6233 products

Imported Red Wines

    • 98
    • 96
    • 94
    • Nick's Import
    2019 Catena Zapata Nicolas Catena Zapata
    Mendoza, ARGENTINA
    $175. 00
    Bottle
    $2100.00 Dozen
    ABV: 14%
    Closure: Cork

    The Catena Zapata family's mission is to make profound and unforgettable wines that reflect the special character of each vine within the family's historic vineyards. Constantly pushing the viticultural envelope, Nicolás and Laura Catena have identified Mendoza's best microclimates, selected the highest quality Malbec vines and pioneered viticulture in undiscovered regions. The inaugural 1997 vintage of Nicolas Catena Zapata, a Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec blend set a new standard of quality for wines from South America. 20 years later, it stands at the pinnacle of great wines of the Andes.

    Other Reviews....
    This has a complex nose of baked blackberries, grilled plums, dried earth, moss, pine cones, sandalwood, charcoal and cloves. It’s medium-bodied with firm, tightly knit tannins. Wow. So much going on. Layered, seamless and silky. Incredible length. Keeps going. 42% cabernet sauvignon, 30% malbec and 28% cabernet franc. Try this from 2024.
    98 points
    James Suckling

    The 2019 Nicolás Catena Zapata was produced with 42% Cabernet Sauvignon from Gualtallary (Adrianna vineyard) and 30% Malbec from Altamira (Nicasia vineyard) and a high percentage of Cabernet Franc (28%) also from Adrianna, which took the place of Cabernet Sauvignon. It fermented in small oak barrels, concrete and stainless steel tanks with a short post-fermentative maceration. Élevage was in first and second use French oak barrels and lasted for 18 months, including malolactic. This is always quite classical in style, with some spiciness from the barrels and hints of smoke and toast, still very young and undeveloped. It has the traditional Bordeaux blend character and is herbal, floral and spicy, with a beautiful texture, very nice balance and very fine, chalky tannins. 2019 was a very dry year, and the berries were small, very healthy and delivered powerful wines. It's 13.7% alcohol and has mellow acidity and good freshness, reflecting a relatively cool season, coming though as elegant and balanced with the stuffing and balance to develop nicely over the years in bottle. 66,000 bottles produced. It was bottled in January 2021. Drink: 2025 - 2032.
    96 points
    Luis Gutiérrez - Wine Advocate

    Richly scented on the nose. Concentrated and full on the palate, a serious wine with intention. Driving flavours of blackcurrant and black cherry with cinnamon spice and mineral saltiness abound on the palate with a touch of sweetness. Tannins are ripe and massy, plush and gently chewy but this has exceptional freshness that keeps the whole palate quite lifted and alive. Feels well worked and there is a sense of serious style to this. I like the expression - lovely nuance and finesse, the details are so appealing. Enjoy with some hearty food.
    94 points
    Georgina Hindle - Decanter

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    • Nick's Import
    2019 Catena Zapata Adrianna Vineyard Mundus Bacillus Terrae Malbec
    Mendoza, ARGENTINA
    $450. 00
    Bottle
    $5400.00 Dozen
    ABV: 13.5%
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    One of the most exciting wines of the September Releases, and one that captures the progress and interest around terroir in the Argentinian wine scene right now. This is set at 1,500m elevation, on limestone dominant soils, and it immediately sets itself apart by its soaring aromatics that give nuance and depth, with seductively curling peony and raspberry leaf. Powerful and full of character, somehow translates the idea of minerality that is so argued over in wine - here you feel it in the slightly chalky tannins, the pulses of electricity, and dried herb and fennel studding to the fresh raspberry and red cherry fruits. So good. Ungrafted vines, Fernando Buscema winemaker.
    100 points
    Jane Anson

    The sleek and elegant 2019 Adrianna Vineyard Mundus Bacillus Terrae is now certified organic (since 2018) and comes from vines planted in 1992 at 1,390 meters above sea level in Gualtallary on alluvial limestone soils. Seventy-five percent of the volume fermented in concrete vats with 50% full clusters, and the remaining 25% fermented in oak foudres. But instead of fermenting the grapes, they only fermented the juice (like it's usually done for white wines), to give the wine more elegance and lightness. I was listening to a record from a new band, Generation Radio, with musicians from Journey and Chicago, and the music had a similar profile to the wine: sleek, elegant, polished, nicely crafted, clean and harmonious, easy to listen to (and drink) with a soft side to it. The wine has ripeness (14% alcohol) but also the high acidity from the high-altitude vineyards that makes it very lively, beautifully textured, balanced and elegant. Beautiful. 5,400 bottles were filled in November 2020.
    98 points
    Luis Gutiérrez - Wine Advocate

    Lots of black fruit with black truffles and dried flowers. Moss and earth, too. Full-bodied and earthy on the palate with blackberry and black earth. Firm, tight finish with juicy fruit at the end. Needs three or four years to open. Drink after 2024.
    97 points
    James Suckling

    Sweet, joyful and full of life, this is immediately really quite vibrant on the palate, the rich, concentrated blackcurrants and black cherries given lift by high acidity and a touch of sweetness as well as saltiness that gives such a brilliant combination of flavours. Complex and confident. I like the styling here, there are hints of bitterness and some spiced edges that give nuance, still quite youthful. Great potential. Consistent winemaking and quality. Fermentation in concrete vats (75%) with 50% whole cluster, the remaining 25% in oak foudres. Ageing 18 months in French oak barrels.
    96 points
    Georgina Hindle - Decanter

    Aged for 18 months in new and used French barrels, it is a rich purple in hue. A complex, fragrant, aromatic profile of fresh blueberry and blackberry along with hints of plum, country herbs, black tea, lavender and a whiff of violets over a well-integrated bed of oak. In the mouth, it’s sheer elegance. The chalky tannins combine with the juicy freshness in such a way that the delicately balanced palate remains compact without drying out. The finish is a repeat of the nose.
    96 points
    Antonio Galloni - Vinous

    • 93
    • 93
    2021 Caves d’Esclans Rock Angel Rose
    Provence, FRANCE
    $69. 99
    Bottle
    $839.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 1 Years (2022-2023)
    ABV: 13.5%
    Closure: Cork

    Described as a more complex and structured style of Rose by the winery, the Rock Angel is produced from grapes primarily sourced from the vineyards of Chateau d’Esclans in addition to selected vineyards in the vicinity of the Esclans Valley and nearby in the Cotes de Provence region.
    Translucent pale salmon pink colour. Aromas of peach, strawberry, blood orange and spice are followed by some stony notes. Quite full and round in the mouth, fleshy textured peach, strawberry and blood orange fruits overlay a wet stone back drop. Dry finish with edgy acidity and a nicely concentrated conclusion that has a touch of spice to it.
    Drink over the next year.
    Alc. 13.5%

    Other Reviews....
    A very pure and incisive nose, with refined mineral chalkiness to the fresh strawberry and grapefruit aromas. Again, pure is the word to describe the linear, dry palate, which delivers crisp yet textured acidity, together with elegant, freshly chopped raspberries and strawberries. A truly outstanding rosé here! Drink now.
    93 points
    JamesSuckling.com

    • 91
    • Organic
    2021 Celler Pardas Sus Scrofa Sumoll
    Penedes, SPAIN
    $37. 99
    Bottle
    $455.88 Dozen
    ABV: 11%
    Closure: Cork

    Celler Pardas is part of a new generation in Catalonia that emphasizes local terroirs and indigenous grapes like Xarel.lo, Macabeo, and Sumoll. Started in 1996 by winegrowers Ramón Parera and Jordi Arnan, they acquired the Can Comas estate in Alt Penedés. Their white wines feature Xarel.lo, while Sumoll takes the spotlight in their red wines.
    Certified Organic Sumoll, grown in the Mediterranean-maritime climate of Penedes, undergoes fermentation in concrete tanks with natural yeasts followed by six months of maturation before bottling. This is an easy-drinking and vibrant style with plenty of character.

    Other Reviews....
    The young-vine Sumoll 2021 Sus Scrofa was produced with grapes from three vineyards they planted in 1999, 2001 and 2014, selected from old vines throughout Cataluña. It fermented with 50% full clusters and matured in concrete for six months. It has only 11% alcohol and a low pH of 3.3. This is young, unoaked and fruit-driven, floral and very expressive. In the old times, there were up to 8,000 hectares of Sumoll in Penedès, but a lot was uprooted and used for homemade wine. Thankfully, the variety is coming back, as it has a lot of potential. They started in 2008 when the grape was admitted by the appellation of origin Penedès, and the idea is to show the naked variety. It's a refreshing wine, balanced, medium-bodied. The variety can have some rusticity with firm and dusty tannins. It finishes dry. 29,000 bottles produced. It was bottled in March 2021. Drink 2022 - 2026.
    91 Points
    Luis Gutiérrez - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

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    • Biodynamic
    2019 Ceretto Barolo Brunate
    Piedmont, ITALY
    $430. 00
    Bottle
    $5160.00 Dozen
    ABV: 14%
    Closure: Cork

    The Ceretto family are pioneers in Piedmont, and much of their international renown has been built on their fastidious work in the vineyards, and their (at the time) revolutionary approach to promoting the concept of cru wines in the region. This idea of highlighting specific vineyards chosen for their enduring excellence was something Bruno and Marcello Ceretto learnt after visiting Burgundy in the 1960's. Applying this approach to Barolo and Barbaresco has further elevated these wines to now be counted amongst the most appreciated and prestigious wines in the world.

    Other Reviews....
    This wine sees fruit sourced from one of the most distinctive crus in the appellation that is known for elegant and powerful wines. The organic 2019 Barolo Brunate has power and a good amount of brawn, whereas wines from La Morra tend to be softer and silkier overall. This wine, however, shows dark fruit flavors, pretty chalky mineral definition and fragrant iris. Everything is delivered with nuanced intensity. Drink 2025 - 2048.
    96+ points
    Monica Larner - Wine Advocate (Aug 25, 2023)

    The 2019 Barolo Brunate is gorgeous. We have clearly moved from Barbaresco and into Barolo in this tasting. Rich, creamy and inviting, the Brunate possesses gorgeous depth and striking textural resonance. Red fruit, spice, tobacco and cedar open first, followed by a range of savory and floral top notes that extend effortlessly. There's terrific energy and class here. Drink 2029-2044.
    95 points
    Antonio Galloni - Vinous

    The purity of fruit and flowers is exceptional with lavender and blue berry aromas that follow through to a medium to full body with ultra-fine tannins and a long and racy finish. Better in four or five years but shows its greatness already. One of the great Brunate’s from here in a long time.
    98 points
    JamesSuckling.com

    RIpe, sweet, floral jammy tones on the nose, burnt/toasted patisserie, a baked fruit pie smell that is so wonderfully alluring about the Ceretto wines to me. Stylish and svelte, this has supreme charm despite being a powerhouse of a wine. Dense but sleek tannins fill the mouth, powdery and slightly metallic, a gorgeous minerality, but also with cola, dark chocolate, raspberries and pink flowers. It's taught and direct, not friendly so much, but so well worked with drive and persistency. Lively and upfront, this is out to charm and it does but in a quiet, compelling direct way. Characterful and delicious. Slate edged finish leaving the salinity. Punchy and piercing the whole way through - just excellent. New to the Place de Bordeaux this year. Drink 2024 - 2040.
    97 points
    Georgina Hindle - Decanter

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    • Biodynamic
    2019 Ceretto Barolo Bussia
    Piedmont, ITALY
    $430. 00
    Bottle
    $5160.00 Dozen
    ABV: 14.5%
    Closure: Cork

    The Ceretto family are pioneers in Piedmont, and much of their international renown has been built on their fastidious work in the vineyards, and their (at the time) revolutionary approach to promoting the concept of cru wines in the region. This idea of highlighting specific vineyards chosen for their enduring excellence was something Bruno and Marcello Ceretto learnt after visiting Burgundy in the 1960's. Applying this approach to Barolo and Barbaresco has further elevated these wines to now be counted amongst the most appreciated and prestigious wines in the world.

    Other Reviews....
    An organic wine, the Ceretto 2019 Barolo Bussia is a wine of beautiful depth and streamlined intensity. This Barolo offers dark fruit flavors, but you also get crushed stone, rust, a touch of exotic spice or grilled herb and fresh licorice root. The ensemble is beautiful, and what stands out most is the polished endurance and silky consistency of the mouthfeel. Drink 2025 - 2048.
    96 points
    Monica Larner - Wine Advocate (Aug 25, 2023)

    The 2019 Barolo Bussia is rich, deep and explosive, with all the deeply-pitched, spice and balsamic notes that are so typical of Bussia in full display. A broad, ample Barolo, the Bussia is seriously impressive from start to finish. All the elements are so well balanced. There's plenty of tannin, but it is all nicely integrated into the wine's frame. Time in the glass brings out the wine's inner perfume and explosive energy. This aromatically beguiling, layered Barolo is superb. Drink 2029-2044.
    96 points
    Antonio Galloni - Vinous

    A fine and open grained Bussia with a smoky, grilled meat and spice character to the plum fruit. Medium to full body. Soft and velvety and juicy. This will develop into something very serious. Needs three or four years to open. Best after 2025.
    96 points
    JamesSuckling.com

    • 94
    • Biodynamic
    2019 Ceretto Barolo
    Piedmont, ITALY
    $190. 00
    Bottle
    $2280.00 Dozen
    ABV: 14.5%
    Closure: Cork

    The Ceretto family are pioneers in Piedmont, and much of their international renown has been built on their fastidious work in the vineyards, and their (at the time) revolutionary approach to promoting the concept of cru wines in the region. This idea of highlighting specific vineyards chosen for their enduring excellence was something Bruno and Marcello Ceretto learnt after visiting Burgundy in the 1960's. Applying this approach to Barolo and Barbaresco has further elevated these wines to now be counted amongst the most appreciated and prestigious wines in the world.

    Other Reviews....
    Already showing white truffle, plum, and meat on the nose. Medium- to full-bodied with firm and chewy tannins that are polished and racy. Needs time to open. Better after 2026.
    94 points
    JamesSuckling.com

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    • Biodynamic
    2019 Ceretto Barolo Rocche di Castiglione
    Piedmont, ITALY
    $430. 00
    Bottle
    $5160.00 Dozen
    ABV: 14%
    Closure: Cork

    The Ceretto family are pioneers in Piedmont, and much of their international renown has been built on their fastidious work in the vineyards, and their (at the time) revolutionary approach to promoting the concept of cru wines in the region. This idea of highlighting specific vineyards chosen for their enduring excellence was something Bruno and Marcello Ceretto learnt after visiting Burgundy in the 1960's. Applying this approach to Barolo and Barbaresco has further elevated these wines to now be counted amongst the most appreciated and prestigious wines in the world.

    Other Reviews....
    Now in its second vintage, the organic Ceretto 2019 Barolo Rocche di Castiglione is just phenomenal. The wine balances power, texture and bouquet with a pretty set of aromas that recall redcurrant, plump cherry, rusty nail and earthy iris root. Wines from Castiglione Falletto always have a very etched or focused quality, and I think you will discover that here. Drink 2025 - 2048.
    96+ points
    Monica Larner - Wine Advocate (Aug 25, 2023)

    The 2019 Barolo Rocche di Castiglione is all class. It emerges from a small sliver of land in Rocche di Castiglione proper, which is just below the Ceretto family's Bricco Rocche property. Elegant and nuanced, the 2019 is a gorgeous, aromatic Barolo that captures all the finesse of this site. Silky tannins give this weightless, intense Barolo tons of sheer appeal, even in the early going. Drink 2029-2044.
    95 points
    Antonio Galloni - Vinous

    Red cherries with dried flowers and fresh leather on the nose. Hints of smoke. Full to medium body. Firm and chewy tannins. Needs time to soften. Better after 2025.
    94 points
    JamesSuckling.com

    • Biodynamic
    2020 Ceretto Barbaresco
    Piedmont, ITALY
    $170. 00
    Bottle
    $2040.00 Dozen
    ABV: 14%
    Closure: Cork

    The Ceretto family are pioneers in Piedmont, and much of their international renown has been built on their fastidious work in the vineyards, and their (at the time) revolutionary approach to promoting the concept of cru wines in the region. This idea of highlighting specific vineyards chosen for their enduring excellence was something Bruno and Marcello Ceretto learnt after visiting Burgundy in the 1960's. Applying this approach to Barolo and Barbaresco has further elevated these wines to now be counted amongst the most appreciated and prestigious wines in the world.

    Ceretto Barbaresco is made by combining fruit from some of the youngest vines in Asili and the lower part of Treiso. A total of 5 hectares are cultivated ecologically (certified) and without using any chemicals, and grapes are harvested manually. Fermentation occurs with native yeast in stainless steel tanks, before being transferred to barrels for around 12 months.

    • 94
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    • Biodynamic
    2020 Ceretto Barbaresco Bernadot
    Piedmont, ITALY
    $390. 00
    Bottle
    $4680.00 Dozen
    ABV: 14%
    Closure: Cork

    The Ceretto family are pioneers in Piedmont, and much of their international renown has been built on their fastidious work in the vineyards, and their (at the time) revolutionary approach to promoting the concept of cru wines in the region. This idea of highlighting specific vineyards chosen for their enduring excellence was something Bruno and Marcello Ceretto learnt after visiting Burgundy in the 1960's. Applying this approach to Barolo and Barbaresco has further elevated these wines to now be counted amongst the most appreciated and prestigious wines in the world.

    Other Reviews....
    The organic 2020 Barbaresco Bernadot offers a darker fruit performance with black cherry and blackcurrant. Like the other wines from this hot and sunny vintage, you taste the ripeness of the fruit and some background softness that comes with the territory (and the growing season). The Ceretto team delivers a deft hand, and you'll notice the etched sharpness and focus of the wine in terms of mouthfeel. Drink 2025 - 2043.
    94 points
    Monica Larner - Wine Advocate (Aug 25, 2023)

    The 2020 Barbaresco Bernardot is a super-classic Barbaresco from Treiso. Dried cherry, spice, tobacco, leather, incense and cedar all grace this understated, exquisite Barbaresco. Time in the glass brings out compelling inner sweetness and perfume. This is such a gorgeous wine. Drink 2025-2038.
    94 points
    Antonio Galloni - Vinous

    Very floral with orange blossom, iron, cedar, and dried spice. Medium body, firm and slightly lean in the middle palate. Firm and racy. Lightly chewy. Needs a couple of years to soften. Drink after 2025.
    92 points
    JamesSuckling.com

    Beautiful florality and almost baked cherry sweets - cherry drops - on the nose, rose, Caramac bars, vanilla, white chocolate and lavender - an infusion of sweet, fruit and floral elements. Statuesque on the palate, ripe and massy, but so well textured - like crushed velvet with a powdery and also fleshy aspect to the tannins so they expand and fill the mouth and leave a lingering chalky, powdery salinity on the tongue and cheeks. Round, ample yet defined and detailed, so much going on but with no one element overpowering another building to a really impressive overall impression. Acidity is beautiful, and there are cola flecks that give the freshness and savoury touch. The power shines at the end where the tannins constrict and just grip the final flavour, so you know this is a big wine with long ageing potential. A deliciou addition to the Place de Bordeaux this year. Drink 2023 - 2033.
    94 points
    Georgina Hindle - Decanter

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    • Biodynamic
    2020 Ceretto Barbaresco Asili
    Piedmont, ITALY
    $599. 00
    Bottle
    $7188.00 Dozen
    ABV: 14%
    Closure: Cork

    The Ceretto family are pioneers in Piedmont, and much of their international renown has been built on their fastidious work in the vineyards, and their (at the time) revolutionary approach to promoting the concept of cru wines in the region. This idea of highlighting specific vineyards chosen for their enduring excellence was something Bruno and Marcello Ceretto learnt after visiting Burgundy in the 1960's. Applying this approach to Barolo and Barbaresco has further elevated these wines to now be counted amongst the most appreciated and prestigious wines in the world.

    Other Reviews....
    The Ceretto 2020 Barbaresco Asili (a certified organic wine) embraces purple fruit flavors with summer plum mostly and some blackcurrant. The wine opens to a dark garnet color with the benefit of that pretty transparency that comes with Nebbiolo. The Asili seems to carry a little more fruit weight and power in this warm vintage. Drink 2025 - 2044.
    95 points
    Monica Larner - Wine Advocate (Aug 25, 2023)

    The 2020 Barbaresco Asili is quite simply textbook Asili. Fragrant and silky, with tremendous fruit purity and class to burn, the 2020 is so impressive. All the elements are so well balanced in a Barbaresco that impresses with its pedigree. A long, beautifully persistent finish rounds things out in style. Drink 2025-2040.
    95 points
    Antonio Galloni - Vinous

    Extremely spicy with rose stem, orange peel, and some cedar cuttings. Full-bodied, very chewy tannins. Almost leathery. Turns minerally and irony. This needs time to soften. Better after 2026.
    95 points
    JamesSuckling.com

    If there is a MGA which benefits from the volume of 2020 vintage it is Asili which is well known for its lean, pure elegance. Parma violet is wrapped up in watermelon fruit, leafy lightness and a floor of spices among smoky woodland, liquorice and roots. The lush fruit on the palate is sustained by crisp acidity and dense, silky tannins with a grippy finish due to its youth, soaked with a savoury blood orange aftertaste. A super-elegant Asili with volume. A great wine. Drink 2023 - 2040.
    98 points
    Aldo Fiordelli - Decanter

    • 91
    • Biodynamic
    2022 Ceretto Dolcetto d'Alba Rossana
    Piedmont, ITALY
    $59. 99
    Bottle
    $719.88 Dozen
    ABV: 13.5%
    Closure: Cork

    The Ceretto family are pioneers in Piedmont, and much of their international renown has been built on their fastidious work in the vineyards, and their (at the time) revolutionary approach to promoting the concept of cru wines in the region. This idea of highlighting specific vineyards chosen for their enduring excellence was something Bruno and Marcello Ceretto learnt after visiting Burgundy in the 1960's. Applying this approach to Barolo and Barbaresco has further elevated these wines to now be counted amongst the most appreciated and prestigious wines in the world.

    Other Reviews....
    Notes of spiced red and dark berries with sweet orange peel and bark. Medium-bodied, polished and sleek with dusty tannin structure. Flavorful and fruity. Drink now.
    91 points
    JamesSuckling.com

    • Biodynamic
    2021 Ceretto Barbera d'Alba Piana
    Piedmont, ITALY
    $59. 99
    Bottle
    $719.88 Dozen
    ABV: 14.5%
    Closure: Cork

    The Ceretto family are pioneers in Piedmont, and much of their international renown has been built on their fastidious work in the vineyards, and their (at the time) revolutionary approach to promoting the concept of cru wines in the region. This idea of highlighting specific vineyards chosen for their enduring excellence was something Bruno and Marcello Ceretto learnt after visiting Burgundy in the 1960's. Applying this approach to Barolo and Barbaresco has further elevated these wines to now be counted amongst the most appreciated and prestigious wines in the world.

    Ceretto produce a fruit forward, juicy Barbera that has fabulous punch while being well suited to a wide range of food. Vinification takes place in steel vats to further retain the freshness and purity the team aim to achieve with their Barbera.

    • 96
    2021 Cesar Marquez Perez Pico Ferreira Mencia
    Mencia, SPAIN
    $82. 99
    Bottle
    $995.88 Dozen
    ABV: 13%
    Closure: Cork

    Cesar Marquez has Bierzo running through his veins, and is the latest generation of the Perez family to own the leading Castro Ventosa winery in north-western Spain. Growing up around surrounded by the region's leading exponents, including a lengthy apprenticeship with one of the world's greatest winemakers, his uncle Raul Perez, has shaped much of what Cesar values in wine. While he still manages the family estate, Cezar started his own venture in 2015, and is already one of the most exciting young prospects in Spain.

    Having a deep understanding and access to some of the best vineyards Bierzo has to offer, Cezar focuses on preserving purity and freshness, highlighting the promise Mencia has in the right place when made with attention to detail. Cezar is structuring his line-up of wines in Burgundian fashion, making a broader appellation wine, a village wine, along with several single vineyard offerings. Winemaking is similar on all wines, with grapes partially destemmed and fermented in open barriques, before spending 12 months in old barrels without any racking or top ups before bottling the following winter. These are wines that are not just great examples of Bierzo Mencia, but wines that truly stand shoulder to shoulder with the finest from any region or country.

    Pico Ferreira is located in the village of Corullon, and while only 300m from Sufreiral it’s on the opposite side of the mountain with a north-east exposure. Soils here are very poor, thin and rocky slate where the roots struggle to penetrate. This leads to small clusters and wines that are often more robust than others in the portfolio.

    Other Reviews....
    The super elegant and fresh 2021 Pico Ferreira comes from northeast-facing ancient vines in the village of Corullón on shallow slate soils that deliver small bunches. Each of the plots fermented separately with their own yeasts with 50% full clusters and 45 days of maceration, and the wine matured in a combination of 500- and 600-liter oak barrels for around one year. It has a harmonious and elegant palate with 12.92% alcohol and fine-grained tannins. It is serious, with tension and the stony feeling from the slate soils. This has more depth and complexity than the 2020—more serious. 1,504 bottles were filled in December 2022. Drink 2024-2034.
    96+ points
    Luis Gutiérrez - Wine Advocate (Aug 11, 2023)

    • 94
    2021 Cesar Marquez Perez Valtuille Vino de Villa Mencia
    Bierzo, SPAIN
    $57. 99
    Bottle
    $695.88 Dozen
    ABV: 13%
    Closure: Cork

    Cesar Marquez has Bierzo running through his veins, and is the latest generation of the Perez family to own the leading Castro Ventosa winery in north-western Spain. Growing up around surrounded by the region's leading exponents, including a lengthy apprenticeship with one of the world's greatest winemakers, his uncle Raul Perez, has shaped much of what Cesar values in wine. While he still manages the family estate, Cezar started his own venture in 2015, and is already one of the most exciting young prospects in Spain.

    Having a deep understanding and access to some of the best vineyards Bierzo has to offer, Cezar focuses on preserving purity and freshness, highlighting the promise Mencia has in the right place when made with attention to detail. Cezar is structuring his line-up of wines in Burgundian fashion, making a broader appellation wine, a village wine, along with several single vineyard offerings. Winemaking is similar on all wines, with grapes partially destemmed and fermented in open barriques, before spending 12 months in old barrels without any racking or top ups before bottling the following winter. These are wines that are not just great examples of Bierzo Mencia, but wines that truly stand shoulder to shoulder with the finest from any region or country.

    Valtuille Vino de Villa replaces the previous Las Firmas bottling, and is Cezar's village wine sourced from two sites in the village of Valtuille, considered the most prestigious village in Bierzo.

    Other Reviews....
    The 2021 Valtuille Vino de Villa is his village wine that has replaced his old Las Firmas starting in 2019. For this, he selects plots of old vines with a field blend of Mencía with some 10% Alicante Bouschet and 5% whites and other reds on sandy soils that tend to produce finer and more elegant wines. It fermented by plot in 1,000-liter vats with some full clusters and different macerations, ranging between 15 to 60 days. It matured in 500-liter oak barrels. The grapes were picked quite early, and all the wines have below 13% alcohol and very fine and elegant tannins, the signature of the cooler year. 5,215 bottles produced. It was bottled in December 2022. Drink 2023-2030.
    94+ points
    Luis Gutiérrez - Wine Advocate (Aug 11, 2023)

    • 94
    2021 Cesar Marquez Perez Parajes Parcelas del Bierzo Mencia
    Bierzo, SPAIN
    $39. 99
    Bottle
    $479.88 Dozen
    ABV: 13%
    Closure: Cork

    Cesar Marquez has Bierzo running through his veins, and is the latest generation of the Perez family to own the leading Castro Ventosa winery in north-western Spain. Growing up around surrounded by the region's leading exponents, including a lengthy apprenticeship with one of the world's greatest winemakers, his uncle Raul Perez, has shaped much of what Cesar values in wine. While he still manages the family estate, Cezar started his own venture in 2015, and is already one of the most exciting young prospects in Spain.

    Having a deep understanding and access to some of the best vineyards Bierzo has to offer, Cezar focuses on preserving purity and freshness, highlighting the promise Mencia has in the right place when made with attention to detail. Cezar is structuring his line-up of wines in Burgundian fashion, making a broader appellation wine, a village wine, along with several single vineyard offerings. Winemaking is similar on all wines, with grapes partially destemmed and fermented in open barriques, before spending 12 months in old barrels without any racking or top ups before bottling the following winter. These are wines that are not just great examples of Bierzo Mencia, but wines that truly stand shoulder to shoulder with the finest from any region or country.

    Parajes is Cesar's appellation wine, sourced from nine villages across the area with the aim to be the purest expression of Bierzo and Mencia.

    Other Reviews....
    The super affordable 2021 Parajes really overdelivers in this cool year. It was produced with grapes from up to 45 different plots in nine villages, trying to capture the essence of Bierzo. This regional red mixes soils and altitudes, mostly very old plots and therefore planted with a field blend with a majority of Mencía but also around 10% Alicante Bouschet and 5% whites or other reds like Bastardo, Souson or Estaladiña. It fermented by plot in stainless steel and plastic bins with some full clusters, indigenous yeasts and variable macerations, ranging between 15 and 60 days. Seventy-five percent of the volume matured in 225-, 400- and 500-liter barrels and the rest in a 5,000-liter oak foudre. It's aromatic, floral, perfumed and elegant, with a medium-bodied palate and very fine tannins. It is round and juicy, with very fine tannins and depth and complexity, corresponding to a much more expensive wine. A bargain. He harvested quite early in 2021, and the wines have moderate alcohol. 29,504 bottles produced. It was bottled in December 2022. Drink 2023-2030.
    94 points
    Luis Gutiérrez - Wine Advocate (Aug 11, 2023)

    2020 Charles Van Canneyt Chambolle-Musigny Les Feusselottes Premier Cru
    Burgundy, FRANCE
    $480. 00
    Bottle
    $5760.00 Dozen
    ABV: 14%
    Closure: Cork

    Charles Van Canneyt is the current winemaker at the iconic Domaine Hudelot-Noellat in Vougeot, but he also produces wine under his own label. Using his extensive contacts with the finest growers in Burgundy, Charles sources grapes from some of the top plots in the area, and makes the wines at a separate facility in Beaune. Charles is aiming for a similar purity and terroir focus as those wines of Hudelot-Noellat, and as such has minimal use of new oak each year.

    Les Feusselottes is situated just below the village, surrounding the cemetery, and has perhaps the deepest and richest soils of the Chambolle Premier Cru sites. This shallow, stony soil has a high proportion of limestone, which has long been considered the cause of the mineral characters in the finished wines.

    2020 Charles Van Canneyt Chambolle-Musigny Les Sentiers Premier Cru
    Burgundy, FRANCE
    $480. 00
    Bottle
    $5760.00 Dozen
    ABV: 13.5%
    Closure: Cork

    Charles Van Canneyt is the current winemaker at the iconic Domaine Hudelot-Noellat in Vougeot, but he also produces wine under his own label. Using his extensive contacts with the finest growers in Burgundy, Charles sources grapes from some of the top plots in the area, and makes the wines at a separate facility in Beaune. Charles is aiming for a similar purity and terroir focus as those wines of Hudelot-Noellat, and as such has minimal use of new oak each year.

    Les Sentiers sits just south of Bonnes Mares on the border with Morey Saint Denis, and with its rich brown soils can display traits more closely aligned with its neighbour than is typical of other Chambolle sites.

    2020 Charles Van Canneyt Chambolle-Musigny Les Lavrottes Premier Cru
    Burgundy, FRANCE
    $480. 00
    Bottle
    $5760.00 Dozen
    ABV: 14%
    Closure: Cork

    Charles Van Canneyt is the current winemaker at the iconic Domaine Hudelot-Noellat in Vougeot, but he also produces wine under his own label. Using his extensive contacts with the finest growers in Burgundy, Charles sources grapes from some of the top plots in the area, and makes the wines at a separate facility in Beaune. Charles is aiming for a similar purity and terroir focus as those wines of Hudelot-Noellat, and as such has minimal use of new oak each year.

    Les Lavrottes is a tiny Premier Cru vineyard just south of Bonnes Mares and is the continuation of the larger Les Noirots site. Chambolle-Musigny as a whole has lighter limestone soils than in the Morey-Saint-Denis appellation to the north, with a much lower proportion of clay. This light, pebbly soil covers the Les Lavrottes vineyard, with hard limestone subsoil beneath. Lighter soils such as this one are often associated with lighter wines. However, a little clay and iron in the soils here gives a little more weight than might usually be expected from Chambolle-Musigny.

    2019 Charles Van Canneyt Gevrey Chambertin Les Fontenys Premier Cru
    Burgundy, FRANCE
    $370. 00
    Bottle
    $4440.00 Dozen
    ABV: 14%
    Closure: Cork

    Charles Van Canneyt is the current winemaker at the iconic Domaine Hudelot-Noellat in Vougeot, but he also produces wine under his own label. Using his extensive contacts with the finest growers in Burgundy, Charles sources grapes from some of the top plots in the area, and makes the wines at a separate facility in Beaune. Charles is aiming for a similar purity and terroir focus as those wines of Hudelot-Noellat, and as such has minimal use of new oak each year.

    Les Fontenys is one of the more interesting of the Gevrey Premier Cru vineyards, allowing for wines with powerful fruit that still retains an air of elegance.

    2019 Charles Van Canneyt Chambolle-Musigny Aux Echanges Premier Cru
    Burgundy, FRANCE
    $370. 00
    Bottle
    $4440.00 Dozen
    ABV: 13.5%
    Closure: Cork

    Charles Van Canneyt is the current winemaker at the iconic Domaine Hudelot-Noellat in Vougeot, but he also produces wine under his own label. Using his extensive contacts with the finest growers in Burgundy, Charles sources grapes from some of the top plots in the area, and makes the wines at a separate facility in Beaune. Charles is aiming for a similar purity and terroir focus as those wines of Hudelot-Noellat, and as such has minimal use of new oak each year.

    Located between the Premier Cru vineyards of Aux Combottes and Aux Beaux Bruns, roughly one third of this vineyard is classified as Premier Cru and has been owned by Domaine Leymarie-Ceci since 1976. That domaine does not bottle much itself, and this plot is more widely seen in negociant bottlings such as this from Charles Van Canneyt.

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    2018 Charles Van Canneyt Gevrey Chambertin Les Cazetiers Premier Cru
    Burgundy, FRANCE
    $380. 00
    Bottle
    $4560.00 Dozen
    ABV: 13.5%
    Closure: Cork

    Charles Van Canneyt is the current winemaker at the iconic Domaine Hudelot-Noellat in Vougeot, but he also produces wine under his own label. Using his extensive contacts with the finest growers in Burgundy, Charles sources grapes from some of the top plots in the area, and makes the wines at a separate facility in Beaune. Charles is aiming for a similar purity and terroir focus as those wines of Hudelot-Noellat, and as such has minimal use of new oak each year.

    Other Reviews....
    The 2018 Gevrey-Chambertin Les Cazetiers 1er Cru has an intense, powerful bouquet of red and black fruit and undergrowth; touches of menthol develop with aeration. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins, good structure and matière, and saline on the midpalate, leading to a grippy, quite assertive finish. Good aging potential.
    92-94 points
    Neal Martin - Vinous

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    • Nick's Import
    2022 Chateau Angelus Pre-Arrival Offer
    Saint Emilion, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $960. 00
    Bottle
    $11520.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    As with a lot of properties in Saint-Emilion, Chateau Angelus has had its share of struggles in the mid-late 1900s, but after taking over from his father in 1988 Hubert de Bouard quickly turned around the property, to the point where it was upgraded to Premier Cru Classe A in 2012. The 27 hectare vineyard used for Chateau Angelus is planted to 50% Merlot, 47% Cabernet Franc, and 3% Cabernet Sauvignon. Maturation takes place in 100% new French oak for 18-24 months.

    Other Reviews....
    This estate's shift in the direction of gentler extraction and more reductive, less overtly oaky élevage continues, and this extreme vintage only underlines that. Fermented at cool temperatures (20 to 23 degrees Celsius), and with an increasing proportion of the wine's Cabernet Franc component matured in large wooden foudres, the 2022 Angélus wafts from the glass with deep aromas of dark berries and cherries mingled with hints of iris, licorice and pencil lead. Full-bodied, deep and seamless, with a layered core of cool, vibrant fruit, powdery tannins and a long, saline finish, it's a brilliant young wine in the making. The 2022 is a blend of 53% Merlot, 46% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot.
    96-98 points
    William Kelley - Wine Advocate (Apr 2023)

    So many beautiful primary fruit aromas. Al dente. Peaches. Very floral. Aromatic. Full-bodied and extremely fine tannins with length and beauty that show incredible depth. Superb brightness and reality. Exciting. Cabernet franc freshness and dynamics come through now, even though the blend is 60% merlot and 40% cabernet franc.
    98-99 points
    James Suckling

    Deeply colored, the wine is all about its elegance in the texture. The fruits offer a level of purity and refinement that was not present in older vintages. Perfectly balanced, vibrant, long and intense, the wine is incredibly sensuous, velvety, and silky. The level of concentration remains, but the sensation here is now one of sensuality, balance, and sophistication. The silky, pure, red and black pit fruits with a cool touch of orange rind remain with you for close to 60 seconds. Fermentation at cooler temperatures and no sulfur during the fermentations helped maintain the wines elegance and purity. The wine blends 60% Merlot, and 40% Cabernet Franc, 14.5% ABV, 3.65 pH. Harvesting took place, September 6 - September 28. Drink from 2027-2060.
    98-100 points
    Jeff Leve - The Wine Cellar Insider

    The 2022 Château Angélus is made up of 60% Merlot and 40% Cabernet Franc with a pH of 3.65. Deep garnet-purple colored, it prances out of the glass with flamboyant notes of red currant jelly, wild blueberries, cassis, and candied violets, followed by suggestions of jasmine tea, star anise, and crushed rocks. The full-bodied palate is impactful from first sip, yet slowly expands in the mouth, ultimately over-delivering on the nose's promise with layer upon layer of perfumed black and red fruits, supported by super fine-grained, silt-like tannins, finishing long and achingly shimmery.
    98-100 points
    Lisa-Perrotti-Brown MW - The Wine Independent

    Conditions of Pre Arrival Offer:
    1. There is no minimum order unless stated.
    2. All wines are 750ml unless indicated otherwise.
    3. Payment is due at the time of ordering to secure stocks.
    4. The wines are being collected and shipped in refrigerated containers and are due to arrive in late 2025.
    5. Nicks Wine Merchants reserve the right to pass on any changes in Government duties and taxes and delivery charges from the date of order to the date of final delivery of the wine.
    6. Errors and omissions excepted.
    7. Delivery charges may apply - these can be determined by visiting the Freight Rates page.

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    • Nick's Import
    2021 Chateau Angelus Pre-Arrival Offer
    Saint Emilion, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $750. 00
    Bottle
    $9000.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    As with a lot of properties in Saint-Emilion, Chateau Angelus has had its share of struggles in the mid-late 1900s, but after taking over from his father in 1988 Hubert de Bouard quickly turned around the property, to the point where it was upgraded to Premier Cru Classe A in 2012. The 27 hectare vineyard used for Chateau Angelus is planted to 50% Merlot, 47% Cabernet Franc, and 3% Cabernet Sauvignon. Maturation takes place in 100% new French oak for 18-24 months.

    Other Reviews....
    A brilliant wine that signposts this estate's evolution under Stéphanie de Boüard-Rivoal, the 2021 Angélus is a blend of 60% Cabernet Franc and 40% Merlot, with fully half of the old-vine Cabernet Franc maturing in foudres rather than 225-liter barriques. The result is a wine of unprecedented purity and finesse, unwinding in the glass with compelling aromas of plums, raspberries, rose petals, vine smoke, blood orange and warm spices, followed by a medium to full-bodied, deep and layered palate with a rich and fleshy core that entirely conceals its structuring chassis of ultra-refined tannins. Bright and sapid, it's striking for its integration and elegance at this early stage, and I wouldn't be surprised to see it upstage a number of more touted vintages once it's in bottle.
    94-96+ points
    William Kelley - Wine Advocate (Apr 2022)

    For the first time ever, Angélus is 60% Cabernet Franc and 40% Merlot in 2021. There's terrific density and power, especially within the context of the year. Black cherry, chocolate, spice, menthol and lavender all build nicely in the glass. The 2021 has quite a bit of richness, and its 14% alcohol, a bit lower than the recent norm, works quite well in this vintage. All it needs is a bit of time to help soften some of the raw contours that are present today. Drink 2031-2061.
    94-96 points
    Antonio Galloni - Vinous

    The 2021 Angélus contains 60% Cabernet Franc, the highest percentage ever, and also reflects an increasing use of wooden foudres (half the Cabernet Franc or 30% of the whole blend). It has a more understated bouquet compared to the bravura vintages of the last three years, demanding gentle coaxing to reveal scents of brambly black fruit, potpourri, hints of orange pith and a little sous-bois. The palate is medium-bodied with fine-grained tannins, and quite sapid, the Cabernet Franc lending a slightly more chalky texture and a linear, focused finish. Displaying fine tension throughout, though not astoundingly long, this Angelus deserves 4–5 years in bottle to show its true potential. Drink 2026-2055.
    93-95 points
    Neal Martin - Vinous

    The nose takes a few swirls to find all the tobacco leaf, flowers, espresso, allspice, cloves, cinnamon, and red pit fruits. The wine is soft, silky and elegant. There is a freshness and refinement as well as a purity to the fruits on the medium-bodied palate that you also find in the finish, leaving you with black raspberries, strawberries, a hint of orange rind and red plums on the backend. The wine blends 60% Cabernet Franc with 40% Merlot, representing the highest percentage of Cabernet Franc in the blend in the history of the estate. In the years to come, I hope they continue increasing the Cabernet Franc in the blend. 13.5% ABV, 3.65 pH. The yields were low at 26 hectoliters per hectare. Harvesting took place, September 14-October 2. Drink from 2025-2055.
    94-96 points
    Jeff Leve - The Wine Cellar Insider

    Blackcurrant purée on the nose, so seductive and heady, concentrated and intense but lively too with some wild flower scents. Succulent on the first sip, you get the mouthwatering red cherry and raspberry fruit but this then turns serious and direct. Linear, focused, driving with layers of flavour giving this both a density but also an aerial element to it. In some ways, there’s a shyness here, a discretion, such sleek silky tannins that softly frame the flavours which are to the fore right now. Red cherry, plum and damson sit alongside clove, cedar, black chocolate and liquorice coming from the Cabernet Franc giving a spicy tang sustaining the wine - the highest amount of Cabernet Franc ever used in the grand vin at 60%. Each element is so well positioned and in high definition, you feel the muscles and backbone but this has exceptional finesse with all the tiny details on show. An excellent effort in 2021. 100% new oak. The first full vintage with technical director Benjamin Laforet. Drinking Window 2026 - 2049.
    95 points
    Georgina Hindle - Decanter

    Conditions of Pre Arrival Offer:

    1. There is no minimum order unless stated.

    2. All wines are 750ml unless indicated otherwise.

    3. Once received, all orders will be confirmed with suppliers and then an invoice issued - payment will be due on receipt of this invoice.

    4. The wines are being collected and shipped in refrigerated containers and are due to arrive in late 2024.

    5. Nicks Wine Merchants reserve the right to pass on any changes in Government duties and taxes and delivery charges from the date of order to the date of final delivery of the wine.

    6. Errors and omissions excepted.

    7. Delivery charges may apply - these can be determined by visiting the Freight Rates page.

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    • Nick's Import
    2016 Chateau Angelus
    Saint Emilion, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $999. 00
    Bottle
    $11988.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    As with a lot of properties in Saint-Emilion, Chateau Angelus has had its share of struggles in the mid-late 1900s, but after taking over from his father in 1988 Hubert de Bouard quickly turned around the property, to the point where it was upgraded to Premier Cru Classe A in 2012. The 27 hectare vineyard used for Chateau Angelus is planted to 50% Merlot, 47% Cabernet Franc, and 3% Cabernet Sauvignon. Maturation takes place in 100% new French oak for 18-24 months.

    Other Reviews....
    The 2016 Angélus is composed of 60% Merlot and 40% Cabernet Franc, aged 18 to 22 months in new barrels and foudres. Deep garnet-purple colored, it drifts effortlessly out of the glass with sensuous notes of lavender, candied violets, garrigue, Ceylon tea and iron ore with a core of warm black cherries, mulberries, ripe plums and aniseed plus wafts of cedar chest and cloves. Medium to full-bodied, the perfumed fruit whispers of great intensity and depth, with the vivacious fruit well knit into the plush, seductive frame of velvety tannins and seamless freshness, finishing long and mineral laced. Still very tightly wound with amazing tension at this stage, it truly needs a good 6-8 more years in bottle to deliver the fully expressed layers that this soft-spoken, profound beauty promises.
    98+ points
    Lisa Perrotti-Brown - Wine Advocate

    The 2016 Angélus has a very well defined bouquet featuring blackberry, melted tar, pencil box and floral notes, though they are less pronounced than they were from barrel. The palate is medium-bodied with fine-grained tannins. This is well balanced with plenty of freshness and fine grip, and quite dense in the mouth compared to its peers. Notes of blackberry laced with sea salt and a touch of licorice govern the finish to this substantial Angélus, which will benefit from several years in bottle. Patience will be undoubtedly rewarded.
    96 points
    Neal Martin - Vinous

    The 2016 Angélus is a total stunner. Despite its late bottling in September 2018, the 2016 is simply magnificent. Soaring aromatics and layers of bright, vibrant fruit are two of the main signatures in the 2016. The tannins, so often hard in young Angélus, are almost impossibly refined. Pomegranate, blood orange, raspberry jam, wild flowers and mocha are some of the many notes that race through the 2016. All the elements fall into place in a memorable, exquisite Saint-Émilion that is clearly one of the wines of the year. Don't miss it!
    98 points
    Antonio Galloni - Vinous

    Subtle and profound aromas of blackberries, wet earth and sweet tobacco. Hints of spice, too. Full-bodied and so deep. It’s incredibly vertical and long. Just like looking down a well. Firm and powerful tannins, yet polished and balanced. Goes on for minutes. One of the greatest ever. Try after 2025.
    99 points
    James Suckling

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    • Nick's Import
    2022 Chateau Ausone Pre-Arrival Offer
    Saint Emilion, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $1750. 00
    Bottle
    $21000.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    A blend of equal parts Merlot and Cabernet Franc, the 2022 Ausone unwinds in the glass with aromas of plums, raspberries and cherries complemented by hints of crushed mint and spices, framed by a lavish patina of creamy new oak. Full-bodied, layered and rather muscular, it's deep and concentrated, its vibrant core of fruit framed by a serious chassis of rich, powdery tannins, concluding with a long, saline finish. Given its imposing levels of structuring extract, it will require patience.
    94-96+ points
    William Kelley - Wine Advocate (Apr 2023)

    The 2022 Ausone was picked from 5 to 30 September and matured for 20 months in French oak. These aromatics take a little time to open in the glass. Once they do, they are precise with wilted iris flowers infusing the black fruit and background pencil box and incense hints. The palate is medium-bodied with silver bead acidity threaded through the blackberry and bilberry fruit. Fresh and focused, this Ausone possesses a structured finish with a pinch of black pepper on the finish. Elegant in style, this Ausone almost creeps up in you and seduces, intellectual and persistent in the mouth. Upon departing, I couldn't help wondering if I had witnessed this Saint-Émilion demonstrates its full potential, hence the plus sign against my score. 14.4% alcohol. Drink 2030-2065.
    95-97+ points
    Neal Martin - Vinous

    This is really open with bright and flamboyant aromas of cassis and cherries. Blueberries. Some peaches as well. I don't remember a young Ausone like that. Full-bodied with flamboyant fruit and energy. Very fine tannins. They are there but you don't feel them. Supple but very fruity. And intensely fruity at the end.
    97-98 points
    James Suckling

    The Grand Vin from this hallowed terroir is an even split of Cabernet Franc and Merlot that was fermented in wooden vats and will spend 20 months in new barrels. Its saturated purple hue is followed by an up-front, sexy, full-bodied Ausone offering a wealth of fruit as well as notes of black cherries, blueberries, chocolate, scorched earth, and an incredible sense of spring flowers. Concentrated and incredibly pure, with silky tannins on the palate, it has the texture and fruit to almost shine even now but should still evolve for 30 years or more.
    96-98 points
    Jeb Dunnuck

    Quite intense nose, strongly perfumed and scented with purple flowers and a mix of red and black fruit. Fragrant with chocolate, tobacco, cedar, cinnamon, crushed stones and liquorice. Aromatically very inviting. Plush and sapid, tannins are ripe but the acidity gives it real tension so you get some intensity of texture and sharpness of fruit on the palate making it a bit serious and tense right now though with lovely detail and lots of precision in terms of tannins and fruit. Mouthwatering acidity is at the fore, really giving some zing and electricity to this while the crushed stones, liquorice and clove spice give the accents around the edges. Clear strength and concentration, such power underneath - you do feel the heat from the alcohol (15.4%!) but the acidity and soft mineral elements help keep the balance and frame though it’s not as demonstrably mineral as some years. Acidity does settle and this expands slowly - keeping the linearity and sense of focus but also giving hints to its power and ageability. Sculpted and well delivered, characterful and confident with long ageing potential. Long finish with graphite, pencil lead and toasted spices on the finish. 3.57pH 85% grand vin, 20,000 bottles. Harvest 5 and 9 September for Merlot, 21 and 27 September for Cabernet Franc. A yield of 38hl/ha. Potential upscore in bottle. Drink 2030 - 2050.
    96 points
    Georgina Hindle - Decanter

    Mint, licorice, spice, incense, blackberries, black cherries, espresso, flowers, crushed stones, spice and cocoa create the attention seeking nose. There is intensity, richness, depth, and energy on the palate. The influence of crushed rocks, stones, and chalk is strong on the palate. The peppery edge to the powerful layers of fruit provide additional complexity, and lift to the dark fruits. The resilient finish coats your palate with layers of salty, dark, sweet, black, red and blue fruits that linger. The wine blends 50% Cabernet Franc with 50% Merlot.15% ABV, 3.57 pH. Harvesting took place September 5-9 for the Merlot and September 21-27 for the Cabernet Franc. Yields were 38 hectoliters per hectare. 1,600 cases were produced. Drink from 2030-2065.
    97-99 points
    Jeff Leve - The Wine Cellar Insider

    Conditions of Pre Arrival Offer:
    1. There is no minimum order unless stated.
    2. All wines are 750ml unless indicated otherwise.
    3. Payment is due at the time of ordering to secure stocks.
    4. The wines are being collected and shipped in refrigerated containers and are due to arrive in late 2025.
    5. Nicks Wine Merchants reserve the right to pass on any changes in Government duties and taxes and delivery charges from the date of order to the date of final delivery of the wine.
    6. Errors and omissions excepted.
    7. Delivery charges may apply - these can be determined by visiting the Freight Rates page.

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    • Nick's Import
    2022 Chateau Barde-Haut Pre-Arrival Offer
    Saint Emilion, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $86. 99
    Bottle
    $1043.88 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    Unwinding in the glass with aromas of plums, wild berries, dark chocolate and creamy new oak, the 2022 Barde-Haut is medium to full-bodied, rich and fleshy, with a taut, youthfully structured profile and youthfully firm tannins. Exhibiting attractive purity of fruit and tension, gentler extraction would have seen it score higher.
    91-93+ points
    William Kelley - Wine Advocate (Apr 2023)

    The 2022 Barde-Haut is gorgeous. Rich and explosive, the 2022 offers up copious notes of blueberry jam, crème de cassis, lavender, mint and licorice, with pretty jasmine overtones that add exotic beauty. The tannins here are often a bit burly, but in the 2022 much of that is softened. This is an impressive showing. Drink 2027-2042.
    94-96 points
    Antonio Galloni - Vinous

    The 2022 Barde-Haut has a lovely bouquet with pure black cherries, boysenberry, crushed violet and dates. This is rich yet has impressive clarity. The palate is full-bodied with fine-grain tannins, gentle grip, mineralité and a precise finish. It's quite a bold Barde-Haut whose depth and density suggest it will require several years to soften, but it will be worth the wait because the finesse will bloom with bottle age. This may ultimately rest at the top of my banded score. Drink 2030-2060.
    93-95 points
    Neal Martin - Vinous

    A velvety red with lovely creamy tannins, juicy fruit with black berries, spice, ink and boysenberry. Medium to full body with a solid structured and depth. Velvety texture. Hints of sea salt.
    94-95 points
    James Suckling

    I was blown away by the quality of the 2022 Château Barde-Haut, and this 80/20 split of Merlot and Cabernet Franc does everything right in the vintage. Revealing a deep purple hue as well as stunning aromatics of cassis, spring flowers, black cherries, and truffle, it hits the palate with medium to full-bodied richness and delivers fine-grained tannins and flawless balance. Pure, bright, and lively, yet also deep, concentrated, and textured, it's a brilliant bottle of wine in the making.
    96-98 points
    Jeb Dunnuck

    Flowers, leafy herbs, spice, black raspberries, a touch of espresso, and licorice open the nose. On the palate, the first thing you notice is the silky texture. There is intensity, freshness, elegance, and lift to the red and black fruits with their elegant mouthfeel. The wine finishes with a touch of salty rocks that rides on top of all the layers of sweet, ripe fruits. The wine blends 80% Merlot with 20% Cabernet Franc.15% ABV, 3.75 pH. Drink from 2024-2045.
    94-96 points
    Jeff Leve - The Wine Cellar Insider

    Conditions of Pre Arrival Offer:
    1. There is no minimum order unless stated.
    2. All wines are 750ml unless indicated otherwise.
    3. Payment is due at the time of ordering to secure stocks.
    4. The wines are being collected and shipped in refrigerated containers and are due to arrive in late 2025.
    5. Nicks Wine Merchants reserve the right to pass on any changes in Government duties and taxes and delivery charges from the date of order to the date of final delivery of the wine.
    6. Errors and omissions excepted.
    7. Delivery charges may apply - these can be determined by visiting the Freight Rates page.

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    • 96
    • Nick's Import
    2020 Chateau Barde-Haut
    Saint Emilion, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $82. 99
    Bottle
    $995.88 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    The 2020 Barde-Haut unwinds in the glass with aromas of blackberries, cassis and blueberries mingled with hints of violets and spices. Medium to full-bodied, rich and fleshy, with a deep core of ripe but lively fruit, powdery tannins and a floral finish, it's the usual blend of more or less 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc (the latter increasingly deriving from massal selections taken at Clos l'Eglise). Drink 2025-2045.
    93 points
    William Kelley - Wine Advocate (Apr 07, 2023)

    The 2020 Barde-Haut is just as compelling it was from barrel. Blueberry jam, crème de cassis, hard candy, spice, new leather and lavender infuse the 2020 with exotic beauty. Soft contours and silky tannins add to its immediacy. Bright acids lend vibrancy to play off all the natural opulence. The 2020 is a fine vintage of Barde-Haut, one of the best in recent memory. The intensely saline finish alone is a thing of beauty. Drink 2027-2040.
    95 points
    Antonio Galloni - Vinous

    Aromas of black and blue fruit, toasted spices, walnut and dark chocolate. Medium- to full-bodied with a juicy character and firm, polished tannins which build on the palate. Well-balanced, structured and compact with velvety texture and hints of spices and bark to close. Lingering finish. Try after 2027.
    95 points
    James Suckling

    I always love this wine, and the 2020 Château Barde-Haut is a quintessential Saint-Emilion revealing a deep ruby/purple hue, awesome notes of red plum, cherries, tobacco leaf, and chalky earth, full-bodied richness, bright acidity, and fine tannins. A gorgeous wine, it will benefit from 4-5 years of bottle age and keep for two decades. Drink 2027-2047.
    96 points
    Jeb Dunnuck

    A good drop of damson and black cherry fruits right up front, and holds its line while the more austere tannins come in towards the finish. Expertly extracted, self-contained right now, firm fruits that don't dip through the mid palate alongside a glossy wash of liquorice, black chocolate, sage and anis. This is clearly going to age well. 60% new oak for ageing. Owned by Hélène Garcin-Leveque, this is located right next to Troplong Mondot.
    94 points
    Jane Anson - Decanter

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    2022 Chateau Beau-Sejour Becot Pre-Arrival Offer
    Saint Emilion, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $180. 00
    Bottle
    $2160.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    With the 2022 Beau-Séjour Bécot, this estate has taken another step up the ranks in Saint-Émilion, producing a wine of breathtaking perfume and harmony that will be worth a special effort to seek out. Wafting from the glass with aromas of wild berries, violets, lilac, raw cocoa and forest floor, it's medium to full-bodied, seamless and complete, with an ample and enveloping core of weightless fruit, beautifully powdery tannins and a long, saline, resonant finish. Recently planted massale selection Cabernet Franc is now producing meaningful yields at this address, so this cépage now represents 22% of the blend, complemented by 2% Cabernet Sauvignon and the balance Merlot. The team harvested only in the mornings, picking Merlot from 5-18 September and Cabernet from 13-23 September, sub-block by sub-block.
    96-98 points
    William Kelley - Wine Advocate (Apr 2023)

    The 2022 Beau-Séjour Bécot has a bit more Cabernet Franc than most years, which comes through immediately in the wine's aromatic profile. Dark, rich and expressive., the 2022 is seriously impressive. Crushed flowers, herbs, mint, blood orange and red-toned fruit all build into a sumptuous, majestic finish that just explodes on the back end. The 2022 is one of the very finest editions of Beau-Séjour Bécot I can remember tasting. It is a great, great wine. Drink 2032-2052.
    98-100 points
    Antonio Galloni - Vinous

    Tasted on multiple occasions, the 2022 Château Beau-Séjour Bécot aways impressed, and I think it's clearly one of the finest vintages for this château. Including more Cabernet Franc than usual and a blend of 76% Merlot, 22% Cabernet Franc, and 2% Cabernet Sauvignon, its ruby/purple hue is followed by a pure, ultra-fine, seamless Saint-Emilion with a wonderful core of black raspberry fruits supported by beautifully complex notes of chalky minerality, flowery incense, tobacco, and graphite. Medium to full bodied, with beautiful tannins and a great finish, this is never the most massive or concentrated wine in a vintage, yet it shines for its incredible sense of elegance, finesse, and complexity. The élevage here will span 18 months in 55% new French oak, and this hit 14.5% natural alcohol with a pH of 3.55. It will drink well for 30+ years.
    95-97+ points
    Jeb Dunnuck

    Floral notes on the nose. Tangy and sharp, lively and bright straight away, sweet and sour, so energetic and lively with a mineral grip from the fine, firm, grippy tannins. Lovely precision and almost delicate presentation of fruit. You really feel the mineral, salty, tangy aspect of the fruit, nothing feels overworked, all in balance, really quite thrilling and electric. Great purity and focus. Scintillating yet still with a lovely volume and roundness accented by tobacco, clove, liquorice and cinnamon touches. Really well worked and fresh - this feels very modern with such control to the fruit, tannins, acidity giving overall depth and complexity. Elegant but confident, taking the best density from clay density and freshness from limestone. A very singular charm with this wine. 3.55pH. 10% press wine. Drink 2029 - 2050.
    96 points
    Georgina Hindle - Decanter

    The bouquet of red and purple flowers stands out in the nose before you get to the sweet, red, black and blue fruits, licorice and spice. On the palate the wine is incredibly dense, sensuous, opulent and deep. Yet, with all the concentration, the wine is weightless, and effortless to drink. On the mid-palate, the waves of fruits keep coming as they coat your palate. The purity in the fruit, the energy, length, balance, and complexity is at a new level here. The seamless finish, with its ocean of berries, topped by a salty, crushed stones hits the 60 second mark. The best part of the experience is the velvet-drenched-texture that needs to be experienced. The wine blends 76% Merlot, 22% Cabernet Franc and 2% Cabernet Sauvignon, 14.5%, ABV, 3.55 pH. The harvest took place, September 5 - September 26. Yields were 33 hectoliters per hectare. Make no mistake, this is the best wine ever produced at Beau-Sejour Becot. Drink from 2027-2060.
    98-100 points
    Jeff Leve - The Wine Cellar Insider

    Conditions of Pre Arrival Offer:
    1. There is no minimum order unless stated.
    2. All wines are 750ml unless indicated otherwise.
    3. Payment is due at the time of ordering to secure stocks.
    4. The wines are being collected and shipped in refrigerated containers and are due to arrive in late 2025.
    5. Nicks Wine Merchants reserve the right to pass on any changes in Government duties and taxes and delivery charges from the date of order to the date of final delivery of the wine.
    6. Errors and omissions excepted.
    7. Delivery charges may apply - these can be determined by visiting the Freight Rates page.

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    • Nick's Import
    2021 Chateau Beau-Sejour Becot Pre-Arrival Offer
    Saint Emilion, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $128. 00
    Bottle
    $1536.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    Aromas of deep berry fruit, dark chocolate, subtle spices and dried flowers introduce the 2021 Beau-Séjour Bécot, a medium to full-bodied, velvety and seamless wine that's lively and layered, with a deep core of fruit, ripe tannins and a long, saline finish. Cropped at 35 hectoliters per hectare, and based on Merlot with some 13% Cabernet Franc and 2% Cabernet Sauvignon in a supporting role, its quality reflects a growing season of relentless efforts and the impact of extra sorting equipment rented on the eve of harvest.
    93-95+ points
    William Kelley - Wine Advocate (Apr 2022)

    The 2021 Beau-Séjour-Bécot is one of the most elegant wines I have ever tasted here. Pliant and deep, with striking depth, the 2021 is outrageously beautiful. All the elements come together so effortlessly. Dark fruit, mocha, spice, licorice and incense all build in the glass. The creamy tannins are impossibly refined for the year, while the finish is eternal. The 2021 is a real stunner. Readers won't want to miss it! Drink 2031-2061.
    95-97 points
    Antonio Galloni - Vinous

    The 2021 Beau-Séjour-Bécot was picked September 21 to October 15, almost a whole month, with crews working half-days to pick at optimal maturity in each parcel. Yields were 33hL/ha, and the wine matured in 55% new oak, 25% amphora and 20% used barrels for a planned 16 months. Tasted twice; the first sample was a bit bashful, but the bottle poured at the château was much better. It has a mixture of red and black fruit, dried rose petal, bergamot and a touch of chalk. The palate is medium-bodied with fine definition, a fine level of acidity (pH 3.5) and mineral-laden red fruit. It shows fine transparency and appreciable energy and tension. 13.2% alcohol. Drink 2027-2050.
    91-93 points
    Neal Martin - Vinous

    Lots of blue fruit with violets and a hint of boysenberry. Medium body, integrated and fine tannins and a cool, linear finish. Solid length and brightness.
    93-94 points
    James Suckling

    I loved the 2021 Beau-Séjour Bécot. This is just straight-up class with its ripe red plum and bright cherry fruit as well as mineral-laced aromatics of tobacco leaf and flowers. Medium-bodied on the palate, it has the freshness and purity of the vintage, terrific balance, ripe yet certainly present tannins, and a great finish. It's a beautiful wine in the making.
    92-94 points
    Jeb Dunnuck

    Flowers, cherries, licorice, leafy herbs, spice, tobacco leaf and dark chocolate create the perfume. On the palate the wine is lush, soft, fresh, clean and most importantly, the wine expresses a gorgeous sense of purity in the red fruits that you sense in the mid-palate, which carries all the way through to the elegant, fresh, vibrant, long, energetic, sensual finish. The wine blends 85% Merlot, 13% Cabernet Franc and 2% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13.5% ABV. The harvest took place September 21 - October 12. Drink from 2025-2050.
    94-96 points
    Jeff Leve - The Wine Cellar Insider

    Rose-edged raspberries on the nose with blackcurrant leaf, soft herbal and earthy tones too. Gently floral and perfumed – so welcoming. Direct and streamlined on the palate with gently chalky/creamy tannins that are so integrated they just glide across the tongue settling around the mouth giving a salty tang to the juicy red and black fruit. Such a lovely freshness; this is delicate in terms of texture and overall frame but well positioned and expressive, benefitting from racy acidity and fruit density. It’s harmonious and balanced with such detail on the palate giving transparency of the vintage, the terroir and the grapes. Confident and finessed: a distinguished 2021 that will give a lot of drinking pleasure. 3.5pH. 32hl/ha Drinking Window 2026 - 2045.
    95 points
    Georgina Hindle - Decanter

    Conditions of Pre Arrival Offer:

    1. There is no minimum order unless stated.

    2. All wines are 750ml unless indicated otherwise.

    3. Once received, all orders will be confirmed with suppliers and then an invoice issued - payment will be due on receipt of this invoice.

    4. The wines are being collected and shipped in refrigerated containers and are due to arrive in late 2024.

    5. Nicks Wine Merchants reserve the right to pass on any changes in Government duties and taxes and delivery charges from the date of order to the date of final delivery of the wine.

    6. Errors and omissions excepted.

    7. Delivery charges may apply - these can be determined by visiting the Freight Rates page.

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    2020 Chateau Beau-Sejour Becot
    Saint Emilion, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $160. 00
    Bottle
    $1920.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    A terrific performance for an estate on a continuing upward trajectory, the 2020 Beau-Séjour Bécot unwinds in the glass with a deep bouquet of cherries and blackberries mingled with violets and spices. Medium to full-bodied, pure and layered, it's deep and concentrated, with a vibrant core of fruit, polished tannins and a long, sapid finish. The 2020 is a blend of 85% Merlot, 13% Cabernet Franc and 2% Cabernet Sauvignon, some two-thirds of which was matured in new oak, with the balance in tanks, amphorae and foudres. Drink: 2027-2055.
    95+ points
    William Kelley - Wine Advocate (April 2023)

    The 2020 Beau-Sejour Becot is a dense, powerful wine. A rush of black cherry, plum, chocolate, new leather, licorice, spice and sweet oak builds as this towering, vertically explosive Saint-Émilion opens in the glass. This is an especially broad, expansive Saint-Émilion, much of that attributable to the clay in these soils. The 2020 is magnificent in its intensity and overall volume. Superb. Drink: 2028-2050.
    97 points
    Antonio Galloni - Vinous

    This has a fantastic finish with crushed blackberries and raspberries and salt undertones. It’s full-bodied, yet really racy and polished with such fine, intense tannins. Love the length to this. Very distinguished and toned. Excellent energy. 85% merlot, 13% cabernet franc and 2% cabernet sauvignon.
    96-97 points
    James Suckling

    A brilliant wine that's up with the finest to date from this incredible terroir, the 2020 Château Beau-Séjour Bécot checks in as 85% Merlot, 13% Cabernet Franc, and the rest Cabernet Sauvignon. Revealing a vivid purple hue as well as a drop-dead gorgeous nose of black raspberries, cassis, violets, and a liquid rock-like sense of minerality, it’s medium to full-bodied and concentrated, with ultra-fine tannins and perfect balance. This beauty deserves 4-5 years of bottle age and will evolve gracefully over the following two decades or more. Don't miss it. Drink: 2023-2043.
    95 points
    Jeb Dunnuck

    With striking floral notes on the nose, you also find licorice, Asian spice, spearmint, cigar wrapper and an array of red and black plums. The wine is lifted, elegant, refined and focused on its purity and silky tannins. The energetic palate leaves you with layers of velvet-textured, sensuous, spicy fruits that lingers and expands for over 50 seconds in the finish. This is a new level of quality at Beau-Sejour Becot and also a change in style with less volume, but more intensity, purity and precision. The wine blends 85% Merlot, 13% Cabernet Franc and 2% Cabernet Sauvignon, 14.3% ABV.
    96-98 points
    Jeff Leve - The Wine Cellar Insider

    Velvety rich deep blue fruits, this is powerful and measured, fruit-forward and yet subtle, layered blueberry and raspberry with smoked almonds and mocha on the finish. Sleek and finessed fruit flavours, a sense of forward motion from beginning to end and a burst of freshly-grated minerality on the finish. Extremely good quality. This is the second to last vintage in the new cellar, before building a new cellar for 2023 vintage. They have done a lot of work in the vineyards studying the terroir to understand how smaller sectors and zones within each plot reacts, and this work of studying the plots will help to inform the new cellar. Harvest September 8th to September 29th. 3.5ph. A yield of 42hl/ha. 16 months ageing in 65% new oak barrel, 35% in vats, amphoras and 20hl oak tanks. Thomas Duclos consultant.
    95 points
    Jane Anson - Decanter

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    2020 Chateau Beaucastel Chateauneuf du Pape
    Chateauneuf du Pape, Southern Rhone, FRANCE
    $280. 00
    Bottle
    $3360.00 Dozen
    ABV: 14.5%
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    Beaucastel's 2020 Chateauneuf du Pape is shaping up as a blend of 30% each Grenache and Mourvèdre, with 10% each Counoise and Syrah, plus 20% other permitted varieties, including a healthy proportion of white grapes. Complex and red-fruited, with hints of flowers and garrigue, it's expansive and richly textured on the palate, finishing long and silky. Drink 2023 - 2037.
    95-97 points
    Joe Czerwinski - Wine Advocate (May 06, 2022)

    The 2020 Châteauneuf-du-Pape displays pronounced aromas of ripe forest strawberry, raspberry, blackberry, blackcurrant, licorice, mint, cured meat, dried herbs and hints of tobacco. On the palate it is full-bodied, concentrated, muscular and framed by polished tannins. Lively acids perfectly balance it, ending with excellent persistence on the savory finish. Producing this high level of quality with a whopping 180,000 bottles is remarkable in the context of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Drink 2024-2042.
    95 points
    Nicolas Greinacher - Vinous

    Very dense black-fruit aromas, but also licorice, an entire microcosm of spice and a whiff of smoked bacon. Very dense and meaty with an incredible tannin structure that enables this to be simultaneously very big and elegant. Super-long finish with enormous mineral freshness. Drink or hold.
    97 points
    James Suckling

    The 2020 Châteauneuf Du Pape was scheduled to be bottled the week after this tasting, and it's the usual blend of 35% Mourvedre, 25% Grenache, and the rest Syrah, Counoise, and other permitted varieties. While the estate compares this to their 2016, it reminds me slightly of their 1990 and has a wonderful perfume of red, blue, and black fruits, as well as sappy garrigue, saddle leather, and ground pepper. It's beautifully textured, medium to full-bodied, has a good sense of freshness, and fine tannins, as well as a tight, focused style on the palate that bodes well for longevity. It deserves 7-8 years of bottle age and should be long-lived.
    94-96 points
    Jeb Dunnuck

    Fresh and bright nose, then a palate with exceptionally smooth and fine tannins, lovely acidity and notes of blackberry and raspberry juice. Particularly fine, elegant and balanced this year. Grenache and Cinsault fermented in cement, Syrah and Mourvèdre fermented in foudre. Drink 2028 - 2042.
    96 points
    Matt Walls - Decanter

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    2019 Chateau Beaucastel Chateauneuf du Pape
    Chateauneuf du Pape, Southern Rhone, FRANCE
    $260. 00
    Bottle
    $3120.00 Dozen
    ABV: 14.5%
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    The dark-fruited, plummy and cola-scented 2019 Chateauneuf du Pape is a rich, full-bodied effort reminiscent of the 2007 or 2009. Dense, powerful and savory, it may drink well for a short time on release, but expect it to close up shortly, only to reemerge in several years. There's ample concentration and sufficient tannins for the long haul, with a long, dusty finish and hints of licorice that bode well for the future. Drink 2026 - 2038.
    95 points
    Joe Czerwinski - Wine Advocate (May 2022)

    Saturated violet color. Powerful, mineral-accented cherry, blackberry, licorice and -garrigue- scents, along with a hint of candied flowers. Deep, penetrating and alluringly sweet, offering cherry liqueur, dark berry, lavender, exotic spice and cola flavors that are given spine by a core of juicy acidity. In a concentrated yet lively, fluid style. Finishes extremely long and precise, with building tannins and a powerful echo of spiciness and florality. Drink 2026-2036.
    95 points
    Josh Raynolds - Vinous

    So much ripe damson-plum and blackberry fruit, but also notes of licorice, candied ginger and baking spices. In spite of all the considerable power and concentration, this is anything but loud or domineering, rather it tastes very poised and precise. Very long finish with pronounced stony character. From organically grown grapes. Drink or hold.
    97 points
    JamesSuckling.com

    The 2019 Châteauneuf Du Pape is the usual blend of roughly 30% Mourvèdre, 30% Grenache, 10% Syrah, 10% Counoise, and the rest a mix of permitted varieties that was brought up in foudre. It offers a vivid ruby/purple hue as well as stunning aromatics of blueberries, violets, peppered beef, leather, and spring flowers. Medium to full-bodied, beautifully balanced, and elegant, it has just a kiss of classic Beaucastel wild, sauvage nuances, ripe, silky tannins, and a great finish. Give bottles 4-5 years of bottle age and enjoy over the following two decades. Drink 2025 - 2046.
    96+ points
    Jeb Dunnuck

    This is pretty gorgeous, with a remarkably pure display of cassis, cherry puree and plum reduction flavors laced ever so gently with threads of leather, alder and dried garrigue. The sleek iron spine is buried deeply on the finish, and there's a lingering hint of warm stone as the fruit echoes through. Built to last. Grenache, Cinsault, Syrah, Mourvèdre, Counoise, Vaccarèse, Terret, Muscardin, Clairette, Picpoul, Bourboulenc, Picardan and Roussanne. Best from 2024 through 2040.
    96 points
    James Molesworth - Wine Spectator

    Immediately rich and damson-scented with a shot of cassis running through it. A medium-bodied, very classic vintage with good freshness. Has a good sense of weight and drive, not endlessly deep like 2017 or 2016 but perfectly balanced. Should age well into the medium, if not long term, but what's more important is that it's extremely delicious, balanced and fresh. Grenache and Cinsault fermented in cement, Syrah and Mourvèdre fermented in foudre. A little less Syrah this year. Drink 2023 - 2033.
    96 points
    Matt Walls - Decanter

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    2018 Chateau Beaucastel Chateauneuf du Pape Hommage A Jacques Perrin
    Chateauneuf du Pape, Southern Rhone, FRANCE
    $799. 00
    Bottle
    $9588.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    Red-fruited and garrigue-laden, the nose of the 2018 Chateauneuf du Pape Hommage à Jacques Perrin is glorious, showing remarkable complexity in its notes of cherries, raspberries and strawberries, all accented by hints of bay leaf, lavender and thyme, plus deeper bass notes of black olives, roasted meat, espresso, star anise and dark chocolate. Full-bodied and intense, it seems to have added structure since last year, with a firm matrix of tannins holding it all together and lingering on the lengthy finish. Put this Mourvèdre-based blend (approximately 60%) away for five or more years; it should drink well for a couple of decades beyond that.
    99 points
    Joe Czerwinski - Wine Advocate (Dec 2020)

    Inky ruby. Deep-pitched red and dark berry liqueur, candied violet, licorice and Moroccan spice scents show superb detail and a smoky mineral overtone. Densely packed and focused on the palate, offering powerful blueberry, bitter cherry and black raspberry flavors, along with chewing tobacco, floral pastille and fruitcake notes. Hangs on with serious persistence, steadily building tannins and reverberating florality. Two-thousand eighteen was a superb vintage for Mourvèdre, and it shows here, with that variety making up about a third of the blend. Drink 2027-2040.
    97 points
    Josh Raynolds - Vinous

    Very spicy with grilled meat and lots of blackberry and blueberry aromas, together with moss and bark, following through to a full body with round, dusty tannins that are polished and together. Finishes a little tight, suggesting the need to age and open up. Chewy at the end, too. Better after 2024, when it opens.
    96 points
    James Suckling

    Lastly, the 2018 Châteauneuf Du Pape Hommage A Jacques Perrin showed beautifully, and while it doesn’t hit the heights of the 2001, 2007, 2010, 2016, or 2017, it’s a beautiful expression of this cuvée that deserves a place in the cellar. Revealing a deep purple hue as well as a kaleidoscope-like array of blueberries, charred meat, graphite, ground pepper, violets, and garrigue, it hits the palate with full-bodied richness, a layered, seamless texture, building tannins, and a magical finish. It doesn’t have the sheer wealth of material found in truly great vintages and stays compact and focused on the palate, but it has beautiful depth of fruit and intensity as well as a seamlessness to its tannins. I suspect it will be relatively approachable by this cuvee’s standards, yet it still has enough structure and tannins to warrant a solid 7-8 years of bottle age. Given its balance, freshness, and purity, it’s going to age beautifully. Drink 2025 - 2050.
    97 points
    Jeb Dunnuck

    This is deeply coloured but not opaque. The 2018 Hommage has a heavy Mourvèdre fug that rises up from the glass with higher toned violet notes along with bass notes of liquorice, rolling tobacco, blackcurrant leaf and a little sticky damson. It’s fairly full-bodied, but without excesses, showing well balanced acidity and alcohol alongside grippy, gently muscular tannins. There are no signs of the more adverse climatic features of the vintage at this stage and it has a good sense of harmony. It’s an excellent wine, though perhaps not the most thunderous or profound Hommage but still a great wine and a remarkably elegant iteration of this cuvée. Amazingly drinkable already, but wait until 2028 if you can. Drink 2024 - 2036.
    97 points
    Matt Walls - Decanter

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    2020 Chateau Beausejour Fronsac
    Fronsac, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $22. 99
    Bottle
    $275.88 Dozen
    Cellar: 5 - 6 Years (2028-2029)
    ABV: 14%
    Closure: Cork

    The same family has owned Château Bel-Air in Pomerol since 1914 and Château Beausejour in Fronsac for five generations. A 85% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Cabernet Franc blend, Chateau Beausejour typically sees 12-18 months in French oak barrels.
    Dense inky black heart with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Enticing red currant, red liquorice and mulberry scents drift from the glass followed by some subtlety toasted vanillin cedar, earthy tobacco and fresh herb notes. The mid weighted palate is layered with rich red currant and red liquorice fruits. Earth, vanillin cedar and spicy tobacco characters linger in the background. Dryish finish with slightly chalky tannins and bright acidity. Concludes with elegance and a touch rustic.
    Cellar 5-6 years.
    Alc. 14%

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    2022 Chateau Beausejour Duffau-Lagarrosse Pre-Arrival Offer
    Saint Emilion, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $375. 00
    Bottle
    $4500.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    The 2022 Beauséjour (Duffau Lagarrosse) promises to be the finest wine that this superb limestone terroir has produced in at least several decades. In recent years, the quality of the site always shone through, but it was sometimes obscured by an impactful vinification and élevage (plenty of creamy new oak and malolactic fermentation in barrel). Much of the estate's Cabernet Franc was frequently eliminated from the blend. Joséphine Duffau Lagarrosse has changed that, incorporating fully 31% Cabernet Franc in the blend to deliver a complex and compelling wine evocative of wild berries, plums, rose petals and violets. Medium to full-bodied, pure and vibrant, it's supple and layered, with beautifully refined tannins, terrific depth at the core and a long, chalky finish.
    95-97+ points
    William Kelley - Wine Advocate (Apr 2023)

    The 2022 Beauséjour Héritiers Duffau-Lagarrosse was picked on 6-9 September for the Merlot and 23 for the Cabernet Franc, representing the highest percentage to date. It was cropped at 42hL/ha with 14.9% alcohol and a pH of 3.5. Aged in 68% new oak, it has a delicate nose that completely disguises that summer's warmth. Precise redcurrant and raspberry fruit aromas are laced with minerals. The limestone soils percolate and evince the estate's style under Joséphine Duffau Lagarrosse. It seems to deepen, to "stretch out" with aeration, manifesting more darker fruit. The palate is medium-bodied, mineral-driven and almost pastille-like in terms of purity with its mélange of red and blue fruit and granular texture. Background notes of tobacco and black truffle begin to surface with time. There's just a trace of white pepper on the finish. Precise, focused and with plenty of substance, this is a characterful and intellectually satisfying Duffau. Most importantly, not only will it be flippin' delicious, but you get the sense that Joséphine is only just getting started. Drink 2030-2065.
    95-97 points
    Neal Martin - Vinous

    A beautiful and enticing red with blackberry, hazelnut, dried flower, spice and berry character. It’s full yet poised with finesse and richness while also being bright and energetic. Precise.
    97-98 points
    James Suckling

    The 2022 Château Beauséjour (Duffau-Lagarrosse) looks to be another brilliant wine from this incredible terroir located just outside the village of Saint-Emilion. Based on 69% Merlot and 31% Cabernet Franc resting in 68% new oak, it sports a dense purple hue as well as a floral, intense bouquet of cassis, liquid violets, black cherries, truffly earth, and graphite. Hitting 14.5% alcohol with a pH of 3.5, it's full-bodied and has a pure, layered, opulent mouthfeel and just about perfect tannins. There's a little bit more clay in the soils at this estate (there's still plenty of limestone) which gives the wines plenty of power and richness, and the 2022 holds onto a beautiful sense of elegance.
    96-98+ points
    Jeb Dunnuck

    One of the clear standouts of the vintage! A sensual, fun, salivating and sublime wine from winemaker Joséphine Duffau-Lagarrosse that manages to give such generosity, power, terroir markers and overall drinkability. Aromatic, scented, open and expressive with cherries, blackcurrants, purple flowers and crushed stones. Sleek and supple, sharp, tangy acidity and concentrated ripe fruit - it’s forward and intense, direct but defined and detailed. Fine and supportive tannins have bite and a mineral tang putting you squarely in St-Emilion on limestone. Raw and wild in a way, but so expressive and open - honest and just such a captivating wine that belies the heat of the vintage with its cool menthol, blue fruits and lifted finish. Streamlined and focussed, sustained, determined and characterful - sleek in the best way, this is confident but not showy. Succulent, classy, polished. A brilliant wine. 3.5pH. A yield of 42hl/ha. Harvest 6 - 9 September for Merlot and 23 September for Cabernet Franc. Julien Viaud and Axel Marchal consultants. Drink 2026 - 2048.
    98-100 points
    Georgina Hindle - Decanter

    Flowers, black raspberries, crushed rocks, saffron, cloves, licorice, and plum liqueur create the nose. Elegant, silky, and fresh, there is intensity along with a haunting sense of purity to the fruits. The wine is perfectly balanced between power, and refinement, which you can easily taste and feel in its layers of ripe, sweet, sensuously-textured fruits. The seamless, mineral-packed finish crosses the 50 second mark with ease. The wine blends 69% Merlot with 31% Cabernet Franc. 14.9% ABV, 3.55 pH. The harvest took place September 6 - September 23. This is the earliest harvest in the history of the estate. Yields were 42 hectoliters per hectare. Drink from 2027- 2055.
    97-99 points
    Jeff Leve - The Wine Cellar Insider

    Conditions of Pre Arrival Offer:
    1. There is no minimum order unless stated.
    2. All wines are 750ml unless indicated otherwise.
    3. Payment is due at the time of ordering to secure stocks.
    4. The wines are being collected and shipped in refrigerated containers and are due to arrive in late 2025.
    5. Nicks Wine Merchants reserve the right to pass on any changes in Government duties and taxes and delivery charges from the date of order to the date of final delivery of the wine.
    6. Errors and omissions excepted.
    7. Delivery charges may apply - these can be determined by visiting the Freight Rates page.

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    • Nick's Import
    2020 Chateau Beausejour Duffau-Lagarrosse
    Saint Emilion, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $320. 00
    Bottle
    $3840.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2020 Beausejour (Duffau Lagarrosse) wafts out of the glass with a glamorous perfume of red roses, kirsch, garrigue and black raspberries, giving way to a core of ripe blackberries and juicy black plums, plus earthy hints of truffles and tar. The medium to full-bodied palate is densely laden with loads of very finely packed and fragrant red and black fruit layers, framed by multilayered grainy and satiny tannin textures and amazing freshness, finishing fantastically long and mineral laced.
    95-97 points
    Lisa Perrotti-Brown - Wine Advocate (May 2021)

    The 2020 Beauséjour Héritiers Duffau-Lagarrosse is one of the most harmonious young wines I have tasted here in some time, maybe ever. All the elements are so well put together. The tannins that can usually be so fierce when the wine is young are totally covered by layers of inky dark fruit. Graphite, wild herbs, lavender, chocolate and gravel add layers of aromatic nuance. In the glass, the 2020 towers with its imposing, vertical structure and pure pedigree.
    95-98 points
    Antonio Galloni - Vinous

    This is a very cool and refined young Bordeaux with crushed-berry, walnut, mushroom, chocolate and salt character. Some wet earth, too. It’s medium-to full-bodied with very integrated tannins that are polished and poised. Energetic, long and precise at the finish. 81.5% merlot and 18.5% cabernet franc.
    97-98 points
    James Suckling

    A blend of 81% Merlot and 19% Cabernet Franc, the 2020 Château Beausejour (Duffau-Lagarrosse) should end up being up with the top wines in the appellation. Showing the more straight, focused style of the vintage, it has a monster of a mid-palate, full-bodied richness, building tannins on the palate, and incredible minerality on the finish. Loaded with cassis fruit as well as lead pencil and graphite notes, this dense, powerful beauty almost requires a fork. It’s brilliant all the way and will have 30-40 years of longevity.
    95-97+ points
    Jeb Dunnuck

    Inky in color with purple accents, the wine pops from the glass with notes of crushed rocks, flowers, licorice, espresso, plums, cherries, black raspberries and oceanic nuances. Fresh, full-bodied, concentrated and intense, the layers of plush, pure fruits are made even better by its salty tannins and seamless finish that doesn't know when to quit. There is an incredible sense of purity in the fruits that comes through loud and clear in the more than 50-second finish. The wine is a blend of 81% Merlot and 19% Cabernet Franc.
    97-99 points
    Jeff Leve - The Wine Cellar Insider

    Takes time to fully show itself - perhaps more than ever this year, as there is so much noise surrounding an estate that was overseen during the growing season and vinification by the team under Nicolas Thienpont, but given its final blend by new owner Josephine Duffau-Lagarosse, who will also take care of ageing from this point. Things kick off with a raspberry and damson softness that is quickly overtaken by iris, peony, white rose aromatics, giving a push-and-pull between flowers and fruit on the attack. As the palate opens out, blueberry and raspberry fruits dominate, as do fennel and almond notes, giving a spicy kick before a saline-drenched mouthwatering finish. As ever with Beauséjour Duffau-Lagarrosse, the wine combines delicacy with laser-like focus, and a build up of tannins that you barely notice until they kick back against the fruit. Takes a good few minutes before the softness that I found on the opening returns as the mid palate widens out, and the richly textured Merlot becomes dominant after a clear Cabernet Franc hit on the attack. It's going to be fascinating watching what happens over the next decade at this estate, but the quality and potential of this terroir is unmistakable.
    97 points
    Jane Anson - Decanter

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    • Nick's Import
    2019 Chateau Beausejour Duffau-Lagarrosse
    Saint Emilion, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $290. 00
    Bottle
    $3480.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    Composed of 86% Merlot and 14% Cabernet Franc, the 2019 Beausejour (Duffau Lagarrosse) was harvested from the 24th of September to the 7th of October. Yields were 45 hectoliters per hectare this year with about 60% of production going into the grand vin. Deep garnet-purple in color, the nose is deceptively forward to begin, giving a wonderful intensity of Morello cherries, wild blueberries and boysenberries scents, soon unfurling to reveal more and more layers: pencil lead, cast-iron pan, wilted roses, oolong tea and charcoal with a hint of garrigue. The medium to full-bodied palate is charged with energetic, crunchy black fruits, framed by firm, grainy tannins and tons of freshness, finishing very long and minerally. If this delivers on its promise, it should be very long-lived indeed! About 2,000 cases are anticipated to be made.
    96-98 points
    Lisa Perrotti-Brown - Wine Advocate

    The 2019 Beauséjour Héritiers Duffau-Lagarrosse is shaping up to be magnificent. A wine of tremendous breadth and power, the 2019 has so much to offer. An infusion of scorched earth, gravel, spice, menthol and blackberry makes a strong first impression. Virile and potent, the 2019 offers remarkable persistence and yet retains quite a bit of finesse, especially given its size. The tannins are there, but they are matched by the intensity of the fruit. This is one of the most impressive wines of the year in the early going. Tasted two times.
    95-97 points
    Antonio Galloni - Vinous

    The 2019 Beauséjour Héritiers Duffau-Lagarrosse is endowed with precocious black cherries, kirsch and blueberry on the nose. Just a hint of menthol emerges with several minutes' aeration. The palate is beautifully balanced with fine precision, detailed and tensile with real quality stacked up towards the mineral-driven, lightly spiced and sophisticated finish. This year, it might just be pipped by Pavie Macquin, another Saint-Émilion managed by Nicolas Thienpont, nevertheless this has great potential and it should cellar for 30-40 years.
    94-96 points
    Neal Martin - Vinous

    A smooth red, showing richness and strength. Blackberries, blueberries, hazelnuts and morel mushrooms. Full body and fine tannins. Solid length.
    95-96 points
    James Suckling

    Another stunning vintage from this brilliant estate that is just delivering hit after hit. Concentration and intensity right from the initial aromatics, damson, cassis and blackberry fruits that you could almost drink now until the tannins build up across the palate and remind you that this is built to last. Velvety texture, black chocolate and crushed stone minerality on the finish. One of the wines of the vintage. Tasted twice, one week apart. 60% 1st wine. A yield of 45hl/ha.
    98 points
    Jane Anson - Decanter

    Deep in color, this is beautiful from start to finish. Elegant, full-bodied, sensual, sexy, fresh and sweet, there is ample concentration and length here. The fruit is ripe and clean with a fabulous sense of purity in its essence. The finish holds your attention, making you want to take another swirl, sniff and sip to see what else you can find here. The wine is made from blending 86% Merlot with 14% Cabernet Franc. The harvest took place September 24-October 7. The production is well above last year with close to 2,000 cases produced. This is one of the stars of the vintage.
    97-99 points
    Jeff Leve - Wine Cellar Insider

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    2021 Chateau Belair-Monange Pre-Arrival Offer
    Saint Emilion, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $360. 00
    Bottle
    $4320.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    Offering up aromas of sweet cherries, cassis, pipe tobacco, loamy soil and spices, the 2021 Belair Monange is medium to full-bodied, supple and enveloping, with powdery tannins and a bright spine of acidity, concluding with a long, intensely saline finish. As young vines replanted on the plateau start to dominate the blend, the identity of this cru is becoming more and more marked, delivering wines of precision and sapidity.
    93-95 points
    William Kelley - Wine Advocate (Apr 30, 2022)

    The 2021 Bélair-Monange is a very beautiful wine. Fruit forward and punchy, the 2021 makes quite a first impression. Ripeness is naturally less pushed here than in recent vintages - that is the year - but it is a style that works so well, as this site offers plenty of richness on its own. A rush of inky red/purplish fruit fills out the layers nicely. There's not a ton of nuance or detail yet, but that will likely come in time. This is very nicely done. Drink 2031-2061.
    93-95 points
    Antonio Galloni - Vinous

    Medium to full body with creamy, velvety tannins. Polished and plush. Pretty spice notes, such as white pepper and cloves to the ripe dark-plum and berry fruit. Some pine cones. Fine, ripe and textured. Concentrated for the vintage. Wonderful length, too.
    96-97 points
    James Suckling

    The 2021 Château Belair-Monange continues to impress, and you could put this up with the top wines in the vintage with no issues. Floral notes of blue fruits, violets, chalky minerality, and spice define the nose, and it's medium to full-bodied on the palate, with a good mix of both richness and freshness, building tannins, and a great finish. Turning more mineral-laced, sappy, and floral as it sits in the glass, this is a complete, incredibly classy Saint-Emilion that will round into form with just a few years of bottle age. If you haven't heard of this château, trust me on this one, get on its bandwagon, as it's destined to be one of the greats in Saint-Emilion.
    93-95+ points
    Jeb Dunnuck

    Deep ruby in color, the wine is filled with black raspberries, flowers, mint, and spices. On the palate, the wine is plush, soft, polished, fresh, vibrant, and long, finishing with crushed rocks, stones, chalk, and bright, fresh, red fruits, with just a touch of spearmint on the backend. The wine blends 99% Merlot and 1% Cabernet Franc, Drink from 2023-2049.
    94-95 points
    Jeff Leve - The Wine Cellar Insider

    Cool blue fruit touches on the nose, excellent acidity gives a rush of succulent and mouth watering cherry and strawberry fruit before this settles quite quickly revealing the minerality so characteristic of this estate. Chalky, wet stone and graphite touches come in with a saltiness that perfectly balances the sweet and concentrated red fruits. This feels refined and well worked with a brightness that is so enjoyable. The 1% Cabernet Franc gives structure and backbone. It's a light style, this is more delicate and refined and all the better for it showing the class of the winemaking and nuances of the terroir. A real beauty. Drink 2027 - 2050.
    95 points
    Georgina Hindle - Decanter

    Conditions of Pre Arrival Offer:

    1. There is no minimum order unless stated.

    2. All wines are 750ml unless indicated otherwise.

    3. Once received, all orders will be confirmed with suppliers and then an invoice issued - payment will be due on receipt of this invoice.

    4. The wines are being collected and shipped in refrigerated containers and are due to arrive in late 2024.

    5. Nicks Wine Merchants reserve the right to pass on any changes in Government duties and taxes and delivery charges from the date of order to the date of final delivery of the wine.

    6. Errors and omissions excepted.

    7. Delivery charges may apply - these can be determined by visiting the Freight Rates page.

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    2020 Chateau Belair-Monange
    Saint Emilion, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $435. 00
    Bottle
    $5220.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    The 2020 Belair Monange has also turned out nicely in bottle, wafting from the glass with aromas of rich cherries, plums, sweet spices, rose petals and creamy new oak. Full-bodied, rich and layered, it remains fresh despite its ripe, sun-kissed profile, and its generous payload of tannin helps to integrate its rather lofty level of alcohol. This is a success in its demonstrative, modern style. Drink 2025 - 2045.
    95 points
    William Kelley - Wine Advocate (Apr 07, 2023)

    The 2020 Bélair-Monange is tremendous. What a wine. It is easily the best effort since the Mouiex family bought the property. Rich, ample and dramatic, Bélair-Monange saturates the palate with waves of inky dark red fruit. Sweet floral, espresso and spice notes appear later, adding shades of nuance. Clean mineral notes extend the finish effortlessly. A wine of exotic beauty and allure, Bélair-Monange is a real stunner in 2020. Drink 2028-2060.
    98 points
    Antonio Galloni - Vinous

    Intense aromas of wet earth, limestone cellars and dark fruits such as currants and blackberries. Then turns to flowers. Black truffles, too. Licorice. Gravel. Full-bodied with a solid palate of tannins that melt into the wine. It’s sleek and muscular with fantastic length and presence. Reminds me of great old Belairs from the 1950s. Cool wine. 98% merlot and 2% cabernet franc. Give it six to eight years of time. Best after 2028.
    99 points
    James Suckling

    The Grand Vin 2020 Château Belair-Monange is also 98% Merlot and 2% Cabernet Franc that's a blend of the upper limestone plateau and the more clay heavy soils on the hillside. Very much in the tight, structured style of the vintage, its dense purple hue is followed by a great nose of ripe black cherries, black raspberries, dried flowers, loamy earth, and camphor, with a beautiful sense of minerality. Opening up with time in the glass, it's full-bodied, has a deep, layered mouthfeel, gorgeous overall balance, and a great finish. It offers pleasure today but will benefit from 7-8 years of bottle age and will be a 30+ year wine. Drink 2030 - 2050.
    98 points
    Jeb Dunnuck

    The combination of incredible purity in the fruit, silky textures, a complex aromatic profile sporting truffles, flowers, licorice, plums, cherries, and cocoa, and a finish that is all about its silky, cashmere texture is what we call a hit! In every sense of the word, this is a magical wine that is rich, full-bodied, sensuous, and sexy, with a finish that lingers, expands, and inspires you to take another sip to experience it all over again. Drink from 2025-2055.
    97 points
    Jeff Leve - The Wine Cellar Insider

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    2019 Chateau Belair-Monange
    Saint Emilion, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $450. 00
    Bottle
    $5400.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2019 Belair Monange comes sashaying out of the glass with a graceful hair-toss of fragrant red roses, cinnamon stick, cardamom and cumin seed notes over a core of Morello cherries, dark chocolate, wild blueberries and blackberry pie plus a touch of pencil shavings. The medium to full-bodied palate is just scrumptious, offering layers of perfumed black fruits and bright floral sparks, framed by exquisitely ripe, satiny tannins and an invigorating line of freshness, finishing on a lingering aniseed note.
    96-98 points
    Lisa Perrotti-Brown - Wine Advocate (Jun 2020)

    The 2019 Bélair-Monange, currently undergoing extensive renovation, was picked from 19 September to 3 October and matured in 50% new oak. It certainly leans upon red fruit on the nose with vivacious wild strawberry, cranberry and Morello scents, wonderful mineralité emerging with aeration. This really repays patience. Monitoring it over an hour it uncovers more black fruit - keeps you on your toes. The palate is medium-bodied with fine-grain tannins and a sensual silky texture that belies the sheer depth of this Saint-Émilion. It fans out with abandon on the finish - just an outstanding wine that will offer drinkers many years of pleasure.
    96-98 points
    Neal Martin - Vinous

    Tight and minerally with tar, currant, and wet-earth aromas and flavors. Medium-to full-bodied. Some salt and white pepper to the black fruit. Black olives, too.
    96-97 points
    James Suckling

    The 2019 Belair-Monange is beautiful and reminds me slightly of the 2016 with its fresh yet concentrated style. Offering lots of black fruits, scorched earth, truffle, lead pencil, and a liquid rock-like minerality, this full-bodied beauty has a solid spine of acidity, beautiful balance, and enough building tannins to warrant a solid 5-7 years of bottle age.
    96-98 points
    Jeb Dunnuck

    Floral in nature, you also find smoke, incense, red fruits, spice box, rocks, stones and oceanic notes in the perfume. The wine is rich, concentrated, fresh, vibrant and silky. The fruits glide across your palate leaving a trail of sweet cherries, salt and plums that hang with you.
    96-98 points
    Jeff Leve - The Wine Cellar Insider

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    2022 Chateau Bellefont-Belcier Pre-Arrival Offer
    Saint Emilion, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $99. 99
    Bottle
    $1199.88 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    This estate's renaissance continues, and the 2022 Bellefont Belcier is both the finest and most elegant wine that the team has produced today. Mingling aromas of plums and sweet berries with notions of rose petals and bay leaf, it's medium to full-bodied, with a deep core of vibrant fruit, beautifully refined tannins and a suave, seamless profile. Readers will remember that this derives from a beautifully situated hillside vineyard, sandwiched between Larcis Ducasse and Tertre Roteboeuf on either side, with holdings belonging to Pavie and Troplong Mondot on the plateau above. The 2022 is a blend of 72% Merlot, 18% Cabernet Franc and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon.
    93-95 points
    William Kelley - Wine Advocate (Apr 2023)

    The 2022 Bellefont-Belcier is quite dark and somber. In recent years, Bellefont is not as brooding as it once was, which is a positive, but the dark, introspective nature remains. Plum, chocolate, licorice, espresso and incense are some of the many notes that open with a bit of coaxing. There’s certainly plenty of depth, yet the 2022 is on the understated side at this stage. Tasted two times. Drink 2027-2047.
    91-93 points
    Antonio Galloni - Vinous

    Blackberry, iron, hazelnut, crushed stone, hints of salt and spice. Medium to full body. Fresh and vivid. Very sophisticated and classy. The tannins are silky and so fine, but then it opens up at the end of the palate.
    97-98 points
    James Suckling

    The 2022 Château Bellefont-Belcier is a lively, medium to full-bodied Saint-Emilion that shines for its vibrancy and purity while still bringing beautiful depth of fruit. A blend of 72% Merlot, 18% Cabernet Franc, and the rest Cabernet Sauvignon, it has a terrific sense of minerality in its red and blue fruits as well as notes of graphite, woodsmoke, and spring flowers. Medium to full-bodied on the palate, this ripe, concentrated, yet incredible elegant 2022 stays nicely focused, has fine grained tannins, and outstanding length. Tasted multiple times with consistent notes.
    93-95+ points
    Jeb Dunnuck

    Flowers, plums, espresso, mint leaf, spice, cedar and blackberries create the nose. On the palate, the wine is silky, elegant, refined, and packed with the essence of minerality adding complexity to its layers of cherries and plums. The fruits express purity and symmetry in the finish. The wine blends 72% Merlot, 18% Cabernet Franc and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon.15% ABV, 3.45 pH. Harvesting took place September 7 - October 6. The wine is aging in 30% new French oak barrels, 30% in foudres and 40% in used oak barrels. Drink from 2027 - 2050.
    96-98 points
    Jeff Leve - The Wine Cellar Insider

    Conditions of Pre Arrival Offer:

    1. There is no minimum order unless stated.

    2. All wines are 750ml unless indicated otherwise.

    3. Payment is due at the time of ordering to secure stocks.

    4. The wines are being collected and shipped in refrigerated containers and are due to arrive in late 2025.

    5. Nicks Wine Merchants reserve the right to pass on any changes in Government duties and taxes and delivery charges from the date of order to the date of final delivery of the wine.

    6. Errors and omissions excepted.

    7. Delivery charges may apply - these can be determined by visiting the Freight Rates page.

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    • Nick's Import
    2016 Chateau Bellevue Mondotte
    Saint Emilion, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $370. 00
    Bottle
    $4440.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    The 2016 Bellevue Mondotte is a blend of 90% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon cropped at 18 hectoliters per hectare because of the old vines and the shallow depth of the earth, 20-30 centimeters until the pickaxe hits limestone. It is matured in 100% new oak, and the alcohol level is 14.84% this year. It has an opulent bouquet with ravishing blueberry and black cherry fruit, crushed violets and a touch of glycerin. The palate is silky smooth on the entry, and whereas I had anticipated being overwhelmed by this Bellevue-Mondotte, it actually retains wonderful elegance and precision. You cannot help but be seduced by this Saint Emilion and its satin-like texture. This is not always my favorite wine from Gérard Perse, as my previous scores attest. However, this year the Bellevue-Mondotte has pulled off a very luxuriant 2016 with a greater sense of control, a wine that should drink beautifully for many years. Tasted twice with consistent notes.
    95-97 points
    Neal Martin eRobertParker.com #230 (Apr 2017)

    Very, very solid, showing a core of delicious blackberry and dark plum fruit laced with anise and light bramble notes. Has a dose of toast, but it's integrated and the finish has drive, thanks to a buried chalky spine.-J.M.
    92-95 points
    Wine Spectator

    There's a vibrance and brilliance that gives this wine focus and energy. Medium body, ultra-fine tannins and a long and beautiful finish. Very fine.
    96-97 points
    James Suckling

    This wine is already well-balanced between the ample acidity, fruitiness and structure. There are bright aromas, plenty of good fruitiness on the palate and a solid background structure. A fine showing for this Gerard Perse estate, it has the freshness and elegance of the vintage.
    92-94 points
    Wine Enthusiast

    The 2016 Bellevue Mondotte is striking. An explosion of fruit and mineral-drenched overtones make a strong first impression. Remarkably nuanced for such a big, powerful wine, the 2016 possesses exceptional balance from the very first taste. Graphite, smoke, crème de cassis, lavender and menthol are some of the many notes that build into the huge finish.
    95-98 points
    Vinous

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    2018 Chateau Bellevue Mondotte
    Saint Emilion, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $340. 00
    Bottle
    $4080.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    Grapes for this wine come from the plateau and were harvested October 3, with yields of 30 hectoliters per hectare. Composed of 90% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon with a 3.5 pH and 14.56% alcohol, the deep purple-black colored 2018 Bellevue Mondotte opens with alluring scents of Christmas cake, blueberry pie, chocolate-covered cherries and hoisin with nuances of Chinese five spice, iron ore, rose hip tea and cracked black pepper. Full-bodied, rich, opulent and totally decadent in the mouth, the palate has a plush texture and maintains that incredible freshness that defines these beautiful wines on the terrace—finishing with tons of spicy fireworks.
    95-97 points
    Lisa Perrotti-Brown - Wine Advocate

    Vibrant blackberry and plum fruit flavors are pure, engaging and fresh in this red. Light-handed toast detail lets this play out nicely. Seems to be a tasty fruit bomb in the making.
    93-96 points
    James Molesworth - Wine Spectator

    This has a real mineral undertone this year with lots of dark-berry, cherry and blueberry character. Full-bodied, chewy and powerful. Excellent. Limestone coming through.
    96-97 points
    James Suckling

    The 2018 Bellevue Mondotte is a hugely promising wine that deftly balances fruit intensity and structure. Often a tannic, forbidding Saint-Émilion in the early going, Bellevue Mondotte is dark, sensual and incredibly inviting. The tannins are there, but they are pretty much buried by the opulence of the fruit. Dark red plum, rose petal, leather and spice all pulse with tremendous energy. The 2018 is an unusually racy, sensual Bellevue Mondotte. I loved it.
    93-96 points
    Antonio Galloni - Vinous

    The 2018 Bellevue Mondotte is a blockbuster that just jumps out of the glass with its crème de cassis, crushed violets, blackberry, and licorice aromas and flavors. It's powerful, opulent, and massively textured, yet never over the top or too much. It has building tannins, no hard edges, and a great finish.
    96-98 points
    Jeb Dunnuck

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    • Nick's Import
    2022 Chateau Berliquet Pre-Arrival Offer
    Saint Emilion, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $140. 00
    Bottle
    $1680.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    The 2022 Berliquet is brilliant, bursting with aromas of plums, wild berries and lilac, followed by a medium to full-bodied, concentrated and vibrant palate that's deep and mineral. It's likely to be another of the vintage's more attractive en primeur proportions. This estate just goes from strength to strength—and that's before its new winery has been constructed! One of the most significant changes has been opting to retain higher canopies, which means that the fruiting zone of rows planted along the slope are now shaded, preserving freshness.
    94-95 points
    William Kelley - Wine Advocate (Apr 2023)

    The 2022 Berliquet was picked from 29 August to 14 September and matured in 44% new oak. The wood is a little more prominent on the nose than the Canon, with black cherries, bilberry and light oyster shell scents. The palate is medium-bodied with succulent tannins. This is a juicy Berliquet that probably belies the structure underneath. There's more red fruit toward the finish, with a touch of pepper on the aftertaste. Drink 2030-2055.
    92-94 points
    Neal Martin - Vinous

    Lots of dark and crushed stones with blackberries and black olives. Dark earth. Full-bodied and more concentrated with very intense fruit and chewy tannins. Velvety and slightly rough, but all there.
    93-94 points
    James Suckling

    Candied cherries, tapenade, violets, and floral notes all emerge from the 2022 Château Berliquet, a medium to full-bodied, seamless Saint-Emilion that brings plenty of ripeness while staying nicely balanced, light on its feet, and elegant. Based on 65% Merlot and 35% Cabernet Franc, from yields of 31.2 hectoliter per hectare, it will spend 16 months in 44% new French oak, with a portion of the blend aged in amphora. This isn't the most powerful or opulent wine in the vintage, but it's as seamless and graceful as they come.
    94-96 points
    Jeb Dunnuck

    Flowers, crushed stones, espresso, and red pit fruits create the nose. On the palate, the wine is expressive, silky, long, and deep, with intensity, purity and elegance, finishing with salty-chocolate, black, red and white cherries, plums and a dash of cocoa. The wine leaves you with refined, soft, polished edge in the finish. The wine blends 65% Merlot with 35% Cabernet Franc, 14.5% ABV, 3.55 pH. Drink from 2026-2048.
    94-96 points
    Jeff Leve - The Wine Cellar Insider

    Conditions of Pre Arrival Offer:
    1. There is no minimum order unless stated.
    2. All wines are 750ml unless indicated otherwise.
    3. Payment is due at the time of ordering to secure stocks.
    4. The wines are being collected and shipped in refrigerated containers and are due to arrive in late 2025.
    5. Nicks Wine Merchants reserve the right to pass on any changes in Government duties and taxes and delivery charges from the date of order to the date of final delivery of the wine.
    6. Errors and omissions excepted.
    7. Delivery charges may apply - these can be determined by visiting the Freight Rates page.

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    • 93
    • 92
    • 93
    • 91
    • Nick's Import
    2021 Chateau Berliquet Pre-Arrival Offer
    Saint Emilion, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $113. 00
    Bottle
    $1356.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    The 2021 Berliquet shows considerable promise, exhibiting aromas of cherries, wild berries, raw cocoa and rose petals, followed by a medium to full-bodied, lively and charming palate that's framed by powdery tannins and tangy acids. Concluding with a long and saline finish, this estate continues to go from strength to strength under the administration of Nicolas Audibert and his team.
    92-93 points
    William Kelley - Wine Advocate (Apr 2022)

    The 2021 Berliquet is the best wine the new team led by Technical Director Nicolas Audebert has made since taking over the property a few years ago. The purity of the fruit is striking. Red cherry, plum, lavender, rose petal and spice lend nuance throughout. Despite the obviously challenging growing season, the Berliquet team turned out a very pretty wine. Impressive. Tasted three times. Drink 2029-2036.
    91-93 points
    Antonio Galloni - Vinous

    The 2021 Berliquet was picked September 23 to October 5 at 30hL/ha, and matured in 44% new oak for a planned 16 months. Limpid purple in color. The nose is surprisingly concentrated given the growing season, offering crème de cassis and violet petal aromas. The palate is medium-bodied with quite firm tannins that frame the black cherry and boysenberry fruit. Not a complex Berliquet, yet it possesses admirable substance and ripeness on the finish. One to watch. Drink 2029-2050.
    91-93 points
    Neal Martin - Vinous

    Rather firm and muscular tannins frame the wine. Medium-to full-bodied with a column of fruit and density. Shows potential. Earth and spice at the end.
    93-94 points
    James Suckling

    The 2021 Château Berliquet is another red-fruited, vibrant, floral effort in the vintage that offers medium-bodied richness and depth, as well as beautiful balance. A blend of 61% Merlot and 39% Cabernet Franc that saw malolactic fermentation in barrel and is still resting in 44% new oak, it has bright acidity, silky tannins, and just an incredible sense of purity and elegance. Managed today by the team of Nicolas Audebert, the quality here is on an upward trajectory, and this is an estate readers need to have on their radar. Thomas Duclos also consults here. Tasted three times.
    91-93 points
    Jeb Dunnuck

    Earthy plums, cherries, flowers, and a touch of menthol form the nose. On the palate, the wine is medium-bodied, soft, bright, silky and fresh, with sweet, ripe, red fruits in the, refined finish. The wine blends 61 % Merlot with 39 % Cabernet Franc 13.5% ABV. The harvest took place September 23 - October 5. Drink from 2023-2038.
    91-93 points
    Jeff Leve - The Wine Cellar Insider

    Lovely aromatics on the nose of ripe blackcurrant and black cherry with some creamy elements. Concentrated and driving on the palate with lively acidity and a well balanced density for the vintage in the grippy but chewy tannins, fresh blackcurrant and bramble fruits and such precision of elements. Everything feels well worked, refined and well presented with freshness and sense of energy all the way through. It's not the most layered at this point, quite linear with tension but excellently executed. A very classy wine and one to seek out! An excellent success this year from winemaker Nicolas Audebert and his team. 3.41pH. Drinking Window 2025 - 2040.
    93 points
    Georgina Hindle - Decanter

    Conditions of Pre Arrival Offer:

    1. There is no minimum order unless stated.

    2. All wines are 750ml unless indicated otherwise.

    3. Once received, all orders will be confirmed with suppliers and then an invoice issued - payment will be due on receipt of this invoice.

    4. The wines are being collected and shipped in refrigerated containers and are due to arrive in late 2024.

    5. Nicks Wine Merchants reserve the right to pass on any changes in Government duties and taxes and delivery charges from the date of order to the date of final delivery of the wine.

    6. Errors and omissions excepted.

    7. Delivery charges may apply - these can be determined by visiting the Freight Rates page.

    • 95
    • 94
    • 93
    • 94
    • Nick's Import
    2020 Chateau Berliquet
    Saint Emilion, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $130. 00
    Bottle
    $1560.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    A brilliant success for this property in the ascendant, the 2020 Berliquet opens in the glass with aromas of dark berries and cherries mingled with hints of warm spices and violets. Medium to full-bodied, deep and layered, it's vibrant and dynamic, with polished tannins, a bright spine and a long, elegantly chalky finish. It represents another step up for Berliquet, which will soon benefit from a new winery. Drink: 2025-2050.
    95 points
    William Kelley - Wine Advocate (April 2023)

    Very soft and polished with beautiful tannins that are poised and beautiful. It’s medium-to full-bodied and gorgeously proportioned. Ready for even more polishing.
    95-96 points
    James Suckling

    Another brilliant Saint-Emilion in the vintage, the 2020 Château Berliquet is mostly Merlot yet includes close to a third Cabernet Franc, which no doubt contributes to its elegant, finesse-driven, floral character. It's incredibly pure and classy, with notes of red and blue fruits, sappy spring flowers, graphite, and baking spices all emerging on the nose. These carry to a medium-bodied, ultra-fine, pure, seamless 2020 that offers pleasure today and will offer pleasure in 15+ years as well. This wine is never the biggest or richest in a vintage, but it shines for its purity, balance, and elegance. It's beautifully done. Drink: 2023-2038.
    94 points
    Jeb Dunnuck

    Quite floral in nature, with tinges of orange rind, cherry blossoms, licorice, red plum liqueur and minerality on the nose. The wine is elegant, fresh, polished, sweet and long. Silky and precise, with no hard edges, there is length and salty tannins with energetic, pure red fruits squeezed over crushed rocks and stones. This is the best vintage of Berliquet I have ever tasted. The wine blends 69 % Merlot with 31 % Cabernet Franc 14.5% ABV.
    94-96 points
    Jeff Leve - The Wine Cellar Insider

    A slightly cooler terroir than its sibling estate Château Canon, a little more clay-based which gives weight, depth and power while also being austere right now, with grippy tannins and a bite of blood orange. Great stuff, can start drinking this in five to six years to allow the structure to soften while keeping the appeal of the wild cherry and blackberry fruits. 50% new oak for 16 months. Drink: 2028-2042.
    93 points
    Jane Anson - Decanter

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    • Nick's Import
    2022 Chateau Beychevelle (375ml) Pre-Arrival Offer
    Saint Julien, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $108. 00
    Bottle
    $1296.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    Unwinding in the glass with aromas of dark berries, cherries and cassis mingled with hints of violets and licorice, framed by creamy new oak, the 2022 Beychevelle is medium to full-bodied, velvety and layered, with a fleshy core of fruit framed by rich, unusually suave and polished tannins in the context of recent vintages at this address. It's a blend of 64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 42% Merlot and 4% Petit Verdot, with a pH of 3.85, quite typical for this address.
    92-94 points
    William Kelley - Wine Advocate (Apr 2023)

    The 2022 Beychevelle is fabulous. In most recent vintages Beychevelle has been a flamboyant, extravagant Saint-Julien, but in 2022 is its surprisingly vibrant and fresh, almost shockingly so. Ripe red cherry/plum fruit, blood orange, rose petal and spice are all beautifully delineated. More than anything, I admire the wine’s freshness and drive, qualities that have not often been present in recent vintages. That makes the 2022 one of my favorite recent vintages here. Tasted three times. Drink 2032-2052.
    94-96 points
    Antonio Galloni - Vinous

    The tannins are very well-integrated with lovely bright fruit of currants and blackberries. Medium to full body. Vivid and pretty. 54% cabernet sauvignon, 42% merlot and 4% petit verdot.
    94-95 points
    James Suckling

    I was able to taste the 2022 Château Beychevelle on multiple occasions, and it never failed to impress me. Based on 54% Cabernet Sauvignon, 42% Merlot, and the rest Petit Verdot that will see 18 months in 70% new oak, it's one of those wines that makes you stop and say "wow" due to its purity, depth, and texture. Sporting a dense purple hue as well as lots of blueberry and black cherry fruits, it's full-bodied and has a layered, seamless mouthfeel, building yet gorgeous tannins, and subtle background notes of crushed violets, flowers, and graphite. This is a sensational effort from director Philippe Blanc.
    95-97+ points
    Jeb Dunnuck

    Flowers, black cherries, cedar, tobacco wrapper, and blackberries crowd into the perfume. On the palate, the fruits match the nose. The wine is silky, fresh, vibrant, and concentrated. The fruits express purity, elegance and refinement. The finish delivers a wealth of sweet red, and black fruits, creamy textures and a chalky finish that sticks with you. The wine blends 54% Cabernet Sauvignon, 42% Merlot, and 4% Petit Verdot.14% ABV, pH 3.85. The harvest took place September 12 - September 29. The yields were 36 hectoliters per hectoliter with 60% of the harvest going into the Grand Vin. Drink from 2027-2060.
    96-98 points
    Jeff Leve - The Wine Cellar Insider

    Conditions of Pre Arrival Offer:
    1. There is no minimum order unless stated.
    2. All wines are 750ml unless indicated otherwise.
    3. Payment is due at the time of ordering to secure stocks.
    4. The wines are being collected and shipped in refrigerated containers and are due to arrive in late 2025.
    5. Nicks Wine Merchants reserve the right to pass on any changes in Government duties and taxes and delivery charges from the date of order to the date of final delivery of the wine.
    6. Errors and omissions excepted.
    7. Delivery charges may apply - these can be determined by visiting the Freight Rates page.

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