Within Kiedrich’s Gräfenberg Grand Cru lies a small 0.5-hectare parcel once known as the Gräfenberg-Lay. Sitting in one of the steepest portions of the vineyard, the Lay is located at the transition between Gräfenberg and Turmberg and is known for having the highest concentration of phyllite slate on the hill. The vines here are now between 40 and 60 years old. This site was originally purchased by Dr Robert Weil in the 19th century, using the dowry from his marriage to Emilie von Vacano (a descendant of the Vacano family in Lombardy). The wine from this parcel, called Monte Vacano (the Hill of Vacano) was always produced and bottled alone. It was used only for celebratory occasions and never released for sale. Following Weil's death in 1921, the tradition of Monte Vacano fell dormant, and the fruit was incorporated into a regular Gräfenberg bottling. Compared to the Gräfenberg GG, Monte Vacano trades power and richness for exceptional purity, elegance and detail. Resurrecting the old custom, 2021 marks the fourth Riesling in a century made solely from this special lieu-dit. It was harvested in October, and the grapes were whole bunch-pressed into two ancient refurbished Stückfässer (1,200-litre casks) where the wine fermented wild and spent almost two years on lees before bottling.

Produced in the renowned Champagne region of France, the 2008 Clos Lanson Blanc de Blancs Extra Brut is a truly exceptional vintage. With a bright golden colour and fine, persistent bubbles, this 1500ml bottle is a feast for the eyes. The nose is immediately greeted with aromas of freshly baked brioche, lemon zest, and a hint of honey. On the palate, the wine is crisp and vibrant, with a perfect balance of delicate minerality and zesty citrus flavours. As it lingers on the tongue, notes of apricot and white flowers emerge, adding depth and complexity to this already exquisite Champagne. The finish is long and elegant, leaving a lingering impression of sophistication and refinement. This is a must-try for any Champagne lover, and a true testament to the quality of Lanson's winemaking.

The colour is slightly amber with hints of yellow. The evolution on the palate is surprising. It starts off with an intense freshness that surprises, then comes the mid-palate with a dense liquor that gives this wine phenomenal power; the vivacity takes over again on the finish, thanks to a slight bitter note of lime and mango. A particularly well balanced Cuvée Madame. Recognised amongst the finest wines in its appellation, Château Coutet was classified a First Growth in 1855. One of the oldest estates in the Sauternes region, Coutet has an exceptional terroir and a rich architectural heritage. An English fortress in the 13th Century, this citadel with its square tower, a design typical of the eras military constructions, became a wine producing estate in 1643. Château Coutet belonged to the de Lur Saluces family for over a century and currently is owned and managed by Philippe and Dominique Baly, with the technical and commercial collaboration of the Baron Philippe de Rothschild S.A., the vineyards exclusive distributor. The name Coutet comes from the Gascon word for knife (couteau), in reference to the wines fresh, lively acidity and unique vivacity. In its youth, Château Coutet displays aromas of white flowers, citrus, honey, and vanilla. Age enhances the botrytis character to give the wines a deep, delicate bouquet with hints of spice and candied fruit.

Remarkably complex bouquet, blending fruity, floral and spicy notes with a substantial mineral touch. Structured palate, opening up with age to give powerful, generous wines. One of the greatest domaines in Chablis. Founded by William Fevre in 1957, its vineyard holdings include 12 hectares of premier cru and 16 hectares of grand Cru vines. The domaines fruit is harvested by hand, a rarity in Chablis, and rigorously sorted at the winery to ensure the highest quality. In recent times the amount of new oak used has been cut back and today the average age of the barrels in the cellar is five years. From the Petit Chablis to the domaines six Grand Cru wines, the quality is superb and the range from Domaine William Fevre is a benchmark for the wines of the region.