Bordeaux

A classic white Graves blend of Sauvignon Blanc (50%) and Sémillon (50%), our 2020 Extra Ordinary White is a testament to the quality and value of this oft-overlooked region. The Sauvignon provides aromatic fireworks and freshness on the palate; the Sémillon adds body and a touch of soft peach fruit. Around 10% is fermented in wood, lending further depth and complexity to the whole. This versatile wine makes an excellent apéritif, but it is best with a seafood platter or a goat’s cheese tartlet.

{***}
{region}Bordeaux{region}
{color}White{color}
{maturity}drink-now{maturity}
{maturity-text}Drink now{maturity-text}
{vintage}2020{vintage}
{***}

Our biggest seller for decades, “GOC” is a carefully assembled blend from some of Bordeaux’s best terroirs. Merlot makes up 67% of the blend, giving the wine its silky richness. The balance is mostly Cabernet Sauvignon, adding power and structure. After a year in oak, this shows why Claret is such a perennial favourite: warm, savoury aromas of cedar and woodsmoke, with supple cassis and blackberry on the palate. Designed for early drinking, this is a comfortable partner for most food, and is soft enough to be enjoyed on its own.

{***}
{region}Bordeaux{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}drink-now{maturity}
{maturity-text}Drink now{maturity-text}
{vintage}2019{vintage}
{ratings}

{ratings}
{***}

Once again, the fruit for our own-label 2017 Margaux comes from plots of younger vines at Château du Tertre. From the perfumed, elegant bouquet, to its charming, silky palate, this is quintessential Claret, made in an attractive, rounded style. Redcurrant and violets fill the nose, while darker, bramble fruit, cedar and spice follow on the palate. A touch of smoky oak frames the whole, and the finish is long, subtle and warming. Already drinking well now, this will cellar comfortably for a year or two.

{***}
{region}Margaux{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}drink-now{maturity}
{maturity-text}Drink now{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}
{ratings}
{ratings}{***}

Our Pessac-Léognan comes from plots of younger vines at Ch. Haut-Bailly, one of Bordeaux’s finest names. A traditional blend of 55% Cabernet Sauvignon and 45% Merlot, this is possibly its best vintage yet. The nose is glorious, with bright cassis and blackberry. The palate is refined, elegant and deliciously drinkable; there is a seamless quality to the balance of fruit and structure. This is a beautiful expression of the region, and there is no need to wait – it is drinking perfectly now.

{***}
{region}Pessac-Léognan{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}ready-improve{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2019{vintage}

{***}

Once again, we’ve worked with the Cazes family of Château Lynch-Bages. Benefitting from the same terroir and techniques as their much-loved grand vin, this blend of 72% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot and 3% Cabernet Franc is wonderfully fragrant, with layers of cassis and blackberries underpinned by sweet cedar spices and a core of graphite. It is luscious, elegant and distinctly Pauillac, with a palate of round, velvety tannins that complement the purity of the fruit. Ideal for drinking now, you could also cellar this for a couple of years.

{***}
{region}Pauillac{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}ready-keep{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2019{vintage}{***}

{***}
{region}St Estèphe{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}ready-improve{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}
{ratings}
 

{ratings} {***}

For several years now, our own-label St Emilion has come from a small Grand Cru owned by the Vauthier family, one of the best names on the Right Bank. The 2018 is deeply coloured, with a decadent nose of dark bramble fruit and inviting notes of mocha, spice and toasty oak. The palate is densely concentrated, with substantial, plummy fruit, and a long, warming finish. It’s a serious wine this – and one which gets even better in the glass. Superb with roast rib of beef, or an expansive cheese board.

{***}
{region}St Emilion{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}ready-keep{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}{***}

{***}
{region}Bordeaux{region}
{color}White{color}
{maturity}ready-keep{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2010{vintage}
{ratings}

{ratings}{***}

Dark red with a purple hue, the nose is redolent of black fruit with some mocha and coffee notes. Fresh and full-bodied, there are crisp tannins with a finely tuned layer of spice giving way to a well-balanced, long finish.

Blend: Cabernet Sauvignon 62%, Merlot 35%, Cabernet Franc 3%

{***}{region}Pauillac{region}
{color} Red{color}                                                         

{maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2016{vintage}
{ratings}
 [] The Wine Advocate:: 93/100

 [] Vinous:: 94/100  

[] Jancis Robinson:: 17/20  

[] James Suckling:: 95-96/100{ratings} {***}

The 2015 Les Forts de Latour is silky, perfumed and wonderfully nuanced from the very first taste. Crushed red berry, cedar, tobacco, mint and blood orange lend striking aromatic nuance. Ample and resonant in feel, yet with mid-weight structure, the 2015 is a total pleasure to taste today. All of the natural radiance of the warm year comes through in the wine's generous, inviting personality. Drink it over the next 15 years or so. Drink 2021-2030.
Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media (March 2021)

{***}
{region}Pauillac{region}
{color}Red{color}                 {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2015{vintage}
{ratings}
[] Vinous, Antonio Galloni:: 94/100 

[]James Suckling:: 95/100 []Vinous, Neal Martin:: 93/100  {ratings}{***}

The 2014 Les Forts de Latour has a smudged, quite opulent bouquet with lavish red fruit, leather and undergrowth scents, more forward than I would expect from a wine this youthful. The palate is medium-bodied with soft tannin and a little chewy in the mouth. Like the nose, this Les Forts de Latour feels unusually decadent for the vintage with a sweet finish that needs to muster more reserve and breeding. It is not unlikeable, quite the opposite, but it needs to develop more Pauillac characteristics. Tasted blind at the annual Southwold tasting.

{***}
{region}Pauillac{region}
{color}Red{color}                 {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2010{vintage}
{ratings}
[]Wine Spectator:: 92/100        
[]Jancis Robsinson:: 17/20                
[]Vinous:: 93/100          
[]Wine Advocate:: 93/100                                                                                                   
{ratings}{***}

{***}
{region}Pauillac{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}laying-down{maturity}
{maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}
{ratings}
[]The Wine Advocate:: 97-99/100          []James Suckling:: 97-98/100   
{ratings}  {***}

With its ripe, intense blackcurrant nose and succulent palate, Le Petit Mouton is a great example of the exceptional quality of the second wines of the grands châteaux in 2009. This is rich and delicious with very juicy fruit and ripe tannins leading to a complex, savoury finish. This will be wonderful to drink in a few year’s time whilst waiting for the Grand Vin to mature.

{***}{region}Pauillac{region}
{color} Red{color}                                                         

{maturity}ready-keep{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2009{vintage}
{ratings}
 [] The Wine Advocate:: 93/100

 [] Robert Parker:: 90-92/100  

[] Jancis Robinson:: 16/20  

[] Wine Spectator:: 90-93/100{ratings} {***}

A blend of 50 percent Cabernet Sauvignon, 45 percent Merlot, four percent Petit Verdot and one percent Cabernet Franc, this wine sits in the glass with a dark violet colour showing impressive red berry fruit, a nice hint of damson and a leafy quality. Medium-bodied, the wine has a silky mouth-feel and gentle acidity. The finish is long and persistent, with just a touch of mocha and spice.

{***}{region}St Julien{region}
{color}Red{color}                                                              

{maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}
{ratings}
[] Wine Advocate:: 90-92/100
[] Antonio Galloni, Vinous:: 92-95/100

{ratings}{***}

{***}
{region}St Estèphe{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}ready-keep{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2012{vintage}
{ratings}
[]The Wine Advocate:: 93/100

[]Wine Spectator:: 90-93/100

[]Robert Parker:: 92-94/100 

[]Jancin Robinson:: 17.5+/20    

{ratings} {***}

{***}
{region}Pomerol{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}laying-down{maturity}
{maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}
{ratings}

[]Wine Advocate:: 96-98/100

{ratings} {***}

Deeply coloured, the nose offers great aromatic purity, with blackberries, cassis and dark cherries joined by a hint of smoke and coffee bean. It is beautifully complex. On the palate, the wine opens up with a rich and opulent structure. Velvety tannins combine with dark fruit, plum, spicy pepper notes and a touch of dark chocolate. The 2018 is a wine of power – harmonious and concentrated with a lingering mouth-feel. Drink 2024-2035.

Blend: 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc, 5% Petit Verdot

{***}{region}Margaux{region}
{color}Red{color}                                                      

{maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}

{ratings} [] Vinous:: 93-96/100

[] Wine Advocate:: 94-96+/100

{ratings}

{***}

Henri Lurton’s preference is for a more considered and restrained style of Margaux and, while the roundness of the vintage is apparent, this is very stylish, with a lovely lift of fruit and bounce of freshness. The tannins plot a commendably firm line through the palate. Unsurprisingly, this has one of the more modest alcohols at 13.4%. Drink 2025-2040.

Blend: 74% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Merlot, 2% Cabernet Franc

{***}
{region}Margaux{region}

{color}Red{color}                                                                                                {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}

{vintage}2018{vintage}

{ratings}

[]James Suckling:: 95/100        
[]Jancis Robinson:: 17+/20                
[]Decanter :: 95/100           
[]The Wine Advocate:: 93/100 

{ratings}

{***}

Henri Lurton describes this as one of the greatest, if not the greatest, Brane and it is hard not to disagree. Aromas of violets and blackcurrant give way to a concentrated, succulent wine with a long, pure, persistent, finish.

Blend: Cabernet Sauvignon 70%, Merlot 27%, Cabernet Franc 2%, Carménère 1%

{***}
{region}Margaux{region}

{color}Red{color}            

     {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}

{vintage}2016{vintage}

{ratings}   
[]The Wine Advocate:: 96-98/100

[]Jancis Robinson:: 17/20

{ratings}

{***}

An estate that has eyes on it right now as it changes hands from the Albada to the Helfrich family. At this point winemaker Frederic Ardouin had been there for three years, and has made a wine with a supple quality to the tannins, and plenty of juice running through it. Very much ready to enjoy and will give a ton of pleasure. Easy to recommend. 10% Petit Verdot completes the blend. 30% new oak. Drink 2021 - 2036. Jane Anson, Decanter.com

{***}
{region}Margaux{region}

{color}Red{color}                                                                                                {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}

{vintage}2011{vintage}

{ratings}
[]Wine Spectator:: 88-91/100                    
[]James Suckling:: 91/100           
[]Decanter:: 92/100                                                                                                   
{ratings}

{***}

At Ch. Troplong Mondot new chief executive Aymeric de Gironde talks about a return to a pre-1998 style. The 2017 is certainly a step in that direction. A blend of 85 percent Merlot, 13 percent Cabernet Sauvignon and two percent Cabernet Franc, it has wonderful, unctuous pleasing fruit notes of dark and blue fruit, mulberry, damson, blueberry and blackcurrant. This is a wine which is full of immediate appeal and sweet fruit. But there is an elegance to the mid palate and it finishes with a dry, creamy texture. A really excellent wine.

{***}{region}St Emilion{region}
{color}Red{color}                                                              

{maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}
{ratings}
[] Wine Advocate:: 95-97/100

{ratings}{***}

The 2017 Bellevue Mondotte is just as impressive from bottle as it was en primeur. Powerful and structured, with tremendous intensity in all of its dimensions, the 2017 is all class. Inky dark fruit, graphite, menthol and licorice all come together with time in the glass. This tiny vineyard on very poor limestone subsoil gives wines of real power and structure. The 2017 is a gorgeous Saint-Émilion endowed with tons of energy and tension. Drink 2027-2042
Antonio Galloni, Vinous (Mar 2020)

{***}{region}St Emilion{region}
{color}Red{color}                                                              

{maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}
{ratings}
[] Wine Advocate:: 96-98/100

[] Antonia Galloni, Vinous:: 96/100

{ratings}{***}

{***}{region}Pessac-Léognan{region}
{color} Red{color}                                                              

 {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2013{vintage}

{ratings}[] Wine Advocate:: 94-96+/100{ratings}

{***}

The 2017 Ch. Pape Clément falls into the glass with a deep maroon colour. It has a delicate, expressive nose of red fruit, cassis, iron and wet stone. The blend is 49 percent Cabernet Sauvignon, 48 percent Merlot, two percent Petit Verdot and one percent Cabernet Franc planted on clay gravels. The palate is medium-bodied with a lively, tannic grip. It finishes with a long, peppery, saline minerality. A complex wine which will reveal itself over many years.

{***}{region}Pessac-Léognan{region}
{color} Red{color}                                                               

{maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}
{ratings}
 [] The Wine Advocate:: 92-94/100{ratings}    {***}

This estate is one of the most exciting and progressive estates in Bordeaux. At the helm is the indefatigable Guillaume Pouthier and his passion once again is reflected in the beautifully crafted 2017. The lovely, deep Cabernet nose has a mineral note of wet stone and dark plum. There is very good dense fruit on mid-palate with a lovely saline background. A great snap of acidity gives it a lovely freshness, and the fruit core carries on through the length, boding for a few decades in bottle. A svelte and yet tightly wound Carmes. Beautifully crafted – a Graves on another level.

{***}{region}Pessac-Léognan{region}
{color}Red{color}            {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}
{ratings}
[]James Suckling:: 94-95/100                 
           
[]The Wine Advocate:: 91-93+/100                                                                                                   
{ratings}

Veronique Saunders says that in 2017 the estate lost 30 percent of fruit due to frost. Dark ruby, the nose has notes of spices, cedar, dark fruit and cassis. On the palate it is medium bodied and extremely silky with high quality tannins. A blend of 60 percent Cabernet Sauvignon, 32 percent Merlot, four percent Cabernet Franc and four percent Petit Verdot, it has a gentle, delicate feel in 2017 with cool fruit and a long persistent finish. 

{***}{region}Pessac-Léognan{region}
{color}Red{color}                                                        

   {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}
{ratings}
[]The Wine Advocate:: 94-96/100

[]James Suckling:: 94-95/100

{ratings} {***}

The medium to deep garnet colored 2008 Cos d'Estournel is blended of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Merlot and 2% Cabernet Franc. Pow! The nose explodes with notes of baked cherries, preserved plums, fried herbs, beef drippings and warm cassis with wafts of wood smoke, salami and tobacco leaf. Medium-bodied, the palate is elegant and earthy/savory in character, sporting beautifully ripe, grainy tannins and bags of freshness, finishing on a lingering mineral note. Drink 2018-2035.

{***}
{region}St Estèphe{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}ready-improve{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2008{vintage}
{ratings}
[]Wine Advocate:: 95/100

{ratings} {***}

The vineyards of Ch. Grand-Puy-Lacoste were unaffected by the late frosts in April. The 2017 is a blend of 80 percent Cabernet Sauvignon and 20 percent Merlot. Medium crimson in colour with an attractive, yet delicate perfume of blackcurrant, cassis, raspberry and red fruit. The palate is medium-bodied with a good, thrilling acidity and a juicy finish. Owing to the weather during the growing season, the grapes don’t have as much sugar as previous vintages which is here shown off to us in a lighter style. Attractive fine tannins.

{***}
{region}Pauillac{region}

{color}Red{color}                                                                                                {maturity}drink-now{maturity} {maturity-text}Drink Now{maturity-text}

{vintage}2017{vintage}

{ratings}   
[]Vinous:: 93/100

[]Wine Advocate:: 90/100

[]James Suckling:: 92-93/100 

{ratings}

{***}

Ch. Latour has now released the final stock of its excellent second wine, Les Forts de Latour from the legendary 2005 vintage. This is the last opportunity to purchase this wine on release from the château.

{***}
{region}Pauillac{region}
{color}Red{color}                 {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2005{vintage}
{ratings}
[] Robert Parker:: 93/100 

 []Wine Advocate:: 93/100  {ratings}{***}

{***}
{region}St Julien {region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}laying-down{maturity}
{maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2016{vintage}
{ratings}
[]The Wine Advocate:: 97+/100

[]Vinous:: 98/100

[]James Suckling:: 95-96/100

[]Jancis Robinson:: 18/20    

{ratings} {***}

Of all the St Julien properties, Saint-Pierre is the smallest, but in 2018 it has made a wine full of concentration and intensity. The palate is dominated by flavours of liquorice, blueberries and blackcurrant, with a hint of cigar smoke. The tannins are well balanced, making it an attractive option for earlier drinking. It’s moreish with a long finish. Drink 2021-2032.

{***}{region}St Julien{region}
{color}Red{color}                                                              

{maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}
{ratings}
[] Wine Advocate:: 94-96/100

{ratings}{***}

{***}
{region}Pomerol{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}laying-down{maturity}
{maturity-text}For Laying Down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}
{ratings}
[]The Wine Advocate:: 95-97/100          
{ratings}  {***}

The 2014 Baron de Brane displays scents of brambly red berry fruit, mocha and hints of espresso on the well-defined nose. The medium-bodied palate offers fine tannin and a straightforward, tobacco-tinged and lightly spiced finish. The most elegant Baron de Brane in recent years. Fine. Tasted at the Brane-Cantenac vertical at the château.ed wine.

{***}
{region} Margaux{region}
{color} Red{color}                                                               {maturity}ready-keep{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2014{vintage}

{ratings}
 [] Vinous:: 87/100                
 [] Decanter:: 89/100{ratings}

{***}

{***}
{region}St Estèphe{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}ready-improve{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}
{ratings}

{ratings} {***}

The wine is only just coming out of its shell. The nose is subdued but fresh and incisive, the palate firm verging on austere with grippy tannins present. There's length and freshness, the Cabernet providing a linear edge, the fruit adequately juicy. If you can, wait another couple of years.

{***}{region}Margaux{region}
{color} Red{color}                                                               {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2011{vintage}
{ratings}
 [] The Wine Advocate:: 90/100        
 [] Wine Spectator:: 90/100          
 [] James Suckling:: 92/100{ratings}    {***}

Perhaps one of the best value “Second” wines on the market, Ségla does not disappoint in the great 2016 vintage. The nose is quintessential Margaux with lashings of Blackcurrant, Blueberry and Cassis notes interwoven with rose petals, violets and cedarwood. The palate is medium-bodied, elegant and open with a pleasant mouth-feel which does not lack in concentration. The fruit is succulent and blends perfectly with the silky tannins. A super drinkable Ségla but allow a few years in bottle for it to really sing.

Drink 2022 – 2028+

{***}{region}Margaux{region}
{color}Red{color}         {maturity}ready-keep{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2016{vintage}

{ratings}
 [] Antonio Galloni, Vinous :: 92/100

[] Neal Martin, Vinous:: 90/100

 [] Jancis Robinson :: 18/20  

[] James Suckling:: 93/100

{ratings}

{***}

The 2001 Calon-Ségur has a delightful bouquet, very pure and a little more vivacious than the preceding vintage, featuring lovely brambly red fruit, rose petals, autumn leaves and a touch of cigar box, all well defined and focused. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins, a little more cohesive than the 2000, and slightly granular in texture, with a graceful, elegant and quite persistent finish. This is one of the few châteaux where it's difficult to choose between the 2001 and 2000. Drinking perfectly now. Drink 2021 - 2045

Neal Martin, vinous.com (Sep 2021)

{***}
{region}St Estèphe{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}ready-keep{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2001{vintage}
{ratings}
[]Vinous:: 94/100

{ratings} {***}

The 2000 d’Armailhac offers brambly red berry fruit mixed with cedar and mint on a nose that is gentle but persuasive, nicely defined and open. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins that frame the iron-tinged red fruit. This is not amazingly complex compared to recent vintages, but it is harmonious and displays the DNA of a Pauillac. It just fades a little toward the finish, and there is perhaps a touch of brettanomyces. Bottles are drinking perfectly now. Charming and ready to go.

{***}
{region}Pauillac{region}
{color}Red{color}       {maturity}drink-now{maturity} {maturity-text}Drink Now{maturity-text}
{vintage}2000{vintage}
{ratings} [] Vinous:: 88/100
          
                                                                                                 
{ratings}{***}

This is a wonderfully constructed wine, with very fine, silky tannins and an intense core of classic brambly St Estèphe fruit with a whiff of mulberries. It is pure and fresh with the 60% Cabernet Sauvignon - brooding, as if waiting to leap out - very much to the fore. This is completely different to their famous 2003, and although Madame will not be drawn on the matter, we certainly think it is considerably superior.

{***}
{region}St Estèphe{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}ready-keep{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2005{vintage}
{ratings}
[]Wine Advocate:: 94/100

[]Robert Parker:: 93/100 

{ratings} {***}

{***}
{region}St Estèphe{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}ready-keep{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2006{vintage}
{ratings}
[]The Wine Advocate:: 87/100

[]Robert Parker:: 94+/100    

{ratings} {***}

The enigmatic Philippe Blanc, director of Ch. Beychevelle, was in fine humour when we visited him to taste his 2008 Grand Vin. This estate just gets better and better and Philippe’s sunny disposition was a reflection of the bright fruit shining out of his wine. The round, plump, fleshy feel of 47% Merlot certainly comes across with opulent notes of ripe morello cherries but 48% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Cabernet Franc add to its darker side and provide an elegant backbone. This is well balanced and rewarding: a fine achievement.

{***}{region}St Julien{region}
{color}Red{color}                                                              

{maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2008{vintage}
{ratings}
[] Robert Parker :: 89+/100
[] The Wine Advocate:: 89+/100

[] Jancis Robinson:: 17/20

{ratings}{***}

The first vintage for a dry white at Brane-Cantenac, from 3.2ha of clay-sand soils in the middle of AOC Margaux but designated Haut-Médoc. They planted the Loire clones of Sauvignon Blanc in 2017, and this has clear and well-defined Sauvignon aromatics; a little on the wild side but sappy and enticing. Integral vinification in barrel for 25%, the rest in vats with some lees stirring. It is walking the line between richness and freshness. A yield of 14hl/ha, which is low, but this feels important in these young vines to ensure quality and concentration. Diam closure. Eric Boissenot is the consultant for this, as for the red. Harvest from August 29 to September 5.

Drink 2021 - 2026

{***}
{region}Margaux{region}

{color}White{color}                                                                                                {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}

{vintage}2019{vintage}

{ratings}

[]Jane Anson:: 91/100        
[]Jancis Robinson:: 16.5/20                

{ratings}

{***}

Château Meyney occupies a prime position in St Estèphe, with a single 51-hectare parcel of vines on a sloping rise next to Ch. Montrose and overlooking the Gironde estuary.

Ch. Meyney also benefits from a distinctive array of soil types which together provide ideal conditions for Cabernet Sauvignon (55%), Merlot (30%) and a generous share of Petit Verdot (15%) – this latter giving the wines their attractive, spicy signature.

In her book Inside Bordeaux, Jane Anson writes that she considers Ch. Meyney to be worthy of fifth growth classification by today’s standards.

{***}
{region}St Estèphe{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}drink-now{maturity}
{maturity-text}Drink Now{maturity-text}

{ratings}
{***}

{***}{region}Margaux{region}
{color}Red{color}                 

  {maturity}ready-keep{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2008{vintage}

{ratings}
        
{ratings}

{***}

Guiraud is synonymous with Sauternes, but this dry white shows the same class and complexity as you find in its famous sweet wines. It's an equal blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon, packed with spiky gooseberries and nettles, rich tropical tones and creamy herbal and hay notes. Long and textural with lifted grapefruit acidity.

{***}
{region}Sauterne{region}
{color}White{color}
{maturity}laying-down{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}

{ratings} [] Decanter:: 92/100

{ratings}

{***}

{***}{region}Pessac-Léognan{region}
{color}Red{color}                                                                                                {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2009{vintage}
{ratings}
[]The Wine Advocate:: 97/100

[]Robert Parker:: 100+/100 {ratings} {***}

{***}
{region}St Julien {region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}ready-keep{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2005{vintage}
{ratings}
[]The Wine Advocate:: 92/100   

[]Robert Parker:: 92/100   

{ratings} {***}

The second wine of Brane-Cantenac, a blend of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Sweet tobacco, succulent blackberry notes on the palate and powerful structure. A strong effort.

{***}
{region}Margaux{region}
{color}Red{color}                                                                                                {maturity}ready-keep{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2006{vintage}{***}

Using a more traditional blend, C des Carmes Haut-Brion focuses on Merlot subtly complemented by Cabernet Sauvignon. The fruit is in the spotlight here, offering an elegant range of aromas. Drunk young, the wine develops a crisp intensity which will gain the patina of beautiful complexity as the years pass.

{***}{region}Pessac-Léognan{region}
{color}Red{color}            {maturity}ready-keep{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}
{ratings}
[] James Suckling:: 94-95/100

                                                                                                 
{ratings}

{***}{region}Pessac-Léognan{region}
{color} Red{color}                                                              

 {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}

{ratings}[] Wine Advocate:: 93-95+/100

[] James Suckling:: 93-94/100

{ratings}

{***}

Mid crimson. Sweet and simple and easy without great density of fruit but quite a bit of tannin underneath. For the moment the frame dominates the flesh.
Jancis Robinson MW - jancisrobinson.com - Apr 2015

{***}
{region}Pomerol{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}ready-improve{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2014{vintage}

{ratings} [] Wine Advocate:: 91-93/100

[] Jancis Robinson MW:: 16/20

{ratings}

{***}

Dark fruit with cedar and herbal notes on the nose. Some meat, too. It’s full-bodied with firm tannins. Juicy and savory character on the palate with a balanced structure. Flavorful finish. Second wine. Try after 2023 when it will be more together.

James Suckling, jamessuckling.com (Mar 2021)

{***}{region}St Julien{region}
{color}Red{color}                                                              

{maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}
{ratings}
[] James Suckling:: 92/100

[] Jane Anson :: 89/100

{ratings}{***}

Deep red-black right to the rim, with savoury marmite aromas complemented by a lovely nose of violet-infused fruit, rich and intense. It also displays fresh, toasty and really interesting notes that lead to a palate of ripe, spiced, black fruits, making it supple and medium-bodied. It is an elegant wine that also shows lovely cinnamon notes and is fresh and leafy too with a refreshing bitter cranberry twist and bite, but all nicely done, with a long, rich sweet finish.

{***}
{region}Pomerol{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}ready-improve{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2019{vintage}

{ratings} 

{ratings}

{***}

Alexandre de Malet Roquefort’s family has owned La Gaffelière since 1705. The vineyard is superbly sited by Ausone, with other plots by Pavie and Pavie Macquin, and this potential is beginning to be recognised. The 2018 has fine minerality and perfume, and very sleek tannins. Polished, but not plush, the finish is fine-grained. Drink 2023-2035.

Blend: 58% Merlot, 42% Cabernet Franc

{***}{region}St Emilion{region}
{color} Red{color}                {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}
{ratings}
 [] Wine Advocate:: 94-96/100

[] James Suckling:: 95-96/100

[] Decanter:: 96/100   

{ratings} {***}

This is classic Bordeaux from the reliable Château Chasse-Spleen. The almost forgotten 2001 vintage is one my favourites, sometimes managing to eclipse the sunnier 2000. Opulent and rich, this has an intense nose, displaying a sweet but precise texture. It is just beginning to show some lovely mature notes and doesn’t disappoint – many would think it is a wine of higher ranking tasted blind. Drink now to 2029.

Max Lalondrelle, Bordeaux Buyer (spring 2019)  

{***}{region}Haut-Médoc{region}
{color} Red{color}                                                              

 {maturity}drink-now{maturity} {maturity-text}Drink now{maturity-text}
{vintage}2001{vintage}
{ratings}

[] Jancis Robinson:: 16.5/20{ratings} {***}

{***}
{region}Bordeaux{region}
{color}White{color}
{maturity}ready-improve{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2011{vintage}
{ratings}
[] Wine Advocate:: 95/100

[] Wine Spectator:: 93-96/100

{ratings}{***}

{***}
{region}Bordeaux{region}
{color}White{color}
{maturity}ready-improve{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2011{vintage}
{ratings}
[] Wine Advocate:: 93/100

[] Wine Spectator:: 94-97/100

{ratings}{***}

Proprietor Vauthier's second wine, the 2004 Chapelle d'Ausone (400 cases produced) is a beautiful effort. It may be the finest second wine currently being made in Bordeaux. It displays much of the same character as its bigger sibling, with sweeter tannins, a softer, more plush personality, and more accessibility. A liquid minerality intermixed with blue and black fruits as well as floral notes are all present. Drink this beauty over the next 15 or more years. (www.erobertparker.com)

{***}{region}St Emilion{region}
{color} Red{color}                {maturity}drink-now{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2004{vintage}
{ratings}
 [] The Wine Advocate:: 90/100        
{ratings}    {***}

This is a wine of presence and power and, yet, also shows a bit more transparency than some, probably from the role played by the Merlot and Cabernet Franc. The finish of the wine, however, is dense, with an accent on spice over fruit, heady and rich, with huge tannins. It’s tempting to under-estimate this wine, but it is certainly well-crafted. Drink 2028-2045.

Blend: 71% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc, 1% Petit Verdot

{***}

{region}Pauillac{region}

{color} Red{color}

{maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For Laying Down{maturity-text}
{vintage}1996{vintage}
{ratings}
 [] The Wine Advocate:: 97-99/100

{ratings} {***}

{***}
{region}Pomerol{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}drink-now{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2000{vintage}
{ratings}

[]Vinous:: 92/100    

[]The Wine Advocate:: 86/100 {ratings} {***}

Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2018 La Mondotte strolls nonchalantly out of the glass with expressive scents of plum preserves, blueberry compote and chocolate-covered cherries, followed by suggestions of candied violets, licorice, hoisin and black truffles with a waft of ground cloves. It's medium to full-bodied with seriously impressive tension and wonderfully ripe, velvety tannins supporting the generous black fruit preserves layers, finishing with amazing length and loads of panache. It will require a good 4-5 years to unlock some of its finer nuances, then drink this powerhouse over the next 25+ years. - Wine Advocate

{***}{region}St Emilion{region}
{color} Red{color}                {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}
{ratings}
 [] Wine Advocate:: 97/100

[] James Suckling:: 98/100

[] Vinous:: 96/100   

{ratings} {***}

{***}
{region}St Estèphe{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}ready-keep{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2007{vintage}
{ratings}
[]The Wine Advocate:: 92/100

{ratings} {***}

The 2016 Les Tourelles de Longueville is a blend of 58% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot (from young vines that are destined to go into the Grand Vin one day, according to Christian Seely), matured in 30% new oak for 12 months. It offers a mixture of red and black fruit on the nose, just a touch of melted tar with fine delineation. The palate is medium-bodied with quite a powerful opening, dense black fruit tinged with graphite, a solid Deuxième Vin with a slightly aloof finish (at least at the moment). There is a pleasant graphite note lingering long on the aftertaste that completes a fine Pauillac to enjoy over the next 12-15 years. Drink 2021 - 2040

Neal Martin, Wine Advocate (Apr 2017)

{***}
{region}Pauillac{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}drink-now{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2016{vintage}
{ratings}
[]Antonia Galloni, Vinous:: 92/100

[]James Suckling:: 94/100 

[]The Wine Advocate:: 90-92/100 

{ratings} {***}

Often confused as the second wine of Ch. Léoville-Las Cases, St Julien, Clos du Marquis is in fact a separate entity and a fine terroir in its own right, benefitting from the winemaking skill of the team at Las Cases. Showing an inky purple, with classic St Julien casssis and cedar on the nose alongside a touch of sweet vanillin spice, it is beautifully balanced on the palate, with fine tannins framing the tasty spiced fruit. This is another very good Clos du Marquis and one that will be best enjoyed between 5 and 15 years after the vintage.

{***}{region}St Julien{region}
{color}Red{color}            {maturity}ready-keep{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2012{vintage}
{ratings}
              
[]Robert Parker:: 91-93/100           
[]The Wine Advocate:: 92/100                                                                                                   
{ratings}

A rich attack begins the tasting of this wine. Some alcoholic notes of black cherries and kirsch subside into a long finish. The tannins show themselves to be super silky, persistent but with some wood showing on the finish. A good wine but not outstanding.

{***}
{region}Margaux{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}ready-keep{maturity}
{maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}
{ratings}
[]James Suckling:: 92-93/100 []The Wine Advocate:: 90-92/100

 {ratings} {***}

This delightful, vibrant wine is the perfect chance to experience the winemaking expertise of Château La Gaffelière. The dominating Merlot (90%) brings vivid aromas of ripe red berries and tart cherry, while a touch of Cabernet Franc (10%) further lifts the fresh aromatic profile. A ribbon of minerality runs through a round palate of soft red fruits and juicy blackberry. This is a joy to drink – perfect for a Sunday roast. Drink now until 2026.

{***}{region}St Emilion{region}
{color} Red{color}               

 {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2016{vintage}
{ratings}
 [] James Suckling:: 91-92/100        
{ratings}    {***}

{***}{region}Pessac-Léognan{region}
{color}Red{color}                                                                                                {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2014{vintage}
{ratings}
[]The Wine Advocate:: 94/100

[]James Suckling:: 95/100

[]Jeb Dunnuck:: 94/100   

[]Decanter:: 94/100 {ratings} {***}

A wine with some density, spiced with touches of wood, dusty tannins and an open sweet plum flavor. There is plenty of wood here, layering the fruit. The wine has aging potential, worth waiting 4–5 years. 

{***}{region}St Emilion{region}
{color} Red{color}                {maturity}drink-now{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2007{vintage}
{ratings}
 [] Wine Enthusiast:: 91/100        
{ratings}    {***}

Broad and sexy, with supple tannin, the 2001 offers beguiling notes of toast, black currant liqueur, violets, and licorice in a seductive, opulent, medium to full-bodied, accessible style. It may deserve another point or two for pure pleasure. Proprietor Eric Albada Jelgersma is doing a splendid job rebuilding this estate and producing higher and higher quality wines. The finest Du Tertre in many years was the 2000, and the 2001 is close behind it in quality. 
Robert M. Parker, Jr. - 30/06/2004

{***}
{region}Margaux{region}

{color}Red{color}                                                         

          {maturity}drink-now{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}

{vintage}2001{vintage}

{ratings}
[]Wine Advocate:: 90/100                    
[]Vinous:: 91/100           
[]Jancis Robinson :: 16/20                                                                                                   
{ratings}

{***}

The 2016 Lacoste-Borie is a blend of 61% Cabernet Sauvignon, 29% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc, cropped at 50 hectoliters per hectare. It has a clean and precise bouquet, not as complex as some of its peers, yet with thoroughly enjoyable raspberry and blackcurrant leaf tinged with cedar. The palate is medium-bodied with grippy, slightly dry tannin on the entry, hints of dark chocolate interlacing the black fruit with a touch of cracked black pepper on the finish. Drink 2020 - 2035
Neil Martin, Wine Advocate (Apr 2017)

{***}
{region}Pauillac{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}drink-now{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2016{vintage}
{ratings}
[]Vinous:: 88/100

[]Wine Advocate:: 88-90/100 

{ratings} {***}

This is undoubtedly one of the very best St Emilions this year, with no hint of the excessive dryness of tannin which marked some others from this appellation. The bouquet has hints of black plum, raspberry and blackcurrant while on the palate there is a beguiling creamy texture, with huge intensity. The finish is long and the tannins very fine-grained. There is a slight toasty note from new oak but such is the concentration of fruit that this will be comfortably absorbed in a short while. The correct balancing acidity imparts a lovely freshness to the wine.

{***}{region}St Emilion{region}
{color} Red{color}                {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2010{vintage}
{ratings}
 [] Robert Parker :: 98/100

 [] Wine Spectator:: 94-97/100 

 [] Wine Advocate:: 99+/100 

[] Jancis Robinson MW:: 17.5/20 

{ratings} {***}

Deep garnet colored, the 2010 La Gaffeliere is quite closed to begin, slowly unfurling to give scents of baked raspberries, kirsch, dried mulberries and plum pudding plus nuances of pencil shavings and forest floor. Medium to full-bodied, the palate layers in the savory and earthy flavors with a firm frame of chewy tannins and well-knit freshness, finishing with an herbal lift. - Wine Advocate

{***}{region}St Emilion{region}
{color}Red{color}         {maturity}ready-keep{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2010{vintage}

{ratings}
 [] Wine Advocate:: 95/100

{ratings}

{***}

{***}{region}Pessac-Léognan{region}
{color}Red{color}                                                                                                {maturity}ready-improve{maturity} {maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2010{vintage}
{ratings}
[]The Wine Advocate:: 95/100

[]Robert Parker:: 98/100

[]Jancis Robinson :: 17/20 {ratings} {***}

Our St Julien comes from young vines at Ch. Léoville Las Cases. This is one of the finest sites for Cabernet Sauvignon in the Médoc, and a great vintage like the 2018 shows the variety off in all its glory. A fabulously rich nose of cassis, blackberry and cedar wood paves the way to a gorgeously deep, full-bodied palate brimming with dark fruit. Despite its power, this is a balanced, harmonious wine; it will drink well young, yet age impeccably. It is, perhaps, the best Own Selection Claret we have ever bottled.

{***}
{region}St Julien{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}ready-keep{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2018{vintage}
{***}

For just gone two decades, “EOC”, as it is known, has come from this single estate in the southern Graves. The 2019 vintage is a blend of 50% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Cabernet Franc. Aromas of blackberries and blueberries combine with notes of cedar, allspice and violets. The palate is succulent and moreish, with layers of ripe cherries and blackcurrants, bolstered by a firm backbone of soft, silky tannins. Rich, warming, and classically Bordeaux, this would pair beautifully with a leg of lamb, or enrich any simple mid-week meal.

{***}
{region}Bordeaux{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}ready-keep{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will keep{maturity-text}
{vintage}2019{vintage}
{ratings}

{ratings}{***}

Very dark ruby with some evolution. Toasty and appetising. Very appealing subtlety and complexity on the nose though on the palate it is clearly not as ripe as some. Maybe higher yields? An attractive drink but far from intense.
Jancis Robinson - jancisrobinson.com, 23 Mar 2010

{***}
{region}Pauillac{region}
{color}Red{color}       {maturity}drink-now{maturity} {maturity-text}Drink Now{maturity-text}
{vintage}1996{vintage}
{ratings}
          
[]The Wine Advocate:: 97/100   

[]Jancis Robinson:: 17.5/20  

[]Robert Parker:: 97/100   

                                                                                                
{ratings}{***}

A blend of 62 percent Cabernet Sauvignon, 36 percent Merlot and two percent Petit Verdot. Dark crimson in colour, the wine has a deft touch, the hallmark of winemaker Nicholas Audebert, and a finesse and elegance about it this year with a velvety texture. It finishes fresh with a long, persistent length.

{***}{region}Margaux{region}
{color}Red{color}                                         

                                                       {maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2017{vintage}

{ratings}
 [] Wine Advocate:: 94-96/100        

[] James Suckling:: 94-95/100 

         
{ratings}

{***}

Bright crimson. Meaty, really savoury nose with great life. Medium weight and beautiful balance. Some light inkiness and a little marked by the oak at present but a really beautiful whole. Fragrant, roses with life and lift again. The wine is relatively high in acidity but, most unusually, surrounded by the ripe fruit. Easy to see a relationship with the beautiful 2006 served after this. Drink 2020 - 2040.

Jancis Robinson MW, jancisrobinson.com (Jul 2016)

{***}
{region}Pomerol{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}ready-improve{maturity}
{maturity-text}Ready, but will improve{maturity-text}
{vintage}2014{vintage}
{ratings}
[]Jancis Robinson:: 18.5/20

[]Wine Advocate:: 96/100

{ratings} {***}

Our Pomerol comes from young vines at Château Feytit-Clinet, a seven-hectare estate planted mostly to Merlot. It is succulent and plump, with blackberry, black cherry and mulberry notes. There is a softening hint of allspice and chocolate, framed by velvety tannins. Cabernet Franc (10%) brings complexity and an aromatic crunch, counterbalancing the wine’s richness. A savoury touch on the finish makes this very moreish. Exceedingly versatile, this would pair with most lamb or poultry dishes – and you could even cellar it for a year or two.

{***}
{region}Pomerol{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}drink-now{maturity}
{maturity-text}Drink now{maturity-text}
{vintage}2020{vintage}
{***}

{***}
{region}St Estèphe{region}
{color}Red{color}
{maturity}laying-down{maturity}
{maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2010{vintage}
{ratings}
[]The Wine Advocate:: 99/100

[]Robert Parker:: 100/100

[]Jancis Robinson:: 18/20    

{ratings} {***}

Stéphane Derenoncourt has done it yet again with this fantastic showing from Ch. Talbot. We get all the classic sophistication of St Julien combined with real concentration and impressive depths. The palate is full to bursting with dark berry fruits but they are hidden, waiting to evolve and unfurl from beneath a thick dark chocolate heart imprinted with smoked earth touches. This dense Ch. Talbot has plenty of weight with a rich and satisfying finish. Lots to offer from this popular and great value chateau.

{***}{region}St Julien{region}
{color} Red{color}                                                              

{maturity}laying-down{maturity} {maturity-text}For laying down{maturity-text}
{vintage}2016{vintage}
{ratings}
 [] The Wine Advocate:: 92/100

 [] Wine Spectator:: 93-96/100 

[] Jancis Robinson:: 17/20 [] Vinous:: 93-95/100{ratings} {***}