France
The vast and diverse wine regions of France, each with its own unique terroirs, grape varieties, and winemaking techniques, are a treasure trove.
In Bordeaux, the birthplace of some of the world's most iconic wines, esteemed vineyards such as Château Lafite Rothschild, Château Margaux, Château Latour, and Château Haut-Brion produce exceptional red wines, showcasing the art of blending Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Malbec. The region is also renowned for its exquisite white wines, with vineyards like Château d'Yquem and Domaine de Chevalier producing legendary sweet wines.
Moving to Burgundy, the vineyards of Domaine de la Romanée-Conti, Domaine Leroy, and Domaine Armand Rousseau capture the essence of the region's revered terroir, crafting exquisite red wines from the Pinot Noir grape. Meanwhile, Domaine Leflaive and Domaine Coche-Dury are celebrated for their world-class white wines, predominantly made from Chardonnay.
The Champagne region, known for its sparkling wines, boasts illustrious houses such as Krug, Dom Pérignon, and Moët & Chandon, as well as grower-producers like Pierre Péters and Jacques Selosse. These vineyards create exceptional sparkling wines using the traditional method, offering a symphony of delicate bubbles, elegant flavors, and vibrant acidity.
In the Rhône Valley, iconic vineyards like Chapoutier, E. Guigal, and Château de Beaucastel produce remarkable red wines in the northern appellations of Hermitage, Côte-Rôtie, and Cornas, showcasing the elegance and power of Syrah. Further south, Châteauneuf-du-Pape is celebrated for its rich and full-bodied red blends, with Château Rayas and Clos des Papes leading the way.
In Alsace, vineyards such as Domaine Zind-Humbrecht and omaine Trimbach craft exquisite white wines, including Riesling, Gewürztraminer, and Pinot Gris, expressing the region's unique terroir and varietal character.
These are just a few highlights among the diverse array of wines that France offers. From the Loire Valley's crisp whites and elegant reds to the Languedoc-Roussillon's bold and robust wines, each region presents its own vinous treasures.
France
| Product Name | Region | Qty | Score | Price | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Champagne | 5 | 92 (VN (AG)) | د.إ996.00 | |||||
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (92)The NV (2022) Brut Grand Cellier is another wine that benefits from a very strong base year. A burst of candied citrus peel, white pepper, mint, slate and chalk makes a strong first impression. Clean mineral notes extend the finish before wrapping it all together in waves of salinity. There's a feeling of exuberance in the Grand Cellier that is impossible to miss. This release is based on 2022, with 50% reserve wines from 2021 and 2020. Dosage is 7 grams per liter. Disgorged: July 2024. |
|||||||||
|
|
Champagne | 6 | 96 (VN) | د.إ1,110.00 | |||||
Vinous (96)The 2009 Blanc de Blancs Les Blanches Voies is every bit as stunning as it was last year. The combination of the warm year and the natural richness conferred by these 70+- year-old vines yields a powerful, vinous Champagne with tremendous character, depth and the pedigree to drink well for many years. Laurent Champs gave the Blanc de Blancs 7 years on the cork, as opposed to the 6 that are customary for the Coeur de Cuvée. Dosage is 4 grams per liter. Disgorged: March, 2017. |
|||||||||
|
|
Champagne | 5 | 95 (VN) | د.إ795.00 | |||||
Vinous (95)The 2012 Extra-Brut Les Blanc de Blancs Blanches Voies is stellar. It offers tons of brilliance and energy, especially for a year in which most wines are quite a bit more radiant. It's a style that works quite well here, though. Crushed rocks, white pepper, mint and lemon peel all build as the 2012 shows off its alluring, saline-infused personality. This is an especially chiseled, finely cut 2012. I loved it. Disgorged: June, 2020. |
|||||||||
|
|
Bordeaux | 1 | - | د.إ3,750.00 | |||||
|
|
Burgundy | 2 | - | د.إ3,290.00 | |||||
|
Experience the culmination of refined oenological craftsmanship in the Vincent Bouzereau Meursault 1er Cru Charmes 2019. Produced in the iconic Cote de Beaune sub-region of Burgundy, France, this elixir is a testament to Vincent Bouzereau's commitment to producing stellar wines. This particular Premier Cru vineyard is renowned for its exceptional terroir, making the 2019 vintage a paragon of finesse and structure. Harvested and sorted meticulously by hand, the Chardonnay grapes are gently pressed, preserving their inherent qualities. The wine is then aged in oak barrels, 30% of which are new, lending to beautiful complexity. Its expressive nose radiates scents of honey, pear, and almond, while the palate explores a profound minerality balanced by a harmonious, buttery finish. Embodying the purity and elegance of signature Meursault, the Vincent Bouzereau Meursault 1er Cru Charmes 2019 is a vibrant expression of its celebrated terroir capturing both connoisseurs and enthusiasts alike. |
|||||||||
|
|
Burgundy | 2 | - | د.إ3,140.00 | |||||
|
The Vincent Bouzereau Meursault Poruzots 2019 is a beacon of unparalleled finesse from this globally revered wine producer. Each bottle embodies the rich terroir of Burgundy's Côte de Beaune, where Vincent Bouzereau treads the delicate line between traditional and modern winemaking. Harvested from 45-year old vines rooted deep in limestone and clay, this Chardonnay offers an unforgettably opulent experience. The brilliance of Bouzereau's low yield philosophy becomes evident with the wine's intoxicating aromas of ripe apricot, toasted almonds, and a hint of jasmine. On the palate, this Meursault Poruzots captures your senses with voluptuous, fleshy fruit notes underlined by a crisp minerality. Maturing in French oak barrels for 18 months allows this splendid wine to achieve a beautiful intensity without overshadowing its natural elegance. A bottle of Vincent Bouzereau Meursault Poruzots 2019 signifies more than just a delightful indulgence; it is a testament to the art and passion of Burgundian winemaking. |
|||||||||
|
|
Burgundy | 1 | - | د.إ2,210.00 | |||||
|
The Vincent Dancer Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru Morgeot Blanc 2018 is a highly refined Burgundy white wine offering a tantalising amalgamation of fruit and mineral elements. Crafted in the esteemed vineyards of Chassagne-Montrachet in northeastern France, this exquisite selection is born out of organic farming paired with biodynamic practices. Vincent Dancer, a vanguard in the Burgundy wine scene, has preserved a minimalist approach in winemaking, relying on indigenous yeasts in a gravity-fed cellar. Dancer's meticulous attention to every aspect of the process has produced a wine featuring a playful acidity underpinning luscious stone fruit notes and a hint of vanillin oak. A diligent maturation of 18 months on lees has given birth to this wine's characteristic depth, laying the foundation for its potential to age gracefully. When relishing the Vincent Dancer Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Cru Morgeot Blanc 2018 anticipate a palate-pleasing sensual experience of lush texture and sophisticated complexity. |
|||||||||
|
|
Burgundy | 1 | - | د.إ1,580.00 | |||||
|
Experience the exquisite charm of Vincent Dancer Pommard Les Perrieres 2019, a fine Burgundy red wine straight from France's famed Côte d'Or region. Created by the reputable Vincent Dancer, known for his unwavering commitment to organic viticulture and low-intervention winemaking, this wine represents the pinnacle of traditional Burgundian craftsmanship. This delicate Pinot Noir hails from the Les Perrieres vineyard, known for its exceptional terroir characterised by mixed limestone and clay soil, offering a unique depth to the wine. The 2019 vintage gleams with an inviting crimson hue, a hint of the refined subtleties concealed within. Its expressive bouquet conjures images of ripe red fruits, wild herbs, and a whisper of traditional French oak. On the palate, expect a rich compote of cherries, plums and spices balanced by fine-grained tannins and a vibrant, long-lingering finish. An absolute gem, Vincent Dancer Pommard Les Perrieres 2019 is a superb testament to the beauty of Burgundy. |
|||||||||
|
|
Burgundy | 1 | 90-92 (VN) | د.إ3,920.00 | |||||
Vinous (90-92)The 2020 Chassagne-Montrachet Blanchot-Dessus 1er Cru come across a bit sultry on the nose despite coaxing. White flowers, fresh white linen and citrus scents eventually emerge. The palate is well balanced with a fine bead of acidity, fresh and quite saline, perhaps it just need a little more complexity towards the finish, but otherwise this is well-crafted. |
|||||||||
|
|
Burgundy | 1 | 93 (VN (NM)) | د.إ3,605.00 | |||||
Vinous - Neal Martin (93)The 2021 Chassagne-Montrachet Blanchot-Dessus 1er Cru was one of the big (pleasant) surprises of the tasting. It has a more composed and complex bouquet compared to others in this flight, with a little more crushed stone, blood oranges and light quince aromas developing in the glass. Impressive delineation and the oak is seamlessly integrated. The palate is well balanced with a crisp line of acidity, just a dab of sour lemon and orange rind, quite peppery in style with a bravura finish. Much better than others in this flight, this is well worth hunting down. Tasted blind at the Burgfest tasting. |
|||||||||
|
|
Burgundy | 1 | 91-93 (VN) | د.إ2,760.00 | |||||
Vinous (91-93)The 2020 Chassagne-Montrachet La Romanée 1er Cru is more reserved on the nose, but well defined with crushed stone and touches of pressed flowers and chai. The palate is well balanced with a fine bead of acidity, much more linear, almost Puligny-like in style thanks to the calcaire terroir on the finish. Vivid and animated. |
|||||||||
|
|
Burgundy | 1 | 91-93 (VN) | د.إ2,230.00 | |||||
Vinous (91-93)The 2020 Chassagne-Montrachet Le Cailleret 1er Cru shows a little more reduction on the nose than the Morgeots, although there is good concentration here. The palate is quite vibrant on the entry with lemon zest, quince and a touch of orange pith. Plenty of energy, well focused with a saline finish, this is a fine Chassagne from Girardin. |
|||||||||
|
|
Burgundy | 1 | 91-93 (VN) | د.إ2,700.00 | |||||
Vinous (91-93)The 2019 Meursault Les Charmes-Dessus 1er Cru comes from two parcels located down from Les Perrières. The vines are 65 years old, one parcel on SO4 rootstock that is particularly low-yielding. This has a pretty bouquet, understated at first and then unfolding to reveal crushed stone and yellow flower aromas. The palate is well balanced with a smooth, slightly honeyed opening, richer than the preceding Village Crus but nicely focused. Lemon curd and a touch of stem ginger toward the finish. A delicious Meursault to drink over the next 12–15 years. |
|||||||||
|
|
Burgundy | 2 | 92-94 (IB) | د.إ2,510.00 | |||||
Jasper Morris Inside Burgundy (92-94)From three sources, all in the upper part. Glowing mid yellow. Lovely weight of fruit here, the oak lending a light coconut touch. There is a proper concentration behind, ripe enough as well, almost a petrol noted, and very persistent. Drink from 2026-2031. |
|||||||||
|
|
Burgundy | 1 | 91-93 (IB) | د.إ3,680.00 | |||||
Jasper Morris Inside Burgundy (91-93)Six barrels in all, from various sources. Clear bright mid yellow. A little bit more savoury, some pepper here, leaner and finer in profile than the Charmes but not quite as complete overall. Decent persistence. Drink from 2026-2030. |
|||||||||
|
|
Burgundy | 1 | 94 (WA) | د.إ3,720.00 | |||||
Wine Advocate (94)The 2019 Puligny-Montrachet 1er Cru Les Combettes is showing very well despite its youth, bursting with aromas of pear, toasted nuts, white flowers and hints of iodine. Medium- to full-bodied, layered and textural, with a creamy attack that segues into a bright, saline finish, it retains excellent balance in this riper, more powerfully styled vintage. |
|||||||||
|
|
Burgundy | 1 | 95 (WA) | د.إ3,875.00 | |||||
Wine Advocate (95)As I wrote shortly after it was bottled, the 2021 Puligny-Montrachet 1er Cru Les Combettes is one of the sites that Germain's team was able to thoroughly protect from the spring frosts (I remember driving past the parcel 10 days later, with it and Domaine Leflaive's vines standing out as the solitary island of green amidst a sea of desiccated buds), and the result is a wine that transcends the vintage. Offering up notes of waxy citrus rind, buttery pastry, iodine and white flowers, it's medium- to full-bodied, satiny and layered, with racy acids, chalky structuring extract and a long, saline finish. |
|||||||||
|
|
Burgundy | 1 | - | د.إ4,925.00 | |||||
|
|
Burgundy | 1 | 88-90 (VN) | د.إ6,895.00 | |||||
Vinous (88-90)The 2019 Corton-Charlemagne "Quintessence" Grand Cru comes from the Aloxe-Corton side, from a climat, and is made with purchased grapes from vines around 55–60 years old. The rather muted nose has trouble following on from the clearly more expressive Puligny Les Combettes. The palate is balanced with a fine bead of acidity, but the truth is that I find this missing the complexity and mineralité of a Grand Cru, surpassed by some of Girardin’s excellent Premier Crus this vintage. |
|||||||||
|
|
Burgundy | 1 | 92-94 (VN) | د.إ5,885.00 | |||||
Vinous (92-94)The 2020 Corton-Charlemagne "Quintessence" Grand Cru comes from a single parcel in Aloxe-Corton. This has more complexity and energy on the nose compared to the regular cuvée with fresh pineapple, grapefruit, crushed stone and a touch of mirabelle. The palate is well balanced with a fine bead of acidity, harmonious and quite refined, not powerful on the finish but linear and poised. Eight barrels produced. |
|||||||||
|
|
Rhone | 1 | 93-95 (JD) | د.إ604.00 | |||||
Jeb Dunnuck (93-95)Starting with what could be considered the entry level cuvée, the 2020 Cornas Granit 30 comes from further down the slope, from vines closer to the village. That's obviously not a bad thing, since this plump, full-bodied, beautifully textured Cornas has remarkable purity and elegance as well as richness. Blackberries, blueberries, subtle smoke, graphite, and violets all emerge from the glass, and it has a seamless, incredibly elegant texture. |
|||||||||
|
|
Rhone | 1 | 94-96 (WA) | د.إ1,415.00 | |||||
Wine Advocate (94-96)Tasted from tank prior to bottling, the 2016 Cornas Granit 60 has the potential to eclipse the 2015. The nose is an exciting blend of flowers, minerals and fruit, while the palate is full-bodied and generous without the hardness or austerity of the 2015. This standout 2016 finishes long, plush and bright. With only about 5,000 bottles made, shrewd buyers will snap it up on release. |
|||||||||
|
|
Rhone | 1 | 93 (VN) | د.إ1,220.00 | |||||
Vinous (93)Inky ruby. Smoke-accented dark berries and cherry liqueur on the highly perfumed nose. Juicy and seamless in texture, offering appealingly sweet blackberry and boysenberry flavors underscored by a smoky mineral quality. Fine-grained tannins build steadily on a long, floral-tinged finish that leaves a salty olive note behind. |
|||||||||
|
|
Rhone | 1 | 95-97 (WA) | د.إ932.00 | |||||
Wine Advocate (95-97)Paris's 2018 Cornas Granit 60 boasts remarkably pure notes of cracked pepper, blueberries and raspberries. Full-bodied, lush and creamy, it perfectly captures the ripe essence of Syrah, then adds a firm grounding of crushed stone and firm tannins on the finish. It should have close to two decades of longevity. |
|||||||||
|
|
Rhone | 1 | 95 (VN) | د.إ927.00 | |||||
Vinous (95)Glass-staining ruby. Intensely perfumed cherry and blackberry aromas are complemented by suggestions of licorice, candied flowers, olive paste and black pepper. Appealingly sweet and energetic on the palate, offering pliant cherry, dark berry preserve, exotic spice and floral pastille flavors that show impressive depth; a smoky mineral flourish gains strength on the back half. Shows superb energy and mineral thrust on the clinging finish, which is framed by velvety, slowly building tannins. |
|||||||||
|
|
Rhone | 1 | 95-97 (VN) | د.إ1,960.00 | |||||
Vinous (95-97)(vines over 100 years old vines and no new oak) Brilliant purple. A complex, expansive bouquet evokes fresh black and blue fruits, Asian spices, incense, smoky minerals and olive paste. Deeply concentrated yet lively boysenberry, cherry pie, spicecake and bitter chocolate flavors are underscored by a building mineral quality. Shows a compelling blend of depth and litheness and finishes on a youthfully tannic note, displaying remarkable clarity and insistent mineral character. I don't think I have ever tasted as profound a wine as this one from Vincent Paris, who seems to be one of the most underrated and under-the-radar producers in the northern Rhône. |
|||||||||
|
|
Rhone | 1 | 97 (WE) | د.إ1,595.00 | |||||
Wine Enthusiast (97)Le Geynale is the producer's flagship Cornas sourced from top vineyard sites and old vines. Black cherry and plum flavors are dense and potent but nuanced by violet perfume and layers of iron, graphite and dried herb. Ripe, integrated tannins are appealing already but this massively complex wine begs further cellar age. It should reward drinking through 2040, likely further. |
|||||||||
|
|
Rhone | 2 | 94-96+ (JD) | د.إ1,470.00 | |||||
Jeb Dunnuck (94-96+)The 2018 Cornas La Geynale is largely in the same style as the Granit 60, only with the gamey, bloody and meaty character (as well as tannins) turned up a notch. Black and blue fruits, rare meat, ground pepper, and wild herbs all give way to a structured, tannic wine that has beautiful purity and elegance. It's not for those looking for instant gratification, however. This cuvée comes from a single parcel, is not destemmed, and will see 16 months in 2- to 8-year-old barrels. |
|||||||||
|
|
Rhone | 1 | 96 (VN) | د.إ1,475.00 | |||||
Vinous (96)Inky ruby color. Highly perfumed scents of dark berry preserves, incense and licorice are complemented by suave floral and exotic spice overtones. Fleshy and expansive on the palate, offering deeply concentrated blackberry, cherry-cola and fruitcake flavors that become more lively with aeration. This rich yet vibrant Cornas finishes extremely long and youthfully chewy, with building tannins, resonating florality and lingering sweetness. All whole clusters and neutral oak. |
|||||||||
