Château Latour is the epitome of power and bold concentration that is Pauillac. With a high proportion of Cabernet Sauvignon, the brilliant close knit tannin complimenting the vibrant cassis driven fruit is something to behold. It is often said that buyers of Latour worry about the wines they purchase will outlive them quite considerably such is the pedigree of such a wine. This is a definite concern for the 2009 vintage which is being reported as being the very best in living memory. The wine itself is a masterclass in concentration and power only with a robust and joyful front and mid-palate. Notes of blackberry and dark plum dance along with secondary characters of subtle oak and pencil shavings. A rambunctuous back palate that is almost thick and viscous that is truly forboding. Robert Parker Jnr has been quoted as saying

Château Lascombes was a small property by Bordeaux standards up until 1951, which then grew to beyond its means until the most recent ownership change which has seen better fruit selection and a creation of a second label to produce an estate wine of purity and concentrated flavours. Using the talents of Dr Alain Reynaud and Michel Rolland the wines continue to impress in recent years, namely this spectacular 2009 vintage which is proving to be one of the greatest vintages in the past 100. Even at this early stage the Lascombes looks superb with balance between power and opulence treading a near perfect line.

Another terrific wine from Paul Mas. The nose shows lifted honeysuckle and white peach and the palate is juicy and well balanced with a long, smooth finish. Excellent example of the variety.

This Paul Mas Chardonnay has plenty going for it! Nectarine, melon and minerally aromas are followed by a long, textured palate with stonefruit flavours and fresh acidity. Great value.

A blend of Shiraz, Grenache and Mourvèdre that is simply world-class and has quality that sits well above its amazing price point! A lovely perfumed aroma with hints of violets is matched with supple plummy fruit flavour and soft persistent tannin on the palate.

From the oldest house in Cognac, Martell XO is often overlooked for more commercial counterparts. Those in the know realise that with such a great history and cellar-stock to draw upon, this is one of the most complex, well-made Cognacs produced in the great region.

Light with refreshing acidity, Paul Mas Sauvignon Blanc is different to the fruit ripe New Zealand style Sauvignon, which is packed with passionfruit. In place are gooseberry and lifted white floral notes aroma on the nose. Great steeling mineral on the palate. A fantastic example from the region.

Meukow VSOP Superior is a balanced blend and easy to drink. Have this Cognac on the rocks or with a splash of water. The flavour features some mature fruits, raisins and nuts, a hint of vanilla, and spices are well present. The finish is long, with a little bit of orange peel.

Dopff is a traditional Alsacian producer of quality table and sparkling wines. This fine stylish Riesling is delicately perfumed with both honeysuckle and citrus aromas. A tight palate follows with just the right amount of sweetness to give a textured mouthfeel with green apple and lime flavours. The finish is crisp, clean and racing. A bargain Riesling for those new to the variety and a steal for those who already know the beguiling beauty Riesling is.

This wine displays a sustained and brilliant colour of great depth. The nose has already evolved and shows blackcurrant and other black fruit aromas. On the palate tannins are soft and smooth, with a steady balance and a long, fresh finish. Aromas of fruit, tobacco and liquorice harmoniously blend with those from the oak, giving rise to flavours which coat the palate without roughness. Overall a tender wine which has passed through a spirited youth to reveal the elegance typical of Chantemerle's terroir.