MEDITERRANEAN EDITION 2019
WELCOME Last year saw VSF reach a landmark 25 years of successfully providing the finest wines, service and expertise to the yachting community. This year will be no exception. Boasting over 35,000 bottles, our stockholding is constantly growing with new additions being made each year. Thanks to over a decade of investment in wines direct from producers we offer perfect provenance and immediate availability of many of the world s finest wines. Not only do we pride ourselves on our speed and efficiency of delivery but also on our dedicated and passionate personnel who are always available to help, advise and solve any problem. We are truly grateful for the continued support and loyalty from all our customers, old and new. We cannot wait to share our wines and passion with you again this year! LOCATIONS FRENCH RIVIERA +33 (0)4 22 10 67 70 info@vsfgroup.com Languages English, French, Italian, Spanish VIAREGGIO +39 320 602 8236 viareggio@vsfgroup.com Languages English, Italian, French PALMA Office - +34 971 870 640 Mobile - +34 630 355 974 palma@vsfgroup.com Languages English, Spanish CROATIA croatia@vsfgroup.com LONDON infouk@vsfgroup.com The VSF Team CHAMPAGNE 5 SPARKLING 9 OLD WORLD ROSE 10 FRANCE 13 FRANCE WHITE Alsace 14 Loire 15 Burgundy 16 Bordeaux 21 Rhône 21 Southern France 22 FRANCE RED Burgundy 23 Beaujolais 27 Loire 27 BORDEAUX 28 LEFT BANK Médoc 30 St Estèphe 31 Pauillac 32 St Julien 35 Margaux 37 Graves & Pessac-Léognan 39 RIGHT BANK Pomerol 40 St Emilion 42 Rhône 44 Southern France 46 GERMANY & AUSTRIA 47 ITALY 48 ITALY WHITE 50 ITALY RED 52 North West & Piedmont 53 North East 54 Central & Tuscany 55 Sicily 59 GREECE 59 SPAIN 60 NEW WORLD USA 62 ARGENTINA & CHILE 67 AUSTRALIA 68 NEW ZEALAND 70 SOUTH AFRICA 71 SWEET & FORTIFIED 72 SPIRITS & OTHER BEVERAGES 74 Services & Wine Courses 76 Delivery, Terms & Conditions 78 Tax Free Deliveries 79
CHAMPAGNE One of the most northern wine producing regions in the world, Champagne is located 90 miles northeast of Paris with 34,000 hectares of vines. Surrounding the Champagne hubs of Epernay and Reims, the region produces around a million bottles of Champagne a day. A technique said to have been invented by Dom Pérignon in 1688, Champagne is made using the traditional method whereby a second fermentation is induced in the bottle, producing CO 2 which becomes trapped, resulting in a sparkling wine. Champagne style wines are now replicated all over the world. These premium wines are usually made from a blend of grapes: Chardonnay to add fruit and elegance; the red grapes, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier, for body and backbone. CHAMPAGNE BILLECART-SALMON Still family run, the small house of Billecart-Salmon offers a range of black-grape-dominated Champagnes with bright, complex fruit flavours resulting from a long, slow, cool fermentation process. Particularly well known for its elegant Rosé, Billecart-Salmon is a Champagne house for wine lovers: many who discover it drink few other Champagnes thereafter. Billecart-Salmon Brut Rosé NV 93pts Pale yet intense pink in color, the Billecart-Salmon NV Brut Rosé is pure, fresh and intense on the nose, with lovely raspberry aromas, refreshing citrus zest flavors and great definition. On the palate this is a pure, light and vinous rosé with great finesse and a long, well-structured and even juicy finish. Fabulous. Billecart-Salmon Brut Réserve NV 32.00 Billecart-Salmon Brut Vintage 2007/8 54.00 Billecart-Salmon Brut Rosé NV 51.00 BOLLINGER Bollinger has been making classic, Pinot-dominated Champagnes with great ageing potential and complexity since 1829. The house style is deliberately oxidative with much of the wine (all of the vintage and reserve wines, and a high proportion of Special Cuvée) being fermented in old oak barrels, resulting in rich toast, apple and spice flavours. A proportion of the reserve wines are aged in magnums under cork keeping the aromas and flavours fresh and helping to make Special Cuvée one of the most complex Non-Vintage Champagnes around. Bollinger Special Cuvée NV 41.00 Bollinger La Grande Année 2004 110.00 Bollinger La Grande Année 2005 94.00 Bollinger La Grande Année 2007 90.00 Bollinger La Grande Année 2008 99.00 Bollinger Rosé NV 53.00 Bollinger La Grande Année 2007 94+pts The wine displays a very clear, fine and complex bouquet of ripe (apricot) fruits and pink grapefruit along with chalky, toasty and almond/nougat notes. Highly elegant, fine and pure but complex on the palate, this is a full-bodied and well-structured Grande Année with a long, intense yet dry, salty, beautifully clear and cleansing finish with lingering citrus flavors and a persistent mineral structure. Bollinger La Grande Année Rosé 2007 125.00 ARMAND DE BRIGNAC Armand de Brignac is a range of prestige cuvée Champagnes produced since 2006 by the Cattier family who have been making wine for over 250 years. Colloquially know as Ace of Spades after the label design on the distinctive metal-covered bottles, this Champagne is a blend of 3 different vintages. It is soft and fruity in style with added complexity from the dosage, the base wine for which is aged for one year in new French oak. Armand de Brignac Brut Gold NV 255.00 Armand de Brignac Brut Blanc de Blancs NV 699.00 Armand de Brignac Brut Rosé NV 415.00 5
CHAMPAGNE CHAMPAGNE DELAMOTTE Delamotte Blanc de Blancs NV 37.00 The ideal aperitif, or delicious served with oysters, grilled fish or fresh radishes served with salt. LAURENT-PERRIER Chardonnay forms the core of most of Laurent-Perrier s cuvées giving the wines a fresh, elegant style. The exception to this is their Cuvée Rosé, for which the house is best known. Made from 100% Pinot Noir, it is unusual in that it is made by the tricky saignée method. This is the technique by which the pink colour is obtained through maceration of the skins rather than the addition of red wine (the way most rosé Champagnes are made) and gives Laurent-Perrier Rosé its remarkable flavour. Dom Pérignon 2008 98+pts Lemon peel, white flowers, mint and white pepper give the 2008 its chiseled, bright profile. Several recent bottles have all been magnificent. What I admire most about the 2008 is the way it shows all the focus, translucence and energy that is such a signature of the year, and yet it is also remarkably deep and vertical. In other words, the 2008 is a Champagne that plays in three dimensions. Henriot Brut Millésimé 2006 93pts Seamlessly knit, with vibrant, citrusy acidity and a satiny, creamy mousse layered with poached peach, pastry cream, mineral and crushed hazelnut flavors that expand through the midpalate and the zesty, spiced finish. DOM PERIGNON Dom Pérignon, owned by Moët & Chandon, is an exclusively vintage prestige cuvée Champagne. It is made from roughly equal quantities (varying slightly according to the vintage) of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, grown only in the best vineyard sites in Champagne. During production, the wine sees no oak and is protected from oxidation as much as possible making it one of Champagne s most reductive, minerally styles with an overarching elegance, harmony and completeness. It is one of the most classic, famous, and eye-catching of all wines and consistently tastes as good as its reputation suggests it will. Dom Pérignon 2008 149.00 Dom Pérignon 2009 149.00 Dom Pérignon P2 2000 349.00 Dom Pérignon Rosé 2005 322.00 Dom Pérignon Rosé 2006 315.00 CHARLES HEIDSIECK Charles Heidsieck founded his eponymous Champagne house in 1851 at the age of 29. He is credited with popularising Champagne in the United States where he became hugely popular and earned the nickname Champagne Charlie. The consistent high quality of the wines means their range is one of the most frequently awarded in Champagne. Charles Heidsieck Brut Réserve NV 29.00 Charles Heidsieck Rosé Réserve NV 39.00 HENRIOT Founded in 1808, Henriot is one of the few remaining independent Champagne houses having been owned and managed by the same family for more than eight generations. The Chardonnay-dominant wines are fresh and elegant with a rich, toasty character from extended ageing on the lees (twice the legal requirement) and are exceptional value for money. Laurent-Perrier Grand Siècle NV 92pts A sweet and subtle note of smoky toasted brioche underscores the baked melon, kumquat and ground ginger flavors of this vibrant Champagne, with a fine, lively mousse. Moët & Chandon Grand Vintage 2009 A sleek, creamy Champagne, with an expressive range of toast, apricot, candied Meyer lemon zest, cassis and pastry cream set in a tightly knit and racy frame. This offers personality now, but the focus and concentration recommends it to the cellar as well. Laurent-Perrier La Cuvée Brut NV 30.00 Laurent-Perrier Grand Siècle NV 118.00 Laurent-Perrier Cuvée Rosé NV 59.00 MOET & CHANDON Creating a true slice of Champagne, Moët & Chandon brings the characteristics of all three varieties, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier, into their blends. The wines are vinified non-oxidatively in stainless steel and undergo malolactic fermentation, giving them a soft, light, approachable style with a universal appeal that has made Moët & Chandon the world s most popular Champagne. Moët & Chandon Brut Impérial NV 36.00 Moët & Chandon Brut Impérial 20cl NV 12.50 Moët & Chandon Nectar Impérial (demi-sec) NV 40.00 Moët & Chandon Ice Impérial (demi-sec) NV 48.00 Moët & Chandon Grand Vintage 2009/12 51.00 Moët & Chandon Rosé Impérial NV 43.00 Moët & Chandon Rosé Impérial 20cl NV 15.00 Moët & Chandon Ice Rosé Impérial (demi-sec) NV 52.00 PERRIER-JOUET Perrier-Jouët is a prestigious Epernay-based producer, famous for its cuvée Belle Epoque, instantly recognisable by its distinctive anemone-adorned bottle. Chardonnay from the Grand Cru vineyards of Cramant and Avize have the biggest influence on the house style which is one of lightness, elegance and finesse, featuring floral aromas and a delicate creaminess. Perrier-Jouët Grand Brut NV 35.00 Perrier-Jouët Belle Epoque 2008 138.00 Perrier-Jouët Blason Rosé NV 49.00 Henriot Brut Souverain NV 29.00 Henriot Blanc de Blancs NV 39.00 Henriot Blanc de Blancs 375ml NV 20.00 Henriot Brut Millésimé 05/06/08 50.00 LOUIS ROEDERER Most famous for their prestige cuvée Cristal which was first created in 1876 for the Tsar of Russia, Alexander II, the house of Louis Roederer is known for the sheer quality and style of their wines across the range. Roederer is the largest owner of organically-farmed (and increasingly, biodynamicallyfarmed) vineyards in Champagne. The wines are distinguished by their superb balance, finesse and elegance and their fine, creamy mousse. Krug Vintage 2002 97+pts Opens with a generous, intense yet fine and precise bouquet that indicates great depth and elegance. Red fruit flavors on the nose lead to a generously rich yet pure, highly refined and elegant palate, with lots of ripe cherry fruits and delicious yeasty flavors. This is a highly complex and tensioned but beautifully balanced 2002 with a charming dosage that gives perfect roundness. KRUG Krug is the only Champagne house to have created a prestige cuvée every year since it was founded in 1843. The house s flagship wine, Grande Cuvée, typically contains 35-50% reserve wines chosen from an extensive library of 150 different wines across more than 10 vintages. With fermentation in neutral oak barrels and ageing on the lees well beyond the legal minimum, the wines have incredible depth, richness and complexity and a unique personality all of their own. Krug Grande Cuvée NV 164.00 Krug Vintage 2002 389.00 Krug Clos de Mesnil Blanc de Blancs 2002 1,249.00 Krug Clos d Ambonnay Blanc de Noirs 2000 2,380.00 Krug Rosé NV 265.00 Louis Roederer Cristal 2008 97+pts The 2008 Cristal opens bright, super clear, fresh and pure on the exciting, absolutely fascinating nose with its fine, complex and elegant bouquet of gorgeously ripe and matured fruits, brioche and chalk expressions. This is the finest you can get from Champagne. The palate is pure, lean, fresh and filigreed but concentrated, highly complex, full of tension and enormously vibrant. Louis Roederer Brut Premier NV 36.00 Louis Roederer et Philippe Starck Brut Nature 2009 59.00 Louis Roederer Blanc de Blancs /11 63.00 Louis Roederer Cristal 2002 365.00 Louis Roederer Cristal 2008 249.00 Louis Roederer Cristal 2009 175.00 Louis Roederer Brut Rosé 2012/13 57.00 Louis Roederer Cristal Rosé 2008 545.00 Perfect with lobster, beluga caviar, seared salmon or smoked sea trout. 6 7
CHAMPAGNE SPARKLING RUINART Ruinart is Champagne s oldest house, with a history dating back to 1729. The Chardonnay grape is at the heart of all Ruinart s wines giving them freshness and bright fruit aromas. The wines, vinified non-oxidatively in stainless steel, have a minerally character in youth, developing toasty, smoky characteristics with bottle age. Sparkling wine is arguably the most technical style of wine in the world. Not only do these wines have to undergo a first fermentation in order to make alcohol, but also a second fermentation to produce the carbon dioxide giving the wine its fizz. This is done either in the same way as Champagne, where the second fermentation takes place in the bottle, or by using Dom Ruinart Blanc de Blancs 2006 97+pts R de Ruinart Brut NV 43.00 Ruinart Blanc de Blancs NV 58.00 Dom Ruinart Blanc de Blancs 2006/7 145.00 Ruinart Rosé NV 58.00 the tank method where it takes place inside a sealed tank. Produced all around the world, sparkling wine comes in a huge range of styles, from bone dry to perfumed and floral. The 2006 Dom Ruinart Blanc de Blancs Brut is simply fabulous. In most vintages, Dom Ruinart is a big, ample Champagne that shows the structure of the Montagne de Reims Chardonnay in the blend. The 2006 has plenty of textural resonance and richness, and yet I am also struck by its tension. Dom Ruinart Rosé 2004 196.00 SALON Salon is a tiny house producing what connoisseurs consider to be the quintessential Blanc de Blancs. In minuscule amounts (30,000 bottles a year, if at all) from over 35-year-old vines in Le Mesnil-sur- Oger (one of the greatest crus of the Côte des Blancs), Salon releases on average only about 3 times a decade. FRANCE Loire Langlois Crémant de Loire Brut NV 15.00 Langlois Crémant de Loire Brut Rosé NV 15.00 Salon S Le Mesnil Blanc de Blancs 2006/7 515.00 Try with aged comté or panfried foie gras, especially with a truffle jus. ITALY Franciacorta Ca del Bosco Franciacorta Cuvée Prestige NV 30.00 Taittinger Comtes de Champagne Blanc de Blancs 2006 97+pts The 2006 has been nothing short of magnificent both times I have tasted it. Comtes de Champagne remains the single best value (in relative terms) in tête de cuvée Champagne. TAITTINGER In a beautiful twist on the norm, the Taittinger family bought back the Champagne House that bears their name from the demerger of a giant multinational in 2006, and the wines - always good - have been on fine form ever since. The house style is one of elegance and clarity of fruit with a creamy texture. Taittinger Brut Réserve NV 36.00 Taittinger Comtes de Champagne Blanc de Blancs 2006 130.00 Taittinger Comtes de Champagne Blanc de Blancs 2007 115.00 Taittinger Prestige Rosé NV 47.00 Taittinger Comtes de Champagne Rosé 2006 143.00 VEUVE CLICQUOT Often considered the Champagne of the yachting fraternity, with its distinctive yellow-orange livery, the ultra-consistent style of its Pinot-dominated wines is what has made Veuve Clicquot one of the world s most popular classic, dry Champagnes. Ca del Bosco Franciacorta Cuvée Prestige NV 91pts This is among Ca del Bosco s most affordable and accessible sparkling wines. It offers steady consistency year after year. I ve always loved the bouquet of this wine. It shows a slightly spicy side that reminds me of Christmas oranges nailed with cloves. In the mouth, the wine is lean and crisp with fine and persistent perlage. Delicious with tuna tataki or gravlax or simply on its own as an aperitif. Prosecco Andreola Vigneto Dirupo Prosecco di Valdobbiadene Extra Dry NV 17.00 Bisol Crede Prosecco di Valdobbiadene Brut NV 18.00 Bisol Relio Rive di Guia Prosecco di Valdobbiadene Brut 2017/18 23.00 SPAIN Penedès Recaredo Terrers Cava Brut Nature 2012 25.00 Veuve Clicquot Brut NV 39.00 Veuve Clicquot La Grande Dame Rosé 2006 95pts Veuve Clicquot Brut 375ml NV 23.00 Veuve Clicquot Vintage 04/08/12 54.00 Veuve Clicquot Extra Brut Extra Old NV 67.00 Veuve Clicquot La Grande Dame 2006 122.00 Veuve Clicquot Brut Rosé NV 47.00 Bisol Crede Prosecco di Valdobbiadene Brut NV 90pts Saffron and smoke notes waft from the glass of this rich and creamy rosé Champagne. The finely detailed bead carries flavors of baked strawberry, candied orange zest, toasted brioche and pastry cream, while the firm backbone of acidity imparts focus through to the lasting finish. Veuve Clicquot La Grande Dame Rosé 2006 245.00 A delightfully sharp and delineated wine with crisp citrus notes followed by white peach, Granny Smith apple and tangy lime. The wine refreshes the palate just as soon as you take your first sip. The mouthfeel is lean and streamlined, with lots of spicy bubbling on the close. You get tremendous value here. 8 9
ROSE Rosé is produced in a variety of styles around the world, although perhaps the best known are those from Provence. Not only is this France s oldest wine region, having been making wine for over 2,600 years, but it is also the only one to focus on rosé. It even has a research institute dedicated to the style. Dry, crisp and refreshing, these wines are a blend of regional varieties such as Grenache, Carignan and Syrah. FRANCE Loire Domaine Fournier Les Belles Vignes Sancerre Rosé Sancerre 2016 22.00 CHATEAU MINUTY Minuty has been run by the Matton-Farnet family since 1936 and was one of only 23 estates in Provence to be awarded Cru Classé status in 1955. The vineyards on the slopes of Gassin and Ramatuelle, overlooking the bay of St Tropez, are farmed sustainably using no herbicides or pesticides, and only organic fertilisers. Rhône Minuty M Rosé Côtes de Provence 2017/18 15.00 La Mascaronne Quat saisons Rosé 2017 90pts I was impressed by both of the La Mascaronne wines I tried, especially the Fazioli red. The 2017 Cotes de Provence Rose Quat Saisons is also a fine effort, balancing ripe notions of peach and melon and a plump midpalate with a crisp pineapple-zesty citrus finish. Domaine de Mourchon Loubié Rosé Côtes du Rhône Villages Séguret 2017/18 13.00 Provence Barbeyrolles Rosé Pétale de Rose Côtes de Provence 2017/18 26.00 La Coste Rosé Coteaux d Aix en Provence 2017/18 17.00 Hermitage Saint-Martin ikon Rosé Côtes de Provence 2018 21.00 Léoube Le Secret de Léoube Rosé Côtes de Provence 2017/18 31.00 de Margüi Rosé Coteaux Varois en Provence 2017/18 18.00 La Mascaronne Quat saisons Rosé Côtes de Provence 2017/18 17.00 Mira Luna Rosé Coteaux Varois en Provence 2018 20.00 Miraval Rosé Côtes de Provence 2017/18 20.00 Domaine PiqueRoque Rosé IGP Maures 2017/18 7.00 Domaines Ott Rosé 2017 93pts A complex bouquet displays ripe, mineral-accented red berries, citrus fruits, nectarine and pungent flowers, along with a subtle and exotic touch of honey. Offers palate-coating strawberry liqueur, blood orange and lavender flavors that unfold and deepen steadily on the back half. The pit fruit quality sneaks back in on an impressively long, penetrating finish that shows excellent clarity and powerful mineral thrust. Minuty Prestige Rosé Côtes de Provence 2017/18 20.00 Minuty Rose et Or Côtes de Provence 2017/18 29.00 Minuty Rose et Or Magnum Côtes de Provence 2017/18 64.00 Minuty 281 Rosé Côtes de Provence 2017/18 55.00 MIRABEAU EN PROVENCE Following their dream to make wine, husband and wife team Stephen and Jeanny moved to Provence with their young family from London in 2009. Since then they have gone on to make rosés which have captured the attention of wine critics the world over. Elegant, lively, silky and pure, it s a classy and perfectly balanced rosé that s about as good as Provençal rosés can get. Robert Parker Sainte Marguerite Symphonie Rosé Côtes de Provence La Londe 2017/18 21.00 Mirabeau Classic Rosé Côtes de Provence 2018 14.00 A refreshing aperitif or delicious with simple summer salads or a mediterranean mezze board. Mirabeau Pure Rosé Côtes de Provence 2017/18 17.00 d Esclans Garrus Rosé 2016 Rich yet almost shockingly lithe in character, delivering strong, mineraldriven finishing cut and a lingering suggestion of candied flowers. This wine really transcends the category of pink wine and it resembles a serious white Burgundy, perhaps a Meursault, in terms of body and texture. CHATEAU D ESCLANS Sacha Lichine s exquisite rosés from d Esclans are fast becoming regarded as the finest range from Provence, if not in the world; a fitting testament to all the effort that has gone into the property s restoration, and the wines meticulous creation. d Esclans Whispering Angel Rosé Côtes de Provence 2017/18 19.00 d Esclans Rock Angel Rosé Côtes de Provence 2017/18 29.00 d Esclans Les Clans Rosé Côtes de Provence 2016/17 54.00 d Esclans Garrus Rosé Côtes de Provence 2016/17 110.00 A Rosato Aldobrandesca Antinori 2016 90pts Bright dark pink. Lovely, with very delicate aromas and flavors of spicy red berries, quinine, cinnamon and violet. Fresh, juicy and smooth, with a lively long finish and a very clean, slightly tannic mouthfeel. This is a brand new wine from Antinori, that is made with Aleatico, the lovely aromatic red grape that is very much at home on the Tuscan coast. DOMAINES OTT The quintessential Provence rosé, Domaines Ott, with its instantly-recognisable bottle, is often simply a must-have, and for good reason. The wines are made from estate-grown grapes which are rigorously sorted (in a tricky vintage, only half of the usual quantity may be produced) to ensure the exceptional high quality for which they are known remains consistent from year to year. Domaines Ott Rosé Bandol / Côtes de Provence 2017/18 25.00 BY.OTT Rosé Côtes de Provence 2017/18 13.00 ITALY A Rosato Aldobrandesca Antinori Toscana 2016/17 44.00 Alois Lageder Lagrein Rosé Alto Adige 2017/18 15.00 10 11
FRANCE France produces 7-8 billion bottles of wine every year, second only to Italy in terms of volume. A key part of French culture, with 27 billion hectolitres being drunk in France annually, wine is produced throughout the country in every style. France s long-standing wine heritage gave birth to the appellation system, designed to preserve regional wine styles, which has been emulated all over Europe. France is also the source of many international grape varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Syrah, Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay. CHAMPAGNE Paris ALSACE CHABLIS LOIRE BURGUNDY BEAUJOLAIS BORDEAUX RHONE LANGUEDOC-ROUSSILLON PROVENCE CORSICA 12 13
FRANCE WHITE ALSACE FRANCE WHITE LOIRE Protected by the Vosges Mountains, Alsace is one of the driest regions in France and due to its northern latitude has very long hours of sunshine during the growing season. This helps to ripen the grapes and produce some of the world s finest white wines. The wines from Alsace are produced from noble varieties such as Riesling, Pinot Gris and Gewurztraminer and unlike elsewhere in France, here, the name of the grape must appear on the label. The best vineyard sites have been given Grand Cru status. Located between the centre and north of France, the Loire valley stretches 600 miles east to west and accounts for 8% of the country s vineyards including the famous appellations of Sancerre, Pouilly-Fumé, Muscadet and Vouvray. Sancerre and Pouilly-Fumé are situated at the far eastern end of the Loire valley and arguably produce the world s greatest expressions of Sauvignon Blanc. Sancerre also produces high quality reds and rosés from Pinot Noir. The Loire is considered to be France s most diverse wine region given the different climates and soil types such a large region offers, and as such, produces wines in every style. LOIRE Carisannes Sauvignon Blanc H. Brochard 2016/18 8.00 Muscadet Muscadet Sèvre et Maine sur Lie Langlois-Chateau 2017 12.00 Saumur Riesling Grand Cru Schlossberg Cuvée Sainte Catherine Domaine Weinbach 2016 92pts Broad and creamy flavors of Jonagold apple, orchard blossom, peach skin and ground ginger are set in a lithe and elegant frame, enlivened by a laser beam of acidity and an underpinning of spicy mineral. ALSACE Gewurztraminer Cuvée Laurence Domaine Weinbach 2017 42.00 One of the best wines to serve with exotic flavours, such as flavoursome thai and asian dishes. Pinot Gris Réserve Particulière Domaine Weinbach 2016 28.00 Riesling Grand Cru Schlossberg Cuvée Sainte Catherine Domaine Weinbach 2014/16 58.00 Riesling Grand Cru Schlossberg Cuvée Sainte Catherine Domaine Weinbach 2017 75.00 Vouvray Sec Le Haut-Lieu Domaine Huet 2016 90pts From the nine-hectare original vineyard of the Huet family, the 2016 Vouvray Le Haut-Lieu Sec shows a citrus color followed by an intense, fresh and chalky-mineral bouquet with lemon and some blossom aromas. This is a medium-bodied, round, elegant, remarkably lush and delicate Chenin Blanc from calcareous clay soils. Saumur Vieilles Vignes Langlois-Chateau 2014/15 24.00 Vouvray Vouvray Le Haut-Lieu Domaine Huet (sec) 2016 24.00 Vouvray Le Mont Domaine Huet (demi-sec) 2015 38.00 Incredibly food friendly - try with crab dishes, sushi or a light and fruity pork dish. Menetou-Salon Menetou-Salon Côtes de Morogues Domaine Fournier 2015/16 19.00 Sancerre Sancerre Classique H. Brochard 2017/18 18.00 Sancerre de Fontaine-Audon Langlois-Chateau 2016/17 22.00 Sancerre Clos du Roy Pascal Jolivet 16/17/18 30.00 Sancerre Sauvage Pascal Jolivet 2016/17 49.00 Sancerre Comte Lafond 2017/18 22.00 Sancerre Grande Cuvée Comte Lafond 2015/16 33.00 Sancerre Haut de la Poussie 2014 43.00 Sancerre Clos du Roy Pascal Jolivet 2016 92pts Delicious with grilled white fish, goat s cheese and light salads. Pouilly Fumé Pouilly Fumé Classique H. Brochard 2016/17 18.00 Pouilly Fumé Vieilles Vignes H. Brochard 2015/16 24.00 Lovely talc, sweet pea, mâche and chive notes stream through, backed by a bracing, flint-edged finish. This is steely and pure, textbook Sancerre that can handle a little cellaring. Pouilly Fumé Silex Didier Dagueneau 2014 190.00 Pouilly Fumé Silex Didier Dagueneau 2015 210.00 Pouilly Fumé Ladoucette 2017/18 25.00 Pouilly Fumé Baron de L 12/14/15 59.00 14 15
BURGUNDY WHITE Burgundy, or Bourgogne, is the source of the most majestic Grand Cru and Premier Cru wines in the world. The polar opposite of Bordeaux with its grand x, this is a complex region of smallholders with over 3,000 vineyard owners. 15 million cases are produced annually from 100 different appellations spanning 26,000 hectares. With reds made from Pinot Noir and whites from Chardonnay, these wines are not only long lived, but are also some of the most exceptional on the market. Chablis Butteaux François Raveneau 2011 93pts The 2011 Chablis Butteaux is subtle, gracious and utterly impeccable in its elegance. All the elements are simply in the right place. Articulate, energetic and nuanced, the 2011 captures all the qualities of this 1er Cru site, in miniature. FRANCE WHITE BURGUNDY CHABLIS A very well-known name in the world of wine, Chablis is a northern region of 4,900ha celebrated for producing Chardonnays which are austere in character and display steely, fresh minerality. There are 40 vineyards which are classified as Premier Cru, and 7 Grand Cru vineyards which overlook the town of Chablis and the River Serein. Chablis Champs Royaux William Fèvre 2017 20.00 Chablis Louis Jadot 2016/17 22.00 Chablis J. Moreau & Fils 2016/17 24.00 Chablis Montée de Tonnerre La Chablisienne 1er Cru 2016/17 35.00 Chablis 1er Cru Joseph Drouhin 1er Cru 2017 38.00 Chablis Vaillons Joseph Drouhin 1er Cru 2016/17 40.00 Chablis Montmains William Fèvre 1er Cru 2017 34.00 Chablis Fourchaume William Fèvre 1er Cru 2015/16 43.00 Chablis Fourchaume J. Moreau & Fils 1er Cru 2016/17 40.00 Chablis Butteaux François Raveneau 1er Cru 2009 295.00 Chablis Butteaux François Raveneau 1er Cru 2011 325.00 Chablis Butteaux François Raveneau 1er Cru 2013 339.00 Chablis Butteaux François Raveneau 1er Cru 2015 355.00 Chablis Grenouilles Grenouilles La Chablisienne Grand Cru 2013/15 72.00 Chablis Vaudésir Joseph Drouhin Grand Cru 12/14/15 76.00 The region is split into 5 sub-regions: CHABLIS COTE DE NUITS COTE DE BEAUNE COTE CHALONNAISE MACONNAIS The most significant of these for the production of white wines: CHABLIS COTE DE BEAUNE MACONNAIS CHABLIS COTES DE NUITS Vougeot Aloxe-Corton COTES DE BEAUNE Beaune Meursault Chassagne-Montrachet Puligny-Montrachet MACONNAIS Pouilly-Fuissé Mâcon Chablis Vaudésir Louis Jadot 2015 93pts A well-defined and quite complex bouquet, with scents of yellow plum, jasmine, flint and a touch of spice. The palate is well defined with a viscous opening, quite tropical in style but redeemed by a lovely thread of acidity and compelling purity on the finish. This is far superior to many Vaudésir that I tasted, demonstrating persistency and class from start to finish. Corton- Charlemagne Domaine Bonneau du Martray 2011 93pts A mineral-driven bouquet linear and taut, with slate and granite aromas gradually unfurling in the glass. The palate is clean and fresh with supremely well-judged acidity. Touches of apricot and mango lie in the background with the citrus element playing the main role. Chablis Bougros William Fèvre Grand Cru 2015/16 69.00 Chablis Preuses William Fèvre Grand Cru 2016 86.00 Chablis Vaudésir Louis Jadot Grand Cru 2015/16 89.00 Chablis Valmur J. Moreau & Fils Grand Cru 2012/15 63.00 Perfect with steamed lobster, seared scallops or salmon terrine. BOURGOGNE Bourgogne Chardonnay Les Ursulines Jean-Claude Boisset 2015 18.00 Bourgogne Blanc Couvent des Jacobins Louis Jadot 2016/17 18.00 Bourgogne Blanc Cuvée Oligocène Patrick Javillier 2015/16 36.00 COTE DE NUITS Vougeot Vougeot le Clos Blanc de Vougeot Domaine de la Vougeraie 1er Cru 2015 125.00 COTE DE BEAUNE Aloxe-Corton Corton-Charlemagne Domaine Bonneau du Martray Grand Cru 2011 249.00 Corton-Charlemagne Domaine Bonneau du Martray Grand Cru 2013 259.00 Corton-Charlemagne Domaine Bonneau du Martray Grand Cru 2015 285.00 Corton-Charlemagne Domaine Bonneau du Martray Grand Cru 2016 329.00 Corton-Charlemagne Bouchard Père & Fils Grand Cru 11/13/15 169.00 Corton-Charlemagne Joseph Drouhin Grand Cru 13/14/15 198.00 Corton-Charlemagne Louis Jadot Grand Cru 2013/14 182.00 Try with foie gras or roasted chicken in a rich sauce, equally lovely with blue cheese. 16 17
FRANCE WHITE BURGUNDY FRANCE WHITE BURGUNDY Meursault Cuvée Tête de Murger Patrick Javillier 2015 92pts Bright, light yellow. Sexy scents of white peach, orange oil and subtle spices. Supple and creamy but also fresh and firm, displaying a pliant, open-knit texture for the year but also lovely freshness to its white peach fruit. Really spreads out on the back half, finishing with building, palatesaturating length. This is wonderfully expressive today but there s more to come. Pernand-Vergelesses Pernand-Vergelesses Les Combottes Louis Jadot 2015/16 40.00 Beaune Beaune du 1er Cru Blanc Bouchard Père & Fils 1er Cru 2015/16 36.00 Beaune Clos des Mouches Blanc Joseph Drouhin 1er Cru 10/15/16 159.00 Meursault Meursault Bouchard Père & Fils 2015/16 43.00 Meursault Joseph Drouhin 13/14/16 65.00 Meursault Louis Jadot 2015 64.00 Meursault Clos du Cromin Patrick Javillier 2015/16 66.00 Meursault Cuvée Tête de Murger Patrick Javillier 2014/15 108.00 Meursault Clos de la Barre Domaine Comtes Lafon 2011 239.00 Meursault Clos de la Barre Domaine Comtes Lafon 2012 244.00 Puligny-Montrachet Le Clavoillon Domaine Leflaive 2012 A classy white, creamy in texture and racy, featuring lemon, apple, hazelnut, nut oil and mineral aromas and flavors. Intense and airy at once, building to a long aftertaste of citrus and mineral. The oak lends the right amount of support and never gets in the way. DOMAINE LEFLAIVE Domaine Leflaive is currently crafting what are undoubtedly some of the greatest Chardonnay wines on earth. Production is tiny, demand is stratospheric and prices are deservedly high (and rising). The land is farmed entirely biodynamically which eliminates all chemical intervention. The concentration achieved in the wines is quite remarkable. Puligny-Montrachet Le Clavoillon Domaine Leflaive 1er Cru 335.00 Puligny-Montrachet Le Clavoillon Domaine Leflaive 1er Cru 2011 245.00 Puligny-Montrachet Le Clavoillon Domaine Leflaive 1er Cru 2012 259.00 Puligny-Montrachet Le Clavoillon Domaine Leflaive 1er Cru 2013 245.00 Puligny-Montrachet Les Combettes Domaine Leflaive 1er Cru 1999 390.00 Puligny-Montrachet Les Combettes Domaine Leflaive 1er Cru 2005 395.00 Puligny-Montrachet Les Combettes Domaine Leflaive 1er Cru 2006 290.00 Puligny-Montrachet Les Combettes Domaine Leflaive 1er Cru 465.00 Puligny-Montrachet Les Combettes Domaine Leflaive 1er Cru 2011 349.00 Meursault Clos de la Barre Domaine Comtes Lafon 2013 235.00 Meursault Clos de la Barre Domaine Comtes Lafon 2015 249.00 Puligny-Montrachet Les Folatières Domaine Leflaive 1er Cru 1996 390.00 Puligny-Montrachet Les Folatières Domaine Leflaive 1er Cru 2004 395.00 Meursault Charmes Domaine Comtes Lafon 2014 95pts Meursault Genevrières Bouchard Père & Fils 1er Cru 2015/16 84.00 Meursault Charmes Joseph Drouhin 1er Cru 2016 110.00 Meursault Charmes Domaine Comtes Lafon 1er Cru 2009 290.00 Meursault Charmes Domaine Comtes Lafon 1er Cru 2011 295.00 Meursault Charmes Domaine Comtes Lafon 1er Cru 2013 295.00 Puligny-Montrachet Les Folatières Domaine Leflaive Puligny-Montrachet Les Folatières Domaine Leflaive 1er Cru 2008 385.00 Puligny-Montrachet Les Folatières Domaine Leflaive 1er Cru 2009 390.00 Puligny-Montrachet Les Folatières Domaine Leflaive 1er Cru 390.00 Puligny-Montrachet Les Folatières Domaine Leflaive 1er Cru 2011 395.00 Puligny-Montrachet Les Folatières Domaine Leflaive 1er Cru 2012 385.00 Subtle reduction on the nose with scents of dried quince complementing the citrus fruit, walnut and smoke aromas. The palate is well balanced with fine delineation, harmonious with notes of tangerine and orange zest, the oak nicely integrated with appreciable weight on the finish. Very fine, very sophisticated. Meursault Charmes Domaine Comtes Lafon 1er Cru 2014 325.00 Meursault Porusots Domaine Comtes Lafon 1er Cru 2011/12 285.00 Meursault Sous le Dos d Ane Domaine Leflaive 1er Cru 199.00 Meursault Sous le Dos d Ane Domaine Leflaive 1er Cru 2011 205.00 Meursault Sous le Dos d Ane Domaine Leflaive 1er Cru 2013 219.00 Wonderful with panfried fish or creamy chicken dishes, especially when mushrooms are involved. Puligny-Montrachet Puligny-Montrachet Jean-Marc Boillot 2016/17 72.00 Bright yellow. Aromas of pineapple, mirabelle and soft herbs, plus a whiff of silex-like minerality. Round, rich and voluminous, with intense mid-palate fruit and lovely perfume. Finishes long and aromatic, with superb mineral lift. Wonderfully palate-staining white Burgundy. Puligny-Montrachet Les Pucelles Domaine Leflaive 1er Cru 2001 369.00 Puligny-Montrachet Les Pucelles Domaine Leflaive 1er Cru 2009 449.00 Puligny-Montrachet Les Pucelles Domaine Leflaive 1er Cru 2013 390.00 Chassagne-Montrachet Chassagne-Montrachet Domaine Amiot Guy & Fils 2016/17 60.00 Chassagne-Montrachet Louis Jadot 2015/16 71.00 Chassagne-Montrachet Joseph Drouhin 2015/16 72.00 Puligny-Montrachet Les Combettes Louis Jadot 2013 92- Puligny-Montrachet Bouchard Père & Fils 2016 50.00 Puligny-Montrachet Joseph Drouhin 14/15/16 76.00 Puligny-Montrachet Louis Jadot 2015/16 77.00 Puligny-Montrachet Etienne Sauzet 2014/15 99.00 Puligny-Montrachet Champs Canet Jean-Marc Boillot 1er Cru 2013/16 94.00 Chassagne-Montrachet Morgeot Laguiche Joseph Drouhin 2016 92+pts Chassagne-Montrachet Vergers Domaine Amiot Guy & Fils 1er Cru 13/14/15 78.00 Chassagne-Montrachet Morgeot Laguiche Joseph Drouhin 1er Cru 2013/16 139.00 Chassagne-Montrachet Caillerets Jean-Marc Pillot 1er Cru 2017 103.00 Perfect served with scallops in a white sauce, grilled langoustines or ripe cheeses. A gorgeous bouquet in the making with orange peel, tangerine and tinned peach scents all beautifully defined. The palate is very well balanced, one of Jadot s most harmonious and engaging Puligny Premier Crus this year. It gathers momentum in the mouth and reveals compelling spicy notes toward the finish. Puligny-Montrachet Les Folatières Joseph Drouhin 1er Cru 2015/16 110.00 Puligny-Montrachet Clos de la Garenne Duc de Magenta Louis Jadot 1er Cru 2014/15 98.00 Puligny-Montrachet Les Combettes Louis Jadot 1er Cru 2013/14 136.00 Puligny-Montrachet Les Folatières Louis Jadot 1er Cru 2013/15 104.00 Puligny-Montrachet Folatières Etienne Sauzet 1er Cru 2014 239.00 Puligny-Montrachet Folatières Etienne Sauzet 1er Cru 2015 249.00 Bright, pale yellow, with a faint green tinge. Inviting perfume of peach, pear and white flowers. Impeccably balanced, fully ripe wine with harmonious acidity giving the stone and orchard fruit flavors a light touch. Finishes with a firm stony underpinning. A delicious, penetrating wine with class and aging potential. Works as beautifully with meaty fish and shellfish as it does with mushroom risotto. 18 19
FRANCE WHITE BURGUNDY FRANCE WHITE Bâtard-Montrachet Louis Jadot 2009 95pts Jadot s 2009 Batard-Montrachet is rich, layered, sensual and totally beguiling. Slate, smoke and crushed rocks are some of the notes that develop in the glass, adding complexity to the highly expressive, nuanced fruit. Montrachet Bâtard-Montrachet Louis Jadot Grand Cru 2009 365.00 Bâtard-Montrachet Louis Jadot Grand Cru 2014 410.00 Bâtard-Montrachet Louis Jadot Grand Cru 2015/16 460.00 Bâtard-Montrachet Domaine Leflaive Grand Cru 2009 690.00 Bâtard-Montrachet Domaine Leflaive Grand Cru 790.00 Bâtard-Montrachet Domaine Leflaive Grand Cru 2011 660.00 Bâtard-Montrachet Domaine Leflaive Grand Cru 2015 720.00 Bienvenues-Bâtard-Montrachet Louis Jadot Grand Cru 2004 345.00 Bienvenues-Bâtard-Montrachet Louis Jadot Grand Cru 2006 365.00 Bienvenues-Bâtard-Montrachet Louis Jadot Grand Cru 2008 365.00 Bienvenues-Bâtard-Montrachet Louis Jadot Grand Cru 2009 390.00 Bienvenues-Bâtard-Montrachet Domaine Leflaive Grand Cru 2005 690.00 Bienvenues-Bâtard-Montrachet Domaine Leflaive Grand Cru 2007 560.00 Bienvenues-Bâtard-Montrachet Domaine Leflaive Grand Cru 2008 555.00 Bienvenues-Bâtard-Montrachet Domaine Leflaive Grand Cru 690.00 Bienvenues-Bâtard-Montrachet Domaine Leflaive Grand Cru 2012 690.00 Chevalier-Montrachet La Cabotte Bouchard Père & Fils Grand Cru 2007 385.00 Laville Haut-Brion Blanc 2006 98pts An absolutely staggering vintage for this historic and tiny estate, this 2006 has a huge nose of tropical fruit, including pineapple, as well as a liqueur of minerality, with quince, white citrus, and a hint of subtle toast. Full-bodied, with huge concentration, an almost flinty mouthfeel, zesty acidity, and a monster finish, this is a prodigious Laville Haut-Brion that needs about 10 years of cellaring and should last 30 or more years. BORDEAUX The original home of Sauvignon Blanc, white wines are produced in Bordeaux from Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillon and Muscadelle. Many of these are inexpensive dry whites from regions such as Entre-Deux-Mers and Graves, however there are also some outstanding producers making complex and age-worthy examples that are highly sought-after. de Fieuzal Blanc Pessac-Léognan /12 77.00 Roquefort Blanc 2015/16 9.00 Latour Martillac Blanc Pessac-Léognan 2014 52.00 Laville Haut-Brion Blanc Pessac-Léognan 2006 490.00 Smith Haut-Lafitte Blanc Pessac-Léognan 2014 155.00 Ideal with lightly dressed crab, tuna tartare or creamy asparagus risotto. AILE D ARGENT BLANC DE MOUTON ROTHSCHILD Mouton Rothschild s white wine is an exercise in just how good white Bordeaux can be, and something of a bargain when you consider how much the red wines fetch. Absurdly rare and even more absurdly delicious. Chevalier- Montrachet La Cabotte Bouchard Père & Fils 2009 Bright pale yellow. Steely aromas of apple, minerals and warm stone. Voluminous and powerful, with fat flavors of pear, menthol, crushed stone and iodine. Most impressive today on the very long, broad aftertaste, which saturates the palate with lemon and crushed stone. This boasts the sheer size and scale of a Montrachet. Chevalier-Montrachet La Cabotte Bouchard Père & Fils Grand Cru 2009 410.00 Chevalier-Montrachet Les Demoiselles Louis Jadot Grand Cru 2009 445.00 Chevalier-Montrachet Les Demoiselles Louis Jadot Grand Cru 2013 395.00 Chevalier-Montrachet Les Demoiselles Louis Jadot Grand Cru 2014 590.00 Chevalier-Montrachet Domaine Leflaive Grand Cru 2005 990.00 Chevalier-Montrachet Domaine Leflaive Grand Cru 2009 790.00 Chevalier-Montrachet Domaine Leflaive Grand Cru 2013 785.00 Chevalier-Montrachet Domaine Leflaive Grand Cru 2015 925.00 Chevalier-Montrachet Etienne Sauzet Grand Cru 2013 685.00 Montrachet Bouchard Père & Fils Grand Cru 2009 595.00 Montrachet Bouchard Père & Fils Grand Cru 2011 595.00 Montrachet Laguiche Joseph Drouhin Grand Cru 2006 715.00 Aile d Argent Bordeaux Blanc de Mouton Rothschild 2009 93pts An abundance of marmalade notes intermixed with waxy lemon butter are all present in this honeyed, crisp, refreshing wine, which has loads of personality. Aile d Argent Bordeaux Blanc de Mouton Rothschild 2004 119.00 Aile d Argent Bordeaux Blanc de Mouton Rothschild 2007 125.00 Aile d Argent Bordeaux Blanc de Mouton Rothschild 2009 132.00 Aile d Argent Bordeaux Blanc de Mouton Rothschild 2011 145.00 RHONE Condrieu Invitare M. Chapoutier 2016 54.00 Hermitage Blanc Chante-Alouette M. Chapoutier 2015 77.00 neuf-du-pape Blanc Mont-Redon 2017/18 36.00 Fantasic with asian cuisine, roast turbot and white meats such as veal. Montrachet Laguiche Joseph Drouhin Grand Cru 2014 789.00 Montrachet Laguiche Joseph Drouhin Grand Cru 2015 795.00 Montrachet Louis Jadot Grand Cru 2009 590.00 Pouilly-Fuissé Clos des Prouges Domaine Ferret 2016 92pts Montrachet Louis Jadot Grand Cru 2012 599.00 Montrachet Louis Jadot Grand Cru 2013 610.00 MACONNAIS Mâcon Bursting with aromas of spring flowers, orange zest, peaches and fresh pastry. On the palate, it s fullbodied, ample and rich, with succulent balancing acids and a long, fragrant finish. Mâcon-Solutré Domaine Ferret 2016 22.00 Pouilly-Fuissé Pouilly-Fuissé Vignes Romanes Bouchard Père & Fils 2016/17 25.00 Pouilly-Fuissé Joseph Drouhin 2017 33.00 Pouilly-Fuissé Clos des Prouges Domaine Ferret 2015/16 46.00 20 Pouilly-Fuissé Terroir Domaine Luquet Depuis 1878 2016/17 20.00 21
FRANCE WHITE Domaines Ott Blanc de Blancs 2016 92pts Very pure, with a precise and racy beam of honeysuckle, white peach, verbena and yellow apple fruit notes streaming through, all carried by a light quinine thread that adds length and tension through the finish. SOUTHERN FRANCE With over 3,000 hours of sunlight a year and constant breezes and mistral winds keeping the risk of fungal disease at a minimum, the south of France is an ideal region for viticulture. A mixture of both local and international grapes is grown here, producing wines in a variety of styles. LANGUEDOC-ROUSSILLON Domaine Les Roques Blanc JM Boillot IGP Pays d Oc 2014/16 11.50 Domaine La Gravette Sauvignon Blanc IGP Pays d Oc 2016/17 5.50 Domaine La Gravette Chardonnay IGP Pays d Oc 2017 5.50 Hegarty Les Nonnes Blanc Minervois 2014 18.00 PROVENCE de Bellet Cuvée Baron G Bellet 2016 38.00 Bomont de Cormeil Viognier Coteaux de Verdon 2014/15 20.00 Miraval Blanc Coteaux Varois en Provence 2016 24.00 Domaines Ott Blanc de Blancs Côtes de Provence 2016/17 23.00 Classic match with grilled fish and fish soups. BURGUNDY RED COTE DE NUITS The Côte de Nuits is a 20km stretch forming the northern part of the Côte d Or, Burgundy s golden slope, and it is here that most of the world s finest examples of Pinot Noir are produced. Named after the region s largest village, Nuits-Saint-Georges, 22 out of Burgundy s 23 red Grands Crus are located here, expressing a variety of styles. They tend to be weightier and deeper coloured than the Pinots produced on the Côte de Beaune. Gevrey-Chambertin, Vougeot and Nuits-Saints-Georges are known for their robust style of wine, whilst Chambolle-Musigny and Vosne-Romanée display finesse and elegance. COTE DE BEAUNE Despite the Côte de Beaune being well-known for its white wines, there is actually more red wine produced in the region. The Pinot Noirs from this southern half of the Côte d Or show softness and finesse with the best examples coming from Beaune, Pommard and Volnay as well as the exceptionally powerful Grand Cru of Corton. CORSICA Clos Canarelli Blanc Corse Figari 2015/17 37.00 Dijon COTES DE NUITS Gevrey-Chambertin Morey-St-Denis Chambolle-Musigny Vosne-Romanée Vougeot Nuits-St-Georges Pommard Volnay COTES DE BEAUNE Chassagne-Montrachet Pernand-Vergelesses Aloxe-Corton Beaune 22 23
FRANCE RED BURGUNDY Gevrey-Chambertin Domaine de la Vougeraie 2014 92pts Cherry, currant and spice flavors are the hallmarks of this dense red. A mineral note adds interest as this builds to a long, sinewy finish. Echoes fruit and spice details on the long aftertaste. Gevrey-Chambertin Clos St Jacques Armand Rousseau 97pts From the very beginning, the Clos St. Jacques is a total stunner. Deep and beautifully layered, with exquisite aromatics and tons of class, the is one of the wines of the night. Sure, the will be even better in a few years, or maybe even decades, but it is flat-out gorgeous today. What a wine! 24 Chambertin Clos de Bèze Louis Jadot 2013 95+pts Liqueur-like ripeness of red berries, dried cherry, musky underbrush and minerals, with treble notes of dried flowers and blood orange contributing sexy lift. Large-scaled but remarkably light on its feet. This baby is alive! BOURGOGNE Bourgogne Pinot Noir Réserve Coteaux des Moines Bouchard Père & Fils 2015/16 15.00 Bourgogne Rouge Laforêt Joseph Drouhin 2016/17 22.00 COTE DE NUITS Côte de Nuits Villages Le Vaucrain Louis Jadot 2014 31.00 Gevrey-Chambertin Gevrey-Chambertin Bouchard Père & Fils 2015/16 45.00 Gevrey-Chambertin Joseph Drouhin 2014 63.00 Gevrey-Chambertin Louis Jadot 2013/14 64.00 Gevrey-Chambertin Domaine de la Vougeraie 2014 60.00 Gevrey-Chambertin Les Cazetiers Bouchard Père & Fils 1er Cru 2015/16 123.00 Gevrey-Chambertin Clos St Jacques Louis Jadot 1er Cru 2013 189.00 Gevrey-Chambertin Clos St Jacques Louis Jadot 1er Cru 2015 215.00 Gevrey-Chambertin Les Poissenots Louis Jadot 1er Cru 2013 107.00 Gevrey-Chambertin Le Clos Prieur Rossignol-Trapet 1er Cru 2014 92.00 Try with richly sauced dishes such as beef bourguignon or coq au vin. DOMAINE ARMAND ROUSSEAU Armand Rousseau is at the very top of the Burgundy hierarchy along with Domaine de la Romanée- Conti, Comte Georges de Vogüé and the late Henri Jayer. The wines are nothing less than sensational examples of just how good Pinot Noir can actually be. Absurdly rare and expensive, but for a reason. Gevrey-Chambertin Clos St Jacques Armand Rousseau 1er Cru 2008 890.00 Gevrey-Chambertin Clos St Jacques Armand Rousseau 1er Cru 2009 950.00 Gevrey-Chambertin Clos St Jacques Armand Rousseau 1er Cru 1,250.00 Gevrey-Chambertin Clos St Jacques Armand Rousseau 1er Cru 2011 750.00 Gevrey-Chambertin Clos St Jacques Armand Rousseau 1er Cru 2013 750.00 Gevrey-Chambertin Clos St Jacques Armand Rousseau 1er Cru 2014 890.00 Chambertin Bouchard Père & Fils Grand Cru 2013 289.00 Chambertin Clos de Bèze Louis Jadot Grand Cru 2013 410.00 Chambertin Clos de Bèze Louis Jadot Grand Cru 2014 422.00 Chambertin Clos de Bèze Louis Jadot Grand Cru 2015 489.00 Charmes-Chambertin Joseph Drouhin Grand Cru 2013 277.00 Morey-St-Denis Clos des Lambrays Domaine des Lambrays Grand Cru 2014 290.00 Clos des Lambrays Domaine des Lambrays Grand Cru 2015 310.00 Clos des Lambrays Domaine des Lambrays Grand Cru 2016 330.00 Wonderful served with roast guinea fowl or panfried duck. Chambolle-Musigny Chambolle-Musigny Bouchard Père & Fils 2013/14 54.00 Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru Joseph Drouhin 1er Cru 2015/16 108.00 Bonnes Mares Louis Jadot Grand Cru 2015 440.00 Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru Comte de Vogüé 2008 The 2008 Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru (from young vines in Musigny) is a powerful, inward wine. There is lovely depth to the fruit, but the wine remains tightly coiled at this stage, even if occasional glimmers of richness emerge over time. Cloves, cinnamon and a host of other spiced notes add complexity on the finish. This is another superb, textured wine from de Vogue. Clos Vougeot Bouchard Père & Fils 2014 93pts A clean, subtle and well-defined bouquet with attractive wild strawberry, Morello and redcurrant scents. The palate is medium-bodied with fine grain tannin. I appreciate the purity here, the balance and poise, the manner in which it gently fans out on the finish. Excellent this is another impressive showing from Bouchard Père et Fils. Echézeaux Domaine de la Romanée-Conti 2011 Literally jumps from the glass with a heady melange of dark red fruit, sweet floral notes and crushed rocks. Rich and explosive on the palate, yet backed up with significant structure and pure intensity, the 2011 is firing on all cylinders. DOMAINE COMTE GEORGES DE VOGUE FRANCE RED BURGUNDY It would be difficult to rank the truly great producers of Burgundy, but it would be more difficult to believe that Comte Georges de Vogüé would not feature in the top three list of every wine expert. With just 12.5 hectares of vineyard, the domaine has been in the same family s hands for over 500 years, and now the 20th generation is at the helm. Chambolle-Musigny Comte de Vogüé 350.00 Chambolle-Musigny Comte de Vogüé 2011 265.00 Chambolle-Musigny Comte de Vogüé 2012 259.00 Chambolle-Musigny Comte de Vogüé 2013 265.00 Chambolle-Musigny Comte de Vogüé 2014 285.00 Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru Comte de Vogüé 1er Cru 2008 425.00 Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru Comte de Vogüé 1er Cru 2011 390.00 Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru Comte de Vogüé 1er Cru 2012 455.00 Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru Comte de Vogüé 1er Cru 2013 390.00 Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru Comte de Vogüé 1er Cru 2014 425.00 Vougeot Clos Vougeot Bouchard Père & Fils Grand Cru 13/14/15 199.00 Vosne-Romanée / Flagey-Echézeaux Vosne-Romanée Les Suchots Bouchard Père & Fils 1er Cru 2008/12 127.00 Echezeaux Bouchard Père & Fils Grand Cru 2014/15 267.00 Echezeaux Louis Jadot Grand Cru 2014 244.00 Echezeaux Louis Jadot Grand Cru 2015 275.00 DOMAINE DE LA ROMANEE-CONTI Domaine de la Romanée-Conti, or DRC for short, is one of the world s most legendary wine estates, comprising some of the finest terroir on earth. Run by Aubert de Villaine, all 25ha of the domaine are Grands Crus, including two monopolies, and are farmed biodynamically. The resulting opulent and stylish wines are some of the most sought after and expensive in the world. Echézeaux Domaine de la Romanée-Conti Grand Cru 2009 2,390.00 Echézeaux Domaine de la Romanée-Conti Grand Cru 2011 2,090.00 Echézeaux Domaine de la Romanée-Conti Grand Cru 2012 2,090.00 Echézeaux Domaine de la Romanée-Conti Grand Cru 2013 2,120.00 Echézeaux Domaine de la Romanée-Conti Grand Cru 2014 2,075.00 Echézeaux Domaine de la Romanée-Conti Grand Cru 2015 2,650.00 Grands Echézeaux Domaine de la Romanée-Conti Grand Cru 2,250.00 Richebourg Domaine de la Romanée-Conti Grand Cru 2006 2,390.00 Richebourg Domaine de la Romanée-Conti Grand Cru 2007 2,290.00 Richebourg Domaine de la Romanée-Conti Grand Cru 2008 2,450.00 Richebourg Domaine de la Romanée-Conti Grand Cru 2014 2,350.00 La Tâche Domaine de la Romanée-Conti Grand Cru 2013 3,450.00 La Tâche Domaine de la Romanée-Conti Grand Cru 2014 3,550.00 25
FRANCE RED BURGUNDY FRANCE RED Nuits-St-Georges Volnay Nuits-St-Georges Joseph Drouhin 2014/15 65.00 Volnay Louis Jadot 2012/13 56.00 Volnay Les Caillerets Bouchard Père & Fils 1er Cru 2014/15 78.00 Nuits-St-Georges Les Cailles Bouchard Père & Fils 2012 92pts Rich and spicy, this silky-textured red also boasts cherry and strawberry flavors. There are ample tannins, and the well-integrated oak shows a light touch. Excellent length. Nuits-St-Georges Les Cailles Bouchard Père & Fils 1er Cru 2011/12 98.00 Nuits-St-Georges Procès Joseph Drouhin 1er Cru 08/11/13 99.00 Nuits-St-Georges Les Boudots Louis Jadot 1er Cru 2013 104.00 Nuits St Georges Clos de Thorey Domaine de la Vougeraie 1er Cru 2013 85.00 Perfect match for pigeon, beef Wellington or roast rack of lamb. COTE DE BEAUNE Côte de Beaune Villages Louis Jadot 2013 26.00 Aloxe-Corton Aloxe-Corton Louis Jadot 2013 58.00 Volnay Les Caillerets Bouchard Père & Fils 2014 92pts Meaty and dense, this fresh red offers black cherry, earth and spice flavors. Shows fine balance and tension, with a latent mineral element, finishing with an accent of sweet oak. Chassagne-Montrachet Chassagne-Montrachet Morgeot Duc de Magenta Louis Jadot 1er Cru 2016 56.00 Chassagne-Montrachet Clos St Jean Jean-Marc Pillot 1er Cru 2017 115.00 Try with veal stew and soft, ripe cheeses. BEAUJOLAIS Made exclusively from the Gamay grape, Beaujolais wines are often light bodied and fruity and delicious served chilled. The better examples come from the Beaujolais Villages which are on granite hills and offer a more complex flavour profile. Fleurie and Morgon are two of the best known of these crus and can improve over 10 years or so, evolving to taste like Pinot Noir. Corton Pougets Louis Jadot 2015 93-95pts The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannin, moderate depth, rounded in the mouth with layers of cranberry and strawberry fruit. There is a pinch of sea salt right on the finish that shows fine precision and focus. This is outstanding. Corton Bouchard Père & Fils Grand Cru 2011/13 115.00 Corton Pougets Louis Jadot Grand Cru 2011 99.00 Corton Pougets Louis Jadot Grand Cru 2015 125.00 Pernand-Vergelesses Pernand-Vergelesses Clos de la Croix de Pierre Louis Jadot 1er Cru 2012/14 40.00 Savigny-lès-Beaune Savigny-lès-Beaune Louis Jadot 2013 34.00 Beaune Beaune du 1er Cru Rouge Bouchard Père & Fils 1er Cru 2015/16 36.00 Beaune Grèves Vigne de l Enfant Jésus Bouchard Père & Fils 1er Cru 2011/13 99.00 Morgon des Jacques Louis Jadot 2013 90pts A bright and perky nose: Morello cherry and cranberry leaf scents racing from the glass, all nicely defined and exuberant. The palate is mediumbodied with juicy, ripe red cherry and boysenberry fruit, very fleshy and supply in the mouth, almost a playful Morgon that slips down the throat a treat. Not an intellectual Morgon, but one that is very well crafted. Beaujolais Villages Villa Ponciago 2014/16 10.00 Morgon des Jacques Louis Jadot 2013/14 18.00 Fleurie La Réserve Villa Ponciago 2014 19.00 Fleurie des Jacques Louis Jadot 2014 24.00 LOIRE Sancerre Rouge Comte Lafond 2014/15 22.00 Saumur Champigny Vieilles Vignes Domaine Langlois Chateau 2014 24.00 Beaune Clos des Mouches Rouge Joseph Drouhin 1er Cru 2009/12 134.00 Pommard Pommard Louis Jadot 2012/14 64.00 Pommard Clos des Epeneaux Comte Armand 2015 95pts The 2015 Pommard 1er Cru Clos des Epeneaux is fabulous, wafting from the glass with notes of wild berries, orange peel, cinnamon, rich soil and espresso. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied, ample and layered, with a lovely line of bright acidity, fine-grained tannins, sappy energy, and terrific depth and tension at the core. This is a great Clos des Epeneaux from Paul Zinetti. Pommard Les Jarollières Jean-Marc Boillot 1er Cru 2015/16 87.00 Pommard Clos des Epeneaux Comte Armand 1er Cru 2014 229.00 Pommard Clos des Epeneaux Comte Armand 1er Cru 2015 279.00 Pommard Clos des Epeneaux Comte Armand 1er Cru 2016 290.00 Beautiful with roast pork or braised beef in a red wine jus. 26 27
BORDEAUX With 57 different appellations and 10,000 producers, Bordeaux is home to some of the world s finest x, producing long-lasting wines of exceptional quality. 88% of the production of Bordeaux is red wine, or Claret as it is known in the UK, made from Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot. Bordeaux is also the source of dry whites made from Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon, and some of the world s longest-lived sweet wines from Sauternes. The wines of the Bordeaux left bank were classified in 1855 and only five have attained First Growth status - Lafite, Mouton Rothschild, Latour, Margaux and Haut Brion. Those x that made it into any of the five tiers of this classification will have Grand Cru Classé on the label. LEFT BANK MEDOC Home to many of the biggest names in Bordeaux, the Médoc is the most famous red wine region in the world and includes the renowned appellations of St Estèphe, Pauillac, St Julien and Margaux. Situated on the left bank of the Gironde estuary, the best vineyard sites are located on gravelly outcrops close to the river. The left bank is well suited to the production of Cabernet Sauvignon and the wines produced here will generally have this as the dominant grape in the blend. ST ESTEPHE This is the most northerly of the important communes of the Médoc. The wines here take on a rustic style due to the high proportion of clay in the soil. As a result they can seem austere in their youth, however they display good acidity and colour and are exceptionally long-lived. PAUILLAC Considering that Pauillac is a small region of only 23km², three of the five First Growth x are located here Latour, Lafite and Mouton Rothschild with Grands Crus Classés representing 84% of the rest of the production. Fine, deep and gravelly soils mean that the vine roots reach a greater depth here than anywhere else in the Médoc. The resulting wines are intense and display great complexity. ST JULIEN St Julien is the smallest of the well-known Médoc communes at only 700ha with a uniform style thanks to the gravelly soils. Despite having no First Growth properties, St Julien is considered to offer the most consistent wines across the board, with impressive offerings year after year. MARGAUX The largest commune in the Médoc, and home to First Growth Margaux, Margaux is famous for producing the most elegant and alluring wines of the Left Bank. With the lightest and most gravelly soils in the Médoc, the finest examples of Margaux are intensely perfumed whilst also subtle and refined. PESSAC-LEOGNAN/GRAVES Pessac-Léognan is a district within Graves that was created in 1986 due to pressure from the vignerons who wanted to disassociate themselves from growers further south in the commune where the soils are much sandier. Pessac-Léognan is home to Haut Brion, the only First Growth property outside of the Médoc. RIGHT BANK POMEROL Pomerol is the smallest of the prestigious Bordeaux appellations with around only 150 producers and 740 hectares of vineyards. Demand and prices for these wines are high given that many of these are boutique growers making circa 1,000 cases a year. Pomerol is dominated by Merlot, producing rich and smooth wines, and features some iconic properties such as Pétrus. ST EMILION Located on the right bank of the Dordogne, St Emilion is one of the most important Bordeaux appellations in terms of both quality and quantities produced. Merlot is the predominant grape variety and is perfectly suited to the clay and chalk-rich soils here. Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon are also grown. Given the high proportion of Merlot, these wines are much more approachable in youth than the more tannic examples produced on the left bank. Médoc R. Gironde FRANCE St Estèphe Pauillac St Julien Margaux RIGHT BANK Bordeaux Pomerol St Emilion LEFT BANK Pessac-Léognan Graves R. Garonne 28 29
FRANCE RED BORDEAUX FRANCE RED BORDEAUX Chasse-Spleen 2014 92pts Fresh and very lively black cherry and boysenberry aromas mixed with cedar and pine needles. The palate is medium-bodied with a fine bead of acidity, lovely fleshy blackberry and raspberry fruit mixed with black pepper and tobacco towards the finish. What a delicious 2014 one that should age with style. BORDEAUX Bras d Argent 2016 8.00 Roquefort 2015 10.00 LEFT BANK MEDOC Chasse-Spleen Moulis 2014 55.00 Potensac Médoc 2012 38.00 Tour St Bonnet Médoc 2014 20.00 CHATEAU CAMENSAC The Camensac vineyards are on a gravelly elevation in the commune of St-Laurent-Médoc, and the excellent drainage afforded by the deep, stony soil is augmented by a system of field drains. The various plots, all entitled to the Haut-Médoc appellation, are cared for on an individual basis. Attractive ripe cherry and blackcurrant fruit intermixed with hints of damp earth, spice and new wood from this charming Médoc property. Sociando-Mallet 92pts Densely packed, juicy and sweet, with excellent inner-mouth energy to the black raspberry and mineral flavors complicated by sexy smoky oak. Like some past outstanding vintages of Sociando-Mallet, this will make a great ringer in future tastings. CHATEAU SOCIANDO-MALLET This château was completely renovated in the 1970s and now, thanks to careful vineyard management and investment in the latest technology in the winery, produces excellent wines. Sociando Mallet makes no compromises and continues to produce one of the finest wines among non-classified estates in Haut-Medoc. Robert Parker Sociando-Mallet Haut-Médoc 69.00 Sociando-Mallet Haut-Médoc 2014 55.00 Sociando-Mallet Haut-Médoc 2016 65.00 ST ESTEPHE Beau-Site Cru Bourgeois 2014 31.00 Delicious with game, especially when roasted. CHATEAU CALON-SEGUR Cantemerle 2009 91+pts Readers looking for the more ethereal, elegant side of Bordeaux need search no further than Cantemerle. Dense ruby/purple (nearly opaque), this wine offers up notes of lead pencil shavings, spring flowers, raspberries and black cherries. The wine is ethereal, medium-bodied, and by no means a blockbuster, but long and intellectual. Camensac 5ème Cru Classé 2005 69.00 Camensac 5ème Cru Classé 72.00 Perfect paired with roast rib of beef or hard cheeses. CHATEAU CANTEMERLE This prestigious property in the Médoc is most noted for featuring a high percentage of Merlot, making for an approachable, forward wine style which is drinkable in relative youth. A classed growth in the prestigious 1855 classification, the wines are something of a steal in terms of value. Cantemerle 5ème Cru Classé 2003 75.00 Cantemerle 5ème Cru Classé 2009 75.00 Cantemerle 5ème Cru Classé 79.00 Cantemerle 5ème Cru Classé 2014 59.00 Calon-Ségur 2000 The 2000 Calon Segur is one of those wines that reminds you how great the millennial vintage could be. Now at fifteen years old, it has a brilliant, vivacious red berry nose infused with ash and cigar box aromas. The detail here is beguiling and it just sings Saint Estèphe. Once part of the mighty Ségur estate, which at various times included Lafite and Mouton Rothschild, the Marquis de Ségur was very fond of Calon, and no account of Calon-Ségur is complete without reporting his assertion that I make my wine at Lafite and Latour but my heart is in Calon. Doubtless this is the reason why Calon-Ségur features a heart motif on its label, and throughout the exquisite château buildings. Calon-Ségur 3ème Cru Classé 2000 205.00 Calon-Ségur 3ème Cru Classé 2009 209.00 Calon-Ségur 3ème Cru Classé 239.00 Calon-Ségur 3ème Cru Classé 2014 185.00 CHATEAU COS D ESTOURNEL The archetypal St Estèphe and almost as famous for its fantastic folly-like château building as it is for a wine which defines its commune, Cos is simply one of the must-have names. They are noted for producing amazing wines in every vintage, often being awarded the accolade of wine of the vintage in lesser years. CHATEAU POUJEAUX The wines from Poujeaux in Moulis are often amongst the finest value on offer from the Médoc. Cabernet Sauvignon (50%) with the balance a mixture of Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, this is a classically-styled Bordeaux. The vibrant flavours of cassis, damson and spice are intermingled with cedary oak and vanilla. Cos d Estournel 2ème Cru Classé 2000 329.00 Cos d Estournel 2ème Cru Classé 2003 339.00 Cos d Estournel 2ème Cru Classé 2005 345.00 Cos d Estournel 2ème Cru Classé 2006 215.00 Cos d Estournel 2ème Cru Classé 2008 215.00 Poujeaux 2014 90pts The 2014 Poujeaux is an absolutely joyous wine. Plump, juicy and flavorful, it possesses striking depth. Dark stone fruit, spice, leather and tobacco give the wine an attractive savory profile. Poujeaux Moulis 2000 75.00 Poujeaux Moulis 2003 69.00 Poujeaux Moulis 2005 75.00 Poujeaux Moulis 2009 69.00 Poujeaux Moulis 2012 49.00 Poujeaux Moulis 2014 59.00 Cos d Estournel 99+pts Blackcurrant cordial, chocolatecovered cherries, spearmint, cigar box and hoisin plus suggestions of praline, charcoal and espresso. Full-bodied, the palate is jam-packed with layer upon layer of black and red fruits plus tons of savory accents and a firm backbone of ripe, grainy tannins, finishing very, very long, carrying great freshness and a beautiful spearmint lift. Cos d Estournel 2ème Cru Classé 355.00 Cos d Estournel 2ème Cru Classé 2011 198.00 Cos d Estournel 2ème Cru Classé 2014 245.00 Cos d Estournel 2ème Cru Classé 2015 295.00 Cos d Estournel 2ème Cru Classé 2016 345.00 30 31
FRANCE RED BORDEAUX Montrose 97pts Rock solid, displaying a dense core of plum, steeped currant and braised fig fruit, with racy charcoal and ganache notes. Intensely chalky, offering flesh and refinement to match the bracing minerality, this shows hints of grilled savory, iron, warm paving stone and bitter orange on the riveting finish. Batailley 95pts CHATEAU MONTROSE Originally part of the Calon-Ségur estate, Montrose is young for a classed growth having only been planted in 1815. The robust, predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon wine is a fabulous treat. Montrose 2ème Cru Classé 2000 295.00 Montrose 2ème Cru Classé 2005 259.00 Montrose 2ème Cru Classé 2008 175.00 Montrose 2ème Cru Classé 390.00 Montrose 2ème Cru Classé 2011 159.00 Montrose 2ème Cru Classé 2012 159.00 Montrose 2ème Cru Classé 2014 225.00 Montrose 2ème Cru Classé 2015 245.00 Montrose 2ème Cru Classé 2016 295.00 CHATEAU ORMES DE PEZ Sadly the ormes (elms) of the village of Pez were lost in the great storm of winter 2000, though they have since been replanted. The property is owned by the Cazes family (also owners of Lynch Bages) and their winemaking artistry certainly shows through here. Ormes de Pez Cru Bourgeois Exceptionnel 65.00 Ormes de Pez Cru Bourgeois Exceptionnel 2011 49.00 Ormes de Pez Cru Bourgeois Exceptionnel 2015 54.00 s Works beautifully with a classic Daube Provençale. PAUILLAC Haut-Batailley 5ème Cru Classé 2015 75.00 Lafite Rothschild 2003 100pts The 2003 Lafite Rothschild comes as close to perfection as any of the great Lafites made over the past three decades. Latour 2003 100pts CHATEAU LAFITE ROTHSCHILD FRANCE RED BORDEAUX Lafite consistently produces one of the wines of the vintage year in, year out. In a great vintage it is a reasonable assumption that Lafite will have produced the greatest Cabernet Sauvignon in the whole Médoc and fashioned a wonderful, long-lived, currant and cedar scented, ethereal beauty. Lafite Rothschild 1er Cru Classé 1986 1,490.00 Lafite Rothschild 1er Cru Classé 1998 1,150.00 Lafite Rothschild 1er Cru Classé 2000 1,990.00 Lafite Rothschild 1er Cru Classé 2003 1,490.00 Lafite Rothschild 1er Cru Classé 2005 1,295.00 Lafite Rothschild 1er Cru Classé 2009 1,410.00 Lafite Rothschild 1er Cru Classé 1,425.00 Lafite Rothschild 1er Cru Classé 2011 945.00 Lafite Rothschild 1er Cru Classé 2015 990.00 Lafite Rothschild 1er Cru Classé 2016 1,180.00 Serve with grilled lamb, gratin dauphinois and green beans with garlic. CHATEAU LATOUR Latour is considered one of the most powerful, dense Pauillacs to be found and it needs to age. A very high percentage of Cabernet Sauvignon (sometimes as much as 94%) lends the wine huge power and structure. Tasting notes include leather and spice, enhanced by intense blackcurrant fruit. Latour 1er Cru Classé 1995 880.00 Latour 1er Cru Classé 1998 749.00 Latour 1er Cru Classé 1999 890.00 Latour 1er Cru Classé 2003 1,289.00 Latour 1er Cru Classé 2005 1,225.00 The nose offers outstanding delineation and mineralité. It positively fizzes in the glass with all that coiledup energy, ladling out vivid blackberry and cedar aromas. The palate is medium-bodied, but it is the detail and precision that achieves a level that makes the a benchmark for the Pauillac estate. CHATEAU BATAILLEY Batailley is a classically-styled Pauillac that exudes the near stereotypical aromas of cassis, cigar box and pencil shavings augmented by a coffee-bean texture and silky tannins. Really excellent value and delicious even in youth. Batailley 5ème Cru Classé 2003 89.00 Batailley 5ème Cru Classé 95.00 Batailley 5ème Cru Classé 2016 85.00 Administrator Frederic Engerer says the 2003 is the sexiest Latour ever made. Dense, thick and unctuously textured, this staggering Latour is undeniably the most sumptuous, opulent wine made here since the 1982 or 1961. CHATEAU LYNCH BAGES Always something of a relative bargain, Lynch Bages was awarded a derisory Fifth Growth status in 1855, perhaps the greatest travesty in the whole classification, as the property regularly performs at super second level. For many people, Lynch Bages epitomises the style of Pauillac with its cedary pencil shaving aromas and densely packed cassis fruit. Lynch Bages 5ème Cru Classé 1990 480.00 Lynch Bages 5ème Cru Classé 2000 375.00 Duhart-Milon Rothschild 96pts CHATEAU DUHART-MILON ROTHSCHILD With 76 hectares of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc, Duhart is managed by Eric Kohler, technical director at Lafite Rothschild. It has the distinguished and reserved character so typical of Pauillac. The Rothschild family has invested heavily in this estate over the last 20 years in order to upgrade the quality, and their investments have certainly paid off handsomely. Robert Parker Lynch Bages 1990 99pts Lynch Bages 5ème Cru Classé 2003 265.00 Lynch Bages 5ème Cru Classé 2005 295.00 Lynch Bages 5ème Cru Classé 269.00 Lynch Bages 5ème Cru Classé 2011 195.00 Lynch Bages 5ème Cru Classé 2012 185.00 Lynch Bages 5ème Cru Classé 2014 195.00 Lynch Bages 5ème Cru Classé 2015 225.00 Lynch Bages 5ème Cru Classé 2016 259.00 Dense purple, with classic notes of cedar and lead pencil shavings as well as gobs of black currants and licorice, the wine has a full-bodied mouthfeel with fabulous precision and density. It also possesses a long, silky finish with moderately high tannins, but they are ripe and well-integrated. Duhart-Milon Rothschild 4ème Cru Classé 1999 149.00 Duhart-Milon Rothschild 4ème Cru Classé 2000 190.00 Duhart-Milon Rothschild 4ème Cru Classé 175.00 Duhart-Milon Rothschild 4ème Cru Classé 2015 139.00 Duhart-Milon Rothschild 4ème Cru Classé 2016 135.00 The biggest, richest, fullest-bodied Lynch Bages until the 2000, the fully mature 1990 exhibits an unbelievably explosive nose of black currants, cedarwood, herbs and spice. The majestic, classically Bordeaux aromatics are followed by a fullbodied, voluptuously textured, rich, intense wine with superb purity as well as thrilling levels of fruit, glycerin and sweetness. 32 33
FRANCE RED BORDEAUX FRANCE RED BORDEAUX CHATEAU MOUTON ROTHSCHILD CHATEAU PONTET-CANET Mouton Rothschild is the only to achieve reclassification since 1855 when the wines from Bordeaux were sorted into five tiers according to the prices they were fetching on the market at the time. This unique recategorisation took place in 1973 when Mouton Rothschild entered into the realm of the top five x (Premiers Grands Crus Classés). The bottles from this vineyard are famous not only for the powerful yet deceptively smooth wine inside, but also for the colourful labels brought out each year which are designed by a different artist for each vintage. Proprietor Alfred Tesseron produces all his wines by wholly organic methods, a rarity in Bordeaux. A superstar wine from a property that borders Mouton Rothschild, it is outperforming its historic reputation by perhaps the greatest degree in the whole of Bordeaux. Pontet-Canet 5ème Cru Classé 2000 215.00 Pontet-Canet 5ème Cru Classé 2005 245.00 Mouton Rothschild 99pts This remains the stunner, a battleship of a wine, brimming with cassis, blackberry and fig fruit that has melded together now, with the backdrop of alder, bay leaf and menthol starting to emerge a bit more. The long finish is loaded with grip, pulling the fruit and other components together. And then there s that flash of iron at the very end. Awesome wine. Mouton Rothschild 1er Cru Classé 1995 790.00 Mouton Rothschild 1er Cru Classé 1999 790.00 Mouton Rothschild 1er Cru Classé 2000 2,690.00 Mouton Rothschild 1er Cru Classé 2003 790.00 Mouton Rothschild 1er Cru Classé 2005 990.00 Mouton Rothschild 1er Cru Classé 975.00 Mouton Rothschild 1er Cru Classé 2011 619.00 Mouton Rothschild 1er Cru Classé 2014 690.00 Mouton Rothschild 1er Cru Classé 2015 830.00 Mouton Rothschild 1er Cru Classé 2016 890.00 Pontet-Canet 100pts An astounding, compelling wine. The freshness, laser-like precision, and fullbodied, massive richness and extract are simply remarkable to behold and experience. Pontet-Canet 5ème Cru Classé 290.00 Pontet-Canet 5ème Cru Classé 2015 210.00 ST JULIEN Léoville Poyferré 2ème Cru Classé 2015 148.00 CHATEAU BEYCHEVELLE According to legend, the name Beychevelle came from the Gascon bêcha vêla, meaning lower the sails. This was a reference to the fact that ships passing by the château lowered their sails in deference and allegiance to Admiral Jean-Louis Nogaret de la Valette, the property s first owner under Henri III. To this day, Beychevelle has the prettiest and most dramatic impact on the riverbank of the Gironde estuary. CHATEAU PICHON BARON Beychevelle 4ème Cru Classé 1999 165.00 Pichon Baron is one part of the split of the large Pichon estate. The fairytale château building and sumptuous label provide a glimpse of the beauty of the wine in the bottle. Occasionally overshadowed by the other half of the split, Pichon Lalande, the quality of more recent vintages of this wine is providing ample indication that the two properties were once one. Beychevelle 4ème Cru Classé 2000 289.00 Beychevelle 4ème Cru Classé 2003 199.00 Beychevelle 4ème Cru Classé 2005 239.00 Pichon Baron 95+pts Ripe, exotic nose offers scents of dark berries, black cherry, graphite, peat, iron, flowers and chocolatey oak. Very ripe and impressively dense, showing compelling depth to its lush dark berry and graphite flavors. A sexy sugar/acid balance gives this sharply delineated wine very good early balance but its powerfully structured, very long finish suggests that it will be long-lived. Pichon Baron 2ème Cru Classé 1989 360.00 Pichon Baron 2ème Cru Classé 1999 209.00 Pichon Baron 2ème Cru Classé 2003 249.00 Pichon Baron 2ème Cru Classé 2005 290.00 Pichon Baron 2ème Cru Classé 2006 198.00 Pichon Baron 2ème Cru Classé 290.00 Pichon Baron 2ème Cru Classé 2011 190.00 Pichon Baron 2ème Cru Classé 2015 259.00 Lovely served with venison, lamb cutlets or a rich wild boar ragù. Beychevelle 2005 93pts The Grand Vin, the 2005 Beychevelle is a gorgeous wine, with plenty of crème de cassis, floral notes, underbrush and forest floor. It is sweet and medium to full-bodied, with ripe tannin and beautiful texture and purity. Beychevelle 4ème Cru Classé 2008 195.00 Beychevelle 4ème Cru Classé 2009 195.00 Beychevelle 4ème Cru Classé 220.00 Beychevelle 4ème Cru Classé 2014 175.00 Beychevelle 4ème Cru Classé 2015 190.00 Beychevelle 4ème Cru Classé 2016 195.00 CLOS DU MARQUIS Clos du Marquis is the second wine of Léoville Las Cases, cut from the same cloth and regularly a match for many high-classed growths. However, unlike with most second wines, the grapes actually come from a separate area of vineyards (rather than younger or less successful vines) surrounded on all sides by other Second Growths. CHATEAU PICHON LALANDE COMTESSE Pichon Lalande is made with a relatively high proportion of Merlot, and renowned as providing a softer, more tender version of Pauillac. The quality in vintages from the mid-eighties onwards has been nothing less than breathtaking. Clos du Marquis 2000 125.00 Clos du Marquis 2008 96.00 Clos du Marquis 2009 115.00 Pichon Lalande Comtesse 2005 Pichon Lalande Comtesse 2ème Cru Classé 2003 245.00 Pichon Lalande Comtesse 2ème Cru Classé 2005 255.00 Pichon Lalande Comtesse 2ème Cru Classé 2009 289.00 Pichon Lalande Comtesse 2ème Cru Classé 310.00 Clos du Marquis 2000 Clos du Marquis 115.00 Clos du Marquis 2014 99.00 Clos du Marquis 2015 110.00 Juicy and sleek in feel, with a gloss of singed vanilla and alder over the core of lively blackberry, fig and black currant paste flavors. Singed charcoal and sweet tobacco notes score the finish and leave a mouthwatering feel. A tough decision whether to drink now or wait, as both choices will be rewarded. Pichon Lalande Comtesse 2ème Cru Classé 2011 195.00 The nose shows loads of plum, spice and meat aromas, as well as hints of licorice. It s full-bodied, with firm, yet velvety textured tannins. It s big and rounded. If you can t afford Las Cases, try some of this. Some might call this a second wine, but it comes from a plot of vineyards not deemed worthy of Léoville Las Cases. So it s like its own estate. 34 35
FRANCE RED BORDEAUX FRANCE RED BORDEAUX Ducru Beaucaillou 98+pts The proprietor is not alone in thinking this is the finest Ducru Beaucaillou since the 1961. The classic wet rock, creme de cassis, subtle oak and gravelly stoniness of the vineyard come through in this spectacular, full-bodied, gorgeously pure and intense effort. CHATEAU DUCRU BEAUCAILLOU The name of this estate comes from the former owner, Mr. Ducru, and a description of the land it comprises: beau caillou literally means beautiful pebble. Pebbles and small stones permit good drainage of the soil, and their presence in the soils of the Médoc contributes hugely to the quality of the wines. Ducru Beaucaillou 2ème Cru Classé 1998 175.00 Ducru Beaucaillou 2ème Cru Classé 1999 210.00 Ducru Beaucaillou 2ème Cru Classé 2000 335.00 Ducru Beaucaillou 2ème Cru Classé 2003 269.00 Ducru Beaucaillou 2ème Cru Classé 359.00 Ducru Beaucaillou 2ème Cru Classé 2011 195.00 Ducru Beaucaillou 2ème Cru Classé 2015 295.00 CHATEAU GLORIA Gloria was not around in the 1855 classification of Bordeaux x, and was therefore not graded. Whilst no one can really say what level it might have been awarded, most commentators agree that Gloria offers tremendous value for money, and is a great example of the St Julien style. Gloria Cru Bourgeois 2000 98.00 Gloria Cru Bourgeois 2005 89.00 Gloria Cru Bourgeois 2011 69.00 Marquis de Terme 2015 93pts It s great to see the 2015 Marquis de Terme in such fine shape. Sumptuous and radiant, with notable presence, the 2015 has a lot to offer. Super-ripe dark cherry, plum, blood orange and spice build in the glass as this flamboyant, sumptuous Margaux shows off its winning personality. Although decidedly bold, the 2015 has a gracious side as well. CHATEAU TALBOT The wines of Talbot - named after John Talbot, Earl of Shrewsbury - are consistent and well balanced, showing ripe, luscious Cabernet Sauvignon fruit and cedar wood, typical of St Julien. Talbot 4ème Cru Classé 2000 189.00 Talbot 4ème Cru Classé 2005 175.00 Talbot 4ème Cru Classé 2006 125.00 Talbot 4ème Cru Classé 2009 135.00 Talbot 4ème Cru Classé 139.00 Talbot 4ème Cru Classé 2011 105.00 Talbot 4ème Cru Classé 2014 98.00 Talbot 4ème Cru Classé 2015 110.00 MARGAUX Pontac Lynch Cru Bourgeois 2014 39.00 Marquis de Terme 4ème Cru Classé 2015 55.00 CHATEAU GISCOURS The high percentage of Merlot in the blend accounts for the wine s depth and richness of flavour as well as its approachability in youth. A classic Margaux name, now fully revitalised and back to fulfilling its colossal potential. Léoville Barton 96+pts A superstar of the vintage, the wine has notes of pen ink and creme de cassis, good acidity, sweet, subtle oak, and massive extraction and concentration. The beautiful purity, symmetry, and huge finish of nearly a minute make this one of the all-time great classics from Leoville Barton. Gloria Cru Bourgeois 2014 69.00 Gloria Cru Bourgeois 2015 75.00 Gloria Cru Bourgeois 2016 78.00 Fantastic with steak pie or stewed ox cheek. CHATEAU LEOVILLE BARTON Léoville Barton is owned by Anthony Barton, a gently unassuming man who thinks that all wine, including his own, should be for drinking, and not just investment. The result being that his goal is to make the best Cabernet Sauvignon dominated wine he can. Great value and classy style Léoville Barton 2ème Cru Classé 1999 165.00 Léoville Barton 2ème Cru Classé 2000 249.00 Léoville Barton 2ème Cru Classé 2005 195.00 Léoville Barton 2ème Cru Classé 225.00 Giscours 2015 94+pts Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2015 Giscours opens with expressive cassis, blackberry and red currants on the nose with touches of cedar chest, roses and pencil lead. Medium to full-bodied with a good core of muscular fruit and firm, grainy tannins, it finishes long. Giscours 3ème Cru Classé 2000 169.00 Giscours 3ème Cru Classé 2005 155.00 Giscours 3ème Cru Classé 2008 110.00 Giscours 3ème Cru Classé 125.00 Giscours 3ème Cru Classé 2011 95.00 Giscours 3ème Cru Classé 2015 115.00 Giscours 3ème Cru Classé 2016 115.00 Try with saddle of hare or grilled steak with mushrooms. CHATEAU KIRWAN Mark Kirwan of Galway in Ireland gave his name to this back in the 18th century. The property s 40 hectares of vineyards have changed little in size and location since the 1855 classification. With heavy investment since the early 1990s, this has been totally revitalised and is passing through something of a golden age. Léoville Barton 2ème Cru Classé 2015 169.00 Kirwan 3ème Cru Classé 1998 89.00 CHATEAU LEOVILLE LAS CASES Léoville Las Cases is often regarded as the First Growth that never was, and not just geographically (it is separated from Latour only by a small stream). The wines are monumental in every way. Kirwan 3ème Cru Classé 1999 89.00 Kirwan 3ème Cru Classé 2000 129.00 Kirwan 3ème Cru Classé 2003 119.00 Kirwan 3ème Cru Classé 2005 138.00 Léoville Las Cases 2000 100pts Léoville Las Cases 2ème Cru Classé 1990 449.00 Léoville Las Cases 2ème Cru Classé 2000 960.00 Léoville Las Cases 2ème Cru Classé 2003 295.00 Léoville Las Cases 2ème Cru Classé 2005 390.00 Kirwan 2006 90pts Kirwan 3ème Cru Classé 2006 95.00 Kirwan 3ème Cru Classé 2015 105.00 Absolutely fantastic. This is one of the most exciting young reds I have tasted in a long, long time. It shows intense aromas of berries, currants and minerals, with hints of mint. Full-bodied and packed with fruit and tannins, its long finish is refined and silky. A benchmark for the vintage. Léoville Las Cases 2ème Cru Classé 2006 275.00 Léoville Las Cases 2ème Cru Classé 2009 429.00 Léoville Las Cases 2ème Cru Classé 2012 245.00 Léoville Las Cases 2ème Cru Classé 2014 255.00 Léoville Las Cases 2ème Cru Classé 2015 290.00 There s lovely fruit in this wine, with berry, chocolate and plum aromas and flavors. Medium- to full-bodied, with silky tannins and a long finish. A very balanced Kirwan. 36 37
FRANCE RED BORDEAUX Malescot St Exupéry 95pts CHATEAU MALESCOT ST EXUPERY Simon Malescot was King s Counsel to Louis XIV and Jean-Baptiste de St Exupéry was the grandfather of aviation pioneer and author, Antoine. The property is one of Margaux s prettiest and so is their wine. 50% Cabernet Sauvignon gives the wine a wonderful blackcurrant flavour and supple texture, whilst the addition of Merlot lends softness and a rounded character. Malescot St Exupéry 3ème Cru Classé 2000 179.00 Malescot St Exupéry 3ème Cru Classé 2003 129.00 Malescot St Exupéry 3ème Cru Classé 2006 109.00 Malescot St Exupéry 3ème Cru Classé 148.00 Malescot St Exupéry 3ème Cru Classé 2011 95.00 Haut-Bailly 95pts GRAVES & PESSAC-LEOGNAN CHATEAU DE FIEUZAL FRANCE RED BORDEAUX De Fieuzal s red is a Cabernet Sauvignon dominated Pessac-Léognan of huge poise and finesse. This small property, owned by an Irish philanthropist, produces wines (both red and white) that punch considerably above their weight. de Fieuzal Grand Cru Classé 1998 69.00 de Fieuzal Grand Cru Classé 1999 72.00 de Fieuzal Grand Cru Classé 2009 89.00 Slow-cooked beef stew in red wine with potato purée. Black raspberries, creme de cassis and spring floral notes intermixed with forest floor and a hint of charcoal are followed by an opulent, sexy, full-bodied wine whose tannins have become much sweeter, while the wine is less restrained yet still exuberant and impressive. This is a phenomenal example once again for this estate, harmonious in every sense of style, extraordinarily long, rich and ageworthy. CHATEAU MARGAUX Possibly the most regal of Bordeaux s château buildings, Margaux is a byword for family-owned quality, panache and style. The softest and most approachable of the First Growth x, Margaux is a rounded, delicious wine that nevertheless reveals layer upon layer of spice, vanilla, smoke, fruit, coffee and cedar complexity. Margaux 1er Cru Classé 1986 769.00 Margaux 1er Cru Classé 1990 1,290.00 Margaux 1er Cru Classé 1995 775.00 Chewy and brambly, but integrated, this carries a very hefty core of espresso, ganache, mulled plum and blackberry fruit. The purity starts to shine through on the finish, which drips with cassis and is threaded with a long warm paving stone note. CHATEAU HAUT-BAILLY Haut-Bailly is a Pessac property that is home to some of the oldest vines in Bordeaux. When phylloxera struck in the late 19th century, the owner at the time was against grafting onto American rootstock so the estate includes a 4 hectare plot of ungrafted vines that are over 100 years old. The resulting wine is at last regaining its reputation as one of the very best. Haut-Bailly Grand Cru Classé 1999 149.00 Haut-Bailly Grand Cru Classé 195.00 Margaux 1er Cru Classé 1996 990.00 Margaux 1er Cru Classé 1999 685.00 Margaux 1er Cru Classé 2000 1,440.00 Margaux 1er Cru Classé 2003 890.00 Margaux 1er Cru Classé 2005 1,198.00 CHATEAU HAUT BRION Haut Brion was the first wine estate to start bottling its own wine in the early 17th century, rather than selling in bulk to négociants, and it consequently gained in fame and value thanks in particular to claret lovers in London. It is therefore considered the forefather of the great Bordeaux growths. Naturally it was placed at the top of the famous 1855 Médoc Classification. Margaux 1996 100pts This is a Margaux that seems to light up the senses. It was outstanding in its youth...something that has not changed one bit over the intervening two decades. This may well turn out to be the Left Bank pinnacle of the 1990s. Margaux 1er Cru Classé 2006 690.00 Margaux 1er Cru Classé 1,050.00 Margaux 1er Cru Classé 2014 745.00 Roast partridge with gratin dauphinois or hard sheep s cheese. CHATEAU PALMER Boasting one of the most impressive château buildings in the Médoc (which alas has never been lived in), Palmer is widely regarded as the greatest Third Growth property and is more than occasionally believed to have produced the wine of the vintage, not just in Margaux, but in the whole of the region. Palmer 3ème Cru Classé 1990 390.00 Palmer 3ème Cru Classé 2000 489.00 Haut Brion 2005 100pts With its elegance and finesse, it is not as powerful as La Mission, but the nobility and complexity of the aromatics, incredible fragrance (subtle smoke and blue, red, and black fruits) that persists in the glass, full-bodied mouthfeel (though very light and delicate on its feet), and incredible length characterize this great Haut-Brion. While I have always admired Haut-Brion, now I am addicted to its perfume and complexity. Robert Parker Haut Brion 1er Cru Classé 1995 690.00 Haut Brion 1er Cru Classé 1996 645.00 Haut Brion 1er Cru Classé 1998 755.00 Haut Brion 1er Cru Classé 1999 710.00 Haut Brion 1er Cru Classé 2000 990.00 Haut Brion 1er Cru Classé 2003 685.00 Haut Brion 1er Cru Classé 2005 1,190.00 Haut Brion 1er Cru Classé 1,090.00 Haut Brion 1er Cru Classé 2015 985.00 Palmer 2005 97pts A wondrously pixelated bouquet, whereby mineralité shines through the black cherry and blueberry fruit. Search deeper and you discover veins of graphite that impart a Pauillac-like allure. The palate is medium-bodied and intense, but it is not overwhelming, a Margaux that is galvanized with a firm backbone thereby ensuring this will age over the long term. 38 Palmer 3ème Cru Classé 2005 495.00 Palmer 3ème Cru Classé 2006 295.00 Palmer 3ème Cru Classé 490.00 Palmer 3ème Cru Classé 2014 390.00 CHATEAU PRIEURE-LICHINE Made famous by the wine writer Alexis Lichine and still carrying his name, this property went from a neglected 11ha plot in the 1950s (albeit with much history and a good classification) to the stellar 70ha vineyard it is today. The wines are soft, supple and rich with varietal character and a great sense of Margaux. Prieuré-Lichine 4ème Cru Classé 2000 109.00 Prieuré-Lichine 4ème Cru Classé 2009 114.00 Prieuré-Lichine 4ème Cru Classé 2014 85.00 La Mission Haut-Brion 2009 100pts The wine s remarkable concentration offers up an unctuous/viscous texture, a skyscraper-like mouthfeel, sweet, sumptuous, nearly over-the-top flavors and massive density. Perhaps a oncein-a-lifetime La Mission-Haut-Brion. CHATEAU LA MISSION HAUT-BRION The neighbour of Haut Brion, with the same owner and under the same winemaking stewardship, somehow La Mission has only been recognised as producing the magnificent, pure and seamless wines it does relatively recently. It can still offer a saving on its more illustrious stable-mate but often produces an equal, and more than occasionally superior, wine. La Mission Haut-Brion Grand Cru Classé 2000 865.00 La Mission Haut-Brion Grand Cru Classé 2005 885.00 La Mission Haut-Brion Grand Cru Classé 2006 390.00 La Mission Haut-Brion Grand Cru Classé 2008 360.00 La Mission Haut-Brion Grand Cru Classé 2009 945.00 La Mission Haut-Brion Grand Cru Classé 2015 590.00 39
FRANCE RED BORDEAUX FRANCE RED BORDEAUX CHATEAU PAPE CLEMENT Owned by the indomitable Bernard Magrez and under the oenological guidance of vinous magician Michel Rolland, Pape Clément is now making some extraordinarily brilliant wines. The is enjoying a dramatic rise in popularity in consequence. CHATEAU L EVANGILE L Evangile consistently produces very fine Pomerol and its best vintages are amongst the very best of the entire commune, if not the whole of Bordeaux. It comes as little surprise to discover that the property is owned by Lafite Rothschild. Pape Clément 2011 96pts Absolutely profound, with a complex bouquet of mulberries, black cherries, black currants, graphite and subtle smoke and burning ember-like aromas, this is a true super-star of the vintage. It represents a remarkable achievement by the winemaking team of Bernard Magrez. Full-bodied, rich and multidimensional, this wine clearly transcends the entire vintage. Pape Clément Grand Cru Classé 1990 245.00 Pape Clément Grand Cru Classé 1999 179.00 Pape Clément Grand Cru Classé 2003 189.00 Pape Clément Grand Cru Classé 2011 159.00 Pape Clément Grand Cru Classé 2015 185.00 RIGHT BANK POMEROL Domaine de l Eglise 2012/14 63.00 Mazeyres 2014 40.00 Trotanoy 2005 390.00 Vieux Certan 1999 155.00 L Evangile 2016 97pts Notions of plum preserves, Black Forest cake, red cherry compote and black raspberries with touches of menthol, chocolate box, licorice and tobacco leaf. Medium to full-bodied, the palate features fantastically ripe, velvety tannins and beautiful freshness, lifting the generous, brightly fruited mid-palate and giving bags of energy to the very long-lingering, minerally finish. L Evangile 2006 190.00 L Evangile 365.00 L Evangile 2016 345.00 CHATEAU LA FLEUR-PETRUS This charming estate is located between Pétrus and La Fleur, and delivers all the pedigree and quality that this enviable position suggests. Hardly surprising as, like Trotanoy, it is owned and managed by the supremely talented Christian Moueix. La Fleur-Pétrus 1998 390.00 La Fleur-Pétrus 1999 295.00 La Fleur-Pétrus 2000 395.00 La Fleur-Pétrus 2005 395.00 La Fleur-Pétrus 410.00 Delicious with fillet steak or a good roast chicken. CHATEAU CERTAN DE MAY CHATEAU GAZIN Neighbouring Pétrus and Evangile, Gazin offers great value for such a well-situated Pomerol. The label reflects the fact that the property was originally a farm belonging to the Knights Hospitaliers of St John in the Middle Ages. Certan de May 2005 95+pts The French Revolution led to the division of the Certan domain, leaving the de May family with a small parcel of the original property, then called Petit-Certan. 70% Merlot in the vineyards, and the production just about reaches 2000 cases in a good year. Certan de May 1999 99.00 Certan de May 2003 145.00 La Fleur-Pétrus 2005 96pts Gazin 2003 149.00 Gazin 2005 189.00 Gazin 195.00 Beautiful with roast duck breast and lamb chops. Beautiful coffee, cedar wood, Christmas fruitcake, black cherry and blackcurrant fruit jump from the glass of this full-bodied, rich, multi-layered, and very impressive Certan de May. This is a beauty. L Eglise-Clinet 2000 97pts Certan de May 2005 189.00 Certan de May 195.00 CHATEAU CLINET A tiny production from this property which still offers excellent value compared to its neighbours. The wines offer a massive, deeply-extracted version of Merlot with full blown new oak treatment. Clinet 2000 225.00 Clinet 2011 135.00 CHATEAU L EGLISE-CLINET This small 5.5 hectare vineyard has been in the hands of the same family for over a century. Thanks to his vines averaging 40 years old, Denis Durantou makes wines that fully express the complexity of this exceptional clay-gravel terroir. L Eglise-Clinet 1995 269.00 L Eglise-Clinet 2000 490.00 A brick house, with a strong ganache, charcoal and roasted alder spine that remains the dominant feature for now, though there s ample black currant, plum and raspberry fruit in reserve. Offers a muscular yet racy finish, thanks to a beautiful graphite note that drives through. Pétrus 100pts PETRUS Probably the greatest and certainly the most famous red wine in all of Bordeaux, and perhaps the world. Because of their extraordinarily rigorous selection (sometimes they only use 50% of the crop), Pétrus consistently make the best possible wine every vintage. This impacts on the quantity produced each year (between 1000 and 3000 cases only) but maintains the wine s legendary reputation. Pétrus 2003 2,990.00 Pétrus 2004 2,890.00 Pétrus 2006 2,995.00 Pétrus 4,650.00 Pétrus 2011 2,975.00 Pétrus 2012 2,950.00 Pétrus 2013 2,790.00 Pétrus 2014 2,990.00 Pétrus 2015 4,750.00 L Eglise-Clinet 2004 185.00 It has a level of purity that one can only describe as profound, scents of black cherry, cassis, cedar and black truffle unfolding with each passing moment in the glass. The palate has exquisite balance with salinity that gets the saliva flowing. There is a seam of spiciness, black pepper and rosemary that coat the mouth, but the overall style at the moment is linear and focused. 40 L Eglise-Clinet 2005 590.00 L Eglise-Clinet 2006 195.00 Tournedos Rossini - steak with foie gras and black truffles. A monster-in-the-making, with loads of mulberry, coffee, licorice and black cherry notes with an overlay of enormous amounts of glycerin and depth. Stunningly rich, full-bodied and more tannic and classic than the 2009, this is an awesome Petrus. 41
FRANCE RED BORDEAUX FRANCE RED BORDEAUX ST EMILION Ausone 1er Grand Cru Classé A 1995 790.00 Belregard-Figeac Grand Cru 2011 30.00 Fombrauge Grand Cru Classé 2015 53.00 CHATEAU LA COUSPAUDE La Couspaude is one of the most famous garagiste properties in St Emilion, although in this case the wine is made at a château and not in a garage! The production is tiny, and the awards are coming thick and fast - this is truly a wine estate in the ascendancy offering wonderful examples of concentrated, Merlot-dominated wines. Angélus 1998 98pts Smoked meats, incense, cigar box and dusty earth notions over a core of baked cherries, dried mulberries, preserved plums and dried roses with wafts of lavender, menthol and new leather. The palate is medium to full-bodied, rich, intense and packed with black fruit preserves accented by complex savory and earth-inspired flavors, supported by wonderful freshness, textured by plush tannins and finishing with fantastic tension. La Gaffelière 1er Grand Cru Classé 2009 165.00 Serve with roast pigeon in a rich red wine jus or confit de canard. CHATEAU ANGELUS Angélus was officially recognised as a Premier Grand Cru Classé in 1996. It has consistently delivered superb wines ever since. Powerful and massive, it has concentrated blackcurrant, redcurrant and leather on the palate given structure by firm tannins which soften with time. As with almost all St Emilion wines, this is made principally from Merlot. Angélus 1er Grand Cru Classé 1998 425.00 Angélus 1er Grand Cru Classé 1999 390.00 Angélus 1er Grand Cru Classé 2000 690.00 Angélus 1er Grand Cru Classé 525.00 Angélus 1er Grand Cru Classé A 2015 490.00 Angélus 1er Grand Cru Classé A 2016 525.00 La Couspaude 2000 92pts Serious wine. Loads of chocolate, raspberry and cherry character. Full-bodied, with lots of vanilla and reduced raspberry flavors. Long and caressing. Modern and exciting. Best Couspaude I have ever tasted. La Couspaude Grand Cru Classé 2000 119.00 La Couspaude Grand Cru Classé 2005 125.00 CHATEAU FIGEAC Situated, like Cheval Blanc, on the gravel soils of the west of the region, Figeac uses around 70% Cabernet in its wine, making it the most Médoc-like of the right bank properties. A typographically exquisite label and classic winemaking also mark out this fine estate. Figeac 1er Grand Cru Classé 1982 440.00 Figeac 1er Grand Cru Classé 2000 345.00 Figeac 1er Grand Cru Classé 2005 355.00 Figeac 1er Grand Cru Classé 2009 365.00 Figeac 1er Grand Cru Classé 390.00 Figeac 1er Grand Cru Classé 2011 225.00 Figeac 1er Grand Cru Classé 2015 339.00 Beau-Séjour Bécot 95pts This has an outstanding bouquet that is superior to anything that preceded it: a mixture of red and black fruit, undergrowth, minerals, iris and crushed violet. The oak here is seamlessly integrated. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannin, a fine line of acidity, quite sensual in the mouth, especially for a, that makes this more approachable that many of its peers. CHATEAU BEAU-SEJOUR BECOT Beau-Séjour Bécot is in the upper echelon of Bordeaux right bank producers but, unusually, the property lost but then regained its Premier Grand Cru status as a result of vineyard acquisition. It was relegated to Grand Cru Classé after the incorporation of some non Premier Grand Cru vineyards, but having proven that they could produce not just typical, but great St Emilion wine, in 1996 it was reinstated as a Premier Grand Cru and deservedly so. Beau-Séjour Bécot 1er Grand Cru Classé 1999 69.00 Beau-Séjour Bécot 1er Grand Cru Classé 2000 159.00 Beau-Séjour Bécot 1er Grand Cru Classé 2003 110.00 Beau-Séjour Bécot 1er Grand Cru Classé 2005 145.00 Beau-Séjour Bécot 1er Grand Cru Classé 135.00 CHATEAU CHEVAL BLANC What really sets Cheval Blanc apart is its unusual mixture of grape varieties planted as a result of its position on the gravel outcrop that dominates St Emilion. The main grape is Cabernet Franc, augmented by the more expected Merlot and only a minuscule amount of Cabernet Sauvignon. The origin of the White Horse name is lost in time. Troplong Mondot 2005 100pts Dense purple, it offers notes of white chocolate, blackberry, cassis and licorice as well as a hint of truffle and some subtle background oak. Full-bodied, multi-layered, and spectacularly pure and rich, it is a tour de force, and a great tribute to an incredible woman. CHATEAU TROPLONG MONDOT The late Christine Valette totally restored and revived the venerable Troplong Mondot estate with its 33 hectares of prime land in the heart of St Emilion. The vineyards are managed sustainably without the use of pesticides and around a third of the vineyards are cultivated only with horses. It came as no surprise in 2006 when the wines were elevated to 1er Grand Cru Classé status where they have remained ever since. Troplong Mondot Grand Cru Classé 1990 390.00 Troplong Mondot Grand Cru Classé 2005 398.00 Troplong Mondot 1er Grand Cru Classé 2006 189.00 Troplong Mondot 1er Grand Cru Classé 2015 215.00 Cheval Blanc 1er Grand Cru Classé A 1986 659.00 Cheval Blanc 1er Grand Cru Classé A 1988 649.00 Cheval Blanc 2005 100pts Cheval Blanc 1er Grand Cru Classé A 1989 725.00 Cheval Blanc 1er Grand Cru Classé A 1995 755.00 Cheval Blanc 1er Grand Cru Classé A 1996 698.00 Cheval Blanc 1er Grand Cru Classé A 2000 1,145.00 Cheval Blanc 1er Grand Cru Classé A 2003 689.00 This is another fabulous wine and a perfect expression for this vintage. It is difficult to forget the gorgeous blueberry and raspberry fruit, full body, sweet tannin, a multi-layered texture, and purity and palate presence of this stunning wine. Cheval Blanc 1er Grand Cru Classé A 2005 1,099.00 Cheval Blanc 1er Grand Cru Classé A 1,295.00 Cheval Blanc 1er Grand Cru Classé A 2015 990.00 42 43
RHONE FRANCE RED RHONE The northern Rhône contains some of the oldest vineyards in France producing elegant wines made from Syrah which are both powerful and have the capacity to age. Hermitage and Côte-Rôtie are the stars of the north, needing at least a decade to show at their best. St Joseph and Cornas produce more accessible examples whilst Crozes-Hermitage offers great value for money. The valley floor opens out in the southern Rhône, with vines planted low to the ground in goblet formation to protect them from the strong mistral winds. The soils here are made up of round stones from the ancient river bed and these retain the warmth of the day, helping to fully ripen the grapes of the heat-loving Grenache. The best wine villages of the Côtes du Rhône have been given their own appellation such as Gigondas and the well-known neuf-du-pape. Following the Rhône River from north to south, this southern French wine region is 250 km in length with 200 communes producing wine in a wide range of styles. FRANCE Côte-Rôtie St Joseph Cornas NORTHERN RHONE Crozes-Hermitage Hermitage Côte-Rôtie La Mordorée M. Chapoutier 2012 97pts Incredible notes of violets, peppery spice, spring flowers, rose petal and darker berry fruit. This is followed by a full-bodied, sweetly fruited, expansive Cote Rotie that s perfectly balanced, has beautiful mid-palate density, and ultra-fine tannin that emerge on the finish. NORTHERN RHONE CORNAS Cornas Confidence Domaine Eric et Joel Durand 2013/16 60.00 COTE-ROTIE Côte-Rôtie Bonnevaux J. Boutin 2012/15 59.00 Côte Rôtie La Mordorée M. Chapoutier 2012 159.00 A beautiful pairing for slow-roasted rib of beef or barbecued moroccan lamb. ETIENNE GUIGAL Founded by Etienne Guigal in the 1940s, and now run by his son Marcel, there is little variance from the belief that Guigal is the greatest producer of Côte-Rôtie of all. In the past 20 years I have spent visiting wineries and vignerons, I have never seen a producer so fanatical about quality as Marcel Guigal. Robert Parker SOUTHERN RHONE Gigondas neuf-du-pape Côte-Rôtie La Landonne E. Guigal 2009 100pts The 2009 Cote Rotie la Landonne is an insanely beautiful wine. Smoked meats, game, black olives, charcoal, black raspberries and pepper all literally soar from this beauty and it hits the palate with a massively concentrated, almost over-the-top decadence that s impossible to resist. Côte-Rôtie La Landonne E. Guigal 2003 790.00 Côte-Rôtie La Landonne E. Guigal 2006 360.00 Côte-Rôtie La Landonne E. Guigal 2008 290.00 Côte-Rôtie La Landonne E. Guigal 2009 550.00 Côte-Rôtie La Mouline E. Guigal 2004 325.00 Côte-Rôtie La Mouline E. Guigal 2006 335.00 Côte-Rôtie La Turque E. Guigal 2002 319.00 Côte-Rôtie La Turque E. Guigal 2005 635.00 Côte-Rôtie La Turque E. Guigal 2006 295.00 Côte-Rôtie La Turque E. Guigal 2009 590.00 CROZES-HERMITAGE Crozes-Hermitage Les Hauts Granites J. Boutin 2016/17 22.00 Avignon Ermitage Le Méal Rouge M. Chapoutier 2012 98pts A blockbuster that s about as voluptuous and sexy as Hermitage gets. Loaded with cassis, black raspberry, leather, dried violets and wild herbs, this beauty is full-bodied, has tons of sweet tannin and brilliant purity of fruit. Given its wealth of material, low acidity and incredible texture, it should drink well all of its life. HERMITAGE Hermitage Monier de la Sizeranne M. Chapoutier 2012 88.00 Ermitage Le Méal Rouge M. Chapoutier 2012 259.00 Ermitage Le Pavillon Rouge M. Chapoutier 2012 390.00 ST JOSEPH St Joseph Lautaret Domaine Eric et Joel Durand 2014 32.00 44 45
FRANCE RED RHONE GERMANY & AUSTRIA Côtes du Rhône Villages Séguret Grande Réserve Domaine de Mourchon 2014 91pts Wine Enthusiast Cherries, cinnamon and clove mark the nose, while the flavors include cherries, Mexican chocolate and floral notes. This is full bodied and robust without being hard, easing into a long, velvety-textured finish. SOUTHERN RHONE COTES DU RHONE Côtes du Rhône Villages Séguret Tradition Domaine de Mourchon 2015/16 16.00 Côtes du Rhône Villages Séguret Grande Réserve Domaine de Mourchon 2014/15 24.00 GIGONDAS Gigondas M. Chapoutier 2016 29.00 Gorgeous with roast pheasant in a rich sauce or smoky spare ribs. CHATEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE neuf-du-pape de Beaucastel 2016 94.00 Germany has 102,000 hectares under vine and is the tenth largest wine producer in the world. Home to the world s greatest Rieslings, white grapes make up 65% of all plantings. The cool climate produces wines with incredible precision and focused fruit flavours balanced by finely tuned acidity. Austrian wine recently came into its own following a wine scandal in 1985 which led to a complete restructuring of the industry, making Austria one of the top countries in the world for production standards. The wines display great elegance and acidity with delicate aromatics. neuf-du-pape Côtes Capelan La Ferme du Mont 2013/16 69.00 neuf-du-pape Vieilles Vignes Domaine de la Janasse 2011 135.00 neuf-du-pape Mont-Redon 2015 40.00 neuf-du-pape La Crau Vieux Télégraphe 2014/15 78.00 GERMANY Norheimer Kirschheck Riesling Spätlese Dönnhoff Nahe 2015/16 39.00 neuf-du- Pape Côtes Capelan La Ferme du Mont 2016 96pts Ideal with grilled lamb in a peppercorn sauce with potato purée. SOUTHERN FRANCE LANGUEDOC-ROUSSILLON Domaine la Gravette Rouge IGP Pays d Oc 2015 4.50 Norheimer Kirschheck Riesling Spätlese Dönnhoff 2015 93pts Rüdesheimer Berg Schlossberg Riesling Dry Ehrenfels Grosses Gewächs Leitz Rheingau 2014/16 62.00 Rüdesheimer Magdalenenkreuz Riesling Spätlese Leitz Rheingau 2017 26.00 Wehlener Sonnenuhr Riesling Kabinett Dr Loosen Mosel 2015/17 22.00 Try with spicy asian flavours or baked fish in a cream or butter sauce. Hints of vanilla appear on the nose, adding a bit of richness to the bright red berries and orange zest notes. It s a full-bodied, lush, creamy-textured wine, with fine tannins and hints of mulling spices on the long, silky finish. Great intensity, vibrant fruit and a plush texture make this a special wine indeed. Domaine Les Roques Rouge JM Boillot IGP Pays d Oc 2013/14 11.50 Hegarty No. 1 Minervois 2011 21.00 PROVENCE d Esclans Déesse Diane IGP Var 2011 27.00 This is spicy, evoking vanilla, nutmeg and cinnamon notes, with accents of apple and smoky slate. Racy and harmonious, presenting a long, expansive finish. Domaine PiqueRoque Rouge Côtes de Provence 2015 10.00 Domaines Ott Rouge Côtes de Provence 2013 25.00 La Mascaronne Cuvée Guy da Nine Côtes de Provence /15 38.00 AUSTRIA Grüner Veltliner Lois Loimer Niederösterreich 2018 19.00 CORSICA Clos Canarelli Rouge Corse Figari 2014/16 34.00 Grüner Veltliner Loiserberg Loimer 2016 91+pts Grüner Veltliner Loiserberg Loimer Kamptal 2016 36.00 Exhibits a golden-yellow color and a pure, fresh and spicy/yeasty bouquet with piquant lemon and stony aromas. Juicy, piquant and structured on the palate with aromatic, charmingly ripe and round fruit as well as fine tannins (12 hours of maceration prior to the pressing), this is an intense and persistent Grüner Veltliner with a long, complex and fresh finish. 46 47
ITALY Home to more than 2000 grape varieties and some of the oldest wine regions in the world, Italy produces more wine than any other country with the 2018 harvest reaching 48.5 million hectolitres. Italy has over 1 million vineyards under cultivation, producing wines from almost every region, renowned worldwide for their broad variety. Each region has its own style with the most significant in terms of both quantity and quality being Piedmont, Tuscany and Veneto. Italy s best-known grapes are Sangiovese, Nebbiolo, Pinot Grigio, Barbera and Montepulciano alongside international varieties, in particular Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Barbaresco Barolo Piedmont Liguria Lombardy Alto Adige Friuli-Venezia Giulia Tuscany Veneto VENICE PIEDMONT Located in the north west of Italy, Piedmont has a continental climate influenced by its proximity to both the Alps and the Ligurian Apennines. Since Roman times, Piedmont has been considered the fine wine capital of Italy and has the country s highest proportion of DOC and DOCG wines even though it only accounts for 7% of its production. Gavi DOCG is Piedmont s best-known dry white wine made from the Cortese grape grown around the town of Gavi itself. Whites are also made from the indigenous Roero near the town of Arneis. Nebbiolo is the king of red wine grapes in Piedmont and is planted on all of the best sites. Nebbiolo, the variety behind Barbaresco and Barolo, produces wines with pronounced aromas of tar, roses and truffles which age fantastically, often needing at least ten years before they really come into their own. Umbria Barbera and Dolcetto are grown around the towns of Asti and Alba producing easier drinking styles that are more accessible from a younger age. Sardinia ROME NAPLES Campania Puglia BARBARESCO A third of the size of neighbouring Barolo, and 50 years younger, Barbaresco is renowned for producing some of Italy s finest wines. Thanks largely to the efforts of Angelo Gaja, the region has been recognised for its real potential and it was granted DOCG status is 1980. Sicily BAROLO Barolo DOC was founded in 1966 and upgraded to DOCG status in 1980, which seems appropriate given that this is not only Italy s most famous wine region, but is also widely regarded to be its best. Reds are made from 100% Nebbiolo which capitalises on the long, warm summers and the unique terroir, with each village sitting upon its own hill surrounded by vineyards. TUSCANY Italy s oldest wine region, Tuscany is also its fifth largest, producing the third highest amount of DOCG quality wines despite only producing around 6% of the country s volume of wine. This is largely due to the region s poor soils which encourage producers to grow small yields of high quality grapes. Tuscany has a unique terrain with more than two thirds of it being hilly which benefits the predominant grape variety, Sangiovese, as it needs direct sunlight to ripen fully. Two of Italy s most famous wines are found in Tuscany Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino. SUPER TUSCAN The term Super Tuscan first emerged in the 1970s to describe a new wave of wine being made outside of DOC/DOCG regulations to a very high standard, and commanding high prices to match. Many of these wines achieved a cult following and as a result, the Italian classification system was changed to give these DOC or DOCG status. Some producers still prefer to use IGP Toscana. 48 49
ITALY WHITE ITALY WHITE LIGURIA Vermentino Riviera Ligure di Ponente Terre Bianche Riviera Ligure di Ponente 2018 19.00 VENETO Soave Classico La Rocca Pieropan 2015/16 38.00 Rossj Bass Chardonnay Angelo Gaja 2016 90+pts Crisp and luminous, the 2016 Langhe Rossj-Bass is Chardonnay enhanced with a tiny part Sauvignon Blanc. This second grape only constitutes 5% of the blend, yet its presence is felt in a big way. The wine presents pristine and sharply delineated tones of exotic fruit, peach and white rose. PIEDMONT Roero Arneis Paolo Manzone 2016/17 17.00 Roero Arneis Vietti 2018 23.00 Gavi White Label La Scolca 2017/18 17.00 Gavi dei Gavi Black Label La Scolca 2017/18 32.00 Gavi La Scolca d Antan La Scolca 2006 78.00 ANGELO GAJA Rossj Bass Chardonnay Angelo Gaja Langhe 2016 99.00 Alteni di Brassica Sauvignon Blanc Angelo Gaja Langhe 2016 124.00 Try with lobster thermidor or scallops with black pudding in a beurre blanc sauce. Soave Classico La Rocca Pieropan 2015 92+pts Vivid golden-tinged straw. Sweet aromas of vanilla, orange oil, crème brulée and menthol on the nose. At once densely packed and taut, with powerful crushed stone flavors buffered by a touch of sweetness on the long back end that features hints of orange oil and ripe apricot. This sappy wine appears to have considerable aging potential. A lovely La Rocca. A lovely aperitif or delicious served with shellfish or creamy pasta dishes. TUSCANY San Angelo Pinot Grigio Banfi 2017/18 19.00 Codice V Vermentino Belguardo 2016/18 27.00 Vistamare Ca Marcanda Angelo Gaja 2016 44.00 Monteverro Chardonnay 2012 98.00 UMBRIA Cervaro della Sala Antinori 2015/16 72.00 Orvieto Classico Campogrande Antinori 2016/17 12.00 Porer Pinot Grigio Alois Lageder 2016 90+pts Gaia & Rey Chardonnay Angelo Gaja Langhe 2006 295.00 Gaia & Rey Chardonnay Angelo Gaja Langhe 2009 295.00 Gaia & Rey Chardonnay Angelo Gaja Langhe 2015 299.00 Gaia & Rey Chardonnay Angelo Gaja Langhe 2016 299.00 LOMBARDY Ca del Bosco Chardonnay Curtefranca 2011/13 98.00 Monteverro Chardonnay 2012 91pts SARDINIA Capichera Vermentino Classico 2015/16 62.00 SICILY Angimbé Cusumano 2017 20.00 Planeta Chardonnay Menfi 2017 42.00 Planeta Eruzione 1614 Carricante Etna 2015 42.00 Alois Lageder is one of the ultimate Alto Adige artisans. The organic and biodynamic 2016 Alto Adige Pinot Grigio Porer is a fresh and zesty white with preserved lemon, honeydew melon and white peach. There is a zesty, almost spicy note on the close that recalls dried basil or garden mint. Flint and crushed mineral give the wine dry focus and delineation. TRENTINO-ALTO ADIGE Porer Pinot Grigio Alois Lageder Alto Adige 2016/17 25.00 Löwengang Chardonnay Alois Lageder Alto Adige 12/13/15 59.00 Pinot Grigio Santa Margherita Trentino-Alto Adige 2017/18 13.00 Sanct Valentin Chardonnay St Michael Eppan Alto Adige 2015 32.00 This warm vintage delivers loads of yellow fruit that emerges from the bouquet with power. Beyond the fruit are rose petal, pine nut and exotic spice aromas. Hints of vanilla and dried pineapple make brief appearances. The wine stands apart for its texture. The richness is soothing and soft. The finish is velvety and supple. Sanct Valentin Sauvignon Blanc St Michael Eppan Alto Adige 2016 32.00 FRIULI-VENEZIA GIULIA Sauvignon Blanc Jermann 2017/18 26.00 Sanct Valentin Sauvignon Blanc St Michael Eppan 2016 93pts Vintage Tunina Jermann 2016/17 61.00 Were Dreams Jermann 14/16/17 61.00 Capo Martino Jermann 2012 66.00 Excellent with sautéed or chargrilled octopus or baked fish. Bright straw yellow. Fresh aromas of gooseberries, kiwi, coriander, sage and white flowers. Then more sage flavor in the mouth, complicated by white stone fruit and ripe citrus notes. Refined and long on the tactile, brooding finish. A lovely Sauvignon Blanc that should age some. Well done. 50 51
ITALY RED ITALY RED Popularity for Italian fine wines has recently soared due to the fact that not only do they need less cellaring than their French counterparts, but also offer incredible value for money. Red wines are produced in every style from all over the country using predominantly local grape varieties, with more international ones being planted as the demand for Super Tuscans increases. Darmagi Angelo Gaja 1999 This is a gorgeous showing from the 1999 Darmagi. When it was young, the 1999 was compact, but today the 1999 possesses exceptional balance, while retaining an essentially mid-weight expression of Cabernet Sauvignon. LIGURIA Rossese di Dolceacqua Terre Bianche 2016 19.00 PIEDMONT LANGHE Langhe Rosso Luvi Paolo Manzone 2015/16 19.00 Sito Moresco Angelo Gaja 13/15/16 54.00 Darmagi Angelo Gaja 1997 295.00 Darmagi Angelo Gaja 1999 295.00 Darmagi Angelo Gaja 2004 249.00 ALBA Barbera d Alba Fiorenza Paolo Manzone 2016/17 16.00 Dolcetto d Alba Magna Paolo Manzone 2017/18 12.00 Nebbiolo d Alba Valmaggiore Luciano Sandrone 2015/16 31.00 Delicious with meat ragù, porcini mushroom risotto or fresh Burrata. Barbera d Asti Bricco dell Uccellone Braida Focused and vibrant to the core, the captures the energy of this great vintage in spades. Black cherries, plums, graphite, spices and crushed rocks rush out of the glass in a superexciting wine bursting with vitality. ASTI Barbera d Asti Bricco dell Uccellone Braida 2008/10 69.00 BARBARESCO Barbaresco Prunotto 10/14/15 39.00 Barbaresco Masseria Vietti 2015 82.00 ANGELO GAJA Responsible for revolutionising the Italian wine industry, Angelo Gaja is a name that commands a great deal of respect in the wine world. Now running this winemaking dynasty alongside his daughter Gaia, the Gaja family continue to produce arguably Italy s most iconic wines. The range encompasses wines that define Barbaresco, as well as properties and vineyards in Barolo, Maremma and Montalcino. Barbaresco Costa Russi Angelo Gaja 2013 98pts Barbaresco Angelo Gaja 2003 275.00 Barbaresco Angelo Gaja 2011 259.00 Barbaresco Angelo Gaja 2012 259.00 Barbaresco Angelo Gaja 2013 265.00 Barbaresco Angelo Gaja 2014 275.00 Barbaresco Costa Russi Angelo Gaja 2013 469.00 Barbaresco Sorì Tildìn Angelo Gaja 2013 469.00 Barbaresco Sorì San Lorenzo Angelo Gaja 2013 475.00 The 2013 Barbaresco Costa Russi is a real head-turner. Crystalline and utterly vivid in its expression of Nebbiolo, the 2013 is all class. The 2013 has been stunningly beautiful on the three occasions I have tasted it so far. 53
ITALY RED ITALY RED Barolo Sperss Angelo Gaja 2004 99pts BAROLO ANGELO GAJA Barolo Dagromis Angelo Gaja 2014 94.00 Barolo Sperss Angelo Gaja 1995 289.00 Barolo Sperss Angelo Gaja 1996 290.00 Barolo Sperss Angelo Gaja 1999 395.00 Barolo Sperss Angelo Gaja 2000 295.00 Barolo Sperss Angelo Gaja 2003 290.00 Barolo Sperss Angelo Gaja 2004 349.00 Chianti Classico Castello di Fonterutoli 2015 VENETO Amarone della Valpolicella Vigna Garzon Pieropan 2014/15 77.00 Amarone Classico Vaio Armaron Serego Alighieri Masi 2011/12 114.00 Try with the classic pairing of risotto all Amarone or with aged Parmigiano Reggiano. TUSCANY TOSCANA ROSSO Santa Cristina Antinori 2014/16 14.00 Powerful and structured. Delicate aromas of sandalwood, blackberry, licorice and cherry follow through to a full body, with very chewy tannins and loads of pretty fruit and hints of vanilla. Sneaks up on you to deliver a red for aging. Massive. An amazing wine. Barolo Sperss Angelo Gaja 2005 290.00 Barolo Sperss Angelo Gaja 2008 295.00 Barolo Sperss Angelo Gaja 2011 290.00 Barolo Sperss Angelo Gaja 2013 329.00 PAOLO MANZONE Barolo Serralunga Paolo Manzone 2013/15 45.00 Shows the sharpness and detail that wine is supposed to evoke in the best vintages. It opens to a dark garnet color and mid-weight texture. There is ample muscle and power here, but the overall emphasis is on grace and elegance. You really taste those authentic Sangiovese flavors of wild cherry, forest berry, blue flower and crushed rock. CHIANTI Chianti Classico Marchese Antinori Riserva 2014/15 45.00 Chianti Classico Badia a Passignano Antinori Gran Selezione /11 52.00 Chianti Classico Fonterutoli 2016 24.00 Chianti Classico Castello di Fonterutoli Gran Selezione 2015 59.00 Chianti Classico Ser Lapo Castello di Fonterutoli Riserva 2013/16 34.00 Barolo Le Vigne Luciano Sandrone 2011 96pts Barolo Meriame Paolo Manzone 2014/15 75.00 Barolo Riserva Paolo Manzone 2011/13 95.00 LUCIANO SANDRONE Luciano Sandrone is rightly regarded as one of the finest producers in the commune of Barolo. He bought his first vineyard plot, in Cannubi Boschis, in 1977 and made his first wines in the family garage. Forty harvests later, he now has 27 hectares of vineyards across the Langhe and Roero regions and brings his wines to life in a purpose-built winery. Focussing solely on the local varieties of Nebbiolo, Barbera and Dolcetto, grown only in the best vineyards, his wines express the unique qualities of each specific site and the finest nuances of each vintage. Brunello di Montalcino Poggio alle Mura Banfi 2012 MONTALCINO Brunello di Montalcino Pian delle Vigne Antinori 2012/13 68.00 Brunello di Montalcino Banfi 2013/14 46.00 Brunello di Montalcino Poggio alle Mura Riserva 2012 96.00 Brunello di Montalcino Poggio all Oro Banfi Riserva 2012 145.00 Rosso di Montalcino Le Chiuse 2016 29.00 Brunello di Montalcino Le Chiuse 2013/14 74.00 Brunello di Montalcino Santa Restituta Rennina Angelo Gaja 2004 189.00 Sandrone s 2011 Barolo Le Vigne is sweet, silky and exceptionally polished in the glass. Sweet floral notes, bright red berries, subtle spices and mint are all laced together nicely in the glass. Barolo Le Vigne Luciano Sandrone 2005 175.00 Barolo Le Vigne Luciano Sandrone 2009 159.00 Barolo Le Vigne Luciano Sandrone 292.00 Barolo Le Vigne Luciano Sandrone 2011 155.00 Barolo Le Vigne Luciano Sandrone 2012 145.00 Barolo Le Vigne Luciano Sandrone 2013 165.00 Barolo Le Vigne Luciano Sandrone 2014 135.00 Bright and generous, the 2012 Brunello di Montalcino Poggio alle Mura opens to a darkly concentrated appearance and bold aromatic intensity. The wine is forthcoming and immediate in appeal. The bouquet is redolent of blackberry, cherry confit, exotic spice, cola and dark chewing tobacco. Brunello di Montalcino Santa Restituta Rennina Angelo Gaja 2013 219.00 Brunello di Montalcino Santa Restituta Sugarille Angelo Gaja 2004 195.00 Brunello di Montalcino Santa Restituta Sugarille Angelo Gaja 2007 245.00 Brunello di Montalcino Santa Restituta Sugarille Angelo Gaja 2013 239.00 VINO NOBILE DI MONTEPULCIANO Vino Nobile di Montepulciano la Braccesca Antinori 2014/15 25.00 Barolo Cannubi Boschis Luciano Sandrone 2012 160.00 Barolo Aleste Luciano Sandrone 2013 189.00 Barolo Aleste Luciano Sandrone 2014 155.00 SUPER TUSCAN TENUTA BELGUARDO Tenuta Belguardo Maremma Toscana 2008 60.00 Barolo Lazzarito Vietti 2015 VIETTI Barolo Castiglione Vietti 2015 59.00 Barolo Lazzarito Vietti 2015 195.00 Tenuta Belguardo 2015 93pts Tenuta Belguardo Maremma Toscana 2015 52.00 Delicious with ripe, aged cheeses or mildly spiced dishes. The 2015 Barolo Lazzarito is one of the highlights in this range from Vietti. The power and gravitas of Serralunga come through loud and clear in a deep, beautifully resonant Barolo loaded with character. Iron, smoke, sage, menthol, licorice and rose petal give the Lazzarito its beguiling aromatic complexity. ALTO ADIGE Pinot Nero Franz Haas 2016 32.00 MCM Merlot Alois Lageder 2008/9 54.00 Fantastic served with venison, lamb or roast pork. Here is a wine that is really coming into its own. This is a rich and beautifully integrated blend that offers balanced power and a fully rich or concentrated style. Dark fruit, spice and leather peel back in thick, delicious layers. 54 55
ITALY RED ITALY RED TENUTA DI BISERNO TENUTA DELL ORNELLAIA From the Lodovico Antinori stable, Biserno in Bolgheri is easily Italy s best new discovery. This delicious, rounded Bordeaux blend plays in the same team as Ornellaia and Sassicaia, but is, for the moment at least, a veritable bargain. With its famous vineyards on gentle hills sloping down to the sea, Ornellaia sits at the heart of Bolgheri and produces world-class Bordeaux-inspired blends consisting principally of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot. Biserno Tenuta di Biserno 2009 97pts A beautifully balanced wine that feels ever so natural and comfortable in its plus-sized intensity. The wine walks with a heavy gait, but it does so with the impeccable grace of a classic dancer. Dark fruit segues to spice, leather, smoke and cigar box. The wine s substantial textural richness caresses the palate. Despite the ownership of Lodovico Antinori and the presence of an all-star team of winemakers that includes Michel Rolland, Tenuta di Biserno remains one of the best kept secrets in Bolgheri. Wine Advocate Il Pino di Biserno Toscana 2014/15 69.00 Biserno Tenuta di Biserno Toscana 2008 210.00 Biserno Tenuta di Biserno Toscana 2009 195.00 Biserno Tenuta di Biserno Toscana 2012 169.00 Biserno Tenuta di Biserno Toscana 2013 155.00 Lodovico Tenuta di Biserno Toscana 2008 345.00 CAIAROSSA Caiarossa Toscana 2007 52.00 CA MARCANDA Magari Angelo Gaja Toscana 55.00 Ornellaia 2008 97pts Dark cherries, chocolate, espresso, blackberries and mocha are just some of the many notes that explode from the glass. A rich tapestry of licorice, tar and camphor notes develop in the glass, adding considerable complexity. It has come together beautifully since the early days when it was a tannic beast. This is a fabulous showing. Ornellaia Bolgheri 1996 255.00 Ornellaia Bolgheri 2003 295.00 Ornellaia Bolgheri 2004 355.00 Ornellaia Bolgheri 2005 345.00 Ornellaia Bolgheri 2006 335.00 Ornellaia Bolgheri 2008 290.00 Ornellaia Bolgheri 2009 295.00 Ornellaia Bolgheri 2011 265.00 Ornellaia Bolgheri 2012 265.00 MASSETO One of Italy s most sought after and rarest wines, Masseto is made from a mosaic of small individual plots of Merlot planted over 7ha on the Masseto hill overlooking the Mediterranean. Each of these plots is treated and vinified separately by the passionate and dedicated team who take meticulous care to produce this iconic wine. The result is a wine with great complexity and balance that is hugely popular among wine aficionados around the world. Ca Marcanda Angelo Gaja 2013 95pts The 2013 Bolgheri Rosso Camarcanda shows the pedigree of the vintage and the importance this top shelf wine deserves. Camarcanda reveals Gaja s signature touch with full and generous fruit layers that are backed by spice, leather, tobacco and lovely succulence. The wine is integrated and smooth with long-lasting favors and beautiful tannin management. Despite its heft, the wine is elegant and silky through and through. Ca Marcanda Angelo Gaja Bolgheri 2011 140.00 Ca Marcanda Angelo Gaja Bolgheri 2013 140.00 Ca Marcanda Angelo Gaja Bolgheri 2015 144.00 Ca Marcanda Angelo Gaja Bolgheri 2016 162.00 CASTELLO FONTERUTOLI Siepi Fonterutoli Toscana 2005 92.00 Siepi Fonterutoli Toscana 2008 92.00 GUADO AL TASSO Cont Ugo Tenuta Guado al Tasso Antinori Bolgheri 2011/12 48.00 Guado al Tasso Antinori Bolgheri 2013 145.00 Guado al Tasso Antinori Bolgheri 2014 145.00 Guado al Tasso Antinori Bolgheri 2015 155.00 Masseto 100pts A wine of extraordinary purity, silkiness and finesse, the Masseto has it all. The flavors are bright, precise and exceptionally pure, but it is the wine s total balance that is utterly compelling. What more can I ask from a wine? Absolutely nothing. Masseto Toscana 1995 790.00 Masseto Toscana 1996 750.00 Masseto Toscana 1999 825.00 Masseto Toscana 2000 790.00 Masseto Toscana 2002 795.00 Masseto Toscana 2003 795.00 Masseto Toscana 2007 790.00 Masseto Toscana 2009 780.00 Masseto Toscana 890.00 Masseto Toscana 2011 780.00 Masseto Toscana 2012 750.00 Masseto Toscana 2013 825.00 Masseto Toscana 2014 725.00 Braised veal cheeks, fillet steak or a rich rabbit stew. MONTEVERRO Monteverro Toscana 2009 215.00 Monteverro 96pts Monteverro Toscana 225.00 Monteverro Toscana 2014 198.00 The flagship estate wine, Monteverro, is absolutely stunning. The excellence of the vintage is on full display thanks to the integrity of the fruit, the supple richness of the mouthfeel and the tangy sweetness of the finish. 56 57
ITALY RED ITALY / GREECE TENUTA SAN GUIDO This is the winery that coined the phrase Super Tuscan, producing Cabernet blends from the 1940s due to the Marchese s love for Bordeaux wines. Originally only able to call these wines Vino da Tavola, it is a testament to the quality of Sassicaia that the DOC Bolgheri Sassicaia was created specifically for it. Guidalberto is the second wine of this incredible winery. Sassicaia Tenuta San Guido 2012 99pts Wine Enthusiast One of Italy s most iconic bottlings, the 2012 Sassicaia is drop-dead gorgeous. A blend of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Cabernet Franc, it boasts sensations of blue flowers, cedar, juicy red currants, ripe raspberries, white pepper and a balsamic note. Structured, radiant and loaded with finesse, it delivers everything you d expect from a worldclass wine and more. Unquestionably one of the most compelling and dramatic Cabernet Sauvignons I have ever tasted, it continues to go from strength to strength. Robert Parker Guidalberto Tenuta San Guido Toscana 2016/17 59.00 Sassicaia Tenuta San Guido Bolgheri Sassicaia 1999 345.00 Sassicaia Tenuta San Guido Bolgheri Sassicaia 2001 390.00 Sassicaia Tenuta San Guido Bolgheri Sassicaia 2003 335.00 Sassicaia Tenuta San Guido Bolgheri Sassicaia 2005 319.00 Sassicaia Tenuta San Guido Bolgheri Sassicaia 2006 390.00 Sassicaia Tenuta San Guido Bolgheri Sassicaia 2007 355.00 Sassicaia Tenuta San Guido Bolgheri Sassicaia 2008 325.00 Sassicaia Tenuta San Guido Bolgheri Sassicaia 2009 295.00 Sassicaia Tenuta San Guido Bolgheri Sassicaia 290.00 Sassicaia Tenuta San Guido Bolgheri Sassicaia 2011 285.00 Sassicaia Tenuta San Guido Bolgheri Sassicaia 2012 269.00 NeroSanlore Gulfi 2008 92+pts Tar, smoke, licorice, incense and the blackest of fruit emerge from this powerful, full-bodied Sicilian red. Leather, earthiness and graphite are some of the nuances that add a baritone-like sense of gravitas on the finish. A huge, powerful finish rounds out in this brooding, imposing wine. SICILY Mille e Una Notte Donnafugata 2015 98.00 Planeta Etna Rosso Etna 2016 28.00 Planeta Frappato Vittoria 2017 22.00 NeroSanlore Gulfi 2008 45.00 Delicious with rich fish soups or spaghetti alla puttanesca. Sassicaia Tenuta San Guido Bolgheri Sassicaia 2013 259.00 Sassicaia Tenuta San Guido Bolgheri Sassicaia 2014 245.00 Solaia Antinori 2013 97+pts Sassicaia Tenuta San Guido Bolgheri Sassicaia 2015 295.00 SOLAIA Solaia (derived from the Italian word for sun) was first produced in 1978 from a parcel of Cabernet within the Tignanello vineyard that was deemed to be of such high quality that the Marchese decided to vinify it separately. Since then the quantity has increased from the original 3,600 bottles and the Solaia vineyard now consists of 20ha. Solaia is only produced in the best vintages and truly reflects its terroir. An elegant and captivating wine from the Antinori stable. Assyrtiko Wild Ferment Gaia 2017 92pts Wine Enthusiast GREECE Assyrtiko Wild Ferment Gaia Santorini 2016/17 33.00 A profound and meaningful wine that is based mostly on Cabernet Sauvignon with Sangiovese and Cabernet Franc in supporting roles. It sports a dark and thick texture with plump fruit and spice, grilled herb and black pepper. The bouquet is intense and layered with the kind of complexity that is best admired as the wine shifts and evolves in the glass. Solaia Antinori Toscana 2000 295.00 Solaia Antinori Toscana 2001 330.00 Solaia Antinori Toscana 2007 355.00 Solaia Antinori Toscana 2008 295.00 Solaia Antinori Toscana 2009 315.00 Solaia Antinori Toscana 360.00 Citrus, vanilla and spice aromas introduce this Assyrtiko from Santorini. On the palate, it s complex, with fresh fruit, sea salt and stone notes that finish with a whiff of smoke. Elegant and distinctive of its rare terroir. Solaia Antinori Toscana 2011 325.00 Solaia Antinori Toscana 2012 349.00 Solaia Antinori Toscana 2013 345.00 TIGNANELLO Tignanello Antinori 2008 Antinori s flagship wine, Tignanello, was the first wine in Tuscany to blend the local Sangiovese with non-traditional varieties, and became one of the focal points of the Tuscan revolution that occurred over the latter part of the 20th century. A blend of 80% Sangiovese, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Cabernet Franc, aged for 12 months in small oak barriques, this classic Super-Tuscan combines Chianti-like suppleness with Bordeaux-esque style. Unquestionably one of the wines of the vintage. The 2008 isn t a huge or obvious Tignanello, rather it is a wine that impresses for its sublime elegance and precision. Understated layers of fruit caress the palate like cashmere in this impeccable, soft wine. It is a fabulous achievement! Tignanello Antinori Toscana 2006 195.00 Tignanello Antinori Toscana 2008 149.00 Tignanello Antinori Toscana 2009 155.00 Tignanello Antinori Toscana 165.00 Tignanello Antinori Toscana 2011 145.00 Tignanello Antinori Toscana 2012 145.00 Tignanello Antinori Toscana 2013 145.00 58 Tignanello Antinori Toscana 2014 135.00 Tignanello Antinori Toscana 2015 140.00 59
SPAIN SPAIN WHITE Conde Valdemar Blanco Rioja 2017 8.00 Pazo de Señorans Albariño Rías Baixas 2017/18 19.00 Spain is the third largest producer of wines in the world with over a million acres under vine, more than any other country. Given the diversity of the country s landscape and climates, and the fact that Spain is home to 60 regional DOs, it s hardly surprising that it produces wines in a variety of styles. From the fresh whites made from Albariño in Rías Baixas to top end reds from Rioja and Ribera del Duero, there is a huge amount of exciting wine available, offering fantastic value for money. RIOJA Spain s most famous wine region, Rioja is situated in the north of the country just south of the Cantabrian Mountains. The wines are normally a blend of grapes, the majority being Tempranillo with some Garnacha and Graciano. Albariño Pazo de Señorans Selección de Añada 2009 93pts Very young, complex, nuanced and harmonious, with developed aromas mixing primary sensations that remain after all these years as well as more complex notes of lees, smoke and flint stone. The palate is even more complex, with great depth and an array of flavors that remain after you swallow. Pazo de Señorans Albariño Selección de Añada Rías Baixas 2009 49.00 A refreshing aperitif or perfect with all seafood dishes. RED RIOJA Conde Valdemar Tempranillo 2017/18 8.00 Conde Valdemar Gran Reserva 2008/10 27.00 Roda Reserva 2013/14 42.00 Roda I Reserva 2008/11 77.00 Gorgeous with slow-cooked lamb dishes, moroccan cuisine or hard sheep s cheese. RIBERA DEL DUERO Corimbo La Horra 2013 33.00 Traditional style Rioja is distinguished by long periods of barrel ageing, whereas the modern style favours the fruit and freshness of Tempranillo. Rioja is only ever released onto the market when it is ready to drink and as such, offers incredible value for money. Rías Baixas Navarra Rioja Campo de Borja Cataluña Vega Sicilia Unico 2006 98pts A very developed and classical nose, very expressive, ripe and exuberant with an herbal twist, combining classical and modern characteristics and with a good balance between youth and development. It has to be one of the best recent vintages of Único. Emilio Moro Crianza 2015/16 29.00 Dominio de Pingus Flor de Pingus 2016 155.00 Vega Sicilia Alión 2014 105.00 Vega Sicilia Unico 2006 395.00 PRIORAT Alvaro Palacios Les Terrasses 2016 49.00 Toro Ribera del Duero Priorat Rueda Madrid Pago Campo de la Guardia Mallorca Alicante 60 61
USA USA WHITE A significant wine player, the USA is the fourth largest producer of wine after France, Italy and Spain, with wine produced in all 50 states. California is by far the most significant state with it accounting for 90% of the country s wine output, from tiny producers to some of the world s largest brands. Napa and Sonoma in California are responsible for producing some of the world s best Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Zinfandel and Chardonnay. Washington in New York State produces some fantastic Bordeaux blends whilst Oregon is known for outstanding Pinot Noir. Kistler Vine Hill Vineyard Chardonnay 2012 95pts The honeysuckle, white currants, quince and wet rock/mineral notes of the crisp yet full-bodied, concentrated 2012 Chardonnay Vine Hill are fresh, lively, exuberant and, at the same time, powerful and elegant. This is a beauty, combining both elegance and depth. CALIFORNIA CALIFORNIA NORTH COAST Clos du Val Chardonnay Napa Valley 2014 39.00 Duckhorn Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc Napa Valley 2016 42.00 Far Niente Chardonnay Napa Valley 2015/16 129.00 Perfect with seared scallops, roast chicken or pumpkin ravioli. KISTLER Founded in 1978 by Steve Kistler, the winery continues to be family owned and operated today. Dedicated to fashioning world class Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs using traditional Burgundian techniques, their single vineyard wines represent some of the world s finest examples of these varietals. WASHINGTON OREGON CALIFORNIA MENDOCINO Anderson Valley SONOMA COUNTY NAPA VALLEY Russian River Valley Pahlmeyer Chardonnay 2016 95pts The 2016 Chardonnay has a lovely savory, yeasty/toasty nose over a core of warm grapefruit, fresh apricots and allspice with a touch of candied ginger. Medium to full-bodied, the palate delivers mouth-filling stone fruit and spicy layers, supported by great freshness and finishing long and creamy. Kistler Les Noisetiers Chardonnay Sonoma 2015/16 145.00 Kistler McCrea Vineyard Chardonnay Sonoma 235.00 Kistler McCrea Vineyard Chardonnay Sonoma 2011 235.00 Kistler McCrea Vineyard Chardonnay Sonoma 2014 235.00 Kistler McCrea Vineyard Chardonnay Sonoma 2015 245.00 Kistler Vine Hill Vineyard Chardonnay Sonoma 2011 245.00 Kistler Vine Hill Vineyard Chardonnay Sonoma 2012 249.00 Kistler Vine Hill Vineyard Chardonnay Sonoma 2013 255.00 Kistler Vine Hill Vineyard Chardonnay Sonoma 2014 245.00 Kistler Vine Hill Vineyard Chardonnay Sonoma 2015 255.00 Pahlmeyer Chardonnay Napa Valley 2015/16 169.00 Patz & Hall Dutton Ranch Chardonnay Russian River 2015 77.00 Patz & Hall Hyde Vineyard Chardonnay Russian River 2012 135.00 Shafer Red Shoulder Ranch Chardonnay Carneros 2015/16 91.00 Stag s Leap Cellars Karia Chardonnay Napa Valley 2015/17 51.00 CALIFORNIA CENTRAL COAST Poppy Chardonnay Santa Lucia Highlands 2014 25.00 Santa Cruz Mountains Paso Robles Santa Maria Valley Shafer Red Shoulder Ranch Chardonnay 2015 92pts Shafer s 2015 Chardonnay Red Shoulder Ranch is creamy, open-knit and super-expressive. Orchard fruit, white flowers and mint are nicely pushed forward, but it is the wine s balance and sense of harmony that stand out most. Lightly buttered notes and a kiss of French oak add the closing touches. 62 63
USA RED USA RED OPUS ONE WASHINGTON Col Solare Marchesi Antinori and Chateau Ste Michelle Columbia Valley 2006 86.00 A collaboration between the Rothschilds of Bordeaux ( Mouton Rothschild) and Robert Mondavi of the Napa Valley, Opus One is probably California s single most famous exported wine. Capturing the best of both worlds in a truly sublime example of the Cabernet Sauvignon grape. L Ecole No. 41 Pepper Bridge Vineyard Apogee 2013 93pts L Ecole No. 41 Pepper Bridge Vineyard Apogee Walla Walla Valley 2007/8 89.00 L Ecole No. 41 Pepper Bridge Vineyard Apogee Walla Walla Valley 2013 99.00 OREGON Domaine Drouhin Pinot Noir Oregon 2014 56.00 Opus One 2013 97+pts Opus One Napa Valley 495.00 Opus One Napa Valley 2011 465.00 Opus One Napa Valley 2012 465.00 Opus One Napa Valley 2013 495.00 Opus One Napa Valley 2014 460.00 Its deep purple color is followed by lots of blackcurrant and black raspberry fruits, toasted spice, licorice and floral aromas and flavors. These give way to a full-bodied, structured 2013 that has solid mid-palate depth and building tannin on the finish. Delicious paired with duck with a balsamic and honey glaze. CALIFORNIA Sean Thackrey Pleiades California NV 57.00 Velvety textured, without a hard edge to be found, notes of crème de cassis, blueberry, subtle wood and floral notes gently rise from the wine s dense purple color. Beautifully full-bodied and extraordinarily elegant and pure. Opus One Napa Valley 2015 480.00 Patz & Hall Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast 2014 74.00 Patz & Hall Hyde Vineyard Pinot Noir Carneros 2012/14 148.00 Caymus Special Selection Cabernet Sauvignon 2013 95pts This zeroes in on a rich, hedonistic core of wild berry, blackberry, plum and currant flavors, with a graceful, elegant mouthfeel and supple, caressing tannins. The long and powerful yet refined aftertaste keeps reverberating fruit generosity while maintaining Cabernet s strength of personality. CALIFORNIA NORTH COAST CAYMUS Proprietor Chuck Wagner has to be one of the most avuncular and modest figures in California s winemaking fraternity and so it is pleasantly appropriate that he owns some of the greatest vineyards and regularly fashions some of the best wines in the whole country. Caymus Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2015/16 149.00 Caymus Special Selection Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2013 290.00 Caymus Special Selection Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2014 290.00 DOMINUS Christian Moueix, the great Merlot specialist at his flagship chateaux in Pomerol, prefers the other Bordeaux varietals at his Napa property of Dominus. One of the stars of the Napa Valley, Dominus is known for its architectural winery, immaculate vineyards, small production and exceptional quality. Dominus Christian Moueix Napa Valley 2011 245.00 Screaming Eagle 100pts Utter perfection, the Screaming Eagle boasts a dense ruby/purple color along with a staggering bouquet of spring flowers, graphite, creme de cassis, kirsch, licorice and subtle toast in the background. Opulent and full-bodied with a multidimensional personality, gorgeous purity and a stunning, flawless texture. JOSEPH PHELPS Founded in 1973 and located near St Helena, Joseph Phelps is one of the most respected wineries in Napa Valley. Family owned and operated to this day, the vineyards are farmed using sustainable practices and their portfolio of wines is 100% estate grown since the 2009 vintage. Insignia is their flagship Bordeaux blend and is one of California s most iconic wines. Joseph Phelps Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2014/15 121.00 Joseph Phelps Insignia Napa Valley 2004 325.00 Joseph Phelps Insignia Napa Valley 2009 325.00 Joseph Phelps Insignia Napa Valley 2012 360.00 Saintsbury Pinot Noir Carneros 2013 59.00 Screaming Eagle 3,450.00 Sebastiani Merlot Alexander Valley 10/14/15 45.00 Sebastiani Cabernet Sauvignon Alexander Valley 2014 55.00 An ideal match for fillet of beef in a port sauce. Dominus Christian Moueix Napa Valley 2012 390.00 Seghesio Zinfandel Sonoma County 2015/16 33.00 Kistler Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir 2013 Duckhorn Vineyards Merlot Napa Valley 2014 79.00 Duckhorn Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2013/14 106.00 Duckhorn Vineyards Goldeneye Pinot Noir Anderson Valley 2014/15 85.00 Duckhorn Vineyards Three Palms Merlot Napa Valley 2015 139.00 Far Niente Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2012 289.00 Far Niente Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2013 295.00 Shafer Hillside Select Cabernet Sauvignon 2013 98+pts SHAFER VINEYARDS Shafer Vineyards, located in Napa Valley s Stags Leap District is managed by father and son team John and Doug Shafer. Acquired by John Shafer in 1972, the winemaking team have been working together since the very first vintage in 1978. Year in year out, this is one of the superstar wineries, not only in Napa Valley and all of California, but in the entire world. Robert Parker As for the Pinot Noirs, the 2013 Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast shows fresh kirsch liqueur, lavender and forest floor notes and medium body in a sexy, upfront style. KISTLER Kistler Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir Sonoma 2013 180.00 Kistler Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir Sonoma 2015 185.00 Sports an inky purple color and nose of crushed black and red currants, black cherries and mulberries with touches of underbrush, sautéed herbs and pencil shavings plus a waft of spice box. Medium-bodied, finely crafted and with an energetic line lifting the red and black fruits, it has a bold frame of grainy tannins and a very long, earth and spice-layered finish. Shafer One Point Five Cabernet Sauvignon Stags Leap District 2013/15 144.00 Shafer Hillside Select Cabernet Sauvignon Stags Leap District 2013 410.00 Silver Oak Cabernet Sauvignon Alexander Valley 2011/13 120.00 Silver Oak Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 182.00 Silver Oak Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2012 198.00 64 65
USA RED CHILE & ARGENTINA STAG S LEAP WINE CELLARS Dramatic improvements have been made in recent years at Stag s Leap Wine Cellars, which was sold to a consortium led by Tuscany s Piero Antinori in 2007. Antinori brought in consultant Renzo Cotarella to get this winery back to the lofty heights it achieved in the seventies and eighties. They seem to be well on their way given the high quality of recent releases. Sean Thackrey Orion 96pts Stag s Leap Wine Cellars Artemis Napa Valley 2014 87.00 Stag s Leap Wine Cellars Fay Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2009/10 195.00 Stag s Leap Wine Cellars Cask 23 Napa Valley 2012 270.00 Stag s Leap Wine Cellars Cask 23 Napa Valley 2013 360.00 Whilst South America has been making wine since the 1500s, it wasn t until plantings of Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon and Carménère were brought over from France in 1800 that Argentina and Chile started making wine of Knockout nose offers sappy blackberry, tar, licorice and a suggestion of 4th of July sparklers. Hugely sweet and thick but with great youthful cut and energy to its extract-rich flavors of dark berries, black cherry, pine resin and licorice; as primary as a barrel sample yet exhilarating to taste today. Like a live wire in the mouth, this great vintage of Orion finishes with full, seamless tannins and outstanding sappy length. Sean Thackrey Orion Napa Valley /12 244.00 CALIFORNIA CENTRAL COAST Ojai Bien Nacido Pinot Noir Santa Maria Valley 2012 74.00 Ojai Roll Ranch Syrah California 2005 59.00 Ojai Bien Nacido Syrah Santa Maria Valley 2013 66.00 notable quality. Now producing wine across all price points, the industry is booming, with Argentina famous for Malbec from Mendoza, and Chile for fantastic cool climate Cabernet Sauvignon, Carménère and Sauvignon Blanc. Poppy Cabernet Sauvignon Paso Robles 2014/16 25.00 Poppy Pinot Noir Monterey County 2013 26.00 RIDGE CHILE WHITE Villa Montes Sauvignon Blanc Curico Valley 2017/18 10.00 Ridge Monte Bello 2011 Ridge s 2011 Monte Bello shows beautifully. Dark red cherry, plum, smoke, spices and graphite form an attractive core of flavors and textures. Hints of sage, lavender and black fruits add the final shades of nuance. Grapevines were first planted on Monte Bello Ridge in 1855 by Osea Perrone, a doctor and prominent member of the northern California Italian immigrant community. Surviving Prohibition, these vineyards now form the backbone of Ridge. Led by the charismatic and talismanic figure of Paul Draper, Ridge is one of the greatest wine estates, not just in California, but the world. Ridge Monte Bello Santa Cruz Mountains 1999 295.00 Ridge Monte Bello Santa Cruz Mountains 2000 325.00 Ridge Monte Bello Santa Cruz Mountains 2003 319.00 Ridge Monte Bello Santa Cruz Mountains 295.00 Ridge Monte Bello Santa Cruz Mountains 2011 279.00 Ridge Monte Bello Santa Cruz Mountains 2012 295.00 Viña Almaviva 2009 96pts Classically built, with a compact and fine-tuned frame giving way to rich cassis, black cherry reduction, fig paste, spice box and licorice notes woven with fine tannins, juicy acidity and a firm, minerally spine. Montes Classic Chardonnay Curico Valley 2016/17 12.00 Montes Alpha Chardonnay Casablanca Valley 2014/15 20.00 CHILE RED Viña Almaviva Maipo Valley 2009 189.00 Villa Montes Cabernet Sauvignon Colchagua Valley 2017 10.00 Montes Alpha Cabernet Sauvignon Colchagua Valley 2014 20.00 Montes Purple Angel Carmenère Colchagua Valley 2014/15 62.00 Perfect with lamb rogan josh or a spicy ratatouille. SINE QUA NON 66 Sine Qua Non Trouver l Arène Syrah 2015 100pts Intense cassis, black plums and black cherries scents plus hints of anise, violets, sage and tar, with wafts of savory/smoked meat suggestions. Full-bodied, this voluptuous beauty is seriously singing in the mouth, belting out vibrant red and black fruit flavor layers, all framed by very fine, rounded, ripe tannins and a wonderful freshness, finishing with persistent perfumed fruit and a spring in its step. Some of the most collectible and hard to find wines from America. Sine Qua Non may literally mean indispensible, but given that such small quantities are made by Manfred Krankl s winery, these wines are only likely to find their way into the hands of a select few. About as good as it gets across the board, these singular, incredible wines are the result of an obsessive attention to detail at all stages of the wine making process. Sine Qua Non Stock Syrah Central Coast 2012 395.00 Sine Qua Non Male Syrah Central Coast 2013 385.00 Sine Qua Non Female Grenache Central Coast 2013 390.00 Sine Qua Non Shakti Grenache Central Coast 2014 429.00 Sine Qua Non Trouver l Arène Syrah Central Coast 2015 395.00 Sine Qua Non Le Chemin vers l Hérésie Grenache Central Coast 2015 395.00 Try with pulled pork in a BBQ sauce or spice-rubbed grilled lamb. Pascual Toso Magdalena Malbec Cabernet 2007 It has a superb bouquet that soars from the glass: boysenberry, red cherries, sloe and fresh figs that are very well-defined. The palate is fullbodied and very well-balanced, the acidity slicing through the black fruit with style. It is very harmonious, with a caressing finish that is vital and vivacious. This is a worthy flagship wine. ARGENTINA Cheval des Andes Mendoza 2013/15 96.00 Privada Bodega Norton Mendoza 2014/15 39.00 Pascual Toso Malbec Mendoza 2017 14.00 Pascual Toso Magdalena Malbec Cabernet Mendoza 2007 95.00 A juicy steak with bone marrow and pommes Anna. 67
AUSTRALIA Generally considered to be the most successful New World wine producer, largely due to building a brand around Shiraz, Australia produces wines in a wide variety of styles. Shiraz and Chardonnay make up 44% of total plantings, with increasing amounts of Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinot Noir being grown. The wine regions vary hugely: from the Barossa, home to the oldest vines in Australia and producing top quality Shiraz; to Clare Valley, famous for some of the country s richest Rieslings. Grosset Polish Hill Riesling 2015 93pts Pale, green-tinged yellow. Highpitched aromas of citrus fruits and flower, with an intense mineral overtone. Vibrant and linear on the palate, offering juicy lime and green apple flavors that deepen slowly through the mid-palate. Shows an emphatic stony character on the incisive, impressively long finish, leaving behind sappy citrus fruit and honeysuckle notes. Langmeil Fifth Wave Grenache 2009 92pts Potent, spice-accented aromas of black raspberry, mocha and candied flowers. Fleshy and open-knit on entry, then tighter in the middle, offering sweet dark berry and cherry flavors and a hint of spicecake. A vanilla note comes up with air and carries through a smooth, gently tannic finish. Penfolds Grange 99pts Fresh, vibrant and youthful black fruit notes showing some blueberry aromas and accents of camphor, anise and the slightest floral hint plus a whiff of oak in the background to lend a cedarlaced lift to this textbook Shiraz nose. Medium to full-bodied in the mouth, it is very taut and finely constructed showing typically firm, grainy, uniform tannins, great concentration and wonderful persistence on the finish. AUSTRALIA WHITE Devil s Corner Sauvignon Blanc Tasmania 2016 21.00 Grosset Polish Hill Riesling Clare Valley 2014/15 42.00 Penfolds Yattarna Chardonnay South-East Australia 2007 175.00 Shaw & Smith M3 Chardonnay Adelaide Hills 2014/15 36.00 Shaw & Smith Sauvignon Blanc Adelaide Hills 2017/18 22.00 Wakefield Estate Promised Land Unwooded Chardonnay South Australia 2016/17 15.00 Wakefield Estate Chardonnay Clare Valley 2016 20.00 Wakefield Estate Riesling Clare Valley 2014/16 20.00 A delicious aperitif or perfect served with charcuterie. RED Devil s Corner Pinot Noir Tasmania 2016/17 22.00 HENSCHKE Henschke Hill of Grace Shiraz Eden Valley 2008 590.00 Henschke Hill of Grace Shiraz Eden Valley 2009 625.00 Henschke Hill of Grace Shiraz Eden Valley 690.00 LANGMEIL WINERY Family owned and operated, Langmeil is the home of the Barossa and Australia s oldest known surviving vineyard, planted to Shiraz in 1843, from where the iconic Freedom 1843 Shiraz hails. Although it is only 22 vintages since the Lindner family re-established the abandoned winery, Langmeil has achieved considerable success and it is consistently awarded five red stars in the James Halliday Australian Wine Companion placing it in the top 10% of Australia s premium producers. Langmeil Blacksmith Cabernet Sauvignon Barossa Valley 2016 29.00 Langmeil Fifth Wave Grenache Barossa Valley 2009 52.00 Langmeil Orphan Bank Shiraz Barossa Valley 12/13/14 67.00 Langmeil The 1843 Freedom Shiraz Barossa Valley 2012/14 124.00 PENFOLDS GRANGE Grange is Australia s icon wine, and deservedly so. Richly textured, intensely concentrated and packed with fruit, these are immensely complex, beguiling wines that seduce the senses. Grange, Penfolds flagship wine, is, by many accounts, the most renowned and world-famous wine produced in Australia. Robert Parker Penfolds Grange South Australia 2001 690.00 Penfolds Grange South Australia 2005 740.00 Penfolds Grange South Australia 2006 810.00 Penfolds Grange South Australia 2009 685.00 Penfolds Grange South Australia 845.00 Penfolds Grange South Australia 2012 820.00 Penfolds Grange South Australia 2013 790.00 Shaw & Smith Shiraz Adelaide Hills 2014 36.00 Wakefield Estate Promised Land Shiraz Cabernet South Australia 2015 15.00 69
NEW ZEALAND SOUTH AFRICA Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc has become synonymous with New Zealand and is now a brand in its own right. There is far more to the wine industry here than just Sauvignon however - fantastic Pinot Noir from Central Otago, Syrah from Hawkes Bay and Chardonnay from Marlborough, all displaying a purity of fruit unique to New Zealand. WHITE Auntsfield Single Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough 2017 27.00 Beautiful with thai cuisine, sushi or scallop ceviche. CLOUDY BAY Established in 1985, Cloudy Bay was one of the first five wine makers to venture into Marlborough. At the time, it was almost an unimaginable place to set up a vineyard. However, Cloudy Bay s founder, David Hohnen, was convinced of its potential to produce great wine and so invested in the best land of the region. Since then, Marlborough has risen to become New Zealand s leading wine region, as well as one of the finest winemaking locations in the world. Thanks to the hard work of several very talented winemakers and the privatisation of the state-controlled winemaking cooperative, the South African wine industry has taken a huge change in direction in the last 20 years. Previously known for cheap wines that often ended up being distilled into brandy before hitting the shelves, the now vibrant industry is earning a reputation for some of the most exciting wines on the market. South Africa is famous for Chenin Blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon as well as the indigenous Pinotage. WHITE Creation Chardonnay Reserve Walker Bay 2016/17 58.00 Jordan Barrel Fermented Chardonnay Stellenbosch 2016/17 21.00 Jordan Inspector Péringuey Chenin Blanc Stellenbosch 2016/17 16.00 Klein Constantia Pascal Jolivet Métis Sauvignon Blanc Constantia 2014 20.00 Waterford Estate Chardonnay Stellenbosch 2015/16 36.00 Cloudy Bay Te Koko Sauvignon Blanc 2015 93pts The 2015 Te Koko offers pungency and passion fruit on the nose, followed by a wine of great concentration and intensity. Hints of struck flint add complexity, while the mouth-filling palate boasts a rich, multilayered texture and a lingering finish. Only 8% aged in new French oak and about a third of the wine went through malolactic fermentation, leaving it with crisp acids and a great sense of elegance and balance. Cloudy Bay Chardonnay Marlborough 2016/17 35.00 Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough 2017/18 32.00 Cloudy Bay Te Koko Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough 2015 56.00 Craggy Range Te Muna Road Vineyard Riesling Martinborough 2014 21.00 Dog Point Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough 2016 28.00 Felton Road Chardonnay Central Otago 13/16/17 55.00 Jackson Estates Stich Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough 2017/18 19.00 Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough 2018 20.00 Kim Crawford Pinot Gris Marlborough 2016/17 19.00 Ram s Hill Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough 2013 30.00 RED Auntsfield Single Vineyard Pinot Noir Marlborough 2011 52.00 Creation Chardonnay Reserve 2016 92pts It has a refined bouquet with flecks of white chocolate and praline infusing the citrus fruit, well defined and full of energy. The palate is fresh and vibrant on the entry with a pleasant nuttiness in the background, quite tensile with good depth and grip on the finish, tangy orange peel on the aftertaste. RED Boekenhoutskloof The Chocolate Block Franschhoek 2016 40.00 Chamonix Pinotage Greywacke Franschhoek 2014/15 25.00 Creation Pinot Noir Reserve Walker Bay 2016 62.00 Jordan The Prospector Syrah Stellenbosch 2015/16 20.00 Klippenkop Pinotage Coastal Region 2015/17 9.00 Vergelegen V Stellenbosch 2007 99.00 Cloudy Bay Pinot Noir Marlborough 2015/16 42.00 CRAGGY RANGE Felton Road Pinot Noir 2015 Dark and brooding, with black licorice, plum and black cherry flavors that are velvety and sophisticated, accented with hints of toasted cumin and paprika. Shows good intensity on the finish. When Craggy Range was established in 1997, owners Terry Peabody and Steve Smith set about selecting the best parcels of land they could find in New Zealand to make wines that spoke of their place. Choosing the best vineyard sites for Gimblett Gravels in Hawkes Bay and Te Muna Road in Martinborough, the wines display amazing aromatics, purity and complexity. Craggy Range Syrah Gimblett Gravels 2013 28.00 Craggy Range Sophia Bordeaux Blend Gimblett Gravels 2014 52.00 Felton Road Pinot Noir Central Otago 2015 76.00 Jackson Estates Vintage Widow Pinot Noir Marlborough 2016 29.00 RM Wines Trademark Syrah Hawke s Bay 2011 59.00 Boekenhoutskloof The Chocolate Block 2016 90pts This packs in quite a bit of fruit, offering a mix of currant, raspberry and plum paste flavors, wrapped with ample licorice and sweet spice notes. A streak of singed vanilla adds range on the finish. Syrah, Grenache, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cinsault and Viognier. 70 71
SWEET & FORTIFIED SWEET & FORTIFIED Erdener Prälat Riesling Auslese Gold Capsule Dr Loosen 2012 91pts SWEET GERMANY Erdener Prälat Riesling Auslese Gold Capsule Dr Loosen Mosel 2012 75.00 HUNGARY Royal Tokaji Szt Tamás 1st Growth Aszú 6 Puttonyos 50cl bottle 2005 135.00 Perfect served with tarte tatin and vanilla ice cream. Sine Qua Non Mr K The Noble Man Chardonnay 2005 98pts ITALY Moscato d Asti Cascinetta Vietti 2018 19.00 Passito di Pantelleria Ben Ryé Donnafugata 2016 99.00 Recioto della Valpolicella Sant Ulderico Monte Dall Oro 50cl bottle 2006 68.00 Fantastic paired with panettone or a dark chocolate tart. Golden yellow. Scents of apple blossom, white raisin and quince are highlighted by a faint hint of spicy botrytis. Luscious, candied fruit show a velvety texture, with minty acidity keeping the palate fresh. At once dense and light, with mineral salts and slate spices on the long, elegant finish. FRANCE Sauternes La Fontaine 28.00 CHATEAU RIEUSSEC Rieussec has long been considered the second greatest property in Sauternes after Yquem and with masterful performances year in, year out, it is not hard to taste why. It is presented in the full, rich, fruity, caramel, marmalade and smoky style, and yet manages to retain a degree of lemon zest freshness. Made from 100% Chardonnay from the Alban Vineyard, the 2005 Mr. K. The Noble Man possesses 235 grams of residual sugar per liter as well as exceptional acid levels. Its mindboggling purity, balance, intensity, and sweetness are balanced by the wine s zesty acidity. An amazing achievement fashioned from 100% botrytised fruit, it will keep for 20 or more years. USA Sine Qua Non Mr K The Noble Man Chardonnay half bottle 2003 165.00 Sine Qua Non Mr K The Noble Man Chardonnay half bottle 2005 195.00 SOUTH AFRICA Vin de Constance Klein Constantia 50cl bottle 2008 76.00 AUSTRALIA Campbells Rutherglen Muscat half bottle NV 19.00 Rieussec A muscular version, with dacquoise and marzipan notes leading the way for creamed orange, white peach, ginger, mirabelle compote and tangerine accents that pump through the piecrust-filled finish. Has the vintage s raw oomph, as well as range and cut for balance. Rieussec 1er Cru Classé 1996 79.00 Rieussec half bottle 1er Cru Classé 1999 55.00 Rieussec 1er Cru Classé 2001 165.00 Rieussec half bottle 1er Cru Classé 2003 44.00 Rieussec 1er Cru Classé 2009 99.00 Rieussec 1er Cru Classé 89.00 Try with the classic pairing of foie gras or crêpes stuffed with goat s cheese and peach jam. CHATEAU D YQUEM A which has now acquired legendary status, thanks to its history (it was established in the 1500s and came top of the sweet-wine producing estates in the 1855 Classification) and for its finesse and concentration. It can last, if stored correctly, for up to a century. Made, as are all sweet Bordeaux wines, from Sémillon and aged for four years in oak barrels. Vin de Constance Klein Constantia 2008 95pts Offers a very complex bouquet with fresh pineapple, quince, Japanese yuzu, just a hint of grass clippings and then later mille fieulle. It feels smooth and pure gentle in the mouth, caressing the senses with its quince and marmalade tinged finish with a suggestion of shaved ginger on the aftertaste. Wonderful! FORTIFIED SHERRY Hidalgo Manzanilla La Gitana NV 15.50 Serve with tapas style dishes or as an aperitif with almonds and olives. Hidalgo Amontillado Seco Napoleon 50cl bottle NV 17.00 Hidalgo Pedro Ximénez Triana 50cl bottle NV 22.00 PORT Taylor s Late Bottled Vintage 2007/13 21.95 d Yquem 2001 100pts The nose is like the throbbing engine of an Aston Martin Vantage, ready to go. It is so packed with intensity. The palate is perfectly balanced and laden with botrytis, with heavenly focus and a crescendo of flavors that take your breath away: acacia honey, yellow plum, white peach and orange sorbet. d Yquem half bottle 1er Cru Supérieur 1989 229.00 d Yquem 1er Cru Supérieur 1990 290.00 d Yquem half bottle 1er Cru Supérieur 1995 195.00 d Yquem half bottle 1er Cru Supérieur 1996 195.00 d Yquem half bottle 1er Cru Supérieur 1998 179.00 d Yquem half bottle 1er Cru Supérieur 1999 169.00 d Yquem half bottle 1er Cru Supérieur 2000 220.00 d Yquem half bottle 1er Cru Supérieur 2001 365.00 d Yquem 1er Cru Supérieur 2003 345.00 d Yquem half bottle 1er Cru Supérieur 2003 189.00 d Yquem half bottle 1er Cru Supérieur 2005 275.00 d Yquem 1er Cru Supérieur 2006 329.00 d Yquem 1er Cru Supérieur 525.00 Taylor s 40 Year Old Tawny NV 95pts Big, weighty and mouth filling, this is an aromatic Tawny that finishes with acidity and tension. Gripping on the finish, its flavors become more interesting as long as it sits in the glass (or on your palate). Taylor s 10 Year Old Tawny NV 34.50 Taylor s 20 Year Old Tawny NV 59.00 Taylor s 30 Year Old Tawny NV 115.00 Taylor s 40 Year Old Tawny NV 195.00 Taylor s Quinta de Vargellas 2001/2 46.00 Taylor s Vintage 1985 135.00 MADEIRA H & H Medium Rich Single Harvest 50cl bottle 1998 39.00 H & H 10 Year Old Sercial 50cl bottle NV 29.00 72 73
SPIRITS BEER & SOFT DRINKS SPIRITS We have a huge selection of spirits in stock from everyday bar essentials to the world s finest spirits and rare collectables. We can also provide you with hard-to-source back bar ingredients for cocktails and mixology. BEER Our warehouse is home to an extensive range of beers of many different styles from all over the world. We can also supply gluten-free, non-alcoholic and light beers too. SOFT DRINKS & WATER We have a large choice of soft drinks, including hard-to-find sodas and mixers, and artesian waters. For our full list of spirits, beers and soft drinks, please get in touch info@vsfgroup.com 75
SERVICES We believe that wine is much more than just a drink and as such we offer a range of services to enhance your guests enjoyment. Whether we can help with building a creative wine list or by arranging a bespoke trip to a top end winery, our wine team is on hand to assist you, your crew and your guests. Cellar Planning Evaluation and assessment for new builds Consultation for shore based cellars Wine Tastings & Events for Guests Tutored tastings on board Wine dinners Vineyard and winery visits Wine Training for Crew WSET courses either on board or in training centres Bespoke wine education and training sessions on board, including food and wine pairing Cocktail Training for Crew On board cocktail training Wine List Consultation Wine Advice Information on grape varieties, regions and vintages Storage Serving guidelines temperature and glassware Wine tasting notes, information and food recommendations Whatever your question, please contact a member of our team info@vsfgroup.com WINE COURSES Taught by Hannah Lunn, our passionate and experienced wine consultant, VSF offers a range of professional courses as well as tailor-made training sessions to suit your needs. WSET COURSES VSF is a longstanding Approved Programme Provider for the WSET (Wine and Spirits Education Trust), offering Levels 1 and 2. The WSET is a globally recognised examination body, meaning that any candidate who passes one of the exams will receive an official certificate and qualification a great way to learn more about wine in a fun and relaxed way and boost your CV in the process! Please contact us on info@vsfgroup.com for further information and details of forthcoming dates. 76 77
DELIVERY TAX-FREE DELIVERIES IN FRANCE Our fleet of vans is on hand to deliver free of charge to ports along the Riviera from Marseille to Loano. (subject to a minimum order) For van deliveries further afield, please call for a quote: +33 (0)4 22 10 67 70 Our Riviera office lines are open 8am 10 pm, 7 days a week from May until October and Monday to Friday throughout the winter months. For deliveries from Viareggio and Palma please call the relevant office for stock, availabilities, sourcing and delivery. WORLDWIDE We can safely and securely send your wine order to almost anywhere in the world, wherever your yacht is moored. Our network of freight forwarders and airfreight agents ensures swift and reliable delivery directly from our warehouse. Please call or e-mail for an estimate on time and costs. If your yacht and charter fulfils specific conditions, you may be eligible for a tax-free wine and/or provisions order which VSF is happy and able to fulfil. The following conditions must all be met THE YACHT IS COMMERCIALLY REGISTERED THE YACHT HAS A PERMANENT CREW THE YACHT IS USED FOR COMMERCIAL PURPOSES ONLY THE YACHT IS AT LEAST 15M LONG THE YACHT MUST EXIT FRENCH WATERS FOR AT LEAST 70% OF TRIPS PER YEAR NOT MORE THAN 50% OF CHARTERS IN THE PREVIOUS YEAR CAN BE STATIC THE GOODS PURCHASED CANNOT BE FOR A STATIC CHARTER THE AMOUNT PURCHASED IS IN KEEPING WITH THE DURATION OF THE CHARTER AND ITS NUMBER OF GUESTS You will need to provide copies of the following in advance of any delivery CERTIFICATE OF COMMERCIAL REGISTRATION THE SPECIFIC CHARTER AGREEMENT CREW LIST DECLARATION OF COMPLIANCE The Customs Agents fees for processing a tax free delivery are at least 199. Therefore tax-free delivery is only worthwhile when the tax on an order exceeds 199 usually a minimum of 1,020 for a wine and spirits order or 3,620 for soft drinks. Please note that due to Customs constraints we need at least 48 hours notice to carry out a tax free delivery. We will also need to be informed at the time of placing an order whether a tax-free delivery is required. Tax-free delivery cannot be arranged after the goods have been delivered. Deliveries can only be made during Customs hours and following receipt of their approval. Due to Customs office hours this means deliveries can only be made 09.00 12.00 or 14.00 17.00, Monday Friday. No return of goods can be accepted once the delivery has cleared Customs. Goods delivered tax free cannot legally be taken off board without going through an import procedure, involving paying significant customs charges as well as VAT. Customs reserve the right to board the vessel at the time of delivery and subsequently. There are potentially serious consequences for false declarations. Please note that the invoice must be issued in the name of the company as it appears on the certificate of commercial registration. PAYMENT We accept cash, credit cards (Visa or Mastercard) and wire transfers. Please let us know how you wish to pay when ordering. Unless previously agreed, payment is due in full on delivery. TERMS & CONDITIONS Please enjoy alcohol in moderation. All wines and vintages are subject to availability. E&OE. All prices in this list are in Euros before tax. This list replaces all previous and is valid from 1st April 2019 until 30th November 2019. Other wines will become available throughout the season, and some featured in this list are rare or in very limited supply and may run out. Please call us for advice about current stocks at any time. All goods remain the property of VSF until paid for in full. We cannot accept returns once products have been signed for and taken on board. 78 79