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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James Suckling (99-100)
This is a really serious white. Vibrant and tangy with fantastic energy. Plenty of lime zest, pineapple, crushed stone, cedar, anise and white lavender. Grapefruit, too. Medium body. So much tension at the end. Focused and precise and it just keeps on going. The pH is 3.04, yet it has intense ripeness. A masterpiece of sauvignon blanc. The chateau says it is the best Pavillon Blanc ever. 100% sauvignon blanc.HK$2,925.00 -
James Suckling (99-100)
This is a really serious white. Vibrant and tangy with fantastic energy. Plenty of lime zest, pineapple, crushed stone, cedar, anise and white lavender. Grapefruit, too. Medium body. So much tension at the end. Focused and precise and it just keeps on going. The pH is 3.04, yet it has intense ripeness. A masterpiece of sauvignon blanc. The chateau says it is the best Pavillon Blanc ever. 100% sauvignon blanc.HK$8,780.00 -
James Suckling (99-100)
This is a really serious white. Vibrant and tangy with fantastic energy. Plenty of lime zest, pineapple, crushed stone, cedar, anise and white lavender. Grapefruit, too. Medium body. So much tension at the end. Focused and precise and it just keeps on going. The pH is 3.04, yet it has intense ripeness. A masterpiece of sauvignon blanc. The chateau says it is the best Pavillon Blanc ever. 100% sauvignon blanc.HK$16,099.00 -
James Suckling (99-100)
This is an powerful white with superb density and phenolic muscule. It's full-bodied and really impressive. Opulent and rounded. Exotic and muscular. Great white. Feels like a great Montrachet. One for the cellar. 8,000 bottles made. PH 3.18.HK$2,900.00 -
Jeb Dunnuck (97)
Checking in as 100% Sauvignon Blanc brought up eight months in 20% new oak, the 2023 Château Margaux Pavillon Blanc was harvested earlier to avoid the heatwave, yet this is still a rich, concentrated example of the cuvée. Grilled citrus, grilled peach, mint, and floral nuances all emerge from this beauty, and it has a riveting minerality and chalkiness. Medium to full-bodied, concentrated, rich, and layered on the palate, it builds with time in the glass, has bright yet integrated acidity (the pH is 3.1), and a great, salivating, salty finish. It will have two decades of longevity. Drink 2026-2046.HK$2,820.00 -
(3x75cl) 2023Jeb Dunnuck (97)
Checking in as 100% Sauvignon Blanc brought up eight months in 20% new oak, the 2023 Château Margaux Pavillon Blanc was harvested earlier to avoid the heatwave, yet this is still a rich, concentrated example of the cuvée. Grilled citrus, grilled peach, mint, and floral nuances all emerge from this beauty, and it has a riveting minerality and chalkiness. Medium to full-bodied, concentrated, rich, and layered on the palate, it builds with time in the glass, has bright yet integrated acidity (the pH is 3.1), and a great, salivating, salty finish. It will have two decades of longevity. Drink 2026-2046.HK$7,200.00 -
Jeb Dunnuck (97)
Checking in as 100% Sauvignon Blanc brought up eight months in 20% new oak, the 2023 Château Margaux Pavillon Blanc was harvested earlier to avoid the heatwave, yet this is still a rich, concentrated example of the cuvée. Grilled citrus, grilled peach, mint, and floral nuances all emerge from this beauty, and it has a riveting minerality and chalkiness. Medium to full-bodied, concentrated, rich, and layered on the palate, it builds with time in the glass, has bright yet integrated acidity (the pH is 3.1), and a great, salivating, salty finish. It will have two decades of longevity. Drink 2026-2046.HK$15,735.00 -
Impeccably capturing the exceptional spirit of the Bordeaux region, Margaux Pavillon Blanc Second Vin 2022 is a testament to the savoir-faire of Château Margaux, renowned worldwide for their finesse in crafting exceptional vintages. A 'Second Vin', it's born of the estate's younger vines, embodying the elegance of classic Margaux with a youthful charm.
Adopting biodynamical practices, the viticulture and vinification accentuate the true character of the Sauvignon Blanc grape. The terroir's prized limestone soils coolly temper the ripe fruit flavours, bringing forth immaculate balance between lushness and natural acidity. Aged in French oak barrels, it showcases vibrant notes of white flowers, citrus fruits and mineral undertones on the nose, evolving into a smooth, subtle complexity on the palate.
The Margaux Pavillon Blanc Second Vin 2022 is a wine of rare breed - a sublime marriage of youthful vivacity and authoritative heritage, celebrating the noble continuity of fine winemaking. Perfect for those who appreciate discreet elegance and understated luxury.
HK$3,230.00 -
(6x75cl) 2022
Impeccably capturing the exceptional spirit of the Bordeaux region, Margaux Pavillon Blanc Second Vin 2022 is a testament to the savoir-faire of Château Margaux, renowned worldwide for their finesse in crafting exceptional vintages. A 'Second Vin', it's born of the estate's younger vines, embodying the elegance of classic Margaux with a youthful charm.
Adopting biodynamical practices, the viticulture and vinification accentuate the true character of the Sauvignon Blanc grape. The terroir's prized limestone soils coolly temper the ripe fruit flavours, bringing forth immaculate balance between lushness and natural acidity. Aged in French oak barrels, it showcases vibrant notes of white flowers, citrus fruits and mineral undertones on the nose, evolving into a smooth, subtle complexity on the palate.
The Margaux Pavillon Blanc Second Vin 2022 is a wine of rare breed - a sublime marriage of youthful vivacity and authoritative heritage, celebrating the noble continuity of fine winemaking. Perfect for those who appreciate discreet elegance and understated luxury.
HK$6,125.00 -
Pavillon Blanc Second Vin Blanc 2023 epitomises the refined sophistication of Château Pape Clément. Crafted in the renowned Pessac-Léognan appellation, this exceptional white wine is a blend predominantly of Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon, meticulously sourced from the estate’s premier vineyards. The grapes undergo a gentle hand-harvest followed by cold fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats, preserving their vibrant acidity and aromatic purity. A brief period of ageing on fine lees enhances the wine’s complexity and texture without overshadowing its fresh character. The 2023 vintage presents a luminous straw colour, with an enticing bouquet of citrus fruits, white flowers, and subtle mineral notes. On the palate, it reveals a harmonious balance of crisp acidity and rich flavours, culminating in a lingering, elegant finish. Pavillon Blanc Second Vin Blanc 2023 is a testament to Château Pape Clément’s dedication to quality and terroir, making it a perfect accompaniment to fine seafood or as a distinguished aperitif.
HK$3,154.00 -
Pavillon Blanc Second Vin Blanc 2023 epitomises the refined sophistication of Château Pape Clément. Crafted in the renowned Pessac-Léognan appellation, this exceptional white wine is a blend predominantly of Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon, meticulously sourced from the estate’s premier vineyards. The grapes undergo a gentle hand-harvest followed by cold fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats, preserving their vibrant acidity and aromatic purity. A brief period of ageing on fine lees enhances the wine’s complexity and texture without overshadowing its fresh character. The 2023 vintage presents a luminous straw colour, with an enticing bouquet of citrus fruits, white flowers, and subtle mineral notes. On the palate, it reveals a harmonious balance of crisp acidity and rich flavours, culminating in a lingering, elegant finish. Pavillon Blanc Second Vin Blanc 2023 is a testament to Château Pape Clément’s dedication to quality and terroir, making it a perfect accompaniment to fine seafood or as a distinguished aperitif.
HK$5,390.00 -
Jeb Dunnuck (93)
The 2019 Pavillon De Léoville Poyferré is another great second wine in the vintage and has a great bouquet of black cherries, mulberries, spicy incense, and sappy, floral nuances. With medium to full-bodied richness on the palate, it offers terrific complexity, supple yet present tannins, the freshness and elegance of the vintage, and a great finish. It will evolve for 15+ years or more.HK$2,145.00 -
(6x75cl) 2022Jeb Dunnuck (93)
Ripe currants, cassis, graphite, leafy herbs, and smoky notes all emerge from the 2022 Pavillon De Léoville Poyferré, a full-bodied, rich, layered mouth-filling second wine that has ripe tannins, terrific overall balance, and a great finish. Based on 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Merlot, 12% Cabernet Franc, and the rest Petit Verdot, coming primarily from younger vines, it should keep nicely through 2042.HK$1,690.00 -
(12x37.5cl) 2021Pavillon du Glana 2021 exemplifies the pinnacle of Château Glana's vinicultural mastery in the esteemed Loire Valley. Crafted from meticulously selected Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc grapes, this vintage undergoes a meticulous fermentation process in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, preserving its vibrant acidity and aromatic complexity. The wine is then aged for twelve months in French oak barrels, imparting subtle nuances of vanilla and toasted brioche without overshadowing its natural finesse. The terroir's unique limestone and clay soils contribute to its crisp minerality and elegant structure. Domaine Glana, renowned for its unwavering commitment to sustainable farming practices, ensures each bottle reflects both tradition and innovation. On the palate, Pavillon du Glana 2021 reveals layers of citrus zest, green apple, and delicate floral notes, culminating in a refined, lingering finish. This exquisite expression is a testament to Château Glana's dedication to producing fine wines of exceptional quality and character.
HK$1,395.00 -
(12x75cl) 1982Vinous - Neal Martin (92)
The 1982 Pavillon Rouge came with modest expectations since bottles can be variable, yet this is an absolute delight. There is something almost gentle about the nose, well-defined with a touch of sous-bois; the warmth of the summer percolates through and imparts a slight, confit-like note. The palate is well balanced with fine acidity. Whilst it does not have the depth and concentration of the Grand Vin, it is harmonious and smooth, showing little sign of age on the finish. A marvelous Deuxième Vin. Tasted at 67 Pall Mall at a private dinner.HK$24,575.00 -
(12x75cl) 1985HK$16,290.00 -
Wine Advocate (85)
The 1989's finish is abrupt, but there is a black fruit character that is accompanied by copious quantities of toasty oak. Drink it over the next 3-6 years.HK$13,690.00 -
(1x75cl) 1990Vinous - Stephen Tanzer (87)
Moderately saturated medium color. Floral, minty, new-oaky nose, with an exotic coconut note; showed some alcohol as it opened in the glass. Silky, supple, and moderately concentrated finishes with palate-caressing tannins and spicy oak. Nicely balanced for early drinking.HK$2,415.00 -
(24x37.5cl) 1990Vinous - Stephen Tanzer (87)
Moderately saturated medium color. Floral, minty, new-oaky nose, with an exotic coconut note; showed some alcohol as it opened in the glass. Silky, supple, and moderately concentrated finishes with palate-caressing tannins and spicy oak. Nicely balanced for early drinking.HK$24,215.00 -
Vinous - Stephen Tanzer (87)
Moderately saturated medium color. Floral, minty, new-oaky nose, with an exotic coconut note; showed some alcohol as it opened in the glass. Silky, supple, and moderately concentrated finishes with palate-caressing tannins and spicy oak. Nicely balanced for early drinking.HK$15,315.00 -
(1x75cl) 1993HK$1,215.00 -
(1x75cl) 1994HK$1,265.00 -
(12x75cl) 1995Wine Spectator (91)
Lots of violet and berry in this wine, lively toasted oak character, too. Full-bodied, with silky tannins and a medium, smoky finish. An amazing second label from a top estate. Best after 2002.HK$17,695.00 -
(1x75cl) 1995Wine Spectator (91)
Lots of violet and berry in this wine, lively toasted oak character, too. Full-bodied, with silky tannins and a medium, smoky finish. An amazing second label from a top estate. Best after 2002.HK$1,375.00 -
(6x75cl) 1995Wine Spectator (91)
Lots of violet and berry in this wine, lively toasted oak character, too. Full-bodied, with silky tannins and a medium, smoky finish. An amazing second label from a top estate. Best after 2002.HK$10,485.00 -
Jeb Dunnuck (94)
Gorgeous and just a joy to drink today, the 2000 Château Margaux Pavillon Rouge offers cassis, currants, spicy wood, dried flowers, and smoke on the nose. It's round, supple, and medium to full-bodied on the palate, with completely resolved and integrated tannins, beautiful mid-palate depth, and a great finish. Drink this complex, layered, beautiful Pavillon Rouge over the coming decade or more. Drink 2026-2036.HK$4,980.00 -
(1x75cl) 2002Wine Advocate (87)
Not nearly as concentrated, although elegant, in a much lighter style than the 2003, with notes of cedar, herbs, red and black currants as well as licorice, this is a medium-bodied, more streamlined and austere Pavillon Rouge to drink over the next decade.HK$1,995.00 -
Wine Spectator (92-94)
Fabulous aromas of blackberries, licorice and berries. Exotic and full-bodied, with firm tannins and a great nose. Racy palate. Very sweet tannins. Second wine of Margaux. Score range: 92-94HK$12,800.00 -
(1x75cl) 2003Wine Spectator (92-94)
Fabulous aromas of blackberries, licorice and berries. Exotic and full-bodied, with firm tannins and a great nose. Racy palate. Very sweet tannins. Second wine of Margaux. Score range: 92-94HK$1,215.00 -
Wine Advocate (89)
Margaux’s second wine, the 2004 Pavillon Rouge du Chateau Margaux, may turn out to be outstanding. Its deep ruby/purple hue is accompanied by fleshy notes of black currants, cherries, smoke, earth, and spring flowers. Lovely, ripe, and opulent, it is best consumed during its first 10-15 years of life.HK$10,955.00
