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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The Simon Bize Savigny-les-Beaune 1er Cru Aux Grands Liards 2022 is a remarkable showcase of fine French winemaking. This Burgundy-based vineyard, situated in the heart of Savigny-les-Beaune, is renowned for its meticulous and precise wine making techniques. Farmed sustainably, and using age-old tradition of hand harvesting and sorting, Simon Bize ensures exceptional quality. This Premier Cru 2022 vintage reveals a splendid Pinot Noir that captivates the senses. With earthy overtones and spiced berry flavours, it presents an impressive balance between acidity and tannins. The intense ruby hue and the elegant aromas, brimming with fruit and subtle floral notes, hint at the wine's ageing potential. Simon Bize's meticulous attention to terroir is the secret behind the distinctive character and richness of the Simon Bize Savigny-les-Beaune 1er Cru Aux Grands Liards 2022.
Inc. VAT£311.60 -
Vinous (92-94)
The 2019 Savigny-lès-Beaune Les Vergelesses 1er Cru has a sophisticated nose of blackberry, loamy damp soil, raspberry and light cracked black pepper aromas that build nicely in the glass. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins and a crisp bead of acidity; very harmonious. White pepper and clove appear toward a finish that leaves the tongue tingling after it has departed. Superb.Inc. VAT£626.66 -
Vinous (87-89)
The 2018 Savigny-lès-Beaune Les Fournaux 1er Cru has a perfumed bouquet of fine definition and focus, delivering precise blackberry and bilberry fruit. The palate is medium-bodied with slightly rustic tannin and hints of green olive infusing the black fruit, and a linear, strict finish.Inc. VAT£637.00 -
Vinous (90-92)
The 2019 Savigny-lès-Beaune Les Fournaux 1er Cru is a little more backward and subdued on the nose compared to the other Premier Crus at the moment. Black cherries and bilberry reluctantly emerge, the nose seeming just a tad subdued at first. The palate is medium-bodied with grainy tannins, nicely focused and more elegant than the Les Grands Liards. Fine precision on the saline finish. This represents another excellent 2019 from Bize.Inc. VAT£888.58 -
Vinous (91-93)
The 2018 Savigny-lès-Beaune Les Marconnets 1er Cru has one of the finest bouquets from Bize’s 2018s, featuring pure black cherry, bilberry and pressed iris aromas. The palate is medium-bodied with gentle tannins, crisp black fruit laced with black pepper and a harmonious finish. Good potential.Inc. VAT£632.47 -
Vinous (90-92)
The 2018 Savigny-lès-Beaune Les Talmettes 1er Cru has a fragrant bouquet of harmonious blackberry, cranberry and bilberry scents, plus light sea spray/brine in the background. The palate is very well defined with succulent tannins, very fine acidity and a precise, persistent finish. Superb.Inc. VAT£1,330.60 -
(6x75cl) 2022Indulge your senses with the sublime Simon Colin Bourgogne Chardonnay 2022. From the esteemed vineyards of Burgundy, France, this exquisite testament to French winemaking is crafted with distinct Chardonnay grapes harvested in the revered Côte de Beaune region. The passionate producer, Simon Colin, whose lineage has passionately cultivated the land since 1822, ensures traditional methods merge seamlessly with contemporary techniques. An exquisitely balanced, medium-bodied wine, it whispers crisp, citrus nuances, alongside softer notes of creamy vanilla, owing to the meticulous oak barrel-aging process.
Simon Colin Bourgogne Chardonnay 2022 is much sought-after, presenting an impeccable embodiment of the ancient Burgundy terroir and Simon Colin's commitment to producing superior quality wines. Its brilliantly golden hue, delicate bouquet of honeysuckle, and robust, elegant palate make it a timeless choice for discerning connoisseurs. The intoxicating character of Simon Colin Bourgogne Chardonnay 2022 is best enjoyed with the likes of fresh seafood or rich, creamy dishes.
Inc. VAT£341.03 -
(6x75cl) 2022Vinous - Neal Martin (93)
The 2022 Chassagne-Montrachet Les Chaumées 1er Cru has one of the better aromatics among the wines tasted from the lower reaches of the appellation. Well defined, quite minerally, perky citrus fresh fruit with a subtle gunflint aroma that surfaces with aeration. The palate is well balanced with fine acidity, leaning more towards the richer and more exotic style of Chassagne, but pulling it off thanks to the acidic drive and the clever and discreet reduction on the finish. Excellent. Tasted blind at the annual Burgfest tasting.Inc. VAT£802.12 -
(6x75cl) 2022From the esteemed vineyards of Chassagne-Montrachet in the heart of the Côte de Beaune, Burgundy, comes the exquisite Simon Colin Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru Les Vergers 2022. This illustrious wine is the product of Simon Colin and Sons, a venerable estate with over 185 years of winemaking heritage. Grown on sloping limestone talus, the Chardonnay grapes proffer exceptional quality in the glass. The Premier Cru Les Vergers is intrinsic of its terroir, renowned for its precise minerality and striking acidity. The 2022 vintage displays a floral charm, imbued with luscious citrus and apricot nuances elegantly mingling with delicate notes of vanilla and toasted hazelnut from the carefully considered oak ageing. An appealing complexity and an entrancing long-lived finish are the testament to the unparalleled devotion that the Simon Colin estate imparts in each bottle of the Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru Les Vergers 2022.
Inc. VAT£803.71 -
(6x75cl) 2022Vinous - Neal Martin (90-92)
The 2023 Chassagne-Montrachet Village comes from young to 55-year-old vines on nine different parcels. This aged in 20% new oak. It has a composed and focused bouquet with fine mineralité, hints of lemon curd and peach skin. The palate is very well balanced, with impressive weight countered by a keen line of acidity. It's waxy in texture with plenty of extract on the finish. This is worth seeking out—it is a great value.Inc. VAT£688.66 -
Experience the distinctive elegance that is Simon Colin Santenay 1er Cru Les Gravieres 2022. Produced in the renowned Santenay appellation in the Bourgogne region of France, this exceptional wine exemplifies fine French viticulture. Simon Colin, the producer, is held in high regard for their commitment to traditional methods, paired with an innovative spirit. The grapes for this first-class wine are manually harvested, ensuring the highest quality yield.
The Simon Colin Santenay 1er Cru Les Gravieres 2022 exhibits a delicate blend of fruit and mineral notes. Soft yet assertive tannins offer balance, while the beautifully integrated oak gives layers of complexity. Its matured character is a testament to its brief maturation in oak barrels, securing its place as a well-elaborated, reputable Burgundian Pinot Noir. Enjoy this artisan wine today, a must-have for any connoisseur's collection.
Inc. VAT£315.49 -
Unveiling the opulence of Burgundy, the Simon Colin Santenay Rouge 2022 is a masterpiece exuding elegance and quality in each sip. A brainchild of Simon Colin, a noted winemaker whose lineage in the wine industry spans six generations, this red wine perfectly epitomises the terroir of Santenay. Grown and cultivated in the finely-tuned ecosystem of the picturesque hectares in the Côte d'Or, its hand-picked grapes were gently pressed and fermented using traditional winemaking processes, before maturing in French oak barrels.
The Simon Colin Santenay Rouge 2022 invites you into a brilliant play of depth with its tantalising bouquet of ripe cherries and wild berries, underpinned with subtle traces of earthy undertones. It showcases an intense palate, marked by refined tannins and balanced acidity, displaying the depth of flavour one would expect from a Burgundian virtuoso. Pair this sumptuous wine with savoury meats or a cheese platter to truly appreciate its harmonious elegance.
Inc. VAT£248.00 -
Wine Advocate (96)
The 2021 Palette Blanc reveals a more closed and austere profile than its siblings, wafting from the glass with an elegant and fresh oxidative character and notes of honey, noble spices, nutmeg and a touch of sous-bois. Full-bodied, fleshy and seamless, it's layered and saline, with impressive dry extract and a long, persistent finish. It will reward patience.Inc. VAT£453.10 -
Indulge in the fillip of sensory discovery with the Singla Rivesaltes Ambre Heritage du Temps 1961. Tended in the sun-drenched vineyards of the Rivesaltes AOC, Southern France, each grape brings forth an inherent vivacity that transcends time. This vintage articulates its rich heritage through its nuanced amber hue and captivating blend of fruit and spice. The palette of this fortified wine is delicately complex, reflecting the region's distinctive terroir with a mature spectrum of taste.
Harvested by the renowned Singla, reputed for their commitment to biodynamics and unparalleled craftsmanship, the authenticity of their production process is palpable. Their conscientious interplay of tradition and innovation resonate in every sip, bringing forth layers of mellow sweetness to balance the robust character this vintage is celebrated for. An embodiment of the family's lineage and passion, the Singla Rivesaltes Ambre Heritage du Temps 1961 is a testament to the idyllic Rivesaltes landscape and its extraordinary capacity for wine production.
Inc. VAT£89.16 -
James Suckling (93)
Blueberries and minerals, with floral undertones follow through to a full body and velvety tannins and a juicy finish. Subtle and structured. Try after 2018.Inc. VAT£746.20 -
(12x75cl) 2012Wine Spectator (92)
A perfumy style, with black tea and spice notes up front and dark plum sauce and steeped raspberry fruit in reserve. A bright iron streak enlivens the finish. Offers good stuffing, staying elegant overall. Score range: 89-92 -JMInc. VAT£430.87 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (93)
The 2017 Siran has turned out beautifully. Dark and rich with tons of nuance, Siran is super expressive in 2017 in the mid-weight style of the vintage. Wild cherry, plum, dried flowers, mint, tobacco and smoke are all laced together in this pretty, inviting Margaux.Inc. VAT£188.52 -
(12x37.5cl) 2019James Suckling (94-95)
A dense, beautifully integrated red with blackberry, blueberry and chocolate character. It’s full-bodied with ripe tannins and a fresh, focused finish. Shows lots of blue fruit and flowers at the end. Siran does it again, after a gorgeous 2018.Inc. VAT£198.35 -
James Suckling (94-95)
A dense, beautifully integrated red with blackberry, blueberry and chocolate character. It’s full-bodied with ripe tannins and a fresh, focused finish. Shows lots of blue fruit and flowers at the end. Siran does it again, after a gorgeous 2018.Inc. VAT£311.06 -
(3x150cl) 2019James Suckling (94-95)
A dense, beautifully integrated red with blackberry, blueberry and chocolate character. It’s full-bodied with ripe tannins and a fresh, focused finish. Shows lots of blue fruit and flowers at the end. Siran does it again, after a gorgeous 2018.Inc. VAT£223.55 -
James Suckling (94-95)
A dense, beautifully integrated red with blackberry, blueberry and chocolate character. It’s full-bodied with ripe tannins and a fresh, focused finish. Shows lots of blue fruit and flowers at the end. Siran does it again, after a gorgeous 2018.Inc. VAT£173.75 -
James Suckling (93-94)
Lots of purple fruit with asphalt and black-olive character. It’s full-bodied with chewy tannins and a long, linear finish.Inc. VAT£172.09 -
(12x75cl) 2023James Suckling (94-95)
Wow. This is really well done with plenty of al-dente fruit character, bright acidity and firm, fine tannins that are already well integrated. Medium-bodied. Crunchy.Inc. VAT£382.01 -
James Suckling (94-95)
Wow. This is really well done with plenty of al-dente fruit character, bright acidity and firm, fine tannins that are already well integrated. Medium-bodied. Crunchy.Inc. VAT£176.60 -
James Suckling (92)
This has attractive notes of praline, hazelnuts, tarte tatin, berry fruit and spiced pears. Tasty and deliciously spicy, with soft bubbles and a medium body. Excellent persistency. 60% pinot noir and 40% chardonnay. Disgorged 2022. 3g/L dosage. Drink now.Inc. VAT£324.97 -
(1x300cl) 2010Few wines assert their artistry with such aplomb as the Sixtine Chateauneuf Du Pape 2010. An emblem of the renowned Cuvée de la Sixtine vineyards in the Rhône Valley of France, this wine is the embodiment of meticulous craftsmanship. The region's calcareous clay terroir and dry Mediterranean climate bless this vintage with an exquisite intensity. With a predominance of classic Grenache, bolstered by Syrah and Mourvèdre, it settles beautifully in French oak barrels for twelve months before decanting.
Its deep ruby hue bespeaks opulence, emanating aromas of ripe black fruits, subtly mingled with spices and licorice. The palate is enveloped in a grand tapestry of tannins, with a spectacularly long finish. Sixtine Chateauneuf Du Pape 2010 is testament to the expertise of the Diffonty family, a venerable wine producing lineage dating back to 1673. A bold choice for discerning connoisseurs, it typifies the refinement of French viticulture.
Inc. VAT£385.55 -
(12x75cl) 2000Jeb Dunnuck (96)
Beautifully perfumed notes of ripe cherries, currants, white truffle, and leafy tobacco emerge from the 2000 Château Smith Haut Lafitte, a stunning Pessac-Léognan that is undeniably drinking well yet has another 10-15 years of prime drinking ahead of it. Medium to full-bodied on the palate, it has a seamless, layered mouthfeel, resolved tannins, and a great finish. It's impeccably balanced and will have a gradual decline after reaching its peak. Drink 2026-2041.Inc. VAT£2,147.80 -
The Wine Independent (99)
The 2005 Smith Haut Lafitte rouge is a blend of 64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc, and 1% Petit Verdot. Medium to deep garnet-brick in color, it slips confidently out of the glass with notes of creme de cassis, baked plums, cracked black pepper, and pencil shavings, plus wafts of sandalwood and licorice. The medium to full-bodied palate is plush and juicy, featuring soft acidity and a long, beautifully poised finish. In a sweet spot for drinking now, this can cellar a further 20 years+.Inc. VAT£1,814.64 -
Jeb Dunnuck (100)
I think the greatest Smith Haut Lafitte to date (possibly matched by the 2018), the 2009 Château Smith Haut Lafitte tastes like it did on release, offering a smorgasbord of Graves magic in its smoked blackcurrants, chocolate, cold fireplace, truffle, unsmoked tobacco, and Asian spices. While this is a big, rich, incredibly concentrated Graves, it nevertheless maintains a beautiful level of nuance and elegance, with silky tannins, a seamless, multi-dimensional texture, and a heavenly finish that keeps you coming back to the glass. As with all truly great wines, it delivers an incredible amount of pleasure, both hedonistic and intellectual, all while staying weightless, graceful, and elegant. Hats off to the Cathiard family and winemaker Fabien Teitgen for this legendary Graves!Inc. VAT£2,943.55 -
(1x600cl) 2009Jeb Dunnuck (100)
I think the greatest Smith Haut Lafitte to date (possibly matched by the 2018), the 2009 Château Smith Haut Lafitte tastes like it did on release, offering a smorgasbord of Graves magic in its smoked blackcurrants, chocolate, cold fireplace, truffle, unsmoked tobacco, and Asian spices. While this is a big, rich, incredibly concentrated Graves, it nevertheless maintains a beautiful level of nuance and elegance, with silky tannins, a seamless, multi-dimensional texture, and a heavenly finish that keeps you coming back to the glass. As with all truly great wines, it delivers an incredible amount of pleasure, both hedonistic and intellectual, all while staying weightless, graceful, and elegant. Hats off to the Cathiard family and winemaker Fabien Teitgen for this legendary Graves!Inc. VAT£3,922.37
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The Simon Bize Savigny-les-Beaune 1er Cru Aux Grands Liards 2022 is a remarkable showcase of fine French winemaking. This Burgundy-based vineyard, situated in the heart of Savigny-les-Beaune, is renowned for its meticulous and precise wine making techniques. Farmed sustainably, and using age-old tradition of hand harvesting and sorting, Simon Bize ensures exceptional quality. This Premier Cru 2022 vintage reveals a splendid Pinot Noir that captivates the senses. With earthy overtones and spiced berry flavours, it presents an impressive balance between acidity and tannins. The intense ruby hue and the elegant aromas, brimming with fruit and subtle floral notes, hint at the wine's ageing potential. Simon Bize's meticulous attention to terroir is the secret behind the distinctive character and richness of the Simon Bize Savigny-les-Beaune 1er Cru Aux Grands Liards 2022.
In Bond£239.00 -
Vinous (92-94)
The 2019 Savigny-lès-Beaune Les Vergelesses 1er Cru has a sophisticated nose of blackberry, loamy damp soil, raspberry and light cracked black pepper aromas that build nicely in the glass. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins and a crisp bead of acidity; very harmonious. White pepper and clove appear toward a finish that leaves the tongue tingling after it has departed. Superb.In Bond£505.00 -
Vinous (87-89)
The 2018 Savigny-lès-Beaune Les Fournaux 1er Cru has a perfumed bouquet of fine definition and focus, delivering precise blackberry and bilberry fruit. The palate is medium-bodied with slightly rustic tannin and hints of green olive infusing the black fruit, and a linear, strict finish.In Bond£495.00 -
Vinous (90-92)
The 2019 Savigny-lès-Beaune Les Fournaux 1er Cru is a little more backward and subdued on the nose compared to the other Premier Crus at the moment. Black cherries and bilberry reluctantly emerge, the nose seeming just a tad subdued at first. The palate is medium-bodied with grainy tannins, nicely focused and more elegant than the Les Grands Liards. Fine precision on the saline finish. This represents another excellent 2019 from Bize.In Bond£702.00 -
Vinous (91-93)
The 2018 Savigny-lès-Beaune Les Marconnets 1er Cru has one of the finest bouquets from Bize’s 2018s, featuring pure black cherry, bilberry and pressed iris aromas. The palate is medium-bodied with gentle tannins, crisp black fruit laced with black pepper and a harmonious finish. Good potential.In Bond£495.00 -
Vinous (90-92)
The 2018 Savigny-lès-Beaune Les Talmettes 1er Cru has a fragrant bouquet of harmonious blackberry, cranberry and bilberry scents, plus light sea spray/brine in the background. The palate is very well defined with succulent tannins, very fine acidity and a precise, persistent finish. Superb.In Bond£1,073.00 -
(6x75cl) 2022Indulge your senses with the sublime Simon Colin Bourgogne Chardonnay 2022. From the esteemed vineyards of Burgundy, France, this exquisite testament to French winemaking is crafted with distinct Chardonnay grapes harvested in the revered Côte de Beaune region. The passionate producer, Simon Colin, whose lineage has passionately cultivated the land since 1822, ensures traditional methods merge seamlessly with contemporary techniques. An exquisitely balanced, medium-bodied wine, it whispers crisp, citrus nuances, alongside softer notes of creamy vanilla, owing to the meticulous oak barrel-aging process.
Simon Colin Bourgogne Chardonnay 2022 is much sought-after, presenting an impeccable embodiment of the ancient Burgundy terroir and Simon Colin's commitment to producing superior quality wines. Its brilliantly golden hue, delicate bouquet of honeysuckle, and robust, elegant palate make it a timeless choice for discerning connoisseurs. The intoxicating character of Simon Colin Bourgogne Chardonnay 2022 is best enjoyed with the likes of fresh seafood or rich, creamy dishes.
In Bond£264.95 -
(6x75cl) 2022Vinous - Neal Martin (93)
The 2022 Chassagne-Montrachet Les Chaumées 1er Cru has one of the better aromatics among the wines tasted from the lower reaches of the appellation. Well defined, quite minerally, perky citrus fresh fruit with a subtle gunflint aroma that surfaces with aeration. The palate is well balanced with fine acidity, leaning more towards the richer and more exotic style of Chassagne, but pulling it off thanks to the acidic drive and the clever and discreet reduction on the finish. Excellent. Tasted blind at the annual Burgfest tasting.In Bond£650.52 -
(6x75cl) 2022From the esteemed vineyards of Chassagne-Montrachet in the heart of the Côte de Beaune, Burgundy, comes the exquisite Simon Colin Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru Les Vergers 2022. This illustrious wine is the product of Simon Colin and Sons, a venerable estate with over 185 years of winemaking heritage. Grown on sloping limestone talus, the Chardonnay grapes proffer exceptional quality in the glass. The Premier Cru Les Vergers is intrinsic of its terroir, renowned for its precise minerality and striking acidity. The 2022 vintage displays a floral charm, imbued with luscious citrus and apricot nuances elegantly mingling with delicate notes of vanilla and toasted hazelnut from the carefully considered oak ageing. An appealing complexity and an entrancing long-lived finish are the testament to the unparalleled devotion that the Simon Colin estate imparts in each bottle of the Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru Les Vergers 2022.
In Bond£650.52 -
(6x75cl) 2022Vinous - Neal Martin (90-92)
The 2023 Chassagne-Montrachet Village comes from young to 55-year-old vines on nine different parcels. This aged in 20% new oak. It has a composed and focused bouquet with fine mineralité, hints of lemon curd and peach skin. The palate is very well balanced, with impressive weight countered by a keen line of acidity. It's waxy in texture with plenty of extract on the finish. This is worth seeking out—it is a great value.In Bond£554.64 -
Experience the distinctive elegance that is Simon Colin Santenay 1er Cru Les Gravieres 2022. Produced in the renowned Santenay appellation in the Bourgogne region of France, this exceptional wine exemplifies fine French viticulture. Simon Colin, the producer, is held in high regard for their commitment to traditional methods, paired with an innovative spirit. The grapes for this first-class wine are manually harvested, ensuring the highest quality yield.
The Simon Colin Santenay 1er Cru Les Gravieres 2022 exhibits a delicate blend of fruit and mineral notes. Soft yet assertive tannins offer balance, while the beautifully integrated oak gives layers of complexity. Its matured character is a testament to its brief maturation in oak barrels, securing its place as a well-elaborated, reputable Burgundian Pinot Noir. Enjoy this artisan wine today, a must-have for any connoisseur's collection.
In Bond£245.00 -
Unveiling the opulence of Burgundy, the Simon Colin Santenay Rouge 2022 is a masterpiece exuding elegance and quality in each sip. A brainchild of Simon Colin, a noted winemaker whose lineage in the wine industry spans six generations, this red wine perfectly epitomises the terroir of Santenay. Grown and cultivated in the finely-tuned ecosystem of the picturesque hectares in the Côte d'Or, its hand-picked grapes were gently pressed and fermented using traditional winemaking processes, before maturing in French oak barrels.
The Simon Colin Santenay Rouge 2022 invites you into a brilliant play of depth with its tantalising bouquet of ripe cherries and wild berries, underpinned with subtle traces of earthy undertones. It showcases an intense palate, marked by refined tannins and balanced acidity, displaying the depth of flavour one would expect from a Burgundian virtuoso. Pair this sumptuous wine with savoury meats or a cheese platter to truly appreciate its harmonious elegance.
In Bond£186.00 -
Wine Advocate (96)
The 2021 Palette Blanc reveals a more closed and austere profile than its siblings, wafting from the glass with an elegant and fresh oxidative character and notes of honey, noble spices, nutmeg and a touch of sous-bois. Full-bodied, fleshy and seamless, it's layered and saline, with impressive dry extract and a long, persistent finish. It will reward patience.In Bond£339.00 -
Indulge in the fillip of sensory discovery with the Singla Rivesaltes Ambre Heritage du Temps 1961. Tended in the sun-drenched vineyards of the Rivesaltes AOC, Southern France, each grape brings forth an inherent vivacity that transcends time. This vintage articulates its rich heritage through its nuanced amber hue and captivating blend of fruit and spice. The palette of this fortified wine is delicately complex, reflecting the region's distinctive terroir with a mature spectrum of taste.
Harvested by the renowned Singla, reputed for their commitment to biodynamics and unparalleled craftsmanship, the authenticity of their production process is palpable. Their conscientious interplay of tradition and innovation resonate in every sip, bringing forth layers of mellow sweetness to balance the robust character this vintage is celebrated for. An embodiment of the family's lineage and passion, the Singla Rivesaltes Ambre Heritage du Temps 1961 is a testament to the idyllic Rivesaltes landscape and its extraordinary capacity for wine production.
In Bond£72.00 -
James Suckling (93)
Blueberries and minerals, with floral undertones follow through to a full body and velvety tannins and a juicy finish. Subtle and structured. Try after 2018.In Bond£586.00 -
(12x75cl) 2012Wine Spectator (92)
A perfumy style, with black tea and spice notes up front and dark plum sauce and steeped raspberry fruit in reserve. A bright iron streak enlivens the finish. Offers good stuffing, staying elegant overall. Score range: 89-92 -JMIn Bond£327.00 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (93)
The 2017 Siran has turned out beautifully. Dark and rich with tons of nuance, Siran is super expressive in 2017 in the mid-weight style of the vintage. Wild cherry, plum, dried flowers, mint, tobacco and smoke are all laced together in this pretty, inviting Margaux.In Bond£138.50 -
(12x37.5cl) 2019James Suckling (94-95)
A dense, beautifully integrated red with blackberry, blueberry and chocolate character. It’s full-bodied with ripe tannins and a fresh, focused finish. Shows lots of blue fruit and flowers at the end. Siran does it again, after a gorgeous 2018.In Bond£146.00 -
James Suckling (94-95)
A dense, beautifully integrated red with blackberry, blueberry and chocolate character. It’s full-bodied with ripe tannins and a fresh, focused finish. Shows lots of blue fruit and flowers at the end. Siran does it again, after a gorgeous 2018.In Bond£233.50 -
(3x150cl) 2019James Suckling (94-95)
A dense, beautifully integrated red with blackberry, blueberry and chocolate character. It’s full-bodied with ripe tannins and a fresh, focused finish. Shows lots of blue fruit and flowers at the end. Siran does it again, after a gorgeous 2018.In Bond£167.00 -
James Suckling (94-95)
A dense, beautifully integrated red with blackberry, blueberry and chocolate character. It’s full-bodied with ripe tannins and a fresh, focused finish. Shows lots of blue fruit and flowers at the end. Siran does it again, after a gorgeous 2018.In Bond£125.50 -
James Suckling (93-94)
Lots of purple fruit with asphalt and black-olive character. It’s full-bodied with chewy tannins and a long, linear finish.In Bond£125.50 -
(12x75cl) 2023James Suckling (94-95)
Wow. This is really well done with plenty of al-dente fruit character, bright acidity and firm, fine tannins that are already well integrated. Medium-bodied. Crunchy.In Bond£277.00 -
James Suckling (94-95)
Wow. This is really well done with plenty of al-dente fruit character, bright acidity and firm, fine tannins that are already well integrated. Medium-bodied. Crunchy.In Bond£126.50 -
James Suckling (92)
This has attractive notes of praline, hazelnuts, tarte tatin, berry fruit and spiced pears. Tasty and deliciously spicy, with soft bubbles and a medium body. Excellent persistency. 60% pinot noir and 40% chardonnay. Disgorged 2022. 3g/L dosage. Drink now.In Bond£254.00 -
(1x300cl) 2010Few wines assert their artistry with such aplomb as the Sixtine Chateauneuf Du Pape 2010. An emblem of the renowned Cuvée de la Sixtine vineyards in the Rhône Valley of France, this wine is the embodiment of meticulous craftsmanship. The region's calcareous clay terroir and dry Mediterranean climate bless this vintage with an exquisite intensity. With a predominance of classic Grenache, bolstered by Syrah and Mourvèdre, it settles beautifully in French oak barrels for twelve months before decanting.
Its deep ruby hue bespeaks opulence, emanating aromas of ripe black fruits, subtly mingled with spices and licorice. The palate is enveloped in a grand tapestry of tannins, with a spectacularly long finish. Sixtine Chateauneuf Du Pape 2010 is testament to the expertise of the Diffonty family, a venerable wine producing lineage dating back to 1673. A bold choice for discerning connoisseurs, it typifies the refinement of French viticulture.
In Bond£308.00 -
(12x75cl) 2000Jeb Dunnuck (96)
Beautifully perfumed notes of ripe cherries, currants, white truffle, and leafy tobacco emerge from the 2000 Château Smith Haut Lafitte, a stunning Pessac-Léognan that is undeniably drinking well yet has another 10-15 years of prime drinking ahead of it. Medium to full-bodied on the palate, it has a seamless, layered mouthfeel, resolved tannins, and a great finish. It's impeccably balanced and will have a gradual decline after reaching its peak. Drink 2026-2041.In Bond£1,754.00 -
The Wine Independent (99)
The 2005 Smith Haut Lafitte rouge is a blend of 64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc, and 1% Petit Verdot. Medium to deep garnet-brick in color, it slips confidently out of the glass with notes of creme de cassis, baked plums, cracked black pepper, and pencil shavings, plus wafts of sandalwood and licorice. The medium to full-bodied palate is plush and juicy, featuring soft acidity and a long, beautifully poised finish. In a sweet spot for drinking now, this can cellar a further 20 years+.In Bond£1,475.00 -
Jeb Dunnuck (100)
I think the greatest Smith Haut Lafitte to date (possibly matched by the 2018), the 2009 Château Smith Haut Lafitte tastes like it did on release, offering a smorgasbord of Graves magic in its smoked blackcurrants, chocolate, cold fireplace, truffle, unsmoked tobacco, and Asian spices. While this is a big, rich, incredibly concentrated Graves, it nevertheless maintains a beautiful level of nuance and elegance, with silky tannins, a seamless, multi-dimensional texture, and a heavenly finish that keeps you coming back to the glass. As with all truly great wines, it delivers an incredible amount of pleasure, both hedonistic and intellectual, all while staying weightless, graceful, and elegant. Hats off to the Cathiard family and winemaker Fabien Teitgen for this legendary Graves!In Bond£2,413.00 -
(1x600cl) 2009Jeb Dunnuck (100)
I think the greatest Smith Haut Lafitte to date (possibly matched by the 2018), the 2009 Château Smith Haut Lafitte tastes like it did on release, offering a smorgasbord of Graves magic in its smoked blackcurrants, chocolate, cold fireplace, truffle, unsmoked tobacco, and Asian spices. While this is a big, rich, incredibly concentrated Graves, it nevertheless maintains a beautiful level of nuance and elegance, with silky tannins, a seamless, multi-dimensional texture, and a heavenly finish that keeps you coming back to the glass. As with all truly great wines, it delivers an incredible amount of pleasure, both hedonistic and intellectual, all while staying weightless, graceful, and elegant. Hats off to the Cathiard family and winemaker Fabien Teitgen for this legendary Graves!In Bond£3,242.00

