Burghound (92)

Jasper Morris Inside Burgundy (93-95)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Vinous (92)

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