Our Wine List

There is something exciting about sampling new and rare wines at the Crown. Doing just that has added another dimension, rarely found elsewhere. It has created a following from discerning customers who simply want to experience some of the best drinking wines available today – over 30 by the glass from a personally compiled collection of over 250 bins, at reasonable prices, with or without food, after all this is a pub!

 

Dry, fresh & mineral white wines
201.        2010 Colombard – Côtes de Gascogne   14.95
A dry easy drinking fresh wine with citrus tones. 
202.
203.        2010 Pinot Grigio Via Nova – Italy   15.75
Lemony on the nose, with a delicious balance, very easy-to-drink dry white.
204.        2010 Sauvignon Blanc, Les Vigneaux – Languedoc   16.50
Light with a little gooseberry and grass character with a  zingy finish
205.        2010 Picpoul de Pinet, Baron de Badassiere – Languedoc   16.25
Pale with fresh fruit aromas of citrus and some floral notes. 
206.        2010 Muscadet Château Coing st. Fiacre – Loire   17.50
Fantastic with all types of seafood – exceptional balance
207.        2010 Lois Gruner Veltliner Loimer- Austria   18.50
Fresh, bright, with zesty fruit – one of our favourites
208.        2009 Bourgogne Aligoté, Perraud – Burgundy   19.25
A lovely well made Aligote, delicate on the nose, elegant on the palate
209.        2010 Sauvignon blanc, Reuilly la Raie, Lafond – Loire, France   20.75
Sancerre without the price tag
210.        2008 Pinot Blanc, Trimbach – Alsace   21.50
Plenty of lovely lemony fruit 
211.        2010 Lugana, ca’ dei fratti – Lugana, Italy   21.75
Ripe fruit with a zesty mineral freshness 
212.        2010 HPF Sauvignon Blanc – South Africa   22.50
Steely, flinty and very concentrated
216.        2010 Gavi di Gavi, Giustinlana – Italy   23.00
A great example of just how good Gavi can be if made by the right winemaker
213.        2009 Verdejo, Naia, Bodegas Naia – Rueda   24.50
Great for summer, pairs marvellously with poultry, and seafood.
214.        2010 Pinot Grigio Ramato, Azienda Agricola Specogna – Italy   27.00
Slightly pink delicate and refreshing, a very classy pinot grigio 
215.        2009 Pinot Blanc, Greenhough – Nelson New Zealand   27.75
Aromas of ripe, fresh pears, star anise and mealy, savouriness. On the palate a combination of fresh green and ripe pears with gingerbread spice to the finish.
217.        2007 Sauvignon Blanc  ‘piere’, Vie de Romans – Isonzo   30.00
Wonderfully balanced with a lingering peach finish
218.        2010 Pouilly Fume, Domaine De Bel Air – Loire   31.00
Grass, currants, citrus fruits all with a vibrant acidity and a fruity finish
219.        2010 Sancerre, Jean Paul Balland -  Loire   33.50
Fresh and floral in style with a distinct gooseberry aroma
220.        2009 Sauvignon Blanc Phelps – Napa Valley, California   42.50
Refreshing acidity with lemon citrus on the nose. Fine example of USA made Sauvignon blanc
Aromatic – Dry & Fruity
301.        2010 Pinot Gris, Yealands – New Zealand   18.25
Crisp pear and apple notes with a fine delicate finish
302.        2008 Riesling Mitchell – Clare Valley, Australia   19.75
Crisp acidity and a long lingering fruit finish. Classic Riesling ‘petrolly’ nose.
303.        2010 Viognier, Atlas Cumbres – Mendoza, Argentina   21.00
Ripe melon and peach nose, almost floral. Try something different!
304.        2009 Riesling Bruno Sorg – Alsace   22.00
Crisp, dry rich lime fruit from the home of Riesling.
305.        2009 Julius Riesling, Henschke, – Eden Valley HillHHH, Australia   27.00
Green gold in colour. Floral and perfumed with rose petals, lime lemon zest, and excellent length.
306.        2010 Sauvignon Blanc, Greywacke – Marlborough, New Zealand   27.75
A modern classic from the maker of Cloudy bay – Kevin Judd. Sets the benchmark for new world sauvignons!
307.        2009 Sauvignon Blanc, Staete Landt – Marlborough, New Zealand   27.75
 Intensely aromatic with rose petals, orange blossom and tropical fruit characters
309.        2008 Cotes Du Rhone Blanc – Domaine Jaume   28.00
Textured floral delight – which has big chunk of viognier within it.
308.        2010 Riesling Polish Hill, Grosset – Clare Valley, Australia   31.75
The fruit is handpicked. No oak, no malolactic fermentation or any lees contact – it is just left to the fruit!
Aromatic – Off Dry to Medium Dry
310.        2009 Chenin Blanc Kanu – South Africa   17.00
Crisp and full bodied, easy drinking and refined Chenin Blanc.
311.        2009 Gewürztraminer reserve, Cave de Hunawihr – Alsace   19.00
Pale gold colour , crisp floral notes
312.        2009 Muscat Koenig – Alsace   20.50
Perfect aperitif for a summer night on the terrace
313.        2010 Sylvaner Vieilles Vignes, Domaine Ostertag, – Epfig, Alsace   22.00
Extraordinary depth of floral mineral flavours but bone dry.
314.        2007 Riesling Kabinett, Fritz Haag – Germany   28.00
Medium Dry and low in alcohol – amongst the very best of Germany.
315.        2004 Pinot Gris Sonnenglanz, Domaine Bott-Geyl – Alsace   40.00
 
316.        2005 Riesling Sommerberg Jeunes Vignes, Albert Boxler – Alsace   30.95
Zesty and fresh with white peach fruit complemented by juicy lime
Rich & Full Bodied Whites – Non Chardonnay
317.        2010 La Ferme Julien, Perrin & Fils Cotes Du Luberon   17.75
Bright pale yellow with hints of green fruit, corn and hazelnuts
318.        2010 Albariño Bodegas Benito Santos – Igrexario de Saiar, Spain   22.00
Rich, full of colour and gently spicy. This pale lemon-coloured wine has aromas of peach, green apple and white flowers. 
319.        2008 Marsanne, Qupé Winery – Santa Barbara, California   27.50
Leave this in the glass for a good 5 minutes, it takes a while to unwind, but then it hits its stride with hay, lemon pith, apricot and ripe pear flavours.
320.        2007 Semillion Henschke  – Eden Valley  Australia   28.35
Superb wine with citrus-fruit characters. Henscke’s finest white.
321.        2007 Mas d’en Compte Blanco, Joan Sangenis, – Priorat Spain   29.00
This blend of Garnacha Blanca, Picapoul, Pansa l and Macabeo, almost Burgundian with overtones of some burnt oak – surprisingly delicious.
322.        2009 Albarino, Ca’ del Solo Bonny Doon – Monterey County, California   30.25
Oily, green papaya and quince, hints of grapefruit and stony firmness
323.        2004 Cotes Du Rhone Blanc Chateau Fonsalette – Rhone   42.50
Intense floral and ripe fruit fragrance, deep and viscous on the palate with just enough acid to keep it balanced 
324.        2002 Chateauneuuf de Pape Chateau Rayas – Rhone   65.40
Rayas is a legend – unique wines – extraordinarily elegant and expressive, fantastic complexity.
Chardonnays – non Burgundy
Lighter Bodied
401.        2009 Chardonnay, Château Pesquié – Ventoux, Southern France   18.75
Clear and golden in colour – great with succulent chunky fish
402.
403.        2010 Bramìto del Cervo, Castello Della Sala, Antinori – Italy   26.75
Straw yellow colour with golden tinges. It has a fruity aroma and hints of vanilla and toast. 
404.
405.
406.        2006 Chardonnay, Clayvin Vineyard, – Marlborough New Zealand   35.00
Very difficult to distinguish between these chardonnays and the similarity with Burgundy. Clayvin here shows tremendous subtle use of oak adding to its beautiful melon and vanilla complexity.
407.        2005 Chardonnay, Bell Hill, – Canterbury New Zealand   75.00
Very ripe fruit from a great Kiwi producer.
408.        2006 Chardonnay, Bell Hill, – Canterbury New Zealand   69.75
Minerally and peachy, different from 2005
Medium to fuller Bodied
409.        2009 Chardonnay, Yerring Station – Yarra Valley, Victoria, Australia   19.00
Well structured clean citrus fruit flavours, hints of oak and well-balanced acidity
410.        2009 Chardonnay, Au Bon Climat – Santa Barbara County, California   31.00
Intensely mineral and focused combined with Burgundian sensibility with Californian style.
411.        2006 Chardonnay Piccadilly Jeffrey Grosset – Clare Valley, Australia   31.75
Rich and concentrated and rich with vivid acidity – from a very well respected producer
412.        2007 Chardonnay, Moorooduc Estate, McIntyre , Australia   46.00
Weighty yet crunchy ripe fruit with cedary oak, seamless texture and vibrant finish
413.        2008 Chardonnay ‘Kevin John’, Cullen’s, Margaret River, Australia   49.50
Great depth, intensity and length. The youthful melon and lime fruit flavours are balanced by good acidity and just the right amount of oak
414.        2008 Chardonnay, Santa Cruz Ridge Vineyards, California   50.50
Really wound up number, distinct use of oak, full of lemon oil, subtle blossom notes and wild herbs
Chardonnays – Burgundy
In my humble opinion the finest white wine producing area in the world. 
Chablis
50 years ago there were just 400ha of vineyards in Chablis, today there are 4,900ha. The generic and premier cru vineyards have doubled since 1970. Being further north than the rest of Burgundy, and on a different version of limestone – Kimmeridgian, and some Portlandian the wines are subtly but fundamentally different in style – fresh minerality and steeliness which makes them so good with seafood. Allow the wines time to settle and relax in the glass, and enjoy it as it develops in the glass.
501.        2009/10 Petit Chablis, Domaine du Colombier   24.75
502.        2009 Chablis, Domaine Seguinot-Bordet   25.75
503.        2009 Chablis 1er cru Montmains, Jean Marc Brocard   33.00
504.        2006 Chablis Grand Cru Grenouilles, Domaine William Fevre   50.00
Macon/Chalonais
The Mâconnais is a most dynamic region. In the past Pouilly Fuissé, rich and ripe white wines, stood out from the crowd, but a new generation of growers are now producing some excellent Mâcon Villages. These wines used to be cheap and simple, rarely lasting more than a year or two after the vintage, but now one or two growers in each village are making proper, oak aged, complex and reasonably concentrated wines which will develop well in bottle.
The Côte Chalonnaise is south of the main Côte d’Or, the vineyards are interspersed with other forms as agriculture, with just the more favoured slopes being dedicated to vineyards. These wines are fuller and richer wines, more intensity of fruit but with that glorious burgundian overtone of substance and style.
506.        2009 Macon Bussieres, Domain Gonon   20.00
505.        2008 St Véran, Les Chailloux Domaine des Deux Roches, Davayé   23.50
507.   24.90
508.        2009 Montagny 1er cru ‘Le Vieux Château’, Domaine Laurent Cognard   27.50
509.        2009 Mâcon-Milly-Lamartine, Les Héritiers des Comtes Lafon   29.75
510.        2007 Pouilly-Fuissé Les Combette, Chateau de Fuissé   36.20
511.        2006 Macon Verze, Domaine Leflaive  (l/s)   38.50
512.        2009 Rully Blanc, Domaine de Dureuil-Janthial   32.00
White Burgundy
The heartland for white burgundy is the Côte de Beaune with its three great villages, Meursault, Puligny-Montrachet and Chassagne-Montrachet. On the flattest land, the wines will be classed only as generic Bourgogne Blanc; as the slope begins to rise the wines are designated by the name of their village.  The wines listed below are more affordable but perhaps not as complex but no less enjoyable.
514.        2006 Marsannay Blanc, Domaine Sylvain Pataille   28.75
515.        2007 Saint Aubin La Princée, Domaine Hubert Lamy   33.80
516.        2006 Bourgogne Blanc, Domaine Patrick Javillier   30.25
517.
518.
Chardonnays – Burgundy cont’d
White Burgundy – Corton & Nuit-Saint-Georges
These wines are the furthest north in Burgundy apart from the Marsannay on our list of white wines. As a rule they are more subtle and have greater minerality than their counterparts further south. Nuit St Georges lies in the south of the Cote de Nuits, whilst Corton-Charlemagne lies astride three villages at the northern end of the Côte de Beaune – Ladoix, Aloxe-Corton  and Pernand Vergelesses. The main body of the hill of Corton faces due south, with an extended flank exposed to the east, and another facing westwards. The white wines mostly come from the west and south-west expositions, along with a narrow band around the top of the hill. These are cracking wines showing the minerality one would expect.
601.        2007 Nuits St. Georges 1er Cru Clos de la Marechale Blanc,   80.00
Domaine Jacques-Frederic Mugnier
602.        2000 Corton-Charlemagne, le Charlemagne Grand Cru,   74.00
Domaine de La Vougeraie (L/S)
White Burgundy – Meursault
Meursault is probably the most famous and popular of the great white appellations. Its wines are typically rich and savoury with nutty, honeyed hints and buttery, vanilla spice from the oak. 
619.        2009 Bourgogne Blanc, Domaine Patrick Javillier   32.00
In effect drinking great value Meursault from one of the regions greats!
603.        2008 Meursault, Grands Charrons Domaine Michel Bouzereau & Fils   42.00
604.        2007 Meursault, cuvée Charles Maxine, Domaine Latour-Giraud (L/S)   38.00
621.        2007 Meursault, Tessons Domaine Darviot-Perrin   48.00
605.        2007 Meursault, Clos des Ambres Domaine Arnaud Ente  (L/S)   70.00
606.        2005 Meursault Tête de Murgers, Domaine Patrick Javillier   65.65
607.        2003 Meursault 1er Cru Santenots, Domaine Marquis d’Angerville   50.00
White Burgundy – Montrachet
When it comes to the world’s greatest white wines, the border between Chassagne and Puligny is it! 
Chassagne’s style is perhaps between that of Puligny-Montrachet and Meursault: less fine than Puligny, less rich and intense than Meursault but contains both. Chassagne is minerally yet succulent, often floral with hints of hazelnuts. Puligny produces wines that are more striking than any, portraying an elegance alongside a stylish, steely concentration. They are very different to Meursault: more refined and delicate, and less rich.
620.        2009 Bourgogne Blanc, Domaine Etienne Sauzet   33.25
In effect drinking great value Puligny from one of the regions superstars!
608.        2008 Puligny Montrachet, Domaine Louis Carillon   43.00
609.        2007 Chassagne-Montrachet, Domaine Ramonet  (L/S)   50.90
610.        2008 Puligny Montrachet, Domaine Jean Louis Chavy (L/S)   35.00
611.        2007 Chassagne Montrachet 1er Cru La Boudriotte  (L/S)   55.00
Domaine Fontaine-Gagnard
612.        2007 Chassagne-Montrachet, Domaine Boillot   60.00
613.        2009 Puligny-Montrachet Francois Carillon   40.00
614.        2004 Puligny Montrachet, 1er Cru Les Folatières,   67.00
Domaine Cht. de Puligny Montrachet
615.
616.        2001 Chevalier-Montrachet Grand Cru  (L/S)   168.00
Domaine Cht. de Puligny Montrachet
617.        2000 Batard-Montrachet, Grand Cru , Etienne Sauzet   130.00
618.        1999 Puligny-Montrachet, Domaine Leflaive   (LS)   80.00


 

 

Lighter & medium bodied juicy Reds
801.        2010 Grenache Merlot, les vignes de l’eglise – Languedoc   14.95
Good depth of colour, and a good balance between the opulent fruit and full, robust tannins. Stunning for the price.
802.        2010 Cabernet Sauvignon, Siete Soles Estate – Chile   15.75
Cherry and plum flavours  – New World red at its best
803.        2010 Monastrell, Bodegas Castano – Spain   16.25
Intense aromas of ripe red fruit.  Wonderful with cheese
804.        2010 Cotes Du Rhône, Mas Arnaud – Rhône   16.75
Ripe, soft, juicy & pleasing
805.        2010 Montepulciano d’abruzzo, Gran Susso - Italy   17.25
Deep black-red in colour with a youthful dark purple hue. A great Monty!
806.        2010 Gamay de Touraine, Domaine Bellevue – Loire   17.75
Made from the Beaujolais grape bute here a little bit more gutsy                       
807.        2009 Cairanne – La Cuvée du Belvédère – Rhône   18.00
A classic from the Rhône – cherry and spice in abundance  
808.        2009 Merlot, Casa Lapostolle, Rapel Valley, Chile   19.50
Spicy red fruit flavours partially aged in French oak
809.        2010 Pinot Noir, Omrah – Western Australia   19.75
This is a delicate pinot noir which has gentle spicy fruit and a silky texture- a top seller
810.        2010 Valpolicella, Allegrini – Verona   20.00
Should be classico but for the screwcap, sensational
811.        2007 Cabernet Sauvignon, Atlas Cumbres – Mendoza, Argentina   21.00
Jammy flavors of cherry and licorice, this cabernet is an excellent value.
812.        2010 Dolcetto d’Alba, GD Vajra – Piedmont Italy   21.25
I was gobsmacked by its drinkability. If you enjoy Montepulciano or other similar reds from Italy try this – simply fantastic value.
813.        2009 Corbières, Domaine des Crouzets – Corbieres, France   21.50
Delicious wine – juicy and crunchy spring to mind, 70% Mourvedre and 30% Syrah.
814.        2010 Pinot Noir Estate, Humberto Canale – Rio Negro Argentina   22.00
A great value Pinot, bright varietal fruit on the nose, attractive strawberries and hints of spice on the palate, finishing fresh and strong.
815.        2008 Chinon , Charles Joguet – Loire   22.50
This is a stylish wine, with lots of acidity, giving it a fresh and lively feel. Great partner with poultry or game dishes
816.        2009 Fleurie, Domaine De Viroylette – Beaujolais   22.75
Very juicy strawberry fruit lifted by pleasant peppery notes – try it chilled in the summer
817.        2010 Brouilly, Domaine Coudert – Beaujolais   23.25
A fantastic Broulliy from a great Beaujolais producer
818.        2007 Chianti Riserva, Da Vinci – Tuscany   23.50
This wine is matured in small oak barrels which help to provide complexity and a lovely richness of flavour. On the pallet there are notes of vanilla, cherries and blackberries
819.        2009 Barbera d’Asti Fiulot, Prunotto – Piedmont   24.75
Aromas of berries, ripe fruits and a hint of leather 
820.        2007 Saumur Champigny, Chateau de Villeneuve – Loire   25.50
Glorious ripe gentle fruit, remarkably good with chunky fish!
821.        2007 La Terrasses, Château Pesquie, Cotes de Ventoux   26.50
This is another great example of the quality of the 2007 vintage in the southern Rhône and a steal at this price
Great Value
Heavy Fuller-bodied succulent Reds
901.        2010 Mourvedre Viognier Syrah The Wolftrap   17.25
Franschhoek, – South Africa
Spicy aromatic French blend matured in French oak. A real mouthful
902.        2010 Shiraz Cabernet, Mullygruber – Australia   17.75
Entry level Australian red, delivering an approachable and easily enjoyable style. 
903.        2010 Malbec, Finca La Colonia Bodega Norton – Argentina   18.50
Sweet and spicy aromas on the nose, reminiscent of black pepper. This is one of the best Malbec wines we have tasted for a long time. 
904.        2009 Primitivo, Cabernet & Negroamaro Tormaresca – Puglia, Italy   18.95
Jam packed crunchy fruit, a real find for this year.
908.        2010 Tempranillo, Willunga 100 – Mclaren Vale, Australia   19.50
Dark fruits, sweet spice and crisp acidity
916.        2010 Zabu ‘Il Passo’ Nerelo Mascalese   20.00
Very gentle, very tasty, lots of ripe berries, but with a lovely dark, savoury backbone
905.        2009 Chateau Malbat – Bordeaux   20.75
Hard stone berry fruit, laden with layers of diffeent fruit, starts hard finishes very elegantly.
906.        2007 Cabernet/Merlot/Malbec C.J. Pask – Hawkes Bay, New Zealand   23.75
Brambly fruits combine with firm tannin and fine oak. 
907.        2007 Blowers Rhône – Chateau Courac,  Rhône   21.00
Lovely warm berry fruit aromas with a hint of spice
909.        2006 Henry Seven Henschke – Australia   25.00
When I first tried this wine I described it as voluptuous & curvaceous! My opinion has not changed but will add – it is a really powerful luscious red driven by sweet cherry red berry fruit that explodes when it arrives in your mouth – you have been warned!
910.        2008 Syrah, C J Pask, Hawke’s Bay – Hawkes Bay, New Zealand   25.50
Fragrant aromatic fruit is supported by fine oak. Typical black pepper along with some floral fragrance 
911.        2005 Briego Crianza, Bodegas Briego – Ribera del Duero, Spain   25.75
Strong characteristics of the Tempranillo grape variety. Ripe red fruits aromas – blackberries, strawberries, cherries,raspberries, followed by delicate notes of tobacco, and wood ageing characteristics
912.        2008 Selección, Abadia Retueta – Sardon del Duero, Spain   26.25
Dark, saturated cherry red in colour, pleasant and mild in the mouth, enjoy with fish, fowl and white and red meats.
913.        2007 Vacqueyras Réserve des 2 Monardes, Domaine de la Monardiere                                       – Southern Rhone   27.70
Garden spices, herbs, black fruit and earth. A perfect accompaniment to game and rich meat dishes.
914.        2004 Syrah Mourvedre, Tulbagh Mountain Vineyards – South Africa   28.50
Very impressive red from South Africa – striving to be organic
915.        1999 Rioja Crianza, Bodegas Urbina – Rioja   29.75
Full and deep with black cherry, raspberry and plum fruits – a fantastic Rioja at this price
Classic Rhone & European varietals New World
1001       2007 Entity Barossa Shiraz, John Duval – Barossa Valley Australia   31.00
Dense ruby purple in colour with blackberry and blueberry fruit with subtle savoury French oak. A fine example of full on Oz Shiraz
1002       2000 McNichol Shiraz, Mitchell – Clare Valley Australia   32.00
Wonderfully fragrant nose with dark fruits, dark chocolate and spice, and an almost smoky finish.
1003
1004       2007 Sangiovese, Greenstone Vineyard – Heathcote, Victoria Australia   35.15
Spiced cherry nose typical of Sangiovese, and a lovely depth of fruit on the palate
1005
1006       2000 Shiraz, Charles Melton – Barossa Australia (L/S)   36.80
Fine long tannins with notes of stewed blackberries and plums
1007       1996 Keyneton Estate, Shiraz Cabernet Merlot, Henschke, Eden Valley   46.50
Fine tannins, well balanced with very long earthy, plum and liquorice aftertaste
1008       2001 Hanisch Shiraz, Veritas Winery, Barossa Valley Australia   65.00
2001 was a great year – crème de cassis, liquorices and smoky aromas. Should be drinking fantastically now.
Rhone varietals old world
1009       2008 Lirac, Chapelle de Maillac, Roger Sabon   27.00
Bursting red and black fruit, complex undercurrent of spice, tobacco, earth, pepper which will develop and come more prominent in the glass. Harmonious & elegant.
1010       2004 Rasteau Cuvée Confiance, Domaine La Soumade (L/S)   29.00
A deep, rich colour, intense aromas and flavours of blackcurrants, raspberries and black cherries
1011       2007 Gigondas, Domaine du Pesquier   31.00
Traditional black fruit flavours with spicy aromas
1012       2007 St Joseph, Cuvée Silice, Domaine Coursodon (L/S)   32.00
Domaine Coursodon has become one of the top St Joseph producers over the last few years. The steep vineyards are perfectly located – 13 hectares of vines, planted on steep hillsides dedicated to making outstanding red wines. Cuvée Silice has a lively, peppery palate and seductive Syrah spice.
1013       2005 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Tradition, Domaine Bosquets des Papes   36.00
This Chateauneuf is made traditionally -using large wooden vats rather than small barrels- and is crammed with ripe herby, spicy fruit. This does not disappoint!
1014       2006 Cote Rotie, Domaine Bonnefond   47.95
Concentrated classic Rhone flavours with strong oak flavours.
1015       1996 Crozes Hermitage, Domaine de Thalabert, Paul Jaboulet Aîné   49.00
Deep red colour, more brick on the edge – surprisingly dark still. The nose consists of dark berries, blackberries, fresh meat and hints of oak. Some pepper and other “Christmas” spices. The nose is surprisingly complex. Lacks some fruit on the palate but enjoyable finish.
1016       2007 Côte-Rôtie René Rostaing   65.00
I have long been a great admirer of the Rostaing’s wines – seriously elegant, handcrafted wines produced by a master craftsman
1017       2003 Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Pignan   65.00
A unique wine – extraordinarily elegant with fantastic complexity.
Smooth, Silky elegant wines
Fine Italian – Piedmont
1101       2008 Barbera d`Alba `Gisep`  Massolino   36.00
Produced in tiny quantities, and was first produced in 1998.  A plummy, blackberry and vanilla nose. Intense palate of ripe and concentrated fruit, the characteristic smooth, relatively low tannins of good Barbera.
1103       2008 Il Favot, Langhe Nebbiolo, Aldo Conterno   45.25
100% Nebbiolo – a serious wine with superb concentration and balance.
1102       2006 Nebbiolo d’Alba, Valmaggiore, Luciano Sandrone   40.50
Certainly reminiscent of the Côte d’Or’s finest. Focus is on painfully low yields in the vineyard, grapes subjected to a relatively short maceration period and no heavy-handed oak – only 10% new oak.
1108       2007 Barberesco Rabaja, Bruno Rocca   70.00
Intensity of fruit balanced by a typical Piedmontese structure – lovely use of oak. 
1104       2004 Barolo ‘Bricco Viole’ Vajra   50.50
Packed elegant fruit, goes on and on – high class modern Barolo
1105       1998 Barolo Massolino   82.00
More traditional style, aged Barolo at its best – silky almost burgundian!
1107       1997 Barolo ‘Gran Bussia’, Aldo Conterno (Low stock)   200.00
Full, deep red. Knockout perfumed nose combines cherry, dried flowers and tar; classic Barolo aromas.
1106       1995 Barbaresco, Gaja (Low stock)   220.00
A saturated deep ruby colour. This is a stellar Barbaresco and yet another testament to Angelo Gaja’s winemaking skills.
Pinot Noirs – New World
The red Burgundy grape, but is grown to mixed affect outside France. New Zealand seems to be leading the way in terms of truly emulating the qualities that we so admire from Burgundy. 
1110       2009 Pinot Noir Rua, Akarua, Central Otago New Zealand   27.00
1118       2008 Pinot Noir, Avante Garde, Domaine Carneros – California   27.50
1111       2008 Pinot Noir, Domain Road, Central Otago New Zealand   29.70
1112       2008 Pinot Noir, Shaw & Smith, Adelaide Hills Australia   30.00
1113       2007 Pinot Noir, McCorkindale, Waipara Valley New Zealand   31.00
1114       2003 Pinot Noir, Clayvin – Marlborough, Kiwi New Zealand   40.00
1115       2008 Pinot Noir, Moorooduc Estate – Mornington Peninsular, Australia   43.00
1116       2007 Pinot Noir, Old Weka Pass Road, Canterbury New Zealand   65.00
1117       2006 Pinot Noir, Bell Hill, Canterbury New Zealand   85.00
Pinot Noirs – Burgundy
Unlike Bordeaux, Burgundy has a continental climate, and grows just one grape variety – Pinot Noir; There are no myriad of Chateaux with their own vineyards, but here in this roll-call of evocative sounding names, are blocks or strips of vines tended by a multiplicity of owners, some grand but mostly modest. It is not enough to know the village and vineyard names, more important to Burgundy, is the name and reputation of the producer.  
Cote de Nuits travelling from the north to south
In general are weightier, firmer and more deeply-coloured than Côte de Beaune.
1201       2002 Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru Les Corbeaux, Dom. Bruno Clavelier   66.50
1202       1997 Gevrey Chambertin, Dom. Joseph Roty (In Cellar)   63.00
1203       2006 Morey St Denis Dujac Fils & Pere   35.00
1204       2004 Chambolle Musigny, Domaine Digoia-Royer   38.00
1205       2001 Clos de la Roche Grand Cru, Dom. Jean-Claude Boisset   70.00
1206       2002 Bonnes-Mares Grand Cru, Dom. Nicolas Potel   102.00
1207       2004 Vosne-Romanée 1er Cru En Orveaux, Domaine Sylvian Cathiard   75.00
1208       2005 Grands-Echezeaux Grand Cru, Dom. Mongeard-Mugneret   120.00
1209       2004 Nuits-St-Georges 1er Cru Les Chaignots, Domaine Henri Gouges   51.00
1210       2003 Nuits-St-Georges 1er Cru Les Chaignots, Domaine Henri Gouges   55.00
Cote de Beaune travelling from the north to south
Côte de Beaune has a more expansive feel and gentler slopes than the Côte de Nuits. Its Pinot Noirs generally have softness and finesse.
1211       2004 Aloxe-Corton, Domaine Tollot-Beaut   40.00
1212       2003 Savigny-Lès-Beaune Aux Grands Liards, Domaine Bize   44.00
1213       2008 Chorey-Lès-Beaune, Domaine Tollot-Beaut   30.50
1214       2006 Beaune-Grèves 1er Cru, Domaine Tollot-Beaut   50.00
1215       2006 Beaune 1er Teurons, Domaine Rossignol Trapet   44.00
1216       2004 Pommard 1er Cru Les Epenots, Domaine Aleth Girardin   43.00
1217       2001 Pommard 1er Cru Les Pézerolles, Dom. de Montille   70.00
1218       2005 Volnay, Clos de la Cave, Domaine Jean-Marc Bouley   40.00
1219       2004 Volnay 1er Cru Les Champans, Dom. du Marquis d’Angerville   60.00
1220       2004 Monthelie 1er Cru Les Duresses, Domaine Alain Coche   30.00
1221       2004 Auxey Duresses 1er Cru Domaine Comte Armand   33.00
1222       2006 Rully Rouge Mazières, Dom. Vincent Dureuil-Janthial   30.00
Deeper, stronger more intense flavours
Fine Italian – Tuscany
1300       2007 Morellino di Scansano Riserva, ‘Poggio Valente’, Le Pupille   37.50
Sweet dark fruit with outstanding length and layered, highly nuanced feel. 100% Sangiovese, stunning perfume, depth and lots of flesh.
1301       2006 Brunello di Montalcino San Polo   53.30
All Sangiovese – good depth of ruby red colour, liquorice and blackberry nose. Classic gamey, liquorice fruit characteristic of Brunello.  Excellent weight, rounded tannins and nicely developed plummy fruit. It finishes long, with appealing, spicy complexity.
1302       2002 Galatrona, Petrolo   47.50
100% Merlot, elegant and ripe in aroma with hints of coffee and red fruit. Long, solid satiny palate, fine tannins, a fresh, clean finish, almost inexplicably good for the vintage. Medium-bodied. Very pretty Merlot.
1303       1997 Cepparello Isole e Olena, Chianti Classico   79.00
100% Sangiovese – superb mix of power and grace. Some liquorice beside the black fruits in the bouquet. On the palate some forest impressions, firm acidity and melted tannin that still offers a nice bite. Beautiful, complex and juicy wine.
1306       1997 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva, Costant (Low stock)   145.00
Brunello is usally a medium full-bodied wine with both strong acidity and tannins that support leathery, subtly spicy tones of coffee and tobacco that add depth to the classic plum and dark cherry fruits.
1305       1995 Solengo, Tenuta di Argiano   120.00
Solengo (meaning to go it alone) is a superb blend of Sangiovese and Syrah. A stunning nose of blackcurrants, chocolate, smoke and floral. Dense and rich, with full body but exceptional purity, fleshy, powerful, silky-textured wine impressively conceals some serious tannin.
1304       1990 Fontalloro, Felsina Berardenga, Castelnuova Berardenga (LS)    85.00
Felsina makes some of Tuscany’s greatest wines. Considering the high quality, these wines are surprisingly affordable
Fine Italian – Verona
1307       2004 La Poja, Allegrini   52.00
A full bodied, intense and elegant red from 100% Corvina. Gorgeous cherry and tobacco notes on the nose with Christmas cake overtones and some sweet oak
1313.      2007 Amarone Classico, Allegrini   60.50
Intense ruby red. Warm and spicy bouquet, with aromas of raisins. This is due to the fact that the grapes are allowed to partially dry prior to fermenting. Well-structured, complex, elegant and velvety. An extremely important wine in Italian viticulture, Amarone is an exclusive and unique symbol of the Valpolicella region.
Fine Spanish
1308       2005 Baigorri Reserva Rioja, Bodegas Baigorr   33.60
Sweet red fruit, cream, spice and cedar, notes of new oak. Concentrated, powerful, very focused style, with lovely refreshing acidity. Powerful, but fine-textured tannins. Manages to be elegant as well as powerful.
1309       2005 21 del 10 (50/50 Merlot & Syrah), Bodegas Alzania, Navarra   34.80
This 50/50 syrah/merlot blend is aged in new French barriques to give a massive, vanilla-scented wine with incredibly svelte tannins.
1310       2004 Closa Batllet, Cellers Ripoll Sans, Priorat   43.00
This is an exceptional wine from an estate that deserves serious attention. This is highly recommended while it lasts!
1311       2000 Flor de Pingus, Ribera del Duero   93.00
100% organic Pingus is typically aged for 14 months in 100% new French oak barriques, resulting in wines with dark dense colour, intense perfume and a tiered, elegant palate. The wines are all bottled without fining or filtration
1312       1973 Vina Real Reserva, CVNE Rioja  (Low stock)   110.00
The 1973 Cune Vina Real Gran Reserva is extremely rare – These wines age extremely well, up there with the best Bordeaux and Burgundy in our opinion.  So try a taste of history
Bordeaux blends – non Bordeaux
1400       2002 Gaia, Grosset – Clare Valley Australia   32.50
Gaia is a metaphor for the importance of the diversity and complexity of species. Dark, ripe and juicy, its deep, earthy aromas of dark plums, cassis and red berries are backed by cedar/chocolate oak with smoky undertones.
1401.      2006 Malbec Gran Cru, Bianchi Enzo – Mendoza, Argentina   36.00
Impressive combination of sweet red fruit, cedar, spicy oaky cigar box and raisin aromas. Dense and focused – exceptional concentration 
1402.
1403.      2007 Merlot Rutherford, Frogs Leap wines – Napa   39.00
I have followed the John Williams wines of Frogs Leap for many years now; they are always very elegant, very clean, complex and interesting and have never been disappointed.
1404.      1998 Dominus Napanook, Christian Mouiex Napa Valley   42.40
Owned by Christian Mouiex of Chateau Petrus fame – 1998 was an El Nino year but still produces a fantastic wine.
1405.      2005 Merlot, Kennedy Point, Waiheke Island, Kiwi (in Cellar)   43.85
Fruit flavours of dark berry and plum fruit, bitter chocolate, herbs and earth show the inherent quality of the fruit.
1406.      2008 Lytton Springs, Ridge Vineyards – California   44.50
Predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon from a great producer
1407.      2002 Cabernet Sauvignon, Moss Wood, Margaret River   52.00
Fruit aromas of raspberry, mulberry and redcurrant that combine with cherry, spicy oak and cedar with leaf overtones
1408.      2007 Cabernet Sauvignon Phelps Napa Valley   55.30
The wine is deeply pigmented and has aromatics of perfectly ripe blackberries, plum, notes of dark chocolate, liquorice and spice. The palate is refined and has exceptional texture and length.
1409.      1997 Mas de Daumas Gassac, Aime Guibert, Haute Vallee du Gassac   62.00
Needs little introduction these producers pionerred the high end style of vin de pays
1410.      1998 Cyril Henschke Cabernet Sauvignon, Henschke, Eden Valley   70.00
Excellent vintage – Deep crimson in colour. Intense mature, blackberry fruit, spicy cassis, anise and sweet perfumed aromas of violets complexed by cloves and cedar/cigar box – perfect now
Bordeaux blends – Bordeaux
The wines produced here are from the lesser known communes/villages of Bordeaux or classified as regionally based. Identical in style but are sought out by wine consumers looking for excellent values, as they can be drunk that much younger than the more esteemed brothers and sisters!
1413.      2005 Château Livenne, Côtes de Blaye   30.00
1412.      2004 Le Haut-Medoc de Giscours, Grand Reserve Haut-Médoc   29.00
1414.      2002 Château Le Fontenil, Fronsac   35.45
1415.      2000 Château Hanteillan, Cru Bourgeois Haut-Médoc   37.15
1418.      2000 Château La Demoiselle de Sociando-Mallet, Haut-Medoc   52.00
1416.      1999 Château Cissac, Cru Bourgeois Médoc   40.00
1419.      1997 Château Duplessis Fabre, Moulis-en-Medoc   28.75
1411.      1986 Château La Tonnelle Cru Bourgeois Haut-Médoc   25.80
1417.      1982 Château des Bertins, Cru Bourgeois Médoc   40.50
Bordeaux – Left Bank
The left bank generally produces big and tannic Cabernet-based wines with pronounced blackcurrant and cassis flavours. The older the vintage the softer and broader the wines.
1500.   2006 Marquis de Calon, St Estephe   30.00
1501.   2005 Reserve de la Comtesse, Pauillac   50.50
1502.   2005 Moulin d’Angludet, Margaux   40.00
1503.   2005 Château Dauzac, Grand Cru Classé Margaux   60.00
1504.   2003 Château Moulin Riche, Cru Bourgeois Exceptionnel Saint Julien   40.00
1505.   2003 Château Cos Labory, Grand Cru Classé St Estephe   45.85
1506.   2003 Château Haut-Bages Libéral, Grand Cru Classé Pauillac   48.00
1507.   2003 Château Grand Puy Ducasse, Grand Cru Classé Pauillac   50.00
1510.   2002 Lacoste-Borie, Pauillac (2nd wine of Grand Puy Lacoste)   42.25
1508.   2000 Connetable de Talbot, Saint Julien   48.75
1509.   2000 Château Labégorce Zédé, Cru Bourgeois Exceptionnel Margaux   57.00
1511.   2000 Chateau Batailley, Grand Cru Classé Pauillac   80.00
1512.
1513.   1985 Château Langoa Barton, Grand Cru Classé Saint Julien   66.25
1514.   1978 Château Pichon-Longueville Comtesse de Lalande, Grand Cru Classé Pauillac   225.00
Bordeaux – Right Bank
The Merlot-based wines of the Right Bank are generally more fruit forward and have less tannin than those of the Left Bank. A blend of Merlot and Cabernet Franc produces wines that are less tannic, softer, and more forward than those of the Left Bank.
1515.   2007 Château La Croix des Moines, Lalande de Pomerol   28.60
1516.   2005 Chateau Puy-Blanquet Grand cru Classe St-Emilion   43.00
1517.   2002 Château de Valois, Pomerol  (Low stock)   39.00
1518.   2002 Château Plince, Pomerol   40.00
1519.   2001 Château Laroze, Grand cru Classe St-Emilion   40.00
1520.   2000 Château Certan de May, Pomerol   81.40
1521.   1998 Clos de L’Oratoire Grand cru Classe St-Emilion   60.00
1522.   1992 Château Magdelaine, Grand cru Classe St-Emilion   50.85
En Magnum
1606.      2009 Cotes Du Rhone Parallelle 45 – Paul Jaboulet   40.50
1607.      2006 Vina Izardi – Rioja Reserva   49.50
1608.      2007 Moulin de la Lagune – Bordeaux   62.25
1604.      2003 Château Bernadotte Haut-Médoc   65.00
1601.      2008 Chorey-Lès-Beaune, Domaine Tollot-Beaut   70.00
1602.      1996 Cabernet Sauvignon Mount Barker, Plantagenet   72.00
1605.      1998 Ardingo, Calbello – Tuscany (Bordeaux blend)   82.00
1603.      2006 Pinot Noir, Clayvin Winery, Marlborough, New Zealand   87.00



 

Champagnes
101.     Michel Guilleminot brut   34.00
Michel Guilleminot’s brut enjoys an enviable reputation for sheer value for money and consistency. The perfect aperitif.
102.     Michel Guilleminot Rosé   37.00
Extended skin contact gives this wine its vibrant deep salmon pink colour, and with it a wonderful summer berry aroma.
103.     Pol Roger   48.00
If it’s good enough for William and Kate it’s good enough for us – the champagne drunk at the royal wedding. Please note that it has been on the list for over 8 years not just because of the wedding!
104.     Billecart Salmon Brut   50.00
From this highly acclaimed House, a delightful champagne with a charming, fruity nose with a hint of roasted nuts
105.     Bollinger Brut   57.00
Mellow and complex, this classic champagne shows an extraordinary depth of flavour. 
106.     Krug Grande cuvée   135.00
Possibly the finest non vintage champagne of them all. An explosion of flavours in the glass.
107.     Laurent Perrier Rosé   70.00
A blend of all three Champagne grapes to produce a perfectly balanced and refined Champagne.
108.     Michel Guilleminot brut – en magnum   60.00
Makes sense if you are 6 (persons not age!) or more – in fact often when served by magnum it is of better quality as the wine has more room to develop
109.     Michel Guilleminot brut – halves   18.00
Makes sense if you are the only one drinking!
110.     Louis Roederer Brut Premier – en magnum   82.00
Makes even more sense!
Sparkling Wines
111.      
112.     Louis Bouillot Perle D’aurore rosé – Burgundy   26.00
Made using the traditional method, this salmon pink rosé is soft and creamy-textured with delicate bubbles.
113.     Prosecco Frizzante – Italian   23.00
A gently sparkling and slightly off-dry style make this Prosecco an excellent apéritif

 

 

 

Rosé
701.
702.        2010 Pinot Noir Rosé, Lawson’s dry hills - New Zealand   23.00
Masses of strawberry fruit on the nose with a dry finish 
703.        2010 Chairetto Rosé, Ca’dei Fratti – Lugana Italy   25.25
One of our favourite Rosés – well balanced with dry easy drinking flavour
704.        2010 Sancerre Rosé, Domaine Etienne Daulny – Loire   25.75
A delicate and subtle rosé with a nose of rosehips and redcurrants. Soft and fresh with more summer fruit flavours and an off-dry finish. A wonderful example of Loire Rosé


 

 

 

Pudding Wines 50ml 125ml Bottle
1619.     2009 Moscato d’Asti, Contero – Italy (½ bottle – 375ml) n/a n/a   15.00
A delicious grapey sparkling wine, low in alcohol – 5.5% – glorious as a aperitif as much as a digestif.      
1620.     Innocent Bystander Pink Moscato n/a n/a   15.00
1621.     2004 Chateau St. Roch – Maury (⅔ bottle – 500ml)   3.05   5.95  
Wonderfully rich, red pudding wine great with chocolate, berry fruit and blue cheese      
1622.     2007 Eclat Botrytis Semillon – Chile  (½ bottle – 375ml)   3.35   7.60   28.00
Wonderfully rich yet balanced sweet wine, gentle lemon with lots of honey      
1623.     2008 Moscatel, Ochoa – Spain  (½ bottle – 375ml)   2.85   5.35   25.75
Gorgeously fresh and light Spanish wine – great with fruit desserts      
1624.     2008 Clos Dady – Sauternes  (bottle – 750ml)   3.35   7.70   38.00
A classic sauterne perfect for blue cheese and sponge based puddings      
1625.     Muscadelle, Chambers Rosewood Vineyards (½ bottle – 375ml)   3.80   8.40   25.00
- Rutherglen, Australia      
Unique fortified sweet wine with hints of marmalade      
1626.     Pedro Ximinez, Sanchez  Romate – Spain  (bottle – 750ml)   4.30 n/a n/a
Thick & sweet. Molten brown sugar with a hint of roses.  Christmas pudding in a glass!      
1627.      
1628.     2001 Château Filhot, Grand Cru Classé (½ bottle – 375ml) n/a n/a   30.00
- Sauternes, France      
Clean, slightly sherbetty & lemony fruit on the nose. Lots of substance,creamy but rounded, lemon pith, bitter oranges alongside sweeter exotic fruit elements      
1629.     1994 Chateau Coutet , Cru Classe Barsac (½ bottle – 375ml) n/a n/a   30.00
One of the oldest producing vineyards in Bordeaux. An appealing nose, offering up some scents of quince and oranges, with a rather floral, chalky character.