- Aglianico
- Alicante Bouschet
- Aragonês
- Bobal
- Brunello
- Cabernet Franc
- Cabernet Sauvignon
- Carignan
- Corvina
- Frappato
- Glera
- Grenache / Garnacha
- Malbec
- Malvasia Nero
- Merlot
- Molinara
- Mourvèdre / Mataró / Monastrell
- Nebbiolo
- Pinot Noir
- Primitivo
- Rondinella
- Sangiovese
- Shiraz / Syrah
- Tempranillo
- Tinta Roriz
- Touriga Franca
- Touriga Nacional
- Trincadeira Preta
- Zweigelt
- Aglianico
- Alicante Bouschet
- Aragonês
- Bobal
- Brunello
- Cabernet Franc
- Cabernet Sauvignon
- Carignan
- Corvina
- Frappato
- Glera
- Grenache / Garnacha
- Malbec
- Malvasia Nero
- Merlot
- Molinara
- Mourvèdre / Mataró / Monastrell
- Nebbiolo
- Pinot Noir
- Primitivo
- Rondinella
- Sangiovese
- Shiraz / Syrah
- Tempranillo
- Tinta Roriz
- Touriga Franca
- Touriga Nacional
- Trincadeira Preta
- Zweigelt
2019 Chateau Mangot Saint-Emillion Grand Cru
Regular price £27.95 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%A plush and appealing, classic Saint-Émilion Grand Cru from this progressive Château.
Tasting Notes
Nose
Complex aromas of bramble fruit with herbal notes and a touch of spice.
Palate
The palate is plush with ripe plum and berry characters, fine tannins, well-integrated oak, and fresh acidity giving balance on the long and elegant finish.
Producer
Nestled in the far eastern reaches of the Saint-Émilion appellation, Château Mangot consists of 37 hectares with a diversity of clay-limestone soils. Whilst vines are naturally the star of the show for the estate’s current guardians, the Todeschini family, 15% of the estate consists of hedges, woods and embankments, which contribute to a rich biodiversity. Brothers Yann and Karl look after the vineyard management and winemaking themselves and are committed to following sound ecological practises.
A lightness of touch and genuine care flows through everything they do; from protecting the soils using only natural fertilisers, to the use of native yeasts and only the very tiniest amount of SO2 in the winery. They do not “make” the wines, but rather guide them into fulfilling their potential as pure, precise and quality expressions of the terroir. The estate was promoted to Grand Cru Classé status in 2022 in recognition of their consistently well-made, polished wines and their commitment to biodiversity and the environment.
Production
The grapes - predominantly Merlot with some Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon - are cultivated on a selection of different soil types and aspects, from clay-limestone hillsides to a limestone plateau, at 35-90 m altitude. Average age of the vines is 40 years - and the vineyard is maintained according to environmental principles. At harvest time the grapes are selected, de-stemmed and undergo a cold pre-fermentation maceration before gentle vinification in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks for 4 weeks. The wine is then aged for 13-15 months in barrels of diffferent ages - with 10% remaining in stainless steel. The wine is then blended and bottled, 18-20 months following the harvest.
Specifications
Year | 2019 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | Merlot 80%, Cabarnet Franc 15%, Cabarnet Sauvignon 5% |
Country | Bordeaux France |
Alcohol content |
14% alc vol
|
Units of Alcohol per Bottle | 10.5 units |
Type | Red Blend |
Cellaring Potential | Awaiting info |
Features | Contains Sulphites |
Food Matches |
Drink with lamb or beef, or keep it simple with rich tomato-based pasta dishes.
|
Origin | Montagne de Saint Émilion |
Appellation
|
Saint-Emillion Grand Cru |
2020 Moric Blaufränkisch 'Reserve'
Regular price £42.99 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%“It’s not enough for Roland Velich of Moric to be the premier producer of Blaufränkisch—his “Reserve” bottling elevates Blaufränkisch, and the Burgenland, to a new level of international importance.”
David Lynch, Sommelier & Editorial Director
Tasting Notes
Colour
In the glass, it is a deep ruby leaning to purple/black, reminiscent of Northern Rhône Syrah.
Nose
The aromas also summon the Northern Rhône a bit, with scents of blackberry, pomegranate, grilled herbs, violets, and licorice.
Palate
Because of its appearance, you’ll be expecting a “big” wine, but while the fruit is dark, even black, the wine is balanced, medium-plus in body, and firmly structured. Younger expressions have a nice saturation of fruit and earth without an overabundance of tannin (making them approachable on release), and with time, the exotic spices and minerality emerge more fully, as the texture softens to Burgundy-like silkiness.
Producer
Roland Velich has become an internationally recognized wine celebrity for his work with old-vine Blaufränkisch in Austria’s Burgenland DAC. His assortment of reds, including several single-vineyard bottlings of the variety, are widely considered to be the Gold Standard in the zone.
The Burgenland appellation, running along Austria’s border with Hungary southeast of Vienna, has a diverse topography and a mix of soils, with more primary rock and slate at higher locations and dense loams in the rolling hills that extend toward the Pannonian plain (a warming influence that is important in getting the late-ripening Blaufränkisch fully mature). Moric’s organically farmed vineyards—Velich has farmed organically since he founded the brand but has not sought certifications—with significant (50-100 years) age, are situated primarily in the Mittelburgenland sub-region; Velich describes the soils as varied, with some limestone and slate mixed in with loam, with vine age for this entry-level bottling ranging from eight to 50 years.
Moric’s “Reserve” represents a selection of the very best old-vine fruit from the vineyards in Neckenmarkt and Lutzmannsburg. It underwent a native yeast fermentation in open-topped oak and steel vats, followed by 24 months of aging in barrels ranging in size from 500 to 3,600 liters. Bottled without fining and filtration and with only a minimal sulfur addition, the wine is soulful, pure and soil-expressive, with a structure reminiscent of Grand Cru Burgundy (even if the fruit skews much darker). This isn’t a merely “unique,” or “unusual” red—it’s an international benchmark!
Specifications
Year | 2020 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | Blaufränkisch |
Country | Austria |
Alcohol content
|
13% alc vol
|
Units of Alcohol per Bottle | 9.8 units |
Type | Red Wine |
Cellaring | Now to 2030+ decant for 1-2 hours before serving |
Food matches | Beef goulash |
Allergen Information | Contains Sulphites |
Dietary Information |
Organic Farming
|
Origin | Burgenland |
2023 Ermita de San Felices Rioja Tinto Joven
Regular price £11.99 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%Light, elegant with plenty of summer-pudding red berry fruit. Light oak adds weight and concentration. The vibrant violet, cherry fruit is typical of good Tempranillo Rioja.
Tasting Notes
Colour
Red colour with blackish tones
Nose
Good intensity, fresh, floral and red berries.
Taste
Medium body, easy drinking, fruity and fresh with mouth-watering acidity.
Producer
Santiago Ijalba has been making wines for over half a century and founded Bodegas Santalba (a fusion of his first and last name) in 1964. Joined by his son Roberto and daughter Laura over the last decade, Roberto concentrates his wine making expertise on the more modern styles, while Laura focuses her attentions on the marketing side, making Bodegas Santalba a real family affair.
Specifications
Year | 2023 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | 100% Tempranillo |
Country | Spain |
Alcohol content | 14% |
Units of Alcohol per Bottle
|
10.5 units |
Type | Red Wine |
Food Matches |
Drink with barbecues, rice dishes such as risottos, beef carpaccio with parmesan, beans or pulses and vegetables, pork in mustard, fresh pasta, curried chicken, Eastern and spicy dishes. Serve around 16C. |
Features | Vegetarian approved |
Allergen Information | Contains sulphites |
Appellation | Rioja Alta |
Origin | DOCa Rioja |
2017 Eduardo Garrido Garcia Rioja Reserva
Regular price £26.49 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%The spirited red wines of Spain | A fabulous quality and great value Reserva from a small family, producer.
Tasting Notes
Colour
In the glass a cherry red color with rusty red reflections of medium depth.
Nose
Good aromatic intensity, with balsamic notes and ripe fruit on the nose.
Palate
Soft and clean on the palate with a fresh and elegant taste and well-integrated tannins on the finish.
Producer
Positioned in La Rioja, the winery Bodega Eduardo Garrido Garcia offers wine enjoyment in the middle of Spain, close to the coastal region of the Atlantic Ocean. Although the town is separated from the sea by almost 40 kilometers of natural parks and mountains, cold Atlantic winds find their way to the cultivated areas and provide the necessary cooling, especially on hot summer days. Since 1923, visitors to this winery have been able to discover a surprising selection of exquisite red and white wines.
His grandfather already ensured excellent results with his passion for the taste of delicious wines. Today it is Amelia Garrido who runs the winery together with her father and protects the high quality of the products with the same care. After sustainable production, the individual bottles are transported directly to the winery's customers. This not only protects the environment, but also offers those interested personalized access to a unique taste experience.
It is important for Amelia Garrido to preserve the surrounding nature and focus on selected varieties. Strong aromas and a purple color give the winery's Vino Joven a special character that the winery wants to maintain in any case. Young, mature wines with fruity notes form the foundation of Bodega Eduardo Garrido Garcia. At least up to 20% of these wines have also been aged in barrels for three months.
At Bodega Eduardo Garrido Garcia, connoisseurs encounter wines that grow 600 meters above sea level. The vines grown there produce strong red wines and draw their support from the existing clay soils, which are also rich in calcium. Nevertheless, the Bodega Eduardo Garrido Garcia winery also takes advantage of the region's prevailing microclimate, which always guarantees sufficient sun and cool temperatures at the same time.
Specifications
Year | 2017 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | 80% Tempranillo 20% Garnacha |
Country | Spain |
Alcohol content
|
14.5% alc vol
|
Units of alcohol per bottle | 10.9 units |
Type | Red Wine |
Allergy Information | Contains sulphites |
Legumes, white and red meats, cured or semi-cured cheeses, sausages. | |
Appellation | D.O.Ca Rioja |
2016 Bodegas de la Marquesa Valserrano Reserva
Regular price £20.95 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%One of the smallest and most prestigious wineries in Spain.
Marrying Tempranillo with 10% Graciano, it's compact, focused, and well-balanced, with crunchy black cherry and blackberry fruit framed by spicy, aromatic oak.
Tasting Notes
Aged for 24 months in American and French oak.
Nose
Deep violet with chocolate and vanilla
Palate
Compact focused, and well-balanced, with crunchy black cherry and blackberry fruit mocha, soft cinnamon, and smooth vanilla framed by spicy, aromatic oak.
Producer
Valserrano is a long established family Bodega that lies in the best part of the region, on the limestone ridges of the Alavesa area in the Rioja Alta near Haro. It is based on the same principal as a good French Château which is to use fruit only from their own vineyards, set rigorous standards in the cellars and, following fermentation in stainless steel, they age the wine in oak part of which is renewed each year. The wines have elegance and pungency combined with the soft spicy allure that only well made Tempranillo can offer. They are very good indeed and have received really high score from renowned wine critics
Vineyards
Valserrano estate lies on 65 hectares of vineyards that belong to the family. The domaine is planted with 80% of Tempranillo, the basis of any good Rioja wine and Mazuelo, Garnacha, Graciano and Viura.
The family recently planted a vineyard with Maturana red and another with Chardonnay to see how these minority varieties perform in the Rioja Alavesa. Once fermented, their wine mature in underground natural cellars over 200 years old.
Accolades
- Received 92 points at Decanter’s Affordable Excellence Red Rioja Tasting Panel, November 2022
- 93 points Tim Atkin's Rioja 2022 Special Report
Specifications
Year | 2016 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | 90% Tempranillo, 10% Graciano |
Country | Spain |
|
|
Units of alcohol per bottle | 10.5 units |
Type | Red Wine |
Allergy Information | Contains sulphites |
Cellaring potential |
Drinking now until 2025 |
Food Matches | Rioja is a very versatile wine for food matching. Steaks and roasted lamb dishes are a fantastic pairing but do try with some simple tapas such as spicy or sweet Artisan Chorizo, or Iberico Pata Negra cured ham with some cheeses. |
Appellation | Alavesa, D.O.Ca Rioja |
2020 Cortese 'Senia' Nero d'Avola Sicilia DOC (Organic)
Regular price £20.99 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%When they created Senia, they took their inspiration from traditional fermentation techniques. For this reason the Nero d’Avola is fermented in open top barriques, in small quantities of around 150 litres. Senia has a extremely limited production of about 8.000 bottles per year.
Tasting Notes
Colour
An extremely intense ruby red in colour.
Nose
On the bouquet there are prominent dark fruit notes of plums and blackberries, with nuances of balsamic, liqorice and carob.
Palate
A very full-bodied wine, with a refreshing acidity, and a long finish showing soft and intense tannins.
Vineyards & Vinification
We ferment the grapes in open top barriques in small lots of around 150 litres. Using this method, it’s not possible to control the temperature during fermentation, but it never exceeds 18-24C°. The small volume allows it to adjust itself naturally.
The grapes undergo fermentation for 10-12 days. The use of open top barrels allows us to carry out “follatura” (manually pushing down the skins) as often as is necessary for the natural and delicate extraction of colour and tannins from the skins.
We leave the wine in contact with the skins for about 20 days after the fermentation and then for a total of 30-35 days.
Once the maceration on the skins has ended, the wine is placed in barriques for the malolactic fermentation, after which it remains in barrel for 12 months before bottling. The wine stays a further 6 months in bottle before being released on to the market.
Accolades
91 pts points | James Suckling
I like the dried-spice, tobacco and ash character to the black plum and black cherry fruit. It’s medium- to full-bodied with plenty of spicy and smoky flavours. Soft tannins. Delicious now.
17/20 points | Jancis Robinson
Specifications
Year | 2020 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | Nero d'Avola |
Country | Italy |
Alcohol content
|
14.5% alc vol
|
Units of Alcohol per Bottle | 10.5 units |
Type | Red Wine |
Allergen Information | Contains sulphites |
Dietary Information | Organic |
Origin | Sicilia DOC |
2017 Cafaggio Chianti Classico Riserva
Regular price £33.99 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%Villa Cafaggio Chianti Classico Riserva is obtained exclusively from Sangiovese grapes. Grown on land owned by the estate, the vineyard, situated in Panzano in Chianti, extends along the sunny slopes of the 'Conca d'Oro' (Golden basin), a wine- growing area of great value.
Tasting Notes
Nose
This opens with aromas of black-skinned berries, leather, and baking spices.
Palate
Silky, with nutty fruit and a hint of bitter chocolate character. Full-bodied, with fine tannins and a long finish.
Producer
Since the Renaissance and beyond, Cafaggio's conca d'oro vineyards—which can also be translated as "golden shell," "golden bowl," or "golden basin"—have been renowned for the exceptional wines they produce at an altitude ranging from 300-400 meters above sea level and encompassing a surface area of about 60 hectares.
The conca, as its name suggests, is a steep, naturally occurring amphitheater with a southern exposure that is perfect for the growth of grapes that will be transformed into wines with intense flavor, distinct structure, and significant aging potential.
The conca d'ora is situated in the center of Panzano commune, one of the five Chianti Classico DOCG villages (the only five townships where Chianti Classico can be produced today) where Chianti was first manufactured.
The soil types, in combination with the height and exposure, offer the vines exceptional vigor as their roots look for the water table, making the estate's vineyards one of the most sought-after quality wine-growing locations in all of Tuscany.
Cafaggio is an active participant in the 1995-founded Unione Viticoltori di Panzano (Panzano Grape Grower and Winemaker Union), a group that supports and aids in the promotion of the township's wineries.
Review
- 91 Points Wine Enthusiast
- Bronze Medal at the 2021 International Wine Challenge
Specifications
Year | 2017 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | 100% Sangiovese Grosso |
Country | Italy |
Alcohol content | 14% |
Units of Alcohol per Bottle | 10.5 units |
Type | Red Wine |
Allergen Information | Contains sulphites |
Appellation | Tuscany |
2019 Alasia Barolo
Regular price £21.49 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%
Araldica's top-tier Barolo from selected vineyards. An approachable, richly-flavoured style expertly blended by Lella Burdese.
Tasting Notes
A fine, expressive style with Barolo's classic combination of mature, lightly floral aromas with richness and structure.
Nose
Dark plum, leather and delicate violet aromas, plus notes of woodsmoke and brown spice.
Palate
A full, firm and ripe red with rich, powerful flavours. All are balanced by ripe tannins, complex savoury notes and a long finish.
Production
Vines are trained on a low Guyot trellis at 4-5,000 vines/ha. The grapes were hand-harvested, de-stemmed and then crushed to small fermenters, for 12 days, with daily pumping-over. The wine was drained off at dryness, and the skins transferred to a small press. After pressing the wine was settled for two days, and then racked to stainless steel tanks for malolactic fermentation. After three years maturation in 50hl Slavonian oak casks it was racked from oak and gently fined.
Producer
Araldica is Piemonte's most forward-thinking co-operative, situated in Castel Boglione, in the heart of Barbera d'Asti territory. Here they work with 230 grower members to source quality grapes from around 690ha of vineyards. Many of their members joined the cooperative in the 1950s and have a long and loyal relationship with the winery. They produce wines from Piemonte's main DOC / DOCG regions - predominantly Barbera, Gavi and Moscato, but also including Barolo, Barbaresco and Roero Arneis.
Founded in 1954 by Livio Manera, father of the current Managing Director and winemaker Claudio Manera, Araldica has developed over the past 60+ years to become a major winemaking force in Piemonte, supplying wines across the globe. Claudio's wife Lella heads up quality control at Araldica, where she is responsible for the blending and approval of all wines.
Their son Carlo, also a qualified winemaker, is now part of the Araldica winemaking team. Livio pioneered developments in winemaking techniques - especially with regard to the production of Barbera - and Araldica have since continued to be instrumental in the distribution of Barbera and Gavi within the UK market and internationally. As Claudio states their aim is "...to provide a range that is both understandable and accessible. Quite simply, wine for drinking and enjoying."
Awards
- Silver IWSC 2021 (2016 Vintage)
Specifications
Year | 2019 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | 100% Nebbiolo |
Country | Italy |
Alcohol content | 14% |
|
10.5 units |
Type | Red Wine |
Food Matches | Decant and drink with roasted red meats and game. |
Cellaring Potential | 2 years |
Allergen Information | Contains sulphites |
Origin | Piedmont |
2021 Franco Conterno Langhe Nebbiolo Doc Cascina Sciulun
Regular price £28.99 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%This fine wine is born from the areas of Monforte d'Alba, Novello and Madonna di Como with their steep, plastic soils, rich in clay and sand.
Tasting Notes
Brilliant grenade red in colour with soft orange notes, it is rich, complex, tannic and pleasant on the nose with hints of raspberry.
Vineyards
It is quite possible that the Franco Conterno estate has one of the most enviable views of any winery. In the heart of the Langhe, in the hamlet of Bussia di Monforte d’Alba, the farm sits alone atop a tiny hill overlooking La Morra, Fontanafredda and Castiglione Falletto.
Franco Conterno comprises 28 hectares of vineyards, located in the territories of Monforte d’Alba, Barolo, Castiglione Falletto, Novello and Madonna di Como.
The labels bear the names of the most prestigious vineyards: Bussia and Panerole. The hectares of land are dedicated to the cultivation of Lampia and Michet Nebbiolo, Barbera, Dolcetto, Merlot, Freisa and Chardonnay. Bussia is the first cru to have been declared a member of the "modern" era.
As always, our growing techniques are specially chosen to bring together respect for the environment and agricultural work, as required by the Regional Rural Development Plan to which Franco Conterno first subscribed in 1996. All this is possible thanks to the extraordinary nature of the soil, made up of sand, silt and clay. The elevation above sea level ranges from 250 to 400 metres.
The soil, the extraordinary microclimate, and the excellent south/south-west exposure allow for the creation of wines with unique and valuable characteristics.
From 2015, Franco Conterno has been a certified organic company, dedicated to a production philosophy based on natural vineyard cultivation and a completely wholesome vinification process.
History
In the heart of the Langhe, in the hamlet of Bussia di Monforte d’Alba, is Cascina Sciulun, a typical historic farmhouse, constructed according to Piedmont architectural traditions. Built in the mid-nineteenth century and extended in the 1940s, the house has always belonged to the Conterno family.
The company Franco Conterno has deep roots, and has been a part of the family for many decades. It was nonno Pietro who allocated 18 hectares of land to Nebbiolo vineyards, initially to sell to other wineries for vinification, later destined for the creation of prestigious wines.
The business passed to his son Giacomo, and then to his grandson Franco, who took the helm of the winery in 1995 with his wife Vilma, bringing his own name and identity to the company.
In recent years, Franco’s two sons—Daniele and Andrea—joined the company, following in the footsteps of their grandfather, bringing fresh insight and innovation to the winery and vineyards, continuing the family business with passion and dedication.
Cascina Sciulun now includes a farmhouse where you can stay, for a relaxing visit immersed in the peace and tranquility of the green hills of the Langhe.
Specifications
Year | 2021 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | 100% Nebbiolo |
Country | Italy |
Alcohol content | 14% alcohol |
Units of Alcohol per Bottle | 10.5 units |
Type | Red Wine |
Vinification |
Must and skins are kept in contact for 7-9 days, punched down daily and finally racked. Fermentation varied with peaks of 30°C. |
Aging | In the cellar: the new wine is kept 3 months in steel tanks and undergoes malolactic fermentation; it is decanted several times, and finally aged in Slavonian oak barrels where it ages 8 to 12 months. Aging in bottle: 6 months |
Allergen Information | Contains Sulphites |
Food Matches |
Excellent if combined with red meats, cold cuts and medium-aged cheeses. Serve between 16-18C. |
Features | Certified Organic since 2015, Vegan & Vegetarian friendly |
Origin | Langhe, Piedmont |
Appellation | Langhe Nebbiolo Doc |
2022 Brotte Crozes-Hermitage La Rollande
Regular price £20.95 Sale price £18.44 Save 12%Only 7 miles along the road from Châteauneuf-du-Pape but not as well known globally so represents much better value! Freshness and Harmony are two words that can sum up this wine.
Tasting Notes
Colour
This wine is of a dark colour with hints of deep purple.
Nose
On the nose it has intense blackcurrant and violet aromas with spicy notes of white pepper, liquorice, vanilla, black olives and a hint of laurel leaves.
Palate
A harmonious and firm palate, suggestive of cherries and blackcurrant with long and well defined tannins on the finish. The long and flavourful finale reveals black fruits notes.
Vinification
Ploughing of the soils, de-leafing and green harvest during the year. The grapes are hand harvested at full maturity. Grapes are then de-stemmed and crushed. The maceration last 15 days in stainless steel vats at a medium temperature (26°C – 28°C) in order to preserve primary fruit aromas. The wine is then aged in 100 year old oak vats and concrete vats for 12 months.
History
Since 1880, five generations of the Brotte family have been making wines with passion and authenticity. The fruit for this wine comes from selected small wine producers in the Rhône Valley, all of whom have been partners of Maison Brotte for several decades. The vines are planted on a very beautiful clay-silt terroir and which benefit from a lot of sunshine. The hot and dry climate therefore favours the ripening of the grapes and the good health of the vineyard.
Alan's Personal Tasting Notes
Specifications
Year | 2022 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | Shiraz / Syrah |
Country | France |
Alcohol Content | 12.5% alc vol |
Units of alcohol per bottle | 9.4 units |
Type | Red Blend |
Food Matches |
Enjoy with duck breast in green pepper sauce with potato dauphinois, veal prune and almond tagine, soft cheeses or even ice cream with chocolate & star anise sauce. |
Origin |
Southern Rhône |
2021 Brotte Gigondas la Marasque
Regular price £24.50 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%Only 7 miles along the road from Châteauneuf-du-Pape but not as well known globally so represents much better value!
Tasting Notes
Colour
Dark ruby color.
Nose
Good intensity with notes of spices, red stone fruits, vanilla, liquorice and raisins. Complex, powerful and generous with hints of cherry liqueur, black and red fruit jam.
Palate
This flamboyant wine shows perfect harmony between nose and palate.
Vinification
Sustainable viticulture with ploughing and harvesting by hand. Traditional vinification with partial de-stalking and a gentle crushing . The maceration last 4 weeks with alcoholic fermentation at high temperature (around 28°C) in order to obtain a good extraction of the grapes substance. The wine is aged in 100 year old oak vats during 12 months, with a percentage in French oak barrels.
History
Since 1880, five generations of the Brotte family have been making wines with passion and authenticity. The fruit for this wine comes from selected small wine producers in the Rhône Valley, all of whom have been partners of Maison Brotte for several decades. The vines are planted on a very beautiful clay-silt terroir and which benefit from a lot of sunshine. The hot and dry climate therefore favours the ripening of the grapes and the good health of the vineyard.
Critics
- 91 points Wilfred Wong of Wine.com | The 2021 Brotte Gigondas La Marasque is lovely and well-structured with a smooth palate. TASTING NOTES: This wine delivers balanced aromas and flavors of ripe cherries, aromatic herbs, and subtle earth notes. Enjoy it with a savory lamb stew. (Tasted: June 13, 2024, San Francisco, CA)
- 91 points Wine Spectator | Reveals red licorice, strawberry puree, creme de violette and fresh cherry flavors that are focused, perfumed and grounded by charred apple wood and smoky, graphite mineral depth. Silky and smooth, this is a pretty wine with nice harmony and medium length. Grenache and Syrah. Drink now through 2027. 1,000 cases made, 150 cases imported.
- 90 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate | A 70-30 blend of Grenache and Syrah, Brotte's 2021 Gigondas la Marasque delivers pretty strawberry and raspberry shadings, tinged with violets. In the mouth, it's medium to full-bodied, supple and easy-drinking, plump and expansive, nicely balanced and elegant.
Specifications
Year | 2021 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | Grenache & Syrah |
Country | France |
Alcohol Content | 14% alc vol |
Units of alcohol per bottle | 10.5 units |
Type | Red Blend |
Food Matches |
Enjoy with wild boar terrine, beef stew with carrots, poultry dishes, tuna steak in red wine sauce. This Gigondas matches also spicy dishes such as Indian and Mexican cuisine. |
Origin |
Southern Rhône |
2022 Les Oliviers Grenache
Regular price £8.99 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%A lipsmacking house wine that is great with food.
Tasting Notes
A fresh, pretty and youthful red wine that will mellow as it develops in the bottle. Supple yet with underlying structure, it is quite lifted on the nose with raspberry and floral notes. Packed full of ripe, crunchy red berry fruit backed up with a hint of liquorice and touch of spice. Fresh, elegant and pleasingly simple. Lovely.
Production
Based in the southwest of the Languedoc, where the 40 year-old cordon-trained vines thrive on silt and sand. Grenache grapes are destemmed and macerated at cool temperatures prior to fermentation in order to gain the juicy fruit flavours.
Producer
Like all good stories, that of Boutinot France is both long and a little bit complicated! Boutinot began as a tiny importer in 1980, specialising in French wines. Paul Boutinot himself began by personally selecting the wines from France, back in the UK he would unload the trailer by hand. And deliver the crates of wines to customers himself. But good things grow and by the end of the decade we had become a bigger and better company. A company that not only sought out great wines but made them too. After 10 years later, Boutinot France started in January 1990. The first office was in the middle of the vines in Julienas; perfectly located to navigate the Beaujolais and Macon regions on the quest to make beautiful wines.
Samantha Bailey, who started as a wine enthusiast, was there at the beginning of this adventure. Since then, she has grown into our Master Blender and has key responsibilities: building long-standing relationships, tasting, understanding the terroir and appellations, and pushing the boundaries. She is at the heart of the whole process from blending to quality assessment, making sure there is always a Boutinot touch in every cuvée. We are proud to also count Guillaume Letang and Julien Dugas in our winemaking team. Guillaume oversees the South of France and Languedoc, whilst Julien looks after our property in Cairanne. Together they have the local knowledge to select and blend the very best wines from throughout. Eric Monnin oversees every aspect of production and makes sure everything our winemakers blend and source is top quality.
Alan's Personal Notes
Specifications
Year | 2022 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | 100% Grenache |
Country | France |
Alcohol content
|
13% alc vol
|
Units of Alcohol per Bottle | 9.75 units |
Type | Red Wine |
Cellaring Potential | 1-2 years |
Allergen Information | Contains sulphites |
Food Matches | The perfect match for grilled meat and ratatouille or pasta dishes. Alternatively, top up the glass and enjoy on its own. |
Origin |
Languedoc
|
Appellation | IGP P'ays Doc |
2014 Umathum Pinot Noir Unter den Terrassen
Regular price £34.61 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%'Under the Terraces'
Tasting Notes
Colour
Light ruby red
Nose
Extremely spicy on the nose, hints of raspberry, reminiscent of dried oranges, with hints of chocolate.
Palate
Very fine impressions of fennel, thyme and Mediterranean herbs on the palate, fresh finish.
Producer
Specifications
Year | 2014 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | 100% Pinot Noir |
Country | Austria |
Alcohol content
|
13% alc vol
|
Units of Alcohol per Bottle | 9.8 units |
Type | Red Wine |
Features |
Organic and biodynamic practices |
Allergen Information | Contains Sulphites |
Food Matches | Enjoy with chicken, pork, cheeses and fish too. Perfect as an aperitif. |
Origin | Neusiedlersee, Burgenland |
2023 La Bacca Nerello Mascalese
Regular price £8.95 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%Nerello Mascalese is widely considered Sicily's premier red grape variety, contributing to many of its most acclaimed wines, especially those from Etna. It serves as an excellent introduction to the varietal, offering a lively, youthful red brimming with cherry flavors, presented in a juicier, more approachable style than the typically more structured Sicilian reds.
Tasting Notes
Bright aromas of redcurrants and cherry. The palate is soft and juicy with ripe plum, red berry and cherry flavours, gentle tannins, and fresh acidity on the finish.
Production
The Nerello Mascalese was sourced from a long-standing partner of Adria Vini in western Sicily and was vinified in stainless steel.
Producer
Established in 2003, Adria Vini is a winemaking venture jointly owned by Boutinot and Araldica Castelvero, the leading co-operative in the Monferrato hills of Piemonte. Our aim is to produce authentic, well-priced still and sparkling wines from local grape varieties. All aspects of production, from grape selection through to vinification, maturation, blending and bottling are meticulously overseen by Araldica's winemaking team of Claudio Manera and Lella Burdese - assisted by Boutinot's Tony Brown MW. We source from a range of private growers and cooperatives, with whom we have long term relationships, principally in Veneto, Friuli, Lombardy, Sicily, Puglia, Abruzzo and Sardinia.
Specifications
Year | 2023 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | 100% Nerello Mascalese |
Country | Italy |
Alcohol content
|
13% alc vol
|
Units of Alcohol per Bottle | 10.1 units |
Type | Red Wine |
Allergen Information | Contains sulphites |
Dietary Information | Vegan & Vegetarian |
Food Matches | Pairs well with pork wrapped in prosciutto, sausages, and tomato-based pasta dishes. |
Origin |
Sicily, Vini IGP |
2023 Pierre Bourée Fils Bourgogne Pinot Noir
Regular price £23.99 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%A classic and expressive Bourgogne Pinot Noir, crafted well and showcasing true typicity.
Tasting Notes
Translucent ruby red in colour with youthful wild strawberry fruit on the nose. Wonderfully pure and expressive flavours on the palate with mouthwatering acidity balancing the gentle, ripe tannins and elegant, savoury red fruit.
Production
Grapes are hand-harvested and are sourced from several parcels in Couchey, Meursault and Gevrey-Chambertin. Up to 50% of the bunches are destemmed and these grapes along with the remaining whole bunches are put into open top wooden tanks and gently crushed followed by daily pumping over. Since yeasts are an expression of the individual vintage and vineyard only the natural grape yeasts are used for the fermentation. The wine has a traditionally long vatting period of around 20 days and is then decanted into oak barrels of which 20-30% is well toasted new oak. After at least 6 months on the fine lees, the wine is racked, blended and rests for a month before bottling.
Producer
In the latter years of the nineteenth century, Pierre Bourée took over a wine business in Gevrey-Chambertin and gave it his name. In 1922, his son, Bernard, succeeded him and renamed the house as Pierre Bourée Fils. In 1945, Bernard Bourée began to train his nephew, Louis Vallet, who eventually became director of the house, assisted by his brother, François. Together, they expanded the cellars and the winery, and developed the business outside Europe. As well as putting their own unique stamp upon the business, each successive generation added to the house's vineyard holdings. Today, Bernard and Jean-Christophe Vallet run the house alongside their sons, Pierre and Louis Henry.
This winery represents everything that we are proud to be associated with: attention to detail, careful selection of the best grapes, and above all a passion for making superb wines. All Pierre Bourée wines are vinified in their cuverie in Chambolle-Musigny, and are then matured in their cellars at Gevrey-Chambertin.
A Note on Sustainability
Pierre Bourée et Fils is keen to work in an as environmentally friendly method as possible, using techniques such as regular maintenance of the soil by ploughing, applying the minimum of phytosanitary treatments and the controlling of vine vigour and yields through careful pruning. The Vallets tend their vines very traditionally and advancements in the vineyards have been limited: for example, only manure has been used as fertiliser for the last half a century which has encouraged wild asparagus to grow amongst the vines. Harvesting is manual, as the family is opposed to the use of mechanical techniques.
Specifications
Year | 2023 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | 100% Pinot Noir |
Country | France |
|
|
Units of Alcohol per Bottle | 9.4 units |
Type | Red Wine |
Allergen Information | Contains sulphites |
Features | Vegan & Vegetarian |
Food Matches | Traditionally paired with Coq au Vin, this wine also complements roast chicken or young game birds beautifully. For vegetarians, a young Bourgogne Rouge pairs delightfully with pasta bakes or ratatouille. |
Origin | Burgundy |
Appellation | AOP Bourgogne |
2019 Dominio de Calogia Ribera del Suetonius
Regular price £69.99 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%This is a wine of great depth that reflects its origin and shows the authenticity of its terroir, CALOGÍA.
Tasting Notes
Colour
Very intense cherry red, concentrated, almost opaque, with a purple rim, attractively vibrant and abundant hued legs.
Nose
Deep and very intense on the nose, with a marked varietal character in which the concentrated red fruit stands out. Very fine, barely perceptible wood and very well-defined balsamic undertones that give it fascinating complexity and subtlety.
Palate
Whole and vigorous on the palate. Fleshy and with nerve, very fresh. Excellent structure with great relief, although its tannins are of great quality, very fine and well developed, providing roundness, breadth and harmony on the palate. It is opulent, creamy, well-armed and with great potential, but it has an elegance, finesse and balance that make it truly spectacular in that very long finish.
Producer
Dominio de Calogia is the personal project of José Manuel Pérez Ovejas and his wife, Silvia Ortega, who was born in the spring of 2020. Conceived as a French domaine, an avant-garde design boutique winery, which appears surrounded by spectacular vineyards in an area unique between the municipalities of Roa and Pedrosa de Duero.
All the vineyards are owned by the winery and span a special terroir, Dominio de Calogia, a land that gives the winery its name and which defines the style of the wine from the start.
Authenticity and purity mark the style and philosophy of Dominio de Calogia, for this it is very important to know and understand the vineyard and look for low productions that give a high quality grape, but, above all, it is necessary to be yourself, faithful to his own style and completely impervious to influences or fashions of the moment. This is the only way to achieve a wine that transmits essence, depth.
Specifications
Year | 2019 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | 100% Tempranillo |
Country | Spain |
Alcohol content | 15% |
Units of Alcohol per Bottle | 11.3 units |
Type | Red |
Food Matches | Red & Game Meat |
Aging Potential | Its outstanding potential (15-20 years) is to be noted, which collectors of great wines will undoubtedly appreciate. |
Allergen Information | Contains sulphites |
Origin |
Castilla y León |
Appellation | Ribera del Duero |
Krohn 10 Year Old Tawny, DOC Porto NV
Regular price £14.99 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%This 10 year old is a classic Tawny with the typical appealing aromas and flavours of wood-aged Ports, particularly nuts and caramel.
Tasting Notes
Colour
Lovely tawny colour with golden hues.
Nose
Complex aromas of ripe red fruits, damson jam, raisins and toasted nuts.
Palate
Smooth and rounded on the palate, with notes of caramel balanced by fresh acidity to give great length. A very well balanced, elegant and harmonious port wine.
Production
Made from selected red ports produced from the best vineyards of the Douro Valley, and varieties including: Touriga Nacional, Touriga Francesa, Tinta Barroca, Tinta Cão and Tinta Roriz. Aged in small oak casks, typically of around 630 litres. As the wine ages it gradually loses the ruby red colour of its youth, becoming tawny in colour, more smooth and mellow on the palate, and aromas gaining richness and complexity.
Producers
Wiese & Krohn was founded in 1865 by two Norwegians - Theodor Wiese and Dankert Krohn - shipping initially to Scandinavia and Germany. In the century and a half since its foundation, Krohn has built up an outstanding reputation. Long renowned for the quality of their sublime Colheitas (single vintage tawnies), they produce a remarkably complete range for a small house, and each wine excels in its category. Much of the secret lies in the high quality of their vineyards - the magical combination of terroir, locality, aspect, incline and low-yielding vines. Their Quinta do Retiro Novo estate in Sarzedinho, in the Rio Torto valley (where vinification takes place), is all A grade vineyard. Indeed Krohn only work with grapes from A-graded vineyards across all of their ports, and their top wines are still trodden by foot. Since 2013 Krohn has been part of the Fladgate Partnership - alongside Taylor's, Fonseca and Croft.
Reviews
-
Wine Enthusiast Magazine
“Elegant and balanced, with a good acidity. Fresh and delicious, exactly as it should be a 10 year old.”
Specifications
Year | N/V |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | Touriga Nacional, Touriga Francesa, Tinto Cão, Tinta Roriz, Tinta Barroca |
Country | Portugal |
Alcohol content
|
20% alc vol
|
Units of Alcohol per Bottle | 15 units |
Type | Red Blend |
Dietary Information |
Vegetarian, Vegan |
Allergen Information | Contains sulphites |
Serving | The wine benefits from being served slightly chilled, between 12ºC to 16ºC. The particular qualities of this wine allow it to be enjoyed over an extended period of time once opened, without losing its freshness and vibrancy. Optimum drinking time after opening the bottle is within two to three months. |
Food Matches | The Krohn 10 Year Old Tawny is a delicious dessert wine, and harmonizes particularly well with flavours of almonds, wild berries or dark chocolate. You can also pair it with rich, blue veined cheeses. It is excellent at the end of the meal, as a culminating moment of a pleasant evening, served alone or with walnuts or toasted almonds. |
Storage | This wine is ready to drink and does not require decanting. The bottle should be kept upright, protected from light and at a cool and constant temperature. |
Origin | Douro Valley |
Appellation | DOC Porto |
2017 Cortese 'Sabuci' Cerasuolo Di Vittoria Classico DOCG (Organic)
Regular price £20.99 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%Sabuci is the name of the contrada or hamlet where Cortese has been situated since 1930. It is an historical area, perfectly suited to the production of Cerasuolo di Vittoria, which is the reason why we have given the name “Sabuci” to this wine.
Sabuci has a very limited production of about 7.000 bottles per year.
Tasting Notes
Colour
The wine is ruby red, with flecks of garnet.
Nose
The bouquet is fruit-driven, with aromas of cherries, pomegranate and fruits of the forest, plus cocoa, leather and caramel.
Palate
The palate is elegant and complex. Hugely concentrated, the tannins are at the same time firm and persistent.
Vineyards& Vinification
The area around Cortese, in the region of Vittoria, was strongly influenced by Greek culture and the very important ancient Greek site of Kamarina is located nearby.
We have been inspired by ancient Greek culture in the way we have chosen to make our Cerasuolo di Vittoria Classico.
Sabuci is made with the best selection of grapes – Nero d’Avola (60%) and Frappato (40%). The grapes carefully hand-harvested at the end of September and beginning of October. The grapes are put into small containers and we lower the temperature to around 10°C.
The two grape varieties are vinified separately, in different ways: the Nero d’Avola is fermented in open top barriques, enabling us to follow a really scrupulous process. We carry out “follatura” (immersion of the skins) by hand and extremely delicately. The Frappato, on the other hand, is fermented in 7hl terracotta amphorae. The natural porosity of terracotta allows the ideal oxygen exchange during the fermentation process. At the same time it also allows the wine to remain in contact with the skins for an extended period of up to 12 months. The wines are blended together and are aged for six months in barriques and botti of various sizes. The wine remains in bottle for at least 3 months before being introduced to the market
Awards
- 17/20 points - Jancis Robinson
Specifications
Year | 2017 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | Nero d’Avola (60%) and Frappato (40%) |
Country | Italy |
Alcohol content
|
14.5% alc vol
|
Units of Alcohol per Bottle | 10.5 units |
Type | Red Wine |
Allergen Information | Contains sulphites |
Dietary Information | Organic |
Origin | Sicily |
2022 La Musa Montepulciano d'Abruzzo DOC
Regular price £9.99 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%This great value Montepulciano is an expressive, fruity and all-round delicious wine from Abruzzo in central Italy. Created by the 3rd generation Caldirola family who have been there since 1897.
Tasting Notes
Colour
Intense ruby red
Nose
Characteristic and fruit
Palate
A medium-bodied and hearty red wine with robust black plum, smoky bacon notes and an earthiness that gives savoury appeal. It’s made from Montepulciano grown in Abruzzo, a region famous for producing deep coloured, high-tannin reds.
Specifications
Year | 2022 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | 100% Montepulciano |
Country | Italy |
Alcohol content | 13% |
Units of Alcohol per Bottle
|
9.8 units |
Type | Red Wine |
Food Matches | Tasty main courses, roasted meats and game |
Features | Vegetarian & Vegan approved |
Allergen Information | Contains sulphites |
Appellation | Montepulciano Doc |
Origin | Abruzzo |
2022 La Musa Nero Di Troia Puglia IGT
Regular price £9.99 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%
Tasting Notes
Colour
Ruby red with a good intensity verging on garnet during the ageing
Nose
Elegant, vinous and intense
Palate
Fruity, full-bodied, harmonious and round.
Specifications
Year | 2022 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar |
Nero di Troia |
Country | Italy |
Alcohol content | 13% |
|
9.8 units |
Type | Red Wine |
Food Matches |
It is an ideal wine with main courses and roasted red meats |
Cellaring Potential | For immediate enjoyment |
Features | Organic |
Allergen Information | Contains sulphites |
Appellation | Puglia IGT |
Origin |
Puglia |
2016 Cafaggio Basilica del Cortaccio Cabernet Sauvignon
Regular price £39.99 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%Cafaggio Cortaccio is a stunning 100% Cabernet Sauvignon that opens with delicate aromas of cassis, tobacco and cedar. The robust palate delivers mature plum, clove and espresso alongside chewy tannins. Long and pleasant finish. Certified organic.
Tasting Notes
Nose
Aromatic notes of coffee, juicy ripe fruits, various spices, and jam.
Palate
Its mid-palate is energetic and vibrant, with not just blackcurrant aromas and flavours but that split-leaf herbaceousness that works so well from glorious Cabernet Sauvignon. Such a fresh, attractive scent. The nose also carries hints of cedar, spice, and blackberry, with a velvety, harmonious palate.
Vinification & Aging
Manual harvesting in mid-October, alcoholic fermentation at controlled temperatures in stainless steel tanks, breaking and soaking of the marc through manual pressing and pump-overs with air, spontaneous malolactic fermentation, maturation for 18 months in French oak (Tronçais and Allier) barriques that have been used once previously (medium-toasted), and bottle-aged for six months before sales start.
Producer
Since the Renaissance and beyond, Cafaggio's conca d'oro vineyards—which can also be translated as "golden shell," "golden bowl," or "golden basin"—have been renowned for the exceptional wines they produce at an altitude ranging from 300-400 meters above sea level and encompassing a surface area of about 60 hectares.
The conca, as its name suggests, is a steep, naturally occurring amphitheater with a southern exposure that is perfect for the growth of grapes that will be transformed into wines with intense flavor, distinct structure, and significant aging potential.
The conca d'ora is situated in the center of Panzano commune, one of the five Chianti Classico DOCG villages (the only five townships where Chianti Classico can be produced today) where Chianti was first manufactured.
The soil types, in combination with the height and exposure, offer the vines exceptional vigor as their roots look for the water table, making the estate's vineyards one of the most sought-after quality wine-growing locations in all of Tuscany.
Cafaggio is an active participant in the 1995-founded Unione Viticoltori di Panzano (Panzano Grape Grower and Winemaker Union), a group that supports and aids in the promotion of the township's wineries.
Review
- 96 points with Decanter
-
Susan Hulme MW: "Lovely complex nose cedar, spice and blackberry, very smooth and harmonious palate."Andrea Briccarello: "Clean, coffee notes, roasted and intense notes of juicy fruits, charming spices and jam."Annette Scarfe MW: "Pure blackcurrant leaf with an energetic vibrant mid-palate – fresh and attractive."
Specifications
Year | 2016 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | 100% Cabernet Sauvignon |
Country | Italy |
Alcohol content | 14.5% |
Units of Alcohol per Bottle
|
10.9 units |
Type | Red Wine |
Cellaring Potential | 2021 - 2035 |
Food Matching | An excellent wine to pair with red meats and hearty sauces. Particularly suited for traditional Sunday Roast recipes featuring lamb. |
Allergen Information | Contains sulphites |
Sustainable Farming, Practising Organic | |
Appellation | Tuscany |
2020 Cafaggio Chianti Classico
Regular price £21.49 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%Tasting Notes
Nose
Ripe, deliciously berry, slightly earthy and herbal aroma. The medium-bodied taste repeats the berry aromas of the fragrance. The wine also has a slight smokiness, a hint of pine, cranberry and sour cherry.
Palate
In the mouthfeel, the wine is fruity, because the acidity and slightly drying tannins give the whole thing an edge. The wine leaves a ripe cranberry and lingonberry aftertaste, slightly astringent. The earthy flavours and aromas become more pronounced as the wine matures and develops. Oak maturation also adds spicy and vanilla notes.
Producer
Since the Renaissance and beyond, Cafaggio's conca d'oro vineyards—which can also be translated as "golden shell," "golden bowl," or "golden basin"—have been renowned for the exceptional wines they produce at an altitude ranging from 300-400 meters above sea level and encompassing a surface area of about 60 hectares.
The conca, as its name suggests, is a steep, naturally occurring amphitheater with a southern exposure that is perfect for the growth of grapes that will be transformed into wines with intense flavor, distinct structure, and significant aging potential.
The conca d'ora is situated in the center of Panzano commune, one of the five Chianti Classico DOCG villages (the only five townships where Chianti Classico can be produced today) where Chianti was first manufactured.
The soil types, in combination with the height and exposure, offer the vines exceptional vigor as their roots look for the water table, making the estate's vineyards one of the most sought-after quality wine-growing locations in all of Tuscany.
Cafaggio is an active participant in the 1995-founded Unione Viticoltori di Panzano (Panzano Grape Grower and Winemaker Union), a group that supports and aids in the promotion of the township's wineries.
Specifications
Year | 2020 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | 100% Sangiovese Grosso |
Country | Italy |
Alcohol content | 13.5% |
Units of Alcohol per Bottle | 10.1 units |
Type | Red Wine |
Food Matches |
Nuanced and developed wines go well will rustic meat dishes. You can also pair them with cheese or enjoy them on their own. Try with reindeer steak, entrecôte or hard, aged cheeses, such as Gouda, Parmesan or Manchego. |
Allergen Information | Contains sulphites |
Appellation | Tuscany |
2021 Castel del Lupo Limes Barbera (Organic)
Regular price £13.99 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%This organic, unoaked Barbera is a new project from Castel del Lupo, and has bags of red berry fruit and bright acidity.
Tasting Notes
Nose
Aromas of summer fruits with touches of spice and black pepper.
Palate
The palate has bright redcurrant and cranberry characters, violet hints, ripe tannins and vibrant acidity.
Production
The Barbera vines grow in silt, clay and chalk soils on south and south-west-facing slopes at 250 metres altitude. The Barbera grapes are hand-harvested and undergo selection, before a 6-7 day maceration on the skins. After fermentation, the wine spends over 9 months in stainless steel before bottling
Producer
Castel del Lupo, in the heart of Oltrepograve; Pavese, dates back centuries - and includes the eighteenth-century Palazzo Pegazzera. In 1974 three entrepreneurs took over this historic estate and began a regeneration process. Giovanni Doglio, whose father and grandfather were both Piemontese winemakers, has over 40 years experience managing wineries. Recently joined by his daughter Federica, he has worked tirelessly to develop the estate. They have purchased more vineyards (to cover 100ha at around 300m altitude), planted new vines and built a new cellar. The vineyards are now certified organic. The winery's main focus is high-quality bottle-fermented sparkling wine, and much of the vineyard is planted with Pinot Noir for this purpose. However, these vines are also the source of fine still red wines.
A Note on Sustainability
Led by Giovanni Doglio since 1974, the team at Castel del Lupo is very keen to honour the long heritage of its estate which existed even before its inclusion on a map of the region in 1301. All of Castel del Lupos grapes are estate grown and the 100-hectare property is now fully certified organic to maintain the integrity of the environment, the ecosystem and soil fertility without resorting to artificial substances at any stage of the production processes.
Specifications
Year | 2021 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | 80% Barbera; 20% Syrah |
Country | Italy |
Alcohol content
|
14.5% alc vol
|
Units of Alcohol per Bottle | 10.9 units |
Type | Red Wine |
Allergen Information | Contains Sulphites |
Dietary Information |
Vegan, Vegetarian, Sustainable, Organic
|
Food Matches | Enjoy with risotto prepared with pork sausage and a little of the wine too! |
Origin | Lombardia, Italy |
Appellation | Provincia Di Pavia IGT |
2016 Rivera 'Cappellaccio' Aglianico Castel del Monte Riserva
Regular price £18.49 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%Tasting Notes
Garnet red, this wine has an intense bouquet typical for the variety, with notes of ripe red fruit, leather and spices.
Complex and structured in the glass, it has an imposing body and intense and elegant aromas of sour cherry and tobacco, with a long and persistent finish. In the mouth it is warm and full. A wine of great structure, it has a long finish with a balanced tannic finish.
Background
Vinification
The grapes are harvested in mid-October. Maceration lasts 12-14 days in steel vats, with frequent pumping over to obtain a better extraction of aromatic and colouring substances and, at the same time, to soften the tannic mass.
Alan's Personal Tasting Notes
"As good as I remember it - this is proper wine - with gorgeous attractive fruit with some spice & leather notes interspersed. It’s got a really long and persistent flavour - as you would expect from Italy’s southern noble grape variety. Not cheap but delivers real value for real wine drinkers. Delicious! Not a big, full bodied fruity wine - a more lighter, fine style with great complexity, persistence and class!" Tasted 2 January 2024
Specifications
Year | 2016 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | 100% Aglianico |
Country | Italy |
Alcohol content | 14.5% alc vol |
Units of Alcohol per Bottle | 10.9 units |
Type | Red Wine |
Food & Serving Information |
Perfect with very tasty red meat dishes. Store in a cool place, away from light, bottle lying down. Do not refrigerate. Open at least 15 minutes before serving |
Allergen Information | Contains sulphites |
Origin | Andria (BT) Apulia (Puglia) |
Appellation | Castel del Monte |
2019 Franco Conterno Barolo DOCG Pietrin
Regular price £44.99 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%Pietrin, a wine dedicated to the winery’s founding great-grandfather, is a true traditional Barolo whose grapes come from the best cru located in the communes of Castiglione Falletto, Monforte d’Alba and Novello.
This is a wine for those in the know - the wine experts, a gift for the boss or to mark a special occasion.
Tasting Notes
It shows a rich bouquet that ranges from ripe fruit notes to sweet spices, while at the sip it is elegant, harmonious and with great power
Vineyards
It is quite possible that the Franco Conterno estate has one of the most enviable views of any winery. In the heart of the Langhe, in the hamlet of Bussia di Monforte d’Alba, the farm sits alone atop a tiny hill overlooking La Morra, Fontanafredda and Castiglione Falletto.
Franco Conterno comprises 28 hectares of vineyards, located in the territories of Monforte d’Alba, Barolo, Castiglione Falletto, Novello and Madonna di Como.
The labels bear the names of the most prestigious vineyards: Bussia and Panerole. The hectares of land are dedicated to the cultivation of Lampia and Michet Nebbiolo, Barbera, Dolcetto, Merlot, Freisa and Chardonnay. Bussia is the first cru to have been declared a member of the "modern" era.
As always, our growing techniques are specially chosen to bring together respect for the environment and agricultural work, as required by the Regional Rural Development Plan to which Franco Conterno first subscribed in 1996. All this is possible thanks to the extraordinary nature of the soil, made up of sand, silt and clay. The elevation above sea level ranges from 250 to 400 metres.
The soil, the extraordinary microclimate, and the excellent south/south-west exposure allow for the creation of wines with unique and valuable characteristics.
From 2015, Franco Conterno has been a certified organic company, dedicated to a production philosophy based on natural vineyard cultivation and a completely wholesome vinification process.
History
In the heart of the Langhe, in the hamlet of Bussia di Monforte d’Alba, is Cascina Sciulun, a typical historic farmhouse, constructed according to Piedmont architectural traditions. Built in the mid-nineteenth century and extended in the 1940s, the house has always belonged to the Conterno family.
The company Franco Conterno has deep roots, and has been a part of the family for many decades. It was nonno Pietro who allocated 18 hectares of land to Nebbiolo vineyards, initially to sell to other wineries for vinification, later destined for the creation of prestigious wines.
The business passed to his son Giacomo, and then to his grandson Franco, who took the helm of the winery in 1995 with his wife Vilma, bringing his own name and identity to the company.
In recent years, Franco’s two sons—Daniele and Andrea—joined the company, following in the footsteps of their grandfather, bringing fresh insight and innovation to the winery and vineyards, continuing the family business with passion and dedication.
Cascina Sciulun now includes a farmhouse where you can stay, for a relaxing visit immersed in the peace and tranquility of the green hills of the Langhe.
Specifications
Year | 2019 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | Nebbiolo Michet and Nebbiolo Lampia |
Country | Italy |
Alcohol content | 14% alcohol |
Units of Alcohol per Bottle | 10.5 units |
Type | Red Wine |
Vinification |
Maceration with skins in wooden vats. Must and skins are kept in contact for 15 days, on which alcoholic fermentation takes place, and punched down daily. Fermentation temperature is variables with peaks of 31°C. |
Aging | The wine is aged in Slavonian oak barrels (2030hl capacity) for 24 months. Aging in bottle for 12 months. |
Allergen Information | Contains Sulphites |
Food Matches |
Braised beef, red meat, shank, duck, long seasoned cheese. Serve between 16-18C. |
Features | Certified Organic since 2015, Vegan & Vegetarian friendly |
Origin | Langhe, Piedmont |
Cru | Bussia, Pugnane and Panerole |
Appellation | Langhe Barolo DOCG |
2021 Franco Conterno Langhe Freisa Doc Cascina Sciulun
Regular price £21.00 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%A lively red wine perfect to enjoy with Salami!
Serve chilled in the summer months (5-7C)
Tasting Notes
Colour
Deep purple red colour with purple undertones, has a lovely foam when poured into the glass.
Nose
Notes of cherry, raspberries and sweet spices
Palate
Medium intensity and texture - fresh and harmonious with a beautifully persistent finish.
Vineyards
It is quite possible that the Franco Conterno estate has one of the most enviable views of any winery. In the heart of the Langhe, in the hamlet of Bussia di Monforte d’Alba, the farm sits alone atop a tiny hill overlooking La Morra, Fontanafredda and Castiglione Falletto.
Franco Conterno comprises 28 hectares of vineyards, located in the territories of Monforte d’Alba, Barolo, Castiglione Falletto, Novello and Madonna di Como.
The labels bear the names of the most prestigious vineyards: Bussia and Panerole. The hectares of land are dedicated to the cultivation of Lampia and Michet Nebbiolo, Barbera, Dolcetto, Merlot, Freisa and Chardonnay. Bussia is the first cru to have been declared a member of the "modern" era.
As always, our growing techniques are specially chosen to bring together respect for the environment and agricultural work, as required by the Regional Rural Development Plan to which Franco Conterno first subscribed in 1996. All this is possible thanks to the extraordinary nature of the soil, made up of sand, silt and clay. The elevation above sea level ranges from 250 to 400 metres.
The soil, the extraordinary microclimate, and the excellent south/south-west exposure allow for the creation of wines with unique and valuable characteristics.
From 2015, Franco Conterno has been a certified organic company, dedicated to a production philosophy based on natural vineyard cultivation and a completely wholesome vinification process.
History
In the heart of the Langhe, in the hamlet of Bussia di Monforte d’Alba, is Cascina Sciulun, a typical historic farmhouse, constructed according to Piedmont architectural traditions. Built in the mid-nineteenth century and extended in the 1940s, the house has always belonged to the Conterno family.
The company Franco Conterno has deep roots, and has been a part of the family for many decades. It was nonno Pietro who allocated 18 hectares of land to Nebbiolo vineyards, initially to sell to other wineries for vinification, later destined for the creation of prestigious wines.
The business passed to his son Giacomo, and then to his grandson Franco, who took the helm of the winery in 1995 with his wife Vilma, bringing his own name and identity to the company.
In recent years, Franco’s two sons—Daniele and Andrea—joined the company, following in the footsteps of their grandfather, bringing fresh insight and innovation to the winery and vineyards, continuing the family business with passion and dedication.
Cascina Sciulun now includes a farmhouse where you can stay, for a relaxing visit immersed in the peace and tranquility of the green hills of the Langhe.
Specifications
Year | 2021 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | 100% Freisa |
Country | Italy |
Alcohol content | 14.5 % alcohol |
Units of Alcohol per Bottle | 10.9 units |
Type | Red Wine |
Vinification |
Fermented with skins in stainless steel tanks. The must remains in contact with the skins for 4-7 days with continuous daily pressing. The WIne is subsequently drawn off with a residual sugar contact of approx 6-7g/L. |
Allergen Information | Contains Sulphites |
Food Matches | Perfect with cured meats and rich dishes; excellent served chilled in the summer (5-7°). Serving temperature: 14° - 16° |
Features | Certified Organic since 2015, Vegan & Vegetarian friendly |
Origin | Langhe, Piedmont |
Denomination |
Langhe Freisa Doc |
2020 Brotte Creation Grosset Cairanne
Regular price £17.50 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%Only 7 miles along the road from Châteauneuf-du-Pape but not as well known globally so represents much better value!
Tasting Notes
Colour
Intense ruby colour with garnet glints.
Nose
The nose offers a combination of fresh fruits such as raspberry and redcurrant. Spicy notes of cinnamon and garrigue stand out. The wine will gain in suppleness over time, and in jammy aromas of raspberry and plum as well as undergrowth.
Palate
The wine is generous and spicy with notes of wild strawberries, raspberries and redcurrants. Touches of toast and sweet spices add complexity. The mouth is full and the finish is persistent.
Vinification
Sustainable viticulture, de-budding, de-leafing and green harvest to limit the yield and increase the quality. Hand-picking into small cases and fast transportation to the winery to avoid berries’ crushing and oxidation. Destemming, gentle crushing. Fermentation at 28°C, followed by a 3 week maceration. The wines are matured in concrete vats to develop the fruit and 100 year old large oak barrels to develop the unctuosity and length during 9 months.
History
Since 1880, five generations of the Brotte family have been making wines with passion and authenticity. The fruit for this wine comes from selected small wine producers in the Rhône Valley, all of whom have been partners of Maison Brotte for several decades. The vines are planted on a very beautiful clay-silt terroir and which benefit from a lot of sunshine. The hot and dry climate therefore favours the ripening of the grapes and the good health of the vineyard.
Critics
- 90 points Wine Spectator | Offers a stream of juicy cassis, fresh red currant and dried herbs that race alongside smoked sandalwood and pencil lead shavings, with incense and floral notes adding lift. Well-built, with a firming frame of tannins bringing shape and a salty mesquite note at the close. Grenache, Syrah, Mourvedre and Carignan. Drink now through 2025. 6,000 cases made, 1,500 cases imported.
- 89 points James Suckling | A weighty Southern Rhone red that’s got plenty of ripe plum and blackberry character with a touch of violet. In spite of the obvious dry tannins on the full-bodied palate, this remains rather mellow.
Alan's Personal Tasting Note
"Another delight from Brotte - all the intriguing garrique characteristics as the other reds in the range. If anything the fruit is even more generous here - verging more to the red than the black - and it’s very drinkable, soft and moreish but with enough. Backbone to go on for a while yet." September 2024
Specifications
Year | 2020 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | Cairanne |
Country | France |
Alcohol Content | 14% alc vol |
Units of alcohol per bottle | 10.5 units |
Type | Red Wine |
Food Matches |
Enjoy with Serrano ham, wild mushroom risotto, grilled beef, goat cheeses. |
Origin |
Southern Rhône |
2021 Brotte Esprit Côtes du Rhône Rouge
Regular price £12.50 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%A great wine with character, elegant and typical, honouring the historic grape variety and king of the southern Rhône Valley: Grenache Noir.
Tasting Notes
Nose
Medium intensity with aromas of small berry fruits and delicately spicy hints of pepper, thyme and garrigue.
Palate
Supple, silky, full-bodied and elegant with very fine tannins. Notes of undergrowth and liquorice accompany the aromas of wild red fruits and black cherries on the finish.
History
Since 1880, five generations of the Brotte family have been making wines with passion and authenticity. The fruit for this wine comes from selected small wine producers in the Rhône Valley, all of whom have been partners of Maison Brotte for several decades. The vines are planted on a very beautiful clay-silt terroir and which benefit from a lot of sunshine. The hot and dry climate therefore favours the ripening of the grapes and the good health of the vineyard.
Critics Review
- 89 points James Suckling | Very fresh red-cherry and floral aromas for this appellation, together with some healthy tannins on the full-bodied, but lively palate. Slight warmth from alcohol at the supple finish.
- 89 points Wilfred Wong of Wine.com | The 2021 Brotte Esprit Cotes du Rhone is rustic and savoury with lovely berries. TASTING NOTES: This wine offers aromas and flavours of ripe berries, rustic spices, and earthy notes. Pair it with a slow-cooked lamb stew. (Tasted: October 17, 2023, San Francisco, CA)
Specifications
Year | 2021 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar |
Grenache, Syrah, Carignan, Mourvèdre |
Country | France |
Alcohol Content | 14.5% alc vol |
Units of alcohol per bottle | 10.9 units |
Type | Red Wine |
Food Matches | Enjoy with a fresh mushroom omelette, beef tenderloin, homemade burger, veal blanquette or couscous. Or with a creamy cow's cheese such as Romans d'Isère. |
Origin |
Southern Rhône |
2012 Fattorie Dei Dolfi LL’ Amor De’ Santi
Regular price £750.00 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%
Please contact Alan directly if you are interested in these wines - as En Primeur they are currently in barrel and not in stock.
A fine, harmonious, first-class wine.
LL’ Amor De’ Santi
This is the title of a 15th-century prayer in the Tuscan language that the farmer, together with the parish priest, used to recite in the fields, invoking the protection of the saints against misfortunes and to have a good harvest.
Introducing Fattorie dei Dolfi
Born from ancient family vineyards and the infectious passion of a career-change winemaker, Fattorie dei Dolfi is a relatively young estate with a remarkably bright future. Giovanni Dolfi initially pursued a very successful career as a horse trainer during which he had the opportunity to meet the Queen Mother and began working for Marchese Incisa della Rocchetta, the owner of the legendary Tenuta San Guido which produces Sassicaia. Through this connection he was introduced to the estate’s winemaker, Giacomo Tachis, who is regarded as the father of Sassicaia and was named Decanter’s Man of the Year in 2011. From then on Giovanni’s fate was sealed and it was only a matter of time before he and Giacomo began exploring how to unlock the potential of his family’s century-old vineyards close to the city of Pisa. Oeno Director and Co-founder Daniel Carnio describes Giovanni’s project as “a small paradise” thanks to his relentless commitment to quality in his vineyards. Most of Fattorie dei Dolfi’s plots are surrounded by woodland which helps to shield the vines from contamination from other forms of agriculture and preserves a high degree of biodiversity. As well as creating a very low incidence of disease, this also means the estate does not need to use any chemicals on the vines. To allow the remarkable quality of the fruit to shine through, Giovanni uses a light touch in the winery as well with his wines ageing in oak barrels previously used for Sassicaia. The estate’s top wines will be produced in tiny quantities of a few thousand bottles a year, making them highly attractive for investors and collectors of fine and rare Italian wines.
The Artorius and Imeneus red wines are both crafted using the Prugnolo Gentile grape which is the Sangiovese clone typically used in Montalcino. The former is an easy-going style ideal for enjoying with family and friends alongside a simple, wholesome meal. Imeneus, which is named after the beautiful son of Aphrodite and Bacchus in Greek mythology, is a more serious red which ages in oak barrels for up to 36 months. This bottling is a true collector’s wine with a remarkably complex flavour profile and high investment potential.
Finally, Bianco Per Amore is Giovanni’s personal project, created to be a wine that he himself would like to drink. Reminiscent of fine white Burgundy, this generous and full bodied white is made from a blend of Chardonnay and Pinot grapes. Giovanni only produces around 150 bottles of this very special wine of which he retains a significant proportion for his own drinking pleasure!
Tasting Notes
LL’ Amor De’ Santi named after a 15th century Tuscan prayer, but is modern is style. Red currants and cranberry come through with hints of spice. There is a rich texture, with an elegant and unique taste of medium tannins.
Colour
Full ruby-red tending to garnet, balanced and brilliant.
Fragrance
Full, noble and developed bouquet with intense notes of black fruits and hints of plum and blackberry.
Flavour
Also full, of great finesse and authority. Rich texture, elegant and unique, deep and soft with a long and pleasantly tannic closing.
Bottles Produced
- Vintage 2008: 1801 (no more available).
- Vintage 2009: 1697 (no more available).
- Vintage 2010: 1729 (no more available).
- Vintage 2011: 1490 (no more available).
- Vintage 2012: 1402
Specifications
Year | 2012 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar |
Cabernet Franc and Alicante in almost equal parts, from massal selection from our old vines. |
Country | Italy |
Alcohol content | 15% |
Units of Alcohol per Bottle
|
11.3 units |
Type | Red Blend |
Cellaring Potential | 2021-2045 |
Allergen Information | Contains Sulphites |
Origin | Tuscany IGT |
2012 Fattorie Dei Dolfi L'Bruno de' Venti
Regular price £750.00 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%
Please contact Alan directly if you are interested in these wines - as En Primeur they are currently in barrel and not in stock.
A unique and elegant wine.
L'Bruno de' Venti
The story is told that many years ago, the woods surrounding this vineyard were the refuge of a dark skinned reclusive with piercing eyes, very attractive to women. He lived by poaching game and doing whatever he could. No one knew exactly where he lived, but from time to time he appeared near Poggio ai Venti vineyard, and so the people hereabouts called him “’l Bruno de’ Venti ” (the Dark Fellow of the Winds).
Introducing Fattorie dei Dolfi
Born from ancient family vineyards and the infectious passion of a career-change winemaker, Fattorie dei Dolfi is a relatively young estate with a remarkably bright future. Giovanni Dolfi initially pursued a very successful career as a horse trainer during which he had the opportunity to meet the Queen Mother and began working for Marchese Incisa della Rocchetta, the owner of the legendary Tenuta San Guido which produces Sassicaia. Through this connection he was introduced to the estate’s winemaker, Giacomo Tachis, who is regarded as the father of Sassicaia and was named Decanter’s Man of the Year in 2011. From then on Giovanni’s fate was sealed and it was only a matter of time before he and Giacomo began exploring how to unlock the potential of his family’s century-old vineyards close to the city of Pisa. Oeno Director and Co-founder Daniel Carnio describes Giovanni’s project as “a small paradise” thanks to his relentless commitment to quality in his vineyards. Most of Fattorie dei Dolfi’s plots are surrounded by woodland which helps to shield the vines from contamination from other forms of agriculture and preserves a high degree of biodiversity. As well as creating a very low incidence of disease, this also means the estate does not need to use any chemicals on the vines. To allow the remarkable quality of the fruit to shine through, Giovanni uses a light touch in the winery as well with his wines ageing in oak barrels previously used for Sassicaia. The estate’s top wines will be produced in tiny quantities of a few thousand bottles a year, making them highly attractive for investors and collectors of fine and rare Italian wines.
The Artorius and Imeneus red wines are both crafted using the Prugnolo Gentile grape which is the Sangiovese clone typically used in Montalcino. The former is an easy-going style ideal for enjoying with family and friends alongside a simple, wholesome meal. Imeneus, which is named after the beautiful son of Aphrodite and Bacchus in Greek mythology, is a more serious red which ages in oak barrels for up to 36 months. This bottling is a true collector’s wine with a remarkably complex flavour profile and high investment potential.
Finally, Bianco Per Amore is Giovanni’s personal project, created to be a wine that he himself would like to drink. Reminiscent of fine white Burgundy, this generous and full bodied white is made from a blend of Chardonnay and Pinot grapes. Giovanni only produces around 150 bottles of this very special wine of which he retains a significant proportion for his own drinking pleasure!
Tasting Notes
‘L Bruno De’ Venti is a Bordeaux blend. Dark currents pervade with a muscular back bone. Pure of fruit, the tannins are well rounded. Merlot vines from massal selection or between 50-70 years old. Cabernet Franc vines from massal selection of old vines.
Colour
Ruby red tending to garnet, velvety yet brilliant.
Fragrance
Very fragrant and rich with intense notes of cherry, plums and hints of toasted spices.
Flavour
Authoritarian and persistent, with soft and elegant tannins.
Bottles Produced
- Vintage 2008: 1743 (non more available).
- Vintage 2009: 1790 (non more available).
- Vintage 2010: 1696 (non more available).
- Vintage 2011: 1811 (non more available).
- Vintage 2012: 1432
Specifications
Year | 2012 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar |
Merlot with small additions of Cabernet Franc. Merlot vines from massal selection from 50-70 years old vines. Cabernet Franc vines from massal selection from our old vines. |
Country | Italy |
Alcohol content | 14.5% |
Units of Alcohol per Bottle
|
10.9 units |
Type | Red Blend |
Cellaring Potential | 2021-2045 |
Allergen Information | Contains sulphites |
Origin | Tuscany IGT |
2012 Fattorie Dei Dolfi Imeneus
Regular price £750.00 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%Please contact Alan directly if you are interested in these wines - as En Primeur they are currently in barrel and not in stock.
An unparalleled and unique wine.
Imeneus
The myth says that Imeneus, offspring of Aphrodite and Bacchus, was a young Athenian of modest social standing but of extraordinary beauty. He fell in love with a young noble girl. While she was travelling to Eleusis, she was captured by pirates with her handmaids; among them was also Imeneus, who was mistaken for a girl. While the captors were sleeping, he slew them all and brought the girls back safe to Athens. For his courageous deed, he was awarded the hand of his beloved. For this reason, the ancient Greeks invoked Imeneus as a bringer of happiness in marriage.
Introducing Fattorie dei Dolfi
Born from ancient family vineyards and the infectious passion of a career-change winemaker, Fattorie dei Dolfi is a relatively young estate with a remarkably bright future. Giovanni Dolfi initially pursued a very successful career as a horse trainer during which he had the opportunity to meet the Queen Mother and began working for Marchese Incisa della Rocchetta, the owner of the legendary Tenuta San Guido which produces Sassicaia. Through this connection, he was introduced to the estate’s winemaker, Giacomo Tachis, who is regarded as the father of Sassicaia and was named Decanter’s Man of the Year in 2011. From then on Giovanni’s fate was sealed and it was only a matter of time before he and Giacomo began exploring how to unlock the potential of his family’s century-old vineyards close to the city of Pisa.
Most of Fattorie dei Dolfi’s plots are surrounded by woodland which helps to shield the vines from contamination from other forms of agriculture and preserves a high degree of biodiversity. As well as creating a very low incidence of disease, this also means the estate does not need to use any chemicals on the vines. To allow the remarkable quality of the fruit to shine through, Giovanni uses a light touch in the winery as well with his wines ageing in oak barrels previously used for Sassicaia. The estate’s top wines will be produced in tiny quantities of a few thousand bottles a year, making them highly attractive for investors and collectors of fine and rare Italian wines.
The Imeneus red is crafted using the Prugnolo Gentile grape which is the Sangiovese clone typically used in Montalcino. Imeneus is a more serious red that ages in oak barrels for up to 36 months. This bottling is a true collector’s wine with a remarkably complex flavour profile and high investment potential.
Tasting Notes
Imeneus is an earthy, spicy wine. Smooth and mellow with hints of iron. The tannins are quite crunchy with this wine.
Colour
Joyous ruby red, velvety and brilliant.
Fragrance
Full, rich and persistent with hints of fragrant fruit in perfect harmony with sweet spices that give it complexity.
Flavour
It has exceptional skills of elegance in order to be truly unique, aristocratic and with a closing of great length and cleanliness.
Giovanni explains it best: ‘I hope that my drinkers could imagine themselves standing on the hills of Poggio ai Venti with me, feeling the warmth of sunshine, the mild sea breeze on their faces, hear the chirping of the birds in the quiet woods around and see a grey hare rush through the vineyards. All these feelings of harmony and equilibrium are inside my wines.’
Bottles Produced
- Vintage 2008: 1419 (no more available).
- Vintage 2009: 1452 (no more available).
- Vintage 2010: 1709 (no more available).
- Vintage 2011: 1450 (no more available).
- Vintage 2012: 1452.
Specifications
Year | 2012 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | 100% Prugnolo Gentile (or Sangiovese Grosso) the same grape varietal used to produce Brunello di Montalcino (one of Italy’s best-known and most expensive wines). |
Country | Italy |
Alcohol content | 14.5% |
Units of Alcohol per Bottle
|
10.9 units |
Type | Red Wine |
Barrel Maturation | 24-36 months in carefully selected barriques |
Cellaring Potential | 2021-2045 |
Food Matching | Giovanni doesn’t recommend matching it with food, ‘the wine is extremely delicate and silky, only when you have a clean palette could you appreciate all the unique qualities of this wine’. |
Allergen Information | Contain Sulphites |
Origin | Tuscany IGT |
2020 Brotte Les Hauts de Barville Châteauneuf du Pape Rouge
Regular price £29.99 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%Only 7 miles along the road from Châteauneuf-du-Pape but not as well known globally so represents much better value!
Tasting Notes
Colour
This wine is ruby with purple glints.
Nose
Rich symphony of red fruits (strawberry dominates), spices, truffles and guarrigue (scrub land).
Palate
Rich and unctuous, with long lasting aromas of red fruits and spices, the cuvée will seduce the amateurs of fruit in its youth, and those who will age the wine (up to 10 years) to savour its full potential and unique truffles and garrigue notes.
Vinification
Sustainable viticulture, de-budding, de-leafing and green harvest limit the yield and increase the quality. Hand-picking,, de-steming, gentle crushing are followed by a controlled fermentation at 28°C, and a 3 to 4 week maceration. The tannic Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre are aged in French oak barrels, while the softer Grenache is matured in concrete vats and 100 year old large oak casks to preserve the fruit.
History
Since 1880, five generations of the Brotte family have been making wines with passion and authenticity. The fruit for this wine comes from selected small wine producers in the Rhône Valley, all of whom have been partners of Maison Brotte for several decades. The vines are planted on a very beautiful clay-silt terroir and which benefit from a lot of sunshine. The hot and dry climate therefore favours the ripening of the grapes and the good health of the vineyard.
Specifications
Year | 2020 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | Grenache, Shiraz/Syrah, and Mourvedre |
Country | France |
Alcohol Content | 14.5% alc vol |
Units of alcohol per bottle | 10.9 units |
Type | Red Blend |
Food Matches |
Enjoy with beef in black olives sauce, grilled rib steak in pepper sauce, beef & vegetable stew, fresh goat cheeses, chocolate fondant. |
Origin |
Southern Rhône |
2021 Domaine de la Rochette Touraine Gamay
Regular price £12.99 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%This is Gamay Noir with white juice. The vines resulting from massal and clonal selections are between between 10 and 30 years old. Planting density is 6500 vines per hectare. Average yields are 50 to 55 Hl/Ha, barely a liter of grape juice per vine.
Tasting Notes
Colour
Ruby-red colour, bold, garnet red highlights.
Nose
Aromatic, elegant, subtle violet aromas, intense fresh fruit aromas, subtle strawberry aromas, generous raspberry aromas, subtle cinnamon aromas.
Palate
Elegant, delicate, smooth, violet overtones, generous fresh fruit hints, vanilla hints, fresh tannin, round, slightly mineral, light body, good intensity, long length.
Soil
The soil type "Perruche" is made of flint clay with more or less silica and gravel. Most of the plots are on the first Cher's hillsides, with good exposure and a fairly large slope allowing the flow of excess water.
Vinification
The berries are picked and sorted for quality. Fermentation takes place in concrete vats, which allows a natural micro-oxygenation of the juice. The fermentation is of “semi carbonic” type, which is to stay shielded from air and in an environment of carbon dioxide, making it possible to obtain more elegant and fruity aroma.
The history of Domaine de la Rochette en Loire
Domaine de la Rochette has been in Vincent Leclair's family for four generations. Taking over his father's fifty hectares of vines in 2014, Vincent Leclair has made a few changes to the management of the vineyard, adding his own touch. For example, he keeps the grass in the rows to enrich the soil via other types of plant, and he has also stopped using insecticides, preferring instead sexual confusion hormones: a highly effective means of combating insects harmful to the vines. He then invested in new equipment, much more precise in its application.
These include new tanks and new tractors. Although he is an enthusiast of organic viticulture, he admits that it is rather difficult to implement because the Touraine region experiences a lot of rain throughout the year, resulting in a higher risk of disease. With his new equipment, he has nevertheless managed to reduce his treatments by around 50%. Treatments against mildew and powdery mildew, two diseases that are rampant in the vineyards, are therefore carried out as little as possible. The estate is HVE certified.
Accolades
- Silver Medal - Concours des vins des Vignerons Indépendants 2023
- Gold Medal - Concours international Gilbert et Gaillard 2023
Specifications
Vintage | 2021 |
Bottle Size | 75cl |
Cultivar | 100% Gamay |
Country | France |
Alcohol content | 12% alcohol |
Units of Alcohol per bottle | 9 units of alcohol |
Type | Red Wine |
Cellaring Potential |
Drink within 3 years at a temperature of around 8-10°C. |
Food Matching |
Enjoy with red meats, cold cuts, and goat's cheese |
Allergen Information | Contains Sulphites |
Origin | Loire Valley |
Appellation |
AOC Touraine |
2020 Domaine Germain 'Beaune to be Wild' Hautes Cotes de Beaune
Regular price £31.99 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%Tasting Notes
"When this matures it will be an absolute beaut! At the moment it’s all primary raspberry and cherry fruit but as it oxidises it will continually evolve to expose its secondary and tertiary Pinot noir characteristics of farmyard stinkiness. Real, proper, Burgundian Pinot as it used to be - can’t wait to keep my eye - actually - it’s keep my nose on this one over the coming years.
Incredibly intense, concentrated, complex yet balanced. Some earthiness just beginning to show through oxidation in the glass - this will become really earthy and vegetal through time - with mushrooms and truffle coming to the fore as the fruit begins to take on its secondary characters - then it’s onto those stinky, manure, farmyardy aromas as it hits its tertiary stage. Stunning!! | Alan's Personal Notes Tasted April 2024
Winemaking
Manual harvesting Integral vinification in half muids of 500 liters from 2018 5-day pre-fermentation maceration, then hot maceration during fermentation alcoholic up to 32°C for 12 days. Daily drum rotations at the rate of 8 turns morning and evening until the end of the sugars, then 2 rounds morning and evening in post-vinification.
Passage of two days in stainless steel tank in order to eliminate the coarse parts and keep only the fine lees. Ageing in French oak barrels for 8 months, no new wood. No addition of SO2 after malolactic fermentation or bottling to preserve the freshness and drinkability.
NB: This wine has a significant dissolved CO2 content. This is voluntary to protect the wine during its years in the bottle, it is enough just to carafe it energetically to chase away this surplus of gas and thus obtain a silky wine.
Specifications
Year | 2020 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | 100% Pinot Noir |
Country | France |
Alcohol content
|
12.5 alc vol
|
Units of Alcohol per Bottle | 9.4 units |
Type | Red Wine |
Cellaring Potential |
Ready to drink now but can also be cellared
|
Maturation | 8 months in old oak |
Allergen Information | Contains sulphites |
Food matches | Tomato sauces and Game birds and pork. Serve between 16-17C |
Additional Info | Environmentally certified |
Origin |
Burgundy
|
Appellation | AOC Bourgogne |
2018 Lurton Chateau Bonnet Reserve Merlot Cabernet Sauvignon
Regular price £16.99 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%
Thanks to expressive fruit – but without excessive concentration – Château Bonnet's red wine is unquestionably charming. In fact, it is a benchmark in Bordeaux. The wine is best enjoyed on the young side, although the quality tannin ensures good ageing for several year. With its fresh red cherry notes, this wine makes a great pairing for grilled meats and cheese platters.
Tasting Notes
Colour
Deep ruby-red color scattered with purple highlights.
Nose
The nose is very attractive and fruity, revealing a delicious array of fresh fruit notes (cherry), underpinned by subtle hints of spice.
Palate
This beautiful Bonnet starts out straightforward on the palate, becoming very round, delicious and sweet. Fresh red fruit aromas (cherry) follow through to the palate.
Production
Grapes come from clay-limestone hilltop vineyards of Grézillac in the Entre-deux-Mers. Aged 12 months in 20% new oak barrels.
Rating
- 91 points from Decanter Magazine
Specifications
Year | 2018 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | 60% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon |
Country | France |
Alcohol content
|
14% alc vol
|
Units of Alcohol per Bottle | 10.9 units |
Type | Red Blend |
Allergen Information | Contains Sulphites |
Food Matches |
Nuanced and developed wines go well with rustic meat dishes. You can also pair them with cheese or enjoy them on their own. Try with reindeer steak, entrecôte or hard, aged cheeses, such as Gouda, Parmesan or Manchego. |
Origin | Grézillac in the Entre-deux-Mers |
Appellation |
Bordeaux
|
2015 Lurton Chateau Bonnet Reserve Merlot Cabernet Sauvignon (Jeroboam) in Wooden Box
Regular price £129.75 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%Thanks to expressive fruit – but without excessive concentration – Château Bonnet's red wine is unquestionably charming. In fact, it is a benchmark in Bordeaux. The wine is best enjoyed on the young side, although the quality tannin ensures good ageing for several year. With its fresh red cherry notes, this wine makes a great pairing for grilled meats and cheese platters.
Tasting Notes
Colour
Deep ruby-red color scattered with purple highlights.
Nose
The nose is very attractive and fruity, revealing a delicious array of fresh fruit notes (cherry), underpinned by subtle hints of spice.
Palate
This beautiful Bonnet starts out straightforward on the palate, becoming very round, delicious and sweet. Fresh red fruit aromas (cherry) follow through to the palate.
Production
Grapes come from clay-limestone hilltop vineyards of Grézillac in the Entre-deux-Mers. Aged 12 months in 20% new oak barrels.
Rating
- 91 points from Decanter Magazine
Specifications
Year | 2015 |
Bottle Size | 3L (Jeroboam - Double Magnum) |
Cultivar | 60% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon |
Country | France |
Alcohol content
|
14% alc vol
|
Units of Alcohol per Bottle | 42 units |
Type | Red Blend |
Allergen Information | Contains Sulphites |
Food Matches |
Nuanced and developed wines go well with rustic meat dishes. You can also pair them with cheese or enjoy them on their own. Try with reindeer steak, entrecôte or hard, aged cheeses, such as Gouda, Parmesan or Manchego. |
Origin | Grézillac in the Entre-deux-Mers |
Appellation |
Bordeaux
|
2015 Château De Rochemorin Pessac-Léognan (Jeroboam)
Regular price £159.99 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%A very fruity, velvety, rich Pessac-Léognan , with well-balanced tannins.
Tasting Notes
Colour
Garnet red
Nose
Intense, with notes of fresh red fruits, slightly spicy
Palate
Elegant and balanced, with notes of red fruits, round and harmonious tannins
Estate
Château de Rochemorin belonged in the 18th century to the philosopher, Charles Louis de Secondat, Baron de Montesquieu, author of the famous Persian Letters. The latter willingly became the ambassador of Rochemorin red wines to his friends, men of letters and other notables, during his numerous trips to Europe, never forgetting to praise the beautiful complexity and the mineral notes on the nose and on the palate balanced and fine, their melted and fine tannins in the finish make them a sure value of the appellation.
The vines of Château de Rochemorin which give rise to this Pessac-Léognan red occupy no less than 87 hectares on a gravel terroir typical of the appellation. Two grape varieties are represented: Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, from vines with an average age of 20 years. The result is a very fruity, velvety, rich wine, with well-balanced tannins.
This vast vineyard is harvested by hand and machine with mechanical sorting for plot vinification in thermoregulated stainless steel vats, before aging for 12 months in barrels comprising 30 to 40% new wood.
Specifications
Year | 2015 |
Bottle Size | 3L Jeroboam (double magnum) |
Cultivar | 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Merlot. |
Country | France |
Alcohol content
|
14% alc vol
|
Units of Alcohol per Bottle | 42 units |
Type | Red Blend |
Allergen Information | Contains Sulphites |
Food Matches | This red wine can be accompanied by: red meat, dishes in sauce, furry and feathered game, poultry, terrines, strong goat's and cow's cheeses (brie, old chavignol, munster), coffee or chocolate desserts. The ideal serving temperature is 16-18°C. |
Cellaring Potential | A wine to keep, the vintage offers the potential to keep for around 15-20 years. |
Appellation |
Pessac-Léognan Contrôlée
|
2020 Elicio Grenache Merlot
Regular price £11.59 Sale price £9.99 Save 14%The "Elicio" wines ("evokes", "recalls", "remembers" in Latin) were created in the early 2000s, in memory of happy days spent in the heart of Provence, between Ventoux and Luberon.
Tasting Notes
Colour
Nose
The expressive nose reveals notes of red and black fruit jam, licorice and sweet pepper.
Palate
Earthy, juicy, luscious fruit - blackberry & blueberry. A bold mouthfeel coats the entire palate and a low acid leaves balanced tannins to slowly melt away.
The Region
Elicio Red Blend hails from the southern Rhône Valley. This region has a history of delivering excellence in a bottle. Elicio builds on this reputation by bringing you a smooth Grenache and Merlot red blend. However, a blend of Grenache and Merlot is rarely seen in the wine world, which makes this bottle unique. But don’t be scared, this uncommon combination has been blended into a wine that pairs deliciously with the warm summer weather.
This wine is an excellent pair with the early warmth of the year — the subtle sun rays on pale, wintered skin. This bottle is bold, packing a punch of earthiness and juicy, dripping fruit. With a bold mouthfeel, it really coats the entire palate sliding down the sides and leaving a dusty dry feeling. The acid is low and it leaves the tannins to slowly melt away on your palate.
Specifications.
Year | 2020 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | 50% Grenache 50% Merlot |
Country | France |
Alcohol content
|
14.5% alc vol
|
Units of Alcohol per Bottle | 10.5 units |
Type | Red Wine |
Food Pairings |
Light dishes and fresh cheeses.
|
Aging Potential | For immediate enjoyment |
Allergen Information | Contains sulphites |
Appellation | Mediterranean IGP |
2022 Les Pivoines Beaujolais Villages
Regular price £12.99 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%Juicy, fresh and approachable - just what you want from Beaujolais Villages.
Tasting Notes
Nose
Juicy, super ripe and softly perfumed on the nose
Palate
Full of flavours of summer compote, with ripe tannins and vibrant acidity. Presenting an easy drinking wine with a soft, approachable finish.
Production
Gamay vines grown on the slopes of the rolling Beaujolais hills. Whole bunch Gamay is fermented using traditional carbonic maceration techniques. A short cuvaison is used in order to keep the up-front, juicy, fruit characters.
Producer
Like all good stories, that of Boutinot France is both long and a little bit complicated! Boutinot began as a tiny importer in 1980, specialising in French wines. Paul Boutinot himself began by personally selecting the wines from France, back in the UK he would unload the trailer by hand. And deliver the crates of wines to customers himself. But good things grow and by the end of the decade we had become a bigger and better company. A company that not only sought out great wines but made them too. After 10 years later, Boutinot France started in January 1990. The first office was in the middle of the vines in Julienas; perfectly located to navigate the Beaujolais and Macon regions on the quest to make beautiful wines.
Samantha Bailey, who started as a wine enthusiast, was there at the beginning of this adventure. Since then, she has grown into our Master Blender and has key responsibilities: building long-standing relationships, tasting, understanding the terroir and appellations, and pushing the boundaries. She is at the heart of the whole process from blending to quality assessment, making sure there is always a Boutinot touch in every cuvée. We are proud to also count Guillaume Letang and Julien Dugas in our winemaking team. Guillaume oversees the South of France and Languedoc, whilst Julien looks after our property in Cairanne. Together they have the local knowledge to select and blend the very best wines from throughout. Eric Monnin oversees every aspect of production and makes sure everything our winemakers blend and source is top quality.
Today, Boutinot’s French office has recently relocated to Macon, and has over 20 employees who take care of production across the whole of France, covering fresh whites and rosés from Gascony, mineral wines from Burgundy, and joyful varietal wines from Languedoc among others. We don’t use any single model to source our wines; instead, a combination of sources are used, from large-scale, high-quality co-ops to small, family growers and single domaines, as well as our own vineyards in Cairanne and Saint-Vérand. Drawing on the expertise of our four winemakers and a network of partner growers, we seek to deliver the highest quality-to-price ratio possible for every wine.
Specifications
Year | 2022 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | 100% Gamay |
Country | Beaujolais / Maconnais, France |
Alcohol content | 13% alc vol |
Units of Alcohol per Bottle | 9.8 units |
Type | Red Wine |
Cellaring Potential | Drinking within 2 years |
Allergen Information | Contains Sulphites |
Food Matches | Good with a charcuterie platter, BBQ sausages or even a hearty salad; try the regional salade Beaujolaise - a poached egg with fried bacon strips on green salad ...and don't forget the garlic! |
Origin |
Beaujolais |
Appellation |
Beaujolais Villages |
2020 Moillard Grivot Beaune 1er Cru Belissand
Regular price £35.20 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%Tasting Notes
Colour
Deep red color
Nose
The nose is open with notes of strawberry jam, liquorice, and coffee.
Palate
The mouth is serious and presents a beautiful tannic composition with a precise structure that remarkably holds the finish. A pleasant wine, with character.
Origin
This appellation is located in the heart of the Côte de Beaune, at the foot of the hills overlooking this famous town, the capital of Burgundy wines. The "Belissand" climate is located southeast of Beaune.
Vinification
Traditional vinification in thermos-regulated stainless steel vats on a 3 weeks period: Cold pre-fermentation maceration around 8°C. Pigeages and pumping over to extract colour and structure. Fermentation with a peak temperature around 30 ° C. Post-fermentation maceration at 25 ° C. Ageing in oak barrels between 8 to 16 months with malolactic fermentation. 40 to 50% of new oak barrels.
Soil
The soil is clayey with a fairly loamy layer on the surface.
Specifications
Year | 2020 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | 100% Pinot Noir |
Country | France |
|
|
Units of Alcohol per Bottle | 10.6 units |
Type | Red Wine |
Cellaring Potential | Drinking within 5 years |
Allergen Information | Contains Sulphites |
Food Matches |
To be served with musky and very firm meats, such as game meat (doe, wild boar), roasted or braised. Cheeses with strong flavors: Epoisses, Soumaintrain, Munster, Maroilles.
|
Origin |
Côte de Beaune |
Appellation |
AOP Côte de Beaune |