No Tricks, Just Wine

Organically produced 

Tasting Notes

Buddy Talk Red is a unique blend of organically grown Blaufränkisch, Zweigelt and Roesler grapes. It exhibits aromas of black and red fruits like blackberry and cherries, and plums along with light spice notes on the palate.

Producer

Modest Michael Opitz feels passionately about sustainability and quality and so decided to take the small family winery into being organic and as natural as possible on every level. All the wines are defined by their environment. The Neusiedlersee or Seewinkel, is a saltwater lake that, in this flat, warm part of Austria, brings tempering breezes, freshness and protection from disease. The wines as a result are tremendously pure, fresh, fragrant and yet salty.

Specifications

Tasting Notes

Deep ruby red with violet tinges; pronounced aromas of ripe red fruit, currant jam and raspberries with hints of plum and black pepper; full-bodied, well balanced and fresh. Medium long finish, with a fruity and spicy after taste.

Vinification

Specifications

From the winery responsible for the invention of Amarone! 

Tasting Notes

Nose

This has a highly perfumed nose - intense and persistent, ethereal, fruity with hints of cherries and dried prunes, dried flowers, sweetly spiced. This is full bodied with a deliciously smooth mouth-feel and velvety tannins.

History

Consisting of 230 growers and 700 hectares, Cantina Valpolicella Negrar is a co operative located just a few kilometres from Verona, in the heart of Valpolicella. They are one of the major producers in Valpolicella Classico owning a quarter of all Classico Vineyards, and are the only winery to have vineyards in all 5 communes of the region. They have a long and distinctive history of winemaking going back to 1933 and were the first to produce Amarone in 1939, a%er a serendipitous mistake producing Recioto.

Production

Personal Tasting Notes

"Lovely - full bodied and rich with an alluring blend of juicy red and black fruits, a touch of spice and a super smooth finish. Extremely well made and well balanced. A great £15’s worth. Not cloying or offering overly ripe, sweet fruit - very fresh and clean on the palate meaning each glass is a fresh mouthfeel." Tasted April 2024

Specifications

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

A traditional sweet style produced from the Grasparossa grape - widely considered to be the highest quality of the Lambrusco varieties, with thicker skin and ripe tannins. It has lashings of vibrant cherry and berry fruit.

Tasting Notes

Dark ruby red in colour with intense aromas of plum and ripe black cherry. The palate is fresh and vibrant with pure crushed black fruits balanced by fresh acidity and a touch of sweetness. The finish is clean and bright with a nip of tannin.

Production

The Lambrusco Grasparossa grapes are sourced from sandy-clay vineyards in the Castelvetro region south of Modena. Made using the Charmat method, with its second fermentation in tank.

Producer

This new range of high quality Lambrusco is a partnership between the Soliera cooperative and Medici Ermete, one of the most influential producers in the renaissance of ‘proper’ Lambrusco. Cantina di Soliera, with 422 member growers and a 40 year tradition of Lambrusco production, is situated in the heart of the Lambrusco di Sorbara zone north of Modena and is the DOC’s largest producer. The alluvial soils here are ideal for the cultivation of the low yielding Sorbara variety, the mixture of sand and clay produces wines which balance elegance and structure and are regarded by many as the finest Lambrusco. Grapes for the Cantina di Soliera range come from 20 ha of selected ‘cru’ vineyards here and in the neighbouring Grasparossa di Castelvetro DOC.

The Lambrusco family of grapes (there are many varieties, once numbered at 56) is thought to be one of the oldest in Italy and is predominantly found in Emilia-Romagna. Today the focus is on a handful of varieties, and Cantina di Soliera specialise in Lambrusco di Sorbara and Lambrusco Grasparossa, the most important of the 5 Lambrusco DOC’s in terms of quality. The former produces light, elegant, floral wines, while Grasparossa typically gives deeply coloured, weightier and more structured wines. Both make fantastic food wines – the delicate Sorbara with cold meats and seafood, the richer Grasparossa a perfect match for fatty sausages, charcuterie, tomato-based pasta dishes and cheeses.

Sustainability

Specifications

Sourced from a 6 hectare plot on the Campogiovanni estate, where the vines naturally produce a brighter, more approachable and early ripening style of Sangiovese well suited to Rosso di Montalcino.

Tasting Notes

Nose

An inviting nose, warm and open, with ripe cherry and blackberry fruit combined with cedarwood and spice notes

Palate

The palate has rounded plum and red fruits balanced by fresh acidity. Spice and savoury characters and fine tannins lead to an elegant finish.

Producer

The Tenuta Campogiovanni is a sister estate to Agricola San Felice, and is located on the southern slope of the Montalcino hill, near San Angelo in Colle.

This 65ha estate comprises 19ha of vineyard across three separate parcels - amongst olive trees, woods and fields. Production here (and 14ha of vineyard) is strongly focused on Brunello, with the remainder largely used for Rosso di Montalcino. Campogiovanni Brunello is amongst the very best in the region.

1990 saw the first production of a Riserva, entitled Il Quercione, made from fruit rigorously selected from the vineyard of the same name and made only in exceptional year.

Production Method

These 6 hectares of Sangiovese vines were planted in the 1990s on the Campogiovanni estate. The vineyard is at a 250-300m altitude, south to southeast-facing. After a 12-day maceration, and malolactic fermentation in stainless steel, the wine was matured for 12 months in Slavonian oak botti, followed by a further 2 months in bottle.

Specifications

A fresh, approachable style of Chianti Classico with vibrant, juicy red fruit. Villa la Pagliaia lies in the south of the Chianti Classico zone, adjacent to sister property San Felice.

Tasting Notes

Aromas of ripe plum and cherry with spicy, savoury notes. This is a fruit-forward style of Chianti - the palate is bright and sappy, with redcurrant and bramble fruit providing fresh acidity, and supple tannins giving structure. A juicy finish with a touch of black pepper.

Production

The grapes come from the estate's own 350-400m altitude vineyards in the Chianti Classico zone, near Castelnuovo Berardenga. The vines are on average 25 years old (yielding about 1.5kg of fruit per vine) - 'guyot' trained and planted in rocky clay soil. Fermentation and maceration on the skins lasts for 8-10 days (at 28-30ºC) followed by malolactic fermentation in stainless steel. Matured in Slavonian oak casks for 10-12 months. 

Specifications

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

Good value satellite Saint-Émilion.

Tasting Notes

A very classy Claret nose leads on to a ripe, flavoursome Merlot palate, smooth with a pleasingly long finish for such a good value wine.

Producer

For over a decade Boutinot has been in partnership with leading Bordeaux négociant Ginestet, to offer high quality wines from a selection of châteaux in key appellations as well as consistently fine, benchmark Bordeaux wines.

Production

Lussac is a village to the North West of Saint-Émilion, granted appellation status in 1936. Predominately Merlot vines averaging 25 years of age grown on gravelly/clay soil. Grapes are carefully harvested before being destemmed and crushed and transfered to temperature controlled stainless steel tanks. Fermentation last around 10-15 days, with 7 days maceration.

Sustainability

As both a négociant and a producer of its own wines, Maison Ginestet has long been convinced of the need to work the land in a viable manner and it places substantial emphasis on partnerships with sustainable agriculture-accredited winegrowing estates. Some growers are fully organic, and Ginestet is certified to bottle wines made from organically grown grapes.

In 2006, Maison Ginestet set up an international wine school at its Carignan-de-Bordeaux site. Through the Ginestet Wine Academy, Maison Ginestet shares with its commercial partners the expertise it has gained over more than a century of producing and marketing Bordeaux wines.

Specifications

Specifications

a

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 

Only 7 miles along the road from Châteauneuf-du-Pape but not as well known globally so represents much better value!

Tasting Notes 

A fresh bright and charming expression of Loire Pinot Noir.

Tasting Notes

Warm, red berry fruit characterizes this fresh Pinot Noir. Ripe tannins are balanced by fresh acidity and subtle oak on the finish.

Method of Production

Grapes are grown on 15-year-old vines, planted at 8,000 vines per hectare on clay and chalk soils with areas of Portlandian clay. Yields are usually between 40 and 50hl/ha. The grapes are 100% destemmed after harvest and are allowed to cold soak for several days before temperature-controlled fermentation. Pigeages and pump-overs take place during maceration, which lasts between 20 and 30 days depending upon the vintage. Malolactic fermentation is carried out in cuves and demi-muids, followed by ageing for 10 to 12 months. This wine is bottled straight from the barrel without fining or filtration.

Producer

The small village of Maimbray, just to the north of Sancerre itself, is home to both Domaine Roblin and to Domaine du Pré Semelé. In fact the Roblins are just across the road from the Raimbaults and share a similar story of two brothers – 4th generation Matthias and Emile in this case – taking over from their father and implementing new ideas to move the family Domaine forward.

They have a total of 19 hectares of vines with a terroir made up of Kimmeridgian and Portlandian chalky clay (Terres Blanches) soils, spread across 45 separate parcels of vines, on the slopes around the villages of Maimbray and Sury-en-Vaux. Their vineyards are planted with 85% Sauvignon Blanc and 15% Pinot Noir, and in the winery their intervention is minimal: gravity does the work of pumps, and the wines see long lees ageing. The wine style is very pure, fruit-forward yet fine, and really top quality.

Sustainability

Vineyards are worked with the greatest of respect to the environment; no chemical pesticides or herbicides are used; carbon dioxide emissions are kept as low as possible; there is crop cover between rows of vines to help combat soil erosion, and green harvesting is practised to restrain yields and improve ripeness. Although not yet HVE accredited or certified organic, the Roblins employ many of the practices of both.

Specifications

A bold and expressive Portuguese red blend.

Tasting Notes.

Duris Selection has an intense ruby color with violet tones. Aromas of red black fruits, slight floral with balsamic. In the mouth, it is a wine with a good volume, lively acidity and round tannins, with a persistent finish.

Production

Producer

Founded in 1917 in the Vinho Verde region, Calçada Wines is one of the oldest producers in the region focused especially on the production of still white and rosé wines and sparkling wines and is now the 3rd generation of the family to lead the business. In addition to producing high quality wines, Calçada brand is also synonymous with the art of hospitality - Casa da Calçada is a XVI palace converted into a luxurious hotel - it is a reference in hospitality and within the property we still proudly have what is considered the oldest vineyard in the region.

Specifications

Alta No. 10 is an elegant, luscious, complex Tawny Port,

Tasting Notes

Colour

Tawny

Nose

Very complex aroma, showing lots of dried fruits, toffee, caramel and cask notes 
 
Palate

Luscious, complex tawny with a velvety texture and a refreshing finish 

Production

he grapes are handpicked, hand sorted and destemmed into granite lagars, where 
they are foot-stomped for up to four hours. The must is then fermented by wild yeasts 
at temperatures ranging from 20-25°C, and spirit is then added at the appropriate time 
to stop fermentation. At the end of the maceration the ferments are drained, 
pressed, and transferred to old port  casks to undergo maturation, before eventual blending and bottling. As with all ports, blending is the key and we use a variety of aged parcels, with different levels of sweetness and acidity including a small proportion of some really old barrels (at least 40 years old). The aim is to deliver an elegant, complex Ten-Year-Old Tawny style where the sweetness takes a back seat and the Pedra Alta acidity provides the focus. This is the first Ten-Year-Old produced on the estate and is a fitting tribute to the positive impact João has had on the estate since he started in 2009.  

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

Specifications

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

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

Specifications

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

Only 7 miles along the road from Châteauneuf-du-Pape but not as well known globally so represents much better value!

Tasting Notes 

Only 7 miles along the road from Châteauneuf-du-Pape but not as well known globally so represents much better value!

Tasting Notes 

A rich and polished Portuguese red, crafted for lovers of bold flavour and finesse.

Tasting Notes. 

Duris Reserva has an intense ruby color with violet hues. Aromas of red fruits, with floral and spicy nuances. In the mouth, it is a balanced wine with round tannins and a long and pleasant aftertaste.

Production

Producer

Founded in 1917 in the Vinho Verde region, Calçada Wines is one of the oldest producers in the region focused especially on the production of still white and rosé wines and sparkling wines and is now the 3rd generation of the family to lead the business. In addition to producing high quality wines, Calçada brand is also synonymous with the art of hospitality - Casa da Calçada is a XVI palace converted into a luxurious hotel - it is a reference in hospitality and within the property we still proudly have what is considered the oldest vineyard in the region.

Specifications

2016 was one of the finest vintages in the past 20 years of this red wine which exudes an elegant bouquet and delicate hints of oak.....

Tasting Notes

Colour

This wine is garnet-red in colour with a few carmine highlights. 

Nose

Its bouquet is wonderfully intense. On aeration, it releases black-berry fruit (blackberry, black cherry, plum) aromas, with hints of cake spices. 

Palate

On the palate, this wine is very rich and well-balanced. The aftertaste is long, with slight tarry overtones. The tannin is not yet fully resolved. These characteristics are indicative of its good ageing potential: it would be best to wait two or three years to appreciate its full complexity.

Production

Specifications

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

Specifications

Ontañón's Crianza is a benchmark for this style of red - richly fruited, warm oak spice, fresh balancing acidity and smooth tannins.

Tasting Notes

Nose

Ripe aromas of black fruit with warm wood spice.

Palate

Cherry and plum fruit on the palate with fresh acidity and smooth balancing tannins. Classic, approachable and satisfying.

 Château Bonnet is one of Bordeaux's consistently reliable wines. Vignobles André Lurton are committed to making wines that are both full-bodied and balanced, like this Reserve cuvee, which typifies classic Bordeaux. Its faultless pedigree is revealed in its elegant balance, depth and charm.

Tasting Notes

Colour

Deep ruby-red colour.

Nose

The nose is intense, dominated by aromas of black fruit (blackberry, blackcurrant), mingled with delicious chocolate notes.

Palate

The attack is very supple. Round and fresh on the palate. Delightful notes of black fruit accompany us throughout the tasting. This is a well-balanced, easy-drinking wine. The finish has a lovely tannic structure that melts perfectly

Production

Specifications

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

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

 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.

Specifications

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

 This amazing Pinot Noir is sure to become a delightful part of your daily routine!

Tasting Notes

The Daily August Pinot Noir has a subtle scent of cherry and blueberry, paired with the delicious aromas of cassis and red pepper.

Production

Grapes are hand-picked and then sorted again in the winery. Each parcel is vinified separately. Shortly before bottling the cuvée is assembled. Vinified in barriques in their double stored cellar dug out of the rock and dating from 1792.

Producer

When August Kesseler took over the company founded in 1924 by his parents, he was just 19 years old.

At the time it consisted of a small 2.5ha large-barrel wine business, and he worked hard to achieve the enviable international reputation he enjoys today. Located in the Pinot Noir heartland of Assmannshäusen, in one of the most prestigious wine growing areas for Riesling - the Rheingau, August Kesseler have some of the best Pinot Noir and Riesling sites that the lower and middle Rheingau have to offer spread over 32.5 hectares.

Specifications

The 2015 La Dame de Montrose produced by the prestigious Château Montrose, represents the second wine of this renowned estate situated the Saint-Estèphe appellation of Bordeaux.

Tasting Notes 

An intense deep red colour, the second selection of Château Montrose is marked by the terroir: a powerful and expressive nose with complex aromas of black fruit, fine oak, toasty and smoky. The attack on the palate is rich and full. The mid palate, round and completely in harmony, reveals supple and silky tannins. Good length, with aromas of very ripe fruit on the finish. 

Production

2015 started with a colder winter than in previous years. The start of the season, mild and quite sunny, favoured early bud burst. Quick and uniform flowering took place at the start of June thanks to the exceptional climatic conditions. June and July were dry, marked by water stress leading to a clear slow-down in the development of the vine.  Véraison took place early and in a very uniform way between 21 July and 10 August.  The showers in September gave us the measure, once again, of the qualities of our terroir: drainage was perfect, and the Cabernet Sauvignon on the plateau bordering the estuary 
benefited from a very beneficial drying wind.  Harvest started from15 September with an increased team of pickers and continued at a sustained pace until 8 October when picking finished.  The grapes were of very good quality, and we further strengthened our ultra-precise plot selection, which sometimes involved several passes through a plot in the search for optimum 
ripeness.  In the cellar, the reception line allowed for precision work: 3 sorting tables for bunches preceded double sorting of the berries, optical then by hand.  The vinification, respectful of the identity of our terroir, was tailor-made in tanks of sizes adapted to each of the 55 batches that make up our blending palette. To these were added 7 batches resulting from the precision work carried out at the press.  At the time of blending, the richness of the batches allowed us to be extremely precise in the selection for the grand vin, the most drastic in 15 years.  The first tastings put this vintage among the great years of Château Montrose. 

Producer

The producer of the 2015 La Dame de Montrose Saint-Estèphe is Château Montrose, a prestigious Second Growth estate located in the Saint-Estèphe appellation of Bordeaux. La Dame de Montrose is the château’s second wine, crafted with the same care and terroir expression as the Grand Vin but designed to be more approachable in its youth.

Château Montrose has a long-standing reputation for producing structured, age-worthy wines and is currently owned by the Bouygues family, who have invested significantly in sustainability and precision winemaking.

Specifications

Tasting Notes 

Intense aromas of blackcurrant jelly, black raspberries, and Black Forest cake are intertwined with subtle hints of cedar, lilac, pencil shavings, and crushed rocks. On the palate, it presents a medium to full-bodied profile, featuring ripe, finely grained tannins and a vibrant core of crunchy black fruits, in a lingering mineral finish.

Production

From September 19th to October 7th. Hand harvesting in several passes, according to the level of maturity of the plots. Meticulous sorting in 
the vines and in the vatroom.  Gentle vinification by infusion. Cold maceration. 
Maceration period from 30 to 35 days decided by daily tastings.  Aged in barrels and casks.

Producer

The producer of Chevalier de Lascombes Margaux is Château Lascombes, a historic Second Growth estate located in the Margaux appellation of Bordeaux. The wine is crafted as the château’s second label, offering a more approachable expression of the estate’s terroir while maintaining the elegance and structure typical of Margaux wines.

Château Lascombes itself dates back to the 17th century and is currently owned by Lawrence Family Wine Estates, with Axel Heinz—formerly of Ornellaia and Masseto—at the helm as CEO and winemake

Specifications

Fresh, vibrant fruit! The Chevalier immediately presents a captivating expression of the Estate. It embodies all the charm and silkiness one would anticipate from a great Margaux. The tannins are structured yet supple, making it delightful to enjoy young or after a few years of aging in the cellar for the discerning enthusiast.

Tasting Notes 

Expect ripe black cherry, plum, and red currant on the nose, layered with hints of spice, chocolate, and tobacco. The palate is rich and velvety, with a generous fruit core and supple tannins. There's a touch of oak spice and floral lift, and the finish is smooth, with lingering notes of dark berries and a whisper of cedar.

Production

From September 19th to October 16th.   Hand harvesting in several passes, according to the level of maturity of the plots. Meticulous sorting in 
the vines and in the vatroom. Gentle vinification by infusion. Cold maceration. 
Maceration period from 30 to 35 days decided by 
daily tastings. Aged in barrels and casks

Producer

The producer of Chevalier de Lascombes Margaux is Château Lascombes, a historic Second Growth estate located in the Margaux appellation of Bordeaux. The wine is crafted as the château’s second label, offering a more approachable expression of the estate’s terroir while maintaining the elegance and structure typical of Margaux wines.

Château Lascombes itself dates back to the 17th century and is currently owned by Lawrence Family Wine Estates, with Axel Heinz—formerly of Ornellaia and Masseto—at the helm as CEO and winemake

Specifications