TGV

Page 1


FRENCH RED WINES

CONTENTS

DESSERT WINES

CHILE, ITALY & USA


french red wines


FRENCH RED WINES

4

Le Pin - 2002 Pomerol

L

e Pin, Pomerol’s elite wine Le Pin is the most expensive wine in the world. The Thienpoints named their wine Le Pin

after a solitary pine tree that shaded the property. The winery roared into life with the 1982 vintage and in the words of Robert Parker, “The first vintages were superb, and Le Pin quickly became not only one of the greatest Pomerols but also Bordeaux’s most exotic and luxurious, not to mention most expensive, wine.” Le Pin produces just 600 to 700 cases each year and its rarity is one of the driving forces behind its high prices. Le Pin produces super-concentrated, decadent, lush and lavishly oaked wines - they can be drunk young but are best with 7-10 years of bottle ageing.

Le Pin’s 2002 boasts a deep plum/purple color in addition to sweet aromas of dried herbs, roasted coffee, chocolate, plums, and sweet cherries. This luscious offering possesses terrific fruit, medium body, low acidity, and a long, heady finish. Robert Parker: 93/100



FRENCH RED WINES

6

Petrus - 2014 Pomerol

R

esearch shows the oldest records regarding the history of Petrus goes all the way back to the mid 1750s, making it one of the earliest established vineyards in Pomerol. The 11.5 ha vineyard of Petrus is situated on the top of the highest elevation on the Pomerol plateau. The majority of the patch of blue clay on the Pomerol plateau is about 13 hectares in total. Petrus is distinctive as its entire vineyard is right on top of the clay, while neighboring vineyards only have a portion of blue clay in their soil. Each vintage of Petrus is then the result of this exceptional terroir combined with extreme care all along the process. The grapes are hand harvested only in the afternoon, when the morning dew has evaporated, so as not to risk even the slightest dilution of quality. The grapes are fermented in cement vats and the wine is aged in 100% new oak barrels for 22-28 months.

“

There’s a density and refinement to the 2014 Petrus with a dark chocolate, walnut and blueberry character. Violets, too. The length is beautiful with such density and intensity. This has more texture. Fine and toned tannins. Marvelous potential for the vintage. James Suckling 96/100



FRENCH RED WINES

8

Château Mouton Rothschild

T

Pauillac - Premier Grand Cru Classé

he land around Château Mouton Rothschild, in the Médoc region of Bordeaux, has been used for cultivating vineyards since the early middle ages.

The 84 hectares of vines have an impressive average age of 44 years. Unsurprisingly, Mouton Rothschild vineyards have an outstanding terroir: deep, well-draining gravel soils, excellent sun exposure, and the moderating influence of both the Atlantic ocean and the Gironde estuary. In 1945 Baron Phillippe de Rothschild began commissioning contemporary artists to illustrate the label with an original work; some notable names being Jean Hugo, Salvador Dali, Pablo Picasso, Marc Chagall, Andy Warhol, and even Prince Charles - the Prince of Wales.


FRENCH RED WINES

9

“ Château Mouton Rothschild (2004)

Château Mouton Rothschild (2005)

Château Mouton Rothschild (2012)

The wine has a sustained, deep and dark, almost black colour with a blueish tinge. The nose displays subtle complexity, with blackberry and redcurrant fruit and a touch of smoke. Full and generous on the palate, its well-integrated, aristocratic and silky tannins elegantly enfold notes of liquorice, mocha and vanilla. The dense and richly flavoured finish shows considerable length.

A dark, deep, attractive colour an elegant, complex nose that combines refined notes of oak, toast and vanilla with intense, wild berry fruit. The palate revealing attractively close-knit, juicy and succulent tannins combined with concentrated blackcurrant and blackberry flavours. The finish is very long, carried by a touch of sweetness.

A dense and opaque, almost black colour with a very attractive glint. The nose mingles black fruit with aromas of blackcurrant and crushed blackberry, opening with airing to display more complex notes of cigar box and spice. The tannins are mature and crisp. A fresh, intense and mineral finish.

Wine Spectator 95/100

Robert Parker 98/100

Wine Enthusiast 97/100


FRENCH RED WINES

10

Château Montrose Pauillac - Premier Grand Cru Classé

L

abelled the ‘Latour of Saint-Estèphe’ by Bordeaux’s professionals, Château Montrose, classified Second Cru Classé in 1855, is one of the great wines of Saint-Estèphe. Deep,

intense, complex with concentrated aromas of ripe fruit, spices and tobacco, the wines of Château Montrose continue in the tradition of the ‘classic’ style of the great wines of Saint-Estèphe with characteristic power and density. Renowned as wines with long ageing potential they always show great finesse accompanied by a good tannic structure.


FRENCH RED WINES

11

Château Montrose (2011)

Château Montrose (2012)

Château Montrose (1999)

Beautiful intense and dark garnet. The nose, powerful and harmonious, is pleasantly woody. It reveals lightly toasted aromas, followed with hints of ripe fruits and liquorice. The palate is full and soft with tight tannins and a light sweetness. The after-taste is long and harmonious.

The wine is a deep, dazzling purple. Initially rather closed, the nose opens with airing to reveal elegant fresh fruit, blackcurrant bud and eucalyptus aromas. A fresh, clean attack leads into a full, powerful and silky mid-palate, building to an incredibly long finish on notes of brioche and liquorice.

Dense purple colour. The nose is complex, delivering notes of tobacco, cigar, black fruit. Long and full on the palate, with aromas of brown tobacco, dark chocolate, and blackcurrant. The tannins are silky, elegant, melted, with a velvety texture. Beautiful finish.

Wine Enthusiast 94/100

Wine Enthusiast 95/100

Robert Parker 90/100


FRENCH RED WINES

12

Château Gruaud Larose

C

Saint-Julien -Grand Cru Classé

hâteau Gruaud Larose is one of the most historic estates in the Médoc. The terroir consists of slopes of deep Garonne gravel from the Quaternary Period (about 700,000

years ago). Carrying a long winemaking tradition of excellence that spans over 300 years, Château Gruaud-Larose belongs to the class of wines who boast a legendary style of finesse. This “wine of kings and the king of wines”, according to the estate’s motto, is the result of a passionate commitment to crafting aromatic and beautifully floral wines - Larose, with an unmistakable minerality derived from the gravel terroir - Gruaud.

Château Gruaud Larose (2004) Deep, red colour. The nose presents overtones of Kirsch, stone fruits, toast, cashew nuts, spices. F rank attack, tannic and in harmony with the nose. Hints of dark chocolate. F resh and minty finish. Great length. Wine & Spirits 91/100 Château Gruaud Larose (1996) Garnet red with tile-red highlights. The nose is fine and powerful. Wild strawberries, light rose. Toast and spices with overtones of precious wood. F rank attack with a tannic structure that is still present. Crisp, ripe fruit with toasted notes. Wine Spectator 90/100


FRENCH RED WINES

13


FRENCH RED WINES

14

Château Pavie Saint-Émilion - Premier Grand Cru Classé

T

he first vines in Saint-Émilion were planted on the slopes of Ausone and Pavie in the 4th century AD. With over 35 hectares of vineyards, Château Pavie is the

largest Saint-Émilion Premier Grand Cru Classé. Château Pavie vineyard is farmed using sustainable, vineyard management techniques. Part of the goal at Château Pavie is to produce wine from ripe grapes and low yields. 70% of the vineyard is farmed using organic methods. It is the goal of the estate to become 100% organic. Château Pavie produces elegant, harmonious and stylish Saint-Émilion that typically display a fine bouquet with good depth of fruit on the palate.

Château Pavie (2014) A perfumed ripe wine, packed with generous tannins that still give a style and elegance. It is balanced, complex and with great potential. The wood and the tannins are in harmony with the black fruits. Wine Enthusiast 95/100


FRENCH RED WINES

15


2012, THE FIRST VINTAGE CLASS


SSED “A”

Nature joined forces with terroir this year, giving birth to a memorable vintage. In 2012, thanks to extraordinarily clement weather, Château Pavie brought forth a new opus which channelled the exceptional quality of its terroir.

A beautiful, deep violet color. The aromas are explosive, with smoky notes of roasted coffee and a range of rich, jammy black fruit. On the palate, a fresh attack and rich body are supported by elegant tannins that are very noticeable. The finish is long and flavorful. Wine Enthusiast 96/100


FRENCH RED WINES

18

Château Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande Pauillac - Grand Cru Classé

P

ichon Longueville’s history can be traced back to 1688-1689. A neighbour of Château Latour, this second growth Pauillac borders on the Saint-Julien appellation. Its unusual

blend of grape varieties gives the wine a unique personality whose hallmarks are elegance, balance, and finesse. Traditional and modern techniques complement one another to express the character of the prestigious terroir.


FRENCH RED WINES

19

Château Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande (2007)

Château Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande (1999)

Château Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande (1997)

Purple almost black in colour. This wine gives out aromas of cherry, brioche and violet. Its attack is soft and silky. It evolves dynamically in the mouth and caresses the palate. Its length in the mouth and its aromatic palette full of fruit, flowers and spices delight the taster.

A delicate and refined red. F resh aromas of raspberries and minerals follow through to a medium-bodied palate, with fine tannins and a delicate, refreshing finish.

It dark ruby color is accompanied by luscious, black cherry and currant fruit intermixed with notes of mocha, smoke, and toast. The wine displays excellent richness, a sweet, expansive mid-palate, medium body, and a supple finish.

Wine Enthusiast 91/100

Wine Spectator 88/100

Robert Parker 89/100


FRENCH RED WINES

20

Château Brane - Cantenac Margaux - Grand Cru Classé

F

ounded in the 18th century and considered one of the best second growths at the time of the 1855 Médoc classification, this estate is located on one of the finest

gravelly hillocks in Cantenac. Henri Lurton has done his utmost to make this great Margaux reflect the brilliance and complexity of its outstanding terroir year in and year out, always seeking a balance between vintage character and the wine’s intrinsic elegance.

Château Brane - Cantenac (2008) A delicate nose of black fruits and liquorice, with subtle floral aromas and a touch of fresh leather. An elegant, youthful attack with good concentration and fullness. A round midpalate with silky tannins. The finish is long and aromatic, with smoky notes. Robert Parker 92/100 Château Brane - Cantenac (2014) Beautiful finesse on the nose. Scents of cassis, with pepper, blackberries, cocoa beans. Everything underlining menthol and graphite hints. The attack is full and round with a very dense mid palate and a long and powerful finish. The tannins are bold and have remarkable precision. Wine Enthusiast 94/100



FRENCH RED WINES

Château Canon

L

Saint-Émillion - Premier Grand Cru Classé

ocated on the Saint-Émilion limestone plateau, Château Canon is an emblematic estate with an outstanding terroir entitling it to Premier Grand Cru Classé status since 1954.

22

The château overlooks a gentle slope where vines have been grown for a millennium. The enthusiastic winemaking team does their utmost to reflect Canon’s superb terroir by producing wine with unique finesse and complexity. Château Canon epitomises a style that is timeless, elegant and always fashionable.


FRENCH RED WINES

23

“ Château Canon (2012)

Château Canon (20011)

Château Canon (2005)

Chocolate too. Medium to full body, fine tannins and a fresh finish. This is tight and dense. Extremely polished tannins and a long finish.

Wonderful nose with strawberries, cherry blossom, and vanilla. The red opens up with blueberries, milk chocolate and sweet licorice. Full and juicy on palate with pure dark fruit and velvety tannins. So nicely layered texture and long in the finish with red fruit and crushed chalk.

Aromas of fresh cep mushrooms, berries, spices, roses, and sous bois (forest floor), give way to hints of milk chocolate and vanilla. Full and rich, with beautifully balanced tannins and a long finish.

James Suckling 93/100

James Suckling 96/100

James Suckling 94/100


FRENCH RED WINES

24

Château Pichon Baron Pauillac - Grand Cru Classé

T

he Château Pichon Baron vineyards cover 73 hectares of gravely soil, to the south of Pauillac. The estate has a terroir that can produce the most remarkable wines; the estate

has striven to do so with constancy and excellence in line with this vineyard’s early history. Its old vines produce in small quantities but are of supreme quality. As an exceptional Pauillac, Château Pichon Baron is made for cellaring that will reveal all of its complexity and refinement throughout the decades.

Château Pichon Baron (2014) A deep, intense purple colour, almost black. The nose is highly expressive and yields huge aromatic range - black fruits, blueberry, spices. On the palate the wine offers a hint of finely integrated oak. The tannins are backed up by nicely mature, flavorsome fruit notes. James Suckling 95/100

Château Pichon Baron (2007) A wine of remarkable freshness with fine, delicate aromas. An excellent impression of fullness on the palate with a touch of refinement. The concentrated, ripe, mellow tannins ensure the overall integration. The finish is extremely long, flavoursome and full-bodied. Robert Parker 92/100


FRENCH RED WINES

25


FRENCH RED WINES

26

Le Petit Mouton 2013 Pauillac - Grand Cru Classé

P

roduced from an exceptional terroir, Le Petit Mouton de Mouton Rothschild is the second wine of Château Mouton Rothschild.

Made with grapes from selected younger vines in the illustrious First Growth vineyard, it is harvested, vinified and bottled with the same scrupulous attention to detail. Fermented in the Mouton oak vats, matured in oak barrels in the traditional way, all the conditions are met for the wine to express the elegance and richness of a great Pauillac.

A dense, intense and deep crimson with glittering highlights, Petit Mouton 2013 has an elegant and expressive nose of red fruit with spice notes. The attack is upbeat, on mature and crisp tannins, while well-integrated oak reveals cocoa and vanilla flavours. The wine lingers on a fresh, succulent finish marked by a touch of sweetness. James Suckling 93/100


FRENCH RED WINES

27


FRENCH RED WINES

28

Château Léoville Poyferré 1995 Saint-Julien - Grand Cru Classé

W

ith origins dating back to the early seventeenth century, the Second Great Classified Growth Château Léoville Poyferré is one of the most prestigious properties in the

Saint-Julien appellation on the Left Bank of the Bordeaux region. With wines from an exceptional terroir, this gem of Saint-Julien sparkles with its elegance, finesse and depth that all contributes to the balance and power of the wines. Château Léoville Poyferré are perfectly expressive in their youth, but they can also evolve superbly over the years.

It boasts an aristocratic, fresh cassis nose with mocha and violet notes. The powerful palate shows dark chocolate, black fruit, hints of cedar and a long pure finish while the texture, as ever, is pure silk. Wine Enthusiast 95/100


FRENCH RED WINES

29


FRENCH RED WINES

30

Château Lafite Rothschild 2013

B

Pauillac - Premier Cru Classé

earer of a long wine tradition initiated in 1620, the estate has assertively carried the banner of the Pauillac appellation on the Left Bank of the Bordeaux region for

centuries. From Cardinal Richelieu to the American President Thomas Jefferson at the time, the great global personalities fell under the spell of this impressive wine with a unique soul and unparalleled refinement. In their youth, the wines of Château Lafite Rothschild display the austerity and the depth of great wines while the years allow them to develop the nobility of the signature bouquet of the estate.

This structured and dense wine is packed with concentrated dark fruits that are firm, showing intense acidity and freshness under the dark tannins. Wine Enthusiast 94/100


FRENCH RED WINES

31


FRENCH RED WINES

32

Château Figeac 2003

C

Saint-Émilion - Premier Grand Cru Classé

hâteau Figeac is the emblematic Premier Grand Cru Classé on the Right Bank in the Bordeaux region and it ranks as one of the greatest wines in the world. With a racy and

distinguished style, Figeac embodies the quintessence of the expression of the great calcareous terroirs of Saint-Émilion and the Pomerol plateau. Its origins date back to the 2nd century AD and the Figeacus family, who gave the estate its name. The Manoncourt family, which has owned the estate for over 120 years, has shaped the unique character of the Château Figeac of today.

The dark plum-colored 2003 vintage exhibits a big, rich nose of dried herbs, high quality cigar tobacco, red currants, and sweet liquorice. It is medium-bodied, soft, round, and seductive. Robert Parker 88/100


FRENCH RED WINES

33


FRENCH RED WINES

34

Château Margaux 2006

C

Margaux - Premier Grand Cru Classé

elebrated for its finesse and suavity, Château Margaux is an age-worthy wine with a prestigious past, occupying today a front-rank place in the Bordeaux hierarchy

of fine wines. The quality of the wine has been recognized since the 18th century. Thomas Jefferson, Ambassador to France before becoming the third President of the United States of America, placed it among the first rank wines of Bordeaux.

It boasts an aristocratic, fresh cassis nose with mocha and violet notes. The powerful palate shows dark chocolate, black fruit, hints of cedar and a long pure finish while the texture, as ever, is pure silk. Wine Enthusiast 95/100


FRENCH RED WINES

35


FRENCH RED WINES

36

Les Forts De Latour 2012

L

Pauillac - Grand Cru Classé

es Forts de Latour takes its name from a historic plot in the “Enclos”. The wine was first labelled with this name in 1966 and constant work on developing its quality has

resulted in its achieving the level of a Grand Cru Classé. Les Forts de Latour is produced with the same meticulous care as the Grand Vin, both in the vineyard and in the winery.

The color is dark with a beautiful intensity.The nose is fruity, refined, ripe and extremely expressive. On the palate, the wine is rounded and smooth, spicy and very aromatic. It evolves pleasurably towards a delicious finale with fine tannins. Robert Parker 92/100


FRENCH RED WINES

37


FRENCH RED WINES

38

Château Clerc Milon 2012

B

Pauillac - Grand Cru Classé

aron Philippe de Rothschild purchased Château Clerc Milon in 1970.

A Grand Cru Classé of the 1855 classification, Château Clerc Milon has 41 hectares of vines overlooking the Gironde estuary in the commune of Pauillac. Most of the vines are over 50 years old and represent a genetic treasure-house, including plantings of the historic but rare Carménère grape.

Blueberry, chocolate and stone aromas with undertones of flowers follow through to a full body, cream tannins and a clean finish. James Suckling 93/100


FRENCH RED WINES

39


FRENCH RED WINES

40

Grand Vin de Léoville du Marquis de Las Cases 2004 Pauillac - Grand Cru Classé

C

hâteau Léoville Las Cases is today among the most emblematic estates of the prestigious Saint-Julien appellation located on the Left Bank from the Bordeaux region. Its wines

continue to reach the peaks of excellence and elegance vintage after vintage. Château Léoville Las Cases is recognized as one of the oldest estates in the Médoc with a heritage based on a long wine tradition.

Intense aromas of currant, blackberry and light vanilla. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a long, caressing finish. Layered, with everything in the right proportion for the vintage. Wine Spectator 95/100


FRENCH RED WINES

41


FRENCH RED WINES

42

Château Cos d’Estournel 2013 Saint-Estèphe - Grand Cru Classé

F

ounded in 1811, Château Cos d’Estournel is almost as renowned for its spectacular pagoda architecture as for its intense, opulent and complex wines, marking it as the

leading château of Saint-Estèphe. The original owner, Louis Gaspard d’Estournel, travelled widely in Asia and set about building the impressive château we see today, drawing heavily on Oriental influences. Ever the showman, the doors of the château were imported from the Palace of Zanzibar.

Very impressive for the vintage with a dark fruits and impressive spice and mineral undertones. Full body, chewy tannins and a long, long finish. Tight and layered. James Suckling 94/100


FRENCH RED WINES

43


FRENCH RED WINES

44

Château Lynch Bages 2012 Pauillac - Grand Cru Classé

T

he origins of Château Lynch-Bages go back to at least the 16th century. Situated on the outskirts of Pauillac, overlooking the Gironde estuary, the Lynch-Bages vineyard

(1855 Grand Cru Classé) stretches over the Bages plateau. The great quality of Château Lynch-Bages is its extraordinary homogeneity. Made mostly from Cabernet Sauvignon, it combines structure and finesse, elegance and longevity, and is also distinctively opulent. Generous from the start, it develops more flavours and complexity as it matures.

An intense red colour, while the aromas are a complex blend of black fruits, violet and pepper with subtle woody notes. The wine is balanced, combining aromatic elegance with fine tannins, the taste is full smooth and lively. Wine Enthusiast 95/100


FRENCH RED WINES

45


FRENCH RED WINES

46

Château Calon Ségur 2006 Saint-Estèphe - Grand Cru Classé

W

ine growing at the estate can be traced back to the 12th century, but it was in the 18th century, at the time of Nicolas-Alexandre the Marquis de Ségur, who also

owned Latour, Lafite and Mouton, that the finest chapter of the property’s history was written. Calon thereafter was to be known as Calon Ségur. Legend has it, de Ségur is quoted as saying: “I make my wine at Lafite and Latour, but my heart is in Calon.” That famous saying lives forever on the label of Château Calon Ségur, where the drawing of a heart is prominently featured on the logo.

Very impressive for the vintage with a dark fruits and impressive spice and mineral undertones. Full body, chewy tannins and a long, long finish. Tight and layered. James Suckling 94/100


FRENCH RED WINES

47


FRENCH RED WINES

48

Alter Ego De Palmer 2015 Margaux - Grand Cru Classé

I

n creating Alter Ego de Palmer, the aim is to retain the character of Château Palmer, in a supple and elegant wine that can be enjoyed when young. Produced on the fabulous

Garonne gravel soils that have made this appellation famous all over the world, Alter Ego has the same finesse and aromatic complexity that make up the inimitable Palmer style.

A medium to deep garnet-purple color and gorgeous nose of ripe plums, cassis and crushed cherries with touches of incense, lavender and chocolate box. Medium-bodied, very finely crafted and vivacious in the mouth, it finishes with great elegance and finesse. Wine Advocate 91/100


FRENCH RED WINES

49


FRENCH RED WINES

50

Château Talbot 2015 Saint-Julien - Grand Cru Classé

C

hâteau Talbot’s vines grow in an ideal location bordering the estuary, on some of the region’s most highly prized gravelly rises which alone produce great wines.

Talbot is one of the oldest estates in the Médoc, and its reputation has been unfailingly fine through the years. Thanks to an alliance between man and nature, and generations of experience, this outstanding terroir produces wines that may vary depending on the vintage, but is always well-balanced and complex.

A dark purple color shows the depth of this vintage. Refined and floral aromas on the nose with red fruits combined with a delicate oak. Dense, silky and fleshy on the palate with a great elegance of fine tannins. A deep length finishing with black fruits. James Suckling 94/100


FRENCH RED WINES

51


FRENCH RED WINES

52

Château Nénin 2008 Pomerol

N

énin is located just outside the village of Catusseau and consists of a 19th century château and a 25 hectare vineyard set in a large park.

Château Nénin is the epitome of a great Pomerol “vin de garde” (wine for laying down). It combines power and elegance, complexity and balance, purity and refinement. To really appreciate the Grand Vin’s ageing ability, you may need to be patient. Like all great Pomerol vins de garde, Château Nénin blossoms over time.

Attractive perfumed wine, rich, soft, generous and opulent. It has powerful, ripe fruit flavors of black berry and sweet plum that gives great richness. Wine Enthusiast 91/100


FRENCH RED WINES

53


FRENCH RED WINES

54

Château d’Armailhac 2015 Pauillac - Grand Cru Classé

T

he Château had belonged to the d’Armailhacq family since the 18th century. A Grand Cru Classé of the 1855 classification , Château d’Armailhac, a neighbour of

Château Mouton Rothschild in Pauillac, has 70 hectares of vines planted with classic Bordeaux varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Matured in oak barrels, the wine combines finesse and elegance with the power and tannins of Pauillac’s great wines.

A garnet red with a crimson tint. The highly expressive nose is remarkable for its intense and radiant red fruit aromas mingled with notes of roasted coffee and marzipan. The ample and full-bodied attack reveals a well-rounded, silky tannic structure, giving an impression of richness, underlined by a generous and varied range of flavours such as cherry, vanilla and liquorice. The long finish is sustained by hints of chocolate. Wine Enthusiast 92/100


FRENCH RED WINES

55


FRENCH RED WINES

56

Les Pagodes de Cos 2012 Saint-Estèphe

L

es Pagodes de Cos - second wine Château Cos d’Estournel is made from the younger vines that grown on the same terroir, and the crop is processed with the same care

as the Grand Vin. Les Pagodes de Cos gathers the same power and the same balance as its elder Château Cos d’Estournel, with the advantage of evolving more quickly and thus being ready to drink more quickly.

The 2012 Les Pagodes de Cos exhibits soft tannins, a deep ruby/purple color, sweet plum, black cherry fruit, a round, generous mouthfeel and excellent purity and depth.


FRENCH RED WINES

57


FRENCH RED WINES

Château Dauzac 2012 Margaux - Grand Cru Classé

C

hâteau Dauzac, a Grand Cru Classé Margaux wine according to the 1855 classification,

58

has the enormous privilege of having a one-block 49-hectare vineyard. Located near

the Gironde estuary whose influence on the vineyard’s ecosystem is critical, the property is protected from ocean winds thanks to 120 hectares of meadows and forests. This agronomic bubble and unique terroir have made it possible to develop precision farming, highlighting the exceptional characteristics of this Grand Cru Classé wine.

Purple color with shades of violet. A complex bouquet with notes of blackcurrant and mocha. A dark fruit aftertaste with a lively attack producing an elegant freshness. An endnote of liquorice with a lasting freshness.


FRENCH RED WINES

59


FRENCH RED WINES

Goulée 2014 Médoc

I

n 2003, Cos d’Estournel decided to create a label that brings some originality and innovation to

60

Bordeaux. The wine is meant to be modern in terms of winemaking and style with almost more

of a new world feel to it. The Goulée vineyard in the northern part of the Médoc, near the mouth of the Gironde Estuary in a

prime location. A cool microclimate and natural ventilation due to the nearby ocean are conducive to making fresh, fruity wines. The grapes come from two vineyards located close to the Atlantic Ocean in the uppermost northern section of the Médoc.

A dark crimson and emits lots of rich, ripe berry fruit aromas and flavors. On the palate, the wine has a wonderful racy freshness that balances beautifully with the dense dark fruits. The finish is long with notes of chocolate and hazelnuts.


FRENCH RED WINES

61


FRENCH RED WINES

62

Château de Sales 2014 Pomerol

B

uilt in the 17th century, Château de Sales is an estate with a long and prestigious history and has been owned by the same family for more than five hundred years. Situated in the

Right Bank appellation of Pomerol, the château is the largest in Pomerol with 47 hectares of vines. Most of the wines of Pomerol are made from Merlot gripes, although here has been some blending of Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. The majority of aging for Château de Sales wines takes place in traditional concrete tanks, spending only 6 months in oak barrels, to preserve the wine’s qualities of freshness, fruitiness and terroir expression.

A fresh aromatic palette of soaked strawberry, red plum but also red rosefragrances. The attack is bold with smooth, soft tannins blended in fruit. This scrumptious Pomerol is pleasant.


FRENCH RED WINES

63


FRENCH RED WINES

64

La Closerie de Fourtet 2013 Sain-Émilion Grand Cru

C

los Fourtet owes its initial reputation to the Rulleau and Carles families, Lords of Figeac. In the 18th century, they were the first to make the most of this land with

only a thin layer of arable soil, but blessed with outstanding natural drainage. Located atop the limestone plateau well-known for producing some of the greatest wines in Saint-Émilion, Clos Fourtet has one of the appellation’s best and most famous terroirs.

A very dark ruby red colour. This mineral-driven, dark berries, fresh, ripe, opulent, flamboyant wine offers intense, pure flavors, rich textures and spicy aromatics with hints of licorice.


FRENCH RED WINES

65


FRENCH RED WINES

66

Confidences de Prieuré-Lichine 2014 Margaux

C

hâteau Prieuré- Lichine is founded in the 12th century by monks from Vertheuil Abbey.

In 1972, Alexis Lichine first made the estate’s second wine under its original label of Château de Clairefont, or as it is also called now, Confidences de Prieuré-Lichine. This Margaux benefits from the same method of harvesting, vinification and follow-up as the Grand Vin. It is made with the grapes of younger vines and is aged in second and third-fill barrels for 14 months.

Red wine with reddish brown edges. The dusty charm of the nose leads to a spicy, tightly structured palate of beautiful red fruits and a fine, elegant finish.


FRENCH RED WINES

67


FRENCH RED WINES

68

Château Les Grands Chênes 2012 Médoc - Cru Bourgeois

C

hâteau Les Grands Chênes is a leading Médoc Cru Bourgeois property is located at Saint-Christoly-De-Médoc in the far north of the Médoc appellation. It can trace

its history back to the 14th century. The property consists of 7 hectares of vineyards located on gravel rich soil close to the Gironde Estuary. Celebrated oenologist Jacques Boissenot is a consultant and the wines are now renowned for their depth of fruit and complexity.

Garnet color, expressive fruity aromas. Full-flavored, fleshy, tannic, dense, attractive volume and substance.


FRENCH RED WINES

69


FRENCH RED WINES

70

Château Peymartin 2011 Saint-Julien

T

he Château Gloria’s second wine. This wine is produced using the estate’s youngest vines. It is typical of the Saint-Julien appellation and is accessible rather earlier.

Once the grapes have been picked by hand, the harvest is vinified in the traditional way in heat-regulated stainless steel vats. The wine then spends 12 months being aged in casks.

Garnet color, expressive fruity aromas. Full-flavored, fleshy, tannic, dense, attractive volume and substance.


FRENCH RED WINES

71


FRENCH RED WINES

72

Château Capbern 2013 Saint-Estèphe

L

ocated in the heart of the famous Saint-Estèphe appellation, on the Left Bank of the Bordeaux region, Château Capbern has a prestigious heritage, with a history closely linked to

that of its big brother: Château Calon Ségur. Expanding over a vineyard of 33 hectares, Château Capbern enjoys a superb terroir of sandy and clayey gravel soils, combined with limestone, which ensures excellent drainage, while also promoting optimum ripeness in the fruit.

There’s an alluring charcoal backdrop behind a core of dark plum and blackberry fruit, while singed savory and tobacco leaf notes chime in for added nuance.


FRENCH RED WINES

73


FRENCH RED WINES

74

Filia De Grand Mayne 2013 Saint-Émilion Grand Cru

O

wned by the Nony family since 1934, Filia is the second wine of Grand Cru Classé Château Grand Mayne.

Dating back to 1767, Grand Mayne is situated to the north-west of Saint-Émilion on 19 hectares of vineyards planted on a limestone plateau, where the soils are rich in clay, limestone and iron. The wine is made, aged and blended with the same quality requirements as the Grand Vin, the wine comes from vats of young vines. It was left to mature in barrel for 14 months prior to bottling.

The wine has a deep purple colour and pronounced aromas of red and black fruit, matched with a ripe, medium-bodied palate with smooth tannins and subtle F rench oak.


FRENCH RED WINES

75


FRENCH RED WINES

76

Château Lanessan 2014 Haut-Médoc

C

hâteau Lanessan has belonged to the Bouteiller family since the 18th century. Eight generations of the same family have therefore succeeded in leading the estate.

“The challenge is to remain faithful to our terroir while adapting to consumer expectations”.

Spice, subtle, and fresh on the palate, elongated and substantially fruity. Nicely extracted. Classy with tannins of lovely quality.


FRENCH RED WINES

77


FRENCH RED WINES

Château Tayac 2012 Margaux

I

n the mid-19th century the vineyards of Tayac were part of Château Desmirail, and it was

78

only in 1891 that the present property was seperated to form Château Tayac. It is now in the

hands of the Portet family. Nearly four generations have been here and helped develop the place beautifully as production.

Beautiful dark hue. Very pleasant fruit-driven nose suggestive of garden berry fruits. Wonderful attack on the palate recalling ripe cherry and polished tannins. Impeccable overall harmony with a fresh, persistent finish.


FRENCH RED WINES

79


FRENCH RED WINES

Château Fonrazade 2014 Saint-Émilion Grand Cru

C

hâteau Fonrazade is found on the southern slopes of the Saint-Emilion hills. The vines are

80

on the average 40 years old, which is an index of the quality of the wines.

Every day, the vineyard is monitored and operated with care. “Green harvesting” coupled with grading grapes while still on the vines, well before the harvest, complemented by hand-picking harvest practices and then finally sorting grapes by hand in the cellar, ensure that only optimal quality grapes make it into the vinification vats.

An intense colour with vibrant purple reflections. Besides the aromas of wood and red and black fruits, the bouquet reveals notes of pepper and spices. On tasting, the freshness of this wine emphasises a nice flavour of cherry and pits.


FRENCH RED WINES

81


FRENCH RED WINES

82

Château La Valière 2012 Médoc - Cru Bourgeois

T

he Château La Valière is located on the gravelly hilltops of Saint Christoly de Médoc, overlooking the Gironde. Famous from 1874 under the name of Château des Cha-

lets, this wine has been classified in 1932 as a Cru Bourgeois. In 1970, it has been renamed to Château La Valière.

Rich, ripe red cherry aromas with layers of coffee, vanilla beans and cocoa nibs meld with strawberries, raspberries, black cherries and integrated tannins.


FRENCH RED WINES

83


FRENCH RED WINES

84

Château L’Argenteyre 2012 Médoc - Cru Bourgeois

I

n the districts of Begadan, Valeyrac and Queyrac, the estate is mostly located on privileged soils on the banks of the Garonne rive, a few yards from the appellation Saint-Estèphe.

The familial estate created in 1992 is run by the two brothers Philippe and Gilles Reich.

Rich, ripe red cherry aromas with layers of coffee, vanilla beans and cocoa nibs meld with strawberries, raspberries, black cherries and integrated tannins.


FRENCH RED WINES

85


FRENCH RED WINES

86

Château Haut-Bellevue 2012 Haut-Médoc - Cru Bourgeois

I

t was back in 1890 that the Roses family and Château Haut-Bellevue started their story. The estate now boasts 16 hectares of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot on the

stretch of higher land between Margaux and Saint-Estèphe on the banks of the Gironde that has built the reputation of the Médoc. Since the new classification in June 2003, Château Haut-Bellevue is a Cru Bourgeois.

While juicy Merlot dominates this wine, the structure comes from the perfumed Cabernet Sauvignon that brings out the tannins, while the fruit is packed with blackberry flavors.


FRENCH RED WINES

87


FRENCH RED WINES

88

Château Les Vallées 2014 Bordeaux

M

anor house from the 11th century owned by the Duke of Epernon (1554-1642), Grand Admiral of France in the time of Henri III.

In 1989, the Ballande Group has acquired this beautiful building from the 11th century. At that period, the estate consisted of 28 ha. The Manor has been restored according to the former architectural caracteritics of that period, allowing it to keep its authenticity.

P lums and blackberries are given a gentle nudge of spice and a helping of fine tannins. Easy drinking and a great introduction to Bordeaux.


FRENCH RED WINES

89


FRENCH RED WINES

90

Château Haut Domingue 2015 Bordeaux

C

hâteau Haut-Domingue, one of the oldest properties in the region, is located at 109m above sea level, in the beautiful town of Arbis within the Bordeaux appellation. The

estate is 37 hectares and has an average vine age of 15 years. The building was first part of Château de Benauge (12- 13th century). The style of Château is classic Bordeaux. It is currently owned by the Acker family.

A fine Merlot-dominant blend with an abundance of black fruits and a hint of cloves. Great value from one of the oldest properties in the Bordeaux region.


FRENCH RED WINES

91


92

“

FRENCH RED WINES


FRENCH RED WINES

dessert sweet wines wines drink drink

93


DESSERT WINES DRINK

94

Château Suduiraut 2011 Sauternes - Premier Cru Classé

S

uduiraut - From the soil springs forth light. Today, Château Suduiraut is acknowledged by all to be one of the finest Sauternes, thanks to a commitment to quality that is uncompromising

in the extreme. Château Suduiraut is made from grapes selected from the finest terroirs of the property. With an extensive life-span, it powerfully and harmoniously combines fruit and floral aromas with roasted and candied notes. Its superlative elegance comes from a match of total opposites: a voluptuous texture, mineral freshness and the heat of spices.

Opulent and finessed, this has great weight, and scents of ripe fruit and botrytis. Stylish flavors of yellow fruit, citrus and cinnamon combine with bright acidity on the rich palate. Wine Enthusiast 97/ 100


DESSERT WINES DRINK

95


DESSERT WINES DRINK

Château d’Yquem 2011 Sauternes - Premier Cru Classé Supérieur

Y

quem is the world’s greatest sweet wine and the only Bordeaux wine to receive the specific mention as Premier Cru Classé Supérieur (or Superior First Growth).

Yquem is located on the highest hill in Sauternes and enjoys the best growing conditions in the whole appellation. The 110-hectare vineyard is planted with 80% Sémillon and 20% Sauvignon Blanc. The Sémillon grape is perfectly suited to the particular climatic conditions and soil composition of the

96

Sauternes region. It makes for a rich, unctuous and structured wine, while the Sauvignon grape, which ripens earlier, imparts a powerful scent and an incomparable finesse. Yields are very low. Indeed, at Yquem it is said that a single vine plant produces a single glass of its nectar.That along with the hazards of the weather and the difficulties inherent in the making of sweet wine make for the rarity of the wine. The average production of Yquem is between 100 000 and 110 000 bottles per year.

Opulent and finessed, this has great weight, and scents of ripe fruit and botrytis. Stylish flavors of yellow fruit, citrus and cinnamon combine with bright acidity on the rich palate. Wine Enthusiast 97/ 100


DESSERT WINES DRINK FRENCH RED WINES

97

97


CHILE, ITALY & USA WINES DRINK



Almaviva 2016 CHILE, ITALY & USA WINES DRINK

Alto Maipo

I

n 1997, Baroness Philippine de Rothschild and Eduardo Guilisasti Tagle, from Viña Concha Y Toro, the largest vineyard in Chile, sealed a partnership agreement with a view to create

an exceptional Franco-Chilean wine called Almaviva. The first vintage of this wine was launched in 1998, and it has enjoyed international fame and recognition for its quality ever since. Almaviva expanding over 60 hectares of vines in the highest part of the Maipo Valley (650 metres above sea level) in Chile’s Central Valley. A blend of traditional Bordeaux grapes with a dominant of Cabernet Sauvignon, Almaviva

100

takes full advantage of French savoir-faire and Chilean soils, climate and vineyards.

Deep, intense and brilliant ruby red color. The nose reveals delicate aromas of red fruits and berries, such as raspberry and blackberry, which are harmoniously integrated with notes of toffee and coffee, offering a refined and distinguished nose. The elegance of the wine is underscored by its round and fresh mouthfeel. Subtle, but present tannins frame the blend, leading to a vanilla and peppery finish. James Suckling 97/ 100


CHILE, CHILE, ITALY ITALY && USA USA WINES WINES DRINK DRINK

101 101


CHILE, ITALY & USA WINES DRINK

Seña 2016

S

Aconcagua Valley

eña is an authentic Chilean blend made from the finest Cabernet Sauvignon, Carménère, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot varieties.

Eduardo Chadwick and Robert Mondavi searched for four long years before finding the ideal Chilean terroir in Valle de Aconcagua. There, they acquired 350 hectares of virgin hillside land. Historic 97 points consolidates Seña 2016 as the Best Chilean Red wine by critic Robert Parker. This is the highest score that Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate has ever awarded to any Chilean

102

Red wine and consolidates Seña’s impressive track record of being chosen as the best red Chilean wine for its last four consecutive vintages.

Deep and beautiful ruby red in colour with a bright violet glimmer. The nose offers gorgeous aromas of blueberries, cherries, and violets framed by light note of nut. The palate is in perfect agreement with the nose while adding delicate notes of rose petals. It is fresh and juicy and full of life, with elegant, fine-grained tannins that are both firm yet delicate and speak of a wine with tremendous ageing potential. James Suckling 98/ 100


CHILE, CHILE,ITALY ITALY&&USA USAWINES WINESDRINK DRINK

103 103


CHILE, ITALY & USA WINES DRINK

Opus One 2015

O

Oakville AVA

pus One was founded by Baron Philippe de Rothschild, legendary proprietor of Château Mouton Rothschild, and renowned Napa Valley vintner Robert Mondavi. By combining

the great winemaking traditions and innovations of both families, the founders’ singular goal was to create an exceptional wine in the heart of Napa Valley. In 1988, Opus One exported a share of its 1985 vintage – and became the first ultra-premium California wine to be sold in France, the United Kingdom, Germany and Switzerland.

104

Initial dark fruit, spice and baking aromas in the 2015 Opus One are interwoven with seductive notes of violet, black tea, and sage. The entry is vibrant with ripe dark fruit flavors of plum, blackberry and blueberry followed by hints of vanilla and cocoa. Silky, fine-grained tannins provide structure and a creamy texture. The wine finishes with fresh acidity and a rich, lingering finish. Robert Parker 98/ 100


CHILE, CHILE, ITALY ITALY && USA USA WINES WINES DRINK DRINK

105 105


Solaia 2015 CHILE, ITALY & USA WINES DRINK

Toscana IGT

S

olaia is one of the leading wines of the famous Tuscan winery, Antinori. Obtained from the homonymous 50 acre (20 hectare) vineyard with a southwestern exposure

situated at the Tignanello estate, Solaia is a great Italian wine, produced exclusively in exceptional vintages and it represents a true symbol of the most prestigeous Italian oenology.

106

“

The 2015 Solaia shows an intense ruby red color with purple highlights. The nose offers powerful notes of plum jam and such ripe black fruit as blackberries, blueberries, and cassis. The wine is harmonious on the palate with an excellent and balanced structure; the suppleness and silkiness of the tannins give it solidity, elegance, and an extremely long finish and a very long and lingering aftertaste. Robert Parker 100/ 100 James Suckling 100/ 100


CHILE, CHILE,ITALY ITALY&&USA USAWINES WINESDRINK DRINK

107 107


CHILE, ITALY & USA WINES DRINK

Masseto

T

Toscana IGT

he Masseto vineyard is a unique place. Blessed with the generosity of a Mediterranean climate, this small vineyard enjoys breath-taking views,

which stretch to the Tuscan coast, and a mosaic of different soils including an exceptional presence of grey clay. The gentle breezes coming off the sea during the warm summer months, the intensity of the sunlight and the specificity of

108

the unique soils, allow the vines to develop and ripen gradually and contribute to granting Masseto its enchanting combination of freshness and ripeness.

“

Masseto (2011) A near-opaque colour greets the eye, followed by explosive aromas of gloriously-ripe wild red berryfruit cosseted by hints of toasty oak and dark chocolate. A full-volumed palate impresses with its deep concentration and opulence, displaying remarkably supple, glossy tannins. Masseto 2011 concludes with a cleanly-defined vein of crisp acidity, infused with the fruit and spice encountered on the nose. Wine Spectator 97/100 Masseto (2015) The dark and intense colour is followed by a rich aroma with hints of fully ripe red fruit and spicy, balsamic and cocoa notes. In the mouth it becomes sensual and rich, with great density and an ample and perfectly smooth tannin. The fruity notes are underlined by the subtle presence of oak – terminating in a fresh and vivid finish with pronounced hints of cocoa. Robert Parker 100/100 James Suckling 99/100


CHILE, ITALY & USA WINES DRINK

109


CONTACT


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.