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.
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France
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James Suckling (93-94)
What a racy and focused Potensac with wonderful density and finesse as well as a firm and polished tannins that hold the whole thing together. A beautiful, reasoned young red. One of best Potensacs in a long time.Inc. VAT£193.03 -
(6x150cl) 2017Decanter (91)
This successful wine feels zippy and bright, with good fruit definition. I really like how this takes shape over the course of the palate, starting off with fresh, summery red fruits and slowly expanding through the palate to develop blackberry and hawthorn notes. It's not up to the standard of 2016, but sits between the '14 and '15 in my opinion. Enjoy that waft of coffee smoke on the finish. 54% of grand vin compared to 65% in 2016, so they were being extremely selective. 1% Petit Verdot makes up the blend.Inc. VAT£292.87 -
Decanter (91)
This successful wine feels zippy and bright, with good fruit definition. I really like how this takes shape over the course of the palate, starting off with fresh, summery red fruits and slowly expanding through the palate to develop blackberry and hawthorn notes. It's not up to the standard of 2016, but sits between the '14 and '15 in my opinion. Enjoy that waft of coffee smoke on the finish. 54% of grand vin compared to 65% in 2016, so they were being extremely selective. 1% Petit Verdot makes up the blend.Inc. VAT£170.75 -
(6x150cl) 2019James Suckling (94-95)
Excellent Potensac with a creamy and tight tannin structure. Blueberries and blackberries with some salt and minerals at the end. Classic structure. One of the best ever.Inc. VAT£384.02 -
(12x37.5cl) 2020Vinous - Neal Martin (91)
As I mentioned in my tasting note from barrel, the 2020 Potensac displays a little more opulence on the nose compared to other vintages. This is certainly true in bottle, though it retains a sense of composure, mainly red fruit laced with tobacco and a touch of leather. The palate is nicely balanced with fine tannins, crisp acidity, just a touch of licorice infusing the mixture of red and black fruit, a welcome tarriness imparting some classic Claret notes on the finish. A fine Potensac.Inc. VAT£214.32 -
(1x300cl) 2020Vinous - Neal Martin (91)
As I mentioned in my tasting note from barrel, the 2020 Potensac displays a little more opulence on the nose compared to other vintages. This is certainly true in bottle, though it retains a sense of composure, mainly red fruit laced with tobacco and a touch of leather. The palate is nicely balanced with fine tannins, crisp acidity, just a touch of licorice infusing the mixture of red and black fruit, a welcome tarriness imparting some classic Claret notes on the finish. A fine Potensac.Inc. VAT£184.08 -
(1x600cl) 2020Vinous - Neal Martin (91)
As I mentioned in my tasting note from barrel, the 2020 Potensac displays a little more opulence on the nose compared to other vintages. This is certainly true in bottle, though it retains a sense of composure, mainly red fruit laced with tobacco and a touch of leather. The palate is nicely balanced with fine tannins, crisp acidity, just a touch of licorice infusing the mixture of red and black fruit, a welcome tarriness imparting some classic Claret notes on the finish. A fine Potensac.Inc. VAT£315.36 -
(3x300cl) 2020Vinous - Neal Martin (91)
As I mentioned in my tasting note from barrel, the 2020 Potensac displays a little more opulence on the nose compared to other vintages. This is certainly true in bottle, though it retains a sense of composure, mainly red fruit laced with tobacco and a touch of leather. The palate is nicely balanced with fine tannins, crisp acidity, just a touch of licorice infusing the mixture of red and black fruit, a welcome tarriness imparting some classic Claret notes on the finish. A fine Potensac.Inc. VAT£428.16 -
(6x150cl) 2020Vinous - Neal Martin (91)
As I mentioned in my tasting note from barrel, the 2020 Potensac displays a little more opulence on the nose compared to other vintages. This is certainly true in bottle, though it retains a sense of composure, mainly red fruit laced with tobacco and a touch of leather. The palate is nicely balanced with fine tannins, crisp acidity, just a touch of licorice infusing the mixture of red and black fruit, a welcome tarriness imparting some classic Claret notes on the finish. A fine Potensac.Inc. VAT£384.24 -
James Suckling (92-93)
Real clarity of fruit with currants, blueberries and crushed stone. Some saltiness. Medium body and fine tannins. Perfumed and peppery, with peppercorn notes.Inc. VAT£190.09 -
Jeb Dunnuck (93)
The 2022 Château Potensac is darker and more concentrated, featuring currants, spring flowers, and graphite. Medium to full-bodied, with layered depth, balanced structure, and beautiful tannins, it’s a serious, structured Potensac that should evolve well for 15-20+ years.Inc. VAT£337.75 -
(1x150cl) 2022Jeb Dunnuck (93)
The 2022 Château Potensac is darker and more concentrated, featuring currants, spring flowers, and graphite. Medium to full-bodied, with layered depth, balanced structure, and beautiful tannins, it’s a serious, structured Potensac that should evolve well for 15-20+ years.Inc. VAT£114.49 -
(12x75cl) 2023James Suckling (93-94)
Beautiful dark fruit with purity and freshness. Medium- to full-bodied, seamless and compact. Outstanding quality of tannins, so fine and dense. It’s muscular and taut on the mid-palate. Lingering, too. Plenty of energy. Close to 2022.Inc. VAT£265.61 -
James Suckling (93-94)
Beautiful dark fruit with purity and freshness. Medium- to full-bodied, seamless and compact. Outstanding quality of tannins, so fine and dense. It’s muscular and taut on the mid-palate. Lingering, too. Plenty of energy. Close to 2022.Inc. VAT£159.80 -
(6x75cl) 2011The Potinet Ampeau Meursault 1er Cru Charmes 2011 is a captivating white wine crafted in Burgundy's esteemed Meursault region. Produced by the venerable Potinet-Ampeau domain, known for its meticulously preserved old vintage wines, this vino exemplifies the producer's unmatched skill and dedication. The Charmes vineyard's distinctive terroir is artfully represented; the chalky soil begetting a Chardonnay of impressive depth and complexity.
Fermented and aged in oak barrels, the wine boasts discernible aromas of white peach, almond, and subtle oak. A palate graced with layers of ripe fruit, undulating minerality, and a serenely buttery undertone affords a harmonious, lingering finish. The Potinet Ampeau Meursault 1er Cru Charmes 2011, despite its age, still gleams with youthful exuberance and upholds the promise of impeccable ageing potential.
The Potinet Ampeau Meursault 1er Cru Charmes 2011 is the epitome of traditional Burgundian winemaking, making it a prized addition to the discerning oenophile’s collection.
Inc. VAT£754.70 -
(12x75cl) 2016Vinous - Neal Martin (88)
The 2016 Pouget has a well-defined bouquet with touches of dark chocolate emanating from the new oak, although there seems to be sufficient fruit tucked behind. The medium-bodied palate delivers rather sharp tannins, although the finish seems to lack a bit of body and feels somewhat attenuated at present. Tasted blind at the Southwold tasting.Inc. VAT£463.61 -
(6x75cl) 2018Vinous - Neal Martin (90)
The 2018 Pouget, which has been on a good run of form recently, has ample blackberry and raspberry fruit on the nose, touches of potpourri and peony emerging with time and rendering this Margaux quite floral. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins and well-judged acidity. Quite spicy toward the finish, revealing white pepper and just a very slight garrigue and brown spice note. Yep, this’ll do nicely.Inc. VAT£267.20 -
(12x75cl) 2019Vinous - Neal Martin (92-94)
The 2019 Pouget has quite intense blackberry, briary and crushed iris scents on the nose, the new oak well integrated. The palate is very impressive with firm tannins framing mineral black fruit, touches of pencil lead evident on the structured finish. Blind tastings prove that this Margaux has significantly improved in recent years and this will continue that trend.Inc. VAT£439.44 -
(12x75cl) 2020Inc. VAT£446.64 -
(6x75cl) 2021Inc. VAT£250.40 -
Wine Enthusiast (93)
An intensely ripe, fruity wine, which is already well integrated. The intense dark fruits are supported by some new wood and grainy tannins. This is powerful, and, with its acidity, should age well.Inc. VAT£596.64 -
Wine Enthusiast (93)
An intensely ripe, fruity wine, which is already well integrated. The intense dark fruits are supported by some new wood and grainy tannins. This is powerful, and, with its acidity, should age well.Inc. VAT£516.72 -
(6x150cl) 2005Wine Enthusiast (93)
An intensely ripe, fruity wine, which is already well integrated. The intense dark fruits are supported by some new wood and grainy tannins. This is powerful, and, with its acidity, should age well.Inc. VAT£652.87 -
James Suckling (92-93)
Shows excellent depth of fruit with chewy and polished tannins. Full and very long. Gorgeous length.Inc. VAT£173.23 -
Jane Anson Inside Bordeaux (94)
Understated but luscious, the austerity of the tannins just starting to really soften up and this is ready to drink with a few hours carafe. Blackberry and red cherry fruits dominate, along with smoked rosemary and fennel seeds, firm muscular tannins, a classic value. 40% new oak.Inc. VAT£375.12 -
(1x300cl) 2019Vinous - Neal Martin (94)
The 2019 Poujeaux has a very delineated, focused bouquet of blackberry, cedar, mint and light tea leaf scents, one of the most complex I have encountered from this great estate in recent years. The medium-bodied palate is fresh, vibrant and grippy, with slightly chalky tannins and a saline, persistent finish. Quite structured and broody, this Moulis deserves ample time in bottle.Inc. VAT£171.43 -
(1x600cl) 2019Vinous - Neal Martin (94)
The 2019 Poujeaux has a very delineated, focused bouquet of blackberry, cedar, mint and light tea leaf scents, one of the most complex I have encountered from this great estate in recent years. The medium-bodied palate is fresh, vibrant and grippy, with slightly chalky tannins and a saline, persistent finish. Quite structured and broody, this Moulis deserves ample time in bottle.Inc. VAT£291.26 -
Vinous - Neal Martin (94)
The 2019 Poujeaux has a very delineated, focused bouquet of blackberry, cedar, mint and light tea leaf scents, one of the most complex I have encountered from this great estate in recent years. The medium-bodied palate is fresh, vibrant and grippy, with slightly chalky tannins and a saline, persistent finish. Quite structured and broody, this Moulis deserves ample time in bottle.Inc. VAT£183.95 -
Vinous - Neal Martin (94)
The 2019 Poujeaux has a very delineated, focused bouquet of blackberry, cedar, mint and light tea leaf scents, one of the most complex I have encountered from this great estate in recent years. The medium-bodied palate is fresh, vibrant and grippy, with slightly chalky tannins and a saline, persistent finish. Quite structured and broody, this Moulis deserves ample time in bottle.Inc. VAT£170.75 -
James Suckling (94-95)
A dense, layered red with blackberry, tar, asphalt and spice character. Medium-to full-bodied with wonderful, polished and creamy tannins. Chewy and fine. Potentially one of the best in a long time.Inc. VAT£190.92
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James Suckling (93-94)
What a racy and focused Potensac with wonderful density and finesse as well as a firm and polished tannins that hold the whole thing together. A beautiful, reasoned young red. One of best Potensacs in a long time.In Bond£148.00 -
(6x150cl) 2017
Decanter (91)
This successful wine feels zippy and bright, with good fruit definition. I really like how this takes shape over the course of the palate, starting off with fresh, summery red fruits and slowly expanding through the palate to develop blackberry and hawthorn notes. It's not up to the standard of 2016, but sits between the '14 and '15 in my opinion. Enjoy that waft of coffee smoke on the finish. 54% of grand vin compared to 65% in 2016, so they were being extremely selective. 1% Petit Verdot makes up the blend.In Bond£212.00 -
Decanter (91)
This successful wine feels zippy and bright, with good fruit definition. I really like how this takes shape over the course of the palate, starting off with fresh, summery red fruits and slowly expanding through the palate to develop blackberry and hawthorn notes. It's not up to the standard of 2016, but sits between the '14 and '15 in my opinion. Enjoy that waft of coffee smoke on the finish. 54% of grand vin compared to 65% in 2016, so they were being extremely selective. 1% Petit Verdot makes up the blend.In Bond£123.00 -
(6x150cl) 2019
James Suckling (94-95)
Excellent Potensac with a creamy and tight tannin structure. Blueberries and blackberries with some salt and minerals at the end. Classic structure. One of the best ever.In Bond£281.44 -
(12x37.5cl) 2020
Vinous - Neal Martin (91)
As I mentioned in my tasting note from barrel, the 2020 Potensac displays a little more opulence on the nose compared to other vintages. This is certainly true in bottle, though it retains a sense of composure, mainly red fruit laced with tobacco and a touch of leather. The palate is nicely balanced with fine tannins, crisp acidity, just a touch of licorice infusing the mixture of red and black fruit, a welcome tarriness imparting some classic Claret notes on the finish. A fine Potensac.In Bond£160.00 -
(1x300cl) 2020
Vinous - Neal Martin (91)
As I mentioned in my tasting note from barrel, the 2020 Potensac displays a little more opulence on the nose compared to other vintages. This is certainly true in bottle, though it retains a sense of composure, mainly red fruit laced with tobacco and a touch of leather. The palate is nicely balanced with fine tannins, crisp acidity, just a touch of licorice infusing the mixture of red and black fruit, a welcome tarriness imparting some classic Claret notes on the finish. A fine Potensac.In Bond£141.00 -
(1x600cl) 2020
Vinous - Neal Martin (91)
As I mentioned in my tasting note from barrel, the 2020 Potensac displays a little more opulence on the nose compared to other vintages. This is certainly true in bottle, though it retains a sense of composure, mainly red fruit laced with tobacco and a touch of leather. The palate is nicely balanced with fine tannins, crisp acidity, just a touch of licorice infusing the mixture of red and black fruit, a welcome tarriness imparting some classic Claret notes on the finish. A fine Potensac.In Bond£238.00 -
(3x300cl) 2020
Vinous - Neal Martin (91)
As I mentioned in my tasting note from barrel, the 2020 Potensac displays a little more opulence on the nose compared to other vintages. This is certainly true in bottle, though it retains a sense of composure, mainly red fruit laced with tobacco and a touch of leather. The palate is nicely balanced with fine tannins, crisp acidity, just a touch of licorice infusing the mixture of red and black fruit, a welcome tarriness imparting some classic Claret notes on the finish. A fine Potensac.In Bond£324.74 -
(6x150cl) 2020
Vinous - Neal Martin (91)
As I mentioned in my tasting note from barrel, the 2020 Potensac displays a little more opulence on the nose compared to other vintages. This is certainly true in bottle, though it retains a sense of composure, mainly red fruit laced with tobacco and a touch of leather. The palate is nicely balanced with fine tannins, crisp acidity, just a touch of licorice infusing the mixture of red and black fruit, a welcome tarriness imparting some classic Claret notes on the finish. A fine Potensac.In Bond£283.00 -
James Suckling (92-93)
Real clarity of fruit with currants, blueberries and crushed stone. Some saltiness. Medium body and fine tannins. Perfumed and peppery, with peppercorn notes.In Bond£140.50 -
Jeb Dunnuck (93)
The 2022 Château Potensac is darker and more concentrated, featuring currants, spring flowers, and graphite. Medium to full-bodied, with layered depth, balanced structure, and beautiful tannins, it’s a serious, structured Potensac that should evolve well for 15-20+ years.In Bond£241.50 -
(1x150cl) 2022
Jeb Dunnuck (93)
The 2022 Château Potensac is darker and more concentrated, featuring currants, spring flowers, and graphite. Medium to full-bodied, with layered depth, balanced structure, and beautiful tannins, it’s a serious, structured Potensac that should evolve well for 15-20+ years.In Bond£89.00 -
(12x75cl) 2023
James Suckling (93-94)
Beautiful dark fruit with purity and freshness. Medium- to full-bodied, seamless and compact. Outstanding quality of tannins, so fine and dense. It’s muscular and taut on the mid-palate. Lingering, too. Plenty of energy. Close to 2022.In Bond£180.00 -
James Suckling (93-94)
Beautiful dark fruit with purity and freshness. Medium- to full-bodied, seamless and compact. Outstanding quality of tannins, so fine and dense. It’s muscular and taut on the mid-palate. Lingering, too. Plenty of energy. Close to 2022.In Bond£112.50 -
(6x75cl) 2011
The Potinet Ampeau Meursault 1er Cru Charmes 2011 is a captivating white wine crafted in Burgundy's esteemed Meursault region. Produced by the venerable Potinet-Ampeau domain, known for its meticulously preserved old vintage wines, this vino exemplifies the producer's unmatched skill and dedication. The Charmes vineyard's distinctive terroir is artfully represented; the chalky soil begetting a Chardonnay of impressive depth and complexity.
Fermented and aged in oak barrels, the wine boasts discernible aromas of white peach, almond, and subtle oak. A palate graced with layers of ripe fruit, undulating minerality, and a serenely buttery undertone affords a harmonious, lingering finish. The Potinet Ampeau Meursault 1er Cru Charmes 2011, despite its age, still gleams with youthful exuberance and upholds the promise of impeccable ageing potential.
The Potinet Ampeau Meursault 1er Cru Charmes 2011 is the epitome of traditional Burgundian winemaking, making it a prized addition to the discerning oenophile’s collection.
In Bond£608.25 -
(12x75cl) 2016
Vinous - Neal Martin (88)
The 2016 Pouget has a well-defined bouquet with touches of dark chocolate emanating from the new oak, although there seems to be sufficient fruit tucked behind. The medium-bodied palate delivers rather sharp tannins, although the finish seems to lack a bit of body and feels somewhat attenuated at present. Tasted blind at the Southwold tasting.In Bond£345.00 -
(6x75cl) 2018
Vinous - Neal Martin (90)
The 2018 Pouget, which has been on a good run of form recently, has ample blackberry and raspberry fruit on the nose, touches of potpourri and peony emerging with time and rendering this Margaux quite floral. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins and well-judged acidity. Quite spicy toward the finish, revealing white pepper and just a very slight garrigue and brown spice note. Yep, this’ll do nicely.In Bond£202.00 -
(12x75cl) 2019
Vinous - Neal Martin (92-94)
The 2019 Pouget has quite intense blackberry, briary and crushed iris scents on the nose, the new oak well integrated. The palate is very impressive with firm tannins framing mineral black fruit, touches of pencil lead evident on the structured finish. Blind tastings prove that this Margaux has significantly improved in recent years and this will continue that trend.In Bond£329.00 -
(12x75cl) 2020In Bond£335.00
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(6x75cl) 2021In Bond£188.00
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Wine Enthusiast (93)
An intensely ripe, fruity wine, which is already well integrated. The intense dark fruits are supported by some new wood and grainy tannins. This is powerful, and, with its acidity, should age well.In Bond£460.00 -
Wine Enthusiast (93)
An intensely ripe, fruity wine, which is already well integrated. The intense dark fruits are supported by some new wood and grainy tannins. This is powerful, and, with its acidity, should age well.In Bond£412.00 -
(6x150cl) 2005
Wine Enthusiast (93)
An intensely ripe, fruity wine, which is already well integrated. The intense dark fruits are supported by some new wood and grainy tannins. This is powerful, and, with its acidity, should age well.In Bond£512.00 -
James Suckling (92-93)
Shows excellent depth of fruit with chewy and polished tannins. Full and very long. Gorgeous length.In Bond£131.50 -
Jane Anson Inside Bordeaux (94)
Understated but luscious, the austerity of the tannins just starting to really soften up and this is ready to drink with a few hours carafe. Blackberry and red cherry fruits dominate, along with smoked rosemary and fennel seeds, firm muscular tannins, a classic value. 40% new oak.In Bond£294.00 -
(1x300cl) 2019
Vinous - Neal Martin (94)
The 2019 Poujeaux has a very delineated, focused bouquet of blackberry, cedar, mint and light tea leaf scents, one of the most complex I have encountered from this great estate in recent years. The medium-bodied palate is fresh, vibrant and grippy, with slightly chalky tannins and a saline, persistent finish. Quite structured and broody, this Moulis deserves ample time in bottle.In Bond£130.00 -
(1x600cl) 2019
Vinous - Neal Martin (94)
The 2019 Poujeaux has a very delineated, focused bouquet of blackberry, cedar, mint and light tea leaf scents, one of the most complex I have encountered from this great estate in recent years. The medium-bodied palate is fresh, vibrant and grippy, with slightly chalky tannins and a saline, persistent finish. Quite structured and broody, this Moulis deserves ample time in bottle.In Bond£217.00 -
Vinous - Neal Martin (94)
The 2019 Poujeaux has a very delineated, focused bouquet of blackberry, cedar, mint and light tea leaf scents, one of the most complex I have encountered from this great estate in recent years. The medium-bodied palate is fresh, vibrant and grippy, with slightly chalky tannins and a saline, persistent finish. Quite structured and broody, this Moulis deserves ample time in bottle.In Bond£134.00 -
Vinous - Neal Martin (94)
The 2019 Poujeaux has a very delineated, focused bouquet of blackberry, cedar, mint and light tea leaf scents, one of the most complex I have encountered from this great estate in recent years. The medium-bodied palate is fresh, vibrant and grippy, with slightly chalky tannins and a saline, persistent finish. Quite structured and broody, this Moulis deserves ample time in bottle.In Bond£123.00 -
James Suckling (94-95)
A dense, layered red with blackberry, tar, asphalt and spice character. Medium-to full-bodied with wonderful, polished and creamy tannins. Chewy and fine. Potentially one of the best in a long time.In Bond£140.50
