Powerful , densely structured and complex, M.Chapoutiers Barbe Rac Chateauneuf-du-Pape is a single vineyard wine produced entirely from Grenache. The fruit is sourced from vines averaging 90 years of age, located in the south of the appellation. The carefully selected grapes are hand harvested, entirely de-stemmed and vinified in concrete tanks. Maturation takes place for 12 months in oak, followed by a further 12 months in bottle prior to release.

DOMAINE DE CHATEAU DE MEURSAULT 1er Cru Clos de Chenes , Volnay

Les Tuvilains joined the Domaine des Croix portfolio in the 2016 harvest, taking the tally of Beaune terroirs to 10 (including the village parcels). It’s in the southern part of Beaune on the lower slope, and Croix’s 0.36 hectares of very old vines are spread over two parcels planted in the 1930s. Destemmed and matured for 15 months (with 20% new oak), this is a denser expression of Beaune that reflects the clay soils of the terroir. By the way, Jasper Morris’s macabre description of the origins of the vineyard’s name in Inside Burgundy is worth a read. A great expression of a clay-rich terroir: dense and layered yet very polished.

Château Latour à is an unclassified producer yet amongst the great crus of the Pomerol appellation. The excellent 1982 vintage has produced a Latour à for the ages. Still retaining structure in its maturity, the nose exerts dark fruits, herbs and subtle spice leading to the elegantly balanced palate.