalky undertone and outstanding length. Critics have lauded its elegance, describing it as a triumph from this celebrated producer. A remarkable embodiment of the terroir, Diebolt-Vallois Fleur de Passion Brut 2008 is indeed a connoisseur's choice, tantalising the palate and captivating the senses with every sip. A standout toast to the inimitable Diebolt-Vallois craftsmanship.
Inc. VAT£2,696.66 -
Decanter (96)
Lemon peel and wet chalk notes grow to include ripe apricot, flowers, marzipan and spice. Although the wine never loses its elegance, it shows impressive intensity and concentration and has the substance to linger almost indefinitely. It is from the oldest vines of the domaine, particularly the lieu-dit Les Buzons, fermented in cask without malolactic fermentation, and bottled unfined and unfiltered. One of the greats, this will age for decades to come.Inc. VAT£906.26 -
(6x75cl) 2012Envelop your palate in the taste of premium champagne with Diebolt-Vallois Fleur de Passion Brut 2012. This exceptional bottle emanates from the famed Champagne region of France, meticulously crafted by the prestigious Diebolt-Vallois winery. A family-run venture, Diebolt-Vallois's illustrious heritage dates back to the 15th century, and their expertise is truly reflected in this vintage.
The Diebolt-Vallois Fleur de Passion Brut 2012 is made using 100% Chardonnay grapes, purely selected from the house's oldest vines — a testament to the meticulous attention to quality and detail. The result is the embodiment of elegance: a profound golden hue, a bouquet brimming with sublime harmony, and a palate offering hints of ripe fruits and toasted almonds, making this vintage a symphony for the senses. Its vibrant acidity, perfectly complemented by an expressive minerality, showcases the beautiful complexity of this champagne.
This is a wine for true connoisseurs, offering a remarkable tasting experience that encapsulates the legacy of Diebolt-Vallois.
Inc. VAT£1,154.66 -
(12x37.5cl) 2009Vinous - Neal Martin (95)
The last time I tasted the 2009 Doisy-Daëne, I felt it was in a dumb phase. This bottle suggests that it is no longer in that phase! It has a lovely bouquet with honey, white peach, nougat and light marzipan scents, growing in intensity with just a touch of lavender. Wonderful definition. The palate is very well defined with superb concentration, a surfeit of botrytis, tangy marmalade and quince notes with a touch of ginger enlivening the finish. What an outstanding Doisy-Daëne! Tasted at the vertical at Doisy-Daëne.Inc. VAT£256.32 -
(1x75cl) 2014Vinous - Neal Martin (96)
The 2014 Doisy-Daëne has a fragrant bouquet with dried honey, almond, peach skin and orange blossom aromas that gently unfold with aeration. The palate is medium-bodied with a fine bead of acidity, fresh and poised with a captivating undercurrent of mineralité that surfaces towards the finish and counters the richness of this finely made Sauternes. Tasted blind at the annual Southwold tasting.Inc. VAT£97.73 -
(12x37.5cl) 2017Vinous - Antonio Galloni (97)
The 2017 Doisy-Daëne is so compelling. Rich and ample in the glass, the 2017 just blossoms with a bit of time. Candied apricot, exotic white flowers, mint, hazelnut and chamomile notes confer richness. The 2017 is deep, powerful and wonderfully resonant from start to finish. Moreover, it has very few peers in this vintage, one of them being the top-of-the line L'Extravagant.Inc. VAT£261.85 -
(12x37.5cl) 2019Vinous - Neal Martin (96)
The 2019 Doisy-Daëne has a gorgeous bouquet of wild honey, quince, saffron and touch of shucked oyster shell, intense and utterly seductive. The palate is well balanced, taut and fresh, with a fine bead of such perfectly pitched acidity that you barely notice the botrytized finish. An outstanding wine from Jean-Jacques Dubourdieu.Inc. VAT£254.00 -
(12x75cl) 2019Vinous - Neal Martin (96)
The 2019 Doisy-Daëne has a gorgeous bouquet of wild honey, quince, saffron and touch of shucked oyster shell, intense and utterly seductive. The palate is well balanced, taut and fresh, with a fine bead of such perfectly pitched acidity that you barely notice the botrytized finish. An outstanding wine from Jean-Jacques Dubourdieu.Inc. VAT£476.81 -
(12x75cl) 2020Decanter (96)
Rich and powerful, this is a seductive Barsac that has a great balance of acidity and sweetness, nothing too over the top, full of lime zest and mandarin, with tongue-licking slate on the finish. Great stuff, extremely well balanced. A yield of 16hl/ha. 10 months in barrel for ageing followed by nine months in stainless steel.Inc. VAT£440.64 -
(6x75cl) 2020Decanter (96)
Rich and powerful, this is a seductive Barsac that has a great balance of acidity and sweetness, nothing too over the top, full of lime zest and mandarin, with tongue-licking slate on the finish. Great stuff, extremely well balanced. A yield of 16hl/ha. 10 months in barrel for ageing followed by nine months in stainless steel.Inc. VAT£204.12
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Vinous (95)
Perhaps the most Sauvignon-esque of all the vintage, the 2020 Buisson Renard is richly aromatic with distinctive lime, elderflower, ginger and honeysuckle aromas. It is currently most appealing for its tension as if a strong muscle is being stretched taut. It has masses of concentration and curves in the right places with an attractive sense of bitterness on the long finish. This is even better than when I tasted it from tank last year.In Bond£584.00 -
Introducing the Didier Dagueneau Pouilly-Fume Intouchables 2019, a formidable vintage from one of the most venerated producers in the Loire Valley. Precision, intensity and finesse are the hallmarks of Didier Dagueneau's commitment to expressing the true essence of his terroir. Famed for its flinty soil, the vineyards yield an extraordinary Sauvignon Blanc, infused with complex mineral character.
This 2019 vintage is the product of meticulous winemaking and an exceptional growing season. Hand-harvested grapes, low-yield vines, and a temperature-controlled fermentation process contribute to the wine's unique complexity and richness. The resulting wine encapsulates impeccable balance, with vibrant acidity complementing ripe fruit notes and a luxurious mouthfeel.
With limited bottles available, the Didier Dagueneau Pouilly-Fume Intouchables 2019 represents an excellent opportunity to savour a sensation from an iconic winemaker known for his relentless pursuit of purity and perfection. A truly unrepeatable experience for the discerning palate.
In Bond£1,727.00 -
In Bond£666.00
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(1x150cl) 2018
Vinous (94)
Sourced from a south-facing single vineyard on flint and clay over chalk, the 2018 Pur Sang is all white flowers and spiced apple pastry. Seemingly effortless and silken, its Sauvignon edges rounded out in barrels. It offers excellent concentration on the mid-palate, a line of acidity acting like a thread and holding the core together like a ball. Delectably textured, with a hint of tannic sensation holding the mouth gently on a lengthy conclusion that's drawn-out and precise. A complex, multifaceted wine.In Bond£294.00 -
Vinous (94)
Sourced from a south-facing single vineyard on flint and clay over chalk, the 2018 Pur Sang is all white flowers and spiced apple pastry. Seemingly effortless and silken, its Sauvignon edges rounded out in barrels. It offers excellent concentration on the mid-palate, a line of acidity acting like a thread and holding the core together like a ball. Delectably textured, with a hint of tannic sensation holding the mouth gently on a lengthy conclusion that's drawn-out and precise. A complex, multifaceted wine.In Bond£617.00 -
Vinous (96)
What I love most about the 2019 Pur Sang is its focus and precision; the compact, light bodied core carries masses of fragrance across the palate and beyond on the long finish. There's clarity and freshness, with a thread of acidity and minerality pulling the wine through like a needle and thread. It is starting to show the very first hints of time in bottle with a hint of almond alongside the ripe melon notes and nettle tea character. Impressive stuff from this three-hectare parcel in the village of Saint Laurent l'Abbaye, about 5km northeast of the Dagueneau domaine.In Bond£763.00 -
Vinous (94-95)
The 2020 Pur Sang is a compact and focused style with excellent concentration. It is as pure as glacial water. While tender and charming at first, it offers excellent precision, which is not a word you'd normally associate with the warm 2020 season. There is fine tension and structure with an integrated use of nutty oak combining with a fresh nectarine fragrance on the finish. Tasted as a tank sample, this is a 3-ha vineyard that's about 5km away from Dagueneau HQ, sitting on flint over a bedrock of chalk.In Bond£600.00 -
Vinous (94-95)
The 2020 Pur Sang is a compact and focused style with excellent concentration. It is as pure as glacial water. While tender and charming at first, it offers excellent precision, which is not a word you'd normally associate with the warm 2020 season. There is fine tension and structure with an integrated use of nutty oak combining with a fresh nectarine fragrance on the finish. Tasted as a tank sample, this is a 3-ha vineyard that's about 5km away from Dagueneau HQ, sitting on flint over a bedrock of chalk.In Bond£589.00 -
Vinous (92)
Pale gold. Vivid aromas of lime zest, quince and anise, with suave floral qualities adding another dimension. Opulent but finely etched, offering zesty citrus fruits, dusty minerals and an exotic note of green cardamom. Heady and fleshy but with a strikingly long finish that's focused and pure.In Bond£1,746.00 -
Wine Advocate (93-94+)
From an enclave just outside the cuverie in Saint Andelain, the Dagueneau 2009 Blanc Fume de Pouilly Silex delivers an almost inordinate diversity of floral, herbal, citrus (predominately grapefruit), and pit-fruit (predominately nectarine) elements, with the bitterness of fruit pits, smoky pungency of red currant and crushed stone, as well as notes of shrimp shell reduction and iodine inflecting a long, bittersweet, yet at the same time vibrant, buoyant finish. This silken textured seducer should gain with time in bottle and be worth following for ten or a dozen years.In Bond£1,651.00 -
Jancis Robinson (17+)
Cool and without obvious richness. Really refreshing and with great substance and density. More approachable in youth than I remember some Silex bottlings. You could happily enjoy this layered wine now but it should age well too. It really does taste flinty!!In Bond£1,030.00 -
(1x150cl) 2019
Vinous (93)
The 2019 Pouilly Fumé Silex shows an initial tenderness, sitting quietly and not shouting that it's made it into your glass. This is a wine that has its act together, feeling integrated and balanced with plentiful concentration and a savory long finish. A delicate dill note, which is a characteristic of oaked Sauvignon peeks out amid the hush.In Bond£330.00 -
Vinous (93)
The 2019 Pouilly Fumé Silex shows an initial tenderness, sitting quietly and not shouting that it's made it into your glass. This is a wine that has its act together, feeling integrated and balanced with plentiful concentration and a savory long finish. A delicate dill note, which is a characteristic of oaked Sauvignon peeks out amid the hush.In Bond£1,107.00 -
(6x75cl) 2020
Vinous (93-94)
While this was a warm season leading to richness in many wines from the region, the Silex 2020 shows ripe fruit, but there's no sense of being overblown. The fine line that races through many wines relying on flint-based parcels is there, carrying the nectarine and oak-derived vanilla flavors, but its influence never tips into austerity nor firmness. There's a sense of tenderness that runs through its core while remaining light in body.In Bond£1,080.00 -
Vinous (94)
The 2022 Silex is not a lot of fun upon release; dry and tense, it really needs time to mellow. There's flesh from the clay element of its clay-flint soils, which is felt on entry but tightens up as it moves through the mouth. This remains a wine of drive, firmness and upright structure; it speaks of the place it comes from rather than its variety. Aromatics are almost a forgotten element; this is a wine about structure and texture. There is a lemony, wild goat cheese-like note and a distinct flinty whiff. SIlex, after all, means flint in French.In Bond£802.00 -
(6x75cl) 2018
An exemplary offering produced by the acclaimed winemaker, the Didier Fornerol Cote-de-Nuits Villages 2018 captivates the palate with an elegant blend of fruit, floral, and earthy notes. This red wine hails from the revered vineyards of Burgundy, a region in France esteemed for its Pinot Noir-style wines. The eponymous Didier Fornerol, trusted for his meticulous techniques, displays his deftness in this particular vintage. He kept the yield low and harvested the grapes at optimum ripeness, ensuring the wine's character and complexity. The grapes underwent fermentation in old oak barrels, thus infusing the wine with soft tannins and a rounded depth. Although ready to enjoy, the Didier Fornerol Cote-de-Nuits Villages 2018 will age graciously, promising a more luxurious experience with time. This wine is a testament to Fornerol's unwavering commitment to creating beautiful expressions of the terroir's potential.
In Bond£312.37 -
Experience the true essence of French viticulture with the Didier Forneol Cote Nuits Villages 2019. This exquisitely crafted red wine hails from the revered vineyards of Burgundy's Côte de Nuits region, renowned globally for its distinguished Pinot Noir. The wine is the brainchild of Didier Forneol, a respected French winemaker with decades of expertise, who carefully cultivates each grape cluster with exceptional attention to detail. Boasting a brilliant ruby hue, the Didier Forneol Cote Nuits Villages 2019 unveils an intricate bouquet of ripe redberries and soft spices upon opening, giving way to a palate graced with elegant tannins and balanced acidity. Its complex flavour profile and enduring finish render it the perfect accompaniment to a host of gastronomic delights. Offering a sophisticated demonstration of Forneol's winemaking prowess, the Didier Forneol Cote Nuits Villages 2019 is an undeniable testament to the art of fine wine production.
In Bond£273.00 -
Didier Fornerol Cote-de-Nuits Villages 2021 is an exquisite embodiment of distinct Burgundy elegance. Crafted by the skilled winemaker Didier Fornerol, this red wine truly captures the unique terroir of the Cote-de-Nuits region in its every sip. Renowned for his meticulous attention to detail, Didier Fornerol employs traditional winemaking techniques, ensuring a wine of impressive balance and harmony. The careful vinification process involves hand-harvesting and fermentation in stainless steel vats, followed by maturation in oak barrels for a refined finish.
Expressing polished ruby hues, the Didier Fornerol Cote-de-Nuits Villages 2021 presents sumptuous aromas of ripe red berries and delicate floral notes. On the palate, its well-integrated tannins and bright acidity provide a captivating complexity, leading to an enduring finish. Whether you're a dedicated oenophile or just beginning your fine wine journey, this offering from Didier Fornerol is truly a testament to the excellence of the Cote-de-Nuits Villages 2021 vintage.
In Bond£167.00 -
Immerse yourself in the velvety richness of Didier Morion Saint Joseph Cranilles 2017, a delightful contribution to the universe of fine wines. Acclaimed oenophile Didier Morion, the mastermind behind this distinct vinous experience, meticulously cultivates Syrah grapes in Rhone Valley's elevated slopes. The vineyard's unique terroir imparts the wine an exceptional flavour profile.
Exhibiting the 2017 vintage's climatic characteristics, this red wine marries sophistication and power with a delicate balance. Delight in the unfolding drama of dark fruit notes, intertwined with hints of black olives, pepper, and slight minerality; a testament to Didier Morion's dedication to quality and authenticity.
Each step of the winemaking process is a testament to centuries-old French techniques, evolving under Didier's stewardship. Stainless steel fermentation, partial de-stemming, and considerable maturation in neutral oak barrels lend this Didier Morion Saint Joseph Cranilles 2017 its class and complexity. Savour its long-lasting finish and pay homage to the timeless art of fine winemaking.
In Bond£105.00 -
(6x150cl) 2008
Indulge in the extraordinary Diebolt-Vallois Fleur de Passion Brut 2008, a coveted Champagne bursting with character. Produced in Cramant, the heart of the Côte des Blancs, this 100% Chardonnay is sourced from Grand Cru vineyards. The Diebolt-Vallois family, esteemed winemakers since 1920, approach winemaking as an artform, culminating in this exceptional vintage. Curated through traditional vinification in oak barrels, 'Fleur de Passion' embodies the perfect balance of power and finesse. It offers profound complexity with vibrant acidity and an enveloping creamy texture. The palate reveals nuanced flavours of ripe lemon and brioche, layered with a mineral-chalky undertone and outstanding length. Critics have lauded its elegance, describing it as a triumph from this celebrated producer. A remarkable embodiment of the terroir, Diebolt-Vallois Fleur de Passion Brut 2008 is indeed a connoisseur's choice, tantalising the palate and captivating the senses with every sip. A standout toast to the inimitable Diebolt-Vallois craftsmanship.
In Bond£3,666.00 -
(6x75cl) 2008
Indulge in the extraordinary Diebolt-Vallois Fleur de Passion Brut 2008, a coveted Champagne bursting with character. Produced in Cramant, the heart of the Côte des Blancs, this 100% Chardonnay is sourced from Grand Cru vineyards. The Diebolt-Vallois family, esteemed winemakers since 1920, approach winemaking as an artform, culminating in this exceptional vintage. Curated through traditional vinification in oak barrels, 'Fleur de Passion' embodies the perfect balance of power and finesse. It offers profound complexity with vibrant acidity and an enveloping creamy texture. The palate reveals nuanced flavours of ripe lemon and brioche, layered with a mineral-chalky undertone and outstanding length. Critics have lauded its elegance, describing it as a triumph from this celebrated producer. A remarkable embodiment of the terroir, Diebolt-Vallois Fleur de Passion Brut 2008 is indeed a connoisseur's choice, tantalising the palate and captivating the senses with every sip. A standout toast to the inimitable Diebolt-Vallois craftsmanship.
In Bond£2,230.00 -
Decanter (96)
Lemon peel and wet chalk notes grow to include ripe apricot, flowers, marzipan and spice. Although the wine never loses its elegance, it shows impressive intensity and concentration and has the substance to linger almost indefinitely. It is from the oldest vines of the domaine, particularly the lieu-dit Les Buzons, fermented in cask without malolactic fermentation, and bottled unfined and unfiltered. One of the greats, this will age for decades to come.In Bond£738.00 -
(6x75cl) 2012
Envelop your palate in the taste of premium champagne with Diebolt-Vallois Fleur de Passion Brut 2012. This exceptional bottle emanates from the famed Champagne region of France, meticulously crafted by the prestigious Diebolt-Vallois winery. A family-run venture, Diebolt-Vallois's illustrious heritage dates back to the 15th century, and their expertise is truly reflected in this vintage.
The Diebolt-Vallois Fleur de Passion Brut 2012 is made using 100% Chardonnay grapes, purely selected from the house's oldest vines — a testament to the meticulous attention to quality and detail. The result is the embodiment of elegance: a profound golden hue, a bouquet brimming with sublime harmony, and a palate offering hints of ripe fruits and toasted almonds, making this vintage a symphony for the senses. Its vibrant acidity, perfectly complemented by an expressive minerality, showcases the beautiful complexity of this champagne.
This is a wine for true connoisseurs, offering a remarkable tasting experience that encapsulates the legacy of Diebolt-Vallois.
In Bond£945.00 -
(12x37.5cl) 2009
Vinous - Neal Martin (95)
The last time I tasted the 2009 Doisy-Daëne, I felt it was in a dumb phase. This bottle suggests that it is no longer in that phase! It has a lovely bouquet with honey, white peach, nougat and light marzipan scents, growing in intensity with just a touch of lavender. Wonderful definition. The palate is very well defined with superb concentration, a surfeit of botrytis, tangy marmalade and quince notes with a touch of ginger enlivening the finish. What an outstanding Doisy-Daëne! Tasted at the vertical at Doisy-Daëne.In Bond£195.00 -
(1x75cl) 2014
Vinous - Neal Martin (96)
The 2014 Doisy-Daëne has a fragrant bouquet with dried honey, almond, peach skin and orange blossom aromas that gently unfold with aeration. The palate is medium-bodied with a fine bead of acidity, fresh and poised with a captivating undercurrent of mineralité that surfaces towards the finish and counters the richness of this finely made Sauternes. Tasted blind at the annual Southwold tasting.In Bond£78.00 -
(12x37.5cl) 2017
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (97)
The 2017 Doisy-Daëne is so compelling. Rich and ample in the glass, the 2017 just blossoms with a bit of time. Candied apricot, exotic white flowers, mint, hazelnut and chamomile notes confer richness. The 2017 is deep, powerful and wonderfully resonant from start to finish. Moreover, it has very few peers in this vintage, one of them being the top-of-the line L'Extravagant.In Bond£198.97 -
(12x37.5cl) 2019
Vinous - Neal Martin (96)
The 2019 Doisy-Daëne has a gorgeous bouquet of wild honey, quince, saffron and touch of shucked oyster shell, intense and utterly seductive. The palate is well balanced, taut and fresh, with a fine bead of such perfectly pitched acidity that you barely notice the botrytized finish. An outstanding wine from Jean-Jacques Dubourdieu.In Bond£191.00 -
(12x75cl) 2019
Vinous - Neal Martin (96)
The 2019 Doisy-Daëne has a gorgeous bouquet of wild honey, quince, saffron and touch of shucked oyster shell, intense and utterly seductive. The palate is well balanced, taut and fresh, with a fine bead of such perfectly pitched acidity that you barely notice the botrytized finish. An outstanding wine from Jean-Jacques Dubourdieu.In Bond£356.00 -
(12x75cl) 2020
Decanter (96)
Rich and powerful, this is a seductive Barsac that has a great balance of acidity and sweetness, nothing too over the top, full of lime zest and mandarin, with tongue-licking slate on the finish. Great stuff, extremely well balanced. A yield of 16hl/ha. 10 months in barrel for ageing followed by nine months in stainless steel.In Bond£330.00 -
(6x75cl) 2020
Decanter (96)
Rich and powerful, this is a seductive Barsac that has a great balance of acidity and sweetness, nothing too over the top, full of lime zest and mandarin, with tongue-licking slate on the finish. Great stuff, extremely well balanced. A yield of 16hl/ha. 10 months in barrel for ageing followed by nine months in stainless steel.In Bond£151.50
