Burghound (92)

Burghound (94)

Burghound (92)

Jasper Morris Inside Burgundy (93-95)

The 2019 Francois Parent Beaune 1er Cru Les Epenotes exemplifies the pinnacle of Burgundy’s esteemed viticulture. Nestled in the heart of Beaune, the Les Epenotes vineyard benefits from optimal terroir, producing Chardonnay grapes of exceptional quality. Francois Parent, a distinguished producer with a heritage of meticulous craftsmanship, employs sustainable farming practices to nurture the vines. Hand-harvested grapes undergo a precise fermentation process in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, ensuring the preservation of pure fruit characteristics. The wine is then aged gracefully in French oak barrels, introducing subtle layers of vanilla and spice that complement its inherent elegance. This 1er Cru varietal reveals a captivating bouquet of citrus and white floral notes, leading to a refined palate marked by vibrant acidity and a mineral-driven finish. The 2019 Francois Parent Beaune 1er Cru Les Epenotes is a testament to superior winemaking, offering a harmonious balance and enduring sophistication, perfect for connoisseurs seeking excellence in every sip.

An exquisite expression of Burgundian finesse, Francois Parent Beaune 1er Cru Les Epenotes 2020 epitomises the terroir of the Côte de Beaune. Grown in the prestigious Les Epenotes vineyard, renowned for its limestone-rich soils and optimal sun exposure, this Chardonnay undergoes meticulous hand harvesting to preserve its purity. Under Francois Parent’s expert stewardship, the grapes undergo gentle pressing, followed by fermentation in stainless steel tanks to maintain their vibrant acidity and minerality. The wine is then aged for 12 months in French oak barrels, imparting subtle complexity without overshadowing the varietal character. The 2020 vintage benefits from a favourable climate, resulting in grapes of exceptional ripeness and balance. On the palate, it reveals layers of citrus, white peach, and a hint of toasted almond, underpinned by a refined, lingering finish. Ideal for pairing with seafood or creamy poultry dishes, this Les Epenotes showcases the unparalleled craftsmanship of Francois Parent.

Unearth a sense of class and tradition with the prestigious Francois Parent Clos Vougeot Grand Cru 2009. This premium red hails from the historic vinery of the famed Côte de Nuits region in Burgundy, France. Masterfully created by Francois Parent, a fourth-generation wine producer lauded for his persistent pursuit of excellence, this Grand Cru reflects his intricate knowledge of the wine-making art.

Expertly crafted from 100% Pinot Noir grapes, it exudes a deeply satisfying complexity. Integrated wood notes cradle a bouquet of ripe black fruits and spicy undertones, enhancing its intense, full-bodied palate. The Grand Cru was matured in French oak barrels and boasts a prolonged finish that leaves an everlasting impression.

Reflecting a vintage esteemed for its exquisite balance and expressiveness, the Francois Parent Clos Vougeot Grand Cru 2009 is truly a testament to superior Burgundian wine-making. A bottle from this limited production is a fine addition to any discerning wine collection.

Direct from the heart of Burgundy comes Francois Parent Pommard 1er Cru Epenots 2016, a beautiful embodiment of the esteemed Pinot Noir grape. Francois Parent, a renowned winemaker in Burgundy, expertly crafts this wine, ensuring each sip reflects the terroir's distinctive complexity. Harvested from the remarkable Pommard 1er Cru vineyards, the grapes benefit from the unique microclimate and limestone-rich soil, intensifying their depth and balance.

This exquisite 2016 offering showcases the quality of the vintage, presenting an intense, rich bouquet steeped in subtle earthy undertones that harmoniously marry with woodland berries. With its sophisticated undertones of oak, the Francois Parent Pommard 1er Cru Epenots 2016 encapsulates luxury in a bottle. This wine truly stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Francois Parent winemaking lineage and Burgundy's unparalleled vintages. A must-have addition to any discerning wine collector's cellar.

Wine Spectator (93)

Wine Advocate (90+)

Regarded as the epitome of eponymous exquisiteness is the Francois Raquillet Mercurey 1er Cru Les Vasees 2018. This exquisite red wine is carefully crafted by Francois Raquillet, an 11th generation winemaker, in Burgundy's esteemed Côte Chalonnaise region. Dating back to sixteenth-century, the estate’s commitment to tradition and detail is evident in each bottle.

Les Vasees 2018 is synonymous for its distinct finesse, expressing a harmony of ripe black fruits, complemented by svelte tannins and an invigorating mineral backbone. The wine is made from hand-picked Pinot Noir grapes, grown in calcareous-clay soil and matured in French oak barrels. This gentle approach ensures preservation of the elegant fruit character alongside development of a mesmerising complexity.

A wine deserving its Premier Cru status, the Francois Raquillet Mercurey 1er Cru Les Vasees 2018 offers a refined drinking experience and typifies the irrefutable cachet of fine French wines.

Wine Advocate (88+)

Wine Advocate (88+)

The Francois Villard Condrieu DePoncins 2014 is a hallmark of exquisite excellence from the eponymous domaine in Northern Rhone, France. Crafted by Francois Villard, an erstwhile chef turned vintner, this wine exudes his culinary prowess in its intricate textures and flavours. A Viognier varietal, the wine carries a sophisticated amalgamation of lush floral and fruity undertones, capped by a distinct mineral edge. The grapes are masterfully harvested from old vineyards on the steep granite slopes of DePoncins, reflecting the terroir in its character. Processed meticulously by traditional vinification, along with maturation in French oak barrels enhances the complexity and balance in the wine. The François Villard Condrieu DePoncins 2014 is celebrated for its voluptuous and rich palate synchronization with an elegant freshness. Savour this wine as it matures gracefully, uncovering its layers of sensory delight.

Francois Villard Condrieu Le Grand Vallon 2021 epitomises the elegance of Northern Rhône Viognier. Cultivated in the esteemed Le Grand Vallon vineyard, this wine benefits from the region’s granite-rich soils and optimal sun exposure. Franҫois Villard, a distinguished producer with a legacy of excellence, meticulously hand-selects each grape to ensure superior quality. Fermentation is conducted in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, preserving the vibrant floral and citrus aromatics characteristic of Condrieu. The wine undergoes gentle ageing, allowing its refined texture and expressive minerality to develop gracefully. On the palate, Le Grand Vallon 2021 reveals layers of nectarine, peach, and subtle hints of almond, culminating in a long, harmonious finish. This exceptional bottling showcases Villard’s unwavering commitment to craftsmanship and terroir, making it a quintessential choice for connoisseurs seeking sophistication and depth. Perfectly paired with gourmet cuisine, it stands as a testament to Condrieu’s illustrious reputation.

Vinous (92)

Francois Villard Condrieu Villa Pontciana 2020 epitomises the elegance and finesse of the Northern Rhône's esteemed Condrieu appellation. Crafted from meticulously hand-harvested Viognier grapes sourced from the sun-kissed slopes of Villa Pontciana, this exquisite wine undergoes precise vinification, including cold maceration and ageing in stainless steel tanks to preserve its vibrant aromatics. The result is a brilliantly clear golden wine, exuding intense notes of apricot, peach, and floral nuances, complemented by a refined minerality and a lingering, silky finish. Francois Villard, a venerable producer with a legacy of excellence, ensures each bottle reflects his commitment to quality and expression of terroir. Ideal for discerning connoisseurs, the Francois Villard Condrieu Villa Pontciana 2020 offers a sublime tasting experience, embodying both tradition and meticulous craftsmanship.

Introducing the dexterously crafted Francois Villard Cornas Jouvet 2015, straight from the breath-taking vineyards of Northern Rhone, France. Exquisitely fashioned by venerated winemaker, Francois Villard, this vintage amplifies his masterful touch in the realm of winemaking. Steeped richly in tradition, it encapsulates a fragrant bouquet of blackcurrants, smoky bacon and pepper. The skilled maturation process, in French oak barrels for approximately 18 months, implores the palette to experience complex layers finely-tuned tannins, immaculately balanced acidity, and a unique mineral-driven finish with every sip. This majestic Shiraz Syrah will delight you with its full-bodied flavour, a true testament to the exceptional terroir of Cornas. Francois Villard's dedication for precision and undeniable craftsmanship shine through, making the Francois Villard Cornas Jouvet 2015 an incomparable spectacle of French viticulture. Exclusively for the discerning oenophile, this wine beautifully marries the grandiloquent opulence with outstanding winemaking.

Francois Villard Cornas Jouvet 2017 epitomises the quintessential Cornas expression, meticulously crafted in the heart of Northern Rhône. Sourced from the Jouvet vineyard, renowned for its granite-rich soils, this Syrah-based masterpiece benefits from optimal terroir that imparts remarkable depth and structure. The 2017 vintage, characterised by a warm growing season, yielded intensely ripe grapes with concentrated flavours. Francois Villard, a distinguished producer with a legacy of excellence, employs traditional vinification techniques, including whole-cluster fermentation and prolonged maceration, to extract maximum complexity. Aged for eighteen months in French oak barrels, the wine develops elegant tannins and a sophisticated aromatic profile, featuring dark berries, pepper, and subtle mineral undertones. The Francois Villard Cornas Jouvet 2017 promises a harmonious balance, reflecting both the finesse and power inherent to the Cornas appellation, making it a coveted selection for discerning connoisseurs.

The 2021 Francois Villard Cornas Jouvet exemplifies the distinguished heritage of the Cornas appellation in the Northern Rhône. Crafted exclusively from 100% Syrah grapes sourced from meticulously managed granite vineyards, this vintage benefits from the optimal terroir that Francois Villard cultivates with expertise. Fermentation is conducted in traditional stainless steel tanks, followed by ageing in French oak barrels for 18 months, which imparts subtle vanilla and spice notes without overshadowing the wine's natural character. Under the guidance of François Villard, whose family has stewarded these vineyards for generations, the Cornas Jouvet 2021 reveals a deep ruby colour with intense aromas of blackberry, plum, and hints of black pepper. On the palate, it offers a robust structure, velvety tannins, and a long, elegant finish. This exquisite expression of Cornas showcases Villard’s commitment to quality and the unique expression of the region’s terroir, making it a prized selection for fine wine enthusiasts.

Francois Villard Cote Rotie Gallet Blanc 2021 is a distinguished expression from the esteemed Cote Rotie appellation in the Northern Rhône. Crafted by the renowned François Villard, this exquisite white is meticulously made from carefully selected Viognier grapes sourced from the premier vineyards of Gallet. The winemaking process involves gentle pressing and fermentation in stainless steel tanks to preserve its vibrant freshness and aromatic intensity. Maturation takes place in neutral oak barrels, allowing subtle complexity to develop without overpowering the pure varietal character. The 2021 vintage unveils a harmonious bouquet of white flowers, ripe peach, and mineral undertones, complemented by a precise, lingering finish. This exceptional Francois Villard Cote Rotie Gallet Blanc 2021 exemplifies the finesse and elegance characteristic of fine Rhône whites, making it a superb choice for discerning connoisseurs seeking elegance and depth in every sip.

Francois Villard Saint-Joseph Reflets 2020 exemplifies the pinnacle of Rhône Valley elegance. Crafted meticulously in the esteemed Saint-Joseph appellation, this wine is born from carefully selected Syrah grapes grown on granite-rich terroirs that impart distinctive mineral nuances. François Villard, a revered producer with decades of heritage, employs traditional vinification techniques combined with modern precision to enhance the wine's depth and character. Fermented in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, the Reflets 2020 undergoes a delicate ageing process in French oak barrels, allowing subtle integration of oak flavours without overshadowing the varietal's intrinsic qualities. The result is a harmonious balance of ripe dark fruits, peppery spice, and refined tannins, culminating in a long, elegant finish. Ideal for connoisseurs seeking a sophisticated and expressive wine, Francois Villard Saint-Joseph Reflets 2020 stands as a testament to expert craftsmanship and the unique terroir of its origin.

Experience the exquisite taste of Francois Villard Seul En Scene Vins De Vienne 2007, an excellent viticultural masterpiece from the reputed northern Rhône producer, Francois Villard. Known for his meticulous winemaking practices, Villard's wines are crafted with undiluted passion and expertise. Nestled in the Vins de Vienne region, the vineyard is famous for producing delicate yet robust wines from Syrah grapes, resulting in an appealing balance of richness and refinement.

The 2007 vintage illustrates this balance perfectly, attracting the palate with its alluring bouquet of black fruits, earth notes and spice, enveloped in an oak influence. The wine was matured in French oak barrels for years, providing a fantastic structure and velvety texture. Certified organic and devoid of any artificial manipulation, Francois Villard Seul En Scene Vins De Vienne 2007 promises an authentic, captivating encounter with the finest from Rhône.