Vinous (98)

The 2014 La Grande Année is stunning. In fact, it is one of the best recent editions I can remember tasting. What comes through most is the wine’s sizzling energy and tension, qualities that aren’t often associated with Bollinger, where the Champagnes tend to show more breadth and volume. In 2014, readers will find a Grande Année built on linear intensity and drive. The 2014 is a blend taken from 19 villages, 61% Pinot Noir and 39% Chardonnay instead of the more typical 70/30 mix. For the second time in two decades (the first was 2007), Verzenay takes the lead in the Pinots over Aÿ, more or less an inverse from the norm. Verzenay, a north-facing village in the Montagne de Reims that saw less rain than Aÿ and most of the Vallée de la Marne, yields Pinots of energy more than volume. That, married with Chardonnays mostly from the Côtes des Blancs (predominantly Chouilly, Vertus, Oiry and Cramant), results in a truly magical Grande Année that will delight Champagne fans for several decades. I can’t recommend the 2014 highly enough. It’s a total knock-out. Disgorged: April, 2021. Dosage: 8 grams per liter.

Vinous (98)

The 2014 La Grande Année is stunning. In fact, it is one of the best recent editions I can remember tasting. What comes through most is the wine’s sizzling energy and tension, qualities that aren’t often associated with Bollinger, where the Champagnes tend to show more breadth and volume. In 2014, readers will find a Grande Année built on linear intensity and drive. The 2014 is a blend taken from 19 villages, 61% Pinot Noir and 39% Chardonnay instead of the more typical 70/30 mix. For the second time in two decades (the first was 2007), Verzenay takes the lead in the Pinots over Aÿ, more or less an inverse from the norm. Verzenay, a north-facing village in the Montagne de Reims that saw less rain than Aÿ and most of the Vallée de la Marne, yields Pinots of energy more than volume. That, married with Chardonnays mostly from the Côtes des Blancs (predominantly Chouilly, Vertus, Oiry and Cramant), results in a truly magical Grande Année that will delight Champagne fans for several decades. I can’t recommend the 2014 highly enough. It’s a total knock-out. Disgorged: April, 2021. Dosage: 8 grams per liter.

Vinous (98)

The 2014 La Grande Année is stunning. In fact, it is one of the best recent editions I can remember tasting. What comes through most is the wine’s sizzling energy and tension, qualities that aren’t often associated with Bollinger, where the Champagnes tend to show more breadth and volume. In 2014, readers will find a Grande Année built on linear intensity and drive. The 2014 is a blend taken from 19 villages, 61% Pinot Noir and 39% Chardonnay instead of the more typical 70/30 mix. For the second time in two decades (the first was 2007), Verzenay takes the lead in the Pinots over Aÿ, more or less an inverse from the norm. Verzenay, a north-facing village in the Montagne de Reims that saw less rain than Aÿ and most of the Vallée de la Marne, yields Pinots of energy more than volume. That, married with Chardonnays mostly from the Côtes des Blancs (predominantly Chouilly, Vertus, Oiry and Cramant), results in a truly magical Grande Année that will delight Champagne fans for several decades. I can’t recommend the 2014 highly enough. It’s a total knock-out. Disgorged: April, 2021. Dosage: 8 grams per liter.

Vinous (97)

The 2014 Rosé La Grande Année is airy, gracious and full of energy. Crushed rocks, white pepper, red berry, mint and blood orange lend striking aromatic intensity and presence. Finely cut and taut, the Rosé is a nervy Champagne that needs time to come together. The Rosé is blended from a base of the Blanc plus 5% still red Pinot from Bollinger’s Coteaux des Enfants vineyard in Aÿ. Perhaps because of its later disgorgement vis-à-vis the Blanc, the Rosé is a bit tight today. Disgorged: August, 2021. Dosage: 8 grams per liter.

Vinous - Antonio Galloni (93)

The 2014 Bonalgue is ripe, racy and voluptuous, all of which make it pretty hard to resist. Dark red cherry, espresso, grilled herbs, French oak and menthol caress the palate. All the elements have come together beautifully in this overt, flamboyant yet midweight Pomerol. Silky tannins add to the wine’s early and medium-term appeal. Another year or two in bottle should help the oak integrate a bit further, but this will always be in a forward, giving style. Tasted two times.

Vinous (95)

Very sexy aromas of apple, wild herbs, spices and soil. Boasts outstanding breadth and sweetness, with lovely savory complexity to the flavors of medicinal herbs, citrus fruits and powdered stone. Really superb tension in the mouth here. The echoing, building finish conveys an impression of outstanding density and a strong saline character. Showing spectacularly today but it's hard to believe that this wine won't shut down in bottle at some point.

Vinous (95)

Very sexy aromas of apple, wild herbs, spices and soil. Boasts outstanding breadth and sweetness, with lovely savory complexity to the flavors of medicinal herbs, citrus fruits and powdered stone. Really superb tension in the mouth here. The echoing, building finish conveys an impression of outstanding density and a strong saline character. Showing spectacularly today but it's hard to believe that this wine won't shut down in bottle at some point.

The Bruno Clair Marsannay Rose 2014 is an exquisite expression from the esteemed French wine producer, Bruno Clair. Hailing from the Marsannay region of Burgundy, the grapes for this elegant rosé are meticulously harvested from a distinctive, calcareous clay terroir. This meticulously selected provenance gives the wine its signature notes.

This pale-hued, refreshing rosé artfully amalgamates flavours of succulent strawberries, red cherries, and hints of citrus, underpinned by a delightful minerality. Aged in the domaine's traditional ‘foudres’, large wooden vats, it presents an intriguing complexity and texture. The vintage 2014 embodies the signature freshness of Bruno Clair's wines, imbued with a lingering finish, rendering it a perfect accompaniment to a variety of dishes.

The Bruno Clair Marsannay Rose 2014 is indicative of Bruno Clair’s emblematic precision and expression of terroir, a testament to the domaine's mastery in winemaking, refined over generations. An indulgent experience for discerning wine enthusiasts.

Exuding grace and sophistication, the Butte Bourgueil Mi Pente 2014 is an exquisite testament to traditional French winemaking. Allied with the finest Cabernet Franc grapes handpicked from the sun-kissed hills of Bourgueil in the Loire Valley, this wine is a marvel of nature and human ingenuity. Accurate craftsmanship by the astute vintner produces its signature medium-bodied elegance accompanied by intriguingly complex flavours.

Following the classic Bourgueil style, it is carefully aged for up to 24 months in wooden oak barrels to craft a remarkable bouquet providing a harmonious blend of rich dark fruits and an underlying subtly of earthy undertones. Finely balanced acidity and supple tannins add to its impressively long finish, promising prolonged pleasure.

Butte Bourgueil Mi Pente 2014 indeed captures the essence of the region and the unrivalled skills of its producer. A distinguished selection, it caters to the sophisticated palate of the discerning, experienced wine aficionado.

Vinous - Antonio Galloni (96+)

The 2014 Calon Ségur is a real show-stopper. Unusually ripe, powerful and seductive, the wine exudes class. Myriad shades of plum, sweet red cherry, pomegranate, spice and blood orange are all on display. Wild flowers, tobacco and host of more aromatic notes develop in the glass. Above all else, though, the 2014 is a wine of pure power and breadth. This is yet another fabulous showing for the 2014 Calon Ségur, a wine that vies for top honors in this vintage. Don't miss it. The blend is 67 % Cabernet Sauvignon, 19 % Merlot, 15 % Cabernet Franc and 2 % Petit Verdot.

James Suckling (96)

Intense aromas of minerals, chalk, bright cherries and stones. Full-bodied, tight and silky; very linear. Like a straight shot. Give it three to four years to soften. Vibrant is the word.

Vinous - Antonio Galloni (95+)

One of the wines of the vintage, the 2014 Canon La Gaffelière is explosive, lifted and aristocratic in its breeding. Bright Cabernet Franc aromatics give the wine its signature lift and precision. Raspberry jam, rose petal, mint, blood orange, tobacco and pomegranate build slowly on the palate, leading to a super-expressive, finely knit finish. Powerful yet also impeccably refined, the 2014 has it all. The 2014 is 55 % Merlot, 37 % Cabernet Franc and 8 % Cabernet Sauvignon. Don't miss it. Tasted two times.

Vinous - Antonio Galloni (95+)

One of the wines of the vintage, the 2014 Canon La Gaffelière is explosive, lifted and aristocratic in its breeding. Bright Cabernet Franc aromatics give the wine its signature lift and precision. Raspberry jam, rose petal, mint, blood orange, tobacco and pomegranate build slowly on the palate, leading to a super-expressive, finely knit finish. Powerful yet also impeccably refined, the 2014 has it all. The 2014 is 55 % Merlot, 37 % Cabernet Franc and 8 % Cabernet Sauvignon. Don't miss it. Tasted two times.

James Suckling (94)

I like the floral character, which highlights the aromas of currants and berries. Full body and a firm and tight center palate. Silky tannins and a savory and creamy-textured finish. A beautifully balanced red. Try in 2021, but it’s already gorgeous to taste.

Vinous - Neal Martin (92)

The 2014 Cantenac Brown has a well-defined bouquet with blackberry, cedar, crushed violet and cold stone aromas. I love the detail and focus here. The palate is medium-bodied with fine grain tannin, supple and almost velvety in texture, the acidity well judged with a rounded, lightly spiced finish that feels so tender, yet does not shortchange you on persistence. This is one of the best Cantenac-Brown wines that I have encountered in recent years. Tasted blind at the annual Southwold tasting.

Vinous - Antonio Galloni (92)

The 2014 Capbern is bold, ripe and quite juicy. Although not especially subtle, the 2014 possesses striking aromatic nuance, power and intensity. Dried cherry, licorice, herbs, tobacco and mint add attractive aromatic topnotes, but it is the wine’s juiciness that stands out most. This is a strong showing. The 2014 offers plenty of near- and medium-term appeal, but also has enough structure to drink well for at least a number of years. Tasted two times.

Unveiling the 'Cauhape Jurancon Quintessence Petit Manseng 2014', a fine specimen of utmost sophistication from esteemed producer Henri Ramonteu. Crafted in the Jurancon region of South-West France, renowned for its distinct terroir and unique Petite Manseng grapes, this exceptional vintage truly embodies its birthplace. The wine undergoes traditional vinification with long fermentation, contributing to its intriguing complexity. A scent of marmalade mixed with roasted orange peel hints at its rich profile.

The 'Cauhape Jurancon Quintessence Petit Manseng 2014' engulfs the palate with a delightful surge of tropical fruit, followed by a long, mineral-rich finish. This vibrant wine elegantly balances a zesty freshness with a comforting sweetness. Every sip demonstrates the masterful work of Ramonteu, cementing its place among the finest wines of Jurancon. A sublime interaction of intensity and refinement, 'Cauhape Jurancon Quintessence Petit Manseng 2014' is an indulgence, warranting the attention of any discerning wine aficionado.

Delight in the exquisite flavours of Cecile Tremblay Bourgogne Croix Blanche 2014, a remarkable expression of the Bourgogne region's rich terroir. Cecile Tremblay, a third-generation vintner, has meticulously crafted this Pinot Noir using traditional biodynamic practices, upholding the deep-rooted heritage of her forebears. This wine presents a captivating complexity, with notes of ripe red berries perfectly balanced by an earthy minerality and subtle spice undertones.

Grown in the celebrated region of Côte de Nuits in Burgundy, France, every bottle of Cecile Tremblay Bourgogne Croix Blanche 2014 echoes the unparalleled nuances of its home soil. With an 18-month ageing process in French oak barrels, this wine matures into a beautifully balanced creation with silky tannins and striking clarity. Renowned for its focused style and distinct identity, Cecile Tremblay Bourgogne Croix Blanche 2014 is a truly unique addition to any connoisseur's collection.

Vinous (93+)

Medium red. Musky aromas of black raspberry and crushed rock. Concentrated, creamy and fresh, offering serious intensity to its dense raspberry and mineral flavors. Bright acidity contributes to the impression of inner-mouth tension and cut. The tannins are present but quite fine on the long, firm finish, which offers terrific floral lift. This superb wine reminded me of a 1999 in style.

Wine Advocate (95)

The 2014 Echézeaux Grand Cru du Dessus, which was completely destemmed, has a lovely bouquet, very harmonious and perhaps showing more complexity than the Chapelle-Chambertin at the moment. The mineralité really comes through here. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannin, vibrant and vivacious with perfectly judged acidity. This is a really quite beautiful Echézeaux for long term aging (if you can resist temptation).

Vinous (91-93)

Bright red-ruby. Very pure, perfumed aromas and flavors of blackberry, boysenberry, minerals, violet and cocoa powder. Sappy and tightly wound, conveying a powerful impression of vinosity thanks to its pungent minerality. The pH here of 3. 45 is the lowest in the cellar in 2014. Indeed, this wine shows a distinctly cool quality in the context of the vintage, and finishes with excellent chewy length. Tremblay told me that the 2008 version of this wine was paired by a chef with a tuna dish during a trip to Tokyo and that the combination was perfect.

Vinous - Antonio Galloni (94+)

The 2014 Certan de May offers terrific depth and intensity, although it is very much closed in on itself. Dark cherry, tobacco, cedar, mint, licorice and dried flowers gain volume over time. Deceptively medium in body, the 2014 has plenty of underlying tannin as well as enough acidity to drink well for a number of years.

Wine Spectator (94)

A lean, racy red, featuring cherry, strawberry, spice and mineral flavors. Very compact and linear, this is nonetheless persistent and long on the aftertaste. Coiled and youthful, this will need time to unwind. Best from 2020 through 2032.

Decanter (100)

This immediately exhibits the spellbinding, rich complexity that characterises this Hermitage cuvée. A really special, luxurious aromatic display that includes mango and raw cream. It’s full-bodied, with all the puppy fat that you might expect from de l'Orée. The oak is well integrated, contributing silk and spice notes, adding to the complexity. This is sublime. So long and fresh, just a perfect expression of white Hermitage. It’s rich, but somehow without heaviness. Just absolutely gorgeous.

Vinous (94)

Brilliant yellow. Vibrant, mineral-accented aromas of pear, Meyer lemon and jasmine; hints of smoky lees, iodine and fennel emerge with aeration. Sappy, deeply concentrated orchard and pit fruit, melon and brioche flavors are sharpened by an incisive mineral nuance. Finishes sappy, minerally and extremely long, with echoes of citrus pith and dusty minerals adding cut and focus.

Decanter (99)

Aromatically a different register to the 2014 de l'Orée tasted directly beforehand. This is less richly fruited, with a more herbal, almost vegetal note, like tomato stalk. A little closed on the nose. Full-bodied, and grand. Good acidity that feels firm and gently steely. Great amplitude, a sensation that stays with you into the length. A forceful white Hermitage, that still has great freshness, energy and (relatively speaking for a white Hermitage) precise acidity. So long. A surging tsunami of a wine.

Vinous (91-93)

Brilliant yellow. Intensely perfumed aromas of poached pear, orange, candied fig and jasmine take on a hint of dusty minerality. Smooth, concentrated and expansive on the palate, offering intense, mineral-tinged orchard and pit fruit flavors and a refreshing touch of bitter quinine. Finishes very long and supple, with impressive clarity and building spiciness.

Matthew Jukes (19.5+)

2014 Blanc des Millénaires is only the 8th vintage of this wine released since the inaugural wine in 1983. Let’s not beat around the bush – is a spectacular Champagne. To put this wine to the test, I opened my sample bottle and tasted it with four wine trade Titans. A buyer, a retailer, a journalist and an importer were all struck dumb by this wine. I told them they were not allowed to spread the word until today – which as I understand it is the release date. I set the scene for this tasting by opening a magnum of another famous Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru before pouring Blanc de Millénaires to ensure that everyone’s’ palates were in match fit condition to assess our hero wine. After the cooing and nodding abated regsarding the much-loved magnum, I popped the cork on BdM and poured one of the most colourless Champagnes I can remember. And then the magic started. After the sensual creaminess of our ‘apéritif Blanc de Blancs’ it was immediately apparent that ’14 Blanc de Millénaires was cut from very different cloth. This is a raspingly refreshing wine. It is so precision-cut you might want to wear gloves. There is no doubt this unnervingly keen creation is not one for beginners. And if you feel a tear fighting to set free from a loose duct, just let it go. This wine is all about emotion and you must be leaden-hearted for it not to move you profoundly with its laser-sighted flavours and extraordinary tension. Flavour-wise it is incredible how so much direction and decisiveness can emerge from such a seemingly demure wine. Approaching its tenth birthday, and with eight of these years spent on its lees, it seems like this wine has been chiselled out of a gleamingly white chalk sarcophagus as it sits naked in the glass, and there is so much potential here it takes the breath away. My intrepid group could not summon the energy to scratch our collective heads. There was just a collegiate sense of disbelief and then, a couple of minutes later, an exhalation of exultation – a synchronous moan of pure joy that somehow kicked us all back into the moment, granting us permission to acknowledge what had just happened. Given the experience around the table, we were of one voice – this is a landmark vintage for Heidsieck’s incredible Chardonnay and while it is straight-jacketed, brutally honest, and epically long, there are just enough white florals, tender sablé tones and dramatic citrus zestiness, to signal that this wine will be nothing short of era-defining given time.

This is a very good bottle of BezeBuilt well, good red fruit, compote, a touch of woody spice but subtle, nice ripe pleasant tannins. Raspberry, crushed blackberry and cool blueberry and sloe.