It all started post WW2 when Philippe de Rothschild got solicited by the Ruinart Family to help them financially save their Champagne House, resulting in a 40% share deal to be signed in favor of The Baron. The first Baron Philippe de Rothschild labels were produced and kept within the Rothschild Family. Then in 1963 Ruinart got sold to Moët & Chandon. Philippe de Rothschild moved the investment to Chateau Clerc Millon in Pauillac. In 2003, the three branches of the family (Mouton, Lafite, and Rothschild Bank) launched Champagne Barons de Rothschild, with an exclusive selection of Premiers Crus and Grands Crus vineyards.Today, based in Vertus, the Rothschild House owns 8 hectares in prime locations across the Côte des Blancs.
This limited release Extra Brut Blanc de Blancs is composed of 100% chardonnay from the Grand Cru vineyards of Avize, Cramant, Oger, Le Mesnil-sur-Oger. Vinified separately plot by plot in 20-hl temperature-controlled stainless-steel vats and a small proportion of wooden barrels. Long ageing on the fine lees in small vats with regular bâtonnage (stirring of the lees). Cellar-ageing on the lees: 8 years minimum - Dosage: extra brut, 4 g/l - Rest after disgorgement: 12 months minimum
Toasty and nutty on the nose with candied lemon peel, peach and dried apricots. Full, quite intense and fruit forward. I like the hints of bitterness with lemon zest, coffee beans, toasted vanilla pod alongside crisp green apple. Crunchy and direct at the same time with lifted acidity. Quite upfront and powerful - well worked but still youthful with tension despite being a decade old. A charming Champagne.
96 POINTS DECANTER
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100% chardonnay - The town of Vézelay is a Unesco World Heritage site known for its Abbey Basilica of Sainte-Marie-Madeleine (built in 1050). The Village AOC “Vézelay”, created in 2017, is produced within the four villages of Vézelay, Asquins, Saint-Père, and Tharoiseau. This wine is vinified exclusively in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks where it continues to age for 8 months once fermentation is complete.
On the nose, the wine offers warm floral notes of acacia, grape, lemon, pear, and peach, with hints of hawthorn, grapefruit, brioche, and almond. In the mouth, the attack is supple and fruity, underscored by citrusy tension. The length is marked by a limestone and saline minerality with fresh notes of licorice and menthol. The citrusy suppleness and vigor of these wines makes them perfect for a convivial tasting. Very versatile wine: great as an aperitif or with a starter (tartares, gravlax, smoked fish, and seafood) ; sophisticated with cold cuts, pâté, parslied ham, and salami ; and refined with roasted cod, sautéed scallops, or a simple sea bream en papillote. As for cheese, serve with goat and hard cheeses, and creamier local ones such as Brillat-Savarin or Chaource.
Biodynamic. 100% old cabernet franc vines. Double sorting of the grapes with destalking (no crushing). Alcoholic fermentation in cone oak vats, skin maceration during 4 weeks. Aging during 12 to 18 months (75% in 400L casks, 25% in sandstone eggs). Le Clos, has been historically classified as a « 1er cru » by the abbey of Bourgueil. Exposure on a hillside with clay and flint on a limestone underlay.
From two hectares of this famed hillside vineyard of clay and flint over limestone. Aged more than a year in 400-liter foudre and sandstone eggs. Complex and meaty, a muscular style of Cabernet Franc. Bloody and peppery aromas and in the mouth, a swirling balance of savory herb, black fruit, dark minerality and fine tannins. Lively, engaging and seamless.
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It all started post WW2 when Philippe de Rothschild got solicited by the Ruinart Family to help them financially save their Champagne House, resulting in a 40% share deal to be signed in favor of The Baron. The first Baron Philippe de Rothschild labels were produced and kept within the Rothschild Family. Then in 1963 Ruinart got sold to Moët & Chandon. Philippe de Rothschild moved the investment to Chateau Clerc Millon in Pauillac. In 2003, the three branches of the family (Mouton, Lafite, and Rothschild Bank) launched Champagne Barons de Rothschild, with an exclusive selection of Premiers Crus and Grands Crus vineyards.Today, based in Vertus, the Rothschild House owns 8 hectares in prime locations across the Côte des Blancs.
Produced from the Grand Cru Vineyards, Barons de Rothschild Champagne Brut is a blend of 60% chardonnay and 40% pinot noir. 40% of reserve wines . Aged at least 3 years sur latte. Low dosage (5g/l) and kept at least 6 months after the disgorgement process.
Barons de Rothschild Champagne is also available in 1500ml , 3L and 6L - Contact us for details
Enticing and subtle nose with notes of lemon zest, honeysuckle and freshly baked brioche. Wonderful elegance on the medium-bodied palate that has a sleek silhouette. Long finish with plenty of spice and a touch of black berry fruit. A cuvee of 60% chardonnay from the Cote des Blancs and 40% pinot noir based on the 2018 vintage with 40% reserve wines. A lot of the sources are famous Grand Cru villages, like Verzenay and Avize.
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Burgundy meets the Rhone! When Mounir Saouma and his wife Rotem Brakin (owners of highly sought-after Burgundy micro-negociant Lucien Le Moine) had an opportunity in 2009 to purchase a neglected vineyard in the Pignan area, they did not hesitate! The Clos Saouma winery is based near Orange, in Vaucluse, just north of Châteauneuf-du-Pape.
Today they farm a total of 21 acres across 8 vineyards in all 5 villages of the appellation (Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Bedarrides, Sorgues, Courthezon and Orange) including that cherished piece of Pignan site (neighbour of Château Rayas). In almost every respect, the Saoumas vinify their southern Rhône wines in the same manner as their Burgundy wines: they employ ‘whole-cluster’ fermentation; no punch down, no racking and subject the wines to exceptionally long cellar aging (24 to 36 month élévage) in a cold underground cellar; and minimize their use of sulfur by trapping trace Co2 left over from fermentation.
This is an exceptionally limited set of magnums from celebrated vignerons, Rotem and Mounir Saouma. The 2019 release contains.
1x Châteauneuf-du-Pape ‘Les Amphoraes V Pignan’ 2017 – a single site Cinsault from Pignan vinified in amphorae, and bottled without racking, fining or filtration 1x Châteauneuf-du-Pape ‘Le Petit Livre d’Anna Magdalena Bach’ 2014 – 100% Grenache from Pignan matured in a 500-litre demi-muid for five years with lees and bottled without racking, fining or filtration 1x Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc ‘Arioso’ 2016 – 100% Grenache Blanc from Pierredon, aged in 500-litre demi-muid for three years on lees with minimal racking and no fining or filtration
Organic. 40% chardonnay (from Côte de Beaune), 40% Pinot Noir (Côte de Nuits), 20% Aligoté (Côte Châlonnaise). Hand harvested in small crates. Vinified separately, then blended for the ‘‘prise de mousse’’ and aged on lees for 12 months. RS: 7g/l
Elements of limestone and seashell surround notes of baked lemons and pears that open to stone-fruit compote, cloves, heather and toffee; it’s surprisingly dense and viscous on the palate, gathering an array of mineral-tinged textural elements and glimpses of yellow fruit that neatly balance bright acidity with a slightly creamy nature.
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Organic (no certification). This crémant blends Jacquère (45%), Altesse (30%), Chardonnay (25%) of 25 year old vines, with vinification in stainless over 9 months with bâtonnage, prior to a secondary ferment in bottle for a minimum of one year on lees. RS 6g/l.
Tight and chalky, this dry sparkler wraps lemon peel, pear skin, broken stones, around a green apple core, scented with elderflower. There's a light creaminess, thanks to the slick of lees, buffering the alpine acidity, and making this a friendly, interesting drink for popping now. (89 Gismondi)
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Attractive flinty nose with delicate bread-dough and dried-apple character with lemon undertones, leading to a fuller and smoother palate. Persistent finish for this super-savoury style that is appetizing and inviting for more.
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In the 1950’s, Michel Couvreur, originally from Belgium, landed in Burgundy to start a fine wine merchant business. He took frequent trips to England and Scotland to sell his wines but was always particularly drawn to Scotland for the fishing and hunting. This is how he got exposed to the finest Scotch whiskies; and this is how the story started! He moved to Scotland in 1964 to become enamored with the whisky production and craft his own at Edradour. However trends were already changing in the industry with many of the old methods being replaced by new, cheaper ones, swapping the old, traditionally-used Sherry casks for more cost-effective steel or plastic vessels. Because of this, Michel decided to return to Burgundy in the 1970's. The region standing midway between the Andalusian vineyards and the Scottish Highlands, it was logistically easier to get the extremely rare old Pedro Ximenez and Palomino casks, as well as Vin Jaune feuillettes from the neighboring Jura wine region. All the young distillates were sourced from Scotland and shipped to Burgundy to be matured. Couvreur was an interesting character and would have crazy ideas! He also had various passions and one of them was engineering underground tunnels. He called the same company that built the famous Mont Blanc tunnel to create an underground labyrinth under the nearby limestone hills. The maze is still used today to age all of Couvreur's production. These single malts, while not technically Scotch, soon became the things of legends. Michel passed away in August 2013. He shared many of his secrets with his wife, Marthe, and daughter, Alexandra, as well as his long-time employee and confident, Jean-Arnaud Frantzen, and his son-in-law, Cyril Deschamps. They are now entrusted to carry on the legacy of the true “Last of the Mohicans" of artisanal Scotch whisky. The name remains and new expressions are being released every year. Early 2022, Couvreur built a new storage / production facility in the Village of Bouze les Beaune. The team has already started distilling their own spirits from local biodynamically grown barley. The current production is about 60,000 allocated bottles sold to private collectors and Michelin star restaurants around the world.
Distillation Degree 70% - Natural Degree 55% - Bottle Degree 45% • The Blossoming Auld Sherry is a recreation of the legendary malt whiskies of the Victorian era. An era when sherry and Scotch were both kept on hand in the cellars of England and Scotland’s great estates and drawn for consumption as needed. Matured in one single butt of the freshest possible Montilla-Moriles casks, this whisky is redolent of that great wine of Jerez in a way that’s simply not available in modern bottlings. This ultra saturated butt from a solera started in the 1950s at Toro Albala is one of a kind. The cask was kept in medium humidity for the majority of its maturation before being moved to the wettest part of Couvreur’s cellar where extractive atmosphere is at a maximum.
From Reggit World Whisky Nose: True, old-style sherry bomb. Rich, old-style Pedro Ximenez sherry notes are evident from the start. Stewed plums. Figs. Raisins. Palate: Thick, viscous, delicious! Figs, stewed cherries, plums. Dried fruit, raisins. It's chewy, glorious old-school Pedro Ximenez sherry is perfectly integrated with the 45% ABV. Stone fruit jam, caramel sweetness. You never get any alcohol burn. It's a pure joy to drink! It is perfectly dancing the line of PX sherry and a great Scotch whisky at the same time. Finish: Medium-long finish. Gentle PX sherry notes, figs, more dried fruits trailing off. This is probably one of the most unique whiskies I've ever tried. Having recently enjoyed a few drams of a 1971 Toro Albala Pedro Ximenez Sherry, as well as much younger PX sherries, this Michel Couvreur "Blossoming Auld Sherried" Whisky has a real old-school style Pedro Ximenez Sherry DNA. It's not brash like the newer quick "sherry cask finish" whisky trend where something is thrown in a young sherry cask for a few months, to a year or two.
It's also certainly not just "sherry with extra alcohol," either. It's sweet, but not cloying, it's nuanced and tastes like something aged at least 20 years, even though there's no age statement. I have to thank Chesterfield and so many others for this recommendation. Phenomenal.
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In the 1950’s, Michel Couvreur, originally from Belgium, landed in Burgundy to start a fine wine merchant business. He took frequent trips to England and Scotland to sell his wines but was always particularly drawn to Scotland for the fishing and hunting. This is how he got exposed to the finest Scotch whiskies; and this is how the story started! He moved to Scotland in 1964 to become enamored with the whisky production and craft his own at Edradour. However trends were already changing in the industry with many of the old methods being replaced by new, cheaper ones, swapping the old, traditionally-used Sherry casks for more cost-effective steel or plastic vessels. Because of this, Michel decided to return to Burgundy in the 1970's. The region standing midway between the Andalusian vineyards and the Scottish Highlands, it was logistically easier to get the extremely rare old Pedro Ximenez and Palomino casks, as well as Vin Jaune feuillettes from the neighboring Jura wine region. All the young distillates were sourced from Scotland and shipped to Burgundy to be matured. Couvreur was an interesting character and would have crazy ideas! He also had various passions and one of them was engineering underground tunnels. He called the same company that built the famous Mont Blanc tunnel to create an underground labyrinth under the nearby limestone hills. The maze is still used today to age all of Couvreur's production. These single malts, while not technically Scotch, soon became the things of legends. Michel passed away in August 2013. He shared many of his secrets with his wife, Marthe, and daughter, Alexandra, as well as his long-time employee and confident, Jean-Arnaud Frantzen, and his son-in-law, Cyril Deschamps. They are now entrusted to carry on the legacy of the true “Last of the Mohicans" of artisanal Scotch whisky. The name remains and new expressions are being released every year. Early 2022, Couvreur built a new storage / production facility in the Village of Bouze les Beaune. The team has already started distilling their own spirits from local biodynamically grown barley. The current production is about 60,000 allocated bottles sold to private collectors and Michelin star restaurants around the world.
Distillation Degree 70% - Natural Degree 52% - Bottle Degree 43% • Vatting of single malts aged between 12 and 27 years in sweet PX casks from Jerez producer Toro Albala. Unfiltered. The casks have been moved around the network of underground limestone cellars from dry to very humid. Pairs perfectly with smoked salmon.
Nut-brown hue and rich dried date and caramel scent. The big, rounded palate surprises with smoke, underpinned with hints of Sherry, dried fig, and caramel, with a long baking spice finish.
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In the 1950’s, Michel Couvreur, originally from Belgium, landed in Burgundy to start a fine wine merchant business. He took frequent trips to England and Scotland to sell his wines but was always particularly drawn to Scotland for the fishing and hunting. This is how he got exposed to the finest Scotch whiskies; and this is how the story started! He moved to Scotland in 1964 to become enamored with the whisky production and craft his own at Edradour. However trends were already changing in the industry with many of the old methods being replaced by new, cheaper ones, swapping the old, traditionally-used Sherry casks for more cost-effective steel or plastic vessels. Because of this, Michel decided to return to Burgundy in the 1970's. The region standing midway between the Andalusian vineyards and the Scottish Highlands, it was logistically easier to get the extremely rare old Pedro Ximenez and Palomino casks, as well as Vin Jaune feuillettes from the neighboring Jura wine region. All the young distillates were sourced from Scotland and shipped to Burgundy to be matured. Couvreur was an interesting character and would have crazy ideas! He also had various passions and one of them was engineering underground tunnels. He called the same company that built the famous Mont Blanc tunnel to create an underground labyrinth under the nearby limestone hills. The maze is still used today to age all of Couvreur's production. These single malts, while not technically Scotch, soon became the things of legends. Michel passed away in August 2013. He shared many of his secrets with his wife, Marthe, and daughter, Alexandra, as well as his long-time employee and confident, Jean-Arnaud Frantzen, and his son-in-law, Cyril Deschamps. They are now entrusted to carry on the legacy of the true “Last of the Mohicans" of artisanal Scotch whisky. The name remains and new expressions are being released every year. Early 2022, Couvreur built a new storage / production facility in the Village of Bouze les Beaune. The team has already started distilling their own spirits from local biodynamically grown barley. The current production is about 60,000 allocated bottles sold to private collectors and Michelin star restaurants around the world.
Distillation Degree 70% - Natural Degree 62% - Bottle Degree 44% • The Blend is composed of malted and unmalted grains and cereals. It is also an exception in the Michel Couvreur range because it's not a fresh Sherry cask maturation: The Unique is enhanced thanks to very old whisky casks. Iodine flavors with a touch of almond and vanilla sweetness. The casks and hogsheads are then stored underground, in the limestone caves, in medium humidity.
Delicate and subtle, it is reminiscent of white fruits. Nervous on the palate, it shows a round aftertaste that makes it easy to drink with appetizers. To be served cool.
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Biodynamic. 100% Chenin blanc from vines ranging from 80-110 years old grown on clay & limestone. Grapes are hand harvested in several successive pickings to let the grapes having a sufficient level of maturity and quality. Grapes are directly pressed and then transferred into old oak barrels. The fermentation begins spontaneously slow down in winter and finishes in Summer. In total, the wine remains 10 months on the lees in barrels. The blend is made in tanks after ageing.
This wine draws its strong character from the old vines still thriving on limestone soil, as evidenced by the complexity of its bouquet mixing scents of pear, white peach, apricot, jasmine, honeysuckle and verbena. Broad-shouldered, featuring electric acidity and a mineral streak cutting through, delivering focus and precision. The structured and dense palate offers a silky mouthfeel and an exotic side, with ginger, Korean pear, persimmon and green almond notes running through the mineral-infused finish..
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Biodynamic. Montlouis-sur-Loire Pétillant Naturel (= Pét Nat or Méthode Ancestrale which all mean Natural Sparkling wine). 100% chenin. Hand-harvested. Vinified with indigenous yeasts. When only 14 g or so of sugar are left, the wine is bottled, and aged a minimum of 18 months before being disgorged. Very low sulfite.
Deep golden in colour, hinting at the gorgeous wine that lies within. Beautifully complex aromas of toast, cinnamon, maple, hazelnut, pecan and praline, with pure lemon and yellow apple fruit. There's a reassuring density to the mousse and mouthfeel, putting forward honey, peach, cooked pineapples and bruised apple notes. This is delicious, I love it. it's such a pure expression of Chenin Blanc. Apple pie, pastry, honey and plum. It's a serious wine, that also just happens to be a pét nat. Full and oily, with sublimely ripe fruit. Some texture, fine fizz, the acidity is so well balanced and long. (95 Decanter)
***
‘‘The nose is explosive on quince paste, marzipan, seringa, lemon-verbena, a mix of Chenin and autolytic notes. The palate is first broad and dense to become sleeker and saltier to finish with smoke and iodine. The bubbles are remarkably creamy and lingering. This wine could be cellared a year or so without problem. If you open it today, serve it in an all-purpose wine glass, not too cold, and enjoy it with roasted poultry, grilled rock fishes and soft-press cheese aged for 6 months or so.’’ (Pascaline Lepeltier)
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Founded in 2005 by the talented winemaking duo of Jérémie Huchet (Domaine de la Chauvinière) and Jérémie Mourat (Vignobles Mourat), Les Betes Curieuses (The Curious Beasts) is a collaboration to explore the distinct terroirs of Muscadet and showcase a more serious and ageworthy side of the region. All the vineyards (40 to 90 yrs old) are certified organic. Traditional Nantaise ageing is done sur lie with no batonnage for all the cuvées.
100% Melon de Bourgogne. Perdrix de l’Année is translated as ‘Partridge of the Year’ - Organic. 45 years old average vines grown on Clisson granitic base with a top layer of sand. Hand harvested. No destemming, indigenous yeast, no malolactic. Aged 3 months on lees in buried concrete tanks.
Round, fruit-filled, Muscadet - almost creamy in texture - with a touch of peach to complement the salty mineral and lime zest. Brisk, bracing, and utterly delicious.
This Albariño is vinified and aged 8 months on its lees in tanks. It is produced in the Val do Salnés region, one of the five subzones of the appellation. It is considered as the birth place of Rias Baixas. The rugged coastline is known to be the coolest and dampest of the region. Its soils are composed of hard granite with a very think alluvial top soil, very similar to the Muscadet region of Atlantic France.
Vinified and aged 8 months on its lees in tanks.This was fermented and aged in stainless to preserve the bright fruit, which it has accomplished well. Guava, green pear, grapefruit, apricot, custard floods a juicy palate, smartly gripped by that distinctive gravel hum, and finishing with a bitter almond bite. Lovely energy and balance.
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BIodynamic. 70 years old Riesling vines - Vin de Pierre. From the Alsatian “muench” meaning monk, this vineyard is named for the Cistercian monks who originally planted vines here in the 11th-12th centuries. In a south-facing amphitheater in Nothalten at the foot of the Vosges mountains (between Selesta and Obernai), the Muenchberg site combines volcanic sediment and the pink sandstone of the Vosges with a touch of limestone. The vineyard offers definition, elegance, and great length and class to this Riesling. Ostertag is lucky to own parcels in both parts of the Muenchberg grand cru, which are climatically different, and so is able to make more complete Muenchberg wines than most producers. At 250-300 meters above sea level, the Muenchberg is slightly higher than the Heissenberg (which sits at 200-250 meters) and is characterized by a somewhat gentler slope; therefore this site is less of a sun trap compared to the Heissenberg.
This beautiful south-facing amphitheater has been planted since the 12th century. Ostertag’s 1.65ha are vinified to produce a wine blending intensity and elegance. Powdered stone, lemon verbena, and jasmine complicate the green apple and nectarine aromas and flavors. Then juicy and tight, hints of anise and minerals framing the lively pomaceous orchard fruit flavors. Finishes long, with repeating nuances of lime and flowers and a laser beam of acidity.
Founded in 1870 by Tommaso Rondelli on the hills of Val Nervia, Terre Bianche is a family estate perched high above the small medieval town of Dolceacqua in Liguria. The 10 ha estate, now managed by Filippo Rondelli, is spread over a wide variety of soils including blue marl and white and red clay. The vineyards are sheer, rocky and are grown in terraces: this is extreme organic viticulture! The focus is on indigenous varieties, the aromatic and charming red Rossese di Dolceacqua (Tibouren in France), the indigenous white Pigato and also its more widely-known cousin, Vermentino. The wines are all fermented and aged in steel tank, bar the single vineyard wines which are aged in barrels with the aim being to minimize as much as possible the influence of oak on the taste of the wine. Of mountain and sea, these are unique, tangy wines of great character. Up there with some of the most authentic, lively and refined wines in Italy.
Organic - Pigato is a Ligurian variant of vermentino. The name derives from the dialect ‘pigau’ and refers to the little rusty tones that appear on pigato grapes when they reach advanced maturation.Pigato is a Ligurian variant of Vermentino which has adjusted to the coast and climate. The name, which means spotted, refers to the little rusty tones that appear on Pigato grapes when they reach advanced maturation. Its golden, intense colour reveals a lasting aroma with hints of peach, acacia, honey and aromatic herbs. It is a dry wine with a lovely bitter aftertaste. Perfect with any fish, crustaceans, grilled white meats, pesto and even cured meats.
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[embed]https://video.wixstatic.com/video/db0f6f_50eeb393631944b1b7c7de4c756e38cf/1080p/mp4/file.mp4[/embed]Organic (no certification). This Altesse (aka Roussette) is from 20 year old vines, native fermented long and cool in stainless, with 1/3 going through malolactic fermentation. This then rested 10 months in a mix of older barrels and stainless.
The malo, time and wood, and on lees has afforded a noticeable expansiveness to this wine, with quince, anjou pear, Hawthorne filling out the frame, bedded with a slick of herbal lees, and streaked with ample stony salinity throughout. Lovely freshness to carry the vinification, and display the alpine grape. (91 Gismondi)
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Biodynamic - 80% pinot noir, 20% chardonnay from old vineyards located in Ambonnay classified as 100% Grand Cru. ''18'' refers to 2018 for the base wine (85%) completed by 15% of reserve wine - no dosage - no sulfite.
A nose of roasted apples wafts from the glass, with delicate smoky notes, yeast dough, a lot of chalk underlay. Showing beautiful maturity, with an ingenious field of tension between fresh, chalky-mineral notes and the somewhat wild, oxidative character. Racy on the palate with notes of citrus, green apricot, walnut, sour cherry, and yeast. The acidity is supportive, which makes it a great champagne with food. The finish is carried by a tremendous saltiness, very piquant, almost a slight ginger sharpness to it.
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Biodynamic. 68% chardonnay, 32% pinot noir from old vineyards located in Ambonnay classified as 100% Grand Cru. ''19'' refers to 2019 for the base wine (85%) completed by 15% of reserve wine - no dosage - sulfite 12mg/L.
Very complex, almost mesmerizing nose of wild raspberries and strawberries, with notes of brioche, cocoa butter, saffron and fresh tobacco. The acid structure is very balanced, harmonious and well integrated into the wine, clearly noticeable, but never setting the pace. The delicately tart vibrant red berries stick to the palate for a long time, wild cherries, turmeric, curry, grapefruit, slightly earthy. Impressive grip with intense salt on the edges of the tongue and a chalky mouthfeel. This is a vinous champagne, yet a little wild, and definitely with an oxidative edge. Full-bodied and with nerves of steel.
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Biodynamic. Blend of cabernet franc, côt (malbec), and gamay grown on clay/silex soils in Touraine Amboise. The harvest is manual and the grapes are meticulously sorted before being macerated and fermented in concrete tanks, separately, for 15 to 18 days. The different grape varieties are blended and then aged in concrete tanks for 4 months.
Densely packed aromas of bright, focused, fresh red berry, lovely earth poised between mushroom and forest floor, gentle baking spice, and floral notes. Medium bodied with a midpalate featuring mineral top notes and plenty of acid cut, the wine rides a swift current from fruit to stone to spice anchored by a firm but lissome texture. Beautiful persistent finish.
Brooding black plum, earthy forest berries and tart cranberry jockey for position on the peppery palate, framed by long, silken tannins. There's a dusting of baking space on the snappy finish, along with a puff of warmth. Give this wine some breathing time to relax and open up. 89 Gismondi (2020 vintage)
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Biodynamic. 120 year old un-grafted côt vines (local name for malbec). The south-east terroir is composed of red clay with silex on a limestone mother rock layer. Hand harvested. Indigenous yeasts. Long maceration in concrete vats. Aged 9 months for 50% in concrete egg shaped tanks and the remaining in 225l barrels.
Biodynamic. This Malbec (locally called Cot in Loire) displays an intense nose of black fruit, herbal undertones, graphite notes and hint of smokiness. This shows elegance and explosive aromatics with a core of sweet cassis, a sappy old-vine intensity and chewy rich texture, with a perfect balance between the acidity and the soft tannins. This wine should be open a least a couple of hours or decanted prior enjoying it.
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100% ungrafted Gamay planted in 1992 in clay and sand soils. Hand harvested. Intracellular fermentation for 5 days. Indigenous yeasts. No other oenological products and above all vinification without input of sulphites. Aged 12 months in stainless steel tanks. No sulfite during bottling. Organic, ungrafted, no sulfite added, unfiltered.
Nose of spices (cinnamon, cloves), flowers (violet, rose) and ripe red fruit. Lively, fleshy and fruity with a moderate tannic structure, this natural wine is a pure expression of gamay from Loire. A wine for friends to enjoy in its youth with charcuterie, grilled white meat/tuna fish.
Biodynamic. The vineyards are located in a perfect spot for Sauvignon Blanc: between Amboise and Oisly, the sandy silex rich soil over clay allows a ripe expression of the grape with loosing its vibrancy. Hand-harvested. Indigenous yeasts. Aged 6 months in cement tanks.
Don't expect a lean, anemic, expression of Sauvignon blanc. Think more a baby expression of good Pouilly-Fumé. You get a bouquet of sage, lemongrass, Tahitian grapefruit with hints of white pepper and passion fruit. The palate has some texture and length allowing a lot of possible pairing, from green tomato & cucumber gazpacho to baked clams to kale Caesar salad and young goat cheese.
Bright and juicy, this stony, sleek wine streams pear skin, mirabelle plum, mandarin, lemongrass along the slender palate, with a base of buzzy stoniness, and a brisk acidity to loft. The finish lingers with white grapefruit pith and ample salinity, enticing another glass. With delicacy and potency at once, this smart Touraine is drinking beautifully now. 92 Gismondi (2020 vintage by Treve Ring)
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Vin de France - 14% alc. - 100% ungrafted Romorantin planted circa 1840 (pre-phylloxera). Hand harvested. No malolactic fermentation. Aged 18 months in stainless steel tanks.
Organic, ungrafted and low sulfite. Mellow, yet intense and alive in the mouth with a chewy, almost oily texture. Crafted from 180-year-old pre-phyloxera Romorantin vines, it displays the purity of its terroir, full of citrus and mineral flavours. Its palate is full with pear, quince, white flower, honey and hazelnut aromas. One of the greatest Loire Valley ambassadors.
Superb Bourgogne Chardonnay alternative! Elegant nose with a balanced mix of floral, spicy and brioche notes. The energic palate is intense and precise, delivering a mouth-coating texture. The finish is long and persistent. This wine would age beautifully.
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The nose offers floral violet, myrtle, blackcurrant and spicy white pepper notes. Supported by a pleasant tannic structure, the palate is fleshy with notes of cocoa, small black berries and pepper. It is very well-balanced, finishing moderately long. This wine will age very well. This wine needs decanting to fully express itself.
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100% Loureiro - Located in the northwest of Portugal, Vinho Verde has long been known for its vibrant fruit, low alcohol and refreshing qualities. It is an ideal wine pairing for salads, seafood and Asian cuisine, and can be served alone or as an aperitif.
A lovely pale yellow in the glass, enticing on the nose with aromas of poached pear, ripe apple, lemon pudding and briny mineral notes. On the palate, the wine is dry, medium-plus-bodied with a mouthful of fresh fruit that mirrors the nose, with juicy acidity and a refreshing finish.
Biodynamic - 69% pinot noir, 31% chardonnay. No dosage - Sulfite 26mg/L
Benoit Marguet is one of the rising biodynamic stars in Champagne, and this blend of 69% Pinot Noir and 31% Chardonnay is a stunning Champagne. It has a scintillating aromatic brilliance and purity, with scents of white fruits, spring flowers, chalk and pear, capped by a touch of spices. On the palate, there is a crystalline texture, with a chalky tension leading the way to a mouthwatering finish. This magnificent Champagne should be cellared for at least four or five years. Only 4,142 bottles were produced. (94 Decanter)
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Biodynamic. 80% chardonnay, 20% pinot noir. No dosage - Sulfite 16mg/L - 2583 bottles produced.
Beautiful nose highlighted by aromas of wild strawberry, raspberry seed, tarragon, and chalk. The palate is brightly mineral and structured, with a deep stoniness at its core within its layers of ripe red fruits and savory notes. The wine balances deftly its grand cru power with a lacy bead, vibrant acidity, and achingly pretty florality. This is natural Champagne and an absolute joy to drink.
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Biodynamic - 100% Chardonnay from the Grand Cru village in the Cote de Blancs. In Oger, the slopes face due East and catch the morning sun which is ideal for Chardonnay. 26 mg/l total SO2. 1645 bottles produced.
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Biodynamic - 100% Pinot Noir. The Grand Cru village of Bouzy lies next door to Ambonnay and faces full South. Bouzy is known for making some of the most powerful wines Champagne and is a village historically known for Pinot Noir. There is a thicker layer of clay on top of the chalk here than in Ambonnay, which gives the wines more power and body. 27 mg/l total SO2. 2132 bottles produced.
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Biodynamic - 100% Pinot Noir from the Grand Cru village of Verzenay, located to the north of the Montagne de Reims. It is a village renowned for its chalky soils, and its exposure offering chiseled grapes, of immense delicacy.
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Biodynamic. 100% Chardonnay from old domaine vines planted in 1952. Thin layer of Grey clay limestone soil over chalk. Marguet’s Les Bermonts makes a rounder, fuller bodied expression of Chardonnay than his Les Crayeres, for comparison. 26 mg/l total SO2. 1571 bottles produced.
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Biodynamic - 100% chardonnay. No dosage - Sulfite 19mg/L - 1667 bottles produced. Planted in 1982, Le Parc is prime territory; the vineyard borders Krug’s uber-famous Clos d’Ambonnay and Selosse’s Le Bout du Clos. There is a thick (nearly 2 meter) clay and sandy loam layer of ‘tufa’ limestone on top of the chalky bedrock in Le Parc, which would suggest a powerful broad and round wine. Yet, Marguet’s version is sleek and saline with a strong chalk influence on the finish. 19 mg/l total SO2. 1667 bottles produced.
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It all started post WW2 when Philippe de Rothschild got solicited by the Ruinart Family to help them financially save their Champagne House, resulting in a 40% share deal to be signed in favor of The Baron. The first Baron Philippe de Rothschild labels were produced and kept within the Rothschild Family. Then in 1963 Ruinart got sold to Moët & Chandon. Philippe de Rothschild moved the investment to Chateau Clerc Millon in Pauillac. In 2003, the three branches of the family (Mouton, Lafite, and Rothschild Bank) launched Champagne Barons de Rothschild, with an exclusive selection of Premiers Crus and Grands Crus vineyards.Today, based in Vertus, the Rothschild House owns 8 hectares in prime locations across the Côte des Blancs.
Produced from the Grand Cru Vineyards, Barons de Rothschild Champagne Brut is a blend of 60% chardonnay and 40% pinot noir. 40% of reserve wines . Aged at least 3 years sur latte. Low dosage (5g/l) and kept at least 6 months after the disgorgement process.
A 6 L bottle equals to 8 Standard Bottles and serves approximately 48 people. Barons de Rothschild Champagne is also available in 750ml, 1500ml and 3L - Contact us for detailsEnticing and subtle nose with notes of lemon zest, honeysuckle and freshly baked brioche. Wonderful elegance on the medium-bodied palate that has a sleek silhouette. Long finish with plenty of spice and a touch of black berry fruit. A cuvee of 60% chardonnay from the Cote des Blancs and 40% pinot noir based on the 2018 vintage with 40% reserve wines. A lot of the sources are famous Grand Cru villages, like Verzenay and Avize.
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It all started post WW2 when Philippe de Rothschild got solicited by the Ruinart Family to help them financially save their Champagne House, resulting in a 40% share deal to be signed in favor of The Baron. The first Baron Philippe de Rothschild labels were produced and kept within the Rothschild Family. Then in 1963 Ruinart got sold to Moët & Chandon. Philippe de Rothschild moved the investment to Chateau Clerc Millon in Pauillac. In 2003, the three branches of the family (Mouton, Lafite, and Rothschild Bank) launched Champagne Barons de Rothschild, with an exclusive selection of Premiers Crus and Grands Crus vineyards.Today, based in Vertus, the Rothschild House owns 8 hectares in prime locations across the Côte des Blancs.
Produced from the Grand Cru Vineyards, Barons de Rothschild Champagne Brut is a blend of 60% chardonnay and 40% pinot noir. 40% of reserve wines . Aged at least 3 years sur latte. Low dosage (5g/l) and kept at least 6 months after the disgorgement process.
Barons de Rothschild Champagne is also available in 750ml, 1500ml and 6L - Contact us for detailsEnticing and subtle nose with notes of lemon zest, honeysuckle and freshly baked brioche. Wonderful elegance on the medium-bodied palate that has a sleek silhouette. Long finish with plenty of spice and a touch of black berry fruit. A cuvee of 60% chardonnay from the Cote des Blancs and 40% pinot noir based on the 2018 vintage with 40% reserve wines. A lot of the sources are famous Grand Cru villages, like Verzenay and Avize.
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It all started post WW2 when Philippe de Rothschild got solicited by the Ruinart Family to help them financially save their Champagne House, resulting in a 40% share deal to be signed in favor of The Baron. The first Baron Philippe de Rothschild labels were produced and kept within the Rothschild Family. Then in 1963 Ruinart got sold to Moët & Chandon. Philippe de Rothschild moved the investment to Chateau Clerc Millon in Pauillac. In 2003, the three branches of the family (Mouton, Lafite, and Rothschild Bank) launched Champagne Barons de Rothschild, with an exclusive selection of Premiers Crus and Grands Crus vineyards.Today, based in Vertus, the Rothschild House owns 8 hectares in prime locations across the Côte des Blancs.
Produced from the Grand Cru Vineyards, Barons de Rothschild Champagne Brut is a blend of 60% chardonnay and 40% pinot noir. 40% of reserve wines . Aged at least 3 years sur latte. Low dosage (5g/l) and kept at least 6 months after the disgorgement process.
Barons de Rothschild Champagne is also available in 750ml, 3L and 6L - Contact us for detailsEnticing and subtle nose with notes of lemon zest, honeysuckle and freshly baked brioche. Wonderful elegance on the medium-bodied palate that has a sleek silhouette. Long finish with plenty of spice and a touch of black berry fruit. A cuvee of 60% chardonnay from the Cote des Blancs and 40% pinot noir based on the 2018 vintage with 40% reserve wines. A lot of the sources are famous Grand Cru villages, like Verzenay and Avize.
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100% sauvignon blanc - The vineyards of Saint-Bris are located approximately 15kilometres from the town of Chablis. Diverse Jurassic soils, from Portlandian to Kimmeridgian. Limestone containing fossilized clams (Lower Kimmeridgian) is found close to alluvium from the Yonne River and at the foot of the marly limestone slopes. Vinified exclusively in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks where it continues to age for 8 months.
Fresh and lively on the nose featuring pleasing scents of citrus fruit, peach, and crushed blackcurrant leaves. This wine starts off bold on palate with vivacity along with both fruity and herbaceous notes. This complexity introduces a fruit which is full, flowery and tender, with a hint of wax and salty in the finish. Jammy and preserved-fruit aromas will appear as the wine ages. This is a wine that can be either enjoyed young or after having aged a few years..
Biodynamic. Thirty five year old average Cabernet Franc. Gravel terrasses soil. Blend of four plots: Sables, Coudraye, Pins, Perrières. Vinified all together in tanks and then aged 12 months in a mix of oak vats and sandstones eggs..
Pure, ripe, well-balanced, with blackberry, kirsch and violet flavors at the core, while hints of pepper and thyme glide along the edges. Silky in texture, featuring seamlessly integrated fine tannins. Mineral elements mark the finish.
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Biodynamic. The old Gewurztraminer vines are rooted in the Herrenweg of Turckheim: the flat alluvial deposits of the Fecht river which are rich in clay, sand, shingle, silt, with a high incidence of pebbles and frequent plates of loess. Similar to the soil of Graves, this terroir offers aromatic, ripe, voluptuous and elegant wines. Named after the 16th century collection of poems the Livret de Folastries or «Book of Follies» by French Poet Ronsard. Hand harvested. Natural fermentation with indigenous yeasts. Aged 12 months on the lees in large century old foudres. RS 2g/l.
Biodynamic. The vineyard is situated on a 360 meter high slope and is essentially a mixture of limestone from the Vosges, chalky marl and layers of red, brown, green and beige sediment which produce fuller bodied wines that are a little untamed in youth (Hengst means stallion) but develop intense aromatics, complexity and richness with age. Hand harvested. Natural fermentation with indigenous yeasts. Aged 18 months on the lees in large century old foudres. RS 4g/l
Biodynamic. A very unique wine as Pinot Auxerrois is rare in Alsace and usually blended with Pinot Blanc. Sixty years old vines from two plots in the heart of Hengst Grand Cru. This cuvée cannot claim the Grand Cru status (Pinot Auxerrois is not a noble varietal), so the letter H refers to it. The vineyard is situated on a 360 meter high slope and is essentially a mixture of limestone from the Vosges, chalky marl and layers of red, brown, green and beige sediment which produce fuller bodied wines that are a little untamed in youth (Hengst means stallion) but develop intense aromatics, complexity and richness with age. Hand harvested. Natural fermentation with indigenous yeasts. Aged 12 months on the lees in large century old foudres. RS 1.5g/l
Biodynamic. The old vines are situated in the Herrenweg of Turckheim, where the flat alluvial deposits of the Fecht river are rich in clay, sand, shingle, silt, with a high incidence of pebbles and frequent plates of loess. Similar to the soil of Graves, this terroir offers aromatic, ripe, voluptuous and elegant wines. Fifty years old vines. Hand harvested. Natural fermentation with indigenous yeasts. Aged 12 months on the lees in large century old foudres. RS 4g/l.
The Pinot Gris Le Fromenteau is characterized by subtle smokiness on the nose, adding allure to the pear notions. The palate, immediately bonedry and bright, has vivid freshness. The mouthfeel is almost viscous, really concentrated with walnut skin notions adding additional texture and mouth-watering bitterness. This will evolve beautifully with its bone-dry but concentrated nature.
Biodynamic. The old vines are situated in the Herrenweg of Turckheim, where the flat alluvial deposits of the Fecht river are rich in clay, sand, shingle, silt, with a high incidence of pebbles and frequent plates of loess. Similar to the soil of Graves, this terroir offers aromatic, ripe, voluptuous and elegant wines. Forty years old vines. Hand harvested. Natural fermentation with indigenous yeasts. Aged 12 months on the lees in large century old foudres. RS 2g/l.
This is a pure and mineral Riesling with delicate spice, firm peach and some herbaceous notes. The dry palate keeps these vivid citrus notions but backs them with a riper backing track that suggests Mirabelle plum. The wine has elegance, sinuousness and a svelte but concentrated nature. The dry finish is fresh and appetizing.
The Ribeiro wine appellation is located in the north west corner of Spain, in the province of Galicia, in between the valleys created by the Miño, Arnoia, and Avia rivers. The region is surrounded by Rias Baixas from the west and Ribeira Sacra to the east. Ribeiro, or «riverbank» in the Galician language, is the oldest of the five Denominaciones de Origen in Galicia. Ribeiro’s position on the banks of the three rivers makes for quite rolling terrain with steep river banks which can be difficult to farm. In landscapes such as these, winemakers often create terraces in their vineyards to make the land easier to farm, position their vines to make the most of the available sunlight and to facilitate access come harvest time. Soils in Ribeiro have quite a high granite content - sabrego is the local word used to describe the decomposed granite soils typically found in the area –often with a loamy, silty texture on the surface.
85% Treixadura, 15% Godello. Skin maceration for a few hours and then gentle pressing. Fermented and aged on its own lees 6 months in tanks.
Fruit-driven nose of green apple and melon with a peachy character. It has an appetizing combination of creaminess and acidity. Silky and pliant in texture, showing good heft and picking up a honeyed element with aeration. It is the perfect choice for various dishes based on fish, seafood, white meat or cheeses.
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Biodynamic. The vineyard is situated on a 360 meter high slope and is essentially a mixture of limestone from the Vosges, chalky marl and layers of red, brown, green and beige sediment which produce fuller bodied wines that are a little untamed in youth (Hengst means stallion) but develop intense aromatics, complexity and richness with age. Hand harvested. Natural fermentation with indigenous yeasts. Aged 18 months on the lees in large century old foudres. RS 8g/l.
SAMAIN is the name of the most important celtic holiday, which marks the end of the harvest and the beginning of the dark period in the year. These cuvée are a selection of old vines and come from Céline's personal cellarLocated on the edge of the Bassin de Thau near the city of Sètes, Florès regroups 70 artisan vigneron families under the supervision of Stephane Roques. Viticulture at Florès is organic. The Florensac terroir is one of the oldest planted vineyards near the Mediterranean. The landscape is dominated by the former volcano of Agde (an outlier of the volcanos of the Massif Central) and Mont St-Clair near Sète. The mixed terrain of garrigue, sand, sea and lagoons is home to a wide array of plant and animal life. A series of vineyard planted low terraces are open to the twin influences of the Mediterranean sea and the Étang de Thau. The latter is the largest in a series of sea-edge lagoons along the coast.
100% sauvignon blanc. Organic. Hand harvest at night. Slow fermentation on lees in temperature controlled tanks. Aged 6 months in tanks.
Classic fruity, grassy sauvignon from the south of France. Intense nose combining aromas of exotic fruits (mango, passion fruit) with notes of boxwood and blackcurrant buds. Fresh, lively and balanced palate leads to a tangy finish, with grapefruit zest. This is quaffing wine!
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100% aligoté - Vinified and aged 8 months in tanks.
This wine exhibits great aromatic concentration with notes of freshly cut apples, orange pith, white peach and sun-baked pears all enveloped in a delicate veil of white flowers, fresh earth and hay. The palate is lively, featuring salinity and hints of light green herbs, while maintaining a dainty and light demeanor. A beautiful choice for a summer day.
Delicate nose deplaying a mix of white orchard fruit aromas along with oyster shell, iodine and algae hints. There is solid density to the beautifully vibrant and intensely mineral-driven medium-bodied flavors that possess real character on the wonderfully clean, bone dry and strikingly persistent finish.
Mineral and fruity notes typical of the appellation shine through, following a six-month maturation in stainless steel. Refreshing and lively with hints of flint and mineral salty notes. Chalk, lemon and apple are featured in the tense mouth. This is a quaffing wine!
Delicate nose of orchard fruit, white flowers and light flinty notes. Fresh and saline, the palate is well balanced with a fine bead of acidity leading to a persistent, classically-styled finish.
100% chardonnay. After the grapes have been pressed and the juice settled, the musts are fermented in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks (75 %) and oak barrels (25 %) and aged on lees for the next 10 months.
Delicated nose dominated by vegetal tones, notes of meadow, honeysuckle. Elegant and refined palate with smooth acidity and good length. The finish is fruitier with an almost aniseed tone.
This complex, poised wine has intense, well-defined green apple, lemon, spice, and a notable minerality. Though mostly fermented in stainless steel, 30% was fermented in oak. This introduces an engaging, deftly engendered wood tone as well as providing additional richness.
Scenically set on top of Monforte d’alba with a sweeping view of the majestic Alps, Conterno Fantino is one of the leading producers of the area. They organically farmed 27 hectares. The philosophy is based on a modern approach promoting respect for the environment (biodynamic principles for vineyard management, solar panels and geothermal systems in the cellars), and ambitious wine making. The resulting wines are enticing, dense, deep, and elegant, amongst the most refined in Piedmont, sought-after by wine collectors around the world.
Organic / biodynamic. Blend of Barbera grown in Ginestra, Bussia Sottana, Mosconi, Pajana and Ornati. Hand harvested. Indigenous yeasts. Ten day fermentation/maceration in horizontal rotating stainless steel fermenters. Aged for 7 months in French oak barrels, plus an additional 4 months in the bottle before release.
Crushed flowers and bright red/purplish fruit give the Barbera its effusive, charming personality. This mid-weight, open-knit Barbera is a fine choice for near-term drinking.
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Scenically set on top of Monforte d’alba with a sweeping view of the majestic Alps, Conterno Fantino is one of the leading producers of the area. They organically farmed 27 hectares. The philosophy is based on a modern approach promoting respect for the environment (biodynamic principles for vineyard management, solar panels and geothermal systems in the cellars), and ambitious wine making. The resulting wines are enticing, dense, deep, and elegant, amongst the most refined in Piedmont, sought-after by wine collectors around the world.
Organic / biodynamic. 50% barbera, 50% nebbiolo from various sites with a steep terroir of limestone, marl and sand. Varietals vinified and aged in French oak barrels for 18 months separately then blended for the final cuvée.
Scenically set on top of Monforte d’alba with a sweeping view of the majestic Alps, Conterno Fantino is one of the leading producers of the area. They organically farmed 27 hectares. The philosophy is based on a modern approach promoting respect for the environment (biodynamic principles for vineyard management, solar panels and geothermal systems in the cellars), and ambitious wine making. The resulting wines are enticing, dense, deep, and elegant, amongst the most refined in Piedmont, sought-after by wine collectors around the world.
Organic / biodynamic. 100% Nebbiolo from Sori Ginestra and Castelletto crus. Aged ten months in used French oak barrels. Ginestra is a historical cru of 10 hectares situated at an altitude between 300 and 350 metres, arranged on steep slopes, prevalently exposed to the south and in part to the south east. it is divided in several subzones. Sori Ginestra is the vineyard located right below the Hamlet of Ginestra, between Roddoli della Ginestra and Cascina Pajana. Forty year old vines rooted in a steep full south facing compact terroir composed of silt (50%), sand (28%), and clay (22%). Castelletto is a large and steep vineyard located between Monforte d’Alba and the frazione of Perno along the confines of Serralunga d’Alba. Vigna Pressenda is a subzone of Castellotto, right in the middle of the Hill, that features older marls from Lequio Formation.
Bold, racy and perfumed, with lovely depth. Sweet floral notes meld into a core of dark stone fruits, lavender, menthol and sage. Firm, incisive tannins support expressive pine, black cherry and spice notes. This is a baby Barolo that can be enjoyed now.
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Scenically set on top of Monforte d’alba with a sweeping view of the majestic Alps, Conterno Fantino is one of the leading producers of the area. They organically farmed 27 hectares. The philosophy is based on a modern approach promoting respect for the environment (biodynamic principles for vineyard management, solar panels and geothermal systems in the cellars), and ambitious wine making. The resulting wines are enticing, dense, deep, and elegant, amongst the most refined in Piedmont, sought-after by wine collectors around the world.
Organic / biodynamic - 100% nebbiolo. Castelletto is a large and steep vineyard located between Monforte d’Alba and the frazione of Perno along the confines of Serralunga d’Alba. Vigna Pressenda is a subzone of Castellotto, right in the middle of the Hill, that features older marls from Lequio Formation
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◊ Producer's page ◊ Producer's website ◊ ◊ Tech sheet ◊
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Selected the 'First Royal Vineyard of France' in the year 630, Château d'Arlay has remained in the Laguiche family since the 12th century. Before that time it was owned, at different times, by the Kings of France, Spain and England. These are among a few key reasons why the Château is registered a National Monument. It isn't only the history buffs coming by every year to visit, however. The Laguiche family knows a thing or two about winemaking...(see also: Montrachet). Count Alain de Laguiche has been at the helm of Château d'Arlay since the early 1980s after taking over for his father, Count Renaud de Laguiche. Today, Alain's son, Pierre-Armand, is in charge of the estate.
100% old vines chardonnay, planted in a south-facing location, just below the château, called "En Treize Vent" (very windy) and harvested at high maturity. The , The combination of calcareous soils and cool winds creates an extremely fine citrus-fruity style with a typical apple-nut aroma.A gastronomic, powerful Chardonnay, which carries within it its Jura character. An elegant and powerful contribution from the Jura to the world of Chardonnay.
The estate has been in the family for five generations. Sister / Brother Margaux and Dorian are currently in charge of the organically farmed 51 hectare property divided up into two appellations: Francs Côtes de Bordeaux and Castillon Côtes de Bordeaux (10 hectare in red). Both of them are located on the Right Bank in the very eastern edge of the hilly Bordeaux wine region, near Saint Emilion. The terroir is composed of sub-soil made up of fossil-rich limestone covered with limestone molasse called «molasses d’Agenais». The siblings have created a realm of biodiversity, with regenerative agriculture, agroforestry, winter weed management with a local shepherd, and protection to the local fauna (find here a study about bats involvement in pest control). The estate is certified HVE 3.
Organic - 90% malbec and 10% merlot rooted in a south west facing limestone and clay terroir. Hand harvested. Indigenous yeasts. Three week maceration/fermentation in stainless steel tanks. Aged 10 months in tanks.
The estate has been in the family for five generations. Sister / Brother Margaux and Dorian are currently in charge of the organically farmed 51 hectare property divided up into two appellations: Francs Côtes de Bordeaux and Castillon Côtes de Bordeaux (10 hectare in red). Both of them are located on the Right Bank in the very eastern edge of the hilly Bordeaux wine region, near Saint Emilion. The terroir is composed of sub-soil made up of fossil-rich limestone covered with limestone molasse called «molasses d’Agenais». The siblings have created a realm of biodiversity, with regenerative agriculture, agroforestry, winter weed management with a local shepherd, and protection to the local fauna (find here a study about bats involvement in pest control). The estate is certified HVE 3.
Organic - 75% sauvignon blanc and 25% semillon rooted in a south west facing limestone and clay terroir. Hand harvested. Indigenous yeasts. Fermented and aged 7 months in oak barrels (30% new).
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In the 1950’s, Michel Couvreur, originally from Belgium, landed in Burgundy to start a fine wine merchant business. He took frequent trips to England and Scotland to sell his wines but was always particularly drawn to Scotland for the fishing and hunting. This is how he got exposed to the finest Scotch whiskies; and this is how the story started! He moved to Scotland in 1964 to become enamored with the whisky production and craft his own at Edradour. However trends were already changing in the industry with many of the old methods being replaced by new, cheaper ones, swapping the old, traditionally-used Sherry casks for more cost-effective steel or plastic vessels. Because of this, Michel decided to return to Burgundy in the 1970's. The region standing midway between the Andalusian vineyards and the Scottish Highlands, it was logistically easier to get the extremely rare old Pedro Ximenez and Palomino casks, as well as Vin Jaune feuillettes from the neighboring Jura wine region. All the young distillates were sourced from Scotland and shipped to Burgundy to be matured. Couvreur was an interesting character and would have crazy ideas! He also had various passions and one of them was engineering underground tunnels. He called the same company that built the famous Mont Blanc tunnel to create an underground labyrinth under the nearby limestone hills. The maze is still used today to age all of Couvreur's production. These single malts, while not technically Scotch, soon became the things of legends. Michel passed away in August 2013. He shared many of his secrets with his wife, Marthe, and daughter, Alexandra, as well as his long-time employee and confident, Jean-Arnaud Frantzen, and his son-in-law, Cyril Deschamps. They are now entrusted to carry on the legacy of the true “Last of the Mohicans" of artisanal Scotch whisky. The name remains and new expressions are being released every year. Early 2022, Couvreur built a new storage / production facility in the Village of Bouze les Beaune. The team has already started distilling their own spirits from local biodynamically grown barley. The current production is about 60,000 allocated bottles sold to private collectors and Michelin star restaurants around the world.
Distillation Degree 63% - Natural Degree 50% - Bottle Degree 50% • Intravagan’za is a clearach, name of a Scottish spirit during its three first years in the cask. Unpeated malted barley only (barley varieties are mostly Optic and little Golden Promise). Unfiltered single malt spirit doubled distilled in Scotland and matured three years in Oloroso and Moscatel casks, then bottled at its natural strength. The casks are stored in the wettest part of the underground cellar allowing for optimal smoothness.
Limpid gold amber tint. Notes of green almond and frangipane fragrances that are typical of very young malts, honeyed, finely wooded, and fruity. The palate is lively, nervous, and silky with creamy flavors reminiscent of pear liquor, which evolve rapidly into finer and floral flavors supported by a hint of smoke.
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In the 1950’s, Michel Couvreur, originally from Belgium, landed in Burgundy to start a fine wine merchant business. He took frequent trips to England and Scotland to sell his wines but was always particularly drawn to Scotland for the fishing and hunting. This is how he got exposed to the finest Scotch whiskies; and this is how the story started! He moved to Scotland in 1964 to become enamored with the whisky production and craft his own at Edradour. However trends were already changing in the industry with many of the old methods being replaced by new, cheaper ones, swapping the old, traditionally-used Sherry casks for more cost-effective steel or plastic vessels. Because of this, Michel decided to return to Burgundy in the 1970's. The region standing midway between the Andalusian vineyards and the Scottish Highlands, it was logistically easier to get the extremely rare old Pedro Ximenez and Palomino casks, as well as Vin Jaune feuillettes from the neighboring Jura wine region. All the young distillates were sourced from Scotland and shipped to Burgundy to be matured. Couvreur was an interesting character and would have crazy ideas! He also had various passions and one of them was engineering underground tunnels. He called the same company that built the famous Mont Blanc tunnel to create an underground labyrinth under the nearby limestone hills. The maze is still used today to age all of Couvreur's production. These single malts, while not technically Scotch, soon became the things of legends. Michel passed away in August 2013. He shared many of his secrets with his wife, Marthe, and daughter, Alexandra, as well as his long-time employee and confident, Jean-Arnaud Frantzen, and his son-in-law, Cyril Deschamps. They are now entrusted to carry on the legacy of the true “Last of the Mohicans" of artisanal Scotch whisky. The name remains and new expressions are being released every year. Early 2022, Couvreur built a new storage / production facility in the Village of Bouze les Beaune. The team has already started distilling their own spirits from local biodynamically grown barley. The current production is about 60,000 allocated bottles sold to private collectors and Michelin star restaurants around the world.
Distillation Degree 70% - Natural Degree 53% - Bottle Degree 49% • Double distilled in 2008 and matured in Pedro Ximenez media botas (250 l). Blend of 4 casks. The casks have been moved around the network of underground cellars from dry to very humid. Unfiltered. Couvreur never reveals the source of his whiskies as there is always a non disclosure contract however, just for indication, this whisky is from Islay.
On the nose, campfire and juicy stone fruit aromas intertwine. The palate is notably soft, mixing smoke with milk chocolate, dried apricot and golden raisin, finishing long and spiced with ginger, cardamom and clove.
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Founded in 1870 by Tommaso Rondelli on the hills of Val Nervia, Terre Bianche is a family estate perched high above the small medieval town of Dolceacqua in Liguria. The 10 ha estate, now managed by Filippo Rondelli, is spread over a wide variety of soils including blue marl and white and red clay. The vineyards are sheer, rocky and are grown in terraces: this is extreme organic viticulture! The focus is on indigenous varieties, the aromatic and charming red Rossese di Dolceacqua (Tibouren in France), the indigenous white Pigato and also its more widely-known cousin, Vermentino. The wines are all fermented and aged in steel tank, bar the single vineyard wines which are aged in barrels with the aim being to minimize as much as possible the influence of oak on the taste of the wine. Of mountain and sea, these are unique, tangy wines of great character. Up there with some of the most authentic, lively and refined wines in Italy.
Organic - Hand harvested. The Rossese di Dolceacqua was the first Ligurian wine to get the DOC recognition back in 1972. The name derives from the French ‘roché’, which refers to the rocky ground where it’s grown. The varietal is also known as Tibouren in France. Fermented with natural yeasts and aged twelve months in stainless steel.
A ruby red wine with an intense aroma that presents hints of wild berries, cherry, dog-rose and spices. It’s slightly savoury, with a warm body and bitter notes. A perfect complement for blue fish, grilled or lightly dressed white meats, rabbit, stock fish and vegetable pies.
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Created in 1929, Cave de Cairanne is located in the heart of the Crus of the Meridional Rhône Valley, a stone throw away from the magnificent Dentelles de Montmirail montains. The cooperative is composed of 65 families, whose a dozen represents 80% of the total production. All are devoted to producing the most qualitative grapes from the 550 hectares of vineyards, farmed with an organic approach.
Organic. 50% grenache, 30% syrah, 20% mourvèdre. Twenty five to forty years old vines. The vineyards are located north of the village, in the Montagne du Ventabren site. Soils are composed of limestone, with flint alterning with marls. South facing. Vinified with indigenous yeasts in concrete vats with regular punching downs. No sulfur is added during the winemaking stage. Aged in concrete for 10 months.This is a blend of organically grown Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre that highlights fresh, lip smacking blackberry and blueberry flavors. Crisply balanced and cut by a fine, mineral edge, it's penetrating and ripe but juicy and quaffable too. Best enjoyed young for its zingy fruit profile.
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Created in 1929, Cave de Cairanne is located in the heart of the Crus of the Meridional Rhône Valley, a stone throw away from the magnificent Dentelles de Montmirail montains. The cooperative is composed of 65 families, whose a dozen represents 80% of the total production. All are devoted to producing the most qualitative grapes from the 550 hectares of vineyards, farmed with an organic approach.
50% grenache, 30% syrah, 20% mourvèdre. Twenty five to forty years old vines. The vineyards are located north of the village, in the Montagne du Ventabren site. Soils are composed of limestone, with flint alterning with marls. South facing. Vinified with indigenous yeasts in concrete vats with regular punching downs. No sulfur is added during the winemaking stage. Aged in concrete for 10 months. Low sulfite 22mg/LSoft, ripe black forest compote nose; nice concentration of fruit on the palate. Good weight. Really well balanced in terms of fruit, acidity and tannin; supple and silky. Lots of juicy, succulent blackberry fruit flavours. Superb length. Some nice complexity coming through too. Dangerously drinkable! Impressive
Pelissero is a family-run wine-growing estate located in the district of Treiso, in the heart of the zone of production of Barbaresco, Piedmont. The first bottles dated back to 1960 and were produced by Luigi Pelissero, whose work was followed by his son, Oenologist Giorgio. Giorgio is a one man-show sharing his busy schedule between the vineyards and cellar while in the meantime acting as the export/wine ambassador for 60 countries! Pelissero has a meticulous, dynamic and organic viticulture / winemaking approach. The estate spreads over 40 hectares in Treiso, Barbaresco, Neive, Neviglie and Alba. Annual production is about 250,000 bottles.
100% nebbiolo. The grapes come from six small lots with various exposures scattered over the three villages of Treiso, Barbaresco and Neive.
Pelissero is a family-run wine-growing estate located in the district of Treiso, in the heart of the zone of production of Barbaresco, Piedmont. The first bottles dated back to 1960 and were produced by Luigi Pelissero, whose work was followed by his son, Oenologist Giorgio. Giorgio is a one man-show sharing his busy schedule between the vineyards and cellar while in the meantime acting as the export/wine ambassador for 60 countries! Pelissero has a meticulous, dynamic and organic viticulture / winemaking approach. The estate spreads over 40 hectares in Treiso, Barbaresco, Neive, Neviglie and Alba. Annual production is about 250,000 bottles.
80% barbera / 10% nebbiolo / 10% dolcetto grown in Treiso, Neive, Barbaresco and Alba. Barlet in Piedmontese dialect refers to a small tapped barrel the peasant would take in the fields with them for the day. Hand harvested. Vinified separately. Blending. No oak. This is a Vino Rosso senza denominazione di origine (vino di Tavola) and the vintage indication is not compulsory.
Pelissero is a family-run wine-growing estate located in the district of Treiso, in the heart of the zone of production of Barbaresco, Piedmont. The first bottles dated back to 1960 and were produced by Luigi Pelissero, whose work was followed by his son, Oenologist Giorgio. Giorgio is a one man-show sharing his busy schedule between the vineyards and cellar while in the meantime acting as the export/wine ambassador for 60 countries! Pelissero has a meticulous, dynamic and organic viticulture / winemaking approach. The estate spreads over 40 hectares in Treiso, Barbaresco, Neive, Neviglie and Alba. Annual production is about 250,000 bottles.
The Piani hill is located in Ferrere (Treiso). Old vine Barbera rooted in a west facing vineyards at an elevation of 250 to 350m. The soil is of medium mixture with a little percentage of a kind of clay very similar to bentonite that makes the soil spongy and very unstable. Hand harvested. Maceration takes 15-20 days in stainless steel cask with controlled temperature. Then ageing is about 8-9 months in oak barrels (30-40% in barrique and the remaining in 50 hl barrels).
Also available in magnums (2017 vintage)Pelissero is a family-run wine-growing estate located in the district of Treiso, in the heart of the zone of production of Barbaresco, Piedmont. The first bottles dated back to 1960 and were produced by Luigi Pelissero, whose work was followed by his son, Oenologist Giorgio. Giorgio is a one man-show sharing his busy schedule between the vineyards and cellar while in the meantime acting as the export/wine ambassador for 60 countries! Pelissero has a meticulous, dynamic and organic viticulture / winemaking approach. The estate spreads over 40 hectares in Treiso, Barbaresco, Neive, Neviglie and Alba. Annual production is about 250,000 bottles.
The Piani hill is located in Ferrere (Treiso). Old vine Barbera rooted in a west facing vineyards at an elevation of 250 to 350m. The soil is of medium mixture with a little percentage of a kind of clay very similar to bentonite that makes the soil spongy and very unstable. Hand harvested. Maceration takes 15-20 days in stainless steel cask with controlled temperature. Then ageing is about 8-9 months in oak barrels (30-40% in barrique and the remaining in 50 hl barrels).
Also available in magnums (2017 vintage)Pelissero is a family-run wine-growing estate located in the district of Treiso, in the heart of the zone of production of Barbaresco, Piedmont. The first bottles dated back to 1960 and were produced by Luigi Pelissero, whose work was followed by his son, Oenologist Giorgio. Giorgio is a one man-show sharing his busy schedule between the vineyards and cellar while in the meantime acting as the export/wine ambassador for 60 countries! Pelissero has a meticulous, dynamic and organic viticulture / winemaking approach. The estate spreads over 40 hectares in Treiso, Barbaresco, Neive, Neviglie and Alba. Annual production is about 250,000 bottles.
100% old vine nebbiolo grown in Cascina Tolino site (Treiso/Neviglie). Steep south east to east facing vineyards at an elevation of 250 to 400m. The soil is of medium mixture with a rich component of mineral microelements as magnesium, calcium, iron, phosphorus and potassium. Tulin in local dialect indicates a small circular metal plate as commonly used in churches for retention of melted candle wax or for the distribution of food to the cattle in the stables. Hand harvested. Aged 18 to 20 months in oak (50% botte and 50% new oak barrels) then spends an additional 9 months in the bottle.
Berlucchi is an iconic house and pioneer in Italy: it was the first winery to release a metodo classico Franciacorta in the 60’s. It has, since then, become the most powerful premium sparkling wine brand in Italy. The Ziliani family also owns the Bolgheri estate of Caccia Al Piano. Certified Organic in 2016, Berlucchi’s own vineyards cover over 100 hectares. The three children of the late Franco Ziliani, lovingly referred to as “the father of Franciacorta,” now lead the estate. The name Franciacorta comes from the terms Francae Curtes, name given during the feudal period to the communities of French Benedictine monks who settled in the region to cultivate the vine. These communities were exempted from the princely taxes in exchange for their services. Francae Curtes (franc de taxe in French) therefore means free of taxes. It then evolved through time to the Italian version Franciacorta.
Organic. Pinot nero (100%), grown in two high-density estate vineyards in Borgonato, the hillslope Quindicipiò vineyard and Brolo, with its view of Palazzo Lana Berlucchi. Fermentation in stainless steel, then the finest lots go to oak barrels, where they mature 6 months sur lie. The cuvée is assembled in the spring following the harvest with the highest-quality base wines, all 100% of the same growing year. The wine re-ferments and matures sur lie in the bottle for a minimum of 10 years, followed by a further 6 months after disgorging. RS 3g/l.
A bouquet of sweet smoke, crushed pear, chamomile and dusty dried flowers makes the 2011 Franciacorta Riserva Palazzo Lana extremely impossible to ignore. This balances soothing bubbles with salty minerals and ripe ginger-tinged apples to create a display of pure elegance on the palate. Despite its Extra Brut label, this finishes with a bone-dry sensation, leaving raw almond, hazelnut and citrus to linger on and on. The 2011 is complex, with fantastic depth and balance. It’s a total pleasure to taste. 93+ Vinous
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Berlucchi is an iconic house and pioneer in Italy: it was the first winery to release a metodo classico Franciacorta in the 60’s. It has, since then, become the most powerful premium sparkling wine brand in Italy. The Ziliani family also owns the Bolgheri estate of Caccia Al Piano. Certified Organic in 2016, Berlucchi’s own vineyards cover over 100 hectares. The three children of the late Franco Ziliani, lovingly referred to as “the father of Franciacorta,” now lead the estate. The name Franciacorta comes from the terms Francae Curtes, name given during the feudal period to the communities of French Benedictine monks who settled in the region to cultivate the vine. These communities were exempted from the princely taxes in exchange for their services. Francae Curtes (franc de taxe in French) therefore means free of taxes. It then evolved through time to the Italian version Franciacorta.
Organic. Pinot nero (100%), grown in the Ragnoli, Quindicipiò, and Gaspa estate vineyards, all planted to a high density of 10,000 vines/hectare. The Pinot Noir, fermented as a rosé, receives a cold pre-maceration for about 24 hours and then a gentle pressing. The musts ferment in stainless steel, then mature 6 months sur lie. A small amount of Pinot Noir is vinified as a red wine, macerating some 7 days after fermentation. The cuvée is assembled, in the spring following the harvest, with base wines 100% of the same growing year. The wine re-ferments and matures sur lie in the bottle for a minimum of 5 years, followed by a further 6 months after disgorging. Zero Dosage.
Enticing scents of bright red berry, rose, cedar and delicate, yeasty whiffs recalling fresh bread dough float out of the glass. Bone-dry and supremely elegant, the savory, understated palate suddenly blooms on the midpalate, delivering juicy pomegranate, blood orange, star anise and crushed mint alongside racy acidity and an extremely refined perlage. 95 Wine Enthusiast
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Berlucchi is an iconic house and pioneer in Italy: it was the first winery to release a metodo classico Franciacorta in the 60’s. It has, since then, become the most powerful premium sparkling wine brand in Italy. The Ziliani family also owns the Bolgheri estate of Caccia Al Piano. Certified Organic in 2016, Berlucchi’s own vineyards cover over 100 hectares. The three children of the late Franco Ziliani, lovingly referred to as “the father of Franciacorta,” now lead the estate. The name Franciacorta comes from the terms Francae Curtes, name given during the feudal period to the communities of French Benedictine monks who settled in the region to cultivate the vine. These communities were exempted from the princely taxes in exchange for their services. Francae Curtes (franc de taxe in French) therefore means free of taxes. It then evolved through time to the Italian version Franciacorta.
Organic. Chardonnay (100%), grown in the central parcel of the estate Arzelle vineyard, planted to a high density of 10,000 vines/hectare. Fermentation in stainless steel, then the finest lots of wine mature 6 months sur lie in oak barrels. The cuvée is assembled, in the spring following the harvest, with base wines 100% of the same growing year. The wine re-ferments and matures sur lie in the bottle for a minimum of 5 years, followed by a further 6 months after disgorging. Zero dosage.
TChamomile, white stone fruit and bread dough aromas waft out of the glass. Creamy and elegant, the bone-dry palate delivers Bartlett pear, ripe yellow apple and brioche alongside a smooth, silky perlage. Vibrant acidity keeps it bright and balanced. 94 Wine Enthusiast
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Berlucchi is an iconic house and pioneer in Italy: it was the first winery to release a metodo classico Franciacorta in the 60’s. It has, since then, become the most powerful premium sparkling wine brand in Italy. The Ziliani family also owns the Bolgheri estate of Caccia Al Piano. Certified Organic in 2016, Berlucchi’s own vineyards cover over 100 hectares. The three children of the late Franco Ziliani, lovingly referred to as “the father of Franciacorta,” now lead the estate. The name Franciacorta comes from the terms Francae Curtes, name given during the feudal period to the communities of French Benedictine monks who settled in the region to cultivate the vine. These communities were exempted from the princely taxes in exchange for their services. Francae Curtes (franc de taxe in French) therefore means free of taxes. It then evolved through time to the Italian version Franciacorta.
Organic. Chardonnay (70%) and pinot nero (30%), grown in the estate vineyards of Arzelle, Rovere, San Carlo, and Ragnoli, all planted to a high density of 10,000 vines per hectare. Fermentation in stainless steel, then the finest lots of wine mature 6 months sur lie in oak barrels. The cuvée is assembled, in the spring following the harvest, with base wines 100% of the same growing year. The wine re-ferments and matures sur lie in the bottle for a minimum of 5 years, followed by a further 6 months after disgorging. Zero dosage.
This exciting wine is full of energy and vibrancy. The blend of 70% Chardonnay and 30% Pinot Noir has compelling aromas of tart apples, candied citrus zest, fresh pastry dough and wild herbs. The palate is dry and leads off with lemon zest, green pear, thyme and marjoram, finishing with roasted almonds and minerality 94 Wine Enthusiast
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Berlucchi is an iconic house and pioneer in Italy: it was the first winery to release a metodo classico Franciacorta in the 60’s. It has, since then, become the most powerful premium sparkling wine brand in Italy. The Ziliani family also owns the Bolgheri estate of Caccia Al Piano. Certified Organic in 2016, Berlucchi’s own vineyards cover over 100 hectares. The three children of the late Franco Ziliani, lovingly referred to as “the father of Franciacorta,” now lead the estate. The name Franciacorta comes from the terms Francae Curtes, name given during the feudal period to the communities of French Benedictine monks who settled in the region to cultivate the vine. These communities were exempted from the princely taxes in exchange for their services. Francae Curtes (franc de taxe in French) therefore means free of taxes. It then evolved through time to the Italian version Franciacorta.
Organic - 100% chardonnay. Assemblage of the cuvée in the spring following harvest, with the contribution of 10% reserve wines aged in barriques and tonneaux. Second fermentation in the bottles and maturation sur lie for a minimum of 24 months followed by an additional 2 months after disgorgement. The lower overpressure in the bottles (5 atmospheres) typical of Satèn endows it with a creamy elegance. RS 7g/l.
This elegant sparkler opens with delicate scents of hawthorn and white stone fruit. On the dry palate, firm acidity and a lively, refined perlage accompany juicy Bartlett pear, white peach and lemon drop before closing on a hint of white almond. 91 Wine Enthusiast
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Berlucchi is an iconic house and pioneer in Italy: it was the first winery to release a metodo classico Franciacorta in the 60’s. It has, since then, become the most powerful premium sparkling wine brand in Italy. The Ziliani family also owns the Bolgheri estate of Caccia Al Piano. Certified Organic in 2016, Berlucchi’s own vineyards cover over 100 hectares. The three children of the late Franco Ziliani, lovingly referred to as “the father of Franciacorta,” now lead the estate. The name Franciacorta comes from the terms Francae Curtes, name given during the feudal period to the communities of French Benedictine monks who settled in the region to cultivate the vine. These communities were exempted from the princely taxes in exchange for their services. Francae Curtes (franc de taxe in French) therefore means free of taxes. It then evolved through time to the Italian version Franciacorta.
Organic. 85% chardonnay, 15% pinot nero. Assemblage of the cuvée in the spring following harvest, with the contribution of 20% of reserve wines expertly divided between Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Second fermentation in the bottles and maturation sur lie for a minimum of 24 months followed by an additional 2 months after disgorgement. RS 5g/l
More savory than sweet, the NV Extra Brut Franciacorta Berlucchi '61 opens with a dusty bouquet of dried flowers and field grasses giving way to yellow apples. This sizzles on the palate as zesty acidity and crystalline bubbles cascade throughout. Saline minerals and tart orchard fruits linger, adding tension through the finish as the Extra Brut tapers off with admirable length. 90 Vinous
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The Accornero estate was founded in 1897 but entered the modern winemaking age with current owner Ermanno Accornero’s father Giulio, who started making wine in the mid-1950s. It stands right in the middle of the Basso Monferrato region delimited by the the Po River (north), Tanaro River (south), and the towns of Alessandria (east) and Asti (West). The Monferrato landscape is predominantly hilly. Its soils date back to the Tertiary period, when they emerged from the sea that occupied the “Pianura Padana” (the Po Valley). The soils are made up of sandstone and limestone marl layers of the Miocene era. These are the so-called “Terre Bianche” (white soils) where fossil shells can easily be found.
Organic. Grignolino is a rare and underrated varietal, which will please fine Burgundy, Barolo and Barbaresco lovers. In fact, Grignolinos were some of Piedmont’s most expensive and sought-after wines right up to the beginning of the 20th century. They are remarkably complex, food-friendly and ageworthy. Hand harvested. Vinified in stainless steel tank with indigenous yeasts. Aged in tanks for 12 months. No oak.
Crushed red berries, mint, wild flowers, cinnamon and rosewater are all beautifully lifted in this silky, wonderfully inviting lightly tannic wine. It pairs well with with hors d’oeuvres, vegetable quiches, duck, white meat and fried dishes. Definitely worth trying
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The Accornero estate was founded in 1897 but entered the modern winemaking age with current owner Ermanno Accornero’s father Giulio, who started making wine in the mid-1950s. It stands right in the middle of the Basso Monferrato region delimited by the the Po River (north), Tanaro River (south), and the towns of Alessandria (east) and Asti (West). The Monferrato landscape is predominantly hilly. Its soils date back to the Tertiary period, when they emerged from the sea that occupied the “Pianura Padana” (the Po Valley). The soils are made up of sandstone and limestone marl layers of the Miocene era. These are the so-called “Terre Bianche” (white soils) where fossil shells can easily be found.
Organic. Grignolino is a rare and underrated varietal, which will please fine Burgundy, Barolo and Barbaresco lovers. In fact, Grignolinos were some of Piedmont’s most expensive and sought-after wines right up to the beginning of the 20th century. They are remarkably complex, food-friendly and ageworthy. Hand harvested. Long maceration in wooden vats using the cappello sommerso technique with wooden staves keeping the cap down in contact with the must. Aged 30 months in French oak barrels (60% new) plus an additional 24 months in the bottle.
The 2016 Grignolino Bricco del Bosco Vigne Vecchie is a wild, eccentric wine that shows how Grignolino can age. Rose petal, mint, iron, dried leaves and sweet dried cherry give the 2016 a decidedly exotic quality. There is a bit of reduction, but otherwise the 2016 is very nicely done. 94 Vinous
Delicate and powerful aromatics on the nose of dark red cherry and minerals, quinine and perfumed flowers. Sweet red fruit, candied raspberry, crystallized strawberry, Asian spices and violet. Cinnamon, marzipan, blood orange and cherry pie in the mouth are nicely supported by polished but assertive tannins and lifted by vibrant acidity. Finishes very long, dense and creamy, with outstanding precision and lift.
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The Accornero estate was founded in 1897 but entered the modern winemaking age with current owner Ermanno Accornero’s father Giulio, who started making wine in the mid-1950s. It stands right in the middle of the Basso Monferrato region delimited by the the Po River (north), Tanaro River (south), and the towns of Alessandria (east) and Asti (West). The Monferrato landscape is predominantly hilly. Its soils date back to the Tertiary period, when they emerged from the sea that occupied the “Pianura Padana” (the Po Valley). The soils are made up of sandstone and limestone marl layers of the Miocene era. These are the so-called “Terre Bianche” (white soils) where fossil shells can easily be found.
Organic. Freisa is the closest relative to Nebbiolo. It is widely cultivated throughout Piedmont, being prevalent in nearly all red blends from the region. Although often made sweet and fizzy, Accornero produces a dry, still, complex and elegant version, which demonstrates the ageworthly quality of the varietal. Hand harvested. Vinified in stainless steel tank with indigenous yeasts. Aged in tanks for 12 months. No oak.Freisa is widely cultivated throughout Piedmont and is the closest relative to Nebbiolo. Delicate nose with hints of raspberries, violet and dark plums, complemented by notes of fragrant herbs and spices. The taste of wine is full, intense, fairly fresh, harmonious, perfectly balanced, with juicy fruitiness, moderate acidity, well-integrated tannins and a long, persistent aftertaste.