Daniel Bouland Côte de Brouilly Cuvée Mélanie
Domaine du Gros' Noré Bandol Rouge
Although Bandol produces the most serious red wines in Provence, it still isn't a particularly well known appellation, and chances are most people haven't even heard of Bandol. This intriguing wine is a blend of Mourvèdre (80%) and a dash of Cinsault (15%) and old vine Carignan (5%).
Tua Rita Perlato del Bosco, Tuscany
Daniel Bouland Morgon Corcelette
Clos du Marquis
Château d'Armailhac
Jean-Luc Colombo Cornas Terres Brûlées ("The Roasted Earths") Organic
Jean-Luc Colombo has forged an international reputation as one of the most visionary and imaginative winemakers in Frances Rhône Valley and especially in Cornas. Les Terres Brûlées (The Burnt Earths) is the prettilest expression of Syrah from the Cornas appellation. From a mixture of 20 to 60 year old vines this wine is a subtle blend I fulfill each year from different plots. The tannins, powerful but elegant, are softened by a well-managed maturation of two years in oak. The wine of intense ruby colour has aromas of raspberry, liquorice, coffee and a long spicy finish. Linger over this wine with a rib roast of beef and dauphinoise potatoes. Will open in 2 to 3 years, but may be cellared for 15 years. Certified Organic. 100% Syrah.
Château Gloria
Grattamacco Bolgheri Rosso
60% Cabernet, 20% Cabernet Franc, 10% Merlot and 10% Sangiovese. Fermentation is conducted in open truncated cone shaped vats followed by malolactic and ageing in barriques (new and second passage) for 10 months, with a minimum of 6 months bottle refinement. An ample nose of red and black berry fruit, sweet spice and earthy notes. The palate hints at Tuscan flavours of leather, tar and grilled herbs, finishing rich and smooth.
Chateau La Dominique St Emilion
La Dominique is a Grand Cru Classe growth of Saint-Émillion, leading the way in many fields of modernisation and innovation amongst the chateaux of Bordeaux. Owner Clement Fayat has spent decades on improving everything from vinification facilities, to drainage, to the cellars, to a bright red (and controversially visible from a distance) vat house completed in 2013. Benefitting (similarly to their famous neighbours, Ch. Cheval Blanc) from a proximity to Pomerol, La Dominique produces Merlot-led wines that combine vigour and elegance.