Jane Anson Inside Bordeaux (99)

Vinous - Antonio Galloni (95)

Vinous (98)

Jane Anson Inside Bordeaux (97)

Jane Anson Inside Bordeaux (98)

Jeb Dunnuck (98)

The FEL Anderson Valley Pinot Noir 2012 exemplifies the region’s elegance and complexity. Handcrafted in the renowned Anderson Valley, this vintage benefits from the cool climate and diverse soils, imparting nuanced flavours. The grapes were meticulously selected from estate vineyards and fermented in traditional French oak barrels to enhance structure and depth. On the palate, it reveals vibrant notes of cherry, raspberry, and subtle earthy undertones, complemented by a silky tannin matrix and a long, lingering finish. The 2012 vintage showcases FEL’s commitment to sustainable viticulture and artisanal winemaking, resulting in a wine of exceptional balance and finesse. Ideal for pairing with fine cuisine, this Pinot Noir embodies the expertise and passion of its producers. Whether an aficionado or a discerning collector, the FEL Anderson Valley Pinot Noir 2012 is a distinguished addition to any cellar.

The Finca Flichman Dedicado Tupungato Chardonnay 2022 exemplifies the pinnacle of Mendoza’s high-altitude viticulture. Cultivated in the renowned Tupungato Valley, vineyards sit at elevations exceeding 1,500 meters, benefiting from intense sunlight and cool nights that enhance the Chardonnay’s complexity. Hand-harvested grapes undergo meticulous sorting to ensure only the finest fruit is selected. Fermentation is carried out in a combination of stainless steel tanks and French oak barrels, facilitating a harmonious balance between vibrant acidity and subtle oak nuances. The 2022 vintage showcases aromas of ripe citrus, stone fruits, and a hint of minerality, complemented by a refined palate featuring layers of apple, pear, and a delicate buttery finish. Finca Flichman, esteemed for its commitment to sustainable practices and artisanal winemaking, delivers a Chardonnay that is both elegant and expressive. Ideal for pairing with seafood, poultry, or creamy cheeses, this wine is a testament to the producer’s dedication to excellence.

Finca Flichman Dedicado Tupungato Vineyard Malbec 2021 exemplifies the pinnacle of Argentine winemaking. Cultivated in the elevated terroir of Tupungato Vineyard, situated in the prestigious Uco Valley, this Malbec benefits from high altitude’s intense sunlight and diurnal temperature variations, fostering deep colour and concentrated flavours. Hand-harvested grapes undergo meticulous fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, followed by aging in French oak barrels for 12 months, imparting subtle vanilla and spice notes. Finca Flichman, renowned for its commitment to quality and sustainable practices, ensures each vintage reflects the unique character of its vineyard. The 2021 vintage presents a harmonious balance of ripe blackberry, plum, and hints of black chocolate, complemented by velvety tannins and a lingering finish. Ideal for discerning connoisseurs, this Malbec pairs beautifully with rich meats and savoury dishes, making it a distinguished addition to any fine wine collection.

Experience an unprecedented tasting odyssey with the Faethm Assortment Case 2020. Exclusively curated by master vintner Nikolas Krankl, these exceptional California wines deliver an exploration of unique varietals that exemplify genuine winemaking passion. The Faethm journey begins with grapes meticulously chosen from distinctive vineyards in state's most renowned wine regions, each handcrafted vintage unfolding an intimate narrative of the terroir's soul.

The 2020 Assortment Case features a compilation of wines that embody balance and finesse, from robust Grenache to elegant Syrah, each bottle undergoes an exacting vinification process, ensuring unparalleled individuality and cellar-worthy longevity. Savour the volley of sophisticated aromatics and intricate palate surprises, masterpieces crafted under the revered Faethm label. These limited-production bottles are a testament to Krankl's dedication to New World viticulture influenced by Old World tradition.

Undertake this multisensory experience - the Faethm Assortment Case 2020 heralds an invitation into the fascinating world of world-class Californian viticulture.

The Faethm Assortment Case 2022 epitomises exceptional craftsmanship from Faethm Distillers, renowned for their dedication to quality and tradition. Crafted in the heart of Scotland’s pristine Highlands, each spirit in this exquisite collection is distilled using locally sourced barley and pure spring water, ensuring a distinct and refined character. The 2022 vintage benefits from meticulous fermentation processes and ageing in bespoke oak casks, which impart rich flavours and a smooth finish. Faethm’s master distillers employ time-honoured techniques, blending modern precision with artisanal expertise to create a harmonious assortment that includes single malts and innovative blends. Every bottle reflects Faethm’s commitment to sustainability and excellence, showcasing layers of complexity and depth that discerning connoisseurs will appreciate. The Faethm Assortment Case 2022 is a distinguished selection, perfect for those seeking to enhance their fine spirits collection with unparalleled quality and heritage.

Nikolas Krankl, son of Manfred Krankl who founded cult sensation Sine Qua Non looks set to further the family business. Together with his wife Julia, Nikolas founded Fingers Crossed in 2017 using fruit from the vineyards of Sine Qua Non, amongst others. Like Sine Qua Non, Nikolas works with Rhône varietals, crafting enchanting Rhone blends that have won strong accolades from critics from the get to.

The Assortment case contains an equal mix of the estate Syrah and Grenache, reviews of which are as follows:

Fingers Crossed Unanswered Prayers Syrah 2021

96-98 points | Lisa Perrotti-Brown (The Wine Independent)

'The 2021 Unanswered Prayers Syrah comes mainly from Bien Nacido Vineyard, plus smaller proportions from Rancho Boa Vista, and Sanford & Benedict Vineyards. It is composed of 83% Syrah with 4.7% Grenache, 4.7% Mourvèdre, 4.7% Petite Sirah, and 2.9% of the White Wine (Chardonnay, Roussanne, and Marsanne). It was made using 35% whole clusters and aged for 20 months in French oak, 63% new. Deep purple-black colored, it explodes with vibrant notes of juicy blackberries, fresh raspberries, and ripe plums, giving way to hints of tar, violets, licorice, and cracked black peppercorns. The palate is big, powerful, full-bodied, yet very bright, pure, and light on its feet. With a solid frame of velvety tannins, it finishes long and fragrant. This was bottled in July 2023. 437 cases were produced.'

95-97 points | Erin Brooks (Wine Advocate)

'I tasted the 2021 Syrah Unanswered Prayers on July 7, 2023, a few days before it was due to be bottled. It comes from the Bien Nacido, Rancho Boa Vista and Sanford & Benedict Vineyards. The blend includes 4.7% Grenache, 4.7% Mourvèdre, 4.7% Petite Sirah and 2.9% white wine. It was vinified using 35% whole clusters and matured for 20 months in 63% new French oak. Opaque ruby-purple, it's bursting with youthfully broody scents of blueberry preserves, blackcurrant, lavender, tar, game meats and peppermint patty. Full-bodied, powerful yet balanced, the palate features concentrated floral fruit, detailed, velvety tannins and seamless acidity that carries on through the shimmery finish. 437 cases are projected.'

Fingers Crossed Unanswered Prayers Grenache 2021

97-99 points | Lisa Perrotti-Brown (The Wine Independent)

'The 2021 Unanswered Prayers Grenache comes from Bien Nacido, Rancho Boa Vista and Sanford & Benedict Vineyards. The composition is 76.5% Grenache with 11.3% Syrah, 5.5% Mourvèdre, 4% Petite Sirah, and a 2.7% splash of the White Wine (Chardonnay, Roussanne, and Marsanne) from this year. It was made with 42% whole clusters and aged 20 months in French oak, 38% new. Opaque purple-black colored, it leaps with bold notes of black cherries, black raspberries, and lilacs with nuances of tar, wild sage, and lavender. The bright, shimmery, full-bodied palate is laden with crunchy black fruits, textured by silky-soft tannins and seamless freshness, finishing long with loads of floral and red berry sparks. This was bottled in July 2023. 438 cases were made.'

94-96 points | Erin Brooks (Wine Advocate)

'I tasted the 2021 Grenache Unanswered Prayers on July 7th, 2023, a few days before it was due to be bottled. Grapes were sourced from Bien Nacido, Rancho Boa Vista and Sanford & Benedict Vineyards, and the Grenache is blended with 11.3% Syrah, 5.5% Mourvèdre, 4% Petite Sirah and 2.7% white wine. It was vinified with 42% whole clusters and matured for 20 months in 38% new French oak. Medium to deep ruby-purple in color, it has pure, detailed aromas of wild berry jam, oolong and bergamot tea leaves, damp earth and bark. The medium-bodied palate is seamless, silky and light on its feet, boasting generously floral fruit and a long, graphite-driven finish. Broody yet delicate, it blossoms gloriously as it spends time in the glass, hinting at dynamic development once in bottle. 438 cases are projected.'

Nikolas Krankl, son of Manfred Krankl who founded cult sensation Sine Qua Non looks set to further the family business. Together with his wife Julia, Nikolas founded Fingers Crossed in 2017 using fruit from the vineyards of Sine Qua Non, amongst others. Like Sine Qua Non, Nikolas works with Rhône varietals, crafting enchanting Rhone blends that have won strong accolades from critics from the get to.

The Assortment case contains 5 bottles of the Unanswered Prayers White Wine and a single bottle of Rosé, which is incredibly rare and not produced every year.

Fingers Crossed Unanswered Prayers White Wine 2021

96-98 points | Lisa Perrotti-Brown (The Wine Independent)

'The 2021 Unanswered Prayers White is composed of 72% Chardonnay, 15.4% Roussanne, and 12.6% Marsanne mostly sourced from Sanford & Benedict Vineyard, with a smaller proportion from Bien Nacido Vineyard. It was barrel fermented and aged for 21 months in French oak, 86% new. Prancing out of the glass with a fantastically fragrant nose of grapefruit oil, lemon curd, and lime blossoms, plus hints of lemongrass, shaved ginger, and allspice, the palate is full-bodied, rich, and seductively viscous. The subtle nuttiness to the opulent apple and baking spice flavors is offset by racy acidity, finishing yeasty. Bottled in July 2023, I suggest decanting this and keeping the decanter in the fridge for a good hour or two before serving, then taking it out for about 15-20 minutes before pouring it to ensure it’s not served too cold. Only 336 cases were made.'

94-96 points | Erin Brooks (Wine Advocate)

'I tasted the 2021 White Wine Unanswered Prayers on July 7, 2023, a few days before it was due to be bottled. This blend of 72% Chardonnay, 15.4% Roussanne and 12.6% Marsanne comes predominantly from Sanford & Benedict Vineyard, with the balance from Bien Nacido Vineyard. It was barrel fermented and matured for 21 months in 86% new French oak. "I would describe our white winemaking as risky," proprietor Nik Krankl explains. "It's an extremely oxidative process, and the wine does go brown. We stir the lees to encourage protein chains to form and fall out of solution via barrel fermentation and bâtonnage." The wines aren't filtered or fined, "so they of course run the risk of throwing tartrates," Nik continues. "But you get the seriousness in the wine that a lot of whites that play it safe don't have." Nik and Julia suggest decanting their whites. "That two ounces you lose from decanting off the tartrates is well worth the price of admission for the intensity you would remove without filtering."'

Flowers Sonoma Coast Sea View Ridge Pinot Noir 2019 exemplifies the exquisite craftsmanship of one of Sonoma Coast’s esteemed vineyards. Cultivated on the elevated Sea View Ridge, the grapes benefit from the region’s cool maritime climate and well-drained soils, fostering optimal ripeness and complexity. Hand-harvested with meticulous attention, the Pinot Noir undergoes a gentle fermentation process in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, preserving its delicate aromatics and vibrant acidity. Aged for twelve months in French oak barrels, this vintage develops layers of red berry fruits, subtle earthiness, and nuanced spice notes, culminating in a silky smooth finish. Produced by Flowers Winery, renowned for their dedication to sustainable viticulture and exceptional quality, the 2019 Sea View Ridge Pinot Noir showcases their unwavering commitment to excellence. Ideal for discerning palates, this wine pairs beautifully with a range of gourmet dishes, making it a distinguished addition to any fine wine collection.

James Suckling (96)