The Wine Independent (94)

James Suckling (91-92)

Embarking on a tasting journey with the exquisite Justices 2016 is a sublime adventure. This transcendent vintage comes from the revered vineyards in the fertile slopes of Bordeaux, France, meticulously crafted under the guidance of renowned winemaker Jean Philippe Justices himself. Justices 2016 is a rare blend of Merlot and Cabernet Franc, matured using traditional barrel ageing methods which contribute to its astounding complexity and richness. This vintage exudes an enchanting bouquet of ripe black cherries, wild raspberries and delicate violet nuances, all underscored by a provocative layer of minerality. The palate is beautifully balanced, marrying fruity opulence with suave tannins, culminating in a devilishly long finish. Justices 2016, operating under the umbrella of Chateau Fayau, has received critical acclaim from Masters of Wine and top sommeliers globally. It presents a wonderful opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts seeking an outstanding expression of the quintessential Bordeaux blend.

Chateau Les Vieux Ormes 2014 exemplifies the quintessential Bordeaux craftsmanship from the esteemed Pomerol appellation. Cultivated on meticulously maintained clay and gravel soils, the estate's Merlot-dominant vineyards benefit from optimal sun exposure and rigorous selection. Hand-harvested, the grapes undergo gentle destemming and fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats, preserving the varietal's delicate nuances. Malolactic fermentation and extended ageing in French oak barrels enhance the wine's complexity and structure. The 2014 vintage is revered for its balance and elegance, displaying rich notes of blackcurrant, plum, and subtle hints of graphite and spice, culminating in a velvety, persistent finish. Under the stewardship of the distinguished producer, Chateau Les Vieux Ormes maintains a legacy of excellence, delivering a wine that promises both immediate pleasure and graceful ageing potential. Ideal for connoisseurs seeking a refined expression of Pomerol terroir, Chateau Les Vieux Ormes 2014 stands as a testament to superior viticultural and winemaking practices.

Chateau Marsannay Clos Vougeot 2019 epitomises the elegance and tradition of Burgundy’s esteemed Clos Vougeot appellation. Crafted from meticulously selected Pinot Noir grapes, this vintage benefits from the region’s limestone-rich soils, imparting a distinct minerality and finesse. The vineyards are sustainably managed, ensuring optimal grape quality and expression of terroir. Fermentation occurs in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, followed by ageing in French oak barrels for 18 months, allowing subtle integration of tannins and the development of complex flavours. On the nose, it reveals enticing layers of red berries, cherries, and subtle earthy undertones, while the palate is supple yet structured, offering a harmonious balance and a lingering finish. Chateau Marsannay, renowned for its heritage and unwavering commitment to excellence, delivers a wine that is both refined and expressive, making its 2019 Clos Vougeot a distinguished choice for connoisseurs seeking authenticity and sophistication in every sip.

Immerse in the velvety richness of Chateau Marsannay Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru Champeaux 2016. Produced in the acclaimed winemaking region of Gevrey-Chambertin in Marsannay, France, this exceptional vintage boasts a harmonious blend of finesse and elegance. With over half a century of winemaking expertise, Chateau Marsannay expertly cultivates its vines in the calcareous clay soil, perfect for developing the complex flavours encapsulated in this premier cru. The 2016 bottling demonstrates an exquisite balance of ripe dark berry notes, subtle spice undertones and rounded tannins achieved through precise vinification involving meticulous sorting, de-stemming and barrel ageing. With its aromatic intensity and persistent finish, every sip of the Chateau Marsannay Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru Champeaux 2016 is a testament to the distinctive terroir and the adept craftsmanship that differentiate this splendid wine from the rest. A sophisticated addition to any fine wine collection.

Discover the exquisite Chateau Marsannay Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru Champeaux 2017, a testament to Burgundy’s prestigious viticultural heritage. Cultivated in the esteemed Champeaux vineyard, this Pinot Noir flourishes in the region’s limestone-rich soils, imparting a distinctive minerality. The 2017 vintage benefited from an optimal growing season, characterised by balanced sunshine and rainfall, ensuring optimal grape ripeness. Chateau Marsannay employs traditional winemaking techniques, including hand harvesting and meticulous sorting, to preserve the grape’s integrity. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats, followed by ageing in French oak barrels for 12 months, which enhances the wine’s complexity without overshadowing its delicate fruit profile. The Chateau Marsannay Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru Champeaux 2017 boasts vibrant aromas of red cherries, raspberries, and subtle earthy undertones, culminating in a harmonious, elegant palate with refined tannins and a lingering finish. Ideal for discerning collectors, this wine exemplifies exceptional craftsmanship and terroir expression.

Chateau Marsannay Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru Champeaux 2018 embodies the quintessential elegance of Burgundy. Cultivated in the esteemed Champeaux vineyard, this wine benefits from the region's renowned limestone-rich soils and optimal microclimate. Hand-harvested Pinot Noir grapes undergo meticulous fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats, followed by ageing in French oak barrels for 18 months, ensuring a harmonious balance between fruit purity and subtle oak nuances. Produced by the esteemed Chateau Marsannay winery, a family-owned estate with a legacy dating back over a century, this 2018 vintage showcases deep ruby hues and complex aromas of red berries, cherry, and delicate earth undertones. On the palate, it offers a refined structure with velvety tannins and a lingering finish, reflecting the meticulous craftsmanship and terroir excellence. Ideal for connoisseurs seeking a distinguished expression of Gevrey-Chambertin’s 1er Cru heritage.

Boasting an unparallelled pedigree, Chateau Marsannay Vosne Romanee 1er Cru En Orveaux 2015 epitomises the best of Burgundy's red wine. Originating from Vosne-Romanée, celebrated as the pinnacle for Pinot Noir the world over, this vintage bears the craftmanship of Chateau Marsannay's skilled vintners. Spending 14 to 16 months maturing in French oak barrels, the wine procures a silky texture and a sophisticated layering of flavour. An intense bouquet releases beautiful accents of dark fruit and subtle spices, while the palate reveals a powerful full-bodied richness balanced by fresh fruit acidity, presenting a gloriously smooth finish. This is a complex and elegant selection from the esteemed 2015 vintage, solidifying Chateau Marsannay's reputation as an outstanding producer. The Chateau Marsannay Vosne Romanee 1er Cru En Orveaux 2015 is, unquestionably, a premier selection for every discerning fine wine connoisseur with its harmonious fusion of strength, grace, and unerring quality.

Boasting an unparallelled pedigree, Chateau Marsannay Vosne Romanee 1er Cru En Orveaux 2015 epitomises the best of Burgundy's red wine. Originating from Vosne-Romanée, celebrated as the pinnacle for Pinot Noir the world over, this vintage bears the craftmanship of Chateau Marsannay's skilled vintners. Spending 14 to 16 months maturing in French oak barrels, the wine procures a silky texture and a sophisticated layering of flavour. An intense bouquet releases beautiful accents of dark fruit and subtle spices, while the palate reveals a powerful full-bodied richness balanced by fresh fruit acidity, presenting a gloriously smooth finish. This is a complex and elegant selection from the esteemed 2015 vintage, solidifying Chateau Marsannay's reputation as an outstanding producer. The Chateau Marsannay Vosne Romanee 1er Cru En Orveaux 2015 is, unquestionably, a premier selection for every discerning fine wine connoisseur with its harmonious fusion of strength, grace, and unerring quality.

Chateau Meursault Bourgogne Terroir d'Exception 2021 exemplifies the pinnacle of Burgundy's Chardonnay artistry. Cultivated in the esteemed Meursault appellation, the vineyards benefit from limestone-rich soils and optimal microclimates that impart distinctive minerality and elegance. Hand-harvested grapes are meticulously vinified using traditional Burgundian techniques, including gentle pressing and ageing in French oak barrels to enhance complexity without overshadowing the varietal's purity. The 2021 vintage showcases a brilliant golden hue, complemented by aromas of ripe citrus, white flowers, and subtle hazelnut undertones. On the palate, it offers a harmonious balance of vibrant acidity, creamy texture, and a long, lingering finish. Produced by Chateau Meursault, a revered name with a legacy of excellence, this wine reflects their unwavering commitment to quality and terroir expression. Perfect for discerning connoisseurs, Chateau Meursault Bourgogne Terroir d'Exception 2021 is a stunning addition to any fine wine collection.

Immerse your palate in the sublime splendour of the Chateau Meursault Corton Grand Cru Vergennes 2015. Delight in the velvety texture and rich intensity that emanate from the luxuriant terroir of Burgundy's esteemed Corton hill. Authentically crafted by Chateau Meursault, a wine producer respected for their commitment to preserving ancestral winemaking techniques, this Grand Cru offers an unparalleled taste experience.

Harvested meticulously by hand, each pinot noir grape has been aged 15 months in French oak, contributing to the wine's noble structure and intricate layers of flavour. Relish the captivating bouquet of ripe berries, nuances of forest floor and subtle hint of vanilla. On the palate, Chateau Meursault Corton Grand Cru Vergennes 2015 reveals an elegant symphony of full-bodied fruit, seamlessly balanced with a firm tannin backbone and a persistent, harmonious finish.

With impressive longevity, the Chateau Meursault Corton Grand Cru Vergennes 2015 is a treasure for wine collectors, a testament to Burgundy's esteemed winemaking heritage.

Chateau Meursault Meursault Clos des Grands Charrons 2018 epitomises the pinnacle of Burgundy winemaking. Sourced exclusively from the esteemed Clos des Grands Charrons vineyard in Meursault, this Grand Cru Chardonnay flourishes on rich marl and limestone soils, imparting profound complexity and minerality. Handpicked with precision, the grapes undergo gentle pressing followed by fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks to preserve their vibrant fruit character. The wine is then meticulously aged for 12 months in a combination of new and seasoned French oak barrels, enhancing its depth without overshadowing its innate elegance. Under the expert guidance of Chateau Meursault, a producer renowned for its commitment to sustainable viticulture and traditional craftsmanship, the 2018 vintage unveils a harmonious bouquet of citrus, white peach, and subtle almond notes. On the palate, it offers a beautifully balanced structure with crisp acidity and a long, refined finish, making Chateau Meursault Meursault Clos des Grands Charrons 2018 a distinguished choice for connoisseurs seeking exceptional quality.

Immerse yourself in the elegance of the Chateau Meursault Meursault Clos des Grands Charrons 2019. This exquisite wine hails from famed Burgundy's Côte de Beaune region, known for its exceptional white wines. With a reputation for mastering the delicate Chardonnay grape, Chateau Meursault triumphs in expressing the unique terroir and climate subtly influencing each vintage's characteristics. The 2019 Clos des Grands Charrons is hand-harvested and meticulously aged for 15 months in French oak barrique, adding depth and complexity to the wine's distinctively fresh and fruity profile. Expect hints of green apple and white flowers on the nose, leading to a full-bodied palate intensified by expressive minerality and a lingering, well-balanced finish. The Chateau Meursault Meursault Clos des Grands Charrons 2019, a beacon of precision viticulture and artisanal winemaking, will grace any collection or occasion. It stands as a landmark representation of the quality and refinement associated with Chateau Meursault's creations.

Indulge in the delectable Chateau Meursault Meursault Clos des Grands Charrons 2022. An unparalleled emblem of opulence from the prestigious vineyards nestled in the quaint regions of Meursault, Burgundy. This wine – delicately crafted by the revered winemakers at the Chateau Meursault – showcases the quintessence of meticulous winemaking. Chateau Meursault employs time-honoured techniques, including manual harvesting and barrel ageing, to produce this sommeliers' favourite. The Meursault Clos des Grands Charrons exhibits an enchanting golden hue, a testament to its high quality Chardonnay grapes. On the palate, it delivers heady notes of pear, honeysuckle and butter, perfectly balanced with a graceful acidity and a plush, lingering finish. Indeed, the Chateau Meursault Meursault Clos des Grands Charrons 2022 is an indulgent experience, capturing the substance and charm of its unique terroir. A prestigious addition to any wine collection, tightly linked to its fruitful, limestone-rich provenance and the vintner's painstaking attention to detail.

Chateau Moncontour, Vouvray, Brut NV epitomises the excellence of Loire Valley sparkling wines. Crafted with meticulous care in the esteemed Vouvray appellation, this Brut NV is produced by the distinguished Chateau Moncontour, a family-owned estate with a heritage spanning over three centuries. The winery employs the traditional méthode champenoise, selecting premium Chenin Blanc grapes from organically and biodynamically managed vineyards that thrive in the region’s unique terroir. Fermentation occurs in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, ensuring purity and precision, followed by an extended lees aging period of 30 months to develop depth and complexity. The wine reveals an elegant bouquet of green apple, pear, citrus blossom, and subtle brioche notes. On the palate, it offers vibrant acidity balanced by fine, persistent bubbles, with layers of citrus zest, mineral undertones, and a clean, lingering finish. Ideal as an aperitif or paired with seafood and poultry, Chateau Moncontour, Vouvray, Brut NV stands as a testament to exceptional craftsmanship and timeless sophistication.

Vinous (93+)

Vinous (93)

Vinous (93)

Vinous - Antonio Galloni (94+)

Vinous (94+)

Chateau Moulin A Vent Moulin A Vent Champ Cour 2021 epitomises the elegance and craftsmanship of premier viticulture. Nestled in the esteemed Bordeaux appellation, this exquisite vintage is meticulously produced by the renowned Chateau Moulin A Vent, a family-run estate with a legacy spanning over a century. Handpicked grapes from meticulously maintained vineyards undergo traditional fermentation in stainless steel vats, followed by ageing in French oak barrels for 18 months, imparting a harmonious balance of fruit and tannin. The 2021 vintage reveals a deep ruby hue, complemented by aromas of blackcurrant, cedar, and subtle spice. On the palate, it offers a velvety texture with layered complexity and a lingering finish, making it a superb companion for fine dining or contemplative enjoyment. Chateau Moulin A Vent Moulin A Vent Champ Cour 2021 stands as a testament to the producer’s dedication to quality and the exceptional terroir of its origin, ensuring an unforgettable wine experience.

Steeped in the revered tradition of Rhone Valley viticulture, the Chateau Pegau Cotes du Rhone Maclura 2019 represents the epitome of authentic, artisanal winemaking. Produced by the esteemed Chateau Pegau, a renowned winery established in the 17th century and a beloved name among wine connoisseurs worldwide. This compelling blend is composed predominantly of Grenache, paired harmoniously with Syrah and Mourvèdre. The wine is crafted traditionally, fermented in concrete vats, and aged in large oak foudres, which magnifies its depth and complexity.

The Chateau Pegau Cotes du Rhone Maclura 2019, acclaimed for its rugged elegance, exhibits ripe black fruit and garrigue-laden aromas. Its robust structure on the palate is balanced by ripe, silky tannins, leading to a resoundingly long finish. Uniting power, finesse and timeless appeal, this vintage is a definitive expression of its unique terroir and the skilled hands that crafted it.

Chateau Philippe-Le-Hardi Clos de Vougeot Grand Cru 2019 epitomises the exquisite craftsmanship of Burgundy’s esteemed vineyards. Nestled within the renowned Clos de Vougeot Grand Cru in Côte de Nuits, this Pinot Noir undergoes meticulous hand harvesting to ensure optimal grape selection. The estate, led by the venerable Philippe Le-Hardi, employs traditional winemaking techniques combined with modern precision, including gentle fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats and ageing in French oak barrels for 18 months. The 2019 vintage benefits from a balanced climate, allowing the grapes to develop profound aromatics and a structured palate. On the nose, one can discern notes of ripe red berries, subtle earthiness, and hints of spice, while the palate reveals a harmonious blend of silky tannins and vibrant acidity, culminating in a long, elegant finish. Chateau Philippe-Le-Hardi Clos de Vougeot Grand Cru 2019 is a testament to exceptional terroir and masterful vinification, ideal for discerning collectors and enthusiasts alike.

Chateau Philippe-Le-Hardi Mercurey Vieilles Vignes 2022 is a distinguished expression from the esteemed vineyards of Mercurey. Crafted with meticulous attention, this wine is produced from old-vine Pinot Noir grapes, ensuring remarkable depth and complexity. The vines, exceeding several decades in age, flourish in the limestone-rich soils characteristic of the Côte Chalonnaise, imparting a distinct minerality and elegance. Under the expert stewardship of Philippe Le-Hardi, renowned for sustainable viticulture, the 2022 vintage underwent a precise fermentation process in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, followed by ageing in French oak barrels. The result is a harmonious balance of ripe red fruits, subtle spice, and refined tannins, showcasing the terroir's exquisite character. Chateau Philippe-Le-Hardi Mercurey Vieilles Vignes 2022 exemplifies the producer’s unwavering commitment to quality and tradition, making it a prized addition to any fine wine collection.

The Chateau Pommard Chambertin-Clos Beze Grand Cru 2013 is an exquisite expression of French winemaking excellence. Crafted in the world-renowned vineyards of Chateau Pommard, the heart of Burgundy's Côte de Nuits, this wine retains the region's distinctive terroir. The vinification takes place in French oak casks chosen for their fine grain and moderate toasting. Hand-harvested grapes are meticulously selected to preserve the fine balance between power and aromatic precision.

This vintage offers a profound clarity of taste, enriched with exuberant aromas of ripe red fruits, ethereal, earthy undertones, followed by a long, sophisticated finish. Wines of Chateau Pommard are distinctively authentic, produced from century-old practices, and the 2013 Chambertin-Clos Beze Grand Cru is no exception. This rich, red wine is inarguably a crowning symbol of the Chateau's uncompromising quality and heritage, with every bottle encapsulating the unique subtleties of its birth year

Handcrafted from the verdant vineyards of Burgundy, Chateau Pommard Clos Marey-Monge Monopole 2008 is a luxurious, full-bodied red. This exclusive, award-winning wine derives from the oldest monopole in Burgundy, making it undeniably rare. Its exquisite flavour profile marries rich black fruits with sumptuous, earthy undertones and delicate hints of dark chocolate. Meticulously aged in French oak barrels to mature its flavour and opulent complexity, it is instantly recognisable by its intense, ruby hue. The wine's well-balanced tannins and crisp acidity have resulted in rave reviews from oenophiles around the globe.

The prestigious Chateau Pommard, cherished for centuries of vinicultural excellence, has meticulously cared for this unique terroir since 1726. Biodynamic cultivation practices translate into the bottle, reflecting the dedication to preserving the vineyard's rich diversity. Emanating elegance and refinement, Chateau Pommard Clos Marey-Monge Monopole 2008 unquestionably offers an unmatched and unforgettable tasting experience.

Experience the embodiment of immaculate Burgundy winemaking with the stunning Chateau Pommard Clos Marey-Monge Monopole 2009. Crafted in the renowned Pommard commune of France and sourced from the legendary Clos Marey-Monge vineyard, this esteemed, richly-hued pinot noir exploits the unique terroir of its birthplace in the heart of the Côte de Beaune. Intricate vinification methods such as délestage and remontage lend a refined complexity to the Monopole, which encapsulates powerful, lingering notes of red fruit, blended with subtle threading of spice and velvety tannins. Superbly balanced, this age-worthy gem also reveals hints of oak, clove and underbrush from its nuanced fermentation in French oak barrels. Celebrated for its rarity and prestige, Chateau Pommard Clos Marey-Monge Monopole 2009 is indeed a testament to the enduring fine wine manifestation of the Pommard estate.

Boasting a rich history, Chateau Pommard Clos Marey-Monge Monopole 2011 hails from one of the most revered wineries in Burgundy, France. This exquisite wine, harvested by hand, reveals complex layers of dark and red berries, enriched by the estate's unique microclimate and heritage-rich terroir dating back 2,000 years. The deep clay and limestone soils of the single-vineyard 'monopole', contribute to the bold characteristics of the Pinot Noir grapes. The 2011 vintage showcases elegant tannins, an enchanting balance of freshness and structure, with a strikingly long finish. Chateau Pommard employs traditional winemaking techniques, ensuring superior quality and finesse. The ageing in French oak barrels for 18 months results in a lavish palette of flavours, creating a wine of distinction and complexity. Chateau Pommard Clos Marey-Monge Monopole 2011 is an embodiment of exceptional Burgundy winemaking tradition, a true gem for discerning oenophiles.

Indulge in the exquisite sensation of the Chateau Pommard Clos Marey-Monge Monopole 2012, the unrivalled product of a renowned winery nestled within the Burgundy wine region of France. This high-profile monopole, born from the combined soils of iron-rich clay and deadly limestone, promises a dense, deeply layered Pinot Noir. The grapes, hand-picked at optimal maturation, follow a prudent vinification process ensuring preservation of inherent character and quality.

Considered a stellar vintage, 2012 was marked by challenging climatic conditions, which ultimately led to a smaller but supremely fine yield. The end result is a wine of elegant complexity, exhibited through an array of ripe red fruit, earthy undertones and delicate tannins. On the palate, the Chateau Pommard Clos Marey-Monge Monopole 2012 unfolds with incredible balance, escalating into a lasting, intensely flavoured finish. This is a profound reflection of meticulous winemaking in harmony with respect for terroir - a captivating portrayal of Pommard's Monopole heritage.