Fine Wine
Villars Fontaine Hautes-Côtes de Nuits “Jiromées” 2012
About: The 2012 “Jiromées” Blanc from Château de Villars Fontaine is a rare white Burgundy that breaks the mold of typical Chardonnay from the region. Aged beautifully, this wine offers a distinctive character with depth and complexity. It presents an intriguing blend of mature fruit flavors and minerality, revealing the potential of Hautes-Côtes de Nuits terroir for producing age-worthy whites. With a decade of bottle aging, this wine delivers a unique experience, making it a perfect choice for those who appreciate the evolution of great Burgundy.
Producer: Château de Villars Fontaine, nestled in the heart of Burgundy, is known for its commitment to traditional winemaking methods. The estate emphasizes minimal intervention, allowing the natural characteristics of the terroir and vintage to shine. Their philosophy revolves around crafting wines that can age gracefully, and the “Jiromées” Blanc is a prime example of this dedication.
Notes: Aromas of baked apple, quince, and honeyed notes, with hints of almond and flint. The palate is full-bodied with a creamy texture, balanced by a vibrant acidity and a long, mineral finish.
Food Pairing: Pairs excellently with roasted poultry, creamy mushroom dishes, or aged cheeses. The wine’s richness and acidity complement creamy textures and umami flavors, enhancing autumnal fare.
Anne Parent “Selection Pomone” 2019
About: The 2019 “Selection Pomone” from Domaine Parent is a captivating Burgundy Pinot Noir that captures the finesse and elegance of the region. With its refined bouquet and balanced structure, this wine offers a pure expression of Pinot Noir, showcasing the delicate fruit flavors and earthy undertones typical of the region. Soft tannins and a smooth finish make it approachable now, while its complexity suggests it could also benefit from some cellaring.
Producer: Domaine Parent, a historic estate in Pommard, Burgundy, has been producing exceptional wines for over two centuries. The Parent family is renowned for its dedication to organic viticulture and sustainable practices, ensuring that each wine reflects its unique terroir. “Selection Pomone” embodies their commitment to quality and tradition, providing an authentic taste of Burgundy.
Notes: Delicate aromas of red cherries, raspberries, and rose petals, with subtle notes of earth and spice. The palate is medium-bodied, with soft tannins, bright acidity, and a long, elegant finish.
Food Pairing: An ideal match for dishes like roasted duck, coq au vin, or mushroom risotto. The wine’s bright acidity and red fruit profile complement the savory and earthy flavors of these dishes.
Contino Gran Reserva Rioja 2019
About: The 2019 Contino Gran Reserva is a magnificent example of Rioja’s rich winemaking heritage, delivering a wine of depth, elegance, and complexity. Made from a blend of Tempranillo, Graciano, and Mazuelo, this Gran Reserva spends extended time aging in both barrel and bottle, resulting in a wine with layered flavors and a polished, silky texture. It embodies the essence of Rioja Alta, where tradition meets excellence, making it a must-have for lovers of robust, age-worthy reds.
Producer: Contino is a distinguished estate within the renowned CVNE family, located in Rioja Alta. Known for its meticulous attention to detail and a balanced approach between innovation and tradition, Contino specializes in crafting high-quality, single-vineyard wines. The Gran Reserva represents the pinnacle of their offerings, reflecting both the vineyard’s unique terroir and the artistry of long aging.
Notes: Aromas of black cherry, dried figs, tobacco, and leather, with hints of vanilla and clove. Full-bodied and well-structured, with fine tannins and a long, spicy finish.
Food Pairing: Pairs beautifully with lamb chops, grilled meats, or aged Manchego cheese. The wine’s depth and tannic structure complement rich, savory dishes, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Diebolt-Vallois Blanc de Blancs “Prestige”
About: The Diebolt-Vallois Blanc de Blancs “Prestige” is an exceptional Champagne crafted exclusively from Chardonnay grapes sourced from Grand Cru vineyards in the Côte des Blancs. This Extra Brut cuvée delivers an elegant, refined, and complex profile, highlighting the purity and finesse of Chardonnay. The delicate bubbles, vibrant acidity, and nuanced minerality make it a perfect choice for those who appreciate sophisticated, high-quality Champagne. The “Prestige” cuvée stands out for its balance of freshness and richness, offering a luxurious experience with every sip.
Producer: Diebolt-Vallois is a family-owned Champagne house located in Cramant, within the prestigious Côte des Blancs region. Known for its meticulous attention to detail and commitment to sustainable practices, the estate has built a reputation for producing elegant Blanc de Blancs Champagnes that reflect the unique terroir of the Grand Cru vineyards. The “Prestige” cuvée is their flagship wine, a true testament to their craftsmanship.
Notes: Aromas of citrus, green apple, white flowers, and a touch of toasted almond. On the palate, it is crisp and refreshing with a fine mousse, showcasing notes of lemon, brioche, and chalky minerality. The long, clean finish is both vibrant and complex, with a subtle hint of salinity.
Food Pairing: Perfectly paired with oysters, lobster, or creamy cheeses. The wine’s bright acidity and mineral-driven finish cut through rich, creamy dishes, while its delicate bubbles enhance the freshness of seafood.