Top Wine Merchant 100 Supplement 2025

Photos of judges by Ashley Bingham

siMple aiMs, difficult decisions

CHAIRMAN OF JUDGES DAVID WILLIAMS REPORTS ON HOW WE ARRIVED AT THIS YEAR’S WINE MERCHANT TOP 100

The aim of The Wine Merchant Top 100 is straightforward enough. Each year, we are looking to find the best wines imported by UK suppliers and available exclusively in the independent trade, with the fruits of that search presented to every independent merchant in the country in the shape of a handy supplement that can act as a ready-made buying guide.

That’s the simple target. The process of getting there is a little more complicated and involved. It’s never going to be easy whittling down just shy of 1,000 wines to 100 winners; it’s even harder choosing those 100 from the 350 or so that make it over the first judging hurdle and into the cut-throat competition of the second round.

Fortunately, we have some of the best palates in the business to help us out on our convivial judging day, an annually changing cast of leading independent wine merchants that this year amounted to 35 opinionated, articulate and insightful judges drawn from the length and breadth of the UK. As ever with the wine trade, it’s hard work. But it’s also fun, a rare occasion where independents get to meet their peers and share ideas and tips about wine and retail.

Most importantly, however, collectively our judges put together a truly inspiring selection of wines that are judged (and this is another Wine Merchant Top 100 USP) according to both absolute quality and commercial potential. These are wines that have been selected by professional independent wine merchants in the same way they would buy for their own businesses. It makes for a hugely diverse selection of delicious, good value wines that are a credit to the judges who chose them, the suppliers who sourced them and, of course, the producers who made them.

chaMpagne pierre

Mignon grande réserve

preMier cru

Champagne, FRanCe nV

Of the famous Champagne trio of grape varieties, Chardonnay traditionally brought the elegance, Pinot Noir the savoury depth, and Pinot Meunier … well, the last of the set was always regarded as something of an also-ran, a useful makeweight, but never a star in its own right.

Things have changed enormously in recent years, however, to the point that seriously fine Champagnes made with a majority of Meunier are earning critical kudos and, in the case of this outstanding 80% Meunier fizz from Champagne Pierre Mignon, taking top place as the very best sparkling wine in this year’s Top 100.

Using fruit from the family-owned producer’s 14ha of vineyards spread across the Côte des Blancs, Épernay and in and around their base in Le Breuil in the Marne Valley, it’s a “such a fun wine, and really well-balanced,” the judges said. “It’s an accessibly fruit-led style with a touch of berry about it. It’s so elegant and so full of personality. A great find.”

Alliance Wine

RRP

£35.74 ABV 12%

WHITE WINE TROPHY

doMaine

Belleville rully la crée

BURgUnDY, FRanCe 2022

As one of the judges said after an impressive dry white flight during this year’s judging day, “Chardonnay from other places is all well and good, but when it’s at the top of its game, you just can’t beat white Burgundy”. It’s a style that remains a firm favourite for wine merchant customers – and, as the superb winner of this year’s White Wine Trophy proves, if you look in the right places, it can still offer what our judges called “great pound-for-pound value”.

The right place in this case is the La Crée premier cru in the Côte Chalonnaise village of Rully, where the stony clay-limestone soil yields, in the hands of Domaine Belleville in the sunny 2022 vintage, a classic white Burgundian mix of richness of flavour and incisive acidity.

Aged for 12 months in 25% new barriques, it’s “instantly delightful and well balanced”, the judges said. “A rich, nutty and creamy texture paired with ripe fruit and a savoury, smoky edge.”

Vindependents

RRP £36.50 ABV 13%

ver sacruM

gloria s garnacha

LOS ChaCaYeS, UCO VaLLeY, aRgenTIna 2021

Has any grape variety enjoyed a more remarkable turnaround in its status than Garnacha/Grenache in recent years? What was once considered a powerhouse responsible for robust, intense reds has, over the past decade or so, been used to make translucent wines of ethereal aromatics and Pinot-like softness – a style that is gorgeously exemplified by this year’s runaway Top 100 Red Wine Trophy winner.

Made using young vines in the rising-star Uco Valley terroir of Los Chacayes, Gloria S Garnacha points towards a very bright future for the variety at high altitudes in Argentina, with the deft winemaking hand of Eduardo Soler very much in evidence in a wine that eschews new oak and extraction for used oak, concrete eggs and infusion.

“It has a beautiful pale colour,” the judges said, “and light, crunchy, elegant red fruit (cherry and raspberry). It’s so vibrant and energetic, with little subtle tannins. A high-end wine that is worth the price and that would be great with a tasting menu.”

ROSÉ WINE

oenops Wines apla rosé

wIne OF gReeCe 2024

Ucopia World Wines

RRP £31.75

ABV 13%

Greece has always performed well in the Wine Merchant Top 100 – a reflection of the country’s longstanding position as an indiemerchant darling. This year was no exception, with a wine of typically individualistic charm, made from three of Greece’s vast portfolio of indigenous grape varieties (Xinomavro 50%, Mavroudi 30%, and Limniona 20%), winning Greece the Top 100 Rosé Wine Trophy for the second successive year.

It’s the work of the widely respected winemaker Nikos Karatzas, who founded Oenops in 2015, and who works in classic negociant style, sourcing parcels of rare and indigenous grapes from conscientious grower partners across Drama and Macedonia in northern Greece (with cool-climate sites a priority for the rosé) and then applying his skills in his swish modern winery.

In the words of the judges, it offers “a Provençal profile on the eye, and the palate is all ripe strawberry, herbs, and creamy texture. It’s such an elegant and balanced rosé that delivers superbly at the price point.”

Hallgarten & Novum Wines

RRP £17.49

ABV 13%

TROPHY

Valdespino preMiuM

collecTion palo

corTado single cask

Macharnudo alto

JeReZ, SpaIn 2001

The standout winner of this year’s Wine Merchant Top 100 Fortified Wine Trophy embodies an exciting trend in one of the world’s great classic fortified regions – the rediscovery of the importance of terroir in Jerez.

As all sherry aficionados will know, however, Valdespino, the firm responsible for this outstanding Palo Cortado, has always understood the vital importance of the vineyard even in a “wine of process” such as sherry where blending and ageing are paramount. In this single-plot bottling, they’ve used fruit from the “Alto” plot, which sits at 135m above sea level at the very heart of Valdespino’s famed “grand cru” vineyard Macharnudo, a mere 5km north west of the town of Jerez.

“It’s an incredible wine,” the judges said. “It explodes on the palate – nutty, creamy, deep. Intensely flavoured and complex and constantly evolving in the glass, it’s just an awesome example of the greatness of sherry and a wine worth anybody’s time lingering over. A simply stunning wine.”

Liberty Wines

RRP £150 ABV 20%

panoraMic

peneDèS, SpaIn 2018

One of Catalonia’s most respected producers of traditional-method sparkling wines, Llopart is a leading member of the Corpinnat group of 15 Penedès estates that was formed as a qualityconscious alternative to the Cava designation.

Brut Panoramic is produced from 100% organic estate-grown fruit and with extended lees ageing. It’s a high-level terroir wine, in other words, which expresses the character of the Can Llopart de Subirats estate at one of the highest points in Penedès, where, since the 14th century, no fewer than 26 generations of the Llopart family have worked the land.

For this cuvée, the wine is made from the traditional trio of Xarel·lo (50%), Macabeu (40%) and Parellada (10%), with a total of 48 months of bottle ageing in the family’s cellars. “Lovely bready core with a burst of orchard fruit and white flowers. Very engaging and moreish with a delicious apple strudel finish – this is a very sophisticated fizz for less than the price of most non-vintage Champagnes.”

Hallgarten & Novum Wines

RRP £26.75 ABV 12%

BEST VALUE SPARKLING WINE TROPHY lloparT corpinnat BruT

Mauricio lorca calMa indóMiTa alBarín

CaSTILLa Y LeÓn, SpaIn 2023

Former medical student Mauricio Lorca made his vinous name in Argentina, where he is widely regarded as one of the most adventurous and talented winemakers of his generation, responsible for a range of superpure terroir-driven wines.

For his Top 100 Best Value White Wine Trophy-winning creation, however, Lorca has transported his skills to the hills of Castilla y León in Spain, and to the little-known local indigenous grape variety, Albarín. A very different beast to Albariño, the more widely planted and better-known near-homophone from Galicia to the north west, Albarín is, in the right hands, and planted in the right site (the fruit from the Calma Indómita comes from stony soils at 950m above sea level), capable of something utterly distinctive.

“Baked peach on a fresh summer day; driving through a valley of fruit trees,” the judges suggested. “Really enjoyable with lovely balance of fruit, acidity and minerals. Beautifully done, and just incredible value for money here.”

Ucopia World Wines

RRP £17.75 ABV 13.5%

Bodegas

agronavarra perdido TeMpranillo

VInO De La TIeRRa 3 RIBeRaS, SpaIn 2023

Completing a great year for the country in the top tier of the 2025 Top 100, and confirming its reputation for producing more than its share of the world’s best value red wines, Spain’s fourth trophy winner this year is this “deliciously enjoyable” Tempranillo from Navarra’s Vino de la Tierra 3 Riberas appellation.

The company responsible, Bodegas Agronavarra, started its life as Brana Vieja in 1983, before switching names in 2013. No matter the name, the company’s mission has always been to make authentic-tasting wines that over-deliver on quality and character at the price —and that continues under the stewardship of top winemaker Pablo Pavez. For Perdido, Pavez starts the fermentation at 25°C for 10 days on the skins, before bleeding off the must for the remainder of the process.

It leads to a “young Tempranillo with tons of dried strawberry, leather and black fruit with hints of herbal qualities,” the judges said. “It’s just so enjoyably juicy, and great value.”

Cachet Wine

RRP £10.49 ABV 13.5%

BEST VALUE RED WINE TROPHY

royal Tokaji sWeeT

szaMorodni 2019

TOKaJ, hUngaRY 2019

One of the great names of the historic Hungarian sweet wine, the Royal Tokaji Company’s portfolio contains many gems beside the classic Aszú style made exclusively from botrytis-affected fruit.

This Best Value Fortified & Sweet Wine Trophy winner, for example, epitomises the Szamorodni style, which mixes both botrytised and “green” fruit for, in this case a less intense, less sweet style which brings more of the character of the region’s dry wines to the fore alongside sweet golden-Tokaji tones. Made from a blend of Furmint and Hárslevelű grapes that were harvested in early November, the wine is fermented in tank before ageing for two years in barrel.

“This is a really lovely example of Tokaji in a lighter iteration than your full five or six putts’ mode,” the judges said. “There’s some lifted and balanced sweetness with gentle apricot fruit and some floral dimensions, great acidity and a delicious drizzle of the best honey. Lovely!”

Fells

RRP £21.99

ABV 11.5%

de redondo

Terras lusas rosé

VInhO RegIOnaL aLenTeJanO, pORTUgaL 2023

It’s hard to make a rosé that stands out from the crowd; harder still to do it at the sort of sub-£15 price points where most drinkers want to spend the pounds they’ve set aside for pink wines. Hats off, then, to Alentejo producer Adega de Redondo, which has certainly managed to find a space in the crowd with this Best Value Rosé Wine Trophy winner.

A blend of the local Castelão (85%) with Aragonez (aka Tempranillo; 15%), it’s fermented in stainless steel at a cool 12°C for maximum freshness and expression, and is part of the impressive portfolio of sustainably produced, authentically Alentejano wines made by Adega Cooperative de Redondo. Founded in 1956 by 14 growers, Redondo has since blossomed to take in 200 producers in the Alentejo sub-zone.

“Very juicy profile,” the judges said. “Engaging red fruit nose with really good depth to the palate, and with some pretty rose-floral notes. Moreish and excellent value.”

Alliance Wine

RRP £11.74

ABV 12.5%

BEST VALUE ROSÉ WINE TROPHY adega

MeeT our judges

Every year we welcome a new panel of Top 100 judges. It’s not an exact science, but we try to make sure our group represents a good cross-section of the independent trade. That means there are always some old heads in the room – a description we hope our senior judges Hal Wilson, Philip Amps and Sam Howard don’t object to – as well as some indies who are relatively new to the scene, and plenty more in between.

With the judges tasting in pairs, the morning session is all about deciding which wines deserve to go through to the final round of judging. It’s a brutal business and we rely on our senior team, and chair David Williams, to ensure fairness and consistency.

We mix up the teams in the afternoon and re-taste all the remaining wines, this time with notes and scores from the judges. This information is crunched – and our winners emerge.

Hal Wilson Cambridge Wine Merchants

Bridget Hoult Hoults, Huddersfield

Amy Caiger Indie Wine Club, Tooting, south London

Philip Amps Amps Wine Merchants, Oundle

Carol Jones Vinomondo, Conwy, north Wales

Andy Trudgill Gills & Co, Sheffield

Sam Howard HarperWells, Norwich

Tom Jones Whalley Wine Shop, Clitheroe

Arthur Lai Wine Hub, Exmouth, Devon

Charlotte Shek Shekleton Wines, Lincolnshire

Holly Willcocks Halfcut Market, north London

George Bovill Crushed & Cured, Southsea

Claire Carruthers Carruthers & Kent, Newcastle

Jake Bennett-Day Vino Gusto, Bury St Edmunds

Gill Mann Jaded Palates, Chagford, Devon

Dan Leak Bishop’s Cave, St Albans

Jen Avina Damn Yankee, central London

Greg Andrews DVine Cellars, south London

Jessica Summer Mouse & Grape, Pinner, north London

Michael Jelley Grape Minds, Oxford and Wallingford

Kirsty McEwan Bludge, Edinburgh

Jez Greenspan The Wine Twit, south London

Mikey Studer Hometipple, north London

Louise Oliver Seven Cellars, Brighton

John Chapman The Oxford Wine Company

Nic Rezzouk Reserve Wines, Greater Manchester

Matt Harris Planet of the Grapes, London

Peter Hedges

Bacchus Beyond, Halesworth, Suffolk

Sunny Hodge

Diogenes the Dog, south London

Sam Hanson Johns Wines, Cornwall

Phil Innes Loki Wine, Birmingham

Tom Fahey

The Terrace, Ventnor, Isle of Wight

Stefan Botfield

The Wine Cellar, Woburn, Bedfordshire

Polly Gibson Grapesmith, Hungerford

Stephanie DiCamillo Wine & Such, south east London

fifTy under £15

White

Kingston Estate Chardonnay, Limestone Coast, Australia 2024 (£13.99, Cachet Wine)

Berton Vineyards Pitchfork Chardonnay, South Eastern Australia 2024 (£10.99, Cachet Wine)

Highgate Chardonnay, Hunter Valley 2022 (£15, Vindependents)

Celliers Jean d’Alibert Mineralium Chenin Blanc, IGP Pays d’Oc, France 2023 (£10.99, Cachet Wine)

Producteurs Plaimont Le Charme Sauvignon Blanc by Christine Cabri, IGP Pays du Gers, France 2024, (£10.49, Cachet Wine)

Marilyn Lasserre Vermentino Coquille de Mer, IGP Pays d’Oc 2024 (£10.99, Cachet Wine)

Biscardo Vini Custoza DOC, Veneto, Italy 2024 (£11.49, Alliance Wine)

Cantina Lavis Pinot Grigio I Classici, Trentino, Italy 2024 (£13.99, Cachet Wine)

Cantina Lavis Nosiola, Trentino, Italy 2022 (£13.49, Cachet Wine)

Integro Verdeca, Puglia IGP 2023 (£11.99, North South Wines)

Poças Tongue Twister, Vinho Verde, Portugal 2023 (£12.49, Cachet Wine)

Lindeborg Wines Vila Jardim Branco, Tejo, Portugal 2023 (£10, Reserve Wines)

Bruce Jack Wines Off The Charts Skin Contact Chenin Blanc, Swartland 2024 (£14.99, Hallgarten & Novum Wines)

Ontañon Rioja Blanco, Rioja, Spain 2023 (£13, Boutinot)

Rosé & Orange

Miguel Torres Chile Andica Organic Rosé, Curicó, Chile 2024 (£12.99, Fells)

Felicette Grenache Rosé, IGP Pays d’Oc, France 2024 (£13.03, Alliance Wine)

Frédéric Garrabou When Life Gives You Oranges, Vin de France 2023 (£11.99, Cachet Wine)

Sella & Mosca Anemone Rosato, Sardinia, Italy 2022 (£14.25, Hallgarten & Novum Wines)

Château Oumsiyat Cuvée Membliarus Assyrtico, Bekaa Valley, Lebanon 2023 (£13.75, Hallgarten & Novum Wines)

Chateau Purcari 1827 Rosé, Stefan Voda 2023 (£14.95, Transylvania Wine)

Adega de Redondo Terras Lusas Rosé, Vinho Regional Alentejano, Portugal 2023 (£11.74, Alliance Wine)

Jean Leon 3055 Pinot Noir Rosé Organic, Penedès, Spain 2023 (£14.50, Fells)

Red

Azul y Blanco Molinillo Malbec, Uco Valley, Mendoza 2024 (£13, Boutinot)

Doña Paula Los Cardos Single Vineyard Malbec, Mendoza, Argentina 2023 (£11.49, North South Wines)

Berton Vineyard Winemakers Reserve Durif, New South Wales, Australia 2021 (£14.75, Hallgarten & Novum Wines)

Las Niñas Ella Reserva Carmenère, Apalta, Colchagua, Chile 2023 (£15, Les Grands Chais de France)

Xavier Roger Hornhead Malbec, IGP Pays d’Oc, France 2023 (£11.49, Cachet Wine)

Maison Brotte Esprit Rouge, Côtes du Rhône, France 2022 (£13.99, North South Wines)

Guremani Mukuzani, Kakheti, Georgia 2021 (£14.95, Transylvania Wine)

Tenuta Il Cascinone Crocera Barbera, Barbera d’Asti, Piedmont 2021 (£14, Boutinot)

Barbanera SRL Toscana Rosso da Uve Leggermente Appassite, IGT Toscana, Italy 2022 (£13.99, Cachet Wine)

Cantina Lavis Marzemino I Classici, Trentino, Italy 2023 (£13.99, Cachet Wine)

Our 2025 survey found that the average selling price for a bottle of wine in independents is £16.91. But most indies are keen to offer quality wines under £15 when they can find them – here are the top performers from this year’s competition in that important bracket.

Cantina Lavis Pinot Nero I Classici, Trentino, Italy 2023 (£12.99, Cachet Wine)

Paolo Leo Mora Mora Malvasia Nera, IGP Salento, Italy 2022 (£14.99, North South Wines)

Integro Negroamaro, Puglia IGP, Italy 2023 (£11.99, North South Wines)

Cortese Nostru Frappato, Terre Siciliane IGP, Italy 2023 (£14.99, North South Wines)

Denatile Pinot Grigio, Terre Siciliane IGP, Italy 2023 (£11.49, North South Wines)

Denatile Nero d’Avola, Sicilia DOC, Italy 2023 (£11.99, North South Wines)

Legendary Dracula Băbească Neagră, Nicoresti 2020 (£13.95, Transylvania Wine)

Carlos Lucas Vinhos A River Runs Through It, Douro, Portugal 2021 (£13.99, Alliance Wine)

Domeniile Averesti Nativus Feteasca Neagra de Aversti, Moldovan Hills, Romania 2022 (£14.95 Transylvania Wine)

Budureasca The Sign Shiraz, Dealu Mare, Romania 2023 (£14.95, Transylvania Wine)

Budureasca The Sign Tamaioasa Romaneasca, Dealu Mare, Romania 2023 (£14.95, Transylvania Wine)

Wildeberg Kleine Oranjerie Merlot, Western Cape, South Africa 2024 (£11, Boutinot)

Juan Gil Yellow label, Jumilla, Spain 2023 (£15, Boutinot)

Bodegas Borsao Selección Tinto, Campo de Borja, Spain 2023 (£12, Boutinot)

Bodegas Agronavarra Perdido Tempranillo, Vino de la Tierra 3 Riberas, Spain 2023 (£10.49, Cachet Wine)

Bodegas la Purísima Monastrell La Purísima, Murcia, Spain 2023 (£13.49, Hallgarten & Novum Wines)

Vega Tolosa Bobal Icon, Manchuela, Spain 2023 (£14.50, Moreno Wines)

Bodem Bodegas Oxte The Silence Red Blend, Aragon, Spain 2023 (£12.99, North South Wines)

sparkling & WhiTe Wines

hattingley Valley kings cuvée

Hampshire, England 2017

Since planting its first vineyard in 2008, Hampshire’s Hattingley Valley has gone on to become one of English sparkling wine’s grandes marques, making a range of seriously fine cuvées at its superbly equipped, ecologically sensitive winery.

One of the earliest super-premium English sparkling wines, the long-aged King’s Cuvée, a blend of 45% Chardonnay, 27% Pinot Noir, and 28% Pinot Meunier, is “nice and complex, with obvious autolytic characters of brioche and bruised apple on a multifaceted palate which is balanced and lined with bright, beautifully integrated acidity,” the judges said.

Hattingley Valley Wines

RRP £88 ABV 12%

Michele chiarlo Moscato d’asTi nivoleM

Asti, Piedmont, Italy 2023

Michele Chiarlo, now run by the titular founder’s sons Alberto and Stefano, is probably best known for making seriously outstanding Nebbiolo red wines in some of Barolo’s best sites. But the estate is also one of the best exponents of a Piemontese speciality at the complete opposite end of the vinous spectrum: the sweet, aromatic, gently foaming lightness of Moscato d’Asti.

“A refreshingly delightful take on this style with a joyous floral-peachy-Muscat-grapey loveliness,” the judges said. “The sort of wine that really works in summer time with so much all-round appeal.”

Hallgarten & Novum Wines

RRP £20.25 ABV 5%

chaMpagne TaiTtinger

BruT vinTage

Champagne, France 2016

As one of Champagne’s biggest names, the family-owned house of Taittinger needs no introduction – but the latest Vintage release from 2016 is a reminder of the consistent heights reached by the Reims-based house across its diverse sparkling portfolio. A 50/50 Chardonnay/Pinot Noir blend, it’s made entirely from first-press wines, with 70% of the grapes sourced from Grands Crus vineyards and the rest from Premiers Crus. “Exceptional yeasty notes, it shows lovely development and grows in the glass,” the judges said. “Wonderful balance and vibrancy on the finish.”

Hatch Mansfield

RRP £60 ABV 12%

Black elephanT Mcc zero dosage Blanc de Blancs

Franschhoek, South Africa 2011

The three winemakers behind Black Elephant Vintners are happiest when making wines slightly out of the mainstream, and their take on South Africa’s bottle-fermented tradition is no exception. A 100% Chardonnay, it’s made with zero dosage, “allowing”, in their words, “the grape, site and vintage to truly shine”. It also has an unusually long time ageing in bottle: 12 years before disgorgement.

“Very autolytic, with lots of citrus and apple and savoury yeasty flavours,” the judges said. “Nice length and really interesting depth of texture up to the still-fresh finish.”

Richmond Wine Agencies

RRP £28.95 ABV 11.5%

yaluMBa saMuel’s

collecTion eden Valley viognier

Eden Valley, Australia 2022

Over its 175-year history as one of Australia’s leading family-owned wine companies, Yalumba has acquired all sorts of accolades for wines made from an array of varieties, vineyards and regions. But somewhere near the top of its list of achievements has to be the enormous part the producer has played in the growth of Viognier as a varietal wine far beyond a tiny northern Rhône stronghold. Its skill with the variety remains unmatched, with this example offering, according to the judges, “great weight and balanced acidity and subtle spiciness, lovely peach and an opulent nose – amazing value”.

Fells

RRP £17.99 ABV 13.5%

celliers jean d’aliBerT

MineraliuM chenin Blanc

IGP Pays d’Oc, France 2023

The much-lauded varietal free-for-all in the Pays d’Oc isn’t always an asset, with some cooler-climate varieties struggling in the Mediterranean heat. One might have thought Chenin would be among those better-suited to more northerly climes, but Emmanuel Fons, winemaker at Celliers Jean d’Alibert, has found a way to make it sing from vineyards at the foot of the Black Mountains in Minervois.

“This is a bright, well balanced wine with fresh acidity and a little touch of minerality,” our judges said. “Fresh apricot and good body – and fantastic value.”

Cachet Wine

RRP £10.99 ABV 12%

WeinguT raBl grÜner veltliner lÖss

Kamptal, Austria 2023

A producer with a remarkably long history, Weingut Rabl can trace its roots in and around Langenlois in the Kamptal back to the mid18th century. Today, Rudolf Rabl, the latest generation of the eponymous family to lead the winery, works 100ha of vines in a certifiedsustainable way, producing modern wines with freshness and verve such as this Top 100-winning Grüner.

“Enjoyably tart with green apple and a sprinkle of white pepper, this is Grüner at its most refreshingly delicious,” the judges said. “A lovely summery white at an excellent price.”

Hallgarten & Novum Wines

RRP £15.49 ABV 12%

doMaine BenoiT Badoz vin jaune les roussots

Jura, France 2018

Benoit Badoz is part of a long family tradition of winegrowing in Poligny that dates back to 1659, although much of what makes the domaine stand out in the Jura today is down to his father, Bernard, who in the 1970s was responsible for reshaping and replanting the Roussots vineyard responsible for this Top 100 winner.

A classic Vin Jaune, aged under a veil of yeast, it is, the judges said, “a fascinating wine with a really intriguing umami-licious side – salty and spicy and with an endless finish. You can smell it a mile off!”

Vindependents

RRP £49 ABV 14.9%

WhiTe Wines

doMaine philippe

Bouzereau Meursault grands charrons

Meursault, Burgundy, France 2022

Part of a strong white Burgundy contingent in this year’s Top 100, this “beautiful Chardonnay” hails from the Les Grands Charrons lieudit, a top-ranking site known colloquially as a “deuxième cru” in Meursault since it’s regarded as a notch above village wine but not quite ranked as a premier cru.

It’s the work of ninth-generation vigneron Philippe Bouzereau, who is known for a low oak and no-bâtonnage approach. “Hazelnut, apples and pastry,” the judges said. “This is a really well structured wine with a lovely long finish.”

Alliance Wine

RRP £66

ABV 13.5%

pascal & nicolas reverdy

sancerre Blanc

Sancerre, Loire, France 2023

One of the keys to the fine balance of this classy Loire Sauvignon lies in the soils: the Reverdy domaine is based in the hamlet of Maimbray and features vineyards grown on terres blanches Kimmeridgian limestone hills. The other key lies in the skills of the winemaking family, with Pascal joined by sons Victorien and Benjamin in the cellar.

“Floral with honeysuckle on the nose, as well as apple – on the palate this is so deliciously fruity,” the judges said. “Juicy acidity, stone fruit, fresh herbs, Granny Smith apples and apricot yoghurt. Yum!”

Alliance Wine

RRP £33.75 ABV 13.5%

doMaine chevrot

Maranges Blanc

Maranges, Burgundy, France 2022

A mere 10km south of Puligny and ChassagneMontrachet, Maranges is a Côte de Beaune village that is somewhat below-the-radar – a fact that makes quality releases such as brothers Pablo and Vincent Chevrot’s organic village wine incredible value in the context. Made from grapes grown on granite and gravel soils, and aged in a mix of barrique and foudre, it’s a Chardonnay of “bright fresh fruit, balanced with classic Burgundian barrel ageing,” the judges said. “Filled with flavours of cream, vanilla and apples, and with fine, focused acidity and a long finish.”

Liberty Wines

RRP £48.99

ABV 13%

Moillard-grivot Bourgogne chardonnay signature

Burgundy, France 2023

Founded in 1848, Moillard-Grivot is a longestablished Burgundian maison producing and selling a number of Burgundy appellations from its base in the Côte de Nuits. Today it has a reputation for providing some of the region’s most reasonably priced wines under head winemaker Mikael Fuchs – including some fine examples of crémant.

The Premium 100% barrel-aged Bourgogne Chardonnay won the judges over with its “balance of ripe fruit (citrus and orchard) and well-integrated gentle spices from the oak. This is an excellent entry point to the joys of white Burgundy.”

Les Grands Chais de France

RRP £26 ABV 13%

producTeurs plaiMonT

le charMe sauvignon Blanc

By chrisTine caBri

IGP Pays du Gers, 2024

Few co-operatives come with a bigger reputation than Plaimont, a producer that has almost single-handedly placed the Armagnaccountry vineyards of Gascony on the quality winemaking map. Plaimont is known for its work with the region’s many lesserknown local varieties, but the talented head winemaker Christine Cabri is also adept with Sauvignon Blanc.

“Aromas of grapefruit and (in a good way!) sweat, this is very complex on the Sauvignon spectrum with red apple skin, stone fruit, apricot and green leafiness,” the judges said. “Great texture, too – lots going on in a lovely wine for the money.”

Cachet Wine

RRP £10.49 ABV 11%

WeinguT MÖnchhof riesling

kaBineTt Ürzig WÜrzgarTen

Mosel, Germany 2018

One of the oldest estates in the Mosel, Mönchhof was founded by Cistercian monks in the 12th century. Today, it remains at the forefront of contemporary German wine under the aegis of head winemaker Philippe Conzen, and his long-serving vineyard manager Volker Berres and winemaker Remigius Schetter, producing classic Rieslings from some of the Mosel’s most celebrated vineyards.

This “very fine” medium-sweet (55g of residual sugar) Kabinett from Ürzig Würzgarten “is phenomenal for the price”, the judges said. “Gentle sweetness, floral, green apple, a tiny whiff of petrol, all balanced so well with the acidity. Excellent.”

Hallgarten & Novum Wines

RRP £17.99 ABV 8.5%

schloss johannisBerg

gelBlack Trocken riesling

Rheingau, Germany 2023

Another historic giant of German wine, winemaking began at Schloss Johannisberg in the 9th century. The 50ha of south-facing vineyards surrounding the impressive schloss itself have been Riesling-only since 1720 – plenty of time to develop the mastery of Germany’s emblematic grape variety exemplified in this steely, dry Top 100 winner.

“It’s a brilliant example of modern dry German Riesling, made in a truly mouthwatering, very drinkable style,” the judges said. “Taut green apples, racy acidity and plenty of minerals – precision priced at a very fair point.”

Jascots Wine Merchants

RRP £26.22 ABV 12%

inTegro verdeca

Puglia IGP, Italy 2023

Puglia’s red-wine pedigree has never been more in demand, but the heel of Italy’s boot is also capable of making white wines of interest and distinction, with the ancient white Verdeca grape variety being the one most likely to join Primitivo et al in the mainstream. For this “bargainous” example the Verdeca is sourced from well-ventilated organic hillside vineyards before being cold-fermented in steel for maximum fruit expression. “Soft rounded fruit with a nose of greengage, orange peel and almond,” the judges said.

“Lovely weight with delicate, fresh acidity. Such incredible value.”

North South Wines

RRP £11.99

ABV 12.5%

WhiTe Wines

zeni lugana

doc vigne alte

Lugana, Italy 2023

Although it was founded in the 1840s, Zeni’s modern form was largely shaped from the 1950s onwards by Gaetano Zeni. Today, the operation is in the hands of Fausto, Elena and Federica Zeni, who between them oversee a range of quality wines across the Veneto, including the Lugana DOC on the LombardyVeneto border in the picturesque lands around Lake Garda, home of this 100% Trebbiano di Lugana.

“A complex but refreshing wine with great balance,” the judges said. “Pithy, herbal, green apple with sherbet-orange peel flavours, but so creamy and clean with a long finish.”

Cachet Wine

RRP £17.49 ABV 13.5%

MaBis

Biscardo

Bianco di cusToza doc

Custoza, Veneto, Italy 2024

With the highly respected winemaking consultant Maurizio Biscardo at the helm along with his brother Martino, the familyowned-and-run Biscardo makes accessibly priced and immensely drinkable wines at both ends of the Italian peninsula: Puglia and, in this case, the Custoza DOC in the Veneto. A blend of local grapes led by Garganega and Fernanda grown on limestone soils south of Lake Garda, “it’s a bright, fresh, white with punchy fruit weight,” the judges said. “Hugely over-delivers on price, and has real mass appeal without compromise.”

giesen Wines clayvin single vineyard chardonnay

Marlborough, New Zealand 2018

If New Zealand’s Marlborough region were ever to establish a vineyard classification system, Giesen Wines’ Clayvin site would surely be a candidate for grand cru status. Certified organic, and farmed with biodynamic principles, this 30-year-old, north-facing hillside plot consistently produces some of the region’s (and the country’s) top Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.

According to the judges, the 2018 vintage at Clayvin, which is fermented and aged for 11 months in 1,000-litre barrels, has yielded “a lovely rich wine, with toffee, coconut and hazelnut, a full mouth feel and superbly integrated oak”.

North South Wines

RRP £26.49 ABV 13.5%

Alliance Wine

RRP £11.49 ABV 12%

TWo paddocks picnic riesling

Central Otago, New Zealand 2022

Such is the success of his Central Otago estate since it was first established in 1999, it’s hard to know which of Hollywood actor-turnedwinemaker Sam Neill’s two professions is the one he is best known for. What’s certain is that Two Paddocks is going from strength to strength, whether the wine in question is one of Neill’s many Pinot Noirs, or, in this case, his Riesling.

Made in what the judges called “a lovely ripe style, with great Riesling notes of apple, petrol and lime, it’s a delicious wine with very wide appeal”.

Fells

RRP £24.99 ABV 12%

nauTilus esTate

chardonnay

Marlborough, New Zealand 2022

The first vines that went into the ground at Nautilus Estate when it was first established by the Hill-Smith family in 1985 were Sauvignon Blanc. The company, which is still in the same Hill-Smith hands, continues to make some of Marlborough’s best Sauvignon, but, as with so many New Zealand producers, its Chardonnay is every bit as impressive.

The Estate bottling is “full of really nice green herbal/peppery notes with an energetic palate”, the judges said. “The oak is there to enhance not dominate, and there are some lovely soft lactic notes.”

Fells

RRP £24 ABV 13.5%

roodekranTz donkerMan

chenin Blanc

Stellenbosch, South Africa 2023

As is so often the case with the best wines and producers in South Africa, old vines are at the heart of the operation at Stellenbosch’s Roodekrantz. Founded by the Burger and Morkel families in 2015, the estate is “committed to preserving Certified Old Vine Heritage Vineyards”, and their winemaking is all about expressing the vines and their terroir as directly as possible.

“Floral aroma with peachy notes, this is fruit-forward and refreshing, with clean apple and a juicy-full mouth feel and great balance of creamy-softness, bright acidity and subtle oak,” our judges said. “A really classy example of Chenin.”

Davy’s Wine Merchants

RRP £29 ABV 13.5%

neeThlingshof geWurzTraMiner

Stellenbosch, South Africa 2024

The geographic wealth of South Africa’s winemaking regions allows for plenty of varietal diversity, and Stellenbosch estate seems to have found a perfect site for Gewurztraminer, a grape variety that has proved notoriously difficult to get right outside its Alsace homeland.

Planted on the estate’s southern slopes facing False Bay, the vines are now almost 40 years old, and the resulting wine, the judges said, has “classic aromas of rose, turkish delight and lychee, and offers a freshness to cut through the richness with a long finish and a satisfying savoury twist.”

Les Grands Chais de France

RRP £18 ABV 12.89%

daschBosch

MossiesdrifT sTeen

Breedekloof, South Africa 2023

Another prime cut from South Africa’s seemingly inexhaustible supply of fine old Chenin Blanc (aka Steen in the local vernacular) bush vines, the fruit here is sourced from the Mossiesdrift farm, a vineyard planted in eastern Paarl in 1962 and which is registered as part of the Old Vine Project.

Fermented in third- and fourth-fill barrels for three weeks, it offers “stone fruit and spice on the nose, and bright acidity with peach yoghurt flavours on the palate”, the judges said. “Would make a nice food wine with its pithy citrus-peel finish.”

Boutinot

RRP £20 ABV 13%

WhiTe, rosé & red Wines

onTaÑon rioja Blanco

Rioja, Spain 2023

In a region that is overwhelmingly planted to red grapes (around 90% of the total), it’s not surprising that the white wines have sometimes struggled for attention. But, whether the style is fruit-driven and youthful or oakily traditional, Rioja Blanco frequently accounts for some of Spain’s best whites –such as this highly accomplished classically oak-aged Top 100 winner.

A 100% Viura aged for four months in American oak and six months in bottle, it’s a wine of “incredible length”, the judges said. “Under-ripe nectarine, peach, lovely weight and texture – cracking value.”

Boutinot

RRP £13 ABV 12.5%

arMas rosé karMrahyuT

Aragatsotn Province, Armenia 2022

Armenia’s ancient winemaking tradition, which dates back more than 6,000 years, is enjoying something of a revival thanks to ambitious producers such as ArmAs. With some 180ha of vineyards in Aragatsotn province in the shadow of Mount Ararat, estate founder Armen Aslanyan and winemaker Emilio del Medico use the country’s many native varieties in wines such as this “beautifully deep-coloured” rosé. Made entirely from the free-run Karmrahyut juice using wild yeasts, it has “a fantastic pomegranate and rose nose, soft palate and cranberry juice finish,” the judges said. “Deliciously unusual.”

Hallgarten & Novum Wines

RRP £18.75 ABV 13.5%

Miguel Torres chile andica organic rosé

Curicó, Chile 2024

It’s now more than 45 years since the Catalonia-based Torres family arrived to shake up Chilean wine in 1979. From that original 100ha of vineyards, the operation has blossomed into one of Chile’s most reliable producers, as well as setting trends and leading research into the country’s viticulture and grape varieties.

For this rosé, the always green-minded company uses organically grown Pinot Noir and Monastrell from the Curicó estate, creating what the judges called a “really good easy-drinker. Juicy and satisfying for a rosé lover, it’s dry, fruity and zingy – very commercial.”

Fells

RRP £12.99 ABV 12.5%

chÂteau d’esclans garrus

Provence, France 2022

Since swapping Bordeaux’s upper echelons for Provence, Sacha Lichine’s impact on the Mediterranean region’s rosé scene has been profound, both in the sales-machine that is Whispering Angel, and in the reputationaltering quality of Château d’Esclans’ more serious offerings. Having sold the estate to LVMH, Garrus remains the pinnacle of the project, a barrel-fermented style as much influenced by top white Burgundy as any rosé. As our judges said, “it’s very expensive, but it’s a fantastic wine. Wild strawberries, cranberries and very, very, very lovely palate weight and texture. Top class.”

Moët Hennessy UK

RRP £90

ABV 14.5%

TheopeTra esTate

XinoMaVro rosé

Meteora, Greece 2023

No surprise to see Theopetra Estate’s 2024 Rosé Trophy winner back in the Top 100. As the judges said, it’s a rosé that “is like a pretty pale pastel reminder of Xinomavro red wines, with deep, punchy fruit and herbs –really refreshing and zesty. This would be a great thing to offer anyone looking beyond Provence.”

Made with a four-hour pre-fermentation maceration, it’s the work of the Tsililis family, who founded their organic 15ha estate at the foot of Meteora Rocks and around the prehistoric Cave of Theopetra in 1996.

Hallgarten & Novum Wines

RRP £21.49 ABV 12.5%

ataMisQue serBal

caBerneT franc

Tupungato, Argentina 2024

Argentina’s winemakers have often used Cabernet Franc as a blending partner that brings freshness and backbone to Malbec –but increasingly they’re seeing those same qualities work in single-varietal wines that are attracting rave reviews around the world. Atamisque’s well-established example sets the standard. Fermented and aged in stainless steel, it’s all about the purity of the high-altitude fruit. “Green nose, pepper, baking spices and lovely structure with fresh acidity – this is easy drinking,” the judges said. “It’s also savoury, with cranberry and fresh plum fruit – glug glug!”

Ucopia World Wines

RRP £16.50 ABV 13.5%

Bodega lavaQue VallisTo BarBera

Calchaquí Valley, Argentina 2022

Another Argentine Top 100-winning red that shines a spotlight on the country’s diverse cast of grape varieties beyond Malbec, Francisco (Pancho) Lavaque’s Barbera is part of his Vallisto project in the Calchaquí Valley in Salta province, which aims, in the words of UK importer Ucopia, to make wines “with an elegance rarely seen from this region”.

Our judges were certainly impressed by this wine’s “spicy nose, blackcurrant subtle cherry and light tannins. It’s been made in a trendy, crunchy style for chilling down – and it works beautifully.”

Ucopia World Wines

RRP £16.50

ABV 12%

Valle de Uco, Argentina 2021

While Argentinian winemakers are clearly skilled at far more than Malbec, the country’s best-known variety remains its biggest strength – and with plenty of stylistic variety to choose from. One of the country’s most consistently forward-thinking producers, Doña Paula has two contrasting takes on the grape in this year’s Top 100 with the first being the estate bottling.

“Fresh fruit nose, inky, soft powdery tannins, subtle oak, spice and vanilla,” the judges said. “This is really easy drinking and a good honest example of Malbec to drink on its own or with food.”

North South Wines

RRP £15.99

ABV 14.5%

doÑa paula esTate MalBec

What our judges say

“Thanks to everyone who made the Top 100 judging so much fun this year. It was challenging to taste so many different types of wine in a day but rewarding and great to share the experience with like-minded, passionate people.”

Hal Wilson

Cambridge Wine Merchants

“I wasn’t sure what to expect for my first judging rodeo but the whole event is super-relaxed and friendly. We do get to try a lot of wines blind in their respective flights, which is a really fun exercise I do not get to practice often. It can be quite intense, and it makes for a long day, so coming in fresh and rested is my tip. And we get to hang out with a lot of really nice and smart people for a few beers at the end. I loved it.”

Nic Rezzouk Reserve Wines

“My biggest takeaway with the judging is that it’s really just what we all do on a daily basis anyway; choosing wines we’d like to list in our shops and writing a few lines about them that resonate with our customers. It’s super low-pressure, really good for meeting and interacting with peers, and you might even end up finding some hidden gems that work really well in your range.”

Tom Fahey The Terrace

“It was a pleasure spending the day with like-minded independent wine merchants testing out our blind tasting skills. Made me remember why I work in the wine trade in the first place – we’re all such a lovely bunch!”

Matt Harris Planet of the Grapes

red Wines

doÑa paula los cardos single vineyard MalBec

Mendoza, Argentina 2023

Doña Paula’s second Top 100 Malbec is one of the fruits of the producer’s extensive research into the very different terroirs of Mendoza. A single-vineyard bottling, the fruit is sourced entirely from El Alto Vineyard in Ugarteche, in the southern part of Luján de Cuyo. With an altitude of 1,050m above sea-level, and significant differences between day and nighttime temperatures, it’s a site that is wellsuited to fruit-driven Malbec.

“Elegant subtle nose, and crunchy black fruit with bright black cherry and smooth tannins. A midweight rounded wine that tastes much more expensive than its price point.”

North South Wines

RRP £11.49 ABV 13%

henschke keyneTon euphoniuM Barossa shiraz/ caBerneT sauvignon/ Merlot/caBerneT franc

Barossa Valley, Australia 2021

One of the historic big-hitters of Australian wine, the Henschke family is behind some of the country’s most in-demand fine wines. The Keyneton Euphonium is the family’s take on one of Australia’s great gifts to the wine world, the Shiraz/Cabernet blend, and, in the outstanding 2021 vintage, it is based largely (63%) on fruit from 50-year-old Shiraz vines in the Eden and Barossa Valleys.

“Lovely dark fruit; cigar with hints of eucalyptus,” the judges said. “On the palate, it has endless layers of deep fruit and is just such a smooth pleasure to drink.”

Liberty Wines

yaluMBa sTeeple vineyard shiraz

Barossa Valley, Australia 2019

The second wine from the 175-year-old familyowned-and-run producer in this year’s Top 100, the Steeple Vineyard Shiraz comes from the eponymous vineyard in the Barossa hamlet Light Pass. Cultivated biodynamically, Steeple Vineyard is a haven of very old, low-yielding vines planted more than a century ago in 1919.

“Beautiful nose of deep baked fruit and eucalyptus,” the judges said. “Rich but very elegant and balanced, it feels like the winemaker has taken great care with very high-quality fruit – and there’s a finish that just goes on and on.”

Fells

RRP £45 ABV 14.5%

viÑa vik vik

Millahue, Valle de Cachapoal, Chile 2019

A bit of a showstopper, Viña Vik’s flagship, Vik, is undeniably expensive. But, as the judges unanimously found, it’s also undeniably a very fine wine. A Cabernet Sauvignon/Cabernet Franc blend made by winemaker Cristian Vallejo, it’s the highest expression of a project established by Alex and Carrie Vik in Millahue in Cachapoal in 2004.

“Blackcurrant, tobacco, cedar, vanilla and very soft and balanced, this is clearly very fine wine, and it will probably last a long time,” the judges said. “Great concentration without being overdone, it’s very multi-layered and has a very long finish.”

Hallgarten & Novum Wines

RRP £155.50 ABV 14.5%

BerTon vineyard

WineMakers reserve durif

New South Wales, Australia 2021

One of Australia’s so-called “alternative varieties”, Durif is probably better known in its Californian incarnation as Petite Sirah, but this cross of Syrah and Peloursin thrives in the hot, dry climate of the Riverland in New South Wales, home to the Foley’s Corner Vineyard that provides the fruit for the Berton family’s latest Top 100 winner.

“With its ripe fruits, dark chocolate and spicy finish, this is a really attractive wine with a ‘now for something a bit different’ bonus from this unusual variety,” the judges said. “It really delivers on value, too.”

Hallgarten & Novum Wines

RRP £14.75 ABV 14%

las niÑas ella reserVa carMenÈre

Apalta, Colchagua Valley, Chile 2023

Now that Chilean winemakers have had the better part of 30 years to work with Carmenère since it was first discovered in abundance (and confused with Merlot) in the country’s vineyards in the 1990s, they are starting to understand which regions are best suited to the variety. Colchagua, the source of Las Niñas, is widely understood to be near the top of the list.

“Cooked green peppers and black spice; light eucalyptus – it delivers far more complexity and depth than you would expect at this price point,” the judges said. “Very varietally typical Carmenère and incredible value.”

Les Grands Chais de France

RRP £15 ABV 14%

red Wines

MonTes purple angel

Colchagua Valley, Chile 2021

One of the earliest of Chile’s first wave of ambitious “icon” wines, Montes Purple Angel is today a tribute to Carmenère and the heights it can reach with the right viti- and vinicultural treatment in Colchagua’s Apalta subregion. The blend also includes some Carmenère and Petit Verdot from the oceancooled Marchigüe region, bringing further complexity and freshness.

“Beautifully in balance and a beautiful wine, this is Carmenère at its best,” the judges said. “Complex and long with notes of white pepper, bramble and cedar. Pricey, but worth it.”

Liberty Wines

RRP

£78.99 ABV 14.5%

viÑa

echeverría gcM coasT

Central Valley, Chile 2021

Are Mediterranean varieties the future of Chile’s warmer wine regions? This blend of Mourvèdre (45%), Carignan (40%), Garnacha (10%) and Syrah (5%) from Colchagua and Maule certainly suggests it could be. It’s part of the increasingly adventurous portfolio of one of Chile’s oldest family-owned wineries, Viña Echeverría, which was established in 1930.

“Soft and smooth dark fruits, light menthol notes and really good acidity – there’s lots of wine to be had here,” the judges said. “Love the good fruit character, the graphite notes – and the price!”

venTisQuero grey garnacha cariÑena Mataro la roBlería vineyard

Apalta, Colchagua Valley, Chile 2020

Another impressive Rhône-inspired blend, this time from the ever-innovative Ventisquero Wine Estates, who have blended the titular three Mediterranean grape varieties that they have sourced from a single block – number 28 – in the company’s La Roblería Vineyard in Apalta in the Colchagua Valley.

“With its crunchy red fruits, and lively acidity, this is a really interesting blend that offers something different from Chilean Cab or Merlot,” the judges said. “It works as an alternative to Spanish and other Mediterranean styles – and it’s well priced.”

North South Wines

RRP £19.49 ABV 14%

Hallgarten & Novum Wines

RRP £18.75 ABV 14%

doMaine claude Maréchal poMMard la chaniÈre

Pommard, Burgundy, France 2023

Having worked with the late, great Henri Jayer early in his career, Claude Maréchal certainly has the credentials to make fine Pinot Noir. And, by taking a low-intervention approach to his collection of top sites across the Côte de Beaune – where he avoids chemical fertilisers and deploys natural yeasts for fermentation – his wines are consistently, and deliciously, faithful to their terroir.

“Proper Pommard,” the judges said. “Deep forest fruits … it opens up beautifully after the restrained nose with wonderful tannins and real length and depth. A star of the flight.”

Vindependents

RRP £53.50 ABV 13.5%

la caVe du gigondas seigneur de raVeil

Gigondas, Rhône, France 2022

A highly respected, quality-conscious cooperative, La Cave de Gigondas was founded in 1956 and has played a big part in the southern Rhône appellation’s rise to prominence over the past half-century. Today its 78 members use their collective 130ha of vineyards in Gigondas, Beaumes de Venise and Vacqueyras to make wines that reflect the terroirs of the lands beneath the Dentelles de Montmirail.

“Red cherry, plum and strawberry aromas with subtle spice, nicely handled tannins and juicy fruit compote,” the judges said. “The fruit intensity is so well balanced with the earthiness and tannins – very Gigondas.”

Vindependents

RRP £23 ABV 14.5%

doMaine reMoriQueT

Bourgogne hauTes cÔtes de nuiTs rouge

Bourgogne Hautes Côtes de Nuits, Burgundy, France 2023

One of several pieces of canny French sourcing from Vindependents to make its way into this year’s Top 100, this Pinot is the work of rising-star producer Domaine Remoriquet, in this case harnessing the increasingly fashionable cooler sites of the Hautes Côtes de Nuits.

“Delightful young red Burgundy in just the way you want and love it,” the judges said. “It’s all about the fruit – fresh red berries and strawberries, but there’s some savoury Pinot notes as well, and a good bit of structure. Very enjoyable and approachable.”

Vindependents

RRP £29.50 ABV 12.5%

le clos du caillou chÂteauneuf-du-pape

Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Rhône, France 2022

One of the emerging stars of the southern Rhône, Le Clos du Caillou benefits from the combined talents of Sylvie Vacheron and Bruno Gaspar, who between them make a range of wines that includes one of the most serious Côtes du Rhônes in the valley and this outstanding Châteauneuf-du-Pape.

“On the nose, there’s cedar, tobacco, strawberry compote and blackberry,” the judges said. “The palate is fresh strawberry and raspberry coulis, cherry, plum and spice. So layered and complex – it needs a bit of time but it will be phenomenal in a few years.”

Alliance Wine

RRP £47.50 ABV 14.5%

chanzy Bourgogne pinot noir les ForTunés

Burgundy,

France 2023

Based in Bouzeron, a village known as the home of Aligoté, and with holdings in some of the smartest addresses in the Côte Chalonnaise, Côte de Beaune and Côte de Nuits, Maison Chanzy’s winemaker Max Blondelle crafts a consistently high-ranking portfolio of Burgundy reds and whites, with this Côte Chalonnaise-sourced Pinot a perfect entry point.

“So juicy and supple, with lots of fresh acidity and a little bit of Pinot forest floor as well as smooth tannins and a soft feel,” the judges said. “This is a great example of the region.”

Alliance Wine

RRP £25.75 ABV 13.5%

red Wines

chÂteau ponzac

MainTenanT ou jaMais

Cahors, France 2021

With 28ha of vines with an average age of 25 years in some of Cahors’ best sites, husbandand-wife duo Matthieu and Virginie Moliné’s Château Ponzac is one of the brightest stars in the south west French region’s firmament. With the accent on careful vineyard work and sensitive winemaking, they produce five different Malbec cuvées, including the “accessible” Maintenant ou Jamais.

“Bright black cherry, plum and cassis, fresh acidity and very fine tannins … this isn’t a typical Cahors Malbec, it’s much lighter and juicier and it works really well. You could imagine it doing great by the glass,” the judges said.

Alliance Wine

RRP £17.91 ABV 12.5%

chÂteau de BarBe

Blanche rouge

Lussac

Saint Emilion 2019

One of the emblematic names of the Lussac Saint Emilion appellation, Château de Barbe Blanche sits on a limestone plateau – the perfect terroir for creating structured, balanced wines. In 2019, the estate’s grand vin is a 90% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc blend, which is aged for 12 months in barriques, 50% of which are new.

“Ripe red plums, cherry and raspberry give way to toasty notes that complement the fruit,” the judges said. “A really good value, highquality Right Bank Bordeaux that is just right for claret-loving customers.”

North South Wines

RRP £24.49

14.5%

chÂteau de piTray

les prairies

Castillon Côtes de Bordeaux, France 2020

Bordeaux-lovers have long known the value of Castillon as a home to some of the Gironde’s best-value wines, and the historic Château de Pitray, which has been owned by the Simard de Pitray family for more than 600 years, offers a textbook example of its quality and charm. “Rich black fruits – cherry and plum – with cigar tobacco,” the judges said. “Lovely acidity and grippy fine tannins. This works so well as a ripe but balanced claret at an affordable price for drinking now but with a lot of life left in it for the cellar.”

Liberty Wines

RRP

£22.99 ABV 14.5%

chÂteau couhins-lurTon rouge

Pessac-Léognan, Bordeaux 2016

The terroir is the key to the finesse of Château Couhins-Lurton’s Graves Cru Classé in PessacLéognan. The château’s 12.5ha of red grapes, which is largely made up of Merlot, is planted at an altitude of 45m on abundant gravel soils – which are, the estate claims, responsible for “the fruitiness and freshness” that are the wine’s hallmarks in a fine vintage such as 2016.

“Fantastic balance between fruit, wellintegrated oak and super-fine-grained tannins,” the judges said. “Packed with blackcurrant and spice, this is serious Bordeaux that is lovely now and for some time to come.”

North South Wines

RRP £55.49 ABV 13.5%

chÂteau TholoMies

eclipse la liviniÈre

Minervois, France 2020

The Languedoc has an important role to play as a kind of French alternative to the new world with affordable accessible varietal wines. But it is also capable of matching the best of French fine wine with evocative, terroir-driven bottlings from recognised crus such as Minervois La Livinière, the source of this high-performing Grenache-Syrah blend.

“Evocative peppery nose with a spicy and energetic fruit palate and a sanguine finish,” the judges said. “It’s satisfying and alluring and with a real sense of the south of France in the glass.”

Les Grands Chais de France

RRP £32 ABV 15.5%

doMaine BouTinot cÔte sauVage

Cairanne, Rhône 2021

A consistent favourite of independent merchants over the years, and a repeat winner in the Top 100, Boutinot’s textbook Cairanne, a Grenache Noir (60%), Syrah (25%) and Mourvèdre (10%) blend from Boutinot’s own vineyards in the heart of the southern Rhône cru is, as good as ever in the tricky 2021 vintage.

“Baked strawberry, cherry and dark plum on the nose; on the palate this is spicy, with elegant fruit,” the judges said. “The finish is wonderful – really spicy and full of fruit intensity and we’re giving extra points for value.”

Boutinot

RRP £20 ABV 14%

doMaine Machard de graMonT Bourgogne hauTes cÔtes de Beaune

Bourgogne Hautes Côtes de Beaune, Burgundy 2022

The second red in this year’s selection from Burgundy’s cooler climate hotspot up in the “Hautes Côtes” comes from a family domaine run by Arnaud Machard de Gramont and his sons Alban and Alexis. It’s sourced from three south-facing vineyards right next to Pommard, where some of the vines are 70 years old.

“A very savoury, almost meaty style of Pinot but with great lift from the fresh acidity and lots of berry fruit too,” the judges said. “This offers really excellent value for Pinot Noir and for Burgundy.”

Cachet Wine

RRP

£22.99

ABV 13%

calMel & joseph les crus l’arT du vers

Terrasses du Larzac, Languedoc, France 2022

With some of the most elevated vineyards in the Languedoc, the Terrasses du Larzac cru is responsible for a high proportion of the Midi’s most exciting red wines, in a style that offers a blend of power with aromatic lift.

That’s certainly what the judges detected in this blend of Cinsault, Carignan, Mourvèdre, Grenache Noir and Syrah sourced from vineyards around the village of Aniane.

“Pretty bright cherries lead the nose and follow onto the deeper, rich palate,” the judges said. “This is an unctuous wine which is highly drinkable at a great price.”

Daniel Lambert Wines

RRP £15.22

ABV 13.5%

red Wines

sellas neMea

Nemea, Greece 2022

A hymn to the joys of the quality available from Greece’s most widely planted red grape variety, Agiorgitiko, Sellas Nemea is also an expression of the Nemea region in the Peloponnese – Greece’s largest PDO – and the Sellas family who have been making wine there since the 1950s.

“Intense fruit – lots of berries, black and red – and some exotic spices and pepper,” the judges said. “It’s all really well integrated – a deeply enjoyable and satisfying red that finishes long and fresh.”

Southern Wine Roads

RRP £24 ABV 14%

dugladze saperaVi reserve

Kakheti, Georgia 2020

The second Georgian red in this year’s Top 100 is another Saperavi sourced from the highly regarded Mukuzani sub-zone of Kakheti. It’s a reserve style, which means, in Dugladze’s case, a little extra hang-time in the vineyard, and fermentation and then ageing for two years in oak and a further two years in bottle before release.

The result is a red with “silky powdery tannins, blue and black fruit, dried fruit, leather and tobacco,” the judges said. “This is really classy stuff with lots of complexity and interest at a very reasonable price.”

Transylvania Wine

RRP £24.95 ABV 14.5%

gureMani Mukuzani

Kakheti, Georgia 2021

Mukuzani is Georgia’s answer to Gran Reserva Rioja – a style of high-quality, longbarrel-aged dry red wine made from the great indigenous Georgian red grape variety Saperavi in the Mukuzani sub-zone of Kakheti that has been produced since the late 19th century.

“If customers ever needed a wine to help them branch out from their usual, same-old Malbec, this has to be it,” the judges said. “Great typicity: violet, bramble, crunchy tannins giving plenty of bite and structure and a fresh, spicy-herby finish. A brilliant wine at brilliant value.”

Transylvania Wine

RRP £14.95 ABV 13.5%

pelissero Vanotu BarBaresco

Barbaresco,

Piedmont, Italy 2020

A single-vineyard Nebbiolo from “the very top drawer” according to the judges. Vanotu comes, in the words of UK agent Hallgarten, from the Pelissero family’s “most prestigious vineyard”. It’s an entirely south-facing site located between 300m and 350m above sea level with limestone-rich soils. First planted in 1960, it has a favourable microclimate that seems to provide consistent quality even when other parts of Barbaresco struggle.

“Good weight. Stewed plums, blackcurrants, clove and leather – a really complex, fine expression of Nebbiolo from Barbaresco,” the judges said. “Regardless of price, this is an exceptional wine.”

Hallgarten & Novum Wines

RRP £87 ABV 14.%

red Wines

Brezza sarMassa Barolo

Barolo, Piedmont, Italy 2020

The Brezza family’s solitary hectare in the Sarmassa Cru is one of the jewels in their 12ha collection of top Barolo vineyard holdings. First planted in 1941, and organically tended since 2010, the Sant’Agata fossil marl soils are a distinctive mix of silt, clay and sand that leads to elegant wines.

“At the moment this is still a little shy on the nose, but the palate is already so expressive with cherries and redcurrants and a very polished texture,” the judges said. “It’s a bit young, but who wouldn’t want a bottle of this in the cellar?”

Hallgarten & Novum Wines

RRP £65 ABV 14.5%

agricola Marrone Barolo

Barolo, Piedmont, Italy 2021

The first of an outstanding pair from Agricola Marrone in this year’s Top 100 is the winery’s flagship Barolo. It’s a blend of Nebbiolo from two sites, Castiglione Falletto and La Morra, which has a long slow fermentation at 28°C and eight months’ ageing in a mixture of large oak barrels and barrique.

It adds up to “a more approachable style of Barolo”, the judges said, “fruit-forward with plums and strawberries and maybe a touch of new oak. One for drinking now at a good price point.”

agricola Marrone neBBiola che Vale

Langhe, Piedmont, Italy 2023

The second Top 100 winner from the impressive Marrone stable in this year’s competition highlights the quality level Nebbiolo is capable of reaching outside the Langhe’s celebrated – but increasingly expensive – Barolo and Barbaresco zones. It’s made with minimal oak influence to let the fruit sing, with ageing taking place in neutral third and fourth-fill barrels.

“The colour is the lightest of reds, and this is gently scented,” the judges said. “Just-ripe red cherries and a perfectly balanced ratio of fruit, acidity and tannins in an excellent-value wine that is a great way to introduce people to Nebbiolo.”

Vindependents

RRP £24 ABV 14%

Vindependents

RRP £43 ABV 14.5%

giuseppe corTese BarBaresco

Barbaresco, Piedmont, Italy 2022

Apparently you’ll need to hurry if you want to get your hands on Giuseppe Cortese’s much-praised Barbaresco wines – with reputation outstripping supply, the wines are on strict allocation, according to UK importer Vindependents.

The estate’s core Barbaresco is made from Nebbiolo vines with an average age of 35 years grown on limestone and clay soils, yielding a “really expressively scented wine on the nose with lots of bright red fruit,” the judges said. “Juicy acidity that makes you want to drink more – a true delight of a Nebbiolo which is the ultimate foodie red wine.”

Vindependents

RRP £40 ABV 14.5%

preciso priMiTivo

appassiMenTo

Puglia IGP, Italy 2023

UK wine drinkers’ craving for the bittersweet charms of appassimento wines made with some degree of dried grapes in the mix shows no sign of letting up, and Puglia’s winemakers are very much at the forefront of the trend, with the native Primitivo grape being particularly well-suited to the technique.

“Bright, spicy dark fruits on the nose and palate, it is soft on the attack yet punchy and spicy,” the judges said. “Juicy ripe spicy fruits and refreshment on the finish – and one of the best value wines of the day.”

North South Wines

RRP £12.69 ABV 14%

inTegro negroaMaro

Puglia IGP, Italy 2023

Joining its white stablemate Verdeca in this year’s Top 100, this 100% Negroamaro is true to the Integro brand’s mission statement –namely to make wines that are “integrated and in perfect harmony with nature” or, to put it in more technical terms: affordable, veganfriendly bottlings that are made from certifiedorganic grape varieties.

In the glass, it’s “a classic Negroamaro of dark, spicy red fruits and a little violet lift on the nose,” the judges said. “On the palate, sweet dark fruit, and the finish is nice, long and fruity. Exceptional value for money.”

What our judges say

“Judging the Top 100 is a great opportunity to catch up with some old faces and meet the new retailers and hear what they are doing. It’s always interesting to listen to them whilst they are tasting and seeing the reactions to wines we have in front of us. Indies should be breaking your door down to be part of the tasting panel. A great day.”

Philip Amps Amps Wine Merchants

North South Wines

RRP £11.99 ABV 13.5%

“I will admit to feeling a little apprehensive because I didn’t know what to expect. I was soon put at ease and met a great group of like-minded merchants who were happy to share experiences and knowledge. I think the key thing to remember is your own value as a judge. You are the buyer for your own shop and as such must have the confidence in the product to be able to recommend it to your customers, who come to you over supermarkets and online retailers for personal recommendations.”

Carol Jones Vinomondo

“The Top 100 is a fantastic judging opportunity. Not only do you get to taste some amazing wines, which you can then go on to buy, but the real highlight for me was the networking. It was such a pleasure to meet other wine merchants from across the UK. Entrepreneurship can be lonely at times, and it’s so reassuring to connect with others at different stages of their journey, all facing similar challenges and able to offer advice or a fresh perspective.”

Jessica Summer Mouse & Grape

red Wines

conTessa di radda

geografico chianTi

classico riserVa

Chianti Classico, Italy 2019

Founded in the Chianti hills in 1961 by 17 local farmers, the Agricoltori del Chianti Geografico has been committed to making authentic Chianti ever since, with a portfolio of wines that are designed to express the members’ impressive collection of vineyard holdings in Gaiole, Radda and Castellina in the very heart of the Chianti Classico zone.

According to the judges, this 100% Sangiovese is “a classic example of Chianti Classico Riserva that is showing really well. Figs, tobacco, cherries and leather – a very satisfying mix of savoury and fruity elements.”

North South Wines

RRP £20.49 ABV 14%

BarBanera Toscana

rosso da uve leggerMenTe appassiTe

Toscana IGP, Italy 2022

Made from a blend of Sangiovese (60%) with 20% apiece of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, Barbanera’s “light” Tuscan take on the appassimento technique uses grapes that are harvested just before reaching full ripeness in late September and early October. These are dried for two to three weeks until they have lost 30% in weight, and a portion of dried grapes is added after fermentation. It makes for “a deliciously juicy fruit-forward blend which has just enough structure and tannins to keep it interesting and a little bit serious,” the judges said. “Yummy and good value.”

Cachet Wine

RRP £13.99 ABV 14%

ricasoli Brolio chianTi classico

Chianti Classico, Italy 2022

One of the leading producers in Chianti Classico, Ricasoli has some 240ha of vineyards interspersed with the oak and chestnut trees in its undulating 1,200ha estate. Managed since 1993 by Baron Francesco Ricasoli, it has added a penchant for vini- and viticultural innovation to its historic foundations, a combination well-represented by what the judges called a “classically-styled Chianti with very pure Sangiovese fruit, “Cherry and tobacco and sage with supple tannins and good acidity – this is a pretty much perfect wine to have with a Tuscan multi-course feast!”

Fells

RRP £19.99

ABV 14%

chÂteau purcari 1827 rara neagra

Stefan Vodă, Moldova 2022

Château Purcari is the most prized asset in the portfolio of Moldova’s most important wine company, the Purcari Wineries Group. The château is surrounded by a 300ha vineyard planted on deep black soils over limestone in the heart of the country’s best-known wine region, Stefan Vodă – ideal conditions for cultivating the local Rara Neagra variety.

“Rich supple fruit and a soft jammy finish,” the judges said. “This is a very versatile wine that will pair with a lot of different foods and offer customers that ‘something different’ factor.”

Transylvania Wine

RRP £16.95 ABV 13%

akiTu a2

Central Otago, New Zealand 2020

One of Central Otago’s leading Pinot Noir specialists, Akitu’s fine wine credentials are rooted in a 12ha vineyard situated at 380m above sea level in the region’s Upper Clutha basin. For the A2 cuvée, 35% of the fruit is whole bunch and the rest whole berry, with ageing in French oak barrels, 7% of which are new.

“Delicious, developed nose, with some sense of leather among the forest fruits,” the judges said. “Good texture and structure with nicely integrated oak – this could keep improving but is so sensuous now.”

Mentzendorff

RRP £33 ABV 13.6%

carlos lucas vinhos vinha do reino a river runs Through iT

Douro, Portugal 2021

The latest addition to the burgeoning portfolio of modern Portuguese wines made by the experienced winemaker Carlos Lucas, A River Runs Through It is an unoaked blend of classic Douro grapes Touriga Franca, Tinta Barroca and Tinta Roriz from a 30ha plot of 100-yearold vines planted at 250m to 470m altitude.

“Tasting this in a flight of wines where some wines were priced almost four times more. makes it all the more impressive,” the judges said. “Loads and loads of ripe fruits of the forest, but all well balanced: intense but soft and succulent.”

Tikveš luda Mara vranec

Tikveš, Republic of North Macedonia 2021

Since 1885, the Tikveš Winery has been a leading player in wine in the lands known today as the Republic of North Macedonia. And it continues to thrive with a portfolio of premium wines made from native grapes such as Vranec. Sourced from vines grown in the region’s blend of Mediterranean and continental climates, this example is fermented and aged for 12 months in concrete vats.

“Deep, brooding mulberry and blackberry fruit … dense and brambly,” the judges said. “Compote fruit with an earthy and fresh core – this is great! A wine outside the mainstream that really delivers.”

Hallgarten & Novum Wines

RRP £17.99 ABV 15%

doMeniile aVereȘTi nativus

feTeasca neagra de aVereȘTi

Moldovan Hills, Romania 2022

Feteasca Neagra is Romania’s flagship and most widely planted native red variety, and it has become a calling card of the generation of winemakers that have revived the country’s wine culture in the 21st century. Here it’s presented in a pure and unoaked style that aims to capture the terroir of the Averești region.

“With tomato leaf and currant on the nose, this is a wine of good structure and plenty of freshness,” the judges said “The fruit is rich and dark yet savoury – very good value for a seriously interesting wine.”

Alliance Wine RRP

Transylvania Wine

RRP £14.95 ABV 14.5%

red Wines

jordan coBBlers hill

Stellenbosch, South Africa 2022

Described by the Jordan family as “the ultimate expression” of their celebrated Stellenbosch estate, Cobblers Hill is a blend of 58% Cabernet Sauvignon, 32% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot grown on decomposed granite.

Made in small quantities, its name is a reference to the family’s heritage as master cobblers.

“Gorgeous nose, with integrated oak and cassis aplenty,” the judges said. “Don’t be shy because this wine most certainly isn’t! Juicy, chewy tannins to give structure and then smoky fruit concentration. It tastes expensive, and it is very much worth the money.”

Awin Barratt Siegel Wine Agencies

RRP £44.65 ABV 13.5%

clos de lÔM isidra crianza

Valencia, Spain 2021

Made by one of Valencia’s longestestablished producers with almost 200 years of experience, this blend of Garnacha and Tempranillo is sourced from 30-year-old bush vines grown in the DO’s finest terroirs in the Alforins Valley, where a combination of Mediterranean breezes and altitude (450m) moderates the daytime heat and cools the night-time temperatures.

“Huge nose full of rich, delicious stewed black fruit, while on the palate there’s sweet spices and old-fashioned bubble gum, black pepper, and orchard blossom in the sun,” the judges said. “A real standout in this flight [of Spanish reds] and on the day.”

Vindependents

RRP £25

ABV 14.5%

Baron de ley el coto

crianza rioja

Rioja, Spain 2021

While much of the fun of wine competitions lies in making new discoveries, it’s always reassuring when a familiar name meets or exceeds expectations. And few names in Spanish wine are more familiar than El Coto, one of the biggest producers in Rioja.

“Black fruit and blackberry leaves, vanilla and smoke on the nose. On the palate it fills the mouth with classic Rioja flavours of lingering oak and baked fruit in a really well balanced wine with soft fine tannins that would work well with food and would certainly not upset anyone at that price,” the judges said.

Liberty Wines

RRP £15.99 ABV 14%

Mas Blanch i jové sao aBriVat

Costers del Segre, Spain 2022

Like so many of Spain’s most exciting producers, Mas Blanch i Jové works with vines grown at high altitude – the certified organic 17ha estate is planted up in the foothills of the Pyrenees at 700m above sea level. That makes for cooler growing conditions that bring freshness to the naturalleaning, low-sulphur wines.

It’s a wine of “so much sophistication and purity”, the judges said. “Dark fruits, baking spices and leather; sweet Red Delicious apples and cinnamon. So much pleasure here, and a really good example of the character and style modern Spanish wine has to offer.”

Vindependents

RRP £22 ABV 14.5%

TROPHY WINNERS RECEIVED THEIR AWARDS ON CENTRE STAGE AT THE LONDON WINE FAIR

red Wines

vinos atlanTe videuÑo

Valle de la Orotava DO, Tenerife, Spain 2022

“We are a small winery. We do everything by hand. And we like it this way.” That’s the motto of Vinos Atlante, which makes its (small) range of red and white wines from old vines of native varieties (in this case Listán Negro) grown in the traditional way in the Atlanticwinds-buffeted Valle de la Orotava DO on the island of Tenerife in the Canary Islands.

“A really intriguing, characterful wine with tons of energy,” the judges said. “There’s sandalwood, pink pepper, currants, and a touch of animalistic funk. Balanced acid and tannin and great length.”

Moreno Wines

RRP £36 ABV 12.5%

ailalÁ souson

Ribeiro,

Spain 2022

Situated between Rías Baixas to the west and Ribeira Sacra to the east, Ribeiro is best known for its zippily aromatic white wines. But the Galician region’s strongly Atlanticinfluenced climate is also excellent for producing fashionably fresh reds, as in this example of the local variety Souson, which is supplemented with a 5% dash of each of Brancello, Caiño Longo and Ferrol.

“Lovely plush ripeness with black fruits, violet, and soft gentle tea-like tannins,” the judges said. “There’s a floral dimension, good length and lots of refreshing acidity. Really vibrant stuff.”

Rioja, Spain 2019

Founded by Rioja legend Miguel Ángel de Gregorio of Finca Allende, Finca Nueva is all about what de Gregorio calls “vinos divertidos” (“fun wines” ) that are, says UK importer Bancroft Wines, “fresh” and “approachable” “without compromising on quality”.

That description certainly chimes with our judges’ experience here. “Lovely dark fruit –blackberry and blackcurrant – on the nose mixed with an inviting oak smell,” the judges said. “The palate is perfectly balanced with dark fruit baked with a hint of vanilla, soft tannins and bright acidity, too. Beautiful to drink now, a perfectly ready, enjoyable Rioja.”

Bancroft Wines

RRP £22 ABV 14%

Hallgarten & Novum Wines

RRP £18.25

ABV 13%

Bodegas la purísiMa MonasTrell la purísiMa

Murcia, Spain 2023

After making last year’s Top 100 with a muchadmired white, the high-performing eastern Spanish cooperative Bodegas La Purísima won over the judges again this year with a characteristically vivid and vibrant red from Monastrell. It’s sourced from vines with an average age of more than 25 years planted at 700m above sea level on the Murcia Plateau in DO Yecla.

“Punches above its weight: there’s a lot of wine for the money with great concentration and depth of deep dark fruit,” the judges said. “Lovely spice and balance – would sell loads of this.”

Hallgarten & Novum Wines

RRP £13.49 ABV 14%

finca nueVa rioja crianza

Bodegas Tarón

panTocrÁtor rioja

edición liMiTada

Rioja, Spain 2015

A limited-edition wine from one of Rioja’s foremost premium producers, Bodega Tarón, this 100% Tempranillo is sourced from 50-yearold bush vines on the estate’s best Rioja Alta vineyards in the foothills of the Obarenes mountains. It is aged for one year in stainless steel, then 24 months in American oak and six years in bottle before release.

“Violets, herbs and blackberries on the bright nose, which follows through onto the deliciously rich but vibrant and beautifully balanced palate,” the judges said. “Complex with a touch of smoke and tobacco leaf and a lingering, fresh finish.”

Richmond Wine Agencies

RRP £37.94 ABV 14%

onTaÑon Queirón Mi lugar

Rioja, Spain 2019

The second wine in this year’s Top 100 from the consistently excellent Rioja producer Bodegas Ontañon is a wine from the Pérez Cuevas family’s special project devoted to expressing the vineyards around their home village of Quel. Predominantly made from selected plots of Tempranillo, it’s aged for 18 months in a mix of 80% French and 20% American new oak.

“Smoky pipe tobacco with blackberry and a hint of clove on the nose, that smokiness continuing onto the palate like smoked bacon and wood-panelled rooms, mingling beautifully with fresh fruit and fine tannins,” the judges said.

Boutinot

RRP £27 ABV 14%

cosMe palacio vino de laguardia rioja crianza

Rioja, Spain 2019

Rioja’s officials at last acknowledged the demands of terroir-focused producers when they introduced the new “vino de pueblo” designation last year. Roughly equivalent to the French “villages”, it gives a new status to village terroirs such as Laguardia in Rioja Alavesa, the source of this “top-class” Crianza from Cosme Palacio.

“Smoky, almost meaty dark fruit … this is a complex and very well made Rioja with lots of lovely depth to it,” the judges said. “The tannins hit, but they’re not overpowering, and the long finish has plenty of fruit interweaved with the oaky smokiness.”

North South Wines

RRP £22.49

ABV 14.5%

peTerson Winery Tollini vineyard zero Manipulation

Mendocino, California, USA 2017

“Wonderfully complex but so, so drinkable” is how the judges summed up this blend of 73% Carignan, 22% Grenache 22% and 8% Syrah. “Herbal, smoky, spicy nose with huge fruit power and wonderful balance. A hugely inviting wine that keeps you coming back to the glass,” they added.

It’s made, using fruit sourced from one of Mendocino’s oldest vineyards, by one of Napa’s most celebrated winemakers, Fred Peterson, an old world-influenced exponent of minimal intervention in both vineyard and cellar, who learned his trade as vineyard manager at Ridge Vineyards.

Hallgarten & Novum Wines

RRP £22.49

ABV 14.5%

ForTified & sWeeT Wines

MoneMVasia Winery TsiMBidi

vin liasTos MoneMVasia/ MalVasia

Laconia, Greece 2012

From a producer that was founded in 1997 with the express intention of reviving the tradition of making fine wines from Malvasia (Monemvasia in Greek) in the south eastern Peloponnese, this sweet wine is made from grapes that are dried in the sun for 12 days. Fermented in stainless steel, it’s aged in second-use French barriques for two years.

“Wow, this is just an amazing experience,” the judges said. “It tastes like a luxurious version of a Toffee Crisp, or maybe a toffee apple if you prefer, but either way it’s an absolute must-try.”

Hallgarten & Novum Wines

RRP £35.99 ABV 13.5%

doMaine

Vakakis

epogdoon Barrel

Samos, Greece 2017

Samos has a deserved reputation for producing some of Greece’s finest golden sweet wines from Muscat, and Domaine Vakakis is one of the island’s leading exponents. Made from sun-dried grapes, its components are aged in oak for a period of between 24 and 36 hours.

“Delightfully floral, sweet and luscious – like honey from happy bees,” the judges said. “But the reason it works is the acidity which keeps it all alive and zingy. It’s a special treat price but then again this is a special treat of a wine.”

Southern Wine Roads

RRP £29

ABV 13%

BuTler nepheW & co

20 year old TaWny porT

Douro, Portugal NV

Port shipper Butler, Nephew & Co was originally founded in 1829. Today it’s enjoying a modern renaissance under the stewardship of the Christie family, who have embarked, in the words of UK importer Daniel Lambert, on the process of “rebuilding this old port house and going beyond its former glory.”

“This is an outstanding top-flight tawny port that hits that 20-year sweet spot where it’s full of aged complexity but it’s still got its fruit,” the judges said. “Walnut, hazelnut, coffee and caramel; rum and dates and some Oloroso sherry notes; a touch of oak tannin –it’s unique!”

Daniel Lambert Wines

RRP £41.55 ABV 20%

Douro, Portugal 1996

The rise of super-premium aged Tawnies has been a shot in the arm for the port trade, with consumers having the chance to enjoy superbly complex, mature wines without needing to do the ageing themselves. This single-vintage wine, made from 60-to-80-yearold vines, has been maturing in the cellars at Poças for nearly 30 years, and, in the words of the judges, “has aged absolutely beautifully, taking on all the nutty richness of great old Tawny port.

“In terms of flavour, it’s Christmas cake –candied orange peel, marzipan, and sultanas – very intense and long.”

Cachet Wine

RRP £58

ABV 20%

porTo poÇas colheiTa

klein consTanTia

vin de consTance 2021

Constantia, South Africa 2021

Few wines come with more historic glamour than Vin de Constance, a wine that was famously enjoyed by, among others, Frederick the Great of Prussia, Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette of France, US founding fathers George Washington and John Adams, and Napoleon Bonaparte.

According to the Top 100 judges, its modern incarnation is every bit as thrilling.

“So refined and silky on the palate, with flowing fine acidity keeping the sweetness very much in check,” they said. “Aromatically intriguing with loads of floral layers –honeysuckle and orange blossom and Muscat grapes. What a treat!”

Mentzendorff

RRP £72 ABV 14%

What our judges say

eQuipo navazos la Bota no

130 Manzanilla pasada

Jerez, Spain NV

A boutique bottler that was originally set up by a group of sherry-loving friends as a means of gaining access to some of the many butts of great wine languishing in the corners of bodegas in Jerez, Sanlúcar, El Puerto and Montilla, Equipo Navazos has gone on to help shape modern sherry with its succession of much-in-demand rare bottlings.

The latest is this “truly wonderful, exemplary Manzanilla sherry” which, the judges said, “is fresh yet full on the nose, with a balanced, salty and nutty palate, and a long mushroomysavoury finish. Love it!”

Alliance Wine

RRP £55 ABV 16.5%

“I thoroughly enjoyed judging at this year’s Wine Merchant Top 100. Not only was it amazing opportunity to taste global benchmark wines and styles, but to do so alongside some of the best palates and people in the wine trade.”

Jake Bennett-Day, Vino Gusto

“Judging for The Wine Merchant Top 100 was a great experience. The event is well organised, and the judging process is very thorough. However, you are guided through the process, making it easy to understand. You always work collaboratively with other judges (and there are senior judges present to help if needs be), so there is no pressure on being right or wrong. Whilst it is a day of serious hard work, I think it is an experience that most people in the trade should try, at some point in their career. A nice beer afterwards and talking with leaders in the industry is an added bonus.”

Phil Innes, Loki

“The Top 100 tasting is a tremendous rewarding experience to get exposure to a host of different wines and also a great opportunity to work with and compare notes with our contemporaries in a noncompetitive setup. We all know we taste and look at things differently but this really gives an opportunity to understand why. At the end of the day I came away learning something.”

Greg Andrews, DVine Cellars

highly coMMended Wines

Some of the wines that missed out on a Top 100 position did so by the tiniest of margins.

You’ll find them among our Highly Commended winners, which we describe on the following pages.

The list contains some names that will be familiar with most independents, as well as some that could be seen as more left-field. Either way, these are wines that make an important contribution to the Top 100 project and deserve further investigation.

ARGENTINA

White

La Cayetana Criolla Blanca, Mendoza 2022 (£22.50, Ucopia World Wines): Gentle apple and peach with a touch of honey; soft but bright.

Solar del Alma Skin Contact, Luján de Cuyo, Mendoza 2023 (£19, Marta Vine): Aromatic with loads going on – very satisfying and good value for the money.

Red

Zuccardi, José Zuccardi Malbec, Uco Valley, Mendoza 2020 (£38.30, Hatch Mansfield): Serious and deep black fruit but freshness too; great tannins and length.

Azul y Blanco Molinillo Malbec, Uco Valley, Mendoza 2024 (£13, Boutinot): Bright and lively with fragrant floral lift and juicy plum and cherry.

Doña Paula Altitude Series 1350, Uco Valley, Mendoza 2022 (£22.99, North South Wines): Subtle fruit and lovely mouth feel, spicy notes – all quality characteristics are there.

Las Estelas Leticia Cabernet Cabernet, Tupungato, Uco Valley, Mendoza 2022 (£17.50, Ucopia World Wines): Herbs, violets, cranberries; burst of red fruit; great acid balance and tannins.

Benegas Single Vineyard Sangiovese, Mendoza 2020 (£27.50, Ucopia World Wines): Subtle nose and grippy tannins; convincing Italian-alike with cherries, chocolate and tobacco.

Vin Vineyards Paanam, Mendoza 2021 (£26, Vin Vineyards): Rich indulgent nose; blackcurrant, blackberry, spice and vanilla; bold tannins; full finish.

AUSTRALIA

White

Kingston Estate Chardonnay, Limestone Coast, 2024 (£13.99, Cachet Wine): Good purity, expressive, balanced and satisfying; nice finish; good price.

Berton Vineyards Pitchfork Chardonnay, South Eastern Australia 2024 (£10.99, Cachet Wine): A fresh style: linear fruit and acidity, very racy and vibrant Chardonnay.

Pewsey Vale Vineyard The Contours Riesling, Eden Valley 2017 (£29, Fells): Crisp, searingly dry, limey and linear – great example of the style.

Xanadu Circa 77 Sauvignon Blanc/Semillon, Margaret River, Western Australia 2023 (£16.25, Hallgarten Wines): Crisp, fresh citrus fruits and bell pepper; cleansing acidity – very pleasant indeed.

Berton Vineyard Foundstone Pinot Grigio, New South Wales 2024 (£11.75, Hallgarten & Novum Wines): Crisp, aromatic with nice fruit profile and residual sugar balanced by racy acidity.

Shaw + Smith M3 Chardonnay, Adelaide Hills 2023 (£35.99, Liberty Wines): Expressive nose, great fruit and toasty notes; concentrated, long and complex.

Moorooduc Estate Pinot Gris, Mornington Peninsula, Victoria 2022 (£29, Vindependents): Lovely colour, fresh aromatic nose; great complexity, minerality, length and texture.

Harewood Estate Chardonnay, Great Southern, Western Australia 2022 (£19.50, Vindependents): Bright tropical fruit, creamy harmonious oak, good depth; pleasing finish, good value.

Highgate Chardonnay, Hunter Valley 2022 (£15, Vindependents): Cool-climate freshness and pronounced acidity – super fresh and direct; mouthwatering.

Rosé

Rogers & Rufus Barossa Rosé, Barossa Valley 2023 (£15, Fells): Punchy ripe red fruit and good depth: mouth-filling but balanced.

Red

Yalumba Samuel’s Collection Barossa Shiraz, Barossa Valley 2022 (£17.99, Fells): Eucalyptus, lovely warming dark and red berry fruit; deep and lingering.

highly coMMended Wines

AUSTRALIA RED CONTINUED

Yalumba Samuel’s Collection Barossa Bush Vine Grenache, Barossa Valley 2021 (£17.99, Fells): Really nicely balanced red fruits and liquorice spice; smooth and juicy.

Vasse Felix Filius Cabernet Sauvignon, Margaret River, Western Australia 2021 (£17, Fells): Lovely fruit profile; ripe and lush but fresh with excellent length.

Berton Vineyard Shiraz Reserve, Barossa Valley 2021 (£19.49, Hallgarten & Novum Wines): Bright, juicy jammy fruit and minty freshness; very easy to drink; lovely finish.

Berton Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve, South Australia 2020 (£19.75, Hallgarten & Novum Wines): Intense, full and structured – a powerful South Aussie take on Cabernet Sauvignon.

Jim Barry Wines The Farm Single Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Clare Valley 2021 (£24.75, Hallgarten & Novum Wines): Nice black fruits; grippy tannins; warming but bright with balance and length.

Mount Langi Ghiran Cliff Edge Shiraz, Victoria 2022 (£23.25, Hallgarten & Novum Wines): Boiled sweets, herbs, spice and juicy fruit; succulent and fresh style.

Yering Station Little Yering Pinot Noir, Victoria 2021 (£16.75, Hallgarten & Novum Wines): Simple but effective red-fruited Pinot in a light but juicy style.

Oatley Wines Hancock and Hancock Shiraz/Grenache, McLaren Vale 2022 (£17.80, Hatch Mansfield): Very enjoyable; great value for money – cranberry, baked red fruit, herbs.

Paxton Wines Jones Block SV Shiraz, McLaren Vale 2021 (£27.99, North South Wines): Black fruit against a smoky backdrop. Serious, concentrated Shiraz with balance.

AUSTRIA

White

Salzl Seewinkelhof Figaro Grüner Veltliner, Burgenland 2021 (£20.49, North South Wines): White pepper and red apple; lemon peel and herbal-vegetal notes. Ripe style.

Red

Weingut Ecker-Eckhof Brillant Von Eckhof, Wagram 2023 (£17, Vindependents): Vibrant and crunchy Zweigelt with lots of fresh raspberry and blackberry; chillable fun.

CHILE

White

Casas del Bosque Collection Chardonnay, Casablanca 2024 (£16.65, Awin Barratt Siegel Wine Agencies): Classic Casablanca Chardonnay – richness of fruit and oak balanced with freshness.

Arboleda Chardonnay, Aconcagua Costa 2022 (£19.50, Hatch Mansfield): Ripe orchard fruit and a throughline of coastal freshness; good balanced Chardonnay.

Outer Limits by Montes Zapallar Sauvignon Blanc, Aconcagua Costa 2024 (£21.99, Liberty Wines): Superbright, green peas and lime; brisk and typical Chilean Sauvignon Blanc.

Red

Viña VIK Milla Cala, Valle de Cachapoal, 2021 (£41.50, Hallgarten & Novum Wines): Full of blackcurrant and pepper; soft texture, superb balance – classy.

Arboleda Cabernet Sauvignon, Aconcagua Valley 2022 (£19.50, Hatch Mansfield): Mint and eucalyptus with cassis; good concentration, balance and length.

Caliterra Tributo Gran Reserva Mezcla Tinta, Colchagua Valley 2021 (£15.60, Hatch Mansfield): Plum and dark fruits in full, ripe, warm style; very Chilean.

Arboleda Pinot Noir, Aconcagua Valley 2022 (£22.20, Hatch Mansfield): Juicy, open full-fruited Pinot with vanilla and red cherry. Precise.

BULGARIA

White

Enira White, Bessa Valley 2022 (£20.75, Alliance Wine): Marsanne in Bulgaria! It works. Loads of aromatic complexity and zesty pithiness.

ENGLAND

Sparkling

All Angels Classic Cuvée, Berkshire 2014 (£44.50, Enborne Vineyards): Almost floral fresh fruits and chamomile; salted biscuits and racy acidity.

All Angels Classic Cuvée Ten Year Anniversary, Berkshire 2014 (£60, Enborne Vineyards): Complex and very savoury; salty baked bread bright apple acidity.

Wiston Rosé, Sussex NV (£39.25, Hallgarten & Novum Wines): Savoury red fruits and apple; complex and super-sharp.

Hattingley Valley Blanc de Blancs, Hampshire 2018 (£49, Hattingley Valley Wines): Lovely notes of fruit and patisserie – salty-fruity-racy palate. Great finish.

Bolney Wine Estate Bolney Classic Cuvée, Sussex NV (£36.28, Jascots Wine Merchants): Rich, nutty, and ripe – lots of minerals and racy acidity. Unmistakably English fizz.

FRANCE

Sparkling

Maison Antech Cuvée Françoise Blanquette de Limoux Brut, Limoux, Languedoc NV (£17.98, Alliance Wine): Fresh green apples; soft mousse; light biscuit notes. Well made.

Champagne Henriot Blanc de Blancs NV (£47, Fells): Fresh, crisp Granny Smith apples and sourdough bread; long, pure finish.

Champagne Collet Brut Rosé NV (£42, Hallgarten & Novum Wines): Deliciously ripe strawberry fruit balanced with energy and tension and precision.

Champagne Abele Brut Rosé NV (£63.25, Hallgarten & Novum Wines): Elegant onion skin colour; spicy fruit, very moreish, persistent finish – great bang for buck.

Champagne Duval-Leroy Brut Réserve NV (£48, Hallgarten & Novum Wines): Super elegant, rich but incisive; clean fruit, white chocolate and silky bubbles. Classical.

Devaux Coeur de Nature Organic Champagne NV (£55.99, Liberty Wines): Classic Blanc de Noirs fruit throughout; good mouth feel; long finish.

Champagne Mandois Blanc de Blancs Brut 2019 (£47.49, North South Wines): Green apple aromas, developing into riper fruit; uplifting autolytic finish. Great value.

Champagne Mandois Brut Rosé Grande Réserve NV (£42.99, North South Wines): Well-crafted pink Champagne with lively mousse and persistent delicate fruit at the end.

Champagne Delavenne Grand Cru Dom Basle NV (£44.50, Vindependents): Attractive bread dough on the impressively savoury palate. Refreshingly dry finish.

Champagne Germar Breton Millésime 2015 (£56.50, Vindependents): Evocative nose of baked apple pie; developed bruised apple and pithy aftertaste.

Champagne Germar Breton Brut NV, (£34, Vindependents): Simple but effective – fruit-driven nose with bruised apple. Racy and tangy.

0% Alcohol Sparkling

Villa Noria Levin 0% Blanc de Blancs, Languedoc NV, (£9.49, Hallgarten Wines): Very toffee apple vibes; sweet and fluffy – but really rather drinkable!

White

François Chidaine Clos du Breuil Montlouis Sec, Montlouis, Loire 2023 (£39.23, Alliance Wine): Lots of honey with white flowers and dried apricots. Enjoyable, tangy, layered.

Domaine Besson Chablis 1er Cru Montmains, Chablis 2022, (£34.89, Alliance Wine): Ripe citrus fruit with a touch of white peach; well-balanced Chablis.

Domaine de Fondrèche Ventoux Blanc, Ventoux, Rhône 2024 (£19.99, Alliance Wine): Fruit-salad character: peach, apricot, some floral notes; soft feel; bright finish.

Domaine Pierre Marchand Les Loges, Pouilly Fumé 2023 (£21.21, Alliance Wine): Baked pineapple, young apple, lemon, frangipane; a joy to drink.

highly coMMended Wines

FRANCE WHITE CONTINUED

Domaine Bonnigal-Bodet Les Beauvoirs Touraine Amboise Sec, Touraine, Loire 2022 (£36, Alliance Wine): Very sophisticated; mouth-tingling acidity like citrus sherbet; time on its side.

Domaine Boutinot Argiles Blanches Blanc, Cairanne 2023 (£19, Boutinot): Full-flavoured but graceful –excellent oak integration; peachy fruit, clean, fresh finish.

Marilyn Lasserre Vermentino Coquille de Mer, IGP Pays d’Oc 2024 (£10.99, Cachet Wine): Lovely easydrinking wine – perfect for back-garden summer drinking. Great value.

Producteurs Plaimont Le Faîte Blanc, Saint-Mont 2020 (£24.99, Cachet Wine): Loads of aroma – tropical mango and pineapple; serious depth, complexity and great acidity.

Calmel & Joseph Villa Blanche Chardonnay, IGP Pays d’Oc 2024 (£14.50, Daniel Lambert Wines): Such good value; soft on the palate, gentle finish, nice orchard fruit.

Hugel Estate Riesling, Alsace 2020 (£22.50, Fells): Lime-lemon, pithy grapefruit; balanced acidity –finishes clean and long.

Domaine William Fèvre Chablis 2022 (£27, Fells): Crisp and refreshing style of Chablis. Citrus-driven with a mineral finish.

Louis Jadot Ladoix Blanc Le Clou D’Orge Blanc, Ladoix, Burgundy 2022 (£42, Hatch Mansfield): Citrus notes with a touch of oak, vanilla, toast and cream. Classic white Burgundy.

Joseph Mellot Touraine Chenonceaux Les Jardins de Diane, Chenonceaux, Loire 2023 (£20, Hatch Mansfield): Baked peach, lemon, frangipane, manuka honey; balanced fruit vs aromatics. Very good length.

M Chapoutier Schieferkopf Lieu-Dit Fels Riesling Sélection Parcellaire, Alsace 2021 (£37.60, Hatch Mansfield): Lime, linden blossom, rich juicy-fruit acidity; Alsace Riesling at its best.

Daniel Chotard Tradition Sancerre Blanc, Sancerre, Loire 2023 (£27.05, Jascots Wine Merchants): Subtle nuttiness, yuzu citrus, classic Sancerre herbaceousness – great balance.

Domaine JF Protheau Montagny 1er Cru Bouchots, Montagny, Burgundy 2021 (£32, Les Grands Chais de France): Confit lemon and cream. Lovely weight with some toasty characteristics.

Corentin Chavy Mâcon Chardonnay, Mâcon, Burgundy 2023 (£27.49, Liberty Wines): Fresh orchard fruit on a juicy palate with a deliciously rich, oily finish.

Château Minuty Blanc et Or, Pays du Var, Provence 2023 (£31, Moët Hennessy UK): Fresh pear on the nose; lovely Vermentino citrus pithy refreshment; food- and sun-friendly.

Famille André Lurton Château Bonnet Réserve Blanc, Bordeaux 2023 (£17.99, North South Wines): Yellow apple, macadamia, peach and little green capsicum; Provence herbs; great food wine.

Domaine Richard Condrieu M De Martial, Condrieu, Rhône 2023 (£25, Vindependents): Full, rich and luxurious Viognier: satin-textured nectarine palate, creamy finish.

Paul Jaboulet Aîné Condrieu Les Cassines, Condrieu, Rhône 2020 (£44.50, Hallgarten & Novum Wines): Beautiful texture – intriguing sweet nuttiness; apricots and peaches; showing nice evolution.

Saint Cosme Micro-Cosme Sauvignon-Viognier, Vin de France 2023 (£15.75, Hallgarten & Novum Wines): Under-ripe grapefruit, white flowers, lemon pith, gooseberry – fresh, well-made house wine.

Domaine Bott-Geyl Gewurztraminer Les Éléments, Alsace 2020 (£25.50, Vindependents): Lots of intense wow on the palate: sweet rose petals and essential oils.

Famille André Lurton Château Couhins-Lurton Blanc, Pessac-Léognan, Bordeaux 2020 (£55.49, North South Wines): Burnt match, pastry, lime zest – high-quality age-able Bordeaux blanc.

Orange

Frédéric Garrabou When Life Gives You Oranges, Vin de France 2023 (£11.99, Cachet Wine): Well balanced with a nice fruit profile; pithy structure; great price.

Château de l’Ou l’Orange de l’Ou Muscat Blanc, Roussillon 2022 (£35.25, Hallgarten & Novum Wines): Lovely golden colour; unmistakable Muscat aromas; driving acidity and delightful spice.

Rosé

Felicette Grenache Rosé, IGP Pays d’Oc 2024 (£13.03, Alliance Wine): Crisp red fruit; super intensity; soft spice; balanced acidity; good value.

Domaine St André Folie d’Ines Rosé, IGP Pays d’Oc 2023 (£11.99, Cachet Wine): Shows the value available in Languedoc rosé – great pale, fresh alternative to Provence.

Château Paquette Cuvée Thémis, Provence 2023 (£23.99, Daniel Lambert Wines): Very gentle and light citrus and strawberry – subtle fruit and soft feel.

Château de l’Aumérade Cuvée Marie Christine, Côtes de Provence 2024 (£18.25, Hallgarten & Novum Wines): Genteel classic Provence rosé – pastel colours and softness of fruit and texture.

Château Minuty 281, Côtes de Provence 2024 (£55.50, Moët Hennessy UK): Lovely fruit salad – pineapple cubes, rhubarb fool. Young, but will develop.

Château Minuty Rose et Or, Côtes de Provence 2024 (£28.50, Moët Hennessy UK): Pale and elegant –subtle aromas of pear and white peach.

Domaine de Grandpré Cuvee Minotaure, Côtes de Provence 2024 (£19, Vindependents): Nice palate weight; redcurrants; balanced acidity – true-to-type at a good price.

Red

Champagne Delavenne Rouge, AOC Coteaux Champenois Bouzy Rouge 2019 (£48.50, Vindependents): Natural feel with lots of life and energy; savoury notes; fresh red fruit.

Xavier Roger Hornhead Malbec, IGP Pays d’Oc 2023 (£11.49, Cachet Wine): Good-value fruit-driven Malbec. Plenty of plum and cherry. Nice acidity; gentle tannins.

Domaine de Suremain Mercurey Rouge, Mercurey, Burgundy 2020 (£38.99, Alliance Wine): Spot-on, classic Burgundy red fruits and subtle earthiness. Divine tannins.

Thomas Morey Santenay Rouge Vieilles Vignes, Santenay, Burgundy 2020 (£52.01, Alliance Wine): Lots of intrigue and depth; forest floor – savoury rather than fruit-driven. Long.

Felicette Light Speed Grenache Noir, IGP Côtes Catalanes 2024 (£14.99, Alliance Wine): Stuffed full of forest fruit on the nose and palate; beautifully fruited winter-warmer.

Domaine of the Bee The Bee-side Grenache, IGP Côtes Catalanes 2023 (£21, Berkmann Wine Cellars): Alluring nose; complex leather, raspberry, plum. Spicy, structured, very attractive.

Fredéric Garrabou Le Professeur Marselan, IGP Pays d’Oc 2023 (£11.49, Cachet Wine): Simple but well made; good choice at the price for lovers of this delicious grape.

Calmel & Joseph Les Cuvées Rares – Les Sept Puits, Saint-Chinian, Languedoc 2019 (£18.60, Daniel Lambert Wines): If you like black olives, you’ll love this: great regional typicity.

Calmel & Joseph Les Crus – La Folie Douce, Caramany, Roussillon 2022, (£15.22, Daniel Lambert Wines): Soft, sweet-fruited; farmyard savouriness and lots of smooth black fruit.

Bouchard Père et Fils Beaune du Château Premier Cru Rouge, Beaune 1er Cru, Burgundy 2021 (£45, Fells): Super savoury and meaty; dark fruited-Pinot with some power.

E Guigal St-Joseph Rouge, St-Joseph, Rhône 2020 (£29, Fells): Damson, red cherry, spice; cassis clove, mocha. Bang-on price point.

Domaine Gardiés Mas Las Cabes Rouge, Côtes du Roussillon 2023 (£18.25, Hallgarten & Novum Wines): Lots of good drinkable fruitiness; simple but robust, engaging and well made.

CHÂTEAU MINUTY, PROVENCE

highly coMMended Wines

FRANCE RED CONTINUED

Paul Jaboulet Aîné Le Grand Pompée, St-Joseph, Rhône 2022 (£29.99, Hallgarten & Novum Wines): Nutmeg spiciness and juicy black fruits – smoothly done northern Rhône Syrah.

Terroirs et Talents Domaine Romy Beaujolais Les Pierres Dorées, Beaujolais 2023 (£15.90, Hatch Mansfield): Bright and bonny youthful Gamay juiciness – very berry by-the-glass.

Domaine Yohan Lardy Poppy Gamay, Beaujolais 2023 (£17.72, Jascots Wine Merchants): Classic young Beaujolais with all the boiled fruit fun – fresh raspberry too. Nicely done.

Château Minuty Rouge et Or, Côtes de Provence 2022 (£31, Moët Hennessy UK): Well made, nice structure, good assortment of dark berry fruit; long spicy finish.

Famille André Lurton Château de Rochemorin Rouge, Pessac-Léognan, Bordeaux 2020 (£27.49, North South Wines): Spot-on Bordeaux; well balanced fruit, acidity and tannin. Plenty of takers for this.

Maison Brotte Esprit Rouge, Côtes du Rhône 2022 (£13.99, North South Wines): Cooked strawberry, charcoal and Vimto! Easy juice with extra points for value.

Domaine Claude Maréchal Bourgogne Côte d’Or Cuvée Gravel, Burgundy 2023 (£30, Vindependents): Richly fruited with ripe berry compote – a warm, full take on Pinot.

La Cave de Gigondas Vacqueyras Seigneur du Raveil, Vacqueyras, Rhône 2022 (£27, Vindependents): Dark cherry, red plum, tar and pepper; earthy finish –robust and complex.

Château Les Tourelles Rouge, Bordeaux AOC 2020 (£12, Vindependents): Dark fruit and tobacco; plentiful tannins; good, drinkable entry-point claret.

Domaine La Lôyane Cuvée L’Eclipse, Vin de France NV (£17, Vindependents): Herby and natural-feel with fruits on the red side; extremely gluggable.

GEORGIA

White

Vachnadziani Winery Mtsvane, Kakheti 2023 (£15.25, Hallgarten Wines): Interesting, zesty citrus wine with light texture and lemon peel finish.

GREECE

White

Ktima Gerovassiliou Estate White, Epanomi 2024 (£22.99, Hallgarten & Novum Wines): Greek wild herbs, lemon verbena; profound nose; deliciously citrussy complexity.

Muses Estate A.MUSE Malagousia, Central Greece 2024 (£21.49, Hallgarten & Novum Wines): Oldschool pineapple cubes and grapefruit – a delicious adult version of Lilt!

Manolesakis Estate Exis Malagousia/Assyrtiko, Macedonia 2024 (£15.25, Hallgarten & Novum Wines): Orange blossom nose with grapey notes, citrus and spice on the palate. Very intriguing.

Akriotou Orivatis Old Vine Savatiano, Sterea Ellada 2023 (£15.49, Hallgarten & Novum Wines): Lots of character and charm – poached stone fruit and honey.

Aoton Savatiano, Attica 2022 (£23, Southern Wine Roads): True to type with wonderful herbal intensity, dried apricot; not OTT.

Dourakis Vidiano, Crete 2022 (£28, Southern Wine Roads): Loads going on – oak and orchard fruit in tandem; richly interesting.

Diamantakis Petali Assyrtiko, Crete 2024 (£19, Vindependents): Preserved lemons and stone fruit with a lovely mouth feel and great length.

Diamantakis Vidiano, Crete 2024 (£18, Vindependents): Mountain herbs, almonds, peach stones and subtle citrus – pleasantly brisk and refreshing.

Red

Ktima Gerovassiliou Avaton, Macedonia 2021 (£29.49, Hallgarten & Novum Wines): Rich and full of fruit –blackberries, plums, figs. Balancing acidity, pleasantly firm tannins.

Navitas Winery Terre de Zeus Xinomavro, Macedonia 2021, (£25.75, Hallgarten & Novum Wines): Intense food-ready wine – bring on the meze for the grippy tannins and crunchy cassis.

Monemvasia Winery Voltes Agiorgitiko/Mavroudi, Wine of Greece 2023: (£15.49, Hallgarten & Novum Wines): Dried and fresh red and black fruits – plum, cherry, tomato; tangy and chewy.

Diamantakis Petali Liatiko, Crete 2021 (£18.50, Vindependents): Light and intriguing with red fruit and tangy tomato-acidity and frisky grip – feels Italian; great with food.

ITALY

Sparkling

Bellavista Teatro alla Scala Brut, Franciacorta 2020 (£41.25, Hallgarten & Novum Wines): Ripe fruit, poached pears and exotic tones; nicely rich style but balanced and soft.

Feudi di San Gregorio Greco Dubl Brut Edition II, Campania NV (£30.99, Hallgarten & Novum Wines); Lively fresh bubbles – green apple crispness and quince richness combined. Mineral finish.

Palazzona di Maggio Aspro, Emilia-Romagna 2023 (£17, Angus Wines): Lambrusco-style tangy dark fruit, boiled sweets and some yeasty-bready aromas.

White

Produttori di Manduria Zin Fiano, Puglia IGT 2024 (£17.30, Alliance Wine): Punchy fruit in a peachy style with gentle sweetness; easy soft drinking.

Cantina Lavis Pinot Grigio I Classici, Trentino 2024

(£13.99, Cachet Wine): Zippy, zingy, fresh and delicate; nicely balanced fruit-power and acidity.

Azienda Agricola Mario Giribaldi Gavi I Risi, Gavi 2023 (£19.99, Cachet Wine): Crisp, balanced; nice fruit and acidity; any Gavi lover would be very happy.

Azienda Agricola Mario Giribaldi Arneis, Langhe 2023 (£19.99, Cachet Wine): Clean, bright and creamy; nice weight; easy without being unexciting.

Cantina Lavis Nosiola, Trentino 2022 (£13.49, Cachet Wine): Delicately floral; touch of almond; fresh lively and crisp – great price.

Duca di Saragnano Toscana Bianco Sangiovese, IGT Toscana 2024 (£12.49, Cachet Wine): Unusual blanc de noirs with stone fruit and orchard flowers; fills the mouth with flavour.

Ippolito 1845 Mare Chiaro, Cirò 2023 (£16.25, Hallgarten & Novum Wines): Lovely nose of pretty citrus, tangerine and blossom; crisp and easy palate.

Vietti Timorasso, Derthona 2022 (£39.75, Hallgarten & Novum Wines): Herbaceous, delicate nose; crisp, lean and clean green fruit – cleansing finish.

Tramin Pinot Bianco, Alto Adige 2023 (£19.49, Hallgarten & Novum Wines): Crisp, nicely balanced; delicate with a burst of zippy peach bringing it all to life.

Collavini Ribolla Gialla Benedete, Friuli-Venezia Giulia 2022 (£18.75, Hallgarten & Novum Wines): Supercitrus – lemon pith, zest and juice; clean zippiness and a pleasingly bitter finish.

Denatile Pinot Grigio, Terre Siciliane IGP 2023 (£11.49, North South Wines): Nice acid power; delicate body; crisp, attractive fruit – excellent value.

Orange

Cortese Orange-utan Bianco, Terre Siciliane IGP 2023 (£15.99, North South Wines): Super-punchy mandarin; bags of flowers. Great acidity for orange wine. Delicate tannins.

Rosé

Sella & Mosca Anemone Rosato, Sardinia 2022 (£14.25, Hallgarten & Novum Wines): Very pretty colour; fresh fruit – expressive rhubarb. Very foodfriendly; long juicy finish.

highly coMMended Wines

ITALY RED

Produttori di Manduria Acid Crab Negroamaro, IGT Puglia 2023 (£15.99, Alliance Wine): A bright, ripe, warm, fruity wine showing good balance.

Produttori di Manduria, Lirica, IGT Puglia 2022 (£19.13, Alliance Wine): Smoky cherry fruit – lots of dark fruit succulence on the palate.

Tenuta Il Cascinone Crocera Barbera, Barbera d’Asti, Piedmont 2021 (£14, Boutinot): Earthy, plummy – a savoury style of Barbera with very well-integrated, easy tannins.

Cantina Lavis Marzemino I Classici, Trentino 2023 (£13.99, Cachet Wine): Good value and something a bit different: dark cherry, blackberry – very pleasant drinkability.

Zeni Amarone della Valpolicella DOC Barriques, Amarone della Valpolicella 2018 (£48.99, Cachet Wine): Good concentration of flavours, well balanced with vibrant fruit; good length.

Tenuta Gacci, Rubicone 2016 (£75, Cachet Wine): Some nice plush fruit and smoky notes with creamy texture – luxurious.

Cantina Lavis Pinot Nero I Classici, Trentino 2023 (£12.99, Cachet Wine): Easy-drinking cherry and red fruits; enjoyable summer wine for the garden.

Zeni Bardolino Classico Vigne Alte, Bardolino Classico 2023 (£13.99, Cachet Wine): Fresh red fruits and tangy high acidity – great value chillable red.

Colomba Bianca Nerello Mascalese Lavi, Sicily 2023 (£15.49, Hallgarten & Novum Wines): Classic Nerello at a great price – tannins very soft, acidity bright; food-friendly.

Al-Cantàra Lu Veru Piaciri Nerello Mascalese, Etna 2022 (£27.25, Hallgarten & Novum Wines): Evocative perfume; elegant and restrained – beautiful, very high-quality Etna Rosso.

Petra Toscana, Tuscany 2021 (£57, Hallgarten & Novum Wines): Rich in blackcurrant fruit – a powerful, ripe and well structured wine.

Badia a Coltibuono Montebello, Tuscany 2019, (£52.75, Hallgarten & Novum Wines): Dark cherries and black fruit with full dusty tannins – superb depth.

Campo alle Comete Rosso Bolgheri, Bolgheri 2021 (£83, Hallgarten & Novum Wines): Rich ripe cherries; attractive herbaceous notes; red pepper and smoke –complexity!

Carminucci Viabore Montepulciano/Sangiovese, Rosso Piceno 2022 (£12.49, Hallgarten & Novum Wines): Fruit-forward with bright cherry to the fore; great value, easy-drinking.

Castello Vicchiomaggio La Prima, Chianti Classico Gran Selezione 2021 (£50, Hallgarten & Novum Wines): Classy, restrained and pure; very bright and engaging with classic Chianti flavours.

Sella & Mosca Medeus Cannonau di Sardegna, Sardinia 2023 (£16.49, Hallgarten & Novum Wines): Lots of structure – firm and robust tannins, dark fruits; fragrant, complex nose.

Banfi Brunello di Montalcino, Brunello di Montalcino 2019 (£51, Hallgarten & Novum Wines): Absolutely classic Brunello – depth and structure, sour cherries and tobacco notes. Long.

Ippolito 1845 Liber Pater Gaglioppo, Cirò Rosso Classico Superiore, Campania 2023 (£16.75, Hallgarten & Novum Wines): Ripe cherries and fresh herbs; good minerality, toasty richness.

San Marzano Collezione Cinquanta Negroamaro/ Primitivo, Vino d’Italia NV (£26.75, Hallgarten & Novum Wines): Big ripe smoky fruits on the nose; sweet dark fruits on the palate. Lush.

San Marzano Susco Susumaniello, Puglia, Italy 2021 (£20.49, Hallgarten & Novum Wines): Inky dark and fragrant black fruits and spice. Brooding for the barbie.

Azienda Agricola Perusini Refosco, Colli Orientali del Friuli 2022 (£22, Moreno Wines): Pleasingly rustic style – crunchy red fruits and cherry acidity; great typicity.

Paolo Leo Mora Mora Malvasia Nera, IGP Salento 2022 (£14.99, North South Wines): Fragrant ripe blackcurrants and spices; sweet, intense, meaty palate. Excellent value.

Geografico Chianti Classico, Chianti Classico 2021 (£15.99, North South Wines): Would drink this very happily! Spice on the nose, dark cherry, ripe fruit sweetness.

Geografico Brunello di Montalcino, Brunello di Montalcino 2020 (£32.99, North South Wines): A soft, ripe-fruited take on Brunello – a punnet of ripe dark cherries.

Cortese Nostru Frappato, Terre Siciliane IGP 2023 (£14.99, North South Wines): Intense fruity notes with some Sicilian fire; savoury and classic sour cherry.

Denatile Nero d’Avola, Sicilia DOC 2023 (£11.99, North South Wines): Well made, good value wine with wide appeal; candied fruit; easy drinking.

Cà dei Maghi Valpolicella Classico Superiore Ripasso, Valpolicella Classico 2016 (£41, Vindependents): Primary, secondary and tertiary notes – great balance. Punches high even at this price point.

Fattoria di Calappiano Vinciano, Chianti DOCG Riserva 2019 (£21, Vindependents): A classic example of Riserva Chianti; good concentration and showing well.

Cà dei Maghi Valpolicella Classico, Valpolicella Classico 2023 (£21, Vindependents): A delicious burst of ripe cherry; really smart and drinkable for the price point.

LEBANON

White

Château Oumsiyat Cuvée Membliarus Assyrtico, Bekaa Valley 2023 (£13.75, Hallgarten & Novum Wines): Lots of wild herbal aromas – very evocative. Ripe, balanced palate.

Chateau Musar Hochar Père et Fils, Bekaa Valley 2020 (£25, Fells): Rich, mature warm red; dusky tannins; dried fruit; savoury, long finish.

Rosé

Chateau Purcari 1827 Rosé, Stefan Voda 2023 (£14.95, Transylvania Wine): Very pale. Delightful balance to go with the full flavour – well made.

Red

Chateau Purcari Academia Purcari Feteasca Neagra, Stefan Voda 2019 (£49.95, Transylvania Wine): Complex, interesting; notes of mocha and savoury undertones.

Chateau Purcari Nocturne Rara Neagra, Stefan Voda 2022 (£19.95, Transylvania Wine): Strong nose with rich fruit character; soft texture into the easy finish.

Chateau Purcari Rosu de Purcari, Stefan Voda 2019 (£24.95, Transylvania Wine): Nicely made and balanced – good fruit and structure and length.

Chateau Purcari Freedom Blend, Stefan Voda 2021 (£19.95, Transylvania Wine): Simple but charming crowd-pleaser; fruit-led, enjoyable, easy-drinking.

Chateau Purcari Feteasca Neagra, Stefan Voda 2020 (£19.95, Transylvania Wine): Enjoyably rustic and fruity palate; shows really good Feteasca varietal character.

Chateau Purcari Maluri de Prut, Stefan Voda 2021 (£19.95, Transylvania Wine): Black fruits in abundance – rich, deep-filled cherry and blackberry pie.

Chateau Purcari Pinot Noir Limited Edition, Stefan Voda 2020 (£19.95, Transylvania Wine): Varietally true Pinot Noir in a sweetly-fruited style with soft tannins and no bitterness.

NEW ZEALAND

Prophet’s Rock Pinot Gris, Central Otago 2022 (£36.46, Jascots Wine Merchants): A lovely wine; nice salinity; soft waxy texture; good ripeness.

White

Chateau Purcari Alb de Purcari, Stefan Voda 2021 (£24.95, Transylvania Wine): Great value for serious wine; toasted oak, almonds, rounded palate.

Tohu Wines Awa Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc, Awatere, Marlborough 2023 (£22.49, North South Wines): Some nice typical Kiwi SB qualities; good texture, weight and concentration.

Red

MOLDOVA

highly coMMended Wines

NEW ZEALAND WHITE CONTINUED

Matawhero Church House Chenin Blanc, Gisborne 2024 (£18.50, Vindependents): Salty apple with nice heightened crispness; soft honeyed nose; good texture.

Red

Te Kano Kin Pinot Noir, Central Otago 2021 (£26.95, Davy’s Wine Merchants): Inviting, primary nose; light black fruit, very drinkable Pinot indeed.

Seifried Aotea Cabernet Franc, Nelson 2021 (£26, Fells): Classic Cab Franc combo of greenness and blackcurrants – Loire goes to New Zealand.

Cloudy Bay Te Wahi, Central Otago 2021 (£72.50, Moët Hennessy UK): Sensational palate, delivers well on the nose, layers of complexity and wonderful balance.

PORTUGAL

White

Poças Tongue Twister, Vinho Verde 2023 (£12.49, Cachet Wine): Very classic characteristics for Vinho Verde: fresh, crisp, great acidity – just right.

Reguengo de Melgaço Minho Alvarinho, Vinho Verde 2023 (£21.49, Hallgarten & Novum Wines): Lovely mouth feel; beautiful pure fruit – very racy and clean with herbal characters.

Esporão Reserva White Organic, Alentejo 2023 (£20, Hatch Mansfield): Rich golden colour, rich honeydew melons, smoky oak – lots of character and depth.

Herdade dos Grous Branco, Alentejo 2024 (£19.80, Marta Vine): A lovely wine – loads of tropical fruit sparkling on the palate. Great fresh finish.

Herdade dos Grous Reserva Branco, Alentejo 2023 (£26.50, Marta Vine): Yummy Burgundian richness of oak and ripe fruit – great balance.

Lindeborg Wines Vila Jardim Branco, Tejo 2023 (£10, Reserve Wines): Balanced nice fruit with light floral notes; very good acidity at just a tenner.

Orange

Poças Fora da Série Orange, Douro 2021 (£25.99, Cachet Wine): Leaps out of the glass; lovely weight on palate – great texture.

Red

Poças Vinha do Cerro, Douro 2022 (£39.99, Cachet Wine): Big rich style – feels like port as a dry red wine but it works well.

Poças Fora da Série Red Roga, Douro 2021 (£25.99, Cachet Wine): Deliciously ripe, but not OTT; balanced and succulent. Well made.

Quinta da Romaneira Sino, Douro 2021 (£22.99, Hallgarten & Novum Wines): A lovely warming darkfruits cuddle, yet structured. Very good tannins.

Quinta da Romaneira Touriga Nacional, Três Parcelas, Douro 2020 (£43, Hallgarten & Novum Wines): Sweet red fruits beautifully presented; floral notes; lots of complexity and depth.

Casa Clara Monte da Capela Alfrocheiro, Alentejo 2020 (£18.80, Marta Vine): Big, bold, fragrant, herbal; ripe stewed fruit; robustly enjoyable.

Herdade Paço do Conde Touriga Nacional e Syrah, Alentejano 2022 (£18.50, Marta Vine): Big fruits, spicy plum blackberries, chocolate. Very good structure. Commercial.

DFJ Vinhos Grande Arte Alicante Bouschet, Lisboa 2022 (£16.49, Richmond Wine Agencies): Very good. Dark, spicy fruit, integrated tannins, spicy medium-tofull body.

Fortified

Butler Nephew & Co 20 Years Old White Port, Douro NV (£42.35, Daniel Lambert Wines): Raisins and antique furniture! Intriguing and still vibrant –something a bit different.

Butler Nephew & Co 10 Years Old White Port, Douro NV (£22.85, Daniel Lambert Wines): Fresh but full of dried fruit and all drizzled with honey. Highly drinkable.

Dow’s Quinta do Bomfim Vintage Port, Douro 2013 (£37.99, Fells): Very true to the style – dried fruit and bright acidity. Serious quality.

Graham’s Quinta dos Malvedos Vintage Port, Douro 2018 (£38.95, Fells): Smart, elegant style with fresh fruit and fine-grained tannin; one for the cellar.

Graham’s 10 Year Old Tawny Port, Douro NV (£22.99, Fells): Fig, raisin, plum and citrus peel; Demerara sugar; cola cube – great value.

Warre’s Quinta da Cavadinha Vintage Port, Douro 2010 (£38.99, Fells): Hazelnut and raisin and warm fruits; this is very pleasantly evolved and complex.

Graham’s Six Grapes Port, Douro NV (£16.99, Fells): Sweet, fruit-forward, easy-drinking port – a good entry point.

Blandy’s 10 Year Old Bual, Madeira NV (£39.99, Fells): Very accessible Madeira – spicy with loads of dried fruit and lively acidity.

ROMANIA

White

Budureasca The Sign Tamaioasa Romaneasca, Dealu Mare 2023 (£14.95, Transylvania Wine): Something different – a bit like a Gewürztraminer. Lovely texture; ginger spice; roses.

Rosé

Domeniile Averesti Diamond Busuioaca de Averesti, Moldova 2023 (£19.95, Transylvania Wine): Massive perfume, hugely aromatic. Great texture and balance. Really well made.

Legendary Dracula Băbească Neagră, Nicoresti 2020 (£13.95, Transylvania Wine): Pot-pourri floral; distinctive. Not for everyone but of real interest – a talking point.

Budureasca The Sign Shiraz, Dealu Mare 2023 (£14.95, Transylvania Wine): A decent example of Shiraz, ideal midweek steak wine; black fruit and black pepper.

Draculea Feteasca Neagra & Shiraz, Dealu Mare 2019 (£21.95, Transylvania Wine): Sweet, dried strawberry, black raspberry, smoky-sweet vanilla. Unusual but fun.

Legendary Dracula 555 Feteasca Neagra, Dealu Mare 2020 (£21.95, Transylvania Wine): Quite developed and evolved; pleasingly dusty fruit and fine tannins.

SOUTH AFRICA

Sparkling

Laborie Blanc de Blancs, Western Cape 2019 (£17.49, North South Wines): Fresh citrus peel, light biscuits with green apple notes. Lively.

White

Aloe Tree Chenin Blanc, Western Cape 2024 (£11.74, Alliance Wine): Peach/nectarine aroma, clean fresh acidity; pithy, drinkable, good value.

Jordan Nine Yards Chardonnay, Stellenbosch 2023 (£45.50, Awin Barratt Siegel Wine Agencies): Struckmatch aroma; buttery coconut and oak, green fruits – very smart; still young.

Wildeberg Coterie Semillon Sauvignon, Coastal Region 2023 (£14, Boutinot): Very lemony – intense, mouth-watering and refreshing. Not complex but very good for the price.

Daschbosch Avon Clairette Blanche, Breedekloof 2022 (£22, Boutinot): Lots of fruit in here – tropical, citrus and orchard – summer flowers, delicate fresh acidity.

Avondale Anima Chenin Blanc, Paarl 2021 (£22.49, Cachet Wine): Golden fruits, syrupy texture, vanilla and spice – big acidity cuts through.

Avondale Cyclus, Paarl 2019 (£25.49, Cachet Wine): Lovely complexity – richness but not overdone. Love the mix of floral notes, oak and fruit.

Bruce Jack Wines Off The Charts Skin Contact Chenin Blanc, Swartland 2024 (£14.99, Hallgarten & Novum Wines): Subtle apricot aroma; rich round mouth feel with clean fruit; pleasingly dry finish.

Rosé

Jordan Dry Rosé, Stellenbosch 2024 (£20.40, Awin Barratt Siegel Wine Agencies): Deliciously ripe style with big grapefruit citrus flavour and acidity. Good dry finish.

Red

Aloe Tree Shiraz, Western Cape 2024 (£11.94, Alliance Wine): Simple, juicy, gluggable Shiraz – very berry and bright.

highly coMMended Wines

SOUTH AFRICA RED CONTINUED

Jordan The Prospector Syrah, Stellenbosch 2022 (£25, Awin Barratt Siegel Wine Agencies): Richly alluring nose – spice and dark fruits and toast. Good balance and intensity.

Wildeberg Kleine Oranjerie Merlot, Western Cape 2024 (£11, Boutinot): Nice finish, nice balance, nice fruit – properly wow for £11!

False Bay Vineyards Old School Syrah, Coastal Region 2023 (£11, Boutinot): Uncomplicated but with very good varietal character and a great price.

Avondale La Luna, Paarl 2017 (£28.99, Cachet Wine): The Ronseal of Paarl Cabernets – loads of blackcurrant fruit. Lovely and perfumed; harmonious.

Avondale Samsara Syrah, Western Cape 2017 (£26.99, Cachet Wine): Belies its age with its youthful character. Savoury nose with a touch of smoked meat.

Lady of Abundance Groot Constantia, Constantia 2021 (£18.75, Hallgarten & Novum Wines): Dark bramble fruit; slight lick of oak; black pepper and savoury smoke.

Bruce Jack Wines Off The Charts Pinotage, Western Cape 2023 (£15.49, Hallgarten & Novum Wines): Classic youthful Pinotage style – smoky Beaujolais for the braai.

Holden Manz Vernissage, Franschhoek 2021 (£19, Vindependents): Interesting, enticing, come-hither Merlot. Spice, mocha, plush tannins. Bargain.

Holden Manz Big G, Franschhoek 2020 (£35, Vindependents): Graphite pencil nose; big nice ripe cassis fruit. Firm structure.

Nivarius Pet-Nat Rosado, Spain 2022 (£18.49, Hallgarten & Novum Wines): Pink sweet-fruit nose; candied and easy-drinking – fun fizz.

Roger Goulart Brut Nature Reserva, Cava 2021 (£21.30, Hatch Mansfield): Slightly floral, yeasty dry style with nice fresh lime and orchard fruit. Good value.

White

Bodegas Luis Cañas Blanco Viñas Viejas, Rioja 2024 (£22.69, Alliance Wine): Really like the balance of fruit and freshness and texture – classy white Rioja.

Torres Spain Gran Viña Sol, Penedès 2023 (£12.50, Fells): Good price for easy freshness and just the right golden apple and citrus mix.

Ailalá Treixadura, Ribeiro 2023 (£18.25, Hallgarten & Novum Wines): Honey, minerals white peach and elderflower. Delectable mouth feel; balance and elegance.

Viños de Encostas by Xosé Lois Sebio, Ribeiro 2022 (£26.99, Hallgarten & Novum Wines): Oak, stone fruit and saffron nose; mineral palate with lots of bright acid. Foodie.

Bodegas Ondarre Rioja Blanco Valderon, Rioja 2023 (£15.49, Hallgarten & Novum Wines): Pomelo, green mango, toastiness: all on a creamy palate. Really good.

CVNE La Val Finca Arantei Albariño, Rías Baixas 2023 (£26, Hatch Mansfield): Slate and pebble – very mineral with hints of yellow plum. High quality.

Bodem Bodegas Oxte The Silence White Blend, Aragon 2024 (£12.99, North South Wines): Tasty peach and pear fruit; ripe yet fresh – simply good value.

Marqués de Riscal Rueda Limousin, Rueda 2022 (£22.95, Richmond Wine Agencies): Green apple skin; silky chalk-like texture; saline with long phenolic finish.

Terras de Compostela Alma De Compostela Albariño, Rías Baixas 2022 (£27.50, Vindependents): White flowers and nectarines; beautiful mouth feel; so long and lingering. Lovely.

Rico Nuevo Viticultores Flor de Albihar, Cebreros 2021 (£32, Moreno Wines): Honey, acacia, orange and mandarin; light of foot, despite skin-contact grip.

Rosé

Jean Leon 3055 Pinot Noir Rosé Organic, Penedès 2023 (£14.50, Fells): Very soft strawberry and cream –subtle and pale; well-made easy-breezy rosé.

SPAIN

Sparkling

Red

Bodegas Principe de Viana Reserva, Navarra 2019 (£12.99, Cachet Wine): Nice aromatic medical notes without fake oak; refreshing and good overall value.

Bodegas Luis Cañas Reserva Selección de la Familia, Rioja 2019 (£32.49, Alliance Wine): Smoky wood and dark fruit; lots of structured power and concentration. Modern feel.

Bodegas Emilio Moro Finca Resalso, Ribera del Duero 2023 (£18.50, Alliance Wine): Great balance of wellripened Tempranillo fruit and soft oak. Drinkable power.

Descendientes de J Palacios Petalos, Bierzo 2022 (£22.49, Bancroft Wines): Fragrant and full of dark cherry juiciness – powerful tannins; good balance.

Borsao Tres Picos, Campo de Borja 2021 (£20, Boutinot): Rich, ripe, dark fruit; dark chocolate. Weighty with integrated tannins.

Juan Gil Yellow Label, Jumilla 2023 (£15, Boutinot): Dark ripe fruit; coffee and dark chocolate provide pleasantly bitter contrast.

Ontañon Rippa Dorii Crianza, Ribera del Duero 2021 (£17, Boutinot): Some classic notes of vanilla, dark black berries and sandalwood; dusky tannins.

Borsao Selección Tinto, Campo de Borja 2023 (£12, Boutinot): Perfect price point: full of ripe dark cherries. A simple gluggable delight.

El Escocés Volante Manga del Brujo Tinto, Calatayud 2021 (£19.95, Boutinot): Jammy fruit in deluxe style with dark chocolate – black forest gâteau in a glass.

Jean Leon 3055 Merlot/Petit Verdot, Penedès 2021 (£14.50, Fells): A fine simple table wine with good fruit that is built for midweek pizza.

Casa los Frailes Monastrell, Valencia 2023 (£18.45, Graft Wine): Fantastic spice box mixing with just-ripe fruit; very natural and drinkable.

Bodegas Resalte de Peñafiel Vendimia Seleccionada, Ribera del Duero 2021 (£22.75, Hallgarten & Novum Wines): Polished fruit, aromatic herbs and lavender; lovely structure; classic, classy oak.

CVNE Asua Crianza, Rioja 2021 (£15.50, Hatch Mansfield): Oak with blackberry and red fruit – nice streak of freshness, smooth tannins.

CVNE Viña Real Reserva, Rioja 2019 (£24.10, Hatch Mansfield): Beautiful nose of smoke and rich, ripe fruit; powerful palate with food-friendly tannins.

Bodegas La Horra Corimbo, Ribera del Duero 2020 (£27, Mentzendorff): Smoky dark fruit: almost meaty; oak in tune with the fruit; lovely depth.

Vega Tolosa Bobal Icon, Manchuela 2023 (£14.50, Moreno Wines): A lovely juicy table wine; black forest gâteau; cedar. Soft tannins. Value.

Bodem Bodegas Oxte The Silence Red Blend, Aragon 2023 (£12.99, North South Wines): Good concentration, lovely dark ripe fruits and acidity; juicy body.

Marco Abella Clos Abella, Priorat 2021 (£55, Vindependents): Bags of fruit and a sprinkling of ground white pepper; sweet charred red pepper.

Marco Abella Loidana, Priorat 2022 (£24, Vindependents): Eucalyptus and soft fruit and tannins; tobacco flower, patchouli – flower power!

Marco Abella Mas Mallola, Priorat 2022 (£33.50, Vindependents): Full nose. Fruity unctuous cherry and vanilla. Balanced acidity and tannins. Chambord vibe!

Bodegas Martínez Lacuesta La Sucursal, Rioja 2020 (£39.50, Vindependents): Lovely dark fruit, blackcurrant/blackberry and oak. Gutsy tannins; long finish.

Mas Blanch i Jové Troballa Negra, Costers del Segre 2022 (£21, Vindependents): Blackberries, vanilla; weighty, rich and unctuous. Sweet fruit, excellent bang for buck.

Fortified

Bodegas Lustau Vermut Blanco, Jerez NV (£26.99, Bancroft Wines): Classic white vermouth – properly medicinal smell and wonderful finish.

highly coMMended Wines

TURKEY

Red

Kuzubağ Çal Karası, Aegean 2023 (£18.75, Hallgarten & Novum Wines): Fluent, light red-fruited fun with tangy acidity on the finish.

USA

White

Phelps Creek Gorge Crest Gewürztraminer, Oregon 2019 (£26.95, Davy’s Wine Merchants): Wellmannered Gewürz – some herbal notes alongside rose and lychee. Good acidity.

Red

Terlato Rutherford Hill Merlot, Napa Valley 2021 (£52.15, Awin Barratt Siegel Wine Agencies): Ripe fruits – dark cherry and plum to the max. Some spice on the finish.

Penfolds Bin 704, Napa Valley 2021 (£60, Treasury Wine Estates): Full and powerful but real balance and elegance. Soft, rounded red and black fruit.

Chimney Rock Stags Leap District Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley 2021 (£123, Hallgarten & Novum Wines): Dense and dark – clearly very fine wine but needs 10 years at least.

Joseph Phelps Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley 2021 (£86, Moët Hennessy UK): Wonderfully complex but so drinkable. Herbal, smoky, spicy nose. Hugely inviting.

giving soMeThing Back

The Wine Merchant Top 100 is a proud supporter of a variety of charities and good causes. Several of our judges waive their nominal £100 fees and ask us to send the money direct to a charity of their choice. In addition to this, any spare wine from the competition raises much-needed cash for a variety of institutions – some of them national or international, others which are based near our home in East Sussex.

Here are some of our recent beneficiaries:

Disasters Emergency Committee

Médecins Sans Frontières

Children With Cancer Fund, Polegate

Seahaven Community Food, Newhaven

Seahaven Storehouse, Seaford

leading suppliers

Methodology

WINNING WINES ON TASTE AT THE LONDON WINE FAIR