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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(1x75cl) 2009Vinous (93)
The 2009 Chablis Montée de Tonnerre is super-impressive. There is a level of detail, nuance and energy to the fruit that is quite rare in 2009. The Montée de Tonnerre possesses dazzling purity all the way through to the finely articulated, chiseled finish. This is yet another superb effort from Raveneau. I have a slight preference for the 2010 here, but the 2009 will offer fabulous drinking while its younger sibling ages in the cellar.Inc. VAT£557.99 -
(1x75cl) 2010Vinous (96)
The 2010 Chablis Montée de Tonnerre 1er Cru comes from one of Raveneau’s strongest vineyards, and it does not disappoint. The bouquet is steely and aloof at first, then suddenly turns more crystalline, bearing a strong marine influence with hints of kelp and sea spray. The balanced, penetrating palate displays a perfect line of acidity. Everything is in the right place here, culminating in what I wrote down as a “rocky” finish. Dare I say that this is about as good as Chablis can get?Inc. VAT£746.24 -
(12x75cl) 2011Vinous (94)
The 2011 Chablis Montee de Tonnerre is all about grace. A gentle hint of spice leads to dried pears, crushed flowers, red berries and licorice. Constantly changing in the glass, the 2011 is a marvel to behold. Suggestions of smoke, graphite and licorice add layers of nuance in a magical wine loaded with class and personality. Best of all, the 2011 is relatively approachable by Raveneau standards, which means reader won't have to wait long at all to experience the magic of one of the great sites in Chablis.Inc. VAT£5,861.80 -
(3x75cl) 2012Vinous (95)
Petrol, graphite, smoke, slate and white stone fruits grace the palate in the 2012 Chablis Montée de Tonnerre. Vivid and utterly crystalline, Raveneaus's 2012 is a great essay into to qualities of one of the great - maybe the single greatest - 1er Cru site in Chablis. The 2012 has a bit more new oak than is typically the case, as most of the new barrels in this vintage were used here. A thrilling finish rounds things off in style.Inc. VAT£1,557.14 -
Burghound (92)
(Outstanding) Along with the Blanchots this is the most floral wine in the range with its elegant nose of pear, apple, spice and soft apricot nuances that exhibit just enough Chablis typicity to be persuasive. There is a lovely sense of vibrancy to the delicious and very rounded medium-bodied flavors that possess fine depth and excellent length on the mouth coating and powerful finish. While not quite at its usual level this is certainly a fine effort in the context of the vintage.Inc. VAT£477.59 -
(2x75cl) 2013Burghound (92)
(Outstanding) Along with the Blanchots this is the most floral wine in the range with its elegant nose of pear, apple, spice and soft apricot nuances that exhibit just enough Chablis typicity to be persuasive. There is a lovely sense of vibrancy to the delicious and very rounded medium-bodied flavors that possess fine depth and excellent length on the mouth coating and powerful finish. While not quite at its usual level this is certainly a fine effort in the context of the vintage.Inc. VAT£990.67 -
Vinous (95+)
Bright pale yellow-green. Wonderfully subtle, vibrant nose melds white peach, lime, mint, pungent minerals and toasted bread, plus a suggestion of more candied peach. Taut, precise and impossibly juicy, with its pristine white peach, lemon zest, mint and salty mineral flavors boasting outstanding clarity and cut. Totally different in texture from the more glyceral 2015. Nearly perfect Montée de Tonnerre from a full yield of 55 hectoliters per hectare, and extremely long and minerally on the aftertaste without being at all angular. This should go on for decades in a cold cellar. (12.78% alcohol; 3.17 pH; 4.26 g/l acidity)Inc. VAT£640.79 -
(2x75cl) 2015Wine Advocate (94)
The 2015 Chablis 1er Cru Montee de Tonnerre has a tightly wound bouquet with a slight fumé note at first, then a trace of sea cave and a tang of the sea. The palate is very well balanced with a fine line of acidity. This has wonderful harmony, a dash of nutmeg and spice that emerges toward the finish and a very persistent aftertaste that will not go away (not that you want it to). This is an outstanding Montée de Tonnerre destined to give a lot of Chablis-lovers a lot of pleasure.Inc. VAT£859.16 -
Wine Advocate (94)
The 2015 Chablis 1er Cru Montee de Tonnerre has a tightly wound bouquet with a slight fumé note at first, then a trace of sea cave and a tang of the sea. The palate is very well balanced with a fine line of acidity. This has wonderful harmony, a dash of nutmeg and spice that emerges toward the finish and a very persistent aftertaste that will not go away (not that you want it to). This is an outstanding Montée de Tonnerre destined to give a lot of Chablis-lovers a lot of pleasure.Inc. VAT£2,487.49 -
(1x150cl) 2018Burghound (95)
This is perhaps the most elegant and floral-infused wine in the range with its array of various white flower scents, especially acacia that are nuanced by wisps of ocean breeze, iodine and algae. The restrained and well-detailed flavors possess a sophisticated and refined mouthfeel while the stony and chiseled finish exhibiting excellent persistence on the bone-dry finish. This is class in a glass and a stunning rendition of the appellation though note well that at least moderate patience is strongly advised.Inc. VAT£1,163.96 -
Burghound (95)
This is perhaps the most elegant and floral-infused wine in the range with its array of various white flower scents, especially acacia that are nuanced by wisps of ocean breeze, iodine and algae. The restrained and well-detailed flavors possess a sophisticated and refined mouthfeel while the stony and chiseled finish exhibiting excellent persistence on the bone-dry finish. This is class in a glass and a stunning rendition of the appellation though note well that at least moderate patience is strongly advised.Inc. VAT£463.19 -
(2x75cl) 2018Burghound (95)
This is perhaps the most elegant and floral-infused wine in the range with its array of various white flower scents, especially acacia that are nuanced by wisps of ocean breeze, iodine and algae. The restrained and well-detailed flavors possess a sophisticated and refined mouthfeel while the stony and chiseled finish exhibiting excellent persistence on the bone-dry finish. This is class in a glass and a stunning rendition of the appellation though note well that at least moderate patience is strongly advised.Inc. VAT£907.16 -
Burghound (95)
This is perhaps the most elegant and floral-infused wine in the range with its array of various white flower scents, especially acacia that are nuanced by wisps of ocean breeze, iodine and algae. The restrained and well-detailed flavors possess a sophisticated and refined mouthfeel while the stony and chiseled finish exhibiting excellent persistence on the bone-dry finish. This is class in a glass and a stunning rendition of the appellation though note well that at least moderate patience is strongly advised.Inc. VAT£2,421.49 -
(1x75cl) 2019Burghound (95)
A discreet, even timid nose speaks of markedly cool, airy and admirably pure aromas of high-toned floral wisps, iodine and plenty of oyster shell and tidal pool nuances that are trimmed in just enough wood to mention. The racy, mineral-driven and ultra-refined middle weight flavors possess the finest and most delicate texture in the entire range, all wrapped in a strikingly long and strikingly layered finale. This is textbook MdT and a genuine knockout.Inc. VAT£548.39 -
Burghound (95)
A discreet, even timid nose speaks of markedly cool, airy and admirably pure aromas of high-toned floral wisps, iodine and plenty of oyster shell and tidal pool nuances that are trimmed in just enough wood to mention. The racy, mineral-driven and ultra-refined middle weight flavors possess the finest and most delicate texture in the entire range, all wrapped in a strikingly long and strikingly layered finale. This is textbook MdT and a genuine knockout.Inc. VAT£2,143.09 -
Burghound (95)
(Outstanding) A more elegant and ultra-cool nose reveals its combination of floral, citrus zest, iodine and that briny sea water character the best examples of Chablis all seem to possess, all of which is trimmed in moderate but not invasive wood. There isn't quite the same volume on the palate as the Butteaux, but the middleweight flavors are notably more refined before terminating in a driving, chiseled and citrusy bone-dry finale. I very much like the focused power of the finish and this classy effort should also amply reward extended cellaring.Inc. VAT£368.39 -
Burghound (95)
(Outstanding) A more elegant and ultra-cool nose reveals its combination of floral, citrus zest, iodine and that briny sea water character the best examples of Chablis all seem to possess, all of which is trimmed in moderate but not invasive wood. There isn't quite the same volume on the palate as the Butteaux, but the middleweight flavors are notably more refined before terminating in a driving, chiseled and citrusy bone-dry finale. I very much like the focused power of the finish and this classy effort should also amply reward extended cellaring.Inc. VAT£2,312.29 -
Decanter (95)
TOP QUALITY PRODUCER As expected with Montée de Tonnerre, there are great reserves of power and energy here. Concentrated, fine and with great purity, oak adds subtle extra dimensions in the background. Lovely acidity and a touch of spice to finish. Great class. Raveneau's Montée de Tonnerre is over 3ha in area, accounting for around 1/3 of the estates holdings. Around 1.8ha are located on the mid-slopes of Chapelot. with 1.2ha at higher altitude in Pied d'Aloup which adds additional freshness and vivacity.Inc. VAT£1,215.60 -
Decanter (95)
TOP QUALITY PRODUCER As expected with Montée de Tonnerre, there are great reserves of power and energy here. Concentrated, fine and with great purity, oak adds subtle extra dimensions in the background. Lovely acidity and a touch of spice to finish. Great class. Raveneau's Montée de Tonnerre is over 3ha in area, accounting for around 1/3 of the estates holdings. Around 1.8ha are located on the mid-slopes of Chapelot. with 1.2ha at higher altitude in Pied d'Aloup which adds additional freshness and vivacity.Inc. VAT£2,727.64 -
(1x75cl) 2000Vinous (90)
Quite closed on the nose; hints at peach and nectarine. Then broad and creamy in the mouth, with strong mineral notes of wet stone and petrol and a minty nuance. Builds nicely toward the dusty, broad back end. Showing well now.Inc. VAT£551.33 -
Vinous (89-91)
( from a crop level of just 40 hectoliters per hectare) Subtle, pure aromas of green apple, minerals and mint. Fat, sweet and layered, with a note of quinine. A tactile if slightly aggressive wine that finishes with very good length. But the Chapelot is finer.Inc. VAT£7,970.98 -
(1x75cl) 2003Vinous - Stephen Tanzer (89-91)
Pure but reticent aromas of lime blossom, quinine and mint; very Chablis . Penetrating, juicy flavors of lime, grapefruit, white flowers and mint. Finishes long and firm, with excellent cut, but this taut, thoroughly ripe wine is not at all hard.Inc. VAT£467.33 -
(1x75cl) 2005Jancis Robinson (18)
Very different from the Montée de Tonnerre. Fresh, dusty citrus. Delicate and lightly citrussy. Then savoury, dry and intensely fresh on the palate. Fine-lined but not in the least lean. Sinewy length and power. Bright and mouthwatering.Inc. VAT£537.59 -
(1x75cl) 2006Vinous (91)
Bright yellow. Reticent but very ripe aromas of peach, minerals and honey. Sweet, broad and ripe, but with lovely harmonious acidity framing the orange and honey flavors and imbuing the wine with freshness. Finishes saline, rich and quite long, with noteworthy mineral grip. This is awfully attractive right now.Inc. VAT£517.73 -
(1x75cl) 2007Vinous (91-93)
Pale, green-tinged color. Precise but tight nose hints at citrus peel and minerals. Dense, chewy and tactile, with a captivating sweetness for the year. The ripe citrus, floral and powdered stone flavors are given definition by lemony acidity. Finishes persistent and pure. This site is protected from wind and is always picked early, notes Bernard Raveneau.Inc. VAT£687.59 -
(1x75cl) 2008Inc. VAT£614.39 -
(1x75cl) 2009Wine Advocate (94)
The 2009 Chablis Vaillons is all about delineation, focus and transparency. It is a compelling, marvelously subtle wine in every way. In particular, the Vaillons successfully reconciles the generosity of the year with the minerality that is typical of this site. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2029.Inc. VAT£614.93 -
(1x75cl) 2011Vinous (92)
The Chablis Vaillons is quite striking in 2011. Subtle, elegant and beautifully perfumed, the 2011 shows a level of delineation and inner fragrance that is uncommon in this vintage. This feminine, gracious Chablis is drop-dead gorgeous today. Floral notes reappear on the finish, adding further lift, energy and focus.Inc. VAT£464.39 -
(1x75cl) 2013Wine Advocate (92)
The 2013 Chablis 1er Cru Vaillons does not quite deliver the same intensity as the Montmains at the moment, although it is still well defined with more of a sea spray influence coming through. The palate is fresh and crisp on the entry, just a suggestion of dried honey on the front palate, before it gently fans out on a walnut/smoky finish that is cut from the same cloth as the Montmains '13, albeit with an extra pinch of spice. This is excellent.Inc. VAT£473.33 -
(1x75cl) 2015Wine Advocate (94)
The 2015 Chablis 1Er Cru Vaillons was difficult to pin down last year from barrel when it trailed behind the other premier crus. Of course, it was just playing a trick on this writer because it has blossomed into one fabulous Vaillons. It is blessed with a pretty, wet limestone-scented bouquet, very open and transparent with a touch of spice developing with aeration. The palate skips along, fresh and tensile with a keen thread of acidity. I love the tension here that enlivens this Chablis from start to finish and lends the finish real energy and persistence. What a great Vaillons this is turning out to be and a bit of a revelation after its showing from barrel.Inc. VAT£477.59
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(1x75cl) 2009Vinous (93)
The 2009 Chablis Montée de Tonnerre is super-impressive. There is a level of detail, nuance and energy to the fruit that is quite rare in 2009. The Montée de Tonnerre possesses dazzling purity all the way through to the finely articulated, chiseled finish. This is yet another superb effort from Raveneau. I have a slight preference for the 2010 here, but the 2009 will offer fabulous drinking while its younger sibling ages in the cellar.In Bond£462.00 -
(1x75cl) 2010Vinous (96)
The 2010 Chablis Montée de Tonnerre 1er Cru comes from one of Raveneau’s strongest vineyards, and it does not disappoint. The bouquet is steely and aloof at first, then suddenly turns more crystalline, bearing a strong marine influence with hints of kelp and sea spray. The balanced, penetrating palate displays a perfect line of acidity. Everything is in the right place here, culminating in what I wrote down as a “rocky” finish. Dare I say that this is about as good as Chablis can get?In Bond£619.00 -
(12x75cl) 2011Vinous (94)
The 2011 Chablis Montee de Tonnerre is all about grace. A gentle hint of spice leads to dried pears, crushed flowers, red berries and licorice. Constantly changing in the glass, the 2011 is a marvel to behold. Suggestions of smoke, graphite and licorice add layers of nuance in a magical wine loaded with class and personality. Best of all, the 2011 is relatively approachable by Raveneau standards, which means reader won't have to wait long at all to experience the magic of one of the great sites in Chablis.In Bond£4,849.00 -
(3x75cl) 2012Vinous (95)
Petrol, graphite, smoke, slate and white stone fruits grace the palate in the 2012 Chablis Montée de Tonnerre. Vivid and utterly crystalline, Raveneaus's 2012 is a great essay into to qualities of one of the great - maybe the single greatest - 1er Cru site in Chablis. The 2012 has a bit more new oak than is typically the case, as most of the new barrels in this vintage were used here. A thrilling finish rounds things off in style.In Bond£1,288.00 -
Burghound (92)
(Outstanding) Along with the Blanchots this is the most floral wine in the range with its elegant nose of pear, apple, spice and soft apricot nuances that exhibit just enough Chablis typicity to be persuasive. There is a lovely sense of vibrancy to the delicious and very rounded medium-bodied flavors that possess fine depth and excellent length on the mouth coating and powerful finish. While not quite at its usual level this is certainly a fine effort in the context of the vintage.In Bond£395.00 -
(2x75cl) 2013Burghound (92)
(Outstanding) Along with the Blanchots this is the most floral wine in the range with its elegant nose of pear, apple, spice and soft apricot nuances that exhibit just enough Chablis typicity to be persuasive. There is a lovely sense of vibrancy to the delicious and very rounded medium-bodied flavors that possess fine depth and excellent length on the mouth coating and powerful finish. While not quite at its usual level this is certainly a fine effort in the context of the vintage.In Bond£819.59 -
Vinous (95+)
Bright pale yellow-green. Wonderfully subtle, vibrant nose melds white peach, lime, mint, pungent minerals and toasted bread, plus a suggestion of more candied peach. Taut, precise and impossibly juicy, with its pristine white peach, lemon zest, mint and salty mineral flavors boasting outstanding clarity and cut. Totally different in texture from the more glyceral 2015. Nearly perfect Montée de Tonnerre from a full yield of 55 hectoliters per hectare, and extremely long and minerally on the aftertaste without being at all angular. This should go on for decades in a cold cellar. (12.78% alcohol; 3.17 pH; 4.26 g/l acidity)In Bond£531.00 -
(2x75cl) 2015Wine Advocate (94)
The 2015 Chablis 1er Cru Montee de Tonnerre has a tightly wound bouquet with a slight fumé note at first, then a trace of sea cave and a tang of the sea. The palate is very well balanced with a fine line of acidity. This has wonderful harmony, a dash of nutmeg and spice that emerges toward the finish and a very persistent aftertaste that will not go away (not that you want it to). This is an outstanding Montée de Tonnerre destined to give a lot of Chablis-lovers a lot of pleasure.In Bond£710.00 -
Wine Advocate (94)
The 2015 Chablis 1er Cru Montee de Tonnerre has a tightly wound bouquet with a slight fumé note at first, then a trace of sea cave and a tang of the sea. The palate is very well balanced with a fine line of acidity. This has wonderful harmony, a dash of nutmeg and spice that emerges toward the finish and a very persistent aftertaste that will not go away (not that you want it to). This is an outstanding Montée de Tonnerre destined to give a lot of Chablis-lovers a lot of pleasure.In Bond£2,055.00 -
(1x150cl) 2018Burghound (95)
This is perhaps the most elegant and floral-infused wine in the range with its array of various white flower scents, especially acacia that are nuanced by wisps of ocean breeze, iodine and algae. The restrained and well-detailed flavors possess a sophisticated and refined mouthfeel while the stony and chiseled finish exhibiting excellent persistence on the bone-dry finish. This is class in a glass and a stunning rendition of the appellation though note well that at least moderate patience is strongly advised.In Bond£964.00 -
Burghound (95)
This is perhaps the most elegant and floral-infused wine in the range with its array of various white flower scents, especially acacia that are nuanced by wisps of ocean breeze, iodine and algae. The restrained and well-detailed flavors possess a sophisticated and refined mouthfeel while the stony and chiseled finish exhibiting excellent persistence on the bone-dry finish. This is class in a glass and a stunning rendition of the appellation though note well that at least moderate patience is strongly advised.In Bond£383.00 -
(2x75cl) 2018Burghound (95)
This is perhaps the most elegant and floral-infused wine in the range with its array of various white flower scents, especially acacia that are nuanced by wisps of ocean breeze, iodine and algae. The restrained and well-detailed flavors possess a sophisticated and refined mouthfeel while the stony and chiseled finish exhibiting excellent persistence on the bone-dry finish. This is class in a glass and a stunning rendition of the appellation though note well that at least moderate patience is strongly advised.In Bond£750.00 -
Burghound (95)
This is perhaps the most elegant and floral-infused wine in the range with its array of various white flower scents, especially acacia that are nuanced by wisps of ocean breeze, iodine and algae. The restrained and well-detailed flavors possess a sophisticated and refined mouthfeel while the stony and chiseled finish exhibiting excellent persistence on the bone-dry finish. This is class in a glass and a stunning rendition of the appellation though note well that at least moderate patience is strongly advised.In Bond£2,000.00 -
(1x75cl) 2019Burghound (95)
A discreet, even timid nose speaks of markedly cool, airy and admirably pure aromas of high-toned floral wisps, iodine and plenty of oyster shell and tidal pool nuances that are trimmed in just enough wood to mention. The racy, mineral-driven and ultra-refined middle weight flavors possess the finest and most delicate texture in the entire range, all wrapped in a strikingly long and strikingly layered finale. This is textbook MdT and a genuine knockout.In Bond£454.00 -
Burghound (95)
A discreet, even timid nose speaks of markedly cool, airy and admirably pure aromas of high-toned floral wisps, iodine and plenty of oyster shell and tidal pool nuances that are trimmed in just enough wood to mention. The racy, mineral-driven and ultra-refined middle weight flavors possess the finest and most delicate texture in the entire range, all wrapped in a strikingly long and strikingly layered finale. This is textbook MdT and a genuine knockout.In Bond£1,768.00 -
Burghound (95)
(Outstanding) A more elegant and ultra-cool nose reveals its combination of floral, citrus zest, iodine and that briny sea water character the best examples of Chablis all seem to possess, all of which is trimmed in moderate but not invasive wood. There isn't quite the same volume on the palate as the Butteaux, but the middleweight flavors are notably more refined before terminating in a driving, chiseled and citrusy bone-dry finale. I very much like the focused power of the finish and this classy effort should also amply reward extended cellaring.In Bond£304.00 -
Burghound (95)
(Outstanding) A more elegant and ultra-cool nose reveals its combination of floral, citrus zest, iodine and that briny sea water character the best examples of Chablis all seem to possess, all of which is trimmed in moderate but not invasive wood. There isn't quite the same volume on the palate as the Butteaux, but the middleweight flavors are notably more refined before terminating in a driving, chiseled and citrusy bone-dry finale. I very much like the focused power of the finish and this classy effort should also amply reward extended cellaring.In Bond£1,909.00 -
Decanter (95)
TOP QUALITY PRODUCER As expected with Montée de Tonnerre, there are great reserves of power and energy here. Concentrated, fine and with great purity, oak adds subtle extra dimensions in the background. Lovely acidity and a touch of spice to finish. Great class. Raveneau's Montée de Tonnerre is over 3ha in area, accounting for around 1/3 of the estates holdings. Around 1.8ha are located on the mid-slopes of Chapelot. with 1.2ha at higher altitude in Pied d'Aloup which adds additional freshness and vivacity.Inc. VAT£1,215.60 -
Decanter (95)
TOP QUALITY PRODUCER As expected with Montée de Tonnerre, there are great reserves of power and energy here. Concentrated, fine and with great purity, oak adds subtle extra dimensions in the background. Lovely acidity and a touch of spice to finish. Great class. Raveneau's Montée de Tonnerre is over 3ha in area, accounting for around 1/3 of the estates holdings. Around 1.8ha are located on the mid-slopes of Chapelot. with 1.2ha at higher altitude in Pied d'Aloup which adds additional freshness and vivacity.In Bond£2,257.00 -
(1x75cl) 2000Vinous (90)
Quite closed on the nose; hints at peach and nectarine. Then broad and creamy in the mouth, with strong mineral notes of wet stone and petrol and a minty nuance. Builds nicely toward the dusty, broad back end. Showing well now.In Bond£456.00 -
Vinous (89-91)
( from a crop level of just 40 hectoliters per hectare) Subtle, pure aromas of green apple, minerals and mint. Fat, sweet and layered, with a note of quinine. A tactile if slightly aggressive wine that finishes with very good length. But the Chapelot is finer.In Bond£6,604.00 -
(1x75cl) 2003Vinous - Stephen Tanzer (89-91)
Pure but reticent aromas of lime blossom, quinine and mint; very Chablis . Penetrating, juicy flavors of lime, grapefruit, white flowers and mint. Finishes long and firm, with excellent cut, but this taut, thoroughly ripe wine is not at all hard.In Bond£386.00 -
(1x75cl) 2005Jancis Robinson (18)
Very different from the Montée de Tonnerre. Fresh, dusty citrus. Delicate and lightly citrussy. Then savoury, dry and intensely fresh on the palate. Fine-lined but not in the least lean. Sinewy length and power. Bright and mouthwatering.In Bond£445.00 -
(1x75cl) 2006Vinous (91)
Bright yellow. Reticent but very ripe aromas of peach, minerals and honey. Sweet, broad and ripe, but with lovely harmonious acidity framing the orange and honey flavors and imbuing the wine with freshness. Finishes saline, rich and quite long, with noteworthy mineral grip. This is awfully attractive right now.In Bond£428.00 -
(1x75cl) 2007Vinous (91-93)
Pale, green-tinged color. Precise but tight nose hints at citrus peel and minerals. Dense, chewy and tactile, with a captivating sweetness for the year. The ripe citrus, floral and powdered stone flavors are given definition by lemony acidity. Finishes persistent and pure. This site is protected from wind and is always picked early, notes Bernard Raveneau.In Bond£570.00 -
(1x75cl) 2008In Bond£509.00 -
(1x75cl) 2009Wine Advocate (94)
The 2009 Chablis Vaillons is all about delineation, focus and transparency. It is a compelling, marvelously subtle wine in every way. In particular, the Vaillons successfully reconciles the generosity of the year with the minerality that is typical of this site. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2029.In Bond£509.00 -
(1x75cl) 2011Vinous (92)
The Chablis Vaillons is quite striking in 2011. Subtle, elegant and beautifully perfumed, the 2011 shows a level of delineation and inner fragrance that is uncommon in this vintage. This feminine, gracious Chablis is drop-dead gorgeous today. Floral notes reappear on the finish, adding further lift, energy and focus.In Bond£384.00 -
(1x75cl) 2013Wine Advocate (92)
The 2013 Chablis 1er Cru Vaillons does not quite deliver the same intensity as the Montmains at the moment, although it is still well defined with more of a sea spray influence coming through. The palate is fresh and crisp on the entry, just a suggestion of dried honey on the front palate, before it gently fans out on a walnut/smoky finish that is cut from the same cloth as the Montmains '13, albeit with an extra pinch of spice. This is excellent.In Bond£391.00 -
(1x75cl) 2015Wine Advocate (94)
The 2015 Chablis 1Er Cru Vaillons was difficult to pin down last year from barrel when it trailed behind the other premier crus. Of course, it was just playing a trick on this writer because it has blossomed into one fabulous Vaillons. It is blessed with a pretty, wet limestone-scented bouquet, very open and transparent with a touch of spice developing with aeration. The palate skips along, fresh and tensile with a keen thread of acidity. I love the tension here that enlivens this Chablis from start to finish and lends the finish real energy and persistence. What a great Vaillons this is turning out to be and a bit of a revelation after its showing from barrel.In Bond£395.00

