92 points - Falstaff. The Tapanappa Piccadilly Valley 2020 Chardonnay is a wonderful example of the new wave of cool-climate Australian wines. Produced in the Piccadilly Valley, a sub-region of Adelaide Hills, it’s made from thirty-year-old vines that enjoy a long, slow ripening period on poor, rain-leached sandy loam soils. Once ripe the grapes were harvested by hand and chilled to 2oC before pressing to preserve the aromas and freshness. Using innovative air-bag presses, the juice was fermente

Bolgheri is a relatively young yet prestigious Italian appellation located on the Tuscan coast just to the south of Livorno, home to exceptional wines. It is known mainly for deeply coloured, supple yet age worthy red wines, usually based on the Bordeaux grape varieties, which this wine is no different (50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc, 5% Petit Verdot and 5% Malbec). A classic, elegant Bordeaux style blend with round and silky tannins that result in a pleasant and long-las

Groot Phesantekraal Marizanne Sauvignon Blanc 2023 is a sophisticated, elegantly layered South African white wine, crafted by a pioneering family-run estate with centuries of winemaking heritage. With both critical acclaim and a strong Vivino rating, it stands out for its refined flavour profile and the passionate expertise behind every bottle. TasteExpect inviting aromas of quince, cumquat, and orange blossom, which follow through on the palate with hints of mango, nutmeg, and vanilla bean. The

Located in the Cote d’Or department, the vineyards of Hautes-Cotes de Nuits are planted on the rear side of the plateau. The appellation, having undergone successful restoration runs parallel with the Cote de Nuits, and the vineyards are located between 300 and 400 metres altitude guaranteeing a wonderful freshness and tension in the wines. Taste Refreshing red berry fragrances that evolve into nuanced hints of jam and spices with aging. On the palate, a harmonious blend of freshness and richnes

96 Points - Decanter. Clos Haut-Peyraguey, a jewel of Sauternes’ golden triangle, continues to impress with its 2018 vintage. A 1er Grand Cru Classé that balances opulence and precision, this is a beautifully poised wine from a superb terroir bordering Château d’Yquem. Taste Lush aromas of apricot, candied orange peel and acacia honey lead into a palate of remarkable purity. Layers of pineapple, crème brûlée and saffron unfold with freshness and length. Sweet, yes—but perfectly judged. A classic

Pietro Rinaldi Bricco Cichetta Barbera d'Alba Superiore 2022 is an intense, fruit-forward wine combining the best of ripe berry flavours, spicy undertones, and a refreshing, persistent finish. Crafted by the esteemed, multi-generational Pietro Rinaldi estate, the wine showcases the excellence of their old-vine, perfectly exposed hillsides. TasteDeep ruby red, almost impenetrable with intense violet reflections. The nose offers an explosion of ripe fruit, with spicy hints such as liquorice and va

90 Points - Gilbert et Gaillard. Dornier is a family-owned winery situated in The Golden Triangle area of the upper Blaauwklippen Valley Stellenbosch. The primary focus at Dornier lies in the production of premium quality wines with minimal intervention which are expressive to the unique terroir. Donatus Red is a classical Bordeaux blend from 5 vineyards on the slopes of the Stellenbosch Mountain. Bursting with flavours of blackcurrant and liquorice. The palate is refined and elegant with silky

92 Points - Falstaff. The La Chapelle de Bages Pauillac 2018, the second wine of Chateau Haut-Bages Liberal, is a great buy for all lovers of fine red Bordeaux. Showing the ripeness that was this glorious vintage's signature, the La Chapelle de Bages Pauillac 2018 is now drinking well and offers plush blackcurrant, cherry, and plum fruit, pencil lead, cigar box, and crunchy mineral touches. Scoring a whopping 92 in Falstaff Magazine, this is a wine to buy by the case and enjoy over the coming de

90 Points - Jeff Leve. Château Vrai Canon Bouché hails from Canon Fronsac and since 2005 it has become one of this commune’s leading wines. Its single vineyard is planted with a blend of 60% Merlot and 40% Cabernet Franc and is hand-tended like it was a garden. The owners have steadily reduced the use of chemicals and have deployed natural methods to restore the soil’s vitality. 2017 was a particularly successful year for the property. Writing in the Wine Insider, Jeff Leve awarded it 90 points

Pietro Rinaldi San Cristoforo Barbaresco 2020 is an elegant Nebbiolo showing vibrant floral aromas, black cherry fruit, and a mineral backbone. Crafted by a fourth-generation family estate rooted in Alba, it’s a true expression of Piedmont’s traditions and terroir. Recognised with 90 points and praised by consumers on Vivino.  TasteIntense ruby red with garnet reflections, the 2020 San Cristoforo Barbaresco opens with aromas of withered rose, violet, and enticing balsamic and mineral notes. On t

This Chardonnay presents a wonderful contrast between liveliness and roundness, comfort and freshness. Situated on the heights of Savigny-lès-Beaune, the plot called "Les Champlains" is characterized by a poor and very stony soil. One can indeed see numerous "meurgers," these high piles of flat stones extracted from the vineyards over the centuries and piled into walls bordering the plots. The particularly generous sunlight of the plot benefits the grapes, which ripen well, resulting in a dense

Awarded 93 Points - James SucklingA benchmark single-vineyard Sancerre from Domaine Laporte’s iconic flint hillside. The 2023 vintage shines with energy, purity, and minerality - earning 93 points from James Suckling and continuing a legacy of gold medals and top critical scores. Tasting Notes Crisp apple, white peach, and citrus blossom Flinty minerality, subtle spice (cinnamon, white pepper) Pure, focused palate with a long, saline finish Vineyard & Winemaking Single vineyard: Le Grand

A sophisticated expression of Franschhoek’s terroir, The Max 2019 is a meticulously crafted Bordeaux-style blend that balances power with precision. The nose is deeply layered, revealing cassis, black cherry, and plum, interwoven with cedar, tobacco, and graphite. The palate is structured yet polished, with finely grained tannins supporting a core of dark fruit, savoury spice, and mineral complexity. Aged in French oak, the wine’s elegance and depth promise remarkable ageing potential, yet its r

Nuiba First Post 2024 is a characterful Stellenbosch blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon, delivering layers of ripe fruit, citrus, and underlying complexity. Crafted with care by Suzanne Coetzee and her dedicated team, it is both a reflection of her artisanal approach and the outstanding South African terroir. TasteThis South African white blend presents generous aromas of ripe stone fruit, accented by white peaches and subtle grassy undertones. On the palate, you’ll find lively green apple an

Nuiba Third Post 2020 is a polished and elegant Cape blend that showcases the best of Piekenierskloof's old bush vines. Meticulously crafted by Suzanne Coetzee, this wine balances intense fruit character with a refined structure, earning praise from critics and promising satisfaction for discerning palates. TasteNuiba Third Post 2020 delivers a medium-to full-bodied palate with round tannins and a ripe, mellow fruit profile. Expect flavours reminiscent of mulberries, prunes, raisins, and sweet s

92 Points - James Suckling. Made in the 16th Century old property, the Planeta Cometa is made from some of the most beautiful southern Italian grapes, comparable with the great white wines of the world and the initial project of Planeta. Cometa is the very best expression in a unique and original way of the characteristics of this extraordinary vine. Intense and fruity aromas, its great structure and minerality today make it one of the most important white wines of southern Italy. Delicate aroma

A Benchmark Sancerre with Classic Loire CharacterLe Pierrier 2022 from Domaine Thomas & Fils is a stellar example of Sancerre’s finesse - crafted from sustainably farmed, limestone-rich vineyards in the Upper Loire. This vintage offers vibrant fruit, racy acidity, and a signature mineral backbone that speaks of its terroir. Tasting Notes Bright citrus (grapefruit, lemon), crisp green apple, and wildflowers Flinty minerality, subtle herbal notes Fresh, clean, and persistent finish Vineya

A Swartland revelation. This is Chenin Blanc stripped back to its essence, showcasing the region's wild, mineral-rich terroir. Expect a taut, complex wine with nuanced fruit and a thrillingly fresh finish. For those seeking depth and character beyond the ordinary. Vivino Rating 4.3 (March 2025) Taste Swartland tenacity in a glass. Quince, apricot, flint, and chamomile on the nose. Taut, linear palate with rapier acidity and chalky texture. Savoury, mineral finish. A wine of contemplation, not ov

Paul René Chardonnay Brut 2020 is a shining example of South African Cap Classique, with 92 points from John Platter. This family-crafted sparkling wine from Robertson offers elegance and finesse, showcasing the exceptional quality that’s put Paul René on the map. Wine Press Ratings / Awards Gold Medal - IntercontinentalWineChallenge (2020 Vintage) Gold Medal - LumaAward (2020 Vintage) Taste Aged for 44 months on the lees, this Chardonnay Brut offers a refined, champagne-like profile. Fresh appl

The Domaine de La Croix vineyard, the largest of the Crus Classés Côtes de Provence, and 1 of only 18, enjoys a geographical location by the sea with an exceptional microclimate. Cuvee Éloge is a delicate and distinguished white with a beautiful fruity expression of citrus zest, along with a fine, chiseled mineral texture. On the palate, hints of mango and freshness capturing the spectacular terroir. Taste A brilliant, pale yellow colour, this wine presents an elegant nose with notes of white fl

Frisson Sauvignon Blanc 2021 brings together the energy and clarity of California fruit with boutique winemaking passion and a commitment to quality. Its creamy yet fresh style makes it appealing for both traditional Sauvignon Blanc lovers and those seeking a softer, more rounded white with notes of oak over fruit. This wine is a harmonious marriage of vibrancy, approachability, and character. TasteThis Sauvignon Blanc is medium-bodied and fresh, offering an inviting bouquet of apricot, almond,

From the historic Villa Mangiacane estate in the heart of Chianti Classico, the Z District Gran Selezione 2018 is a flagship expression of Sangiovese. Gran Selezione sits at the very top of the Chianti hierarchy, drawn from the estate’s best parcels and aged to emphasise depth, elegance and longevity. This is a wine that captures both the heritage of Tuscany and the precision of modern winemaking. Taste A richly structured Chianti Classico with ripe cherry and blackberry fruit at its core. Notes

Gaja Idda Rosso 2018 is a beautifully refined Sicilian red, distinguished by its layered fruit, intriguing herbal notes, and precise minerality. Crafted from high-altitude volcanic vineyards by the acclaimed Gaja and Graci partnership, this wine combines the power of terroir with winemaking mastery. With high critic ratings and strong Vivino approval, it is a compelling example of modern Etna excellence. TasteGaja Idda Rosso 2018 offers an expressive nose of black cherry, mulberry, and violets,

Esk Valley River Gravel 2019 is a rich, complex, and elegant blend from Hawke’s Bay that marries expressive dark fruit with refined oak and seamless structure. Crafted by a trailblazing winery renowned for its artisanal methods and focus on unique terroir, this wine is recognised for excellence by leading critics and offers impressive ageing potential for any serious wine collection. TasteEsk Valley River Gravel 2019 is a full-bodied blend offering deep aromas of blackberry, dark cherry, and plu