Vintages Hitting Their Stride Case

With a lovely fragrant bouquet and polished fruit texture on the palate this Bordeaux is almost Margaux-like in its purity. A velvety claret from the top-notch 2016 vintage. Lying to the north of the hamlet of Avensan, to the south of Moulis and Listrac and to the west of Margaux, Citran is a large property with 90 hectares under vine. It is planted 58% cab sauv 42% merlot on gravel and clayey graveland limestone. Japanese owners invested considerably in cellar and vineyard from 1987 and current owner( since 1996) the Merlaut Villars family are making the most of the benefits.

Fragrant, deliciously fruity southern Rhône. Ripe and very full but balanced with a light touch, as befits its one-time ballerina owner Cécile Dusserre.

A ripe yet fresh balance of flavours and aromas and a fresh and fruity nose in the apple and melon spectrum leads to a creamy palate with a seam of underlying freshness. About 20% comes from the cooler Hautes Côtes vineyards for freshness, with the rest mainly from vineyards classified as Bourgogne situated on the land below Meursault and Puligny. About 65% is barrel-fermented and kept on its yeast lees for richness, while 35% is tank fermented to capture the freshness.

This Collioure is from a mountain vineyard in Roussillon, away from the sea, with concentration and dramatic flavour. It is full-bodied and spicy and ready for food, and even better if decanted before serving.

From a family estate based in the village of Zeltingen but with some of the top vineyard sites in the middle Mosel, who have gained a reputation for their featherlight rieslings that have the capacity to age beautifully and express the true soul of the region. 2017 was a relatively small vintage and challenging for some, but the experience and quality at Selbach meant they were one of the producers that really stood out. Featherlight core with jasmine, lemon and lime and plenty of steeliness. A true delight to drink.

Produced by one of Alsace's most talented winemakers, the grapes for this pinot gris are sourced from various vineyards around Rorschwihr and neighbouring villages. There is a generosity and sweetness on the palate thanks to the wine's off dry style, yet balanced to perfection with crisp acidity. With quince, ginger and fresh and dried orange peel, this pairs well with pâte and curry.