6233 products

Imported Red Wines

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    • Nick's Import
    2022 Chateau Beychevelle Pre-Arrival Offer
    Saint Julien, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $215. 00
    Bottle
    $2580.00 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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    • Nick's Import
    2022 Chateau Branaire-Ducru (375ml) Pre-Arrival Offer
    Saint Julien, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $62. 99
    Bottle
    $755.88 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    A brilliant wine that's the finest young vintage I've tasted at this Saint-Julien estate, the 2022 Branaire-Ducru wafts from the glass with aromas of violets, blackberries, sweet cassis, licorice and pencil shavings, followed by a medium to full-bodied, layered and multidimensional palate that's succulent, sapid and perfumed, framed by supple tannins and concluding with a long, mouthwatering finish. It's a blend of 60.5% Cabernet Sauvignon, 31.5% Merlot, 5.5% Cabernet Franc and 2.5% Petit Verdot that checks in at a healthy pH of 3.65. Why is it so good this year? In addition to the quality of the vintage, the new gravity-flow winery means fruit can be handled more gently, and picked more precisely, sub-block by sub-block, as the team now have fully 63 vats at their disposal, almost double their capacity through 2020. Given the Maroteaux family's sensible approach to pricing, this is likely to number among the must-purchase wines of the 2022 vintage, and it comes warmly recommended.
    95-97 points
    William Kelley - Wine Advocate (Apr 2023)

    The 2022 Branaire Ducru was harvested from 12-24 September at 34.5hL/ha, the blend representative of their vineyard plantings. This feels refined and focused on the nose with plush red berry fruit, dried rose petals and orange rind scents. Classic Branaire. The palate is fresh on the entry with pliant tannins. It's very well structured to the degree that it conveys a sense of symmetry. Lightly spiced toward the finish with notes of graphite lingering on the aftertaste, this represents an excellent Branaire Ducru that will age over many years and will surely appeal to those seeking more classical Saint-Julien. Tasted three times and was more impressive each time. Branaire-Ducru continues its upward trajectory under proprietor François-Xavier Maroteaux. 14.3% alcohol. Drink 2030-2065.
    95-97 points
    Neal Martin - Vinous

    The fine and intense tannins are very impressive because they fold beautifully into the wine, with blackcurrants, black cherries, hints of chocolate and hazelnuts. It's full-bodied with tight and focused fruit and a long and classy finish. Fantastic definition to this. Fresh. 60.5% cabernet sauvignon, 31.5% merlot, 5.5% cabernet franc, and 2.5% petit verdot.
    96-97 points
    James Suckling

    An absolute gem of a Saint-Julien, the 2022 Château Branaire-Ducru clocks in as 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 31% Merlot, and the balance Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Pure cassis, black raspberries, spicy wood, and dried flower notes all define the aromatics, and it hits the palate with medium to full-bodied richness, a silky, elegant, beautifully balanced mouthfeel, and terrific tannins. In addition, it has a sense of freshness and purity that keeps you coming back to the glass. It's clearly the finest wine I've tasted from this château, which going forward merits serious attention.
    95-97 points
    Jeb Dunnuck

    One of the standouts of the vintage that impressed equally on three different occasions. Fragrant and expressive on the nose, lovely scents and dark fruits. Smooth and crisp, silky but concentrated, such precision and detail straight away with succulent and juicy acidity. There’s concentration no doubt, it’s ripe and intense, the dark perfumed blackcurrants and black cherries give a serious backbone and tension to the wine, while the minty, stony freshness carries the flavour and gives the energy and definition. Excellently weighted on the palate, with structure and a mouthwatering sensation that comes in once the weight settles. So well constructed with a beautiful texture and overall integration of all the elements. Exceptional quality and drinkability on offer with a delicious salty, graphite and flint finish that puts you at the estate. Overlook this at your peril. 2.5% Petit Verdot completes the blend. 3.65pH. Harvest 12 - 24 September. 60% grand vin production. A yield of 34hl/ha. Tasted three times. This vintage was the first to be made 100% in the new cellar with double the number of vats than were available in 2020 for more precise fermentations. HVE3 certified. Harvest 12 September - 24 September. Drink 2028 - 2049.
    97 points
    Georgina Hindle - Decanter

    Deep in color, the wine displays its bouquet of flowers before getting to all of its dark, red fruits, spice, mocha, nutmeg, vanilla, and black cherries. While the aromatics are enticing, it is on the palate, with all of its silky-textures, creaminess, energy and most importantly, purity of fruit and concentration that provides you with the best part of the experience. The finish has never been this defined, elegant and concentrated in any previous vintage of Branaire Ducru. This is an entirely new level of quality here. Clearly, this is the best vintage of Branaire Ducru ever produced! The wine blends 60.5% Cabernet Sauvignon, 31.5% Merlot, 5.5% Cabernet Franc, and 2.5% Petit Verdot. 14.3% ABV, 3.65 pH. The harvest took place September 12 - September 24. The yields were 34 hectoliters per hectare. 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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    • Nick's Import
    2022 Chateau Branaire-Ducru Pre-Arrival Offer
    Saint Julien, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $125. 00
    Bottle
    $1500.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    While classified as a Fourth Growth, this isn’t a true reflection of the high standard of wines being made at Chateau Branaire Duru since the turn of the century. Always a great value wine, they really shine in the top years with excellent wines made in 2000/2005/2009-10/2015-16. The 60 hectare gravel and clay vineyard is planted to 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 28% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc, and 3% Petit Verdot.

    Other Reviews....
    A brilliant wine that's the finest young vintage I've tasted at this Saint-Julien estate, the 2022 Branaire-Ducru wafts from the glass with aromas of violets, blackberries, sweet cassis, licorice and pencil shavings, followed by a medium to full-bodied, layered and multidimensional palate that's succulent, sapid and perfumed, framed by supple tannins and concluding with a long, mouthwatering finish. It's a blend of 60.5% Cabernet Sauvignon, 31.5% Merlot, 5.5% Cabernet Franc and 2.5% Petit Verdot that checks in at a healthy pH of 3.65. Why is it so good this year? In addition to the quality of the vintage, the new gravity-flow winery means fruit can be handled more gently, and picked more precisely, sub-block by sub-block, as the team now have fully 63 vats at their disposal, almost double their capacity through 2020. Given the Maroteaux family's sensible approach to pricing, this is likely to number among the must-purchase wines of the 2022 vintage, and it comes warmly recommended.
    95-97 points
    William Kelley - Wine Advocate (Apr 2023)

    The 2022 Branaire Ducru was harvested from 12-24 September at 34.5hL/ha, the blend representative of their vineyard plantings. This feels refined and focused on the nose with plush red berry fruit, dried rose petals and orange rind scents. Classic Branaire. The palate is fresh on the entry with pliant tannins. It's very well structured to the degree that it conveys a sense of symmetry. Lightly spiced toward the finish with notes of graphite lingering on the aftertaste, this represents an excellent Branaire Ducru that will age over many years and will surely appeal to those seeking more classical Saint-Julien. Tasted three times and was more impressive each time. Branaire-Ducru continues its upward trajectory under proprietor François-Xavier Maroteaux. 14.3% alcohol. Drink 2030-2065.
    95-97 points
    Neal Martin - Vinous

    The fine and intense tannins are very impressive because they fold beautifully into the wine, with blackcurrants, black cherries, hints of chocolate and hazelnuts. It's full-bodied with tight and focused fruit and a long and classy finish. Fantastic definition to this. Fresh. 60.5% cabernet sauvignon, 31.5% merlot, 5.5% cabernet franc, and 2.5% petit verdot.
    96-97 points
    James Suckling

    An absolute gem of a Saint-Julien, the 2022 Château Branaire-Ducru clocks in as 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 31% Merlot, and the balance Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Pure cassis, black raspberries, spicy wood, and dried flower notes all define the aromatics, and it hits the palate with medium to full-bodied richness, a silky, elegant, beautifully balanced mouthfeel, and terrific tannins. In addition, it has a sense of freshness and purity that keeps you coming back to the glass. It's clearly the finest wine I've tasted from this château, which going forward merits serious attention.
    95-97 points
    Jeb Dunnuck

    One of the standouts of the vintage that impressed equally on three different occasions. Fragrant and expressive on the nose, lovely scents and dark fruits. Smooth and crisp, silky but concentrated, such precision and detail straight away with succulent and juicy acidity. There’s concentration no doubt, it’s ripe and intense, the dark perfumed blackcurrants and black cherries give a serious backbone and tension to the wine, while the minty, stony freshness carries the flavour and gives the energy and definition. Excellently weighted on the palate, with structure and a mouthwatering sensation that comes in once the weight settles. So well constructed with a beautiful texture and overall integration of all the elements. Exceptional quality and drinkability on offer with a delicious salty, graphite and flint finish that puts you at the estate. Overlook this at your peril. 2.5% Petit Verdot completes the blend. 3.65pH. Harvest 12 - 24 September. 60% grand vin production. A yield of 34hl/ha. Tasted three times. This vintage was the first to be made 100% in the new cellar with double the number of vats than were available in 2020 for more precise fermentations. HVE3 certified. Harvest 12 September - 24 September. Drink 2028 - 2049.
    97 points
    Georgina Hindle - Decanter

    Deep in color, the wine displays its bouquet of flowers before getting to all of its dark, red fruits, spice, mocha, nutmeg, vanilla, and black cherries. While the aromatics are enticing, it is on the palate, with all of its silky-textures, creaminess, energy and most importantly, purity of fruit and concentration that provides you with the best part of the experience. The finish has never been this defined, elegant and concentrated in any previous vintage of Branaire Ducru. This is an entirely new level of quality here. Clearly, this is the best vintage of Branaire Ducru ever produced! The wine blends 60.5% Cabernet Sauvignon, 31.5% Merlot, 5.5% Cabernet Franc, and 2.5% Petit Verdot. 14.3% ABV, 3.65 pH. The harvest took place September 12 - September 24. The yields were 34 hectoliters per hectare. 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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    • Nick's Import
    2022 Chateau Brane Cantenac Pre-Arrival Offer
    Margaux, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $190. 00
    Bottle
    $2280.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Rare in the landscape of Bordeaux, the heart of the Second Growth Chateau Brane Cantenac vineyard has remained relatively unchanged since the 1855 classification with the 45 hectares surrounding the Chateau still used for the Grand Vin. The balance of the 75 hectare estate makes it into the second wine, Baron de Brane. Vineyards are planted to 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot, 4.5% Cabernet Franc, and 0.5% Carmenere.

    Other Reviews....
    A blend of 74% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Merlot and the balance Cabernet Franc, Carmenère and Petit Verdot, the 2022 Brane-Cantenac unwinds in the glass with aromas of dark berries, crème de cassis, black truffles, loamy soil, burning embers and violets. Medium to full-bodied, deep and velvety, with a fleshy core of fruit, terrific concentration and lively acids, it concludes with a long, perfumed finish. This is a terrific 2022 that may rival or even surpass the 2019 if it realizes all its potential in bottle.
    95-97 points
    William Kelley - Wine Advocate (Apr 2023)

    The 2022 Brane-Cantenac, as usual, is a wine that you must sit and contemplate before words gush forth. It was picked from 7 September to 10 October (their tiny plot of Carmenère) at 31.5hL/ha and contains 16% vin de presse from the Cabernet Sauvignon. It is well-defined and fresh, a very subtle Margaux, precise with blackberry, wild strawberry, cedar and tobacco scents. As previous vintages have proven, there's a kind of "hidden depth" that will become apparent post-bottling. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins, very elegant and unashamedly classic in style. This is blessed with haunting poise, composed and detailed on the finish. This Margaux is not a show stopper, which in any case, is not really Henri Lurton/Brane Cantenac’s signature style. Instead, it is a wine that 15 to 20 years down the road, you are going to treasure. Drink 2030-2065.
    96-98 points
    Neal Martin - Vinous

    A long and very linear red for Margaux with intense freshness and energy. The cabernet sauvignon shows real clarity with blackcurrants and flowers. Crushed stone. Firm and racy with lots of lemon rind and intensity. 74% cabernet sauvignon, 23% merlot, 1% cabernet franc, 1% petit verdot and 1% carmenere.
    96-97 points
    James Suckling

    I was absolutely blown away by the 2022 Château Brane-Cantenac, which looks to be a reference point vintage for this château. Based on 74% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Merlot, and the rest Cabernet Franc, Carmenère, and Petit Verdot, it sports a deep purple hue to go with incredible aromatics of crème de cassis, lead pencil, sandalwood, and spring flowers. Medium to full-bodied on the palate, it shines for its purity of fruit, has ultra-fine tannins, a great mid-palate, and one heck of a finish. It hit 14.3% alcohol with a pH of 3.6, and like many estates today, they utilized quite a bit of press wine (15%) in the final blend. This is clearly up with the finest wines from the appellation and is well worth seeking out.
    96-98 points
    Jeb Dunnuck

    One of the standouts of the year - a wonderful wine with so much to like. Coffee, tobacco, liquorice, dark chocolate, blackcurrants and floral scents on the nose. Smooth, succulent and velvety, this is amazing, juicy and so bright and vibrant. Pure and so effortless, tannins are filling but fine and delicate and this has excellent clarity and purity of fruit. They really didn't try too hard but have still delivered a powerful wine with concentration and intensity yet brightness and such generosity of fruit and acidity which makes this so joyful. Simply wonderful. Harvest 7 September-10 October. Yield of 31.5hl/ha. 3.61pH. 1% Petit Verdot and 1% Carmenere complete the blend. 42% production. 15.8% press wine. Ageing 18 months, 100% new oak. 3.57pH. Drink 2029 - 2050.
    98 points
    Georgina Hindle - Decanter

    Deeply colored, the wine opens with violets, lilacs, roses, cigar wrappers, creme de cassis, spice and lavender aromatics in the perfume. On the palate, the wine is pure silk and velvet. There is a beautiful elegance, symmetry, and balance you notice as soon as the wine graces your palate. There is length, purity, and refinement making this effortless to taste. The finish has no edges, leaving you with a wealth of sensuous fruits. Fans of Brane Cantenac should run, not walk, and buy this gem as prices continue to remain reasonable for a wine of this character, and quality. The wine blends 74% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Merlot, and 1% of Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Carmenere. The wine is 14.3% ABV, 3.61 pH. The harvest took place September 7 - October 4, with the Carmenere being picked October 10. This is the earliest start to a harvest in the history of the estate. Yields were 31.5% hectoliters per hectare. The Grand Vin was produced from only 42% of the harvest. Drink from 2027-2055.
    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
    2022 Chateau Calon Segur Pre-Arrival Offer
    Saint Estephe, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $320. 00
    Bottle
    $3840.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    As one of the three original estates in Saint-Estephe, the history of Calon Segur can be dated back to 1146. Always solid but rarely reaching above their Third Growth status, the Chateau has been on a steady increase in quality since an ownership change in 2012. Completely rejuvenated cellars and a replanting regime have reaped early rewards, with excellent wines in made 2014 and 2015, and perhaps their best ever effort in 2016.

    Other Reviews....
    The 2022 Calon-Ségur is another superb wine from this historic Saint-Estèphe third growth that began a comprehensive renaissance the better part of a decade ago. Unwinding in the glass with aromas of cassis and blackberries mingled with hints of fresh mint, burning embers, licorice and violets, it's medium to full-bodied, layered and concentrated, with terrific depth at the core, supple tannins and a long, saline finish. The blend consists of 57% Cabernet Sauvignon, 34% Merlot, 7% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot. Vincent Millet observed that "when you tasted the Merlot, you were under the impression that you were tasting Cabernet."
    96-98 points
    William Kelley - Wine Advocate (Apr 2023)

    The 2022 Calon-Ségur was cropped at 26hL/ha compared to 36hL/ha last year. Matured for 20 months in new oak, it has a well-defined bouquet with blackberry, raspberry, cedar and subtle tobacco scents. The 2022 is tight at first but opens with aeration (winemaker Vincent Millet remarked how the wine was much more expressive the week I tasted it in mid-April compared to the previous week). The palate is classically styled with impressive mid-palate depth. With strict tannins and multi-layered graphite-infused black fruit, this is reminiscent of some postwar Calon-Ségur's I have tasted. I wonder if slightly less vin de presse would have been better? Uncompromising, perhaps that might be its virtue, but it means that patience will be required. Drink 2027-2055.
    94-96 points
    Neal Martin - Vinous

    A very juicy red with redcurrant and creme de cassis as well as hints of nutmeg and cloves. It's full and polished with very pretty tannins that show length and focus. Traditional and typical for Calon with the tannin structure. A little closed today. But serious structure.
    95-96 points
    James Suckling

    A wine that's going to flirt with perfection, the 2022 Château Calon Ségur is a blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 24% Merlot, and the rest Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, harvested between September 12 and 26, from yields of 40 hectoliters per hectare. Its deep purple hue is followed by a heavenly bouquet of cassis, smoke tobacco, flowery incense, and toasted spices. This ripe, sexy, full-bodied beauty has ultra-fine tannins, a layered, multi-dimensional mouthfeel, and a great finish. Its tannins, as well as its overall balance and purity, are just about off the charts, and this remarkable effort shows how successful the northern part of the Médoc was in 2022. Bravo!
    97-99 points
    Jeb Dunnuck

    Rich and vibrant on the nose, smells concentrated and alcoholic. Crisp and clean on the palate however with bite to the cherry, plum and blackcurrant fruit alongside a hint of sweet strawberry and herbal raspberry on the mid palate that gives some instant energy before the clear concentration and heft of the wine shows through. Not so much in the texture but in the ripe flavours, cool minty and stone edged tannins and clear liquorice and clove spice. Still taught but detailed with elements of generosity. 2% Petit Verdot completes the blend. 3.65pH. A yield of 26hl/ha. Ageing 17 months, 30% new oak. Drink 2029 - 2047.
    96 points
    Georgina Hindle - Decanter

    Inky dark in color, the wine pops with crème de cassis, blackberries, smoke, lead pencil, 5 spice, and flowers in the aromatics. The wine explodes with endless waves of cassis, peppery blackberries, Asian spice, espresso, and dark chocolate on the palate. Everything is in place here. The wine coats your teeth, palate, and gums with fruit, and freshness that sings. The seamless finish is made even better with a refreshing hit of chocolate mint at the end. The wine builds, and expands in the finish as it crosses the 60 second mark. The wine blends 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 24% Merlot, 5% Cabernet franc and 1% Petit Verdot. 15% ABV, 3.8 pH. The harvest took place September 6 - September 27. The is the earliest harvest in the history of the property. Yields were 26 hectoliters per hectare. Only 53% of harvest was placed into the Grand Vin. The wine is aging in 100% new, French oak barrels for 20 months before bottling. Drink from 2028-2060.
    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
    2021 Chateau Calon Segur Pre-Arrival Offer
    Saint Estephe, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $235. 00
    Bottle
    $2820.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    As one of the three original estates in Saint-Estephe, the history of Calon Segur can be dated back to 1146. Always solid but rarely reaching above their Third Growth status, the Chateau has been on a steady increase in quality since an ownership change in 2012. Completely rejuvenated cellars and a replanting regime have reaped early rewards, with excellent wines in made 2014 and 2015, and perhaps their best ever effort in 2016.

    Other Reviews....
    A brilliant effort that will delight Médoc purists, the 2021 Calon-Ségur wafts from the glass with aromas of rose petals, wild berries, plums, Indian spices, woodsmoke and pencil shavings. Medium to full-bodied, velvety and seamless, it's deep and lively, with beautifully ripe tannins and an exquisitely balanced profile. In spirit, this blend of 81% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Cabernet Franc, 7% Merlot and 1% Petit Verdot is reminiscent of the 1996 vintage, though the 2021 won't go through such an extended period of hibernation and will attain a much higher peak of quality. It attained 12.9% alcohol without any chaptalization, saignée or osmosis. Tasted twice.
    95-96+ points
    William Kelley - Wine Advocate (Apr 2022)

    The 2021 Calon Ségur was cropped at 36hL/ha and aged entirely in new oak for a planned 20 months. This year, the gap between the Grand Vin and the Marquis is blatantly obvious, to the extent that they are practically different wines, which is how Vincent Millet and his team treat them. The Cabernet is firmly in the driving seat here, with detailed, graphite-infused black fruit and a background florality that comes through with aeration. The medium-bodied palate displays very fine tannins, superb acidity (pH 3.65) and impressive harmony. This has exemplary build in the mouth, fine weight on the finish and a persistent aftertaste. An outstanding Calon-Ségur, elevated by the risks taken in de-leafing in June and waiting to pick. Bravo. 12.9% alcohol. Drink 2027-2055.
    95-97 points
    Neal Martin - Vinous

    The 2021 Calon Ségur is a gorgeous wine that is going to need a number of years to fully come into its own. Aromatic, punchy and croquant, as the French say, the 2021 is a vibrant, mid-weight Calon that will delight readers who enjoy classically built claret. Don't look for the size or opulence of recent vintages. The 2021 is a cool, classy Saint-Estèphe to savor for years and decades to come. I loved it. Drink 2031-2061.
    94-96 points
    Antonio Galloni - Vinous

    Polished and perfumed already, with very fine, powdery tannins. So silky. Bright red and black berries here with sandalwood and orange-zest notes. Medium-bodied. Refined. 81% cabernet sauvignon, 11% cabernet franc, 7% merlot and 1% petit verdot.
    93-94 points
    James Suckling

    The Grand Vin 2021 Château Calon Ségur is one heck of a winner in the vintage and is 81% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Cabernet Franc, and the rest Merlot and Petit Verdot. Hitting 12.9% alcohol, its deep purple hue is followed by a gorgeous bouquet of cassis, violets, ripe darker raspberries, and spring flowers. It's elegant and has a great mid-palate, ultra-fine tannins, and a great finish. It's unquestionably one of the gems from the Médoc and will round into form with 3-5 years of bottle age and, I suspect, be long-lived.
    94-97 points
    Jeb Dunnuck

    Dark garnet in color, tobacco leaf, spicy currants, dried flowers, and blackberries are found on the nose. Medium-bodied, fresh, vibrant and lifted, the fruit is on the elegant, classic side with good sweetness and should be relatively precocious. The finish delivers a nice, spicy, minty, uplifted endnote. The wine was produced from 81% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Cabernet Franc, 7% Merlot and 1% Petit Verdot, 12.9% ABV, 3.65 pH. The harvest took place September 28, finishing October 13. Drink from 2025-2047.
    94-96 points
    Jeff Leve - The Wine Cellar Insider

    A fine Calon Ségur this year with 92% Cabernet, the highest in the blend since the 2009 vintage. This is rich and dark with a spiced nose full of black chocolate and black pepper edged by soft floral notes. Graceful and refined on the palate bursting with freshness and such integrated tannins. Smooth but on the mineral edge so you get that hint of austerity/salinity together with the acidity giving this some sharpness and high definition. It's got concentration and depth but at the moment it's so linear and detailed in its precision that it's coming across very straight and taut. Tannins have some grip and this has a nice weight on the mid-palate leading into a long finish. I adore the sweet salty tang at the end. I'm looking forward to tasting this in bottle. 1% Petit Verdot completes the blend. 3.65pH. No chaptalisation. A yield of 36hl/ha. 20 months ageing, 100% new oak barrels. 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
    2020 Chateau Cambon La Pelouse
    Haut Medoc, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $39. 99
    Bottle
    $479.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2023-2029)
    ABV: 13%
    Closure: Cork

    A blend of Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Midnight black heart with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Red to black currant aromas are intermeshed with scorched earth, dusty cedar and hints of spicy black olives. Generous ripe blackcurrant and mulberry fruits carry ample richness across the mid weighted palate with vanillin cedar, dusty earth, black olive and spicy tobacco characters lying underneath. Fine grained yet sturdy tannin structure. Refined medium to long conclusion.
    Drink over the next 5-6 years.
    Alc. 13%

    Other Reviews....
    Attractive cherry red, this has cedar edging, toasty oak with attractive raspberry and redcurrant through the mid palate. Enjoyable but doesn't quite maintain the momentum. Now owned by Treasury Wine Estates.
    90 points
    Jane Anson - Decanter

    Toasted spices, crushed walnuts, and tar with ripe dark fruits. Medium-bodied, firm and chewy with hints of bitter spices to close. Flavorful finish. Cabernet sauvignon, merlot and petit verdot. Try after 2024.
    90 points
    JamesSuckling.com

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    • Nick's Import
    2021 Chateau Canon Pre-Arrival Offer
    Saint Emilion, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $260. 00
    Bottle
    $3120.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    A brilliant wine in the making, the 2021 Canon offers up aromas of cherries, wild berries, licorice, sweet soil tones, raw cocoa, Indian spices and rose petals. Medium to full-bodied, layered and multidimensional, it's immensely refined and seamless, with a lively spine of acidity, ripe tannins and a long, penetrating, intensely saline finish. This beautifully balanced Canon is one of the classiest, most complete wines of the Right Bank in this vintage. Tasted four times.
    94-96 points
    William Kelley - Wine Advocate (Apr 2022)

    Dramatic, rich and imposing, the 2021 Canon is shaping up to be one of the wines of the vintage. Sculpted red purplish fruit, rose petal, lavender, sage and crushed rocks all race out of the glass. A heady, vertical wine, Canon is endowed with tremendous concentration and class. The aromatics alone are beguiling, but it is the wine's balance that impresses most. Tasted three times. This is such an elegant and regal wine. Drink 2031-2061.
    95-97 points
    Antonio Galloni - Vinous

    The 2021 Canon was picked September 16 to October 6 and matured in 50% new oak for a planned 16–18 months. Around 70% of the vineyard produced the normal yield, which underwent a 50% deselection, yet it still yielded 40hL/ha because the vines did not suffer stress. After mildew, any bunches that showed damage on the stems were removed. Nicolas Audebert told me that there was no concentration or saignée, just a little chaptalization (around 0.5–1.0%, depending on the tank). This has quite a concentrated bouquet of opulent dark cherries, blueberry, violet and just a hint of camphor. The palate is medium-bodied and pliant, with gentle grip, saturated tannins and a judicious touch of spice toward the compact finish. While recent top-flight vintages may well eclipse this Canon, it still stands as a fine addition to the recent roster. Drink 2030-2060.
    92-94 points
    Neal Martin - Vinous

    A wine full of finesse and class with fantastic length and polish. Medium to full body with ultra-fine tannins that run endlessly down the length of the wine. Blackberry, graphite and spice. Agile and weightless.
    96-97 points
    James Suckling

    From a château you can't go wrong with, the 2021 Château Canon is another head-turning, elegant, seamless wine that comes from unquestionably one of the greatest terroirs on the upper plateau of Saint-Emilion. Based on 71% Merlot and 29% Cabernet Franc that hit 13.55% alcohol, it will spend 18 months in 50% new barrels. It shows the vintage's fresher, elegant style beautifully, with lots of perfumed red fruits, spice, flowers, and chalky notes. These carry to a medium-bodied, seamless, elegant Saint-Emilion that has supple tannins, a notable sense of freshness (although I suspect the pH is solid), and a great finish.
    93-95 points
    Jeb Dunnuck

    The nose stands out with its nuances of flowers, crushed stones, spearmint, cigar wrapper, red plums, fresh cherries, herbs, and a touch of fennel. The wine is all about its freshness, purity, energy and elegant nature, finishing with silky tannins with their trademark touch of salt, mint leaf, and sweet, vibrant red berries. The wine blends 71% Merlot with 29% Cabernet Franc, 13.5% ABV. The harvest took place September 16 - October 6. Drink from 2026-2055.
    94-96 points
    Jeff Leve - The Wine Cellar Insider

    Dark chocolate, perfume, violets, wild flowers and bramble berries on the nose, so much going on aromatically. Lovely succulence straight away, the bright acidity giving a mouthwatering effect and really delivering in terms of vibrant and lively fruit forwardness but with these lovely edges of graphite, slate, bitter chocolate, cream and salinity. So elegant and so refined as well as super stylish. I also love the cooling menthol Cabernet aspects you get all the way through and on the long finish. This has real class, but also an effortless quality to it that is so remarkable. One of the most memorable wines of the vintage! 3.37pH. Both Canon, Rauzan-Segla and Berliquet are excellent achievements this year. Drinking Window 2026 - 2045.
    96 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
    2022 Chateau Canon la Gaffeliere Pre-Arrival Offer
    Saint Emilion, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $199. 00
    Bottle
    $2388.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    A blend of 50% Merlot, 35% Cabernet Franc and 15% Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2022 Canon la Gaffelière exhibits aromas of raspberries and plums, complemented by notions of iris, rose petals, incense and burning embers. Medium to full-bodied, ample and fleshy, it's supple, suave and sophisticated, with a lively core of fruit, powdery tannins and a long, saline finish.
    94-96 points
    William Kelley - Wine Advocate (Apr 2023)

    The 2022 Canon La Gaffelière is bright, punchy and full of character. Blood orange, rose petal and spice overtones brighten a core of red/purplish fruit in Saint-Émilion that impresses with its saline intensity, energy and focus. If tasting this blind, I would never say it is a wine from a warm, drought year. It will be interesting to see if the 2022 retains its youthful vibrancy through élevage. This is super promising. Drink 2032-2052.
    94-96 points
    Antonio Galloni - Vinous

    Redcurrants with dark chocolate and hints of fresh herbs like basil and thyme on the nose. Full-bodied with a beautiful center palate and a lovely fine tannin texture. Extremely long. Classy. 35% cabernet franc, 15% cabernet sauvignon and 50% merlot, From organically grown grapes.
    97-98 points
    James Suckling

    The 2022 Château Canon-La-Gaffelière is brilliant stuff and should be snatched up by readers. Black cherries, iron, tapenade, and exotic floral notes all define the aromatics, and it's full-bodied, with a layered, opulent mouthfeel, gorgeous tannins, and no shortage of mid-palate depth or length on the finish. A blend of 50% Merlot, 35% Cabernet Franc, and the rest Cabernet Sauvignon that will see 40% new oak, it's a flawlessly balanced, incredibly impressive Saint-Emilion that will have no problems competing with the 2019 and 2020.
    95-97 points
    Jeb Dunnuck

    Ripe perfumed, floral and black fruits on the nose. Intense and concentrated, with tobacco, cherries, violets and crushed stones. Full, chewy and round, plushly textured but keeping a cool and savoury touch to the palate with balancing acidity that keeps the interest and movement. Dynamic and structured, lovely detail and density to this, you have richness but there’s also a vein of sweetness and tension that focuses the wine and gives the definition. Smooth and elegant, not the most vibrant, but the composure and overall character is lovely. Higher percentage of Cabernet Sauvignon than usual in the grand vin. A yield of 47hl/ha. 5% Petit Verdot completes the blend. A yield of 29hl/ha. A yield of 47hl/ha. 40% new oak barrels. Drink 2030 - 2047.
    95 points
    Georgina Hindle - Decanter

    Deep, and dark in color, the wine opens with flowers, oceanic influences, plums, smoke, licorice, and black cherries. On the palate, the wine is concentrated, opulent, polished, vibrant, silky and fresh, finishing with multiple layers of chocolate-covered, plums, black cherries, espresso, crushed stones and spices. What makes everything work here is the balance, freshness, and purity in the fruits. The wine blends 50% Merlot, 35% Cabernet Franc and 15% Cabernet Sauvignon. 14.2% ABV. Drink from 2027-2055.
    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
    2021 Chateau Canon La Gaffeliere Pre-Arrival Offer
    Saint Emilion, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $160. 00
    Bottle
    $1920.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    The 2021 Canon la Gaffelière is beautiful, bursting from the glass with aromas of rose petals, lilac, sweet berry fruit, burning embers and warm spices. Medium to full-bodied, seamless and elegant, with a fleshy core of fruit, lively acids and beautifully refined tannins, it's the highlight of the von Neipperg portfolio this year. Cabernet Franc, as usual, takes the lead.
    93-95 points
    William Kelley - Wine Advocate (Apr 2022)

    The 2021 Canon La Gaffelière is striking. Aromatic and expressive, with no hard edges, the 2021 impresses with its balance and overall harmony. All the elements are so nicely integrated. Crushed red berry fruit, white flowers, mint, rose petal and orange zest all race through this super-appealing, mid-weight Saint-Émilion. The 2021 is so well put together. It's is such a sensual wine. Drink 2031-2061.
    94-96 points
    Antonio Galloni - Vinous

    The 2021 Canon La Gaffelière was picked September 28 to October 14 at 30hL/ha and contains a little more Cabernet Franc this year (45%). It has an elegant, pure bouquet, unfurling to offer dark cherries, incense and violet aromas; the new oak (40%) is well integrated. The refined, understated palate is quite mineral-driven, featuring black truffle and ground black pepper and turning spicy toward the finish. Displaying fine complexity, this Canon-la-Gaffelière should give 15–20 years of drinking pleasure. Drink 2028-2042.
    91-93 points
    Neal Martin - Vinous

    Lovely, perfumed character with cherries, spices and flowers. Medium-bodied, firm and polished with solid tannins and a fresh finish. Pure. Light coffee and walnut. Well crafted.
    94-95 points
    James Suckling

    One of the gems out there, the 2021 Château Canon-La-Gaffelière is well worth seeking out. Giving up ample blue fruits, medium to full-bodied richness, ripe tannins, and complex, pure aromatics of violets, iron, and tobacco, it shines for its balance and elegance while bring terrific depth of fruit. Count me impressed.
    93-95 points
    Jeb Dunnuck

    On the nose you find cigar wrapper, spearmint, flowers, leafy herbs, red fruits and spices. Fresh, crisp, elegant, bright, chewy and chalky on the palate, this is what modern classic Bordeaux is all about. The wine finishes with sweet, red fruits before moving to the intense minerality and spicy notes in the backend. Blending 45% Cabernet Franc, 35% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% ABV. The blend represents the highest portion of Cabernet in the blend. Yields were only 30 hectoliters per hectare due to frost and mildew. The harvest took place, September 28 - October 14. Drink from 2025-2048.
    93-95 points
    Jeff Leve - The Wine Cellar Insider

    This has a gorgeous herbal-fruity nose, scented, fresh and lively with raspberry leaf. Impactful on the palate straight away - the fine-grained tannins hit the mouth and expand slowly alongside the liquorice spice and dark berry fruit with violet aromas. It's direct and linear at the moment, taut, and driven in one line. You feel it's coiled up ready to spring with strawberry fruit and the Cabernet aspects coming through. It's delicately textured, the mouthfeel is light and bouncy while the flavours slowly expand vertically. Touches of sweetness, bitterness and minerality appear adding interest from start to finish. I love the clarity you get. Impactful and full of complexity. Will be lovely to taste this in bottle. 5% more Cabernet Franc and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon than usual as some Merlot was lost to frost and mildew. A production of 98% grand vin. Drinking Window 2025 - 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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    • Nick's Import
    2022 Chateau Cantenac Brown Pre-Arrival Offer
    Margaux, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $130. 00
    Bottle
    $1560.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    A few years ago, this estate purchased 22 additional hectares in the heart of the plateau of Margaux, including old vine Cabernet Sauvignon that is now making an appreciable contribution to the blend, and that helps to explain why the 2022 Cantenac Brown is so good. Unwinding in the glass with notes of dark berries, plums, charcoal, pencil shavings and violets, it's medium to full-bodied, rich and elegantly muscular, with a layered core, refined tannins and a penetrating finish. The finest wine that José Sanfins has produced to date, the 2022 only improved during the several weeks I spent in Bordeaux. It's a blend of 69% Cabernet Sauvignon and 31% Merlot.
    94-96 points
    William Kelley - Wine Advocate (Apr 2023)

    The 2022 Cantenac Brown has an elegant nose, showing pure black cherry, wild strawberry, blackcurrant pastilles and cedar aromas. I appreciate the mineralité here. The palate is medium-bodied with supple but firm tannins, nicely structured. There's a crescendo of fruit toward the mineral-driven finish. Cohesive and full of character, this is another superb Margaux from an estate in the ascendant under winemaker José Sanfins. Drink 2030-2070.
    94-96 points
    Neal Martin - Vinous

    A solid Margaux with creamy and fine tannins that spread across the palate. Medium-bodied, layered and already delicious. Hints of dried citrus at the end.
    93-94 points
    James Suckling

    The dense purple-hued 2022 Château Cantenac Brown is based on 69% Cabernet Sauvignon and 31% Merlot. A beautiful Margaux, it offers lots of smoky red and black fruits intermixed with violets, graphite, and lead pencil-like nuances. With medium to full-bodied richness, a vibrant spine of acidity, and nicely integrated tannins, it plays in the more focused, elegant, pretty end of the spectrum. It's going to reward a solid 5-7 years of bottle age.
    93-95 points
    Jeb Dunnuck

    Juicy and lively, cool and crisp with concentrated but cool tannins that give the structure and density. It's massy, full, upfront, but retains a charm in that nothing is harsh or austere or too spiced. It's full but there's something very captivating about this, has excitement and vibrancy and will be totally delicious and moreish when the time is right. Lovely acidity, beautiful red fruits, crisp and tense yet layered and ripe, mineral too. Gives you the emotion! Harvest 7-27 September. Ageing in French oak, 60% new, 40% one year old. Drink 2025 - 2045.
    96 points
    Georgina Hindle - Decanter

    Deeply colored, the wine shows off its violets, lilacs, licorice, black cherry, and currant character with a single swirl. On the palate, the wine is rich, lush, polished, creamy, and loaded with black, red and blue fruits. There is length, opulence, and layers of ripe, sweet, pit fruits that linger. The wine is a blend of 69% Cabernet Sauvignon and 31% Merlot. 13.8% ABV, 3.64 pH. Yields were 30 hectoliters per hectare. The Grand Vin was produced using only 52% of the harvest. Picking took place September 7 - September 27. Drink from 2027-2055.
    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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    • Nick's Import
    2022 Chateau Capbern Pre-Arrival Offer
    Saint Estephe, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $63. 99
    Bottle
    $767.88 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Chateau Capbern (formerly Capbern Gasqueton) is on a roll since the new owners took over the estate, along with Calon Segur, in 2012. Already blessed with prime vineyards close to heavyweights Montrose and Phelan Segur, their winemaking facilities have recently been rejuvenated and the wines haven't looked better.

    Vineyards at the estate are planted to 62% Cabernet Sauvignon, 37% Merlot and 1% Petit Verdot, with an average vine age of 30 years. Vinification takes place in stainless steel vats, malolactic fermentation in tank, and the wine is aged in 50% new French oak barrels for 18 months.

    Other Reviews....
    Notes of dark berries and cherries mingled with licorice and loamy soil introduce the 2022 Capbern, a medium to full-bodied, rich and fleshy wine framed by ripe, powdery tannins and concluding with a long, somewhat heady finish. It's a blend of 52% Cabernet Sauvignon, 45% Merlot and the balance Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, picked between the 6th and 27th of September.
    90-92 points
    William Kelley - Wine Advocate (Apr 2023)

    The 2022 Capbern was cropped at 26hL/ha between 6 and 27 September, a 20-day cuvaison and matured in 60% new oak for a planned 18 months. The Cabernet Sauvignon berries were tiny this year, which underlies why the Merlot comprises a higher percentage of the blend. It has an airy, floral bouquet with blackberries, wild strawberries and a touch of raspberry confit. There's an almost Pinot-like purity. The palate is medium-bodied with a grippy, peppery entry, full-bodied and muscular at the moment. I'm seeking a bit more grace here - perhaps this Saint-Estèphe is slightly over-revving on the finish? Drink 2027-2047.
    90-92 points
    Neal Martin - Vinous

    A firm and tight red with blackberry and currant character. Medium body. Bright and savory.
    92-93 points
    James Suckling

    One of the more opulent, sexy wines in the vintage, the 2022 Château Capbern just about jumps out of the glass with its sweet red, blue, and black fruits as well as notions of chocolate, graphite, and leafy herbs. Full-bodied, concentrated, and textured on the palate, with ripe tannins, this stunning Saint-Estèphe is up there with the finest vintages I've tasted from this château.
    94-96 points
    Jeb Dunnuck

    Smells gorgeous, rich and vibrant with dark bramble berry tones. Blackcurrant and black cherry. Quite tannic straight away, they make the impression, slightly grainy and chalky giving a wide, expansive and mouth coating feeling. Bold, but clean and clear, it has a nice crispness as well as depth with some minty, herbal liquorice, flint and clove aspects on the finish. Slightly lifted in terms of alcohol impression at the end, sticking out a touch, but overall this is quite streamlined and sleek, not plush at all but cooly concentrated with a subtly juice core. 1% Cabernet Franc completes the blend. 3.25% pH. Ageing 18 months, 60% new french oak barrels. Drink 2026 - 2038.
    91 points
    Georgina Hindle - Decanter

    Spring mint, currants, black cherries, tobacco, and a touch of spice in the nose lead the way to the palate, which, even though the ABV is high, the fruits feel fresh, and lively, with no touch of heat. You find a nice touch of oceanic influence at the end of the finish. The wine blends 53% Cabernet Sauvignon, 44% Merlot, 2% Petit Verdot and 1% Cabernet Franc. 15% ABV, 3.8 pH. Drink from 2026-2040.
    92-94 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 Capbern Pre-Arrival Offer
    Saint Estephe, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $53. 99
    Bottle
    $647.88 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Chateau Capbern (formerly Capbern Gasqueton) is on a roll since the new owners took over the estate, along with Calon Segur, in 2012. Already blessed with prime vineyards close to heavyweights Montrose and Phelan Segur, their winemaking facilities have recently been rejuvenated and the wines haven't looked better.

    Vineyards at the estate are planted to 62% Cabernet Sauvignon, 37% Merlot and 1% Petit Verdot, with an average vine age of 30 years. Vinification takes place in stainless steel vats, malolactic fermentation in tank, and the wine is aged in 50% new French oak barrels for 18 months.

    Other Reviews....
    Offering up aromas of dark berries, plums, spices, rose petals and loamy soil, the 2021 Capbern is a medium to full-bodied, lively and charming wine with beautifully refined tannins and an impressively penetrating finish. It's a blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 28% Merlot and 2% Petit Verdot that attained 12.8% alcohol.
    89-91 points
    William Kelley - Wine Advocate (Apr 2022)

    The 2021 Capbern is absolutely gorgeous. The aromatics alone are so alluring. A whole range of Cabernet inflections leads into a core of bright red toned fruit. Dried herbs, mint, tobacco, cedar, crushed flowers and red berry fruit grace this exquisite, vibrant Saint-Estèphe. Bright acids perk up the finish. En primeur samples were taken from new barrels only, but the final wine is projected to have 60% new oak. Drink 2029-2041.
    90-92 points
    Antonio Galloni - Vinous

    The 2021 Capbern was cropped at 36hL/ha with a 20-day cuvaison, and matured in 60% new oak for a planned 18 months. It has an attractive, fragrant bouquet of vivacious black and blue fruit, a lovely pencil box element emanating from the Cabernet Sauvignon. The palate is medium-bodied with sappy black fruit, respectable weight and acidity and a saline finish. Not the most complex Saint-Estèphe you will find, but commendable for the vintage and thoroughly enjoyable. (12.8% alcohol) Drink 2025-2040.
    90-92 points
    Neal Martin - Vinous

    A medium-bodied, firm and very fresh red with crunchy black-fruit and bark character. Tight, fine tannins. Mineral and tea-like quality. 70% cabernet sauvignon, 28% merlot and 2% petit verdot.
    91-92 points
    James Suckling

    The 2021 Château Capbern is rock-solid, with wonderful cassis and an assortment of both red and blue fruits, supported by plenty of floral nuances. It's elegant and has considerable finesse, ripe tannins, and terrific purity. It shows the more charming, mid-weight style of the vintage, yet it's a solid wine that will deliver the goods.
    91-94 points
    Jeb Dunnuck

    Flowers, spicy red berries and savory underbrush notes open the wine. Medium-bodied, soft, vibrant and crisp, with hints of spice and olives to accompany the red currants in the finish, this will drink well young. The wine is a blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 28% Merlot, and 2% Petit Verdot, 12.8% ABV. Drink from 2024-2038.
    89-91 points
    Jeff Leve - The Wine Cellar Insider

    Gorgeous eucalyptus freshness on the nose alongside fragranced blackcurrant notes. high-toned fruit, nicely balanced between sour and sweet but with the edges and real definition that comes across as a touch austere partly also as the acidity is so high and to the fore. Lightly framed and juicy with great overall freshness and lift. It's also quite direct, there's no expansion at this point, just straight and taught but well defined and I love the gravel terroir coming through. 3.76pH. Drinking Window 2024 - 2040.
    91 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
    2020 Chateau Capbern
    Saint Estephe, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $59. 99
    Bottle
    $719.88 Dozen
    Cellar: 6 - 8 Years (2029-2031)
    ABV: 14%
    Closure: Cork

    Chateau Capbern (formerly Capbern Gasqueton) is on a roll since the new owners took over the estate, along with Calon Segur, in 2012. Already blessed with prime vineyards close to heavyweights Montrose and Phelan Segur, their winemaking facilities have recently been rejuvenated and the wines haven't looked better.
    Vineyards at the estate are planted to 62% Cabernet Sauvignon, 37% Merlot and 1% Petit Verdot, with an average vine age of 30 years. Vinification takes place in stainless steel vats, malolactic fermentation in tank, and the wine is aged in 50% new French oak barrels for 18 months.

    Superb colour saturation featuring an inky black heart and a very deep black dark red hue. Sailing out of the glass with authority are blackcurrant and liquorice scents infused with a mix of graphite, spicy cedar, dried herb and black olive notes. Medium to full in body the palate is awash with rich cassis and liquorice flavours which are framed by a sturdy graphite like tannin structure. Lending tension is some nicely balanced fresh acidity with notions of dusty vanillin cedar, tobacco, subtle black olives and spicy leather emerging through the back half. Opulent yet robust mouthfeel concluding long and generously fruited.
    Cellar 6-8 years.
    Alc. 14%

    Other Reviews....
    The 2020 Capbern offers up aromas of sweet cassis, plums, pencil shavings, loamy soil and licorice, followed by a medium to full-bodied, rich and seamless palate that's polished, penetrating and dynamic. It's a blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 1% Petit Verdot and the balance Merlot, produced by Vincent Millet and his team from Calon Ségur. Drink: 2025-2045.
    91 points
    William Kelley - Wine Advocate (April 2023)

    The 2020 Capbern remains quite the powerhouse, but it has come together well. Punchy red berry fruit, kirsch, gravel and white pepper all meld together in a Saint-Estèphe of class and personality. There's real depth and plenty of character. This is very nicely done. Tasted two times. Drink: 2026-2040.
    91 points
    Antonio Galloni - Vinous

    This is pretty and aromatic with ripe black cherries and blackberries as well as hints of chocolate, sweet spices and nut shell. Full-bodied with a deep character of mellow black fruit. Firm and structured with ripe, fine-grained tannins and a velvety finish. Try after 2025.
    93 points
    James Suckling

    Another terrific Saint- Estèphe is the 2020 Château Capbern, which comes from the same team as Calon Ségur. (Current director Vincent Millet was brought on board in 2021.) Coming from 33 hectares of vines on sandy, gravelly, clay soils, the final blend is 69% Cabernet Sauvignon, 29% Merlot, and the rest Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. The élevage spanned 18 months in 60% new French oak, and this beauty hit just 12.8% natural alcohol. Gorgeous cassis, violets, damp earth, iron, and classy oak all emerge on the nose, and it's full-bodied on the palate, with beautiful tannins, a layered, seamless mouthfeel, and the vintage's pure, focused, age-worthy style front and center. Give bottles just 4-6 years and enjoy over the following two decades. Drink: 2027-2047.
    95 points
    Jeb Dunnuck

    Spicy, dark red berries, blackberry, savory herbs, cedar and cigar box open the nose. On the palate the wine is fleshy, rich, chewy and packed with ripe currants with peppery, savory herbs. There is length, freshness, complexity and character here. This a vineyard to keep an eye on as it getting better and better. The wine blends 69% Cabernet Sauvignon, 29% Merlot, 1% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot, 14.1% ABV.
    92-94 points
    Jeff Leve - The Wine Cellar Insider

    Fine, new saddle leather aromas, vivid violet, juicy blackberry and tobacco leaf. Smooth and fresh, it has superior depth with noticeable yet refined tannins. The high percentage of new oak and Cabernet Sauvignon make for a seamless, long finish: opulent, fresh and precise. Enjoy with duck breast. Drink: 2023-2040.
    95 points
    Panos Kakaviatos - Decanter

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    2021 Chateau Certan de May Pre-Arrival Offer
    Pomerol, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $270. 00
    Bottle
    $3240.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    The 2021 Certan de May shows promise, offering up aromas of sweet cherries and berries mingled with hints of violets, rose petals and nicely integrated new oak. Medium to full-bodied, velvety and fleshy, with lively acids and ripe, powdery tannins, I suspect it will flesh out with further élevage to become even more impressive. The blend incorporates fully 37% Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon, a figure that reflects the vintage (which favored these varieties) as well as a tendency to replant with Cabernet rather than Merlot over the last decade.
    91-93 points
    William Kelley - Wine Advocate (Apr 30, 2022)

    The 2021 Certan de May was picked from September 27 to October 11. There is a touch of herbaceousness on the nose here, a leitmotif of recent vintages that has left me perplexed in warmer growing seasons, though it’s more understandable in this vintage. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins and modest depth; no greenness here, but there is a welcome touch of pepper toward the finish. This is an improvement for a Pomerol that can hit the ball out of the park if so inclined. Drink 2028-2048.
    90-92 points
    Neal Martin - Vinous

    A CM with depth and finesse. Layers of fine tannins. Medium body. Blackberry and blueberry flavors. Juicy and fine finish.
    93-94 points
    James Suckling

    The 2021 Château Certan De May is also solid, offering darker cherry and assorted darker fruit to go with notes of iron, scorched earth, and ripe herbs. Nicely structured, medium-bodied, focused, and certainly in the elegant, mid-weight style of the vintage, it's going to drink well with just a year two of bottle age and shine for a decade.
    90-92 points
    Jeb Dunnuck

    Red plums, flowers, truffle, earth, and a bit of chocolate show on the front end in the nose. On the palate, the medium-bodied wine is soft, silky, supple, fresh, and with layers of bright, sweet, plums and just a touch of coca in the backend. Drink from 2024-2042.
    91-93 points
    Jeff Leve - The Wine Cellar Insider

    Fragrant red cherries and milk chocolate, super-bright and vibrant from the first sip; the light, almost spritzy texture and touch of sweet and sourness to the red fruit makes this fresh and energetic. The fruit focuses on strawberries, raspberries and redcurrants with graphite edges that give the minerality and touch of salinity to the palate also which is so appealing. Lifted and fresh but this also has the deep core and tight centre. The acidity and red fruit are to the fore right now but there is no doubt this is a serious wine with class and a long ageing potential. One I retasted several times. Beguiling. Drink 2026 - 2048.
    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.

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    2022 Chateau Clerc Milon Pre-Arrival Offer
    Pauillac, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $205. 00
    Bottle
    $2460.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    The 2022 Clerc Milon is beautiful, offering up aromas of cherries, raspberries and plums mingled with hints of pencil shavings and rose petals. Medium to full-bodied, layered and concentrated, it's taut and lively, with a vibrant core of fruit framed by fine, chalky tannins. Its clay-limestone terroir lends it a distinctive signature that sets it apart from the rest of the portfolio.
    93-95 points
    William Kelley - Wine Advocate (Apr 2023)

    The 2022 Clerc Milon, matured in 55% new oak with 14.6% alcohol, has a very tightly-wound nose at the moment. There's good fruit concentration, but it is missing a bit of personality, unlike its stablemate d'Armailhac. The palate is medium-bodied with firm tannins and good grip. It's pretty dense and grainy in texture. With graphite on the aftertaste, this Pauillac conveys fine tension but will require several years of aging in bottle. I feel this is hiding its virtues at the moment. Drink 2030-2055.
    91-93 points
    Neal Martin - Vinous

    Focused and bright with plenty of fruit but oranges and minerals in the mid-palate. Really fresh with a fresh bitterness.
    95-96 points
    James Suckling

    As to the Grand Vin 2022 Château Clerc Milon, it reminds me of the 2018 with its full-bodied, ripe, yet elegant style. Cassis, graphite, espresso roast, and lead pencil notes define the aromatics, and it has a beautiful spine of acidity, ripe tannins, and a great finish. It shows the ripe, exuberant yet structured style of the vintage beautifully. The blend is 59% Cabernet Sauvignon, 32% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Franc, and 1% Carmenère, harvested between the 9th and 26th of September, with an alcohol content of 14.5%, a pH of 3.83, and an IPT of 74. The élevage here is 55% new French oak. Tasted multiple times with consistent notes.
    94-96 points
    Jeb Dunnuck

    Fragrant, perfumed black berries and purple flowers. Smells intense and concentrated, deep, dark and rich. Bold and characterful from the first sip, supple and generous, a lovely shot of strawberry and red cherry fruit gives the tang and immediate excitement while the tannins, stoney and cool, enter and give the frame and focus for the finish. Really well made, great drive but plush at the same time, it’s silky yet well defined and also weighty and forward. A big mouthful that is just so juicy and fun, lively, expressive, well worked and so easy. A step-up from Pastourelle. Super accessible and really enjoyable with the sweet juicy tang that I adore and stony minerality on the finish that is moreish. Immediate pleasure on offer. 12.8% press wine. 1% Carmenere completes the blend. HVE3 certified. Ageing 18 months in French oak barrels, 55% new. 3.83pH. Drink 2028 - 2048.
    95 points
    Georgina Hindle - Decanter

    Spicy red fruits, flowers, cedar, tobacco leaf, and currants make an appearance in the nose. On the palate, the wine is silky, fresh and elegant. The profile here is elegance, refinement, lift, and purity, along with a note of sweet chocolate on the very backend of the finish. This is going to be quite easy to enjoy in its youth. But, patience is a virtue. So give it some time in the bottle. as it will improve with age. The wine blends 59% Cabernet Sauvignon, 32% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Franc, and 1% Carmenere. 14.5% ABV, 3.83 pH. Drink from 2026-2050.
    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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    • Nick's Import
    2021 Chateau Clerc Milon Pre-Arrival Offer
    Pauillac, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $165. 00
    Bottle
    $1980.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    The 2021 Clerc Milon is a success, bursting with aromas of blackberries, cassis and plums mingled with violets, tobacco leaf and nicely integrated new oak. Medium to full-bodied, layered and seamless, it's deep, fleshy and complete, with a rich core of succulent fruit, beautifully polished tannins and a long, sapid finish, it's a compelling, characterful wine that transcends the vintage.
    92-94 points
    William Kelley - Wine Advocate (Apr 2022)

    The 2021 Clerc Milon is gorgeous. Beams of tannin lend energy and direction to an alluring Clerc Milon that marries fruit density with a classic sense of structure that is quite appealing. Drink 2029-2041.
    92-94 points
    Antonio Galloni - Vinous

    The 2021 Clerc Milon, aged in 55% new oak, contains a little more Cabernet Franc than usual. It has a slightly savory nose displaying moderate vigor and black fruit infused with touches of brown spice. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins, and quite broad and fleshy. The plush finish makes me think this will drink well in its youth. Fine, though I lean toward the d'Armailhac this year. (13% alcohol) Drink 2027-2039.
    90-92 points
    Neal Martin - Vinous

    Polished and well-structured red with a medium body and firm but creamy and broad tannins. Perfumed already, with sandalwood, blackberry and currant character. Crushed stones. Tea leaves, too. Firm and solid to the end. Very solid for the vintage. 59% cabernet sauvignon, 28% merlot, 10% cabernet franc, 1.5% carmenere and 1.5% petit verdot.
    93-94 points
    James Suckling

    The 2021 Château Clerc Milon is based on 59% Cabernet Sauvignon, 28% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, and the rest Carmenère and Petit Verdot. It has more pure cassis and graphite as well as medium bodied richness, ripe, polished tannins, remarkable purity of fruit, and a great finish.
    90-93 points
    Jeb Dunnuck

    You already find tobacco leaf, espresso, black plum, cigar box, and currants on the nose. On the palate, the wine is medium-bodied, fresh, elegant and polished. There is a fabulous sense of purity, gentleness in the tannins, and a slight, savory-edge in the finish that accompanies all those ripe berries. This is so good now, It is going to be quite easy to enjoy in its youth. The wine blends 59% Cabernet Sauvignon, 28% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc, 1.5% Petit Verdot and 1.5% Carmenere, 13% ABV. Drink from 2024-2045.
    92-94 points
    Jeff Leve - The Wine Cellar Insider

    Bramble and hedgerow notes, some smoke, tobacco, chocolate, liquorice-laced black fruits and graphite on the nose. Seriously captivating with the complexity continuing on the palate, comprising coffee, cedar, clove and cinnamon alongside plump and plush layers of succulent and concentrated blackcurrant and black cherry fruit and racy acidity. The 59% Cabernet Sauvignon influence is in sharp focus, right to the fore, wanting all the attention, but at the same time this has a beautiful and generous fragrance to it from 10% Cabernet Franc. Refined and elegant, I love the presentation and the structure, giving such length and freshness on the long finish. An excellent Clerc this year which really stands out. 1.5% Camenère and 1.5 Petit Verdot complete the blend. 3.73pH. Drinking Window 2025 - 2045.
    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.

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    • Nick's Import
    2020 Chateau Clerc Milon
    Pauillac, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $199. 00
    Bottle
    $2388.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    The 2020 Clerc Milon - a blend of 53% Cabernet Sauvignon, 37% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot with just a splash of Carmenere - has a deep garnet-purple color, opening with notes of tar, unsmoked cigars, bouquet garni and graphite, giving way to a core of ripe black and red currants, boysenberries and tree bark, plus a touch of black olives. The medium-bodied palate delivers fantastic tension and impressively ripe, fine-grained tannins to support the crunchy, energetic black fruit flavors, finishing with a lively herbal lift.
    92-94 points
    Lisa Perrotti-Brown - Wine Advocate (May 2021)

    Very pure character to this wine with crushed fruit and round tannins. It’s really transparent and delicate, yet bold at the same time. Super tannins. Vivid. Very primary and berry-like. May well turn out to be even better than this in bottle.
    95-96 points
    James Suckling

    The top wine 2020 Château Clerc Milon checks in as 53% Cabernet Sauvignon, 37% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Franc, and the balance Petit Verdot and Carmenère, and it's another beauty, offering both richness and elegance. Ripe currants, cassis, damp earth, graphite, and crushed stone-like minerality define the bouquet, and it's medium to full-bodied, with a more focused, pure texture, plenty of expansive richness on the mid-palate, and ripe, building tannins. This beautifully layered, pure wine shows the style of the vintage nicely.
    93-95 points
    Jeb Dunnuck

    With a floral, spicy, tobacco leaf, currant and chocolate filled perfume, the wine is elegant, fresh, supple and silky. There is a beautiful sweetness to the currants, cherries and plums in the mouth. The sensation of the Merlot comes through the blend more than usual as you find a touch of dark chocolate gently coating your palate in the finish, adding length, texture and complexity. This is so good now. But it is going to be even better with 7-9 years of age. The wine blends 53% Cabernet Sauvignon, 37% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Franc, 2% Petit Verdot, 13.3% ABV.
    94-96 points
    Jeff Leve - The Wine Cellar Insider

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    • Nick's Import
    2022 Chateau Clinet Pre-Arrival Offer
    Pomerol, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $260. 00
    Bottle
    $3120.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Given Chateau Clinet are situated on some of the finest terroir in Pomerol, the wines from here are relatively under the radar relative to some of the most revered wines from the region. Planted to 88% Merlot, 11.5% Cabernet Sauvignon and 0.5% Cabernet Franc, the wines are typically supple with generous richness and complexity.  However, as with many in the area, production is small with an average of 3,200 cases produced annually.

    Other Reviews....
    A blend of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Sauvignon that represents the earliest harvest in this estate's history (beginning on September 6), the 2022 Clinet is a success, offering up aromas of cherries and dark berries mingled with hints of spices and a discreet patina of new oak. Medium to full-bodied, ample and layered, it's impressively vibrant, with a rich core of fruit framed by powdery tannins from judicious extraction. This has more in common with the more refined 2018 and 2019 vintages at this address than with the powerhouse 2020, and that is no mean feat in an even more extreme vintage. Bravo to Ronan Laborde and his team.
    94-96+ points
    William Kelley - Wine Advocate (Apr 2023)

    The 2022 Clinet is terrific. Vibrant, aromatic and beautifully sculpted, Clinet is also a terrific example of the energy quality-minded winemakers were able to achieve in 2022. Crushed rose petals, spice, blood orange, mint and white pepper give Clinet a compelling upper register of presence in the bouquet. Wonderfully delineated, Clinet builds effortlessly into the mid-palate and finish, where a closing burst of red/purplish fruit framed by clean mineral notes leaves a lasting impression. This is stellar. Tasted two times. Drink 2030-2052.
    94-96 points
    Antonio Galloni - Vinous

    A very fine and polished red with silky tannins, medium body and a savory finish. Hints of hazelnut to the currant and berry fruit.
    94-95 points
    James Suckling

    The 2022 Château Clinet showed beautifully, with an almost Médoc-like style in its darker cassis, graphite, cedar pencil, and tobacco aromas and flavors. Full-bodied on the palate, it has ripe, velvety tannins, a round, layered mouthfeel, and remarkable purity. Pomerol was one of the erratic appellations in 2022, but this beauty does everything right and brings a beautiful mix of richness and elegance. It should round into form with just short-term bottle age and evolve for two decades. The blend is the usual 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Sauvignon.
    96-98 points
    Jeb Dunnuck

    Streamlined and sleek, silky smooth but also gorgeously textured, clean and clear with grip and interest. Less fleshy and chewy than some, more charming and elegant with tannins that have a weight in the mouth. There is clear power and concentration underneath the juicy acidity with a straight backbone and direct energy from start to finish. Appealing layers of salinity, blackcurrant fruit, creamy vanilla, cool cola touches and crushed stones on the finish. Feels well made and sophisticated. 3.74pH. A yield of 34hl/ha. Earliest harvest ever starting on 6 September for Merlot and 20 and 21 September for Cabernet Sauvignon. Drink 2025 - 2045.
    96 points
    Georgina Hindle - Decanter

    Inky, dark in color, the wine explodes from the glass with its floral display before moving to its wealth of dark red pit fruits, chocolate, truffle, wild cherry, and mint aromas. However, it is the velvet-drenched layers of dark fruit, opulent-textures, and cashmere tannins where the wine really takes off. The finish is pure hedonistic-decadence that must be felt to be believed. You have plenty of time to experience it as the fruits remain on your palate for over 60 seconds! This is Pomerol. and Clinet at its best! The wine blends 80% Merlot with 20% Cabernet Franc. 14.5% ABV, 3.75 pH. Harvesting took place September 6, September 21. This is the earliest start to a vintage in the history of Clinet. Yields were 34 hectoliters per hectare. Drink from 2027-2060.
    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 Cos d'Estournel Pre-Arrival Offer
    Saint Estephe, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $580. 00
    Bottle
    $6960.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Chateau Cos d’Estournel have made great strides in the recent past, and their new winemaking facility is one of the most impressive and purpose driven in the area. All movement of wine from the moment grapes arrive is done via gravity, a process involving a style of wine elevator to raise and lower tanks, and one that removes the use of pumps entirely.

    While the wines from this Second Growth property have been patchy throughout their history, it’s no secret that they have been on fire over the last 15 years, producing rich, concentrated, and potentially very long lived wines warranting perfect scores for numerous wine critics.

    Other Reviews....
    The 2022 Cos d'Estournel unwinds in the glass with aromas of sweet berries, plum liqueur and rich spices, followed by a full-bodied, broad-shouldered and muscular palate that's rich and structured, with a ripe core of fruit and chewy tannins. Harvest dates were relatively early this year, and maturation is occurring in only 50% new oak; yet the 2022's chunky, glass-staining style makes it Ducru Beaucaillou's only rival for the title of most extracted second growth of the Médoc.
    93-95 points
    William Kelley - Wine Advocate (Apr 2023)

    The 2022 Cos d’Estournel is stunning. Rich and statuesque in bearing, the 2022 captures all the best this vintage had to offer. A wine of precision and power, the 2022 balances the intensity of the year but without veering into the realm of the exotic, as was the case in vintages such as 2005 and 2009. It marries ripeness and classical rigor in a style that is quite appealing. I imagine the 2022 will need a good 15-20 years to be at its finest. Harvest took place between September 7 and 23, exceptionally early. Drink 2028-2052.
    95-97 points
    Antonio Galloni - Vinous

    Unique structure to this wine and very Cos with all the spices and dark fruits. Tobacco and cedar. It's starts off full-bodied and flavorful, but continues to unfold in an energetic and weightless way. Savory and primary. Al dente grapes here. Exciting and thought-provoking.
    98-99 points
    James Suckling

    One of the finest wines to ever pass my lips, the 2022 Château Cos D'Estournel is a monument in the making. Based on 61% Cabernet Sauvignon, 37% Merlot, and 1% each of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, this saturated ruby/purple-hued Saint-Estèphe offers a full-bodied, massive, opulent style as well as perfumed red, blue, and black fruits, ample spice, chocolate, graphite, and lead pencil-like aromatics, a stacked mid-palate, flawless balance, and a monster of a finish. An improved version of the 2009 (if that's possible), this is a legendary wine in the making. Hats off to Michel Reybier and technical director Dominique Arangoïts.
    98-100 points
    Jeb Dunnuck

    Fresh and vibrant blackcurrant aromas with milk chocolate, vanilla and floral scents - so aromatic and expressive. Juicy and alive, bright and vibrant on the palate with soft herbal scents surrounding the fruit. The flavours - blackcurrant, black cherry, damson and orange rind - settle vertically but the firm and textured tannins give the focus, structure and tension. It has liquorice and flint edges all the way giving a savoury touch and clear minerality as well as dark chocolate and clove spice. Refined and serious but also there’s such a delicious juicy undercurrent giving life and energy. Confident winemaking on show, this is a real success in delivering a complete and powerful wine with depth but no heaviness. Totally delicious and moreish. A wine you're going to finish! Potential upscore in bottle. Two-third grand vin production. 2.94 total acidity. 3.79pH. 90 IPT. 1% Petit Verdot completes the blend. Drink 2027 - 2050.
    97 points
    Georgina Hindle - Decanter

    Opaque in color, the wine pops from the glass with black fruits, cloves, cinnamon, blackberries, blueberries, purple flowers, almonds, and smoke. The wine coats, bathes, and covers your palate with seemingly endless layers of opulent, black fruits. The cashmere tannins create the impression of velvet as the wine lingers for 60 seconds or more with its waves of black, blue. and red fruits, dark cocoa, licorice, and Asian spice. There is a seamlessness to the finish, as well as lift, and purity. This is a very hedonistic, yet elegant wine. 2022 clearly competes with the best of vintages of Cos ever produced. The wine was made from blending 61% Cabernet Sauvignon, 37% Merlot, 1% Petit Verdot, and 1% Cabernet Franc. 14.04% ABV, 3.79 pH. The yields were 33 hectoliters per hectare. The harvest took place September 7 to September 23. The Grand Vin was produced from 66% of the harvest. The wine is going to approachable early in its life, yet it has the ability to age for decades. Drink from 2028-2060.
    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 Cos d'Estournel Pre-Arrival Offer
    Saint Estephe, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $415. 00
    Bottle
    $4980.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Chateau Cos d’Estournel have made great strides in the recent past, and their new winemaking facility is one of the most impressive and purpose driven in the area. All movement of wine from the moment grapes arrive is done via gravity, a process involving a style of wine elevator to raise and lower tanks, and one that removes the use of pumps entirely.

    While the wines from this Second Growth property have been patchy throughout their history, it’s no secret that they have been on fire over the last 15 years, producing rich, concentrated, and potentially very long lived wines warranting perfect scores for numerous wine critics.

    Other Reviews....
    The 2021 Cos d'Estournel is very promising, offering up rich aromas of dark berries, plums, exotic spices, loamy soil and rose petals, followed by a medium to full-bodied, deep and seamless palate that's impressively vibrant and concentrated, with powdery tannins, bright acids and a long, penetrating finish. Only 53% of the production made it into the grand vin, and the blend is 64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot. Technical director Dominique Arangoïts reports that Cos was spared by frost and coulure at flowering, harvesting between September 23 and October 4, and fermenting a touch hotter than has been the case in recent years, at around 28-29 degrees Celsius.
    94-95 points
    William Kelley - Wine Advocate (Apr 2022)

    The 2021 Cos d'Estournel is a wine of real breadth and volume. It is also quite a departure from recent vintages in that strong Cabernet aromatics are very much front and center. Cedar, tobacco, dried herbs, menthol and licorice lend notable complexity to the bouquet. I expect the 2021 will need time to be at its best. Cos is usually much more alluring in its youth than the reticent but hugely promising 2021. Drink 2031-2051.
    94-96 points
    Antonio Galloni - Vinous

    The 2021 Cos d'Estournel has an attractive nose, more complex than the Pagodes (as you would expect), graphite and subtle cigar box scents permeating the black fruit and the Cabernet Sauvignon more expressive at this stage vis-à-vis the Merlot. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins. One of the most velvety Cos d'Estournel wines I have encountered at this stage, though linear and strict on the saline finish. This is old-school in some ways, and a bit grumpy in its youth – a wine that will oblige cellar aging. A Saint-Estèphe for the patient among you. (12.74% alcohol) Drink 2028-2050.
    93-95 points
    Neal Martin - Vinous

    A firm red with solid, compact tannins. Medium to full body with plenty of blackcurrant, pencil-lead and graphite character. Compact and structured throughout, with a firm finish. Linear and muscular tannins at the end that are very formed and curated. It will be interesting to see how this one evolves. 64% cabernet sauvignon, 30% merlot, 4% cabernet franc and 2% petit verdot.
    94-95 points
    James Suckling

    The Grand Vin 2021 Château Cos D'Estournel is 64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc, and 2% Petit Verdot that saw 55% new French oak. It offers a beautiful, elegant, medium-bodied style that carries plenty of pure cassis and almost blue fruits as well as graphite, spicy wood, and hints of tobacco. The tannins are polished, and it has terrific balance, good density, and outstanding length. It's certainly in the more focused, elegant, narrow style of the vintage, but it's beautiful.
    92-94+ points
    Jeb Dunnuck

    Earthy, spicy, black raspberries, blackberries, flowers, and black currants create the nose and the core of its medium/full-bodied palate. Soft, silky, fresh and polished, there is a nice sweetness and refined edge to the fruit on the palate, finishing with layers of vibrant, peppery, tea-stained, black currants with a gentle hint of herbs on the backend. The wine was made from blending 64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 1% Petit Verdot and 1% Cabernet Franc,13% alcohol, pH of 3.7. The yields were 35 hectoliters per hectare. The harvest took place September 23 to October 7. The Grand Vin was produced from 50% of the harvest. The wine is going to approachable early in its life. Drink from 2025-2055.
    95-97 points
    Jeff Leve - The Wine Cellar Insider

    Super rich dark berries on the nose, fragrant and seductive, this draws you in both from the nose and colour with a deep, inky purple and pink tone. Charming and lively, this is sophisticated with a minty, fresh, high-toned fruit profile that is poised and focussed, delivering each element in a straight line right now. Not so expansive but layered vertically with tobacco, coffee, dark chocolate and vanilla notes alongside bramble fruits. It’s tightly packaged but so refined, elegant and classy. One to watch for sure. 2% Petit Verdot completes the blend. Drinking Window 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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    • Nick's Import
    2020 Chateau Cos d'Estournel
    Saint Estephe, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $530. 00
    Bottle
    $6360.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Chateau Cos d’Estournel have made great strides in the recent past, and their new winemaking facility is one of the most impressive and purpose driven in the area. All movement of wine from the moment grapes arrive is done via gravity, a process involving a style of wine elevator to raise and lower tanks, and one that removes the use of pumps entirely.

    While the wines from this Second Growth property have been patchy throughout their history, it’s no secret that they have been on fire over the last 15 years, producing rich, concentrated, and potentially very long lived wines warranting perfect scores for numerous wine critics.

    Other Reviews....
    The 2020 Cos d'Estournel is composed of 62% Cabernet Sauvignon and 38% Merlot. The harvest took place September 10–24 with a yield of 39 hectoliters per hectare. The alcohol weighs in at 13.46% with a pH of 3.9 and an IPT (total phenolic index) of 80. It is being aged in French oak barrels, 55% new.
    Deep purple-black in color, it pops with explosive scents of ripe red and black currants, black cherry preserves and black raspberries, followed by sparks of violets, wild sage, pencil lead and clove oil, with emerging hints of iron ore and damp soil. The medium-bodied palate has amazing elegance and grace contrasted by jaw-dropping energy, featuring a firm frame of finely grained tannins and just enough freshness, finishing with a whole firework display of mineral nuances. I love the way this Cos d'Estournel shimmies and shines—a unique vintage signature expressed so beautifully at this estate!
    96-98 points
    Lisa Perrotti-Brown - Wine Advocate (May 2021)

    The 2020 Cos d'Estournel is a wine of extreme elegance. Silky and light on its feet, the 2020 is incredibly nuanced. In fact it is without question the most finessed of all the top wines in Saint-Estèphe, showing more in common with some of its neighbors in the north of Pauillac than the more potent wines of Saint-Estèphe. Impossibly soft, silky tannins wrap around a core of dark red fruit, spice and orange zest. The 2020 is not a huge Cos, but rather a wine for readers who appreciate elegance over power. I can't wait to see how it ages. Magnificent. Drink 2030-2060.
    97 points
    Antonio Galloni - Vinous

    A brooding and deep wine just on the nose, with blackcurrants, redcurrants, spices such as cardamom and nutmeg, as well as black truffles with earth. Complex. Full-bodied with fine yet chewy tannins, that are wonderfully interwoven. Very structured and long. Needs five to six years to come around. 62% cabernet and 38% merlot. Try after 2028.
    98 points
    James Suckling

    Another brilliant Saint-Emilion, the 2020 Château Canon actually reminds me of the 2019 with its pure, elegant, yet concentrated profile. Based on 68% Merlot and 32% Cabernet Franc, it reveals a deep ruby hue as well as classic upper plateau notes of perfumed red and black fruits (black raspberries, darker cherries), wildflowers, graphite, and chalky minerality. Medium to full-bodied on the palate, it has a seamless, elegant mouthfeel, perfectly integrated tannins and acidity, and flawless overall balance. As with the 2019, it's not the blockbuster style of the 2015, but it’s lively, elegant, and pure class. It needs 7-8 years of bottle age to hit maturity and will have 2-3 decades of overall longevity. Drink 2030-2060.
    97+ points
    Jeb Dunnuck

    A first-growth level wine. With aristocratic ease it conveys nimble energy and sneaky sensuality. Pencil lead, white tobacco, cassis, juicy blackberry and cherry gorgeously delineated with refined tannins providing impressive structure for long-term cellaring. The pH is the highest since 2003, but you get neither heat nor imbalance. Impressive dry extract and rather 'normal' alcohol at 13.5% evokes a positively classic feel, leading to a subtle yet super-long finish. For owner Michel Reybier, the vintage marks 20 years of 'passion at the helm'. Comes encased in a uniquely gold-coloured engraved bottle with the phrase 'C’était Cos sinon rien' - Cos or nothing else. Drink 2025 - 2065.
    99 points
    Panos Kakaviatos - Decanter

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    • Nick's Import
    2018 Chateau Cos d'Estournel
    Saint Estephe, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $550. 00
    Bottle
    $6600.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Chateau Cos d’Estournel have made great strides in the recent past, and their new winemaking facility is one of the most impressive and purpose driven in the area. All movement of wine from the moment grapes arrive is done via gravity, a process involving a style of wine elevator to raise and lower tanks, and one that removes the use of pumps entirely.

    While the wines from this Second Growth property have been patchy throughout their history, it’s no secret that they have been on fire over the last 15 years, producing rich, concentrated, and potentially very long lived wines warranting perfect scores for numerous wine critics.

    Other Reviews....
    The 2018 Cos d'Estournel is a blend of 74% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Merlot, 2% Petit Verdot and 1% Cabernet Franc, aged in 50% new oak barriques. The alcohol weighs in at just over 14.5%. Sporting a deep purple-black color, it needs a lot of swirling to begin to unlock a powerful nose of crème de cassis, stewed plums, wild blueberries and chocolate-covered cherries, followed by nuances of Sichuan pepper, star anise, tree and clove oil, plus a waft of charcoal. The full-bodied palate is densely packed with taut, muscular black fruits and earthy layers, framed by super firm, ripe, grainy tannins and seamless freshness, finishing very long and wonderfully earthy. A very impressive behemoth, this is going to need a good seven to 10 years to truly show its stuff and should drink for a good 40 years and beyond. Drink: 2028-2068.
    98+ points
    Lisa Perrotti-Brown - Wine Advocate

    The richness and beauty of this wine is impressive with blackcurrant, cherry, berry and fresh cloves. The fruit is so pure here. Full-bodied with tannins that are so integrated and refined that you don’t feel them, yet they are there! Very creamy and layered with great length and beauty. It turns to tar and licorice at the finish. Tight now, but the texture is special. Try after 2027.
    98 points
    James Suckling

    The 2018 Cos d'Estournel is a racy, powerful Saint-Estèphe that is going to need quite a bit of time to find its center. Today, it is tightly wound, but all the energy is there. Lush and extravagantly ripe, the 2018 possesses tremendous depth and plenty of energy to back it all up. Here, too, I found the wine a bit more expressive and giving en primeur. Drink: 2028-2058.
    98 points
    Antonio Galloni - Vinous

    Deeply colored, the 2018 Cos D'Estournel shows the incredible purity and elegance that this estate delivers these days as well as fabulous crème de cassis, graphite, white flowers, and spicy oak aromas and flavors. Made from 74% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Merlot, 2% Cabernet Franc and the rest Petit Verdot, aging in 50% new barrels, it builds with time in the glass and has a full-bodied, decadent yet also seamless mouthfeel, layers of tannins, and a great finish. This is as classy as it gets and certainly a candidate for the King of Saint-Estèphe in 2018. Given its purity and balance as well as depth of fruit, it should offer loads of pleasure in its youth yet also evolve nicely for 3-4 decades. This estate has been on an incredible roll over the past 7-8 years and this is another killer wine. For those interested in the technical data, this wine hit 14.59% alcohol, with a pH of 3.69, total acids of 3.3, and a whopping IPT of 80.
    97-99+ points
    Jeb Dunnuck

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    • Nick's Import
    2022 Chateau Croix de Labrie Pre-Arrival Offer
    Saint Emilion, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $250. 00
    Bottle
    $3000.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    An incredible young wine that shows fantastic chalk and stone character on both the nose and palate. It’s full but super racy and intense, with a freshness and dryness that is very unique. Oyster shell and iodine character at the end. Salt and white pepper in the finish. From biodynamically grown grapes. From organically grown grapes.
    97-98 points
    James Suckling

    Inky in color, the wine exudes flowers, blackberries, boysenberries, mint, smoke, licorice, and black cherries with touches of chocolate. Here you find a blend of concentration, opulence, freshness, and silkiness. The wine is lush, and deep, with layers of ripe, sweet, black cherries, salty plums, peppery spices, and licorice. The wine is produced and bottled with extremely low levels of sulfur. You can enjoy this young, or age it for more complexity, The wine blends 84% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 6% Cabernet Franc. This is the first vintage with this much Cabernet in the blend. 14.5% ABV. 3.4 pH. The yields were 35 hectoliters per hectare. Drink from 2026-2050.
    95-97 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 Croix de Labrie
    Saint Emilion, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $240. 00
    Bottle
    $2880.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    Deep purple-black in color, the 2020 Croix de Labrie wafts out of the glass with flamboyant notions of sandalwood, red roses, ground cloves and cedar chest, giving way to a core of stewed black plums, Morello cherries and boysenberries, plus a waft of bouquet garni. The medium to full-bodied palate has a rock-solid backbone of firm, ripe, rounded tannins and plenty of freshness, nicely framing the muscular black fruits, finishing long and spicy.

    Axelle and Pierre Courdurié's 50-year-old, 3.79-hectare vineyard consists of a mix of clay and limestone soils, a portion of which are in Saint-Christophe-des-Bardes and another portion of which are located at the foot of the Pavie slope in Saint-Émilion.
    93-95 points
    Lisa Perrotti-Brown - Wine Advocate (May 2021)
    The 2020 Croix de Labrie is rich, sumptuous and a real head-turner. Jammy dark fruit, blood orange, mint, cinnamon, sweet oak and mocha are all amplified. Plush, silky tannins wrap it all together beautifully. The 2020 is opulent and flamboyant, but also remains light on its feet, showing impeccable balance and tons of class. Drink 2025-2040.
    94 points
    Antonio Galloni - Vinous

    This is a glorious 2020 with such pure fruit of currants and blackberries, as well as dark chocolate. It’s full and layered and opens in the glass to a lovely layer of fine, velvety tannins that are bright and citrusy. Crunchy. It really opens and shows so many layers. Spectacular. Drink after 2027.
    98 points
    James Suckling

    The Grand Vin 2020 Château Croix De Labrie is brilliant and the finest wine I've tasted from this estate. Dense purple-hued, with a liqueur of limestone-like minerality intermixed with ripe black cherries, boysenberry, spring flowers, and graphite, it's full-bodied, has a wealth of fruit and texture, sweet tannins, and remarkable purity. Its oak is perfectly integrated, and it brings richness as well as an incredible sense of precision and purity. This brilliant Saint-Emilion will be drinkable in just 3-4 years and will evolve for two decades. Tasted twice with consistent notes. Drink 2026 - 2046.
    97+ points
    Jeb Dunnuck

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    • Nick's Import
    2019 Chateau Croix de Labrie
    Saint Emilion, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $199. 00
    Bottle
    $2388.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    Composed of 97% Merlot and 3% Cabernet Sauvignon with a potential of 14.5% alcohol and aging in 100% new French oak barrels, the 2019 Croix de Labrie has a very deep purple-black color. The nose opens with some very classy cedary notes, giving way to a profound core of baked plums, blackberry preserves and blueberry pie with touches of licorice, chargrilled meats, mocha and eucalyptus with a waft of red roses. Full-bodied, rich and concentrated, the palate has wonderful vibrancy for its weight, with a solid backbone of plush, ripe tannins and seamless freshness, finishing long and fragrant. This chateau has been on a roll recently—I am more and more impressed every year.
    93-95+ points
    Lisa Perrotti-Brown - Wine Advocate

    The 2019 Croix de Labrie is rich, creamy and expansive on the palate. Raspberry jam, mocha, spice, licorice and pomegranate build effortlessly. A hint of reduction lingers, but hopefully élevage will take care of that.
    90-92 points
    Antonio Galloni - Vinous

    The 2019 Croix de Labrie offers upfront black cherries, blackcurrant and cedar aromas on the nose, quite intense but well defined. The oak here is neatly assimilated. The palate is vibrant on the entry with layers of creamy black and blue fruit, silky smooth in texture with a modicum of restraint on the finish. It's one of the best wines that I have tasted from this Saint-Émilion Grand Cru in recent years.
    92-94 points
    Neal Martin - Vinous

    This is really special and intense, showing incredible energy and brightness with perfumes that just jump out. Full body and incredible length. Changes all the time. So complex. Notes of iron, too. Love this. 97% merlot with cabernet sauvignon.
    97-98 points
    James Suckling

    This rising superstar estate in Saint-Emilion has produced another brilliant wine in 2019. Based largely on Merlot brought up in new French oak, it reveals a dense purple hue as well as a powerful bouquet of black raspberry and cassis interwoven with plenty of graphite, candied violets, cedary spice, and chocolatey oak. This powerful, full-bodied Saint-Emilion stays beautifully balanced and has building tannins, a vibrant spine of acidity, and classic minerality on the finish. It's already hard to resist given the purity of fruit and silky tannins, but it's going to benefit from 4-6 years of bottle age and keep for 20 years or more.
    95-97 points
    Jeb Dunnuck

    Inky dark purple in color, you know this is intense from the moment the wine hits your glass. Chocolate, vanilla, blackberry, blueberry, smoke, flowers, licorice, and raspberry notes take no effort to find. There is good lift, loads of crushed rocks, opulent, velvety textures, and layer after layer of chocolate-covered black cherries. This could be the best wine yet from Croix de Labrie! The wine is a blend of 97% Merlot and 3% Cabernet Sauvignon, 14.5% alcohol.
    95-97 points
    Jeff Leve - The Wine Cellar Insider

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    • Nick's Import
    2022 Chateau d'Aiguilhe Pre-Arrival Offer
    Castillon Cotes de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $45. 99
    Bottle
    $551.88 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    Lots of fruit and structure to this d'Aiguilhe with plenty of fine tannins and a long and flavorful finish. Some chalkiness. Salty.
    93-94 points
    James Suckling

    Another killer Castillon in the vintage, the 2022 Château D'Aiguilhe is loaded with notions of black raspberries, ripe cherries, spicy oak, and chalky minerality. It tastes like a great Saint-Emilion and is medium to full-bodied, has fine tannins, and terrific overall balance.
    92-94 points
    Jeb Dunnuck

    Rich and intense nose, concentrated with dark bramble fruits. A shot of sharp intense strawberry and raspberry fruit hits the palate, super succulent and instantly mouthwatering, quite lean and linear though there is a nice expansion of fruit flavours while the tannins stay quite firm and straight. Touching on austere and severe but the softly plump juiciness keeps this enjoyable and there is layering of elements. Acidity is on the prominent side but this is quite captivating with crunchy, bright, just-ripe red fruits and chalky texture on the finish. Yield: 35 hl/ha. 30% new oak barrels. Drink 2024 - 2036.
    94 points
    Georgina Hindle - Decanter

    Dark pit fruits, blackberries, flowers, and cocoa create the nose. The wine is medium-bodied, soft, sweet, polished and fresh. On the medium-bodied palate, the fruits are ripe, sweet and long, leaving you with a touch of salty chalk on the back end of the creamy finish. The wine is made from 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc. 14.3% ABV. Drink from 2025-2038.
    93-95 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 d'Armailhac Pre-Arrival Offer
    Pauillac, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $125. 00
    Bottle
    $1500.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    Deep aromas of raspberries, cherries, crushed mint and spices preface the 2022 d'Armailhac, a medium to full-bodied, layered and concentrated wine that's deep, lively and seamless, framed by powdery tannins and concluding with a penetrating finish.
    92-94 points
    William Kelley - Wine Advocate (Apr 2023)

    The 2022 Château d'Armailhac was picked from 8 to 27 September and matured in 50% new oak. This has a very pure and sensual bouquet with precocious black plum, cassis violet and espresso scents. The palate is medium-bodied with muscular tannins on the entry, though I find just a little more complexity compared to the Clerc Milon this year. There's a gentle and discrete crescendo toward its delineated and minerally finish. Excellent. This is more like the d'Armailhac that I was familiar with, say, ten years ago. It will surely be irresistible once it reaches its peak. You've been warned. Drink 2027-2055.
    93-95 points
    Neal Martin - Vinous

    This is like a baby Mouton this year with blackcurrant, flower, and orange aromas. Medium- to full-bodied with a tight and racy palate that shows persistence and verve. One to watch.
    96-97 points
    James Suckling

    Another wine that showed beautifully on multiple occasions, the 2022 Château D'Armailhac checks in as 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Merlot, 16% Cabernet Franc, and the rest Petit Verdot. This deep purple-hued beauty offers up a full-bodied, ripe, sexy profile that carries lots of blueberry, cherry, and cassis fruit, notes of spice, leafy herbs, and chocolate, velvety tannins, good acidity, and a great finish. It should have a broad, lengthy drink window.
    94-96 points
    Jeb Dunnuck

    Strongly scented and perfumed on the nose, dark fruits, lively and lithe, supple and smooth on the palate, richly concentrated in terms of fruit density but sleek and stylish on the palate with a burst of bright and fresh blackcurrants and black cherries. Has a tang to it, the acidity and liveliness fills the mid palate before the stony tannins come in towards the end and give this bite and focus. More tense and streamlined than Clerc Milon, but so poised and finessed. This has bite and tension, the Cabernet speaks with liquorice, tobacco and clove subtly giving the spice at the end, but also a fresh mintiness. You can taste the gravel and the clay, putting the terroir in the glass. Really quite profound with concentrated fruit, juiciness and mouthwatering acidity. Fresh and lifted on the finish, you want more of this, but it will take some time to be more charming given its serious nature right now. One to wait for and be glad you did. 3.83pH. 11.3% press wine - usually at 7-8% maximum. 2% Petit Verdot completes the blend. HVE3 certified. Tasted twice. 50% new barrels. Drink 2027 - 2049.
    95 points
    Georgina Hindle - Decanter

    Black fruits, flowers, smoke Asian spice and tobacco leaf nuances mark the perfume, while the palate is awash in luxurious, plums, currants, licorice, black cherries and cocoa. Lush, plush and polished, with a long, creamy, mint-stained finish, this is going to age quite nicely. The wine blends 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Merlot, 16% Cabernet Franc, and 2% Petit Verdot. 14.5% ABV, 3.83 pH. Drink from 2025-2045.
    93-95 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 d'Issan (375ml) Pre-Arrival Offer
    Margaux, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $81. 99
    Bottle
    $983.88 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    The 2022 D'Issan is a lovely wine that will delight Médoc purists, wafting from the glass with aromas of sweet berries, burning embers, violets and loamy soil. Medium to full-bodied, fleshy and layered, with velvety tannins and a deep core of vibrant fruit, it's a blend of 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot and the balance Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot. The estate is now equipped with a battery of 20-hectoliter tanks, permitting sub-plot by sub-plot harvesting this year.
    93-95 points
    William Kelley - Wine Advocate (Apr 2023)

    The 2022 d'Issan is shaping up to be terrific. Dark and pliant, the 2022 captures all the intensity of the year in its super-concentrated Issan that has a ton of fruit intensity, but also the tannic spine to support it. Blue/purplish fruit, lavender, dried herbs and spice infuse the 2022 with tons of depth and pedigree. Drink 2032-2062.
    93-95 points
    Antonio Galloni - Vinous

    This is one hell of an Issan with blackberry, blackcurrant, and hazelnut aromas and flavors. Cherries. Cedar. Full and intense with tannins that are long and bright. Goes tight at the end, indicating greatness. 65% cabernet sauvignon, 30% merlot, 2% cabernet franc, 2% malbec and 1% petit verdot.
    96-97 points
    James Suckling

    The 2022 Château D'Issan ratchets up the quality, offering more purity, precision, and length. Revealing notes of darker currants and blue fruits, graphite, and chalky minerality, this medium to full-bodied red has beautiful freshness, and is focused, straight, and elegant. Just a beautiful barrel sample, it’s very impressive.
    95-97+ points
    Jeb Dunnuck

    Deep, heady, really quite seductive and aromatic on the nose, draws you in with bramble fruits, chocolate, exotic spices and perfumed floral nuances. Juicy and lively, pure and focussed, but such a vibrancy to this wine. Sweet and sour elements combine with really salty, chalky, powdery and quite filling tannins that give the nuance of flavour and texture. Bright yet serious, finessed yet layered. Lovely intensity of elements. On the more savoury side right now in terms of lingering flavour but there’s mouthwatering acidity giving the liveliness and sense of fun. I really like this, textured, upfront, forward, extremely drinkable and so approachable, but thrilling too. An exciting wine with great integration and finesse and still clear strength underneath. One of the most exciting wines this year. Stylish, potent and polished. I love it! A yield of 30hl/ha. Harvest 15 - 28 September. 1% PV planted in 1948, 12% press wine. 2% Malbet and 1% Petit Verdot complete the blend. Total acidity: 3.55. 50% new barrels. 3.67pH. Drink 2028 - 2049.
    96 points
    Georgina Hindle - Decanter

    Violets, black cherries, blueberries, blackberries, cocoa, cedar, and cigar box fill the aromatics. On the palate, the wine is lively, creamy, deep, long, and most importantly pure. The tannins are silky, and even with all this ripeness, and concentration, the wine remains fresh, vibrant, long and sensuous. This is undoubtedly the finest vintage of d'Issan ever produced! The wine is made from a blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 2% Cabernet Franc, 2% Malbec and 1% Petit Verdot. 14.64% ABV, 3.67 pH. This is the only the third vintage to include 5 Bordeaux varietals in the blend. Picking took place September 15 - September 28. Yields were 30 hectoliters per hectare. Drink from 2027-2055.
    95-97 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
    • 95
    • Nick's Import
    2022 Chateau d'Issan Pre-Arrival Offer
    Margaux, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $163. 00
    Bottle
    $1956.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    The 2022 D'Issan is a lovely wine that will delight Médoc purists, wafting from the glass with aromas of sweet berries, burning embers, violets and loamy soil. Medium to full-bodied, fleshy and layered, with velvety tannins and a deep core of vibrant fruit, it's a blend of 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot and the balance Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot. The estate is now equipped with a battery of 20-hectoliter tanks, permitting sub-plot by sub-plot harvesting this year.
    93-95 points
    William Kelley - Wine Advocate (Apr 2023)

    The 2022 d'Issan is shaping up to be terrific. Dark and pliant, the 2022 captures all the intensity of the year in its super-concentrated Issan that has a ton of fruit intensity, but also the tannic spine to support it. Blue/purplish fruit, lavender, dried herbs and spice infuse the 2022 with tons of depth and pedigree. Drink 2032-2062.
    93-95 points
    Antonio Galloni - Vinous

    This is one hell of an Issan with blackberry, blackcurrant, and hazelnut aromas and flavors. Cherries. Cedar. Full and intense with tannins that are long and bright. Goes tight at the end, indicating greatness. 65% cabernet sauvignon, 30% merlot, 2% cabernet franc, 2% malbec and 1% petit verdot.
    96-97 points
    James Suckling

    The 2022 Château D'Issan ratchets up the quality, offering more purity, precision, and length. Revealing notes of darker currants and blue fruits, graphite, and chalky minerality, this medium to full-bodied red has beautiful freshness, and is focused, straight, and elegant. Just a beautiful barrel sample, it’s very impressive.
    95-97+ points
    Jeb Dunnuck

    Deep, heady, really quite seductive and aromatic on the nose, draws you in with bramble fruits, chocolate, exotic spices and perfumed floral nuances. Juicy and lively, pure and focussed, but such a vibrancy to this wine. Sweet and sour elements combine with really salty, chalky, powdery and quite filling tannins that give the nuance of flavour and texture. Bright yet serious, finessed yet layered. Lovely intensity of elements. On the more savoury side right now in terms of lingering flavour but there’s mouthwatering acidity giving the liveliness and sense of fun. I really like this, textured, upfront, forward, extremely drinkable and so approachable, but thrilling too. An exciting wine with great integration and finesse and still clear strength underneath. One of the most exciting wines this year. Stylish, potent and polished. I love it! A yield of 30hl/ha. Harvest 15 - 28 September. 1% PV planted in 1948, 12% press wine. 2% Malbet and 1% Petit Verdot complete the blend. Total acidity: 3.55. 50% new barrels. 3.67pH. Drink 2028 - 2049.
    96 points
    Georgina Hindle - Decanter

    Violets, black cherries, blueberries, blackberries, cocoa, cedar, and cigar box fill the aromatics. On the palate, the wine is lively, creamy, deep, long, and most importantly pure. The tannins are silky, and even with all this ripeness, and concentration, the wine remains fresh, vibrant, long and sensuous. This is undoubtedly the finest vintage of d'Issan ever produced! The wine is made from a blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 2% Cabernet Franc, 2% Malbec and 1% Petit Verdot. 14.64% ABV, 3.67 pH. This is the only the third vintage to include 5 Bordeaux varietals in the blend. Picking took place September 15 - September 28. Yields were 30 hectoliters per hectare. Drink from 2027-2055.
    95-97 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
    • Nick's Import
    2020 Chateau D'Issan
    Margaux, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $160. 00
    Bottle
    $1920.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    The 2020 D'Issan is a blend of 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 39% Merlot, 2% Petit Verdot, 3% Cabernet Franc and 1% Malbec, aging in French oak barriques, 50% new. It has an alcohol of 13.29%, a pH of 3.71 and an IPT (tannin index) of 73. Displaying an opaque purple-black color, it has vibrant notes of Bing cherries, boysenberries, ripe redcurrants and juicy black plums, plus hints of pencil shavings, wild thyme, lavender and forest floor. The medium-bodied palate has impressive energy with crunchy red and black fruits and compelling tension, framed by fine-grained tannins, finishing long and mineral laced.
    93-95 points
    Lisa Perrotti-Brown - Wine Advocate (May 2021)

    The 2020 d'Issan is the first vintage that incorporates Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Malbec to complement the traditional Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot in the blend. Pretty floral and savory accents complement a core of ripe red/purplish berry fruit. Medium in body and vibrant, with superb persistence, Issan is shaping up to be a jewel of a wine. The purity of the flavors is striking. Harvest took place over three weeks between September 17 through October 2, which is only about a week earlier than normal, so not that displaced relative to what was the norm in much of Bordeaux. Tasted three times.
    93-95 points
    Antonio Galloni - Vinous

    Extremely floral and fruity with currants and blackberries. It’s full-bodied and very layered with delicious, dense character. Full-bodied with dusty, layered tannins. Rich, but not heavy. Long and chewy on the finish. 55% cabernet sauvignon, 39% merlot, 3% cabernet franc, 2% petit verdot and 1% malbec.
    97-98 points
    James Suckling

    This is a sinewy, powerful and forward-moving wine with a sense of momentum. Moreish, with the elegance and plump damson fruits that Issan delivers so well, but more muscular than some years with the impact of both Petit Verdot and Malbec that are in the blend for the first time in this vintage. These add layers of spice and the overall architecture is clear. Peony and violet notes add a kick upwards on the finish, this has a delicacy even though it is intense. Less Cabernet in the blend in 2020 than in 2019, as is often the case in the Médoc due to low yields. This new blend in Issan will be seen going forward after the addition of plots from the purchase of Château Pontac-Lynch.
    96 points
    Jane Anson - Decanter

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    • Hot Item
    • 90
    • 92
    • Nick's Import
    2020 Chateau de Carles
    Fronsac, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $34. 99
    Bottle
    $419.88 Dozen
    Cellar: 5 - 6 Years (2028-2029)
    ABV: 13.5%
    Closure: Cork

    Midnight black heart with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Nosing draws out enticing red to black currant and red liquorice aromas followed by some toasty cedar, graphite and subtle earthy black olive notes. The refined, medium bodied palate shows good underlying freshness with bright red currant and red liquorice fruits overlaying toasty cedar, earthy graphite and spice elements. Possessing lively acidity and a fine grained tannin structure it finishes with an elegant, mid length finish.
    Cellar 5-6 years.
    Alc. 13.5%

    Other Reviews....
    Rich and perfumed nose of lavender, walnuts, neroli, plums and oranges. It’s medium-bodied with firm, chalky tannins. Pretty spice and fragrance with a chewy finish. Better after 2024.
    92 points
    James Suckling

    The 2020 Château de Carles shows quite a bit of reduction on the nose at the moment, making it difficult to read. The palate is medium-bodied with pliant tannins, fleshy with sweet plummy fruit laced with marmalade and quince. Fine weight on the finish, this is an enjoyable Fronsac. Drink 2025-2042.
    90 points
    Neal Martin - Vinous

    • 94
    2019 Chateau de Chamirey Clos de La Maladiere Mercurey
    Burgundy, FRANCE
    $89. 99
    Bottle
    $1079.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2022-2028)
    ABV: 14%
    Closure: Cork

    Aged in 400 litre French oak barrels (20% new) for a period of 15 months. Deep dark red black tinged colour with a dark red hue. Nosing offers up a fragrant bouquet of violets, sour to red cherries and strawberries followed by hints of anise, fresh herbs and spicy cedar. A vibrant mix of sour through to dark cherry fruits mix with winter strawberries, hints of sour cherries, red liquorice, fresh herbs and spicy cedar. Lively acidity with polished tannins and a fleshy yet fresh aftertaste.
    Drink over the next 5-6 years.
    Alc. 14%

    • 91
    • Organic
    2021 Chateau de Coulaine Chinon
    Chinon, Loire Valley, FRANCE
    $37. 99
    Bottle
    $455.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2023-2025)
    ABV: 12.3%
    Closure: Synthetic Cork

    Deep dark red black colour with a bright purple red hue. Delightful red currant, violet and red cherry scents flow through the nostrils followed by some fresh herb, earth and spice notes. Light and energetic in its feel the palate features crunchy red currant and red cherry fruits over a back drop of earth, infusions of fresh herbs and spice. Fine grained tannins with fresh acidity lending vibrancy to the elegant, savoury finish.
    Drink over the next 2-3 years.
    Alc. 12.3%

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    • Nick's Import
    2022 Chateau de Fonbel Pre-Arrival Offer
    Saint Emilion, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $47. 99
    Bottle
    $575.88 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    The 2022 De Fonbel is gorgeous. Rich, plummy and super-expressive, Fonbel is an absolute delight in 2022. Succulent red cherry, plum, spice, rose petal and mocha are nicely pushed forward. The 2022 is a supple, charming Saint-Émilion that will drink well with minimal cellaring. In this tasting it is an absolute delight. The blend of 85% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Carménère works so well here. Drink 2027-2042.
    90-92 points
    Antonio Galloni - Vinous

    A juicy and flavorful red with lots of red fruits, currants, cloves and some nutmeg. It's full and layered with lots of fruit. 85% merlot, 10% cabernet sauvignon and 5% carmenere.
    92-93 points
    James Suckling

    The 2022 Château De Fonbel is based on 85% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 5% Carmenère. Ripe black cherries, redcurrants, tobacco, chocolate, and some chalky earth all define the aromatics, and it's another rich, medium to full-bodied, beautifully textured, elegant, layered 2022 with tons of character.
    90-92 points
    Jeb Dunnuck

    Ruby in color, the wine shows a perfume of plums, flowers, and spice before you get to the medium-bodied, fresh, vibrant palate with its spicy red fruit profile and peppery spice note that comes in at the end of the finish. The wine was made from a blend of 85% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 5% Carmenere. Drink from 2025-2038.
    91-93 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.

    • 93
    • Nick's Import
    2020 Chateau de France
    Pessac Leognan, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $56. 99
    Bottle
    $683.88 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    Attractive blackberry, blackcurrant, licorice and hints of cedar and wood. It’s medium-to full-bodied with firm, polished tannins and a flavorful finish. Classy and balanced.
    93-94 points
    James Suckling

    Lots of ripe red and black fruit, espresso, and chocolate notes emerge from the 2020 Château De France. Medium to full-bodied, beautifully textured, and balanced on the palate, it offers ripe, polished tannins and notable purity of fruit. Drink this incredibly charming, layered, outstanding wine over the coming two decades.
    91-93 points
    Jeb Dunnuck

    Chateau de France has been on quite a roll lately and 2020 is no exception. The wine is dark in color and in its fruit. There are additional nuances of smoke, tobacco leaf, savory herbs and currants. Lush, round, silky and sweet, there is energy, length and complexity here. Plus, the wine sells for a song.
    91-93 points
    Jeff Leve - The Wine Cellar Insider

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    • Nick's Import
    2020 Chateau de La Dauphine
    Fronsac, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $49. 99
    Bottle
    $599.88 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    Deep purple-black in color, the 2020 de la Dauphine opens with expressive notes of baked blackberries, prunes and Christmas pudding, leading to hints of eucalyptus, tar and dusty soil. The full-bodied palate is rich and decadent, delivering impactful exotic spice-laced black fruit preserves with just enough freshness and a velvety texture, finishing long and opulent.
    90-92 points
    Lisa Perrotti-Brown - Wine Advocate (May 2021)

    A firm, solid red with blackberry, black-licorice and stone aromas and flavors. It’s medium-to full-bodied with firm, polished tannins. Very well structured.
    92-93 points
    James Suckling

    Dark in color, the wine kicks off with licorice, Morello cherries, bitter chocolate, blackberry and smoke. Round, rich, lush and opulent, the velvet textured, chocolate covered plums on the palate really stick with you. Drink it young or age it for a few years.
    91-93 points
    Jeff Leve - The Wine Cellar Insider

    Austere in all the right ways, with blueberry and redcurrant juice flowing through coiled tannins. Pretty concentrated overall, this is sappy with a silky texture, pulled in on the finish and has clear limestone influence. A yield of 30hl/ha. 30% new oak. Certified organic. Julien Viaud consultant (who has now fully taken over the Michel Rolland consultancy).
    93 points
    Jane Anson - Decanter

    85% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Franc. Cask sample taken 14 April. Aged for 12 months in barrel (30% new). Certified organic.
    Blackish purple. Some real energy on the nose. Then succulent fruit on the palate before some well-managed tannins. This needs quite a bit of time, and is a particularly dramatic vintage, but it is clearly capable of delivering quite a bit of pleasure eventually.
    16.5/20 points
    Jancis Robinson MW

    • 91
    2019 Chateau de la Greffiere Macon-Serrieres
    Burgundy, FRANCE
    $29. 99
    Bottle
    $359.88 Dozen
    Minimum 12 bottles
    Cellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2022-2027)
    ABV: 13%
    Closure: Diam Cork

    Deep dark red black shaded colour with a dark red hue. Elevated ripe dark cherry and strawberry aromas have a fresh herb edge with some earth and spicy cedar elements also present. Sour cherry and strawberry flavours combine overlaying a back drop of earth, fresh herb infusions and spicy cedar. Finishes with a lick of tangy acidity. Fine, slightly dryish tannins support a tasty mid length aftertaste.
    Drink over the next 4-5 years.
    Alc. 13%

    • 92
    2020 Chateau de la Greffiere Bourgogne Pinot Noir
    Burgundy, FRANCE
    $39. 99
    Bottle
    $479.88 Dozen
    Minimum 12 bottles
    Cellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2022-2026)
    ABV: 12.5%
    Closure: Cork

    Matured in new and seasoned French oak. Quite deep dark red core with black tinged edges and a light red hue. Violet and spicy red cherry scents are accompanied by some strawberry, fresh herb and faint earth notes. Light and savoury the palate features red cherry and strawberry fruits over light earth, fresh herb and spicy cedar elements. Bright, slightly dryish finish with lightly dusted tannins and an elegant aftertaste.
    Drink over the next 3-4 years.
    Alc. 12.5%

    • 92
    • 92
    • Nick's Import
    2020 Chateau de la Huste
    Fronsac, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $32. 99
    Bottle
    $395.88 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    The 2020 de la Huste has a deep purple-black color, bursting from the glass with flamboyant notes of crushed blackberries, blueberry pie and ripe black raspberries, plus suggestions of violets, mocha and licorice. The medium to full-bodied palate is chock-full of juicy black and blue fruits, framed by ripe, rounded tannins and impressive freshness, finishing long and perfumed. A beautiful powerhouse!
    92-94 points
    Lisa Perrotti-Brown - Wine Advocate (May 2021)

    Beautiful Fronsac with structure, polish and some class, offering blackberry, blueberry and violet aromas and flavors. 95% merlot and 5% cabernet franc.
    92-93 points
    James Suckling

    • 86
    2021 Chateau de la Terriere Beaujolais-Villages
    Beaujolais, FRANCE
    $27. 99
    Bottle
    $335.88 Dozen
    Minimum 12 bottles
    Cellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2023-2026)
    ABV: 13%
    Closure: Cork

    Dark red black tinged core with a bright red hue. A mix of sour to red cherry and sappy herb scents mingle with earth and spice notes. Light in body, sour to red cherry flavours infused with fresh herbs are underscored by tangy acidity with some delicate spicy earth elements also present. Slightly grainy tannins with a sour edged finish.
    Drink over the next 2-3 years.
    Alc. 13%

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    • 92
    • Organic
    2022 Chateau de Pibarnon Bandol Rose
    Bandol, FRANCE
    $94. 99
    Bottle
    $1139.88 Dozen
    ABV: 13.5%
    Closure: Cork

    Pibarnon's unique blend of 65% Mourvèdre and 35% Cinsault comes from the estate's beautiful, terraced amphitheatre on La Colline du Télégraphe, a pine-covered hilltop overlooking the Baie de Bandol. This is the highest vineyard in Bandol, situated at 300 meters above sea level, benefiting from cool nights and refreshing sea breezes.
    Cinsault is pressed directly to tank, contributing elegance, fragrance, and balance, while the Mourvedre is bled off after a few hours of skin contact (saignée style), adding vibrancy, complexity, and a chalky structure. The two juices are blended before undergoing spontaneous fermentation in barrel.

    Other Reviews….
    The citrusy, mentholated 2022 Bandol Rosé was crafted with a blend of 65% Mourvèdre and 35% Cinsault and matured six months in barrels. It displays aromas of pomegranate, citrus, spring flowers, iodine, jasmine and crushed stones, followed by a beautifully defined texture, a fleshy core of fruit and racy acids that underpin a delicate, well-delineated and calcareous finish. It's going to drink nicely in its youth, but I suspect it will also age gracefully over the next 2-5 years. Drink 2023 – 2028.
    93 Points
    Yohan Castaing - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

    A distinctive, beautifully harmonious rosé, with a pronounced dusting of fleur de sel over melon, red berry and plum flavors, all spiked by singed herbs and dried flowers. Boasts blood orange acidity that drives impressive length, building in concentration toward the finish. Offers abundant intrigue and pleasure, with just the right amount of richness. Mourvèdre and Cinsault. Drink now through 2032.
    92 Points
    Kristen Bieler - Wine Spectator

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    • 95
    • 92
    • Nick's Import
    2022 Chateau de Pressac Pre-Arrival Offer
    Saint Emilion, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $79. 99
    Bottle
    $959.88 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    The 2022 de Pressac is dense, rich and explosive. Ripe dark cherry, plum, spice, menthol, licorice and chocolate give the 2022 notable depth and complexity. The tannins are very well balanced for a young Pressac, while floral top notes lift the finish. Tasted two times. Drink 2028-2047.
    92-95 points
    Antonio Galloni - Vinous

    Ripe blackberry and cassis here with medium to full body and deep red berry succulence in the middle. Supple and sleek but wide and lengthy, with silky tannins. Long finish.
    94-95 points
    James Suckling

    The 2022 Château De Pressac should be terrific. It has a forward, supple, incredibly charming style carrying lots of spicy red fruits, notes of leather, dried herbs, and loamy earth, medium body, plenty of mid-palate depth, and ripe tannins. I love its overall balance, and this is a seriously good 2022 that's going to offer pleasure right out of the gate. (Tasted twice.)
    92-94 points
    Jeb Dunnuck

    Bright and vibrant, a lovely cleanness , so pure, so fine and well worked, generous, appealing but the weight and the texture and the tannic integration is flawless. Round, easy, lovely black and red fruits, great chalky coolness with some minerality and liquorice, graphite tang on the finish. A wine you could drink today but know there’s power underneath. Compelling and a clear buy. Detailed, finessed, refined, balanced and crisp, juicy and charming. Everything you want in a wine. Drink 2027 - 2040.
    95 points
    Georgina Hindle - Decanter

    Silky, elegant, pure, fresh, and medium-bodied, the sweet, dark, red, and black fruits are vibrant, polished, refined, long, and pure in the nose, and on the palate. Drink from 2025-2040.
    93-95 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.

    • 91
    • Special Order Product – Delayed Dispatch
    2018 Chateau des Ferrages Mon Plaisis
    Provence, FRANCE
    $22. 99
    Bottle
    $275.88 Dozen
    Minimum 12 bottles
    Cellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2024-2029)
    ABV: 12.5%
    Closure: Cork

    A blend of Clairette and Vermentino. Brilliant pale straw colour with a watery hue. Aromas of pear skin, citrus and nectarine are followed by some Jonathan apple and stony mineral notes. Vibrant pear, citrus and Jonathan apple skin flavours overlay a saline back drop of slate and mineral. Taut, linear feel with crisp acidity. The dry, racy finish showing a dash of unripe pineapple.
    Drink over he next 4-5 years.
    Alc. 12.5%

    • 92
    • 92
    • Biodynamic
    • Organic
    2020 Chateau du Cedre Cahors Malbec
    Cahors, FRANCE
    $49. 99
    Bottle
    $599.88 Dozen
    Cellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2024-2030)
    ABV: 13.5%
    Closure: Cork

    A certified organic blend of 90% Malbec, 5% Merlot and 5% Tannat matured for 20 months in foudres and 25% new French oak barrels. Impenetrable inky black colour with a very deep dark red black hue. Pronounced blackcurrant, blueberry and liquorice aromas intermix with scorched earth, dried herbs and spicy cedar. Juicy blackcurrant, blueberry and liquorice fruits show good flesh across the mid weighted palate with some scorched earth, dried herb and spice characters lying underneath. Finishes with good freshness, fine grained tannins and an energetically refined blueberry led aftertaste.
    Drink over the next 5-6 years.
    Alc. 13.5%

    Other Reviews…..
    This solid wine with its 90% Malbec is powerfully juicy and rich. The estate wine at Cèdre, it has considerable potential. A dense structure is balanced by spicy flavors and black fruits. Drink from 2026. Organic.
    92 Points
    Wine Enthusiast

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    • 97
    • 94
    • 97
    • 97
    • Nick's Import
    2022 Chateau Ducru-Beaucaillou Pre-Arrival Offer
    Saint Julien, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $580. 00
    Bottle
    $6960.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    As a relatively large estate in Saint-Julien, the 75 hectare Chateau Ducru-Beaucaillou estate is planted to 70% Cabernet Sauvignon and 30% Merlot, at a density of 10,000 vines per hectare. They also own a small parcel of land in Haut-Medoc.

    Changes in the winery, and a greater focus on parcel selection for the Grand Vin has resulted in a reduction in output from around 20,000 cases per year in the 1980’s to around 10,000 cases today. And the wines have never looked better. The pair of 2009 and 2010, along with the 2016 are considered standouts for the region, intense and concentrated efforts that will live for many years to come.

    Other Reviews....
    One of the Médoc's most powerful wines this year is the 2022 Ducru-Beaucaillou, a blend of 82% Cabernet Sauvignon and 18% Merlot that opens in the glass with aromas of dark cherries and berries mingled with pencils shavings, vanilla pod and spices. Full-bodied, broad-shouldered and muscular, with a core of ripe but lively fruit underpinned by a chassis of powdery, liberally extracted tannin that asserts itself on the finish, it's a punchy, modern Saint-Julien reminiscent of a hypothetical blend of the 2018 and 2020.
    94-96 points
    William Kelley - Wine Advocate (Apr 2023)

    The 2022 Ducru-Beaucaillou is elegant and nuanced. Bright red/purplish fruit, rose petal, blood orange, mint and spice give the 2022 unusual brilliance. In most recent vintages, Ducru has been on the opulent side. The 2022, on the other hand, is strict and linear in construction, a wine that is more about persistence than size. Bright saline underpinnings extend the mid-palate into the striking, beaming finish. Harvest took place over four weeks, the longest ever, as opposed to the two weeks or so that is the norm. Yields were 30hL per hectare, down from the 35-37 typical in recent years. Drink 2032-2052.
    95-97 points
    Antonio Galloni - Vinous

    Some much creme de cassis and blackcurrant aromas and flavors here. Full-bodied with powerful tannins, yet fine and layered. Chewy. You can really feel the thick grape skins here. Excellent length. Tannins spread across the palate. Minerally and crushed stone.
    97-98 points
    James Suckling

    Moving to the Grand Vin, it's a slightly more Merlot-influenced blend of 82% Cabernet Sauvignon and 18% Merlot, raised in new barrels. It brings the same level of concentration and structure as the La Croix but has another level of class, elegance, and purity, with sensational aromatics of crème de cassis, graphite, crushed stone, sandalwood, and graphite. The purity here is truly remarkable, and it hits the palate with full-bodied richness, perfectly integrated oak, silky tannins, and a great finish. This beauty hit 14% natural alcohol with a pH of 3.8 and an IPT of 95. Given its balance as well as its texture, it's going to offer pleasure with just short-term cellaring yet also evolve for decades.
    97-99 points
    Jeb Dunnuck

    Beautiful and beguiling nose, perfumed blackcurrants and dark fruits; damsons, plums, raspberries and rose petals. Lovely crunchy fruit, real bite and presence in the mouth. Excellent precision, tannins are succulent and ripe they fill the mouth with a juicy, intense granular texture. There is such depth to this - perfume, tobacco, earth, violets and concentrated fruits that have a verticality to them with an unprecedented 98% of Cabernet Sauvignon providing the support and the backbone. There is a crystalline purity to the fruit giving tension to the overall frame, it’s focused and driven all with excellent definition. This is not a wallflower of a wine - it’s charming and confident, strutting its stuff right now and giving you absolut St-Julien terroir and vintage markers in the glass with slate, graphite and liquorice salinity on show. Skilled winemaking on show. Drink 2030 - 2050.
    97 points
    Georgina Hindle - Decanter

    Inky dark in color, the wine exudes blackberries, smoke, currants, nutmeg, flowers, Cuban cigar wrapper, black cherries, smoke, and spice in the nose. On the palate, the wine is dense, and intense, yet light on its feet with seemingly, endless waves of deep, black and red, spicy fruits. There is symmetry, balance, and freshness on the palate. The tannins are present, silky, and refined. The wine is silky, supple, creamy, and seamless in the finish, which moves from black fruits, to red fruits and back to black fruits with spice, and accents of mint and a touch of citrus at the very end of the finish, which lingers for at least 60 seconds. Ducru Beaucaillou has been on an unstoppable roll since 2009. Produced from blending 81% Cabernet Sauvignon and 19% Merlot, 14% ABV, 3.8 pH. Picking took place September 7 -- October 4. Drink from 2028-2065.
    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.

    • 93
    • 94
    • 94
    • 93
    • Nick's Import
    2022 La Croix Ducru-Beaucaillou Pre-Arrival Offer
    Saint Julien, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $115. 00
    Bottle
    $1380.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    Other Reviews....
    The 2022 La Croix Ducru-Beaucaillou contains a lot more Merlot this year as they were compensating for the lack of Cabernet Sauvignon, this Deuxième Vin raised in 80% new oak. It has a delineated bouquet with a mixture of red and black fruit. The briary and smoky aromas feel more understated compared to its peers. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins and seamlessly integrated oak that lends a silky texture. Very harmonious with an insistent grip (the IPT is 93), it lacquers the mouth long after it has departed. That Pauillac tincture is displayed and defines its precise finish. Excellent, but be warned that the oak will require several years to assimilate fully. Not so far behind the Grand Vin because of the growing season. Drink 2030-2058.
    93-95 points
    Neal Martin - Vinous

    A chewy and polished red with blackberry and blueberry character. Full to medium body. Fine and tensioned. Excellent finish. Salty. Blackcurrants at the end. 66% merlot, 32% cabernet sauvignon, and 2% petit verdot.
    94-95 points
    James Suckling

    The second wine of this great château, the 2022 La Croix Ducru-Beaucaillou is based on two-thirds Merlot with the balance mostly Cabernet Sauvignon, raised in 80% new French oak. Hitting 14% natural alcohol, its vivid purple hue is followed by stunning aromatics of cassis, blueberries, tobacco, graphite, and chalky minerality. Full-bodied on the palate, it brings plenty of concentration and structure yet is balanced and has a great mid-palate and outstanding length. If there was a ranking for the top second wines in Bordeaux, this would be in the top handful of releases.
    93-95 points
    Jeb Dunnuck

    Bramble tones; fragrant and rich blackberry notes on the nose. A dark soul with depth and intensity, this has such richness and power, but restraint also. Concentrated with a directness and focus that drives it from start to finish aided by a linear vein of salinity, liquorice and blackcurrant. Tannins are robust and grippy, giving an impressive structure that is imposing in the mouth but retains a suave and endearing quality. Such charm and potential. Drink 2027 - 2045.
    94 points
    Georgina Hindle - Decanter

    Quite floral in nature, you also find mint, cassis, and tobacco leaf. The palate is where the wine shines with its sweet, ripe, plums, black cherries, cocoa, soft tannins and polished, sense of refinement in the mid palate and in the finish. The wine is a blend of 66% Merlot, 32% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Petit Verdot. 14% ABV. Drink from 2025-2040.
    93-95 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.

    • 96
    • 96
    • 94
    • 96
    • 95
    • Nick's Import
    2021 Chateau Ducru-Beaucaillou Pre-Arrival Offer
    Saint Julien, Bordeaux, FRANCE
    $450. 00
    Bottle
    $5400.00 Dozen
    Closure: Cork

    As a relatively large estate in Saint-Julien, the 75 hectare Chateau Ducru-Beaucaillou estate is planted to 70% Cabernet Sauvignon and 30% Merlot, at a density of 10,000 vines per hectare. They also own a small parcel of land in Haut-Medoc.

    Changes in the winery, and a greater focus on parcel selection for the Grand Vin has resulted in a reduction in output from around 20,000 cases per year in the 1980’s to around 10,000 cases today. And the wines have never looked better. The pair of 2009 and 2010, along with the 2016 are considered standouts for the region, intense and concentrated efforts that will live for many years to come.

    Other Reviews....
    A wine that will delight Médoc purists, the 2021 Ducru-Beaucaillou is a blend of fully 98% Cabernet Sauvignon and 2% Merlot and checks in at a mere 12.5% alcohol. Unwinding in the glass with aromas of dark berries, cigar wrapper, violets, loamy soil and spices, it's full-bodied, layered and velvety, with superb depth at the core, lively acids and powdery tannins. Complete and penetrating, it's a true classic, reminiscent of a modern-day version of Ducru's brilliant 1996—though today's precision winemaking means that the 2021 is unlikely to go through so long a hibernation as that vintage.
    94-96 points
    William Kelley - Wine Advocate (Apr 2022)

    The 2021 Ducru-Beaucaillou is a pretty significant departure from the past, as it is nearly pure Cabernet Sauvignon. A deep, aristocratic wine, the 2021 possesses remarkable intensity from start to finish. Inky dark fruit, bittersweet chocolate and leather are some of the myriad nuances that develop with some aeration. The 2021 is so well balanced. The 100% new oak, often quite dominant in Ducru en primeur, is so well integrated, likely because lower alcohol extracted less oak imprint. The 2021 is a drop dead gorgeous wine, and a Ducru for the ages. Superb. Drink 2031-2061.
    96-98 points
    Antonio Galloni - Vinous

    The 2021 Ducru-Beaucaillou was picked at around 24hL/ha and matured in 100% new oak for 18 months, as is customary. It takes time to unfold in the glass, revealing intense blackberry, raspberry, iris flowers and a touch of spice. Very precise, though as expected, more understated than previous vintages. The palate is medium-bodied with a sappy, saline entry and good grip. Classic in style, fanning out toward the finish, and briny on the aftertaste. This is a fascinating, almost old-school Ducru-Beaucaillou. Drink 2028-2050.
    94-96 points
    Neal Martin - Vinous

    Firm, structured and pure with a cool and solid core of dark currants, blackberries, tar, pencil lead and bitter chocolate. Hints of tobacco, too. Firm but silky tannins. Very pure, with a long, mineral finish. Intense and very focused. 98% cabernet sauvignon and 2% merlot.
    96-97 points
    James Suckling

    Lastly, the 2021 Château Ducru-Beaucaillou might be the wine of the vintage. It has more depth and density than just about every other wine out there, all while still bringing beautiful tannins and elegance. A blend of 98% Cabernet Sauvignon and 2% Merlot, harvested from September 21 to October 10th, it was vinified in wooden tronconique tanks and is still aging in new barrels. This beauty hit 12.5% natural alcohol, with a pH of 3.88 and an IPT that's just about off the charts. Deep black and blue fruits, graphite, spicy oak, tobacco, and chalky minerality all define the bouquet, and it hits the palate with medium to full-bodied richness, a concentrated, powerful mouthfeel, building yet fine tannins, and a great finish. Where most 2021s are going to offer plenty of up-front appeal, this is going to benefit from a solid 4-6 years of bottle age and be incredibly long lived.
    95-97 points
    Jeb Dunnuck

    Cigar box, tobacco leaf, wet earth, blackberry, flowers, and black currants fill the nose. On the palate, the wine is fresh, polished, soft, and energetic, with a spice, and leafy-tinted finish that leaves you with dark cherries and currants on the backend. There is length, purity, lift, and softness in the finish. This is one of the potential candidates for wine of the vintage. Classic (In a modern way) in style, the wine is a blend of 98% Cabernet Sauvignon and 2% Merlot. This is the highest percentage of Cabernet Sauvignon in the history of the estate. 12.5% ABV, 3.88 pH, The yields were a scant 25 hectoliters per hectare. Harvest took place September 28 - October 11. Drink from 2026-2055.
    95-97 points
    Jeff Leve - The Wine Cellar Insider

    Beautiful and beguiling nose, perfumed blackcurrants and dark fruits; damsons, plums, raspberries and rose petals. Lovely crunchy fruit, real bite and presence in the mouth. Excellent precision, tannins are succulent and ripe they fill the mouth with a juicy, intense granular texture. There is such depth to this - perfume, tobacco, earth, violets and concentrated fruits that have a verticality to them with an unprecedented 98% of Cabernet Sauvignon providing the support and the backbone. There is a crystalline purity to the fruit giving tension to the overall frame, it’s focussed and driven all with excellent definition. This is not a wallflower of a wine - it’s charming and confident, strutting its stuff right now and giving you absolut St-Julien terroir and vintage markers in the glass with slate, graphite and liquorice salinity on show. Skilled winemaking on show. Drinking Window 2027 - 2050.
    96 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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