Vinous (91-93)

Experience the elegance of Francois Lumpp Givry 1er Cru A Vigne Rouge 2020, a distinguished expression from the heart of Burgundy's Côte Chalonnaise. Crafted by the esteemed Domaine Francois Lumpp, this Premier Cru red is predominantly Pinot Noir, meticulously harvested from the renowned A Vigne Rouge vineyard. The 2020 vintage benefited from a favourable climate, allowing for optimal ripeness and balanced acidity. Hand-selected grapes undergo gentle fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, preserving the wine's delicate aromas and complex structure. Ageing for 12 months in French oak barrels imparts subtle tertiary notes without overshadowing the fruit's purity. The resulting wine presents a vibrant ruby hue, with enticing aromas of red berries, underpinned by hints of earthy minerality and spice. On the palate, it offers a harmonious balance of finesse and depth, culminating in a long, elegant finish. Francois Lumpp Givry 1er Cru A Vigne Rouge 2020 is a quintessential fine wine, perfect for discerning connoisseurs seeking authenticity and sophistication.

The Francois Lumpp Givry 1er Cru A Vigne Rouge 2021 is an exquisite embodiment of the Burgundy vineyard's exceptional terroir. As an acclaimed Premier Cru from the esteemed Francois Lumpp domain, it showcases a sophisticated blend of Pinot Noir sourced from 30-year-old vines, radiating finesse in its ruby-red allure. This spectacular 2021 vintage wine delivers rich, harmonious flavours - a delightful mélange of dark berries and earthy undertones, underpinned by subtle spiciness and an enduring, mineral finish. Produced in the heart of Givry, it carries Lumpp's distinct viticultural signature – a balance of tradition, meticulous cultivation, and innovative vinification. Lumpp's dedication to low yield harvests and hand-picking ensures each bottle of Francois Lumpp Givry 1er Cru A Vigne Rouge 2021 is perfection personified for fine wine connoisseurs.

A herald of excellence in the heart of Burgundy, the Francois Lumpp Givry 1er Cru Clos du Cras Long 2019 exemplifies an unrivalled tradition of winemaking. With meticulous precision, Francois Lumpp and his wife cultivate 9 hectares in Givry, including the Premier Cru vineyard of Clos du Cras Long. This wine, crafted in this vineyard's unique microclimate and steep limestone slopes, offers an elegant and refined flavour profile.

The 2019 vintage boasts an opulent ruby hue, enchanting the palate with hints of ripe cherries and balanced spices, gracefully aged in partially new oak barrels for a year. Framed by silky tannins, it enraptures with a lingering delicate finish. Francois Lumpp consistently produces Pinot Noir with impressive depth and intensity, illustrating the authenticity and exceptional quality of true Burgundy.

An embodiment of exemplary craftsmanship, the Francois Lumpp Givry 1er Cru Clos du Cras Long 2019 vividly captures the splendour of its terroir, promising a sublime tasting journey for the discerning oenophile.

The Francois Lumpp Givry 1er Cru Clos du Cras Long 2020 is an exquisite expression of Burgundy Pinot Noir by the well-regarded vintner Francois Lumpp. Sourced entirely from the Premier Cru vineyard, 'Clos du Cras Long,' located in the heart of Givry, a terroir known for its unique geological characteristics. The meticulously selected grapes are vinified using traditional winemaking techniques, with a focus on expressing the exceptional terroir. Grown on limestone-clay soil, the grape variety produces a wine recognisable for its complex bouquet and elegant tannic structure.

Aged in oak barrels for a period of 12 to 15 months, the wine is a harmonious blend of rich black fruit aromas, an alluring hint of spice, and savoury undertones. On the palate, it is well-balanced and surprisingly fresh. The Francois Lumpp Givry 1er Cru Clos du Cras Long 2020 exemplifies Lumpp’s commitment to superior quality and authenticity.

Francois Lumpp Givry 1er Cru Le Pied du Clou 2020 exemplifies the finesse and elegance of the Côte Chalonnaise terroir. Sourced from the esteemed Le Pied du Clou vineyard, this Pinot Noir is cultivated in meticulously maintained vineyards, reflecting Lumpp’s commitment to sustainable viticulture. Hand-harvested grapes undergo gentle destemming and fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks to preserve the wine’s nuanced aromas. The wine is then aged for twelve months in French oak barrels, imparting subtle vanilla and spice notes without overshadowing the fruit’s purity. On the palate, Francois Lumpp Givry 1er Cru Le Pied du Clou 2020 presents a harmonious balance of red berry flavours, fine tannins, and a lingering, elegant finish. Ideal for discerning connoisseurs, this wine offers a true expression of its origin and the producer’s expertise.

Crafted by esteemed winemaker François Lumpp in the heart of Givry’s finest vineyards, the Francois Lumpp Givry 1er Cru Le Pied du Clou 2021 is a testament to refined winemaking. Breathing life into Premier Cru quality fruit from deep-set vines in the Le Pied du Clou vineyard, Lumpp ensures that minimal intervention and eco-friendly practices prevail. This exquisite Burgundy wine boasts a charming complexity, exhibiting luscious red fruits, nuanced spices, and a delving depth of minerality, courtesy of the chalk-rich soils unique to this locale. The impeccable balance and long ageing potential make the Francois Lumpp Givry 1er Cru Le Pied du Clou 2021 an excellent addition to the fine wine collection of any discerning connoisseur. Conservatively fermented in vat, and matured in a modest measure of new oak, this vintage is a sublime showcase of Lumpp’s profound respect for terroir and tradition.

Crafted by esteemed winemaker François Lumpp in the heart of Givry’s finest vineyards, the Francois Lumpp Givry 1er Cru Le Pied du Clou 2021 is a testament to refined winemaking. Breathing life into Premier Cru quality fruit from deep-set vines in the Le Pied du Clou vineyard, Lumpp ensures that minimal intervention and eco-friendly practices prevail. This exquisite Burgundy wine boasts a charming complexity, exhibiting luscious red fruits, nuanced spices, and a delving depth of minerality, courtesy of the chalk-rich soils unique to this locale. The impeccable balance and long ageing potential make the Francois Lumpp Givry 1er Cru Le Pied du Clou 2021 an excellent addition to the fine wine collection of any discerning connoisseur. Conservatively fermented in vat, and matured in a modest measure of new oak, this vintage is a sublime showcase of Lumpp’s profound respect for terroir and tradition.

True connoisseurs will revel in the exquisite charm of the Francois Lumpp Givry Jus 2021. Produced in the famed Burgundy region of France, this vibrant selection carries the characteristic allure of a classic Lumpp creation. Francois Lumpp, a virtuoso vigneron, renowned for his respect for the terroir, has meticulously nurtured Pinot Noir vines, located on the esteemed Givry slopes. Employing sustainable viticulture strategies, the grapes for this premium wine were diligently hand-picked, ensuring a select quality yield.

The end result is a sublime creation, radiant in its ruby-red hue, offering tasteful notes of ripe strawberries, wild cherries and subtle spices. Ageing in French oak barrels infuses a hint of woody undertones, making the Francois Lumpp Givry Jus 2021 a harmonious blend of fruit-filled vibrance and soft tannins. It's an exquisitely balanced, medium-bodied wine that will tantalize the discerning palate, making it a must-have for any sophisticated wine collection.

Indulge in the unparalleled elegance of the Francois Martenot Hospices Beaune Hugues Louis Betault 2015, a masterpiece from the iconic Burgundy region of France. Showcasing the savoir-faire of renowned winemaker Francois Martenot, this wine deftly marries Pinot Noir grapes with the traditional Burgundian winemaking techniques, resulting in an enthralling dance of depth and complexity on the palate. Hailing from the highly-praised 2015 vintage, this wine boasts an enticing bouquet of ripe red fruits, harmoniously underpinned by subtle undertones of spice and earth. Each sip reveals the meticulous care with which it was cultivated, aged to perfection in the cool, cavernous cellars of Maison Martenot. Barrel-aged for 12 months in French oak, the Francois Martenot Hospices Beaune Hugues Louis Betault 2015 wonderfully illustrates the connection between regional terroir and sublime vinification. Reserve your bottle and savour the captivating nuances of a truly remarkable wine.

Experience the delight of the Francois Merlin Cote Rotie 2015, an exquisite tipple from the renowned Rhone Valley of France. Crafted by the seasoned vintner François Merlin, this exceptional Syrah blend indeed attests to his expertise in innovative viticulture and traditional vinification techniques. The compelling character of the Francois Merlin Cote Rotie 2015 unfurls over the palate, exhibiting velvety texture, rich body, and an intricate medley of dark fruit, savoury spice, and smoky undertones. The grapes, sun-drenched on steep terraced slopes, are hand-harvested and subject to meticulous selection. The wine undergoes co-fermentation with Viognier - a classic tradition of the Cote Rotie zone - for an enriching layer of complexity. Rested in oak barrels, it develops remarkable structure and depth, rendering it perfectly suited for extended cellaring. For those in quest of a wine with decadent charm, the affluence and finesse bestowed by the Francois Merlin Cote Rotie 2015 make it an unmissable choice.

Experience the delight of the Francois Merlin Cote Rotie 2015, an exquisite tipple from the renowned Rhone Valley of France. Crafted by the seasoned vintner François Merlin, this exceptional Syrah blend indeed attests to his expertise in innovative viticulture and traditional vinification techniques. The compelling character of the Francois Merlin Cote Rotie 2015 unfurls over the palate, exhibiting velvety texture, rich body, and an intricate medley of dark fruit, savoury spice, and smoky undertones. The grapes, sun-drenched on steep terraced slopes, are hand-harvested and subject to meticulous selection. The wine undergoes co-fermentation with Viognier - a classic tradition of the Cote Rotie zone - for an enriching layer of complexity. Rested in oak barrels, it develops remarkable structure and depth, rendering it perfectly suited for extended cellaring. For those in quest of a wine with decadent charm, the affluence and finesse bestowed by the Francois Merlin Cote Rotie 2015 make it an unmissable choice.

Embodying the iconic tradition of Rhône Valley winemaking, the Francois Merlin Cote Rotie 2016 is a product of meticulous vinification. Francois Merlin, a well-established producer with three generations of viticulture in his veins, utilises local expertise and time-honoured techniques in crafting this gorgeous Côte Rôtie.

Merlin's 2016 vintage emanates from 30-year-old Syrah vines, grown in distinctive Cote Brune soil, known for its richness in iron and mica. Complementing the Syrah is a small inclusion of Viognier, yielding a sophisticated blend of vibrant aromatics and structural complexity. After partially destemming the grapes, they undergo traditional fermenting in thermo-regulated vats before maturation in oak barrels for two years.

Nestled in the heart of the terroir, the Francois Merlin Cote Rotie 2016 offers a velvety, intense palate, marrying notes of blackcurrant, violet, and spice. It demonstrates a beautiful balance between opulence and elegance, a testament to the nuances of the Côte Rôtie vineyards.

The François Merlin Côte Rôtie 2021 epitomises the elegance and depth characteristic of this esteemed appellation. Crafted in the heart of the Northern Rhône, this wine is predominantly Syrah, meticulously sourced from prime vineyard parcels cultivated with sustainable viticultural practices. François Merlin, a revered producer with a legacy of excellence, employs traditional methods combined with modern precision to ensure each vintage reflects its unique terroir. The 2021 harvest benefitted from a favourable climate, allowing optimal ripeness and concentration. In the cellar, careful fermentation and ageing in French oak barrels impart subtle complexity and finesse. The result is a sophisticated expression of dark berry aromas, intertwined with hints of spice and nuanced tannins, offering a harmonious and lingering finish. The François Merlin Côte Rôtie 2021 stands as a testament to masterful winemaking, making it a distinguished choice for connoisseurs seeking exceptional quality.

Jasper Morris Inside Burgundy (93-95)

The 2019 Francois Parent Beaune 1er Cru Les Epenotes exemplifies the pinnacle of Burgundy’s esteemed viticulture. Nestled in the heart of Beaune, the Les Epenotes vineyard benefits from optimal terroir, producing Chardonnay grapes of exceptional quality. Francois Parent, a distinguished producer with a heritage of meticulous craftsmanship, employs sustainable farming practices to nurture the vines. Hand-harvested grapes undergo a precise fermentation process in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, ensuring the preservation of pure fruit characteristics. The wine is then aged gracefully in French oak barrels, introducing subtle layers of vanilla and spice that complement its inherent elegance. This 1er Cru varietal reveals a captivating bouquet of citrus and white floral notes, leading to a refined palate marked by vibrant acidity and a mineral-driven finish. The 2019 Francois Parent Beaune 1er Cru Les Epenotes is a testament to superior winemaking, offering a harmonious balance and enduring sophistication, perfect for connoisseurs seeking excellence in every sip.

An exquisite expression of Burgundian finesse, Francois Parent Beaune 1er Cru Les Epenotes 2020 epitomises the terroir of the Côte de Beaune. Grown in the prestigious Les Epenotes vineyard, renowned for its limestone-rich soils and optimal sun exposure, this Chardonnay undergoes meticulous hand harvesting to preserve its purity. Under Francois Parent’s expert stewardship, the grapes undergo gentle pressing, followed by fermentation in stainless steel tanks to maintain their vibrant acidity and minerality. The wine is then aged for 12 months in French oak barrels, imparting subtle complexity without overshadowing the varietal character. The 2020 vintage benefits from a favourable climate, resulting in grapes of exceptional ripeness and balance. On the palate, it reveals layers of citrus, white peach, and a hint of toasted almond, underpinned by a refined, lingering finish. Ideal for pairing with seafood or creamy poultry dishes, this Les Epenotes showcases the unparalleled craftsmanship of Francois Parent.

Unearth a sense of class and tradition with the prestigious Francois Parent Clos Vougeot Grand Cru 2009. This premium red hails from the historic vinery of the famed Côte de Nuits region in Burgundy, France. Masterfully created by Francois Parent, a fourth-generation wine producer lauded for his persistent pursuit of excellence, this Grand Cru reflects his intricate knowledge of the wine-making art.

Expertly crafted from 100% Pinot Noir grapes, it exudes a deeply satisfying complexity. Integrated wood notes cradle a bouquet of ripe black fruits and spicy undertones, enhancing its intense, full-bodied palate. The Grand Cru was matured in French oak barrels and boasts a prolonged finish that leaves an everlasting impression.

Reflecting a vintage esteemed for its exquisite balance and expressiveness, the Francois Parent Clos Vougeot Grand Cru 2009 is truly a testament to superior Burgundian wine-making. A bottle from this limited production is a fine addition to any discerning wine collection.

Direct from the heart of Burgundy comes Francois Parent Pommard 1er Cru Epenots 2016, a beautiful embodiment of the esteemed Pinot Noir grape. Francois Parent, a renowned winemaker in Burgundy, expertly crafts this wine, ensuring each sip reflects the terroir's distinctive complexity. Harvested from the remarkable Pommard 1er Cru vineyards, the grapes benefit from the unique microclimate and limestone-rich soil, intensifying their depth and balance.

This exquisite 2016 offering showcases the quality of the vintage, presenting an intense, rich bouquet steeped in subtle earthy undertones that harmoniously marry with woodland berries. With its sophisticated undertones of oak, the Francois Parent Pommard 1er Cru Epenots 2016 encapsulates luxury in a bottle. This wine truly stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Francois Parent winemaking lineage and Burgundy's unparalleled vintages. A must-have addition to any discerning wine collector's cellar.

Wine Spectator (93)

Wine Advocate (90+)

Regarded as the epitome of eponymous exquisiteness is the Francois Raquillet Mercurey 1er Cru Les Vasees 2018. This exquisite red wine is carefully crafted by Francois Raquillet, an 11th generation winemaker, in Burgundy's esteemed Côte Chalonnaise region. Dating back to sixteenth-century, the estate’s commitment to tradition and detail is evident in each bottle.

Les Vasees 2018 is synonymous for its distinct finesse, expressing a harmony of ripe black fruits, complemented by svelte tannins and an invigorating mineral backbone. The wine is made from hand-picked Pinot Noir grapes, grown in calcareous-clay soil and matured in French oak barrels. This gentle approach ensures preservation of the elegant fruit character alongside development of a mesmerising complexity.

A wine deserving its Premier Cru status, the Francois Raquillet Mercurey 1er Cru Les Vasees 2018 offers a refined drinking experience and typifies the irrefutable cachet of fine French wines.

Introducing the dexterously crafted Francois Villard Cornas Jouvet 2015, straight from the breath-taking vineyards of Northern Rhone, France. Exquisitely fashioned by venerated winemaker, Francois Villard, this vintage amplifies his masterful touch in the realm of winemaking. Steeped richly in tradition, it encapsulates a fragrant bouquet of blackcurrants, smoky bacon and pepper. The skilled maturation process, in French oak barrels for approximately 18 months, implores the palette to experience complex layers finely-tuned tannins, immaculately balanced acidity, and a unique mineral-driven finish with every sip. This majestic Shiraz Syrah will delight you with its full-bodied flavour, a true testament to the exceptional terroir of Cornas. Francois Villard's dedication for precision and undeniable craftsmanship shine through, making the Francois Villard Cornas Jouvet 2015 an incomparable spectacle of French viticulture. Exclusively for the discerning oenophile, this wine beautifully marries the grandiloquent opulence with outstanding winemaking.

Francois Villard Cornas Jouvet 2017 epitomises the quintessential Cornas expression, meticulously crafted in the heart of Northern Rhône. Sourced from the Jouvet vineyard, renowned for its granite-rich soils, this Syrah-based masterpiece benefits from optimal terroir that imparts remarkable depth and structure. The 2017 vintage, characterised by a warm growing season, yielded intensely ripe grapes with concentrated flavours. Francois Villard, a distinguished producer with a legacy of excellence, employs traditional vinification techniques, including whole-cluster fermentation and prolonged maceration, to extract maximum complexity. Aged for eighteen months in French oak barrels, the wine develops elegant tannins and a sophisticated aromatic profile, featuring dark berries, pepper, and subtle mineral undertones. The Francois Villard Cornas Jouvet 2017 promises a harmonious balance, reflecting both the finesse and power inherent to the Cornas appellation, making it a coveted selection for discerning connoisseurs.

The 2021 Francois Villard Cornas Jouvet exemplifies the distinguished heritage of the Cornas appellation in the Northern Rhône. Crafted exclusively from 100% Syrah grapes sourced from meticulously managed granite vineyards, this vintage benefits from the optimal terroir that Francois Villard cultivates with expertise. Fermentation is conducted in traditional stainless steel tanks, followed by ageing in French oak barrels for 18 months, which imparts subtle vanilla and spice notes without overshadowing the wine's natural character. Under the guidance of François Villard, whose family has stewarded these vineyards for generations, the Cornas Jouvet 2021 reveals a deep ruby colour with intense aromas of blackberry, plum, and hints of black pepper. On the palate, it offers a robust structure, velvety tannins, and a long, elegant finish. This exquisite expression of Cornas showcases Villard’s commitment to quality and the unique expression of the region’s terroir, making it a prized selection for fine wine enthusiasts.

Francois Villard Cote Rotie Gallet Blanc 2021 is a distinguished expression from the esteemed Cote Rotie appellation in the Northern Rhône. Crafted by the renowned François Villard, this exquisite white is meticulously made from carefully selected Viognier grapes sourced from the premier vineyards of Gallet. The winemaking process involves gentle pressing and fermentation in stainless steel tanks to preserve its vibrant freshness and aromatic intensity. Maturation takes place in neutral oak barrels, allowing subtle complexity to develop without overpowering the pure varietal character. The 2021 vintage unveils a harmonious bouquet of white flowers, ripe peach, and mineral undertones, complemented by a precise, lingering finish. This exceptional Francois Villard Cote Rotie Gallet Blanc 2021 exemplifies the finesse and elegance characteristic of fine Rhône whites, making it a superb choice for discerning connoisseurs seeking elegance and depth in every sip.

Francois Villard Saint-Joseph Reflets 2020 exemplifies the pinnacle of Rhône Valley elegance. Crafted meticulously in the esteemed Saint-Joseph appellation, this wine is born from carefully selected Syrah grapes grown on granite-rich terroirs that impart distinctive mineral nuances. François Villard, a revered producer with decades of heritage, employs traditional vinification techniques combined with modern precision to enhance the wine's depth and character. Fermented in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, the Reflets 2020 undergoes a delicate ageing process in French oak barrels, allowing subtle integration of oak flavours without overshadowing the varietal's intrinsic qualities. The result is a harmonious balance of ripe dark fruits, peppery spice, and refined tannins, culminating in a long, elegant finish. Ideal for connoisseurs seeking a sophisticated and expressive wine, Francois Villard Saint-Joseph Reflets 2020 stands as a testament to expert craftsmanship and the unique terroir of its origin.