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Inventory updated: Wed, Feb 18, 2026 04:02 PM cst
French Large Formats In-Stock
There’s something undeniably special about wine in large format. Whether it’s a magnum on the dinner table or a double magnum pulled from the cellar, big bottles turn any occasion into an event—and they happen to deliver better wine, too. Large-format bottles age more slowly and more gracefully, preserving freshness, aromatics, and balance far longer than standard 750ml bottles. For collectors, they represent the ideal way to cellar great wines at their peak. For hosts, they offer drama, generosity, and the simple pleasure of sharing one exceptional bottle with everyone at the table. We currently have a compelling selection of French wines available in magnums and larger formats, spanning benchmark regions and producers. From powerful reds built for decades of evolution to refined classics that shine with extended aging, these bottles are tailor-made for celebrations, milestone dinners, and serious cellars alike. Beyond their practical advantages, large formats are increasingly scarce. Many estates produce them in extremely limited quantities, and once they’re gone, replacements are rarely possible. As demand continues to grow among collectors worldwide, availability only tightens. If you’re planning ahead for holiday gatherings, special anniversaries, or simply want to elevate your cellar with wines that truly stand apart, now is the time to act. I’d be happy to help you select the right formats and wines to match your goals—whether for near-term enjoyment or long-term aging.
The following are the wines remaining from the offer sent on Wednesday, February 18, 2026. Please enter your desired quantities and click the 'Add' button.
| Producer |
Vint. |
Wine |
Price |
Qty |
Order |
| | Bordeaux Red |
| Ch. Calon-Segur |
1982 |
St. Estephe (1.5 L)  Corroded Capsule; Nicked Capsule; Signs of Old Seepage; Heavily Bin-Soiled Label; Exposed Cork |
$300 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 93 (6/2000): This wine has just begun to reveal its true personality, having under-performed for most of its life. In half-bottles it is close to maturity, but in 750ml bottles, it still needs another 4-5 years of cellaring (at least those that were purchased in pristine condition and stored properly). The color is a medium dark ruby with a garnet center. The multidimensional nose offers up notes of dried herbs, sweet damp earth, espresso, black cherries, prunes, cedar, iodine, and iron. Extremely complex aromatically, this full-bodied, still tannic, concentrated, old style Bordeaux has two to three decades of life remaining. It is impressive, but clearly from the old-school of Bordeaux winemaking with rustic tannin, but huge depth and body. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2035.
VM 93 (8/2002): Good medium red, with a hint of amber at the rim. Very aromatic, inviting nose of redcurrant, leather and tobacco. Intensely flavored and gripping, with a slightly raisiny singed plum character but also solid framing acidity that gives the wine a juicy quality. Quite fat and full. Finishes with superb structure and grip. (A second, rather different bottle of equal quality showed cherry, currant, licorice and menthol aromas; a dense, backward palate impression; and lovely restrained sweetness and a note of spice cake on the youthfully firm finish.) |
|
|
1995 |
St. Estephe (1.5 L) |
$300 |
1 |
|
| |
JS 97 (5/2014): I always loved this wine from the first time I tasted it in 1998. It has such purity and power yet it's reserved and beautiful. It's one of the best Calons ever. I drank a bottle with some friends in Manhattan last week and it was the wine of the evening. It was full-bodied with silky tannins and a focused and intense finish. Lots of currant and berry character and hints of dried spices. It's finally opening up and giving real pleasure now like so many 1995 Bordeaux at the moment.
WA 92 (2/1998): As I have said many times since I first tasted this wine, the 1995 Calon-Segur is one of the great sleepers of the vintage (I bought the wine as a future for a mere $250 a case). The wine has closed down completely since bottling, but it is a sensational effort that may ultimately merit an even higher score. The wine is opaque purple-colored. With coaxing, the tight aromatics reveal some weedy cassis intertwined with truffles, chocolate, and beef blood-like aromas. On the palate, there is an element of sur-maturite (1995 was an extremely late harvest at Calon-Segur), fabulous density and purity, and a boatload of tannin. This deep, broodingly backward, classic Bordeaux will require a decade of cellaring. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2035.
VM 91 (5/1998): Good deep red-ruby color. Black cherry, leather, olive and a hint of crystallized berries; fresher on the nose than the '97. Sweet, firmly structured and very nicely balanced, with strong but integrated acidity and very good flavor definition. Tannins are ripe and fine. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
| Ch. Latour |
2011 |
Pauillac (6.0 L) ex-Negociant |
$5,500 |
2 |
|
| |
JA 97 (2/2021): A delicious wine that stands out from many in the vintage. A ton of personality, with a sappy, raspberry, autumnal berry fruit as it opens and travels through the palate, with rose petals on the edge that give a beautiful uplift along with the classic trace of mint. Its tannins are a little more angular than you find in the 2010 and 2009, but it is starting to lengthen and open, although this was a vintage that was not immediately impressive in the way that the previous two had been. A stately Latour, one that needs another few years to really show its place. The last Latour to be sold en primeur in the old system. 34% of overall production. Harvest September 12 to 26.
JS 95 (1/2014): The nose is complex, featuring smoke, meat and hints of wood, with currants, olives and berries underneath. Full body with super-velvety tannins. The strong acidity gives the wine an edginess. Love the spicy, subtly fruity finish. Steely. Try in 2020.
VM 95 (4/2022): The 2011 Latour is well-defined on the nose with blackberry, bilberry, cedar, hoisin and a touch of mint. There is impressive intensity here, regal and convincing. The palate is medium-bodied with grippy tannins. There is a solid backbone to this wine, plenty of freshness, quite powerful towards the finish with superb persistence. Wonderful. Tasted blind at the annual 10-Year-On tasting. Neal Martin.
WA 93-95 (4/2012): A blend of 84.5% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot and 0.5% Petit Verdot, the 2011 Latour represents only 34% of the crop. It hit 13.1% natural alcohol. One of the vintage's most compelling wines, it possesses a dense ruby/purple color as well as a sweet, open-knit personality with ripe tannin, superb intensity, good purity and harmony, a medium to full-bodied mouthfeel, and lots of crushed rock, floral and black as well as blue fruit notes in addition to hints of ink and forest floor. This beautifully rich, savory Latour will be surprisingly drinkable in 4-5 years, and should age easily for two decades or more. |
|
| Ch. Les Carmes Haut Brion |
2021 |
Pessac Leognan (3.0 L) 2021 en Primeur Release |
$525 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 98 (2/2024): The 2021 Les Carmes Haut-Brion is very possibly the wine of the vintage. Vertical and explosive, the 2021 possesses mind-blowing intensity and dynamic energy to burn. The 2021 is a heady, racy wine that captivates all the senses. Tobacco, mocha, cedar, leather, dried herbs, menthol, licorice and plum saturate the palate in a wine that dazzles from start to finish. The 2021 was bottled in late September 2023, much later than most wines, yet it is so expressive today. It was magnificent from barrel, and it is every bit as breathtaking today. Quite simply, Les Carmes is on another level. Bravo! (Drink between 2031-2061). Antonio Galloni.
WA 95 (2/2024): The 2021 Les Carmes Haut-Brion has turned out beautifully in bottle, though it is more introverted and brooding than it appeared during en primeur tastings, unwinding in the glass with aromas of dark berries mingled with spices, loamy soil, licorice, rose petals, gentian and black pepper. Medium to full-bodied, deep and seamless, with a concentrated core of fruit framed by ripe but abundant structuring tannins and bright acids, it concludes with a long, palate-staining finish. As readers may remember, it's a blend of 40% Cabernet Franc, 35% Cabernet Sauvignon and 25% Merlot. |
|
| Ch. Marsau |
2022 |
Francs Cotes de Bordeaux (1.5 L) 2023 en Primeur Release |
$59.95 |
19 |
|
| |
WA 92-94 (5/2023): This medium to full-bodied 2022 Marsau is an attractive wine produced from 100% Merlot. It has a delightfully pure bouquet of peony, violet, iris, menthol and cassis, followed by a crunchy and juicy yet fresh texture and then by a mineral-driven finish of remarkable purity, expressing elegant notes of licorice and pencil lead. Anne-Laurence and Mathieu Chadronnier have produced a red wine that punches above its weight. Bravo!
JA 92 (5/2023): Floral notes on the aromatics, shows the heavy spice of the vintage with black pepper, rosemary and turmeric notes, begins to lift through the palate as it opens. An unusual spot in Franc Côtes de Bordeaux with a lot of clay in the soils, and this is powerful and concentrated, with a flash of heat on the finish. 12ha vineyard, entirely clay, entirely Merlot, organic since 2018, no till farming, 25hl/h yield. Harvest September 7 to 12, to be aged 80% large oak casks (no new oak), 10% one year old, 10% neutral oak and amphora. |
|
| Ch. Mouton-Rothschild |
2022 |
Pauillac (6.0 L) 2023 en Primeur Release |
$7,195 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 98-100 (5/2023): Moving to the flagship, the 2022 Château Mouton Rothschild is a massive, full-bodied, incredibly powerful 2022 that takes no prisoners with its ripe black and blue fruits, chocolate, graphite, and smoked tobacco-driven aromas and flavors. Deep, unctuous, and concentrated, with velvety tannins, this legendary Mouton is based on 92% Cabernet Sauvignon and 8% Merlot that's still resting in new barrel. It will unquestionably play with the top wines in the vintage. Harvest here began the 1st of September and finished on the 26th, and the final wine hit 14% natural alcohol, with a pH of 3.89 and an IPT of 76.
VM 96-98 (5/2023): The 2022 Mouton Rothschild is a powerhouse. Inky, deep and explosive, the 2022 is a real head-turner. The combination of intense dark fruit, strong gravelly/mineral notes and imposing structure clearly bring to mind another great Mouton, and that is the 1986. In a word: magnificent. The blend is 92% Cabernet Sauvignon and 8% Merlot Antonio Galloni.
WA 96-99 (5/2023): A brilliant wine that likely sits somewhere between the 2019 and 2020 in quality, the 2022 Mouton Rothschild is a blend of 92% Cabernet Sauvignon and 8% Merlot. Unwinding in the glass with complex aromas of minty cassis, cigar wrapper, violets and subtle hints of loamy soil, it's full-bodied, deep and concentrated, with a layered core of fruit and a fleshy, elegantly muscular profile. Broad-shouldered and seamless, it concludes with a long, resonant finish. This year the grand vin represents some 49% of the estate's production.
JA 98 (5/2023): Inky damson colour, with vibrant violet reflections, velvet texture, aromatics less exuberant than the Petit Mouton, but the concentration and depth on the palate is absolutely there, with cocoa powder, grilled coffee bean, olive paste, cassis, bitter black chocolate on the finish as the tannins close in, ready for decades ahead. This walks the line, and is a thoroughly enjoyable experience. Clearly needs a long time before approaching, give it the full 10 years and then some. Harvest began September 1, earliest since 1893. 32hl/h yield. 3.89ph, 76IPT, 100% new oak. Harvest overall September 1 to 26. Jean-Emanuel Danjoy director. 49% of production in the Grand Vin, 27% Petit Mouton. 100% new barrels for ageing. |
|
|
2022 |
Pauillac (1.5 L) 2023 en Primeur Release |
$1,425 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 98-100 (5/2023): Moving to the flagship, the 2022 Château Mouton Rothschild is a massive, full-bodied, incredibly powerful 2022 that takes no prisoners with its ripe black and blue fruits, chocolate, graphite, and smoked tobacco-driven aromas and flavors. Deep, unctuous, and concentrated, with velvety tannins, this legendary Mouton is based on 92% Cabernet Sauvignon and 8% Merlot that's still resting in new barrel. It will unquestionably play with the top wines in the vintage. Harvest here began the 1st of September and finished on the 26th, and the final wine hit 14% natural alcohol, with a pH of 3.89 and an IPT of 76.
VM 96-98 (5/2023): The 2022 Mouton Rothschild is a powerhouse. Inky, deep and explosive, the 2022 is a real head-turner. The combination of intense dark fruit, strong gravelly/mineral notes and imposing structure clearly bring to mind another great Mouton, and that is the 1986. In a word: magnificent. The blend is 92% Cabernet Sauvignon and 8% Merlot Antonio Galloni.
WA 96-99 (5/2023): A brilliant wine that likely sits somewhere between the 2019 and 2020 in quality, the 2022 Mouton Rothschild is a blend of 92% Cabernet Sauvignon and 8% Merlot. Unwinding in the glass with complex aromas of minty cassis, cigar wrapper, violets and subtle hints of loamy soil, it's full-bodied, deep and concentrated, with a layered core of fruit and a fleshy, elegantly muscular profile. Broad-shouldered and seamless, it concludes with a long, resonant finish. This year the grand vin represents some 49% of the estate's production.
JA 98 (5/2023): Inky damson colour, with vibrant violet reflections, velvet texture, aromatics less exuberant than the Petit Mouton, but the concentration and depth on the palate is absolutely there, with cocoa powder, grilled coffee bean, olive paste, cassis, bitter black chocolate on the finish as the tannins close in, ready for decades ahead. This walks the line, and is a thoroughly enjoyable experience. Clearly needs a long time before approaching, give it the full 10 years and then some. Harvest began September 1, earliest since 1893. 32hl/h yield. 3.89ph, 76IPT, 100% new oak. Harvest overall September 1 to 26. Jean-Emanuel Danjoy director. 49% of production in the Grand Vin, 27% Petit Mouton. 100% new barrels for ageing. |
|
| | Bordeaux White |
| Pavillon Blanc du Chateau Margaux |
2009 |
Margaux (1.5 L) ex-Negociant |
$599 |
8 |
|
| |
|
| | Burgundy Red |
| Dom. Comte de Vogue |
1993 |
Musigny Grand Cru Cuvee Vieilles Vignes (1.5 L) Signs of Old Seepage; Lightly Scuffed Label |
$2,300 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 97 (4/2015): The fireworks continue with the 1993 Musigny from Comtes de Vogüe. Still quite young, the 1993 possesses striking, lifted aromatics to match its intense bright red fruit. I have long been a fan of the 1993 red Burgudies. This is a terrific example of the vintage at its best. A decidedly bold, extroverted Musigny, de Vogue’s 1993 will drink well for another two decades. Tonight, it is absolutely stellar. Antonio Galloni.
BH 96 (4/2001): This too is still remarkably primary with a nose that is the crystalline essence of black cherry pinot sap. Massively structured, thick flavors with dense, ripe tannins that are completely buffered by all the extract. This is flat out great and still very much a baby. In my view, this is the best de Vogüe Musigny since at least 71. Drink 2008+.
WA 94 (4/2015): Now at 21 years old, the Musigny Vieilles Vignes 1993 still has a youthful appearance with little sign of aging on the rim. The nose is really quite stunning: Dorset plum, wilted violet, cold, wet limestone and a touch of bay leaf. This is a precise nose, one that keeps everything under tight control, but at the same time sensual and approachable. The palate is medium-bodied with a citrus fresh opening. This is extremely focused, fresh and linear with superb mineralite that takes time to really be uncovered in the glass. To quibble (a little), perhaps you could argue that the aromatics demonstrate more complexity and nuance than the palate, but it remains a very fine 1993 grand cru that will stay on its plateau for another 10-15 years. |
|
| Dom. de Montille |
2015 |
Vosne Romanee 1er Cru Aux Malconsorts Christiane (1.5 L) Cracked Wax Capsule |
$1,500 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 94+ (1/2018): (100% vendange entier; 60% new oak): Good medium red; not particularly dark. Subtle medicinal reserve to the aromas of black cherry and cocoa powder enlivened by a floral topnote. Boasts outstanding density and finesse of texture--no rough edges here!--but still quite tightly wound and in a shell today. Youthfully restrained but the exhilarating balance between almost inky dark fruits and saline minerality is already obvious. This wine has the concentration and tannic clout for the long term but will need extended cellaring to deliver on its full potential; at that point, it should merit an even higher rating. For his part, Brian Sieve believes this fruit was harvested a bit later than ideal (on September 6). Stephen Tanzer. |
|
| Dom. Denis Mortet |
2012 |
Gevrey Chambertin Vieilles Vignes (1.5 L) Heavily Bin-Soiled Label; Scuffed Label |
$275 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 92 (11/2014): Healthy dark red. Wild, expressive nose combines raspberry, redcurrant, coffee, game and leather. Ripe, broad and sweet, but also with very good energy and thrust to the flavors of raspberry, milk chocolate and minerals. Really saturates the palate without leaving any impression of undue weight. The serious, ripe tannins should support slow development in bottle. "We're lucky always to have healthy levels of acidity in our Gevrey wines," noted Arnaud Mortet. A splendid village bottling. (Drink between 2019-2026). Stephen Tanzer.
BH 90 (1/2015): The expressive nose is compositionally similar to the straight Gevrey villages cuvée though here the aromas are slightly more complex. The medium weight flavors are also denser and more powerful with ample minerality and solid power that continues onto the palate coating, balanced and gorgeously long finish. This too is a very fine Gevrey villages and absolutely worth your attention. (Drink starting 2020). |
|
| Dom. des Lambrays |
2010 |
Clos des Lambrays Grand Cru (1.5 L) Signs of Old Seepage |
$850 |
2 |
|
| |
BH 94 (1/2013): (produced from two large parcels of differing vine age - one that is approximately two-thirds of the blend and is now 45 years of age and a second, smaller group of vines that is approximately 20+ years of age; vinified with 100% whole clusters.) A highly expressive and very broad nose of superb aromatic complexity that includes earth, game, spice, red currant, plum, violets and a hint of the sauvage. The round and supple flavors possess outstanding detail and while the complexity doesn't quite match that of the exquisite nose, it's not far behind and this culminates in a beautifully balanced and harmonious finish that delivers striking persistence. I also had a chance to retaste the 2009 and it is bigger, richer and more powerful while the 2010 is much more of a wine of finesse and refinement. In a word, beautiful. Drink 2022+.
VM 93+ (3/2013): Good bright, deep red. Very closed but pure and stylish nose hints at cherry liqueur and spices, with elements of mulch and pepper emerging with air. Dense, tactile and large-boned, but with its flesh somewhat suppressed today. Finishes saline, concentrated and thick, with substantial granular tannins. This needs at least six to eight more years in bottle to expand, and may well deserve an even higher score by 2020. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
| Dom. du Cellier aux Moines |
2017 |
Givry 1er Cru du Cellier Aux Moines (1.5 L) |
$95 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 92 (7/2021): The 2017 Givry 1er Cru Clos du Cellier Aux Moines continues to show beautifully, bursting with aromas of sweet red berries, plums, rose petals and soil tones. Medium to full-bodied, lively and enveloping, with powdery tannins and a sapid finish, this is the first vintage in which some lots were declassified into a second wine, and that has clearly served this cuvée well.
BH 89 (10/2020): There is a whiff of green tea to the ripe aromas of dark currant, plum and warm earth. The velvety middle weight flavors possess good depth though the finish is dusty, sappy and rustic while displaying solid power and sneaky good length. This won't win any accolades for refinement, but I like the direct and frank character and delivery. There is a touch of warmth but overall, this should age well. (Drink starting 2024). |
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| Dom. Duroche |
2023 |
Clos Vougeot Grand Cru (1.5 L) |
$550 |
2 |
|
| |
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| Dom. Fourrier |
1995 |
Gevrey Chambertin 1er Cru Clos St. Jacques Vieille Vigne (1.5 L) Slightly Raised Cork; Signs of Old Seepage; Scuffed Label |
$1,000 |
1 |
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| |
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| Dom. Francois Bertheau |
2010 |
Chambolle Musigny 1er Cru Les Amoureuses (1.5 L) |
$1,500 |
1 |
|
| |
| BH 93 (1/2013): (from a .32 ha parcel.) A wonderfully, even exuberantly spicy mix of red currant, plum and floral nuances gives way to rich, elegant and impressively refined middle weight flavors that possess impeccable balance on the mineral-driven and utterly delicious finish. This understated and beautifully concentrated effort is a stunner of an Amoureuses that possesses a mouth feel of silk and lace. Drink 2020+. Outstanding! |
|
| Dom. Henri Boillot |
2023 |
Volnay 1er Cru Les Fremiets (3.0 L) Ex-Domaine |
$459.99 |
1 |
|
| |
BH 91 (4/2025): Here the expressive nose is slightly riper and spicier with a similar mix of red and dark berries and exotic tea along with more floral elements. The sleek, caressing and nicely punchy middle weight flavors possess adequate mid-palate density together a refined, long and balanced finale. This is perhaps a bit finer than it usually is with solid development potential. Drink 2031+.
JM 90-93 (10/2024): Frémiets, the limestone radiator, says Henri. Picked in good time, as the perfume of ripe raspberry with a little soft strawberry indicates. Satisfying across the palate with some energy at the finish, fully ripe but has kept its balance and with adequate acidity. The tannins are fully ripe. Drink from 2029-2034. |
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2023 |
Volnay 1er Cru Les Fremiets (1.5 L) Ex-Domaine |
$219.99 |
10 |
|
| |
BH 91 (4/2025): Here the expressive nose is slightly riper and spicier with a similar mix of red and dark berries and exotic tea along with more floral elements. The sleek, caressing and nicely punchy middle weight flavors possess adequate mid-palate density together a refined, long and balanced finale. This is perhaps a bit finer than it usually is with solid development potential. Drink 2031+.
JM 90-93 (10/2024): Frémiets, the limestone radiator, says Henri. Picked in good time, as the perfume of ripe raspberry with a little soft strawberry indicates. Satisfying across the palate with some energy at the finish, fully ripe but has kept its balance and with adequate acidity. The tannins are fully ripe. Drink from 2029-2034. |
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| Dom. Henri Gouges |
2020 |
Nuits St. Georges 1er Cru Clos des Porrets St. Georges (1.5 L) |
$199 |
1 |
|
| |
BH 90-93 (1/2022): Very ripe yet still reasonably fresh aromas are comprised by notes of roasted plum, black cherry, cassis and earth. The dense, powerful and muscular broad-shouldered flavors are supported by a very firm tannic spine on the robust, serious and very compact finale. This is quite impressive though certainly not typical. Drink 2035+.
JM 90-93 (11/2021): No separate HD cuvée was made this year as there was not enough wine, after the hail as well as in a dry year. Long slow fermentation and the malolactic is still happening. Black purple. Ignore the nose for now, as it shows malolactic elements. Super intensity, a bit of Bovril meatiness, really hard to judge though looks like will broadly be the same pattern as the others, though perhaps even more concentrated. |
|
| Dom. Hubert Lignier |
1996 |
Clos de la Roche Grand Cru (1.5 L) |
$1,300 |
3 |
|
| |
VM 95 (4/1999): Ruby-red. Profound aromas of raspberry syrup, jammy black cherry, roasted coffee and game. A silky wine with great extract and sweetness. Explosive fruit is completely primary and pristine yet offers considerable early accessibility. Ultimately denser than the '97. This is showing fabulously well today-it's far more tasteable than the extraordinary '93 was at the same stage-but I'd lay it down for at least seven or eight years.
WA 93-95 (8/1998): This wine is dark ruby-colored and offers a nose of extraordinary purity, depth and richness. Scents of gravel, earth, violets, perfume, jammy blueberries, cassis liqueur, black cherries, and hints of road tar are followed by a velvety-textured, full-bodied, and magnificently concentrated wine. Candied cherries, stones, rosemary, spicy oak, Asian spices, and hints of chocolate can be found in this blockbuster's powerful yet graceful flavor profile and substantial finish. Armed with virtually perfect balance and harmony, an amazing depth of fruit, and copious quantities of seamless, satin-textured tannins, this marvel should prove to be one of the vintage's most ageworthy wines. Projected maturity: 2005-2018.
BH 92 (10/2006): A slightly macerated nose of notably ripe red berry fruits that are still entirely primary is trimmed in moderately prominent new wood that leads to solidly concentrated medium weight plus flavors that offer excellent length and plenty of finishing complexity. While not a particularly structured '96, neither has it reached its peak and for my taste, I would not begin seriously looking at this for at least another 4 to 5 years, perhaps even longer. Drink 2010+ |
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| Dom. Potinet-Ampeau |
2012 |
Monthelie 1er Cru Les Champs-Fulliots (1.5 L) Ex-Domaine |
$139.99 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Joseph Drouhin |
1995 |
Musigny Grand Cru (1.5 L) Bin-Soiled Label, Signs of Old Seepage |
$1,600 |
1 |
|
| |
BH 93 (5/2007): A marvelously complex nose that is just beginning to display the first hints of secondary aromas (though no sous bois) leads to concentrated black cherry flavors with firm but harmonious tannins underpinned by firm acidity and excellent length where the structure comes across as a dusty element. This is a big wine by the standards of the domaine and is very classy juice that continues to positively evolve and as such, I have extended my suggested drinking window. Drink: 2012+.
WA 90-92 (6/1997): The day I tasted the dark-colored Musigny, it was extremely muted aromatically. On the palate it revealed tightly wound (almost nervous), super-delineated and polished fresh cherries, cassis and violets. Medium-to-full bodied, supple and very long, it is obviously an Outstanding wine but it is closed. Anticipated maturity: 2002-2010. |
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| Louis Jadot |
2010 |
Vosne Romanee 1er Cru les Suchots (1.5 L) |
$395 |
1 |
|
| |
| BH 91 (4/2013): Very discreet wood sets off exuberantly spicy aromas of plum, cassis and black raspberry liqueur. There is an ultra-sophisticated mouth feel to the silky-textured medium-bodied flavors that are blessed with so much extract that they culminate in an incredibly suave yet balanced finish that is built to age. There is a very mild touch of backend dryness that is likely due to the bottling and will probably round out in time but it does cause me to score this slightly lower than I otherwise might have. Drink 2022+. Outstanding! |
|
| Maison Henri Boillot |
2023 |
Bourgogne Pinot Noir (3.0 L) Ex-Domaine |
$189.99 |
1 |
|
| |
BH 87 (4/2025): (from vineyards in Santenay, Marsannay and the lower portions of Volnay). This is unusually pretty for a Bourgogne with its array of ripe plum and violet scents. There is fine volume to the utterly delicious and solidly concentrated middle weight flavors that display impressive length on the bitter pit fruit-inflected finale where the only nit is a touch of warmth. This is a quality Bourgogne and worth a look, especially for value. Drink 2026+.
JM 86-88 (10/2024): The Bourgogne includes fruit from Pernand and Santenay and Marsannay. Rich deep purple, very ripe cherry, not cooked, but in the opulent style. Slightly firm fruit behind, with a certain glossiness before the crunchy finish. Drink from 2026-2028. |
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|
2023 |
Bourgogne Pinot Noir (1.5 L) Ex-Domaine |
$89.99 |
6 |
|
| |
BH 87 (4/2025): (from vineyards in Santenay, Marsannay and the lower portions of Volnay). This is unusually pretty for a Bourgogne with its array of ripe plum and violet scents. There is fine volume to the utterly delicious and solidly concentrated middle weight flavors that display impressive length on the bitter pit fruit-inflected finale where the only nit is a touch of warmth. This is a quality Bourgogne and worth a look, especially for value. Drink 2026+.
JM 86-88 (10/2024): The Bourgogne includes fruit from Pernand and Santenay and Marsannay. Rich deep purple, very ripe cherry, not cooked, but in the opulent style. Slightly firm fruit behind, with a certain glossiness before the crunchy finish. Drink from 2026-2028. |
|
|
2022 |
Chambertin Clos de Beze Grand Cru (1.5 L) ex-Domaine; 1-magnum OWC |
$1,059 |
2 |
|
| |
BH 94 (4/2024): An exuberantly spicy and quite floral-suffused nose features notes of wild currant, cherry and a gamy hint. The super-sleek and even finer yet more powerful larger-bodied flavors display impressive power on the even more complex, balanced and highly persistent finale. This is a big wine yet the balance is such that it could be approached after only 5 to 7 years. Drink 2034+.
VM 93-95+ (1/2024): The 2022 Chambertin Clos de Bèze Grand Cru is an imposing young wine. A blast of blue fruit, lavender, licorice, gravel, crushed rock and menthol saturates the palate. This bruiser is going to need time to be at its best, but it is pretty impressive, even in the early going. Neal Martin. |
|
| Maison Mommessin |
1995 |
Clos de Tart Grand Cru (1.5 L) OWC; Slightly Raised Cork |
$1,000 |
1 |
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| |
WA 92 (8/1998): Displaying a medium-to-dark ruby color and a lovely nose of spicy red berries, cracked black pepper, Asian spices, and distinctive notes of cedar, this is a medium-to-full-bodied, velvety-textured, and complex wine. Its enthralling flavor profile offers layers of rich black pepper-laced blueberries and blackberries that are intensely spiced with cinnamon, juniper berries, and hints of eucalyptus. Drink it between 2001 and 2008.
BH 87 (11/2009): Some lightening of the robe though the center remains intensely ruby. An earthy and distinctly floral of black fruit, in particular cassis, complements the very rich and full-bodied flavors that display excellent volume and power before driving toward a chewy, firm and mouth coating finish that while solidly persistent, is a bit tough and dry. While the tannins will of course continue to evolve, it's hard to see this coming together. In sum, a delicious and complex effort that definitely needs food to buffer the evident structure. Drink now+. |
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|
1996 |
Clos de Tart Grand Cru (1.5 L) Signs of Old Seepage |
$1,000 |
6 |
|
| |
| BH 89 (3/2013): I have had two distinctly different experiences with this wine. The most recent example was notably better than the first as it displayed none of the acidic dryness of the first and while, like most '96s, the flavors are not especially dense, there was excellent depth, length and overall balance. Moreover there was a really lovely perfumed and highly complex character to the nose. An excellent Clos de Tart and one that has basically arrived at its peak. For those who might be interested to read how the first bottle performed, please see the big Clos de Tart Progress Report that appeared in Issue 37. Drink Now+. |
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| Philippe Leclerc |
1983 |
Gevrey Chambertin 1er Cru La Combe Aux Moines (1.5 L) Cracked Wax Capsule; Signs of Old Seepage; Bin-Soiled Label |
$255 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 87 (12/1989): The Combe aux Moines has an intense flavor of old wines, a rich, chewy, lush texture, moderate rather than excessive tannins, and a huge finish. It should be superb between 1990-1995. |
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|
1988 |
Gevrey Chambertin 1er Cru La Combe Aux Moines (1.5 L) Signs of Old Seepage; Bin-Soiled Label; Wrinkled Label |
$275 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 94 (12/1989): The 1988 Gevrey-Chambertin Combe aux Moines is a compelling wine, although I did not think it had quite the extra measure of depth of Les Cazetiers. Perhaps it is simply more backward and the depth will emerge in time. It is truly a great expression of Gevrey-Chambertin, with its wild, savage, animal-like bouquet that exhibits exotic spices, sweet, toasty oak, and powerful, black cherry aromas. In the mouth, it is awesomely concentrated, full bodied, rich, and long with the potential to last for another 7-12 years.
BH 91 (10/2010): A notably ripe and now fully secondary nose speaks of deep dark berry fruit, sous bois, earth and intense animale notes that also are abundantly evident on the big, powerful and very rich broad-scaled flavors that possess a velvety mouth feel on the mineral-driven and impressively long finish. As is true of virtually all Leclerc wines, this is not an elegant effort, indeed it is overtly robust and rustic as it is fashioned in an old school style. Still, this certainly does not lack for character and is actually quite satisfying. |
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| Pierre & Marianne Duroche |
2022 |
Chambolle Musigny 1er Cru Les Sentiers (1.5 L) |
$440 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| | Burgundy White |
| Ch. de Fuisse |
2022 |
Pouilly Fuisse Tete de Cuvee (1.5 L) |
$99.99 |
10 |
|
| |
JM 92 (3/2024): This is a substantial cuvée of 120,000 bottles, made in barrel except for the schist and clay components. Overall, 60% is in wood, of which 25% is new. The wood element is taken out of barrel in the summer, kept on lees, then all assembled after the harvest without lees, and bottled in December. Clear mid yellow. There is useful tension here along with the flesh of a fine Pouilly-Fuissé in a good vintage. Touch of vanilla from the wood, excellent length. Fine keeping potential. 13.5%
BH 90 (10/2024): A touch of phenolic character is present on the lightly wood nose of mineral reduction, acacia and essence of pear. The sleek, delicious and vibrant, if not super-dense, flavors are rich to the point of opulence while displaying fine power on the bitter lemon rind-inflected finale where the only reproach is a hint of warmth. This should drink well young but also drink well with a few years of bottle age. (Drink starting 2028).
VM 90 (8/2024): The 2022 Pouilly-Fuissé Tête de Cuvée is raised 60% in oak barrels and the rest in tank, bottled at the end of 2023. This cuvée includes some Premier Crus, including Combettes, which were not bottled separately this year. It has a winsome nose with mint-tinged citrus fruit that opens with gusto in the glass. The palate is well-balanced with a fresh entry. It's spicy with stem ginger and lemongrass towards the lively finish. Maybe it is not the most refined Pouilly-Fuissé, but there is commendable energy in the context of the growing season. (Drink between 2025-2034). Neal Martin. |
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| Dom. Saumaize-Michelin |
2018 |
Pouilly-Fuisse Clos sur la Roche (1.5 L) |
$69 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 90 (6/2020): Offering up aromas of ripe pears, peach, fresh pastry and mandarin, the 2018 Pouilly-Fuissé Clos Sur la Roche is medium to full-bodied, satiny and textural, with an expansive attack and a round, open-knit profile. Fleshy and charming, it will drink well young.
BH 89 (10/2021): As it usually is this is overtly marked by prominent, and very pretty floral elements that combine with notes of citrus and various white orchard fruit aromas that include a whiff of honeysuckle. There is acceptable mid-palate density to the reasonably well-delineated broad-shouldered flavors that conclude in a dry, lemony and lingering if somewhat warm finish. This is certainly pretty but the balance isn't quite perfect. (Drink starting 2024). |
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|
2018 |
Pouilly-Fuisse Les Courtelongs (1.5 L) |
$69 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 91 (6/2020): Revealing notions of buttered orchard fruit, peach and citrus oil, the 2018 Pouilly-Fuissé Les Courtelongs is medium to full-bodied, round and fleshy, with bright acids and a charmingly textural profile. This has turned out very nicely, even if it can't match the depth and structure of the 2017.
BH 89 (10/2021): A decidedly ripe yet nicely fresh mélange is comprised by notes of passion fruit, pear and citrus peel. There is reasonably good concentration and power to the medium weight flavors that possess a discreet minerality on the sneaky long if noticeably warm finish. This is definitely a creature of its vintage and while I like the nose, the warmth is enough to detract from the overall sense of balance. (Drink starting 2024). |
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| Dom. William Fevre |
2019 |
Chablis Grand Cru Les Clos (1.5 L) |
$250 |
1 |
|
| |
| BH 93-96 (11/2020): (from 4 separate parcels totaling 4.11 ha, 3 of which are all at the top of the slope.) If Kimmeridgian could be distilled, it would likely smell exactly like the nose of the 2019 Les Clos with the additions of wet chalk, citrus zest and oyster shell. There is equally good delineation to the snappy, painfully intense and overtly stony large-bodied flavors that deliver superb length on the balanced finale. This elegant and classy effort is also built on a base of almost pungent minerality and a wine that is indisputably going to age effortlessly for years. Drink 2031+. Don't miss! |
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|
2019 |
Chablis Grand Cru Les Clos (1.5 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$300.98 |
2 |
|
| |
| BH 93-96 (11/2020): (from 4 separate parcels totaling 4.11 ha, 3 of which are all at the top of the slope.) If Kimmeridgian could be distilled, it would likely smell exactly like the nose of the 2019 Les Clos with the additions of wet chalk, citrus zest and oyster shell. There is equally good delineation to the snappy, painfully intense and overtly stony large-bodied flavors that deliver superb length on the balanced finale. This elegant and classy effort is also built on a base of almost pungent minerality and a wine that is indisputably going to age effortlessly for years. Drink 2031+. Don't miss! |
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|
2019 |
Chablis Grand Cru Les Preuses (1.5 L) |
$200 |
1 |
|
| |
| BH 94-96 (11/2020): ( from two parcels of vines that total 2.55 ha, or 22% of the entire appellation.) This too could be from nowhere else except Chablis with its citrus-tinged aromas of tidal pool, white flowers and shellfish. The racy, intense and painfully intense larger-scaled flavors possess cuts-like-a-knife delineation on the bone dry and super-saline finish where a distinct bitter lemon quality slowly emerges. This is very classy juice and also built-to-age. Drink 2031+. Don't miss! |
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|
2019 |
Chablis Grand Cru Les Preuses (1.5 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$283.97 |
2 |
|
| |
| BH 94-96 (11/2020): ( from two parcels of vines that total 2.55 ha, or 22% of the entire appellation.) This too could be from nowhere else except Chablis with its citrus-tinged aromas of tidal pool, white flowers and shellfish. The racy, intense and painfully intense larger-scaled flavors possess cuts-like-a-knife delineation on the bone dry and super-saline finish where a distinct bitter lemon quality slowly emerges. This is very classy juice and also built-to-age. Drink 2031+. Don't miss! |
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|
2018 |
Chablis Grand Cru Vaudesir (1.5 L) |
$175 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 94 (7/2020): Pretty and demonstrative, among Fèvre's grand cru bottlings, the 2018 Chablis Grand Cru Vaudésir is second only to the Bougros in expressiveness. Bursting with aromas of pear, white flowers, orange oil and citrus blossom, it's medium to full-bodied, satiny and enveloping, with a bright core of fruit and a precise, mineral finish.
BH 93 (10/2020): An exuberantly fresh and cool and mildly exotic nose offers up unmistakable Chablis character that includes sea breeze, iodine and oyster shell along with an abundance of citrus elements. There is equally good freshness and verve to the utterly delicious, crisp and delineated medium-bodied flavors that possess fine persistence and a lovely minerality on the notably dry but not austere finale. This almost delicate effort isn't especially dense but it's awfully pretty. (Drink starting 2028).
VM 93 (9/2020): The 2018 Chablis Vaudésir Grand Cru has an open, slightly menthol-tinged bouquet that is quite seductive; subtle orange pith and peachy aromas develop with aeration. The palate is very well balanced with more overt tropical notes compared to the more sophisticated Bougros, but you cannot fail to enjoy the ginger and lemongrass tang on the finish. A lovely Vaudésir that should age well over the next 10–12 years. (Drink between 2022-2038). Neal Martin. |
|
| | Rhone Red |
| Bernard Levet |
2016 |
Cote Rotie La Peroline (1.5 L) |
$195 |
2 |
|
| |
| VM 94-96 (6/2018): Inky, vivid purple. Highly perfumed, mineral-laced black and blue fruit, violet, smoked meat and incense qualities on the nose. Fleshy, sweet and expansive on the palate, offering densely packed yet surprisingly lively boysenberry, candied licorice, spicecake and violet flavors enlivened by an undercurrent of juicy acidity. Deftly blends richness and finesse and finishes extremely long and youthfully tannic, leaving floral pastille, star anise and dark berry liqueur notes behind. Josh Raynolds. |
|
| Ch. de Beaucastel |
1985 |
Chateauneuf du Pape (1.5 L) Ullage 6 cm; Corroded Capsule; Heavily Bin-Soiled Label |
$200 |
1 |
|
| |
MB [*****] (5/2001): Roughly one-third Syrah, Mourvedre and Grenache with small quantities of the other 10 varieties. Several notes, the first in November 1988: very deep; opulent; earthy, high extract, silky tannins. next at a dinner in January 2000: high-toned; gorgeous flavour; touch of mocha, dry finish. Most recently, at Paolo Pong's tasting alongside the '85 Ch. Rayas: still a touch of ruby; meaty, alcoholic nose; fairly full-bodied and firm.
JD 94 (12/2007): Showing a youthful red color with some slight lightening at the edges, the 1985 Château de Beaucastel Châteauneuf-du-Pape has a beautiful Beaucastel funk nose with ripe raspberries, earth, leather, mushroom and sauvage notes. Perfumed, nuanced and complex, this held up wonderfully over the course of dinner and even gained intensity with air. The palate is medium bodied with a silky, almost seamless texture, nice balance and a medium length finish. Everything is perfectly integrated and this was drinking amazingly well. An awesome wine.
WA 91 (1/2003): One of the most charming Beaucastels since it was first bottled (and still holding on today), is the gorgeous 1985. Its medium ruby color reveals considerable amber/pink at the edge. This offering demonstrates that a wine does not need a lot of tannin and power to age well; it's all about balance. Velvety-textured, opulent, sweet, and appealing, this remains a classic Beaucastel. |
|
|
2011 |
Chateauneuf du Pape (3.0 L) OWC |
$439 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 94 (10/2013): Reminiscent of a lighter weight 2009, the 2011 Chateauneuf du Pape offers up a sweet bouquet of spiced black cherries, plum, truffle, saddle leather and underbrush. Coming from tiny yields (which were down 50% from 2010), this medium to full-bodied 2011 is gorgeously textured and has solid mid-palate depth, terrific purity of fruit and ripe tannin. Relatively approachable and enjoyable even now, it should nevertheless evolve gracefully for 15-20 years. Drink 2015-2031.
VM 91-93 (2/2013): (based on roughly 50% mourvedre this year): Inky ruby. Powerful, expressive aromas of red- and blackcurrant, cherry and licorice, with suave anise and floral overtones. Juicy and precise, with tangy red and dark berry flavors, supple texture and a strong mineral note on the back. Spicy on the finish, which shows very good focus and length. This is impressively elegant and should be drinkable on the young side. |
|
| Ch. de la Gardine |
1998 |
Chateauneuf du Pape (1.5 L) OWC; Slightly Raised Cork |
$125 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 90 (10/2000): The 1998 Chateauneuf du Pape boasts a dense, saturated purple color, as well as an enticing, sweet nose of black fruits, licorice, and violets. Full-bodied, moderately tannic, and impressively concentrated, with a long finish, it will be at its finest between 2003-2016. |
|
| Chimere |
2016 |
Chateauneuf du Pape (1.5 L) |
$1,295 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 99 (4/2019): The 2016 Chimere is another brilliant wine made from a collaboration between Sine Qua Non’s Manfred Krankl and the Maurel Brothers of Clos Saint Jean. The 2016 is a blend of 93% Mourvèdre, 5% Grenache, and 2% Grenache Blanc, all from the famed La Crau lieu-dit, that was brought up in new 300-liter barrels. It offers an incredible, singular style in its sweet blackberry and blueberry fruits, incense, crushed flowers, ground pepper, and smoked herb. This lavish, powerful, super-intense effort is nevertheless perfectly balanced and seamless, and it shows the purity and vibrancy of this vintage beautifully. Given its sweet tannins, it's already approachable and delivers incredible pleasure, yet it's going to keep for 20-30 years. |
|
|
2017 |
Chateauneuf du Pape (1.5 L) |
$825 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 95 (6/2020): The 2017 Chimère reminds me a little of the 2011 with its more elegant yet still powerful style. Beautiful notes of black cherries, blueberries, cured meats, pepper, tree bark, and new leather all emerge from the glass, followed by a rich, medium to full-bodied, tight, backward and unevolved Mourvèdre that needs forgotten for 4-5 years. As always, this cuvee is primarily Mourvèdre (it’s normally blended with Grenache and other varieties, even some white varieties) and there are a scant 100 cases made. While I don’t think this beauty hits the heights of the 2016, it’s still a brilliant, singular wine that will evolve for 20 years or more. |
|
|
2019 |
Chateauneuf du Pape (1.5 L) |
$895 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Dom. de la Vieille Julienne |
2018 |
Chateauneuf du Pape Les Trois Sources (1.5 L) |
$129.99 |
31 |
|
| |
VM 92 (6/2023): The 2018 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Les Trois Sources is showing wonderfully, opening in the glass with dark cherry and plum aromas, strawberry, leather and a dash of white pepper. Full-bodied, concentrated and framed by slightly drying tannins it is well-balanced by refreshing acidity, closing with a savory finish. Due to the presence of mildew, only half the normal amount of production was achieved. Nicholas Greinacher.
JD 95 (10/2020): True to form, the 2018 Châteauneuf Du Pape Les Trois Sources is a softer, more elegant wine than the Les Hauts-Lieux and offers a gorgeous perfume of black cherries, black licorice, tapenade, violets, herbes de Provence, and jus de viande. Deep, full-bodied, and beautifully layered, it gains weight with time in the glass and is going to benefit from just short-term cellaring. It doesn’t have the concentration for any long-term cellaring yet my money is on it evolving nicely for a solid 10-12 years. |
|
| Dom. de Mourchon |
2022 |
Cotes du Rhone Villages Seguret Grande Reserve (1.5 L) Ex-Domaine |
$49.99 |
14 |
|
| |
| JD 92 (2/2025): The 2022 Cotes du Rhone Villages Segurey Grande Reserve is based on 70% Grenache and 30% Syrah. Black raspberries, peppery herbs, spicy wood, and some meaty nuances all shine here, and it's medium to full-bodied, with a broad, layered mouthfeel, plenty of tannins, and a great finish. I love it today yet it's going to have a solid 10-12 years of prime drinking. |
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| Dom. du Grand Tinel |
2005 |
Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Alexis Establet (3.0 L) Signs of Old Seepage; Cracked Wax Capsule |
$250 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 92 (5/2008): Showing a big, sweet nose of ripe raspberry, spice, licorice and garrigue, the 2005 Domaine du Grand Tinel Châteauneuf-du-Pape Alexis Establet seems slightly more upfront and easy drinking than the previous bottle. The palate is full bodied with beautiful sweet fruit, a smooth texture and a long finish. This showed the best right from the bottle and then on the second day. |
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| Dom. du Tunnel |
2020 |
Cornas (3.0 L) Ex-Domaine |
$241.99 |
3 |
|
| |
VM 94-96 (12/2022): Saturated violet. Highly fragrant, mineral-accented boysenberry, cherry liqueur, candied violet and allspice aromas are complemented by a smoky mineral nuance. Offers palate-staining dark berry, candied licorice and bitter chocolate flavors that pick up notes of candied flowers and exotic spices on the back half. Powerful but surprisingly lively as well, finishing very long and smooth, with sharp delineation and gently gripping tannins. Josh Raynolds.
JD 94-96 (2/2022): The 2020 Cornas shows the vintage’s ripe yet fresh style. Lots of red and blue fruits, a kiss of minerality, medium to full body, and ripe tannins all make for a beautiful, impeccably made Cornas that will have two decades of longevity. |
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|
2021 |
Cornas (3.0 L) ex-Domaine |
$209.99 |
2 |
|
| |
| JD 92-94 (12/2022): The 2021 Cornas showed amazingly well, and it brings more ripeness and texture than just about every other Cornas out there. Ripe blackberries, mulberries, spicy herbs, and earth all emerge on the nose, and it's medium-bodied, with terrific mid-palate depth and ripe tannins. This cuvée comes from a mix of terroirs and will spend 14 months in used barrels. |
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|
2021 |
Cornas (1.5 L) ex-Domaine |
$104.99 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 92-94 (12/2022): The 2021 Cornas showed amazingly well, and it brings more ripeness and texture than just about every other Cornas out there. Ripe blackberries, mulberries, spicy herbs, and earth all emerge on the nose, and it's medium-bodied, with terrific mid-palate depth and ripe tannins. This cuvée comes from a mix of terroirs and will spend 14 months in used barrels. |
|
| Dom. Jamet |
2003 |
Cote Rotie (1.5 L) Signs of Old Seepage |
$700 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 94 (4/2014): A gorgeous Cote Rotie that does everything right, Jamet’s 2003 Cote Rotie, which was harvested very late for the vintage, offers complex kirsch, framboise, incense, liquid flowers and spiced meat-qualities to go with a full-bodied, layered and seamless profile on the palate. Still youthful and lively, with fabulous density and concentration, this beauty can be enjoyed anytime over the coming 10-15 years. |
|
| Domaine les Goubert |
2021 |
Gigondas (1.5 L) Ex-Domaine |
$54.99 |
11 |
|
| |
| JD 90-92 (10/2023): Not yet bottled, the 2021 Gigondas has beautiful red fruits, cedary herbs, sandalwood, and Provençal spice notes in a medium-bodied, elegant, finesse-driven package. This cuvée is never the biggest or richest wine in the vintage, but it always shines for its complexity and elegance, and it ages beautifully. |
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|
2019 |
Gigondas Cuvee Florence (1.5 L) Ex-Domaine |
$84.99 |
3 |
|
| |
JD 94 (1/2022): The 2019 Gigondas Cuvée Florence is more concentrated and layered, and this is one of the finest vintages of this cuvée I can remember. Blackberries, sandalwood, cedary garrigue, and hints of tobacco give way to a medium to full-bodied, elegant, yet concentrated 2019 that offers silky tannins and a great finish. Give bottles a handful of years in the cellar and enjoy over the following two decades.
VM 94 (1/2023): Deep ruby. Heady dark berry, cherry-cola, vanilla and floral aromas are complicated by hints of white pepper, incense and espresso. Powerful, smoke-laced blackberry compote, kirsch, mocha and fruitcake flavors show impressive depth and gain sweetness with air. This finishes sweet, broad, youthfully tannic and long, leaving behind intense dark fruit and peppery spice notes. This was aged for two years in barriques, 50% of them new. Josh Raynolds. |
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|
2020 |
Gigondas Cuvee Florence (1.5 L) ex-Domaine |
$89.99 |
22 |
|
| |
| JD 94+ (3/2023): While the classic cuvée is brought up all in tank, the 2020 Gigondas Cuvée Florence spends over a year in barrels, and it always has a touch of oak in its aromatics in its youth, but this integrates nicely with just few years of bottle age. More closed aromatically, it has slightly darker fruits as well as notes of peppery garrigue, cedarwood, and spice. Nicely concentrated, medium to full-bodied, and structured, this is another great vintage for this estate. Give bottles 4-5 years if you can, and this will see its 20th birthday in fine form. |
|
| Jean-Luc Jamet |
2018 |
Cote Rotie Terrasses (1.5 L) ex-Domaine |
$149.99 |
6 |
|
| |
| JD 94 (12/2022): I loved the 2018 Côte Rôtie Terrasses, which is slightly more supple and elegant than both the 2017 and 2019. Offering darker red, almost blue fruits as well as peppery game, violets, and crushed stone-like minerality, it's medium to full-bodied, has the vintage's pure, balanced, harmonious style, supple tannins, and a great finish. It doesn't have the structure or mid-palate density of the 2019, but is a gorgeously complex, nuanced Côte Rôtie that needs another 3-5 years of bottle age and will evolve gracefully. |
|
|
2020 |
Cote Rotie Terrasses (1.5 L) ex-Domaine |
$139.99 |
20 |
|
| |
JD 93 (5/2024): The 2020 Côte Rôtie Terrasses is terrific and shows the forward, sexy style of the vintage while still being classic Côte Rôtie! Black raspberries, peppery herbs, spring flowers, and a kiss of game all define the bouquet, and it's medium-bodied, with a supple, silky mouthfeel, soft tannins, and a great finish. It stays light on its feet and has a good sense of freshness, and it should evolve gracefully for a decade or more.
WA 91-94 (1/2022): Tasting through several parcels/barrels, the 2020 Cote Rotie Terrasses looks to be a solid effort, marked by slightly vegetal notes up front and almost sherbet-like red fruit flavors. Medium to full-bodied, with decent texture and length, it should be approachable young, with the ability to age at least a decade. |
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|
2021 |
Cote Rotie Terrasses (1.5 L) Ex-Domaine |
$142.99 |
12 |
|
| |
|
|
2021 |
IGP Collines Rhodaniennes Rouge Syrah Valine (1.5 L) Ex-Domaine |
$59.99 |
12 |
|
| |
| JD 88 (5/2024): The 2021 Collines Rhodaniennes Syrah Valine has a perfumed, exotic nose of red plums, candied violets, and cedary, peppery spice. These carry to a medium-bodied Syrah offering good ripeness, a rounded, juicy mouthfeel, and a good finish. It's not going to make old bones, but it’s another rock-solid wine in the lineup from this terrific producer. |
|
|
2022 |
IGP Collines Rhodaniennes Rouge Syrah Valine (1.5 L) Ex-Domaine |
$59.99 |
11 |
|
| |
|
| M. Chapoutier |
2005 |
Ermitage Rouge L’Ermite (6.0 L) |
$2,999 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 99+ (2/2008): Lastly, from the very dome of the granite hill of Ermitage is the 2005 Ermitage l’Ermite. An extraordinarily powerful wine that probably needs 10-15 years in the bottle (last year I thought 20 was probably conservative), this is a 100-year wine and probably best appreciated by our descendants rather than anyone currently over the age of 30. Dense purple to the rim, with notes of crushed rock, charcoal, roasted meats, and enormous quantities of blue and black fruits, this wine is almost painfully rich and thick, with mouthsearing levels of tannin and zesty acidity. Monumental! Anticipated maturity: 2020-2080. |
|
| Paul Jaboulet Aine |
2010 |
Chateauneuf du Pape Dom. De Terre Ferme (1.5 L) |
$95 |
3 |
|
| |
WA 94 (10/2012): From the biodynamically farmed Domaine de Terre Ferme, the 2010 Chateauneuf du Pape exhibits lots of Mediterranean sea breeze/seaweed, kirsch, fig, black currant and cherry notes in its complex, heady, succulent personality. With good acidity and ripe tannin, this 80% Grenache/20% Mourvedre blend is the finest offering from Domaine de Terre Ferme in over two decades. It should drink well for 15+ years.
VM 92 (1/2013): Inky ruby. A highly perfumed bouquet evokes ripe red fruits, anise and garrigue , with slow-building spiciness and a sexy floral nuance. Sappy, tightly focused raspberry and cherry flavors are extremely concentrated and become fleshier and sweeter with air. Displays serious power on the finish, which echoes the cherry note. Josh Raynolds. |
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|
2020 |
Hermitage La Chapelle (3.0 L) ex-Domaine |
$789 |
1 |
|
| |
JS 96-97 (3/2022): At first this feels like you’re standing in front of a set of locked gates. Huge power and structure without that much weight, thanks to the wonderful freshness that’s intertwined with the tarry depths of this Hermitage masterpiece. As it aerates smoked bacon, menthol and licorice notes develop, but I’d need much more space to give you all the aromas! The huge tannins at the finish are finely chiseled, suggesting this has decades of life ahead of it. From 40 to 100-year-old syrah vines. From biodynamically grown grapes.
JD 94-96 (6/2022): A barrel sample that was shipped to my office in Colorado, the 2020 Hermitage La Chapelle reveals a deep purple, almost blue-tinged hue to go with a terrific nose of blue fruits, scorched earth, violets, and charcoal. This carries to a medium to full-bodied, concentrated barrel sample that stays fresh and lively, with solid mid-palate depth, ripe tannins, and a great finish. It's certainly showing better today than from the domaine, and this is one that, if the trajectory continues, is certainly going to be an impressive Hermitage.
WA 93-95 (1/2022): After the past several vintages, the 2020 Hermitage La Chapelle will need to add significant richness and concentration if it is to compete at that level. That said, it is still an excellent wine, with classic aromas of crushed stone, cassis, espresso and black olives. It's full-bodied, fine and silky, giving an impression of great elegance on the lingering finish. |
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|
2020 |
Hermitage La Chapelle (6.0 L) ex-Domaine |
$1,595 |
2 |
|
| |
JS 96-97 (3/2022): At first this feels like you’re standing in front of a set of locked gates. Huge power and structure without that much weight, thanks to the wonderful freshness that’s intertwined with the tarry depths of this Hermitage masterpiece. As it aerates smoked bacon, menthol and licorice notes develop, but I’d need much more space to give you all the aromas! The huge tannins at the finish are finely chiseled, suggesting this has decades of life ahead of it. From 40 to 100-year-old syrah vines. From biodynamically grown grapes.
JD 94-96 (6/2022): A barrel sample that was shipped to my office in Colorado, the 2020 Hermitage La Chapelle reveals a deep purple, almost blue-tinged hue to go with a terrific nose of blue fruits, scorched earth, violets, and charcoal. This carries to a medium to full-bodied, concentrated barrel sample that stays fresh and lively, with solid mid-palate depth, ripe tannins, and a great finish. It's certainly showing better today than from the domaine, and this is one that, if the trajectory continues, is certainly going to be an impressive Hermitage.
WA 93-95 (1/2022): After the past several vintages, the 2020 Hermitage La Chapelle will need to add significant richness and concentration if it is to compete at that level. That said, it is still an excellent wine, with classic aromas of crushed stone, cassis, espresso and black olives. It's full-bodied, fine and silky, giving an impression of great elegance on the lingering finish. |
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|
2020 |
Hermitage La Chapelle (1.5 L) ex-Domaine |
$339 |
5 |
|
| |
JS 96-97 (3/2022): At first this feels like you’re standing in front of a set of locked gates. Huge power and structure without that much weight, thanks to the wonderful freshness that’s intertwined with the tarry depths of this Hermitage masterpiece. As it aerates smoked bacon, menthol and licorice notes develop, but I’d need much more space to give you all the aromas! The huge tannins at the finish are finely chiseled, suggesting this has decades of life ahead of it. From 40 to 100-year-old syrah vines. From biodynamically grown grapes.
JD 94-96 (6/2022): A barrel sample that was shipped to my office in Colorado, the 2020 Hermitage La Chapelle reveals a deep purple, almost blue-tinged hue to go with a terrific nose of blue fruits, scorched earth, violets, and charcoal. This carries to a medium to full-bodied, concentrated barrel sample that stays fresh and lively, with solid mid-palate depth, ripe tannins, and a great finish. It's certainly showing better today than from the domaine, and this is one that, if the trajectory continues, is certainly going to be an impressive Hermitage.
WA 93-95 (1/2022): After the past several vintages, the 2020 Hermitage La Chapelle will need to add significant richness and concentration if it is to compete at that level. That said, it is still an excellent wine, with classic aromas of crushed stone, cassis, espresso and black olives. It's full-bodied, fine and silky, giving an impression of great elegance on the lingering finish. |
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| | Rhone White |
| Dom. du Tunnel |
2024 |
Saint Peray Roussanne (1.5 L) Ex-Domaine |
$94.99 |
12 |
|
| |
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| | Alsace |
| Dom. Weinbach |
2007 |
Riesling Grand Cru Schlossberg (1.5 L) OWC; Signs of Old Seepage; Cracked Wax Capsule |
$100 |
1 |
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| |
WA 91 (4/2010): The Weinbach 2007 Riesling Schlossberg smells of apple, pineapple and grapefruit; is clear and refreshing on the palate; and delivers cleansing fresh fruit accompanied by tingling salinity, citrus zest, and fruit skin in a long finish. This will be a delight to follow for at least a decade.
VM 91 (11/2008): Very pure aromas and flavors of ripe nectarine, lime and minerals. Quite juicy and precise in the mouth, with the wine's firm minerality and excellent acidity (8.2 g/l) giving it an even drier impression than its 5.7 r.s. would suggest. Laid-back, penetrating riesling-classic 2007. Should make a superb fish wine. The crop level here was just 34 hectoliters per hectare due to loss from hail, which Faller said was actually more of an issue in some of the estate's pinot gris and gewurztraminer parcels. Stephen Tanzer. |
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2013 |
Riesling Schlossberg Cuvee Ste. Catherine (1.5 L) |
$150 |
2 |
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| |
| WA 94 (10/2015): A greenish citrus color opens the 2013 Riesling Grand Cru Schlossberg Cuvee Sainte Catherine. Concentrated lemon and some grapefruit aromas along with a touch of honey and dried apricots on the nose. The wine is intense and rich on the palate, more baroque than the 2014, but still very elegant and dry, with a very long and salty finish. I would store it at least for another five years so that the richness can become more round and delicate. |
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2015 |
Riesling Schlossberg Cuvee Ste. Catherine (1.5 L) OWC |
$150 |
1 |
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| |
WA 94+ (3/2017): Sourced from different plots on the mid-slope of the grand cru, the 2015 Riesling Schlossberg Cuvée Ste Catherine is the richest of the dry Rieslings that Weinbach is producing. Based on 65-year-old vines, the newest release (bottled in June) displays a very clear, deep, fresh, complex and well-defined bouquet with flinty and herbal flavors. Full-bodied, rich and very intense on the palate, this is a lush and opulent, yet still very elegant and well-structured Schlossberg; it has a very long, stunningly finessed and balanced finish with lingering salinity. The tannins are fine and the acidity is piquant, and gives this 2015 Schlossberg its elegance and precision. The aftertaste is piquant, salty, very long and aromatic, but neither alcoholic nor just fruity. A promising Schlossberg!
VM 94 (3/2017): Good full bright yellow. Very typical nose of spicy, peppery orchard fruit and botanical herbs. Then broad and very pure in the mouth, boasting terrific tactile density to the orchard fruit, lychee and floral flavors. Really saturates the palate on the long aftertaste. As usual, this is once again far more complex and deeper than all the other Weinbach Rieslings of the same vintage, save for the l’Inedit. And so it should be, given that it’s made from 65-year-old vines planted in mid-slope, the best part of the Schlossberg. Everything you’d expert a Riesling from granite to taste like. (Drink between 2022-2036). Ian D'Agata. |
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| Gustave Lorentz |
1989 |
Gewurztraminer Grand Cru Altenberg de Bergheim (1.5 L) Signs of Old Seepage; Bin-Soiled Label |
$79 |
3 |
|
| |
|
| Klipfel |
1999 |
Gewurztraminer Kirchberg de Barr Grand Cru Clos Zisser (3.0 L) Signs of Old Seepage; Wine-Stained Label; Scuffed Label |
$99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Trimbach |
1996 |
Pinot Gris Reserve (1.5 L) |
$59 |
3 |
|
| |
|
| | Champagne |
| Billecart-Salmon |
2008 |
Brut Champagne (1.5 L) |
$350 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2016 |
Brut Champagne (1.5 L) |
$189 |
15 |
|
| |
|
|
2006 |
Cuvee Nicolas Francois Champagne (1.5 L) |
$395 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2012 |
Cuvee Nicolas Francois Champagne (1.5 L) |
$379.99 |
11 |
|
| |
| VM 95 (4/2025): The 2012 Brut Cuvée Nicolas François Billecart shows all the natural radiance of the year. There's gorgeous resonance and texture here. Apricot, spice, tangerine oil and lightly honeyed notes infuse the palate with notable depth and persistence. This rich, expansive Champage has a ton to offer. This release was disgorged nearly two years ago, which also adds to its complexity. Dosage is 3.8 grams per liter. Disgorged: May 2023. (Drink between 2026-2042). Antonio Galloni. |
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| Krug |
2002 |
Brut Champagne (3.0 L) |
$5,500 |
1 |
|
| |
JS 100 (10/2016): The much-anticipated 2002 has impeccable detail and depth with a lot of chalky, stony and flinty elements on the nose as well as a very fresh edge. The nose is very complex and wound up tight but presents itself as very integrated and compressed. There are aromas of lemon rind, lime juice and a lime custard all at once, complemented in turn by a super-restrained hazelnut-like edge. Undertones of brown mushrooms, chalky minerals and lemon leaf. The palate has a core of sizzlingly intense, concentrated chardonnay framed whitin a powerful phenolic structure that will underpin the future of this Champagne. Flawlessly fresh and as perfect as it gets. Give this time as it needs to settle: best from 2020 and then for another decade beyond.
WA 97+ (6/2018): Krug's 2002 Brut (ID 415064 – disgorged IV/2015) has an intense citrus color and opens with a generous, intense yet fine and precise bouquet that indicates great depth and elegance. Red fruit flavors on the nose lead to a generously rich yet pure, highly refined and elegant palate, with lots of ripe cherry fruits and delicious yeasty flavors. This is a highly complex and tensioned but beautifully balanced 2002 with a charming dosage that gives perfect roundness. The finish, however, is clear, fresh and well-structured, if not taut, and very mineral. Tasted in Reims in April 2018.
VM 94 (7/2017): This is perhaps the best bottle of Krug's 2002 Vintage I have tasted. Expansive and creamy on the palate, with lovely finesse and brightness, the 2002 is quite expressive today. I don't see the depth or pedigree that might place this wine among the best examples of the year. Instead, the 2002 Vintage continues to be an underwhelming wine by Krug standards. Antonio Galloni. |
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| Pierre Peters |
2002 |
Brut Blanc de Blanc Le Mesnil Cuvee Speciale Les Chetillons (1.5 L) Disgorged March 2010 |
$1,100 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 97 (7/2018): The 2002 Brut Cuvee Speciale Les Chetillons, the original release and aged on crown seal, is tremendous. Wow. Ample, sweeping and dramatic, the 2002 is utterly captivating. Smoke, graphite, ash, apricot jam and pastry are some of the many nuances that come alive in the glass, with a top note of reduction that is very appealing. On this day, the regular release is just a touch ahead of the Oenothèque. It’s hard to say exactly why that is, but I suspect that the post-disgorgement time is optimal. This is the finest bottle of the 2002 I have ever tasted. Disgorged July 2010. Antonio Galloni. |
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| Veuve Fourny et Fils |
NV |
Grands Terroirs Brut Champagne Grand Cru (1.5 L) |
$115 |
5 |
|
| |
|
| | Loire |
| Dom. Aux Moines |
2021 |
Roche aux Moines Savennieres (1.5 L) |
$119 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 90 (1/2024): Unfortunately, Tessa Laroche lost 50% of the crop due to early frost. The 2021 Savennières-Roche aux Moines possesses a deep, wild bouquet with aromas of fennel, spices, pear and caramel intertwined with lactic notes with aeration. Medium to full-bodied, fleshy and balanced, it’s satiny with a phenolic, long finish. Although it lacks depth and precision, it remains a good effort, given the vintage. |
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| Dom. Belargus |
2021 |
Anjou Roueres (3.0 L) |
$425 |
1 |
|
| |
|
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2021 |
Anjou Roueres (1.5 L) |
$210 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2021 |
Anjou Treilles (1.5 L) |
$450 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2020 |
Savennieres Gaudrets (1.5 L) |
$150 |
5 |
|
| |
|
|
2021 |
Savennieres Rucheres (1.5 L) |
$330 |
1 |
|
| |
|
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