Rhône
The Rhône Valley, located in southeastern France, is renowned for its exceptional fine wines. With its diverse terroir, rich history, and dedication to quality winemaking, the Rhône Valley offers a captivating selection of wines that embody the region's elegance, complexity, and distinctive character.
The Rhône Valley boasts its own iconic vineyards and wineries, including Château de Beaucastel, Domaine Guigal, and Chapoutier, which are celebrated for producing exceptional wines that showcase the region's unique terroir and winemaking expertise.
The Rhône Valley is renowned for its red wines, particularly in the northern part of the region. Syrah reigns as the dominant grape variety, producing intense and structured wines. Appellations such as Côte-Rôtie, Hermitage, and Cornas are known for their robust and age-worthy reds, often displaying notes of black fruits, spice, and earthiness. Famous vineyards such as La Landonne, La Mouline, and Les Bessards are revered for their exceptional expressions of Syrah.
In the southern Rhône Valley, Grenache takes centre stage, contributing to the region's bold and fruit-forward red blends. The renowned appellation of Châteauneuf-du-Pape is famous for its rich and full-bodied red wines, often featuring a blend of Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre. Vineyards like Château de Beaucastel, Clos des Papes, and Domaine du Vieux Télégraphe produce remarkable wines that showcase the region's commitment to excellence.
The Rhône Valley is also celebrated for its white wines, particularly in the northern part of the region. Viognier, Marsanne, and Roussanne are the key grape varieties, producing aromatic and complex whites. Appellations like Condrieu and Hermitage produce exceptional white wines known for their floral aromas, stone fruit flavors, and vibrant acidity.
Rhône
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Indulge in the exquisite elegance of Georges Vernay Cote Rotie Blonde du Seigneur 2021. Produced by the esteemed winemaker Georges Vernay, renowned as the architect of the Condrieu appellation, this superb bottle is a testament to decades-long dedication to the craft. This cherished Cuvee is produced in Rhone, France in vineyards blessed with distinctive granite soils that add an alluring character to the wine. Hand-harvested, fermented in stainless steel, and aged in French oak, this wine showcases a consistent and authentic expression of the Rhone terroir.
Georges Vernay Cote Rotie Blonde du Seigneur 2021 presents a masterful blend of the Syrah grape with a touch of Viognier, delivering complex aromas of dark fruits, pepper and a hint of floral notes. The refined, velvety tannins tantalise the palate, whilst the marvellous acidity brings forth a balanced, lasting finish. Savour the true craftsmanship and superiority of Georges Vernay Cote Rotie Blonde du Seigneur 2021.
HK$6,625.00 -
Vinous (97)
Glass-staining violet color. Highly perfumed, mineral-accented black and blue fruit, incense and floral pastille scents pick up cured tobacco and exotic spice notes with air. Done in a concentrated yet lively style, offering palate-staining and alluringly sweet cherry, black raspberry, boysenberry, licorice, spicecake and candied violet flavors that are braced by an undercurrent of juicy acidity. Shows superb definition and mineral lift on a wonderfully persistent, floral-driven finish that's shaped by fine-grained, finely interwoven tannins.HK$13,055.00 -
Discover the distinct class and elegance of Georges Vernay Cote-Rotie Maison Rouge 2021. The wine is an eloquent expression of the northern Rhone Valley, originating from one of the most respected wine-making houses in France. Georges Vernay, a game-changing winemaker, is renowned for resuscitating the Condrieu appellation and elevating its Viognier variety to international acclaim.
The Maison Rouge is a quintessential Cote-Rotie, meaning "roasted slope", indicative of the steep vineyards' sun-drenched disposition. Meticulous vinification in French oak barrels gives way to a structured, generously fruity wine with intense raspberry and blackcurrant notes, balanced by earthy undertones of black pepper and olives. Its striking minerality and velvety tannins are a testament to the granitic and schistose soils of the vineyard.
Released only in it's finest years, Georges Vernay Cote-Rotie Maison Rouge 2021 is an exquisite wine to savour, embodying the epitome of fine Rhone winemaking.
HK$13,535.00 -
Originating from France's famed Northern Rhône region, Georges Vernay Saint Joseph La Dame Brune 2019 displays an artistry of winemaking. Hailing from carefully selected plots bathed in the gentle light of the Saint-Joseph hillside, this elegant Syrah showcases the superior talent of the Vernay house, renowned since the mid-20th century for its consistent quality and iconic offerings. Expertly produced from hand-harvested grapes, its subtleties unfurl gently through traditional vinification methods. Preserving the integrity of the grapes, it's aged for 15 months in French oak barrels, teasing out the characterful expression of the varietal. This wine seduces with its intense dark fruit aromas interlaced with hints of spice, dark chocolate, and a whisper of smoke. On the palate, it offers a well-structured bouquet of luscious blackberries and ripe cherries, underscored by a gentle acidity and fine-grained tannins, leaving a lingering, sophisticated finish. Indulge in the unique elegance of Georges Vernay Saint Joseph La Dame Brune 2019.
HK$6,495.00 -
Delve into the world of expertly crafted French wines with the sumptuous Georges Vernay Saint Joseph La Dame Brune 2020. Produced by renowned winemaker Georges Vernay, respected for his significant contribution to bringing Condrieu to global recognition, this Rhône wine is an emblem of high-quality craftsmanship. Entirely from Syrah, grapes are meticulously hand-picked from the northern exposure of the Saint Joseph vineyard, ensuring optimal ripeness. Maturation takes place for up to 18 months in French oak barrels, manifesting an elegant wine with sublime depth.
Plunge into vibrant notes of blackberry, plum and hints of smokiness on the palate. This, coupled with its silky tannins and enduring finish, positions the Georges Vernay Saint Joseph La Dame Brune 2020 as a testament to the potential greatness a well-constructed Saint-Joseph wine can achieve. Strap in for an unrivalled tasting journey, curated by one of Rhône's finest wineries.
HK$6,495.00 -
Indulge in the superior taste of the Georges Vernay Saint-Joseph Terres d'Encre 2021, an outstanding vintage from the celebrated Rhône Valley. Expertly crafted by the famed Vernay family, renowned for their commitment to viticulture since their establishment in 1953. This syrah, known for its cardinal red hue and tantalising dark fruit aromas, reflects the unparalleled passion and dedication of its makers. Harvested at optimum maturity from vines grown on granite soil, its full-bodied and supple persona encapsulates the essence of its terroir. Expect zesty undertones of ripe blackberries and an enduring pepper finish in this typically structured yet beautifully balanced marvel. The Georges Vernay Saint-Joseph Terres d'Encre 2021 elevates the drinking experience into an art form, providing unmatched pleasure to discerning oenophiles. Enjoy his ruby wonder at its ideal serving temperature of 16-18 degrees Celsius to fully appreciate its thrilling complexity and ravishing potentiality.
HK$4,820.00 -
Immerse yourself in the refined indulgence of Georges Vernay Saint-Joseph Terres d'Encre 2022, an exquisite wine from famed French vignerons, Georges Vernay. Dedicated to preserving the rich traditions of the Rhône terroir, Georges Vernay's wines encapsulate the essence of Syrah grapes. Diligently harvested from vines rooted in granite-rich soil, each bottle of Saint-Joseph Terres d'Encre 2022 carries the depth of their formidable earth.
Aged meticulously in seasoned oak barrels, resulting in beautifully nuanced layers of ripe black fruit, dark chocolate and beguiling spice. Firm, structured tannins complement the wine's bold personality, underlining an abiding finish that echoes Vernay's profound respect for their ancestral land. A testament to Georges Vernay's perseverance in traditional winemaking techniques, this top-notch wine seamlessly combines classical elegance with unique varietal character. Let the Georges Vernay Saint-Joseph Terres d'Encre 2022 take your senses on an unforgettable journey across the enchanting landscapes of the northern Rhône Valley.
HK$4,820.00 -
Indulge in the Georges Vernay Sainte Agathe Syrah 2020, a stunning exploration of French wine craftsmanship. Nestled within the Northern Rhône region of France, the Vernay estate utilises classic viticulture methods in their vineyards, emphasising organic farming to reflect the unique terroir. Under the meticulous watch of Christine Vernay, daughter of founder Georges Vernay, each vine is nurtured to impeccable ripeness before harvesting.
This expressive Syrah captures an enticing balance of intensity and finesse. On the nose, it presents a charming bouquet of black fruits, harmonised flawlessly with a hint of pepper. The palate is versatile and elegant, marked by its opulent texture and soft tannins, with an enduring finish that lingers.
A singular masterpiece, the Georges Vernay Sainte Agathe Syrah 2020 is a testament to the elegance and depth achievable in the Northern Rhône, underscoring its rightful place amongst the finest of French wines.
HK$4,395.00 -
Experience the unique elegance of the Graillot Crozes Hermitage Blanc 2020, a superior expression of Rhône Valley winemaking meticulously crafted by the esteemed Alain Graillot. Born from the sought-after Crozes-Hermitage region, each bottle boasts a precise blend of Marsanne and Roussanne grape varietals, grown sustainably on 30-year-old vines and harvested by hand. The fruit undergoes a traditional vinification process, matured on lees in older wooden barrels for nine months to imbue the wine with its distinct subtlety and complexity.
Graillot Crozes Hermitage Blanc 2020 masterfully encapsulates the terroir's essence, presenting a stylish palette of white flowers, ripe pears, and delicate apricot nuances, all interwoven with hints of honey and subtle spice. The palate delights with its well-balanced acidity, creating a wine that unfurls gracefully, lingering long after the last sip. Renowned for its pairing versatility, it's a supreme addition to any discerning wine collection.
HK$3,635.00 -
Discover the distinguished Graillot Crozes Hermitage Blanc 2021, a vivacious wine that delights the gourmet palate with its charming elegance. Exquisite and complex, this fine white wine is a splendid offering from Graillot, one of Rhône Valley’s most respected winemakers. Skilfully crafted in and around the small village of Crozes-Hermitage, the wine possesses a tantalising blend of predominantly Marsanne, blended with some Roussanne. Employing biodynamic viticulture techniques for more than two decades, Graillot ensures minimal intervention in the winemaking process, using hand-picked grapes to maintain the best quality. The Graillot Crozes Hermitage Blanc 2021 exhibits delectable notes of white peach, honey, and almond are wrapped up in a creamy mouthfeel, finishing with a delightful minerality. This wine offers refinement, a contrasting freshness and as a testament to Graillot's meticulous craftsmanship, making it a superb companion to diverse culinary journeys.
HK$3,825.00 -
The Graillot Crozes Hermitage Blanc 2022 is a fine specimen from one of Rhone Valley's most respected wine regions. Obtained from the celebrated producer, Domaine Alain Graillot, this wine echoes artisanal craftsmanship at its finest. This exquisite white wine showcases classical varietal characters of Marsanne and Roussanne grapes, grown and harvested on the coveted Crozes Hermitage appellation.
Handpicked to maintain the utmost quality, these grapes ensure a refreshing, well-structured wine, with an impeccable acidic balance achieved from ageing in oak, yielding complex stone fruit and floral notes. A distinguished embodiment of France's rich viticulturism, the Graillot Crozes Hermitage Blanc 2022 is a true gastronome's delight and an essential addition to a connoisseur's wine collection. Its graceful ageing potential only further enhances its distinct character, inviting you to take part in an enriching, timeless experience.
HK$4,005.00 -
Vinous (93)
Inky ruby. Mineral- and spice-accented aromas of ripe dark berries and candied violet show outstanding clarity and lift. At once rich and energetic in the mouth, offering juicy blackberry, bitter cherry and spicecake flavors that slowly turn sweeter on the back half. Shows outstanding clarity on the long, penetrating finish, which features well-judged tannins and lingering floral and spice notes.HK$3,905.00 -
Vinous (94)
Opaque ruby. A pungent, deeply perfumed bouquet evokes ripe black and blue fruits, olive paste, potpourri, exotic spices and smoky minerals. Densely packed and concentrated on the palate, offering smoke- and spice-accented blackberry, cassis, floral pastille and fruitcake flavors that show outstanding definition and mineral lift. Finishes smoky, sappy and impressively long, with gripping tannins adding shape to the resonating dark berry and floral notes.HK$3,895.00 -
Vinous (92)
Saturated magenta. Displays expressive red and dark berry, smoked meat, olive and floral qualities on the spice-accented nose. Sappy and penetrating on the palate, offering gently sweet cherry-cola, blackberry and baking spice flavors that show fine detail and a mineral, back-end lift. Finishes very long and subtly chewy, with repeating smokiness, harmonious tannins and strong persistence.HK$4,785.00 -
Discover the exquisite allure of Graillot Crozes-Hermitage 2021, a revelation in Syrah influence originating from France's venerable Northern Rhône region. This impeccably structured wine exhibits a velvety richness embodying delectably ripe black fruits harmonised with a hint of peppery spice and restrained oak character, achieved through a year of ageing in old French barrels.
Produced by the lauded Alain Graillot, recognised globally for his unerring commitment to integrity and quality, this wine encapsulates viewing the vineyard as a living organism, attentively nurtured using organic principles. Crafted using the traditional vinification method, each grape is meticulously hand-harvested, ensuring only the highest quality produce frames the soul of this exceptional wine.
The Graillot Crozes-Hermitage 2021 presents a tasteful embodiment of the Graillot family philosophy: creating wines that eloquently express their terroir with remarkable purity and character that only improves with age.
HK$4,395.00 -
Experience the magnificence of the Grand Tinel Chateauneuf Du Pape Alexis Establet 2005, a tribute to Southern Rhône's winemaking heritage. Hailing from the esteemed Grand Tinel estate, the Alexis Establet is made solely from old-vine Grenache grapes, meticulously hand-picked from vines over a century old. The winemaking process honours tradition, with concrete vat fermentation preserving the inherent character of the Grenache grape. Intense, full-bodied, and richly layered, the nose releases lavish red and black fruits, enmeshed with spicy nuances and traces of garrigue and dark chocolate, while a lingering finish renders it unforgettable. Known for its exceptional ageing ability, this 2005 vintage showcases resilience and balance. With the Grand Tinel family managing the vineyard since the seventeenth century, the Grand Tinel Chateauneuf Du Pape Alexis Establet 2005 proves an exquisite testament to their winemaking prowess. Embark on a sumptuous wine odyssey with this remarkable blend.
HK$5,480.00 -
Regarded as a gem in the crown of French viticulture, the Grand Tinel Chateauneuf Du Pape Alexis Establet 2006 is a testament to the revered winemaking prowess of Domaine Grand Tinel. Sourced from the Châteauneuf-du-Pape region, this vintage is composed mostly of Grenache grapes, harvested exclusively from an established, old-vine plot named Alexis Establet. The grapes are handpicked, impeccably sorted, and meticulously vinified in traditional fashion, expressing the region's quintessential terroir. The wine showcases full-bodied, expressive nuances of ripe red fruits, delicate spices, and hints of chocolate, effortlessly balancing power and elegance in harmony. The wine ageing takes place over 12 months in French oak barrels and uncovers a layered complexity that lingers on the palate. The Grand Tinel Chateauneuf Du Pape Alexis Establet 2006 is an exemplar of fine craftsmanship, making it a discerning choice for enthusiasts of prestigious Rhône wines.
HK$4,880.00 -
Vinous (93)
(one-third new oak) Pale green-hued gold. Powerful, mineral-tinged orchard fruit, melon and floral aromas are sharpened by notes of ginger and lemon zest. Concentrated pear, Meyer lemon and violet pastille flavors show a suave blend of richness and delicacy thanks to a spine of juicy acidity and a chalky mineral nuance. Closes minerally, taut and quite long, leaving a sexy floral note behind.HK$8,140.00 -
Jeb Dunnuck (98)
The 2019 Condrieu La Doriane is another tremendous effort from this estate that does everything right. Reminding me slightly of the 2015 with its power and richness, it still has plenty of freshness in its apricot, ripe pineapple, honeyed marmalade, flowers, and cream aromas and flavors. Already complex and full-bodied, with good acidity and a fabulous finish, this is a quintessential expression of this cuvée and it’s hard to imagine how it would be any better. These always have the capacity to age, yet I find them most enjoyable with 6-12 months of bottle age and then over the following 3-5 years.HK$7,535.00 -
HK$7,005.00 -
Wine Advocate (99)
More closed than when I tasted it earlier this year, the 2010 Cote Rotie Chateau d’Ampuis is an incredible effort that’s made from 93% Syrah and 7% Viognier. Coming from the estate’s top sites and aged 38 months in new oak, it has no problem standing beside the top three single-vineyard releases. Crème de cassis, vanilla bean, smoked meats and licorice all flow to a full-bodied, beautifully concentrated, structured Cote Rotie that needs another 5-6 years of bottle age, but will keep for 2-3 decades.HK$17,860.00 -
Wine Spectator (94)
Very focused, with a lovely beam of lightly steeped red currant, bitter cherry and plum fruit flavors that glides atop singed cedar, black tea and dried star anise notes. The long finish is very fine-grained. A gorgeous wine. Best from 2016 through 2027.HK$11,105.00 -
Wine Spectator (95)
Solidly built, with a compact core of steeped currant and plum fruit flavors liberally laced with singed alder, leather and tar notes. Keeps a taut edge through the finish, as this is youthfully tight, with good, buried guts. Should unwind beautifully in the cellar. Best from 2020 through 2035.HK$8,940.00 -
Vinous (95)
Extremely dark ruby. Powerful, mineral-accented cherry and dark fruit preserve, exotic spice, licorice and incense aromas show sharp delineation and pick up hints of candied flowers and olive with aeration. Sweet, seamless and broad on the palate, offering intense boysenberry, cherry liqueur, fruitcake and floral pastille flavors that slowly tighten up on the back half. Repeats the blue fruit note on an impressively persistent, spice-tinged finish that features sneaky tannins and an appealingly sweet cola flourish.HK$9,685.00 -
Jeb Dunnuck (96-99)
I loved the 2017 Côte Rôtie Château D'Ampuis. It’s a ripe, expressive barrel sample overflowing with notions of black raspberries, cassis, vanilla bean, and incense. Medium to full-bodied, rounded, and silky, it has lots of ripe tannins as well as stunning balance. It’s in the same ballpark as the 2016 yet shows the warmer, sunny nature of the vintage.HK$9,170.00 -
Jeb Dunnuck (97)
Not scheduled to be on the market until November of 2023, the 2018 Côte Rôtie Chateau D'Ampuis is nevertheless a remarkable Côte Rôtie that readers will love to have in the cellar. Sporting a deep ruby/purple hue as well as awesome Côte Rôtie notes of smoked game, violets, acacia flowers, and both red and black fruits, this beauty is medium to full-bodied, has polished, seamless tannins, and a layered, perfectly balanced mouthfeel. It shows the softer style of the vintage (especially compared to the more structured, tannic 2019) and already offers pleasure, but this will easily evolve for at least two decades.HK$8,680.00 -
Wine Advocate (98-100)
Subtle hints of fresh pea shoots accent characteristic dark notes of roasted meat, espresso and black olives in the full-bodied 2018 Cote Rotie La Landonne. Rich, concentrated and velvety-textured, with ample length and plenty of ripe tannins on the finish, it should benefit from a decade or more of bottle age—once it gets there. It's a brooding beast of a Cote Rotie that serious collectors will want to have in their cellars.HK$32,735.00 -
Wine Advocate (100)
Just as good, but made in a completely different style, the 2009 Cote Rotie la Mouline (which incorporates a whopping 11% of Viognier) offers an insane bouquet of roasted meats, toast, spice, caramelized meats, coffee bean and deep, concentrated and layered blackberry and cassis-styled fruit. As with the 2010, it has off-the-chart richness, a stacked mid-palate and a gorgeous polish to its tannin. Give it another 3 to 4 years and drink it over the following 2-3 decades.HK$48,875.00 -
Wine Advocate (100)
As to three single parcel releases, I reviewed the 2010 Cote Rotie La Mouline earlier this year, but was more than happy to taste it again (lucky me) for this report. Incorporating a full 11% of Viognier and coming from the steep, terraced vines in the Cote Blonde lieu-dit, it sports a heavenly bouquet of spring flowers, incense, violets, cured meats and sweet cassis. Full-bodied, voluptuous and as seamless as they come, Syrah just doesn’t get any more alluring, sexy or impressive. Give it 5-6 years and drink bottles over the following 2 decades or more.HK$52,545.00 -
Wine Advocate (97)
Floral aromas accent sturdy notes of grilled meat and almost delicate notes of red berries in the open, approachable 2014 Cote Rotie La Mouline. Medium to full-bodied, it shows great purity and a supple, silky, classic feel. It's built more on elegance and complexity than power, with those floral, herbal notes leaving a long, silky impression on the finish.HK$28,470.00
