76 products
Alsace
Type | Domaine Muré (Biodynamic, Organic, Vegan-Friendly) | Case Size | Bottle Price |
---|---|---|---|
White | Domaine Muré Signature Sylvaner 2021 | 12 x 750ml | $24.95 |
Beaujolais
Type | Domaine du Château de La Chaize (Organic) | Case Size | Bottle Price |
---|---|---|---|
Red | Château de La Chaize Brouilly 2019 | 12 x 750ml | $28.95 |
White | Château de La Chaize Pouilly-Fuissé 2020 | 6 x 750ml | $48.95 |
Type | Stéphane Aviron (Biodynamic, Sustainable, Vegan-Friendly, Volcanic) | Case Size | Bottle Price |
---|---|---|---|
Red | Stéphane Aviron Beaujolais Villages 2020 | 12 x 750ml | $20.95 |
Red | Stéphane Aviron Chénas AOP 2020 | 12 x 750ml | $27.95 |
Bordeaux
Type | Château Haut Grelot (Vegan-Friendly) | Case Size | Bottle Price |
---|---|---|---|
White | Château Haut Grelot Sauvignon Blanc Côtes de Blaye 2022 | 12 x 750ml | $19.95 |
Type | Château Les Paruades | Case Size | Bottle Price |
---|---|---|---|
Red | Château Les Paruades Macau en Médoc Bordeaux Supérieur 2016 | 12 x 750ml | $22.95 |
Type | Château Plaisance | Case Size | Bottle Price |
---|---|---|---|
Red | Château Plaisance Les Palues Bordeaux Supérieur 2016 | 12 x 750ml | $23.95 |
Type | Château Tour de Gilet | Case Size | Bottle Price |
---|---|---|---|
Red | Château Tour de Gilet Bordeaux Supérieur Ludon-en-Médoc 2019 | 12 x 750ml | $23.95 |
Type | Château du Moulin Noir | Case Size | Bottle Price |
---|---|---|---|
Red | Château du Moulin Noir Montagne Saint Emilion 2012 | 12 x 750ml | $31.95 |
Type | Grains d'Estuaire (Natural, Sustainable, Vegan-Friendly) | Case Size | Bottle Price |
---|---|---|---|
White | Grains d'Estuaire Cuvée Emma Blanc 2021 | 12 x 750ml | $33.95 |
Red | Grains d'Estuaire Cuvée Emma Rouge 2020 | 12 x 750ml | $33.95 |
Burgundy
Type | Domaine Louis Moreau (Sustainable, Vegan-Friendly) | Case Size | Bottle Price |
---|---|---|---|
White | Domaine Louis Moreau Chablis Premier Cru Vau Ligneau A.O.C 2021 LCBO Cellar Collection | 6 x 750ml | $50.00 |
White | Domaine Louis Moreau Petit Chablis AOC 2021 | 12 x 750ml | $34.95 |
Type | Domaine de Mauperthuis (Sustainable, Vegan-Friendly) | Case Size | Bottle Price |
---|---|---|---|
White | Domaine de Mauperthuis Goutte de Lune Chablis 2022 | 12 x 750ml | $42.95 |
White | Domaine de Mauperthuis Saint Bris Sauvignon Blanc 2022 | 12 x 750ml | $29.95 |
Type | Groupe Bellene (Sustainable) | Case Size | Bottle Price |
---|---|---|---|
Red | Domaine de Bellene Vosne-Romanée Les Quartiers de Nuits 2021 LCBO Vmail Special Offer | 3 x 750ml | $189.00 |
White | Maison Roche de Bellene Bourgogne Blanc 'Cuvée Réserve' Chardonnay 2018 | 12 x 750ml | $35.95 |
Red | Maison Roche de Bellene Pinot Noir Bourgogne 2021 | 12 x 750ml | $33.95 |
Champagne
Type | Champagne Fresne Ducret (Sustainable, Vegan-Friendly) | Case Size | Bottle Price |
---|---|---|---|
Sparkling | Fresne Ducret Le Chemin du Chemin Premier Cru Champagne | 6 x 750ml | $71.95 |
Côtes du Rhône
Type | Château de Montfaucon (Organic, Vegan-Friendly) | Case Size | Bottle Price |
---|---|---|---|
White | Château de Montfaucon Comtesse Madeleine Lirac Blanc 2021 | 12 x 750ml | $38.95 |
Red | Château de Montfaucon Lirac Rouge 2020 | 12 x 750ml | $31.95 |
Type | Domaine Andre Aubert (Sustainable, Vegan-Friendly) | Case Size | Bottle Price |
---|---|---|---|
Red | André Aubert Le Devoy Grignan-les-Adhémar 2020 | 12 x 750ml | $17.95 |
Type | Domaine Autrand (Vegan-Friendly) | Case Size | Bottle Price |
---|---|---|---|
Red | Domaine Autrand Côtes du Rhone Vieilles Vignes 2019 | 12 x 750ml | $19.95 |
Type | Mas Carlot (Organic, Sustainable, Vegan-Friendly) | Case Size | Bottle Price |
---|---|---|---|
White | Mas Carlot Générations Blanc Costières de Nîmes 2022 | 12 x 750ml | $23.95 |
Rosé | Mas Carlot Générations Rosé Costières de Nîmes 2022 | 12 x 750ml | $22.95 |
Jura
Type | Domaine Baud Père et Fils (Sustainable, Vegan-Friendly) | Case Size | Bottle Price |
---|---|---|---|
White | Domaine Baud 'Cuvée Flor' Chardonnay Côtes du Jura AOC 2020 | 12 x 750ml | $30.95 |
Red | Domaine Baud 'Rouge Ancestral' Côtes du Jura AOC 2020 | 12 x 750ml | $29.95 |
Sparkling | Domaine Baud Blanc de Blanc Crémant du Jura Brut NV | 12 x 750ml | $31.95 |
Languedoc-Roussillon
Type | Clos del Rey (Sustainable, Vegan-Friendly) | Case Size | Bottle Price |
---|---|---|---|
Red | Clos del Rey Le Sabina Rouge Côtes du Roussillon Villages 2021 | 12 x 750ml | $25.95 |
Type | Domaine Frédéric Brouca (Natural, Organic, Vegan-Friendly) | Case Size | Bottle Price |
---|---|---|---|
Red | Domaine Frédéric Brouca Champs Pentus AOC Faugéres 2021 | 12 x 750ml | $29.95 |
Red | Domaine Frédéric Brouca Foulage Gaulois Pinot Noir VDF 2021 | 12 x 750ml | $25.95 |
Type | Domaine La Grangette (Sustainable) | Case Size | Bottle Price |
---|---|---|---|
White | Domaine La Grangette 'Poule de Pic' Picpoul de Pinet AOP 2022 | 12 x 750ml | $24.95 |
Type | Maison Idiart | Case Size | Bottle Price |
---|---|---|---|
Rosé | Maison Nicolas Idiart Espérance Rosé 2022 | 12 x 750ml | $16.95 |
Loire Valley
Type | Château de Parnay (Organic, Vegan-Friendly) | Case Size | Bottle Price |
---|---|---|---|
White | Château de Parnay Chemin des Murs Saumur Blanc 2022 | 6 x 750ml | $44.95 |
Red | Clos du Château de Parnay Saumur Champigny 2019 | 6 x 750ml | $48.95 |
Type | Château de la Grange | Case Size | Bottle Price |
---|---|---|---|
White | Chateau de la Grange-Barbastre Muscadet Côtes de Grand Lieu Sur Lie 2021 | 12 x 750ml | $19.95 |
Type | Claude Riffault (Sustainable, Vegan-Friendly) | Case Size | Bottle Price |
---|---|---|---|
Red | Claude Riffault La Noue Sancerre Pinot Noir 2021 Pre-order, arriving in July | 6 x 750ml | $69.95 |
Rhône
Type | Domaine Viret (Biodynamic, Natural, Sustainable, Vegan-Friendly) | Case Size | Bottle Price |
---|---|---|---|
Red | Domaine Viret Energie 2021 | 12 x 750ml | $28.95 |
Red | Domaine Viret Renaissance 2017 | 12 x 750ml | $35.95 |
White | Domaine Viret Solstice Blanc Dry 2021 | 12 x 750 | $35.95 |
Red | Domaine Viret Solstice Rouge 2021 | 12 x 750 | $27.95 |
Savoie
Type | Denis et Didier Berthollier (Sustainable, Vegan-Friendly) | Case Size | Bottle Price |
---|---|---|---|
White | Denis et Didier Berthollier Cru Chignin Vieilles Vignes 2022 | 12 x 750ml | $35.95 |
South-West
Type | Château Barouillet (Biodynamic, Natural, Organic, Vegan-Friendly) | Case Size | Bottle Price |
---|---|---|---|
White | Château Barouillet Bergecrac Blanc 2021 | 12 x 750ml | $22.95 |
Red | Château Barouillet Bergecrac Rouge 2021 | 12 x 750ml | $23.95 |
Sparkling | Château Barouillet Splash Pét-Nat 2021 | 12 x 750ml | $28.95 |
Type | Château Lamartine (Sustainable, Vegan-Friendly) | Case Size | Bottle Price |
---|---|---|---|
Red | Château Lamartine Cuvée Tradition Malbec Cahors 2019 | 12 x 750ml | $24.95 |
Type | Clos Lapeyre (Natural, Organic, Vegan-Friendly) | Case Size | Bottle Price |
---|---|---|---|
Sweet | Clos Lapeyre Jurançon Moelleux 2021 | 12 x 750ml | $36.95 |
Type | Lionel Osmin & Cie | Case Size | Bottle Price |
---|---|---|---|
White | Lionel Osmin & Cie Pyrène L'incontournable Cuvée Marine 2022 | 12 x 750ml | $18.95 |
Red | Lionel Osmin & Cie Pyrène L'irrésistible Lune Noire 2021 | 12 x 750ml | $18.95 |
- Red Wine
- Gamay
- Biodynamic, Sustainable, Vegan-Friendly
- Dry
- Light Bodied
- 750ml
- 13% alc./vol
About the Winery
Stéphane Aviron

Stéphane Aviron can be considered a pioneer in his approach to winemaking in Beaujolais, however he would just tell you that he’s simply returning to the traditional practices that have always made fantastic Gamay wines. Sustainable viticulture, extremely old vines and classic Burgundian techniques. He focuses on the Beaujolais village crus, all but forgotten gems of vineyards when the nouveau craze took over, which are the best sites for unique, expressive and terroir driven wines. All of the fruit is sourced from old vines (40+ years), so seeing Vieilles Vignes on the label is a rite of passage, not a privilege. Authenticity and a distinctly Beaujolais style of winemaking is what sets Stéphane apart from the rest.
Press Reviews
Wine Align
90 points - David Lawrason
This is a delicious, fairly juicy and charming young gamay. There is a hint of meatiness on the nose but all kinds of candied strawberry/cherry as well, and violet-like florals. It is light to medium bodied, open knit, slightly sour-edged with very generous fruit on the palate. The tannins are notably mild, the alcohol provides some power and the length is very good to excellent. Tasted June 2022
- Red Wine
- Gamay
- Organic
- Dry
- Light 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
Robert Parker
90 points
The 2019 Brouilly opens in the glass with notes of cherries, peonies, orange rind and warm spices. Medium to full-bodied, ample and lively, with powdery tannins, attractive purity of fruit and a precise finish, it continues this cuvée's upward trajectory. – W.K. Tasted in August, 2021.
Wine Align
90 points - Sara d'Amato
A charming Brouilly sourced from 11 differed cadastral lieux-dits (vineyards) including "La Chaize" which is a monopole of the aptly named Château de La Chaize. Generously aromatic and still vibrant with delicate notes of black pepper, fresh raspberry, cran-cherry and licorice. Featherweight tannins and well-balanced acidity make for a ready-to-drink find. Excellent length. Tasted June 2022.
James Suckling
90 points
The effusive violet and blackcurrant-pastille aromas draw you into this elegant and silky, mid-weight Brouilly with excellent harmony right through the long finish… this will keep, but why wait when it tastes so good already? Drink now. – Tasted in April, 2021.
- 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
- Red Wine
- Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot
- Dry
- Medium Bodied
- 750ml
Press Reviews
Wine Align
91 points - Michael Godel
2014: A blend of merlot, cabernet sauvignon and cabernet franc in Pomerol mimic, attractive and edgy when it wants or needs to be. Right Bank stylistic in any case, herbals and amaro welling through with liqueur consistency and fashion. Quite chic and notably concentrated for 2014, really credible, with brisk acidity and plenty of toughness keeping the wine safe, elongated and with portents of further potential. Quite a steal actually. Drink 2021-2024. Tasted November 2021.
90 points - John Szabo
2014: Maturing, classy and complex Bordeaux here, delivering far above its price category in terms of complexity, depth and overall refinement and polish. It's drinking very well at the moment, with grainy tannins lining up with succulent acids, notably absent the green character of many 2014 Bordeaux (especially at this price level). Really quite an excellent experience all in all. Drink or continue to hold into the mid-late-'20s. Tasted November 2021.
- White Wine
- Sauvignon Blanc
- Natural, Sustainable, Vegan-Friendly
- Dry
- Medium Bodied
- 750ml
About the Winery
Grains d'Estuaire

Julien Bonneau, (Château Haut Grelot in the Blayais), and his friend Alexandre Lavigne, restaurateur in Saint-Palais-sur-Mer, created in 2014 a range of wines, Grains d'Estuaire, from 'a 10 ha vineyard located in Saint-Bonnet-sur-Gironde, in the south of Charente-Maritime.
- White Wine
- Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillon
- Vegan-Friendly
- Dry
- Light Bodied
- 750ml
- 12.50% alc./vol
About the Winery
Château Haut-Grelot

Château Haut Grelot is located in Saint Ciers Sur Gironde, approximately 50 kms north of Bordeaux, on the right bank of the Gironde Estuary. It was established by the Bonneau family in 1922 and now run but the 4th Generation. Today Château Haut-Grelot comprises 58 hectares of vineyards and is run by Céline and Julien, who was recently awarded the title 'Best Young Talent' in Bordeaux.
The vineyards are made up of sandy-gravel on the hillsides bordering the Gironde Estuary and sand-clay-silt on the hillsides further inland. Blaye Côtes de Bordeaux benefits from an ideal microclimate where there is a high level of sunshine and enough rain to guarantee the perfect environment for grape production. As a result the reds are fruity and concentrated and the whites are fresh, vibrant and delicate.
- Red Wine
- Syrah
- Biodynamic, Natural, Sustainable, Vegan-Friendly
- Dry
- Light Bodied
- 750ml
- 12.5% alc./vol
About the Winery
Domaine Viret

In a magical place steeped in history, Saint-Maurice, in the Rhone Valley. Advocates of the principles of organic and biodynamic agriculture, the Viret family has chosen to employ a particular form of natural viticulture throughout their estate. Known as “cosmoculture®”, this is based on cosmotelluric exchanges. Everything is organised in such a way that both vines and wines are able draw on their own natural defences.
Work in the vineyards focuses on reorganising the magnetic field and on the application of homeopathic and naturals preparations made from rocks and plants that are often found in the vineyards. Alain, Philippe's father, built the winery on an ancient Roman site around an underground spring which they believe energises the vineyards and the winery.
- Red Wine
- Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Mourvèdre / Monastrell
- Biodynamic, Natural, Sustainable, Vegan-Friendly
- Dry
- Light Bodied
- 750
- 13% alc./vol
About the Winery
Domaine Viret

In a magical place steeped in history, Saint-Maurice, in the Rhone Valley. Advocates of the principles of organic and biodynamic agriculture, the Viret family has chosen to employ a particular form of natural viticulture throughout their estate. Known as “cosmoculture®”, this is based on cosmotelluric exchanges. Everything is organised in such a way that both vines and wines are able draw on their own natural defences.
Work in the vineyards focuses on reorganising the magnetic field and on the application of homeopathic and naturals preparations made from rocks and plants that are often found in the vineyards. Alain, Philippe's father, built the winery on an ancient Roman site around an underground spring which they believe energises the vineyards and the winery.
- Red Wine
- Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot
- Dry
- Medium Bodied
- 750ml
About the Winery
Château Tour de Gilet

Château Tour de Gilet is located in Ludon Médoc, 16 km north of Bordeaux in the Médoc area. The Château was built on the foundation of an ancient abbey from the 12th century. At that time the vineyard was already surrounded by “jalles” or small criss-crossing drainage canals to help produce wines of higher quality. Today, oenologist Claude Gaudin makes an extraordinary wine at this small property, using techniques such as dense planting in the vineyard and green harvesting to lower the yield, sorting at the harvest and very natural wine making for maximum expression of the fruit.
Claude Gaudin is renowned for turning out several of Bordeaux’s best Petits Châteaux wines. In addition to Château Tour de Gilet, Gaudin fashions two outstanding Petits Châteaux that border the Margaux commune, Château Barreyre and Château Laronde Desormes, as well as the celebrated Château Maurac Haut Médoc, whose neighbors are the renowned Château Sociando-Mallet and Château Charmail in Sainte-Estèphe.
Press Reviews
Wine Align
91 points - Sarah d'Amato, MS
A gently maturing Bordeaux with a great deal of brightness, purity and finesse. Features fine tannins, refreshing acidity, moderate alcohol and very nuanced wood - a sophisticated balance of elements. Drinking beautifully now given the majority of fresh fruit and still some tannic grip, this should continue to develop favourably for the next 3-5 years. Pulls above its Bordeaux Superieur class. Tasted September 2022.
91 points - David Lawrason
This has matured into a fine space. It is quite elegant and poised with a complex, well woven nose of redcurrant, raspberry fruit, fresh herbs, graphite and early onset tertiary leather. It has achieved real grace, with some heat, fine tannin. The focus and length is excellent. Tasted March 2023
- Red Wine
- Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot
- Dry
- Medium Bodied
- 750ml
- 13.6% alc./vol
- Red Wine
- Merlot
- Natural, Sustainable, Vegan-Friendly
- Dry
- Medium Bodied
- 750ml
About the Winery
Grains d'Estuaire

Julien Bonneau, (Château Haut Grelot in the Blayais), and his friend Alexandre Lavigne, restaurateur in Saint-Palais-sur-Mer, created in 2014 a range of wines, Grains d'Estuaire, from 'a 10 ha vineyard located in Saint-Bonnet-sur-Gironde, in the south of Charente-Maritime.
- White Wine
- Chardonnay
- Sustainable, Vegan-Friendly
- Dry
- Residual Sugar: 2.00 g/l
- 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
Decanter
91 Points - Andy Howard, MW
Cool, fresh, very precise premier cru from Louis Moreau with plenty of concentration on the palate, crisp acidity and a pronounced salty, mineral finish. Very nice example of this relatively new cru. The other components really compliment the bright fruit flavours well.
- 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
96 Points - Michael Godel
As small as a plot gets, 0.3 hectare in size, planted in 1927, sandwiched between Echezeaux and Clos de Vougeot. A place of heroic, sustainable, focused and reasoned farming, for Nicolas Patel one of the exacting gems where pinot noir in the Côtes d’Or will find greatness and cast a spell. Yes the austerity, bound and wound intensity are off the proverbial charts to set this wine back 25 years but just a fifth of that time will be needed for its charm to show. The swell of red fruit is inspiring and 2021 or not the awe is noted. Vosne Romanée is represented with utmost esteem and time can only serve to embellish, replenish and increase the splendour of this complex wine. Drink 2026-2037.
- 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.
- 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
- Cinsault, Grenache, Syrah
- Organic, Vegan-Friendly
- Dry
- Full Bodied
- 750ml
- 14.5% 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.
- Red Wine
- Grenache, Mourvèdre / Monastrell, Samso / Carignan, Syrah
- Sustainable, Vegan-Friendly
- Dry
- Medium Bodied
- 750ml
- 14.5% alc./vol
About the Winery
Domaine Andre Aubert
At the very heart of the Rhône Valley, at the northerly tip of the Southern Rhône, lie the vineyards of Grignan-Les-Adhémar. The chances are you haven’t heard the name before, few people have, but the wines are worth seeking out. It’s not a new wine region – vines have been planted here since around 500BC but it is a new name (formerly known as Côteaux-du-Tricastin). Domaine André Aubert, has been formed over decades and today comprises of more than 280 hectares spread from north to south of the prestigious Southern Rhone Valley on the appellations Côtes du Rhône, Côtes du Rhône villages, Visan, and Grignan-les-Adhémar.
Press Reviews
Wine Align
90 points - David Lawrason
This is new appellation (formerly Coteaux de Triscatin) is the northernmost in the southern Rhone. It uses the typical southern Rhone varieties, but none can be more than 80% of the blend. This is a quite elegant, well structured, mid-weight red with some stony minerality, lifted pepper and savoury notes. Not as opulently fruity and rich as many peers, yet very tidy and balanced. The length is very good to excellent. Tasted March 2022
- White Wine
- Marsanne
- Organic, Sustainable, Vegan-Friendly
- Dry
- Full Bodied
- 750ml
- 13.20% alc./vol
About the Winery
Mas Carlot

Mas Carlot is situated in the south of the Rhône Valley, extending across 76 hectares of pebbly land southeast of Nîmes. Originally a 17th century farm, this beautiful estate was resurrected in the 1960's by the Blanc family—it is currently run Cyril Mares of the neighbouring and equally reputable property, Mas Bressades.
The appellation of Costières de Nîmes used to be considered part of eastern Languedoc but the climate, soil, topography and wine are far closer to those just over the river in the Southern Côtes du Rhône. It is now a region very much on the up and is widely recognized as a great source of excellent value wine.
- Rosé Wine
- Grenache, Syrah
- Organic, Vegan-Friendly
- Dry
- Medium Bodied
- 750ml
- 13.5% alc./vol
About the Winery
Mas Carlot

Mas Carlot is situated in the south of the Rhône Valley, extending across 76 hectares of pebbly land southeast of Nîmes. Originally a 17th century farm, this beautiful estate was resurrected in the 1960's by the Blanc family—it is currently run Cyril Mares of the neighbouring and equally reputable property, Mas Bressades.
The appellation of Costières de Nîmes used to be considered part of eastern Languedoc but the climate, soil, topography and wine are far closer to those just over the river in the Southern Côtes du Rhône. It is now a region very much on the up and is widely recognized as a great source of excellent value wine.
Press Reviews
Robert Parker
91 points
Mas Carlot's 2021 Costieres de Nimes Rose Generations is a terrific blend of 55% Grenache, 35% Syrah and 10% Mourvèdre. Offering up generous aromas of strawberry, watermelon and lime, it's medium-bodied, plump and expansive on the palate. Made in a traditional style, with more color and extraction than the skinnier, more citrusy Provence wannabes, this is a lovely wine, with touches of silk and spice on the finish, not just citrus.
- Red Wine
- Carignan, Grenache, Syrah
- Natural, Organic, Vegan-Friendly
- Dry
- Full Bodied
- 750ml
- 14% alc./vol
About the Winery
Domaine Frédéric Brouca

Frédéric grew up in Normandy and met his Canadian wife Elaine at university in Lille, Northern France. They live a nomadic lifestyle (Canada, India, Singapore and USA) though Frédéric spends about half of his time in Faugères. Since early age, Frédéric had a calling for farming and the fierce desire to become a winegrower. After completing a Masters Degree in Finance in 2001, Frédéric went back to college for a Sommelier diploma and started his career as a Burgundy wine broker.
In late 2012, Frédéric and Elaine were fortunate to take over 25 acres of old vines in Faugères, organically farmed for twenty years and deeply rooted in schist soils.
2013 was the inaugural vintage for Domaine Frédéric Brouca. In his modest winery in the village of Laurens, Frédéric is creating a new vision for Faugères wines; fresh, vibrant and made without artifice. Nothing revolutionary, simply returning to our grandparent's ideology of farming and winemaking to craft 'Vins Vivants'. The Faugères Appellation is in the heart of Languedoc in the Hérault department. Here, winemaking dates back to the Greek times and was developed during the Roman Era. It wasn't until the early 1900's, however, that the wines became more widely known for its unique schist soils and moderate Mediterranean climate. These villages are heavily reliant on wine as an important part of their culture and economy.
The area is stunning with mountain views and close proximity to the Mediterranean Sea (20 miles / 30 kms). Faugères has a long history of responsible farming. It boasts the highest percentage of organic vineyards for any AOC in all of France with almost 50% of farmers making the choice.
Press Reviews
Wine Align
92 points - Sara d'Amato
A clean, juicy and lightly salty blend of grenache, syrah and carignan made from organically grown grapes on the hillsides of Faugères in the Languedoc, an appellation that boasts the highest percentage of organically farmed vineyards of any French AOC. As is typical with natural wines, this is fermented with wild yeast and is both unfined and filtered showing a touch of expected sediment at present when you near the bottom of the bottle. A fine example of the character that Brouca can coax out of his blends despite minimal intervention techniques. The 2020 is drinking very well now with a mouth-filling concentration of fruit, and barely perceptible wood spice from the 10% use of neutral barrels, the remainder having been vinified in stainless steel. The alcohol is well-balanced and the wine avoids the trappings of warm & jammy yet still showcases the generous sunshine of the region and natural garrigue. Very good length. Tasted January 2023.
92 points - Sara d'Amato
A clean, juicy and lightly salty blend of grenache, syrah and carignan made from organically grown grapes on the hillsides of Faugères in the Languedoc, an appellation that boasts the highest percentage of organically farmed vineyards of any French AOC. As is typical with natural wines, this is fermented with wild yeast and is both unfined and filtered showing a touch of expected sediment at present when you near the bottom of the bottle. A fine example of the character that Brouca can coax out of his blends despite minimal intervention techniques. The 2020 is drinking very well now with a mouth-filling concentration of fruit, and barely perceptible wood spice from the 10% use of neutral barrels, the remainder having been vinified in stainless steel. The alcohol is well-balanced and the wine avoids the trappings of warm & jammy yet still showcases the generous sunshine of the region and natural garrigue. Very good length. Tasted January 2023.
91 points - David Lawrason
This is a very expressive, interesting and rather juicy red made from a fairly typical blend of grenache (which dominates texturally), syrah and carignan. The nose shows quite floral violet notes with plummy/black cherry fruit, pepper and a touch of meatiness. It is mid-weight, fairly soft yet lively on the palate with some alcohol heat providing intensity. Carignan's acid and tannin complex adds to this idea. The length is excellent. Tasted January 2023.
- Rosé Wine
- Cinsault, Grenache, Syrah
- Dry
- 750ml
- 12.5% alc./vol
About the Winery
Maison Idiart

Maison Idiart is a wine négociant based in Bordeaux and established in 2013. Nicolas Idiart, winemaker and founder of Maison Idiart, grew up with a passion for wine, something that he shared with his father and grandfather.
He graduated from Bordeaux winemaking school in Blanquefort at 19 years old. Nicolas' love for Loire wines took him to work in Chinon, Touraine and Muscadet. He also had experiences in Australia and New Zealand. After several years travelling the world, he decided to shift his work in the industry and work in sales, focusing in North America.
At 33 years old, after 7 years working in sales, he decided to go back to winemaking with an artisan approach, making small batches of handcrafted wines.
- Red Wine
- Pinot Noir
- Natural, Organic, Vegan-Friendly
- Dry
- Medium Bodied
- 750ml
- 13.5% alc./vol
About the Winery
Domaine Frédéric Brouca

Frédéric grew up in Normandy and met his Canadian wife Elaine at university in Lille, Northern France. They live a nomadic lifestyle (Canada, India, Singapore and USA) though Frédéric spends about half of his time in Faugères. Since early age, Frédéric had a calling for farming and the fierce desire to become a winegrower. After completing a Masters Degree in Finance in 2001, Frédéric went back to college for a Sommelier diploma and started his career as a Burgundy wine broker.
In late 2012, Frédéric and Elaine were fortunate to take over 25 acres of old vines in Faugères, organically farmed for twenty years and deeply rooted in schist soils.
2013 was the inaugural vintage for Domaine Frédéric Brouca. In his modest winery in the village of Laurens, Frédéric is creating a new vision for Faugères wines; fresh, vibrant and made without artifice. Nothing revolutionary, simply returning to our grandparent's ideology of farming and winemaking to craft 'Vins Vivants'. The Faugères Appellation is in the heart of Languedoc in the Hérault department. Here, winemaking dates back to the Greek times and was developed during the Roman Era. It wasn't until the early 1900's, however, that the wines became more widely known for its unique schist soils and moderate Mediterranean climate. These villages are heavily reliant on wine as an important part of their culture and economy.
The area is stunning with mountain views and close proximity to the Mediterranean Sea (20 miles / 30 kms). Faugères has a long history of responsible farming. It boasts the highest percentage of organic vineyards for any AOC in all of France with almost 50% of farmers making the choice.
Press Reviews
Wine Align
90 points - Michael Godel
Brouca’s pinot noir is called “Foulage Gaulois,” literally “Gallic Treading,” a reference to feet stomping grapes and history tells us the Gauls were big on the fermented stuff. Their interest goes back to the fourth century and the Romans were quite fond of their work. Fréderic’s carries a seriously carbonic varietal impact with high tonality, great freshness and a piney herbal character. Quite minty evergreen and open knit though really light within its bushy parameters. Drink 2023-2025. Tasted January 2023.
90 points - John Szabo, MS
A low intervention, 'natural' pinot, unfined and unfiltered from 25 year-old organically-farmed hillside vineyards in the south of France (Faugères region) with evident spicy-herbal whole bunch (stem) inclusion in the ferment. I like the dried herb and herbal tea, pot pourri and spiced cherry chutney flavours, the zesty acids, the firm and dusty but forgiving tannins. Length and depth are solid. A well-made, innovative take on pinot noir from a region that really shouldn't be growing pinot noir, managing to maintain freshness and composure against the odds. A cool, wet growing season surely helped the liveliness along. This is well worth a look, and it's totally free from deviations. Drink or hold short term. Tasted January 2023.
- Red Wine
- Grenache, Samso / Carignan
- Sustainable, Vegan-Friendly
- Dry
- Residual Sugar: 2 g/l
- Full Bodied
- 750ml
- 14.50% alc./vol
About the Winery
Clos del Rey

In the foothills of the Pyrénées Mountains, not far from the Mediterranean sea, Clos del Rey is situated in the centre of almost 900 acres in the tiny village of Maury. The estate has been owned and farmed by the Montagne family since 2001. The vineyard itself is nestled among a protected area of garrigues (rosemary and thyme). The vines of up to 120 years old are allowed to grow natural and untrained, in the old-fashioned way, known as the goblet or bush style. However, it is what lies beneath the vineyard that lends much of the character and complexity found in their wines. The winery resides on an abandoned iron mine imparting red and orange hues to the soils of Clos del Rey, this Iron also adds a soft minerality and silky mouthfeel to the wines. Julien Montagne makes complex wines that truly represent his vineyards and his Catalan roots--you can almost smell the sun in the glass.
Press Reviews
Wine Align
91 points - John Szabo
An old vines cuvée of grenache, carignan and syrah from the stony, schisty soils of Maury, historically reserved for fortified wine production in the style of port, this Maury 'Sec' is a concentrated and aromatic, flavourful wine, with a liquor-like essence of blackberry and blueberry fruit, sweet and resinous wild herbs, scorched earth and licorice, and more in a highly satisfying and bold ensemble. Tannins are abundant but coated and softened by high fruit extract, while acids are low but adequate to balance the big ensemble. Great length. Immensely satisfying at the price; drink or hold another 4-6 years I suspect without concern. Tasted September 2022.
90 points - Megha Jandhyala
This is a rich, ripe blend from Maury Sec, an appellation in the Agly Valley in Roussillon that was authorized for the production of dry red wines in 2011. The nose is inviting and appealing, with notes of cherry compôte, black raspberries, garrigue, and a subtle mineral aroma that reminds me of wet cement. It is medium-bodied, with grainy, drying tannins and balanced acids. I really like the lush fruit on the mid-palate that recede gracefully, leaving a subtle bitterness and warmth in their wake. Tasted September 2022.
90 points - David Lawrason
The village of Maury is better known for its sweet 'vins doux naturel'. This dry red based on grenache, carignan and syrah shows the energy, or a certain internal combustion, I associate with the carignan grape. The nose is quite lifted with red fruit (raspberry, plum) some spice and minerality. It is medium-full bodied, sour-edged and firmly tannic with some heat. Quite peppery and meaty (charcuterie) on the finish. The length is excellent. Tasted Sept 2022
90 points - Sarah d'Amato
From a relatively new appellation in the southwestern region of Roussillon designated in 2011 to allow producers to craft dry reds in addition to the more famous Vin Doux of Maury. In the midst of all the sweetness of the region, Clos del Rey makes only dry wines. This plush incarnation features flavours of liquored black cherry, a chalky minerality and tender tannins. Ripe but with a lick of minerality that helps to provide balance along with a welcome degree of bitterness. Some bitterness helps curb the perception of alcohol too. An arresting yet youthfully broody wine. Tasted September 2022.
- Sparkling Wine
- Chardonnay
- Sustainable, Vegan-Friendly
- Dry
- Medium Bodied
- 750ml
- 12.00% alc./vol
About the Winery
Domaine Baud Père et Fils

The history of Domaine Baud dates back to 1742, and it wasn't until 1950 when René Baud, the 7th generation, rebuilt the vineyard which had suffered from the phylloxera crisis and two World Wars.
Starting with only 4 hectares, the vineyard progressively expanded to 20 hectares with the help of successive generations. Now, managed by siblings Clémentine and Bastien, the 9th generation, the estate continues to flourish and grow, with a strong commitment to sustainable viticulture and preserving the traditions and style that makes the wines of the Jura so unique and incredible.
The estate achieved the Terra Vitis certification in 2014 for its eco-friendly work and environmental preservation.
Press Reviews
Wine Align
92 points - David Lawrason
This is a very tasty, rich, golden hued, well aged chardonnay-based sparkler with an involved nose of cashew, baked apple, nougat and honey. It is almost creamy in texture with fine mousse and very good acidity providing counterpoint. There is pleasant nutty bitterness on the finish; length is excellent.
91 points - Michael Godel
Varietal chardonnay that sees a year of lees aging with a dosage to reach the desired Brut. A richness and also dried herbal notes plus fennel that is offset by a creamy sweetness melting and melded through the pictorial texture of a wine so sharp and yet so soft. One imagines the Baud family being led by such humans and when a wine acts as an expression of they, well isn’t that the point in a wine like this? Drink 2022-2024. Tasted July 2022.
Baud’s Crémant is made in true Blanc de Blancs style, from 100 per cent chardonnay and though faintly if beautifully oxidative, the cuvée pulses with great energy. The scents of fraying ginger batons, scraped orange skin and baking almond cookies are all a treat for the olfactory. Just enough but not too much sweetness fleshes the the body to get down to density in mouthfeel but never abandons its airy character. A terrific Champagne alternative that was disgorged in October of 2017. Drink 2018-2022. Tasted April 2018.
Treve Ring
91 points
This family estate dates back to 1742, but it wasn't until 1950 when René Baud, 7th generation, rebuilt the vineyards, expanding from 4 hectares into 20 hectares over the years. Today the estate is managed by siblings Clémentine and Bastien, 9th generation. This sustainably farmed chardonnay is rooted in the Jura's marl and limestone soils and was fermented in stainless before a year on lees before disgorgement and release. Green apple, white florals, oyster shells, meadow herbs, meringue run the bright, sleek palate, with a bed of creamy lees. There's a lovely streaming anise note that leads to a lengthy finish. Drinking beautifully now, but will hold over the next couple years easy.
- White Wine
- Piquepoul Blanc
- Sustainable
- Dry
- Light Bodied
- 750ml
- 13.5% alc./vol
- White Wine
- Melon de Bourgogne
- Dry
- Light Bodied
- 750ml
- 11.9% alc./vol
Press Reviews
WineAlign
90 points - Sara d'Amato
A Muscadet made with care and reverence, refreshing with a delicate leesy influence contributing toastiness and amplitude. Features more complexity than the norm with flavours of pear, anise, clay and chalk. Saly, energetic and undeniably engaging! Great value. Tasted February 2023.
90 points - Michael Godel
A deliciously leesy and liquid chalky melon de bourgogne that is simply what the doctor orders for those of modest means when they need a quenching after sucking back a briny oyster. This is like liquifying the shell as a chaser and with some mouthfeel to boot. Salty and just refined enough to do the bivalve molluscs pulled from marine or brackish habitats proud. Drink 2023-2025. Tasted February 2023.
90 points - Megha Jandhyala
This golden muscadet was made with fruit from vines that are more than 40 years old, planted on slopes facing south and south-east. It is relatively aromatic, perfumed with notes of honeysuckle, grapefruits, and toasted bread. The palate feels fleshy and rounded but also fresh and vibrant, and delicately salty. The finish is long-lasting, leaving flavours of citrus zest and a fine texture in its wake. I would pair this muscadet with subtly flavoured seafood, like mussels or oysters. Tasted February 2023 by Critic Understudy Megha Jandhyala.
- 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.
- 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'.
- Red Wine
- Pinot Noir, Trousseau
- Sustainable, Vegan-Friendly
- Dry
- Residual Sugar: 2 g/l
- Medium Bodied
- 750ml
- 13.00% alc./vol
About the Winery
Domaine Baud Père et Fils

The history of Domaine Baud dates back to 1742, and it wasn't until 1950 when René Baud, the 7th generation, rebuilt the vineyard which had suffered from the phylloxera crisis and two World Wars.
Starting with only 4 hectares, the vineyard progressively expanded to 20 hectares with the help of successive generations. Now, managed by siblings Clémentine and Bastien, the 9th generation, the estate continues to flourish and grow, with a strong commitment to sustainable viticulture and preserving the traditions and style that makes the wines of the Jura so unique and incredible.
The estate achieved the Terra Vitis certification in 2014 for its eco-friendly work and environmental preservation.
- White Wine
- Chardonnay
- Sustainable, Vegan-Friendly
- Dry
- Residual Sugar: 2 g/l
- Medium Bodied
- 750ml
- 13.00% alc./vol
About the Winery
Domaine Baud Père et Fils

The history of Domaine Baud dates back to 1742, and it wasn't until 1950 when René Baud, the 7th generation, rebuilt the vineyard which had suffered from the phylloxera crisis and two World Wars.
Starting with only 4 hectares, the vineyard progressively expanded to 20 hectares with the help of successive generations. Now, managed by siblings Clémentine and Bastien, the 9th generation, the estate continues to flourish and grow, with a strong commitment to sustainable viticulture and preserving the traditions and style that makes the wines of the Jura so unique and incredible.
The estate achieved the Terra Vitis certification in 2014 for its eco-friendly work and environmental preservation.
Press Reviews
Wine Anorak
94 points - Jamie Goode
Powerful, lively and spicy with concentrated tangy citrus and pear fruit with some saline notes and tangy apple and lemon on the finish. Lovely intensity here with some crystalline citrus fruit.
Wine Align
93 points - David Lawrason
This is not your everyday chardonnay! In the Jura region of east-central France in the lower foothills of the Alps, there is tradition of oxidative winemaking, some under a layer of flor, as occurs in some Spanish sherry. As a result of the advance maturation this pours medium gold. The nose is dominated by classic hazelnut, honey, barley sugar sourdough and anise, around the ripe tropical fruit. It is medium weight, very smooth, well balanced and focused, with excellent length. More lithe lemon notes enliven the finish. There is a touch of tannin. Tasted December 2022.
91 points - John Szabo, MS
A pure chardonnay made in the traditional, oxidative Jura style under flor, not unlike fino sherry, but here the oxidation is more pronounced. Expect bruised apple and cold Orange Pekoe tea, cold wheat toast with honey, lemon pith and zest, and much more in an unusual but complex expression. The palate is mid-weight, showing more fruit and less oxidative qualities than the nose, succulent acids, and good to very good length. I must say, I like the salinity and savoury aspects, the lingering flavours and authentic but unimpeachable winemaking. There's fantasy here; be sure to decant before serving; best now-2026. Tasted December 2022.
91 points - Michael Godel
Clémentine Baud took over the family estate with her brother six years ago. The first father to daughter transition and with many to follow. The estate dates back to 1742, started by Jean-François. They farm 25 hectares, Clémentine’s father started with five and grew to 19 hectares when he retired. Picking for Sparkling now seems to happen in August, save for the difficult 2021 vintage. In 2017 70 per cent of the harvest was lost to the frosts, 50 in 2019 and 80 in 2021. "We have over 40 old varieties in the Jura, important for diversity, including those not allowed under the rules of the AOC," tells Clém. The fruit for Cuvée Flor is grown at a latitude of 46.73 North and though very much a cool climate place for chardonnay the threats of warmer winters and seasonal frosts has wreaked havoc over the past 10 years. A chardonnay of remarkable lustre, concentration and purity, worked by way of oxidative aging, low alcohol expectation starting at 12 and finishing no higher than 14 to 14.5. A floral chardonnay, not one related to yeast and surely a pretty in Jura wine. From the younger vines, phenolic and hinting towards though remaining clear of emerging boozy. Filled with flavour, hazelnut and praline, peach and yellow plum. A world of its own. Drink 2022-2025. Tasted July 2022.
- White Wine
- Jacquère
- Sustainable, Vegan-Friendly
- Dry
- Medium Bodied
- 750ml
About the Winery
Denis et Didier Berthollier
The Bertholliers are of strong wine-making tradition; growers, owners and winemakers for several generations. Brothers Denis and Didier cultivate 10 hectares of vines on the southern slopes of the Savoyard in Chignin, located ten kilometers from Chambery. Their great-grandfather, Louis Tissot, founded the farm in 1850.
Their grandfather Marius maintained a mix of farming and livestock, in addition to vines. His daughter Monique then took over and married Denis and Didier’s father, Alexis Berthollier, himself the son of winemaker. They abandoned polyculture to devote their activity fully to the vines. Alexis father, Victor Berthollier, who was winemaker at Aprement, was probably the first winemaker to bottle Savoyard wine for the mass-market in 1970! Denis and Didier harvest, vinify and do the bottling themselves at the domain. They have eliminated the use of insecticides and fungicides in all their vines and ceased the use of weed-killer since 2008, enabling grass to grow in the rocky slope vineyards. They use only naturally occurring, indigenous yeasts and very minimal SO2. Their wines have a pureness and finesse among the best of the Savoy region.
Press Reviews
Wine Align
93 points - Michael Godel
From the brothers Berthollier, Denis and Didier, farmers at the southernmost and steepest slopes of the Savoie hills. A varietal jacquère taken from 50 year-old vines and a most singular white wine at that. Yes the white flowers and stone fruit are there, as is the citrus and vaguely honeyed character. But there is much more, savoury elements of plants wild and edible, subtle musk and pungency and white pepper shakes. Reminds of grüner veltliner in a way, but then seems so different and far away. Fun bit of intrigue and delicious at the end of the day. Drink 2022-2026. Tasted September 2022.
- Red Wine
- Malbec
- Sustainable, Vegan-Friendly
- Dry
- Full Bodied
- 750ml
- 13% alc./vol
About the Winery
Château Lamartine

For four generations, the Gayraud family has given the greatest care to the vines as well as the wine-making. This is the key to get the purest expression from the terroirs.
Press Reviews
Wine Align
92 points - Michael Godel
The 2018 “Tradition” bottling represented Cahors with good distinction and from first nose this follow-up ’19 takes that excellence one step further. Not that it gives anything away for free because there is some reserve here but the wine opens with air and agitation to reveal classicism in every respect. The fruit is mature and slow developed, ever so slightly charred and surely on a low trajectory of incrementally developing complexity. Cautious now and yet so close to drinking as well it it’s ever going to be. Drink 2024-2028. Tasted March 2023.
91 points - John Szabo
Open and fragrant, maturing nicely at this stage, Lamartine's classic Cahors (90% malbec with 10% merlot), is a lovely and succulent wine, well-proportioned and fresh, with lively acids and a real limestone twang. Wood is fully in the background, an accessory to complexity, while tannins are ripe, fine and silky and length is exceptional in the price category. Classy, well made wine, authentic, and surely better than most Bordeaux for the money. Drink or hold another 4-6 years. Tasted March 2023.
- 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.
- White Wine
- Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, Sauvignon Gris, Sémillon
- Biodynamic, Natural, Organic, Vegan-Friendly
- Dry
- Medium Bodied
- 750ml
- 12.50% alc./vol
About the Winery
Château Barouillet

Chateau Barouillet has been a family business going back at least 8 generations. Vincent Alexis works alongside his father and grandfather to cultivate the land and has moved the winery into organic viticulture, starting to convert the soil in 2010 and fully converting all the vineyards by 2014. In 2020, the obtained their biodynamic certification.
The domaine controls 45 hectares of vines throughout Monbazzillac, Bergerac Pécharmant, and Cotes de Bergerac. Vincent continues to push the biological approach further by working according to the lunar calendar in the vineyards and in the cellar.
- Red Wine
- Grenache, Syrah
- Vegan-Friendly
- Dry
- Residual Sugar: 2 g/l
- Full Bodied
- 750ml
- 14.20% alc./vol
About the Winery
Domaine Autrand

Christine Aubert and her son Aurélien, wine-makers in Vinsobres, at the heart of the Drôme Provençale, welcome you to their family estate. As a 80Ha estate, the Autrand Wine Cellar produces AOC Vinsobres (Côtes du Rhône vintage since 2006), Côtes du Rhône Villages AOC and Côtes du Rhône AOC in each color. Vinsobres, another little known Southern Rhône commune was awarded 'Cru' status in 2006. It’s relative anonymity outside France ensures exceptional value.
- Red Wine
- Malbec
- Dry
- Full Bodied
- 750ml
- 12.5% alc./vol
About the Winery
Lionel Osmin & Cie

Lionel Osmin & Cie started out with just a group of friends with the same keen passion, with the same love for wines from the South West. Then they had an idea to achieve what nobody had ever done before: to create a quality wine-broking house based on South Western wines following the example of other regions such as Burgundy or the Rhône.
With that founding principle, Lionel Osmin & Co was therefore created under the leadership of Lionel boasting the discovery of the unique wines and vineyards of this region. From Jurançon to Cahors, from Gaillac to Bergerac, passing through Marcillac, Lionel Osmin & Co has become the sole transversal signature of the wines from the South West and their vineyards whose secrets which are yet to be discovered!
The result is a range of wines whose characteristics are faithful to the region and which are made to share the joy of discovering the vines and wines that are enjoyed and loved.
- White Wine
- Clairette, Marsanne, Vermentino, Viognier
- Biodynamic, Natural, Sustainable, Vegan-Friendly
- Dry
- Light Bodied
- 750
- 13% alc./vol
About the Winery
Domaine Viret

In a magical place steeped in history, Saint-Maurice, in the Rhone Valley. Advocates of the principles of organic and biodynamic agriculture, the Viret family has chosen to employ a particular form of natural viticulture throughout their estate. Known as “cosmoculture®”, this is based on cosmotelluric exchanges. Everything is organised in such a way that both vines and wines are able draw on their own natural defences.
Work in the vineyards focuses on reorganising the magnetic field and on the application of homeopathic and naturals preparations made from rocks and plants that are often found in the vineyards. Alain, Philippe's father, built the winery on an ancient Roman site around an underground spring which they believe energises the vineyards and the winery.
- White Wine
- Sylvaner
- Biodynamic, Organic, Vegan-Friendly
- Dry
- Light Bodied
- 750ml
- 12.5% alc./vol
About the Winery
Domaine Muré

The Muré family has been winegrowers in the region of Rouffach since 1650. In 1935, Alfred Muré, René’s grandfather, bought 32 acres of family-monopole vineyard name Clos St. Landelin, an area that has been described as the best of Alsace Grand Cru since the 7th Century.
Today, René Muré, the 11th generation of the family, along with his children, Véronique and Thomas, are responsible for running their exceptional Grand Cru vineyard and neighbouring terroirs using biodynamic methods. Until this day, they persist in hand-picking every single grape, and focus on crafting wines that preserve the family’s credo. The resulting wines are some of Alsace's finest – powerful, elegant, and age-worthy.
Press Reviews
Wine Align
90 points - Michael Godel
If 2017 was found to exist in the ripe and rich realm for Alsatian sylvaner then wait to you get a taste of what 2018 brings to the varietal table. Also crunchy and finely embittered with a sense of lemons having spent time soaking up neutral spirits. Not your old uncle Sylvain’s sylvaner, no sir, this one’s set up to host the new millennials. An alternative varietal take that will rock the avocado off your toast. Drink 2020-2024. Tasted October 2020.
90 points - David Lawrason
This is a ripe version of sylvaner from a warmer year, with peach fruit, some waxy/oiliness and light caraway and spice. It is medium-full bodied, nicely rich yet firm and dry, with some sense of spritz. There is some pithy bitterness on the finish. The length is very good to excellent. Tasted October 2020
90 points - John Szabo, MS
Clearly ripe, full of fleshy white-fleshed apple fruit and spiced apple chutney, with a vaguely sweet taste, concentrated and generous to be sure. I like the density of flavour and evident intensity, while acids remain firm but ripe and length and depth are excellent. A superior example to be sure, more generous than the mean. Ready to enjoy or hold short term. Tasted October 2020.
90 points - Sara d'Amato
There is a notable elegance to this fresh but fulfilling sylvaner a characteristic tendency of this French/Germanic grape variety. Apple and pear with more apparent sweetness than the previous vintage due to level of ripeness. Highly drinkable, very well defined and a real classic. Tasted October 2020.
- White Wine
- Chardonnay
- Sustainable, Vegan-Friendly
- Dry
- Medium Bodied
- 750ml
- 12.5% alc./vol
About the Winery
Domaine de Mauperthuis

A family estate created by Marie-Noëlle & Laurent Ternynck, Domaine de Mauperthuis is located in Prehy, near the town of Chablis. Their wines express the terroir of this amazing region and the vineyards are currently undergoing the transition to organic. Domaine de Mauperthuis covers around twenty hectares of vineyards around Chablis. The estate, in the Burgundy appellation, is planted in Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Sauvignon and César, on land facing south, benefiting from exceptional sunshine.
Press Reviews
Wine Align
91 points - David Lawrason
This is a quite rich, slightly oxidative style of unoaked chardonnay with pale golden colour and a ripe nose of baked apple. Peach pie, toasty lees and vague nuttiness. It is medium weight, smooth and almost creamy with fine acidity and mineral underpinning. The length is excellent. Tasted June 2022
- White Wine
- Sauvignon Blanc
- Sustainable, Vegan-Friendly
- Dry
- Light Bodied
- 750ml
- 13.5% alc./vol
About the Winery
Domaine de Mauperthuis

A family estate created by Marie-Noëlle & Laurent Ternynck, Domaine de Mauperthuis is located in Prehy, near the town of Chablis. Their wines express the terroir of this amazing region and the vineyards are currently undergoing the transition to organic. Domaine de Mauperthuis covers around twenty hectares of vineyards around Chablis. The estate, in the Burgundy appellation, is planted in Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Sauvignon and César, on land facing south, benefiting from exceptional sunshine.
- White Wine
- Chardonnay
- Sustainable, Vegan-Friendly
- Dry
- Light Bodied
- 750ml
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
Wine Align
91 points - Michael Godel
As for Louis Moreau well here he goes again raising the profile of a Chablis, this time with the Petit, of appellation and nothing to do with size. Meaning this is a hefty example of aromatic rise and also mouthfeel but with more than a pit stop or two at layers of salinity. You can seriously feel the chalky soil and even more so the fossil content in what is nearly briny chardonnay. How anyone could miss the soil in this Petit-Chablis would be beyond comprehension because fruit is nothing without the soul of this terroir. Drink 2023-2026. Tasted February 2023.
- White Wine
- Chardonnay
- Sustainable
- Dry
- Medium Bodied
- 750ml
- 12.5% 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 Enthusiast
91 points
This rich wine offers ripe yellow fruits and touches of vanilla. Along with its warm feeling and light acidity, it has a perfumed character that makes it exciting as well as drinkable. — ROGER VOSS
Wine Align
90 points - Michael Godel
In the Bellene pantheon Cuvée Réserve takes a half step up from old vines though the plants for this effort are in fact in the 48 year-old range so quite experienced as far as that is concerned. Picked early in the first two weeks of September and though only five per cent new wood is used there is quite a velvet of richness in this wine. Mostly fruit derived in a pulpy to fleshy consort, quite impressive actually and yet acids are no more than of a medium kind. Almost exotic flavours abound, mango and guava come to mind indicating the best years for this wine will be the earliest, beginning straight away. Drink 2023-2025. Tasted January 2023.
- White Wine
- Colombard, Gros Manseng, Sauvignon Blanc
- Dry
- Medium Bodied
- 750ml
- 12% alc./vol
About the Winery
Lionel Osmin & Cie

Lionel Osmin & Cie started out with just a group of friends with the same keen passion, with the same love for wines from the South West. Then they had an idea to achieve what nobody had ever done before: to create a quality wine-broking house based on South Western wines following the example of other regions such as Burgundy or the Rhône.
With that founding principle, Lionel Osmin & Co was therefore created under the leadership of Lionel boasting the discovery of the unique wines and vineyards of this region. From Jurançon to Cahors, from Gaillac to Bergerac, passing through Marcillac, Lionel Osmin & Co has become the sole transversal signature of the wines from the South West and their vineyards whose secrets which are yet to be discovered!
The result is a range of wines whose characteristics are faithful to the region and which are made to share the joy of discovering the vines and wines that are enjoyed and loved.
- Red Wine
- Pinot Noir
- Sustainable, Vegan-Friendly
- Dry
- Medium Bodied
- 750ml
- 13% alc./vol
About the Winery
Claude Riffault

Stéphane Riffault, son of Claude Riffault, has become one of the most sought-after producers in the region. At barely 30 years old, his Sancerre wines have already become the envy of some of the region's most established vintners.
Stéphane's Sancerre wines come from 33 different parcels in 8 different lieu-dits spread across 4 villages on limestone soils. Having studied and worked in Burgundy, and then trained with some of best – Olivier Leflaive (Burgundy), Château Angélus (Bordeaux), and his very own father, Claude Riffault – it’s easy to see the Burgundian influence and the master of minerality in Stéphane’s wines.
When his father retired, Stéphane took over the winery and embarked upon a journey of viticultural transformation. Today, all 13.5 hectares are certified organic (ECOCERT, 2016) and biodynamic (BIODYVIN, 2021). The entire harvest is carried out by hand and an extensive sorting takes place before the grapes are crushed –– a testament to his craftsmanship and an unwavering commitment to sustainability.
Press Reviews
Wine Align
93 points - John Szabo
2018 vintage review: Stéphane Riffault's 13.5 ha estate includes 3ha planted to pinot noir, of which La Noue represents 2.5 hectares across seven adjoining parcels with vines ranging from 8 to 56 years old, planted on both marls and Kimmeridgian limestones. Vineyard care is rigorous in the extreme (also certified organic), and the effort shows through in the final product, made in minimalist fashion. The 2018 is very much on the riper and fleshier end of the Sancerre Rouge spectrum, brimming with succulent red and black cherry (griottes), yet cool and classy, nicely composed, with fully integrated wood nuances. The palate is all class, vibrant yet fleshy, fresh yet generous, with a fine twang of limestone salinity and a tannin-acid complex that yields fine silk, more spun than woven. The wine gains succulence and energy with aeration, so be sure to serve in large-bowled pinot glasses or gently decant before serving, with a light chill for best effect. It should also hold comfortably in the cellar for another 3-5 years. Tasted May 2021.
Robert Parker
90+ points
2018 vintage review: From 30- to 58-year-old vines on terres blanches and marl soils, Stéphane Riffault's 2018 Sancerre La Noue was cold-macerated and fermented with whole clusters for a total of four weeks. It offers an aromatic, fruity, elegant and charming bouquet of red cherries, raspberries and redcurrant intertwined with stony notes. Concentrated, round and mellow on he palate, this is an elegant, already accessible and maybe too charming (?) Pinot with ripe black berry and licorice aromas on the aftertaste. It was aged for a total of 16 months in 228- to 600-liter oak casks prior the bottling in February. Tasted right after the bottling in February 2021.
I didn't taste wines from Stéphane Riffault for a long while, although I had them in very best memories. The 2016s and 2017s I tasted recently (far too late for potential buyers yet early enough for collectors who cellar them) are exciting. The 2017 Rosé is vinous and elegant, and among the whites, the clear, precise and linear 2016 Les Desmalets and the complex, structured 2016 Les Chailloux are outstanding. Shortly before the deadline for this report, I received the younger vintages—2018 and the fascinatingly vibrant and energetic 2019. These younger vintages include several new highlights, namely the single-parcel wines 468 and 538, which, tasted as barrel samples, are among the finest and most expressive Sancerres I have tasted in many years. The 2019 Les Chailloux is another highlight once again, as is the 2020 Rosé, which is more "a masquerade of a red wine," as Riffault's US importer, Jon-David Headrick, expresses it perfectly. All in all, the Domaine Claude Riffault has become one of my personal favorites of the AOP, and Stéphane's style seems to be moving toward more textured wines, a result of the trend to use more oak. Stéphane's brother is winemaker at the Domaine Étienne Sauzet in Puligny-Montrachet, and they might have an intense exchange about viticultural and winemaking techniques. I remember having tasted many wines grown predominantly or entirely in stainless steel years ago, and I also remember the transition to concrete vats and small barrels; these remain, but larger wooden casks are also in use today. For example, the generic white Sancerre is aged in both 500- and 600-liter wood containers; the Sancerres Les Boucauds is aged in a combination of pièces bourguignonnes (228 liters), 350-, 400- and 500-liter wood containers as well as 600-liter demi-muids. Les Chasseignes ages in both 350-liter barrels and a 20-hectolitre foudre that, in turn, is the cask for the fantastic Sancerres Les Denisottes and Les Chailloux. The Monoparcelles 469 and 538 are vinified in 350-liter barrels before the élevage of eight months takes place in a 20-hectoliter foudre and for another month in stainless steel tanks before bottling. The red Sancerre La Noue is aged in a combination of 228-, 250- and 600-liter oak vats, whereas the Sancerre Rosé is entirely aged in a single 228-liter pièce bourguignonne.
With his rosé, Stéphane Riffault is looking to break the stereotype image of rosé and to produce a great, gastronomic vin de rosé, which he describes as "serious" and makes it "like a clear red." He accepts a loss of freshness in favor of complexity by aging it like a red Pinot Noir. In the end, this makes sense and adds another serious and vinous wine to a remarkable series of ambitious, terroir-driven Sancerres that are far more than just fresh and easy. I even had the impression the rosé is potent enough to be aged even longer on its lees, and Stéphane admits that he’s still unsure about this and that there is a possibility that he might age it longer than expected, but he’s afraid that what he would gain by aging it longer would be offset with an even further decrease in freshness. He added that bottling in March will give him a "happy medium," but this is yet to be seen.
In an email conversation with Jon-David Headrick, who detected the Domaine Claude Riffault many years ago, he told me that Stéphane is not actively trying to make "wines that are counter to his appellation." Instead, "he’s trying to push the boundaries as to what can be made in the appellation. For so long, Sancerre has been known as an appellation that produced simple, fresh wines, and he wants it to be known as one of the great terroirs of France, having the ability to produce 'great white wines of stature and complexity.'" As such, Stéphane has been systematically tasting and speaking with great growers in Burgundy, Champagne, Alsace and Loire regions like Savennières to help him refine his style. "His primary references are in Burgundy where he has taken a lot of cues," reports Headrick. However, he is quick to point out that "Stéphane is not trying to make a Burgundy wine in Sancerre and dislikes this terminology. He is, however, taking the best of the ideas that great domaines in Burgundy have to teach him and adapting those to Sauvignon Blanc, his appellation and his parcels. "
One of the ways Riffault thinks he can produce great, gastronomic whites is to concentrate on extended lees aging. In fact, the "sur-lie" aging is much longer than it was before since "he believes that aging on the lees, and more lees, in wooden containers is one of the ways to achieve this."
One could fear the power, richness and density of the 2019 vintage could have made the new wines from Stéphane Riffault too big, but in fact, he has mastered the challenge incredibly well and kept as much freshness as possible in his full-bodied, structured and sustainable wines while practicing this extended aging. In any case, you should use a big Burgundy glass for all of his wines, particularly for the 2019s—and let them breath enough air. I have the series over a week, and even after seven days, they deeply impressed me.