The family behind DBR Lafite has been producing wine in Bordeaux since 1868. Their understanding of Bordeaux has been culminating over six generations, driven by the purpose of allowing wine lovers all over the world to be able to dive into the originality of the varied appellations and terroirs with confidence. DBR Lafite is also B-Corp certified, demonstrating their commitment to environmental and social responsibility. The wines of the Saga R range serve as the reference point of each appellation, with a focus on expressing the freshness and elegance that make Bordeaux great. For Saga R Bordeaux Rouge, there is a higher proportion of Merlot (70%) with remainder of the blend (30%) sourced from well-exposed slopes suited to Cabernet Sauvignon. The Bordeaux tradition of blending these grapes is followed to make a more harmonious wine, and no oak is to preserve the purity of the fruit. A gorgeous bright, crimson purple in appearance, with aromas of dark berries (blackberries, blackcurrants) and Morello cherries. The palate is dense, harmonious and balanced with an aromatic, spicy finish of liquorice. Wonderfully fresh, with richness and excellent drinkability.

In the upper echelon of 2nd Growth estates, Chateau Cos D''Estournel is located in St-Estephe appelltion, on the fringe of Paulliac and notably just north of the famed Lafite vineyards. Tourists flock to the Medoc estate to see the unusual, Asian-inspired Chateau design, but the wines hold their own and rightfully are considered the finest within St-Estephe. Oak is set to around 80% new barrels while alcohol is a modest 14.5%; the blend in 2010 is 78% Cabernet Sauvignon with 19% Merlot and complimentary Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot in tow. A wine for thirty or so years.

Located in Provence, one of Frances oldest wine producing regions, Château Les Mesclances is a winery with deep family history dating back to the Roman times. With the knowledge acquired through generations of wine making and the perfect climate offered by the Provence region, the producers use direct pressing through a mechanical membrane wine press. To make sure to get the best of the grapes fermentation temperature is strictly controlled. All their wines are Organic Conversion and Sustainable Certified.Les Mesclances Charmes, is a delightful and elegant pink salmon coloured rose. On the nose, it has scents of red fruits. On the palate it is light, slightly crisp. It is best enjoyed grilled meat, poultry, salads and great company.

“Faustine” Côtes de Provence La Londe Red,a red wine from the exceptional La Londe sub-appellation, Faustine receives the greatest care at vinification, with "red grape barrel fermentation". The wine is aged for 18 months. Intense Dark Red Garnet. Blood Orange, pine and Eucalyptus. An exceptional wine with a great aromatic power and a endless depth. To drink now, with a maturateredmeat. A remarkable wine to drink between 16 and 19°.

A very important estate in St-Émilion, Château Angélus was acquired by the de Boüard de Laforest family in 1924 and merged with the previously owned Château Mazerat. The apostrophe was dropped in 1989 and is now simply known as Angélus. The wines are characterised by a fabulous texture offered by the high component of Cabernet Franc with the plump softness added by the Merlot creating a wine of pleasing plushness.

Warm, complex, earthy spice tones with a lovely richness. Powerful yet elegant and ageing beautifully.

Brouilly is the largest and furthest south of the Beaujolais crus. It has a good south eastern exposure, at the bottom of the Saône Valley at an altitude of 200 to 300 metres. The subsoil consists of granite debris and blue-tinged schist. This also ranked the full 5 stars in my abbreviated-for-iPad rating system! Immediately exuberant, with a diverse array of floral notes, theres also some white pepper and crushed cherry notes. Gamay varietal by Dominique Piron.