Wine Advocate (96-98)

A prodigious effort, the 2016 Chateauneuf du Pape Les Hautes Brusquieres Cuvee Speciale was yet to be bottled during my June visit. It offers up sweet floral aromas, hints of thyme and rosemary and bold cherry fruit. Full-bodied and creamy-velvety in texture, it's a hugely seductive mouthful of wine that I found difficult to spit. If it emerges from the bottling process looking like this, buyers will have huge smiles on their faces.

Jeb Dunnuck (100)

The inky colored 2016 Châteauneuf-du-Pape La Reine des Bois is a match for the otherworldly 2001 and is a magical wine that couldn’t be any better. Based on 75% Grenache and the balance Mourvèdre, Syrah, Vaccarèse, and Counoise, raised in tank and neutral barrels, its inky black color is followed by an awesome perfume of blackberries, smoked earth/charcoal, licorice, graphite, and garrigue. Deep, full-bodied, with a huge mid-palate, a seamless texture, and serious tannins, it has the purity as well as depth that makes this vintage so compelling. This modern-day legend needs 3-4 years of cellaring and is capable of lasting for 15-20 years.

Burghound (94)

The ripe and ultra-fresh aromas are from the darker side of the fruit spectrum while including plenty of spice, warm earth, menthol and plenty of sauvage character. There is both fine detail and a beguiling texture to the equally broad-shouldered and even more mineral-inflected flavors that possess even better complexity on the balanced and hugely long finish. Unusually, this appears to be just a bit less structured than the Bressandes and should also be approachable on the younger side if that's your preference.

Vinous (98)

The 2016 La Tâche Grand Cru was picked on September 24–25 at 31hL/ha (the highest of the five crus). It has an utterly sublime bouquet of blackberry, briar, crushed limestone, a dash of cracked black pepper and a little oregano. This is extremely complex and displays exquisite focus, to the extent that you could just sit and nose it all day. The palate is beautifully balanced, the spicy red fruit framed by filigreed tannin that belies its backbone. There is a gentle crescendo from start to finish, though being La Tâche it retains complete control. The precision and detail in the final third are deeply impressive. Less fruit-forward than the 2015, and lightly spiced, with an insistent grip. There is a captivating sense of completeness that will ensure longevity through three or four decades. 1,814 cases produced. Tasted at Corney & Barrow’s annual in-bottle tasting in London.

Vinous (98)

The 2016 La Tâche Grand Cru was picked on September 24–25 at 31hL/ha (the highest of the five crus). It has an utterly sublime bouquet of blackberry, briar, crushed limestone, a dash of cracked black pepper and a little oregano. This is extremely complex and displays exquisite focus, to the extent that you could just sit and nose it all day. The palate is beautifully balanced, the spicy red fruit framed by filigreed tannin that belies its backbone. There is a gentle crescendo from start to finish, though being La Tâche it retains complete control. The precision and detail in the final third are deeply impressive. Less fruit-forward than the 2015, and lightly spiced, with an insistent grip. There is a captivating sense of completeness that will ensure longevity through three or four decades. 1,814 cases produced. Tasted at Corney & Barrow’s annual in-bottle tasting in London.

Jancis Robinson (19)

Vines aged 46 years. 24 hl/ha. Harvested 23–24 September. Bottled late March 2018. 868 dozen produced. Lightish ruby. Very pretty cherry fruit jumping from the glass and just a touch of wild herbs from the whole-bunch influence. Opens up to a more peppery lift, almost makes me want to sneeze. I’ve never taken snuff but I wonder if the revitalising effect is similar? There’s still all that tangy wild cherry on the palate but it is more severe than I expected from the nose, really corseted by the super-fine but strict tannins. Amazing power after such a pretty first impression. As with the Romanée-St-Vivant, the whole-bunch aroma – very hard to describe but it has a sort of fresh, herbal, dusty, woodland effect – grows in the glass. Darker on the finish, really sinewy and perfectly firm, compact, endless. (JH)

Jancis Robinson (19)

Vines aged 46 years. 24 hl/ha. Harvested 23–24 September. Bottled late March 2018. 868 dozen produced. Lightish ruby. Very pretty cherry fruit jumping from the glass and just a touch of wild herbs from the whole-bunch influence. Opens up to a more peppery lift, almost makes me want to sneeze. I’ve never taken snuff but I wonder if the revitalising effect is similar? There’s still all that tangy wild cherry on the palate but it is more severe than I expected from the nose, really corseted by the super-fine but strict tannins. Amazing power after such a pretty first impression. As with the Romanée-St-Vivant, the whole-bunch aroma – very hard to describe but it has a sort of fresh, herbal, dusty, woodland effect – grows in the glass. Darker on the finish, really sinewy and perfectly firm, compact, endless. (JH)

Wine Advocate (100)

The 2016 Romanée-Conti Grand Cru is a worthy successor to the profound 2015, wafting from the glass with aromas of wild berries, violets, peony, dark chocolate, cinnamon and exotic spices. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied, ample and satiny, with an ineffable sense of completeness, searing concentration without weight, a vibrant, indeed animating line of acidity, and a long, expansive finish that concludes with a judicious touch of mouthwatering bitterness. Wines like this are the foundation of the Domaine de la Romanée-Conti's reputation.

Vinous (96)

The 2016 Romanée-Saint-Vivant Grand Cru, picked on September 27–28 at 27hL/ha, has a heavenly, perfumed nose of blackberry, briar, wet limestone, incense and pressed iris flowers, displaying much more fruit intensity than the Corton alongside. There are subtle graphite notes that develop with aeration - the old-school pencil box, though it is never more than a fleeting suggestion. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannin and quite rounded in the mouth, and that graphite tincture builds toward the second half. I adore the energy and balletic poise of this Romanée-Saint-Vivant as it deftly fans out toward the finish, exerting grip, but with the softest of touches, and offering deceiving weight and depth. A wine that exudes panache and sophistication. 1,304 cases produced. Tasted at Corney & Barrow’s annual in-bottle tasting in London.

Vinous (96)

The 2016 Romanée-Saint-Vivant Grand Cru, picked on September 27–28 at 27hL/ha, has a heavenly, perfumed nose of blackberry, briar, wet limestone, incense and pressed iris flowers, displaying much more fruit intensity than the Corton alongside. There are subtle graphite notes that develop with aeration - the old-school pencil box, though it is never more than a fleeting suggestion. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannin and quite rounded in the mouth, and that graphite tincture builds toward the second half. I adore the energy and balletic poise of this Romanée-Saint-Vivant as it deftly fans out toward the finish, exerting grip, but with the softest of touches, and offering deceiving weight and depth. A wine that exudes panache and sophistication. 1,304 cases produced. Tasted at Corney & Barrow’s annual in-bottle tasting in London.

Vinous (87)

Gold-tinged yellow. Rather exaggerated aromas of hazelnut and almond. Fat yellow fruit flavors are supported by decent acidity but could use more definition. Finishes a bit dry-edged, with hints of nutmeats and oatmeal. Not a great showing, and likely to evolve quickly. (Incidentally, I found the Bourgogne Blanc Le Clos du Château de Puligny-Montrachet a bit too tropical and liqueur-like, with its nutty oak element amplifying its hint of oxidation.)

Vinous (95)

(two barrels produced, vs. a normal eight): Bright, pale yellow. Vibrant aromas of lemon gelato and wild herbs. Very complex, pure and refined, boasting an utterly silky, seamless texture to its intense citrus peel, fresh herb and mineral flavors. Really outstanding inner-mouth energy here, followed by a slowly mounting finish that saturates the taste buds. A great wine in the making, but not for drinking anytime soon. (I found the 2017 version a bit juicier and fruitier, and there will be ten barrels of the younger vintage as the crop level was generous.) According to winemaker Frédéric Barnier, 2017 has more sweetness as a vintage, but while the '17 Chevalier-Montrachet is round, opulent and tasty, the '16 is extremely pure, fresh and linear, and will expand with time in the cellar. But even today it's silky, tactile, edge-free and extremely long.

The Domaine des Miroirs Ja-Nai VdF 2016 is a rare expression of viticulture splendour, curated by maestro winemaker Kenjiro Kagami. Dedicated to tradition and natural cultivation, Kagami diligently produces this stunning varietal in France's iconic Jura region. Kagami, a true purist, honours traditional viniculture techniques, maintaining a biodynamic vineyard and using indigenous yeasts to achieve this wine's distinguished character.

After a meticulous hand harvest, the Domaine des Miroirs Ja-Nai VdF 2016 wines are carefully matured in seasoned French oak, resulting in an enchantingly complex profile. The seductively clear golden hue greets you first, followed by an aroma teeming with ripe fruits and a subtle hint of nuts. In the mouth, it is a harmonious symphony of delicately intertwined flavours, framed by a vibrant acidity and enduring minerality. This is an enthralling choice for those in search of an authentically crafted and exceptional white wine. Indulge in the refined elegance of Domaine des Miroirs Ja-Nai VdF 2016.

Showcasing exemplary winemaking from Jura, France is the Domaine des Miroirs Sonorite du Vent 2016. Created by avant-garde winemaker Kenjiro Kagami, an ardent follower of the Biodynamic principle, the wine is crafted exclusively from the magnificent Savagnin grape. The hand-picked fruits are cultivated in vineyards located in L'Étoile and undergo wild yeast fermentation, cementing its authenticity. The ageing process in old Burgundy barrels over 30 months instils a defining complexity into the wine.

This transcendent wine mirrors its land of origin, revealing flavours of ripe fruits, crisp almonds, and rich spices. With a delicate buttery finish, the Domaine des Miroirs Sonorite du Vent 2016 bears testament to Kagami’s artisanal finesse and reverence for nature. A captivating, profound, and mineral-laden wine, it adds a dash of sophistication to any fine dining experience and is a bonafide delight for any discerning connoisseur.

Discover the compelling narrative within every glass of Domaine des Varoilles Charmes-Chambertin Grand Cru 2016. Emanated from the hallowed terroirs of Gevrey-Chambertin in Burgundy, this Grand Cru encompasses the essence of perfect Pinot Noir. Agriculturally, the estate enforces meticulous and sustainable practices, ensuring the integrity of their 3-hectare plot within Charmes-Chambertin. Pruned with dexterity, the vines average an enviable 50 years, resulting in the profound intensity exhibited in this 2016 vintage.

The wine presents an exquisite ruby hue, offering a bouquet of ripe red fruits and refined earthiness. Maturation in French oak barriques for 12-18 months delivers an intricate harmony between ripe berry concentration and understated oak allusions. Domaine des Varoilles deftly unites tradition and contemporary technique, crafting superlative expressions of Burgundian terroir. Relish the structured tannins and expressive elegance of Domaine des Varoilles Charmes-Chambertin Grand Cru 2016, a testament to the prowess of this renowned estate.

Vinous (96)

Deep, lurid purple. Assertive, highly perfumed aromas of fresh blackberry, cherry, Moroccan spices and violet pick up olive and licorice nuances with air. Juicy, energetic and appealingly sweet, offering palate-staining red/blue fruit preserve, spicecake and violet pastille flavors that become deeper as the wine opens up. The floral and mineral notes repeat with gusto on an impressively long, focused finish that features youthfully firm tannins and a touch of bitter chocolate.

Vinous (91)

Bright purple. Textbook Syrah aromas of dark berries, olive, cracked pepper and smoky bacon carry a subtle floral topnote. Silky and sweet on the palate, offering juicy blackberry and cherry flavors and a touch of candied violet. Finishes on a spicy floral note; smooth tannins shape the clinging finish.

Wine Enthusiast (93)

Dominated by Merlot, this is a richly perfumed, ripe and spicy wine. Soft tannins are balanced by plenty of acidity and blackberry fruit. It's full in structure, but still allows plenty of room for the fruit.

Wine Enthusiast (95)

Made by the same team as Giscours, this is a fine wine. Its rich structure combines with acidity and dense, plummy fruit to give a wine that charms now but is sure to age well.

Presenting the Duclaux Cote Rotie La Germine 2016, an exemplary wine hailing from the renowned valley of Côte Rôtie, Northern Rhone, France. This top-tier wine is a testament to the superior winemaking skills of Duclaux Family, master vintners for seven generations. Expertly crafted from a blend of 97% Syrah and 3% Viognier, it is known for its elegance and finesse.

The Duclaux Cote Rotie La Germine 2016 embodies a meticulous approach to vinification, matured in French Oak barrels for varying durations to create a unique profile. Renowned for its highly concentrated, multi-layered character, this wine exhibits a striking bouquet of wild berries, blackcurrant, and violet along with distinctive notes of black olives, peppercorn, and graphite.

Savour a bottle of Duclaux Cote Rotie La Germine 2016, a wine that promises an unparalleled tasting experience of superior complexity, richness, and longevity. An undeniable delight for truly discerning wine enthusiasts.

Jeb Dunnuck (100)

Reminding me of the 2010 with its incredible stature and class (as opposed to the more opulently styled 2009), the 2016 Château Ducru-Beaucaillou is a legendary wine from the genius of Bruno Borie, who has managed this estate brilliantly since he arrived in 2003. A blend of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Merlot brought up all in new oak, the 2016 has a mammoth bouquet of crème de cassis, espresso, camphor, crushed violets, toasty oak, and graphite. Full-bodied, concentrated, and backward on the palate, it nevertheless has perfectly integrated acidity and building tannins, a concentrated, layered texture, off-the-charts purity of fruit, and a finish that won't quit. Give this powerful, concentrated wine a solid 7-8 years of bottle age and enjoy it over the following 50 years or more.

Jeb Dunnuck (100)

Reminding me of the 2010 with its incredible stature and class (as opposed to the more opulently styled 2009), the 2016 Château Ducru-Beaucaillou is a legendary wine from the genius of Bruno Borie, who has managed this estate brilliantly since he arrived in 2003. A blend of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Merlot brought up all in new oak, the 2016 has a mammoth bouquet of crème de cassis, espresso, camphor, crushed violets, toasty oak, and graphite. Full-bodied, concentrated, and backward on the palate, it nevertheless has perfectly integrated acidity and building tannins, a concentrated, layered texture, off-the-charts purity of fruit, and a finish that won't quit. Give this powerful, concentrated wine a solid 7-8 years of bottle age and enjoy it over the following 50 years or more.

Wine Enthusiast (96)

This ripe wine is full of great fruit aromas and flavors. Rich, juicy blackberry is combined with intense tannins and ample acidity on the palate. It is a fine summation of the vintage, with opulent fruit that mellows serious tannins. It might seem accessible with all this fruit, but don't be fooled, the wine will need many years.

Wine Enthusiast (96)

This ripe wine is full of great fruit aromas and flavors. Rich, juicy blackberry is combined with intense tannins and ample acidity on the palate. It is a fine summation of the vintage, with opulent fruit that mellows serious tannins. It might seem accessible with all this fruit, but don't be fooled, the wine will need many years.

Vinous (96)

The 2016 Clos Saint-Denis Grand Cru really delivers on the nose. It is just as ebullient in bottle as it showed in barrel with vivacious red cherries, crushed strawberry and mineral scents. A subtle touch of pressed rose petals emerges with time. The palate is medium-bodied with a fine structure that grips the mouth, quite dense with a mixture of red and black fruit laced with tobacco and a light marine/saline note that becomes more accentuated with time. Superb. Tasted at Flint Wines Domaine Dujac tasting in London.

Vinous (92)

The 2016 Puligny-Montrachet Les Combettes 1er Cru is taut and fresh, showing more vigour and mineralité compared to its showing in bottle last year. The palate is well balanced with good depth, a little creaminess coming through towards the finish with touches of orange zest and dried apricot developing. This has caught up with the Folatières since it lagged behind when tasted from vat. Tasted at Flint Wines Domaine Dujac tasting in London.