French Wine

Winemaker Descripton 

Whispering Angel is today's worldwide reference for Provence Rosé. Made from Grenache, Cinsault and Rolle (Vermentino), its pale color is pleasing to the eye and draws one in. The rewarding taste profile is full and lush while being bone dry with a smooth finish.

Highly approachable and enjoyable with a broad range of cuisine, Whispering Angel is a premium Rosé that you can drink from mid-day to midnight. 

This rose wine is delicate, clean and minerally. Pale salmon in color. Fresh peach and strawberry on the nose with plenty of red berry fruits. Full bodied and dry, with pink grapefruit and hints of peach on the palate, lively acidity and a long finish.

A beautifully made wine.

Whispering Angel Rose is made by Sacha Lichine and his team at Chateau d'Esclans, in La Motte en Provence, south France. Made from grapes grown from some of the most choice land in the surrounding region of la Motte en Provence, consisting primarily of Grenache, Rolle (Vermentino) and Cinsault.

Tasting Notes: A beautifully pale pink, which is pleasing to the eye and draws one in. Palate : Fresh red berry fruit characteristics with floral notes. Ripe and fleshy feel on the palate. Finish : Great concentration. Smooth and round finish.

Expert Review (2024 vintage)

James Suckling 92 Points: A well-rounded, focused and delicious rosé showing dried raspberries, frozen strawberries and mild spices on the nose. Medium-bodied with bright acidity. Balanced and driven, with a lively center palate and a persistent, flavorful finish.

Winemaker Description

Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label is the signature champagne of the House. Dominated by Pinot Noir, it offers the perfect balance of structure and finesse. Golden-yellow in color, with a foaming necklace of tiny bubbles. It is pleasing to the nose; initially reminiscent of yellow and white fruits, then of vanilla and later brioche. Note the fine balance between the fruity aromas coming from the grape varieties and the toasty notes, the result of the three years of bottle aging. The first sip delivers all the freshness and strength so typical of Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label with a symphony of fruit following (pear, lemon). It is a true member of the Brut family, well-structured, admirably vinous. 

Expert Reviews 

James Suckling writes:  This has aromas of grapefruit, pomegranates, and biscuits. It’s honeyed and sleek with a medium body and supple bubbles. Soft and creamy finish. Majority pinot noir, with chardonnay and meunier. Around 40% reserve wines.  - James Suckling 91

Julia Sheppard writes:  Tasted in magnum, the nose offers yeasty bready aromas topped with fresh citrus, hints of stone fruit and strawberry tart. A palate of fresh croissants, red berries, green apple and lively lemon citrus, with the larger format lending lovely creaminess to the bright finish. Veuve Clicquot's iconic Yellow Label is a blend of 30% Chardonnay, 20% Pinot Meunier and 50% Pinot Noir, which provides the cuvée's signature structure. Up to 45% reserve wines in the blend ensure consistency.  Drinking 2024 to 2030.  - Decanter 91

Alison Napjus writes:  This harmonious Champagne boasts a bright streak of tangerine peel–infused acidity, with flavors of ripe green apple, pastry cream and biscuit, plus accents of crystallized honey and candied ginger, all set on the lacy mousse. Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier. Drink now.  - Wine Spectator 90

Jeb Dunnuck writes:  Comprising 85% of production, the NV Champagne Yellow Label Brut is 40% Pinot Noir, 30% Chardonnay, and the rest Meunier, with 35-40% reserve wine. Entirely fermented and aged in stainless steel tanks, it spends three years on the lees, and the wine sees 9 grams per liter of dosage, but the house does not disclose the disgorgement date. A golden straw hue, it’s ripe with aromas of yeasty bread dough, peaches, and fresh flowers. Medium-bodied on the palate, it’s ripe and juicy with rounded red berried fruit, a supple texture, a pillowy mousse, and a warming finish. Fresh and inviting, this is a solid and consistent aperitif to enjoy over the coming several years.  Drinking 2023 to 2026.  - Jeb Dunnuck 89

Expert Review - Vintage 2023

The Wine Spectator by Bruce Sanderson writes 88 Points |  Louis Jadot Mâcon-Villages 2023 is vibrant and refreshing, with bright citrus and green apple notes—perfect for warm weather sipping. Its crisp acidity and clean finish make it an ideal companion to light summer dishes or a relaxing afternoon outdoors.

Winemaker Description

100% Chardonnay.  This wine shows floral, apple and citrus aromas with fresh, clean flavors and mineral notes.  Clean and vibrant unoaked Chardonnay.  Produced in the Mâconnais region of Burgundy, Mâcon-Villages is vinified with no oak contact to retain the elegant aromas and clean, fresh character that this region is prized for. The vineyard soils have a high percentage of chalk and limestone which impart nuanced minerality.

Known as “chicken wine” and a favorite on social media for a long time, this rosé impresses with its lightness and character. Soft pink with silver reflections, notes of roses, red berries and a hint of citrus on the nose. Juicy and lively on the palate with aromas of strawberry, peach and a fine salty minerality on the finish.

Winemaker Description 

Color & Presentation: Bright powder-pink with silver highlights.

Harvest Details: The 2024 harvest occurred between August 2 and October 3, aiming for grapes at perfect maturity—balanced, expressive, with good acidity and freshness, promising aromatic richness and aging potential.

Vinification: Grapes are harvested early in the morning to preserve fruit freshness and avoid aroma oxidation, then pneumatically pressed. Fermentation lasts ~15 days in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, followed by slight fining and bottling.

Grape Varieties: A blend of Cinsault, Grenache, and Syrah.

Tasting Profile:

• Nose: Delicate bouquet of roses and red fruit, evolving toward tangy notes.
• Palate: Beautiful balance of freshness, liveliness, and deliciousness, with hits of strawberry and peach, tension, and a long finish with saline and mineral elements.

Serving & Pairing Suggestions: Serve at 10–12 °C, ideal with hors d’oeuvres, cold buffets, tomato salads, grilled meats, and other summer-style dishes.

Producer Description 

Pretty limpid-purple color, with violet undertones. The nose reveals a seductive aromatic bouquet with notes of red fruit such as blackcurrants and blueberries mixed with notes of leather and violet. The palate is full of freshness and well balanced with aromas of very ripe fruit, pepper and elderberries with very soft tannins giving this wine great drinkability.

Our Professional Review

Bart Hopkins of 67Wine.com | Crisp and lively with a delightful snap of citrus on the nose. Light, dry and minerally in the mouth, with aromas and flavors of lemon zest, fresh lime, quince and wet stones, framed with a scintillating touch of green pea and jalapeno. Clean and refreshing, easy and uncomplicated, this is a good wine to keep in the refrigerator for anytime sipping, and it makes a great match to shellfish and foods.

Winemaker Description 

Clean and refreshing on the palate with notes of melon and a mineral frame. This wine can be enjoyed when young but will also age well for 1-2 years after bottling. Pairs perfectly with antipasti, bruschetta, goat cheese, ham pastry or an arugula salad. 

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2024 

James Suckling writes:  Elegant and precise, with aromas of wild strawberries, pink nectarines and subtle citrus peel layered with delicate floral notes and a touch of crushed stones. The medium-bodied palate is sleek and finely textured, driven by bright acidity and highlighted by a clear mineral backbone. The finish is lingering and refreshing. Drink now or hold.  - James Suckling 92

Yohan Castaing writes:  A gourmand, lively bouquet of pomegranate, red berries, spices and iodine introduces the 2024 Cotes de Provence Rose from Miraval, a moderately weighted, juicy and round wine with lot of energy, concluding with a mouthwatering finish.  - Robert Parker Wine Advocate 90

Winemaker Notes

An alluringly clear pale pink colour with gleaming pastel pink reflections. Fine and elegant, the nose offers a superb aromatic bouquet with notes of red berries and cherry blossom.The mouth is full, vivacious, and distinguished with a refinement that is heightened by delicious notes of blood orange and redcurrant perfectly balanced by a lovely mineral structure and just the right hint of bitterness. These luscious aromas are prolonged on the lingering finish of this elegant, well-balanced wine.

Like in the Northern Rhône, the 2023 vintage was full of contrasts in Provence, requiring composure and meticulous and permanent attention of our vines. After a dry winter, the spring was particularly wet with episodes of hail which caused damage. Following these heavy rains, we had to face significant spells of mildew before a particularly hot and dry summer.

The harvest thus began early on September 6th. Due to these climatic hazards, the harvest offers a limited quantity but with magnificent quality. The wines are now resting peacefully in the cellar. In the fall, we were also able to harvest a good crop of olives, around 15 tonnes.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2023

Jeb Dunnuck 90 Points | Juicy red berries, herbes de Provence, pepper... Medium-bodied and nicely balanced, with savory tannins and tons of personality and charm.

Natalie MacLean 90 Points" | Lifts bright red-berry and herbes-de-Provence aromatics... savory tannins and balanced mid-weight structure."

Winemaker Description 

The Chave family is based in a small village on the northern right bank of the Rhone. There have been Chaves growing vines on the famous Hermitage hill since 1481. Gerard Chave took over from his father in 1970 and rapidly achieved megastar status due to the extraordinary quality of his wines and has since passed on the winemaking responsibilities to his son Jean-Louis.

Their unmatched meticulousness continues through five centuries to render venerable expressions of the purest of Rhône terroir.

Expert Review - Vintage 2024

The Wine Spectator 90 Points by Kristen Bieler 90 Points | There's a pure core of fresh blackberry, crunchy plum and violet in this vibrant version, with the subtlest brushing of vanilla. Layers of graphite and fine-grained tannins provide a solid framework. Compact, with savory details emerging toward the solid, medium-bodied finish, which is grounded in salty mineral notes and a waft of alder smoke. Drink now through 2028. 27,000 cases imported. 

Winemaker Description

Château de Saint Cosme has been in the hands of the Barruol family since 1490. Louis Barruol took over from his father in 1992. Saint Cosme Côtes-du-Rhône is produced from 100% Syrah and is from the the stony Villafranchian terraces of the Gard. The vineyards are known for their limestone sand, red clay, and pebbles, which give a freshness and intensity to the Syrah grapes. The wine is partially destemmed, fermented with natural yeasts, and vinified in concrete vats.

This Syrah grows in ideal terroirs of the southern Rhône and shows the varietal’s typical spicy notes of sandalwood, violets, and black pepper.

Syrah, with its deep flavors and firm tannins, is a natural match for grilled or smoked meat and dishes featuring herbs, roasted mushrooms, and onions.  Seared venison or beef with black pepper and thyme or a Moroccan tagine of pigeon or chicken are complimented by the spicy characteristic of Syrah.

Winemaker Description 

This wine offers beautiful bright citrus framed by a backbone of clean acidity and minerality with a finish that is clean, bright and refreshing.

The name of the wine, ‘Les Pierres Grises,’ refers to the grey rocks that define the terrain of Saint Veran and this wine always keeps this terroir directly in focus.

Winemaker Description - Vintage 2024

This wine showcases one of the great secrets of the Guigal family: their specialization in the great white Rhône varieties. While only 8% of wines from the Rhône are white, Guigal's are a full 25% of their production; today they are the single largest producer of white wines in the region. It is a beautiful, seamless blend that represents unbelievable value.

The blend is 60% Viognier, highlighting Guigal's instrumental role in the revival of the grape. The wine is rich yet fresh, making it vibrant and food-friendly —an ideal pairing for seafood, poultry, creamy pasta, and more

Winemaker description

Pale yellow-green colour with silver undertones. this wine opens up a nose full of freshness notes crisp-green apples and pears mixed bouquet mountain flowers such as white thorns wild verbena. these aromas linger on the palate very nice balance between juicy fruit great freshness. saline finish bring delicate hint bitterness which gives length savoriness.

Serve with a starter or a cold buffet.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2018 

James Suckling writes:  Some nice, floral character to the plum and berry aromas and flavors. Some leaves. Medium-bodied with medium, polished tannins and a medium finish. Drink or hold.  - James Suckling 90

Neal Martin writes:  The 2018 Greysac has a well-defined bouquet of wild strawberry and raspberry fruit laced with cigar box and smoky aromas. The finely balanced palate offers sappy red fruit laced with black pepper and tobacco. I admire the cohesion here, and there is fine weight on the finish. Definitely a cut above a lot of Cru Bourgeois Médocs, though it deserves 2–3 years in bottle.  Drinking 2023 - 2030.   - Vinous 

James Lawther MW writes:  Big and bold with plenty of dark fruit and chocolatey oak. Sweet and generous on the palate, the oak again evident but integrated and the fruit present. Perhaps more winemaking than terroir.  Drinking 2023 -2028.  - Jancis Robinson 15.5

Expert Ratings -Vintage 2019 

James Suckling writes:  Blueberry, blackcurrant, and black cherry in the nose with some sweet tobacco and moss. Full-bodied with chewy tannins that are polished and savory. Fruity yet reserved finish. Give this two or three years to open. Try after 2023.  - James Suckling 93

Jane Anson writes:  A Cru Bourgeois Superieur as of the 2018 vintage, giving a good display of understated Médoc charm with its 2019 vintage. Blackberry and black cherry fruits, firm tannins, well measured with an elegant frame. Violet edges to the colour also suggesting bright acidities, a little austere overall at this stage but great potential to develop over the next few years in bottle.  - Decanter 90

James Molesworth writes:  Direct, with a good mix of cassis, bitter plum, savory and tobacco notes. Fresh and focused through the finish, with a lingering hint of chalky minerality. Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.  - Wine Spectator

Winemaker Notes

Expert Review - Vintage 2023

James Suckling 91 Points | This has quite an aromatic complexity, with spicy, floral and nutty notes. Charming and medium-bodied with a very satisfying balance of juiciness and citrusy freshness that lights up the long finish. A cuvee of 30% gewurztraminer, 23.5% pinot gris, 18.7% riesling, 18% sylvaner, 6% pinot blanc and 3.8% muscat.

Winemaker Description 

A kaleidoscope of grapiness, produced exclusively from hand harvested grapes in predominantly clay and limestone vineyards, from a dozen of the most favored localities in and around Riquewihr. Gentil Hugel allies the suave, spicy flavor of Gewurztraminer, the body of Pinot Gris, the finesse of Riesling, the grapiness of Muscat and the refreshing character of both Pinot Blanc and Sylvaner. Winemaker Description. 

Expert Review - Vintage 2023

James Suckling 93 Points | This is round and compact with vivid acidity and a light phenolic edge to it. It has a floral character with fresh orchard fruit and stones. Medium-bodied and nervy with a chalky finish. Outstanding depth. 70% semillon and 30% sauvignon.

Vinous 92 Points | The 2023 Lune d'Argent was picked from August 28 to September 21 over several passes through the vines. It comprises 70% Sémillon and 30% Sauvignon Blanc. The Lune d’Argent has an open nose, a little lighter than expected, though it gains intensity with aeration. Scents of Golden Delicious apple and light grass clippings emerge from the glass. The palate is nicely balanced with a fine bead of acidity, fresh and sapid, presenting a lovely umami sensation. It has a fair bit of complexity toward the pithy finish thanks to that Sémillon. Excellent.

Jeb Dunnuck 92 Points | Crushed citrus, honeyed grapefruit, and a beautiful chalky, mineral character all emerge from the 2023 Clos Des Lunes Lune D'Argent Blanc, a vibrant, medium-bodied white that has good acidity, a straight, focused texture, and outstanding length.

Decanter 91 Points | Green peas and crisp green apples on the nose with citrus aromas. Juicy and alive, exotic pineapple, apricot and almost sweet lemon juice aspects, nothing too bitter or harsh at all, round with a gentle creaminess that comes in towards the mid palate while staying quiet lean and direct. Much less severe and acidic than I was thinking, really balanced and harmonious and so enjoyable to drink with a slate and mineral finish. A top value pick!

Winemaker Description 

Lune d’Argent is the heart of Clos des Lunes’ production. They firmly believe in the future of this legendary terroir and its truly original style. With a touch of French oak, the Sémillon is dense and rich, the Sauvignon Blanc refined and precise. This cuvée of dry white wine promises to convey all the magic of Sauternes. 

Our Professional Review

67Wine.com Staff Notes | An exceptional value in Southern French rosé!  Domaine Isle Saint-Pierre is a lively, vibrant quaffer that over delivers at every turn.  It is simply a delicious, easy-drinking “bistro-style” wine that is perfect for everyday drinking! Ripe strawberry. Fruity nose that gives an elegant in-mouth texture, with hints of red fruit and dried fig with a lingering fresh taste.

Winemaker Description 

Delight your senses with Isle Saint Pierre Mediterranee Rose, an exquisite representation of the remarkable Rhone region. This elegant Rose from the IGP Mediterranee appellation exemplifies the exceptional characteristics of the varietals of the region. Combining Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Arinarnoa, Petit Verdot, Tannat, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Syrah, this captivating blend is cultivated sustainably in the 200 hectares vineyard located on an island at the mouth of the Rhone river. The sandy, silty, alluvial soils add depth and complexity to this luscious Rose, handcrafted with cold maceration and 100% free-run juice to preserve its fresh and fruity character. Aged in tank, the wine emerges as a remarkable representation of the Mediterranean tradition, an exceptional value that brings a slice of Southern France right to your table.

Indulge in the enticing allure of Isle Saint Pierre Mediterranee Rose, presented with an elegant, airy robe of shiny, pale rose petal hues. This delightful Rose captivates with its fresh and fruity nose that wafts a harmonious melody of red fruits. The palate is invitingly frank, carrying an impressive volume of sweetness that intrigues the senses. The saline terroir adds an intriguing iodized note, an homage to the vineyard's proximity to the sea. Savor this wine between 8 and 10 degrees to appreciate its full aromatic potential and vibrant flavor profile.

The Isle Saint Pierre Mediterranee Rose is the perfect accompaniment for an aperitif or as a distinguished companion to Mediterranean cuisine. Its light, crisp character pairs wonderfully with a range of dishes from light salads to flavorful seafood, adding a refreshingly sweet and fruity touch to your meal. Enjoy this exemplary Rose at the optimal temperature between 8 and 10 degrees for the best gastronomic experience. Experience the vibrant essence of Southern France with every sip of this versatile and delightful wine.

Come, enjoy the Isle Saint Pierre Mediterranee Rose, and let its taste transport you to the romantic landscapes of the Rhone region, where the wine embodies the spirit and character of its unique terroir.

Our Professional Review

Rand Sieger, 67 Wine Buyer: Always one of the first rosés to hit the market, this traditional S. Rhone blend comes from 25-50 year old vines grown along the Gassac Riber. It boasts a pleasant, intense nose with hints of strawberries. Full and round on the palate with red fruit flavors.

Winemaker Description

Always one of the first rosés to hit the market, this traditional S. Rhone blend comes from 25-50 year old vines grown along the Gassac Riber. It boasts a pleasant, intense nose with hints of strawberries. Full and round on the palate with red fruit flavors.

Few winemakers have come to define their region like Mas de Daumas Gassac has with the Languedoc. What sets Mas de Daumas Gassac apart is their unflinching commitment to pushing the boundaries — of the appellation’s rules, of conventional farming techniques, of “expected” grape varieties.

Aimé and Véronique Guibert purchased the land in the early 1970s; they had planned to start a farm, but weren’t sure what type of crops they wanted to grow. It took convincing from a Bordeaux-based soil scientist, who saw great grape-growing potential in the limestone-rich land, as densely mineral-laden as Burgundy’s Côte d’Or.

Making wine in the Languedoc is nothing new — the Greeks and Romans were doing it millennia ago. In planting their estate to vines, the Guiberts chose to buck local tradition and plant a wide (very wide) assortment of international grapes; there’s Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay, sure, but also Petite Arvine, Tempranillo, Nebbiolo and more. Prior to owning the estate, the Guiberts traveled the world as part of a family leather business, and became enamored with grapes from far-off and exotic locales. 

Winemaker Description 

This crisp, fruit-forward, juicy wine has expressive aromas and flavors of ripe red berries, with nice weight in the mouth. 

If you like Beaujolais, this is one you'll want to come back to again and again. It features strawberry, raspberry, and black fruits. Chill for 20 minutes and enjoy with grilled salmon, roast chicken, lighter meats and of course most vegetarian dishes.

Expert Review

Reggie Solomon writes:  This is a good, hearty and muscular Beaujolais that would pair with grilled vegetables and meats. This wine has a nose of black plum, rosehip, strawberry and blossom. On the palate the wine is firm with red and black fruit predominating.  - Wine Enthusiast 

Winemaker Description 

A great everyday red that perfectly suits both simple meals and gourmet feasts! Savory dark red fruit aromas develop in the mouth with background luscious layers of black olives, crushed black pepper and herbs de Provence. Medium bodied and highly versatile with supple tannins and a long, delightful finish.

Sure, the price point here is hard to beat, but what’s in the glass outshines even its impeccable value. Dark-fruited, with fresh acidity and stony tannins, our house blend Côtes du Rhône is about as versatile as reds come from the south of France. No matter what’s on tonight’s takeout menu, this bottle delivers. Lamb shawarma, kebabs, and falafel? Certainly. Carne asada burritos with chips and guac? No doubt. Wood-fired pizza and Caesar salad? Yessiree! The pairing possibilities are endless, and it’s an inspired option when the mood strikes to try something new—low risk, high reward!

—Madison H. Brown

The new release of our custom Côtes du Rhône is just in, and it’s a good one! This cuvée dates back to the ’80s, when Kermit found an inexpensive source of delicious everyday Côtes du Rhône, and it has been among our best-sellers every year since its inception. We make our blend from a large selection of different wines: a dozen or more tanks are often presented, and countless combinations are tested over the course of several grueling hours in the cellar. At the end, it often comes down to adjusting a half-percentage of this or a smidge of that. Every drop counts!

Expert Reviews

James Suckling 93 Points: Lovely aromas of raspberries, gingerbread, toast and honey on the nose. I like the generosity and concentration of flavor on the palate, with a medium body and soft, creamy bubbles. Long finish. 43% meunier, 29% chardonnay and 28% pinot noir, with over 50% reserve wines. Blend of 15 vintages, with percentages based on the 2020 vintage, back to 2006. Delicious now.

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate 91 Points: This blend of 43% Pinot Meunier, 29% Chardonnay and 28% Pinot Noir, with 71% vins de réserve and 10% perpetual reserve, the NV Brut Réserve offers up aromas of spring flowers, herbs, blossoms, lime and brioche. Medium to full-bodied, tense and precise, with a crystalline texture enhanced by bright acids, this is a long, delicate and ethereal Champagne. It matured 8% in barrels and 36 months on the lees in bottle, followed by six months after disgorgement with three grams per liter dosage.

Wine Enthusiast 92: This Champagne is a classic. The nonvintage wine shows real richness and depth. It is structured, open with a honeyed aroma and ripe, rounded white fruits.

Winemaker Notes

August 2025, Dinners:  This is just a terrific wine.  We drank this wine with burgers, roast chicken, hanger steaks and it just worked so well.  50% Grenache and 50% Syrah, the wine fills your mouth with black fruit and cherry-like flavors and does it all in a gentle way.  Finishes absolutely clean, fresh and mouthwatering.  Everyone of our friends enjoyed drinking it.  -  Bernie & Dorothy, Paulo & Barbara, and Annie - Follow the Drinker®

Expert Review - Vintage 2022 

Wine Spectator 89 Points | Gentleness and ripeness are rendered in a lovely way in this version, which offers dusty earth and chalky mineral hints. Shows real depth, with black pepper, pretty lavender and simmering incense notes in the backdrop, anchored by a foundation of iron. Drink now through 2028. 10,000 cases made, 2,500 cases imported. 

Winemaker Description 

Ruby red, nicely bright. Fresh cherry and blackberry nose, notes of cracked pepper. Dark berry and touches of anise flavors, the quality of winemaking is evident. Touches of sweet cherries and raspberry on the palate.  A Parisian brasserie favorite.

Winemaker Description

A very different year from 2022! After the spring frosts, the sun was long in coming, and the end of spring was marked by a lot of rain and humidity.
No drought to deplore this year, but excess humidity throughout the year, and until the harvest.

Diseases (mildew and powdery mildew) set in very early in the vines, the result of a cool and humid summer.

The 2023 harvests were marked by a lot of loss of grapes, due to rot (acetic pitting), linked to excess humidity.

For wines, the 2023 vintage is fresher than the previous year, with less alcohol concentration.

The aroma is rather floral and very fresh, with a nice balance. For reds, the tannins are more supple and the aromas are finer and more delicate.

If no wine region on earth can rival the stylistic diversity on display in France’s Loire Valley, the appellation of Anjou offers the perfect microcosm of the region as a whole. Long a staple of the bistros of Paris, the area is home a to a mind-bogglingly vast array of expressions— from white to red, bone-dry lusciously sweet, still to sparkling— derived from a handful of different grapes, from Cabernet Franc and Gamay to Sauvignon Blanc and Charodnnay. But one grape variety could be called the most distinctive of all: Chenin Blanc.

Sourced from vineyards that fall exactly along the border of the two sub-regions of Anjou, this gorgeously subtle white from fourth-generation winemaker Pascal Biotteau comes from the village of Saint-Jean-de-Mauvrets, situated on the old Roman road from Angers to Poitiers. 

Notes

The Mary Taylor Anjou Blanc Pascal Biotteau 2023 is a beautifully fresh and expressive Loire Valley white, made from Chenin Blanc. It offers bright aromas of crisp green apple, ripe pear, white peach, and delicate floral notes, with hints of honey and citrus zest. On the palate, it is vibrant and well-balanced, with refreshing acidity and a clean, mineral-driven finish.

Sourced from the rolling vineyards of Anjou in the Loire Valley, France, this elegant Chenin Blanc captures the region’s signature freshness and purity. Pascal Biotteau crafts this wine with a focus on terroir-driven expression, resulting in a lively, food-friendly white that pairs beautifully with seafood, soft cheeses, or light poultry dishes. A perfect choice for lovers of crisp, mineral-driven wines.

Expert Review

Winemaker Description 

Crisp, fresh, and refreshing with notes of citrus, cut grass, and subtle tropical fruits. 

Expert Review - Vintage 2024

93 Points by Tasting Panel: The 2024 rendition of this consistently fine rosé hits a winning balance between expressive fruit flavors and the sense of restraint that has made Provence the global standard for wines of this type. It shows a bit more palate weight than less expensive rosés but remains refreshing, with a touch of citrus acidity energizing classic notes of strawberries and red cherries. – Michael Franz

92 Points by VinePair: This sleek wine is a quintessential example of the Provençal style… It offers notes of both juicy, acidic grapefruit juice as well as bitter grapefruit pith and a chalky minerality. – Hannah Staab

Elizabeth Gabay MW writes:  This rosé stood out for its exuberant fruity ch2049arm. From the cool northern reaches of Coteaux d’Aix, comes this very pale creamy white pink. Fragrant aromas of orchard blossom, perfumed pears, apples and fresh citrus, the wine opens out to rich white fruit, pears, ripe white peaches, raw, toasty hazelnuts and ripe concentrated weightiness. Balanced by fresh, well-integrated acidity, this rosé is silky smooth and elegant, the ripe charm of the fruit gives attractive flavour and joyousness.  - Decanter Magazine

Producer Description 

A hypnotizing pale pink color with notes of citrus, wild berries, and white peach. Refreshingly crisp and dry with a mineral finish. 

Our Professional Review

Oscar Garcia Moncada 67Wine.com | Taittinger La Francaise Brut NV has been a staple for generations in the Champagne world. Their legacy is one of a kind. This particular bottling  opens up with a nose driven by notes of nectarines, hazelnut and some yeasty nuances. Light-bodied with a refreshing mouth-feel and nice consistent bubbles.  Very fresh and enticing finish. The perfect NV Champagne to serve as an Aperitif.
Oscar Garcia Moncada 

Expert Reviews

Lettie Teague writes:  Taittinger Champagne Brut La Française | The family-owned Taittinger Champagne house is synonymous with Chardonnay, from its acclaimed all-Chardonnay prestige cuvée, Comtes de Champagne Blanc de Blancs, to this non-vintage bottling, which is 40% Chardonnay (the remainder, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier). Also notable: Unlike many large Champagne houses that buy most of their grapes from growers and own only a small amount of vineyards themselves, the Taittingers hold over 700 acres. This wine was produced from “at least” 35 different Champagne villages, according to a company fact sheet and spends almost four years on the lees. It is a dry, decidedly crisp, rather subtle and even delicate Champagne with notes of citrus and brioche. While I love the Taittinger Comtes de Champagne, at $200-$250 a bottle, it’s not one I can afford to drink very often. I’ll happily “settle” for drinking the Brut La Française for less than half the price.  - Wall Street Journal December 16-17, 2023.

95 Points Tasting Panel | Bright and lively, this is one of my favorite non vintage Bruts. Crisp and balanced, with smooth, exuberant, Chardonnay-driven style; racy, elegant, and totally charming; long and memorable. 

92 Points James Suckling | A dry, fresh and delicious Taittinger with aromas and flavors of apples, fresh lemons and minerals. Full-bodied. Precise. White pepper and salt at the end. 40% chardonnay and 35% pinot noir, the rest pinot meunier. Three to four years on the lees. Drink now.

Our Professional Review 

This old vines Pinot Blanc Auxerrois comes from steep slopes near the town of Colmar. It is elegant, yet complex and rich.  Delicate yellow plum and white berry fruit intermingles with stony minerality and a subtle hint of spice.   Rand Sieger - 67 Wine Buyer

Expert Review - Vintage 2023

Vinous 91 Points | The 2023 Pinot Blanc Auxerrois Vieilles Vignes, from vines planted between 60 and 75 years ago, is a pure Auxerrois. The palate is unusually smooth and fluid, just flowing and bright. This moves with poise and grace, living off its smooth texture and surprising freshness. The 2023 is exceptionally serene. (Bone-dry)

Winemaker Notes

Our Professional Review

Bart Hopkins writes:  One of our favorite recommendations for the past three years, Gerard Boulay Sancerre Rose is made of 100% Pinot Noir and is certain to make your mouth water!  The wine is balanced between juicyness and acidity, with obvious red berry notes.  Boulay’s Sibylle Rose is made from mature 35 to 40+ year old vines, in the village of Chavignol, where many believe the best Sancerre is made.  - 67Wine Buyer

Expert Review - Vintage 2024

Vinous by Rebecca Gibb writes 94 Points | The 2024 Sibylle is a fabulous Ros. There was no red made at Boulay in 2024 and what would normally go in the reds made it into the Sibylle. As a result, this is a high-quality, intensely concentrated style. There's an element of fleshiness, but then here comes the acidity to tie it all up. This is sophisticated, pale and vinous. Its a proper pink.

Winemaker Notes

Unlike many Sancerre Roses, Gerard harvests his Pinot specifically to make rose by direct press, then into tank. It is not a selection of young vines as he has no young Pinot vines. What makes the rosé one year could make red another, and vice versa, depending on what the vintage gives. 

Varietals: Pinot Noir. Organic: Practicing. Vineyard: From 35-40 year old Pinot Noir vines on the steep hillsides in front of the Boulay home in Chavignol. Orientation: Multiple parcels, varied exposure. Soil: Steep clay hillside. Viticulture: Gerard works the soil manually and lets nature make the wine. Vinification: Tank fermented. Boulay adds no yeast and minimal amounts of SO2. Aging: Tank aged. Production: 200 cases annually.

Winemaker Description 

Attractive dark ruby-red and brilliant this classic Bordeaux is explosive, intense and complex at the same time. The palate entices due by its ampleness, richness, fullness as well as by the aromatic finish on the palate. Harmonious and long, the ideal accompaniment to a game such as leg of lamb with herbs or goat’s cheeses. 

Expert Review - Vintage 2019

Expert Reviews

Antonio Galloni of Vinous writes 91 Points | The NV Brut Rosé (base 2020) is another wine that points to the progress Mathieu Roland-Billecart has made here in recent years. Pliant, creamy and super-expressive, this edition is striking. It has a good bit of textural richness and is fresher than the 2018 tasted alongside it. Of course, some of that may be as simple as time in bottle. Pomegranate and grapefruit are laced into the brisk, finely cut finish. This release is based on 2020, with 46% reserve wines back to 2014. Dosage is 4.7 grams per liter. Disgorged: second trimester 2023.  Drinking 2024 to 2030.

Tim Hewson of Decanter writes 92 Points | Based on the 2020 vintage, Billecart-Salmon's signature rosé appears to be on its finest form of recent years under cellar master Florent Nys, full of fragrant, crunchy redcurrant, red cherry and orange fruit with an alluring hibiscus-like floral lift and subtle green peppercorn spicing. The Meunier wraps the intensity of the vintage base in a little softness that keeps the focus on effortless ease (helped by the selection of delicate Chardonnays and young, fresh reserve wines), all adding up to a rosé of immediacy and charm, sweet-natured without sweetness and fragrant without overt fruitiness. 40% Chardonnay, 30% Pinot Noir and 30% Pinot Meunier.  Drinking 2024 to 2027.

Winemaker Description 

The Macon-Villages Château de Miarnde has an open and intense nose of citrus fruits, pears and hints of butter.  On the palate it is juicy and full, the long finish has touches of  creamy notes and finishes crisp and fresh.

Jean Loron's Château de Mirande Macon Villages is aged without contact with wood and ages for 6 months on the Lees, which gives the wine depth and structure. It also comes from a vineyard with Chardonnay vines that are on average forty years old, which gives the wine complexity and further depth.

Our Professional Review 

Bart Hopkins, 67 Wine Buyer, writes: A lovely alternative to Sancerre, hands down delicious with refreshing purity and harmonious balance. The aroma is enticingly perfumed with scents of white peach, honeydew melon and lemon verbena. Lively and energetic in the mouth, with freshness and purity in every sip.  Nice mineral finish. Perfect with salads, light poultry and grilled fish.

Winemaker Description

Located in Pouilly-sur-Loire, in the heart of the France’s Loire Valley, the Domaine Gilles Chollet uses modern wine-making techniques to bring out the best of the Pouilly Fumé terroir. The 30 acres estate is comprised of clay-limestone and sandy soils and benefits from a south-western exposure. The vines are cultivated in accordance with sustainable agricultural methods known as “Lutte Raisonnée”. 

Gilles Chollet worked in the vineyards for over ten years before taking over the Domaine from his father to develop it with his wife. 

Little by little, Gilles has invested in high-performance equipment that allows him to better control the fermentation and to extract a maximum of aromas.

Concours Général Agricole Paris Silver Medal 

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2020

James Suckling 92 Points | Dark spices, blackberries, warm stones and hints of black vanilla, walnut and oyster sauce. Tannins are tight and chewy on the medium- to full-bodied palate and need some time to soften. Better in 2025 but already delicious.

The Wine Advocate 91 Points | The 2020 de Bel-Air has a medium to deep garnet-purple color and pretty notes of crushed raspberries and blackberries, kirsch and lavender, plus wafts of fallen leaves, wild mushrooms and damp soil. Medium-bodied, the palate is delicately styled with loads of savory characters intertwined with red and black berries layers, framed by soft tannins and just enough freshness, finishing on an earthy note.

Jeb Dunnuck 90 Points | Another terrific wine in the vintage, the 2020 Château Bel-Air Cuvée Jean & Gabriel checks in as equal parts Merlot and Cabernet Franc raised in one-third new French oak. Redcurrants, sandalwood, cherries, and leafy herbs all define the aromatics, and it's medium-bodied, with a seamless, balanced mouthfeel and outstanding length. It's well worth seeking out and has 8-10 years of prime drinking ahead of it.