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
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Jeb Dunnuck (96-99)
A wine that’s going to flirt with perfection is the 2020 Château Larcis Ducasse. It’s a Saint-Emilion with an almost Pomerol-like depth and power paired with classic Saint-Emilion aromatics and minerality. Incredibly pure notes of black cherries, blackberries, white flowers, truffle, and leafy herb notes all emerge on the nose and it’s full-bodied, with a layered, multi-dimensional texture, thrilling tannins, and a finish that won’t quit. If you get a chance, buy it. The blend is 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc, aging in 55% new French oak.Inc. TAX€802.24 -
Jeb Dunnuck (96-99)
A wine that’s going to flirt with perfection is the 2020 Château Larcis Ducasse. It’s a Saint-Emilion with an almost Pomerol-like depth and power paired with classic Saint-Emilion aromatics and minerality. Incredibly pure notes of black cherries, blackberries, white flowers, truffle, and leafy herb notes all emerge on the nose and it’s full-bodied, with a layered, multi-dimensional texture, thrilling tannins, and a finish that won’t quit. If you get a chance, buy it. The blend is 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc, aging in 55% new French oak.Inc. TAX€451.19 -
(12x37.5cl) 2021James Suckling (94-95)
This is medium-to full-bodied with firm, silky tannins. Already has an expressive nose of blackcurrants, blackberries, white pepper, cloves and black licorice. Salty minerality. Fresh and fine. Spicy finish. Lengthy, too. 86% merlot and 14% cabernet franc.Inc. TAX€591.34 -
James Suckling (94-95)
This is medium-to full-bodied with firm, silky tannins. Already has an expressive nose of blackcurrants, blackberries, white pepper, cloves and black licorice. Salty minerality. Fresh and fine. Spicy finish. Lengthy, too. 86% merlot and 14% cabernet franc.Inc. TAX€358.62 -
(1x600cl) 2021James Suckling (94-95)
This is medium-to full-bodied with firm, silky tannins. Already has an expressive nose of blackcurrants, blackberries, white pepper, cloves and black licorice. Salty minerality. Fresh and fine. Spicy finish. Lengthy, too. 86% merlot and 14% cabernet franc.Inc. TAX€834.76 -
(1x75cl) 2021James Suckling (94-95)
This is medium-to full-bodied with firm, silky tannins. Already has an expressive nose of blackcurrants, blackberries, white pepper, cloves and black licorice. Salty minerality. Fresh and fine. Spicy finish. Lengthy, too. 86% merlot and 14% cabernet franc.Inc. TAX€111.55 -
James Suckling (94-95)
This is medium-to full-bodied with firm, silky tannins. Already has an expressive nose of blackcurrants, blackberries, white pepper, cloves and black licorice. Salty minerality. Fresh and fine. Spicy finish. Lengthy, too. 86% merlot and 14% cabernet franc.Inc. TAX€408.94 -
(12x75cl) 2022Jeb Dunnuck (100)
One of the more muscular, concentrated 2022s in my tastings, the 2022 Château Larcis Ducasse sports a deep ruby/plum hue to go with serious aromatics of ripe red and black cherries, smoked tobacco, new leather, truffle, and an incredible sense of crushed stone-like minerality. Rich, full-bodied, and massively concentrated on the palate, this intense, flawlessly balanced, voluptuous 2022 has a stacked mid-palate, velvety tannins, and fabulous length on the finish. I wouldn't be surprised to see this close down with 3-4 years of bottle age only to re-emerge after a decade. Based on 86% Merlot and 14% Cabernet Franc raised in 40% new oak, this modern-day legend has a terrific pH of 3.48 and an alcohol of 14.8%.Inc. TAX€1,423.16 -
Jeb Dunnuck (100)
One of the more muscular, concentrated 2022s in my tastings, the 2022 Château Larcis Ducasse sports a deep ruby/plum hue to go with serious aromatics of ripe red and black cherries, smoked tobacco, new leather, truffle, and an incredible sense of crushed stone-like minerality. Rich, full-bodied, and massively concentrated on the palate, this intense, flawlessly balanced, voluptuous 2022 has a stacked mid-palate, velvety tannins, and fabulous length on the finish. I wouldn't be surprised to see this close down with 3-4 years of bottle age only to re-emerge after a decade. Based on 86% Merlot and 14% Cabernet Franc raised in 40% new oak, this modern-day legend has a terrific pH of 3.48 and an alcohol of 14.8%.Inc. TAX€990.78 -
Jeb Dunnuck (100)
One of the more muscular, concentrated 2022s in my tastings, the 2022 Château Larcis Ducasse sports a deep ruby/plum hue to go with serious aromatics of ripe red and black cherries, smoked tobacco, new leather, truffle, and an incredible sense of crushed stone-like minerality. Rich, full-bodied, and massively concentrated on the palate, this intense, flawlessly balanced, voluptuous 2022 has a stacked mid-palate, velvety tannins, and fabulous length on the finish. I wouldn't be surprised to see this close down with 3-4 years of bottle age only to re-emerge after a decade. Based on 86% Merlot and 14% Cabernet Franc raised in 40% new oak, this modern-day legend has a terrific pH of 3.48 and an alcohol of 14.8%.Inc. TAX€139.00 -
Jeb Dunnuck (100)
One of the more muscular, concentrated 2022s in my tastings, the 2022 Château Larcis Ducasse sports a deep ruby/plum hue to go with serious aromatics of ripe red and black cherries, smoked tobacco, new leather, truffle, and an incredible sense of crushed stone-like minerality. Rich, full-bodied, and massively concentrated on the palate, this intense, flawlessly balanced, voluptuous 2022 has a stacked mid-palate, velvety tannins, and fabulous length on the finish. I wouldn't be surprised to see this close down with 3-4 years of bottle age only to re-emerge after a decade. Based on 86% Merlot and 14% Cabernet Franc raised in 40% new oak, this modern-day legend has a terrific pH of 3.48 and an alcohol of 14.8%.Inc. TAX€605.99 -
(12x75cl) 2023James Suckling (96-97)
This is really classic in character, with a fine tannin structure and medium body. It starts slowly and then accelerates quickly into intense black cherries, currants and a salty note. Savory and subtle. 86% merlot and 14% cabernet franc.Inc. TAX€996.67 -
(3x150cl) 2023James Suckling (96-97)
This is really classic in character, with a fine tannin structure and medium body. It starts slowly and then accelerates quickly into intense black cherries, currants and a salty note. Savory and subtle. 86% merlot and 14% cabernet franc.Inc. TAX€1,429.51 -
James Suckling (96-97)
This is really classic in character, with a fine tannin structure and medium body. It starts slowly and then accelerates quickly into intense black cherries, currants and a salty note. Savory and subtle. 86% merlot and 14% cabernet franc.Inc. TAX€425.74 -
(12x75cl) 2001Vinous - Stephen Tanzer (86-89)
Saturated ruby. Ripe, liqueur-like aromas of blackberry, violet and Valrhona chocolate. Fat, supple and ripe, with lovely sweetness and flavor intensity in the middle palate. In a somewhat chunky style, with good size and richness for the year. Finishes with ripe, dusty, tactile tannins and lingering sweet berry flavors.Inc. TAX€855.07 -
(12x75cl) 2010James Suckling (93-94)
Very refined and dense, with a beautiful intensity of dark fruit and hints of mint. Touch of class here.Inc. TAX€459.56 -
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Vinous - Antonio Galloni (93)
The 2019 Larmande has really come together during élevage. From bottle it shows remarkable breadth, power and persistence. Raspberry jam, mocha, dried flowers and spice build in this voluptuous, wonderfully expressive Saint-Émilion. The 2019 is not super complex nor structured, but it sure is delicious. Pretty floral accents lift the finish.Inc. TAX€236.88 -
(12x37.5cl) 2020Wine Advocate (91-93)
Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2020 Larmande has a beautifully bright perfume of kirsch, crushed black plums, fresh boysenberries and violets, plus suggestions of spice cake, Sichuan pepper and dusty soil. The medium to full-bodied palate has lovely poise with bags of freshness and a soft texture supporting the elegant red and black fruit layers, finishing earthy.Inc. TAX€266.14 -
Wine Advocate (91-93)
Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2020 Larmande has a beautifully bright perfume of kirsch, crushed black plums, fresh boysenberries and violets, plus suggestions of spice cake, Sichuan pepper and dusty soil. The medium to full-bodied palate has lovely poise with bags of freshness and a soft texture supporting the elegant red and black fruit layers, finishing earthy.Inc. TAX€192.97 -
(12x37.5cl) 2021Wine Advocate (92)
The 2021 Larmande has turned out well in bottle, wafting from the glass with notes of raspberries, rose petals and plums, followed by a medium to full-bodied, supple and suave palate that's layered and seamless, with a vibrant and enveloping core of fruit, ripe tannins and a perfumed finish.Inc. TAX€275.74 -
(6x150cl) 2021Wine Advocate (92)
The 2021 Larmande has turned out well in bottle, wafting from the glass with notes of raspberries, rose petals and plums, followed by a medium to full-bodied, supple and suave palate that's layered and seamless, with a vibrant and enveloping core of fruit, ripe tannins and a perfumed finish.Inc. TAX€477.07 -
Wine Advocate (92)
The 2021 Larmande has turned out well in bottle, wafting from the glass with notes of raspberries, rose petals and plums, followed by a medium to full-bodied, supple and suave palate that's layered and seamless, with a vibrant and enveloping core of fruit, ripe tannins and a perfumed finish.Inc. TAX€189.34 -
Jancis Robinson (17+)
The first time that Larmandier-Bernier has made this wine. 100% Pinot Noir from old vines in Vertus. Spontaneous vinification in old vats and casks, 11 months on lees. Tirage end of July 2016. Six years sur lattes. Dosage 0 g/l. Baked sour cream, smoke and bay leaf. A powerful, bone-structured rigidity. Fennel and chalk dust and bitter rain and baobab. Pretty uncompromising. Tastes like a glacial waterfall. Maritime. No curves, no corners – a cliff face of a wine.Inc. TAX€820.57 -
Vinous (94)
The 2012 Extra Brut Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Les Chemins d'Avize is another powerful, deep wine that needs time in the glass to be at its best. In fact, the 2012 was not really fully expressive until it had been opened for about 24 hours. There is an inherent depth to the 2012 that just needs time to emerge. With air, the 2012 is broad and expansive, with the layers of fruit intensity and tension that are such signatures of Pierre and Sophie Larmandier's very best wines. What a gorgeous Champagne this is. Dosage is 2 grams per liter. Disgorged: March 2018.Inc. TAX€1,097.04 -
Vinous (97)
The 2013 Extra Brut Les Chemins d'Avize Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru is floral and gracious, much more so than is common in Avize Champagnes, which tend to have more body. The 2013 is beautifully perfumed and ethereal from start to finish, with striking beams of salinity that confer tension. Candied lemon peel, white flowers, spice, hazelnut, dried flowers and chamomile are some of the many notes that are laced together. This subtle, wonderfully nuanced Champagne has so much to offer. It is the most restrained wine in this range. The Chemins d'Avize is a blend of fruit from Chemin de Plivot and Chemin de Flavigny, done in neutral oak. Dosage is 2 grams per liter. Disgorged: October, 2019.Inc. TAX€780.97 -
Vinous (95)
The 2014 Extra Brut Les Chemins d"Avize Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru is fabulous. Rich, ample and potent, the 2014 possesses tremendous density from start to finish. Apricot, spice, dried flowers, graphite and lemon confit all build in a Champagne of enormous resonance. The pedigree here is evident. Chemins d"Avize is a blend from the Chemin de Plivot and Chemin de Flavigny lieux-dits. It was vinified in neutral oak and bottled with dosage of two grams per liter. Disgorged: June, 2021.Inc. TAX€959.77 -
The Larmandier-Bernier Chemins d'Avize Extra Brut Grand Cru 2015 is a remarkable addition to any finewine collection. Produced by the revered Larmandier-Bernier house, nestled in the prestigious Champagne region of France, this exceptional Grand Cru embodies supreme eloquence. Crafted entirely from Chardonnay grapes sourced from esteemed vineyards in Avize, the 2015 vintage boasts an ethereal blend of minerality, acidity and lingering citrus notes.
Aged in oak barrels and bio-dynamically farmed, the wine encapsulates harmonious precision, exhibiting years of masterful expertise. Its extra brut nature, denoting minimal dosage, allows for unblemished expression of terroir. The harvest of 2015 only deepens this wine's allure, offering an impactful taste profile that compels with every sip. Such complexity attaches distinguished character to the Larmandier-Bernier Chemins d'Avize Extra Brut Grand Cru 2015, securing its rightful place in the pantheon of extraordinary champagnes. A testament to the unerring pursuit of excellence by Larmandier-Bernier.
Inc. TAX€916.57 -
(6x75cl) 2016Wine Advocate (96)
The 2016 Blanc de Blancs Les Chemins d'Avize, disgorged in April 2024 with a dosage of two grams per liter, is a particular success. Hailing from Le Chemin de Flavigny and Le Chemin de Plivot, located in a flat part of Avize at the bottom of the slope, these are some of the last plots to be harvested, as the fruit ripens more slowly here. Vinified in 20-hectoliter Stockinger vat and barrels of various sizes, it was matured on its lees for 10 months. Informed by the concentration of 50-year-old vines, lower-than-average yields due to mildew pressure and a late-ripening season, it opens from the glass with aromas of marzipan, baked bread, lemon zest and beeswax. Elegantly muscular and vividly chalky, it’s layered and harmonious, underpinned by bright acidity, leading to a precise, long-lasting finish. A more tense, higher-acid version than 2015, it has more in common with the personality of the 2013 vintage.Inc. TAX€917.77
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Jeb Dunnuck (96-99)
A wine that’s going to flirt with perfection is the 2020 Château Larcis Ducasse. It’s a Saint-Emilion with an almost Pomerol-like depth and power paired with classic Saint-Emilion aromatics and minerality. Incredibly pure notes of black cherries, blackberries, white flowers, truffle, and leafy herb notes all emerge on the nose and it’s full-bodied, with a layered, multi-dimensional texture, thrilling tannins, and a finish that won’t quit. If you get a chance, buy it. The blend is 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc, aging in 55% new French oak.In Bond€643.00 -
Jeb Dunnuck (96-99)
A wine that’s going to flirt with perfection is the 2020 Château Larcis Ducasse. It’s a Saint-Emilion with an almost Pomerol-like depth and power paired with classic Saint-Emilion aromatics and minerality. Incredibly pure notes of black cherries, blackberries, white flowers, truffle, and leafy herb notes all emerge on the nose and it’s full-bodied, with a layered, multi-dimensional texture, thrilling tannins, and a finish that won’t quit. If you get a chance, buy it. The blend is 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc, aging in 55% new French oak.In Bond€353.00 -
(12x37.5cl) 2021James Suckling (94-95)
This is medium-to full-bodied with firm, silky tannins. Already has an expressive nose of blackcurrants, blackberries, white pepper, cloves and black licorice. Salty minerality. Fresh and fine. Spicy finish. Lengthy, too. 86% merlot and 14% cabernet franc.In Bond€469.00 -
James Suckling (94-95)
This is medium-to full-bodied with firm, silky tannins. Already has an expressive nose of blackcurrants, blackberries, white pepper, cloves and black licorice. Salty minerality. Fresh and fine. Spicy finish. Lengthy, too. 86% merlot and 14% cabernet franc.In Bond€283.00 -
(1x600cl) 2021James Suckling (94-95)
This is medium-to full-bodied with firm, silky tannins. Already has an expressive nose of blackcurrants, blackberries, white pepper, cloves and black licorice. Salty minerality. Fresh and fine. Spicy finish. Lengthy, too. 86% merlot and 14% cabernet franc.In Bond€665.00 -
(1x75cl) 2021James Suckling (94-95)
This is medium-to full-bodied with firm, silky tannins. Already has an expressive nose of blackcurrants, blackberries, white pepper, cloves and black licorice. Salty minerality. Fresh and fine. Spicy finish. Lengthy, too. 86% merlot and 14% cabernet franc.In Bond€89.00 -
James Suckling (94-95)
This is medium-to full-bodied with firm, silky tannins. Already has an expressive nose of blackcurrants, blackberries, white pepper, cloves and black licorice. Salty minerality. Fresh and fine. Spicy finish. Lengthy, too. 86% merlot and 14% cabernet franc.In Bond€317.00 -
(12x75cl) 2022Jeb Dunnuck (100)
One of the more muscular, concentrated 2022s in my tastings, the 2022 Château Larcis Ducasse sports a deep ruby/plum hue to go with serious aromatics of ripe red and black cherries, smoked tobacco, new leather, truffle, and an incredible sense of crushed stone-like minerality. Rich, full-bodied, and massively concentrated on the palate, this intense, flawlessly balanced, voluptuous 2022 has a stacked mid-palate, velvety tannins, and fabulous length on the finish. I wouldn't be surprised to see this close down with 3-4 years of bottle age only to re-emerge after a decade. Based on 86% Merlot and 14% Cabernet Franc raised in 40% new oak, this modern-day legend has a terrific pH of 3.48 and an alcohol of 14.8%.In Bond€1,140.00 -
Jeb Dunnuck (100)
One of the more muscular, concentrated 2022s in my tastings, the 2022 Château Larcis Ducasse sports a deep ruby/plum hue to go with serious aromatics of ripe red and black cherries, smoked tobacco, new leather, truffle, and an incredible sense of crushed stone-like minerality. Rich, full-bodied, and massively concentrated on the palate, this intense, flawlessly balanced, voluptuous 2022 has a stacked mid-palate, velvety tannins, and fabulous length on the finish. I wouldn't be surprised to see this close down with 3-4 years of bottle age only to re-emerge after a decade. Based on 86% Merlot and 14% Cabernet Franc raised in 40% new oak, this modern-day legend has a terrific pH of 3.48 and an alcohol of 14.8%.In Bond€795.00 -
Jeb Dunnuck (100)
One of the more muscular, concentrated 2022s in my tastings, the 2022 Château Larcis Ducasse sports a deep ruby/plum hue to go with serious aromatics of ripe red and black cherries, smoked tobacco, new leather, truffle, and an incredible sense of crushed stone-like minerality. Rich, full-bodied, and massively concentrated on the palate, this intense, flawlessly balanced, voluptuous 2022 has a stacked mid-palate, velvety tannins, and fabulous length on the finish. I wouldn't be surprised to see this close down with 3-4 years of bottle age only to re-emerge after a decade. Based on 86% Merlot and 14% Cabernet Franc raised in 40% new oak, this modern-day legend has a terrific pH of 3.48 and an alcohol of 14.8%.In Bond€112.00 -
Jeb Dunnuck (100)
One of the more muscular, concentrated 2022s in my tastings, the 2022 Château Larcis Ducasse sports a deep ruby/plum hue to go with serious aromatics of ripe red and black cherries, smoked tobacco, new leather, truffle, and an incredible sense of crushed stone-like minerality. Rich, full-bodied, and massively concentrated on the palate, this intense, flawlessly balanced, voluptuous 2022 has a stacked mid-palate, velvety tannins, and fabulous length on the finish. I wouldn't be surprised to see this close down with 3-4 years of bottle age only to re-emerge after a decade. Based on 86% Merlot and 14% Cabernet Franc raised in 40% new oak, this modern-day legend has a terrific pH of 3.48 and an alcohol of 14.8%.In Bond€482.00 -
(12x75cl) 2023James Suckling (96-97)
This is really classic in character, with a fine tannin structure and medium body. It starts slowly and then accelerates quickly into intense black cherries, currants and a salty note. Savory and subtle. 86% merlot and 14% cabernet franc.In Bond€783.00 -
(3x150cl) 2023James Suckling (96-97)
This is really classic in character, with a fine tannin structure and medium body. It starts slowly and then accelerates quickly into intense black cherries, currants and a salty note. Savory and subtle. 86% merlot and 14% cabernet franc.In Bond€1,167.48 -
James Suckling (96-97)
This is really classic in character, with a fine tannin structure and medium body. It starts slowly and then accelerates quickly into intense black cherries, currants and a salty note. Savory and subtle. 86% merlot and 14% cabernet franc.In Bond€331.00 -
(12x75cl) 2001Vinous - Stephen Tanzer (86-89)
Saturated ruby. Ripe, liqueur-like aromas of blackberry, violet and Valrhona chocolate. Fat, supple and ripe, with lovely sweetness and flavor intensity in the middle palate. In a somewhat chunky style, with good size and richness for the year. Finishes with ripe, dusty, tactile tannins and lingering sweet berry flavors.In Bond€665.00 -
(12x75cl) 2010James Suckling (93-94)
Very refined and dense, with a beautiful intensity of dark fruit and hints of mint. Touch of class here.In Bond€337.00 -
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Vinous - Antonio Galloni (93)
The 2019 Larmande has really come together during élevage. From bottle it shows remarkable breadth, power and persistence. Raspberry jam, mocha, dried flowers and spice build in this voluptuous, wonderfully expressive Saint-Émilion. The 2019 is not super complex nor structured, but it sure is delicious. Pretty floral accents lift the finish.In Bond€176.00 -
(12x37.5cl) 2020Wine Advocate (91-93)
Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2020 Larmande has a beautifully bright perfume of kirsch, crushed black plums, fresh boysenberries and violets, plus suggestions of spice cake, Sichuan pepper and dusty soil. The medium to full-bodied palate has lovely poise with bags of freshness and a soft texture supporting the elegant red and black fruit layers, finishing earthy.In Bond€198.00 -
Wine Advocate (91-93)
Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2020 Larmande has a beautifully bright perfume of kirsch, crushed black plums, fresh boysenberries and violets, plus suggestions of spice cake, Sichuan pepper and dusty soil. The medium to full-bodied palate has lovely poise with bags of freshness and a soft texture supporting the elegant red and black fruit layers, finishing earthy.In Bond€141.00 -
(12x37.5cl) 2021Wine Advocate (92)
The 2021 Larmande has turned out well in bottle, wafting from the glass with notes of raspberries, rose petals and plums, followed by a medium to full-bodied, supple and suave palate that's layered and seamless, with a vibrant and enveloping core of fruit, ripe tannins and a perfumed finish.In Bond€206.00 -
(6x150cl) 2021Wine Advocate (92)
The 2021 Larmande has turned out well in bottle, wafting from the glass with notes of raspberries, rose petals and plums, followed by a medium to full-bodied, supple and suave palate that's layered and seamless, with a vibrant and enveloping core of fruit, ripe tannins and a perfumed finish.In Bond€350.00 -
Wine Advocate (92)
The 2021 Larmande has turned out well in bottle, wafting from the glass with notes of raspberries, rose petals and plums, followed by a medium to full-bodied, supple and suave palate that's layered and seamless, with a vibrant and enveloping core of fruit, ripe tannins and a perfumed finish.In Bond€134.00 -
Jancis Robinson (17+)
The first time that Larmandier-Bernier has made this wine. 100% Pinot Noir from old vines in Vertus. Spontaneous vinification in old vats and casks, 11 months on lees. Tirage end of July 2016. Six years sur lattes. Dosage 0 g/l. Baked sour cream, smoke and bay leaf. A powerful, bone-structured rigidity. Fennel and chalk dust and bitter rain and baobab. Pretty uncompromising. Tastes like a glacial waterfall. Maritime. No curves, no corners – a cliff face of a wine.In Bond€664.00 -
Vinous (94)
The 2012 Extra Brut Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Les Chemins d'Avize is another powerful, deep wine that needs time in the glass to be at its best. In fact, the 2012 was not really fully expressive until it had been opened for about 24 hours. There is an inherent depth to the 2012 that just needs time to emerge. With air, the 2012 is broad and expansive, with the layers of fruit intensity and tension that are such signatures of Pierre and Sophie Larmandier's very best wines. What a gorgeous Champagne this is. Dosage is 2 grams per liter. Disgorged: March 2018.In Bond€895.00 -
Vinous (97)
The 2013 Extra Brut Les Chemins d'Avize Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru is floral and gracious, much more so than is common in Avize Champagnes, which tend to have more body. The 2013 is beautifully perfumed and ethereal from start to finish, with striking beams of salinity that confer tension. Candied lemon peel, white flowers, spice, hazelnut, dried flowers and chamomile are some of the many notes that are laced together. This subtle, wonderfully nuanced Champagne has so much to offer. It is the most restrained wine in this range. The Chemins d'Avize is a blend of fruit from Chemin de Plivot and Chemin de Flavigny, done in neutral oak. Dosage is 2 grams per liter. Disgorged: October, 2019.In Bond€631.00 -
Vinous (95)
The 2014 Extra Brut Les Chemins d"Avize Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru is fabulous. Rich, ample and potent, the 2014 possesses tremendous density from start to finish. Apricot, spice, dried flowers, graphite and lemon confit all build in a Champagne of enormous resonance. The pedigree here is evident. Chemins d"Avize is a blend from the Chemin de Plivot and Chemin de Flavigny lieux-dits. It was vinified in neutral oak and bottled with dosage of two grams per liter. Disgorged: June, 2021.In Bond€780.00 -
The Larmandier-Bernier Chemins d'Avize Extra Brut Grand Cru 2015 is a remarkable addition to any finewine collection. Produced by the revered Larmandier-Bernier house, nestled in the prestigious Champagne region of France, this exceptional Grand Cru embodies supreme eloquence. Crafted entirely from Chardonnay grapes sourced from esteemed vineyards in Avize, the 2015 vintage boasts an ethereal blend of minerality, acidity and lingering citrus notes.
Aged in oak barrels and bio-dynamically farmed, the wine encapsulates harmonious precision, exhibiting years of masterful expertise. Its extra brut nature, denoting minimal dosage, allows for unblemished expression of terroir. The harvest of 2015 only deepens this wine's allure, offering an impactful taste profile that compels with every sip. Such complexity attaches distinguished character to the Larmandier-Bernier Chemins d'Avize Extra Brut Grand Cru 2015, securing its rightful place in the pantheon of extraordinary champagnes. A testament to the unerring pursuit of excellence by Larmandier-Bernier.
In Bond€744.00 -
(6x75cl) 2016Wine Advocate (96)
The 2016 Blanc de Blancs Les Chemins d'Avize, disgorged in April 2024 with a dosage of two grams per liter, is a particular success. Hailing from Le Chemin de Flavigny and Le Chemin de Plivot, located in a flat part of Avize at the bottom of the slope, these are some of the last plots to be harvested, as the fruit ripens more slowly here. Vinified in 20-hectoliter Stockinger vat and barrels of various sizes, it was matured on its lees for 10 months. Informed by the concentration of 50-year-old vines, lower-than-average yields due to mildew pressure and a late-ripening season, it opens from the glass with aromas of marzipan, baked bread, lemon zest and beeswax. Elegantly muscular and vividly chalky, it’s layered and harmonious, underpinned by bright acidity, leading to a precise, long-lasting finish. A more tense, higher-acid version than 2015, it has more in common with the personality of the 2013 vintage.In Bond€745.00

