Rhône
The Rhône Valley, located in southeastern France, is renowned for its exceptional fine wines. With its diverse terroir, rich history, and dedication to quality winemaking, the Rhône Valley offers a captivating selection of wines that embody the region's elegance, complexity, and distinctive character.
The Rhône Valley boasts its own iconic vineyards and wineries, including Château de Beaucastel, Domaine Guigal, and Chapoutier, which are celebrated for producing exceptional wines that showcase the region's unique terroir and winemaking expertise.
The Rhône Valley is renowned for its red wines, particularly in the northern part of the region. Syrah reigns as the dominant grape variety, producing intense and structured wines. Appellations such as Côte-Rôtie, Hermitage, and Cornas are known for their robust and age-worthy reds, often displaying notes of black fruits, spice, and earthiness. Famous vineyards such as La Landonne, La Mouline, and Les Bessards are revered for their exceptional expressions of Syrah.
In the southern Rhône Valley, Grenache takes centre stage, contributing to the region's bold and fruit-forward red blends. The renowned appellation of Châteauneuf-du-Pape is famous for its rich and full-bodied red wines, often featuring a blend of Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre. Vineyards like Château de Beaucastel, Clos des Papes, and Domaine du Vieux Télégraphe produce remarkable wines that showcase the region's commitment to excellence.
The Rhône Valley is also celebrated for its white wines, particularly in the northern part of the region. Viognier, Marsanne, and Roussanne are the key grape varieties, producing aromatic and complex whites. Appellations like Condrieu and Hermitage produce exceptional white wines known for their floral aromas, stone fruit flavors, and vibrant acidity.
Rhône
| Product Name | Region | Qty | Score | Price | |||||
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Rhone | 1 | 94-96 (JD) |
Inc. TAX
€398.56 |
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Jeb Dunnuck (94-96)Moving to the old vine cuvée, which is a blend of 85% Grenache and 15% Mourvèdre, the 2019 Châteauneuf Du Pape Chante Le Merle Vieilles Vignes reveals a deeper ruby/purple color as well as a richer, slightly more powerful bouquet of blackcurrants, jammy black cherries, roasted garrigue, black licorice, and assorted background notes of spicy meatiness. It’s full-bodied and has a beautiful mid-palate, building tannins, and a great finish. This is another classic yet ripe, pure, and beautifully balanced wine from this estate that will benefit from 2-3 years of bottle age and keep for 15+ years or more. |
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Rhone | 1 | 95-97 (JD) |
Inc. TAX
€434.56 |
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Jeb Dunnuck (95-97)The 2019 Châteauneuf Du Pape La Folie might not match the magical 2016, but it’s no less a brilliant wine with a subtle modern style in its black raspberry, kirsch liqueur, cassis, peppery garrigue, and spice-driven aromas and flavors. Always the most modern style cuvée in the lineup (it sees a small amount of new oak), it nevertheless never loses its Southern Rhône soul and is full-bodied, flawlessly balanced, with ripe, seamless tannins and a great finish. This wine is roughly 80% Grenache and 20% Mourvèdre that was all destemmed. It should drink well with 2-3 years of bottle age and keep nicely for 15 years or more in cold cellars. |
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Rhone | 2 | - |
Inc. TAX
€724.62 |
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Introducing the exquisite Brunier Chateauneuf-du-Pape Blanc Clos Roquete 2021. This distinguished white wine is produced within the celebrated Clos la Roquète vineyard, in France’s iconic Rhône region. The Brunier family, distinguished vignerons since the 19th century, artfully blend regional varietals Grenache Blanc, Clairette, and Bourboulenc to create this masterpiece. Profoundly alluring, this unique wine captures the vibrant intensity of mother nature. The 2021 batch illustrates the winemaker's refined touch. Lower yield grape selection and meticulous fermentation in oak foudres confer unparalleled structure, depth, and a peerlessly smooth finish. Delicate aromas of honeysuckle, white peach and minerality typify the palate, leading to a perfectly balanced, fresh and complex finish. Beyond painting an authentic portrait of the sun-drenched Southern Rhône terroir, the Brunier Chateauneuf-du-Pape Blanc Clos Roquete 2021 is a testament to the Brunier family's enduring legacy and passion for viniculture. |
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Rhone | 4 | - |
Inc. TAX
€446.92 |
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Rhone | 1 | - |
Inc. TAX
€521.27 |
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Rhone | 1 | 96 (WA) |
Inc. TAX
€709.45 |
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Wine Advocate (96)The blockbuster 1990 is just now approaching full maturity. It possesses a dense ruby/purple color as well as a gorgeous bouquet of prunes, kirsch liqueur, balsam wood, incense, and fruitcake. Full-bodied, with a viscous texture, and a long, concentrated finish exhibiting admirable purity and balance, it can be drunk now and over the next 17-18 years. |
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Rhone | 2 | 97 (JD) |
Inc. TAX
€841.36 |
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Jeb Dunnuck (97)The 2017 Châteauneuf Du Pape Barbe Rac is brilliant and up there with some of the finest vintages to date of this cuvée. Based all on Grenache from a single lieu-dit in the southwest of the appellation called the Barbe d'Asne and brought up in concrete tanks, it offers up a gorgeous nose of kirsch liqueur, ground pepper, garrigue, and graphite. Deep, rich, and powerful on the palate, with tons of sweet fruit, it needs 4-5 years of bottle age and will keep for two decades or more. |
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Rhone | 1 | 97 (JD) |
Inc. TAX
€474.16 |
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Jeb Dunnuck (97)I’d put the 2018 Châteauneuf du Barbe Rac up against anything in this vintage. Coming from 100% Grenache brought up all in concrete, it reveals a deeper purple/ruby color as well as awesome notes of red and blue fruits, ground pepper, iodine, spring flowers, and a touch of gamey meat. Possessing more depth and concentration than most, it’s full-bodied, has a stacked mid-palate, silky tannins, and a big, big finish. I already like it today, but I suspect it will be even better with 1-3 years of bottle age, and it should keep for 15 years or more. |
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Rhone | 1 | - |
Inc. TAX
€450.26 |
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Rhone | 1 | - |
Inc. TAX
€585.76 |
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Rhone | 1 | - |
Inc. TAX
€438.25 |
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Rhone | 3 | 96.0 |
Inc. TAX
€2,067.73 |
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Rhone | 1 | - |
Inc. TAX
€6,989.82 |
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Rhone | 1 | - |
Inc. TAX
€10,130.92 |
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Rhone | 1 | - |
Inc. TAX
€2,571.52 |
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Delighting the senses, Chimere Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2016 is a magnificent French wine known for its complexity and vivacity. Hailing from the eminent winery of Manfred Krankl, this elegant wine yields an intoxicating aroma of ripe black fruits, combined with undertones of truffle, saddle leather, and tar with a tertiary hint of smoky oak as it ages. The grapes are manually harvested to ensure the superior quality, indulging in a whole cluster, native yeast fermentation. Subsequent ageing in French Oak accelerifies the development of opulence and richness in texture. This Grenache-dominated cuvee, sourced from the ceremonial La Crau vineyard, displays its full-bodied character with masterly finesse. The potter’s clay soil of the vineyard imparts unique mineral notes to the Chimere Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2016, lending it its distinct character. A bottle of this enchanting elixir is a must for discerning wine enthusiasts seeking a remarkable expression of Chateauneuf-du-Pape terroir, making every sip a toast to the grandeur of French winemaking. |
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Rhone | 1 | - |
Inc. TAX
€1,965.40 |
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Emanating from the Rhone Valley's prestigious vineyards is Chimere Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2018, a masterstroke of vinification combining Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre grapes. This iconic blend is meticulously crafted by the distinguished Manfred Krankl and Pascal and Vincent Maurel of Clos Saint Jean. Harvested from their oldest vines, some over a century old, the fruit is organically grown on a mix of soil types, lending a singular finesse and complexity to the palate. The vintage is adrenalised on the lees, aged in new French oak imparting luxurious layers of rich fruit, earthy undertones and a silky finish. Its iconic label, a vibrant Chimera, mirrors the wine's mythical and multi-dimensional personality. This powerhouse wine has received worldwide plaudits for its deep ruby colouring, full-bodied nature, and illustrious ageing potential. Whether you're an ardent admirer or a first-time taster, Chimere Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2018 adds an exquisite touch to any wine collection. |
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Rhone | 4 | 96 (WS) |
Inc. TAX
€505.78 |
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Wine Spectator (96)Lots of taut sinew here supporting the beam of black cherry, plum, tar and mineral flavors, with sweet earth, tobacco and cocoa powder on the finish. This wine has gotten progressively bigger over time and still seems in its ascendancy. Terrific focus and purity.--1995 Châteauneuf-du-Pape retrospective. Drink now through 2020. 8,330 cases made. -JM |
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Rhone | 1 | 94-97 (VN) |
Inc. TAX
€1,607.74 |
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Vinous - Josh Raynolds (94-97)Foudre #1 (the fine one, according to Avril): Bright red. Intense strawberry and raspberry on the nose, with subtle garrigue and minerals adding complexity. Silky red fruit flavors show seductive spice and floral pastille qualities. Finishes with great persistence. Foudre #2 (the tannic one): Ruby-red. Bright red fruit aromas, with a deep undercurrent of licorice adding seriousness. The palate shows very spicy bitter cherry and dark berry liqueur flavors, chewy tannic grip and a long, vibrant finish. If this is Avril's idea of tannic in 2006, the final wine should be a supple beauty. Foudre #3 (the concentrated one, from 80-year-old vines cropped at15 hl/ha): Inky ruby. Rich cherry and cassis aromas, with a deep tapenade quality adding complexity. Sappy, sweet and packing major dark berry punch, this clocks in at 16.5% alcohol, but there's no obvious heat. An approximate blend: I hate doing this, but why not, said Avril, who doesn't believe that on-the-spot blends are accurate reflections of what winds up in the bottle. But this was his idea, not mine! Dark ruby. Powerful kirsch and blackcurrant aromas, with exotic licorice and fresh floral character expanding with air. Pliant dark berry and bitter cherry flavors carry through the long, sappy finish. A balanced, sweet powerhouse from this vantage point, with the concentration to age for at least a decade or two. |
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Rhone | 1 | 18 (JR) |
Inc. TAX
€1,265.74 |
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Jancis Robinson (18)Dusty, dried spice nose with lots of energy. Lovely sweetness and fluidity. Already fun to drink with an edge of animal but no suggestion of brett. Very clean and fruity and sweet. Transparent. Already lovely. And somehow it seems refreshing. |
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Rhone | 2 | 95 (DC) |
Inc. TAX
€1,268.77 |
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Decanter (95)Paul and Vincent Avril, a father and son team, established themselves as one of the finest producers of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Despite being predominantly Grenache, it is reminiscent of an elegant northern Rhône Syrah with the texture of a Pinot. With a medium bodied intensity, it has a beautiful red fruit expression with some savoury notes. Harmony, finesse and elegance are probably the three words that best describe this beauty. One for the cellar. |
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Rhone | 1 | 98 (WS) |
Inc. TAX
€1,907.74 |
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Wine Spectator (98)This offers a drop-dead gorgeous core of cassis and raspberry pâte de fruit flavors that hold center stage but still allow notes of Lapsang souchong tea, anise, incense and shiso leaf to chime in. Very long, with a sublime feel through the mineral-tinged finish. So seductive already, but this should cruise in the cellar. Drink now through 2040. 6,000 cases made. |
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Rhone | 2 | 98 (WS) |
Inc. TAX
€1,000.07 |
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Wine Spectator (98)This offers a drop-dead gorgeous core of cassis and raspberry pâte de fruit flavors that hold center stage but still allow notes of Lapsang souchong tea, anise, incense and shiso leaf to chime in. Very long, with a sublime feel through the mineral-tinged finish. So seductive already, but this should cruise in the cellar. Drink now through 2040. 6,000 cases made. |
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Rhone | 1 | 100 (JD) |
Inc. TAX
€1,687.52 |
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Jeb Dunnuck (100)Another perfect wine from this brilliant estate is the 2016 Châteauneuf-du-Pape, which matches the otherworldly 2007. A classic blend of 60% Grenache, 30% Mourvèdre and 10% Syrah brought up all in old foudre, this beauty's deep purple color is followed by a mammoth bouquet of kirsch liqueur, black currants, blueberries, Asian spices, and garrigue. Full-bodied, concentrated, and powerful, it nevertheless is as graceful as a ballerina on the palate and has ultra-fine tannins, a silky, seamless texture, and a finish that just won't quit. Hats off to vigneron Paul-Vincent Avril! |
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Rhone | 1 | 100 (JD) |
Inc. TAX
€711.76 |
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Jeb Dunnuck (100)Another perfect wine from this brilliant estate is the 2016 Châteauneuf-du-Pape, which matches the otherworldly 2007. A classic blend of 60% Grenache, 30% Mourvèdre and 10% Syrah brought up all in old foudre, this beauty's deep purple color is followed by a mammoth bouquet of kirsch liqueur, black currants, blueberries, Asian spices, and garrigue. Full-bodied, concentrated, and powerful, it nevertheless is as graceful as a ballerina on the palate and has ultra-fine tannins, a silky, seamless texture, and a finish that just won't quit. Hats off to vigneron Paul-Vincent Avril! |
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Rhone | 2 | 98+ (JD) |
Inc. TAX
€1,211.12 |
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Jeb Dunnuck (98+)One of the strongest wines in the vintage is the 2017 Châteauneuf Du Pape from Vincent Avril. This beauty has everything you could ask for. As with the 2018, the blend is heavily shifted toward Mourvèdre, and it offers a mammoth bouquet of black cherries, graphite, cured meats, Asian spices, and assorted garrigue-like nuances. Deep, full-bodied, and concentrated, it stays straight and focused on the palate (whereas the 2016 is more expansive and voluptuous), with a stacked mid-palate, ripe, silky tannins, and fabulous length. You’re going to want bottles of this in the cellar, and comparing the 2007, 2010, 2016, and 2017 over the coming two decades is going to be a treat. |
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Rhone | 1 | 98+ (JD) |
Inc. TAX
€476.56 |
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Jeb Dunnuck (98+)One of the strongest wines in the vintage is the 2017 Châteauneuf Du Pape from Vincent Avril. This beauty has everything you could ask for. As with the 2018, the blend is heavily shifted toward Mourvèdre, and it offers a mammoth bouquet of black cherries, graphite, cured meats, Asian spices, and assorted garrigue-like nuances. Deep, full-bodied, and concentrated, it stays straight and focused on the palate (whereas the 2016 is more expansive and voluptuous), with a stacked mid-palate, ripe, silky tannins, and fabulous length. You’re going to want bottles of this in the cellar, and comparing the 2007, 2010, 2016, and 2017 over the coming two decades is going to be a treat. |
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Rhone | 1 | 96 (JD) |
Inc. TAX
€1,173.34 |
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Jeb Dunnuck (96)Due to devastating yields, there’s not much of the 2018 Châteauneuf Du Pape to go around, but it’s going to be worth the extra effort to track down. Based on 50% Grenache, 40% Mourvèdre, and the rest Syrah (and a splash of other permitted varieties), it offers a textbook, classic Châteauneuf du Pape nose of mulled red and black fruits, Provençal garrigue, ground pepper, and saddle leather. These all carry to a medium to full-bodied Clos des Papes that has thrillingly polished tannins, flawless balance, and a great finish. Made in a style similar to the 1999, 2004, and maybe a kiss of the 2006, it has the beautiful elegance (again, a Grand Cru Burgundy comes to mind) paired with plenty of intensity and length. I doubt it will shut down and it’s going to evolve nicely for 15-20 years or more. |
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Rhone | 1 | 96 (JD) |
Inc. TAX
€475.67 |
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Jeb Dunnuck (96)Due to devastating yields, there’s not much of the 2018 Châteauneuf Du Pape to go around, but it’s going to be worth the extra effort to track down. Based on 50% Grenache, 40% Mourvèdre, and the rest Syrah (and a splash of other permitted varieties), it offers a textbook, classic Châteauneuf du Pape nose of mulled red and black fruits, Provençal garrigue, ground pepper, and saddle leather. These all carry to a medium to full-bodied Clos des Papes that has thrillingly polished tannins, flawless balance, and a great finish. Made in a style similar to the 1999, 2004, and maybe a kiss of the 2006, it has the beautiful elegance (again, a Grand Cru Burgundy comes to mind) paired with plenty of intensity and length. I doubt it will shut down and it’s going to evolve nicely for 15-20 years or more. |
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Rhone | 1 | 99 (WCI) |
Inc. TAX
€1,211.12 |
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The Wine Cellar Insider (99)Rich, supple, deep, intense and complex, this is stunning from the get go. One sniff of all that gorgeous, spicy kirsch, herbs, peppery spice and mélange of red fruits and you're hooked. If that wasn't enough, the silky, supple, elegant, fresh palate presence will seal the deal, finishing with its layers of deep, red fruits. This wine should age and evolve for 2-3 decades with ease. The wine is a blend of 45% Grenache, 40% Mourvedre, 10% Syrah and the remaining 5% consists of various, allowable grape varieties. The grapes are as always 100% destemmed. |
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Rhone | 2 | 99 (WCI) |
Inc. TAX
€677.30 |
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The Wine Cellar Insider (99)Rich, supple, deep, intense and complex, this is stunning from the get go. One sniff of all that gorgeous, spicy kirsch, herbs, peppery spice and mélange of red fruits and you're hooked. If that wasn't enough, the silky, supple, elegant, fresh palate presence will seal the deal, finishing with its layers of deep, red fruits. This wine should age and evolve for 2-3 decades with ease. The wine is a blend of 45% Grenache, 40% Mourvedre, 10% Syrah and the remaining 5% consists of various, allowable grape varieties. The grapes are as always 100% destemmed. |
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| Product Name | Region | Qty | Score | Price | |||||
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Rhone | 1 | 94-96 (JD) |
In Bond
€309.00 |
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Jeb Dunnuck (94-96)Moving to the old vine cuvée, which is a blend of 85% Grenache and 15% Mourvèdre, the 2019 Châteauneuf Du Pape Chante Le Merle Vieilles Vignes reveals a deeper ruby/purple color as well as a richer, slightly more powerful bouquet of blackcurrants, jammy black cherries, roasted garrigue, black licorice, and assorted background notes of spicy meatiness. It’s full-bodied and has a beautiful mid-palate, building tannins, and a great finish. This is another classic yet ripe, pure, and beautifully balanced wine from this estate that will benefit from 2-3 years of bottle age and keep for 15+ years or more. |
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Rhone | 1 | 95-97 (JD) |
In Bond
€339.00 |
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Jeb Dunnuck (95-97)The 2019 Châteauneuf Du Pape La Folie might not match the magical 2016, but it’s no less a brilliant wine with a subtle modern style in its black raspberry, kirsch liqueur, cassis, peppery garrigue, and spice-driven aromas and flavors. Always the most modern style cuvée in the lineup (it sees a small amount of new oak), it nevertheless never loses its Southern Rhône soul and is full-bodied, flawlessly balanced, with ripe, seamless tannins and a great finish. This wine is roughly 80% Grenache and 20% Mourvèdre that was all destemmed. It should drink well with 2-3 years of bottle age and keep nicely for 15 years or more in cold cellars. |
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Rhone | 2 | - |
In Bond
€559.00 |
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Introducing the exquisite Brunier Chateauneuf-du-Pape Blanc Clos Roquete 2021. This distinguished white wine is produced within the celebrated Clos la Roquète vineyard, in France’s iconic Rhône region. The Brunier family, distinguished vignerons since the 19th century, artfully blend regional varietals Grenache Blanc, Clairette, and Bourboulenc to create this masterpiece. Profoundly alluring, this unique wine captures the vibrant intensity of mother nature. The 2021 batch illustrates the winemaker's refined touch. Lower yield grape selection and meticulous fermentation in oak foudres confer unparalleled structure, depth, and a peerlessly smooth finish. Delicate aromas of honeysuckle, white peach and minerality typify the palate, leading to a perfectly balanced, fresh and complex finish. Beyond painting an authentic portrait of the sun-drenched Southern Rhône terroir, the Brunier Chateauneuf-du-Pape Blanc Clos Roquete 2021 is a testament to the Brunier family's enduring legacy and passion for viniculture. |
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Rhone | 4 | - |
In Bond
€350.00 |
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Rhone | 1 | - |
In Bond
€412.00 |
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Rhone | 1 | 96 (WA) |
In Bond
€585.00 |
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Wine Advocate (96)The blockbuster 1990 is just now approaching full maturity. It possesses a dense ruby/purple color as well as a gorgeous bouquet of prunes, kirsch liqueur, balsam wood, incense, and fruitcake. Full-bodied, with a viscous texture, and a long, concentrated finish exhibiting admirable purity and balance, it can be drunk now and over the next 17-18 years. |
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Rhone | 2 | 97 (JD) |
In Bond
€678.00 |
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Jeb Dunnuck (97)The 2017 Châteauneuf Du Pape Barbe Rac is brilliant and up there with some of the finest vintages to date of this cuvée. Based all on Grenache from a single lieu-dit in the southwest of the appellation called the Barbe d'Asne and brought up in concrete tanks, it offers up a gorgeous nose of kirsch liqueur, ground pepper, garrigue, and graphite. Deep, rich, and powerful on the palate, with tons of sweet fruit, it needs 4-5 years of bottle age and will keep for two decades or more. |
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Rhone | 1 | 97 (JD) |
In Bond
€372.00 |
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Jeb Dunnuck (97)I’d put the 2018 Châteauneuf du Barbe Rac up against anything in this vintage. Coming from 100% Grenache brought up all in concrete, it reveals a deeper purple/ruby color as well as awesome notes of red and blue fruits, ground pepper, iodine, spring flowers, and a touch of gamey meat. Possessing more depth and concentration than most, it’s full-bodied, has a stacked mid-palate, silky tannins, and a big, big finish. I already like it today, but I suspect it will be even better with 1-3 years of bottle age, and it should keep for 15 years or more. |
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Rhone | 1 | - |
In Bond
€353.00 |
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Rhone | 1 | - |
In Bond
€465.00 |
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Rhone | 1 | - |
In Bond
€354.00 |
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Rhone | 3 | 96.0 |
In Bond
€1,720.00 |
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Rhone | 1 | - |
In Bond
€5,780.00 |
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Rhone | 1 | - |
In Bond
€8,405.00 |
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Rhone | 1 | - |
In Bond
€2,135.00 |
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Delighting the senses, Chimere Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2016 is a magnificent French wine known for its complexity and vivacity. Hailing from the eminent winery of Manfred Krankl, this elegant wine yields an intoxicating aroma of ripe black fruits, combined with undertones of truffle, saddle leather, and tar with a tertiary hint of smoky oak as it ages. The grapes are manually harvested to ensure the superior quality, indulging in a whole cluster, native yeast fermentation. Subsequent ageing in French Oak accelerifies the development of opulence and richness in texture. This Grenache-dominated cuvee, sourced from the ceremonial La Crau vineyard, displays its full-bodied character with masterly finesse. The potter’s clay soil of the vineyard imparts unique mineral notes to the Chimere Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2016, lending it its distinct character. A bottle of this enchanting elixir is a must for discerning wine enthusiasts seeking a remarkable expression of Chateauneuf-du-Pape terroir, making every sip a toast to the grandeur of French winemaking. |
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Rhone | 1 | - |
In Bond
€1,630.00 |
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Emanating from the Rhone Valley's prestigious vineyards is Chimere Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2018, a masterstroke of vinification combining Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre grapes. This iconic blend is meticulously crafted by the distinguished Manfred Krankl and Pascal and Vincent Maurel of Clos Saint Jean. Harvested from their oldest vines, some over a century old, the fruit is organically grown on a mix of soil types, lending a singular finesse and complexity to the palate. The vintage is adrenalised on the lees, aged in new French oak imparting luxurious layers of rich fruit, earthy undertones and a silky finish. Its iconic label, a vibrant Chimera, mirrors the wine's mythical and multi-dimensional personality. This powerhouse wine has received worldwide plaudits for its deep ruby colouring, full-bodied nature, and illustrious ageing potential. Whether you're an ardent admirer or a first-time taster, Chimere Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2018 adds an exquisite touch to any wine collection. |
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Rhone | 4 | 96 (WS) |
In Bond
€409.00 |
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Wine Spectator (96)Lots of taut sinew here supporting the beam of black cherry, plum, tar and mineral flavors, with sweet earth, tobacco and cocoa powder on the finish. This wine has gotten progressively bigger over time and still seems in its ascendancy. Terrific focus and purity.--1995 Châteauneuf-du-Pape retrospective. Drink now through 2020. 8,330 cases made. -JM |
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Rhone | 1 | 94-97 (VN) |
In Bond
€1,295.00 |
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Vinous - Josh Raynolds (94-97)Foudre #1 (the fine one, according to Avril): Bright red. Intense strawberry and raspberry on the nose, with subtle garrigue and minerals adding complexity. Silky red fruit flavors show seductive spice and floral pastille qualities. Finishes with great persistence. Foudre #2 (the tannic one): Ruby-red. Bright red fruit aromas, with a deep undercurrent of licorice adding seriousness. The palate shows very spicy bitter cherry and dark berry liqueur flavors, chewy tannic grip and a long, vibrant finish. If this is Avril's idea of tannic in 2006, the final wine should be a supple beauty. Foudre #3 (the concentrated one, from 80-year-old vines cropped at15 hl/ha): Inky ruby. Rich cherry and cassis aromas, with a deep tapenade quality adding complexity. Sappy, sweet and packing major dark berry punch, this clocks in at 16.5% alcohol, but there's no obvious heat. An approximate blend: I hate doing this, but why not, said Avril, who doesn't believe that on-the-spot blends are accurate reflections of what winds up in the bottle. But this was his idea, not mine! Dark ruby. Powerful kirsch and blackcurrant aromas, with exotic licorice and fresh floral character expanding with air. Pliant dark berry and bitter cherry flavors carry through the long, sappy finish. A balanced, sweet powerhouse from this vantage point, with the concentration to age for at least a decade or two. |
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Rhone | 1 | 18 (JR) |
In Bond
€1,010.00 |
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Jancis Robinson (18)Dusty, dried spice nose with lots of energy. Lovely sweetness and fluidity. Already fun to drink with an edge of animal but no suggestion of brett. Very clean and fruity and sweet. Transparent. Already lovely. And somehow it seems refreshing. |
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Rhone | 2 | 95 (DC) |
In Bond
€1,020.00 |
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Decanter (95)Paul and Vincent Avril, a father and son team, established themselves as one of the finest producers of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Despite being predominantly Grenache, it is reminiscent of an elegant northern Rhône Syrah with the texture of a Pinot. With a medium bodied intensity, it has a beautiful red fruit expression with some savoury notes. Harmony, finesse and elegance are probably the three words that best describe this beauty. One for the cellar. |
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Rhone | 1 | 98 (WS) |
In Bond
€1,545.00 |
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Wine Spectator (98)This offers a drop-dead gorgeous core of cassis and raspberry pâte de fruit flavors that hold center stage but still allow notes of Lapsang souchong tea, anise, incense and shiso leaf to chime in. Very long, with a sublime feel through the mineral-tinged finish. So seductive already, but this should cruise in the cellar. Drink now through 2040. 6,000 cases made. |
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Rhone | 2 | 98 (WS) |
In Bond
€811.00 |
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Wine Spectator (98)This offers a drop-dead gorgeous core of cassis and raspberry pâte de fruit flavors that hold center stage but still allow notes of Lapsang souchong tea, anise, incense and shiso leaf to chime in. Very long, with a sublime feel through the mineral-tinged finish. So seductive already, but this should cruise in the cellar. Drink now through 2040. 6,000 cases made. |
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Rhone | 1 | 100 (JD) |
In Bond
€1,360.00 |
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Jeb Dunnuck (100)Another perfect wine from this brilliant estate is the 2016 Châteauneuf-du-Pape, which matches the otherworldly 2007. A classic blend of 60% Grenache, 30% Mourvèdre and 10% Syrah brought up all in old foudre, this beauty's deep purple color is followed by a mammoth bouquet of kirsch liqueur, black currants, blueberries, Asian spices, and garrigue. Full-bodied, concentrated, and powerful, it nevertheless is as graceful as a ballerina on the palate and has ultra-fine tannins, a silky, seamless texture, and a finish that just won't quit. Hats off to vigneron Paul-Vincent Avril! |
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Rhone | 1 | 100 (JD) |
In Bond
€570.00 |
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Jeb Dunnuck (100)Another perfect wine from this brilliant estate is the 2016 Châteauneuf-du-Pape, which matches the otherworldly 2007. A classic blend of 60% Grenache, 30% Mourvèdre and 10% Syrah brought up all in old foudre, this beauty's deep purple color is followed by a mammoth bouquet of kirsch liqueur, black currants, blueberries, Asian spices, and garrigue. Full-bodied, concentrated, and powerful, it nevertheless is as graceful as a ballerina on the palate and has ultra-fine tannins, a silky, seamless texture, and a finish that just won't quit. Hats off to vigneron Paul-Vincent Avril! |
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Rhone | 2 | 98+ (JD) |
In Bond
€963.00 |
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Jeb Dunnuck (98+)One of the strongest wines in the vintage is the 2017 Châteauneuf Du Pape from Vincent Avril. This beauty has everything you could ask for. As with the 2018, the blend is heavily shifted toward Mourvèdre, and it offers a mammoth bouquet of black cherries, graphite, cured meats, Asian spices, and assorted garrigue-like nuances. Deep, full-bodied, and concentrated, it stays straight and focused on the palate (whereas the 2016 is more expansive and voluptuous), with a stacked mid-palate, ripe, silky tannins, and fabulous length. You’re going to want bottles of this in the cellar, and comparing the 2007, 2010, 2016, and 2017 over the coming two decades is going to be a treat. |
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Rhone | 1 | 98+ (JD) |
In Bond
€374.00 |
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Jeb Dunnuck (98+)One of the strongest wines in the vintage is the 2017 Châteauneuf Du Pape from Vincent Avril. This beauty has everything you could ask for. As with the 2018, the blend is heavily shifted toward Mourvèdre, and it offers a mammoth bouquet of black cherries, graphite, cured meats, Asian spices, and assorted garrigue-like nuances. Deep, full-bodied, and concentrated, it stays straight and focused on the palate (whereas the 2016 is more expansive and voluptuous), with a stacked mid-palate, ripe, silky tannins, and fabulous length. You’re going to want bottles of this in the cellar, and comparing the 2007, 2010, 2016, and 2017 over the coming two decades is going to be a treat. |
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Rhone | 1 | 96 (JD) |
In Bond
€933.00 |
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Jeb Dunnuck (96)Due to devastating yields, there’s not much of the 2018 Châteauneuf Du Pape to go around, but it’s going to be worth the extra effort to track down. Based on 50% Grenache, 40% Mourvèdre, and the rest Syrah (and a splash of other permitted varieties), it offers a textbook, classic Châteauneuf du Pape nose of mulled red and black fruits, Provençal garrigue, ground pepper, and saddle leather. These all carry to a medium to full-bodied Clos des Papes that has thrillingly polished tannins, flawless balance, and a great finish. Made in a style similar to the 1999, 2004, and maybe a kiss of the 2006, it has the beautiful elegance (again, a Grand Cru Burgundy comes to mind) paired with plenty of intensity and length. I doubt it will shut down and it’s going to evolve nicely for 15-20 years or more. |
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Rhone | 1 | 96 (JD) |
In Bond
€374.00 |
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Jeb Dunnuck (96)Due to devastating yields, there’s not much of the 2018 Châteauneuf Du Pape to go around, but it’s going to be worth the extra effort to track down. Based on 50% Grenache, 40% Mourvèdre, and the rest Syrah (and a splash of other permitted varieties), it offers a textbook, classic Châteauneuf du Pape nose of mulled red and black fruits, Provençal garrigue, ground pepper, and saddle leather. These all carry to a medium to full-bodied Clos des Papes that has thrillingly polished tannins, flawless balance, and a great finish. Made in a style similar to the 1999, 2004, and maybe a kiss of the 2006, it has the beautiful elegance (again, a Grand Cru Burgundy comes to mind) paired with plenty of intensity and length. I doubt it will shut down and it’s going to evolve nicely for 15-20 years or more. |
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Rhone | 1 | 99 (WCI) |
In Bond
€963.00 |
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The Wine Cellar Insider (99)Rich, supple, deep, intense and complex, this is stunning from the get go. One sniff of all that gorgeous, spicy kirsch, herbs, peppery spice and mélange of red fruits and you're hooked. If that wasn't enough, the silky, supple, elegant, fresh palate presence will seal the deal, finishing with its layers of deep, red fruits. This wine should age and evolve for 2-3 decades with ease. The wine is a blend of 45% Grenache, 40% Mourvedre, 10% Syrah and the remaining 5% consists of various, allowable grape varieties. The grapes are as always 100% destemmed. |
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Rhone | 2 | 99 (WCI) |
In Bond
€549.00 |
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The Wine Cellar Insider (99)Rich, supple, deep, intense and complex, this is stunning from the get go. One sniff of all that gorgeous, spicy kirsch, herbs, peppery spice and mélange of red fruits and you're hooked. If that wasn't enough, the silky, supple, elegant, fresh palate presence will seal the deal, finishing with its layers of deep, red fruits. This wine should age and evolve for 2-3 decades with ease. The wine is a blend of 45% Grenache, 40% Mourvedre, 10% Syrah and the remaining 5% consists of various, allowable grape varieties. The grapes are as always 100% destemmed. |
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