20 products
- Sparkling Wine
- Chardonnay, Pinot Noir
- Sustainable, Vegan-Friendly
- Medium Bodied
- 750ml
- 12% alc./vol
About the Winery
Champagne Fresne Ducret
Fresne-Ducret is rich in family history and has been rooted in the premier cru village of Villedommange since the mid 1800s. Originally growing grapes for the big champagne houses, it wasn’t until the end of the second world war that the family decided to make their own wine. The tradition carries on today with Pierre Fresne and his wife Daniella (an Oakville ex-pat). Their philosophy is to produce wines that best exemplify the terroir of Villedommange, and they do this with sustainability in mind.
In 2014, Pierre Fresne embarked on a new adventure by creating a limited series of champagnes based on his desire for experimentation. Since then, he has produced one or two of these wines each year. Each are unique, according to his wishes and the profile of the vintage. This unique collection is called Arquémie, the term for alchemy in the Middle Ages. In 2018 Pierre began converting the vineyards to organic viticulture, and 2021 will be their first organic certified vintage.
Press Reviews
Wine Align
96 points - David Lawrason
This has a very intriguing, generous nose of macaroon (coconut), straw, dried apple, toast and almond/hazelnut. Also a lovely sense of sweet nut fudge. It is medium bodied with fulsome flavour, riveting acidity and all kinds of Champagne minerality. Great focus and length here. Wow! Tasted October 2020
93 points - John Szabo
Fresne Ducret's latest release of this premier cru "Chemin du Chemin champagne is a characteristically smoky and savoury, toasty and biscuity, mature champagne in the English style, balanced and savoury. I really like the developed, mature profile here, the great length. This is very good champagne ready to go. Tasted October 2020.
93 points - Michael Godel
When richness, yeasty and warm toasted brioche get together in Champagne the effect is comforting and potentially hypnotizing. From the Premier Cru village of Villedommange dating back to the mid 1800s, the pedigree is noted and the 48 months of lees aging a coup for creating both a creamy and a revitalizing Champagne. There is an oxidative aspect here and it's effectualness is one that imagines exotic spice cupboards, masala mixes and gingery tisanes. Quite the exotic bubble, lightly frothy, elegantly styled, complex and fine. Drink 2020-2026. Tasted October 2020.
Wine Enthusiast
94 points
This Champagne shows some fine maturity. A blend based on the 2014 vintage, it now has toastiness while keeping intense freshness. Acidity and touches of minerality come through the spiciness. Drink now.
- Sparkling Wine
- Chardonnay, Pinot Noir
- Sustainable, Vegan-Friendly
- Dry
- Medium Bodied
- 750ml
- 12% alc./vol
About the Winery
Champagne Fresne Ducret
Fresne-Ducret is rich in family history and has been rooted in the premier cru village of Villedommange since the mid 1800s. Originally growing grapes for the big champagne houses, it wasn’t until the end of the second world war that the family decided to make their own wine. The tradition carries on today with Pierre Fresne and his wife Daniella (an Oakville ex-pat). Their philosophy is to produce wines that best exemplify the terroir of Villedommange, and they do this with sustainability in mind.
In 2014, Pierre Fresne embarked on a new adventure by creating a limited series of champagnes based on his desire for experimentation. Since then, he has produced one or two of these wines each year. Each are unique, according to his wishes and the profile of the vintage. This unique collection is called Arquémie, the term for alchemy in the Middle Ages. In 2018 Pierre began converting the vineyards to organic viticulture, and 2021 will be their first organic certified vintage.
Press Reviews
Wine Align
95 points - Michael Godel
Hard to believe the age because while this almost certainly achieved an immediately retro toasted and evolved stage in its youth and though 12 years have passed the present day imaginings are dreamed to persist within that very immediate stage. As creamy as it is toasty, the textural body politic in La Grande Hermine is one of great cerebral and figurative impression. You feel, intuit and embrace such honesty and possibility. Drink this vintage dated Champagne all winter long. Its calming presence will preserve you in a state of grace lower than a snowman’s blood pressure. Drink 2020-2028. Tasted September 2020.
- White Wine
- Chenin Blanc
- Organic, Vegan-Friendly
- Dry
- Full Bodied
- 750ml
- 13.50% alc./vol
About the Winery
Château de Parnay
Château de Parnay is the flagship of the AOC Saumur Champigny. The property is located along the Loire river, classified as UNESCO World Heritage, on the most reputable clay and limestone terroirs of the appellation. The historic property was taken over by Mathias Levron & Régis Vincenot in 2006 with the aim of restoring the nobility of this special place.
Drawing their strength from the authenticity of their values, they now cultivate 50 hectares of vines with the aim of producing exceptional wines in a way that respects the environment. They have been certified organic since 2013 and are about to be certified biodynamic too.
The Clos of Chemin des Murs is the jewel of the property! Coming from the imagination of it's orginal owner, Antoine Cristal, this Clos was built, planted and cultivated according to an unprecedented technique. On this half hectare of Chenin Blanc, each vine was planted on the north face of a stone wall. Through a hole in the stone the vine crosses through the wall and allowing the grapes to grow facing the southern sunshine. The vine is said to have its 'foot in the cool and belly in the sun'.
Press Reviews
Wine Align
92 points - David Lawrason
This is from a leading Saumur producer of Loire chenin blanc with vines planted in calcerous clay soils near the Loire River outside of classical town. It is both rich and delicate, a juxtaposition I find in some of the world's best whites. It is not however an intense, flashy, acid and mineral driven chenin. Fermentation in neutral barrels has created a pale gold hue and softened the nose to gentle honeyed, spicy state along with ripe pear/apricot jam fruit. It is medium-full bodied, smooth and dry, almost creamy, with the grape's acidity and minerality arriving more on the finish. The complexity and length are excellent, with a touch of wood spice and bitterness as well. Tasted August 2022
94 points - John Szabo
2019: This leads with a terrific nose very much in the varietal/regional idiom, honeyed, floral, apple and lemon zest-scented, complex and exotic, not to mention stony. The palate displays a similar level of poise and composure, cool, transparent yet with a heavy freight of flavour , and terrific length. This is really quite extraordinary wine, delicious now, but surely capable of a decade or so in the cellar. Top notch. Tasted March 2019.
93 points - Michael Godel
2019: The rare and elusive 100 per cent chenin blanc from Samur makes full use of clay-calcaire-tuffeau soils for this dry and piqued white wine. So crunchy and expressive with an expansive character that fills the mouth by making contact withy every nerve and pour. Benchmark and controlled explosive example, rare or otherwise. Drink 2020-2025. Tasted March 2020.
91 points - David Lawrason
2019: It is rare to come across fine Saumur chenin, a central Loire Valley appellation overshadowed by Vouvray. This is mid-weight, dry and quite firm classic with a fairly generous nose of pear, spice, vague fresh herbs and wet stone. It becomes quite dry and somewhat grapefruity bitter on the finish, trailing solid minerality as well. Very good to excellent length. Tasted March 2020.
- White Wine
- Chardonnay
- Organic
- Dry
- Medium Bodied
- 750ml
- 13% alc./vol
About the Winery
Domaine du Château de La Chaize
Château de La Chaize is among the oldest, most historic estates in Burgundy’s Beaujolais region. Cared for by the same family for nearly three and a half centuries, the estate has been passed on to new owners, the Gruy family, who are equally committed to managing the estate with the utmost care, while implementing an ambitious environmental plan. Among the many initiatives is the conversion of all vineyards to organic farming, the adoption of precision viticulture, reducing carbon their carbon footprint, and recycling every by-product from viti- and vinicultural activity, to achieve zero waste.
Founded in 1670 by the seneschal of Lyon François de la Chaize d’Aix, the main Château de la Chaize building and gardens were completed by Jules-Hardouin Mansart and André le Nôtre, respectively architect and gardener of the Château de Versailles. Château de la Chaize is among the oldest, most historic estates in Burgundy’s Beaujolais region. Boasting over 250 acres of vineyards, it is also one of the largest. It is today considered one of the most innovative estates in Burgundy. Among its forward- thinking practices is the adoption of eco-friendly farming techniques, commonly referred to as Agriculture Raisonnée. Chemical treatments have been reduced to a strict minimum, for example, and the growing of grass between rows has been re-introduced to enrich the soil and reduce erosion.
Press Reviews
Wine Enthusiast
90 points
This Beaujolais estate also has vines in Pouilly-Fuissé to the north. The wine has good minerality as well as ripe apple and spice. Lightly wood aged, it is a rich, structured and fruity. Drink the wine from late 2020. - Roger Voss
- White Wine
- Clairette, Grenache Blanc, Marsanne, Picpoul
- Organic, Vegan-Friendly
- Dry
- Full Bodied
- 750ml
- 13.50% alc./vol
About the Winery
Château de Montfaucon
Just across the Rhone river from the beautiful vineyards of Chateauneuf-du-Pape, the Lirac appellation extends itself on the low hills alongside the river. The history of Château de Montfaucon dates back to the 11th century when the castle's first tower was built. The castle's role in history was strategic; the Rhône River was the border between the French Kingdom and the Holy Roman German Empire. Montfaucon was one of many castles and fortresses along the Rhône River constructed to guard the border.
Rodolphe de Pins took over the family estate of Montfaucon in 1995 and subsequently rebuilt the winery and began practicing sustainable agriculture. He honed his winemaking skills in Barossa at Henschke and Vieux Telegraphe in Châteauneuf du Pape before returning to Lirac, so needless to say, his familiarity with the local varieties is well established.
Press Reviews
Wine Align
92 points - Michael Godel
Comtesse Madeleine may not be a Rhône original out of the Lirac appellation but my if it does not strike as something profound. The blend is 40 per cent each marsanne and clairette with (10) grenache blanc (plus perhaps a splash of picpoul) for a devilishly flinty white with a veritable scent of animal musk, like porchetta releasing that tell-tale aroma just after the skin begins to render at heat. This is the real deal in French white wine for which the blending process and subsequent elévage can pull out meaning to change the way wine will speak to those that are listening. Intently in this case and for great reason. Drink 2023-2026. Tasted February 2023.
92 points - Sarah d'Amato
A lively and characterful blend of marsanne, clairette and grenache blanc. Expressive and concise with freshness created through a combination of acidity and minerality. Features notes of rosebud, honeysuckle and ginger spice along with thyme, pear, lanolin, fresh fig and lemon. A compelling assemblage that brings new dimension and complexity through a succession of undulating sensorial waves. Honestly made with a light-handed touch. Balanced and lengthy. Tasted February 2023.
91 points - Megha Jandhyala
This is an aromatically expressive blend of clairette, grenache blanc, marsanne, and picpoul, from Lirac, an appellation that lies just across the Rhône river from famed Châteauneuf-du-Pape. I really like its glossy, smooth texture and flavours of apricots, lemons, and grapefruits, alongside subtle notes of vanilla and wet stones. The palate is integrated and balanced, with a sense of both richness and freshness. The finish is graceful and long-lasting. Tasted February 2023 by Critic Understudy Megha Jandhyala.
Decanter
90 points
Distinctly nutty from the oak, macadamia, gently grilled elements to the fruit. Good acidity. Little touch of honeycomb on the finish. Acidity is balanced. Drinking window 2020 - 2022.
- Red Wine, White Wine
- Chardonnay, Sangiovese, Syrah
- Organic, Sustainable
- Dry
- Medium Bodied
- 750ml
About the Winery
Domaine du Château de La Chaize
Château de La Chaize is among the oldest, most historic estates in Burgundy’s Beaujolais region. Cared for by the same family for nearly three and a half centuries, the estate has been passed on to new owners, the Gruy family, who are equally committed to managing the estate with the utmost care, while implementing an ambitious environmental plan. Among the many initiatives is the conversion of all vineyards to organic farming, the adoption of precision viticulture, reducing carbon their carbon footprint, and recycling every by-product from viti- and vinicultural activity, to achieve zero waste.
Founded in 1670 by the seneschal of Lyon François de la Chaize d’Aix, the main Château de la Chaize building and gardens were completed by Jules-Hardouin Mansart and André le Nôtre, respectively architect and gardener of the Château de Versailles. Château de la Chaize is among the oldest, most historic estates in Burgundy’s Beaujolais region. Boasting over 250 acres of vineyards, it is also one of the largest. It is today considered one of the most innovative estates in Burgundy. Among its forward- thinking practices is the adoption of eco-friendly farming techniques, commonly referred to as Agriculture Raisonnée. Chemical treatments have been reduced to a strict minimum, for example, and the growing of grass between rows has been re-introduced to enrich the soil and reduce erosion.
Domaine du Coulet - Matthieu Barret
Matthieu Barret was born in Aix-en-Provence in 1975 and studied viticulture in Beaune.
He is the 7th generation vigneron and joined his grandfather in Cornas in 1997. Previously, his family had only been farming and selling grapes. He practices biodynamic viticulture, obtaining very low yields (23 hl/ha) and extraordinary quality. He describes his wines as being 100% grape, with a very low sulphite addition. His wines are extremely clean, and, true to the Cornas character. Domaine du Coulet was founded by Matthieu Barret’s grandfather after WWII, and over the years has supplied grapes to some of the best known producers in the Northern Rhône, including Chapoutier and Delas. While his father eschewed the agrarian lifestyle, opting instead for a career in international business, Matthieu knew early on that he wanted to be a vigneron. In 1998 at the age of only 23, he took over the family’s 25 acres of well-situated vines on the terraced hillsides of Cornas.
From the beginning, Matthieu has employed natural, organic practices and by 2002 (his second year of production) the domaine received its biodynamic certification. With each vintage, Matthieu has gained a better understanding of his vine parcels and through thoughtful experimentation, he now turns out a remarkable selection of Cornas wines that express the unique nuances of each micro-terroir. No new oak, no racking, minimal use of sulfur and no fining or filtration. Pure, sexy Syrah.
Fattoria di Sammontana
The vineyards of Fattoria di Sammontana are located along the hills that border the Arno River, 20km to the south west of Florence. Today, the family - now in its fourth generation - runs the farm according to organic and biodynamic practices, with the intent to fully preserve and sustain the traditions and winemaking history of the land. The property and its 12th century Romanesque church, were once the property of the Medici family.
- Red Wine
- Cabernet Franc
- Organic, Vegan-Friendly
- Dry
- Medium Bodied
- 750ml
- 13.50% alc./vol
About the Winery
Château de Parnay
Château de Parnay is the flagship of the AOC Saumur Champigny. The property is located along the Loire river, classified as UNESCO World Heritage, on the most reputable clay and limestone terroirs of the appellation. The historic property was taken over by Mathias Levron & Régis Vincenot in 2006 with the aim of restoring the nobility of this special place.
Drawing their strength from the authenticity of their values, they now cultivate 50 hectares of vines with the aim of producing exceptional wines in a way that respects the environment. They have been certified organic since 2013 and are about to be certified biodynamic too.
The Clos of Chemin des Murs is the jewel of the property! Coming from the imagination of it's orginal owner, Antoine Cristal, this Clos was built, planted and cultivated according to an unprecedented technique. On this half hectare of Chenin Blanc, each vine was planted on the north face of a stone wall. Through a hole in the stone the vine crosses through the wall and allowing the grapes to grow facing the southern sunshine. The vine is said to have its 'foot in the cool and belly in the sun'.
Press Reviews
Wine Align
93 points - Megha Jandhyala
This is a concentrated, complex, gracefully balanced cabernet franc. Notes of ripe red plums, blackberries, dark cherries, tobacco, dried leaves, and violets are interwoven here to form an elegant, engaging, and varietally representative flavour profile. The palate is densely flavoured but lithe, with fine-grained tannins and refreshing acids. The finish is long, layered, and captivating. Though it can be enjoyed now, I would cellar this for 2-3 years. Tasted January 2024.
93 points - David Lawrason
This is a serious cab franc indeed - not so much in terms of weight and power, but in its complexity, poise and length. It’s a deeply coloured for franc. The nose shows fine, ripe raspberry, perfectly pitched by fresh herbs, tobacco and violet. It is loosely structured mid-palate, and a touch warm, with slightly green tannin. The length is excellent. I would age it a year or three. Tasted January 2024
92 points - John Szabo, MS
Silky and refined, elegant but dense, this Saumur Champigny (cabernet franc) is a substantial and serious wine, with a high degree of textbook regional character, complete with a touch of green-herbal, varietal flavour. Tannins are fine and dusty, acids gently salty, and length good to very good. I'd suggest another year or two in the cellar to further refine the texture and develop complexity - potential I think is high. Tasted January 2024.
- Red Wine
- Mourvèdre / Monastrell, Syrah
- Natural, Organic, Vegan-Friendly
- Dry
- Full Bodied
- 750ml
- 13.5% alc./vol
Press Reviews
Wine Align
93 points - John Szabo
Clos Sauveplan is a blend of about 3/4 high density planted mourvèdre and the balance in half-century-old syrah from the lieu-dit of the same name, a plateau in the Faugères AOC in southern France. It's showing beautifully at the moment, rich, redolent of fresh black forest fruits, blackberry coulis, wild violets and cracked black peppercorn, really quite a tour de force. The palate is broad but fresh, impeccably balanced and so lively considering the warm vintage, declared at 12.5% alcohol but coming across as riper and denser than the numbers would imply. Tannins are silky and resolving nicely, and length, depth, and ultimately complexity, are excellent. One of Brouca's best to date I'd say; drink or hold a half dozen years - the stuffing augurs well for development. Tasted January 2024.
92 points - Michael Godel
The source for this co-ferment of mourvèdre and syrah is a “clos,” meaning an isolated walled vineyard in a lieu-dit called “Sauveplane”, plateau at the eastern limit of the Faugères appellation. A mix of 20 and 40 year-old vines, volcanic soils, some whole cluster fermentation. Exotically spiced, sweetly volatile. Low-level Brettanomyces, so bloody Faugères, exemplary and expected for a wine to speak up on behalf of this particular sense of place. The kind of Languedoc red that sommeliers and naturalists will share and swig with reckless abandon while those who have never tried this style and origin may be left to wonder in confounded disarray. Just know that this is very correct for producer, style and place. Drink 2024-2027. Tasted January 2023.
91 points - Sara d'Amato
From old vines farmed with minimal intervention on the plateau of "Sauveplane", a lieu-dit on the eastern edge of Faugères. Spontaneously co-fermented syrah and mourvèdre grapes are left unfined and unfiltered in the low-interventionist style of Fredric Brouca. Subsequently aged 13 months in oak resulting in very gentle spice and pleasantly mellow tannins. Offers a notable sense of place and varietal character. Relatively speaking, the wine is quite clean and still exhibits plenty of fresh fruit and very good length. Tasted January 2024.
- Sweet Wine
- Gros Manseng, Petit Manseng
- Natural, Organic, Vegan-Friendly
- Medium Bodied
- 750ml
- 12.00% alc./vol
About the Winery
Clos Lapeyre
This family farm was traditionally dedicated to mixed farming with livestock, small fruits and grapes which were taken to the local cooperative. From 1985 onwards, the estate was turned over exclusively to viticulture when Jean-Bernard Larrieu gave birth to Clos Lapeyre.
Clos Lapeyre is a 12 ha domain owned by the Larrieu family, in Jurançon, Southwest France. It is situated south of Pau, nestling on steep slopes facing the Pyrenees. The vineyards are planted on terraces at an altitude of 250 m. Jean-Bernard Larrieu makes the wines, and his aim is produce wines that express the specificity of the grape varieties and the soils (pebbly clay/limestone and silex). The wines are certified Organic.
- Sweet Wine
- Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillon
- Medium Bodied
- 750ml
- 14.2% alc./vol
About the Winery
Château d'Yquem
Great wines are not born just anywhere, by accident. A unique set of climatic and geological conditions combine to form a rare equilibrium. This is undoubtedly the case at Yquem, which epitomises all that is best about the singular winegrowing environment in Sauternes.
Raised to the ranks of Premier Cru Supérieur appellation in 1855, Château d'Yquem is the product of meticulous work in the vineyard. Since its beginnings, it has benefited from an exceptional terroir, as well as being the result of a unique ancestral know-how since 1593.
Long before it was enjoyed by the first US President George Washington, the wines of Yquem had already begun writing their chapters in the history books. It all began in 1453 when Aquitaine, previously English, was brought under French rule. A century later, a local nobleman by the name of Jacques Sauvage was granted feudal tenure over Yquem and thus became the first in a long line of dedicated winemakers. This outstanding terroir in the sauternes appellation has exceptional climate conditions and geological features. Château d’Yquem was attributed the esteemed title Premier Cru Supérieur in 1855. From that point, the genius of this sweet wine was acknowledged, and the Sauvage and Lur Saluces families went on preserving their treasure for over 400 years. The LVMH group acquired the estate in 1999, with the continued desire to go on writing the legendary Yquem story, both in keeping with tradition and remaining open to modern advances. From the vineyard to the cellar, the great art which crafts each vintage is also maintained through respect for the label, and determines the destiny of each year’s production.
Château d'Yquem's topsoil is warm and dry, accumulating heat thanks to smooth flat pebbles and coarse gravel. The clay subsoil contains good water reserves and there are numerous springs on the estate. Drainage pipes were installed some time ago to prevent waterlogging (100 km of drains since the 19th century). Yquem's large size made it possible to plant 113 hectares of vines on a very representative sampling of the rich tapestry of the Sauternes region's soil types. This extraordinary variety of soils is a key factor in the quality and complexity of Château d’Yquem.
Press Reviews
James Suckling
98-99 points
The tannins and phenolic tension are very impressive to this. Dried-lemon undertones and burning botrytis. Full-to medium-bodied, linear and racy. Beautiful fruit and intensity. Such clarity. Extreme but wonderful style.
Wine Spectator
99 points
There was no frost at d’Yquem in 2017, and botrytis was very regular and even this vintage. The nose opens with very pure notes of freshly sliced oranges, yuzu and lemon barley water with hints of white pepper, fresh ginger and lime cordial. The incredibly rich, unctuous sweetness (148 grams per liter of residual sugar) is beautifully marbled with bright, vivacious citrus fruit and spice flavors, while lifted by well-knit freshness, and it finishes with epic length and great depth.
96 points
Very flattering and unctuous in feel, with coconut, creamed papaya, toasted hazelnut and warmed peach and tangerine cream flavors gliding along in unison, all framed by warm brioche and piecrust notes on the finish. Remarkably rich, yet poised and pure. Sémillon and Sauvignon Blanc. Best from 2025 through 2045. 4,166 cases made.
- Red Wine
- Cabernet Franc, Merlot
- Dry
- Medium Bodied
- 750ml
- 13.50% alc./vol
About the Winery
Château du Moulin Noir
This beautiful right-bank Bordeaux estate consistently produces high-value, elegant and classic Merlot dominant wines and is considered one of the most famous Château of this appellation. Located in Montagne-Saint-Emilion, Château Moulin Noir consists of seven hectares of vineyards on clay and limestone soils.
This château owes its name to a family feuddating back to the Middle Ages. Two brothers were arguing about their father’s legacy with the youngest brother being incredibly jealous that everything went to the elder. He was so jealous that he burnt the château to the ground - Moulin Noir translates to “blackened Mill”.
Press Reviews
Wine Align
91 points - Sara d'Amato
This notably complex right bank blend from a satellite appellation of Saint-Emilion offers appealing savory notes along with a mineral, iron component as well as licorice spice. The oak treatment is wonderfully integrated with wood spice elevating the bright red fruit. Harmoniously matured, graceful and very elegant. The staying power of the finish is impressive. Drinking very well now. Tasted January 2019.
- Red Wine
- Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot
- Sustainable
- Dry
- Residual Sugar: 3.00 g/l
- Medium Bodied
- 750ml
- 13.50% alc./vol
Press Reviews
James Suckling
91 Points
Aromas of ripe blackberries and cassis with some sweet spices, hazelnut and tree bark. Medium- to full-bodied with a succulent dark fruit character and firm, polished tannins. Flavourful finish. Drink or hold.
- Red Wine
- Gamay
- Volcanic
- Dry
- Residual Sugar: 2.00 g/l
- Light Bodied
- 750ml
- 13.50% alc./vol
About the Winery
Domaine du Château de La Chaize
Château de La Chaize is among the oldest, most historic estates in Burgundy’s Beaujolais region. Cared for by the same family for nearly three and a half centuries, the estate has been passed on to new owners, the Gruy family, who are equally committed to managing the estate with the utmost care, while implementing an ambitious environmental plan. Among the many initiatives is the conversion of all vineyards to organic farming, the adoption of precision viticulture, reducing carbon their carbon footprint, and recycling every by-product from viti- and vinicultural activity, to achieve zero waste.
Founded in 1670 by the seneschal of Lyon François de la Chaize d’Aix, the main Château de la Chaize building and gardens were completed by Jules-Hardouin Mansart and André le Nôtre, respectively architect and gardener of the Château de Versailles. Château de la Chaize is among the oldest, most historic estates in Burgundy’s Beaujolais region. Boasting over 250 acres of vineyards, it is also one of the largest. It is today considered one of the most innovative estates in Burgundy. Among its forward- thinking practices is the adoption of eco-friendly farming techniques, commonly referred to as Agriculture Raisonnée. Chemical treatments have been reduced to a strict minimum, for example, and the growing of grass between rows has been re-introduced to enrich the soil and reduce erosion.
Press Reviews
Wine Advocate
93 Points - William Kelly
The 2020 Côte de Brouilly Brûlhier has turned out very well, delivering aromas of cherries, blackberries, sweet spices and peonies, followed by a medium to full-bodied, velvety and vibrant palate that's concentrated and complete, with lively acids and ripe structuring tannins. As readers may remember, it's derived from a southeast-facing site characterized by blue rock and numbers among the prime lieux-dits of the appellation.
- White Wine
- Chardonnay
- Dry
- Residual Sugar: 2.00 g/l
- Medium Bodied
- 750ml
- 13.00% alc./vol
Press Reviews
Decanter
91 Points - Andy Howard MW
Quite an exotic, warm and fleshy fruit style from this aptly named premier cru. This is matched by plenty of citrus acidity and some appealing stony, flinty notes on the finish. Very nicely put together and well balanced.
- Red Wine
- Pinot Noir
- Sustainable
- Dry
- Residual Sugar: 2 g/l
- Medium Bodied
- 750ml
- 13.50% alc./vol
About the Winery
Groupe Bellene
Led by Nicolas Potel in Beaune, Groupe Bellene is composed of the négociant arm Maison Roche de Bellene, the winery arm Domaine de Bellene, and a special back-vintage series under the Collection Bellenum label.
- Maison Roche de Bellene offers a complete range of wines, with an emphasis on individual terroirs from old vines of more than 40 years. All of the growers that Nicolas works with are either organic certified or sustainably farmed.
- Domaine de Bellene represents the wines that are produced and bottled from Nicolas Potel's private vineyard holdings.
- Collection Bellenum is a back vintage series that Nicolas Potel sourced from his friends in the region, offering a magnificent selection of bottled history. The wines have moved only twice in their lives, from the original cellar to Potel's and now to yours!
Nicolas Potel grew up at Volnay's Domaine Pousse d'Or, where his father worked. He trained abroad and returned home in 1996 to build a négociant business and started Maison Nicolas Potel, where he sourced grapes from good parcels, often working with the growers to improve the quality. By 2002, he was making 120 wines from 50 different appellations, and the rest is history!
Press Reviews
WineAlign
93 Points - David Lawrason
This is fairly pale, evolving ruby garnet. It has developed a fine, complex and detailed fragrance with pretty cherry fruit, florals, fine spice and subtle leather and earthy notes. It is medium weight with that firm Nuits Saint George core of almost rusty minerality. Lots of tannic grip still in place, with excellent length. Enjoy now with aeration or hold through 2030. Tasted January 2023
- White Wine
- Chardonnay
- Sustainable
- Dry
- Residual Sugar: 2.00 g/l
- Medium Bodied
- 750ml
- 13.50% alc./vol
About the Winery
Groupe Bellene
Led by Nicolas Potel in Beaune, Groupe Bellene is composed of the négociant arm Maison Roche de Bellene, the winery arm Domaine de Bellene, and a special back-vintage series under the Collection Bellenum label.
- Maison Roche de Bellene offers a complete range of wines, with an emphasis on individual terroirs from old vines of more than 40 years. All of the growers that Nicolas works with are either organic certified or sustainably farmed.
- Domaine de Bellene represents the wines that are produced and bottled from Nicolas Potel's private vineyard holdings.
- Collection Bellenum is a back vintage series that Nicolas Potel sourced from his friends in the region, offering a magnificent selection of bottled history. The wines have moved only twice in their lives, from the original cellar to Potel's and now to yours!
Nicolas Potel grew up at Volnay's Domaine Pousse d'Or, where his father worked. He trained abroad and returned home in 1996 to build a négociant business and started Maison Nicolas Potel, where he sourced grapes from good parcels, often working with the growers to improve the quality. By 2002, he was making 120 wines from 50 different appellations, and the rest is history!
Press Reviews
WineAlign
95 Points - Michael Godel
Wow. To say this Corton Charlemagne is youthful beyond reproach would be a massive understatement and 2021 a year that hold no punches because greatness lies in the eye of the experienced. This ’21 will not jump out and grab the senses with instancy or elicit immediate gratification but it will stop to make you consider Bourgogne’s place in humanity and existence. It will distract you from anything you may have been doing by performing some kind of subtle hypnosis so that minutes go by before you realize you have been tasting and thinking about everything and nothing at all. A quasi state of dreaming, “to be nowhere, to be no one, to have nothing, to be free.” A great effect from white Burgundy that will only get better as the flesh, musky aromas, waxy feels and viscous textures develop in this wine. Drink 2025-2036.
- Red Wine
- Pinot Noir
- Sustainable
- Dry
- Residual Sugar: 2.00 g/l
- Medium Bodied
- 750ml
- 13.50% alc./vol
About the Winery
Groupe Bellene
Led by Nicolas Potel in Beaune, Groupe Bellene is composed of the négociant arm Maison Roche de Bellene, the winery arm Domaine de Bellene, and a special back-vintage series under the Collection Bellenum label.
- Maison Roche de Bellene offers a complete range of wines, with an emphasis on individual terroirs from old vines of more than 40 years. All of the growers that Nicolas works with are either organic certified or sustainably farmed.
- Domaine de Bellene represents the wines that are produced and bottled from Nicolas Potel's private vineyard holdings.
- Collection Bellenum is a back vintage series that Nicolas Potel sourced from his friends in the region, offering a magnificent selection of bottled history. The wines have moved only twice in their lives, from the original cellar to Potel's and now to yours!
Nicolas Potel grew up at Volnay's Domaine Pousse d'Or, where his father worked. He trained abroad and returned home in 1996 to build a négociant business and started Maison Nicolas Potel, where he sourced grapes from good parcels, often working with the growers to improve the quality. By 2002, he was making 120 wines from 50 different appellations, and the rest is history!
Press Reviews
WineAlign
92 Points - Sara d'Amato
Delicately spiced, salty, and generously perfumed with blossom, jasmine, juniper and dried floral. Elegant and polished with delicate and well-integrated wood spice that elevates the fruit. Flavours emerge on the palate of cardamom, licorice, bayberry, laurel and tilled earth. The lacy tannins give the an ethereal mouthfeel and lively acids that are beginning to sour provide tension and poise. A slight bit of oxidation signals early maturity. Excellent length. Best 2025 to 2030
- White Wine
- Chardonnay
- Sustainable
- Dry
- Residual Sugar: 2.00 g/l
- Medium Bodied
- 750ml
- 13.00% alc./vol
About the Winery
Groupe Bellene
Led by Nicolas Potel in Beaune, Groupe Bellene is composed of the négociant arm Maison Roche de Bellene, the winery arm Domaine de Bellene, and a special back-vintage series under the Collection Bellenum label.
- Maison Roche de Bellene offers a complete range of wines, with an emphasis on individual terroirs from old vines of more than 40 years. All of the growers that Nicolas works with are either organic certified or sustainably farmed.
- Domaine de Bellene represents the wines that are produced and bottled from Nicolas Potel's private vineyard holdings.
- Collection Bellenum is a back vintage series that Nicolas Potel sourced from his friends in the region, offering a magnificent selection of bottled history. The wines have moved only twice in their lives, from the original cellar to Potel's and now to yours!
Nicolas Potel grew up at Volnay's Domaine Pousse d'Or, where his father worked. He trained abroad and returned home in 1996 to build a négociant business and started Maison Nicolas Potel, where he sourced grapes from good parcels, often working with the growers to improve the quality. By 2002, he was making 120 wines from 50 different appellations, and the rest is history!
Press Reviews
Wine Align - Michael Godel
93 Points
Old vines concentration indeed coupled with warm vintage ease for Meursault that’s done more than surprisingly well to not only last but remain openly fragrant for a good long time. A gift of fruit as well, more than anything else and fresh to boot. A top quality parcel gathered and granted best scenario aperture by Nicolas Potel who knows how to grow them and knows how to own them. Cue the Gambler and have a glass for full country AND western enjoyment. Drink 2024-2027
- White Wine
- Chardonnay
- Sustainable
- Dry
- Residual Sugar: 2.00 g/l
- Medium Bodied
- 750ml
- 13.00% alc./vol
About the Winery
Groupe Bellene
Led by Nicolas Potel in Beaune, Groupe Bellene is composed of the négociant arm Maison Roche de Bellene, the winery arm Domaine de Bellene, and a special back-vintage series under the Collection Bellenum label.
- Maison Roche de Bellene offers a complete range of wines, with an emphasis on individual terroirs from old vines of more than 40 years. All of the growers that Nicolas works with are either organic certified or sustainably farmed.
- Domaine de Bellene represents the wines that are produced and bottled from Nicolas Potel's private vineyard holdings.
- Collection Bellenum is a back vintage series that Nicolas Potel sourced from his friends in the region, offering a magnificent selection of bottled history. The wines have moved only twice in their lives, from the original cellar to Potel's and now to yours!
Nicolas Potel grew up at Volnay's Domaine Pousse d'Or, where his father worked. He trained abroad and returned home in 1996 to build a négociant business and started Maison Nicolas Potel, where he sourced grapes from good parcels, often working with the growers to improve the quality. By 2002, he was making 120 wines from 50 different appellations, and the rest is history!
Press Reviews
WineAlign
94 Points - David Lawrason
This is a quite robust and powerful chardonnay, not quite as elegant as some northern Cote de Beaune neighbours, but it is punchy and complex and quite compelling. Just heading into maturity as well with toasty notes, walnut, lemon, pear and subtle herbality. It is full bodied, mineral and a bit lean, with a sour edge. Excellent to outstanding length.
- White Wine
- Chardonnay
- Sustainable, Vegan-Friendly
- Dry
- Residual Sugar: 2.00 g/l
- Medium Bodied
- 750ml
- 13.00% alc./vol
About the Winery
Domaine Louis Moreau
Winemaker Louis Moreau is the master of the Chablis terroir, where he bottles 100% Chardonnay wines from all four levels of appellation: Petit Chablis, Chablis, Chablis Premier Crus and Chablis Grands Cru.
The Domaine owns parcels in five of the seven Grands Cru climats, and works with many plots throughout the region in a sustainable manner. The most prestigious of its wines is the monopole Chablis Grand Cru 'Clos des Hospices' dans Les Clos AOC 2016, acquired by the Moreau family in 1904.
Louis Moreau, who has been leading the domaine since 1994, produces wines with a unique style. Louis Moreau studied oenology-viticulture at Fresno State University and worked at different Californian wineries before he took over the Domaine's operations in 1994, representing the family's sixth generation of vignerons.
Press Reviews
Vinous
91 Points - Neal Martin
The 2020 Chablis Les Clos Grand Cru has a crisp bouquet with crushed rock mixed with touches of dried flowers and a light sea spray note - classic Chablis really. The palate is fresh and vibrant on the entry. Touches of dried honey and chamomile, but underneath it all is a fine mineral spine and a decent, quite Les Preuses-like finish - Tasted blind at the BIVB tasting in Chablis.