absolutely cracking wines from france 2014

ABSOLUTELY CRACKING WINESFROM FRANCE 2014

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French Wines with Style is delighted to welcomeyou to Absolutely Cracking Wines from France.

Bienvenue!

This year, top British writersand sommeliers haveselected their favourite“Absolutely Cracking” FrenchWines, all available in the UK.

As many of you will know, multi award-winning international sommelierGérard Basset MW, MS, OBE is our UKambassador and has worked with usto bring together a group of UK-basedsommeliers from all parts of the on-tradeto add their voice to this exciting andunique project.

The 176 wines selected provide aninspiring selection, clearly displaying thegreat diversity, quality and value formoney that French wines offer.

Absolutely Cracking Wines From France

Absolutely Cracking Wines From France 07

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AOP VouvrayChâteau Moncontour NV

ABV: 12%Grape varieties: Chenin BlancRRP and retailer(s): £10.99 – Stevens Garnier

Champagne – Sparkling wines / Loire

“Chenin Blanc is an unsung hero in France, so often playingsecond fiddle to Sauvignon and Chardonnay. I visited thisproducer earlier this year, and really enjoyed their wholerange. This sparkler is a far more engaging and charismaticstyle than most Cava or Prosecco at the price.”

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AOP Crémant de LimouxDomaine J LaurensLes Graimenous Brut 2011

ABV: 12%Grape varieties: Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc, Mauzac, Pinot NoirRRP and retailer(s): £14.95 – Roberson

Champagne – Sparkling wines / Languedoc Roussillon

“Rich and rounded, and nicely leesy. Great value,compared with run of the mill Champagne.”

Absolutely Cracking Wines From France08

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AOP ChampagneVeuve Fourny & FilsBlanc de Blancs Premier Cru Brut NV

ABV: 12%Grape varieties: ChardonnayRRP and retailer(s): £26.87 – Christopher Piper Wines

Champagne – Sparkling wines / Champagne

“Meticulous but inspired winemaking: 3 years on the lees,20% reserve wines, 20% of the blend without malo, subtleuse of oak, dosage at just 6g/l. It all adds up to a superblyelegant, balanced and complex Champagne at analmost unbelievably affordable price.”

04

AOP ChampagnePierre GerbaisCuvée de Réserve NV

ABV: 12%Grape varieties: 50% Pinot Noir, 25% Chardonnay,25% Pinot BlancRRP and retailer(s): £20.10 – Caves de Pyrène


“Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Pinot Blanc, an un-classic blend for this family domaine who blend the expertise of fourgenerations; Aurelien, the youngest, brings his youthfultouch to the experience of his father and grandfather. The wine is firm, fresh, very enjoyable for an aperitif!”


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AOP ChampagneVeuve Fourny & FilsCuvée R Extra Brut NV

ABV: 12%Grape varieties: 50% Chardonnay, 50% Pinot NoirRRP and retailer(s): £36.90 – Bottle Apostle


“Brilliant texture and balance, showing all the elements of a classic Champagne.”

06

AOP ChampagneJeaunaux-RobinRosé Brut NV

ABV: 12%Grape varieties: 60% Pinot Meunier, 30% Pinot Noir,10% ChardonnayRRP and retailer(s): £24.00 – The Wine Society


“The 60% Pinot Meunier adds a lively red fruit personality tothis elegant and creamy sparkling wine which is a constantreminder of a lazy summer’s day.”


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AOP ChampagneChampagne DrappierCarte d'Or Brut NV

ABV: 12%Grape varieties: 75% Pinot Noir, 15% Chardonnay10% Pinot MeunierRRP: £25 – £30Retailer(s): Fine & Rare, Elixir Wines, The Wine Press


“A wonderfully rounded, soft, totally charmingChampagne that yet has bite and always hits the spot.”

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AOP ChampagneChampagne FleuryBlanc de Noirs NV

ABV: 12.5%Grape varieties: Pinot NoirRRP: £29 – £36Retailer(s): Vintage Roots, Berry Bros, Elixir Wines


“If you’re a lover of ‘grower’ Champagnes, be sure tovisit this biodynamic, family producer. Great value andtop quality.”


09

AOP Blanquette de LimouxAntechBlanquette de Limoux Méthode Ancestrale doux NV

ABV: 6.5%Grape varieties: MauzacRRP and retailer(s): £9.95 – The Wine Society

Champagne – Sparkling wines / Languedoc Roussillon

“People cannot get enough of sparkling wine these daysand this wine competes not only on style but on price. A good alternative to Asti, this Mauzac-based fizz is light,fresh and frothy with moderate alcohol and a delightfulend to summer brunch.”

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IGP Côtes de GascogneProducteurs PlaimontLesc 2013

ABV: 11%Grape varieties:Colombard, Ugni BlancRRP: £6.25-£7.99Retailer(s): Joseph Barnes, Vinoteca, Wine Bear

White under £10 + House wines / South West

“Plaimont is a massive producer of wine, but the quality ofwhat they produce is exceptional, and this wine is a superbexample of what they do at entry level. The wine expressesthe Gascony region and grape varieties perfectly. Greatvalue for money.”


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IGP Côtes de GascogneProducteurs PlaimontColombard 2013

ABV: 11%Grape varieties: ColombardRRP and retailer(s): £6.49-£7.20 – Tanners, Adnams


“Super-attractive lemon & grapefruit flavours with a long & rich finish. Wine so typical of the region, and consistentlyfabulous quality and value. A fresh and clean aromaticwhite, outperforming many Loire Sauvignons which aresimilar in style but much more expensive.”

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AOP Muscadet de Sèvre et Maine Sur LieGrands Chais de FranceChâteau du Cléray 2013

ABV: 12%Grape varieties: Melon de BourgogneRRP and retailer(s): £9.99 – Majestic Wines

White under £10 + House wines / Loire

“Shows what great value Muscadet remains, and also thestength of the more difficult 2013 vintage.”


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AOP Muscadet de Sèvre et Maine Sur LieDomaine de la Quilla 2012

ABV: 12%Grape varieties: Melon de BourgogneRRP and retailer(s): £8.85 – Vine Trail


“A typical nose of green fruit; pear, apple, lemon, grassy,smoky and pencil. This wine is bone dry, juicy, high inminerality, with a stony finish.”

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AOP Muscadet de Sèvre et Maine Sur LieDomaine Luneau-PapinDomaine du Verger 2013

ABV: 12%Grape varieties: Melon de BourgogneRRP and retailer(s): £10.75 – Ellis Wharton Wines


“Wonderfully made Muscadet: dry, crisp, fine nose withfloral and mineral notes, great classic as well as value formoney. Something we can recommend and always getsgreat feedback.”


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AOP Muscadet Côtes de Grand Lieu Domaine du Haut BourgLe Pavillon 2013

ABV: 12%Grape varieties: Melon de BourgogneRRP and retailer(s): £9.90 – Sommelier's Choice


“Ageworthy, crafted wine with an ivory structure. ProvesMuscadet has terroir. And very versatile with food.”

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AOP MoselleChâteau de Vaux Les Gryphées 2013

ABV: 11.5%Grape varieties: 30% Auxerrois, 30% Muller-Thurgau,30% Pinot Gris, 10% GewurztraminerRRP and retailer(s): £9.95 – The Wine Society

White under £10 + House wines / Moselle

“An unusual blend from an unusual AOP. Fragrant andcrisp: a really versatile food wine.”


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IGP Côtes de GascogneDomaine de MénardCuvée Marine 2013

ABV: 11.5%Grape varieties: 60% Colombard, 20% Sauvignon Blanc,20% Gros MansengRRP: £8.49-£9.99Retailer(s): Averys, Noel Young Wines, Smiling Grape


“A blend of Colombard and Ugni Blanc that is refreshing,a touch floral and fruity, but well balanced. It does thejob really well.”

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AOP Picpoul de PinetChâteau de la MirandePicpoul de Pinet 2013

ABV: 13%Grape varieties: Picpoul BlancRRP: £9.30-£10.50Retailer(s): Joseph Barnes, Ellis Wharton, Harvey Nichols

White under £10 + House wines / Languedoc Roussillon

“Always consistently a winner, ever pleasuring andpleasurable. Crisp acidity yet still has some fullness.Slightly savoury. Top value.”


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AOP Picpoul de PinetJean Luc ColomboLes Girelles 2013

ABV: 13%Grape varieties: Picpoul BlancRRP and retailer(s): £9.29 – yourfavouritewines.com


“Lemongrass on nose, sweet lemon and herb, really freshand zesty, full of life, lovely robust acidity, good length, finetextured weight. Food-friendly, superb accompaniment tocreamy seafood risotto.”

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AOP Picpoul de PinetDomaine des LauriersCuvée Prestige 2013

ABV: 13%Grape varieties: Picpoul BlancRRP: £7.95-£10.50Retailer(s): fromvineyardsdirect.com, The Good Wine Shop


“This wine is an overachiever, provides fantastic value formoney, makes a perfect aperitif but can also stand up tosome shellfish and elegant fish dishes.”


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AOP AlsaceCave de TurckheimSylvaner Vieilles Vignes 2011

ABV: 13%Grape varieties: SylvanerRRP and retailer(s): £7.00 – Boutinot

White under £10 + House wines / Alsace

“This is a great food-friendly wine, especially with Asian food.Coming from vines over 35 years old, it has been aged inacacia barrels, which rounds the acidity of the wine,making it fresh, luscious and full of character. A fantasticalternative to the classic grapes for the by the glass housewine selection.”

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IGP Côtes de ThongueDomaine de l’ArjolleSauvignon Blanc 2013

ABV: 12%Grape varieties: Sauvignon BlancRRP and retailer(s): £7.50 – The Wine Society


“Very bright, fresh grassy nose with spice and citrus notes,lovely zesty dry acidic palate with pear, green apple skin,dry, long finish with white pepper and capsicum.Complex and charming and superb value.”


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AOP BordeauxDourtheLa Grande Cuvée Sauvignon Blanc 2013

ABV: 12%Grape varieties: Sauvignon BlancRRP and retailer(s): £9.29 – Waitrose Cellar

White under £10 + House wines / Bordeaux

“This fresh, fruity, zesty wine has a delicate character andis ideal as both a crisp, refreshing drink and also a greatpartner to a seafood platter.”

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AOP Entre-Deux-MersChâteau Vignol2013

ABV: 12.5%Grape varieties: 70% Sauvignon Blanc & Gris, 15% Semillon, 15% MuscadelleRRP: £8.50Retailer(s): Heaton Wines/mywinemerchant.co.uk


“A classic blend of Sauvignon Blanc & Gris, Semillon andMuscadelle, lively acidity, crisp and full of flavours, one ofthe best white Bordeaux I’ve ever tasted.”


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Vin de FranceLGI WinesDuo des Mers 2013

ABV: 12%Grape varieties: Sauvignon Blanc, ViognierRRP and retailer(s): £6.25 – The Wine Society

White under £10 + House wines / France

“The 'Vin de France' classification was created only in 2009and gives winemakers the freedom to make wines byblending grapes and wines from across France. There aresome really interesting Vins de France emerging, includingthis lovely little blend of the Rhône's Viognier with the Loire'sSauvignon Blanc, to create a crisp but full-flavoured andexuberant wine. The aromas are explosive, meldingSauvignon's punch with Viognier's apricot richness, whilst thepalate also marries the latter's textural weight and former'scleansing line of acidity.”

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AOP BordeauxChâteau Vieux-Georget2010

ABV: 12%Grape varieties: Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, MuscadelleRRP and retailer(s): £6.99 – Vinceremos


“Perhaps unobtrusive, but always amazingly versatile withfood and great value.”


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AOP BordeauxChâteau Haut RianBordeaux Blanc Sec 2013

ABV: 12.5%Grape varieties: 60% Semillon, 40% Sauvignon BlancRRP and retailer(s): £6.29 – Thorman Hunt


“One of the most consistent wines I have sold in the past20 years, vintage on vintage. Truly good value.”

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IGP Haute Vallée de l'AudeDomaine BegudeTerroir 11300 2012

ABV: 13%Grape varieties: ChardonnayRRP and retailer(s): £8.00 – Waitrose Cellar


“Lightly-oaked Limoux Chardonnay with two bonuses: it's sealed with a screwcap and has a 13% abv.”


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IGP ArdècheLouis LatourChardonnay 2013

ABV: 13%Grape varieties: ChardonnayRRP and retailer(s): £9.50-£9.99 – Davy's, winedirect.co.uk

White under £10 + House wines / Rhône

“I like the clarity of this unoaked Chardonnay. I also likethe way the winemaking and style of the wine havebeen adapted over the years to reflect changing trendsand taste, without compromising quality or character.”

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IGP d'OcCalmel & JosephVilla Blanche 2013

ABV: 13%Grape varieties: ChardonnayRRP and retailer(s): £8.95 – Tom l'Anson Wines


“The wine is made with some early-picked fruit, for freshnessand acidity, which is blended with some riper grapes fromdifferent parcels that’s picked two weeks later. It all makesperfect sense in the glass: the brisk lemony edge isbalanced by a honeyed, pineapple opulence. Very hardto find fault with a wine like this, at this price.”


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IGP de l'Ile de BeautéLes Vignerons d'AghioneU San Muletto, Irrésistible Blanc 2013

ABV: 11.5%Grape varieties: 50% Vermentino, 50% ChardonnayRRP and retailer(s): £8.30 – Tanners

White under £10 + House wines / Corsica

“As the name suggests, this is very moreish. With a price tag ofless than a tenner and an alcohol content of 12%, it wouldundoubtedly make a great addition to any “wine by theglass” list. Corsica is definitely a place to watch! An equalblend of Vermentino and Chardonnay, lovely floral aromaswith some peachy fruit characters; nice mouthfeel too.”

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IGP d'OcDomaines Paul MasCôté Mas Vermentino 2013

ABV: 12.5%Grape varieties: VermentinoRRP and retailer(s): £8.50 – Waitrose Cellar


“A cracking wine and I love the packaging too.Wonderfully versatile for matching with food or drinkingon its own – a hint of mineral notes, a floral edge and aweighty mouthfeel.”


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IGP d’OcVilla Saint-Jean2013

ABV: 11.5%Grape varieties: Grenache Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc,Ugni BlancRRP and retailer(s): £7.06 (but only av in 6-bottle case) – Exel Wines


“It’s our entry level wine in Café à Vin and it’s great value formoney. It has freshness and a crisp citrus character makingit very versatile with or without food.”

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AOP Côtes du RhôneBoutinotLa Fleur Solitaire 2013

ABV: 13%Grape varieties: Grenache Blanc, Clairette, Viognier,Marsanne-RoussanneRRP: £8.29-£9.60Retailer(s): Noel Young Wines, allaboutwine.co.uk,Highbury Vintners

White under £10 + House wines / Rhône

“Made from Grenache, Clairette, Viognier, Roussanne andMarsanne, this wine is extremely well made. The aromaticViognier, Roussanne and Marsanne are nuanced by themore delicate and neutral Clairette and Grenache. It is, in my opinion, the perfect house wine.”


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IGP d’OcDomaine des TrinitésRoussanne 2012

ABV: 13%Grape varieties: RoussanneRRP and retailer(s): £9.45 – Cambridge Wines


“A superbly enticing and fragrant nose leading to an opulent,voluptuous body supported by a clean and strong mineralback-bone. Its richness comes from the schist soils and thesolid extracts, not the alcohol. Simple, but beautiful.”

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IGP d'OcLes Pierres BordesMarsanne Viognier 2013

ABV: 12.5%Grape varieties: Marsanne, ViognierRRP and retailer(s): £5.95 – The Wine Society


“Hay, ripe citrus and salt. Very good value.”


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IGP d'OcBoutinotLes Cépages Oubliés 2012

ABV: 13%Grape varieties: Marsanne, RoussanneRRP and retailer(s): £7.35 – allaboutwine.co.uk, slurp.co.uk


“This delicious blend of Marsanne and Rousanne has gentlefloral, peach and apricot perfume. Easy drinking, yetcharacterful and terrific value.”

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Vin de Pays d’OcDelas FrèresSélection Delas Viognier 2013

ABV: 12.5%Grape varieties: ViognierRRP and retailer(s): £9.15 – allaboutwine.co.uk


“Well priced, classic, elegant Viognier with notes of apricotsand sweet lemon. No oak at all. Perfect with many lightdishes on the menu.”

“This wine is a great addition to a wine list at this price point.It has lovely ripe stone fruit, good weight and texture on thepalate and a refreshing acidity, making this a great winefor matching with food too.”


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IGP d’OcDomaine GaydaViognier 2013

ABV: 12.5%Grape varieties: ViognierRRP: £8.99-£9.30Retailer(s): Leon Stolarski, Haynes Hanson & Clark


“Fruity, fresh, showing all the classic characters of the grapeat a cracking price.”

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AOP AlsaceMorrisons' Signature (Cave de Turckheim)Gewurztraminer 2013

ABV: 13%Grape varieties: GewurztraminerRRP and retailer(s): £7.99 – Morrisons

White under £10 + House wines / Alsace

“Subtle Alsace Gewurztraminer, with lovely rose-petal scentand great acidity. It has about 14gm residual sugar, whichmakes it definitely medium rather than dry, but could bedelicious with a coconutty Massaman Thai curry. Or by itselfas a chilled aperitif!”


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AOP Roussette du BugeyDomaine Peillot Altesse 2012

ABV: 12%Grape varieties: Altesse BRRP and retailer(s): £14.50 – The Wine Society

White £10-£16 + Hidden Gems / Rhône

“Nose slightly aromatic; hint of white fruit like peach, apricot,sweet almond and smoky. The palate is rounded, vibrantwith a fine texture.”

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AOP SavoieDomaine de l’IdylleCuvée l'Orangerie 2013

ABV: 11%Grape varieties: JacquèreRRP and retailer(s): £10.95 – Yapp Brothers

White £10-£16 + Hidden Gems / Savoie

“At 11% alcohol this crisp dry fresh white made from Savoie’snative Jacquere grape makes a delicate aperitif. Fromlimestone soils in Apremont, near Chambery, it tastes like amountain Muscadet.”


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AOP Roussette de SavoieDomaine Bruno LupinCru Frangy 2013

ABV: 12.5%Grape varieties: AltesseRRP: £12.55-£13.99Retailer(s): Highbury Vintners, Joseph Barnes, Smiling Grape

White £10-£16 + Hidden Gems / Savoie

“Found primarily in Savoie, a perfect alternative toSauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, it's bright, it's fresh withtypical minerality and aromas of apple and pear. Pairsnicely with a Beaufort cheese.”

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AOP Muscadet de Grand Lieu Domaine de L'AujardièreLa Noé 2013

ABV: 12%Grape varieties: Melon de BourgogneRRP and retailer(s): £11.95 – Lea & Sandeman

White £10-£16 + Hidden Gems / Loire

“Eric Chevalier has chosen a small parcel of granite soil toproduce this most individual, rather flinty Muscadet.”


Vin de FranceJérémie MouratMoulin Blanc, Blanc de Noirs 2013

ABV: 13%Grape varieties: Pinot NoirRRP and retailer(s): £14.50 – Vinoteca

White £10-£16 + Hidden Gems / France

“White Pinot Noir from old vines in the Vendée. Round & rich yet dry, with beguiling aromas and impressive intensity.White Pinot Noirs are rare and often un-balanced. This issuperbly made and stunning, and has the benefit ofcoming from a little known area of Northern France.”

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AOP Muscadet de Sèvre et Maine sur lieVincent CailléClos de la Févrie 2012

ABV: 12%Grape varieties: Melon de BourgogneRRP and retailer(s): £14.95 – caviste.co.uk


“If you’ve turned up your nose at Muscadet now is the timeto rediscover this un-loved appellation. There is a clutch ofquality-conscious producers making outstanding wines ofreal character and Vincent Caillé is no exception. Madefrom a single clos on Orthogneiss soil, it’s a very elegant stylewith notes of lime, white fruit and packed with minerality. Thepalate displays power and richness with a pristine acidity. ”

“This white wine is made with Pinot Noir, a really rare thing to come across. The wine has a great balance of fruit and acidity with a lovely texture and a fantastic minerality.Recommendation made for the 2012 vintage.”


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AOP ChablisDomaine Jean-Marc Brocard Domaine Pierre de Prehy 2010

ABV: 12.5%Grape varieties: ChardonnayRRP and retailer(s): £14.49 – Marks & Spencer

White £10-£16 + Hidden Gems / Bourgogne

“Good to see a Chablis from a great vintage, especiallygiven what followed in 2011. Stylish and unoaked.”

AOP TouraineXavier FrissantLes Roses du Clos 2013

ABV: 12.5%Grape varieties: Fié GrisRRP and retailer(s): £12.50 – H2Vin


“A really interesting wine made in Touraine, from the little-usedFié Gris grape. The wine is delicious, with beautiful citrus,mineral and apricot characters, fresh and vibrant withwonderful acidity. It’s a great wine for those who fancysomething a little off the beaten track!”


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AOP BordeauxChâteau Le CoinLe Coin 2013

ABV: 12%Grape varieties: Sauvignon GrisRRP and retailer(s): £10.49 – Laithwaites

White £10-£16 + Hidden Gems / Bordeaux

“Unusually dominated by Sauvignon Gris in a white Bordeaux,this wine has a really cool flavour of refreshingly green fruitwith a racy crisp acidity.”

AOP BordeauxCave de SauveterreA l'Envers 2013

ABV: 12.5%Grape varieties: Sauvignon BlancRRP and retailer(s): £12.00 – Tesco


“Welcome back to Europe for David Hohnen, the man whochanged the world’s drinking habits with the launch ofCloudy Bay. His home today may be tucked away inWestern Australia’s Margaret River, but when he venturesout – as here to Bordeaux, working with Master of WineClem Yates – the result is superb. A new take on Bordeaux,tangy, zesty, with pink grapefruit, and nothing at all to dowith New Zealand.”


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AOP Entre-Deux-MersChâteau Sainte MarieChâteau Sainte Marie Entre-Deux-Mers VieillesVignes 2012

ABV: 12.5%Grape varieties: 70% Sauvignon Blanc, 25% Semillon,5% MuscadelleRRP and retailer(s): £11.25 – Qwines (Great Western Wines)


“A smashing, off the beaten track, rustic estate in the heartof the Entre-Deux-Mers. But the wine is anything but rustic. A touch of oak adds complexity to the zingy grapefruit andpassion fruit flavours. It's dry, fresh and crisp. There are ahuge number of dry Sauvignons (with or without Semillonand Muscadelle) from Bordeaux that I could have selected,this was just one of my favourites.”

AOP BordeauxChâteau Lestrille-CapmartinBordeaux Blanc 2011

ABV: 13.5%Grape varieties: 65% Sauvignon Gris, 25% Sauvignon Blanc,10% SemillonRRP: £12.00Retailer(s): WineTrust100, thedrinkshop.com


“Very lovely modern-classic white Bordeaux; Sauvignon Grisblend fermented in new oak with some lees aging. Ripetropical fruit, baked apples sprinkled with sweet spice. Pure,precise, harmonious and long.”


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AOP GravesVieux Château GaubertBlanc 2012

ABV: 13%Grape varieties: 50% Sauvignon Blanc, 50% SemillonRRP and retailer(s): £15.50 – Montrachet Fine Wine


“Fine white Graves is hard to find, but this is exemplary,with a lightly tropical nose, a textured palate, andassertive citric fruit. Complex and tangy, this should agewell for five years or so.”

AOP BordeauxClos des LunesLune d’Argent 2012

ABV: 13.5%Grape varieties: 70% Semillon, 30% Sauvignon BlancRRP and retailer(s): £14.50 – The Wine Society


“Best-value Bordeaux white on the market – from Domainede Chevalier’s new project in Sauternes – incredibleconcentration and density, lovely weight with honey, kiwi,tart citrus notes and mouthwatering acidity. Delicious andworth every penny.”

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AOP Côtes de Bordeaux-FrancsChâteau Les Charmes-GodardBlanc 2011

ABV: 13%Grape varieties: 70% Semillon, 25% Sauvignon Gris,5% MuscadelleRRP and retailer(s): £14.95 – The Wine Society


“When I was asked to contribute to this year’s selection, thiswas the first wine that came to mind. I was first introducedto it while on a visit to the property which is more knownfor its red wines but it was the white that captured myattention. The appellation of AC Côtes de Bordeaux-Francs(formally Côtes de Franc) produces a tiny amount of whitewine so I was thrilled to discover that this wine was availablein the UK. From the Nicolas Thienpoint stable, this is a greatexample of why dry white Bordeaux is on the rise.”

AOP Bergerac SecChâteau Tour de GendresCuvée des Conti 2013

ABV: 13%Grape varieties: 70% Semillon, 20% Sauvignon Blanc,10% MuscadelleRRP and retailer(s): £8.00 – Decorum Vintners

White £10-£16 + Hidden Gems / South West

“Refreshing and very drinkable, amazing value as alwaysfrom Bergerac, super clean.”


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AOP AlsaceDomaine OstertageLes Vieilles Vignes de Sylvaner 2012

ABV: 12.5%Grape varieties: SylvanerRRP and retailer(s): £12.00 – Fine & Rare Wines

White £10-£16 + Hidden Gems / Alsace

“Still one of France's best value whites.”

AOP AlsaceAgathe BursinLutzeltal 2013

ABV: 12.5%Grape varieties: SylvanerRRP and retailer(s): £13.50-£14.00 – Hic, excelwines.com


“Agathe Bursin is one of the most talented of the youngergeneration of Alsace winemakers. This Sylvaner from oldvines grown on calcareous marl at Westhalten is evidenceof just how good Alsace's ulgy duck variety can be in theright hands: gingery and rich with soft but balanced acidityand fine length. ”


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AOP Picpoul de PinetBenjamin DarnaultPicpoul de Pinet 2013

ABV: 12.5%Grape varieties: Picpoul BlancRRP and retailer(s): £10.99 – Naked Wines

White £10-£16 + Hidden Gems / Languedoc Roussillon

“Delicious fresh and very drinkable, with subtle mineralityproviding extra dimension and interest.”

AOP SaumurDomaine GuiberteauSaumur Blanc 2010

ABV: 12%Grape varieties: Chenin BlancRRP and retailer(s): £16-18 – Market Row Wines, H2Vin


“A stunning bone dry piercing white wine, punching wellabove its weight. A juicy citrus backbone underpins aframework of pristine Chenin Blanc. The finish is long andfull of lasers. A wine I return to again and again, vintageafter vintage.”


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AOP Côtes du JuraLa PierreLes Granges Paquenesses 2011

ABV: 12.5%Grape varieties: SavagninRRP and retailer(s): £20.00 – Vinoteca

White £10-£16 + Hidden Gems / Jura

“A real hidden gem, perfectly balanced wine, very foodfriendly with plenty of personality and character. Differentand interesting to talk to customers about. It gives Savagnina “good name”.”

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AOP SavennièresChâteau Pierre-BiseClos de Coulaine 2011

ABV: 14%Grape varieties: Chenin BlancRRP and retailer(s): £19.30 – Hedonism


“This is home for me. Although it may not seem like anexciting discovery; it does come as a hard sell/lesser knownappellation to our guests. This makes it fun and reallyinteresting to sell and promote. In a way showing that LoireValley is more than just Sancerre in people’s minds. Thiswine is like describing a golden apple. You peel and eatthe skin of that apple and you have the rich earthy applearomas developing on the nose, then when you drink it, it’sas if you just had a bite at the apple. It’s juicy, rich andintense. Just a great wine.”


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AOP Pouilly FuisséEric Forest2012

ABV: 13%Grape varieties: ChardonnayRRP and retailer(s): £13.80 – Thorman Hunt

White £10-£16 + Hidden Gems / Bourgogne

“Star bright, medium green yellow with silver tinges. Lovelynose with beautiful golden apple, Williams pear andcandied citrus aromas. Dry but rounded on the palate witha delicious mineral finish. Excellent with a roasted sea-breamand a sauce vierge.” (tasting note for the 2011 vintage)

AOP CorbièresDomaine LedogarBlanc 2011

ABV: 13%Grape varieties: 80% Carignan Blanc, 10% Grenache,10% MacabeuRRP and retailer(s): £23.00 – Dynamic Vines


“A hint of pepper and spice on the nose, floral and fragrantwithout being overpowering. Delicious nuttiness.”


Vin de FranceDomaine la Grange de Quatre SousBu N’Daw 2011

ABV: 13.5%Grape varieties: Petite ArvineRRP and retailer(s): £11.83 – Vine Trail


“Hidden gem, unknown (almost) grape variety, a food winewith great texture, flavours and freshness as well as versatility:can be paired with charcuterie, fish as well as roasted pork.”

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AOP Côtes du RoussillonMas AmielLe Plaisir Blanc 2012

ABV: 14%Grape varieties: Grenache Blanc, Macabeo, Marsanne,RoussanneRRP: £21.99-£16.99Retailer(s): Fareham Wine Cellar, The Perfect Cellar


“Intriguing blend. Aromatically complex, great weight and texture.”

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Vin de FranceDomaine la Grange de Quatre SousBu N’Daw 2010

ABV: 13%Grape varieties: Petite ArvineRRP and retailer(s): £11.17 – Vine Trail


“Petit Arvine is usually associated with cool climate/ northern Italy/ Switzerland, but this example from the Southof France shows intense tropical notes with a dry citrus andsalty finish.”

AOP IroulèguyJean-Claude BerrouetHerri Mina 2012

ABV: 13.5%Grape varieties: Manseng, Petit CourbuRRP and retailer(s): £14.25 – Corney & Barrow


“I am a huge fan of Basque wines; the dark moody reds andthe structured, savoury rosés. The indigenous grapes, all withtheir unpronounceable translations in the local dialect,produce tight, personable and hugely characterful wines –no international trends here, thank you. Berrouet, ChâteauPetrus’s ex-winemaker, is originally Basque, and has returnedhome to make his own wines. His bright and aromatic HenriMina shows us that we should no longer overlook theregion’s whites.”


AOP Côtes du RhôneDomaine du MonteilletLe Petit Viognier 2012

ABV: 12.5%Grape varieties: ViognierRRP and retailer(s): £12.00 – Boutinot


“A mini Condrieu, very rich apricot and peachy stonefruit.”

70

AOP JurançonDomaine de SouchJurançon Sec 2009

ABV: 13%Grape varieties: Petit Manseng, Gros Manseng, CourbuRRP and retailer(s): £37.99 – The Perfect Cellar


“This wine shows minerality, complexity and depth. It is fresh,yet with a seriousness to the palate and evolution in theglass that is staggering.”

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IGP Collines RhodaniennesJulien PilonMon Grand-Père Était Limonadier 2012

ABV: 13%Grape varieties: ViognierRRP and retailer(s): £15.46 – A&B Wines


“Julien Pilon is a new producer in Condrieu, and unusuallyfor the Rhône, he only makes white wines. His stints withlocal masters Yves Cuilleron, Pierre Gaillard and Jean-PaulVilla have set him in good stead. This is a stunningly goodViognier for the price, and weighs in at a relatively sensible13.5% ABV.”

AOP AlsaceJosmeyerThe Society’s Exhibition Alsace Riesling 2012

ABV: 12%Grape varieties: RieslingRRP and retailer(s): £12.95 – The Wine Society


“From the house of Josmeyer, this has everything I love in aRiesling: cracking acid, great fruit & stony texture!”


74

AOP AlsaceMaison TrimbachRiesling 2012

ABV: 12.5%Grape varieties: RieslingRRP and retailer(s): £10.95 – The Wine Society


“It is the benchmark dry Riesling from Alsace: pure, minerally,elegant, with a long finish, and is absolutely delicious, eitheras an aperitif or with fish. For those who like dry wines suchas Fino sherry, this would be a perfect aperitif.”

AOP AlsaceDomaines SchlumbergerLes Princes Abbés 2011

ABV: 13%Grape varieties: RieslingRRP and retailer(s): £13.09 – thedrinkshop.com


“Riesling of great purity, expressing varietal characterthrough its distinctive terroir and traditional winemaking(fermentation in barrels and ageing on lees).”

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AOP AlsaceDomaine ZinckThe Portrait Range 2011

ABV: 14%Grape varieties: Pinot GrisRRP and retailer(s): £11.75 – Haynes Hanson & Clark (2012 only)


“Great typicity and an example of how far from genericPinot Grigio this grape can be. Richly textured for foodmatching ease with notes of baked fruits and spice. Good value too.”

75

AOP Alsace Dirler-CadéSaering Grand Cru, Muscat 2008

ABV: 12%Grape varieties: MuscatRRP and retailer(s): £16.95 – Vine Trail


“Muscat is an outsider. It actually works brilliantly as anaperitif and a food partner with slightly bitter foods likeartichoke and asparagus.”


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AOP AlsaceHugel et FilsGentil 2012

ABV: 12.5%Grape varieties: 14% Gewurztraminer, 2% Muscat,20% Riesling, 23% Pinot Gris, 41% Sylvaner & Pinot Blanc RRP: £11.95Retailer(s): Slurp, Cambridge Wine Merchants


“Bright, even exotic in terms of flavours, with a supple, even"fatty" texture, which sees it work with meats. A useful,accessible tool to introduce Alsace to the consumer.”

Pays d’OcDomaine Sainte RoseLa Nuit Blanche 2013

ABV: 14%Grape varieties: RoussanneRRP and retailer(s): £12.99 – Majestic


“Everyone I show this wine to loves it. Even drinkers who thinkthey don’t like oak are won over by the seductive charmof this beautiful wine. Rich, creamy, herbal, nutty, fruity andelegant, this is wine to astonish and thrill your guests. Try itwith richer poultry dishes, cream sauces or a rich fish pie.”


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Vin de Pays des Pyrénées AtlantiquesChâteau de CabidosCuvée Comte Philippe de Nazelle Sec 2008

ABV: 14.5%Grape varieties: Petit MansengRRP and retailer(s): £12.90 – Theatre of Wine


“The Petit Manseng grape is best-known for sweet wines, butthis unusual dry, full-bodied white is delightful. There is plentyof character: buttermilk, grapefruit pith, citrus marmalade,savoury oak and truffle notes, all layered onto a textured,broad, and enjoyably oily palate.”

Vin de Pays des Pyrénées AtlantiquesChâteau de CabidosCuvée Comte Philippe de Nazelle Sec 2009

ABV: 14.5%Grape varieties: Petit MansengRRP and retailer(s): £14.90 – Theatre of Wine


“Absolutely cracking wine, a total discovery for me. Situatedin the Bern region just outside the Jurançon appellation.This estate made this rare and original Petit Manseng sec,with aromas of exotic fruit, quincy and lime marmalade.Aromatic and concentrated wine.”


81 82

AOP SavoieGilles BerliozLes Filles 2011

ABV: 11.45%Grape varieties: BergeronRRP and retailer(s): £21.41 – Vine Trail

White £16-£30 + Classics / Savoie

“Made from selected Bergeron grapes, this wine showsincredible acidity combined with white stone fruit notes likepeaches and apricots.”

AOP ArboisDomaine du PélicanSavagnin Ouillé 2012

ABV: 12.5%Grape varieties: SavagninRRP and retailer(s): £24.00 – Hic Wine Merchants

White £16-£30 + Classics / Jura

“The inaugural vintage of Marquis d'Angerville's first ventureoutside Burgundy - a topped up, non-oxidative Savagninfrom their new property in Jura. Just 3,000 bottles produced.An extraordinarily fine and silky texture shot through withpiercing acidity. This is clearly an estate to watch.”


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AOP Pessac-LéognanChâteau BrownBlanc 2010

ABV: 13%Grape varieties: 65% Sauvignon Blanc, 35% SemillonRRP and retailer(s): £22.00 – Tesco Wines

White £16-£30 + Classics / Bordeaux

“Every time I have tasted or drunk this wine, whethersighted or blind, I have been blown away by the upfrontflavours, varietal and regional typicity, even while thewine retains an elegance and restrained character.I love it now but I know that if I can hold on to thebottles I have in my cellar, I’ll be rewarded with extracomplexity, purity and stylishness.”

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AOP BordeauxChâteau CoutetOpalie 2010

ABV: 14.5%Grape varieties: 50% Sauvignon Blanc, 50% SémillonRRP and retailer(s): £20.00 – Bordeaux Index

White £16-£30 + Classics / Bordeaux

“Coutet released 3,000 bottles of this new wine, followingin the footsteps of other Sauternes estates who havediversified into dry whites. Half Semillon, half SauvignonBlanc, this combines lovely minerality, rich tropical citrusfruit, acidity and freshness.”


86

AOP VouvrayDomaine CarêmeSec 2011

ABV: 14%Grape varieties: Chenin BlancRRP and retailer(s): £17.95 – Berry Bros & Rudd

White £16-£30 + Classics / Loire

“I love the crisp, dry, minerally tension of this very sec CheninBlanc: taut, appley, a touch waxy, honeyed undertoneswith lots of promise to come as it starts to open out: organictoo. Although based in Vouvray, Vincent is also nowgrowing Chenin Blanc in Swartland (married to Tania who isSouth African) – an exciting new producer to watch in bothhemispheres.”

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AOP AnjouEric MorgatLitus 2011

ABV: 13.5%Grape varieties: Chenin BlancRRP and retailer(s): £30.35 – Berry Bros & Rudd


“Eric Morgat’s wines are very fine indeed. He grows onlyChenin Blanc and makes just two cuvées, one Savennières(from 2012 vintage retitled Fidès), one Anjou Blanc, fromopposite sides of the Loire. Both are pure and deliciousexpressions of dry Chenin. Wines to cellar, a grower to follow.”


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AOP SavennièresDomaine des BaumardClos du Papillon 2009

ABV: 13.5%Grape varieties: Chenin BlancRRP and retailer(s): £25.00 – Majestic Wines


“One of the great vineyards of France, available at a veryaffordable price. Majestic Chenin in both senses.”

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“My desert island wine. Contemplating the etherealcomplexity that develops from Cox apple through quinceto camomile; wax, bitter quinine on to apricot andhoneycomb. would give hours of enjoyment on my island.”

AOP SavennièresDomaine des BaumardClos du Papillon 2006

ABV: 13.5%Grape varieties: Chenin BlancRRP: £19.00-£20.34 Retailer(s): Hawkshead Wines, Fine Wine Co


“Very good Chenin blanc, pure, hint of honey, quince, greatminerality, with a bit of age which add complexity to this wine”

“A "classic vintage," according to Florent Baumard.Beautifully tight and rich at the same time, with lovelymineral finesse, but there is oatmeal and cream in the mixadding some roundness to the steel and lemon rindfreshness and drive. Lovely precision here and seemshugely long and composed.”


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AOP Saint VéranDomaine CordierEn Faux 2012

ABV: 13.5%Grape varieties: ChardonnayRRP and retailer(s): £17.00 – The Wine Society

White £16-£30 + Classics / Bourgogne

“Terrific young St-Veran from Christophe Cordier, a reallyquality-conscious grower from an appellation that does notalways produce the most exciting Burgundies. It's taut andmineral, quite oaky at the moment, but with an underlyingfocus and spine that will stand it in good stead. Buy now,drink in 2 or 3 years.”

AOP Rully 1er CruClaudie JobardLes Cloux 2012

ABV: 13.5%Grape varieties: ChardonnayRRP and retailer(s): £23.40 – Haynes, Hanson & Clark


“I was looking for a white Burgundy at the 2010 tastings inJanuary that wouldn’t break the bank, and so I bought acase of this deliciously concentrated and elegantly fruitydry white which had a degree of complexity as well. Sincedrinking the first bottle, my only regret is that I didn’t buytwo cases.”


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AOP Givry 1er CruDomaine François LumppPetit Marole 2011

ABV: 13%Grape varieties: ChardonnayRRP and retailer(s): £19.79 – Thorman Hunt


“Exceptional winemaking, elegant, poised and, for Burgundy,good value.”

AOP Pernand-Vergelesses 1er CruDomaine RapetSous Frétille 2011

ABV: 13%Grape varieties: ChardonnayRRP: £23.50-£29.95 Retailer(s): Jeroboams, Domaine Direct


“Boasting plenty of ying and yang between freshness anddepth of flavour, this classy wine shows Chardonnay off toits best effect. With only a sensitive portion of new oakused, the taut bacon-fat richness on the nose broadensout on the palate to give spice, malty flavour and energy.White Burgundy par excellence.”


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Vin de FranceDomaine Léon BarralVin de France 2012

ABV: 13%Grape varieties: 80% Terret Blanc and Gri, 10% Viognier,10% RoussanneRRP and retailer(s): £27.99 – AG Wines

White £16-£30 + Classics / France

“This was the wine I kept going back to at the launch ofIsabelle Legeron's book Natural Wine. It's from vines up to90 years old on schist soil. Amazing complexity, intrigueand purity.”

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AOP Saint PérayDomaine du TunnelRoussanne 2011

ABV: 13.5%Grape varieties: RoussanneRRP: £23.52-£28.95Retailer(s): Berry Bros & Rudd, thedrinkshop.com, slurp.co.uk

White £16-£30 + Classics / Rhône

“St Peray, historically associated with sparkling, is now makinga name for itself in the production of mineral, bone dry white.A very much underrated appellation located south ofCornas. Domaine du Tunnel is one of the leading producersin the area; this 100% Roussanne is very elegant andapproachable with a great purity and refreshing minerality.”


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IGP des Côtes CatalanesDomaine le SoulaLe Soula Blanc 2010

ABV: 13.5%Grape varieties: Grenache Blanc, Grenache Gris,Macabeo, Sauvignon BlancRRP: £21.99-£29.95Retailer(s): Roberson Wines, Berry Bros & Rudd, AG Wines

White £16-£30 + Classics / Languedoc Roussillon

“It is a big, flinty white wine with an intense flavour combiningnuts, flint, honey, and a whole range of other adjectiveswhich have been plastered onto it, as those who taste it tryto pin down the somewhat elusive whole. It is made fromvery low-yielding grapes, and its roundness is encouragedby ageing for 18 months on fine lees on half new oak. Theexperience of drinking it is unforgettable.”

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“I was first introduced to this wine over a lunch in Edinburgh in2008 and have been faithfully buying and drinking it eversince. I think what I love most about this wine is its ability torefresh, while still retaining enough interest to push it into thefine wine bracket. The blend appears nonsensical butsomehow it works throwing up all sorts of flavours from lemon,beeswax and honey.”

IGP VaucluseChêne BleuViognier 2011

ABV: 14%Grape varieties: ViognierRRP and retailer(s): £29.40 – Hedonism

White £16-£30 + Classics / Provence

“Beautifully balanced, terroir-driven, rich and pure.”


97

AOP Alsace Grand CruMuréClos Saint Landelin, Grand Cru Vorbourg,Riesling 2012

ABV: 13.5%Grape varieties: RieslingRRP and retailer(s): £25.99 – AG Wines

White £16-£30 + Classics / Alsace

“A great classic Riesling from an exceptional site, with toastyaromas, a robust palate, remarkable weight and powerwithout being overbearing, and with a long mineral finish.”

98

AOP AlsaceDomaine Dirler-CadéRiesling Belzbrunnen 2010

ABV: 13%Grape varieties: RieslingRRP and retailer(s): £17.00 – The Wine Society


“Very classic limey and minerally Riesling.”


100

AOP Alsace Grand CruDomaine Frédéric MochelGrand Cru, Altenberg de Bergbieten, Riesling 2012

ABV: 13%Grape varieties: RieslingRRP and retailer(s): £21.50 – Vine Trail


“Mochel’s top cuvée comes off 50-year old vines. It’s still ababy but already has a beautiful honey and lemon tea vibewith a firm freshness. In fact, it’s so tightly wound with energyyou just know it’s going unravel into all sorts of deliciousthings in years to come.”

99

AOP AlsaceMichel ChapoutierSchieferkopf 2012

ABV: 13%Grape varieties: GewurztraminerRRP and retailer(s): £17.00 – Mentzendorff


“I thought all the Schieferkopf wines at the Mentzendorfftasting were pretty special. I selected this one because I’mnot generally a big fan of Gewurz and didn’t expect it tochange my mind. The purity and balance was somethingthat stood out in all the wines I tried but I thought thesweet/savoury combination in this one was stunning.Anyone who enjoys salted caramel could get obsessedwith a wine like this.”


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AOP Bordeaux Domaine de SoursRosé 2013

ABV: 12.5%Grape varieties: Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, MerlotRRP and retailer(s): 6.79-9.99 – Tesco (by the case), Taurus Wines

Rosés / Bordeaux

“Vibrant pale salmon colour. Redcurrant and wild strawberryon the nose. Crisp and refreshing palate with a red fruit finish,ideal with a plate of cured meat and a beetroot salad.”

AOP Bordeaux Château BauducRosé 2013

ABV: 11.5%Grape varieties: 70% Merlot, 30% Cabernet SauvignonRRP and retailer(s): £9.50 – bauduc.com

Rosés / Bordeaux

“Brilliant value full stop. Reminds more of a Provençal styleof rosé rather than a typical Bordeaux rosé.”


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IGP Pays d’Hérault Mas de Daumas GassacRéserve de Gassac Rosé 2013

ABV: 12.5%Grape varieties: Grenache, Syrah, CarignanRRP and retailer(s): £7.95-£8.95 – Hannibal Brown, Roberson

Rosés / Languedoc Roussillon

“I’ve been on a one-woman rosé mission my whole life. The perfect aperitif year round, this is my current favourite.”

IGP MediterranéeJean Luc ColomboLes Pins Couchés Rosé 2013

ABV: 12.5%Grape varieties: Syrah, Cinsault, MourvèdreRRP: £9.29-£9.99Retailer(s): Noble Green Wines, Halifax Wine Company,yourfavouritewines.com

Rosés / Rhône

“Fresh, crisp and dry, but with far more fruit and garriguenotes than its pale colour might suggest. A lovely summerapéritif wine.”


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IGP Coteaux du LibronDomaine des CabrialsRosé 2013

ABV: 13%Grape varieties: Grenache, CinsaultRRP and retailer(s): £6.60 – Bancroft Wines

Rosés / Languedoc Roussillon

“Beautifully poised, pale, dry rosé doing a great impressionof a Provençal rosé. Very pretty.”

Vin de FranceDomaine Comte AbbatucciFaustine Vieilles Vignes Rosé 2013

ABV: 13%Grape varieties: Sciacarello, BarbarossaRRP and retailer(s): £24.00 – Dynamic Vines

Rosés / France

“A rosé with real character and depth. Give me a glass of thiswith a bowl of bouillabaisse and I'd be very happy indeed.”


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AOP Côtes de ProvenceChâteau MiravalRosé 2013

ABV: 13%Grape varieties: Cinsault, Grenache, Rolle, SyrahRRP and retailer(s): £18.00 – Lay & Wheeler

Rosés / Provence

“So it’s a rosé. But I’m a girl (loose term!). I like this any time ofthe year. Miraval is quintessential Provence Rosé – light,delicate fruit, enough acidity to make it balanced andrefreshing. Pleasing on the eye, pleasurable on the palate.Not all wine has to be massively complex with lengthyageing potential. What is does have to possess is the abilityto please, to excite and to delight. This does that. And BradPitt is to die for!”

107

AOP Côte RoannaiseDomaine SérolVielles Vignes 2013

ABV: 12%Grape varieties: GamayRRP and retailer(s): £8.95 – The Wine Society

Red under £10 + House wines / Rhône

“The Côtes Roannaise vineyards are much closer to those ofBeaujolais than they are to the Loire vineyards – Pouilly-Fuméis nearly 200km to the north. 2013 was a much better vintagein the Roannaise than much of the rest of the Loire, and thisis delicious drinking.”

“A seriously fruity Gamay from this little-known region westof Lyon.”

“Lovely fresh cherry fruit, and an original and very affordablealternative to Beaujolais.”


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AOP Beaujolais-VillagesChâteau de Lacarelle2013

ABV: 12%Grape varieties: GamayRRP and retailer(s): £7.95 – The Wine Society

Red under £10 + House wines / Beaujolais

“A great vintage from one of Beaujolais' oldest producers.Fantastic value, with bags of fragrant, sappy flavour. Sadly,most consumers still don't realise just how good Beaujolaiscan be these days.”

“Just what Beaujolais-Villages should be: fresh, juicy, aromatic,uncomplicated and very enjoyable.”

“Juicy, lip-smacking Beaujolais that's gloriously bright andrefreshing.”

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Vin de FranceCharles & Phillippa Sydney (Sylvain Miniot)La Grille 2012

ABV: 12.5%Grape varieties: Pinot NoirRRP and retailer(s): £8.49 – Majestic Wines

Red under £10 + House wines / France

“This is simply delicious and affordable fruit driven Pinot Noir.It is bursting with red berries and zippy acidity, deliveringhonest, uncomplicated enjoyment. Lovely chilled on awarm summer’s day in the garden.”


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AOP SaumurVignerons de SaumurSaumur Rouge 2012

ABV: 12.5%Grape varieties: Cabernet FrancRRP and retailer(s): £9.75 – Yapp

Red under £10 + House wines / Loire

“Still just shimmying in under £10. General de Gaulle [asshown on the label] remains a real favourite: forthright,crunchy, even perhaps a little tart, making him perfectwith cheese and patés. Indisputably French, indisputablyCabernet Franc. Still great value, and don’t forget to snapup the matching pair of the Chenin Blanc.”

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AOP VaucluseGeorges BadriouGrenache-Syrah NV

ABV: 12.5%Grape varieties: Grenache, SyrahRRP and retailer(s): £4.29 – Morrisons

Red under £10 + House wines / Provence

“This dinky little quaffer appeared in the Smooth section ofMorrisons’ tasting in the early summer and very much doeswhat it says on the tin at an affordable price for itsmoreishly juicy, brambly fruit. You can’t ask for much moreat the price really and it goes with all sorts of everyday farefrom barbecues to pizza and pasta.”


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Vin de FranceMontgravetCabernet Sauvignon Merlot 2013

ABV: 13%Grape varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon, MerlotRRP and retailer(s): £5.99 – Waitrose Wines

Red under £10 + House wines / France

“This simple, fresh Cabernet/Merlot blend is one of the bestvalue wines I have tasted that is imported into the UK fromFrance this year. Easy to drink, it has a smooth edge and anice round plummy character. At £5.99 it makes a mockeryof claims that France cannot compete with South Americaat this price point. It can.”

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IGP Pays d'HéraultAlain GrignonCarignan Vieilles Vignes 2013

ABV: 12.5%Grape varieties: CarignanRRP and retailer(s): £5.99 – Majestic

Red under £10 + House wines / Languedoc Roussillon

“Gutsy, fruity Carignan with just enough polish to smooth outthe rustic edges for maximum gluggability.”


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AOP SaumurLanglois-Chateau2012

ABV: 12%Grape varieties: Cabernet FrancRRP and retailer(s): £6.23 – Mentzendorff

Red under £10 + House wines / Loire

“Juicy enough to have broad appeal and as with manyLoire reds just so versatile – an essential for house wine.”

AOP Bordeaux SupérieurChâteau St GermainBordeaux Supérieur 2012

ABV: 13.5%Grape varieties: MerlotRRP and retailer(s): £8.25 – Asda

Red under £10 + House wines / Bordeaux

“This is an excellent good value Claret, which gives theconsumer an idea of what Bordeaux does, but at anexcellent price. The tannins are very smooth and the fruit isjuicy, but there is enough firmness and edge to show thatthis is a Bordeaux, it most certainly is not new world in style.”


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IGP Cité de CarcassonneDomaine de l’EstagnèreRouge 2012

ABV: 13.5%Grape varieties: Cabernet Franc, MerlotRRP and retailer(s): £5.50 – Coe Vintners


“A proper wine with a bit of structure and elegance at ahouse (ish) price.”

AOP CahorsClos La CoutaleCahors 2012

ABV: 13.5%Grape varieties: 70% Malbec, 15% Merlot, 15% TannatRRP and retailer(s): £9.75 – Berry Brothers & Rudd

Red under £10 + House wines / South West

“When I was a student, I first came across the term ‘theblack wine of Cahors’, and ever since then, the wine hashad a romantic aura for me. This particular wine combinesfruit and stones, both on the nose and on the palate. It is byno means the heaviest Cahors wine available, but is madein a lighter style. It is perfect with English so-called ‘comfortfood’, as well as with the heavy foods of its own region.”


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AOP BergeracChâteau Tour des Gendres2011

ABV: 14%Grape varieties: MerlotRRP and retailer(s): £7.95 – The Wine Society


“Luc de Conti has made the best wine in Bergerac fortwenty years. This generously fruity, Merlot-dominated red is testament to his skill. It's also outstandingly good value.”

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AOP MédocChâteau de Panigon Cru Bourgeois 2009

ABV: 14%Grape varieties: 50% Merlot, 45% Cabernet Sauvignon,5% Petit VerdotRRP and retailer(s): £9.95 – The Wine Society

Red under £10 + House wines / Bordeaux

“This has got to be one of the best value French red wines onthe market; deliciously fruity, smooth, perfectly oaked. TWSare selling two great vintages of this wine, 2009 and 2010.”


122

IGP Pays d’HéraultMont RocherCarignan Vieilles Vignes 2013

ABV: 12.5%Grape varieties: CarignanRRP: £7.25-£8Retailer(s): Noel Young Wines, Halifax Wine Company,Cambridge Wine Merchants


“Crowd-pleasing yet sophisticated old-vine southern FrenchCarignan with dark fruits, spice and concentration. Greatwine, amazing value.”

121

IGP Pays du GardDomaine de MontvalSyrah 2013

ABV: 13%Grape varieties: SyrahRRP and retailer(s): £9.99 – Majestic Wines


“I'm a complete sucker for this style of Syrah - it's meaty,peppery, fragrant and delicious. The concentration andexpressiveness puts many a Crozes-Hermitage to shame - especially at under £10.”


124

AOP MinervoisChâteau La VillatadeNoMa 2011

ABV: 13%Grape varieties: 80% Grenache, 20% SyrahRRP and retailer(s): £9.99 – Red Squirrel Wines


“I tasted this 80% Grenache/20% Syrah blend at Esoterica atthe LWTF. The merchant and the wine was new to me andboth impress. Husband and wife partnership making minimalintervention wines. This is pure-fruited, long and delicious.Amazing for the price.”

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AOP Côtes du Rhône VillagesBoutinotLes Coteaux 2011

ABV: 14%Grape varieties: 85% Grenache, 15% SyrahRRP: £8.49-£9.59 Retailer(s): Noely Young Wines, allaboutwine.co.uk


“Classic wine for a great price, some peppery black spiceand red strawberry fruit.”


126

AOP Grignan-les-AdhémarDomaine Mas TheoFerme Theolas 2011

ABV: 13%Grape varieties: 40% Grenache, 40% Syrah, 20% CarignanRRP and retailer(s): £9.00 – The Sampler


“The sort of wine your friends pour at their BBQ and you arevery pleasantly surprised. The Southern French grapes andwarm weather shine through a veil of garrigue and spice.Mostly due to tax it has become increasingly more difficultto find a wine of this standard sub £10. This is a diamond inthe rough.”

125

AOC Saint MontProducteurs PlaimontBéret Noir 2010

ABV: 12.5%Grape varieties: TannatRRP and retailer(s): £7.91 – Christopher Piper Wines


“Fancy a quick trip to south west? Lovely Tannat, vibrant andeasy going style. It’s lighter than Madiran or Cahors. Firm onthe palate with satisfying, soft, sooty tannins, it’s very nicelybalanced with tasty hints of toffee and spice. The Beret Noiris what the local people are wearing down there… so willthe Beret Noir be more popular than this Tannat? Your call!”


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AOP SavoieChâteau de MérandeLa Belle Romaine 2012

ABV: 12%Grape varieties: MondeuseRRP and retailer(s): £15.50 – The Wine Society

Red £10-£16 + Hidden Gems / Savoie

“Pretty aromas, with lots of floral and berry notes, but with afine tannic backbone and acidity. Should do the businesswith both seafood dishes and meat.”

AOP SancerreAndré Dezat et FilsRouge 2013

ABV: 12.5%Grape varieties: Pinot NoirRRP: £14.40-£16.50Retailer(s): Bottle Apostle, Park & Bridge, Tanners

Red £10-£16 + Hidden Gems / Loire

“On a recent trip to Sancerre, I was blown away by the basicred cuvée from this domaine. Firmin and his cousin Arnaudtake inspiration from Burgundy and it shows. Pure, bright,fresh and easy to drink with a strawberry lift on the finish.”


130

AOP Saumur ChampignyDomaine des Roches Neuves2013

ABV: 12.5%Grape varieties: Cabernet FrancRRP and retailer(s): £12.96-£14.50 – Wine Bear, Smiling Grape


“A Loire Cabernet Franc made by a producer with a keeneye on elegance and minimum intervention. It’s floral, perkyand bursting with crunchy red fruit.”

129

AOP ChinonCharles JoguetCuvée Terroir 2009

ABV: 13%Grape varieties: Cabernet FrancRRP and retailer(s): £12.40 – Field & Fawcett


“A perfect example of a very well made Cabernet Francfrom the Loire, beautifully ripe yet with high acidity, a lighttexture and well-integrated tannins. This wine is a trueexpression of the Chinon Terroir.”


131132

AOP MorgonDomaine Jean-Marc BurgaudCôte du Py 2012

ABV: 13%Grape varieties: GamayRRP: £12.50-£16.60Retailer(s): The Wine Society, Black Dog Wines

Red £10-£16 + Hidden Gems / Beaujolais

“Richly textured, deep dark fruit flavours and mineralstructure, highly refreshing and just makes you want more.And of course it is tremendously good value.”

AOP RégniéCharly ThévenetGrain et Granite 2011

ABV: 13%Grape varieties: GamayRRP and retailer(s): £14.95 – Roberson

Red £10-£16 + Hidden Gems / Beaujolais

“Organic and biodynamic wine aged old Burgundy barrels.Very little sulphur. This wine is a true gem with bright tanninsand juicy fruits. Still light and fresh, it's ideal with manyappetisers and meats.”


133

AOP BourgogneDomaine Sylvain Pataille2012

ABV: 12%Grape varieties: Pinot NoirRRP and retailer(s): £14.95 – The Wine Society

Red £10-£16 + Hidden Gems / Bourgogne

“Another great value red from The Wine Society, this ismade by a talented young winemaker and consultantbased in Marsannay. It stood out at a recent tasting, withits generous but fresh fruit profile and attractive price-tag.”

134

AOP Chorey-lès-BeauneJoseph Drouhin2011

ABV: 13%Grape varieties: Pinot NoirRRP and retailer(s): ££15.99 – Waitrose

Red £10-£16 + Hidden Gems / Bourgogne

“This is so beautifully, fragrantly Pinot. Light, feminine body.”


136

AOP Crozes-HermitageDomaine Michel PoinardLes Saviaux 2012

ABV: 13.5%Grape varieties: SyrahRRP and retailer(s): £15.99 – Majestic Wines

Red £10-£16 + Hidden Gems / Rhône

“I enjoyed this elegant Crozes from Michel Poinard at theMajestic tasting for its true Northern Rhône Syrah characteristicsof pepper and spice-infused red and black fruits.”

135

AOP Saint-ChinianCave de RoquebrunTerrasses de la Rocanière 2012

ABV: 14%Grape varieties: Syrah, Grenache, MourvèdreRRP and retailer(s): £12.99 – Waitrose

Red £10-£16 + Hidden Gems / Languedoc Roussillon

“This has wonderful smoky intensity, a floral note (maybe fromthe carbonic maceration), and great concentration. Tanninsare very firm at present, but this should be magnificent in acouple of years. Mainly Syrah, from 80 year-old vines, andcontributions of 20% each from Grenache and Mourvèdre.”


138

AOP CorbièresLes Clos PerdusRed Cuvée 91 2011

ABV: 13%Grape varieties: Carignan, Grenache, MourvèdreRRP and retailer(s): £13.99 – Nothing But The Grape


“This Languedoc producer was one of the standouts at 2014RAW. For those who like ‘natural’ wines made with expertise.The 2012 Cuvée 101 is worth tracking down when it comesout (or it is already available direct from the producer).”

137

AOC Coteaux du LanguedocMas Cal DemouraL'Infidèle 2011

ABV: 14%Grape varieties: 30% Syrah, 25% Grenache, 20% Mourvèdre, Carignan, CinsaultRRP and retailer(s): £16.58 – The Fine Wine Co (by the case only)


“Great example of a restrained style of Southern Frenchwine, with its finesse and purity.”


139140

AOP Saint-ChinianDomaine La MaduraClassic Rouge 2008

ABV: 14%Grape varieties: 33% Grenache, 37% Carignan, 14% Syrah, 16% MourvèdreRRP and retailer(s): £11-£12.95 – Flint Wines, Uncorked


“Aromatic with backbone.”

AOP VentouxDomaine du Chêne BleuAstralabe 2009

ABV: 14.5%Grape varieties: Grenache, SyrahRRP and retailer(s): £15.99 – Waitrose Cellar

Red £10-£16 + Hidden Gems / Provence

“I love the wines from this producer, most are way out of myprice range sadly, so a delight to see and sample this new,more affordable addition to their range. It’s a Grenache-Syrah blend and an absolute joy. I love it – from the funlabel (medieval inter-monastery Skyping on flat screens) tothe full, beautifully balanced, lightly spiced palate.”


141 142

AOP GigondasDomaine Florent et Damien BurleLes Pallieroudas 2012

ABV: 14.5%Grape varieties: 80% Grenache, 20% MourvèdreRRP and retailer(s): £10.80 – Thorman Hunt


“A full on heavyweight Gigondas with lots of ripe berry fruitand all the heat of the Southern Rhône.”

AOP Côtes du Rhône VillagesDomaine Sainte AnneNotre Dame des Cellettes 2011

ABV: 14%Grape varieties: Grenache, Mourvèdre, SyrahRRP and retailer(s): £14.85 – Haynes Hanson & Clark


“Côtes du Rhône a world away from dilute, boring cheapexamples. A pleasure from the first hint of its herby, fruity,floral scent to the long-lingering, balanced and fresh finish.”


144

Vin de FranceDomaine Jean RoyerLe Petit Roy NV

ABV: 14.5%Grape varieties: Mourvèdre, Syrah, GrenacheRRP and retailer(s): £13.75 – Lea & Sandeman

Red £10-£16 + Hidden Gems / France

“A real find. French winemaker Jean-Marie Royer makessublime Châteauneuf-du-Pape, but this is straight Vin deFrance. Gloriously fresh, it is a blend of Syrah, Grenacheand Mourvèdre, with bright red fruits, cracked pepper anda grippy finish.”

143

AOP Côtes du Rhône VillagesLaudun-ChusclanLes Genêts 2012

ABV: 14%Grape varieties: 65% Grenache, 20% Syrah, 10% Carignan,5% Mourvèdre, CinsaultRRP and retailer(s): £10.52 – Nethergate Wines


“It pours a striking and vivid deep purple colour, with abeautiful lift to the nose, a real white pepper fragrance,touched with herbs and flowers, and sappy cherry fruit. Onthe palate it has delightful juiciness and a creamy red fruitflavour, the ripeness and fruit sweetness is apparent, andthe finish quite gentle, with spice and pepper, smoothtannins and fresh acidity.”


145146

AOP Côtes du Rhône VillagesBoutinotLes Six Cairanne 2011

ABV: 14.5%Grape varieties: Grenache Noir, Syrah, Mourvèdre,Carignan NoirRRP and retailer(s): £8.43 – Boutinot


“Superb expression of southern Rhône fruit and sunshine.Really good value.”

AOP MadiranChâteau BarrejatMadiran 2011

ABV: 13.5%Grape varieties: 60% Tannat, 20% Cabernets Sauvignon, FrancRRP and retailer(s): £8.95 – Sun, Stone & Vine

Red £10-£16 + Hidden Gems / South West

“I was shocked how elegant it was (as far as Madiran isconcerned) great balance, lovely dark fruit, spice… The value was outstanding, a real find for me.”


147148

AOP Côte de BrouillyChâteau ThivinCuvée Zaccharie 2011

ABV: 12.5%Grape varieties: GamayRRP: £21.45-£24.00 Retailer(s): Beaujolais & Beyond, Alpine Wines

Red £16-£30 + Classics / Beaujolais

“Muscular, assertive and complex Beaujolais with ageingpotential; black cherries, mulberries, ginger, spice andflorality with freshness, peppery spice, savouryconcentration and minerality. Long with a persistent finish.”

AOP Côte de BrouillyChâteau ThivinLa Chapelle 2011

ABV: 13%Grape varieties: GamayRRP and retailer(s): £15.50 – Domaine Direct

Red £16-£30 + Classics / Beaujolais

“I wanted to suggest a second Beaujolais [to the one in themid-priced bracket] as they are both very distinctive yetdifferent from one another as well. La Chapelle has a tightstructure which actually calls for a bit more ageing. Veryclean bright aromas, clean refreshing palate. Offers reallyexciting drinking experience and would be quite a versatilefood companion.”


149 150

Faustine Vieilles VignesDomaine Comte AbbatucciFaustine Rouge 2011

ABV: 13.5%Grape varieties: 70% Sciaccarellu, 30% NiellucciuRRP and retailer(s): £25.50 – Dynamic Vines

Red £16-£30 + Classics / France

“Although it is produced outside of the Corsican AOP system,this blend of Sciacerello and Nieluccio – redolent of red fruitsand maquis scrub – couldn’t come from anywhere else.”

AOP AlsaceDomaine l’AgapéHélios 2012

ABV: 13%Grape varieties: Pinot NoirRRP and retailer(s): £25.80 – Hedonism Wines

Red £16-£30 + Classics / Alsace

“The title of “grand classic” in Alsace is more oftenbestowed upon its great white wines, but this Pinot Noir isproof that now, too, this classic grape merits the accolade:clean, fresh, mineral, balanced and elegant. It is clearlyPinot Noir… not the lightweight version Alsace haspreviously been known for, nor the over-boiled, cartoon-character New World version, but a wine that speaks to usfrom Riquewihr, about Riquewihr.”

“I haven’t seen a Corsican wine like this before. Full bodied,fresh, fragrant, juicy, complex, full of character but notcomplicated or harsh.”


152

AOP AlsaceRené MuréCuvée V 2012

ABV: 13%Grape varieties: Pinot NoirRRP and retailer(s): £24.50 – Berkmann Wine Cellars

Red £16-£30 + Classics / Alsace

“This Pinot Noir is made from grapes grown in the VorbourgGrand Cru. It is aromatic with red cherry notes, violetplums and summer fruit with a hint of spiciness and alovely minerality.”

151

AOP Marsannay Domaine HuguenotMarsannay Montagne 2010

ABV: 13%Grape varieties: Pinot NoirRRP and retailer(s): £23.95 – Lea & Sandeman

Red £16-£30 + Classics / Bourgogne

“Pinot Noir is so capricious, I'm always a bit reticent torecommend it. I tasted this wine earlier this year, thenbought some for an event - and both times it wastremendous. This does everything I like about Burgundy, withall that earthy character, savoury red fruit and structure thatwill age brilliantly. Plus it's great value - for Burgundy.”

“Organically farmed Pinot Noir on a high elevation producean outstanding Gevrey-like Marsannay.”


153 154

AOP Gevrey-ChambertinDomaine DurochéLes Jeunes Rois 2011

ABV: 12.5%Grape varieties: Pinot NoirRRP and retailer(s): £26.50 – Four Walls Wine


“Fresh and delicate with silky tannins, this is a kind of winewhich doesn't need any publicity as its taste is simply great.Perfect match with Le Manoir's roasted quail, butternutsquash, red wine and cinnamon.”

AOP Chassagne-MontrachetMichel Niellon2012

ABV: 13%Grape varieties: Pinot NoirRRP and retailer(s): £22.00 – Vinoteca


“A rare red Chassagne, and very drinkable. Fresh & elegant,with perfectly ripe red fruit and a touch of spice. Pure andfruity, forward & drinkable high quality Pinot Noir fromBurgundy, priced so well compared to better knownBurgundy appellations (white Chassagne Montrachetattracts the big premiums, NOT red).”

“We love this producer. A rare red Chassagne that hasexceptional purity and elegance from a classic region. A light touch.”


155156

AOP ChinonPascal LambertCuvée Marie 2009

ABV: 13%Grape varieties: Cabernet FrancRRP and retailer(s): £24.00 – Aubert & Mascoli

Red £16-£30 + Classics / Loire

“A true expression of Cabernet Franc: pretty andherbaceous on the nose, while possessing great lushnessand purity of fruit on the palate.”

AOP Saint EstèpheCapbern Gasqueton2010

ABV: 14%Grape varieties: 62% Cabernet Sauvignon, 37% Merlot,1% Petit VerdotRRP and retailer(s): £20.00 – Lea & Sandeman

Red £16-£30 + Classics / Bordeaux

“Great left bank Bordeaux, and a lot of wine for the price.”


158

AOP Saint-JulienDomaine Henry MartinChâteau Haut-Beychevelle Gloria 2009

ABV: 13.5%Grape varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon, MerlotRRP and retailer(s): £24.99 – Waitrose Cellar

Red £16-£30 + Classics / Bordeaux

“St. Julien is, for me, the ultimate wine for the dinner table,although an often lofty price means it has become a rareindulgence. However, this rendition is reasonable, and,offering notes of cigar smoke, faint blackberries and woodpanelling with patina, ideally compliments the wild foods ofautumn, from grouse to boar and venison.”

157

AOP Crozes-HermitagesLe Domaine de LucieLes Saviaux 2012

ABV: 13%Grape varieties: SyrahRRP and retailer(s): £22.00 – Caviste

Red £16-£30 + Classics / Rhône

“From an area producing wildly diverse styles, this beautifulwine is full of warmth and feminine charm. A better known(at the moment) producer from the region is Dard & Ribowith this being in a very similar vein. As with all great wine,you can drink it now yet if you can resist, it will hold togetherfor years to come. The nose is complex, with spice, violet,cherry and blueberry skin characters. The brooding core ofthe nose comes through on the palate as fruit de bois, lacedseamlessly with bright tannins and clean, vital acidity. Wild!”


159 160

AOP Crozes-HermitagesYann Chave2011

ABV: 13%Grape varieties: SyrahRRP and retailer(s): £17.58 – Harper Wells


“Well, that’s it. When a wine is good, a wine is good –something Yann has shown us many times with his Crozes.The essence of spice, mixed red and black fruits and a‘Je ne sais quoi’ that makes it savoury and delicious.”

AOP CornasRobert MichelLa Geynale 2005

ABV: 13%Grape varieties: SyrahRRP and retailer(s): £36.00 – Vine Trail


“The nose is full of intense black fruits like blackcurrant, aswell as earthy, chocolatey, fresh plum and gamey notes.Rich and delicate at the same time; tannins are delicateand soft, and the finish is earthy.”


161162

AOP Côtes du Roussillon VillagesDomaine Roc des AngesReliefs 2011

ABV: 14%Grape varieties: CarignanRRP and retailer(s): £20.00 – Christopher Keiler

Red £16-£30 + Classics / Languedoc Roussillon

“Bright, deep ruby with a purple rim. Superb aromas of blackfruit, cherry, blackberry and also hints of ‘Clafoutis’ andsweet spices. Energetic but very ripe on the palate,revealing some notes of garrigue. The finish is long andspicy. Wonderful with a pan fried duck magret aux airelles.”

AOP CorbièresChâteau Haut-GléonCorbières 2009

ABV: 14%Grape varieties: 30% Syrah, 40% Grenache,30% Carignan Vieilles VignesRRP and retailer(s): £23.50 – Le Bon Vin


“This lovely old property, now owned by Foncalieu, makessome beautiful wines from a blend of old vine Syrah,Grenache and Carignan grapes. The wine is delicious witha lovely supple palate, a juicy mix of red and black fruitand judicious use of balancing oak enhancing thedelicate spicy quality of the fruit. This is far superior thanmost people would expect from the Corbières region,whose general reputation is one of offering good value formoney rather than finesse.”


163164

AOP FaugèresDomaine Léon BarralJadis 2011

ABV: 14.5%Grape varieties: 50% Carignan, 30% Syrah, 20% GrenacheRRP: £25.99-£29.99 Retailer(s): Exel Wines, AG Wines, The Smiling Grape


“Smooth plum and red cherry dominated wine made ofCarignan, Syrah and Grenache, pretty much medievalwinemaking.”

AOP GigondasDomaine de Saint CosmeGigondas 2011

ABV: 14.5%Grape varieties: GrenacheRRP and retailer(s): £16.25 – Decorum Vintners


“Juicy, spicy, round and hearty. Hello September roasts.”


165166

AOP CornasGuy FargeHarmonie Cornas 2011

ABV: 12.5%Grape varieties: SyrahRRP: £27.00-£34.50 Retailer(s): The Sampler, Exel Wines, Great Western Wine


“Classic example of North Rhône Syrah. So much white pepperI almost sneezed. Richly fruited yet elegant very drinkable.”

Vin de Pays des Collines RhodaniennesDomaine Patrick & Christophe BonnefondSensation du Nord 2012

ABV: 12.5%Grape varieties: SyrahRRP and retailer(s): £10.83 – OW Loeb


“A skilled winemaker in a good vintage can only be a winner.A classic Syrah, everything to love about it, juicy, spicy, richbut not over extracted!!”


167 168

AOP VouvrayVincent CarêmeLe Clos Demi-Sec 2010

ABV: 13%Grape varieties: Chenin BlancRRP and retailer(s): £25.95 – Berry Bros & Rudd

Sweet wines / Loire

“Top quality classic demi-sec Vouvray from the PremièreCôte RS = 20 g/l.”

AOP VouvrayFrançois PinonSilex Noir 2011

ABV: 13%Grape varieties: Chenin BlancRRP and retailer(s): £13.75-£18.45 – Vinetrail, Scarlet Wines

Sweet wines / Loire

“A gently-styled moelleux from one of the region's topvignerons at a bargain price RS = 75 g/l (I have seen 68somewhere but François told me 75, whatever, it is sweet!)”


170

AOP VouvrayClos de la MeslerieVouvray 2010

ABV: 12%Grape varieties: Chenin BlancRRP and retailer(s): £29.00 – Buon Vino

Sweet wines / Loire

“I have chosen a wine from Peter Hahn (owner of the Closde la Meslerie) because he is an interesting relativenewcomer to the Vouvray appellation. The 2010 (with 40grams residual sugar) is very well balanced. Although it canbe drunk now, it will also keep for many years.”

169

AOP Pacherenc du Vic-BilhPlaimont ProducteursDuc de Termes Edition Limitée 2011

ABV: 12%Grape varieties: Gros Manseng, Petit Courbu, Petit MansengRRP and retailer(s): £5.99 (37.5cl) – Tesco

Sweet wines / South West

“At just £5.99 for a half bottle, this delicious sweet wine madefrom Petit and Gros Manseng is seriously good value formoney. Intense tropical fruits on the nose, even more so onthe palate, with defined pineapple, mango and vanilla.Sweet (70g/l RS) and full-bodied, but with firm balancedacidity and bags of flavour. Another example of why PlaimontProducteurs are one of the best co-ops in the country.”


172

AOP Pacherenc du Vic-BilhPlaimont ProducteursSaint Albert 2011

ABV: 13%Grape varieties: Petit Manseng, Gros MansengRRP and retailer(s): £13.99 (50cl) – Corney & Barrow


“I’ve tried what feels like dozens of very good wines from theexcellent Plaimont Producteurs this year, and this is one ofthe best. The label is, frankly dire, but the wine is decadentand delicious. Blue cheese please.”

171

AOP JurançonCharles HoursUroulat Moelleux 2012

ABV: 13.5%Grape varieties: Petit MansengRRP: £10.35-£12.50 (37.5cl), £21.70 (75cl)Retailer(s): Bottle Apostle, Noel Young Wines, The Oxford Wine Company


“Petit Manseng, fermented and aged in oak barrels (20% new). Luscious, honeyed and intense with crystalline acidity.”


174

AOP RivesaltesDomaine CazesAmbré 2000

ABV: 16.5%Grape varieties: GrenacheRRP and retailer(s): £13.04 (37.5cl) – thedrinkshop.com

Sweet wines / Languedoc Roussillon

“A fine example with 14 years on the clock and a nicelybalanced 110g/l of sugar. Biodynamically produced, it spentseven years in old barrels and has a glowing amber/goldcolour. Sesame seeds and honey flood the nose, with greatconcentration on the palate, a concentrated sweetness likereally ripe melon and orange, but deliciously fresh, cleanand long.”

173

AOP RivesaltesDomaine Sarda-MaletAmbré Le Serrat 2000

ABV: 16%Grape varieties: Grenache Gris, Grenache BlancRRP and retailer(s): £18.95 – Berry Bros & Rudd


“A wine to prove that Rivesaltes can be glorious. From 50 yearold Grenache Gris and Grenache Blanc. Gently oxidised tocreate a supple, sweetly spicy, marmalade-laden wine. Trywith dark chocolate with sea salt and almonds, and creamyblue cheeses.”


175 176

AOP RivesaltesChateau du CorneillaRivesaltes 2000

ABV: 16%Grape varieties: GrenacheRRP and retailer(s): £18.95 – Roberson


“…because I see myself drinking this on Christmas day with thecheeseboard, the pudding… and with coffee afterwards…”

AOP MauryMaury CooperativeSolera 1928, Cask number 890 NV

ABV: 17%Grape varieties: GrenacheRRP and retailer(s): £14.95 (50cl) – The Wine Society


“A steal at the price given the intense aged complexity ofthe wine. Lovely savoury rancio notes overlay the denseraisined fruit core that seduces the senses. A wine to sit andcontemplate alone, or with a lover.”


Index of Wines by Region

AlsaceAOP Alsace, Cave de Turckheim, Sylvaner Vieilles Vignes, 2011 #21AOP Alsace, Morrisons' Signature, Gewurztraminer,

(Cave de Turckheim) 2013 #40AOP Alsace, Domaine Ostertage, Les Vieilles vignes de sylvaner, 2012 #57AOP Alsace, Agathe Bursin, Lutzeltal, 2013 #58AOP Alsace, Josmeyer, The Society’s Exhibition Alsace Riesling, 2012 #72AOP Alsace, Maison Trimbach, Riesling, 2012, 73AOP Alsace, Domaines Schlumberger, Les Princes Abbés, 2011 #74AOP Alsace, Domaine Zinck, The Portrait Range, 2011 #75AOP Alsace, Dirler-Cadé, Saering Grand Cru, Muscat, 2008 #76AOP Alsace, Hugel et Fils, Gentil, 2012 #77AOP Alsace, Domaine Dirler-Cadé, Riesling Belzbrunnen, 2010 #97AOP Alsace Grand Cru, Muré, Clos Saint Landelin,

Grand Cru Vorbourg, Riesling, 2012 #98AOP Alsace Grand Cru, Domaine Frédéric Mochel, Grand Cru,

Altenberg de Bergbieten, Riesling, 2012 #99AOP Alsace, Michel Chapoutier, Schieferkopf, 2012 #100AOP Alsace, Domaine l’Agapé, Hélios, 2012 #150AOP Alsace, René Muré, Cuvée V, 2012 #151

BeaujolaisAOP Beaujolais-Villages, Château de Lacarelle, 2013 #109AOP Morgon, Domaine Jean-Marc Burgaud, Côte du Py, 2012 #131AOP Régnié, Charly Thévenet, Grain et Granite, 2011 #132AOP Côte de Brouilly, Château Thivin, Cuvée Zaccharie, 2011 #147AOP Côte de Brouilly, Château Thivin, La Chapelle, 2011 #148

Bordeaux,AOP Bordeaux, Dourthe, La Grande Cuvée Sauvignon Blanc, 2013 #23AOP Entre-Deux-Mers, Château Vignol, 2013 #24AOP Bordeaux, Château Vieux-Georget, 2010 #25AOP Bordeaux, Château Haut Rian, Bordeaux Blanc Sec, 2013 #27AOP Bordeaux, Château Le Coin, Le Coin, 2013 #49

AOP Bordeaux, Cave de Sauveterre, A l'Envers, 2013 #50AOP Entre-Deux-Mers, Château Sainte Marie, Château Sainte

Marie Entre-Deux-Mers Vieilles Vignes, 2012 #51AOP Bordeaux, Château Lestrille-Capmartin, Bordeaux Blanc, 2011 #52AOP Graves, Vieux Château Gaubert, Blanc, 2012 #53AOP Bordeaux, Clos des Lunes, Lune d’Argent, 2012 #54AOP Côtes de Bordeaux-Francs, Château Les Charmes-Godard,

Blanc, 2011 #55AOP Pessac-Léognan, Château Brown, Blanc, 2010 #83AOP Bordeaux, Château Coutet, Opalie, 2010 #84AOP Bordeaux, Domaine de Sours, Rosé, 2013 #101AOP Bordeaux, Château Bauduc, Rosé, 2013 #102AOP Bordeaux Supérieur, Château St Germain, Bordeaux, Supérieur, 2012 #116AOP Médoc, Château de Panigon, Cru Bourgeois, 2009 #120AOP Saint Estèphe, Capbern Gasqueton, 2010 #156AOP Saint-Julien, Domaine Henry Martin, Château

Haut-Beychevelle Gloria, 2009 #157

BourgogneAOP Chablis, Domaine Jean-Marc Brocard, Domaine Pierre

de Prehy, 2010 #47AOP Pouilly Fuissé, Eric Forest, 2012 #63AOP Saint Véran, Domaine Cordier, En Faux, 2012 #89AOP Rully 1er Cru, Claudie Jobard, Les Cloux, 2012 #90AOP Givry 1er Cru, Domaine François Lumpp, Petit Marole, 2011 #91AOP Pernand-Vergelesses 1er Cru, Domaine Rapet, Sous Frétille, 2011 #92AOP Chorey-lès-Beaune, Joseph Drouhin, 2011 #133AOP Bourgogne, Domaine Sylvain Pataille, 2012 #134AOP Marsannay, Domaine Huguenot, Marsannay Montagne, 2010 #152AOP Gevrey-Chambertin, Domaine Duroché, Les Jeunes Rois, 2011 #153AOP Chassagne-Montrachet, Michel Niellon, 2012 #154

Winenumber

96

ChampagneAOP Champagne, Veuve Fourny & Fils, Blanc de Blancs Premier Cru Brut, NV #3AOP Champagne, Pierre Gerbais, Cuvée de Réserve, NV #4AOP Champagne, Veuve Fourny & Fils, Cuvée R Extra Brut, NV #5AOP Champagne, Jeaunaux-Robin, Rosé Brut, NV #6AOP Champagne, Champagne Drappier, Carte d'Or Brut, NV #7AOP Champagne, Champagne Fleury, Blanc de Noirs, NV #8

CorsicaIGP de l'Ile de Beauté, Les Vignerons d'Aghione, U San Muletto,

Irrésistible Blanc, 2013 #31

FranceVin de France, LGI Wines, Duo des Mers, 2013 #26Vin de France, Jérémie Mourat, Moulin Blanc, Blanc de Noirs, 2013 #46Vin de France, Domaine la Grange de Quatre Sous, Bu N’Daw, 2011 #66Vin de France, Domaine la Grange de Quatre Sous, Bu N’Daw, 2010 #67Vin de France, Domaine Léon Barral, Vin de France, 2012, #93Vin de France, Domaine Comte Abbatucci, Faustine Vieilles

Vignes Rosé, 2013 #106Vin de France, Charles & Phillippa Sydney (Sylvain Miniot), La Grille, 2012 #110Vin de France, Montgravet, Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot, 2013 #113Vin de France, Domaine Jean Royer, Le Petit Roy, NV #143Vin de France, Domaine Comte Abbatucci, Faustine Vieilles vignes, 2011 #149

JuraAOP Côtes du Jura, La Pierre, Les Granges Paquenesses, 2011 #62AOP Arbois, Domaine du Pélican, Savagnin Ouillé, 2012 #82

Languedoc-RoussillonAOP Crémant de Limoux, Domaine J Laurens, Les Graimenous Brut, 2011 #2AOP Blanquette de Limoux, Antech, Blanquette de Limoux Méthode

Ancestrale doux, NV #9AOP Picpoul de Pinet, Château de la Mirande, Picpoul de Pinet, 2013 #18AOP Picpoul de Pinet, Domaine des Lauriers, Cuvée Prestige, 2013 #19

AOP Picpoul de Pinet, Jean Luc Colombo, Les Girelles, 2013 #20IGP Côtes de Thongue, Domaine de l’Arjolle, Sauvignon Blanc, 2013 #22IGP Haute Vallée de l'Aude, Domaine Begude, Terroir 11300, 2012 #28IGP d'Oc, Calmel & Joseph, Villa Blanche, 2013 #30IGP d'Oc, Domaines Paul Mas, Côté Mas Vermentino, 2013 #32IGP d’Oc, Villa Saint-Jean, 2013 #33IGP d’Oc, Domaine des Trinités, Roussanne, 2012 #35IGP d'Oc, Les Pierres Bordes, Marsanne Viognier, 2013 #36IGP d'Oc, Boutinot, Les Cépages Oubliés, 2012 #37Vin de Pays d’Oc, Delas Frères, Sélection Delas Viognier, 2013 #38IGP d’Oc, Domaine Gayda, Viognier, 2013 #39AOP Picpoul de Pinet, Benjamin Darnault, Picpoul de Pinet, 2013 #59AOP Corbières, Domaine Ledogar, Blanc, 2011 #64AOP Côtes du Roussillon, Mas Amiel, Le Plaisir Blanc, 2012 #65Pays D'Oc, Domaine Sainte Rose, La Nuit Blanche, 2013 #78IGP des Côtes Catalanes, Domaine le Soula, Le Soula Blanc, 2010 #95IGP Pays d’Hérault, Mas de Daumas Gassac, Réserve de Gassac Rosé, 2013 #103IGP Coteaux du Libron, Domaine des Cabrials, Rosé, 2013 #105IGP Pays d'Hérault, Alain Grignon, Carignan Vieilles Vignes, 2013 #114IGP Cité de Carcassonne, Domaine l’Estagnère, Rouge, 2012 #117IGP Pays d’Hérault, Mont Rocher, Carignan Vieilles Vignes, 2013 #121IGP Pays du Gard, Domaine de Montval, Syrah, 2013 #122AOP Minervois, Château La Villatade, NoMa, 2011 #123AOP Saint-Chinian, Cave de Roquebrun, Terrasses de la Rocanière, 2012 #136AOP Corbières, Les Clos Perdus, Red Cuvée 91, 2011 #137AOC Coteaux du Languedoc, Mas Cal Demoura, L'Infidèle, 2011 #138AOP Saint-Chinian, Domaine La Madura, Classic Rouge, 2008, #139AOP Côtes du Roussillon Villages, Domaine Roc des Anges, Reliefs, 2011 #161AOP Corbières, Château Haut-Gléon, Corbières, 2009 #162AOP Faugères, Domaine Léon Barral, Jadis, 2011 #163AOP Rivesaltes, Domaine Cazes, Ambré, 2000 #173AOP Rivesaltes, Domaine Sarda-Malet, Ambré Le Serrat, 2000 #174AOP Rivesaltes, Chateau du Corneilla, Rivesaltes, 2000 #175AOP Maury, Maury Cooperative, Solera 1928, Cask number 890, NV #176

97

Index of Wines by Region

MoselleAOP Moselle, Château de Vaux, Les Gryphées, 2013 #16

ProvenceIGP Vaucluse, Chêne Bleu, Viognier, 2011 #96AOP Côtes de Provence, Château Miraval, Rosé, 2013 #107AOP Vaucluse, Georges Badriou, Grenache-Syrah, NV #112AOP Ventoux, Domaine du Chêne Bleu, Astralabe, 2009 #140

RhôneIGP Ardèche, Louis Latour, Chardonnay, 2013 #29AOP Côtes du Rhône, Boutinot, La Fleur Solitaire, 2013 #34AOP Roussette du Bugey, Domaine Peillot, Altesse, 2012 #42AOP Côtes du Rhône, Domaine du Monteillet, Le Petit Viognier, 2012 #70IGP Collines Rhodaniennes, Julien Pilon, Mon Grand-Père Était

Limonadier, 2012 #71AOP Saint Péray, Domaine du Tunnel, Roussanne, 2011 #94IGP Mediterranée, Jean Luc Colombo, Les Pins Couchés Rosé, 2013 #104AOP Côte Roannaise, Domaine Sérol, Vielles Vignes, 2013 #108AOP Côtes du Rhône Villages, Boutinot, Les Coteaux, 2011 #124AOP Grignan-les-Adhémar, Domaine Mas Theo, Ferme Theolas, 2011 #125AOP Crozes-Hermitage, Domaine Michel Poinard, Les Saviaux, 2012 #135AOP Gigondas, Domaine Florent et Damien Burle, Les Pallieroudas, 2012 #141AOP Côtes du Rhône Villages, Domaine Sainte Anne, Notre Dame

des Cellettes, 2011 #142AOP Côtes du Rhône Villages, Laudun-Chusclan, Les Genêts, 2012 #144AOP Côtes du Rhône Villages, Boutinot, Les Six Cairanne, 2011 #145AOP Crozes-Hermitages, Le Domaine de Lucie, Les Saviaux, 2012 #158AOP Crozes-Hermitages, Yann Chave, 2011 #159AOP Cornas, Robert Michel, La Geynale, 2005 #160

LoireAOP Vouvray, Château Moncontour, NV #1AOP Muscadet de Sèvre et Maine Sur Lie, Grands Chais de France,

Château du Cléray, 2013 #12AOP Muscadet de Sèvre et Maine Sur Lie, Domaine de la Quilla, 2012, #13AOP Muscadet de Sèvre et Maine Sur Lie, Domaine Luneau-Papin,

Domaine du Verger, 2013 #14AOP Muscadet Côtes de Grand Lieu, Domaine du Haut Bourg,

Le Pavillon, 2013 #15AOP Muscadet de Grand Lieu, Domaine de L'Aujardière, La Noé, 2013 #44AOP Muscadet de Sèvre et Maine sur lie, Vincent Caillé,

Clos de la Févrie, 2012 #45AOP Touraine, Xavier Frissant, Les Roses du Clos, 2013 #48AOP Saumur, Domaine Guiberteau, Saumur Blanc, 2010 #60AOP Savennières, Château Pierre-Bise, Clos de Coulaine, 2011 #61AOP Vouvray, Domaine Careme, Sec, 2011 #85AOP Anjou, Eric Morgat, Litus, 2011 #86AOP Savennières, Domaine des Baumard, Clos du Papillon, 2009 #87AOP Savennières, Domaine des Baumard, Clos du Papillon, 2006 #88AOP Saumur, Vignerons de Saumur, Saumur Rouge, 2012 #111AOP Saumur, Langlois-Chateau, 2012 #115AOP Sancerre, André Dezat et Fils, Rouge, 2013 #128AOP Saumur Champigny, Domaine des Roches Neuves, 2013 #129AOP Chinon, Charles Joguet, Cuvée Terroir, 2009 #130AOP Chinon, Pascal Lambert, Cuvée Marie, 2009 #155AOP Vouvray, Vincent Carême, Le Clos Demi-Sec, 2010 #167AOP Vouvray, François Pinon, Silex Noir, 2011 #168AOP Vouvray, Clos de la Meslerie, Vouvray, 2010 #169

Absolutely Cracking Wines From France

Winenumber

98

AOP Gigondas, Domaine de Saint Cosme, Gigondas, 2011 #164Vin de Pays des Collines Rhodaniennes, Domaine Patrick & Christophe

Bonnefond, Sensation du Nord, 2012 #165AOP Cornas, Guy Farge, Harmonie Cornas, 2011 #166

SavoieAOP Savoie, Domaine de l’Idylle, Cuvée l'Orangerie, 2013 #41AOP Roussette de Savoie, Domaine Bruno Lupin, Cru Frangy, 2013 #43AOP Savoie, Gilles Berlioz, Les Filles, 2011 #81AOP Savoie, Château de Mérande, La Belle Romaine, 2012 #127

South-WestVin de Pays des Pyrénées Atlantiques, Château de Cabidos, Cuvée

Comte Philippe de Nazelle Sec, 2008 #79Vin de Pays des Pyrénées Atlantiques, Château de Cabidos, Cuvée

Comte Philippe de Nazelle Sec, 2009 #80IGP Côtes de Gascogne, Producteurs Plaimont, Lesc, 2013 #10IGP Côtes de Gascogne, Producteurs Plaimont, Colombard, 2013 #11IGP Côtes de Gascogne, Domaine de Ménard, Cuvée Marine, 2013 #17AOP Bergerac Sec, Château Tour de Gendres, Cuvée des Conti, 2013 #56AOP Iroulèguy, Jean-Claude Berrouet, Herri Mina, 2012 #68AOP Jurançon, Domaine de Souch, Jurançon Sec, 2009 #69AOP Cahors, Clos La Coutale, Cahors, 2012 #118AOP Bergerac, Château Tour des Gendres, 2011 #119AOC Saint Mont, Producteurs Plaimont, Béret Noir, 2010 #126AOP Madiran, Château Barrejat, Madiran, 2011 #146AOP Pacherenc du Vic-Bilh, Plaimont Producteurs, Duc de Termes

Limited Edition, 2011 #170AOP Pacherenc du Vic-Bilh, Plaimont Producteurs, Saint Albert, 2011 #171AOP Jurançon, Charles Hours, Uroulat Moelleux, 2012 #172

absolutely cracking wines from france 2014

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