Chateau Haut-Bailly Grand cru classe
While the estate known as Chateau Haut-Bailly dates back to 1461, its wine production began in 1530, falling into the hands of the de Leuvarde and Le Bailly families in 1630. It was purchased in 1998 by Robert G Wilmers, a Harvard-educated banker, and his French wife Elisabeth and under their care, the estate has begun producing some of the best wines in its history. The cellars and production procedures were renovated and modernised and this year, the Chateau itself was awarded government recognition of its cultural and vinious heritage. From some of the oldest vines in the region, the 2016 has been lauded as one of the Chateaus best, with Neal Martin hailing it as perhaps the best that I have tasted in almost 20 years of tasting at this estate.
Chateau Ducru-Beaucaillou 2me cru classe
Taking its name from its uniquely rocky terroir (beau caillou translates as beautiful stones), and Bertrand Ducru who purchased the estate in 1795, what we know today as Chateau Ducru Beaucaillou as a wine producing estate, has history stretches back to the 13th century. Owned today by The Borie family (who have long-standing roots of their own in Bordeaux), the Chateau is, according to many, producing the best wines in their history at this very moment. The 2016 vintage has already been hailed as yet another monumental success for the winery with Antonio Galloni praising it as simply magnificent.
Chateau Leoville-Las-Cases 2me cru classe
With one of the longest and most pedigreed histories in the Medoc region, Chateau Leoville-Las-Cases has passed through the hands of some of Frances most notable and wealthiest noble families, culminating in the Las Cases family - the final royal family to hold title to the Chateau. Up until the French Revolution, after which large portions of it were sold off, it was one of the largest vineyards in Bordeaux. Today, the estate remains family owned by the Delons, of which brother Jean Hubert and sister Genevieve manage proceedings. Famed for producing a wine of structure, power, and traditional style, the 2016 vintage has earned outstandingly high praise, including a score of 100 from Andrew Caillared and a 19/20 from Jancis Robinson who praised its extraordinary vitality and energy and proclaimed it glorious to taste now.
Chateau Pichon-Longueville Baron 2me cru classe
Chateau Pichon-Longueville Lalande 2me cru classe
The history of Chateau Pichon-Longueville Baron is a tale of two estates. The chateau and vineyard known as Pichon Baron was given in dowry to the founders daughter when she married Jacques du Pichon Longueville. After the death of their descendent, the Baron Joseph de Pichon Longueville, in 1850 the estate was again divided - on his deathbed, he gave what became Chateau Pichon Baron to the men of his family, and what became Chateau Pichon Lalande to the women - resulting in, some say, more masculine and sensuous styles of wine respectively! Between the 1960s and the 1980s, the estate went through a period of rather lacklustre production - however, since 1990, they have been producing, according to many, some of the best wines in their history. The 2016 has earned high praise and glowing comparisons to their legendary 1990 Pichon Baron.
CARRUADES DE LAFITE Second wine of Chateau Lafite
Quintess
The 2016 Quintessa from Napa Valley in the United States of America is a stunning wine that truly captures the essence of this renowned region. On the nose, aromas of dark cherry, blackberry, and cassis mingle with hints of cedar, vanilla, and a touch of earthiness. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied with velvety tannins and a rich, complex flavor profile. Notes of ripe plum, blackcurrant, and dark chocolate are balanced by a subtle spiciness and well-integrated oak. The finish is long and lingering, leaving a lasting impression of elegance and finesse. This vintage, produced by the esteemed Quintessa winery, showcases the exceptional quality and craftsmanship of Napa Valley wines. Enjoy now or cellar for further development. A true masterpiece that will not disappoint.
Beaulieu Vineyard Georges de Latour Private Reserve Napa Valley
The 2019 Beaulieu Vineyard Georges de Latour Private Reserve from Napa Valley, USA is a prime example of the exceptional winemaking that this region is known for. With a deep ruby red hue, this vintage exudes aromas of ripe blackberry, dark cherry, and hints of vanilla and spice. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and velvety, with layers of rich dark fruit, velvety tannins, and a lingering finish. Well-balanced and structured, this wine showcases the best of Napa Valley's terroir and the expertise of Beaulieu Vineyards. Whether enjoyed now or cellared for further development, this 2019 vintage is a testament to the quality and legacy of this renowned winery.
Inglenook Rubicon Napa Cabernet Sauvignon
The Inglenook Rubicon Napa Cabernet Sauvignon 2016 is a bold and complex wine that truly embodies the essence of Napa Valley. Deep ruby in color, this vintage immediately captures the eye with its intense hue. On the nose, rich aromas of blackberry, cassis, and dark chocolate entice the senses. The palate is full-bodied and velvety, with layers of juicy black fruit, hints of tobacco and spice, and smooth tannins that linger on the finish. This wine is a true reflection of the exceptional terroir of Napa Valley, with its perfect balance of power and elegance. Produced by the renowned Inglenook Winery, this 2016 vintage is a testament to their commitment to producing world-class wines. Enjoy now or cellar for years to come.
Cullen Diana Madeline
Vanya Cullen continues to amaze the world with her brilliantly flavoursome and elegant Cabernet named after Di Cullen, a true pioneer. Vanya is also pioneering in her own style with the introduction to 100% bio-dynamics and the results are to there to be seen by all. The highest possible Langon's Classification is bestowed upon this wine and with it's agability is one for the true wine lover and collector. [Biodynamic]
