Querciabella Mongrana Toscana Bianco 2022
1) 15340745 | $25.05
The Italian house Querciabella hits the bull’s eye with Mongrana bianco vintage 2022. Dry and cheeky, this vintage could have ended up being a catastrophe without the several days of rain which lowered the daytime temperatures, saving – at the last minute — the vermentino grapes at the end of their maturation. A gift from heaven. Then there’s 10 per cent viognier added to the vermentino. The assemblage charms with aromas of lemon jelly and Bosc pear. The mouth is pleasant and delicious, reminiscent of jammy clementines made with salt, and then a fresh finish on notes of Mediterranean herbs. A relaxed white with canapés.
Domaine du Vieux Collège Marsannay Les Vignes Marie 2022
2) 14977525 | $48.00
This year, the iconic Christmas turkey selects a solid Chardonnay bourguignon as its table partner. This bottle with its Marsannay appellation imitates, uncannily well, the Montrachet crus. The nose underlines woodiness on notes of hazelnut bread and then nuances of citrus and white fruits. Rich and full while being dry, it has a ropy quality which generously carpets the palate, flanked by a freshness that will cheer the festive bird.
Château Fonréaud Listrac-Médoc 2020
3) 14809425 | $28.20
In Médoc (Bordeaux), the chateaux bearing the name “Crus Bourgeois” have the reputation of being styled in the image of the great classified growths of Bordeaux, but more affordable. Classed “Cru Bourgeois Superieur”, the Château Fonréaud distinguishes itself in 2020. First, the cabernet sauvignon gives way to merlot as the majority grape, providing freshness and finesse to this heat vintage which is very aromatic to the nose on a succulent mouth which is equally so. The tannins are polished and allow the beauty of the fruit to express itself on a long finish. This Listrac-Medoc is also available in a magnum format (1.5 litres): elegance which is a pleasure to share.
Vincent Couche Brut 2015
4) 15282101 | $86.00
Let’s give an effervescent welcome to 2025 with the “Vincent Couche” 2015 vintage. This champagne, aged for more than six years, is delightfully fine. A nose of brioche and grilled nuts: a sappy and plump mouthfeel paired with an exceptional mineral quality.
To your health!
