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
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Vinous - Neal Martin (98)
Owners LVMH took the decision to delay the release of the 2019 Yquem until spring 2022. It was tasted with winemaker Sandrine Garbay in London. After the summer drought when Sauternes received just 2.5mm of rain until 26 July, that day saw a 112mm deluge that replenished underground reserves and gave ripening the push it needed. Dry and warm conditions prevailed throughout September when there was no sign of botrytis infection. That was finally provoked by 38mm of rain between 21 and 25 of September, followed by warm clement weather. After minor picking of Sauvignon Blanc on 7 of October, the main harvest began in earnest on 10 October. Pickers worked over the following five days, including Sunday. Time was of the essence because, as forecasts predicted, the weather suddenly changed on 14 of October with 40mm or rain. After that, the picking teams skirted between showers between 17 and 22 of October, though by now the fruit had begun to deteriorate. Therefore, the key aspect of this Yquem is the extremely tight picking window. The final blend contains 138g/L residual sugar, which is slightly less than the previous vintage, with 5.5g/L total acidity and 14.4% alcohol. Tasting the 2019, I noticed that it has a slightly paler hue compared to recent vintages (though I never read too much into the colour of young Sauternes.) For certain, it has a highly-aromatic bouquet that is beguiling in purity, enticing aromas of honeysuckle and saffron, soon joined by camomile, white flowers and orange blossom. It has wonderful delineation and gains intensity with aeration. The palate is supremely well-balanced with fine bead of acidity. Very harmonious and armed with just the right amount of viscosity, this Yquem is surprisingly understated at first but gains presence, offering irresistible flavours of layers of honey, lemongrass, lemon thyme and orange pith. Yquem is so tempting in its youth, but I feel that this vintage will repay those with the nous to cellar for at least a decade.د.إ3,295.00 -
The Wine Independent (97+)
The 2020 Château d'Yquem a blend of 75% Sémillon and 25% Sauvignon Blanc. It has 135 grams per liter of residual sugar and a pH of 3.79. Pale lemon-gold colored, citrus and baking spice notes emerge slowly from the glass, rising to offer well-defined scents of candied ginger, orange blossoms, allspice, and almond tart, leading to a flamboyant core of peach cobbler, ripe, juicy pineapple, jasmine tea, and apple butter with a waft of saffron. The palate is full-bodied and characteristically rich, yet possesses impressive tension and therefore stunning harmony. Layers of exotic spices and fragrant white flower accents fill the palate, leading to a long finish with lingering chalk and mineral nuances. It’s a showy Yquem that is gregarious in youth but is reserving that extra something for those with the patience to wait twenty years or more.د.إ3,940.00 -
James Suckling (100)
A perfect Yquem again after the 2021, which is fresher and more refined than the 2022. The perception of sweetness is super-knit. Lots of botrytis, with turmeric, saffron, cream, roasted meringue, pine nuts, spices and dried mangoes. This is a powerful, seductive and lush wine. Ornamented and richer this year than 2021, but there is so much charm and harmony. Long and spicy, with a hint of petrol at the end. Wow. The second most concentrated Yquem after 1945, according to the winemaker. About 160 grams of residual sugar. So approachable now, but better in five or six years. It will live forever.د - د
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Vinous - Neal Martin (92)
The 2017 Dalem is vinified without SO2 and sees 40% new oak. It has a clean and precise bouquet with perfumed blackberry and freshly picked mint aromas. The palate is medium-bodied with fine grain tannins. One of the most elegant Dalem wines that I have tasted in recent years with a clean and precise finish that is top drawer. This has kicked on since bottling and is turning into a very lovely Fronsac. Tasted twice with consistent notes.د.إ648.00 -
Wine Advocate (92-94+)
The 2018 Dalem (90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc) is deep garnet-purple in color and a little broody to begin, giving way to a core of baked blueberries, kirsch, redcurrant jelly and blackberry pie plus wafts of bay leaves and truffles. Full-bodied with bags of generous black fruit sparked by red fruit accents and a firm, velvety texture, it has a lovely refreshing lift on the finish.د.إ704.00 -
Vinous - Neal Martin (93)
The 2020 Dalem, the first vintage under the consultancy of Eric Boissenot, has a tertiary, sous-bois infused bouquet with a mixture of red and black fruit, discrete at first but opening beautifully in the glass. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins, citrus-fresh with impressive focus, gradually building towards the clean and precise finish. This is a top-notch Fronsac that will give pleasure for 20-25 years.د.إ417.00 -
Wine Advocate (92)
Bottled in February 2021 (no, that isn't a typo), Defaix's 2009 Chablis 1er Cru Côte de Léchet wafts from the glass with aromas of honeycomb, golden orchard fruit, apricot, spices and dried white flowers. Medium to full-bodied, broad and satiny, it's a lively, saline wine that concludes with a delicately nutty finish.د.إ1,915.00 -
The Daniel Rion Chambolle Musigny Charmes 2015 is a distinguished fine wine crafted in the prestigious vineyards of Chambolle-Musigny, Bourgogne. Renowned producer Daniel Rion and his sons meticulously approached the vine-growing and wine-making process with deep-rooted respect for tradition and nature. Harvested in mid-September 2015, the grapes experienced ideal weather conditions, fostering the wine's finesse and charming characteristics.
The essence of handpicked Pinot Noir grapes, coupled with rigorous selection, meticulous vinification and maturation in French oak barrels for 18 months, contribute to its elegant bouquet. Evoking vibrant notes of blackberries, wild cherries, and a hint of rich chocolate underlined by soft tannins and balanced acidity, this wine is expressive of its terroir's unique charm. With a guarantee to age beautifully, Daniel Rion Chambolle Musigny Charmes 2015 is indeed a testament to the artistry of the Rion family and a timeless éclat of its vintage.
د.إ3,160.00 -
James Suckling (94)
Blackberry, blueberry and sweet-tobacco aromas. Full-bodied, dense and layered with ripe tannins and a chewy yet polished, tannic finish. A young Bordeaux with plenty of structure and focus. A blend of 71 per cent cabernet sauvignon and 29 per cent merlot. Try after 2022.د.إ1,210.00 -
Jeb Dunnuck (91-93)
Ripe red and black fruits, sappy flowers, leafy herbs, and some subtle marine-like nuances (iron, salt) all emerge from the 2023 Château Dauzac, a pure, medium-bodied, supple, elegant Margaux that has a great texture, ripe tannins, and outstanding length.د.إ911.00 -
A harmonious symphony of opulence and finesse, the David Duband Chambolle Musigny 2019 is the culmination of meticulous craftsmanship from renowned French winemaker, David Duband. Exquisitely hailing from his estate in the heart of Burgundy's Chambolle-Musigny village, this wine is a testament to sustained tradition and dedicated viticulture. Each grape was handpicked from this famed appellation before undergoing rigorous selection and gentle destemming, a technique employed by only the most discerning of vignerons.
The wine exudes a pristine ruby hue and reveals an exquisite bouquet of wild berries and violets, underpinned with a subtle hint of oak. On the palate, its opulence is eloquently balanced with a fine line of acidity, unveiling a depth of intricate texture and jubilant fruit flavours. The David Duband Chambolle Musigny 2019 offers a testament to the mastery of its eponymous creator, expertly capturing the quintessence of its prestigious terroir.
د.إ1,770.00 -
David Duband Gevrey-Chambertin 2019 is an elegant offering from an acclaimed Burgundy producer. Based in the heart of the Côte d'Or, Duband's profound understanding of terroir is evident in this Pinot Noir's remarkable complexity. Harvested from 60-year-old vines, this vintage exudes cherry and blackberry aromas woven with delicate earthy undertones.
Significant to this expression is the philosophy of natural winemaking, with minimal intervention allowing the grapes' true character to shine. As a result, the David Duband Gevrey-Chambertin 2019 boasts excellent vintage typicity. Subtle oak nuances supplement the fruit-forward palate, while stylish tannins underpin the refined structure.
Vinified using indigenous yeasts and aged for 14 months in French oak, this wine exhibits both finesse and balance. Often enjoyed at the peak of its maturity, David Duband Gevrey-Chambertin 2019 will continue to evolve gracefully in the bottle, further enhancing its attractive profile.
د.إ1,105.00 -
Immerse in the splendour of the 'David Duband Vosne Romanee 2019', a truly majestic red Burgundy wine from the prestigious terroirs of Burgundy, France. Brought to life by renowned winemaker David Duband, the 2019 vintage echoes a perfect blend of tradition and innovation. Each grape is hand-harvested and meticulously sorted to ensure only the finest contribute to this sophisticated potion.
David Duband, known for crafting beautiful Pinot Noirs, presents a refined balance of ripe, dark fruit and aromatic spices in the Vosne Romanee 2019. Aged in French oak barrels to develop complexity, every sip greets the palate with an elegant interplay between sweet black cherries, rich spices and fine-grained tannins. This distinctive wine embodies Vosne Romanee's characteristic opulence harmoniously blended with a controlled potency that lingers on the palate.
A bottle of 'David Duband Vosne Romanee 2019' is no less than experiencing the enchantment of Burgundy encapsulated in a glass.
د.إ1,760.00 -
L'Aphrodisiaque 2016 is a marriage of 80% Chardonnay and 20% Pinot Noir vinified entirely in older oak barrels of at least 15 vintages.د.إ4,415.00 -
L'Apotre Blanc de Blancs 2014 which is certainly the star of his cellar, is a single-vineyard Blanc de Blancs (100% Chardonnay) from old vines planted by his grandfather in 1946. The wine is vinified in oak barrel which lend this Champagne a powerful vinous character.د.إ4,310.00 -
Wine Advocate (94)
Perfumed and elegant, the 2019 de Fieuzal wafts from the glass with aromas of blackberries, licorice, coniferous forest floor and incense. Medium to full-bodied, lively and charming, with a pretty core of fruit, powdery tannin and a saline finish, it's a seamless, vibrant Pessac that—like its white counterpart—reflects the progress this 80-hectare Pessac-Léognan estate is making. It's a sleeper of the vintage.د.إ681.00 -
Wine Advocate (96)
The 2022 de Fieuzal meets all expectations, unfurling with a perfumed bouquet of violet, iris, dark wild berries and flowers. Medium to full-bodied, seamless and layered, it gains depth with the élevage, revealing a fleshy core of fruit and an enrobing mid-palate framed by velvety, sweet tannins. Finishing long, ethereal and fresh, this blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 45% Merlot and 5% Petit Verdot is one of my favorite wines in Pessac-Léognan. It will offer a broad drinking window and should improve with time in the cellar.د.إ1,605.00 -
Wine Advocate (96)
The 2022 de Fieuzal meets all expectations, unfurling with a perfumed bouquet of violet, iris, dark wild berries and flowers. Medium to full-bodied, seamless and layered, it gains depth with the élevage, revealing a fleshy core of fruit and an enrobing mid-palate framed by velvety, sweet tannins. Finishing long, ethereal and fresh, this blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 45% Merlot and 5% Petit Verdot is one of my favorite wines in Pessac-Léognan. It will offer a broad drinking window and should improve with time in the cellar.د.إ783.00 -
Wine Advocate (95+)
The 2023 de Fieuzal reflects the estate’s ongoing refinement in matters of ripeness, élevage and extraction, revealing a complex and vibrant bouquet of cassis, mulberries, peony and rose petals, subtly accented by menthol. Medium- to full-bodied, precise and dense, it is crystalline and seamless, layered and finely textured, framed by powdery tannins and concluding with a long, ethereal and floral finish. This is a particularly accomplished rendition that allows both terroir and vintage to speak with clarity and authority.د.إ1,245.00 -
Wine Advocate (95+)
The 2023 de Fieuzal reflects the estate’s ongoing refinement in matters of ripeness, élevage and extraction, revealing a complex and vibrant bouquet of cassis, mulberries, peony and rose petals, subtly accented by menthol. Medium- to full-bodied, precise and dense, it is crystalline and seamless, layered and finely textured, framed by powdery tannins and concluding with a long, ethereal and floral finish. This is a particularly accomplished rendition that allows both terroir and vintage to speak with clarity and authority.د.إ1,615.00 -
Wine Advocate (95+)
The 2023 de Fieuzal reflects the estate’s ongoing refinement in matters of ripeness, élevage and extraction, revealing a complex and vibrant bouquet of cassis, mulberries, peony and rose petals, subtly accented by menthol. Medium- to full-bodied, precise and dense, it is crystalline and seamless, layered and finely textured, framed by powdery tannins and concluding with a long, ethereal and floral finish. This is a particularly accomplished rendition that allows both terroir and vintage to speak with clarity and authority.د.إ561.00 -
Wine Advocate (95+)
The 2021 Blanc is turning out beautifully, evoking aromas of mint, spices, peach, lemon oil and spring flowers. Medium to full-bodied and perfectly balanced, it’s tense and fleshy, crystalline and seamless, with a fresh, saline and pure finish. It feels reassuringly persistent and could age well over the next two decades. This outstanding wine is crafted from 60% Sauvignon Blanc and 40% Sémillon.د.إ1,310.00 -
Wine Advocate (95)
The 2023 Blanc from de Fieuzal is another superb rendition at this address, revealing a complex and attractive bouquet of pear, white peach, spring flowers and confit citrus. Medium- to full-bodied, enveloping and fleshy, it is built around a generous core of fruit framed by racy acidity and a crystalline texture, concluding with a long, perfumed and saline finish.د.إ1,370.00 -
Vinous (90-92)
(two-thirds vendange entier; 25% new oak): Bright, full red. Distinctly limestone-driven aromas of raspberry, earth and smoky minerality. Silky, sappy and impressively concentrated, with black raspberry and cooler cherry flavors framed and enlivened by brisk acidity. The serious, broad tannins arrive late, allowing the wine's fruit flavors to carry well on the aftertaste.د.إ2,455.00 -
(6x75cl) 2016Vinous (89-91)
(20% new oak and one-third vendange entier; the average vine age here is 50 years): Medium red. More delicate on the nose than the Les Sizies, offering scents of strawberry and stone. Then juicier and more energetic on the palate, showing lovely precision and penetration to its red fruit and saline mineral flavors. On the lean side but the firmly tannic finish leaves behind a salty tang. Winemaker Brian Sieve describes the estate's Perrières holding as our most active limestone site along with the Nuits-Saint-Georges Aux Thoreys. This wine started its malolactic fermentation sur marc--i.e., in the tank before the alcoholic fermentation finished.د.إ2,575.00 -
(6x75cl) 2020Vinous (91-93)
The 2020 Corton Clos du Roi Grand Cru is two-thirds whole cluster fruit. Quite closed, broody and stroppy on the nose, it does not budge when I gave my glass aeration. That’s not necessarily a bad thing. The palate is medium-bodied with succulent tannins, quite saline and spicy, a dash of white pepper towards the finish. Good depth, quite voluminous on the finish. Give this 4-6 years in bottle. Closure: Diamد.إ4,049.00 -
The de Montille Monthelie Pinot Noir 2016 is an exquisite offering from iconic winemaker Étienne de Montille, renowned for his relentless dedication to low-yielding, organically farmed crus. This exemplary Pinot Noir hails from the picturesque Monthelie region, nestled within the heart of Burgundy's revered Côte de Beaune. With a real sense of place, the de Montille Monthelie Pinot Noir 2016 spotlights characteristic Burgundian complexity, achieving harmonious balance between firm tannins and luscious fresh-berry flavours. Both hand-harvested and delicate fermentation in French oak promotes an engaging bouquet teeming with enchanting floral and earthy undertones. Wonderfully accessible in its youth, while maintaining the potential for graceful ageing, this captivating red invites novices and sophisticates alike to explore the depth of de Montille's mastery. A splendid testament to the strengths of an impressive vintage, and to de Montille's unwavering commitment to traditional techniques and terroir-expression, the de Montille Monthelie Pinot Noir 2016 unquestionably deserves a place in any discerning collection.
د.إ1,765.00 -
Vinous (94)
A sleeper in this vintage, the 2017 de Pressac is deep, plush and wonderfully expressive, with a bit more finesse than I have seen here in the past. The 2017 possesses terrific energy to match its translucent personality. Sweet floral, blood orange and spice nuances add striking aromatic top notes, The 2017 is pure class. Pressac remains one of Saint-Émilion's under the radar gems. The 2017 is pure class. Tasted three times.د.إ469.00 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (95)
The 2019 de Pressac is just as compelling from bottle as it was from barrel. A complex, mesmerizing wine, Pressac offers up an exotic mélange of black cherry, plum, chocolate, new leather, licorice, spice and menthol. All the elements are so well balanced. Espresso,, lavender, dried rose petal and cedar linger on the complex, beautifully delineated finish. The 2019 is seriously impressive. It's as simple as that.د.إ690.00 -
James Suckling (94)
Complex aromas of quince, dried mango, honey, toasted almond and gingerbread. It’s full-bodied and vinous with creamy, soft bubbles and bright acidity. Toasty and layered. Long, dense and flavorful. Delicious now.د.إ1,925.00
