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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Jeb Dunnuck (91)
The second wine of Château Valandraud, the 2021 Virginie De Valandraud is worth seeking out. Ripe red and black fruits, violets, flowers, and a hint of new leather define the aromatics, and it's medium-bodied, with a pure, elegant mouthfeel, nicely integrated acidity, and supple tannins. It's an outstanding 2021 to drink over the coming decade or so.Inc. VAT£183.12 -
Visionnaire 2010 epitomises South African winemaking excellence, meticulously crafted in the prestigious Stellenbosch region. This exceptional wine is a harmonious blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc, sourced from meticulously tended vineyards that benefit from granite-rich soils and an optimal climate. Under the expert guidance of Johan Steenkamp, Visionnaire employs a combination of traditional and modern vinification techniques, including hand harvesting and precise fermentation controls. The wine undergoes extended ageing in French oak barrels, enhancing its complexity with nuanced layers of blackcurrant, cassis, and subtle hints of cedar and tobacco. The Visionnaire 2010 boasts a velvety tannic structure, balanced acidity, and a lingering finish, showcasing the depth and character that discerning connoisseurs seek. Renowned for its elegance and sophistication, Visionnaire 2010 is a testament to the producer’s unwavering commitment to quality and innovation, making it a distinguished addition to any fine wine collection.
Inc. VAT£405.14 -
The Visionnaire 2011 epitomises the pinnacle of South African winemaking, meticulously crafted in the renowned Elgin Valley. Hand-harvested grapes from select vineyards are vinified with precision, ensuring a harmonious balance of rich tannins and vibrant acidity. Aged for 18 months in French oak barrels, this vintage unveils a complex bouquet of dark berries, cedar, and subtle spice notes. Visionnaire, a family-owned estate celebrated for its commitment to quality and sustainability, employs biodynamic practices to nurture the vines, reflecting their dedication to excellence. On the palate, the 2011 offers layered flavours with a velvety finish, demonstrating the producer’s expertise in creating wines of enduring character and elegance. Perfect for connoisseurs seeking a distinguished expression of terroir, Visionnaire 2011 stands as a testament to exceptional craftsmanship and passion.
Inc. VAT£405.14 -
(12x75cl) 2021The Vocoret Chablis Bas Chapelot 2021 is a captivating, complex bottle that epitomises the finest traditions of Burgundy Chardonnay. Its carefully chosen grapes originate from the respected slope vineyard 'Bas Chapelot', nestled in the enviable terroirs of Chablis. This wine is a testament to the century-old Vocoret family domain, renowned for their homegrown traditional methods intertwined with a commitment to quality and authenticity. Each bottle expresses the delicate minerality that is distinctively Chablis, alongside fresh, vibrant flavours of apple, melon, honey, and a hint of oyster shell. The creation process involves meticulous fermentation in stainless steel vats, preserving the pure fruitiness of this expressive wine. With commitment to this natural technique, Vocoret Chablis Bas Chapelot 2021 ensures a balanced palate with a refreshing acidity, long finish, and an elegant overtone. A bottle of Vocoret Chablis Bas Chapelot 2021 is a splendid accompaniment to special occasions, bridging tradition and refinement in each glass.
Inc. VAT£586.51 -
(12x75cl) 2022Experience the refined elegance of Vocoret Chablis Bas Chapelot 2022, a quintessential expression of Burgundy's esteemed Chablis region. Crafted by the renowned Domaine Vocoret, this Chardonnay is meticulously vinified in the heart of Bas Chapelot, leveraging the unique Kimmeridgian limestone soils that impart unparalleled minerality. Hand-harvested grapes undergo gentle pressing and fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, preserving the wine's crisp acidity and delicate fruit profile. A judicious aging period on fine lees enhances its complexity without overshadowing its innate purity. The 2022 vintage showcases vibrant notes of green apple, citrus zest, and subtle floral undertones, seamlessly balanced by a steely backbone and a lingering, elegant finish. Ideal for pairing with seafood, poultry, or classic French cuisine, Vocoret Chablis Bas Chapelot 2022 embodies the sophistication and precision that fine wine aficionados seek. Indulge in a bottle and savour the distinguished heritage of Chablis excellence.
Inc. VAT£445.61 -
Experience the exquisite Vollereaux Brut Reserve NV, crafted with meticulous care by the Vollereaux family in the renowned Champagne region of France. This prestigious house, operating for six generations, embodies. French wine-making heritage at its finest. The Vollereaux Brut Reserve NV is a sublime encapsulation of their commitment to excellence.
A blend of Pinot Meunier, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir, this sparkling wine undergoes a traditional, second fermentation in the bottle, creating its signature effervescence. Laden with bright, orchard fruit flavours, it captivates with its complex, layered taste and a lengthy finish, testament to a 3-year maturation process in their historic cellars.
Remarkably well-balanced, the Vollereaux Brut Reserve NV is a standout choice for those seeking elegance and finesse in their Champagne. Whether for celebrations or casual indulgence, add a touch of class with this fine Champagne.
Inc. VAT£279.04 -
Vinous (95)
The NV (2012) Extra Brut Fidele is another fabulous wine from Vouette & Sorbée. Here, the richness of Pinot Noir comes through loud and clear in the wine's depth and overall richness. Creamy and beautifully layered throughout, the 2012 hits all the right notes. Red berry, mint, flowers, sweet spices and candy fill out the wine's broad frame effortlessly. What a gorgeous wine this is. Simply put, the 2012 is a total knock-out. Disgorged: January 6, 2015.Inc. VAT£486.04 -
Vinous (94)
(100% chardonnay, from 2007; disgorged 09-11-10/R07): Light, bright gold. An intensely perfumed nose displays dried pear, orange pith, vanilla bean and candied ginger, with suave leesy and iodine notes gaining strength with aeration. Deeply pitched and emphatically dry, with strikingly powerful orchard fruit and candied citrus flavors deepened by notes of anise, vanilla and chamomile. Finishes firm and gripping, leaving spice and bitter almond notes behind. An extremely young, intense and uncompromising Champagne that should be left to rest for at least a few more years.Inc. VAT£588.64 -
(3x75cl) 2010Crafted by the renowned Bertrand Gautherot, the Vouette et Sorbee Sobre Extra Brut 2010 is an extraordinary showcase of fine French winemaking. Hailing from the Champagne region, this wine rides the delicate balance between splendid richness and enticing minerality. Grown in a biodynamic vineyard, its grapes are hand-picked, lending an organic integrity to each bottle. This magnificent vintage offers a complex blend of stone fruit and brioche with a whisper of earthy undertones. The palate is full-bodied and lavish, precisely enunciated with a resonant finish. Aged for at least 24 months, the Vouette et Sorbee Sobre Extra Brut 2010's effervescence is refined and subtle. On the pour, its golden hues flirt with the light, foreshadowing the opulence that awaits. Elegant and respectable, the Vouette et Sorbee Sobre Extra Brut 2010 is a testament to Gautherot's perspicacious and principled approach to viticulture. Truly, a remarkable addition to any wine aficionado's collection.
Inc. VAT£556.34 -
Wine Advocate (92+)
There are 13,053 bottles of Domaine de la Vougeraie's superb 2017 Vougeot 1er Cru Le Clos Blanc de Vougeot, representing a modest yield for this emblematic monopole. Opening in the glass with a pretty bouquet of fresh green pear, peach, mandarin oil and petrol, framed by a discreet touch of nutty new oak, the wine is medium to full-bodied, racy and precise, with a delicate and elegantly tight-knit core of fruit and a long, precise finish. As readers may know, small percentages of Pinot Gris and Pinot Blanc complement Chardonnay in this cuvée.Inc. VAT£651.49 -
Wine Advocate (92)
The 2018 Vougeot 1er Cru Le Clos Blanc de Vougeot has turned out nicely, wafting from the glass with aromas of pear, peach, orange oil and a generous but not overpowering application of toasty new oak. Medium to full-bodied, satiny and incisive, its textural attack segues into a tangy, vibrant mid-palate, concluding with a saline finish. As readers will remember, small percentages of Pinot Gris and Pinot Blanc complement Chardonnay in this cuvée.Inc. VAT£557.89 -
Vinous (89-91)
The 2019 Vougeot 1er Cru Le Clos Blanc de Vougeot, the 0.83-hectare monopole of the domaine, was picked three times. It was showing a bit of reduction on the nose when I visited. The rounded palate features lime cordial, tinned apricot and plenty of passion fruit and pineapple notes toward the finish. This is a delicious and seductive white Vougeot, although it is missing just a little tension and intellect overall.Inc. VAT£614.75 -
(6x75cl) 2016Inc. VAT£3,537.73 -
Vinous (93)
The 2017 Bâtard-Montrachet Grand Cru has a lot of reduction on the nose that disguises the terroir; it’s difficult to peer beyond the sulfur here. The palate is dense and weighty and slightly honeyed in texture (possibly with just a bit of botrytis?). It feels harmonious toward the finish but does need to address the sulfur issue. Tasted blind at the annual Burgfest tasting in Savigny-lès-Beaune.Inc. VAT£2,560.69 -
Wine Advocate (92-94)
Richer and more muscular than the elegant Charlemagne, the 2018 Bâtard-Montrachet Grand Cru offers up notes of pear, citrus oil, beeswax, fresh hay and toasted nuts. On the palate, it's full-bodied, layered and fleshy, with ripe acids and chalky structuring extract.Inc. VAT£909.55 -
(3x75cl) 2021Vinous (92-94)
The 2021 Bâtard-Montrachet Grand Cru comes from three plots. It takes time to unfurl on the nose, eventually offering citrus fruit, popcorn and hints of Mirabelle. The palate is balanced with an attractive, slightly waxy texture. It shows fine depth with the mineralité eventually surfacing with aeration. Afford this three or four years in bottle.Inc. VAT£1,256.52 -
Vinous (92-94)
The 2021 Bâtard-Montrachet Grand Cru comes from three plots. It takes time to unfurl on the nose, eventually offering citrus fruit, popcorn and hints of Mirabelle. The palate is balanced with an attractive, slightly waxy texture. It shows fine depth with the mineralité eventually surfacing with aeration. Afford this three or four years in bottle.Inc. VAT£2,386.69 -
(3x75cl) 2022Vinous - Neal Martin (92)
The 2022 Bâtard-Montrachet Grand Cru is marginally deeper in colour than its peers. This feels heavily reduced, a little feral and alcoholic compared to Thomas Morey's own Bâtard. The palate is balanced with a slightly viscous entry, seemingly a later-picked Bâtard with ample concentration, though it just loses some of its precision towards the finish. Tasted blind at the annual Burgfest tasting.Inc. VAT£1,114.00 -
Vinous - Neal Martin (92)
The 2022 Bâtard-Montrachet Grand Cru is marginally deeper in colour than its peers. This feels heavily reduced, a little feral and alcoholic compared to Thomas Morey's own Bâtard. The palate is balanced with a slightly viscous entry, seemingly a later-picked Bâtard with ample concentration, though it just loses some of its precision towards the finish. Tasted blind at the annual Burgfest tasting.Inc. VAT£2,550.80 -
Vinous (85-87)
The 2020 Beaune Blanc Village, which comes from La Montée, has a strict nose with greengage and light apply aromas. The palate is medium-bodied with decent weight, although it needs a little more definition towards the finish. Drink over the next four to seven years.Inc. VAT£351.49 -
(1x75cl) 2016Wine Advocate (90-92)
The 2016 Bienvenue-Bâtard-Montrachet Grand Cru was quite reduced on the nose. The palate is nicely balanced with good concentration, quite nutty and Meursault-like in style and sporting appreciable salinité toward the finish that fans out. Good potential, but give this a couple of years in bottle. I will remain cautious with my score for now.Inc. VAT£740.52 -
Wine Advocate (90-92)
The 2016 Bienvenue-Bâtard-Montrachet Grand Cru was quite reduced on the nose. The palate is nicely balanced with good concentration, quite nutty and Meursault-like in style and sporting appreciable salinité toward the finish that fans out. Good potential, but give this a couple of years in bottle. I will remain cautious with my score for now.Inc. VAT£2,386.69 -
(1x75cl) 2017Vinous (93-95)
The 2017 Bienvenue-Bâtard-Montrachet Grand Cru has what might be called a more adventurous bouquet than the Bâtard: light sea spray scents developing in the glass, gaining intensity with subtle petrichor aromas. The precise, focused palate is well balanced with a fine bead of acidity and slivers of orange zest and citrus peel toward the persistent finish. I discern more potential here than in the Bâtard-Montrachet this year.Inc. VAT£826.27 -
Vinous (93-95)
The 2017 Bienvenue-Bâtard-Montrachet Grand Cru has what might be called a more adventurous bouquet than the Bâtard: light sea spray scents developing in the glass, gaining intensity with subtle petrichor aromas. The precise, focused palate is well balanced with a fine bead of acidity and slivers of orange zest and citrus peel toward the persistent finish. I discern more potential here than in the Bâtard-Montrachet this year.Inc. VAT£2,313.49 -
Vinous (95)
The 2018 Bienvenue-Bâtard-Montrachet Grand Cru has quite an intense bouquet with honeysuckle, melon, lime and a touch of corn flour. The palate is well balanced with a saline note on the entry that gets the saliva racing. Good depth, quite powerful with a lightly spiced and very insistent finish. This is very promising and a big success for Vougeraie. Tasted blind at the Burgfest 2018 white tasting.Inc. VAT£370.79 -
(3x75cl) 2019Vinous (91-93)
The 2019 Bienvenues-Bâtard-Montrachet Grand Cru shows much more conviction and mineralité on the nose than the Bâtard-Montrachet, and articulates its terroir much better. The palate is well balanced with more acidity than the Bâtard, offering notes of red apple and lime and turning quite spicy toward the finish. It should age well over the next 15 years, possibly longer.Inc. VAT£1,159.94 -
Vinous (93-95)
The 2020 Bienvenues-Bâtard-Montrachet Grand Cru is more expressive and terroir-driven on the nose compared to the Bâtard-Montrachet. The palate is well-balanced with fine poise, taut and fresh, quite spicy towards the finish with admirable length. I can see this ageing well in bottle. Very fine.Inc. VAT£418.92 -
(6x75cl) 2020Vinous (93-95)
The 2020 Bienvenues-Bâtard-Montrachet Grand Cru is more expressive and terroir-driven on the nose compared to the Bâtard-Montrachet. The palate is well-balanced with fine poise, taut and fresh, quite spicy towards the finish with admirable length. I can see this ageing well in bottle. Very fine.Inc. VAT£2,126.65 -
Vinous (93-95)
The 2021 Bienvenues-Bâtard-Montrachet Grand Cru is slightly more oxidative in style compared to the Bâtard-Montrachet, with grilled walnut and a subtle flor-like scent emerging with time. The palate is balanced with a vibrant opening. It has a little more horsepower than the Bâtard-Montrachet and a spicier finish. This gains intensity in the glass and does eventually overtake the Bâtard.Inc. VAT£2,386.69 -
Vinous - Neal Martin (94)
The 2022 Bienvenue-Bâtard-Montrachet Grand Cru is relatively reserved on the nose, although it does not quite deliver the minéralité of Coffinet-Duvernay's Bâtard-Montrachet. This is conservative and biding its time. The palate is well balanced with a fine bead of acidity, fresh and vibrant with fine sapidity, though I am seeking more complexity and terroir expression on the finish. Give me more, you Bâtard! And it does after 20 minutes, gaining more vigour and greater depth. Tasted blind at the annual Burgfest tasting.Inc. VAT£2,386.69
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Jeb Dunnuck (91)
The second wine of Château Valandraud, the 2021 Virginie De Valandraud is worth seeking out. Ripe red and black fruits, violets, flowers, and a hint of new leather define the aromatics, and it's medium-bodied, with a pure, elegant mouthfeel, nicely integrated acidity, and supple tannins. It's an outstanding 2021 to drink over the coming decade or so.In Bond£134.00 -
Visionnaire 2010 epitomises South African winemaking excellence, meticulously crafted in the prestigious Stellenbosch region. This exceptional wine is a harmonious blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc, sourced from meticulously tended vineyards that benefit from granite-rich soils and an optimal climate. Under the expert guidance of Johan Steenkamp, Visionnaire employs a combination of traditional and modern vinification techniques, including hand harvesting and precise fermentation controls. The wine undergoes extended ageing in French oak barrels, enhancing its complexity with nuanced layers of blackcurrant, cassis, and subtle hints of cedar and tobacco. The Visionnaire 2010 boasts a velvety tannic structure, balanced acidity, and a lingering finish, showcasing the depth and character that discerning connoisseurs seek. Renowned for its elegance and sophistication, Visionnaire 2010 is a testament to the producer’s unwavering commitment to quality and innovation, making it a distinguished addition to any fine wine collection.
In Bond£328.00 -
The Visionnaire 2011 epitomises the pinnacle of South African winemaking, meticulously crafted in the renowned Elgin Valley. Hand-harvested grapes from select vineyards are vinified with precision, ensuring a harmonious balance of rich tannins and vibrant acidity. Aged for 18 months in French oak barrels, this vintage unveils a complex bouquet of dark berries, cedar, and subtle spice notes. Visionnaire, a family-owned estate celebrated for its commitment to quality and sustainability, employs biodynamic practices to nurture the vines, reflecting their dedication to excellence. On the palate, the 2011 offers layered flavours with a velvety finish, demonstrating the producer’s expertise in creating wines of enduring character and elegance. Perfect for connoisseurs seeking a distinguished expression of terroir, Visionnaire 2011 stands as a testament to exceptional craftsmanship and passion.
In Bond£328.00 -
(12x75cl) 2021
The Vocoret Chablis Bas Chapelot 2021 is a captivating, complex bottle that epitomises the finest traditions of Burgundy Chardonnay. Its carefully chosen grapes originate from the respected slope vineyard 'Bas Chapelot', nestled in the enviable terroirs of Chablis. This wine is a testament to the century-old Vocoret family domain, renowned for their homegrown traditional methods intertwined with a commitment to quality and authenticity. Each bottle expresses the delicate minerality that is distinctively Chablis, alongside fresh, vibrant flavours of apple, melon, honey, and a hint of oyster shell. The creation process involves meticulous fermentation in stainless steel vats, preserving the pure fruitiness of this expressive wine. With commitment to this natural technique, Vocoret Chablis Bas Chapelot 2021 ensures a balanced palate with a refreshing acidity, long finish, and an elegant overtone. A bottle of Vocoret Chablis Bas Chapelot 2021 is a splendid accompaniment to special occasions, bridging tradition and refinement in each glass.
In Bond£447.42 -
(12x75cl) 2022
Experience the refined elegance of Vocoret Chablis Bas Chapelot 2022, a quintessential expression of Burgundy's esteemed Chablis region. Crafted by the renowned Domaine Vocoret, this Chardonnay is meticulously vinified in the heart of Bas Chapelot, leveraging the unique Kimmeridgian limestone soils that impart unparalleled minerality. Hand-harvested grapes undergo gentle pressing and fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, preserving the wine's crisp acidity and delicate fruit profile. A judicious aging period on fine lees enhances its complexity without overshadowing its innate purity. The 2022 vintage showcases vibrant notes of green apple, citrus zest, and subtle floral undertones, seamlessly balanced by a steely backbone and a lingering, elegant finish. Ideal for pairing with seafood, poultry, or classic French cuisine, Vocoret Chablis Bas Chapelot 2022 embodies the sophistication and precision that fine wine aficionados seek. Indulge in a bottle and savour the distinguished heritage of Chablis excellence.
In Bond£330.00 -
Experience the exquisite Vollereaux Brut Reserve NV, crafted with meticulous care by the Vollereaux family in the renowned Champagne region of France. This prestigious house, operating for six generations, embodies. French wine-making heritage at its finest. The Vollereaux Brut Reserve NV is a sublime encapsulation of their commitment to excellence.
A blend of Pinot Meunier, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir, this sparkling wine undergoes a traditional, second fermentation in the bottle, creating its signature effervescence. Laden with bright, orchard fruit flavours, it captivates with its complex, layered taste and a lengthy finish, testament to a 3-year maturation process in their historic cellars.
Remarkably well-balanced, the Vollereaux Brut Reserve NV is a standout choice for those seeking elegance and finesse in their Champagne. Whether for celebrations or casual indulgence, add a touch of class with this fine Champagne.
In Bond£216.00 -
Vinous (95)
The NV (2012) Extra Brut Fidele is another fabulous wine from Vouette & Sorbée. Here, the richness of Pinot Noir comes through loud and clear in the wine's depth and overall richness. Creamy and beautifully layered throughout, the 2012 hits all the right notes. Red berry, mint, flowers, sweet spices and candy fill out the wine's broad frame effortlessly. What a gorgeous wine this is. Simply put, the 2012 is a total knock-out. Disgorged: January 6, 2015.In Bond£389.00 -
Vinous (94)
(100% chardonnay, from 2007; disgorged 09-11-10/R07): Light, bright gold. An intensely perfumed nose displays dried pear, orange pith, vanilla bean and candied ginger, with suave leesy and iodine notes gaining strength with aeration. Deeply pitched and emphatically dry, with strikingly powerful orchard fruit and candied citrus flavors deepened by notes of anise, vanilla and chamomile. Finishes firm and gripping, leaving spice and bitter almond notes behind. An extremely young, intense and uncompromising Champagne that should be left to rest for at least a few more years.In Bond£474.00 -
(3x75cl) 2010
Crafted by the renowned Bertrand Gautherot, the Vouette et Sorbee Sobre Extra Brut 2010 is an extraordinary showcase of fine French winemaking. Hailing from the Champagne region, this wine rides the delicate balance between splendid richness and enticing minerality. Grown in a biodynamic vineyard, its grapes are hand-picked, lending an organic integrity to each bottle. This magnificent vintage offers a complex blend of stone fruit and brioche with a whisper of earthy undertones. The palate is full-bodied and lavish, precisely enunciated with a resonant finish. Aged for at least 24 months, the Vouette et Sorbee Sobre Extra Brut 2010's effervescence is refined and subtle. On the pour, its golden hues flirt with the light, foreshadowing the opulence that awaits. Elegant and respectable, the Vouette et Sorbee Sobre Extra Brut 2010 is a testament to Gautherot's perspicacious and principled approach to viticulture. Truly, a remarkable addition to any wine aficionado's collection.
In Bond£454.00 -
Wine Advocate (92+)
There are 13,053 bottles of Domaine de la Vougeraie's superb 2017 Vougeot 1er Cru Le Clos Blanc de Vougeot, representing a modest yield for this emblematic monopole. Opening in the glass with a pretty bouquet of fresh green pear, peach, mandarin oil and petrol, framed by a discreet touch of nutty new oak, the wine is medium to full-bodied, racy and precise, with a delicate and elegantly tight-knit core of fruit and a long, precise finish. As readers may know, small percentages of Pinot Gris and Pinot Blanc complement Chardonnay in this cuvée.In Bond£525.00 -
Wine Advocate (92)
The 2018 Vougeot 1er Cru Le Clos Blanc de Vougeot has turned out nicely, wafting from the glass with aromas of pear, peach, orange oil and a generous but not overpowering application of toasty new oak. Medium to full-bodied, satiny and incisive, its textural attack segues into a tangy, vibrant mid-palate, concluding with a saline finish. As readers will remember, small percentages of Pinot Gris and Pinot Blanc complement Chardonnay in this cuvée.In Bond£447.00 -
Vinous (89-91)
The 2019 Vougeot 1er Cru Le Clos Blanc de Vougeot, the 0.83-hectare monopole of the domaine, was picked three times. It was showing a bit of reduction on the nose when I visited. The rounded palate features lime cordial, tinned apricot and plenty of passion fruit and pineapple notes toward the finish. This is a delicious and seductive white Vougeot, although it is missing just a little tension and intellect overall.In Bond£493.00 -
(6x75cl) 2016In Bond£2,928.87
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Vinous (93)
The 2017 Bâtard-Montrachet Grand Cru has a lot of reduction on the nose that disguises the terroir; it’s difficult to peer beyond the sulfur here. The palate is dense and weighty and slightly honeyed in texture (possibly with just a bit of botrytis?). It feels harmonious toward the finish but does need to address the sulfur issue. Tasted blind at the annual Burgfest tasting in Savigny-lès-Beaune.In Bond£2,116.00 -
Wine Advocate (92-94)
Richer and more muscular than the elegant Charlemagne, the 2018 Bâtard-Montrachet Grand Cru offers up notes of pear, citrus oil, beeswax, fresh hay and toasted nuts. On the palate, it's full-bodied, layered and fleshy, with ripe acids and chalky structuring extract.In Bond£749.00 -
(3x75cl) 2021
Vinous (92-94)
The 2021 Bâtard-Montrachet Grand Cru comes from three plots. It takes time to unfurl on the nose, eventually offering citrus fruit, popcorn and hints of Mirabelle. The palate is balanced with an attractive, slightly waxy texture. It shows fine depth with the mineralité eventually surfacing with aeration. Afford this three or four years in bottle.In Bond£1,038.14 -
Vinous (92-94)
The 2021 Bâtard-Montrachet Grand Cru comes from three plots. It takes time to unfurl on the nose, eventually offering citrus fruit, popcorn and hints of Mirabelle. The palate is balanced with an attractive, slightly waxy texture. It shows fine depth with the mineralité eventually surfacing with aeration. Afford this three or four years in bottle.In Bond£1,971.00 -
(3x75cl) 2022
Vinous - Neal Martin (92)
The 2022 Bâtard-Montrachet Grand Cru is marginally deeper in colour than its peers. This feels heavily reduced, a little feral and alcoholic compared to Thomas Morey's own Bâtard. The palate is balanced with a slightly viscous entry, seemingly a later-picked Bâtard with ample concentration, though it just loses some of its precision towards the finish. Tasted blind at the annual Burgfest tasting.In Bond£918.00 -
Vinous - Neal Martin (92)
The 2022 Bâtard-Montrachet Grand Cru is marginally deeper in colour than its peers. This feels heavily reduced, a little feral and alcoholic compared to Thomas Morey's own Bâtard. The palate is balanced with a slightly viscous entry, seemingly a later-picked Bâtard with ample concentration, though it just loses some of its precision towards the finish. Tasted blind at the annual Burgfest tasting.In Bond£2,105.00 -
Vinous (85-87)
The 2020 Beaune Blanc Village, which comes from La Montée, has a strict nose with greengage and light apply aromas. The palate is medium-bodied with decent weight, although it needs a little more definition towards the finish. Drink over the next four to seven years.In Bond£275.00 -
(1x75cl) 2016
Wine Advocate (90-92)
The 2016 Bienvenue-Bâtard-Montrachet Grand Cru was quite reduced on the nose. The palate is nicely balanced with good concentration, quite nutty and Meursault-like in style and sporting appreciable salinité toward the finish that fans out. Good potential, but give this a couple of years in bottle. I will remain cautious with my score for now.In Bond£614.43 -
Wine Advocate (90-92)
The 2016 Bienvenue-Bâtard-Montrachet Grand Cru was quite reduced on the nose. The palate is nicely balanced with good concentration, quite nutty and Meursault-like in style and sporting appreciable salinité toward the finish that fans out. Good potential, but give this a couple of years in bottle. I will remain cautious with my score for now.In Bond£1,971.00 -
(1x75cl) 2017
Vinous (93-95)
The 2017 Bienvenue-Bâtard-Montrachet Grand Cru has what might be called a more adventurous bouquet than the Bâtard: light sea spray scents developing in the glass, gaining intensity with subtle petrichor aromas. The precise, focused palate is well balanced with a fine bead of acidity and slivers of orange zest and citrus peel toward the persistent finish. I discern more potential here than in the Bâtard-Montrachet this year.In Bond£685.57 -
Vinous (93-95)
The 2017 Bienvenue-Bâtard-Montrachet Grand Cru has what might be called a more adventurous bouquet than the Bâtard: light sea spray scents developing in the glass, gaining intensity with subtle petrichor aromas. The precise, focused palate is well balanced with a fine bead of acidity and slivers of orange zest and citrus peel toward the persistent finish. I discern more potential here than in the Bâtard-Montrachet this year.In Bond£1,910.00 -
Vinous (95)
The 2018 Bienvenue-Bâtard-Montrachet Grand Cru has quite an intense bouquet with honeysuckle, melon, lime and a touch of corn flour. The palate is well balanced with a saline note on the entry that gets the saliva racing. Good depth, quite powerful with a lightly spiced and very insistent finish. This is very promising and a big success for Vougeraie. Tasted blind at the Burgfest 2018 white tasting.In Bond£306.00 -
(3x75cl) 2019
Vinous (91-93)
The 2019 Bienvenues-Bâtard-Montrachet Grand Cru shows much more conviction and mineralité on the nose than the Bâtard-Montrachet, and articulates its terroir much better. The palate is well balanced with more acidity than the Bâtard, offering notes of red apple and lime and turning quite spicy toward the finish. It should age well over the next 15 years, possibly longer.In Bond£957.00 -
Vinous (93-95)
The 2020 Bienvenues-Bâtard-Montrachet Grand Cru is more expressive and terroir-driven on the nose compared to the Bâtard-Montrachet. The palate is well-balanced with fine poise, taut and fresh, quite spicy towards the finish with admirable length. I can see this ageing well in bottle. Very fine.In Bond£346.00 -
(6x75cl) 2020
Vinous (93-95)
The 2020 Bienvenues-Bâtard-Montrachet Grand Cru is more expressive and terroir-driven on the nose compared to the Bâtard-Montrachet. The palate is well-balanced with fine poise, taut and fresh, quite spicy towards the finish with admirable length. I can see this ageing well in bottle. Very fine.In Bond£1,753.61 -
Vinous (93-95)
The 2021 Bienvenues-Bâtard-Montrachet Grand Cru is slightly more oxidative in style compared to the Bâtard-Montrachet, with grilled walnut and a subtle flor-like scent emerging with time. The palate is balanced with a vibrant opening. It has a little more horsepower than the Bâtard-Montrachet and a spicier finish. This gains intensity in the glass and does eventually overtake the Bâtard.In Bond£1,971.00 -
Vinous - Neal Martin (94)
The 2022 Bienvenue-Bâtard-Montrachet Grand Cru is relatively reserved on the nose, although it does not quite deliver the minéralité of Coffinet-Duvernay's Bâtard-Montrachet. This is conservative and biding its time. The palate is well balanced with a fine bead of acidity, fresh and vibrant with fine sapidity, though I am seeking more complexity and terroir expression on the finish. Give me more, you Bâtard! And it does after 20 minutes, gaining more vigour and greater depth. Tasted blind at the annual Burgfest tasting.In Bond£1,971.00
