France
The vast and diverse wine regions of France, each with its own unique terroirs, grape varieties, and winemaking techniques, are a treasure trove.
In Bordeaux, the birthplace of some of the world's most iconic wines, esteemed vineyards such as Château Lafite Rothschild, Château Margaux, Château Latour, and Château Haut-Brion produce exceptional red wines, showcasing the art of blending Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Malbec. The region is also renowned for its exquisite white wines, with vineyards like Château d'Yquem and Domaine de Chevalier producing legendary sweet wines.
Moving to Burgundy, the vineyards of Domaine de la Romanée-Conti, Domaine Leroy, and Domaine Armand Rousseau capture the essence of the region's revered terroir, crafting exquisite red wines from the Pinot Noir grape. Meanwhile, Domaine Leflaive and Domaine Coche-Dury are celebrated for their world-class white wines, predominantly made from Chardonnay.
The Champagne region, known for its sparkling wines, boasts illustrious houses such as Krug, Dom Pérignon, and Moët & Chandon, as well as grower-producers like Pierre Péters and Jacques Selosse. These vineyards create exceptional sparkling wines using the traditional method, offering a symphony of delicate bubbles, elegant flavors, and vibrant acidity.
In the Rhône Valley, iconic vineyards like Chapoutier, E. Guigal, and Château de Beaucastel produce remarkable red wines in the northern appellations of Hermitage, Côte-Rôtie, and Cornas, showcasing the elegance and power of Syrah. Further south, Châteauneuf-du-Pape is celebrated for its rich and full-bodied red blends, with Château Rayas and Clos des Papes leading the way.
In Alsace, vineyards such as Domaine Zind-Humbrecht and omaine Trimbach craft exquisite white wines, including Riesling, Gewürztraminer, and Pinot Gris, expressing the region's unique terroir and varietal character.
These are just a few highlights among the diverse array of wines that France offers. From the Loire Valley's crisp whites and elegant reds to the Languedoc-Roussillon's bold and robust wines, each region presents its own vinous treasures.
France
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Wine Advocate (93-95)
.Inc. VAT£328.55 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (96)
The 2019 Rauzan-Ségla is a statuesque Margaux that is all in reserve. There is plenty of power and depth, but the 2019 is pretty closed today. Even so, the 2019 is clearly a wine of harmony and exquisite balance that is playing its cards close to the vest. Sweet dark cherry, plum, licorice spice and a touch of new oak are laced into the vibrant, persistent finish. The 2019 is a super-classic Rauzan-Ségla that will thrill those who can wait. Tasted three times.Inc. VAT£664.30 -
James Suckling (94-95)
Complex aromas of blackcurrant, black truffle, walnut, bark and earth follow through to a full body with dense, refined tannins that are layered and chewy, yet silky. Very long finish. Best since 2015?Inc. VAT£599.34 -
(3x150cl) 2020James Suckling (94-95)
Complex aromas of blackcurrant, black truffle, walnut, bark and earth follow through to a full body with dense, refined tannins that are layered and chewy, yet silky. Very long finish. Best since 2015?Inc. VAT£336.80 -
James Suckling (94-95)
Complex aromas of blackcurrant, black truffle, walnut, bark and earth follow through to a full body with dense, refined tannins that are layered and chewy, yet silky. Very long finish. Best since 2015?Inc. VAT£306.26 -
(12x37.5cl) 2021Jancis Robinson (16.5)
Crimson with a pink rim. Lots of freshness on a lifted nose. Solid rendition with enough fruit for the acidity even if without much distinction or character. No one would be disappointed by this wine. Tannins are ripe enough and not too dominant. A very good effort for this château.Inc. VAT£344.00 -
(12x75cl) 2021Jancis Robinson (16.5)
Crimson with a pink rim. Lots of freshness on a lifted nose. Solid rendition with enough fruit for the acidity even if without much distinction or character. No one would be disappointed by this wine. Tannins are ripe enough and not too dominant. A very good effort for this château.Inc. VAT£612.41 -
Jancis Robinson (16.5)
Crimson with a pink rim. Lots of freshness on a lifted nose. Solid rendition with enough fruit for the acidity even if without much distinction or character. No one would be disappointed by this wine. Tannins are ripe enough and not too dominant. A very good effort for this château.Inc. VAT£287.00 -
James Suckling (94-95)
Pretty sample of RG this year with lots of blackberry and blackcurrant character. Full and juicy with solid tannins.Inc. VAT£329.38 -
James Suckling (93-94)
Creamy and tight tannins here, alongside succulent dark-berry, spice and crushed-stone notes. It’s medium-bodied, firm and focused with a velvety finish.Inc. VAT£291.80 -
(6x75cl) 2015The Rauzan-Gassies Les Ailes de Rauzan-Gassies 2015 is an exquisite offering from the prestigious Second Growth vineyard located in the Margaux appellation of Bordeaux. The subtleties of this 2015 vintage reflect the estate's long history - Rauzan-Gassies, established in 1661, has perfected fine wine crafting for centuries. This selection enfolds hints of tobacco and dark chocolate in a well-structured body with the generous use of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot grapes. Produced using traditional methods, the wine is aged in French oak barrels, offering it added complexity and a subtle toasted finish. This Rauzan-Gassies Les Ailes de Rauzan-Gassies 2015 marvel displays the elegance synonymous with French wines and the vibrancy of the Bordeaux terroir. Best enjoyed at its mature phase in 2021-2023, this red represents the pinnacle of great viticulture and fine winemaking. This is not just a wine – it's a testament to the legacy of Rauzan-Gassies.
Inc. VAT£191.60 -
(1x500cl) 1988Wine Spectator (92)
Firm and concentrated, with a rich core of currant, blackberry, cherry and spicy, toasty oak flavors, all framed by tight tannins and the kind of structure that bodes well for cellaring. Balanced, with harmony and grace. Drink in 1996 and beyond. 16,000 cases made.Inc. VAT£1,275.77 -
Wine Spectator (94)
Best Rauzan-Ségla in modern times. Dark, inky color, intensely minty and smoky with an abundance of fruit. Full-bodied, very fruity, with a lovely minty berry and vanilla aftertaste. Best after 2002. 8,300 cases made.Inc. VAT£1,388.26 -
(1x500cl) 1996Decanter (97)
23 years old and yet one of the best wines in the vertical, this has real power and grip, still with a tannic buildup through the palate that's packed full of the Left Bank signatures: menthol, cassis, dark brambled fruits, cedar, cold ash and liquorice. It has great freshness on the nose, and it's still so young and full of beauty. Easily one of the most exciting wines here.Inc. VAT£804.97 -
(1x500cl) 1999Vinous - Stephen Tanzer (90)
Bright ruby-red. Highly perfumed, floral aroma of bitter cherry, raspberry, boysenberry, mint and licorice. Nicely concentrated, with good sweetness of fruit and fleshy texture leavened by a very firm mineral spine. This tightened up in the glass, showing a muscular quality. Finishes with substantial oak spice and strong, palate-coating fruit. Always a tricky wine to taste at this early stage.Inc. VAT£800.28 -
Wine Enthusiast (93)
92-94 Barrel Sample Very juicy, full of ripe black currant fruits and with smoky flavors from new wood. Fresh and intense, excellent potential.Inc. VAT£713.38 -
(12x75cl) 2007Jeb Dunnuck (92)
I also loved the 2007 Rauzan-Ségla. It has a Château Margaux-like bouquet of sweet red and black fruits, incense, flowers, and saddle leather. A classic blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Merlot, this medium-bodied, precocious, complex effort has loads of character, resolved tannins, moderate acidity, notable balance, and a great finish. I’ve always loved the charming style of the 2007s, and this is drinking at point today yet will unquestionably keep for another decade or more.Inc. VAT£940.67 -
Jeb Dunnuck (92)
I also loved the 2007 Rauzan-Ségla. It has a Château Margaux-like bouquet of sweet red and black fruits, incense, flowers, and saddle leather. A classic blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Merlot, this medium-bodied, precocious, complex effort has loads of character, resolved tannins, moderate acidity, notable balance, and a great finish. I’ve always loved the charming style of the 2007s, and this is drinking at point today yet will unquestionably keep for another decade or more.Inc. VAT£948.07 -
(1x150cl) 2009Jane Anson Inside Bordeaux (97)
Enticing brambled fruit on the nose, we are in top tier 2009 here, delicious creamy fruit, well placed and slowly uncurling, cocoa bean, cappuccino, graphite, right up there in terms of what you want from classified Margaux in these great vintages - ready to drink, John Kolasa director. 50% new oak for ageing, 41hl/h yield. This vintage had a label designed by Karl Largerfeld.Inc. VAT£595.34 -
Jane Anson Inside Bordeaux (97)
Enticing brambled fruit on the nose, we are in top tier 2009 here, delicious creamy fruit, well placed and slowly uncurling, cocoa bean, cappuccino, graphite, right up there in terms of what you want from classified Margaux in these great vintages - ready to drink, John Kolasa director. 50% new oak for ageing, 41hl/h yield. This vintage had a label designed by Karl Largerfeld.Inc. VAT£876.43 -
(3x150cl) 2009Jane Anson Inside Bordeaux (97)
Enticing brambled fruit on the nose, we are in top tier 2009 here, delicious creamy fruit, well placed and slowly uncurling, cocoa bean, cappuccino, graphite, right up there in terms of what you want from classified Margaux in these great vintages - ready to drink, John Kolasa director. 50% new oak for ageing, 41hl/h yield. This vintage had a label designed by Karl Largerfeld.Inc. VAT£1,484.18 -
Jane Anson Inside Bordeaux (97)
Enticing brambled fruit on the nose, we are in top tier 2009 here, delicious creamy fruit, well placed and slowly uncurling, cocoa bean, cappuccino, graphite, right up there in terms of what you want from classified Margaux in these great vintages - ready to drink, John Kolasa director. 50% new oak for ageing, 41hl/h yield. This vintage had a label designed by Karl Largerfeld.Inc. VAT£1,257.35 -
Jeb Dunnuck (98)
Ripe blackcurrants, scorched earth, chocolate, and leafy tobacco are just some of the nuances in the 2010 Château Rauzan Ségla. This rich, powerful, and incredibly concentrated Margaux has a stacked mid-palate, ripe, velvety tannins, and a blockbuster finish. It's entering its prime drinking window and will continue to impress for another 30 years. Drink 2025-2053.Inc. VAT£1,380.17 -
Jeb Dunnuck (98)
Ripe blackcurrants, scorched earth, chocolate, and leafy tobacco are just some of the nuances in the 2010 Château Rauzan Ségla. This rich, powerful, and incredibly concentrated Margaux has a stacked mid-palate, ripe, velvety tannins, and a blockbuster finish. It's entering its prime drinking window and will continue to impress for another 30 years. Drink 2025-2053.Inc. VAT£923.98 -
Jancis Robinson (17.5)
Tasted blind. Deep crimson. Slightly one-dimensional nose. Solid, rather impenetrable. Chunky. Not that gracious. Just a bit monolithic. But lots of life there.Inc. VAT£104.52 -
(3x300cl) 2012Wine Advocate (94+)
The 2012 Rauzan-Ségla (54.5% Cabernet Sauvignon, 44% Merlot and 1.5% Petit Verdot) is a classic Rauzan-Ségla, still relatively backward and tannic, but concentrated and extremely promising. Dense blueberry, blackberry and cassis fruit along with some licorice, vanilla, foresty notes and spice are all present in this full-bodied yet structured and big, beefy style of Rauzan-Ségla . It may turn out to be somewhat atypical for this château in its size and masculine structure, but this is impressive wine, and one of the great successes of the vintage. Give it 5-7 years of bottle age and drink it over the following three decades.Inc. VAT£926.47 -
(12x75cl) 2013Vinous - Antonio Galloni (89-92)
The 2013 Rauzan-Ségla is one of the brawnier wines I tasted in Margaux. Black cherries, plums, smoke, tobacco and menthol wrap around the palate. Savory and floral notes appear later, adding aromatic nuance. The 2013 impresses for the purity of its fruit and its overall balance. All the signatures are in place, but in miniature, which suggests the 2013 is likely to be a medium term drinker. The blend is 58% Cabernet Sauvignon, 39% Merlot, 2% Petit Verdot and 1% Cabernet Franc. Taste twice.Inc. VAT£720.26 -
James Suckling (95)
Fantastic aromas of blackberries, blackcurrants and strawberries follow through to a full body, super-integrated tannins and an extremely long finish. The bright acidity gives the wine a linear edge that focuses in all the fruit. Minerally. Drink in 2021.Inc. VAT£810.24 -
James Suckling (95)
Fantastic aromas of blackberries, blackcurrants and strawberries follow through to a full body, super-integrated tannins and an extremely long finish. The bright acidity gives the wine a linear edge that focuses in all the fruit. Minerally. Drink in 2021.Inc. VAT£135.60 -
Jeb Dunnuck (98)
I underrated the 2015 Rauzan-Ségla on release. It’s a big, rich, incredibly sexy wine that’s certainly in the same ballpark as the 2016 (and 2018). Full-bodied, ripe, and concentrated, it has a wonderfully expansive, layered texture as well as an incredible sense of balance. Lots of cassis, leafy herbs, flowery incense, and tobacco notes all emerge from this beauty, which offers sweet tannins as well as a huge finish. This is magical stuff that’s going to keep for three decades or more.Inc. VAT£1,185.55
-
Wine Advocate (93-95)
.In Bond£254.50 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (96)
The 2019 Rauzan-Ségla is a statuesque Margaux that is all in reserve. There is plenty of power and depth, but the 2019 is pretty closed today. Even so, the 2019 is clearly a wine of harmony and exquisite balance that is playing its cards close to the vest. Sweet dark cherry, plum, licorice spice and a touch of new oak are laced into the vibrant, persistent finish. The 2019 is a super-classic Rauzan-Ségla that will thrill those who can wait. Tasted three times.In Bond£515.00 -
James Suckling (94-95)
Complex aromas of blackcurrant, black truffle, walnut, bark and earth follow through to a full body with dense, refined tannins that are layered and chewy, yet silky. Very long finish. Best since 2015?In Bond£465.00 -
(3x150cl) 2020James Suckling (94-95)
Complex aromas of blackcurrant, black truffle, walnut, bark and earth follow through to a full body with dense, refined tannins that are layered and chewy, yet silky. Very long finish. Best since 2015?In Bond£260.00 -
James Suckling (94-95)
Complex aromas of blackcurrant, black truffle, walnut, bark and earth follow through to a full body with dense, refined tannins that are layered and chewy, yet silky. Very long finish. Best since 2015?In Bond£238.00 -
(12x37.5cl) 2021Jancis Robinson (16.5)
Crimson with a pink rim. Lots of freshness on a lifted nose. Solid rendition with enough fruit for the acidity even if without much distinction or character. No one would be disappointed by this wine. Tannins are ripe enough and not too dominant. A very good effort for this château.In Bond£266.00 -
(12x75cl) 2021Jancis Robinson (16.5)
Crimson with a pink rim. Lots of freshness on a lifted nose. Solid rendition with enough fruit for the acidity even if without much distinction or character. No one would be disappointed by this wine. Tannins are ripe enough and not too dominant. A very good effort for this château.In Bond£469.00 -
Jancis Robinson (16.5)
Crimson with a pink rim. Lots of freshness on a lifted nose. Solid rendition with enough fruit for the acidity even if without much distinction or character. No one would be disappointed by this wine. Tannins are ripe enough and not too dominant. A very good effort for this château.In Bond£218.50 -
James Suckling (94-95)
Pretty sample of RG this year with lots of blackberry and blackcurrant character. Full and juicy with solid tannins.In Bond£254.50 -
James Suckling (93-94)
Creamy and tight tannins here, alongside succulent dark-berry, spice and crushed-stone notes. It’s medium-bodied, firm and focused with a velvety finish.In Bond£222.50 -
(6x75cl) 2015The Rauzan-Gassies Les Ailes de Rauzan-Gassies 2015 is an exquisite offering from the prestigious Second Growth vineyard located in the Margaux appellation of Bordeaux. The subtleties of this 2015 vintage reflect the estate's long history - Rauzan-Gassies, established in 1661, has perfected fine wine crafting for centuries. This selection enfolds hints of tobacco and dark chocolate in a well-structured body with the generous use of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot grapes. Produced using traditional methods, the wine is aged in French oak barrels, offering it added complexity and a subtle toasted finish. This Rauzan-Gassies Les Ailes de Rauzan-Gassies 2015 marvel displays the elegance synonymous with French wines and the vibrancy of the Bordeaux terroir. Best enjoyed at its mature phase in 2021-2023, this red represents the pinnacle of great viticulture and fine winemaking. This is not just a wine – it's a testament to the legacy of Rauzan-Gassies.
In Bond£139.00 -
(1x500cl) 1988Wine Spectator (92)
Firm and concentrated, with a rich core of currant, blackberry, cherry and spicy, toasty oak flavors, all framed by tight tannins and the kind of structure that bodes well for cellaring. Balanced, with harmony and grace. Drink in 1996 and beyond. 16,000 cases made.In Bond£1,044.00 -
Wine Spectator (94)
Best Rauzan-Ségla in modern times. Dark, inky color, intensely minty and smoky with an abundance of fruit. Full-bodied, very fruity, with a lovely minty berry and vanilla aftertaste. Best after 2002. 8,300 cases made.In Bond£1,133.00 -
(1x500cl) 1996Decanter (97)
23 years old and yet one of the best wines in the vertical, this has real power and grip, still with a tannic buildup through the palate that's packed full of the Left Bank signatures: menthol, cassis, dark brambled fruits, cedar, cold ash and liquorice. It has great freshness on the nose, and it's still so young and full of beauty. Easily one of the most exciting wines here.In Bond£653.00 -
(1x500cl) 1999Vinous - Stephen Tanzer (90)
Bright ruby-red. Highly perfumed, floral aroma of bitter cherry, raspberry, boysenberry, mint and licorice. Nicely concentrated, with good sweetness of fruit and fleshy texture leavened by a very firm mineral spine. This tightened up in the glass, showing a muscular quality. Finishes with substantial oak spice and strong, palate-coating fruit. Always a tricky wine to taste at this early stage.In Bond£647.00 -
Wine Enthusiast (93)
92-94 Barrel Sample Very juicy, full of ripe black currant fruits and with smoky flavors from new wood. Fresh and intense, excellent potential.In Bond£574.50 -
(12x75cl) 2007Jeb Dunnuck (92)
I also loved the 2007 Rauzan-Ségla. It has a Château Margaux-like bouquet of sweet red and black fruits, incense, flowers, and saddle leather. A classic blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Merlot, this medium-bodied, precocious, complex effort has loads of character, resolved tannins, moderate acidity, notable balance, and a great finish. I’ve always loved the charming style of the 2007s, and this is drinking at point today yet will unquestionably keep for another decade or more.In Bond£748.00 -
Jeb Dunnuck (92)
I also loved the 2007 Rauzan-Ségla. It has a Château Margaux-like bouquet of sweet red and black fruits, incense, flowers, and saddle leather. A classic blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Merlot, this medium-bodied, precocious, complex effort has loads of character, resolved tannins, moderate acidity, notable balance, and a great finish. I’ve always loved the charming style of the 2007s, and this is drinking at point today yet will unquestionably keep for another decade or more.In Bond£758.00 -
(1x150cl) 2009Jane Anson Inside Bordeaux (97)
Enticing brambled fruit on the nose, we are in top tier 2009 here, delicious creamy fruit, well placed and slowly uncurling, cocoa bean, cappuccino, graphite, right up there in terms of what you want from classified Margaux in these great vintages - ready to drink, John Kolasa director. 50% new oak for ageing, 41hl/h yield. This vintage had a label designed by Karl Largerfeld.In Bond£489.69 -
Jane Anson Inside Bordeaux (97)
Enticing brambled fruit on the nose, we are in top tier 2009 here, delicious creamy fruit, well placed and slowly uncurling, cocoa bean, cappuccino, graphite, right up there in terms of what you want from classified Margaux in these great vintages - ready to drink, John Kolasa director. 50% new oak for ageing, 41hl/h yield. This vintage had a label designed by Karl Largerfeld.In Bond£717.50 -
(3x150cl) 2009Jane Anson Inside Bordeaux (97)
Enticing brambled fruit on the nose, we are in top tier 2009 here, delicious creamy fruit, well placed and slowly uncurling, cocoa bean, cappuccino, graphite, right up there in terms of what you want from classified Margaux in these great vintages - ready to drink, John Kolasa director. 50% new oak for ageing, 41hl/h yield. This vintage had a label designed by Karl Largerfeld.In Bond£1,217.53 -
Jane Anson Inside Bordeaux (97)
Enticing brambled fruit on the nose, we are in top tier 2009 here, delicious creamy fruit, well placed and slowly uncurling, cocoa bean, cappuccino, graphite, right up there in terms of what you want from classified Margaux in these great vintages - ready to drink, John Kolasa director. 50% new oak for ageing, 41hl/h yield. This vintage had a label designed by Karl Largerfeld.In Bond£1,028.50 -
Jeb Dunnuck (98)
Ripe blackcurrants, scorched earth, chocolate, and leafy tobacco are just some of the nuances in the 2010 Château Rauzan Ségla. This rich, powerful, and incredibly concentrated Margaux has a stacked mid-palate, ripe, velvety tannins, and a blockbuster finish. It's entering its prime drinking window and will continue to impress for another 30 years. Drink 2025-2053.In Bond£1,123.50 -
Jeb Dunnuck (98)
Ripe blackcurrants, scorched earth, chocolate, and leafy tobacco are just some of the nuances in the 2010 Château Rauzan Ségla. This rich, powerful, and incredibly concentrated Margaux has a stacked mid-palate, ripe, velvety tannins, and a blockbuster finish. It's entering its prime drinking window and will continue to impress for another 30 years. Drink 2025-2053.In Bond£750.00 -
Jancis Robinson (17.5)
Tasted blind. Deep crimson. Slightly one-dimensional nose. Solid, rather impenetrable. Chunky. Not that gracious. Just a bit monolithic. But lots of life there.In Bond£84.00 -
(3x300cl) 2012Wine Advocate (94+)
The 2012 Rauzan-Ségla (54.5% Cabernet Sauvignon, 44% Merlot and 1.5% Petit Verdot) is a classic Rauzan-Ségla, still relatively backward and tannic, but concentrated and extremely promising. Dense blueberry, blackberry and cassis fruit along with some licorice, vanilla, foresty notes and spice are all present in this full-bodied yet structured and big, beefy style of Rauzan-Ségla . It may turn out to be somewhat atypical for this château in its size and masculine structure, but this is impressive wine, and one of the great successes of the vintage. Give it 5-7 years of bottle age and drink it over the following three decades.In Bond£740.00 -
(12x75cl) 2013Vinous - Antonio Galloni (89-92)
The 2013 Rauzan-Ségla is one of the brawnier wines I tasted in Margaux. Black cherries, plums, smoke, tobacco and menthol wrap around the palate. Savory and floral notes appear later, adding aromatic nuance. The 2013 impresses for the purity of its fruit and its overall balance. All the signatures are in place, but in miniature, which suggests the 2013 is likely to be a medium term drinker. The blend is 58% Cabernet Sauvignon, 39% Merlot, 2% Petit Verdot and 1% Cabernet Franc. Taste twice.In Bond£563.00 -
James Suckling (95)
Fantastic aromas of blackberries, blackcurrants and strawberries follow through to a full body, super-integrated tannins and an extremely long finish. The bright acidity gives the wine a linear edge that focuses in all the fruit. Minerally. Drink in 2021.In Bond£638.00 -
James Suckling (95)
Fantastic aromas of blackberries, blackcurrants and strawberries follow through to a full body, super-integrated tannins and an extremely long finish. The bright acidity gives the wine a linear edge that focuses in all the fruit. Minerally. Drink in 2021.Inc. VAT£135.60 -
Jeb Dunnuck (98)
I underrated the 2015 Rauzan-Ségla on release. It’s a big, rich, incredibly sexy wine that’s certainly in the same ballpark as the 2016 (and 2018). Full-bodied, ripe, and concentrated, it has a wonderfully expansive, layered texture as well as an incredible sense of balance. Lots of cassis, leafy herbs, flowery incense, and tobacco notes all emerge from this beauty, which offers sweet tannins as well as a huge finish. This is magical stuff that’s going to keep for three decades or more.In Bond£948.00

