Feast your discerning palate on the elegance of Battenfeld Spanier Hohen Sulzen Riesling 2017, an exemplary manifestation of sublime German winemaking prowess from the terroir-rich realm of Rheinhessen. The winery, borne from the passion of renowned winemaker Hans Oliver Spanier, is esteemed for its biodynamically cultivated vineyards, harbouring a profound respect for nature and yielding wines of exceptional character.

This illustrious Riesling harks from the Hohen-Sülzen sites, blessed with heavy clay and limestone soils, basking in unparalleled sun exposure. The meticulous cultivation process involves organic-compliant pest control, canopy management, and hand-harvesting, preserving nature's best before employing spontaneous fermentation. This Riesling mirrors the minerality of its birthplace rendezvousing with an envisaging palette of citrus and stone fruits, underpinned by striking acidity.

Famed wine critics hail the Battenfeld Spanier Hohen Sulzen Riesling 2017 for its purity, structure, and electrifying finish — a delicately balanced orchestra of earthy notes and fragrant fruit. A judicious acquisition for the true wine aficionado.

Wine Advocate (96+)

Medium to deep garnet-purple colored, the 2017 Beau-Sejour Becot sails out of the glass with pronounced black cherries, kirsch, baked plums and boysenberries scents plus nuances of bay leaves, star anise and pencil shavings with a waft of roses. Medium to full-bodied, the palate delivers bags of juicy black fruits with a firm backbone of rounded tannins and bold freshness, finishing with great length and purity.

Jeb Dunnuck (95-97)

Moving to the two Châteauneuf-du-Pape releases and 35% Mourvèdre, 25% Grenache, 8% Syrah, 12% Counoise, the rest other permitted varieties (Marc calls this a Mourvèdre vintage), the 2017 Châteauneuf-du-Pape sports an inky purple color as well as a textbook Mourvèdre nose of black, black fruits, smoked meats, crushed rocks, charcoal, and pepper. It's deep and full-bodied, with beautiful purity and building structure. Production is down 40%, but this brilliant wine is certainly in the same league as the 2016.

Jeb Dunnuck (95-97)

Moving to the two Châteauneuf-du-Pape releases and 35% Mourvèdre, 25% Grenache, 8% Syrah, 12% Counoise, the rest other permitted varieties (Marc calls this a Mourvèdre vintage), the 2017 Châteauneuf-du-Pape sports an inky purple color as well as a textbook Mourvèdre nose of black, black fruits, smoked meats, crushed rocks, charcoal, and pepper. It's deep and full-bodied, with beautiful purity and building structure. Production is down 40%, but this brilliant wine is certainly in the same league as the 2016.

Jeb Dunnuck (93-95)

The 2017 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc is another brilliant white from this team that hasn't put a foot wrong in the past decade or more. Buttered citrus, honeysuckle, flower oil, and white flowers all flow to this rich, beautifully layered, fresh and vibrant white that's impeccably balanced. Scheduled to be bottled shortly after my visit, it’s unquestionably another great vintage for this wine.

Wine Advocate (97-99)

As always, the 2017 Chateauneuf du Pape Roussanne Vieilles Vignes comes from a three-hectare parcel planted in 1909. It's richer, creamier and longer than Beaucastel's regular white Châteauneuf-du-Pape but also fresher and brinier. It looks even more impressive than the stunning 2016.

Jeb Dunnuck (100)

On another level, the brilliant 2017 Châteauneuf Du Pape Hommage A Jacques Perrin is just about all Mourvèdre (there are small amounts of Grenache, Syrah, and Counoise) brought up in a large foudre. It reveals a saturated purple color as well as a super-rich, blockbuster-styled bouquet of blackcurrants, blackberries, ground pepper, truffle, charcuterie, and God knows what else. With full-bodied richness, a stacked, opulent mid-palate, building tannins, and a sensational finish, it’s another perfect wine from this team and is unquestionably in the same realm as the 2000, 2001, 2005, 2007, 2009, 2010, and 2016. Give bottles 7-8 years of bottle age and enjoy over the following 40-50 years.

Jancis Robinson (16.5)

Fragrant, spicy, fairly light compared with Famille Perrin's Gigondas and Vinsobres cuvées. Still a closed book, but the clarity of fruit is very promising.

Wine Advocate (97)

Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2017 Beausejour (Duffau Lagarrosse) prances out of the glass with energetic notes of crushed black and red plums, black cherries and black raspberries plus wafts of potpourri, oolong tea and lavender. The medium-bodied palate is oh-so-pretty with bags of fragrant fruit and a firm, plush frame, finishing long and perfumed.

Wine Advocate (97)

Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2017 Beausejour (Duffau Lagarrosse) prances out of the glass with energetic notes of crushed black and red plums, black cherries and black raspberries plus wafts of potpourri, oolong tea and lavender. The medium-bodied palate is oh-so-pretty with bags of fragrant fruit and a firm, plush frame, finishing long and perfumed.

The Wine Independent (98)

The 2017 Belair-Monange has a medium to deep garnet-purple color. It waltzes out with flamboyant notes of warm black plums, blackberry preserves, and wild blueberries, plus suggestions of star anise, dusty soil, and violets. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is packed with black fruit and spicy layers, supported by plush, velvety tannins and just enough freshness, finishing long and fragrant.

The Wine Independent (98)

The 2017 Belair-Monange has a medium to deep garnet-purple color. It waltzes out with flamboyant notes of warm black plums, blackberry preserves, and wild blueberries, plus suggestions of star anise, dusty soil, and violets. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is packed with black fruit and spicy layers, supported by plush, velvety tannins and just enough freshness, finishing long and fragrant.

Vinous - Antonio Galloni (88)

The 2017 Belgrave comes across as wild and gamy. Iron, graphite, incense, tobacco and inky dark fruit give the 2017 a distinctly feral personality. That impression is further enhanced by big, rustic tannins. I liked this a bit more from barrel.

Exemplifying artistry in winemaking, Bell Hill Pinot Noir 2017 is a scintillating masterpiece of the vine. Having its roots in the limestone-rich soils of North Canterbury, New Zealand, this remarkable vintage embodies the diligent care and precision Bell Hill Vineyard imperatively demands. The grapes are rigorously selected from two unique blocks, meticulously hand-harvested and crafted using a burgundian approach. Resulting in a wine that defines depth, complexity and longevity.

The 2017 vintage presents an expressive bouquet of ripe berries and delicate floral undertones ennobled by a subtle earthiness and whispers of oriental spices. Its velvet tannins and structured body unfurl in the palate to reveal layers of dark cherry, cocoa and truffle, underpinned by its refreshing, lingering finish. Truly, Bell Hill Pinot Noir 2017 affirms itself as an indulgent indulgence capturing the essence of its origin, drawn by purity, elegance and an unwavering testimony to the grandeur of Bell Hill Vineyard.

Hailing from the heart of Northern Italy, the Bellavista Rose Brut 2017 is a product of the prestigious Franciacorta region. Produced by Bellavista, a famed producer known for exceptional craftsmanship, this sparkling rose carries a gastronomic pedigree. Utilising Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes, traditionally vinified and aged for seven months, adds to the complexity and depth of the Bellavista Rose Brut 2017.

An embodiment of elegance and finesse, it captivates the senses with a delightful bouquet of hawthorn, rose petals, wild strawberries, and fresh bread. On the palate, it exhibits a balanced blend of fresh acidity and subtle minerality, paving the way for a persistent, refined finish.

The Bellavista Rose Brut 2017 is undoubtedly a luxurious addition to your wine collection, a testament to the mastery of sparkling wine production in the Franciacorta region.

Discover the sheer elegance of Bellavista Saten Brut 2017. Emanating from the fertile vineyards of Franciacorta, in Italy's famed Lombardy region, this fine sparkling wine is a masterstroke of the Bellavista estate. Meticulously crafted by hand under the skilled guidance of winemaker Mattia Vezzola, this vintage embodies the spirit of meticulous precision and native creativity. Made exclusively from Chardonnay grapes, delicately harvested and cool fermented to yield stunning complexity.

The Bellavista Saten Brut 2017 is characterised by an inviting golden hue and fine effervescence. The palate reveals an exquisite harmony of ripe fruit flavours, laced with notes of bread crust and delectable nuances of citrus. Rounded off with a creamy finish, this vintage is a statement in smoothness. Pair it with delicate seafood and white meat dishes to bring out its full potential.

Enjoy the distinct pleasure and savor the exceptional craftsmanship of Bellavista Saten Brut 2017-a testament to Italy's sparkling wine tradition.

Immerse yourself in the ultimate sophistication of Bellavista Teatro Alla Scala Vendimia Brut Franciacorta 2017. Produced in the region of Lombardy, Italy, renowned for its skilled viticulture practices, this fine sparkle carries the inherent beauty of Old World winemaking. From precise selection of Chardonnay and Pinot Nero grapes, which are vinified separately before second fermentation in the bottle, to its alluring maturation of 36 months on natural yeasts, this cuvée manifests a perfect marriage of tradition and innovation.

Produced by Bellavista, one of the region's premier wine houses with over 40 years of expertise, the taste is exquisitely layered, offering enchanting aromas of white flowers, ripe fruits, and sublime hints of brioche. Elegant bubbles and harmonious complexity grace each sip of Bellavista Teatro Alla Scala Vendimia Brut Franciacorta 2017.

Steeped in the spirit of Italian operatic tradition, enjoy this compelling symphony in a glass.

Unveiling the prestigious Belle Brise 2017, an opulent red wine showcasing the exceptional terroir of Pomerol, Bordeaux. Crafted by the acclaimed winemaker Pierre Taix, this exquisite offering pays tribute to precision and harmony. Characterised by its rich ruby colour, Belle Brise 2017 elegantly reveals an expressive bouquet of ripened black fruits, floral notes, and enticing spices.

The hand-picked Merlot and Cabernet Franc grapes are vinified in the traditional manner, expertly aged in French oak barrels, harmoniously resulting in a complexity of smooth tannins and lush velvety texture. Belle Brise 2017 enchants with an enduring finish that echoes the wine's profound depth and character. A truly sublime companion to richest gourmet delights.

In each bottle of Belle Brise 2017, you will find an embodiment of Pierre Taix's rigorous approach to winemaking, underpinning the estate's consistent philosophy of quality and elegance. An unmissable addition to every discerning wine connoisseur's collection.

Discerning palates adore the Belleville Gevrey-Chambertin Creux Brouillard 2017, a consummate expression of the Belleville estate's universe. This French Pinot Noir draws its complexity and elegance from the limestone-rich soils of Gevrey-Chambertin, one of Burgundy's most prestigious villages. Belleville utilises traditional vinification techniques, ageing the wine for 14 months in French oak barrels to harmonise its flavours. This 2017 vintage captivates with its deep ruby hue, and bewitching aromas of dark berries, earth, and delicate spices.

Belleville, a historical and well-respected winemaker, is renowned for producing wines that embody terroir's complexity and character. The excellent 2017 season imbues Belleville Gevrey-Chambertin Creux Brouillard 2017 with structured tannins and a velvety palate - reflecting the sophistication and finesse that this estate is celebrated for. This wine is indeed a testament to Belleville's commitment to perfecting the art of fine Pinot Noir making. Remember to serve it below room temperature, ideally between 15-18°C to fully appreciate its exquisite symphony of flavours.

The esteemed Benanti, Rovittello Riserva Particella No 341, Etna Rosso 2017 exudes Sicily's unique terroir. Crafted on the slopes of Mount Etna, this wine emanates the volcanic influence of the region, adding a unique complexity to the aroma and taste. Benanti, a revered Sicilian vintner since 1988, meticulously produces this Riserva by selecting only the finest Nerello Mascalese and Nerello Cappuccio grapes. These sun-kissed fruits are handpicked from 80-year-old vines in the Rovittello Riserva, known as 'Particella 341'.

The Benanti, Rovittello Riserva Particella No 341, Etna Rosso 2017 is aged in French oak barrels for two years, enhancing the wine's robust structure while imparting warmth and lengthy finish. Polished and full-bodied, this Etna Rosso mingles fresh red berry notes with touches of spice and mineral undertones. This vintage truly expresses the consilience of exceptional winemaking and a distinctive landscape, inspiring an experience of depth and intrigue for the wine aficionado.

Vinous (91-93)

The 2017 Chambertin Grand Cru has a tight-lipped bouquet that demands coaxing from the glass; the 80% whole bunches imparts captivating undergrowth/damp moss aromas that filter through the black fruit. The palate is medium-bodied and quite dense, with grippy tannin and a light espresso note. I find the Mazis-Chambertin has a little more grace on the finish by direct comparison. A bit of a curmudgeon, this will benefit from four or five years in bottle.

Vinous (90-92)

The 2017 Nuits Saint-Georges Les Boudots 1er Cru, which contains 50% whole bunches, has a vibrant bouquet of red fruit infused with hints of quince and orange blossom; veins of blue fruit emerge with time. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannin, almost pastille-like in terms of purity, and the finish is sensual and quite approachable. This will drink young but has the substance to give 15+ years of pleasure.