Varietal: Bordeaux Blend | Location: France - Sauternes
WA 90-92
Bill Blatch introduced us to this property last year and it was one of our most popular 2009 Sauternes. The 2010 is a worthy successor. There's a good amount of sweetness but it's not at all heavy. Very fresh, very well-balanced, very nice!
Varietal: Rhone Blend | Location: France - Rhone Valley - Lirac
WA 92
Domaine de la Mordoree remains the reference point for how good Lirac can be. It is an appellation with tremendous potential, and a number of Chateauneuf du Pape estates are buying up vineyards in the appellation. The 2009 Lirac Cuvee de la Reine des Bois is another star from Christophe Delorme. Loads of kirsch, black currant and crushed rock notes along with a hint of spring flowers are all present in this dense purple, medium to full-bodied, delicious wine, which should drink nicely for 7-8 years.