Wine Advocate (96)

The Alphonse Mellot Sancerre Edmond 2018 is a true representation of French elegance, hailing from the esteemed Loire Valley. Produced by the Mellot family, pioneers of Sancerre winemaking since the 16th-century, this wine clearly signifies their mastery in the art. Crafted from 100% Sauvignon Blanc, the grapes are carefully handpicked and meticulously pressed, before being matured on fine lees for 12 long months, yielding a full-bodied wine of unparalleled complexity.

This vintage imparts a vibrant golden hue, carrying a sophisticated bouquet of white flowers and ripe citrus. On the palate, the Alphonse Mellot Sancerre Edmond 2018 unravels layers of delicate minerality, accented by a buoyant acidity that is inseparable from this remarkable terroir. Savour the lingering notes of citrus and stone fruit, echoing the signature of this illustrious heritage.

Every bottle of Alphonse Mellot Sancerre Edmond 2018 bears witness to a tradition of excellence, tempting discerning connoisseurs with every carefully curated sip.

The Alphonse Mellot Sancerre Generation XIX Blanc 2010 is a sophisticated, generously complex Sauvignon Blanc hand-picked from 30-year-old vines in the revered limestone-rich vineyards of Sancerre. Adhering to strict biodynamic principles, the illustrious Alphonse Mellot family, respected vintners since 1513, ensures a sumptuous, organic symphony with every bottle. Fermentation unfurls in fine oak barrels, which imparts lavish, full-bodied nuances that deliciously mingle with the natural, vibrant acidity of the grape. Connoisseurs will delight in the wine's persistent mineral-inflected core, harmoniously interlacing with tendrils of white pear, grapefruit, and anise. Its opulent texture and impressive depth underscore its pedigree, as well as the Mellot family's unwavering commitment to mastery. A quintessential embodiment of Sancerre's terroir, the Alphonse Mellot Sancerre Generation XIX Blanc 2010 truly lived up to expectations for a wine of its calibre.

Immerse yourself in the rich experience of the Alphonse Mellot Sancerre Generation XIX Blanc 2018, a captivating vintage wine birthed from the esteemed soils of Loire Valley, France. With an impressive heritage spanning 19 generations, the Alphonse Mellot family adheres to stringent biodynamic principles to cultivate intensely aromatic Sauvignon Blanc grapes in a unique, flint-rich terroir.

The Alphonse Mellot Sancerre Generation XIX Blanc 2018 carries a distinguished minerality owed to its Sancerre origins. The wine is fermented in oak barrels and aged on the lees for a year, invoking a premium complexity. Expect an opulent palate with hints of lemon zest, ripe peaches, and a captivating flinty undertone.

This highly sought-after vintage is proof of Alphonse Mellot's mastery in crafting Sancerre wines. Consistent, superb quality and character inherent in every bottle maintain Alphonse Mellot's venerable position in the world of fine wines.

The Alphonse Mellot Sancerre La Moussiere 2021 hails from the esteemed vineyards of Sancerre, France's Loire Valley. As the exquisite product of an iconic organic and biodynamic producer, Alphonse Mellot, it exudes sophistication and high-quality viticulture. The Mellot family has been cultivating these vineyards since 1513, embodying generations of refined winemaking.

The Alphonse Mellot Sancerre La Moussiere 2021 is crafted from 100% Sauvignon Blanc grapes, lending a distinct aromatic complexity. The handpicked harvest undergoes meticulous sorting ensuring only the best bunches are vinified. Fermented in oak barrels with extended lees ageing, the wine acquires a richness and texture that sets it apart.

Notably, the wine's mineral structure, floral notes and pear undertones delight the palate, while its irresistible acid balance ensures a persistent and pure finish. Expertly capturing the traditional essence of Sancerre, the Alphonse Mellot Sancerre La Moussiere 2021 is the epitome of French white wine elegance.

The Alphonse Mellot Sancerre Les Romains 2017, hailing from France's esteemed Loire Valley, is an embodiment of the Mellot family's 600 years of winemaking heritage. This exquisite vintage is produced with great commitment to sustainable viticulture, using 100% Sauvignon Blanc grapes cultivated on the renowned Kimmeridgian marl of Les Romains vineyard, acclaimed for its unique terroir. The hand-harvested grapes are put through a meticulous process of fermentation in oak barrels, enhancing the wine's complexity and structure. This meticulous production process yields a refined palate of ripe citrus fruit and mineral undertones, underpinned by a vibrant acidity and pronounced minerality. Alphonse Mellot Sancerre Les Romains 2017 offers an exceptional balance that reveals its ageing potential. A captivating ensemble of freshness, élan, and finesse, this wine stands as an admirable reflection of Alphonse Mellot's skill, and a quintessential example of premium Sancerre.

Esteemed among the well-regarded vinous treasures of Sancerre, the Alphonse Mellot Sancerre Les Romains 2020 magnificently encapsulates the true essence of France's finest Sauvignon Blanc. Meticulously curated in the heart of Les Romains' Kimmeridgian limestone soil, Alphonse Mellot applies time-honoured bio-dynamic methods, manifesting in a wine of unparalleled complexity and distinct expression.

With an exquisite bouquet of fresh citrus intertwined with flinty mineral undertones, the Alphonse Mellot Sancerre Les Romains 2020 is intricately layered, showcasing the quintessential balance of richness and acidity. Aged on lees in oak casks, it exudes a silken texture and has an intense aftertaste that leaves an indelible imprint on the palate. This captivating white wine is a veritable testament to Alphonse Mellot's undying commitment to viticulture excellence, having forged a sterling reputation since 1513.

Lauded by critics and collectors alike, Alphonse Mellot Sancerre Les Romains 2020 echoes the unparalleled pedigree of Sancerre's terroir, promising an unparalleled tasting experience.

Introducing the elegant 'Alphonse Mellot Sancerre Rouge En Grands Champs 2011', a masterwork of viniculture reflecting the prestige of the Maison Alphonse Mellot founded in 1513. Rooted in Sancerre, in the heart of France, the Mellot heritage prides itself on its centuries-old techniques and sustainable viticulture. This radiant red wine is crafted from gracefully matured Pinot Noir vines, flanked across the Grand Champs vineyard's limestone and clay soils. Its distinguished bouquet reveals fragrant notes of black cherries and wild berries. The palate beholds a rich harmony of nuanced tannins and polished acidity. Meticulously vinified through temperature-regulated fermentation followed by 10 to 14 months of aging in oak barrels, the 'Alphonse Mellot Sancerre Rouge En Grands Champs 2011' offers an opulent expression of the traditional Sancerre Rouge, crafted to satiate the most discerning of wine enthusiasts. Immerse in the sheer indulgence of this pivotal vintage from the esteemed Alphonse Mellot domain.

The Alphonse Mellot Sancerre Rouge Generation XIX 2012 is the epitome of classic, top-drawer Pinot Noir, all the way from France's illustrious Loire Valley. Renowned producer Alphonse Mellot meticulously cultivates this single-vineyard wine. Rigorous hand-sorting ensures only the finest grapes are used, while the wine ages in French oak barrels for 12-18 months to reach its peak condition.

Possessing a radiant ruby hue, this 2012 vintage reveals an aromatic symphony of cherries, truffles, and a whiff of undergrowth. On the palate, it offers a harmonious balance of profound depth, refined tannins, and vivacious freshness. Its serene complexity and au courant elegance resonate well with the reputable Alphonse Mellot heritage, spanning 19 generations of winemaking. Savour the Alphonse Mellot Sancerre Rouge Generation XIX 2012's luxurious layers as the esteemed ambassador of Sancerre Rouge wines.

Heralding from the heart of Loire Valley's esteemed Sancerre region, Alphonse Mellot Sancerre Rouge Generation XIX 2017 is a resplendent testament to centuries-old winemaking expertise. Esteemed producers Alphonse Mellot birth this exemplary Pinot Noir, honouring 19 generations of wine mastery. The hand-harvested, biodynamically-grown grapes masterfully echo the unique terroir of the upper Loire clay-limestone-hill soils to create a harmoniously balanced, dynamic glass.

Exhibiting a luscious ruby hue, the Alphonse Mellot Sancerre Rouge Generation XIX 2017 delivers captivating notes of red berries, cherries and subtle undertones of earthy spices. The palate delights with age-worthy elegance, soft tannins, and an elongated finish. This meticulously crafted wine offers a paradigm of depth, concentration, and complexity, encapsulating the Mellot family's undeniable dedication to superior winemaking.

For the avid collector or discerning connoisseur, the Alphonse Mellot Sancerre Rouge Generation XIX 2017 provides a truly exemplary expression of esteemed Loire Pinot Noir. Experts have lauded this offering as a must-have, promising to age with breathtaking grace.

Embark on an elegant journey with the Alphonse Mellot Sancerre Satellite 2010, a distinguished white wine from the esteemed vineyards of the Loire Valley in France. Crafted by the Mellot family, who boast 19 generations of winemaking expertise, this Sauvignon Blanc reveals a delightful harmony of depth and complexity.

Cherished for its purity of flavour, Alphonse Mellot Sancerre Satellite 2010 is organically farmed, and hand-harvested from limestone-clay soils, inducing a unique minerality. Maturation is carried out in French oak barrels, enhancing the wine's aromatic structure.

A brilliant straw yellow hue ignites intrigue, paving the way for a rich nose of lemon, green apple, and a hint of gooseberry. The palate presents an unforgettable balance of crisp acidity and nuanced stone fruit flavours. With impressive persistence, this wine makes an exemplary pairing with seafood and goat cheese.

Experience the pinnacle of French Sauvignon Blanc with Alphonse Mellot Sancerre Satellite 2010 – an embodiment of superior old world viticulture.

Wine Advocate (94)

Antoine Sanzay Saumur Champigny 2018, a provocative Cabernet Franc from the Loire Valley, is a testament to the mastery of its vintner. Produced in France's iconic Saumur Champigny appellation, this luscious wine inspires with its nuanced complexity. The grapes are manually harvested and subjected to a meticulous délestage process, resulting in a seamless blend of opulence and structure.

This esteemed producer, Antoine Sanzay, crafts with historic practices; a dedication to biodynamic viticulture, low intervention enology, and a passion for expressing the terroir's unique limestone-rich chalky soils. Triumphant in attitude, Antoine Sanzay Saumur Champigny 2018 showcases a delicate bouquet of redcurrants and violets, underpinned by a robust, earthy base.

Indulge in the crisp acidity and elegant tannins of this wine. Antoine Sanzay's masterful production, limited to just 2000 bottles per annum, offers a distinctive pleasure to fine wine connoisseurs.

Indulge in the exemplary Antoine Sanzay Saumur Champigny Haye Dampierre 2018. Brought to us by the revered Antoine Sanzay, this fine wine upholds a tradition of quality and sophistication. Nestled within France's iconic Loire Valley, Sanzay's vineyards offer exceptional terroir which is accentuated in every glass of this vintage. This elegant, ruby-red Cabernet Franc exhibits notes of elderberry, blackberry, and captivating smoky undertones. Meticulously aged in oak barrels for a minimum of 12 months, it's a beautifully structured, medium-bodied wine with a lush finish.

Accomplished winemaker Antoine Sanzay is renowned for his commitment to organic farming and minimal intervention in the winemaking process. Each bottle is a testament to his unwavering passion. For lovers of intense, aromatic wines with great complexity and balance, Antoine Sanzay Saumur Champigny Haye Dampierre 2018 is an investment in superb taste. Enjoy this iconic expression of the finest French viticulture.

Indulge in the exemplary Antoine Sanzay Saumur Champigny Haye Dampierre 2018. Brought to us by the revered Antoine Sanzay, this fine wine upholds a tradition of quality and sophistication. Nestled within France's iconic Loire Valley, Sanzay's vineyards offer exceptional terroir which is accentuated in every glass of this vintage. This elegant, ruby-red Cabernet Franc exhibits notes of elderberry, blackberry, and captivating smoky undertones. Meticulously aged in oak barrels for a minimum of 12 months, it's a beautifully structured, medium-bodied wine with a lush finish.

Accomplished winemaker Antoine Sanzay is renowned for his commitment to organic farming and minimal intervention in the winemaking process. Each bottle is a testament to his unwavering passion. For lovers of intense, aromatic wines with great complexity and balance, Antoine Sanzay Saumur Champigny Haye Dampierre 2018 is an investment in superb taste. Enjoy this iconic expression of the finest French viticulture.

Experience the fine crafting of the Antoine Sanzay Saumur Champigny Les Poyeux 2017, an exquisite red wine that reflects the superb terroir from the renowned Saumur Champigny region of the Loire Valley. Created by legendary wine producer Antoine Sanzay, this lavish wine boasts the exquisite Cabernet Franc grape on the serene, calcareous clay soil of the prestigious Les Poyeux vineyard. Following a sustainable viticulture approach, the grapes are hand-harvested and followed by a two-month ageing process in oak barrels to enhance their character.

The end product is an elegant, full-based red that unfolds layers of ripe black fruit flavours and delicate spice. It equally exhibits a sophisticated minerality and supple tannin structure, making the Antoine Sanzay Saumur Champigny Les Poyeux 2017 a shining testament to Antoine Sanzay's commitment to producing wines of depth, finesse, and expressive terroir embodiment. Perfect for wine enthusiasts seeking top-quality and beautifully crafted Loire Valley wines.

Behold the sophisticated Antoine Sanzay Saumur Les salles Martins 2018, a French vinous masterpiece. Hailing from the revered Saumur region in the Loire Valley, this elegant wine was crafted in the truly meticulous hands of a fifth-generation winemaker, Antoine Sanzay. Produced from 100% Cabernet Franc grapes grown in limestone soil, this wine expresses its emblematic terroir with finesse.

The winemaking process involved 18 months in French oak barrels, imbuing the wine with additional complexity and structure. On the palate, expect distinctive notes of currants, blackberries and subtle oak nuances harmoniously intertwined with earthy undertones and a crisp acidity. The long, elegant finish leaves a lasting impression, making the Antoine Sanzay Saumur Les salles Martins 2018 an exceptional addition to any fine wine enthusiast's collection.

With production limited to just 3000 bottles, this vintage indeed is a rare find and stands as testament to Antoine Sanzay's meticulous artistry.

The Antoine Sanzay Saumur-Champigny Les Terres Rouges 2017 is an opulent representation of the exceptional winemaking prowess of Antoine Sanzay, a revered third-generation vintner in the Saumur-Champigny region of the Loire Valley, France. The grapes are meticulously hand-harvested and undergo a traditional fermentation process in concrete vats to preserve their innate qualities.

This wine showcases the typical mineral character coupled with red fruit expressions from the distinctive clay-limestone terroir. It emits beautiful aromas of cherry and crushed strawberries, with the palate unveiling layers of raspberry, red currant notes, and subtle hints of earthy undertones. Masterfully structured, it boasts a velvety, elegant finish that demands savouring.

Every bottle of Antoine Sanzay Saumur-Champigny Les Terres Rouges 2017 carries the ethos of minimal intervention, melded with respect for nature and tradition. Perfect for connoisseurs seeking a wine with graceful complexity and a rich harmony of flavours.

Unearth the true essence of Loire Valley with the exquisite Arnaud Lambert Saumur-Champigny Clos Moleton 2019. This compelling red wine embodies the passion and expertise of its renowned producer, Arnaud Lambert. The Saumur-Champigny appellation is hailed as the pinnacle of cabernet franc production and Lambert's bio-dynamic farming approach accentuates this wine's unique terroir.

The 2019 Clos Moleton originates from a 1.2-hectare parcel that showcases the region's acclaimed tuffeau limestone soil. This stellar vintage offers an enchanting aromatic complexity, harbouring alluring notes of vibrant berry and subtle hints of fresh herbs. Fermemtation took place via native yeasts in concrete tanks, followed by aging in old foudres and barrels for 12 months, which imparts a distinctive elegance and longevity to the wine.

Arnaud Lambert Saumur-Champigny Clos Moleton 2019 is a remarkable testament to the Loire valley's greatness and demonstrates the sublime harmony between respect for nature and the art of wine making.

Unveiling the prestigious Bel Air Bourgueil Vingt Lieux Dits 2020, an alluring testament to French winemaking wisdom. Handcrafted in the heart of Loire Valley, this remarkable vintage hails from a vineyard known for its rich, fertile soils and perfect climes for heroine grape, Cabernet Franc.

The illustrious producer worked the terroir artfully, employing traditional harvesting methods to guarantee the most authentic expression of the grape character. Renowned for their exemplary savoir-faire, the winemaking process harmoniously blends tradition and innovation to yield an imposing structure and inspiring complexity.

The finished product? A tantalising wine that effortlessly combines intensity and suppleness, boasting notes of juicy red currants, dark cherries, and hints of spicy pepper. All swirling together in a sumptuous dance, the Bel Air Bourgueil Vingt Lieux Dits 2020 promises to beautifully age and evolve, stimulating the palates of fine wine aficionados everywhere.

The Belargus Anjou Quarts 2020 is an exquisite manifestation of the French viticulture traditions. Crafted in the historical Loire Valley, this seductive wine exhibits aromatic complexity and dynamic vivacity. It is a pure expression of the Anjou terroir, where each vine is nourished by the diverse soil composition of quartz and schist. Belargus, recognised globally, is renowned for producing distinctive wines of incomparable quality.

This 2020 vintage is made from 100% Chenin Blanc – revered for the intense honeyed floral and apple notes it imparts into the wine. Elaborated by organic winemaking methods, Belargus Anjou Quarts 2020 portrays an enthralling balance between acidity and sweetness. Its golden hue and rich texture resonate with the meticulous care and time-honoured technique devoted to its creation.

Belargus Anjou Quarts 2020 is a testament to the winemaker's commitment to sustainable methods and pure, keen attention to detail. It is truly a connoisseur's delight.

The Belargus Anjou Roueres 2020 is a paragon of finesse from the prestigious loamy soils of Anjou, in the Loire Valley, France. This esteemed wine, cultivated by Belargus' master winemakers, elegantly showcases the region's characteristic Chenin Blanc grape, exuding a bouquet of quince, chamomile, and acacia. The wine's concise minerality brims with the immensity of its terroir.

Belargus winery, a distinguished producer known for their sequencing of biodynamic principles, ensures every bottle reflects a purity of fruit with nuanced structure. A part of the 2020 vintage, the Anjou Roueres offers a sensibly dry palate with balanced acidity. The fermentation and maturation process in oak barrels underscores the delicate complexity of the genuine Chenin Blanc.

Whether accompanying a light repast or treasured solo, the Belargus Anjou Roueres 2020 deserves a spot in every discerning wine aficionado's cellar. It is an eloquent testament to the harmonious relationship between nature's generosity and masterful winemaking.

Wine Advocate (97)

Wine Advocate (97)

Explore the unique and luxurious delight of the 'Belargus Anjou Veau 2020'. Crafted with precision in the rich soils of Loire Valley, France, this remarkable wine carries the distinct regional essence. The producer, Maison Belargus, is renowned for quality wines matured through innovative techniques. Rigorously following sustainable viticulture, the Belargus Anjou Veau 2020 boasts of expressive local varietals, with handling that enhances its natural aromatics.

The wine was vinified naturally and aged in used wooden barrels to create an unfiltered, impeccably pure expression retaining its fruit intensity. With a nose braced by fresh citrus and a lively palate hinting at touches of exotic fruits, the Belargus Anjou Veau 2020 forms a perfect harmony of immense freshness and approachable depth. Bask in the classic elegance of this white, a delightful addition to any sophisticated wine collection.

Hailing from the esteemed vineyards of Anjou in France's Loire Valley, the Belargus Coteaux du Layon 2018 is a magnificent embodiment of the domain's artisanal mastery. This delicate, late harvest Chenin Blanc is the work of renowned vigneron, Thibaud Boudignon, in collaboration with Jonatan Laval and Jean-Jérôme Kérouanton; their combined expertise imbuing a pioneering spirit into this luscious golden elixir. Immaculately tended, the aged vines give rise to wine with a pure, concentrated flavour profile, heady with notes of candied pear, honey, and wild flowers.

The minimal-intervention winemaking process, featuring indigenous yeasts and extended lees contact, further amplifies the wine's organic expressions. Both fascinating and complex, the Belargus Coteaux du Layon 2018 is a testament to Anjou's unique climate and schist-rich terroir, showcasing an unprecedented level of freshness and minerality that will delight any discerning palate. Enjoy this sweet, opulent gem in its youth or in years to come.

The Belargus Coteaux du Layon Chaume Premier Cru Echarderie 2018 is an exquisite embodying example of France's esteemed viticulture. Born of the fertile soils of the scenic Loire Valley, this wine is expertly crafted by master vintners following time-honoured French winemaking traditions. The vineyard hand harvests and meticulously selects botrytis-affected grapes, while the process of long fermentation and matured on lees creates this nuanced sweet wine.

The Belargus Coteaux du Layon Chaume Premier Cru Echarderie 2018 surprises with its delicately-balanced acidity, lush palate of ripe white peach, honey, and subtly infused notes of orange blossom. This premier cru, made in limited quantity only, captures the essence of the Layon River region's terroir. It's a rewarding experience for the discerning palates, who recognise the intricate dynamics between its vibrancy, sweetness, and complexity. A splendid proof of Belargus's dedication to perfection.