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 - Antonio Galloni (96-98)
Do you want the good news or the bad news first? Let's start with the good. The 2021 Pichon Comtesse is epic and certainly among the great wines of this vintage. Sadly, the coulure and mildew in the first year of organic farming plus dehydration at the end of the growing season took with it fully two thirds of the crop. In other words, there's not much wine to go around. Rich and sumptuous in the glass, yet clocking in at 12.9% alcohol, the 2021 is beautifully layered and totally sensual from the very first taste. Hints of red fruit, flowers, mint, white pepper and dried savory herbs develop with a bit of coaxing. The Cabernet Sauvignon, at 88%, is very high by historical standards. Quite simply, the 2021 is a tour de force from Technical Director Nicolas Glumineau and his team. If there is one wine readers will absolutely jump on en primeur it is Pichon Comtesse. Should the bottled wine turn out as well as this sample, pricing is likely to jump materially because of the tiny production. Don't miss it.Inc. VAT£3,013.00 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (96-98)
Do you want the good news or the bad news first? Let's start with the good. The 2021 Pichon Comtesse is epic and certainly among the great wines of this vintage. Sadly, the coulure and mildew in the first year of organic farming plus dehydration at the end of the growing season took with it fully two thirds of the crop. In other words, there's not much wine to go around. Rich and sumptuous in the glass, yet clocking in at 12.9% alcohol, the 2021 is beautifully layered and totally sensual from the very first taste. Hints of red fruit, flowers, mint, white pepper and dried savory herbs develop with a bit of coaxing. The Cabernet Sauvignon, at 88%, is very high by historical standards. Quite simply, the 2021 is a tour de force from Technical Director Nicolas Glumineau and his team. If there is one wine readers will absolutely jump on en primeur it is Pichon Comtesse. Should the bottled wine turn out as well as this sample, pricing is likely to jump materially because of the tiny production. Don't miss it.Inc. VAT£193.79 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (96-98)
Do you want the good news or the bad news first? Let's start with the good. The 2021 Pichon Comtesse is epic and certainly among the great wines of this vintage. Sadly, the coulure and mildew in the first year of organic farming plus dehydration at the end of the growing season took with it fully two thirds of the crop. In other words, there's not much wine to go around. Rich and sumptuous in the glass, yet clocking in at 12.9% alcohol, the 2021 is beautifully layered and totally sensual from the very first taste. Hints of red fruit, flowers, mint, white pepper and dried savory herbs develop with a bit of coaxing. The Cabernet Sauvignon, at 88%, is very high by historical standards. Quite simply, the 2021 is a tour de force from Technical Director Nicolas Glumineau and his team. If there is one wine readers will absolutely jump on en primeur it is Pichon Comtesse. Should the bottled wine turn out as well as this sample, pricing is likely to jump materially because of the tiny production. Don't miss it.Inc. VAT£497.95 -
(6x150cl) 2021Vinous - Antonio Galloni (96-98)
Do you want the good news or the bad news first? Let's start with the good. The 2021 Pichon Comtesse is epic and certainly among the great wines of this vintage. Sadly, the coulure and mildew in the first year of organic farming plus dehydration at the end of the growing season took with it fully two thirds of the crop. In other words, there's not much wine to go around. Rich and sumptuous in the glass, yet clocking in at 12.9% alcohol, the 2021 is beautifully layered and totally sensual from the very first taste. Hints of red fruit, flowers, mint, white pepper and dried savory herbs develop with a bit of coaxing. The Cabernet Sauvignon, at 88%, is very high by historical standards. Quite simply, the 2021 is a tour de force from Technical Director Nicolas Glumineau and his team. If there is one wine readers will absolutely jump on en primeur it is Pichon Comtesse. Should the bottled wine turn out as well as this sample, pricing is likely to jump materially because of the tiny production. Don't miss it.Inc. VAT£1,617.40 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (96-98)
Do you want the good news or the bad news first? Let's start with the good. The 2021 Pichon Comtesse is epic and certainly among the great wines of this vintage. Sadly, the coulure and mildew in the first year of organic farming plus dehydration at the end of the growing season took with it fully two thirds of the crop. In other words, there's not much wine to go around. Rich and sumptuous in the glass, yet clocking in at 12.9% alcohol, the 2021 is beautifully layered and totally sensual from the very first taste. Hints of red fruit, flowers, mint, white pepper and dried savory herbs develop with a bit of coaxing. The Cabernet Sauvignon, at 88%, is very high by historical standards. Quite simply, the 2021 is a tour de force from Technical Director Nicolas Glumineau and his team. If there is one wine readers will absolutely jump on en primeur it is Pichon Comtesse. Should the bottled wine turn out as well as this sample, pricing is likely to jump materially because of the tiny production. Don't miss it.Inc. VAT£629.29 -
Wine Advocate (100)
The 2022 Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande has turned out even better in bottle than I anticipated, bursting from the glass with aromas of cassis and blackberries mingled with scents of licorice, violets and pencil shavings. Full-bodied, layered and enveloping, it's suave, seamless and complete, with faultless precision, pristine integration of tannin, controlled sweetness and a long, expansive finish. The 2022 manages to unite the sensuality that's the estate's calling card and the ripeness of the vintage on the one hand, with a sense of Pauillac classicism on the other, threading the needle to deliver one of the finest wines of the vintage and a benchmark Pichon Comtesse. It's a blend of 78% Cabernet Sauvignon, 17% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc that spent 18 months in barriques (three months more than was formerly the case), two-thirds of which were new. As I wrote en primeur, there's more than a hint of the 1982 about this wine, and like the 1982, the 2022 will offer an exceptionally wide drinking window.Inc. VAT£2,088.24 -
Wine Advocate (100)
The 2022 Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande has turned out even better in bottle than I anticipated, bursting from the glass with aromas of cassis and blackberries mingled with scents of licorice, violets and pencil shavings. Full-bodied, layered and enveloping, it's suave, seamless and complete, with faultless precision, pristine integration of tannin, controlled sweetness and a long, expansive finish. The 2022 manages to unite the sensuality that's the estate's calling card and the ripeness of the vintage on the one hand, with a sense of Pauillac classicism on the other, threading the needle to deliver one of the finest wines of the vintage and a benchmark Pichon Comtesse. It's a blend of 78% Cabernet Sauvignon, 17% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc that spent 18 months in barriques (three months more than was formerly the case), two-thirds of which were new. As I wrote en primeur, there's more than a hint of the 1982 about this wine, and like the 1982, the 2022 will offer an exceptionally wide drinking window.Inc. VAT£826.08 -
Wine Advocate (100)
The 2022 Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande has turned out even better in bottle than I anticipated, bursting from the glass with aromas of cassis and blackberries mingled with scents of licorice, violets and pencil shavings. Full-bodied, layered and enveloping, it's suave, seamless and complete, with faultless precision, pristine integration of tannin, controlled sweetness and a long, expansive finish. The 2022 manages to unite the sensuality that's the estate's calling card and the ripeness of the vintage on the one hand, with a sense of Pauillac classicism on the other, threading the needle to deliver one of the finest wines of the vintage and a benchmark Pichon Comtesse. It's a blend of 78% Cabernet Sauvignon, 17% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc that spent 18 months in barriques (three months more than was formerly the case), two-thirds of which were new. As I wrote en primeur, there's more than a hint of the 1982 about this wine, and like the 1982, the 2022 will offer an exceptionally wide drinking window.Inc. VAT£1,625.76 -
Wine Advocate (100)
The 2022 Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande has turned out even better in bottle than I anticipated, bursting from the glass with aromas of cassis and blackberries mingled with scents of licorice, violets and pencil shavings. Full-bodied, layered and enveloping, it's suave, seamless and complete, with faultless precision, pristine integration of tannin, controlled sweetness and a long, expansive finish. The 2022 manages to unite the sensuality that's the estate's calling card and the ripeness of the vintage on the one hand, with a sense of Pauillac classicism on the other, threading the needle to deliver one of the finest wines of the vintage and a benchmark Pichon Comtesse. It's a blend of 78% Cabernet Sauvignon, 17% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc that spent 18 months in barriques (three months more than was formerly the case), two-thirds of which were new. As I wrote en primeur, there's more than a hint of the 1982 about this wine, and like the 1982, the 2022 will offer an exceptionally wide drinking window.Inc. VAT£1,164.72 -
Wine Advocate (100)
The 2022 Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande has turned out even better in bottle than I anticipated, bursting from the glass with aromas of cassis and blackberries mingled with scents of licorice, violets and pencil shavings. Full-bodied, layered and enveloping, it's suave, seamless and complete, with faultless precision, pristine integration of tannin, controlled sweetness and a long, expansive finish. The 2022 manages to unite the sensuality that's the estate's calling card and the ripeness of the vintage on the one hand, with a sense of Pauillac classicism on the other, threading the needle to deliver one of the finest wines of the vintage and a benchmark Pichon Comtesse. It's a blend of 78% Cabernet Sauvignon, 17% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc that spent 18 months in barriques (three months more than was formerly the case), two-thirds of which were new. As I wrote en primeur, there's more than a hint of the 1982 about this wine, and like the 1982, the 2022 will offer an exceptionally wide drinking window.Inc. VAT£633.96 -
Wine Advocate (100)
The 2022 Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande has turned out even better in bottle than I anticipated, bursting from the glass with aromas of cassis and blackberries mingled with scents of licorice, violets and pencil shavings. Full-bodied, layered and enveloping, it's suave, seamless and complete, with faultless precision, pristine integration of tannin, controlled sweetness and a long, expansive finish. The 2022 manages to unite the sensuality that's the estate's calling card and the ripeness of the vintage on the one hand, with a sense of Pauillac classicism on the other, threading the needle to deliver one of the finest wines of the vintage and a benchmark Pichon Comtesse. It's a blend of 78% Cabernet Sauvignon, 17% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc that spent 18 months in barriques (three months more than was formerly the case), two-thirds of which were new. As I wrote en primeur, there's more than a hint of the 1982 about this wine, and like the 1982, the 2022 will offer an exceptionally wide drinking window.Inc. VAT£995.52 -
(12x75cl) 2023James Suckling (98-99)
Wow. This is really excellent, with superb finesse and focus. It has tight density that is almost diamond-like in its brilliance. Medium to full body, with a quality of tannin that is incredibly seamless. Like silk in texture. A top Pichon Lalande. From organic and biodynamically grown grapes. 80% cabernet sauvignon, 17% merlot and 3% cabernet franc. May be better than 2022.Inc. VAT£1,633.61 -
James Suckling (98-99)
Wow. This is really excellent, with superb finesse and focus. It has tight density that is almost diamond-like in its brilliance. Medium to full body, with a quality of tannin that is incredibly seamless. Like silk in texture. A top Pichon Lalande. From organic and biodynamically grown grapes. 80% cabernet sauvignon, 17% merlot and 3% cabernet franc. May be better than 2022.Inc. VAT£814.49 -
James Suckling (98-99)
Wow. This is really excellent, with superb finesse and focus. It has tight density that is almost diamond-like in its brilliance. Medium to full body, with a quality of tannin that is incredibly seamless. Like silk in texture. A top Pichon Lalande. From organic and biodynamically grown grapes. 80% cabernet sauvignon, 17% merlot and 3% cabernet franc. May be better than 2022.Inc. VAT£469.00 -
James Suckling (98-99)
Wow. This is really excellent, with superb finesse and focus. It has tight density that is almost diamond-like in its brilliance. Medium to full body, with a quality of tannin that is incredibly seamless. Like silk in texture. A top Pichon Lalande. From organic and biodynamically grown grapes. 80% cabernet sauvignon, 17% merlot and 3% cabernet franc. May be better than 2022.Inc. VAT£712.40 -
(12x75cl) 2022James Suckling (95-96)
The density of fruit is serious with blackcurrants, black berries, crushed stone and coffee beans. Yet it’s not heavy and overdone. The palate is full and rich, but also agile and weightless, with tannins that are spread and pretty.Inc. VAT£619.00 -
(12x75cl) 2023Vinous - Antonio Galloni (93)
The 2023 Réserve de la Comtesse is superb. In some recent vintages, I have felt the Réserve was a bit too serious for a second wine. That is not at all the case with the 2023, a wine of sublime elegance and finesse. Floral top notes meld into a core of dark red/purplish fruit, pomegranate, blood orange and cinnamon. This is the Réserve with the highest amount of Cabernet Sauvignon ever.Inc. VAT£580.01 -
IPicque Caillou Pessac-Leognan 2016 stands as a paragon of the vintage year, hailing from the acclaimed Pessac-Leognan region within Bordeaux, France. Crafted precisely on an exceptional gravel terroir, this exquisite fine wine boasts a harmonious blend of quintessential Bordeaux grape varieties, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Following a meticulous manual harvest, the grapes undergo traditional vinification methods, eclipsed by meticulous barrel ageing in French oak for optimum refinement.
The proprietor, Paulin Calvet, endows the Picque Caillou Pessac-Leognan 2016 with exceptional pedigree, demonstrating an unerring commitment to meticulous quality control and sustainable viticulture. This enchanting rouge surmounts an exuberant bouquet of red fruits, forest floor and exotic spices, with a hint of mint, followed by an elegantly structured palate accentuated by silky tannins, poised acidity, and splendid longevity. A fine testament to the combination of exceptional terroir and the visionary genius of Calvet, the Picque Caillou Pessac-Leognan 2016 would shine as the pièce de résistance at any connoisseur's table.
Inc. VAT£268.01 -
(12x75cl) 2017Discover the exquisite delight of the Picque Caillou Pessac-Leognan 2017. Emanating from the esteemed Pessac-Leognan appellation in the grand Bordeaux region, this delectable vintage exudes the expertise of its winemakers. The vineyard, nestled in the gravelly heartland of Bordeaux, ensures root depth for freedom in expressing unique varietal characters. The wine blend features 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Merlot, promising complexities and richness.
Produced under the skilled hands of Picque Caillou, the wine demonstrates a brilliant straw yellow colour. The fragrance combines elements of citrus and white peach with soft brioche undertones, reminiscent of the region's classic allure. The elaborate process sees fermemtation in oak barrels, then meticulously ageing for a further 10 months, which contributes to a classy finish.
The Picque Caillou Pessac-Leognan 2017 speaks volumes about the winery's unwavering commitment to quality, illustrating a seamless amalgamation of traditional winemaking and contemporary expertise.
Inc. VAT£285.67 -
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Wine Advocate (91-93+)
.Inc. VAT£299.38 -
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(12x75cl) 2020Jeb Dunnuck (90-92)
Lifted blue fruits, violets, Christmas spice, and some chocolate nuances emerge from the 2020 Château Picque Caillou, a medium to full-bodied, up-front, seamless, and beautifully balanced Pessac-Léognan. Despite plenty of up-front fruit, it also has solid underlying structure as well as ripe, polished tannins. It’s another beautiful wine from this appellation that should drink well in its youth yet also evolve gracefully.Inc. VAT£262.18 -
(6x75cl) 2021James Suckling (92-93)
Deep dark fruit with blackberry, black-truffle with orange-peel undertones. Medium-bodied with juicy fruit and a flavorful finish.Inc. VAT£233.09 -
The prestigious Pied Mont Chauve Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru Clos Saint Jean Blanc 2019, epitomises the robust elegance of Chassagne-Montrachet's acclaimed vineyards. Produced in the world-renowned Burgundy region of France, this French white is cultivated on the revered iron-rich clay and limestone soils of the monopole Clos Saint Jean vineyard.
Manifactured by the esteemed Pied Mont Chauve, a boutique family-run estate inherited by Françoise and Nicolas Potel, their ingenuity shines through in this balanced wine. The hand-harvested Chardonnay grapes are meticulously selected, leading to a rigorous fermentation and ageing process in French Oak barrels, rendering an exquisite Burgundian masterpiece.
The Pied Mont Chauve Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru Clos Saint Jean Blanc 2019 offers a divine melange of fresh citrusy notes underpinned with luxurious vanilla undertones and a mineral-driven finish. The wine's intense complexity and persistent length transcribe the authenticity of its terroir from sip to splendid finish.
Inc. VAT£614.42 -
(6x75cl) 2020The Pierre & Louis Trapet Pommard Les Vaumuriens 2020 is a red Burgundy Wine that artfully hails from the shrine of viticulture, Pommard, France. The esteemed Trapet family, crafting supreme wines since 1890, uses biodynamic vineyard management, ensuring the full expression of terroir in each varietal. This Pinot Noir comes from the Les Vaumuriens lieu-dit, recognised for wines full of grace, depth and complexity. The 2020 vintage, unfurling with layers of berry fruits, forest floor, and refined tannins, epitomises elegance. The wine's evolution through 18 months of ageing in French oak barrels imparts subtle toasty notes, enriching the sensual experience. Masterfully fashioned, the Pierre & Louis Trapet Pommard Les Vaumuriens 2020 is a true testament to the refined balance between tradition and innovation. A regal choice for the discerning palate, the Pierre & Louis Trapet Pommard Les Vaumuriens 2020 heralds the meticulous craftsmanship of the illustrious Trapet lineage.
Inc. VAT£839.58 -
(6x75cl) 2021
Imbued with the rich tradition of Burgundy, the Pierre & Louis Trapet Pommard Les Vaumuriens 2021 is a compelling example of fine winemaking. Produced in the historic village of Pommard in France, using traditional biodynamic farming techniques, the grapes for this outstanding Pinot Noir are manually harvested from a singular, East-facing parcel. This meticulous care ensures a wine full of elegance and refinement.
The promising Philippe and Sylvia Trapet heirs, Pierre and Louis, have harnessed the noble balance between their family's seven generations of expertise and inventive techniques to create this magnificent liquor. The Pierre & Louis Trapet Pommard Les Vaumuriens 2021 offers an inviting bouquet of wild berries followed by earthy undertones, revealing an impeccable finish full of finesse and structure. Sure to satisfy any discerning palate, this wine stands as a testament to the Trapet family's commitment to excellence, revealing their deep respect for the terroir in its amazing complexity.
Inc. VAT£839.58 -
Experience the unparalleled elegance of Pierre & Marianne Duroche Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru Les Amoureuses 2021. This exquisite wine hails from the sanctified hills of Burgundy, the epitome of Pinot Noir. The stewards of this velvety elixir, Pierre and Marianne Duroche, craft their wines with precise, meticulous care. The vineyards are sustainably farmed, the grapes hand-harvested and naturally fermented to accentuate the rich terroir expression. Every vintage, including 2021, reveals a formidably elegant wine that dances between bright, juicy fruit notes and intense, spicy undertones, adorned with a delicate floral finish.
A must-have for discerning collectors, Pierre & Marianne Duroche Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru Les Amoureuses 2021 demonstrates the Duroche family’s mastery, rooted in five generations of winemaking. Each sip, an ode to their timeless tradition. Reflecting the unique microclimate of the Les Amoureuses premier cru vineyard, it's a testament to the synergy of nature and craftsmanship.
Inc. VAT£7,768.40 -
Experience the nuances of the illustrious Pierre Amiot Charmes Chambertin 2016, a quintessential offering from Burgundy's hallowed Côte de Nuits region. Produced by the renowned Amiot family, the wine is a testament to five generations of winemaking finesse. Cultivated in their esteemed Charmes-Chambertin Grand Cru vineyard, the standout Pinot Noir grape varietal is hand-harvested to ensure prime selection. Aged for 18 months in fine-grained French oak barrels, the final blend elicits a rich and truly sublime experience.
The Pierre Amiot Charmes Chambertin 2016 offers a medley of delectable flavours, characterised by lush berries, spicy undertones, and subtle earthy notes, intertwined with an elegant hint of oak. Each sip reveals a harmonious balance between ripe fruit intensity, refined tannic structure, and a distinctive mineral edge, culminating in a lingering, sophisticated finish. A definitive icon, the Charmes Chambertin 2016 perfectly embodies Pierre Amiot's enduring commitment to impeccable quality and exceptional craftsmanship.
Inc. VAT£894.29 -
Experience the opulence and charm of the Pierre Amiot Charmes-Chambertin Grand Cru 2017, adored by wine connoisseurs worldwide. Emanating from the esteemed vineyards nestled within the Chamboeuf region of Burgundy, France, this exceptional Grand Cru explores the expert wine crafting skills of the revered Pierre Amiot family, lauded for perpetuating a marvellous winemaking tradition spanning five generations.
The Pierre Amiot Charmes-Chambertin Grand Cru 2017 is produced in a traditional Burgundian style, employing hand-harvesting techniques that allow it to acquire intense, robust flavours. Displaying a captivating velvety texture, this Pinot Noir wine dazzles with a luscious red fruit bouquet complemented by delicate undertones of earth and spice. On the palate, it presents an exuberant constellation of cherry, raspberry, and plum, bound by graceful tannins and balanced acidity. The wine's lyrical finish encapsulates its quintessential Burgundian character and the singular genius of the Pierre Amiot domain. An indispensable acquisition for any fine wine enthusiast.
Inc. VAT£861.20
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Vinous - Antonio Galloni (96-98)
Do you want the good news or the bad news first? Let's start with the good. The 2021 Pichon Comtesse is epic and certainly among the great wines of this vintage. Sadly, the coulure and mildew in the first year of organic farming plus dehydration at the end of the growing season took with it fully two thirds of the crop. In other words, there's not much wine to go around. Rich and sumptuous in the glass, yet clocking in at 12.9% alcohol, the 2021 is beautifully layered and totally sensual from the very first taste. Hints of red fruit, flowers, mint, white pepper and dried savory herbs develop with a bit of coaxing. The Cabernet Sauvignon, at 88%, is very high by historical standards. Quite simply, the 2021 is a tour de force from Technical Director Nicolas Glumineau and his team. If there is one wine readers will absolutely jump on en primeur it is Pichon Comtesse. Should the bottled wine turn out as well as this sample, pricing is likely to jump materially because of the tiny production. Don't miss it.In Bond£2,475.00 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (96-98)
Do you want the good news or the bad news first? Let's start with the good. The 2021 Pichon Comtesse is epic and certainly among the great wines of this vintage. Sadly, the coulure and mildew in the first year of organic farming plus dehydration at the end of the growing season took with it fully two thirds of the crop. In other words, there's not much wine to go around. Rich and sumptuous in the glass, yet clocking in at 12.9% alcohol, the 2021 is beautifully layered and totally sensual from the very first taste. Hints of red fruit, flowers, mint, white pepper and dried savory herbs develop with a bit of coaxing. The Cabernet Sauvignon, at 88%, is very high by historical standards. Quite simply, the 2021 is a tour de force from Technical Director Nicolas Glumineau and his team. If there is one wine readers will absolutely jump on en primeur it is Pichon Comtesse. Should the bottled wine turn out as well as this sample, pricing is likely to jump materially because of the tiny production. Don't miss it.In Bond£158.50 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (96-98)
Do you want the good news or the bad news first? Let's start with the good. The 2021 Pichon Comtesse is epic and certainly among the great wines of this vintage. Sadly, the coulure and mildew in the first year of organic farming plus dehydration at the end of the growing season took with it fully two thirds of the crop. In other words, there's not much wine to go around. Rich and sumptuous in the glass, yet clocking in at 12.9% alcohol, the 2021 is beautifully layered and totally sensual from the very first taste. Hints of red fruit, flowers, mint, white pepper and dried savory herbs develop with a bit of coaxing. The Cabernet Sauvignon, at 88%, is very high by historical standards. Quite simply, the 2021 is a tour de force from Technical Director Nicolas Glumineau and his team. If there is one wine readers will absolutely jump on en primeur it is Pichon Comtesse. Should the bottled wine turn out as well as this sample, pricing is likely to jump materially because of the tiny production. Don't miss it.In Bond£406.00 -
(6x150cl) 2021
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (96-98)
Do you want the good news or the bad news first? Let's start with the good. The 2021 Pichon Comtesse is epic and certainly among the great wines of this vintage. Sadly, the coulure and mildew in the first year of organic farming plus dehydration at the end of the growing season took with it fully two thirds of the crop. In other words, there's not much wine to go around. Rich and sumptuous in the glass, yet clocking in at 12.9% alcohol, the 2021 is beautifully layered and totally sensual from the very first taste. Hints of red fruit, flowers, mint, white pepper and dried savory herbs develop with a bit of coaxing. The Cabernet Sauvignon, at 88%, is very high by historical standards. Quite simply, the 2021 is a tour de force from Technical Director Nicolas Glumineau and his team. If there is one wine readers will absolutely jump on en primeur it is Pichon Comtesse. Should the bottled wine turn out as well as this sample, pricing is likely to jump materially because of the tiny production. Don't miss it.In Bond£1,312.00 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (96-98)
Do you want the good news or the bad news first? Let's start with the good. The 2021 Pichon Comtesse is epic and certainly among the great wines of this vintage. Sadly, the coulure and mildew in the first year of organic farming plus dehydration at the end of the growing season took with it fully two thirds of the crop. In other words, there's not much wine to go around. Rich and sumptuous in the glass, yet clocking in at 12.9% alcohol, the 2021 is beautifully layered and totally sensual from the very first taste. Hints of red fruit, flowers, mint, white pepper and dried savory herbs develop with a bit of coaxing. The Cabernet Sauvignon, at 88%, is very high by historical standards. Quite simply, the 2021 is a tour de force from Technical Director Nicolas Glumineau and his team. If there is one wine readers will absolutely jump on en primeur it is Pichon Comtesse. Should the bottled wine turn out as well as this sample, pricing is likely to jump materially because of the tiny production. Don't miss it.In Bond£506.50 -
Wine Advocate (100)
The 2022 Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande has turned out even better in bottle than I anticipated, bursting from the glass with aromas of cassis and blackberries mingled with scents of licorice, violets and pencil shavings. Full-bodied, layered and enveloping, it's suave, seamless and complete, with faultless precision, pristine integration of tannin, controlled sweetness and a long, expansive finish. The 2022 manages to unite the sensuality that's the estate's calling card and the ripeness of the vintage on the one hand, with a sense of Pauillac classicism on the other, threading the needle to deliver one of the finest wines of the vintage and a benchmark Pichon Comtesse. It's a blend of 78% Cabernet Sauvignon, 17% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc that spent 18 months in barriques (three months more than was formerly the case), two-thirds of which were new. As I wrote en primeur, there's more than a hint of the 1982 about this wine, and like the 1982, the 2022 will offer an exceptionally wide drinking window.In Bond£1,703.00 -
Wine Advocate (100)
The 2022 Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande has turned out even better in bottle than I anticipated, bursting from the glass with aromas of cassis and blackberries mingled with scents of licorice, violets and pencil shavings. Full-bodied, layered and enveloping, it's suave, seamless and complete, with faultless precision, pristine integration of tannin, controlled sweetness and a long, expansive finish. The 2022 manages to unite the sensuality that's the estate's calling card and the ripeness of the vintage on the one hand, with a sense of Pauillac classicism on the other, threading the needle to deliver one of the finest wines of the vintage and a benchmark Pichon Comtesse. It's a blend of 78% Cabernet Sauvignon, 17% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc that spent 18 months in barriques (three months more than was formerly the case), two-thirds of which were new. As I wrote en primeur, there's more than a hint of the 1982 about this wine, and like the 1982, the 2022 will offer an exceptionally wide drinking window.In Bond£676.00 -
Wine Advocate (100)
The 2022 Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande has turned out even better in bottle than I anticipated, bursting from the glass with aromas of cassis and blackberries mingled with scents of licorice, violets and pencil shavings. Full-bodied, layered and enveloping, it's suave, seamless and complete, with faultless precision, pristine integration of tannin, controlled sweetness and a long, expansive finish. The 2022 manages to unite the sensuality that's the estate's calling card and the ripeness of the vintage on the one hand, with a sense of Pauillac classicism on the other, threading the needle to deliver one of the finest wines of the vintage and a benchmark Pichon Comtesse. It's a blend of 78% Cabernet Sauvignon, 17% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc that spent 18 months in barriques (three months more than was formerly the case), two-thirds of which were new. As I wrote en primeur, there's more than a hint of the 1982 about this wine, and like the 1982, the 2022 will offer an exceptionally wide drinking window.In Bond£1,330.00 -
Wine Advocate (100)
The 2022 Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande has turned out even better in bottle than I anticipated, bursting from the glass with aromas of cassis and blackberries mingled with scents of licorice, violets and pencil shavings. Full-bodied, layered and enveloping, it's suave, seamless and complete, with faultless precision, pristine integration of tannin, controlled sweetness and a long, expansive finish. The 2022 manages to unite the sensuality that's the estate's calling card and the ripeness of the vintage on the one hand, with a sense of Pauillac classicism on the other, threading the needle to deliver one of the finest wines of the vintage and a benchmark Pichon Comtesse. It's a blend of 78% Cabernet Sauvignon, 17% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc that spent 18 months in barriques (three months more than was formerly the case), two-thirds of which were new. As I wrote en primeur, there's more than a hint of the 1982 about this wine, and like the 1982, the 2022 will offer an exceptionally wide drinking window.In Bond£952.00 -
Wine Advocate (100)
The 2022 Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande has turned out even better in bottle than I anticipated, bursting from the glass with aromas of cassis and blackberries mingled with scents of licorice, violets and pencil shavings. Full-bodied, layered and enveloping, it's suave, seamless and complete, with faultless precision, pristine integration of tannin, controlled sweetness and a long, expansive finish. The 2022 manages to unite the sensuality that's the estate's calling card and the ripeness of the vintage on the one hand, with a sense of Pauillac classicism on the other, threading the needle to deliver one of the finest wines of the vintage and a benchmark Pichon Comtesse. It's a blend of 78% Cabernet Sauvignon, 17% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc that spent 18 months in barriques (three months more than was formerly the case), two-thirds of which were new. As I wrote en primeur, there's more than a hint of the 1982 about this wine, and like the 1982, the 2022 will offer an exceptionally wide drinking window.In Bond£519.00 -
Wine Advocate (100)
The 2022 Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande has turned out even better in bottle than I anticipated, bursting from the glass with aromas of cassis and blackberries mingled with scents of licorice, violets and pencil shavings. Full-bodied, layered and enveloping, it's suave, seamless and complete, with faultless precision, pristine integration of tannin, controlled sweetness and a long, expansive finish. The 2022 manages to unite the sensuality that's the estate's calling card and the ripeness of the vintage on the one hand, with a sense of Pauillac classicism on the other, threading the needle to deliver one of the finest wines of the vintage and a benchmark Pichon Comtesse. It's a blend of 78% Cabernet Sauvignon, 17% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc that spent 18 months in barriques (three months more than was formerly the case), two-thirds of which were new. As I wrote en primeur, there's more than a hint of the 1982 about this wine, and like the 1982, the 2022 will offer an exceptionally wide drinking window.In Bond£811.00 -
(12x75cl) 2023
James Suckling (98-99)
Wow. This is really excellent, with superb finesse and focus. It has tight density that is almost diamond-like in its brilliance. Medium to full body, with a quality of tannin that is incredibly seamless. Like silk in texture. A top Pichon Lalande. From organic and biodynamically grown grapes. 80% cabernet sauvignon, 17% merlot and 3% cabernet franc. May be better than 2022.In Bond£1,320.00 -
James Suckling (98-99)
Wow. This is really excellent, with superb finesse and focus. It has tight density that is almost diamond-like in its brilliance. Medium to full body, with a quality of tannin that is incredibly seamless. Like silk in texture. A top Pichon Lalande. From organic and biodynamically grown grapes. 80% cabernet sauvignon, 17% merlot and 3% cabernet franc. May be better than 2022.In Bond£659.50 -
James Suckling (98-99)
Wow. This is really excellent, with superb finesse and focus. It has tight density that is almost diamond-like in its brilliance. Medium to full body, with a quality of tannin that is incredibly seamless. Like silk in texture. A top Pichon Lalande. From organic and biodynamically grown grapes. 80% cabernet sauvignon, 17% merlot and 3% cabernet franc. May be better than 2022.In Bond£380.50 -
James Suckling (98-99)
Wow. This is really excellent, with superb finesse and focus. It has tight density that is almost diamond-like in its brilliance. Medium to full body, with a quality of tannin that is incredibly seamless. Like silk in texture. A top Pichon Lalande. From organic and biodynamically grown grapes. 80% cabernet sauvignon, 17% merlot and 3% cabernet franc. May be better than 2022.In Bond£573.00 -
(12x75cl) 2022
James Suckling (95-96)
The density of fruit is serious with blackcurrants, black berries, crushed stone and coffee beans. Yet it’s not heavy and overdone. The palate is full and rich, but also agile and weightless, with tannins that are spread and pretty.In Bond£480.00 -
(12x75cl) 2023
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (93)
The 2023 Réserve de la Comtesse is superb. In some recent vintages, I have felt the Réserve was a bit too serious for a second wine. That is not at all the case with the 2023, a wine of sublime elegance and finesse. Floral top notes meld into a core of dark red/purplish fruit, pomegranate, blood orange and cinnamon. This is the Réserve with the highest amount of Cabernet Sauvignon ever.In Bond£442.00 -
IPicque Caillou Pessac-Leognan 2016 stands as a paragon of the vintage year, hailing from the acclaimed Pessac-Leognan region within Bordeaux, France. Crafted precisely on an exceptional gravel terroir, this exquisite fine wine boasts a harmonious blend of quintessential Bordeaux grape varieties, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Following a meticulous manual harvest, the grapes undergo traditional vinification methods, eclipsed by meticulous barrel ageing in French oak for optimum refinement.
The proprietor, Paulin Calvet, endows the Picque Caillou Pessac-Leognan 2016 with exceptional pedigree, demonstrating an unerring commitment to meticulous quality control and sustainable viticulture. This enchanting rouge surmounts an exuberant bouquet of red fruits, forest floor and exotic spices, with a hint of mint, followed by an elegantly structured palate accentuated by silky tannins, poised acidity, and splendid longevity. A fine testament to the combination of exceptional terroir and the visionary genius of Calvet, the Picque Caillou Pessac-Leognan 2016 would shine as the pièce de résistance at any connoisseur's table.
In Bond£182.00 -
(12x75cl) 2017
Discover the exquisite delight of the Picque Caillou Pessac-Leognan 2017. Emanating from the esteemed Pessac-Leognan appellation in the grand Bordeaux region, this delectable vintage exudes the expertise of its winemakers. The vineyard, nestled in the gravelly heartland of Bordeaux, ensures root depth for freedom in expressing unique varietal characters. The wine blend features 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Merlot, promising complexities and richness.
Produced under the skilled hands of Picque Caillou, the wine demonstrates a brilliant straw yellow colour. The fragrance combines elements of citrus and white peach with soft brioche undertones, reminiscent of the region's classic allure. The elaborate process sees fermemtation in oak barrels, then meticulously ageing for a further 10 months, which contributes to a classy finish.
The Picque Caillou Pessac-Leognan 2017 speaks volumes about the winery's unwavering commitment to quality, illustrating a seamless amalgamation of traditional winemaking and contemporary expertise.
In Bond£206.00 -
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Wine Advocate (91-93+)
.In Bond£211.00 -
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(12x75cl) 2020
Jeb Dunnuck (90-92)
Lifted blue fruits, violets, Christmas spice, and some chocolate nuances emerge from the 2020 Château Picque Caillou, a medium to full-bodied, up-front, seamless, and beautifully balanced Pessac-Léognan. Despite plenty of up-front fruit, it also has solid underlying structure as well as ripe, polished tannins. It’s another beautiful wine from this appellation that should drink well in its youth yet also evolve gracefully.In Bond£180.00 -
(6x75cl) 2021
James Suckling (92-93)
Deep dark fruit with blackberry, black-truffle with orange-peel undertones. Medium-bodied with juicy fruit and a flavorful finish.In Bond£175.00 -
The prestigious Pied Mont Chauve Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru Clos Saint Jean Blanc 2019, epitomises the robust elegance of Chassagne-Montrachet's acclaimed vineyards. Produced in the world-renowned Burgundy region of France, this French white is cultivated on the revered iron-rich clay and limestone soils of the monopole Clos Saint Jean vineyard.
Manifactured by the esteemed Pied Mont Chauve, a boutique family-run estate inherited by Françoise and Nicolas Potel, their ingenuity shines through in this balanced wine. The hand-harvested Chardonnay grapes are meticulously selected, leading to a rigorous fermentation and ageing process in French Oak barrels, rendering an exquisite Burgundian masterpiece.
The Pied Mont Chauve Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru Clos Saint Jean Blanc 2019 offers a divine melange of fresh citrusy notes underpinned with luxurious vanilla undertones and a mineral-driven finish. The wine's intense complexity and persistent length transcribe the authenticity of its terroir from sip to splendid finish.
In Bond£492.78 -
(6x75cl) 2020
The Pierre & Louis Trapet Pommard Les Vaumuriens 2020 is a red Burgundy Wine that artfully hails from the shrine of viticulture, Pommard, France. The esteemed Trapet family, crafting supreme wines since 1890, uses biodynamic vineyard management, ensuring the full expression of terroir in each varietal. This Pinot Noir comes from the Les Vaumuriens lieu-dit, recognised for wines full of grace, depth and complexity. The 2020 vintage, unfurling with layers of berry fruits, forest floor, and refined tannins, epitomises elegance. The wine's evolution through 18 months of ageing in French oak barrels imparts subtle toasty notes, enriching the sensual experience. Masterfully fashioned, the Pierre & Louis Trapet Pommard Les Vaumuriens 2020 is a true testament to the refined balance between tradition and innovation. A regal choice for the discerning palate, the Pierre & Louis Trapet Pommard Les Vaumuriens 2020 heralds the meticulous craftsmanship of the illustrious Trapet lineage.
In Bond£680.41 -
(6x75cl) 2021
Imbued with the rich tradition of Burgundy, the Pierre & Louis Trapet Pommard Les Vaumuriens 2021 is a compelling example of fine winemaking. Produced in the historic village of Pommard in France, using traditional biodynamic farming techniques, the grapes for this outstanding Pinot Noir are manually harvested from a singular, East-facing parcel. This meticulous care ensures a wine full of elegance and refinement.
The promising Philippe and Sylvia Trapet heirs, Pierre and Louis, have harnessed the noble balance between their family's seven generations of expertise and inventive techniques to create this magnificent liquor. The Pierre & Louis Trapet Pommard Les Vaumuriens 2021 offers an inviting bouquet of wild berries followed by earthy undertones, revealing an impeccable finish full of finesse and structure. Sure to satisfy any discerning palate, this wine stands as a testament to the Trapet family's commitment to excellence, revealing their deep respect for the terroir in its amazing complexity.
In Bond£680.41 -
Experience the unparalleled elegance of Pierre & Marianne Duroche Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru Les Amoureuses 2021. This exquisite wine hails from the sanctified hills of Burgundy, the epitome of Pinot Noir. The stewards of this velvety elixir, Pierre and Marianne Duroche, craft their wines with precise, meticulous care. The vineyards are sustainably farmed, the grapes hand-harvested and naturally fermented to accentuate the rich terroir expression. Every vintage, including 2021, reveals a formidably elegant wine that dances between bright, juicy fruit notes and intense, spicy undertones, adorned with a delicate floral finish.
A must-have for discerning collectors, Pierre & Marianne Duroche Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru Les Amoureuses 2021 demonstrates the Duroche family’s mastery, rooted in five generations of winemaking. Each sip, an ode to their timeless tradition. Reflecting the unique microclimate of the Les Amoureuses premier cru vineyard, it's a testament to the synergy of nature and craftsmanship.
In Bond£6,453.00 -
Experience the nuances of the illustrious Pierre Amiot Charmes Chambertin 2016, a quintessential offering from Burgundy's hallowed Côte de Nuits region. Produced by the renowned Amiot family, the wine is a testament to five generations of winemaking finesse. Cultivated in their esteemed Charmes-Chambertin Grand Cru vineyard, the standout Pinot Noir grape varietal is hand-harvested to ensure prime selection. Aged for 18 months in fine-grained French oak barrels, the final blend elicits a rich and truly sublime experience.
The Pierre Amiot Charmes Chambertin 2016 offers a medley of delectable flavours, characterised by lush berries, spicy undertones, and subtle earthy notes, intertwined with an elegant hint of oak. Each sip reveals a harmonious balance between ripe fruit intensity, refined tannic structure, and a distinctive mineral edge, culminating in a lingering, sophisticated finish. A definitive icon, the Charmes Chambertin 2016 perfectly embodies Pierre Amiot's enduring commitment to impeccable quality and exceptional craftsmanship.
In Bond£726.00 -
Experience the opulence and charm of the Pierre Amiot Charmes-Chambertin Grand Cru 2017, adored by wine connoisseurs worldwide. Emanating from the esteemed vineyards nestled within the Chamboeuf region of Burgundy, France, this exceptional Grand Cru explores the expert wine crafting skills of the revered Pierre Amiot family, lauded for perpetuating a marvellous winemaking tradition spanning five generations.
The Pierre Amiot Charmes-Chambertin Grand Cru 2017 is produced in a traditional Burgundian style, employing hand-harvesting techniques that allow it to acquire intense, robust flavours. Displaying a captivating velvety texture, this Pinot Noir wine dazzles with a luscious red fruit bouquet complemented by delicate undertones of earth and spice. On the palate, it presents an exuberant constellation of cherry, raspberry, and plum, bound by graceful tannins and balanced acidity. The wine's lyrical finish encapsulates its quintessential Burgundian character and the singular genius of the Pierre Amiot domain. An indispensable acquisition for any fine wine enthusiast.
In Bond£697.00
