Loire Valley
Spanning from the Central Vineyards in the east to Nantes in the west, passing through Torraine and Anjou-Samur, the Loire Valley is a vast and varied wine region shaped by the river's influence. The region's diverse terroir is characterized by a continental climate in the east and a maritime climate in the west.
Renowned for its exceptional dry white wines made from Sauvignon Blanc and Chenin Blanc, the Loire Valley offers a captivating selection with crisp acidity, expressive fruit flavours, and mineral notes. Notable white wine appellations in the Loire Valley include Sancerre, Pouilly-Fumé, Vouvray, and Savennières. Leading producers of white wine in the region include Domaine Vacheron, Domaine Huet, and Domaine Didier Dagueneau.
In addition to its white wines, the Loire Valley produces charming red wines made from Cabernet Franc. Ranging from light and fruity to more complex and age-worthy, these red wines are known for their vibrant acidity, subtle tannins, and bright red fruit flavours. Key appellations for red wines in the Loire Valley include Chinon, Bourgueil, and Saumur-Champigny. Notable producers of red wine in the region include Domaine Bernard Baudry, Catherine & Pierre Breton, and Domaine Charles Joguet.
The Loire Valley also produces excellent sweet wines and sparkling wines. Sweet wines are made from Chenin Blanc grapes affected by botrytis, a fungus that concentrates the sugars in the grapes, resulting in luscious sweetness, honeyed flavors, and vibrant acidity. The most famous sweet wine appellations in the Loire Valley include Coteaux du Layon and Quarts de Chaume. Sparkling wines, known as Crémant de Loire, are made using the traditional method and offer excellent value for money with finesse, delicate bubbles, and refreshing character.
Loire Valley
-
The Alphonse Mellot Sancerre Edmond 2018 is a true representation of French elegance, hailing from the esteemed Loire Valley. Produced by the Mellot family, pioneers of Sancerre winemaking since the 16th-century, this wine clearly signifies their mastery in the art. Crafted from 100% Sauvignon Blanc, the grapes are carefully handpicked and meticulously pressed, before being matured on fine lees for 12 long months, yielding a full-bodied wine of unparalleled complexity.
This vintage imparts a vibrant golden hue, carrying a sophisticated bouquet of white flowers and ripe citrus. On the palate, the Alphonse Mellot Sancerre Edmond 2018 unravels layers of delicate minerality, accented by a buoyant acidity that is inseparable from this remarkable terroir. Savour the lingering notes of citrus and stone fruit, echoing the signature of this illustrious heritage.
Every bottle of Alphonse Mellot Sancerre Edmond 2018 bears witness to a tradition of excellence, tempting discerning connoisseurs with every carefully curated sip.
Inc. TAX€672.47 -
Immerse yourself in the rich experience of the Alphonse Mellot Sancerre Generation XIX Blanc 2018, a captivating vintage wine birthed from the esteemed soils of Loire Valley, France. With an impressive heritage spanning 19 generations, the Alphonse Mellot family adheres to stringent biodynamic principles to cultivate intensely aromatic Sauvignon Blanc grapes in a unique, flint-rich terroir.
The Alphonse Mellot Sancerre Generation XIX Blanc 2018 carries a distinguished minerality owed to its Sancerre origins. The wine is fermented in oak barrels and aged on the lees for a year, invoking a premium complexity. Expect an opulent palate with hints of lemon zest, ripe peaches, and a captivating flinty undertone.
This highly sought-after vintage is proof of Alphonse Mellot's mastery in crafting Sancerre wines. Consistent, superb quality and character inherent in every bottle maintain Alphonse Mellot's venerable position in the world of fine wines.
Inc. TAX€611.35 -
Antoine Sanzay Saumur Champigny 2018, a provocative Cabernet Franc from the Loire Valley, is a testament to the mastery of its vintner. Produced in France's iconic Saumur Champigny appellation, this luscious wine inspires with its nuanced complexity. The grapes are manually harvested and subjected to a meticulous délestage process, resulting in a seamless blend of opulence and structure.
This esteemed producer, Antoine Sanzay, crafts with historic practices; a dedication to biodynamic viticulture, low intervention enology, and a passion for expressing the terroir's unique limestone-rich chalky soils. Triumphant in attitude, Antoine Sanzay Saumur Champigny 2018 showcases a delicate bouquet of redcurrants and violets, underpinned by a robust, earthy base.
Indulge in the crisp acidity and elegant tannins of this wine. Antoine Sanzay's masterful production, limited to just 2000 bottles per annum, offers a distinctive pleasure to fine wine connoisseurs.
Inc. TAX€311.03 -
Indulge in the exemplary Antoine Sanzay Saumur Champigny Haye Dampierre 2018. Brought to us by the revered Antoine Sanzay, this fine wine upholds a tradition of quality and sophistication. Nestled within France's iconic Loire Valley, Sanzay's vineyards offer exceptional terroir which is accentuated in every glass of this vintage. This elegant, ruby-red Cabernet Franc exhibits notes of elderberry, blackberry, and captivating smoky undertones. Meticulously aged in oak barrels for a minimum of 12 months, it's a beautifully structured, medium-bodied wine with a lush finish.
Accomplished winemaker Antoine Sanzay is renowned for his commitment to organic farming and minimal intervention in the winemaking process. Each bottle is a testament to his unwavering passion. For lovers of intense, aromatic wines with great complexity and balance, Antoine Sanzay Saumur Champigny Haye Dampierre 2018 is an investment in superb taste. Enjoy this iconic expression of the finest French viticulture.
Inc. TAX€665.82 -
Indulge in the exemplary Antoine Sanzay Saumur Champigny Haye Dampierre 2018. Brought to us by the revered Antoine Sanzay, this fine wine upholds a tradition of quality and sophistication. Nestled within France's iconic Loire Valley, Sanzay's vineyards offer exceptional terroir which is accentuated in every glass of this vintage. This elegant, ruby-red Cabernet Franc exhibits notes of elderberry, blackberry, and captivating smoky undertones. Meticulously aged in oak barrels for a minimum of 12 months, it's a beautifully structured, medium-bodied wine with a lush finish.
Accomplished winemaker Antoine Sanzay is renowned for his commitment to organic farming and minimal intervention in the winemaking process. Each bottle is a testament to his unwavering passion. For lovers of intense, aromatic wines with great complexity and balance, Antoine Sanzay Saumur Champigny Haye Dampierre 2018 is an investment in superb taste. Enjoy this iconic expression of the finest French viticulture.
Inc. TAX€422.92 -
Behold the sophisticated Antoine Sanzay Saumur Les salles Martins 2018, a French vinous masterpiece. Hailing from the revered Saumur region in the Loire Valley, this elegant wine was crafted in the truly meticulous hands of a fifth-generation winemaker, Antoine Sanzay. Produced from 100% Cabernet Franc grapes grown in limestone soil, this wine expresses its emblematic terroir with finesse.
The winemaking process involved 18 months in French oak barrels, imbuing the wine with additional complexity and structure. On the palate, expect distinctive notes of currants, blackberries and subtle oak nuances harmoniously intertwined with earthy undertones and a crisp acidity. The long, elegant finish leaves a lasting impression, making the Antoine Sanzay Saumur Les salles Martins 2018 an exceptional addition to any fine wine enthusiast's collection.
With production limited to just 3000 bottles, this vintage indeed is a rare find and stands as testament to Antoine Sanzay's meticulous artistry.
Inc. TAX€508.12 -
Hailing from the esteemed vineyards of Anjou in France's Loire Valley, the Belargus Coteaux du Layon 2018 is a magnificent embodiment of the domain's artisanal mastery. This delicate, late harvest Chenin Blanc is the work of renowned vigneron, Thibaud Boudignon, in collaboration with Jonatan Laval and Jean-Jérôme Kérouanton; their combined expertise imbuing a pioneering spirit into this luscious golden elixir. Immaculately tended, the aged vines give rise to wine with a pure, concentrated flavour profile, heady with notes of candied pear, honey, and wild flowers.
The minimal-intervention winemaking process, featuring indigenous yeasts and extended lees contact, further amplifies the wine's organic expressions. Both fascinating and complex, the Belargus Coteaux du Layon 2018 is a testament to Anjou's unique climate and schist-rich terroir, showcasing an unprecedented level of freshness and minerality that will delight any discerning palate. Enjoy this sweet, opulent gem in its youth or in years to come.
Inc. TAX€533.32 -
The Belargus Coteaux du Layon Chaume Premier Cru Echarderie 2018 is an exquisite embodying example of France's esteemed viticulture. Born of the fertile soils of the scenic Loire Valley, this wine is expertly crafted by master vintners following time-honoured French winemaking traditions. The vineyard hand harvests and meticulously selects botrytis-affected grapes, while the process of long fermentation and matured on lees creates this nuanced sweet wine.
The Belargus Coteaux du Layon Chaume Premier Cru Echarderie 2018 surprises with its delicately-balanced acidity, lush palate of ripe white peach, honey, and subtly infused notes of orange blossom. This premier cru, made in limited quantity only, captures the essence of the Layon River region's terroir. It's a rewarding experience for the discerning palates, who recognise the intricate dynamics between its vibrancy, sweetness, and complexity. A splendid proof of Belargus's dedication to perfection.
Inc. TAX€696.52 -
Wine Advocate (100)
Belargus's dark, amber-orange colored 2018 Quarts-de-Chaume Grand Cru Liquoreux Ultra is a tribute to the famous Ambroisie by Jo Pithon, an over-concentrated Quarts-de-Chaume with more than 30 degrees potential at harvest, referred to as “Ultra.” The wine opens with an intense and ultra concentrated but still vinous and not overly fruity bouquet with pencil point notes on the first nose that slowly reveals concentrated, syrupy apricot and roasted bacon-rind notes. Enormously viscous on the palate but at the same time so finessed, vital and balanced that the wine never weighs heavily and is not even sticky, this is an exceptional QDC, of which just one barrel was produced. This 2018 is made for eternity and belongs to the finest noble sweet wines I have ever had. Even though I am so much in love with the Les Quarts twin, I have to admit that here comes not only an even sweeter Quarts-de-Chaume but also an even more concentrated and finessed one. The aging capacity is ideal, and due to its balance, I don't see any doubts the wine can age 100 and more years. What a start for Domaine Belargus! 9% alcohol. Tasted in June 2021.Inc. TAX€1,831.98 -
Unveiling the splendour of classical French wine-making, the Belliviere Coteaux Loir Vv Eparses 2018 is a wine lover’s delight. Exquisitely crafted from 100% Chenin Blanc grapes, this distinguished creation originates from a collection of old vineyards found in Jasnières and Coteaux du Loir by the esteemed Bellivière family. The grapes from these respectful vineyards are meticulously handpicked and vinified separately to preserve their unique identities.
Applying the traditional biodynamic farming approach intertwined with modern vinification techniques, this result is a wine with an expressive bouquet marked by fruity undertones, flaunting a balanced acidity. Its elegance, combined with a lingering minerality, pays the truest homage to its terroir. Endowed with a potential for an extended cellar life, this gem is a testament to the Bellivière’s unyielding commitment to crafting wines vouchsafing superior quality. Delight in each sip of the Belliviere Coteaux Loir Vv Eparses 2018 and embark on a flavour journey through the revered French wine territories.
Inc. TAX€496.12 -
Vinous (96)
The ripeness of the 2018 vintage gives an almost Syrah/Viognier character to the Chinon La Croix Boissée, which offers sweet black fruit and a creamy apricot note. Sumptuous yet never ever opulent, it's almost as if the wine's just done a yoga class. Plentiful tannins give the inside of your cheeks a chalky rub, while there's surprising freshness considering the ripeness, leading to a lengthy finish. This is a baby that will turn out to be a great adult.Inc. TAX€691.16 -
Vinous (94)
The 2018 Chinon Clos de la Dioterie is richly fruited, reflecting the warmth of the vintage, and soft and mouth-filling despite not being heavy. There's baked fruit here, suggesting a combination of black currant, red cherry, cedar and spice. The tannins are structured and textured, showing this wine's intent, but it's all very well handled – those tannins are both resolved and incredibly chalky. This is a lengthy, serious wine with sinew. The vintage might be evident in the high alcohol and warm profile, but the class of the site is also indisputable.Inc. TAX€528.82 -
Inc. TAX€629.58 -
Vinous (93)
Returning in 2018 after 2017 was wiped out by frosts, this is an intense, wild 2018 Buisson Renard, like an untamed head of curls. In clear evidence at this early stage, it has floral and boxwood characters and a nutty oak-derived influence. There's even an intriguing note of peppermint on the sinewy, lengthy finish. In a mid-weight, linear style with a firm, phenolic finish that almost requires knife and fork. This needs more time in bottle to shed its austere frame, but if you're not in a hurry...Inc. TAX€635.20 -
Vinous (93)
Returning in 2018 after 2017 was wiped out by frosts, this is an intense, wild 2018 Buisson Renard, like an untamed head of curls. In clear evidence at this early stage, it has floral and boxwood characters and a nutty oak-derived influence. There's even an intriguing note of peppermint on the sinewy, lengthy finish. In a mid-weight, linear style with a firm, phenolic finish that almost requires knife and fork. This needs more time in bottle to shed its austere frame, but if you're not in a hurry...Inc. TAX€963.18 -
Vinous (94)
Sourced from a south-facing single vineyard on flint and clay over chalk, the 2018 Pur Sang is all white flowers and spiced apple pastry. Seemingly effortless and silken, its Sauvignon edges rounded out in barrels. It offers excellent concentration on the mid-palate, a line of acidity acting like a thread and holding the core together like a ball. Delectably textured, with a hint of tannic sensation holding the mouth gently on a lengthy conclusion that's drawn-out and precise. A complex, multifaceted wine.Inc. TAX€589.45 -
Vinous (94)
Sourced from a south-facing single vineyard on flint and clay over chalk, the 2018 Pur Sang is all white flowers and spiced apple pastry. Seemingly effortless and silken, its Sauvignon edges rounded out in barrels. It offers excellent concentration on the mid-palate, a line of acidity acting like a thread and holding the core together like a ball. Delectably textured, with a hint of tannic sensation holding the mouth gently on a lengthy conclusion that's drawn-out and precise. A complex, multifaceted wine.Inc. TAX€1,007.58 -
Jancis Robinson (17+)
Cool and without obvious richness. Really refreshing and with great substance and density. More approachable in youth than I remember some Silex bottlings. You could happily enjoy this layered wine now but it should age well too. It really does taste flinty!!Inc. TAX€1,528.38 -
Inc. TAX€642.25 -
Vinous (96)
Clarity is a term that accurately describes the 2018 Sancerre Clos La Néore. It has a pure and intense core of fruit. But it's not fruity. It's a sophisticated style with a distinctive aromatic profile - chamomile tea, lemon, honey and almond meal and an almost tonic-like edge. While showing the ripeness of the 2018 season, it retains its shape with a corset of acidity and phenolics that guide the wine on and on.Inc. TAX€920.66 -
Experience the distinguished Fosse Seche Saumur Pigeonnier Reserve 2018, a phenomenal specimen exalting the French winemaking craft from the venerable Saumur region. This exquisite Cabernet Franc combines the tradition of biodynamic vineyard practices with modern methods, curated under the masterful oversight of brothers Guillaume and Adrien Pire at the esteemed Fosse Seche estate.
Matured in French oak barrels, the wine expresses complex notes of ripe red fruits, violets, tobacco, and an undercurrent of spices. The firm tannins and dynamic acidity culminate in a starling finish, revealing a wine of superb structure and depth. The Fosse Seche Saumur Pigeonnier Reserve 2018 bears the hallmarks of the region's esteemed terroir, featuring the unique chalky soils of Saumur.
Be it for connoisseurs or discerning enthusiasts, the Fosse Seche Saumur Pigeonnier Reserve 2018 offers an enticing opportunity to savour an authentic French viticultural gem.
Inc. TAX€2,036.92 -
Vinous (94)
The 2018 Sancerre Comtesse is the most aromatic of the 2018s I tasted. The bouquet is redolent with Sauvignon Blanc white flower signatures. There is plenty of citrus, white orchard fruit, mint and tomato leaf, and yet the wine is quite soft, with no angular edges, and exceptional balance.Inc. TAX€615.42 -
The Guiberteau Saumur Breze 2018 offers an unmatched wine experience for discerning palates. Hailing from the prestigious Loire Valley in France, this wine exemplifies the expertise of winemaker Romain Guiberteau, renowned for predominantly organic and biodynamic cultivation. Impeccably crafted from Chenin Blanc grapes, aromas of ripe quince, pear, and acacia flash to the forefront, followed by a finely structured mineral core, reflective of the region's unique Tuffeau soil. The 2018 vintage, in particular, provides remarkable depth and vegetal undertones, striking a remarkable balance between acidity and roundness. Meticulously hand-harvested and fermented in seasoned French oak, the Guiberteau Saumur Breze 2018 exhibits the winemaker's touch of minimal intervention, resulting in a pure, authentic expression of the terroir. An elegant companion to sophisticated dining, it promises a rich, evolving experience with each sip.
Inc. TAX€878.99 -
Wine Advocate (95+)
The 2018 Vouvray Le Mont Moelleux Première Trie is pure, deep and flinty on the concentrated nose, with very fine oak, toffee and potted ginger aromas. Lush, sweet and generous yet precise and crystalline on the palate, it features very fine tannins, lingering salinity and positive energy. This is a compact, persistent, tightly woven and stimulating Chenin from the Le Mont terroir that reveals firm, tensioned structure and a young finish with potential to improve and refine. Tasted in May 2019.Inc. TAX€556.38 -
Vinous (92)
The 2018 Chinon Clos du Chene Vert, Monopole is one of the top wines from Joguet, offering pure black fruit and even some mint chocolate aromas, in addition to the telltale signs of classy oak use evident in its rich, rounded vanilla notes. In the mouth, you can expect a fuller-bodied style of Cabernet Franc that never becomes heavy or lush. It retains its freshness on the finish, reminding you that we might be in a hot vintage in the Loire, but we're still in the Loire. Fine, sand-like tannins sit in the mouth while the oak-derived vanillins and dark fruit linger on the long, sinewy finish.Inc. TAX€489.22 -
An exquisite exemplar of elegance, the Louis-Benjamin Dagueneau Sancerre En Chailloux 2018 embodies the craft of Loire Valley winemaking. The product of meticulous viniculture, this single vineyard Sancerre is grown in chalky clay soils, affording the Sauvignon Blanc grape the ideal conditions for full maturation. Head winemaker Louis-Benjamin Dagueneau, the son of legendary Loire winemaker Didier Dagueneau, favours purity and precision in his wines, preferring minimal intervention in the cellar to let the unique terroir speak for itself. The result? An extraordinary minerality, bright acidity and elegant notes of citrus and white peach that have become synonymous with Louis-Benjamin Dagueneau Sancerre En Chailloux 2018. As flirtatious as it is refined, this white ignites the senses with a harmonious blend of intensity, balance, and terroir-driven complexity. A delightful expressional masterpiece that confirms the Dagueneau family's reputation for producing unequalled Loire Valley whites.
Inc. TAX€917.32 -
Vinous (92)
From 30-year-old vines on schist and quartz. Light golden. Big aromas and flavors. Lots of melon and white fruit — ripe pear, quince, white peach. Ripe, and full-bodied, with lots of underlying spice.Inc. TAX€602.92 -
Immerse yourself in the elegant opulence of Pierre Menard Orion Alpha Anjou 2018. Hailing from the renowned wineries of Anjou in the Loire Valley of France, this lustrous white wine boasts a stunning aromatic complexity of white flowers, citrus, and stone fruit nuances. Made by esteemed vintner Pierre Menard, a master craftsman celebrated for his organic and biodynamic farming practices, this exceptional vintage was fermented with native yeasts in chestnut barrels, adding to its distinctive profile.
Pierre Menard Orion Alpha Anjou 2018 shines with a bright, golden hue that hints at its purity and sophistication. Mcaptivating complexity is accentuated by the wine's mesmerizing minerality and balanced acidity. This is a wine that successfully marries tradition with innovation, creating a flavour profile that is both alluring and memorable.
For those in search of an exceptional white wine experience, Pierre Menard Orion Alpha Anjou 2018 is truly second to none.
Inc. TAX€602.95 -
Inc. TAX€390.78 -
Vinous (90)
It’s an “orange wine,” for sure, but for now, in its youth, the 2018 Saumur Blanc Terres is just kind of golden. The nose is full of apple and pear, with a cidery note, along with earth and citrus peel. In the mouth, there’s a lot of pear and pineapple. I find it adventurous and unique. The 2018 spent 4 months macerating in amphora.Inc. TAX€585.18
-
The Alphonse Mellot Sancerre Edmond 2018 is a true representation of French elegance, hailing from the esteemed Loire Valley. Produced by the Mellot family, pioneers of Sancerre winemaking since the 16th-century, this wine clearly signifies their mastery in the art. Crafted from 100% Sauvignon Blanc, the grapes are carefully handpicked and meticulously pressed, before being matured on fine lees for 12 long months, yielding a full-bodied wine of unparalleled complexity.
This vintage imparts a vibrant golden hue, carrying a sophisticated bouquet of white flowers and ripe citrus. On the palate, the Alphonse Mellot Sancerre Edmond 2018 unravels layers of delicate minerality, accented by a buoyant acidity that is inseparable from this remarkable terroir. Savour the lingering notes of citrus and stone fruit, echoing the signature of this illustrious heritage.
Every bottle of Alphonse Mellot Sancerre Edmond 2018 bears witness to a tradition of excellence, tempting discerning connoisseurs with every carefully curated sip.
In Bond€538.00 -
Immerse yourself in the rich experience of the Alphonse Mellot Sancerre Generation XIX Blanc 2018, a captivating vintage wine birthed from the esteemed soils of Loire Valley, France. With an impressive heritage spanning 19 generations, the Alphonse Mellot family adheres to stringent biodynamic principles to cultivate intensely aromatic Sauvignon Blanc grapes in a unique, flint-rich terroir.
The Alphonse Mellot Sancerre Generation XIX Blanc 2018 carries a distinguished minerality owed to its Sancerre origins. The wine is fermented in oak barrels and aged on the lees for a year, invoking a premium complexity. Expect an opulent palate with hints of lemon zest, ripe peaches, and a captivating flinty undertone.
This highly sought-after vintage is proof of Alphonse Mellot's mastery in crafting Sancerre wines. Consistent, superb quality and character inherent in every bottle maintain Alphonse Mellot's venerable position in the world of fine wines.
In Bond€487.00 -
Antoine Sanzay Saumur Champigny 2018, a provocative Cabernet Franc from the Loire Valley, is a testament to the mastery of its vintner. Produced in France's iconic Saumur Champigny appellation, this luscious wine inspires with its nuanced complexity. The grapes are manually harvested and subjected to a meticulous délestage process, resulting in a seamless blend of opulence and structure.
This esteemed producer, Antoine Sanzay, crafts with historic practices; a dedication to biodynamic viticulture, low intervention enology, and a passion for expressing the terroir's unique limestone-rich chalky soils. Triumphant in attitude, Antoine Sanzay Saumur Champigny 2018 showcases a delicate bouquet of redcurrants and violets, underpinned by a robust, earthy base.
Indulge in the crisp acidity and elegant tannins of this wine. Antoine Sanzay's masterful production, limited to just 2000 bottles per annum, offers a distinctive pleasure to fine wine connoisseurs.
In Bond€237.00 -
Indulge in the exemplary Antoine Sanzay Saumur Champigny Haye Dampierre 2018. Brought to us by the revered Antoine Sanzay, this fine wine upholds a tradition of quality and sophistication. Nestled within France's iconic Loire Valley, Sanzay's vineyards offer exceptional terroir which is accentuated in every glass of this vintage. This elegant, ruby-red Cabernet Franc exhibits notes of elderberry, blackberry, and captivating smoky undertones. Meticulously aged in oak barrels for a minimum of 12 months, it's a beautifully structured, medium-bodied wine with a lush finish.
Accomplished winemaker Antoine Sanzay is renowned for his commitment to organic farming and minimal intervention in the winemaking process. Each bottle is a testament to his unwavering passion. For lovers of intense, aromatic wines with great complexity and balance, Antoine Sanzay Saumur Champigny Haye Dampierre 2018 is an investment in superb taste. Enjoy this iconic expression of the finest French viticulture.
In Bond€510.00 -
Indulge in the exemplary Antoine Sanzay Saumur Champigny Haye Dampierre 2018. Brought to us by the revered Antoine Sanzay, this fine wine upholds a tradition of quality and sophistication. Nestled within France's iconic Loire Valley, Sanzay's vineyards offer exceptional terroir which is accentuated in every glass of this vintage. This elegant, ruby-red Cabernet Franc exhibits notes of elderberry, blackberry, and captivating smoky undertones. Meticulously aged in oak barrels for a minimum of 12 months, it's a beautifully structured, medium-bodied wine with a lush finish.
Accomplished winemaker Antoine Sanzay is renowned for his commitment to organic farming and minimal intervention in the winemaking process. Each bottle is a testament to his unwavering passion. For lovers of intense, aromatic wines with great complexity and balance, Antoine Sanzay Saumur Champigny Haye Dampierre 2018 is an investment in superb taste. Enjoy this iconic expression of the finest French viticulture.
In Bond€330.00 -
Behold the sophisticated Antoine Sanzay Saumur Les salles Martins 2018, a French vinous masterpiece. Hailing from the revered Saumur region in the Loire Valley, this elegant wine was crafted in the truly meticulous hands of a fifth-generation winemaker, Antoine Sanzay. Produced from 100% Cabernet Franc grapes grown in limestone soil, this wine expresses its emblematic terroir with finesse.
The winemaking process involved 18 months in French oak barrels, imbuing the wine with additional complexity and structure. On the palate, expect distinctive notes of currants, blackberries and subtle oak nuances harmoniously intertwined with earthy undertones and a crisp acidity. The long, elegant finish leaves a lasting impression, making the Antoine Sanzay Saumur Les salles Martins 2018 an exceptional addition to any fine wine enthusiast's collection.
With production limited to just 3000 bottles, this vintage indeed is a rare find and stands as testament to Antoine Sanzay's meticulous artistry.
In Bond€401.00 -
Hailing from the esteemed vineyards of Anjou in France's Loire Valley, the Belargus Coteaux du Layon 2018 is a magnificent embodiment of the domain's artisanal mastery. This delicate, late harvest Chenin Blanc is the work of renowned vigneron, Thibaud Boudignon, in collaboration with Jonatan Laval and Jean-Jérôme Kérouanton; their combined expertise imbuing a pioneering spirit into this luscious golden elixir. Immaculately tended, the aged vines give rise to wine with a pure, concentrated flavour profile, heady with notes of candied pear, honey, and wild flowers.
The minimal-intervention winemaking process, featuring indigenous yeasts and extended lees contact, further amplifies the wine's organic expressions. Both fascinating and complex, the Belargus Coteaux du Layon 2018 is a testament to Anjou's unique climate and schist-rich terroir, showcasing an unprecedented level of freshness and minerality that will delight any discerning palate. Enjoy this sweet, opulent gem in its youth or in years to come.
In Bond€422.00 -
The Belargus Coteaux du Layon Chaume Premier Cru Echarderie 2018 is an exquisite embodying example of France's esteemed viticulture. Born of the fertile soils of the scenic Loire Valley, this wine is expertly crafted by master vintners following time-honoured French winemaking traditions. The vineyard hand harvests and meticulously selects botrytis-affected grapes, while the process of long fermentation and matured on lees creates this nuanced sweet wine.
The Belargus Coteaux du Layon Chaume Premier Cru Echarderie 2018 surprises with its delicately-balanced acidity, lush palate of ripe white peach, honey, and subtly infused notes of orange blossom. This premier cru, made in limited quantity only, captures the essence of the Layon River region's terroir. It's a rewarding experience for the discerning palates, who recognise the intricate dynamics between its vibrancy, sweetness, and complexity. A splendid proof of Belargus's dedication to perfection.
In Bond€558.00 -
Wine Advocate (100)
Belargus's dark, amber-orange colored 2018 Quarts-de-Chaume Grand Cru Liquoreux Ultra is a tribute to the famous Ambroisie by Jo Pithon, an over-concentrated Quarts-de-Chaume with more than 30 degrees potential at harvest, referred to as “Ultra.” The wine opens with an intense and ultra concentrated but still vinous and not overly fruity bouquet with pencil point notes on the first nose that slowly reveals concentrated, syrupy apricot and roasted bacon-rind notes. Enormously viscous on the palate but at the same time so finessed, vital and balanced that the wine never weighs heavily and is not even sticky, this is an exceptional QDC, of which just one barrel was produced. This 2018 is made for eternity and belongs to the finest noble sweet wines I have ever had. Even though I am so much in love with the Les Quarts twin, I have to admit that here comes not only an even sweeter Quarts-de-Chaume but also an even more concentrated and finessed one. The aging capacity is ideal, and due to its balance, I don't see any doubts the wine can age 100 and more years. What a start for Domaine Belargus! 9% alcohol. Tasted in June 2021.In Bond€1,520.00 -
Unveiling the splendour of classical French wine-making, the Belliviere Coteaux Loir Vv Eparses 2018 is a wine lover’s delight. Exquisitely crafted from 100% Chenin Blanc grapes, this distinguished creation originates from a collection of old vineyards found in Jasnières and Coteaux du Loir by the esteemed Bellivière family. The grapes from these respectful vineyards are meticulously handpicked and vinified separately to preserve their unique identities.
Applying the traditional biodynamic farming approach intertwined with modern vinification techniques, this result is a wine with an expressive bouquet marked by fruity undertones, flaunting a balanced acidity. Its elegance, combined with a lingering minerality, pays the truest homage to its terroir. Endowed with a potential for an extended cellar life, this gem is a testament to the Bellivière’s unyielding commitment to crafting wines vouchsafing superior quality. Delight in each sip of the Belliviere Coteaux Loir Vv Eparses 2018 and embark on a flavour journey through the revered French wine territories.
In Bond€391.00 -
Vinous (96)
The ripeness of the 2018 vintage gives an almost Syrah/Viognier character to the Chinon La Croix Boissée, which offers sweet black fruit and a creamy apricot note. Sumptuous yet never ever opulent, it's almost as if the wine's just done a yoga class. Plentiful tannins give the inside of your cheeks a chalky rub, while there's surprising freshness considering the ripeness, leading to a lengthy finish. This is a baby that will turn out to be a great adult.In Bond€539.00 -
Vinous (94)
The 2018 Chinon Clos de la Dioterie is richly fruited, reflecting the warmth of the vintage, and soft and mouth-filling despite not being heavy. There's baked fruit here, suggesting a combination of black currant, red cherry, cedar and spice. The tannins are structured and textured, showing this wine's intent, but it's all very well handled – those tannins are both resolved and incredibly chalky. This is a lengthy, serious wine with sinew. The vintage might be evident in the high alcohol and warm profile, but the class of the site is also indisputable.In Bond€422.00 -
In Bond€506.00
-
Vinous (93)
Returning in 2018 after 2017 was wiped out by frosts, this is an intense, wild 2018 Buisson Renard, like an untamed head of curls. In clear evidence at this early stage, it has floral and boxwood characters and a nutty oak-derived influence. There's even an intriguing note of peppermint on the sinewy, lengthy finish. In a mid-weight, linear style with a firm, phenolic finish that almost requires knife and fork. This needs more time in bottle to shed its austere frame, but if you're not in a hurry...In Bond€520.00 -
Vinous (93)
Returning in 2018 after 2017 was wiped out by frosts, this is an intense, wild 2018 Buisson Renard, like an untamed head of curls. In clear evidence at this early stage, it has floral and boxwood characters and a nutty oak-derived influence. There's even an intriguing note of peppermint on the sinewy, lengthy finish. In a mid-weight, linear style with a firm, phenolic finish that almost requires knife and fork. This needs more time in bottle to shed its austere frame, but if you're not in a hurry...In Bond€784.00 -
Vinous (94)
Sourced from a south-facing single vineyard on flint and clay over chalk, the 2018 Pur Sang is all white flowers and spiced apple pastry. Seemingly effortless and silken, its Sauvignon edges rounded out in barrels. It offers excellent concentration on the mid-palate, a line of acidity acting like a thread and holding the core together like a ball. Delectably textured, with a hint of tannic sensation holding the mouth gently on a lengthy conclusion that's drawn-out and precise. A complex, multifaceted wine.In Bond€485.00 -
Vinous (94)
Sourced from a south-facing single vineyard on flint and clay over chalk, the 2018 Pur Sang is all white flowers and spiced apple pastry. Seemingly effortless and silken, its Sauvignon edges rounded out in barrels. It offers excellent concentration on the mid-palate, a line of acidity acting like a thread and holding the core together like a ball. Delectably textured, with a hint of tannic sensation holding the mouth gently on a lengthy conclusion that's drawn-out and precise. A complex, multifaceted wine.In Bond€821.00 -
Jancis Robinson (17+)
Cool and without obvious richness. Really refreshing and with great substance and density. More approachable in youth than I remember some Silex bottlings. You could happily enjoy this layered wine now but it should age well too. It really does taste flinty!!In Bond€1,255.00 -
In Bond€529.00
-
Vinous (96)
Clarity is a term that accurately describes the 2018 Sancerre Clos La Néore. It has a pure and intense core of fruit. But it's not fruity. It's a sophisticated style with a distinctive aromatic profile - chamomile tea, lemon, honey and almond meal and an almost tonic-like edge. While showing the ripeness of the 2018 season, it retains its shape with a corset of acidity and phenolics that guide the wine on and on.In Bond€761.00 -
Experience the distinguished Fosse Seche Saumur Pigeonnier Reserve 2018, a phenomenal specimen exalting the French winemaking craft from the venerable Saumur region. This exquisite Cabernet Franc combines the tradition of biodynamic vineyard practices with modern methods, curated under the masterful oversight of brothers Guillaume and Adrien Pire at the esteemed Fosse Seche estate.
Matured in French oak barrels, the wine expresses complex notes of ripe red fruits, violets, tobacco, and an undercurrent of spices. The firm tannins and dynamic acidity culminate in a starling finish, revealing a wine of superb structure and depth. The Fosse Seche Saumur Pigeonnier Reserve 2018 bears the hallmarks of the region's esteemed terroir, featuring the unique chalky soils of Saumur.
Be it for connoisseurs or discerning enthusiasts, the Fosse Seche Saumur Pigeonnier Reserve 2018 offers an enticing opportunity to savour an authentic French viticultural gem.
In Bond€1,675.00 -
Vinous (94)
The 2018 Sancerre Comtesse is the most aromatic of the 2018s I tasted. The bouquet is redolent with Sauvignon Blanc white flower signatures. There is plenty of citrus, white orchard fruit, mint and tomato leaf, and yet the wine is quite soft, with no angular edges, and exceptional balance.In Bond€468.00 -
The Guiberteau Saumur Breze 2018 offers an unmatched wine experience for discerning palates. Hailing from the prestigious Loire Valley in France, this wine exemplifies the expertise of winemaker Romain Guiberteau, renowned for predominantly organic and biodynamic cultivation. Impeccably crafted from Chenin Blanc grapes, aromas of ripe quince, pear, and acacia flash to the forefront, followed by a finely structured mineral core, reflective of the region's unique Tuffeau soil. The 2018 vintage, in particular, provides remarkable depth and vegetal undertones, striking a remarkable balance between acidity and roundness. Meticulously hand-harvested and fermented in seasoned French oak, the Guiberteau Saumur Breze 2018 exhibits the winemaker's touch of minimal intervention, resulting in a pure, authentic expression of the terroir. An elegant companion to sophisticated dining, it promises a rich, evolving experience with each sip.
In Bond€714.00 -
Wine Advocate (95+)
The 2018 Vouvray Le Mont Moelleux Première Trie is pure, deep and flinty on the concentrated nose, with very fine oak, toffee and potted ginger aromas. Lush, sweet and generous yet precise and crystalline on the palate, it features very fine tannins, lingering salinity and positive energy. This is a compact, persistent, tightly woven and stimulating Chenin from the Le Mont terroir that reveals firm, tensioned structure and a young finish with potential to improve and refine. Tasted in May 2019.In Bond€445.00 -
Vinous (92)
The 2018 Chinon Clos du Chene Vert, Monopole is one of the top wines from Joguet, offering pure black fruit and even some mint chocolate aromas, in addition to the telltale signs of classy oak use evident in its rich, rounded vanilla notes. In the mouth, you can expect a fuller-bodied style of Cabernet Franc that never becomes heavy or lush. It retains its freshness on the finish, reminding you that we might be in a hot vintage in the Loire, but we're still in the Loire. Fine, sand-like tannins sit in the mouth while the oak-derived vanillins and dark fruit linger on the long, sinewy finish.In Bond€389.00 -
An exquisite exemplar of elegance, the Louis-Benjamin Dagueneau Sancerre En Chailloux 2018 embodies the craft of Loire Valley winemaking. The product of meticulous viniculture, this single vineyard Sancerre is grown in chalky clay soils, affording the Sauvignon Blanc grape the ideal conditions for full maturation. Head winemaker Louis-Benjamin Dagueneau, the son of legendary Loire winemaker Didier Dagueneau, favours purity and precision in his wines, preferring minimal intervention in the cellar to let the unique terroir speak for itself. The result? An extraordinary minerality, bright acidity and elegant notes of citrus and white peach that have become synonymous with Louis-Benjamin Dagueneau Sancerre En Chailloux 2018. As flirtatious as it is refined, this white ignites the senses with a harmonious blend of intensity, balance, and terroir-driven complexity. A delightful expressional masterpiece that confirms the Dagueneau family's reputation for producing unequalled Loire Valley whites.
In Bond€742.00 -
Vinous (92)
From 30-year-old vines on schist and quartz. Light golden. Big aromas and flavors. Lots of melon and white fruit — ripe pear, quince, white peach. Ripe, and full-bodied, with lots of underlying spice.In Bond€480.00 -
Immerse yourself in the elegant opulence of Pierre Menard Orion Alpha Anjou 2018. Hailing from the renowned wineries of Anjou in the Loire Valley of France, this lustrous white wine boasts a stunning aromatic complexity of white flowers, citrus, and stone fruit nuances. Made by esteemed vintner Pierre Menard, a master craftsman celebrated for his organic and biodynamic farming practices, this exceptional vintage was fermented with native yeasts in chestnut barrels, adding to its distinctive profile.
Pierre Menard Orion Alpha Anjou 2018 shines with a bright, golden hue that hints at its purity and sophistication. Mcaptivating complexity is accentuated by the wine's mesmerizing minerality and balanced acidity. This is a wine that successfully marries tradition with innovation, creating a flavour profile that is both alluring and memorable.
For those in search of an exceptional white wine experience, Pierre Menard Orion Alpha Anjou 2018 is truly second to none.
In Bond€480.00 -
In Bond€307.00
-
Vinous (90)
It’s an “orange wine,” for sure, but for now, in its youth, the 2018 Saumur Blanc Terres is just kind of golden. The nose is full of apple and pear, with a cidery note, along with earth and citrus peel. In the mouth, there’s a lot of pear and pineapple. I find it adventurous and unique. The 2018 spent 4 months macerating in amphora.In Bond€469.00
