France
The vast and diverse wine regions of France, each with its own unique terroirs, grape varieties, and winemaking techniques, are a treasure trove.
In Bordeaux, the birthplace of some of the world's most iconic wines, esteemed vineyards such as Château Lafite Rothschild, Château Margaux, Château Latour, and Château Haut-Brion produce exceptional red wines, showcasing the art of blending Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Malbec. The region is also renowned for its exquisite white wines, with vineyards like Château d'Yquem and Domaine de Chevalier producing legendary sweet wines.
Moving to Burgundy, the vineyards of Domaine de la Romanée-Conti, Domaine Leroy, and Domaine Armand Rousseau capture the essence of the region's revered terroir, crafting exquisite red wines from the Pinot Noir grape. Meanwhile, Domaine Leflaive and Domaine Coche-Dury are celebrated for their world-class white wines, predominantly made from Chardonnay.
The Champagne region, known for its sparkling wines, boasts illustrious houses such as Krug, Dom Pérignon, and Moët & Chandon, as well as grower-producers like Pierre Péters and Jacques Selosse. These vineyards create exceptional sparkling wines using the traditional method, offering a symphony of delicate bubbles, elegant flavors, and vibrant acidity.
In the Rhône Valley, iconic vineyards like Chapoutier, E. Guigal, and Château de Beaucastel produce remarkable red wines in the northern appellations of Hermitage, Côte-Rôtie, and Cornas, showcasing the elegance and power of Syrah. Further south, Châteauneuf-du-Pape is celebrated for its rich and full-bodied red blends, with Château Rayas and Clos des Papes leading the way.
In Alsace, vineyards such as Domaine Zind-Humbrecht and omaine Trimbach craft exquisite white wines, including Riesling, Gewürztraminer, and Pinot Gris, expressing the region's unique terroir and varietal character.
These are just a few highlights among the diverse array of wines that France offers. From the Loire Valley's crisp whites and elegant reds to the Languedoc-Roussillon's bold and robust wines, each region presents its own vinous treasures.
France
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Vinous (96)
Rousseau's 2002 Chambertin is in the zone. Succulent, racy and open, the 2002 is ready to deliver pleasure. The purity of the fruit alone is striking. Even so, the 2002 is still very much at the early part of its first plateau of maturity, as the flavors remain very bright and fresh. In this vertical, the 2002 comes across as a wine of immediacy, with a bit less structure and overall energy than the very best vintages. I say that with some hesitation, as the 2002 is exceptional. It is just a little less exceptional than a few of the other wines in this vertical.Inc. GSTSG$6,761.90 -
Vinous (96)
Rousseau's 2002 Chambertin is in the zone. Succulent, racy and open, the 2002 is ready to deliver pleasure. The purity of the fruit alone is striking. Even so, the 2002 is still very much at the early part of its first plateau of maturity, as the flavors remain very bright and fresh. In this vertical, the 2002 comes across as a wine of immediacy, with a bit less structure and overall energy than the very best vintages. I say that with some hesitation, as the 2002 is exceptional. It is just a little less exceptional than a few of the other wines in this vertical.Inc. GSTSG$56,905.06 -
Vinous - Stephen Tanzer (93-96)
Deep, saturated red with ruby highlights. Pure, captivating aromas of blackberry, blueberry and spicy oak. Sappy and uncommonly sweet but not at all thick or heavy. Still a bit closed in the mouth but already shows compelling perfume. There's no sign of the 13.7% (natural) alcohol. Distinctly tighter and more powerful than the Clos Saint-Jacques. Finishes with superb lingering perfume. A great showing.Inc. GSTSG$5,508.40 -
Vinous (97)
A last minute addition, Rousseau's 2002 Clos St. Jacques nearly stole the show (actually it did!), proving why it is revered among Burgundy lovers. Arguably one of the youngest and most vibrant wines of the evening, the Clos St. Jacques impressed for its intense fruit and phenomenal balance. It was the perfect ending to a fabulous night of food, wine and conversation.Inc. GSTSG$12,619.10 -
Vinous (86-89)
Medium red. Aromatic nose combines red fruits, coffee and meat. Sweet and fine; offers lovely pinot noir tang and sap. High-quality village wine, atypically strong for this cuveeInc. GSTSG$1,420.90 -
Vinous (90)
Palish straw-gold color. Aromas of candied citrus peel, smoke and clove, with a whiff of grilled oak. Fat and sweet, with deep, complex flavors dominated by candied citrus peel. Lovely acids frame and extend the wine's superb fruit. Uncommonly strong for its appellation.Inc. GSTSG$10,981.64 -
Experience the luxurious sophistication of the exquisite Auvenay Auxey Duresses Les Clous Blanc 2002. This legendary white wine is a soulful creation of winemaker Madame Lalou Bize-Leroy, revered for her meticulous attention to detail. Produced in the revered Burgundy region of France, this indulgence spellbinds with its stunning nuances. Fermented with indigenous yeasts in a sublimely slow, natural process, it is aged in fine oak barrels to develop its harmonious balance and complexity.
Emanating subtle notes of orchard fruits, the Auvenay Auxey Duresses Les Clous Blanc 2002 takes wine enthusiasts on an unforgettable journey of taste sensation. This ethereal blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay gives a rich depth of flavour, enhanced by its well-aged maturity. No expense or effort has been spared in making this exceptional vintage, earning it a well-deserved status among connoisseurs globally. Savour the refined elegance of Auvenay Auxey Duresses Les Clous Blanc 2002 and its lasting, memorable finish.
Inc. GSTSG$20,606.23 -
Vinous (99)
The 2002 Chevalier-Montrachet Grand Cru appears to be at the peak of its almighty powers. The aromatics are thrilling. It is pure liquid minerals with astonishing delineation and focus. You almost feel humbled in its presence. The palate has formidable weight and penetration, a perfect silver bead of acidity and it fans out gloriously towards the finish with lemon peel, spice and grilled hazelnuts. There is incredible persistence in the mouth, completing a white Burgundy that comes damn close to perfection. I cannot see it improving further with bottle age so those lucky enough to possess a bottle should not hesitate enjoying this awe-inspiring wine. Tasted at the d'Auvenay dinner in Hong Kong.Inc. GSTSG$34,529.65 -
Inc. GSTSG$1,263.09 -
Vinous (93-95)
Good medium ruby. Distinctly wilder aromas of small black fruits, roasted meat, coffee, leather and smoke; conveys a strong impression of soil. Like liquid silk in the mouth, with pure, precise flavors of blackberry, blueberry and game. Wonderfully layered and concentrated, and currently hiding its tightly coiled spring. Finishes with great length and hints of violet and caramel. A connoisseur's wine.Inc. GSTSG$4,566.88 -
The Champagne Guide (99)
"(disgorged in 2012; 60% Montagne de Reims pinot noir, 40% Côte des Blancs chardonnay; 18% barrel-fermented in old oak casks; partial malolactic fermentation; 4g/L dosage)... Even at 13 years of age it upholds brilliant primary definition of icy lemon citrus, with only subtle graceful evolution of nougat and butter, promising decades of potential yet. As always, the greatness of Billecart is proclaimed not by impact or power, but by slowly rising complexity and profound chalk mineral presence. Its cascade of minerality is very fine, to the point of silkiness, yet simultaneously poised and confident. Delightful poise and intricate craftsmanship proclaim one of the great Billecarts of the modern era, a champagne with many characters and subplots to reveal, to be enjoyed slowly in the presence of the most intimate company--and ideally not for at least another decade.Inc. GSTSG$1,797.96 -
The Champagne Guide (99)
"(disgorged in 2012; 60% Montagne de Reims pinot noir, 40% Côte des Blancs chardonnay; 18% barrel-fermented in old oak casks; partial malolactic fermentation; 4g/L dosage)... Even at 13 years of age it upholds brilliant primary definition of icy lemon citrus, with only subtle graceful evolution of nougat and butter, promising decades of potential yet. As always, the greatness of Billecart is proclaimed not by impact or power, but by slowly rising complexity and profound chalk mineral presence. Its cascade of minerality is very fine, to the point of silkiness, yet simultaneously poised and confident. Delightful poise and intricate craftsmanship proclaim one of the great Billecarts of the modern era, a champagne with many characters and subplots to reveal, to be enjoyed slowly in the presence of the most intimate company--and ideally not for at least another decade.Inc. GSTSG$1,558.16 -
Wine Enthusiast (100)
From just over two acres of old vines in the producer's home village of Mareuil-sur-Aÿ, this pure Pinot Noir Champagne is magnificent. A toasty flavor is balanced by concentrated white fruits, with a touch of tannin adding texture. It's an unforgettable wine. Enjoy in the nearterm.Inc. GSTSG$2,533.98 -
Wine Advocate (95+)
Most of the 2002 Brut from Boërl & Kroff was bottled in 750-milliliter bottles, so only 800 magnums were produced—a surprising decision, given the vintage, and one Sabaté now laments. Offering up a rich but youthful bouquet of waxy lemon rind, mandarin, warm biscuits, candied peel and honeycomb, this is a full-bodied, vinous Champagne with considerable structure and concentration, with its creamy and muscular profile exemplifying the house style. Long and powerful, it's a terrific wine that will delight admirers of old fashioned Champagne.Inc. GSTSG$4,699.54 -
Jancis Robinson MW (19)
Disgorged October 2010. Tasted blind. Something a bit rubbery on the nose but very tense and exciting. Is this the 2008? Tense and vibrant, with lots of complexity and persistence. Impressive for its age.Inc. GSTSG$1,447.00 -
James Suckling (99)
It's striking that is as fresh as it is given the ten years in the cellars. It has a fine citrus nose with plenty of lemons, grapefruit and yellow chalky notes, not to mention some lighter floral elements. The palate is super dry (dosage at 3-4g), and there's a silky, sherbet-like texture that makes this smooth fine and long. The citrus flavors give way to the surging acidity and the finish twists very slowly through to lightly toasted cashew nuts mingled with complex fruit and citrus flavors. Disgorged October 22, 2013.Inc. GSTSG$1,404.75 -
James Suckling (99)
It's striking that is as fresh as it is given the ten years in the cellars. It has a fine citrus nose with plenty of lemons, grapefruit and yellow chalky notes, not to mention some lighter floral elements. The palate is super dry (dosage at 3-4g), and there's a silky, sherbet-like texture that makes this smooth fine and long. The citrus flavors give way to the surging acidity and the finish twists very slowly through to lightly toasted cashew nuts mingled with complex fruit and citrus flavors. Disgorged October 22, 2013.Inc. GSTSG$2,144.60 -
Vinous (98)
We start with a side-by-side comparison of Bollinger’s 2002 and 2004 Vieilles Vignes Françaises, one of my favorite Champagnes. The 2002 is spectacular, as it always is. Rich, warm and resonant, the 2002 covers the palate with seemingly endless layers of burnished, honeyed fruit and the most finessed, subtle mousse imaginable. I don’t see the 2002 making old bones, but it is flat-out great tonight. The 2004, on the other hand, is disappointing. More advanced in its flavors and with quite a bit less structure than the 2002, the 2004 is already maturing and needs to be enjoyed sooner rather than later.Inc. GSTSG$3,676.48 -
Vinous - Neal Martin (91)
The 2002 Branaire Ducru was partly made with Philippe Dhalluin and Dominique Arangoïts, who said there was a lot of discussion about the blend at the time. It has an open-knit, earthy bouquet with black fruit, wild mint, singed leather and a touch of potpourri. The palate is medium-bodied with mainly red fruit, white pepper, clove, a slight grittiness to the tannins but with commendable depth and freshness towards the finish. Fine acidity and bite, this is a Saint-Julien that is à point. Tasted at the château.Inc. GSTSG$1,515.14 -
Vinous - Stephen Tanzer (87)
Dark ruby-red. Withdrawn aromas of currant and herbs. Dry and quite closed, with limited sweetness. Flavors of plum, leather and currant leaf show only modest ripeness. Firm acids give this wine a slight sour edge.Inc. GSTSG$5,557.91 -
Vinous - Stephen Tanzer (87)
Dark ruby-red. Withdrawn aromas of currant and herbs. Dry and quite closed, with limited sweetness. Flavors of plum, leather and currant leaf show only modest ripeness. Firm acids give this wine a slight sour edge.Inc. GSTSG$763.27 -
If you seek an exquisite expression of revered French terroir, discover the Claude Cazals Blanc de Blancs Clos Cazals 2002. Cultivated in the illustrious region of Champagne, this tantalising blanc de blancs is the craft of the esteemed Maison Claude Cazals. The maison boasts an illustrious history dating back to the 1890s, renowned for their meticulous viticulture.
The Clos Cazals vineyard is an enclosed vineyard, one of few within Champagne. This remarkable 2002 vintage spent over 15 years maturing on lees, rewarding the palate with an enduring complexity and richness. The wine is pure Chardonnay giving it a certain crisp character presenting resonances of ripe citrus and baked apple.
Defined by an elegant effervescence and distinct minerality, the Claude Cazals Blanc de Blancs Clos Cazals 2002 is a testament to the maison's methodical approach to winemaking. For the discerning connoisseur, this is indeed an object of adoration; a display of the mastery innate to the noble lands of Champagne.
Inc. GSTSG$2,013.80 -
Vinous (98+)
Bright, deep red. Very pure, youthful aromas of raspberry, garrigue and pungent minerals; this smells like a five-year-old Burgundy. Round and sweet in the mouth, showing excellent volume for the vintage but also captivating tangy acidity to frame and intensify the flavors of red berries, minerals and black mushroom. Wonderfully suave, seamless wine with great class--and incredibly fresh and youthful for the vintage. Finishes with palate-staining persistence and pungent red fruits. This remarkable wine, probably the youngest 2002 I tasted this fall, still has decades of life ahead of it.Inc. GSTSG$1,399.46 -
Wine Advocate (92)
The Foucaults’ 2002 Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg displays a complex aromatic melange of machine, blackberry, smoked meat, resinous herbs, toasted nuts, sauteed mushrooms, flowers, and sweat. Sleek in texture, enormously rich and expansive in the mouth, yet retaining an invigorating core of acidity, it spreads salt and wet stone mineral traces, bitter black fruits and pungent herbs in the wake of its long, penetrating, juicy finish. I imagine this evolving into something like the glorious 1988 I was served on my recent visit. (For notes on the domaine’s whites, please consult the coverage of Anjou and Saumur elsewhere in this report. I did, incidentally, not have a chance to taste the Rougeard 2004s, nor any of their “Le Clos” bottling, which is assembled from several small parcels and lower-priced than their other offerings.)Inc. GSTSG$1,267.94 -
The Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Les Poyeux 2002 is a distinguished vintage that mirrors the fine traditional offering of the Loire Valley. Hailing from Clos Rougeard, one of France's best-kept viticultural secrets, Les Poyeux 2002 displays singular notes inherent to Cabernet Franc grapes.
This radiant red wine bears the mark of precise craftsmanship. The Foucault brothers, whom Decanter magazine deemed as 'the greatest winemakers in the world', oversee the organic cultivation, hand-harvesting, and indigenous yeasts fermentation, done in oak barrels. The embodiment of meticulous viniculture, its 12-month maturation in old French oak barrels notably omits sulphur dioxide.
A sip of Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Les Poyeux 2002 takes one on a pleasant journey of balanced black fruit flavours and refined tannins, leading to a lengthy finish. As an emblem of 'Pure Réalité', its luxurious character fits seamlessly with gastronomic encounters.
Inc. GSTSG$1,471.28 -
Vinous - Stephen Tanzer (95)
(a blend of 58% cabernet sauvignon, 38% merlot, 3% cabernet franc and 1% petit verdot; aging in 80% new oak) Bright ruby. Pure, precise aromas of cassis, minerals, violet and fresh herbs, with an exotic note of curry that Prats says is from very ripe cabernet sauvignon. Wonderfully sweet and dense, with urgent fruit showing strong tobacco and spice notes and an almost exotic ripeness. But this has the fresh acidity to buffer its high sugars. A wine of great aromatic depth and verve, finishing with firm, thoroughly ripe tannins and superb persistence. Like so many 2002s, this is not yet showing much evidence of new oak. A potentially great vintage for this chateau.Inc. GSTSG$2,912.39 -
Vinous - Stephen Tanzer (90-92)
Saturated ruby-red. Crystallized dark berries, licorice, violet and a hint of game on the nose. Dense and thick but bright, with lively, cabernet-driven flavors of crushed dark berries, licorice, tobacco leaf, fresh herbs and earth. Offers unusually full volume for Armailhac, with lots of stuffing to buffer its firm spine of acids and sweet tannins. A superb vintage for this wine.Inc. GSTSG$1,530.36 -
Vinous - Stephen Tanzer (85-88)
Red-ruby. Very sweet, exotic aromas of red berry liqueur and licorice. Nicely concentrated, sweet and fruit-driven, with a creamy middle and a faint jammy, even cooked fruit character. Fat and mouthfilling. Finishes with big, dusty tannins.Inc. GSTSG$815.76 -
Vinous - Stephen Tanzer (92-95)
(70% whole-cluster fermentation) Brilliant red-ruby. Initially reserved, pure nose exploded with aeration to reveal black raspberry, spices and minerals. Succulent, sharply delineated and solidly structured, with highly complex flavors of red fruits, wild herbs, flowers, smoke and earth. Finishes with very fine tannins and superb length and class. Here one senses a full expression of this vineyard's terroirInc. GSTSG$4,114.79 -
Matured within the esteemed Maison De Venoge's centuries-old wine cellars in the heart of Champagne, France, comes the exquisite De Venoge Cordon Bleu Brut 2002. As a highly respected blend of 50% Chardonnay, 25% Pinot Noir, and 25% Pinot Meunier grapes, it showcases the superior craftsmanship of De Venoge's winemakers. Each grape is meticulously selected from Premier and Grand Cru vineyards within the Montagne de Reims and Côtes de Blancs regions, thus guaranteeing exceptional quality.
The De Venoge Cordon Bleu Brut 2002 unveils an aromatic symphony of honeyed apricot and brioche, harmonized with a sublime buttery character. The palette is further tantalised with nuances of fresh almonds and pear, elevating the complexity of this divine vintage. A captivating cascade of finely tuned bubbles and luminous golden hues, it elegantly embodies the timeless sophistication of De Venoge's Champagne legacy.
Inc. GSTSG$803.90
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Vinous (96)
Rousseau's 2002 Chambertin is in the zone. Succulent, racy and open, the 2002 is ready to deliver pleasure. The purity of the fruit alone is striking. Even so, the 2002 is still very much at the early part of its first plateau of maturity, as the flavors remain very bright and fresh. In this vertical, the 2002 comes across as a wine of immediacy, with a bit less structure and overall energy than the very best vintages. I say that with some hesitation, as the 2002 is exceptional. It is just a little less exceptional than a few of the other wines in this vertical.In BondSG$6,195.00 -
Vinous (96)
Rousseau's 2002 Chambertin is in the zone. Succulent, racy and open, the 2002 is ready to deliver pleasure. The purity of the fruit alone is striking. Even so, the 2002 is still very much at the early part of its first plateau of maturity, as the flavors remain very bright and fresh. In this vertical, the 2002 comes across as a wine of immediacy, with a bit less structure and overall energy than the very best vintages. I say that with some hesitation, as the 2002 is exceptional. It is just a little less exceptional than a few of the other wines in this vertical.In BondSG$52,155.00 -
Vinous - Stephen Tanzer (93-96)
Deep, saturated red with ruby highlights. Pure, captivating aromas of blackberry, blueberry and spicy oak. Sappy and uncommonly sweet but not at all thick or heavy. Still a bit closed in the mouth but already shows compelling perfume. There's no sign of the 13.7% (natural) alcohol. Distinctly tighter and more powerful than the Clos Saint-Jacques. Finishes with superb lingering perfume. A great showing.In BondSG$5,045.00 -
Vinous (97)
A last minute addition, Rousseau's 2002 Clos St. Jacques nearly stole the show (actually it did!), proving why it is revered among Burgundy lovers. Arguably one of the youngest and most vibrant wines of the evening, the Clos St. Jacques impressed for its intense fruit and phenomenal balance. It was the perfect ending to a fabulous night of food, wine and conversation.In BondSG$11,560.00 -
Vinous (86-89)
Medium red. Aromatic nose combines red fruits, coffee and meat. Sweet and fine; offers lovely pinot noir tang and sap. High-quality village wine, atypically strong for this cuveeIn BondSG$1,295.00 -
Vinous (90)
Palish straw-gold color. Aromas of candied citrus peel, smoke and clove, with a whiff of grilled oak. Fat and sweet, with deep, complex flavors dominated by candied citrus peel. Lovely acids frame and extend the wine's superb fruit. Uncommonly strong for its appellation.In BondSG$10,065.00 -
Experience the luxurious sophistication of the exquisite Auvenay Auxey Duresses Les Clous Blanc 2002. This legendary white wine is a soulful creation of winemaker Madame Lalou Bize-Leroy, revered for her meticulous attention to detail. Produced in the revered Burgundy region of France, this indulgence spellbinds with its stunning nuances. Fermented with indigenous yeasts in a sublimely slow, natural process, it is aged in fine oak barrels to develop its harmonious balance and complexity.
Emanating subtle notes of orchard fruits, the Auvenay Auxey Duresses Les Clous Blanc 2002 takes wine enthusiasts on an unforgettable journey of taste sensation. This ethereal blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay gives a rich depth of flavour, enhanced by its well-aged maturity. No expense or effort has been spared in making this exceptional vintage, earning it a well-deserved status among connoisseurs globally. Savour the refined elegance of Auvenay Auxey Duresses Les Clous Blanc 2002 and its lasting, memorable finish.
In BondSG$18,885.00 -
Vinous (99)
The 2002 Chevalier-Montrachet Grand Cru appears to be at the peak of its almighty powers. The aromatics are thrilling. It is pure liquid minerals with astonishing delineation and focus. You almost feel humbled in its presence. The palate has formidable weight and penetration, a perfect silver bead of acidity and it fans out gloriously towards the finish with lemon peel, spice and grilled hazelnuts. There is incredible persistence in the mouth, completing a white Burgundy that comes damn close to perfection. I cannot see it improving further with bottle age so those lucky enough to possess a bottle should not hesitate enjoying this awe-inspiring wine. Tasted at the d'Auvenay dinner in Hong Kong.In BondSG$31,670.00 -
In BondSG$1,040.00
-
Vinous (93-95)
Good medium ruby. Distinctly wilder aromas of small black fruits, roasted meat, coffee, leather and smoke; conveys a strong impression of soil. Like liquid silk in the mouth, with pure, precise flavors of blackberry, blueberry and game. Wonderfully layered and concentrated, and currently hiding its tightly coiled spring. Finishes with great length and hints of violet and caramel. A connoisseur's wine.In BondSG$4,170.00 -
The Champagne Guide (99)
"(disgorged in 2012; 60% Montagne de Reims pinot noir, 40% Côte des Blancs chardonnay; 18% barrel-fermented in old oak casks; partial malolactic fermentation; 4g/L dosage)... Even at 13 years of age it upholds brilliant primary definition of icy lemon citrus, with only subtle graceful evolution of nougat and butter, promising decades of potential yet. As always, the greatness of Billecart is proclaimed not by impact or power, but by slowly rising complexity and profound chalk mineral presence. Its cascade of minerality is very fine, to the point of silkiness, yet simultaneously poised and confident. Delightful poise and intricate craftsmanship proclaim one of the great Billecarts of the modern era, a champagne with many characters and subplots to reveal, to be enjoyed slowly in the presence of the most intimate company--and ideally not for at least another decade.In BondSG$1,600.00 -
The Champagne Guide (99)
"(disgorged in 2012; 60% Montagne de Reims pinot noir, 40% Côte des Blancs chardonnay; 18% barrel-fermented in old oak casks; partial malolactic fermentation; 4g/L dosage)... Even at 13 years of age it upholds brilliant primary definition of icy lemon citrus, with only subtle graceful evolution of nougat and butter, promising decades of potential yet. As always, the greatness of Billecart is proclaimed not by impact or power, but by slowly rising complexity and profound chalk mineral presence. Its cascade of minerality is very fine, to the point of silkiness, yet simultaneously poised and confident. Delightful poise and intricate craftsmanship proclaim one of the great Billecarts of the modern era, a champagne with many characters and subplots to reveal, to be enjoyed slowly in the presence of the most intimate company--and ideally not for at least another decade.In BondSG$1,380.00 -
Wine Enthusiast (100)
From just over two acres of old vines in the producer's home village of Mareuil-sur-Aÿ, this pure Pinot Noir Champagne is magnificent. A toasty flavor is balanced by concentrated white fruits, with a touch of tannin adding texture. It's an unforgettable wine. Enjoy in the nearterm.In BondSG$2,300.00 -
Wine Advocate (95+)
Most of the 2002 Brut from Boërl & Kroff was bottled in 750-milliliter bottles, so only 800 magnums were produced—a surprising decision, given the vintage, and one Sabaté now laments. Offering up a rich but youthful bouquet of waxy lemon rind, mandarin, warm biscuits, candied peel and honeycomb, this is a full-bodied, vinous Champagne with considerable structure and concentration, with its creamy and muscular profile exemplifying the house style. Long and powerful, it's a terrific wine that will delight admirers of old fashioned Champagne.In BondSG$4,295.00 -
Jancis Robinson MW (19)
Disgorged October 2010. Tasted blind. Something a bit rubbery on the nose but very tense and exciting. Is this the 2008? Tense and vibrant, with lots of complexity and persistence. Impressive for its age.In BondSG$1,280.00 -
James Suckling (99)
It's striking that is as fresh as it is given the ten years in the cellars. It has a fine citrus nose with plenty of lemons, grapefruit and yellow chalky notes, not to mention some lighter floral elements. The palate is super dry (dosage at 3-4g), and there's a silky, sherbet-like texture that makes this smooth fine and long. The citrus flavors give way to the surging acidity and the finish twists very slowly through to lightly toasted cashew nuts mingled with complex fruit and citrus flavors. Disgorged October 22, 2013.In BondSG$1,265.00 -
James Suckling (99)
It's striking that is as fresh as it is given the ten years in the cellars. It has a fine citrus nose with plenty of lemons, grapefruit and yellow chalky notes, not to mention some lighter floral elements. The palate is super dry (dosage at 3-4g), and there's a silky, sherbet-like texture that makes this smooth fine and long. The citrus flavors give way to the surging acidity and the finish twists very slowly through to lightly toasted cashew nuts mingled with complex fruit and citrus flavors. Disgorged October 22, 2013.In BondSG$1,920.00 -
Vinous (98)
We start with a side-by-side comparison of Bollinger’s 2002 and 2004 Vieilles Vignes Françaises, one of my favorite Champagnes. The 2002 is spectacular, as it always is. Rich, warm and resonant, the 2002 covers the palate with seemingly endless layers of burnished, honeyed fruit and the most finessed, subtle mousse imaginable. I don’t see the 2002 making old bones, but it is flat-out great tonight. The 2004, on the other hand, is disappointing. More advanced in its flavors and with quite a bit less structure than the 2002, the 2004 is already maturing and needs to be enjoyed sooner rather than later.In BondSG$3,365.00 -
Vinous - Neal Martin (91)
The 2002 Branaire Ducru was partly made with Philippe Dhalluin and Dominique Arangoïts, who said there was a lot of discussion about the blend at the time. It has an open-knit, earthy bouquet with black fruit, wild mint, singed leather and a touch of potpourri. The palate is medium-bodied with mainly red fruit, white pepper, clove, a slight grittiness to the tannins but with commendable depth and freshness towards the finish. Fine acidity and bite, this is a Saint-Julien that is à point. Tasted at the château.In BondSG$1,295.00 -
Vinous - Stephen Tanzer (87)
Dark ruby-red. Withdrawn aromas of currant and herbs. Dry and quite closed, with limited sweetness. Flavors of plum, leather and currant leaf show only modest ripeness. Firm acids give this wine a slight sour edge.In BondSG$5,000.00 -
Vinous - Stephen Tanzer (87)
Dark ruby-red. Withdrawn aromas of currant and herbs. Dry and quite closed, with limited sweetness. Flavors of plum, leather and currant leaf show only modest ripeness. Firm acids give this wine a slight sour edge.In BondSG$692.00 -
If you seek an exquisite expression of revered French terroir, discover the Claude Cazals Blanc de Blancs Clos Cazals 2002. Cultivated in the illustrious region of Champagne, this tantalising blanc de blancs is the craft of the esteemed Maison Claude Cazals. The maison boasts an illustrious history dating back to the 1890s, renowned for their meticulous viticulture.
The Clos Cazals vineyard is an enclosed vineyard, one of few within Champagne. This remarkable 2002 vintage spent over 15 years maturing on lees, rewarding the palate with an enduring complexity and richness. The wine is pure Chardonnay giving it a certain crisp character presenting resonances of ripe citrus and baked apple.
Defined by an elegant effervescence and distinct minerality, the Claude Cazals Blanc de Blancs Clos Cazals 2002 is a testament to the maison's methodical approach to winemaking. For the discerning connoisseur, this is indeed an object of adoration; a display of the mastery innate to the noble lands of Champagne.
In BondSG$1,800.00 -
Vinous (98+)
Bright, deep red. Very pure, youthful aromas of raspberry, garrigue and pungent minerals; this smells like a five-year-old Burgundy. Round and sweet in the mouth, showing excellent volume for the vintage but also captivating tangy acidity to frame and intensify the flavors of red berries, minerals and black mushroom. Wonderfully suave, seamless wine with great class--and incredibly fresh and youthful for the vintage. Finishes with palate-staining persistence and pungent red fruits. This remarkable wine, probably the youngest 2002 I tasted this fall, still has decades of life ahead of it.In BondSG$1,275.00 -
Wine Advocate (92)
The Foucaults’ 2002 Saumur-Champigny Le Bourg displays a complex aromatic melange of machine, blackberry, smoked meat, resinous herbs, toasted nuts, sauteed mushrooms, flowers, and sweat. Sleek in texture, enormously rich and expansive in the mouth, yet retaining an invigorating core of acidity, it spreads salt and wet stone mineral traces, bitter black fruits and pungent herbs in the wake of its long, penetrating, juicy finish. I imagine this evolving into something like the glorious 1988 I was served on my recent visit. (For notes on the domaine’s whites, please consult the coverage of Anjou and Saumur elsewhere in this report. I did, incidentally, not have a chance to taste the Rougeard 2004s, nor any of their “Le Clos” bottling, which is assembled from several small parcels and lower-priced than their other offerings.)In BondSG$1,155.00 -
The Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Les Poyeux 2002 is a distinguished vintage that mirrors the fine traditional offering of the Loire Valley. Hailing from Clos Rougeard, one of France's best-kept viticultural secrets, Les Poyeux 2002 displays singular notes inherent to Cabernet Franc grapes.
This radiant red wine bears the mark of precise craftsmanship. The Foucault brothers, whom Decanter magazine deemed as 'the greatest winemakers in the world', oversee the organic cultivation, hand-harvesting, and indigenous yeasts fermentation, done in oak barrels. The embodiment of meticulous viniculture, its 12-month maturation in old French oak barrels notably omits sulphur dioxide.
A sip of Clos Rougeard Saumur-Champigny Les Poyeux 2002 takes one on a pleasant journey of balanced black fruit flavours and refined tannins, leading to a lengthy finish. As an emblem of 'Pure Réalité', its luxurious character fits seamlessly with gastronomic encounters.
In BondSG$1,330.00 -
Vinous - Stephen Tanzer (95)
(a blend of 58% cabernet sauvignon, 38% merlot, 3% cabernet franc and 1% petit verdot; aging in 80% new oak) Bright ruby. Pure, precise aromas of cassis, minerals, violet and fresh herbs, with an exotic note of curry that Prats says is from very ripe cabernet sauvignon. Wonderfully sweet and dense, with urgent fruit showing strong tobacco and spice notes and an almost exotic ripeness. But this has the fresh acidity to buffer its high sugars. A wine of great aromatic depth and verve, finishing with firm, thoroughly ripe tannins and superb persistence. Like so many 2002s, this is not yet showing much evidence of new oak. A potentially great vintage for this chateau.In BondSG$2,565.00 -
Vinous - Stephen Tanzer (90-92)
Saturated ruby-red. Crystallized dark berries, licorice, violet and a hint of game on the nose. Dense and thick but bright, with lively, cabernet-driven flavors of crushed dark berries, licorice, tobacco leaf, fresh herbs and earth. Offers unusually full volume for Armailhac, with lots of stuffing to buffer its firm spine of acids and sweet tannins. A superb vintage for this wine.In BondSG$1,305.00 -
Vinous - Stephen Tanzer (85-88)
Red-ruby. Very sweet, exotic aromas of red berry liqueur and licorice. Nicely concentrated, sweet and fruit-driven, with a creamy middle and a faint jammy, even cooked fruit character. Fat and mouthfilling. Finishes with big, dusty tannins.In BondSG$689.00 -
Vinous - Stephen Tanzer (92-95)
(70% whole-cluster fermentation) Brilliant red-ruby. Initially reserved, pure nose exploded with aeration to reveal black raspberry, spices and minerals. Succulent, sharply delineated and solidly structured, with highly complex flavors of red fruits, wild herbs, flowers, smoke and earth. Finishes with very fine tannins and superb length and class. Here one senses a full expression of this vineyard's terroirIn BondSG$3,680.00 -
Matured within the esteemed Maison De Venoge's centuries-old wine cellars in the heart of Champagne, France, comes the exquisite De Venoge Cordon Bleu Brut 2002. As a highly respected blend of 50% Chardonnay, 25% Pinot Noir, and 25% Pinot Meunier grapes, it showcases the superior craftsmanship of De Venoge's winemakers. Each grape is meticulously selected from Premier and Grand Cru vineyards within the Montagne de Reims and Côtes de Blancs regions, thus guaranteeing exceptional quality.
The De Venoge Cordon Bleu Brut 2002 unveils an aromatic symphony of honeyed apricot and brioche, harmonized with a sublime buttery character. The palette is further tantalised with nuances of fresh almonds and pear, elevating the complexity of this divine vintage. A captivating cascade of finely tuned bubbles and luminous golden hues, it elegantly embodies the timeless sophistication of De Venoge's Champagne legacy.
In BondSG$690.00
