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
| Product Name | Region | Qty | Score | Price | |||||
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Loire | 3 | - |
Inc. TAX
€277.68 |
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Arnaud Lambert Saumur Clos de La Blanc 2020 embodies the exquisite elegance of the Loire Valley. Crafted in the esteemed Clos de La Blanc vineyard, this vintage showcases meticulously selected Cabernet Franc grapes, hand-harvested to ensure optimal ripeness. The grapes undergo fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, followed by maturation in French oak barrels for twelve months, imparting subtle complexity and refined tannins. Arnaud Lambert, a revered name in Saumur, combines traditional winemaking techniques with a commitment to sustainable practices, resulting in a wine of remarkable balance and character. On the palate, notes of red berries, floral undertones, and a hint of minerality unfold, culminating in a lingering, harmonious finish. This splendid exemplification of terroir and craftsmanship makes Arnaud Lambert Saumur Clos de La Blanc 2020 a distinguished addition to any fine wine collection. |
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Loire | 1 | - |
Inc. TAX
€245.28 |
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Unearth the true essence of Loire Valley with the exquisite Arnaud Lambert Saumur-Champigny Clos Moleton 2019. This compelling red wine embodies the passion and expertise of its renowned producer, Arnaud Lambert. The Saumur-Champigny appellation is hailed as the pinnacle of cabernet franc production and Lambert's bio-dynamic farming approach accentuates this wine's unique terroir. The 2019 Clos Moleton originates from a 1.2-hectare parcel that showcases the region's acclaimed tuffeau limestone soil. This stellar vintage offers an enchanting aromatic complexity, harbouring alluring notes of vibrant berry and subtle hints of fresh herbs. Fermemtation took place via native yeasts in concrete tanks, followed by aging in old foudres and barrels for 12 months, which imparts a distinctive elegance and longevity to the wine. Arnaud Lambert Saumur-Champigny Clos Moleton 2019 is a remarkable testament to the Loire valley's greatness and demonstrates the sublime harmony between respect for nature and the art of wine making. |
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Loire | 10 | - |
Inc. TAX
€481.68 |
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Loire | 9 | - |
Inc. TAX
€501.34 |
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Belargus Anjou Bonnes Blanches 2020 exemplifies the refined elegance of the Loire Valley. Crafted by the esteemed Domaine Belargus, this vintage is a harmonious blend of Chenin Blanc and other indigenous varietals, meticulously sourced from sustainably managed vineyards. Hand-harvested grapes undergo a gentle press, preserving their delicate aromas and vibrant acidity. Fermented in stainless steel tanks, the wine retains its fresh, fruity character while allowing subtle mineral undertones to emerge. The 2020 harvest benefited from an optimal climate, enhancing the wine’s expressive bouquet of white peaches, quince, and a hint of floral notes. A brief maturation on lees imparts a creamy texture without overshadowing its innate purity. Belargus Anjou Bonnes Blanches 2020 offers a crisp, balanced palate with a lingering finish, perfect for pairing with seafood, poultry, or enjoying on its own. This exceptional wine reflects Domaine Belargus’s commitment to quality and the rich heritage of Anjou’s winemaking tradition. |
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Loire | 39 | 96 (DC) |
Inc. TAX
€568.08 |
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Decanter (96)This is a dry wine made from 3ha of the sweet-wine vineyard, Quarts de Chaume. The inviting honeyed, toasty aromas precede a palate with layers of flavour, alternating ripe yellow peaches and mineral intensity, with perfectly balanced, lemony acidity. The well-integrated oak supports rather than dominates, even at this early stage of the wine's life. Lovely now, this will last and last. The finish is very long, honeyed and sweet-and-sour. This is a wine that has everything. I love the bitter notes that recall the great botrytised whites of Chaume. The wine is completely dry; the structure is carried by the power of the schist soils that give this uniquely characterful Chenin its sumptuous, honeyed, saline, bitter deliciousness. |
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Loire | 2 | - |
Inc. TAX
€244.08 |
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The
More Info
Belargus Anjou Ronceray 2018 is a momentous expression of Anjou, meticulously produced by celebrated winemaker, Jo Pithon. Located in the captivating terrain of Loire Valley in France, the vineyards of Belargus proudly present an enchanting reflection on the region's fertile lands. A symphony unfolds from the meticulous vinification of the Chenin Blanc grapes, handpicked from 70-year-old vines, guarding an ancestral legacy in each precious droplet. Bathed in the richness of the limestone and clay soil, this wine enjoys an aromatic complexity unparalleled in its class. Expect a bountiful palate justifying the long maturation in oak barrels, subtly suffused with the charm of wild flowers, honey, and ripe stone fruits. Leaning towards the drier spectrum, the Belargus Anjou Ronceray 2018 still maintains a balanced minerality and vibrant acidity as its tradition. For a harmonious blend of classic splendour and exceptional craftsmanship, let the Belargus Anjou Ronceray 2018 grace your finest moments. |
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Loire | 1 | 96 (WA) |
Inc. TAX
€696.94 |
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Wine Advocate (96)"'Les Rouères' is one of the three plots listed in the original decree creating the Quarts-de-Chaume appellation, on the eastern side," reports Ivan Massonat. "The soils, thin and hot, rest on pudding sandstone—sand concretions and rolled gravel—accumulating the heat of the day and restoring it at night. This solar terroir gives birth to charming, ample and complex wines," finds Massonnat. His golden-colored 2019 Anjou Sec Rouères, from a 2.96-hectare plot, opens with a deep, intense and rich yet immediately also crystalline, fresh and concentrated bouquet of ripe and warm fruits intertwined with refreshing and piquant grapefruit and smoked speck aromas (think warm baked dates wrapped in bacon). The Rouères seems cooler, more crystalline and purer than the expansive, rich and narcotic 2019 Veau. Accordingly, the introduction on the palate is crystalline and full of vibrant minerality, purity and fine tannins, whereas the fruit is more lean and bitter, intertwined with tannins, heroic acidity and salts. The finish is still tight and reminiscent of candied lemons and a tequila-like salt and lemon mix. The 2019 Rouères is much less Dionysian at this early stage but Appollinese. The nose is almost a bit dusty, pure and stony as it is, and the oh-so-salty and piquant palate is built on finesse and mineral freshness rather than richness and power. This is definitely a wine to cellar for 10 or 20 years, and certainly longer. The still-tight and austere but tensile 2019 Rouères should gain complexity and texture with bottle age and eventually might also develop some hedonistic features, but for now it pleases most of all the Riesling aficionados among us. Natural cork. Tasted in September 2021. |
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Loire | 1 | 97 (WA) |
Inc. TAX
€648.94 |
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Wine Advocate (97)"Le Veau is one of the three plots listed in the original decree creating the Quarts-de-Chaume appellation, on the western side," Ivan Massonnat explains, introducing his Anjou Sec Veau. The southwest-facing 1.68-hectare-plot rests on a flush schist area, giving this Anjou from the Quarts-de-Chaume AC (which is exclusively reserved for noble sweet wines) not only richness and power but also mineral tension and great aging potential. In 2018, Massonnat forgot to isolate the fruits of Le Veau, so it went into the Ronceray that I described earlier this year. The 2019 Anjou Sec Veau exhibits an intensely golden-yellow color followed by accordingly intense and concentrated, full and almost overripe, sweet and juicy tropical fruit that is absolutely exciting and made to meditate about whether the Quarts-de-Chaume appellation should not be opened to dry wines as well. However, this unique 2019 opens mind-blowingly intense, rich and complex and immediately asks for our time in order to explore all its depths and to follow the developments in the glass (I am using Zwiesel's wide and open Sensory Giacomo Conterno glass, which is just perfect for this kind of wine). On the palate, this full-bodied and rich yet perfectly balanced and elegant Chenin promptly reveals great finesse and minerality before the fruits come through and cover the palate with an almost oily texture; the spectacularly long finish, carried by crystalline acidity, cuts through this richness to leave the palate with a powerful, intense and aromatic as well as persistently salty aftertaste. This is another picture-book Chenin Blanc from Domaine Belargus, whose interplay of finesse and salinity with power and richness is mind-blowing. Natural cork. Tasted in September 2021. |
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Loire | 39 | - |
Inc. TAX
€569.03 |
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Explore the unique and luxurious delight of the 'Belargus Anjou Veau 2020'. Crafted with precision in the rich soils of Loire Valley, France, this remarkable wine carries the distinct regional essence. The producer, Maison Belargus, is renowned for quality wines matured through innovative techniques. Rigorously following sustainable viticulture, the Belargus Anjou Veau 2020 boasts of expressive local varietals, with handling that enhances its natural aromatics. The wine was vinified naturally and aged in used wooden barrels to create an unfiltered, impeccably pure expression retaining its fruit intensity. With a nose braced by fresh citrus and a lively palate hinting at touches of exotic fruits, the Belargus Anjou Veau 2020 forms a perfect harmony of immense freshness and approachable depth. Bask in the classic elegance of this white, a delightful addition to any sophisticated wine collection. |
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Loire | 1 | - |
Inc. TAX
€322.54 |
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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. |
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Loire | 1 | - |
Inc. TAX
€322.54 |
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The Belliviere Coteaux Loir Vv Eparses 2020 is an exquisite example of the viticultural brilliance that the Loir region in France has to offer. Hand-harvested and traditionally vinified with natural yeasts, this biodynamic wine is carefully produced by Domaine de Bellivière, renowned for their exceptional craftsmanship. Predominantly crafted from Chenin Blanc grapes, the 2020 vintage offers an aromatic bouquet with floral undertones, married nicely with a complex palate of ripe fruits and a hint of oak. Acidity and minerality are beautifully balanced in this bottle, showcasing the vibrant and expressive character that Belliviere Coteaux Loir Vv Eparses 2020 is famous for. It's a fantastic partner to seafood or poultry dishes, perfect for fine dining settings or to commemorate special events. This wine harmoniously unites tradition and innovation, granting each bottle with a multi-layered narrative of the land and its passionate producer. |
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Loire | 3 | - |
Inc. TAX
€168.02 |
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Experience the opulence of the Bernard Baudry Chinon Domaine 2021, an exquisite creation from the Loire Valley's majestic terrains. Skilfully crafted by Bernard Baudry, a prodigious vintner noted for his meticulous mastery of the Cabernet Franc grape, this wine is a testament to the beauty of France's eastern vineyards. The wine's maturation process, closely overseen in Baudry's splendid cellars, ensures a harmonious blend of concentration and elegance. Grapes harvested from calcium-rich lower slopes yield an infusion of forest berries and blackcurrant notes with lingering spicy undertones. As a biodynamic wine, Bernard Baudry Chinon Domaine 2021 is a testimony to the respect for nature and heritage. Every sip engenders a profound appreciation for Baudry's unwavering commitment to ethical, sustainable viticulture, culminating in this refined expression of terroir. Offering a tantalising balance of nuanced complexity and finesse, Bernard Baudry Chinon Domaine 2021 undeniably merits a place in any discerning oenophile's collection. |
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Loire | 1 | 96 (VN) |
Inc. TAX
€593.65 |
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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. |
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Loire | 1 | 95-97 (VN) |
Inc. TAX
€349.43 |
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Vinous (95-97)Just outside the village, Clos Guillot sits on a slope on clay over limestone. The 2019 Chinon is a serious barrel sample that melts in your mouth with its silken texture. No crushing, very little remontage and a year in used barrels all lend a very gentle touch. The tannins build gradually, coating the mouth with the finest of chalky textures. Excellent acidity keeps things fresh through the finish. |
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Loire | 1 | - |
Inc. TAX
€318.02 |
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An exceptional specimen hailing from the renowned vineyards of France's Loire Valley, the Bertrand Galbrun Bourgeuil Impetueuse 2012 offers a symphony of flavours distinguished by exquisite refinement and complexity. This vibrant red wine, crafted with passion by master vintner Bertrand Galbrun, is a testament to the potential of the Cabernet Franc grape. Hand-harvested at the peak of maturity, the grapes are carefully sorted and de-stemmed, before undergoing a three-week-long fermentation process, in concrete vats, no less. This meticulous approach results in a luscious palate featuring ripe red fruits, accented with subtle hints of pepper and spice. The Bertrand Galbrun Bourgeuil Impetueuse 2012 exudes sophistication, signifying the labour of a man dedicated to genuine artisanal winemaking. An offering as rare as it is marvellous, each bottle encapsulates the true essence of its terroir in Bourgeuil. This wine is a tribute to the legacy of winemaking in the Loire Valley, making it a must-have in every connoisseur’s collection. |
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Loire | 1 | - |
Inc. TAX
€230.14 |
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Butte Bourgueil Mi Pente 2020 epitomises the elegance of the Loire Valley’s esteemed appellation. Crafted by Domaine [Producer Name], renowned for their meticulous viticulture, this Meritage blend is sourced from meticulously maintained vineyards on the gentle slopes of Mi Pente. Handpicked grapes undergo a precise fermentation process in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats, preserving the wine’s vibrant fruit character. Aging occurs in French oak barrels for twelve months, imparting subtle vanilla and spice notes without overshadowing the varietal purity. The 2020 vintage showcases a deep garnet hue, complemented by aromas of ripe blackberries, cassis, and a hint of floral undertones. On the palate, it offers a harmonious balance of rich tannins and bright acidity, leading to a lingering, sophisticated finish. Ideal for both connoisseurs and enthusiasts, Butte Bourgueil Mi Pente 2020 is a testament to the producer’s dedication to quality and the region’s storied winemaking heritage. |
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Loire | 1 | 90 (VN) |
Inc. TAX
€189.55 |
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Vinous (90)Dark red. Reticent but pure aromas of bitter cherry, redcurrant, smoke, mint and earth. Supple and intensely flavored; ripe, easygoing and fairly open knit. Fat and rich. Finishes with fine tannins and spicy persistence. |
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Loire | 1 | 90 (VN) |
Inc. TAX
€120.68 |
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Vinous (90)Quite a different style from 2017. Aged 22 months in barrique, mix of new and old barrels. A bit reductive and toasty. The nose is attractive but oaky, with notes of cedar, hay, green olive, and rosemary. Chewy on the palate, dense, dark fresh fruit, but still lean and tight. An outlier worth checking in on a couple years from now. |
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Loire | 1 | - |
Inc. TAX
€133.15 |
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Indulge in the artistry of the renowned vintner, Charles Joguet, with a bottle of the revered Charles Joguet Chinon Clos de la Dioterie 2016. A pinnacle of French winemaking, this is an opulent red wine hailing from the Clos de la Dioterie vineyard, the esteemed producer's most northern vineyard nestled in the depths of the Loire Valley. This is a wine that denotes tradition, the grapes picked from 80-year-old vines merely add to the allure of this fine vintage. Charles Joguet expertly marries extraordinary craftsmanship with a respect for the land, resulting in a wine that wields a robust, yet elegantly balanced profile. Expect notes of dark fruit, enlivened by droplets of raspberry and a subtle earthy undertone. With its complex bouquet and unrivalled finish, a bottle of Charles Joguet Chinon Clos de la Dioterie 2016 is a delight for the discerning connoisseur. |
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Loire | 1 | 95 (VN) |
Inc. TAX
€125.48 |
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Vinous (95)The 2017 Chinon Clos de la Dioterie retains its great depth of color and feels incredibly young compared with many other 2017s from the region. Demonstrating excellent concentration and full body, it is round and without any angles. There's plenty of stuffing here, yet it remains elegant and coats the mouth with a delightfully fine tannic veil. You could drink it now, but that would be infanticide. If you like classy Right Bank wines that use Cabernet Franc as their base, you'll be pleasantly surprised at this wine. |
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| Product Name | Region | Qty | Score | Price | |||||
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Loire | 3 | - |
In Bond
€210.00 |
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Arnaud Lambert Saumur Clos de La Blanc 2020 embodies the exquisite elegance of the Loire Valley. Crafted in the esteemed Clos de La Blanc vineyard, this vintage showcases meticulously selected Cabernet Franc grapes, hand-harvested to ensure optimal ripeness. The grapes undergo fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, followed by maturation in French oak barrels for twelve months, imparting subtle complexity and refined tannins. Arnaud Lambert, a revered name in Saumur, combines traditional winemaking techniques with a commitment to sustainable practices, resulting in a wine of remarkable balance and character. On the palate, notes of red berries, floral undertones, and a hint of minerality unfold, culminating in a lingering, harmonious finish. This splendid exemplification of terroir and craftsmanship makes Arnaud Lambert Saumur Clos de La Blanc 2020 a distinguished addition to any fine wine collection. |
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Loire | 1 | - |
In Bond
€183.00 |
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Unearth the true essence of Loire Valley with the exquisite Arnaud Lambert Saumur-Champigny Clos Moleton 2019. This compelling red wine embodies the passion and expertise of its renowned producer, Arnaud Lambert. The Saumur-Champigny appellation is hailed as the pinnacle of cabernet franc production and Lambert's bio-dynamic farming approach accentuates this wine's unique terroir. The 2019 Clos Moleton originates from a 1.2-hectare parcel that showcases the region's acclaimed tuffeau limestone soil. This stellar vintage offers an enchanting aromatic complexity, harbouring alluring notes of vibrant berry and subtle hints of fresh herbs. Fermemtation took place via native yeasts in concrete tanks, followed by aging in old foudres and barrels for 12 months, which imparts a distinctive elegance and longevity to the wine. Arnaud Lambert Saumur-Champigny Clos Moleton 2019 is a remarkable testament to the Loire valley's greatness and demonstrates the sublime harmony between respect for nature and the art of wine making. |
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Loire | 10 | - |
In Bond
€380.00 |
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Loire | 9 | - |
In Bond
€394.00 |
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Belargus Anjou Bonnes Blanches 2020 exemplifies the refined elegance of the Loire Valley. Crafted by the esteemed Domaine Belargus, this vintage is a harmonious blend of Chenin Blanc and other indigenous varietals, meticulously sourced from sustainably managed vineyards. Hand-harvested grapes undergo a gentle press, preserving their delicate aromas and vibrant acidity. Fermented in stainless steel tanks, the wine retains its fresh, fruity character while allowing subtle mineral undertones to emerge. The 2020 harvest benefited from an optimal climate, enhancing the wine’s expressive bouquet of white peaches, quince, and a hint of floral notes. A brief maturation on lees imparts a creamy texture without overshadowing its innate purity. Belargus Anjou Bonnes Blanches 2020 offers a crisp, balanced palate with a lingering finish, perfect for pairing with seafood, poultry, or enjoying on its own. This exceptional wine reflects Domaine Belargus’s commitment to quality and the rich heritage of Anjou’s winemaking tradition. |
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Loire | 39 | 96 (DC) |
In Bond
€452.00 |
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Decanter (96)This is a dry wine made from 3ha of the sweet-wine vineyard, Quarts de Chaume. The inviting honeyed, toasty aromas precede a palate with layers of flavour, alternating ripe yellow peaches and mineral intensity, with perfectly balanced, lemony acidity. The well-integrated oak supports rather than dominates, even at this early stage of the wine's life. Lovely now, this will last and last. The finish is very long, honeyed and sweet-and-sour. This is a wine that has everything. I love the bitter notes that recall the great botrytised whites of Chaume. The wine is completely dry; the structure is carried by the power of the schist soils that give this uniquely characterful Chenin its sumptuous, honeyed, saline, bitter deliciousness. |
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Loire | 2 | - |
In Bond
€182.00 |
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The
More Info
Belargus Anjou Ronceray 2018 is a momentous expression of Anjou, meticulously produced by celebrated winemaker, Jo Pithon. Located in the captivating terrain of Loire Valley in France, the vineyards of Belargus proudly present an enchanting reflection on the region's fertile lands. A symphony unfolds from the meticulous vinification of the Chenin Blanc grapes, handpicked from 70-year-old vines, guarding an ancestral legacy in each precious droplet. Bathed in the richness of the limestone and clay soil, this wine enjoys an aromatic complexity unparalleled in its class. Expect a bountiful palate justifying the long maturation in oak barrels, subtly suffused with the charm of wild flowers, honey, and ripe stone fruits. Leaning towards the drier spectrum, the Belargus Anjou Ronceray 2018 still maintains a balanced minerality and vibrant acidity as its tradition. For a harmonious blend of classic splendour and exceptional craftsmanship, let the Belargus Anjou Ronceray 2018 grace your finest moments. |
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Loire | 1 | 96 (WA) |
In Bond
€557.00 |
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Wine Advocate (96)"'Les Rouères' is one of the three plots listed in the original decree creating the Quarts-de-Chaume appellation, on the eastern side," reports Ivan Massonat. "The soils, thin and hot, rest on pudding sandstone—sand concretions and rolled gravel—accumulating the heat of the day and restoring it at night. This solar terroir gives birth to charming, ample and complex wines," finds Massonnat. His golden-colored 2019 Anjou Sec Rouères, from a 2.96-hectare plot, opens with a deep, intense and rich yet immediately also crystalline, fresh and concentrated bouquet of ripe and warm fruits intertwined with refreshing and piquant grapefruit and smoked speck aromas (think warm baked dates wrapped in bacon). The Rouères seems cooler, more crystalline and purer than the expansive, rich and narcotic 2019 Veau. Accordingly, the introduction on the palate is crystalline and full of vibrant minerality, purity and fine tannins, whereas the fruit is more lean and bitter, intertwined with tannins, heroic acidity and salts. The finish is still tight and reminiscent of candied lemons and a tequila-like salt and lemon mix. The 2019 Rouères is much less Dionysian at this early stage but Appollinese. The nose is almost a bit dusty, pure and stony as it is, and the oh-so-salty and piquant palate is built on finesse and mineral freshness rather than richness and power. This is definitely a wine to cellar for 10 or 20 years, and certainly longer. The still-tight and austere but tensile 2019 Rouères should gain complexity and texture with bottle age and eventually might also develop some hedonistic features, but for now it pleases most of all the Riesling aficionados among us. Natural cork. Tasted in September 2021. |
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Loire | 1 | 97 (WA) |
In Bond
€517.00 |
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Wine Advocate (97)"Le Veau is one of the three plots listed in the original decree creating the Quarts-de-Chaume appellation, on the western side," Ivan Massonnat explains, introducing his Anjou Sec Veau. The southwest-facing 1.68-hectare-plot rests on a flush schist area, giving this Anjou from the Quarts-de-Chaume AC (which is exclusively reserved for noble sweet wines) not only richness and power but also mineral tension and great aging potential. In 2018, Massonnat forgot to isolate the fruits of Le Veau, so it went into the Ronceray that I described earlier this year. The 2019 Anjou Sec Veau exhibits an intensely golden-yellow color followed by accordingly intense and concentrated, full and almost overripe, sweet and juicy tropical fruit that is absolutely exciting and made to meditate about whether the Quarts-de-Chaume appellation should not be opened to dry wines as well. However, this unique 2019 opens mind-blowingly intense, rich and complex and immediately asks for our time in order to explore all its depths and to follow the developments in the glass (I am using Zwiesel's wide and open Sensory Giacomo Conterno glass, which is just perfect for this kind of wine). On the palate, this full-bodied and rich yet perfectly balanced and elegant Chenin promptly reveals great finesse and minerality before the fruits come through and cover the palate with an almost oily texture; the spectacularly long finish, carried by crystalline acidity, cuts through this richness to leave the palate with a powerful, intense and aromatic as well as persistently salty aftertaste. This is another picture-book Chenin Blanc from Domaine Belargus, whose interplay of finesse and salinity with power and richness is mind-blowing. Natural cork. Tasted in September 2021. |
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Loire | 39 | - |
In Bond
€452.00 |
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Explore the unique and luxurious delight of the 'Belargus Anjou Veau 2020'. Crafted with precision in the rich soils of Loire Valley, France, this remarkable wine carries the distinct regional essence. The producer, Maison Belargus, is renowned for quality wines matured through innovative techniques. Rigorously following sustainable viticulture, the Belargus Anjou Veau 2020 boasts of expressive local varietals, with handling that enhances its natural aromatics. The wine was vinified naturally and aged in used wooden barrels to create an unfiltered, impeccably pure expression retaining its fruit intensity. With a nose braced by fresh citrus and a lively palate hinting at touches of exotic fruits, the Belargus Anjou Veau 2020 forms a perfect harmony of immense freshness and approachable depth. Bask in the classic elegance of this white, a delightful addition to any sophisticated wine collection. |
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Loire | 1 | - |
In Bond
€245.00 |
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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. |
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Loire | 1 | - |
In Bond
€245.00 |
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The Belliviere Coteaux Loir Vv Eparses 2020 is an exquisite example of the viticultural brilliance that the Loir region in France has to offer. Hand-harvested and traditionally vinified with natural yeasts, this biodynamic wine is carefully produced by Domaine de Bellivière, renowned for their exceptional craftsmanship. Predominantly crafted from Chenin Blanc grapes, the 2020 vintage offers an aromatic bouquet with floral undertones, married nicely with a complex palate of ripe fruits and a hint of oak. Acidity and minerality are beautifully balanced in this bottle, showcasing the vibrant and expressive character that Belliviere Coteaux Loir Vv Eparses 2020 is famous for. It's a fantastic partner to seafood or poultry dishes, perfect for fine dining settings or to commemorate special events. This wine harmoniously unites tradition and innovation, granting each bottle with a multi-layered narrative of the land and its passionate producer. |
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Loire | 3 | - |
In Bond
€121.00 |
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Experience the opulence of the Bernard Baudry Chinon Domaine 2021, an exquisite creation from the Loire Valley's majestic terrains. Skilfully crafted by Bernard Baudry, a prodigious vintner noted for his meticulous mastery of the Cabernet Franc grape, this wine is a testament to the beauty of France's eastern vineyards. The wine's maturation process, closely overseen in Baudry's splendid cellars, ensures a harmonious blend of concentration and elegance. Grapes harvested from calcium-rich lower slopes yield an infusion of forest berries and blackcurrant notes with lingering spicy undertones. As a biodynamic wine, Bernard Baudry Chinon Domaine 2021 is a testimony to the respect for nature and heritage. Every sip engenders a profound appreciation for Baudry's unwavering commitment to ethical, sustainable viticulture, culminating in this refined expression of terroir. Offering a tantalising balance of nuanced complexity and finesse, Bernard Baudry Chinon Domaine 2021 undeniably merits a place in any discerning oenophile's collection. |
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Loire | 1 | 96 (VN) |
In Bond
€450.00 |
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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. |
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Loire | 1 | 95-97 (VN) |
In Bond
€269.00 |
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Vinous (95-97)Just outside the village, Clos Guillot sits on a slope on clay over limestone. The 2019 Chinon is a serious barrel sample that melts in your mouth with its silken texture. No crushing, very little remontage and a year in used barrels all lend a very gentle touch. The tannins build gradually, coating the mouth with the finest of chalky textures. Excellent acidity keeps things fresh through the finish. |
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Loire | 1 | - |
In Bond
€246.00 |
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An exceptional specimen hailing from the renowned vineyards of France's Loire Valley, the Bertrand Galbrun Bourgeuil Impetueuse 2012 offers a symphony of flavours distinguished by exquisite refinement and complexity. This vibrant red wine, crafted with passion by master vintner Bertrand Galbrun, is a testament to the potential of the Cabernet Franc grape. Hand-harvested at the peak of maturity, the grapes are carefully sorted and de-stemmed, before undergoing a three-week-long fermentation process, in concrete vats, no less. This meticulous approach results in a luscious palate featuring ripe red fruits, accented with subtle hints of pepper and spice. The Bertrand Galbrun Bourgeuil Impetueuse 2012 exudes sophistication, signifying the labour of a man dedicated to genuine artisanal winemaking. An offering as rare as it is marvellous, each bottle encapsulates the true essence of its terroir in Bourgeuil. This wine is a tribute to the legacy of winemaking in the Loire Valley, making it a must-have in every connoisseur’s collection. |
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Loire | 1 | - |
In Bond
€168.00 |
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Butte Bourgueil Mi Pente 2020 epitomises the elegance of the Loire Valley’s esteemed appellation. Crafted by Domaine [Producer Name], renowned for their meticulous viticulture, this Meritage blend is sourced from meticulously maintained vineyards on the gentle slopes of Mi Pente. Handpicked grapes undergo a precise fermentation process in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats, preserving the wine’s vibrant fruit character. Aging occurs in French oak barrels for twelve months, imparting subtle vanilla and spice notes without overshadowing the varietal purity. The 2020 vintage showcases a deep garnet hue, complemented by aromas of ripe blackberries, cassis, and a hint of floral undertones. On the palate, it offers a harmonious balance of rich tannins and bright acidity, leading to a lingering, sophisticated finish. Ideal for both connoisseurs and enthusiasts, Butte Bourgueil Mi Pente 2020 is a testament to the producer’s dedication to quality and the region’s storied winemaking heritage. |
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Loire | 1 | 90 (VN) |
In Bond
€154.00 |
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Vinous (90)Dark red. Reticent but pure aromas of bitter cherry, redcurrant, smoke, mint and earth. Supple and intensely flavored; ripe, easygoing and fairly open knit. Fat and rich. Finishes with fine tannins and spicy persistence. |
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Loire | 1 | 90 (VN) |
In Bond
€97.00 |
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Vinous (90)Quite a different style from 2017. Aged 22 months in barrique, mix of new and old barrels. A bit reductive and toasty. The nose is attractive but oaky, with notes of cedar, hay, green olive, and rosemary. Chewy on the palate, dense, dark fresh fruit, but still lean and tight. An outlier worth checking in on a couple years from now. |
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Loire | 1 | - |
In Bond
€107.00 |
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Indulge in the artistry of the renowned vintner, Charles Joguet, with a bottle of the revered Charles Joguet Chinon Clos de la Dioterie 2016. A pinnacle of French winemaking, this is an opulent red wine hailing from the Clos de la Dioterie vineyard, the esteemed producer's most northern vineyard nestled in the depths of the Loire Valley. This is a wine that denotes tradition, the grapes picked from 80-year-old vines merely add to the allure of this fine vintage. Charles Joguet expertly marries extraordinary craftsmanship with a respect for the land, resulting in a wine that wields a robust, yet elegantly balanced profile. Expect notes of dark fruit, enlivened by droplets of raspberry and a subtle earthy undertone. With its complex bouquet and unrivalled finish, a bottle of Charles Joguet Chinon Clos de la Dioterie 2016 is a delight for the discerning connoisseur. |
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Loire | 1 | 95 (VN) |
In Bond
€101.00 |
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Vinous (95)The 2017 Chinon Clos de la Dioterie retains its great depth of color and feels incredibly young compared with many other 2017s from the region. Demonstrating excellent concentration and full body, it is round and without any angles. There's plenty of stuffing here, yet it remains elegant and coats the mouth with a delightfully fine tannic veil. You could drink it now, but that would be infanticide. If you like classy Right Bank wines that use Cabernet Franc as their base, you'll be pleasantly surprised at this wine. |
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