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CuvĂŠes Classique
March 2013
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Cuvées Classique Contents PAGE Foreword by Ross Duke
2
Southern Loire
3
Loire
4
Chablis
5
Alsace
6
Burgundy
8
Champagne
10
Order Form
16,17
Vintage Chart
18
TEL: (03) 9696 7920 FAX: (03) 9696 8703 Email: orders@frenchwinecentre.com
OFFER CLOSES: 3rd MAY
Pressing grapes at Eric Rodez. Cover images are of the Krug cuverie in Ambonnay – Henri Krug passed away recently aged 76. Henri is survived by his brother Rémi, his wife Odile and their five children: Olivier, Antoine, Bertrand, François and Pauline.
Cuvées Classique
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March 2013
Foreword by Ross Duke We are well and truly off to a great start in 2013 as the Pick & Mix offer was a resounding success – thanks to you all! We are sorry that many wines sold out so quickly but there was sufficient range on offer to make appropriate replacements which the majority of you accepted. This current offer features a range of our very popular growers Champagne’s and Victor has been very busy assembling a broad cross section of wines from many different parts of Champagne. As well as that, we are offering the popular Champagne ‘Sonhyx’ glass and an altogether new Champagne glass that Verrerie La Marne has released called ‘Flute Premium’. Complete details and photos are enclosed and I think you will agree both types are excellent and great value as well. Also included in the catalogue are new releases from Mourat with their 2012 Rose, New vintages and style from Charles Baur in Alsace and some juicy Burgundies from Thibault Liger-Belair and the Bachelet boys. Add to this additional stock of Merlin Sancerre and the lovely ‘authentic’ Chablis of Baudouin Millet and you have a wide selection of many styles of wine from a number of regions of France. There you have it and we are off again! Cheers from me and Bev, Sarah, Eve, Vic, Adam and David.
OFFER CLOSES: 3RD May, 2013 SHIPMENT DUE: Mid May, 2013
Liger-Belair cellars
Cuvées Classique
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March 2013
SOUTHERN LOIRE VALLEY J. MOURAT PERE ET FILS Mareuil Sur Lay, Fiefs Vendeens (Fiefs is a preserve of stronghold. Vendeen is someone or something from the west coast of France and the Fiefs Vendeens had their own appellation controlee for a couple of years) The 67 hectare vineyard of J. Mourat is located to the south of the Loire valley within close proximity to the Atlantic Ocean so a maritime climate prevails. The vines are planned on a hillside overlooking the beautiful Lay valley and is a gorgeous place to visit. This is an ancient land that was settled by the Romans who, thankfully, brought vines from Rome and planted them in Mareuil sur Lay to slake their thirst! There are three wines only to complete the range at Mourat with the rouge a blend of Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc and the exotic Negrette. The Rosé follows a similar blend with just a few hours skin contact with the red varieties whilst the white is a blend of Chardonnay and Chenin blanc. The Mourat family are passionate about the special qualities that are to be found in the wines of this most southerly of Loire appellations. It is fair to say that they alone have been responsible for lifting the wines of the Fiefs Vendéens from virtual obscurity. Their most significant master stroke is the revival of the Clos St André, a vineyard just five hundred metres from their Chateau Marie du Fou mansion. This property, formerly owned by the Taittinger family, had been left untended since 1968 and was purchased by Jérémie Mourat in 2005. Jérémie replanted the vineyard (Chenin Blanc) and bought the nine hectares back into production. The 2009 provided confirmation of the potential of the Clos St André and subsequent vintages have further enhanced the growing reputation of the Fiefs Vendéens. Their Rosé is the flagship wine of the Domaine and it gathers a new disciple whenever it is tasted for the first time. If you have not had the pleasure then grab it this time as the 2012 is outstanding!
Mourat 2012 Rose ‘Much deeper colour than the 2011 or the 2010 which indicates more potential fruit flavour as well. Boy, does it deliver with strawberry/soft raspberry and watermelon fruit flavour. The acidity is gentle and the flavour just lingers on. What a classic Rosé! I think it is the best we have had from Mourat to date.’ $16.50/bt Pre-arrival Code: 9280 (Landed $19.00)
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LOIRE VALLEY DOMAINE MERLIN CHERRIER Bue, Sancerre It is well past 25 years that we have been buying and importing the glorious Sauvignon Blanc wine from Thierry Merlin situated in the most highly rated village of Sancerre – Bué. We have never had any reason to seek other suppliers as we think he is simply the best! The site of his vineyard is ideally located in one of the highest points of the region not far from the beautiful town of Sancerre. If you have never visited Sancerre then shame on you as it is just so picturesque and historic. The surrounding villages are just so beautiful and varied whilst their restaurants are many and varied right throughout the area. Thierry Merlin is considered one of the very best vignerons of the region and regularly wins awards and medals for his fabulous wines. Not only does he make beautiful white wines but produces a cheeky little Pinot Noir that is full of character and charm.
Domaine Merlin Cherrier 2011 Sancerre ‘A very traditional vintage in 2011 although the quantity was well down on the previous 5 vintages but the quality is very high. Plenty of crisp acidity and lovely spice and light asparagus character on the nose and palate. Top quality fruit with no oak ageing. A great wine with oysters or any seafood.’ $25.50/bt Pre-arrival Code: 9281 (Landed $29.50)
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CHABLIS DOMAINE MILLET Tonnerre Domaine Millet is located some 10 miles south-east of the town of Chablis. The family had been growing cereal for several generations but back in the nineties the family made the big decision to cease from selling their own grapes to keeping them and making their own wine under their own family name – Millet. This took place in 2002 and what a sound decision it has been as their wines continue to meet with great acclaim. They have developed a fine reputation for their lovely ‘authentic’ Chablis wines in many parts of the world as well as here in Australia. Their 2011 Petit Chablis and Chablis village are true to the authentic style of minerally, crisp and dry Chablis whilst there are many 2011 Chablis wines that taste like a Macon from the warmer southern region of Burgundy. I recommend both wines with enthusiasm and do not expect any oak intervention as there is none! Bravo Boudouin Millet!!
Domaine Millet Petit Chablis 2011 ‘Nice green tinge with a little light yellow. The nose here is a bit muted at present but that will fill out. A very crisp attack with some honey and grapefruit to the middle palate. Excellent length and the minerality is obvious. Millet is considered the finest producer of Petit Chablis even by their competitors as Jean-Francois Bordet declared. I have tasted many in the past that rivalled rocket fuel! Not this boy as the balance and style is superb. Now what about the price for real Chablis?’ $20.50/bt Pre-arrival Code: 9282 (Landed $23.60)
Domaine Millet Chablis 2011 ‘That important green tinge to the colour is always important as it reflects the presence of acidity. That earthy, stony and minerally nose is ever present as is the crisp dry and stoney finish. That’s Chablis and this is excellent from start to finish. THIS IS THE REAL DEAL. No need to worry if you cellar it for 5 - 8 years but I prefer my Chablis relatively young as I love that stoney/minerally finish. Oops a gold medal winner at the Macon wine fair to boot!’ $24.00/bt Pre-arrival Code : 9283 (Landed $27.60)
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March 2013
ALSACE DOMAINE CHARLES BAUR Eguisheim The Baur family have been living and working their vineyards near the beautiful village of Eguisheim for generations. Arnaud Baur is at the helm now having taken over from is father, Charles, since returning to the domaine in 1980 after finishing his education at Dijon University. What a fine job he is now doing and the wines remain true to style at a time when many growers are producing Riesling and white varietals with a residual sweetness which I detest! Not so with Baur as this is the Alsace style not the nearby German type. Yuk!! On this occasion we have two Grand Cru Rieslings a village and a cheeky Gewurztraminer plus their delicious Cremant d’Alsace. A top quality range indeed
Domaine Baur Cremant D’Alsace ‘What a lovely Cremant that was blended with 40% Pinot Blanc, 20% Chardonnay and 40% Auxerrois and a amalgam of the 2007 and 2008 vintages with a low dosage of 7 grams per litre sugar that keeps the wine crisp and lively. A lovely fine and persistent bubbly that has style and class from start to finish. We tasted this over 6 days and the mousse remained lively. Lovely citrus and creamy texture.’ $22.10/bt Pre-arrival Code: 2360 (Landed $25.50)
Domaine Baur 2010 Riesling Grand Cru Eichberg ‘Beautiful nose showing more immediate charm than the Cuvee Charles. Richer with a greater depth of flavour than Cuvee Charles and almost easier to taste now because of these qualities. Six to ten years no problem.’ $38.00/bt Pre-arrival Code: 2307 (Landed $43.70)
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Domaine Baur 2010 Riesling Grand Cru Brand of Turckheim ‘Almost climbs out of the glass at you. Great vineyard producing Riesling which exemplifies the best that Alsace can offer. Layers of flavour and complexity made for the long haul but will probably never get the length in the cellar it deserves. 2010 is a great Riesling year.’ $38.00/bt Pre-arrival Code: 9284 (Landed $43.70)
Domaine Baur 2010 Riesling Cuvee Charles ‘Vieilles Vignes’ Gold Medal ‘An austere, classic Alsace Riesling. Dry with the high acid characteristic of 2010 only just starting to come out of its shell. Definitely food wine and capable of bottle development for five or six years. Great purity with a slightly saline quality.’ $23.50/bt Pre-arrival Code: 9285 (Landed $27.00)
Domaine Baur 2010 Gewurztraminer Grand Cru Pfersigberg ‘Although delicacy and Gewurztraminer are not normally two words found in the same sentence this is the case here. This wine contains spice and rose petal flavours on both palate and nose but with finesse not normally associated with the variety.’ $38.00/bt Pre-arrival Code: 9286 (Landed $43.70)
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March 2013
BURGUNDY DOMAINE THIBAUT LIGER-BELAIR Nuits-St-Georges The wines of Thibault Liger-Belair are a delight as they are so stylish and fanatically made. Thibault continues to fine tune all of his wines and like JeanMarie Fourrier he will never be satisfied with the quality of his wines as he will always be fine tuning the smallest detail. Here we have a contrast between a Burgundian Bourgogne Rouge made from Pinot Noir and a Grand Cru Beaujolais made from the Gamay grape BUT made like a Burgundy? Now that’s Thibault! What well-crafted wines that will please every palate as they have been made with a passion. The Burgundy drinks well above its station as a Bourgogne Rouge and the Beaujolais has a style most different from any wine from that august region. If you don’t try these two wines then you are certainly missing out on a complete vinous pleasure!
Domaine Liger-Belair Bourgogne Rouge 2010 ‘Les Grands Chaillots’ ‘A vibrant and deep ruby red colour greets the eye. The nose is earthy at present with a little smokey character from a little new oak. The palate is elegant and refined and the flavour of red berry fruits build up across the middle palate and finish. No dry or firm tannins just so rounded and balanced. This needs time in the bottle and I would recommend finding a nice location in your cellar for at least 3-5 years. This is a serious Bourgogne Rouge of great quality BUT be patient and you will be handsomely rewarded!’ $32.00/bt Pre-arrival Code: 1870 (Landed $36.00)
Domaine Liger-Belair Moulin a Vent 2010 ‘Vieilles Vignes’ ‘Very deep garnet red of immense depth for the Gamay grape. That obvious ‘bubble-gum’ character of this unique grape and the palate is concentrated and complex like no other Moulin a Vent I have met. The fact that the fermentation was not the traditional Maceration Carbonique which is used for all Beaujolais wine but the technique used in the Cote d’Or for Pinot Noir. Consequently this wine has more depth of flavour and more body than a Beaujolais. A great result and easy to drink right away but it will fill out over the next 6 - 10 years. A new direction for Beaujolais!’ $35.00/bt Pre-arrival Code: 1867 (Landed $41.50)
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DOMAINE JEAN-CLAUDE BACHELET ET FILS SAINT-AUBIN STOP PRESS……. We have been provided with yet another allocation of the great Chassagne-Montrachet 2009 Rouge from the Bachelet Boys. I cannot remember selling more Chassagne Rouge ever and the comments you have sent us shows that so many of you agree. And what great value. Now be quick on this as we will not receive another allocation – be sure!!! Psst they even gave us a discount on the price as we have sold so much.
Domaine Bachelet Chassagne-Montrachet Rouge 2009 ‘Vieilles Vignes’ 'Here we have 35 - 40 year old vines which make so much difference with Pinot Noir above all red grape varieties. The deep root structure results in a fruit quality that is rounder, penetrating and silky smooth. One of the great values of this vintage!' $35.00/bt Pre-arrival Code : 2213 (Landed $40.25)
Allen Meadows : A slightly rustic nose of extract of red berry liqueur, pepper and a floral note complements the equally rustic, rich and concentrated medium-bodied flavors that possess quality levels of dry extract that buffer the moderately firm tannins and coat the palate on the layered and delicious finish.(87-90).
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CHAMPAGNE VOIRIN JUMEL Cramant - Grand Cru Cote des Blancs – 11 hectares 11 hectares of vineyards span the villages of Cramant, Avize, Oger, Ay, Mareuil-sur-Aÿ, Vertus, Verneuil and Chouilly - and vines have an average age of 30 years. All this helps them to produce a small range of very individual and elegant wines. Being only a young family, quality is on the improve as Patrick gains more and more experience and confidence. His Meursault oak matured Cuvée 555 made from 100% Cramant fruit is an exciting and vibrant Champagne if you like the oakier richer style. Other cuvées include a pure Blanc de Blancs 1er Cru from Vertus and a rich NV rosé from Mareuil-sur-Aÿ and Aÿ pinot noir. Using a modern horizontal automated press allows Patrick to keep a tight reign on the quality and consistency of the final product. The Vintage Cuvée Grand Cru and NV Cuvée Grand Cru are generally a mix of the best parcels of Grand Cru Cramant and Chouilly. Dosages are all on the low side, allowing for the terroir to speak clearly and forcefully. The viticulture is environmentally friendly with no systemic chemical products being used and any treatments are always kept to a minimum.
Voirin-Jumel NV Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Blend of 60% Cramant, with the remainder from Avize, Chouilly and Oger. All Grand Cru Chardonnay vineyards from a blend of 2009 and reserve wines. This particular wine has been specially chosen and disgorged for us at a dosage of 6g/litre – as opposed to the 8g/litre for the standard version of this wine. There are citrus and floral notes in abundance and the classic Cramant minerality is subtle and not intrusive. Superb with sashimi and sushi. Quite delightful as an aperitif or with seafood and is a great bargain. Becoming a great favourite with our regular customers – Grand Cru Cramant at this price is an absolute steal! $45.00/bt Pre-arrival Code: 3632 (Landed $51.75)
TYSON STELZER: The power and linearity of Cramant are paraded in a palate of white peach, lemon and nutmeg. Clean, long and well-crafted, its bead is fine, its dosage well-gauged, its finish persistent and its minerality soft. It’s not particularly complex, but with such distinctive fruit, it doesn’t need to be. At this price it ranks among the best under $60 this year, and at $42 direct from The French Wine Centre it’s a must-buy. 93 points
Voirin-Jumel NV Blanc de Noirs 1er Cru 100% Pinot Noir from a single vineyard in Mareuil-sur-Ay – 'Les Carelles'. This used to be blended into the Brut Tradition, but Patrick realised that the quality here was quite extraordinary and deserved a better fate. Only a small quantity is produced – blend of 2009 and older reserve wines with a dosage of 7gm/litre. Lovely sweet red fruits – hints of pear and apple – classic length on the palate. A really versatile all round Champagne which is impossible not to like. A bargain which is quickly being discovered by our regular customers. Single-vineyard Mareuil Pinot at this price is unheard of! Be quick! $45.00/bt Pre-arrival Code: 6060 (Landed $51.75) Cuvées Classique
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CHAMPAGNE LAUNOIS PERE ET FILS Le Mesnil-sur-Oger – Grand Cru Cote des Blancs – 30 hectares Overall vineyard size here is quite large size with 30 ha of vineyards spread across the Cote des Blancs (Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, Avize, Oger and Cramant) and Sezanne. Viticulture is all certified organic – average vine age is high and picking here is always a week later than other growers - Bernard is searching for full ripeness and maturity. The vinification style is classic in flat bottomed stainless steel tanks, leaving the wines to enrich on their lees for much longer than usual. Bernard is one of the best producers in Le Mesnil-sur-Oger – many Champagne journalists say he is the best after Salon! Demand for Launois has been high – so much so that for the previous two years, stocks of many cuvees had sold out by middle of the year. This shipment of Quartz is the most recent disgorgement and is now 'pure' Le Mesnil-sur-Oger fruit. Dosages of all wines are moderate at about 8g/litre.
Launois NV Cuvée Mesnil Quartz Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs. Blended from 2009 and 2008 with some older reserve wines, all Grand Cru Chardonnay, now from pure Le Mesnil-sur-Oger fruit only – and from the famous 'Les Chetillons' vineyard. Pierre Peters makes a pure 'Les Chetillons' but it sells for three times the price. This has a similar overall make up to the cuvée reserve but the ‘pressure’ here has been reduced to ‘cremant’ style at 4 atmospheres – making this a little more delicate and subtle – a delightful adjunct to great seafood and as an aperitif. Unctuous and persistent with hints of chalk, citrus and white fruits. Don’t be confused by the ‘less atmospheres’ of this wine. It is as equally 'fizzy' as the standard wine but because the maturation in bottle on lees progresses at a lower pressure and lower alcohol level, different aromas and flavours develop. $51.00/bt Pre-arrival Code: 5746 (Landed $58.65)
Launois NV Cuvée Reserve Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs. Blended from 2009 and 2008 with some older reserve wines, all Grand Cru Chardonnay from Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, Cramant, Oger and a little Avize. A similar flavour profile to the Quartz but a little rounder and richer with a standard pressure of 6 atmospheres. The differences between this wine and the Quartz are subtle but certainly detectable. There is more richness and white fruits on the reserve – hints of apple and chalk. A versatile all-round style that beats 'big house Champagnes' on all fronts. $50.00/bt Pre-arrival Code: 3533 (Landed $57.50)
Launois NV Cuvée Dorine Blanc de Blancs. 100% Sezanne Chardonnay, fermented in tank and then oak barrel matured. Again a delightful blend of 2009 and 2008. Not much is produced and most is only sold at cellar door to good clients. The creamy opulence of the oak is immediately noticeable on the nose and palate. Aromas of tropical and dried fruits, with minerals leading to an intoxicating palate – bursting with citrus and chalk. Sezanne is just south of the Cote de Blancs and is very famous for its high quality Chardonnay. Stunning Champagne from a master grower! Be quick with the Dorine – it has proven to be very popular and will sell out before it arrives. $52.00/bt Pre-arrival Code: 3739 (Landed $59.80) Cuvées Classique
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CHAMPAGNE LILBERT FILS Cramant – Grand Cru Cote des Blancs- 4 hectares Bertrand Lilbert has now completely taken over the wine making from father Georges. The many parcels of family vineyards lie in Chouilly, Oiry and Cramant. The wines are made in a classic structured style with abundant acid to guarantee long aging potential. But that said, they are certainly very enjoyable in their youth. The Lilbert property was established in 1746 and consists of only 4 ha Grand Cru Vineyards in the Cote des Blancs, 60% in Cramant, 30% in Chouilly and 10% in Oiry. Michel Bettane, France’s top wine critic, names Lilbert as the reference point for long-lived classic Cramant. As Andrew Jefford observes in his book, The New France, “This tiny 4-ha Cramant domaine is the source of some very fine and long-lived Blanc de Blancs made by Georges Lilbert and his son Bertrand. The style is less soft, creamy, and flowery than the Blanc de Blancs of most large houses might leave the drinker expecting: Cramant here has a taut, steely, rigorous quality….”.
Lilbert-Fils Blanc de Blancs NV Grand Cru. This is always one of Bertrand’s classic Chardonnay cuvées, oozing with spine tingling minerals, great length and amazing balance. A blend of 40% 2009, and 60% 2008. The vineyard mix is 60% Cramant, 30% Chouilly and 10% Oiry – all Grand cru - with a tiny dosage of 7g/litre. The quality of the superb 2008 vintage blends superbly with the luscious ripeness of 2009. There are hints of lime zest and almond on the nose, flowing onto a crisp unctuous palate, leading to a long finish with wonderful acid balance and cleansing austerity.
$52.00/bt Pre-arrival Code: 3423 (Landed price $59.80)
VERRERIES DE LA MARNE – Glassware – Reims Les Authentiques No. 2 ‘Sonhyx’ This classic 'elegant flute' is now a classic design and exclusive to us. The shape accentuates the subtle mousse, allowing to evolve slowly. Well known to our regular clients but still being discovered by our new clients. This is the best multi purposr sparkling wine glass. It balances perfectly in the hand, made from a new material called ‘Sonhyx’. Highly recommended. Only available in multiples of 6. $70.00 / 6 pack Pre-arrival Code: Sonhyx (Landed $80.50)
Flute Premium We first came across this glass during a Champagne Grower tasting in Epernay – the same tasting where we first came across the superb Champagnes of Jean-Marc Seleque. This is a much bigger glass than the Authentiques – more bulbous – hence capturing more vinous and toasty aromas. The intensity of these aromas is a real feature, making this glass a perfect table glass. Surprising – this glass also works well as a Pinot tasting glass. Many vignerons are using this glass as their regular 'cellar' tasting glass. Only available in multiples of 6. $70.00 / 6 pack Pre-arrival Code: Premium (Landed $80.50) Cuvées Classique
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CHAMPAGNE GASTON CHIQUET Dizy – 1er Cru Marne Valley - 22 hectares Michael Edwards in the ‘Finest Wines of Champagne’ says ‘These Champagnes pre-eminently give the drinker a real sense of place, of the special plots of earth from which they come … the antithesis of a big house’s blend of many parts.’
The original Nicolas Chiquet planted his first vines in 1746. Since then eight generations have carried on the family tradition. Gaston Chiquet launched his own brand in 1935. They now own 22 hectares covering Dizy, Ay, Mareuil-sur-Ay and Hautvillers. The proportions cultivated are Chardonnay 40%, Pinot Meunier 40% and Pinot Noir 20%. Dizy has a 1er Cru classification with a rating of 95% and has much in common with its neighbouring village Aÿ. The Chiquets are cousins of the Jacquesson Chiquets just around the corner. The wines show good weight and intensity, and they are proud to use their high quality Pinot Meunier. Having 1er Cru vineyards helps, since it basically means you have access to Pinot Meunier which cannot be grown in Grand Cru designated vineyards! Pinot Meunier is a much maligned variety. Nicolas makes a wonderful 100% Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru from Aÿ which is a masterpiece – but sadly this is only available in small quantities. He also makes a vintage reserve Aÿ Blanc de Blancs, which is only available in magnums!! Now that’s what I call a serious and passionate vigneron! Nicolas is also a member of the ‘Club Tresors’ and produces a ‘Special Club’ cuvée which is currently the 2005 Vintage – some later in the year. The ‘Club Tresors’ draws inspiration on three guiding principles – authenticity, rigor and originality. The style here is for precise Champagnes that are accurate of their terroir and grape variety. The wine making does not mask or hide what nature provides. The entire range is outstanding – even the humble Brut Tradition is an excellent wine – we have a number of restaurants pouring this by the glass when we have any stocks.
Gaston Chiquet Brut Tradition NV. A blend of 80% 2009 and older reserve wines. 35% Chardonnay, 20% Pinot Noir and 45% Pinot Meunier with a dosage of 8gm/litre. This is a delightfully round and balanced cuvée with a persistent and elegant mousse. Colour is a straw gold, aromas of brioche and apple leading to a complex and unctuous palate, no doubt enriched by the quality Pinot Meunier component. Always an approachable rounder style and perfect as an aperitif or with any seafood or white meat. This entry level wine gets better and better every year. This wine is gaining more elegance,purity and sophistication. There is poise and purity in this cuvee. The terroir is allowed to express itself. The corks used are dense Mytik – and handle further aging in the cellar extremely well.
$50.00/bt Pre-arrival Code: 3417 (Landed $57.50) Cuvées Classique
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CHAMPAGNE LE BRUN SERVENAY Avize – Grand Cru Cote des Blancs - 9 hectares
Le Brun Servenay Brut Selection Avize Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs 100% Chardonnay being a blend of 50% 2009, 20% 2008, 20% 2007 and older reserve wines. This particular cuvée is always a blend of 4 vintages – and good ones at that. Fermentation is classic in tank and the malo-lactic fermentation is blocked. Rich and tight, very complex with oodles of Avize spice – coupled with subtle overtones of white fruits. There is purity and weight and the lack of malo-lactic fermentation adds a level of finesse and freshness which makes this a great aperitif or food style. This is primarily from Avize with a little Cramant (vineyard right on the Avize border) and a little Oger. This wine needs no introduction – now very popular with regular customers and many restaurants are pouring this by the glass including Rockpool. Closure is Diam cork. This is a new shipment – it has been 'that' popular. $46.00/bt Pre-arrival Code: 5932 (Landed $52.90) Burghound: “(base wine 2007, 100% chardonnay). An exceptionally subtle and restrained nose grudgingly offers up ultra-pure and elegant aromas of freshly baked bread, rose petals, lavender, sliced green apple and a hint of lemon. Equally pure, intense and beautifully well-delineated flavors are crisp, focused and quite dry without being unduly austere on the linear finish. I quite like this but it’s perhaps not the best choice for those who desire generous or very full-flavored examples as this is decidedly an understated Champagne. This could be drunk now or held for a few more years, which would be my choice. 93pts/2014+” Tim White – The Australian Financial Review October 28-30 2011: “Crisp pear skin and flinty-smelling with a touch of complex match strike. Spring water pure fruit. Excellent weight in the mouth with subtle pear and lemon peel flavours. Long and pure, a Champagne for purists and oyster lovers. 94/100”
Le Brun Servenay NV Rosé Rosés from the Cote des Blancs can often be a little light and just ‘simply coloured Chardonnay’, but here we have a wine with some substance and real texture. 86% Grand Cru Chardonnay (same blend as the Brut Selection) from Avize and surrounding villages with the red wine component of 14% being oak vinified pinot noir / pinot meunier. Again no malolactic fermentation and a dosage of 8g/litre. Toasty and spicy from the Avize fruit and a hint of smoke from the oak matured red wine. A classic and a bargain. Tyson Stelzer – Champagne Guide. This may be the youngest champagne you'll taste this year, but such is its perfumed freshness that there's no need to wait a moment before you dive in. A vibrant pink hue ushers in a bouquet of gorgeous strawberry and red cherry blossom fragrance. The palate is delicate, primary, linear, and predictably one-dimensional, but those red fruits linger through an ethereal finish and chalky Avize minerality. An enticing wine that showcases Le Brun’s skill. 94/100 $48.00/bt Pre-arrival Code: 2166 (Landed $55.20)
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CHAMPAGNE TARLANT Oeuilly – 1er Cru Marne Valley - 13 hectares Vignerons since 1687, who now, under the guidance of Benoit Tarlant, are producing an impressive array of terroir driven wines. Careful use of barrel fermentation allows Benoit to create a range of elegant but complex wines from the three classic varieties, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. 13 Hectares are divided into diverse soil types: Chalk, Limestone, Sand, Gravel and Sparnacien which is a blend of clay and chalk. Average age of the vines is 29 years with the ratio being Pinot Noir 50%, Chardonnay 30% and Pinot Meunier 20%. Benoit is very fastidious about the quality of his grapes and the subsequent juice. Traditionally in Champagne you are allowed to press 2,550 litres of juice from 4,000 kg of grapes. This is split into various quality components which may or may not be used by the grower and maybe sold off. He carefully monitors the juice from the 1st pressing known as the ‘cuvée’ and splits this into two components, ‘cuvée A’ and ‘cuvée B’. When he is no longer happy with the quality – he stops pressing then and there. Often he only obtains 1400-1600 litres of usable juice from the 4,000 kg. He then combines the various A and B components to achieve his cuvée blend. Dosages are kept low with the average being 6g/litre. Vinification is partly in stainless steel and small oak barriques from Burgundy. Malolactic fermentation is blocked in all of the cuvées to preserve freshness and acidity.
Tarlant NV Brut Zero Nature. Blend of 1/3 each of CH, PN and PM, from 2007 and reserve wines with no added dosage. An intense aromatic style, with hints of grapefruit, minerals, smoke and real purity. There is honey and brioche on a very very long palate. Very approachable and just so perfectly balanced. The mousse is ultra-fine and persistent. Has amazing richness with weight and complexity and in a masked line up it is difficult to detect that this is a Brut Zero. Extended lees aging – nearly five years – is a feature of this wine – giving it creaminess and roundness. Five years on lees is unheard of for a non vintage base cuvee! Critics agree that this is the ‘benchmark’ Brut Zero. Always a speciality of Benoit and one of his favourites. This single cuvee makes up more than 75% of the total Tarlant production – massively popular! Regularly acclaimed as being a perfect food match and features in many Michelin starred restaurants. $54.00/bt Pre-arrival Code: 3530 (Landed $62.10)
Terroir Discovery 6 bottle Selection A great way to taste and discover each of the six growers in this offer. Pre-arrival special $290.00 Code: 5936 (Landed $343.85) Tarlant Brut Zero Nature Gaston Chiquet Tradition Launois Cuvee Reserve
Cuvées Classique
Voirin-Jumel Blanc de Noirs 1er Cru Lilbert Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Le Brun Servenay Rose
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March 2013
MARCH 2013 ORDER FORM Cuvées Classique TEL: (03) 9696 7920 FAX: (03) 9696 8703 Email: orders@frenchwinecentre.com All wines MUST be purchased in multiples of 3 ➔ LANDED PRICES APPLY AFTER THE CLOSING DATE OF THE OFFER ➔ OFFER CLOSES: 3rd MAY
Code Qty Description LOIRE | CHABLIS | ALSACE | BURGUNDY
Landed
Pre-Arrival
9280
Mourat 2012 Rose
$19.00
$16.50
9281
Merlin 2011 Sancerre
$29.50
$25.50
9282
Millet 2011 Petit Chablis
$23.60
$20.50
9283
Millet 2011 Chablis
$27.60
$24.00
2360
Baur Cremant d'Alsace
$25.50
$22.10
2307
Baur 2010 Riesling Grand Cru Eichberg
$43.70
$38.00
9284
Baur 2010 Riesling Grand Cru Brand of Turckheim
$43.70
$38.00
9285
Baur 2010 Riesling Cuvee Charles 'VV' Gold Medal
$27.00
$23.50
9286
Baur 2010 Gewurztraminer GC Pfersigberg
$43.70
$38.00
1870
Liger-Belair 2010 'Les Grands Chaillots' Rouge
$36.00
$32.00
1867
Liger-Belair Moulin A Vent 2010 ‘VV'
$41.50
$35.00
2213
Bachelet Chassagne-Mont. Rouge 2009 ‘VV'
$40.25
$35.00
Value
CHAMPAGNE 3632
Voirin-Jumel NV Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru
$51.75
$45.00
6060
Voirin-Jumel NV Blanc de Noirs 1er Cru
$51.75
$45.00
5746
Launois Cuvée Quartz GC Blanc de Blancs
$58.65
$51.00
3533
Launois Cuvée Reserve GC Blanc de Blancs
$57.50
$50.00
3739
Launois NV Cuvée Dorine Blanc de Blancs
$59.80
$52.00
3423
Lilbert-Fils Blanc de Blancs NV Grand Cru
$59.80
$52.00
3417
Gaston Chiquet Brut Tradition NV
$57.50
$50.00
5932
Le Brun Servenay Brut Selection
$52.90
$46.00
2166
Le Brun Servenay NV Rosé
$55.20
$48.00
3530
Tarlant NV Brut Zero Nature
$62.10
$54.00
5936
Terroir Discovery 6 bottle selection
$343.85
$290.00
Les Authentiques No. 2 ‘Sonhyx’
$80.50
$70.00
Champagne Flute Premium
$80.50
$70.00
GLASSES Sonhyx Premium
Cuvées Classique
SUBTOTAL
$
5% Full Case Discount to all 12 x 750 ml (same wine)
$
TOTAL
$
FREIGHT
$
GRAND TOTAL
$
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March 2013
CUSTOMER DETAILS & DELIVERY SECTION IF YOU FAX YOUR ORDER, PLEASE WRITE YOUR NAME ON BOTH PAGES *** Delivery instructions are important - enter delivery address only below *** A business address that is open between 9am & 5pm where someone is able to receive the wine is preferable. However if we are delivering to a private address, Australia Post has the provision on its label for a brief instruction of where you are happy for wine to be left if no one is home. (i.e. on front porch under cover, in garage on left side of house, by front door out of weather etc.) If there is nowhere safe and nobody home they will leave a card and take delivery to nearest Australia Post outlet.
NAME: DELIVERY ADDRESS: POST CODE: SPECIAL DELIVERY INSTRUCTIONS:
TEL (daytime only):
CONTACT NAME:
E-MAIL ADDRESS:
METHOD OF PAYMENT (Please circle one of the following below) DIRECT CREDIT / CHEQUE VISA/MASTERCARD (Preferred – 3 digit code) or AMEX(4 digit code) Security Code _ _ _ _
Card #:
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
_ _ _ _
Expiry: _ _ / _ _
Name on card: Signature: TERMS, CONDITIONS & PRICES OF OFFER Orders must be in cases of 6 or 12 bottles (750ml) and in multiples of 3 of any one wine unless specified otherwise. This enables safer packing with less chance of breakages during delivery. Please check your order carefully upon receipt and advise of any discrepancies within 10 working days. If an error is made it is virtually impossible to rectify if notified months later. Prices are per pack including all duties, taxes, W.E.T. and G.S.T. These prices are only valid for orders placed and paid before the closing date. Prices and availability are subject to change without notice.
LANDED PRICES APPLY AFTER THE CLOSING DATE OF THE OFFER (APPROX. 15%) MINIMUM OVERALL PURCHASE IS 6 BOTTLES.
DELIVERY PRICES Unless otherwise quoted DESTINATION Melbourne Metro Country Victoria Sydney & Adelaide Metro Country N.S.W, A.C.T & S.A. Brisbane Metro & Gold Coast Northern Territory
PER CASE $10.00 $14.00 $14.00 $16.00 $17.00 $60.00
DESTINATION Country Queensland Sunshine Coast & Ipswich Perth Metro Country W.A. Tasmania Glassware
PER CASE $28.00 $25.00 $30.00 $39.00 $30.00 P.O.A
TEMPERATURE CONTROLLED We now offer temperature controlled delivery throughout Victoria and are looking into our nationwide options. Should you wish to take advantage of temperature controlled shipping you will need to ensure that someone is available for collection, or delivery can be left in safe designated area. Cuvées Classique
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March 2013
BURGUNDY VINTAGE CHART This vintage chart has been compiled by Ross Duke, following extensive visits and tastings. Each rating is marked out of 10.
VINTAGE
WHITE
COMMENT
RED
COMMENT
1945 1946 1947 1948 1949 1950 1951 1952 1953 1954 1955 1956 1957 1958 1959 1960 1961 1962 1963 1964 1965 1966 1967 1968 1969 1970 1971 1972 1973 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978 1979 1980 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010
8 6-7 7 7 8 5 4 5 7 6 5 4 6 3 6 5 5-6 6-7 5-6 5-6 4 8 7 3 8-9 5 7-8 6 7-8 4 6 7 4 8-9 8 6 7-8 6 7 6 7 8-9 7 6-7 8 7-8 8 7 6-7 8-9 9-10 7 7-8+ 7 8+ 8 8 5 8 9 9+ 7+ 9 9 9
Great vintage Should be drunk by now Should be drunk by now. Drink up. Great vintage, alive and vibrant. Past it. Gone. Light, thin and hard. Retains potential. Should be drunk by now. Past it. Dried out. Fully mature. Poor vintage. Excellent. Finished. Variable, drink up. Variable, but still lively. Poor average quality. Over-aged. Poor average quality. Very good year – keep. Better for whites than reds. Bad vintage. Great vintage – alive and well! Past it. Fresh and will keep longer. Better for reds – should be drunk. Good. Not very good. Average – should be drunk. Mixed quality – drink up. Not very good, washed out. Great vintage – keep. Ripe and still fresh. Reasonable but should be drunk. Started hard but filling out well. Drink up, low acidity. Very ripe, high alcohol. Hard when young – drink. Pleasant when young. Faded. Great vintage and still fine. Honest – maybe a few more years. Light and slightly dilute. Should be ready right now. Rich and heady. Very good now. Intense fruit. Ex balance. Hold. Large harvest. Variable. Try now. Light, dilute. Drink up. Excellent vintage. Long keepers. Classical. Fine and long. Keep. Approachable wines. Drink young. Variable. Puligny Ex. Keep. Pleasant juicy fruit. Drink young. Excellent Chardonnay vintage Surprisingly good. Try now. Excellent year. Beginning to fill out Too hot and lacking acid. Well balanced. Keep 5-8 years. Top quality whites. Med term. Ex balance & style. Ripe & soft. Good drinking now. Classic white Burgundy. If picked early – excellent. Very traditional – keepers.
9 7 9 8 9 5 4 7 8 6 6 5 7-8 4 7 5 7 6-7 4 8 4 8 6 3 8+ 6 7 7-8 6 4 5 6-8+ 5 8-9 6-7 8 6 6-7 8-9 6 7-8 7 7 7 8-9 9-10 6-7+ 8-9 6 8-9 8-9 7-8 9-10 8+ 7 8+ 9+ 7 8 9+ 9+ 8 9+ 9 9+
Still ageing Drink up Grands Cru still fresh. Some O.K. safer to drink now. Still fresh and maturing. Past it. Gone. A surprise! Still O.K. Good vintage. Drink now! Past maturity. Past ‘use by’ date. Will take more bottle-age. Poor for reds as well. Should be drunk by now. Average – past it. At their peak – drink. Retains quality - still going. Poor. Alive and more promise. Gone. Vibrant and intense – keep. Short-term wines. Poor reds as well. Great vintage. Some variations. Dried out. Peaked, drink up. Slow starters – still very good. Average – should be drunk. Poor and lacked concentration. Soft and light early on. Drink! Great to average, check. Hard, acidic wines and still hard! Charming wines ageing nicely. Should be drunk by now. Near maturity. Lovely vintage. Retains hardness. Lost freshness and fruit. Drink! Some green, some great. Keep. Lost fruit – drink up! Declining. G Crus drink now! Still good but drink now. Wont get any better. Still tannic. Lacks charm. Sweet, ripe and attractive. Try. Beginning to blossom in bottle. Aged surprisingly well. Drink. Great vintage. Just opening up. Near maturity- G Cru 2-3 years. Top class but needs 10-15 years.. Fabulous fruit. Keep 8 years+ Delicious. Drink now to 5 years. Classic Burgundy. Long ageing. Outstanding, still ageing. Delicious, now. Well structured wines. Keepers. Great vintage. Keep. Variable but ripe and easy. Difficult year but successful. Great year and uniform quality. Classic – ‘terroir’ driven. Juicy – under-rated. Superb and certainly a keeper. Similar to 2005 & 1999. Great complexity. 10 +
Cuvées Classique
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March 2013
Ross Duke Wine Company Pty Ltd Suite 309, 63 Stead Street, South Melbourne. 3205 Victoria Australia Tel: (03) 9696 7920 Fax: (03) 9696 8703 Email: orders@frenchwinecentre.com Website: www.frenchwinecentre.com