France
The vast and diverse wine regions of France, each with its own unique terroirs, grape varieties, and winemaking techniques, are a treasure trove.
In Bordeaux, the birthplace of some of the world's most iconic wines, esteemed vineyards such as Château Lafite Rothschild, Château Margaux, Château Latour, and Château Haut-Brion produce exceptional red wines, showcasing the art of blending Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Malbec. The region is also renowned for its exquisite white wines, with vineyards like Château d'Yquem and Domaine de Chevalier producing legendary sweet wines.
Moving to Burgundy, the vineyards of Domaine de la Romanée-Conti, Domaine Leroy, and Domaine Armand Rousseau capture the essence of the region's revered terroir, crafting exquisite red wines from the Pinot Noir grape. Meanwhile, Domaine Leflaive and Domaine Coche-Dury are celebrated for their world-class white wines, predominantly made from Chardonnay.
The Champagne region, known for its sparkling wines, boasts illustrious houses such as Krug, Dom Pérignon, and Moët & Chandon, as well as grower-producers like Pierre Péters and Jacques Selosse. These vineyards create exceptional sparkling wines using the traditional method, offering a symphony of delicate bubbles, elegant flavors, and vibrant acidity.
In the Rhône Valley, iconic vineyards like Chapoutier, E. Guigal, and Château de Beaucastel produce remarkable red wines in the northern appellations of Hermitage, Côte-Rôtie, and Cornas, showcasing the elegance and power of Syrah. Further south, Châteauneuf-du-Pape is celebrated for its rich and full-bodied red blends, with Château Rayas and Clos des Papes leading the way.
In Alsace, vineyards such as Domaine Zind-Humbrecht and omaine Trimbach craft exquisite white wines, including Riesling, Gewürztraminer, and Pinot Gris, expressing the region's unique terroir and varietal character.
These are just a few highlights among the diverse array of wines that France offers. From the Loire Valley's crisp whites and elegant reds to the Languedoc-Roussillon's bold and robust wines, each region presents its own vinous treasures.
France
| Product Name | Region | Qty | Score | Price | |||||
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Burgundy | 1 | 91-94 (VN) |
Inc. TAX
€1,797.98 |
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Vinous (91-94)Red-ruby. Superripe aromas of black cherry and smoked meat; smells concentrated! Then sweet and quite penetrating on the palate, with a slightly tart and reserved character to its fruit, due in large part to the wine's rather powerful acidity. Finishes very pure and long, with plenty of flesh. This reminded me of a much more suave version of the Latricieres. |
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Burgundy | 3 | 88-91 (VN) |
Inc. TAX
€1,515.98 |
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Vinous (88-91)Medium red. Soil-driven aromas of smoke, mocha and earth. Suave and smoky, with a strong element of flinty minerality dominating the palate today. All about terroir, and yet I'd like to have seen more early treble tones. |
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Burgundy | 1 | - |
Inc. TAX
€581.65 |
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Burgundy | 1 | 96 (VN) |
Inc. TAX
€4,581.73 |
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Vinous (96)Next came the 2007 Chambertin Grand Cru from Domaine Armand Rousseau. Unlike the Mugnier, the bouquet needs no time to warm up, exploding with enticing scents of raspberry, mulberry, touches of camphor and undergrowth, and, after 30 minutes, hints of Japanese green tea and clove. Exquisite in definition, this remained captivating throughout the evening. The palate is beautifully balanced with a fine bead of acidity, cohesive and, for the 2007 vintage, quite robust and powerful. The velvety texture toward the finish highlights the lack of concentration in the Musigny. An utterly sublime Chambertin that is drinking perfectly now, the 2007 possesses the substance to mature another 20 years in bottle. |
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Burgundy | 1 | 96 (VN) |
Inc. TAX
€25,774.38 |
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Vinous (96)Next came the 2007 Chambertin Grand Cru from Domaine Armand Rousseau. Unlike the Mugnier, the bouquet needs no time to warm up, exploding with enticing scents of raspberry, mulberry, touches of camphor and undergrowth, and, after 30 minutes, hints of Japanese green tea and clove. Exquisite in definition, this remained captivating throughout the evening. The palate is beautifully balanced with a fine bead of acidity, cohesive and, for the 2007 vintage, quite robust and powerful. The velvety texture toward the finish highlights the lack of concentration in the Musigny. An utterly sublime Chambertin that is drinking perfectly now, the 2007 possesses the substance to mature another 20 years in bottle. |
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Burgundy | 1 | 96 (WA) |
Inc. TAX
€3,921.73 |
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Wine Advocate (96)The 2007 Chambertin Clos-de-Beze Grand Cru is drinking beautifully at the moment. It has a pixilated bouquet that is utterly entrancing – red currant, bergamot, hints of pomegranate seeds and an underlying mineralite that is divine. The palate is perfectly balanced with extremely fine tannins. There is something regal and self-assured about this Clos-de-Beze, with a sense of weightlessness in the mouth that is bewitching. This both satisfies the senses and flirts with profundity. Dare I suggest this is too exquisite to cellar? Damn – I’ve just gone and done it. Drink now-2020. |
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Burgundy | 1 | 92-94 (VN (ST)) |
Inc. TAX
€4,339.45 |
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Vinous - Stephen Tanzer (92-94)Good bright, deep red. Highly perfumed aromas of blackberry, cherry, red licorice, rose petal, violet and spices, plus a suggestion of honey. Silky, intensely flavored and classy on the palate, with a compellingly perfumed quality that carries through to the mounting, palate-staining finish. Displays the electric quality of the vintage's better examples. This was 12.2% natural alcohol, chaptalized to 13%. |
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Burgundy | 1 | 92-94 (VN (ST)) |
Inc. TAX
€2,025.73 |
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Vinous - Stephen Tanzer (92-94)Good bright, deep red. Highly perfumed aromas of blackberry, cherry, red licorice, rose petal, violet and spices, plus a suggestion of honey. Silky, intensely flavored and classy on the palate, with a compellingly perfumed quality that carries through to the mounting, palate-staining finish. Displays the electric quality of the vintage's better examples. This was 12.2% natural alcohol, chaptalized to 13%. |
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Burgundy | 1 | 92-94 (VN (ST)) |
Inc. TAX
€14,536.38 |
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Vinous - Stephen Tanzer (92-94)Good bright, deep red. Highly perfumed aromas of blackberry, cherry, red licorice, rose petal, violet and spices, plus a suggestion of honey. Silky, intensely flavored and classy on the palate, with a compellingly perfumed quality that carries through to the mounting, palate-staining finish. Displays the electric quality of the vintage's better examples. This was 12.2% natural alcohol, chaptalized to 13%. |
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Burgundy | 1 | 93-95 (VN (ST)) |
Inc. TAX
€9,706.54 |
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Vinous - Stephen Tanzer (93-95)Bright, full red. Less expressive and more brooding than the Suchots, offering deeper aromas of minerals, smoked meat, menthol and cocoa. Dense, sappy and almost painfully intense, with a wonderfully generous texture and spherical shape. Best today on the explosive, mounting, lightly saline finish. Bigger than the Suchots but less vibrant and harmonious now. This should be approachable within five years but should continue to improve into its early teens. |
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Burgundy | 1 | 93-95 (VN (ST)) |
Inc. TAX
€9,298.38 |
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Vinous - Stephen Tanzer (93-95)Bright, full red. Less expressive and more brooding than the Suchots, offering deeper aromas of minerals, smoked meat, menthol and cocoa. Dense, sappy and almost painfully intense, with a wonderfully generous texture and spherical shape. Best today on the explosive, mounting, lightly saline finish. Bigger than the Suchots but less vibrant and harmonious now. This should be approachable within five years but should continue to improve into its early teens. |
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Bordeaux | 4 | 98.0 |
Inc. TAX
€3,904.38 |
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Burgundy | 1 | - |
Inc. TAX
€4,342.48 |
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Auvenay Bourgogne Aligote Sous Chatelet 2007 is an exceptional wine from the esteemed Burgundy region of France. Created by Domaine d'Auvenay, a winery renowned for respecting traditional vinification methods, its owner Lalou Bize-Leroy, a figurehead of Burgundian wine, assures only the finest quality grapes are used. The 2007 vintage boasts a vibrant golden hue, revealing a subtle yet complex aromatic profile of white flowers, fresh cut green apples, and a hint of minerality. The wine's unique character is defined by the particular Aligote grape it is crafted from, typically rendering a vibrant, refreshing wine with stunning acidity. Fermentation of this lusty wine occurs in French oak barrels for added depth. The meticulous creation process, from the vineyard to the bottle, ensures each sip embodies the spirit of the romantic Burgundian terrain. Unveil this Auvenay Bourgogne Aligote Sous Chatelet 2007, a liquid testament to the art of fine wine production. |
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Burgundy | 1 | - |
Inc. TAX
€28,552.48 |
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Indulge in the sublime decadence of Auvenay Chevalier-Montrachet Grand Cru 2007, a peerless offering from an exceptional vintage. Crafted by Auvenay, a domaine renowned for minimalist intervention, this intricate Chardonnay echoes the desirable terroir of le Montrachet in Burgundy, France. The 2007 vintage is a testament to meticulous vinification, matured in French oak at varying ages for nuanced complexity. Bursting with an intoxicating bouquet, displaying ethereal notes of ripe pear, baked apple, fresh almond, and honey, it lingers delightfully on the palate with an elegant minerality. As a Grand Cru, it represents the pinnacle of quality, drawn from the best parcels of this illustrious vineyard. It's a grand testimony to Domaine d'Auvenay’s expertise and passion. Relish the well-conceived balance and poised structure of Auvenay Chevalier-Montrachet Grand Cru 2007, a laudable example of Burgundy’s premium Chardonnay at its absolute finest. |
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Burgundy | 1 | 95 (VN) |
Inc. TAX
€14,055.73 |
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Vinous (95)The 2007 Meursault Gouttes d'Or is strikingly beautiful. Sweet layers of perfumed fruit flow gracefully across the palate in this fragrant, silky white. The wine blossoms beautifully through the mid-palate and finish, showing fabulous persistence. All of the elements are in the right place in this finely sculpted, articulate Meursault. I loved it. |
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Burgundy | 1 | - |
Inc. TAX
€14,547.73 |
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The 'Auvenay Meursault 1er Cru Les Narvaux 2007' is a masterful creation by winemaker extraordinaire Madame Lalou Bize-Leroy. Made in the illustrious Burgundy region of France, this Meursault Premier Cru wine is a result of propagating grapes in calcareous clay soil, giving it an exceptional terroir character. The wine, bottled unfiltered, displays a captivating butter-gold hue, and an enchanting bouquet of field flowers, ripe pear, hazelnut, and honey. It's perfectly balanced, rich yet fresh, ending with a long, mineral-laden finish. The palate is dramatically underscored with notes of creamy oak, citrus zest, yellow apples, and toasted almonds. Like a symphony, the Auvenay Meursault 1er Cru Les Narvaux 2007's flavour notes come together in perfect harmony, promising an exceptional tasting experience. This magnificent testament to the artisanal winemaking skills of Auvenay speaks volumes about their commitment to quality, making it an exquisite selection for any fine wine enthusiast. |
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Burgundy | 1 | - |
Inc. TAX
€23,423.20 |
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A consummate exemplar of Burgundy's rich offerings, the beloved Auvenay Meursault 1er Cru Les Narvaux 2007 is an invitation to indulge in classical winemaking expertise. Crafted by Madame Lalou Bize-Leroy, a highly respected figure in the Burgundy wine industry, this vintage is a masterstroke of depth and harmony. Exclusively matured in French oak, it refines the electrifying freshness of vineyard's authentic Chardonnay grapes. The resultant wine boasts an opulent floral bouquet complemented by hints of tropical fruits and buttery brioche. Savoured on the palate, the well-balanced minerality culminates in a lingering, citrusy finish. Nestled in the cherished terroirs of Meursault, the Narvaux vineyard's south-east exposure and shallow clay-limestone soil engender the distinctive richness and complexity of this premier cru. Ultimately, the Auvenay Meursault 1er Cru Les Narvaux 2007 encapsulates the aplomb of one of Burgundy's renowned vueax terroirs in every bottle. |
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Rhone | 1 | 100 (WA) |
Inc. TAX
€1,245.19 |
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Wine Advocate (100)The star of the show was the 2007 Châteauneuf du Pape Hommage À Jacques Perrin, which in this vintage is a classic blend of 60% Mourvedre, 20% Syrah, and the rest Counoise and Grenache. Inky colored and insanely perfumed, with to-die-for notes of lavender, Provencal herbs, roasted meats, black cherries, truffle, crème de cassis and licorice, it flows onto the palate with massive concentration, a stunning mid-palate and a thick, rich texture that never gets heavy or cumbersome. This is blockbuster stuff that just could not get any better. Drink it anytime over the coming 3-4 decades. |
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Bordeaux | 1 | 94 (WA) |
Inc. TAX
€1,298.77 |
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Wine Advocate (94)Very little wine is produced (about 400 cases) from this tiny 5-acre vineyard, but it is always among the most concentrated and richest of Bordeaux. The inky/purple-colored 2007 offers sweet cassis fruit notes interwoven with notions of graphite, chalk dust, and toast. Full-bodied with terrific purity and intensity (14.5% alcohol), it should drink well for 20+ years. |
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Burgundy | 1 | - |
Inc. TAX
€1,634.63 |
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Experience an exceptional and refined Chardonnay with the Bertrand Ambroise Meursault 1er Cru Les Poruzot 2007. Crafted by the iconic winemaker Bertrand Ambroise in the heart of Burgundy's esteemed Meursault region, this premier cru exhibits the elegant sophistication that French Chardonnay is revered for. Using traditional viticulture techniques and careful maturation, Bertrand Ambroise allows the distinct terroir to shine through in every bottle. The 2007 Les Poruzot boasts a captivating bouquet of ripe fruit, fresh almond and vanilla, curating an enchanting olfactive journey. On the palate, it presents an impeccably balanced combination of rich texture and bright acidity, culminating in a spectacular lingering finish. This lustrous golden wine is a testament to the winery's artisanal approach and the exceptional quality of Burgundy's 2007 vintage. The Bertrand Ambroise Meursault 1er Cru Les Poruzot 2007 is a fine wine that captivates the senses and perfectly encapsulates the celebrated charm of Burgundy's white wines. |
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Champagne | 1 | 96 (VN) |
Inc. TAX
€1,822.38 |
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Vinous (96)The 2007 Brut Rosé Cuvée Elisabeth Salmon is even better than the last time I tasted it. A total pleasure bomb, the 2007 drinks well right out of the gate. Soft curves push a core of sweet red berry fruit, rose petal and cinnamon into the foreground. Readers will have a very hard time keeping their hands off the 2007. Why wait? The 2007 is so alluring today. |
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Champagne | 1 | 19.5 (MJ) |
Inc. TAX
€1,150.38 |
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Matthew Jukes (19.5)Billecart-Salmon’s elite blanc de blancs is named after Louis, the brother of Elisabeth Salmon, who co-founded this illustrious Champagne house more than two centuries ago with her husband Nicolas François Billecart. The 2007 vintage is only the second release of this cuvée and it is even more sophisticated than the 2006, to which I gave a mighty 19/20 score in my notes! This wine gains a fulsome 19.5/20 score. It is made from a blend of three grands crus: Cramant, which brings pin-sharp acidity to the mix; Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, which loads structure and longevity into its frame; and Chouilly, which anchors this stunning creation into the Côtes des Blancs soil with its devastating minerality. This is a sensational wine. Billecart has augmented its oak imprint from 15% in 2006 to 50% in 2007 and yet I can barely sense the increase given that the wine is in silky, lascivious harmony. It has aged for nearly a decade on its lees and it is ready to go right now. Every time you let this wine caress your palate it does so with a discreet, but highly enjoyable pinch of drama on the back end of each sip. As I get older, I prefer to save myself for the wines that really matter, turning down all but those wines I know pass my sky-high standards. This 2007 Louis is one of only a handful of truly great Champagnes I have tasted in the last 12 months and I cannot recommend it highly enough. |
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Champagne | 2 | 19.5+ (MJ) |
Inc. TAX
€1,129.98 |
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Matthew Jukes (19.5+)This wine is an absolute joy. It is made from 79% Grands Crus and 21% Premiers Crus, with 60% Pinot Noir coming from the Montagne de Reims and the Vallée de la Marne and 40% Chardonnay coming from the Côte des Blancs. The dosage is 6 g/l and a perfectly-judged 15% was vinified in oak barrels. As always with Billecart NF it spends over ten years relaxing in the cellars in Mareuil-sur-Aÿ before release. In terms of sophistication, elegance and unrivalled precision, this is a wine to buy and treasure. I raved about the 2007 Cuvée Louis earlier this year and this wine is made in a similar vein. This is a sensational vintage for Billecart and NF will outlive Louis given that it has more horsepower under the bonnet. Still a little youthful and closed, there is massive complexity here delivered in the most mesmerising sotto voce voice imaginable. I would love to see this wine in a few years but I think it will be a decade before ’07 NF fully blossoms. I am in complete awe as to how these wines are so fine and so laser-sighted in their youth. NF is a class apart. |
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Champagne | 1 | 19.5+ (MJ) |
Inc. TAX
€933.18 |
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Matthew Jukes (19.5+)This wine is an absolute joy. It is made from 79% Grands Crus and 21% Premiers Crus, with 60% Pinot Noir coming from the Montagne de Reims and the Vallée de la Marne and 40% Chardonnay coming from the Côte des Blancs. The dosage is 6 g/l and a perfectly-judged 15% was vinified in oak barrels. As always with Billecart NF it spends over ten years relaxing in the cellars in Mareuil-sur-Aÿ before release. In terms of sophistication, elegance and unrivalled precision, this is a wine to buy and treasure. I raved about the 2007 Cuvée Louis earlier this year and this wine is made in a similar vein. This is a sensational vintage for Billecart and NF will outlive Louis given that it has more horsepower under the bonnet. Still a little youthful and closed, there is massive complexity here delivered in the most mesmerising sotto voce voice imaginable. I would love to see this wine in a few years but I think it will be a decade before ’07 NF fully blossoms. I am in complete awe as to how these wines are so fine and so laser-sighted in their youth. NF is a class apart. |
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Champagne | 1 | 95 (RJH) |
Inc. TAX
€991.98 |
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Richard Juhlin (95)Here we have a classic and perfectly balanced Bollinger with deep layers and beautiful crisp apple acidity. Gorgeous balance between the dark and light as a perfect Ying and Yang marriage. Layers of dry cocoa, hazelnut fudge, dried apricots and juicy red apples dominate over a beautiful hint of forest aromas based on sous bois and mushrooms in the background. One of the three best champagnes from this vintage. |
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Champagne | 1 | 97 (DC) |
Inc. TAX
€917.58 |
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Decanter (97)An enticingly rewarding nose of apricot, flint and toast leads to a palate that's just as good and even more developed, with honey, brioche marzipan and bruised apple notes. It has super tension and drive. Compelling, delicious and distinctive. |
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Champagne | 1 | 97 (DC) |
Inc. TAX
€863.58 |
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Decanter (97)An enticingly rewarding nose of apricot, flint and toast leads to a palate that's just as good and even more developed, with honey, brioche marzipan and bruised apple notes. It has super tension and drive. Compelling, delicious and distinctive. |
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Champagne | 12 | 19+ (MJ) |
Inc. TAX
€669.85 |
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Matthew Jukes (19+)The latest release of R.D. – Bollinger’s iconic ‘Recently Disgorged or Récemment Dégorgé’ wine is something completely out of the ordinary. My one-word description for this sensational wine is ‘controlled’. I say this because what I adore about every single vintage of R.D. which I have tasted (and there have been many – see below) is the seeming lack of control in every sip. R.D. should be and usually is an absurdly decadent and unpredictable wine, firing off ostentatious flavour and extraordinary detail in every direction. This is why I love it so much and also why I only open it on very special occasions! What is remarkable about this particular vintage is its restraint and levity coupled with the extraordinary length of finish. After 14 years on lees, this wine is as power-packed and energised as it could possibly be and with the extra edge and vivacity coming from a fulsome percentage of Verzenay Pinot fruit (29%) added to the usual heartbeat coming from the Aÿ Pinot core (26%) this is a dynamic red fruit-dominant cocktail. The overall blend is 70% Pinot Noir and 30% Chardonnay coming from 14 Crus with 91% Grands Crus in this vintage. The dosage is a keen 3 grams per litre and all disgorgement is done by hand, as usual. But in 2007 the result is atypical, enchanting, surprisingly refreshing and amazingly delicious. I opened this bottle at 11.00 am and did not stopper it for a full 12 hours. I even sneaked half a glass with a chicken curry at supper time and it worked like a dream. This is not a massive firework of a wine that explodes gloriously and then is gone. Instead, it is a blazing torch of flavour with phenomenal persistence and balance and this makes it unmissable in every serious Champagne lover’s cellar. |
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Champagne | 2 | 19+ (MJ) |
Inc. TAX
€1,213.98 |
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Matthew Jukes (19+)The latest release of R.D. – Bollinger’s iconic ‘Recently Disgorged or Récemment Dégorgé’ wine is something completely out of the ordinary. My one-word description for this sensational wine is ‘controlled’. I say this because what I adore about every single vintage of R.D. which I have tasted (and there have been many – see below) is the seeming lack of control in every sip. R.D. should be and usually is an absurdly decadent and unpredictable wine, firing off ostentatious flavour and extraordinary detail in every direction. This is why I love it so much and also why I only open it on very special occasions! What is remarkable about this particular vintage is its restraint and levity coupled with the extraordinary length of finish. After 14 years on lees, this wine is as power-packed and energised as it could possibly be and with the extra edge and vivacity coming from a fulsome percentage of Verzenay Pinot fruit (29%) added to the usual heartbeat coming from the Aÿ Pinot core (26%) this is a dynamic red fruit-dominant cocktail. The overall blend is 70% Pinot Noir and 30% Chardonnay coming from 14 Crus with 91% Grands Crus in this vintage. The dosage is a keen 3 grams per litre and all disgorgement is done by hand, as usual. But in 2007 the result is atypical, enchanting, surprisingly refreshing and amazingly delicious. I opened this bottle at 11.00 am and did not stopper it for a full 12 hours. I even sneaked half a glass with a chicken curry at supper time and it worked like a dream. This is not a massive firework of a wine that explodes gloriously and then is gone. Instead, it is a blazing torch of flavour with phenomenal persistence and balance and this makes it unmissable in every serious Champagne lover’s cellar. |
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Champagne | 2 | 19+ (MJ) |
Inc. TAX
€630.40 |
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Matthew Jukes (19+)The latest release of R.D. – Bollinger’s iconic ‘Recently Disgorged or Récemment Dégorgé’ wine is something completely out of the ordinary. My one-word description for this sensational wine is ‘controlled’. I say this because what I adore about every single vintage of R.D. which I have tasted (and there have been many – see below) is the seeming lack of control in every sip. R.D. should be and usually is an absurdly decadent and unpredictable wine, firing off ostentatious flavour and extraordinary detail in every direction. This is why I love it so much and also why I only open it on very special occasions! What is remarkable about this particular vintage is its restraint and levity coupled with the extraordinary length of finish. After 14 years on lees, this wine is as power-packed and energised as it could possibly be and with the extra edge and vivacity coming from a fulsome percentage of Verzenay Pinot fruit (29%) added to the usual heartbeat coming from the Aÿ Pinot core (26%) this is a dynamic red fruit-dominant cocktail. The overall blend is 70% Pinot Noir and 30% Chardonnay coming from 14 Crus with 91% Grands Crus in this vintage. The dosage is a keen 3 grams per litre and all disgorgement is done by hand, as usual. But in 2007 the result is atypical, enchanting, surprisingly refreshing and amazingly delicious. I opened this bottle at 11.00 am and did not stopper it for a full 12 hours. I even sneaked half a glass with a chicken curry at supper time and it worked like a dream. This is not a massive firework of a wine that explodes gloriously and then is gone. Instead, it is a blazing torch of flavour with phenomenal persistence and balance and this makes it unmissable in every serious Champagne lover’s cellar. |
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| Product Name | Region | Qty | Score | Price | |||||
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Burgundy | 1 | 91-94 (VN) |
In Bond
€1,480.00 |
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Vinous (91-94)Red-ruby. Superripe aromas of black cherry and smoked meat; smells concentrated! Then sweet and quite penetrating on the palate, with a slightly tart and reserved character to its fruit, due in large part to the wine's rather powerful acidity. Finishes very pure and long, with plenty of flesh. This reminded me of a much more suave version of the Latricieres. |
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Burgundy | 3 | 88-91 (VN) |
In Bond
€1,245.00 |
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Vinous (88-91)Medium red. Soil-driven aromas of smoke, mocha and earth. Suave and smoky, with a strong element of flinty minerality dominating the palate today. All about terroir, and yet I'd like to have seen more early treble tones. |
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Burgundy | 1 | - |
In Bond
€481.00 |
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Burgundy | 1 | 96 (VN) |
In Bond
€3,815.00 |
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Vinous (96)Next came the 2007 Chambertin Grand Cru from Domaine Armand Rousseau. Unlike the Mugnier, the bouquet needs no time to warm up, exploding with enticing scents of raspberry, mulberry, touches of camphor and undergrowth, and, after 30 minutes, hints of Japanese green tea and clove. Exquisite in definition, this remained captivating throughout the evening. The palate is beautifully balanced with a fine bead of acidity, cohesive and, for the 2007 vintage, quite robust and powerful. The velvety texture toward the finish highlights the lack of concentration in the Musigny. An utterly sublime Chambertin that is drinking perfectly now, the 2007 possesses the substance to mature another 20 years in bottle. |
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Burgundy | 1 | 96 (VN) |
In Bond
€21,460.00 |
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Vinous (96)Next came the 2007 Chambertin Grand Cru from Domaine Armand Rousseau. Unlike the Mugnier, the bouquet needs no time to warm up, exploding with enticing scents of raspberry, mulberry, touches of camphor and undergrowth, and, after 30 minutes, hints of Japanese green tea and clove. Exquisite in definition, this remained captivating throughout the evening. The palate is beautifully balanced with a fine bead of acidity, cohesive and, for the 2007 vintage, quite robust and powerful. The velvety texture toward the finish highlights the lack of concentration in the Musigny. An utterly sublime Chambertin that is drinking perfectly now, the 2007 possesses the substance to mature another 20 years in bottle. |
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Burgundy | 1 | 96 (WA) |
In Bond
€3,265.00 |
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Wine Advocate (96)The 2007 Chambertin Clos-de-Beze Grand Cru is drinking beautifully at the moment. It has a pixilated bouquet that is utterly entrancing – red currant, bergamot, hints of pomegranate seeds and an underlying mineralite that is divine. The palate is perfectly balanced with extremely fine tannins. There is something regal and self-assured about this Clos-de-Beze, with a sense of weightlessness in the mouth that is bewitching. This both satisfies the senses and flirts with profundity. Dare I suggest this is too exquisite to cellar? Damn – I’ve just gone and done it. Drink now-2020. |
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Burgundy | 1 | 92-94 (VN (ST)) |
In Bond
€3,610.00 |
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Vinous - Stephen Tanzer (92-94)Good bright, deep red. Highly perfumed aromas of blackberry, cherry, red licorice, rose petal, violet and spices, plus a suggestion of honey. Silky, intensely flavored and classy on the palate, with a compellingly perfumed quality that carries through to the mounting, palate-staining finish. Displays the electric quality of the vintage's better examples. This was 12.2% natural alcohol, chaptalized to 13%. |
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Burgundy | 1 | 92-94 (VN (ST)) |
In Bond
€1,685.00 |
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Vinous - Stephen Tanzer (92-94)Good bright, deep red. Highly perfumed aromas of blackberry, cherry, red licorice, rose petal, violet and spices, plus a suggestion of honey. Silky, intensely flavored and classy on the palate, with a compellingly perfumed quality that carries through to the mounting, palate-staining finish. Displays the electric quality of the vintage's better examples. This was 12.2% natural alcohol, chaptalized to 13%. |
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Burgundy | 1 | 92-94 (VN (ST)) |
In Bond
€12,095.00 |
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Vinous - Stephen Tanzer (92-94)Good bright, deep red. Highly perfumed aromas of blackberry, cherry, red licorice, rose petal, violet and spices, plus a suggestion of honey. Silky, intensely flavored and classy on the palate, with a compellingly perfumed quality that carries through to the mounting, palate-staining finish. Displays the electric quality of the vintage's better examples. This was 12.2% natural alcohol, chaptalized to 13%. |
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Burgundy | 1 | 93-95 (VN (ST)) |
In Bond
€8,070.00 |
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Vinous - Stephen Tanzer (93-95)Bright, full red. Less expressive and more brooding than the Suchots, offering deeper aromas of minerals, smoked meat, menthol and cocoa. Dense, sappy and almost painfully intense, with a wonderfully generous texture and spherical shape. Best today on the explosive, mounting, lightly saline finish. Bigger than the Suchots but less vibrant and harmonious now. This should be approachable within five years but should continue to improve into its early teens. |
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Burgundy | 1 | 93-95 (VN (ST)) |
In Bond
€7,730.00 |
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Vinous - Stephen Tanzer (93-95)Bright, full red. Less expressive and more brooding than the Suchots, offering deeper aromas of minerals, smoked meat, menthol and cocoa. Dense, sappy and almost painfully intense, with a wonderfully generous texture and spherical shape. Best today on the explosive, mounting, lightly saline finish. Bigger than the Suchots but less vibrant and harmonious now. This should be approachable within five years but should continue to improve into its early teens. |
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Bordeaux | 4 | 98.0 |
In Bond
€3,235.00 |
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Burgundy | 1 | - |
In Bond
€3,615.00 |
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Auvenay Bourgogne Aligote Sous Chatelet 2007 is an exceptional wine from the esteemed Burgundy region of France. Created by Domaine d'Auvenay, a winery renowned for respecting traditional vinification methods, its owner Lalou Bize-Leroy, a figurehead of Burgundian wine, assures only the finest quality grapes are used. The 2007 vintage boasts a vibrant golden hue, revealing a subtle yet complex aromatic profile of white flowers, fresh cut green apples, and a hint of minerality. The wine's unique character is defined by the particular Aligote grape it is crafted from, typically rendering a vibrant, refreshing wine with stunning acidity. Fermentation of this lusty wine occurs in French oak barrels for added depth. The meticulous creation process, from the vineyard to the bottle, ensures each sip embodies the spirit of the romantic Burgundian terrain. Unveil this Auvenay Bourgogne Aligote Sous Chatelet 2007, a liquid testament to the art of fine wine production. |
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Burgundy | 1 | - |
In Bond
€23,790.00 |
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Indulge in the sublime decadence of Auvenay Chevalier-Montrachet Grand Cru 2007, a peerless offering from an exceptional vintage. Crafted by Auvenay, a domaine renowned for minimalist intervention, this intricate Chardonnay echoes the desirable terroir of le Montrachet in Burgundy, France. The 2007 vintage is a testament to meticulous vinification, matured in French oak at varying ages for nuanced complexity. Bursting with an intoxicating bouquet, displaying ethereal notes of ripe pear, baked apple, fresh almond, and honey, it lingers delightfully on the palate with an elegant minerality. As a Grand Cru, it represents the pinnacle of quality, drawn from the best parcels of this illustrious vineyard. It's a grand testimony to Domaine d'Auvenay’s expertise and passion. Relish the well-conceived balance and poised structure of Auvenay Chevalier-Montrachet Grand Cru 2007, a laudable example of Burgundy’s premium Chardonnay at its absolute finest. |
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Burgundy | 1 | 95 (VN) |
In Bond
€11,710.00 |
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Vinous (95)The 2007 Meursault Gouttes d'Or is strikingly beautiful. Sweet layers of perfumed fruit flow gracefully across the palate in this fragrant, silky white. The wine blossoms beautifully through the mid-palate and finish, showing fabulous persistence. All of the elements are in the right place in this finely sculpted, articulate Meursault. I loved it. |
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Burgundy | 1 | - |
In Bond
€12,120.00 |
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The 'Auvenay Meursault 1er Cru Les Narvaux 2007' is a masterful creation by winemaker extraordinaire Madame Lalou Bize-Leroy. Made in the illustrious Burgundy region of France, this Meursault Premier Cru wine is a result of propagating grapes in calcareous clay soil, giving it an exceptional terroir character. The wine, bottled unfiltered, displays a captivating butter-gold hue, and an enchanting bouquet of field flowers, ripe pear, hazelnut, and honey. It's perfectly balanced, rich yet fresh, ending with a long, mineral-laden finish. The palate is dramatically underscored with notes of creamy oak, citrus zest, yellow apples, and toasted almonds. Like a symphony, the Auvenay Meursault 1er Cru Les Narvaux 2007's flavour notes come together in perfect harmony, promising an exceptional tasting experience. This magnificent testament to the artisanal winemaking skills of Auvenay speaks volumes about their commitment to quality, making it an exquisite selection for any fine wine enthusiast. |
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Burgundy | 1 | - |
In Bond
€19,510.00 |
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A consummate exemplar of Burgundy's rich offerings, the beloved Auvenay Meursault 1er Cru Les Narvaux 2007 is an invitation to indulge in classical winemaking expertise. Crafted by Madame Lalou Bize-Leroy, a highly respected figure in the Burgundy wine industry, this vintage is a masterstroke of depth and harmony. Exclusively matured in French oak, it refines the electrifying freshness of vineyard's authentic Chardonnay grapes. The resultant wine boasts an opulent floral bouquet complemented by hints of tropical fruits and buttery brioche. Savoured on the palate, the well-balanced minerality culminates in a lingering, citrusy finish. Nestled in the cherished terroirs of Meursault, the Narvaux vineyard's south-east exposure and shallow clay-limestone soil engender the distinctive richness and complexity of this premier cru. Ultimately, the Auvenay Meursault 1er Cru Les Narvaux 2007 encapsulates the aplomb of one of Burgundy's renowned vueax terroirs in every bottle. |
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Rhone | 1 | 100 (WA) |
In Bond
€1,030.00 |
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Wine Advocate (100)The star of the show was the 2007 Châteauneuf du Pape Hommage À Jacques Perrin, which in this vintage is a classic blend of 60% Mourvedre, 20% Syrah, and the rest Counoise and Grenache. Inky colored and insanely perfumed, with to-die-for notes of lavender, Provencal herbs, roasted meats, black cherries, truffle, crème de cassis and licorice, it flows onto the palate with massive concentration, a stunning mid-palate and a thick, rich texture that never gets heavy or cumbersome. This is blockbuster stuff that just could not get any better. Drink it anytime over the coming 3-4 decades. |
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Bordeaux | 1 | 94 (WA) |
In Bond
€1,045.00 |
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Wine Advocate (94)Very little wine is produced (about 400 cases) from this tiny 5-acre vineyard, but it is always among the most concentrated and richest of Bordeaux. The inky/purple-colored 2007 offers sweet cassis fruit notes interwoven with notions of graphite, chalk dust, and toast. Full-bodied with terrific purity and intensity (14.5% alcohol), it should drink well for 20+ years. |
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Burgundy | 1 | - |
In Bond
€1,340.00 |
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Experience an exceptional and refined Chardonnay with the Bertrand Ambroise Meursault 1er Cru Les Poruzot 2007. Crafted by the iconic winemaker Bertrand Ambroise in the heart of Burgundy's esteemed Meursault region, this premier cru exhibits the elegant sophistication that French Chardonnay is revered for. Using traditional viticulture techniques and careful maturation, Bertrand Ambroise allows the distinct terroir to shine through in every bottle. The 2007 Les Poruzot boasts a captivating bouquet of ripe fruit, fresh almond and vanilla, curating an enchanting olfactive journey. On the palate, it presents an impeccably balanced combination of rich texture and bright acidity, culminating in a spectacular lingering finish. This lustrous golden wine is a testament to the winery's artisanal approach and the exceptional quality of Burgundy's 2007 vintage. The Bertrand Ambroise Meursault 1er Cru Les Poruzot 2007 is a fine wine that captivates the senses and perfectly encapsulates the celebrated charm of Burgundy's white wines. |
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Champagne | 1 | 96 (VN) |
In Bond
€1,500.00 |
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Vinous (96)The 2007 Brut Rosé Cuvée Elisabeth Salmon is even better than the last time I tasted it. A total pleasure bomb, the 2007 drinks well right out of the gate. Soft curves push a core of sweet red berry fruit, rose petal and cinnamon into the foreground. Readers will have a very hard time keeping their hands off the 2007. Why wait? The 2007 is so alluring today. |
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Champagne | 1 | 19.5 (MJ) |
In Bond
€940.00 |
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Matthew Jukes (19.5)Billecart-Salmon’s elite blanc de blancs is named after Louis, the brother of Elisabeth Salmon, who co-founded this illustrious Champagne house more than two centuries ago with her husband Nicolas François Billecart. The 2007 vintage is only the second release of this cuvée and it is even more sophisticated than the 2006, to which I gave a mighty 19/20 score in my notes! This wine gains a fulsome 19.5/20 score. It is made from a blend of three grands crus: Cramant, which brings pin-sharp acidity to the mix; Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, which loads structure and longevity into its frame; and Chouilly, which anchors this stunning creation into the Côtes des Blancs soil with its devastating minerality. This is a sensational wine. Billecart has augmented its oak imprint from 15% in 2006 to 50% in 2007 and yet I can barely sense the increase given that the wine is in silky, lascivious harmony. It has aged for nearly a decade on its lees and it is ready to go right now. Every time you let this wine caress your palate it does so with a discreet, but highly enjoyable pinch of drama on the back end of each sip. As I get older, I prefer to save myself for the wines that really matter, turning down all but those wines I know pass my sky-high standards. This 2007 Louis is one of only a handful of truly great Champagnes I have tasted in the last 12 months and I cannot recommend it highly enough. |
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Champagne | 2 | 19.5+ (MJ) |
In Bond
€923.00 |
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Matthew Jukes (19.5+)This wine is an absolute joy. It is made from 79% Grands Crus and 21% Premiers Crus, with 60% Pinot Noir coming from the Montagne de Reims and the Vallée de la Marne and 40% Chardonnay coming from the Côte des Blancs. The dosage is 6 g/l and a perfectly-judged 15% was vinified in oak barrels. As always with Billecart NF it spends over ten years relaxing in the cellars in Mareuil-sur-Aÿ before release. In terms of sophistication, elegance and unrivalled precision, this is a wine to buy and treasure. I raved about the 2007 Cuvée Louis earlier this year and this wine is made in a similar vein. This is a sensational vintage for Billecart and NF will outlive Louis given that it has more horsepower under the bonnet. Still a little youthful and closed, there is massive complexity here delivered in the most mesmerising sotto voce voice imaginable. I would love to see this wine in a few years but I think it will be a decade before ’07 NF fully blossoms. I am in complete awe as to how these wines are so fine and so laser-sighted in their youth. NF is a class apart. |
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Champagne | 1 | 19.5+ (MJ) |
In Bond
€759.00 |
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Matthew Jukes (19.5+)This wine is an absolute joy. It is made from 79% Grands Crus and 21% Premiers Crus, with 60% Pinot Noir coming from the Montagne de Reims and the Vallée de la Marne and 40% Chardonnay coming from the Côte des Blancs. The dosage is 6 g/l and a perfectly-judged 15% was vinified in oak barrels. As always with Billecart NF it spends over ten years relaxing in the cellars in Mareuil-sur-Aÿ before release. In terms of sophistication, elegance and unrivalled precision, this is a wine to buy and treasure. I raved about the 2007 Cuvée Louis earlier this year and this wine is made in a similar vein. This is a sensational vintage for Billecart and NF will outlive Louis given that it has more horsepower under the bonnet. Still a little youthful and closed, there is massive complexity here delivered in the most mesmerising sotto voce voice imaginable. I would love to see this wine in a few years but I think it will be a decade before ’07 NF fully blossoms. I am in complete awe as to how these wines are so fine and so laser-sighted in their youth. NF is a class apart. |
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Champagne | 1 | 95 (RJH) |
In Bond
€808.00 |
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Richard Juhlin (95)Here we have a classic and perfectly balanced Bollinger with deep layers and beautiful crisp apple acidity. Gorgeous balance between the dark and light as a perfect Ying and Yang marriage. Layers of dry cocoa, hazelnut fudge, dried apricots and juicy red apples dominate over a beautiful hint of forest aromas based on sous bois and mushrooms in the background. One of the three best champagnes from this vintage. |
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Champagne | 1 | 97 (DC) |
In Bond
€746.00 |
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Decanter (97)An enticingly rewarding nose of apricot, flint and toast leads to a palate that's just as good and even more developed, with honey, brioche marzipan and bruised apple notes. It has super tension and drive. Compelling, delicious and distinctive. |
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Champagne | 1 | 97 (DC) |
In Bond
€701.00 |
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Decanter (97)An enticingly rewarding nose of apricot, flint and toast leads to a palate that's just as good and even more developed, with honey, brioche marzipan and bruised apple notes. It has super tension and drive. Compelling, delicious and distinctive. |
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Champagne | 12 | 19+ (MJ) |
In Bond
€552.00 |
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Matthew Jukes (19+)The latest release of R.D. – Bollinger’s iconic ‘Recently Disgorged or Récemment Dégorgé’ wine is something completely out of the ordinary. My one-word description for this sensational wine is ‘controlled’. I say this because what I adore about every single vintage of R.D. which I have tasted (and there have been many – see below) is the seeming lack of control in every sip. R.D. should be and usually is an absurdly decadent and unpredictable wine, firing off ostentatious flavour and extraordinary detail in every direction. This is why I love it so much and also why I only open it on very special occasions! What is remarkable about this particular vintage is its restraint and levity coupled with the extraordinary length of finish. After 14 years on lees, this wine is as power-packed and energised as it could possibly be and with the extra edge and vivacity coming from a fulsome percentage of Verzenay Pinot fruit (29%) added to the usual heartbeat coming from the Aÿ Pinot core (26%) this is a dynamic red fruit-dominant cocktail. The overall blend is 70% Pinot Noir and 30% Chardonnay coming from 14 Crus with 91% Grands Crus in this vintage. The dosage is a keen 3 grams per litre and all disgorgement is done by hand, as usual. But in 2007 the result is atypical, enchanting, surprisingly refreshing and amazingly delicious. I opened this bottle at 11.00 am and did not stopper it for a full 12 hours. I even sneaked half a glass with a chicken curry at supper time and it worked like a dream. This is not a massive firework of a wine that explodes gloriously and then is gone. Instead, it is a blazing torch of flavour with phenomenal persistence and balance and this makes it unmissable in every serious Champagne lover’s cellar. |
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Champagne | 2 | 19+ (MJ) |
In Bond
€993.00 |
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Matthew Jukes (19+)The latest release of R.D. – Bollinger’s iconic ‘Recently Disgorged or Récemment Dégorgé’ wine is something completely out of the ordinary. My one-word description for this sensational wine is ‘controlled’. I say this because what I adore about every single vintage of R.D. which I have tasted (and there have been many – see below) is the seeming lack of control in every sip. R.D. should be and usually is an absurdly decadent and unpredictable wine, firing off ostentatious flavour and extraordinary detail in every direction. This is why I love it so much and also why I only open it on very special occasions! What is remarkable about this particular vintage is its restraint and levity coupled with the extraordinary length of finish. After 14 years on lees, this wine is as power-packed and energised as it could possibly be and with the extra edge and vivacity coming from a fulsome percentage of Verzenay Pinot fruit (29%) added to the usual heartbeat coming from the Aÿ Pinot core (26%) this is a dynamic red fruit-dominant cocktail. The overall blend is 70% Pinot Noir and 30% Chardonnay coming from 14 Crus with 91% Grands Crus in this vintage. The dosage is a keen 3 grams per litre and all disgorgement is done by hand, as usual. But in 2007 the result is atypical, enchanting, surprisingly refreshing and amazingly delicious. I opened this bottle at 11.00 am and did not stopper it for a full 12 hours. I even sneaked half a glass with a chicken curry at supper time and it worked like a dream. This is not a massive firework of a wine that explodes gloriously and then is gone. Instead, it is a blazing torch of flavour with phenomenal persistence and balance and this makes it unmissable in every serious Champagne lover’s cellar. |
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Champagne | 2 | 19+ (MJ) |
In Bond
€516.00 |
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Matthew Jukes (19+)The latest release of R.D. – Bollinger’s iconic ‘Recently Disgorged or Récemment Dégorgé’ wine is something completely out of the ordinary. My one-word description for this sensational wine is ‘controlled’. I say this because what I adore about every single vintage of R.D. which I have tasted (and there have been many – see below) is the seeming lack of control in every sip. R.D. should be and usually is an absurdly decadent and unpredictable wine, firing off ostentatious flavour and extraordinary detail in every direction. This is why I love it so much and also why I only open it on very special occasions! What is remarkable about this particular vintage is its restraint and levity coupled with the extraordinary length of finish. After 14 years on lees, this wine is as power-packed and energised as it could possibly be and with the extra edge and vivacity coming from a fulsome percentage of Verzenay Pinot fruit (29%) added to the usual heartbeat coming from the Aÿ Pinot core (26%) this is a dynamic red fruit-dominant cocktail. The overall blend is 70% Pinot Noir and 30% Chardonnay coming from 14 Crus with 91% Grands Crus in this vintage. The dosage is a keen 3 grams per litre and all disgorgement is done by hand, as usual. But in 2007 the result is atypical, enchanting, surprisingly refreshing and amazingly delicious. I opened this bottle at 11.00 am and did not stopper it for a full 12 hours. I even sneaked half a glass with a chicken curry at supper time and it worked like a dream. This is not a massive firework of a wine that explodes gloriously and then is gone. Instead, it is a blazing torch of flavour with phenomenal persistence and balance and this makes it unmissable in every serious Champagne lover’s cellar. |
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