Introducing the magnificent masterpiece by Domaine Bernard Gripa, the Bernard Gripa Saint Peray Les Figuiers 2021. Hailing from the renowned Rhone region of France, this distinctive white wine distinctly expresses terroir. It is crafted from 100% Marsanne grapes, grown on south-facing, terraced vineyards located at the foot of the Saint Péray, a symbol of the exceptional terroir.

The producer, Bernard Gripa, is celebrated for his virtuosity in producing wines that balance richness and delicacy effectively. The Bernard Gripa Saint Peray Les Figuiers 2021 echoes this signature style, offering a harmonious blend of intensity and complexity. On the nose, it reveals aromatic blossoms and ripe stone fruit, while the palate delights with lively minerality and a plush, long-lasting finish.

This exemplary wine promises an unforgettable experience for discerning aficionados. Savour the regality of Bernard Gripa Saint Peray Les Figuiers 2021, a landmark white wine in the Rhone's illustrious lineage.

Unveiling the aristocracy of beverages, the Clos Solene Paso Robles Hommage A Nos Pairs Reserve 2018 marries the artistry of the craft and refinement of exceptional terroir. This French-inspired gem, produced by the esteemed Paso Robles winery in the Central Coast of California, promises a memorable encounter with its perfectly proportioned palate. It showcases an opulent blend of Syrah, synonymous with the estate's reputation.

Painstakingly aged for 24 months in French oak, the Hommage A Nos Pairs Reserve 2018 strikes an exquisite balance of dark fruit flavours, leathery tannins, and nuanced floral accents. The temperate Paso Robles climate lends intensity and longevity to the wine, reflected in its rich, dark ruby hue. Taking us back to the visionary expertise of Guillaume Fabre, who mastered the art of vintages, the Clos Solene Paso Robles Hommage A Nos Pairs Reserve 2018 truly gives life to the intricate harmony of superior vineyard character and winemaking finesse.

Matthew Jukes (18+)

The Fifty Finest Wines 2020 I tasted a large number of Californian wines this autumn and I found many of the wines (whites and reds) over-oaked, sweet, far too high in alcohol and generally out of balance. So, when successful wines put their hands up it was very encouraging. This amazing Cabernet had the very traits I associate with exceptionally expensive Californian red wines and yet, when I discovered its price, I couldn’t believe it. I far prefer this cuvée to the ‘Reserve’, which is £55. The key to this wine’s success is its balance. Every element is in perfect harmony. The fruit is pure and resonant, the tannins are classy and there is no weird-tasting oak whatsoever. Profound balance + a delicious flavour = a mention in the Finest Fifty

Matthew Jukes (18+)

The Fifty Finest Wines 2020 I tasted a large number of Californian wines this autumn and I found many of the wines (whites and reds) over-oaked, sweet, far too high in alcohol and generally out of balance. So, when successful wines put their hands up it was very encouraging. This amazing Cabernet had the very traits I associate with exceptionally expensive Californian red wines and yet, when I discovered its price, I couldn’t believe it. I far prefer this cuvée to the ‘Reserve’, which is £55. The key to this wine’s success is its balance. Every element is in perfect harmony. The fruit is pure and resonant, the tannins are classy and there is no weird-tasting oak whatsoever. Profound balance + a delicious flavour = a mention in the Finest Fifty

Wine Advocate (92)

The 2018 Pessimist is a barrel sample blend of 62% Petite Sirah, 19% Zinfandel, 17% Syrah and 2% Lagrein. It is expected to age for 11 months in 50% new French oak. Opaque ruby-purple, it offers up tar, chargrill, turned black earth and blackcurrants with wafts of blackcurrant bud, dark chocolate, smoked meats and crushed red cherries. The medium to full-bodied palate has lifted flavor layers, a firm, grainy frame and long, spicy, fresh finish.

Jeb Dunnuck (97)

I was able to taste two 2019s. Looking first at the 2019 Saint-Péray Roussanne, it has a tight, reductive, mineral-laced bouquet of quince, grilled peach, white flowers, and crushed stone. Gorgeous on the palate as well, it's full-bodied, has a round, layered textured, perfect balance, and one heck of a great finish. It reminds me of a great vintage of Château Beaucastel's Vieille Vignes Blanc.

Wine Advocate (97-100)

The 2018 Cave des Lions is a barrel sample of about 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Cabernet Franc, aging in 100% new French oak. It comes from fruit that grows in front of the Daou family home. Opaque purple-black in color, it has the most singular nose loaded with kaleidoscopic aromas: cigar ash, English breakfast tea, rooibos, hibiscus, iron, crushed stone, blackcurrant jam, blackberry pie, vanilla bean, Morello cherries, chocolate box and cigar box. I’ve never smelled anything like this—it's like staring into a well of archetypal Cabernet Sauvignon. Medium to full-bodied, the satiny palate spreads its glorious flavor wings, with unbelievable melting tannins and seamless freshness, finishing very long and very layered. This is unreal!

Vinous (94)

Translucent yellow. A powerful, highly perfumed bouquet evokes fresh orchard, pit fruits, succulent herbs and pungent flowers, along with a building mineral element. Stains the palate with juicy pear, nectarine and Meyer lemon flavors that are sharpened by a gingery flourish. Shows excellent clarity on a very long, penetrating finish that echoes the floral and mineral notes.