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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(6x75cl) 2013Vinous - Ian D'Agata (86-89)
Dark ruby-red. Aromas and flavors of blackberry syrup and vanilla, with strong torrefaction notes of smoke and coffee. Very smooth-verging-on-opulent, finishing with good length, but the rising tannins leave a hint of bitterness. This reminded me of a Roc de Cambes from a more successful vintage. Owner/winemaker Francois Mitjaville explained that this wine managed to be fleshy, supple and smoky because nearly tropical conditions softened the skins and broke down the tannins. Essentially, the grapes marinated, he told me. These conditions, according to Mitjavile, were not present on the hillsides where Roc de Cambes is made and explain why Domaine de Cambes is smoky and soft in 2013 while Roc is not. The production here was just 25 hectoliters per hectare, down 70% from normal.HK$2,235.00 -
(6x75cl) 2014The Wine Cellar Insider (89)
Ripe dark red fruits, olive tapenade, spice and earth in character, the wine delivers from start to finish. 87-89 PtsHK$2,255.00 -
(6x75cl) 2016Vinous (92)
The 2016 Domaine des Cambes is just as delicious from bottle as it was from barrel. Sumptuous and super-expressive, the 2016 is a beautifully forward, inviting wine. Dark cherry, plum, mocha and licorice are all generous in the glass, while there is more than enough underlying structure to support a number of years of very fine drinking. This is a lovely, and frankly irresistible, Côtes de Bordeaux from the Mitjavile family.HK$2,860.00 -
(6x75cl) 2017
Jeb Dunnuck (94)
Another stunner from the cellars of Tertre Roteboeuf is the 2017 Domaine De Cambes. This smoking effort is loaded with cassis fruits as well as notes of graphite, white flowers, candle wax, and spice. Medium to full-bodied, ripe, sexy, with sweet tannins and background oak, it’s another wine to snatch up and enjoy over the coming 15 years or so.HK$2,935.00 -
(12x75cl) 2018Vinous - Antonio Galloni (91)
The 2018 Domaine des Cambes is fabulous. Inky dark red fruit, chocolate, mocha, spice, new leather and menthol hit the palate. Succulent and so alluring, Domaine de Cambes has so much to offer. Plush fruit and silky contours build into the deep, resonant finish. All the elements are so impeccably balanced.HK$4,180.00 -
(1x600cl) 2019Vinous - Antonio Galloni (93)
The 2019 Domaine des Cambes is bursting at the seams with super-ripe dark cherry, plum, espresso, licorice, menthol and chocolate. This rich, boisterous Blaye is full of energy. There's real depth and energy here, not to mention tons of character. Dried herb, leather, cedar and tobacco linger on the ample, beautifully textured finish.HK$3,050.00 -
(3x150cl) 2019Vinous - Antonio Galloni (93)
The 2019 Domaine des Cambes is bursting at the seams with super-ripe dark cherry, plum, espresso, licorice, menthol and chocolate. This rich, boisterous Blaye is full of energy. There's real depth and energy here, not to mention tons of character. Dried herb, leather, cedar and tobacco linger on the ample, beautifully textured finish.HK$3,445.00 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (93)
The 2019 Domaine des Cambes is bursting at the seams with super-ripe dark cherry, plum, espresso, licorice, menthol and chocolate. This rich, boisterous Blaye is full of energy. There's real depth and energy here, not to mention tons of character. Dried herb, leather, cedar and tobacco linger on the ample, beautifully textured finish.HK$2,155.00 -
(3x150cl) 2020Vinous - Neal Martin (88-90)
The 2020 Domaine de Cambes has a perfumed, floral bouquet of black plum, bilberry and raspberry preserve infused with pressed iris and violet petals; fine delineation and focus here. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins, and a little oaky at the moment, but there is an attractive underlying peppery, almost sage-like note that comes through on the finish. Give this 2–3 years once in bottle.HK$2,105.00 -
(6x75cl) 2020
Vinous - Neal Martin (88-90)
The 2020 Domaine de Cambes has a perfumed, floral bouquet of black plum, bilberry and raspberry preserve infused with pressed iris and violet petals; fine delineation and focus here. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins, and a little oaky at the moment, but there is an attractive underlying peppery, almost sage-like note that comes through on the finish. Give this 2–3 years once in bottle.HK$2,515.00 -
(12x75cl) 2021Jancis Robinson (16)
Open and appealing aromatically. Red-fruit and toasted notes. Juicy and sweet but appetising as well. Slight burgundian nuance. Lighter framed but the fruit is there.HK$4,085.00 -
Jancis Robinson (16)
Open and appealing aromatically. Red-fruit and toasted notes. Juicy and sweet but appetising as well. Slight burgundian nuance. Lighter framed but the fruit is there.HK$2,005.00 -
Jeb Dunnuck (95)
The 2022 Domaine De Cambes is stunning stuff, exhibiting a deep ruby/purple hue as well as killer notes of blackcurrants, graphite, crushed stone, and smoky oak. Medium to full-bodied and concentrated on the palate, with serious depth and elegance, it has the depth and the structure to age beautifully 20+ years.HK$815.00 -
Jeb Dunnuck (95)
The 2022 Domaine De Cambes is stunning stuff, exhibiting a deep ruby/purple hue as well as killer notes of blackcurrants, graphite, crushed stone, and smoky oak. Medium to full-bodied and concentrated on the palate, with serious depth and elegance, it has the depth and the structure to age beautifully 20+ years.HK$1,905.00 -
(12x75cl) 2023Vinous - Antonio Galloni (93)
The 2023 Domaine des Cambes, 100% Merlot, is gorgeous. Floral and savory overtones lift a core of vibrant red cherry fruit, blood orange, pomegranate and star anise. Perfumed and wonderfully exotic, Domaine des Cambes is a real head-turner. Fans of these wines will adore it.HK$4,020.00 -
(6x75cl) 2023
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (93)
The 2023 Domaine des Cambes, 100% Merlot, is gorgeous. Floral and savory overtones lift a core of vibrant red cherry fruit, blood orange, pomegranate and star anise. Perfumed and wonderfully exotic, Domaine des Cambes is a real head-turner. Fans of these wines will adore it.HK$2,035.00 -
Domaine De Cassiopee Bourgogne Aligote En Gerlieus 2020 exemplifies the finesse of Burgundy's renowned terroir. Crafted in the heart of Gerlieus, this exquisite Aligote grape is meticulously cultivated on limestone-rich soils, ensuring vibrant minerality. The domaine, esteemed for its commitment to sustainable viticulture, employs traditional fermentation techniques, preserving the varietal's innate purity and elegance. Maturation takes place in stainless steel vessels, allowing the fresh and zesty character to shine through. On the palate, it unveils crisp acidity, delicate citrus notes, and a persistent, refreshing finish, making it a versatile companion to seafood and light appetizers. The 2020 vintage reflects Domaine De Cassiopee’s dedication to quality and heritage, offering connoisseurs a sublime expression of Burgundy’s white wine artistry.
HK$1,435.00 -
The Domaine De Cassiopee, Bourgogne, Hautes Côtes de Beaune Les Côtes Blanc 2021 exemplifies the quintessential elegance of Burgundy's esteemed Hautes Côtes de Beaune. Crafted by the esteemed Domaine De Cassiopee, this Chardonnay-based wine is meticulously vinified from hand-selected grapes sourced from premier vineyard plots. The terroir, characterized by limestone-rich soils and optimal sun exposure, imparts a delicate minerality and vibrant acidity to the wine. Fermented in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks to preserve its pristine freshness, it undergoes a subtle ageing process on fine lees, enhancing its complexity without overshadowing its inherent purity. Aromas of ripe orchard fruits, citrus zest, and a hint of white flowers gracefully unfold on the palate, culminating in a long, refined finish. Ideal for pairing with seafood, poultry, or creamy cheeses, the Les Côtes Blanc 2021 is a testament to Domaine De Cassiopee's unwavering commitment to quality and expression of Burgundy's unique terroir.
HK$770.00 -
Domaine De Cassiopee, Bourgogne, Hautes Cotes de Beaune Les Paizets 2020 epitomises the refined elegance of Burgundy’s Hautes Côtes de Beaune. Situated on meticulously terraced vineyards, the domaine benefits from well-drained limestone soils and an optimal climate, fostering exceptional Pinot Noir grapes. Hand-harvested, the grapes undergo gentle maceration and fermentation in stainless steel tanks to preserve their delicate aromas and vibrant fruit character. Post-fermentation, the wine is aged for 12 months in French oak barrels, imparting subtle complexity and a harmonious structure. Domaine De Cassiopee is renowned for its commitment to sustainable viticulture and traditional winemaking techniques, ensuring each vintage reflects the unique terroir of Les Paizets. The 2020 vintage showcases alluring notes of red cherries, raspberries, and a hint of earthy minerality, culminating in a silky finish. Ideal for connoisseurs seeking authenticity and sophistication, this wine exemplifies Domaine De Cassiopee’s dedication to excellence.
HK$745.00 -
Domaine de Chassorney Saint-Romain Blanc Combe Bazin 2018 is a distinguished expression from the renowned Combe Bazin appellation in Burgundy's esteemed Saint-Romain region. Meticulously crafted by the esteemed Domaine de Chassorney, this white wine showcases a harmonious blend of Chardonnay and Aligoté grapes, hand-harvested from sustainably managed vineyards. Fermented in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks to preserve its purity, the wine undergoes a delicate ageing process, allowing subtle oak nuances to emerge without overpowering its vibrant acidity. On the palate, it reveals layers of citrus, white peach, and minerality, underpinned by a refined structure and a lingering finish. The 2018 vintage benefits from optimal growing conditions, reflecting the terroir's unique character and the producer’s commitment to excellence. Ideal for pairing with seafood, poultry, or creamy cheeses, this wine exemplifies the finesse and elegance synonymous with Domaine de Chassorney’s craftsmanship.
HK$1,235.00 -
Wine Advocate (87)
This dark ruby-colored Domaine de Chevalier reveals aggressive spicy new oak in the nose, along with notions of tobacco, smoke, and black cherries. While medium-bodied and stylish, it lacks the necessary depth to qualify as one of the stars of the vintage. Anticipated maturity: 2002-2015.HK$7,810.00 -
(6x75cl) 1999Wine Advocate (88)
This is a classic, finesse-styled Graves. The 1999 Domaine de Chevalier reveals scorched earth, tobacco, and red currant aromas along with rich, elegant, savory flavors, sweet tannin, and better integrated oak than previous vintages have exhibited. Enjoy this medium-bodied effort during its first 10-12 years of life.HK$5,845.00 -
Vinous - Ian D'Agata (90)
(a blend of 60% cabernet sauvignon, 30% merlot, 5% petit verdot and 5% cabernet franc; 13.4% alcohol): Deep red. Open-knit aromas of red cherry and cassis complicated by intense notes of clove, nutmeg, incense and bay leaf. Then creamy and soft on the palate, but with lovely lift to the flavors of dark berries, minerals and cedar. The silky-sweet finish shows lovely aromatic persistence, not to mention very good intensity for a 2004. Drinking deliciously right now; at its relatively reasonable price today, this would be an excellent choice for restaurant dining.HK$6,450.00 -
(12x75cl) 2007Wine Advocate (93)
Tasted at BI Wine & Spirits' 10-Years-On tasting, the 2007 Domaine de Chevalier was tasted from two bottles. I returned the first as it felt a little volatile on the nose, but the second was as it should be. This has a very refined bouquet with scents of warm gravel and black olives permeating the dark berry fruit, all very well defined and focused. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannin, very fresh and generous in the mouth with superb mineralité and tension towards the tertiary finish. What a lovely Domaine de Chevalier—à point—but with the substance to suggest that it will not go downhill in any hurry. Tasted February 2017.HK$5,875.00 -
Wine Enthusiast (94)
Dense, powerful wine that impresses both with its rich fruit and its balanced tannins. The whole wine is finely integrated, black berry flavors shot through with acidity and touches of wood. Certainly a wine for aging.HK$10,015.00 -
(1x75cl) 2008Wine Enthusiast (94)
Dense, powerful wine that impresses both with its rich fruit and its balanced tannins. The whole wine is finely integrated, black berry flavors shot through with acidity and touches of wood. Certainly a wine for aging.HK$750.00 -
Jane Anson Inside Bordeaux (97)
Some of the best quality tannins on display among all the 2009s are found here at Domaine de Chevalier. Delineated, precise, still young and flexible, cradling blackberry and cassis fruits along with incense, crayon and rosebud. Less generous than many from this vintage right now with decades ahead of it. Balanced, finessed but concentrated and intense. Gorgeous. 33% new oak for ageing.HK$8,905.00 -
(6x75cl) 2010Jeb Dunnuck (96)
Clearly in its prime drinking window, the 2010 Domaine De Chevalier is gorgeous stuff, offering a complex mix of both red and black fruits, truffly earth, chocolate, and some meaty, bloody notes. Incredibly concentrated, it's medium to full-bodied, has ripe tannins, outstanding balance, and remarkable length. This absolutely classic Domaine de Chevalier will evolve gracefully over the coming 4-5 decades. Drink 2025-2065.HK$5,210.00 -
James Suckling (94)
Plenty of sliced apple and lemon character to this fresh wine. Full body, layered fruit and a tangy, almond and fruit aftertaste. Intense finish of stones, chalk and salt. Oyster shell, too. Needs time to come together. Tingling finish. Better in 2018.HK$5,170.00 -
James Suckling (94)
Plenty of sliced apple and lemon character to this fresh wine. Full body, layered fruit and a tangy, almond and fruit aftertaste. Intense finish of stones, chalk and salt. Oyster shell, too. Needs time to come together. Tingling finish. Better in 2018.HK$890.00
