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) 2023Jane Anson Inside Bordeaux (98)
Somehow manages to feel understated and yet hard to ignore, with its vivid aromatic spirals of peonies and crushed rose petals, set against raspberry and brambled autumnal fruits. The mid palate is what really grips you here, with a flashy but extremely pure shot of liquorice root, liquorice bud, aniseed and fennel. Slows things down through the palate with pumice stone grainy tannins, and contrasts the concentration of 2022 at this estate with balance and finisse. Harvest September 13 to October 3, Axel Marchal and Julien Viaud consultants. There will be a new wine cellar ready for the harvest of 2024, more concrete vats (from 9 currently up tp 15). Camille de Vigneau the technical director with Josephine Duffau Lagarrosse. Brilliant winemaking, one of the wines of the vintage. 60% new oak.HK$5,671 - HK$6,734
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(6x75cl) 2022Begude Bandol Rose 2022 is a quintessential expression of Provence's esteemed Bandol region, meticulously crafted by the renowned Domaine Begude. Harvested from hand-selected Mourvèdre, Grenache, and Cinsault grapes, each varietal is chosen for its ability to impart depth and elegance. The vinification process begins with a gentle cold maceration, allowing the delicate flavours to emerge before fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, ensuring the wine's vibrant freshness and crisp acidity. Sourced from vineyards that benefit from the region's unique terroir, the Begude Bandol Rose 2022 exhibits a brilliant salmon-pink hue, complemented by enticing notes of ripe strawberries, citrus blossoms, and a hint of Mediterranean herbs. This finely balanced rosé offers a harmonious structure with a lingering, refined finish, making it an exceptional choice for both casual gatherings and sophisticated soirées. Committed to excellence and tradition, Domaine Begude continues to uphold its reputation for producing outstanding rosés that capture the essence of Bandol.
HK$3,610.00 -
The Begude Bandol Rouge 2015 epitomises the distinguished terroir of Bandol, Provence. Crafted by the esteemed Domaine Begude, this vintage is primarily composed of Mourvèdre, complemented by Grenache and Cinsault, meticulously sourced from the region’s finest vineyards. The grapes underwent careful hand harvesting, followed by gentle pressing to preserve their integrity. Fermentation took place in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats, ensuring optimal extraction of flavours while maintaining freshness. Post-fermentation, the wine was aged for 18 months in French oak barrels, imparting subtle vanilla and spice nuances without overpowering the fruit character. On the nose, Begude Bandol Rouge 2015 reveals layers of dark berries, plums, and earthy undertones, while the palate is rich and balanced with firm tannins and a long, elegant finish. This exceptional wine showcases the expertise of Domaine Begude and the unique qualities of the Bandol appellation, making it a superb choice for discerning connoisseurs.
HK$2,240.00 -
From the sun-soaked region of Bandol in the South of France comes the Begude Bandol Rouge 2016, a product of meticulous vinification epitomising the mastery of Château de Bégude. Imbued with varietals of Mourvèdre (80%), Grenache, and Cinsault hailing from the estate's prime limestone-clay soils, this fine vintage is aged in French oak barrels for 18 months, yielding a beautiful structure.
The result is an intensely expressive wine, boasting a robust crimson hue and elegant aromas of dark fruit, spice and vanilla. Seductive blackberry, blackcurrant, earthy tones, and sophisticated tannic richness dance on the palate, leading to a long and graceful finish. Warm and full-bodied, the Begude Bandol Rouge 2016 perfectly encapsulates the Provençal terroir while reflecting the esteemed winemaking savoir-faire of the Tari family — one of Bandol's most respected wine producers.
A compelling addition to any collection, the Begude Bandol Rouge 2016 is a testament to the noble virtues of Bandol winemaking.
HK$985.00 -
Esteemed by experts and wine enthusiasts alike, the Begude Bandol Rouge 2020 is a luxurious expression of the prestigious Bandol region in France. The vineyard, Domaine de la Bégude, occupies a covetable area at the highest point of this appellation, ennobling it with remarkable terroir characteristics. This inimitable blend is dominated by Mourvedre, a grape grown for its formidable structure and intensity. Complemented with Grenache and Cinsault, the Begude Bandol Rouge 2020 rewards the palate with intriguing notes of black berries and spices.
Renowned for their sustainable viticulture ethos and meticulous hand-harvesting, the Tari family, custodians of Domaine de la Bégude, achieve a wine of profound complexity and excellent ageing potential. Sticklers for organic practices and limited intervention winemaking, the wine’s vibrant expression of fruit is undeniable. Trust the Begude Bandol Rouge 2020 to enchant with its dark intensity and captivating complexity. A hallmark of French artisanal winemaking.
HK$1,935.00 -
Esteemed by experts and wine enthusiasts alike, the Begude Bandol Rouge 2020 is a luxurious expression of the prestigious Bandol region in France. The vineyard, Domaine de la Bégude, occupies a covetable area at the highest point of this appellation, ennobling it with remarkable terroir characteristics. This inimitable blend is dominated by Mourvedre, a grape grown for its formidable structure and intensity. Complemented with Grenache and Cinsault, the Begude Bandol Rouge 2020 rewards the palate with intriguing notes of black berries and spices.
Renowned for their sustainable viticulture ethos and meticulous hand-harvesting, the Tari family, custodians of Domaine de la Bégude, achieve a wine of profound complexity and excellent ageing potential. Sticklers for organic practices and limited intervention winemaking, the wine’s vibrant expression of fruit is undeniable. Trust the Begude Bandol Rouge 2020 to enchant with its dark intensity and captivating complexity. A hallmark of French artisanal winemaking.
HK$1,870.00 -
(6x75cl) 2021Vinous (90)
From a cooler-than-usual vintage, the 2021 Bandol opens with crushed graphite, cedar, blackberry and a touch of dried herbs. Medium-bodied, round and fleshy, it balances a lovely sense of austerity with enough southern warmth to remain inviting. The 2021 already shows a composed, elegant profile that will benefit from an hour in a decanter.HK$1,945.00 -
Experience the excellence of Bel Air-Marquis d'Aligre 1999, a distinguished Bordeaux masterpiece crafted by the esteemed Château d'Aligre. Grown in the illustrious vineyards of the Saint-Émilion appellation, this vintage benefits from meticulous hand harvesting and traditional vinification techniques. The estate employs a meticulous blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, fermented in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats to preserve the wine’s vibrant character. Ageing occurs in French oak barrels for 18 months, imparting subtle notes of cedar and spice while allowing the wine to develop its full complexity. On the palate, Bel Air-Marquis d'Aligre 1999 unveils a harmonious balance of ripe blackcurrant, plum, and earthy undertones, supported by velvety tannins and a lingering finish. This exceptional wine exemplifies the legacy of Château d'Aligre, offering connoisseurs a refined and elegant expression of a revered vintage. Ideal for cellaring, it promises to enhance any fine wine collection with its timeless sophistication.
HK$890.00 -
(12x75cl) 2000Vinous - Stephen Tanzer (87)
Good full red. Redcurrant, raspberry and a whiff of mushroom on the nose. Supple on entry, then perfumed in the middle, with clean, fresh, slightly clenched black cherry and redcurrant flavors. Turns a bit dry toward the back, finishing with floral red fruit flavors and a faint minty quality.HK$7,335.00 -
Vinous - Stephen Tanzer (86-89)
Ruby-red. Nicely ripe aromas of black cherry, dark chocolate, licorice and minerals, with a touch of tar. Fatter and fuller than usual for this wine, but still a bit youthfully clenched and brooding, with notes of kirsch, licorice, menthol and currant leaf. Finishes with some edgy oak tannins and bright dark berry fruit.HK$5,975.00 -
Vinous - Stephen Tanzer (90)
Good ruby-red. Fresh, sexy nose features currant, plum and smoked meat. Large-scaled and sweet, even voluptuous for this chateau. Not the last word in personality yet, but this is silky and mouthfilling, and the serious tannins are nicely ripe. (An earlier sample showed blueberry, blackberry and menthol on the nose and palate and came across a bit more medicinal and less fleshy. As a result, the tannins seemed a tad dry. I scored this bottle 88 points.) Belair seems greatly improved beginning with this vintage.HK$1,435.00 -
(12x75cl) 2008Wine Advocate (93+)
The first substantial and reassuringly great Belair-Monange in many decades, the 2008 represents the epitome of elegance and minerality. Its deep ruby/purple color is accompanied by sweet red and black fruits intermixed with notes of spring flowers and crushed rocks, a layered mouthfeel, superb nobility and remarkable intensity offered in a finesse-filled format. Kudos to Edouard and Christian Moueix for their resurrection of this iconic 6.2 acre vineyard.HK$17,405.00 -
Wine Advocate (93+)
The first substantial and reassuringly great Belair-Monange in many decades, the 2008 represents the epitome of elegance and minerality. Its deep ruby/purple color is accompanied by sweet red and black fruits intermixed with notes of spring flowers and crushed rocks, a layered mouthfeel, superb nobility and remarkable intensity offered in a finesse-filled format. Kudos to Edouard and Christian Moueix for their resurrection of this iconic 6.2 acre vineyard.HK$4,160.00 -
(12x75cl) 2009Jane Anson Inside Bordeaux (96)
Medium intensity baked plum aromatics, enticing and open, laced with campfire, cinnamon, incense, pumice stone, salted cracker, fennel, saffron, blackberry and sage. Great quality, giving the limestone kick, tightrope walking across the palate, a brilliant wine, juicy and individual, leaning in to its character, with a joyful welcome. 50% new oak for ageing.HK$20,920.00 -
Jane Anson Inside Bordeaux (96)
Medium intensity baked plum aromatics, enticing and open, laced with campfire, cinnamon, incense, pumice stone, salted cracker, fennel, saffron, blackberry and sage. Great quality, giving the limestone kick, tightrope walking across the palate, a brilliant wine, juicy and individual, leaning in to its character, with a joyful welcome. 50% new oak for ageing.HK$7,790.00 -
(12x75cl) 2010Jane Anson Inside Bordeaux (98)
Considering that this was two years before Belair tooks today's shape by bringing in the vineyards of Château Magdeleine (also Moueix owned), it is extremely impressive just how complete, balanced and just purely enjoyable this is. As with the 2009, it has a ton of personality and character, placing it fully on the limestone plateau with its pumice stone minerality, and its restrained, subtle but pleasure-driven fennel and anis-studded brambled fruits. 50% new oak for ageing.HK$26,120.00 -
Jane Anson Inside Bordeaux (98)
Considering that this was two years before Belair tooks today's shape by bringing in the vineyards of Château Magdeleine (also Moueix owned), it is extremely impressive just how complete, balanced and just purely enjoyable this is. As with the 2009, it has a ton of personality and character, placing it fully on the limestone plateau with its pumice stone minerality, and its restrained, subtle but pleasure-driven fennel and anis-studded brambled fruits. 50% new oak for ageing.HK$6,850.00 -
(12x75cl) 2011Vinous - Neal Martin (93)
The 2011 Bélair-Monange has a very earthy, introspective bouquet, almost subdued compared to others, developing light minty aromas with time in the glass. The palate is medium-bodied with very supple tannins, good fruit concentration with layers of blackberry, raspberry, fig and white pepper. Fine cohesion towards the finish, this conveys plenty of energy although it would benefit from a couple more years in bottle. Tasted blind at the annual 10-Year-On tasting.HK$13,745.00 -
Vinous - Neal Martin (93)
The 2011 Bélair-Monange has a very earthy, introspective bouquet, almost subdued compared to others, developing light minty aromas with time in the glass. The palate is medium-bodied with very supple tannins, good fruit concentration with layers of blackberry, raspberry, fig and white pepper. Fine cohesion towards the finish, this conveys plenty of energy although it would benefit from a couple more years in bottle. Tasted blind at the annual 10-Year-On tasting.HK$4,505.00 -
Wine Spectator (96)
Remarkably pure, sleek and refined, with a faint chalk thread perfectly embedded in the core of red currant, cherry and damson plum fruit. Very sleek, with refined tannins and impressive length, this is balanced to a T. A wine of distinction that seems destined to improve as the remaining limestone portions of the vineyard are replanted. This is also the first vintage that includes the portions from the former Magdelaine estate. Tasted non-blind. Score range: 93-96 -JMHK$890.00 -
Wine Spectator (96)
Remarkably pure, sleek and refined, with a faint chalk thread perfectly embedded in the core of red currant, cherry and damson plum fruit. Very sleek, with refined tannins and impressive length, this is balanced to a T. A wine of distinction that seems destined to improve as the remaining limestone portions of the vineyard are replanted. This is also the first vintage that includes the portions from the former Magdelaine estate. Tasted non-blind. Score range: 93-96 -JMHK$4,435.00 -
(6x75cl) 2013Wine Advocate (90)
The 2013 Belair-Monange from JP Moueix is adorned with a Merlot-driven bouquet as you would expect, albeit more plush than I anticipated: quite floral with rose petal littered over attractive redcurrant and black cherry fruit. The palate is medium-bodied with svelte tannin. No, it is not quite as detailed as the 2013 Trotanoy and perhaps comes across a little pinched on the finish, nevertheless there is decent weight and body here, a fine structure, and if graced with a couple of years in bottle it should drink well for 12-15 years. Though not achieving the level of Trotanoy, this should still drink well for several years.HK$3,605.00 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (96)
A huge, dramatic wine for the year, the 2014 Bélair-Monange possesses tremendous depth and overall intensity. Succulent black cherry, leather, spice and menthol are some of the many notes that flesh out in this dramatic, massively endowed Saint-Émilion. The fruit feels very ripe, yet there is plenty of underlying structure and acidity to balance things out. Since 2012, Bélair-Monange has been made from three parcels on gravel, clay and limestone. It is that very intersection that yields one of the most distinctive wines in Saint-Émilion. The 2014 is also the first vintage that includes fruit from the replanting done on the plateau. Bélair-Monange increasingly gives the two established flagships in the Moueix family's range (Trotanoy and La Fléur-Petrus) a run for their money.HK$4,465.00 -
James Suckling (100)
Blue fruits, minerals, lavender and licorice aromas are wonderful. Full body and ultra-refined tannins with an integration and refinement that make the wines seamless and beautiful. The powerful tannins hide from you at first, but what structure in the end. It goes on for minutes. Try in 2024.HK$8,575.00 -
(6x75cl) 2016James Suckling (99)
Incredibly perfumed aromas of roses and violets, as well as blue fruit and lavender. Full-bodied and powerful, yet so full of finesse and vibrance. The height of elegance! Such depth of chalk and dark berries. It goes on for minutes. Drink after 2025.HK$6,685.00 -
The Wine Independent (98)
The 2017 Belair-Monange has a medium to deep garnet-purple color. It waltzes out with flamboyant notes of warm black plums, blackberry preserves, and wild blueberries, plus suggestions of star anise, dusty soil, and violets. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is packed with black fruit and spicy layers, supported by plush, velvety tannins and just enough freshness, finishing long and fragrant.HK$6,725.00 -
The Wine Independent (98)
The 2017 Belair-Monange has a medium to deep garnet-purple color. It waltzes out with flamboyant notes of warm black plums, blackberry preserves, and wild blueberries, plus suggestions of star anise, dusty soil, and violets. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is packed with black fruit and spicy layers, supported by plush, velvety tannins and just enough freshness, finishing long and fragrant.HK$4,000.00 -
(3x150cl) 2018James Suckling (99)
Very intense blackberries, black olives, blueberries and dried flowers. Stony minerality. Even some pine. Full-bodied with superb depth of fruit and ultra fine tannins that are intense and polished. The finish is so long and delivers so much flavor, from wet earth to blackberry again. Seamless palate. Try after 2026.HK$8,190.00 -
James Suckling (99)
Very intense blackberries, black olives, blueberries and dried flowers. Stony minerality. Even some pine. Full-bodied with superb depth of fruit and ultra fine tannins that are intense and polished. The finish is so long and delivers so much flavor, from wet earth to blackberry again. Seamless palate. Try after 2026.HK$4,695.00 -
(1x75cl) 2019Jeb Dunnuck (98)
The flagship 2019 Château Belair-Monange checks in as 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc from 25-year-old vines and raised in 50% new French oak. It's a magical wine in the vintage and offers more depth and richness than just about every other Saint-Emilion out there, all while holding onto a gorgeous sense of finesse and elegance, which would almost have me guessing Pomerol in a blind tasting. Deep red and black fruits, truffly earth, tobacco, and spring flower notes all emerge on the nose, and this puppy is full-bodied, has a layered, seamless mouthfeel, gorgeous tannins, and one heck of a great finish. It's stunning, and while it offers incredible pleasure today given its purity and flawless balance, it deserves 7-8 years of bottle age and will evolve for 30 years or more.HK$1,215.00
