24/6/2022: Spot Offers: Mongeard-Mugneret MAGNUMS | A Rousseau | S Cathiard | G Roumier
It's Friday! And everyone deserves a few interesting spot offers. We will be closing our offers soon for June, and this might well be the last spot offer. July beckons with more interesting wines, but here's some Burgundies (which had been largely missing for June). Today's offers are for all the Burg-Fans. Two single MAGNUMS of Mongeard-Mugneret's Grand Crus, both 2013 vintage. Then, a single listing each: 2015 Armand Rousseau Charmes-Chambertin Grand Cru, and 2005 Roumier Chambolle Musigny.
To spice up today's spots will be some Sylvain Cathiards. If you are a Cathiard fan...and a Wine Bond marketplace regular patron, then you know Cathiards don't always appear. Furthermore, today's listing are all single bottles only, they are: 2015 and 16 Vosne Romanee 1er Cru En Orveau, then the same vintages for Vosne Romanee 1er Cru Reignots. Last but not least, 2014 Vosne Romanee 1er Cru Malconsorts.
Happy Friday everyone, and have a great weekend ahead!
23/6/2022: Californian Collection Part 2: Kosta Browne Pinot Noirs
Kosta Browne's Pinots are no stranger to wine connoisseurs today, especially for those Californian Pinot followers. If you have some Kosta Browne Pinots in your stash, I am sure you know your Cali Pinots very well.
Kosta Browne came into my "radar" of wines, around late 2000s, I think the first vintages I came across, were at CUT MBS. Then, it was so difficult to find Kosta Browne's wines, we had to ask our friends in California to help hunt them down. Also, this producer was getting rave reviews and there were a few restaurants in Singapore that started to import Kosta Browne's Pinots directly from overseas wine merchants. When that happened, we knew that Kosta Browne was getting noticed by lots of wine connoisseurs...and as they say, the rest is history.
Today's list of Kosta Browne offerings are every fan's dream. Even though there are only very few bottles of each cuvee, today's offers include some of the most recent vintage releases. We have both the Sonoma Coast and Russian River Valley Pinot Noirs in multiple vintages, then the ever classic and elegant Rosella Vineyard. The last Pinot on offer is the savory Gary's Vineyard but only a single vintage is available. Oh, not forgetting these: two vintages of the One-Sixteen Chardonnay, delicious!
21/6/2022: Californian Collection Part 1: Futo - Ovid - Blankiet with Sea Smoke Pinot Noirs
Today's Californian offer will start with two cults: Futo and Ovid. I always thought there is something about Californian Cabernets, that makes it "Californian Cabernet". When I was working in wine sales, I used to hear wine connoisseurs say: how Californian Cabernets compare / compete against the French Bordeaux. Like the famous "Judgement of Paris 1976". As the years go by, I have a different perspective of comparing Cali Cabs with French Bordeaux. The fact is Californian Cabernets are in a class and identity of their own and surely, there is no reason to compare wines from both regions. Good examples are the Futo and Ovid in today's offers. Words like: "full bodied, dense, chewy, complex, good acidity" should ring a bell. Futo is all about a wine that is "full-bodied-with a touch of terroir". I love it for its multi-dimensional finish, with a touch of elegance. Amidst those huge flavours, its welcoming to find fine touches in a big wine. Ditto for Ovid. I met Andy Erickson back in late 2000s. He was the winemaker for Ovid and Screaming Eagle back then. A true visionary. In the first few vintages of Ovid, we could see where it was heading. Vineyards situated on Pritchard Hill (i.e high elevation), strong wine-making team, mission of making great wine. As Ovid was building a library of releases over the years, the accolades were also flowing in with each vintage.
Blankiet Estate in today's offer is another wine close to my heart. If you stood on the top of Paradise Hill (a steep climb up), you will see why it was named Paradise Hill. To finish off today's offer, a collection of Sea Smoke Pinot Noirs from both the Southing and Ten. Do note that our offers today are available in very little quantities per wine: mostly only 1 or 2 bottles. On Thursday, we continue part 2 with a release of Kosta Browne Pinot Noirs.
16/6/2022: Assortments from The Old World | Italy-Germany-France-Spain
These assortments for June, consolidated from different owners' listings, had just landed this week. We start with lots of Piedmontese wines: Two Roagna's to start, then some interesting Cappellano Barolos. Elvio Cogno's pre-phylloxera Barbera is always worth trying, so is the 1997 Azelia Barolo San Rocco (well-drinking now). The Italians then finish off with two Tuscans: 1997 Trunoro Palazzi and 2001 Guado al Tasso.
Moving to the Germans, two 1999 Auslese, both well-aged and ready. Then from Champagne, a decent collection of Rose's from different producers like Veuve Clicquot, Philipponat and Krug. From Burgundy, a rare 1995 Robert Chevillon NSG 1er Cru Les St George.
To complete today's offer, single bottle of the 89 Vega Sicilia Unico. Today's HUGE listing make up an interesting mix of cuvees and as usual, prices are competitive. Don't miss them.
Next week, we will have a few Californian offers starting with some Cabernets, then some Pinot Noirs.
14/6/2022: Vintage Collectible | 2006 + 2008 Champagne Parcel
This is the last of our Champagne offers from the same collector whom listed some delectable and prized Champagnes last week. Being an avid Champagne collector, the same seller had created this Vintage-Collectible 5 bottles-parcel which he considers, some of the best Champagnes from the 2006 and 2008 vintage. There will be two bottles of 2006: namely Krug and Salon, then from the heavenly vintage of 2008, the Dom Chef de Cave Legacy, Cristal and Taittinger Comtes de Champagne. This is indeed, a parcel which you should not miss. For this collection (like yesterday's spot offer), we will only take one order via email as there is only one set available. Have a wonderful Tuesday.
13/6/2022: Spot Offer: 2019 Screaming Eagle in a 3-bots OWC | Accepting one order via email only
The latest release of 2019 Screaming Eagle is now available. This OWC of 3 bottles come direct from Screaming Eagle to a private collector here, and provenance couldn't get any better than this. We will accept one order via email only. Don't miss the spot offer today, a perfect wine!
9/6/2022: Champagnes: The Vintage Collection from A Single Owner
One Champagne collection from one owner, and certainly some of the best cuvees on offer today. For all the Champagne lovers out there, these are some serious vintage Champagnes, so don't miss.
We start with two Krugs, single bottle of both a 1990 and 2002. Every serious Champagne collector should have some Krugs in their stash, especially these two vintages. Words are not enough to describe the 1990 Krug...legendary. Next, two vintages of the Cristal, the 2008 and 2012. This time around, a little more quantities: 6 bottles each. A couple of interesting Dom Perignons today. The regular 2008 and 2009 Dom Perignons are on offer. We will also have 2 bots of 2002 Dom Perignon P2 (in a gift box and velvet bag), plus a 2002 Dom Rose in a rare Luminous bottle. For those who are unaware of the luminous bottle, it is actually a bottle with a switch at the bottom of the bottle. It lights up a luminous pink colour on the label when the switch is turned on. The luminous series was distributed only to trade clients like bars and clubs so it was seldom seen in retail stores. Four vintages of Salon, namely the 1996,97, 2006 and 07 available today but in minuscule quantities. I know Salon is a hot commodity here @ Wine Bond. Even for these loose bottles, they hardly appear so grab them while you can. Last but not least, 6 bottles of the 2008 Taittinger Comtes de Champagne to wrap things up.
7/6/2022: June Bordeaux Collection Part 2: 2000 MAGNUMS Collection
Did you remember the vintage reports back then, when they come in either hard copies like a magazine or printout? I remember a huge part of my wine career reading those hard copy reports. Those were the days when I would either read from Decanter or Wine Spectator magazines off bookstores, and at times borrow a friend's monthly hard copy of Stephen Tanzer's IWC report. It was the only way to know about what's happening in the Wine World!
2000 Bordeaux was one of the most memorable vintage which I read. Basically, the vintage turned a whole year of (crazy) weather around, and everything that salvaged the harvest happened in the month of September alone. Many say it was really a year of miracle. The year of erratic weather conditions like: mildew, late flowering, damp weather, extreme heat; the vintage looks like it was heading for disaster. However, in September, just prior to harvest, two rainfalls (and exactly what were needed) plus the sunshine all came at the perfect time. It was the miracle that would define 2000 Bordeaux for decades, and like what they say, the rest is history.
2000 Bordeaux eventually became a perfect vintage for all the reds from left to right bank. The wines are ripe, concentrated and luscious. They provided a lot of satisfaction even upon release. The potential and longevity of 2000 was going to surpass most of the 90s Bordeaux, and it set the benchmark later when 2000 was always compared with the great 2005 and 2009 vintages. Furthermore, even though conditions were tough, it literally turned around to become a collectible vintage for connoisseurs. Some say it was meant to be as the calendar was moving from 19XX to 20XX. I'd say it was a year to remember great wines are born from hardships.
Today, we have an awesome selection of 2000 Bordeaux, all in MAGNUMS 1.5L. Exactly 20 years after the 2000 release, these gems bottled in large formats are worthy of every wine connoisseur's cellar. The list of 2000 today will include: Branaire Ducru, Gruaud Larose, Leoville Barton, Leoville Poyferre, Calon Segur, Rauzan Segla and Pontet Canet....and to close this offer, a 2005 Monbousquet also in MAGNUM format. Similar to last week's Bordeaux offer, the prices are ??????.........don't miss!
6/6/2022: Spot Offers: Wine Assortments for Drinking
Monday no blues.....cos we have lined up some well-drinking wines to buy today! Today's spot offers will feature these wines from different regions, and mostly ready to drink now. Some wines are reappearing again on marketplace (after missing for a while) so if you did not manage to buy them the last time, don't miss them today. Lots of NEW offers amidst the relisting, so scroll below to see them or log into your account to see them all.
2/6/2022: June Bordeaux Collection Part 1: Well-Drinking Assortments Including Two Sauternes
Last weekend, I managed to catch "Top Gun Maverick" and it certainly brought back memories of the first "Top Gun (1986)". I was just a student then and buying a movie ticket was usually saved for the best movie of that month (back then I could afford one movie per month). Top Gun was one of the movies I caught. For those who would like to relive the "Opening + Soundtrack" of Top Gun in the latest Maverick Movie, you will love it...Yea, Danger Zone is back!
While it is always good to relive those moments (like a movie of the past), I find it amazing how my memory of the first Top Gun movie flows back to me while watching Top Gun Maverick. Certain scenes made me remember parts of the first movie, even though it had been more than 30 years. It's like my mind just call out the memories simultaneously. Amazing. Similarly, I think it is important for wine professionals to always re-taste wines of past vintages. The tasting notes we remember today, will eventually become a memory. I always refer to those initial tasting notes as "registration" in my mind, then re-tasting them are like a "version update" of new tasting notes. Maybe if I train hard enough for my brain to recognize or memorize specific notes in the wines tasted, I can (or will) be able to call out tasting notes of the past, and that is probably how to excel in blind tastings.
June will start with a collection of well-drinking Bordeaux, from a few classified growths. Don't miss them if you are needing "updates" to your past notes. Along with this collection will be two Sauternes. For drinkers, I highly recommend today's collection as they are well-priced to sell and ready to drink. Also, do look for Part 2 as we bring lots of MAGNUMS from the wonderful Bordeaux 2000 vintage.
31/5/2022: Last Assortments for May | Rhone + Burgundy
May was an awesome month with lots of Burgundies like Sylvain Cathiards and a huge Olivier Bernstein collection. These were followed by some uber-collectible Rhones namely: M. Chapoutier, P. Jaboulet and E. Guigal. It was interesting to see what Wine Bond members are buying, and it seems Burgundy is still the "hot commodity" here, along with Bordeaux. June is coming but we will end May with this assortment of Rhone and Burgundy. Some rare-hard to find Rhones: two vintages, but single bottles of the 1998 and 2016 Domaine de la Grange des Peres Blanc, followed by a perfect Condrieu from Guigal, the 2010 La Doriane. A few Raya's cuvees including the 2006 and 07 Chateau des Tours Vacqueyras and a 03 Domaine des Tours Vaucluse. All of the offerings are single bottle and along with a 2005 Pignan. Three Burgundies join today's list: single bottle of 2009 Coche Dury Bourgogne Aligote, 08 Roulot Meursault Poruzot and two bottles of the 12 Roulot Bourgogne Blanc.
We will kick-start June's offering on Thursday, with some well-drinking 2000s Bordeaux (750ml regular bottles) collection, followed by a 2000 Bordeaux MAGNUM collection. Then, a variety and collection of vintage Champagnes: Krug, Dom Perignons, Salon, Taittinger, Cristal. There will also be a special Champagne parcel. As usual, in between these offers will be some spot offers, do look out for a 3 bots OWC 2019 Screaming Eagle. Last but not least.....Bizot is coming!
26/5/2022: A Connoisseur's Rhone Collection Part 3: E. Guigal | Precious Ex-Voto
My very first Ex-Voto came into acquaintance, because of Domaine de Vallouit (not many collectors know about Vallouit) and it was difficult to find Vallouit's Cote Rotie even back then in the 90s. The 70s to 90s Vallouit Cote Rotie production was one of the smallest and could hardly be found anywhere. Their Cote Rotie were made only in the best years. In total, they made less than 10 vintages from the 70s to 80s and from the 90s, there were slightly more. On a rare occasion some years back, a customer opened an old 80s Vallouit and the terroir was literally beaming in the glass (stones, clay and limestone), not to mention my love for its spice, smoky and kirsch notes. Old vines, terroir driven....Impressive......
After Guigal absorbed Vallouit's vineyards into the Ex-Voto, it was inevitable for me to continue buying Ex-Votos. Releasing only in the best years, some of the most memorable vintages I remember were the 03, 05 and 07. Do not be mistaken, Guigal were making "out-of-the-world" Ex-Votos which many wine connoisseurs started chasing in the early 2000s. Today, three vintages of the Ex-Voto are on offer, do not miss these as only twelve bottles each available.
24/5/2022: A Connoisseur's Rhone Collection Part 2: P. Jaboulet Hermitage La Chapelle
Paul Jaboulet's Hermitage La Chapelle is back at Wine Bond! With four great vintages available, Jaboulet collectors and lovers will be thrilled. Today, we will have the 2003, 09, 10 and 15 available, and 09 is by far, my favourite vintage from the past decade's releases. The 09 and 10 bears certain similarity to the 1989 and 90 (also back to back awesome vintages), and if a collector is patient, I am sure the 2009 and 10 will reap rewards in another decade and more. Even today, when accessing the 09 and 10, one can actually taste the potential of these two wines: the concentration, its balance, the length and consistency on the palate. I foresee the 09 and 10 will turn out to be as well as how the 89 and 90 are drinking now. Don't miss this offer today.
20/5/2022: A Connoisseur's Rhone Collection Part 1: M. Chapoutier | Only the Best
It is going to be hard to resist today's offer, as we start our Rhone offers today and run them till next week. This Chapoutier collection is certainly one of the best I have seen in a long time! This collector is all serious when it comes to Rhone wines.
I love Chapoutier's wines, and had collected and drank some awesome cuvees from the 90s and early 2000s by this producer. A recent get-together with some Rhone wine collectors allowed me to pull out a 97 Le Meal Blanc....a cuvee I had kept for more than a decade (I am actually dying to try this). What was skeptical initially before popping the bottle; turned into a ready to drink, full bloom orange marmalade with a stony finish. It was like I was tasting the same stony pebbles from the vineyard. And just days later, a customer during a get-together, popped a 94 l'Oree Blanc (To M, who is also reading this email, it was indeed great!) I was able to compare notes of both whites....and the white Hermitages do aged well, in fact very well...What a revelation!
Today's offer will definitely blow you away. Not only are the wines great, but this is a first time when almost all the wines on offer have PERFECT SCORES! Scores aside, I am sure True wine connoisseurs know what are the real gems in today's offer. We will have two white Hermitages to kick-start: The 2011 l'Oree and Le Meal Blanc. A single CDP, the 2010 CDP Barbe Rac, follow by an awesome collection of Le Meal in three vintages: 2006, 11 and 15. Of course, nothing is complete without their Le Pavillon, three vintages on offer today: 2010, 11, 15. Last but not least, I call this wine "the indestructible" l'Ermite from vintages 2009, 10, 11 and 15. It's Friday, have fun......RS
18/5/2022: Spot Offer: 2009 Sassicaia | Intensity in a Bottle
Today's spot offer is for all the Sassicaia fans. Here comes the 2009 in all its glory, power and intensity!
The 2006 and 2009 Sassicaia from my notes (in the past) were both outstanding vintages which left lasting impressions when tasted side by side. The 2006 was intense with a elegant and silky finish. The 2009 was a full-powered "Charger" that salivates the palate constantly with a ultra long and complete finish. It was one of the vintages I could never forget. The 2009 has probably softened slightly today, but I am sure its intensity lingers. If you are a Sassicaia fan, then don't miss the spot offer today! Have a great mid-week Wednesday......RS
17/5/2022: Olivier Bernstein Part 3: Finally.....The Grand Crus Arrive!
The Grand Crus of Olivier Bernstein are what every Burgundy connoisseur long to own. Prices of recent releases are so crazy and IMHO, it makes perfect sense to buy these back vintages. It's like owning the "Historical Parts of Olivier Bernstein" from his humble beginnings to today's Superstar status. Not to mention these Grand Crus owned by our "Collector", were perfectly stored in Wine Bond for the last decade and more. Today is the day to own these Grand Crus, exclusively for all Wine Bond members only. Another incentive: these are all well-price to sell. Please see below for the last offer of Olivier Bernstein wines......RS
12/5/2022: Olivier Bernstein Part 2: The Village and Premier Crus
Part 2…continuing Olivier Bernstein: In 2007, Olivier took a leap of faith and went to Burgundy. He could never forget his time when he was doing his degree in viticulture and oenology in Beaune, and his time with Henri Jayer. The négociant house that bears his name was thus created in Burgundy, and he started producing very small quantities of very high-quality Premier and Grand Crus only. The first vintage was only 3 barrels each of a few cuvees, and the reviews by journalists and critics were all highly positive. One importer in Europe even offered to buy all of Olivier’s barrels even before bottling.
Working closely with growers of very old vines in a few rare plots was in his plan all the while. The vines are at least 40-50 years old, while most are between 60 to 80 years old, bearing little but good fruits. While Olivier and his team take responsibility of the viticulture on those plots, he also believes that the work in the land is the basis of everything. Grapes of excellent quality and perfect health is transformation to great wines. A few years later in 2012, through a wonderful opportunity and rare occurrence in Burgundy, he was able to work on some plots in Mazis-Chambertin Grand Cru and Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru Les Champeaux and further expanded his portfolio.
Olivier Bernstein is among the most successful producers in Burgundy, setting the bar high for the growing number of micro-négociants in the region by producing wines that compete with some of the finest Domaines. Today, some of the wines from these older vintages are (almost) impossible to find, let alone those with perfect provenance. Some say he is the talented protégé, some say he is in a class of his own.
Today, the seven different Grands Crus made by Olivier are: Chambertin, Chambertin Clos-de-Bèze, Charmes-Chambertin, Mazis-Chambertin, Clos de la Roche, Bonnes-Mares and Clos Vougeot. The three Premiers Crus of reds are: Gevrey-Chambertin Cazetiers, Champeaux and Chambolle-Musigny Lavrottes. There is only one village Gevrey-Chambertin. The recent releases of his Grand Crus are also hitting new highs as more connoisseurs are hunting down the Grand Crus.
Don’t miss these offers today, for the back vintages of Olivier Bernstein’s Premier Crus along with his only Gevrey-Chambertin Village. In our last Bernstein offer next Tuesday, will be his most elusive Grand Crus!
10/5/2022: Olivier Bernstein Part 1: The Whites Land Today
Olivier Bernstein did not begin his vigneron life making Pinot Noir or Chardonnay in Burgundy. In fact in 2002, he started making wines in Roussillon in South of France under Mas de la Devèze (mainly Syrah, Grenache with Mourvedre and Carignan). The next five years was the time he spent perfecting his methods and by this time, Le Mas de la Devèze had also established itself across continents. It was a matter of time when Olivier would head to Burgundy.
The desire from Olivier to work with Pinot Noir was too strong to resist, and he had never forgotten his stint with Henri Jayer. His considerable knowledge of Burgundy and the winemakers there enabled him to return to Burgundy in 2007. Other than tending some vineyards and doubling as the winemaker, he also regularly tasted wines from prestigious estates like: Domaine de la Romanée-Conti, Bernard Dugat-Py, Armand Rousseau, Emmanuel Rouget, G. Roumier, Anne Gros, Jean François Coche-Dury and Jean Marie Raveneau…..(The story continues in Part 2 of our offer)
Today, we will launch the first part of this Olivier Bernstein offers, with his Chardonnays. Olivier started making his Chardonnays in 2007 (namely the Puligny-Montrachet 1er Cru Champ Gain and Meursault 1er Cru Les Charmes) but ceased making both, the last vintage being 2011. The ultra-rare Corton-Charlemagne was also produced in 2009 for three vintages, but ceased as well so that Olivier can concentrate on making his Pinot Noirs. In the last few years, he had revived the Corton-Charlemagne starting with 2016 vintage, and like all wine-making superstars, the past vintages of his Corton-Charlemagnes are now being hunted by wine connoisseurs. We will start with these past vintages (or I call them "lost vintages") of both the Puligny-Montrachet 1er Cru Champ Gain, Meursault 1er Cru Les Charmes, and of course, the Corton-Charlemagne Grand Cru. Don’t miss these really rare offers today!
9/5/2022: Monday Spots: Two Nebbiolos Two Burgundies and A Few Highly Rated Wines
Monday spot offers are always interesting, mainly assortment of wines from different regions. It is like a "Amuse-Bouche" before the regular offers release on Tuesday and Thursday.
For the Piedmont Barolo and Barbaresco from the class of 97, where they did exceptional wines, it is a stark contrast from their French neighbours. For the 97 Barolo or Barbaresco, in particular these two offers today, from Mauro Molino (Barolo) and Albino Rocca (Barbaresco), they are going to drink well now and also worth holding. Don't miss them.
Along with today's offer, we have another four highly-rated wines from the New World: 03 Schulz Marcus Old Vines Shiraz and the 04 Mitolo Savitar Shiraz. Then a pair of Californians many will be familiar with. The 2014 Dominus and the 13 Napanook. And to complete today's spot, two Burgundies: 2012 Forey Vosne-Romanee Gaudichots and 13 l'Arlot NSG Petits Plets. All are price to sell.
It's only Monday but I am already looking forward to the rest of the offers this week (especially the Bernsteins!) Stay tune....
5/5/2022: May Arrivals: Calera | Cedric Bouchard | Chartogne-Taillet | Sylvain Cathiard
May is here! and it is all about surprises this month. We will have lots of offers every week starting today. As I was working on the list of offers (for the past few days), I realise the whole of May will be filled with awesome wines, and lots of never-seen-before ones. I know some may be concentrating on the En Primeur Campaign this month; but look out for our weekly mailers....Some of these listings are of miniscule quantities, and as usual, wines are priced-to-sell. Before we go into this week's offer, let's have a preview of what's coming in May:
1) OLIVIER BERNSTEIN is IN DA'HOUSE! One of the (if not THE) biggest collector of Bernsteins (whom had been storing at Wine Bond), will be releasing part of his Bernstein back vintage collection in our marketplace. Back vintages between 2008-2012 will be on offer this month. We will start his collection of some really rare whites (1er and Grand Crus), followed by the reds (village and 1er Crus), then the last and most anticipated Grand Crus. There are at least 3 to 4 great vintages to look out for in the line-up so don't miss. The Bernstein offers will run for at least 3 mailers starting next week.
Rhone lovers: These May offers are arriving for you! Offers will run from third week of May and they include:
2) An assortment of vintages from M. Chapoutier including two whites, then some Le Meal, Le Pavillon and L'Ermite.
3) E. Guigal: Back vintages of their Cote Rotie La Mouline, La Turque, La Landonne and Ermitage Ex-Voto will be coming. If you are a Guigal collector, this is not to be missed!
4) Four vintages of Paul Jaboulet Hermitage La Chapelle, including some really good and rare vintages from the 2000s. Don't miss this as they will be priced to sell.
On top of all the selection above, there will also be spot offers, so look out for Mondays.....
Onward to this week's offer: A selection of Calera's Pinot Noirs kickstart May! These rare listings of all the single vineyards: Mills, Reed, Jensen and Selleck are as rare as it gets. Only few bottles of each cuvee available this time round, mostly 2007 vintage with one 2006 Selleck. If you are wondering will they drink well, just sharing: I had opened a 1990 Calera Reed earlier this year and it is still holding. The Jensen and Selleck will be rare collectibles to own.
Continuing this May offer: three artisanal Champagnes: 2005 Cedric Bouchard's Rare Boloree Blanc de Blancs and two vintages of the Chartogne-Taillet Fiacre (2002 and 2004).
To complete today's offer, a reappearance of Sylvain Cathiards. For those who did not manage to pick up any Cathiards in the last few offers, today's offers will include the Coteaux Bourguignons Les Croix Blanches, Bourgogne, some villages Nuits-St-Georges, Vosne-Romanee and the Chambolle Musigny Clos de l'Orme. Time to reserve these while they are here! Have a great May.......RS
28/4/2022: An Assortment of Offers and Au Revoir April
This is the last offer for this month (I promise) as we bid farewell to April....In May we will most probably go back to our Burgundy offers. I wish I could divulge some producer names but unfortunately, the list is still in the last stage, some finalization, so a bit more patience.....
The assortment today is an interesting mix. I love doing offers when there are wines from different countries and regions to choose from. After all, it is not always about Bordeaux and Burgundy! One case of the 09 Gibbston Valley Reserve Pinot Noir from Central Otago, in all its "candiedness", is ready for new owners. Then one case of 06 Cos d'Estournel up for grabs (available in loose bottles). This well-drinking St-Estephe needs no further introduction. A limited production 10 Quinta da Falorca Touriga Nacional that goes through a long aging, the only Portuguese wine one needs to own. I love how these Portuguese wines have that "earthly funk" nose. They drink well for years or even decades, and always a good blind! The 07 Columella by Sadie Family is still going strong after all these years. Before Eben Sadie won the 2017 Winemaker's award, he was already making waves. The 07 Columella (which I drank recently) reassures Eben is truly a visionary. This wine, predominantly Syrah, is young and have all the balance, acidity and and intensity of a great wine for the long haul. Don't miss! Three Spanish wines of greatness: First the 12 Espectacle (a perfect wine), followed by the 06 Flor de Pingus, a well drinking, full bodied lush wine by Pingus. Then the 05 Aalto PS, another great multi-faceted gem not to be missed. I am sure Spanish wine lovers will love these three wines in their uber-attractive prices. Last but not least, a 05 Vin de Constance by Klein Constantia (500ml) for all the sweets lovers....I'll see you in May!
21/4/2022: A Selection of Burgundies for Drinking | Other Assortments
This selection of Burgundies are a nice fit to April (after a strong concentration on Bordeaux wines this month). Along with these Burgundies, will be two separate listings: a Rhone and Coteau Champenois Rouge. Welcome back Burg lovers....And if you are waiting for more Burgundy offers, just a short note: Look out for May!
A Mazis Chambertin by Faiveley, a big wine. Considering that today's offer is also a 99 which lasts like "forever" (you know what I mean). In Mandarin, 99 also sounds similar to ??, which can mean "a long time"...Indeed, a lot of patience is needed for the 99. This will be an awesome bottle to own today.
I had the most ironic encounter with Chantal Michel from Tortochot: it was more than a decade ago. I was in Gevrey-Chambertin having lunch, and Chantal's nephew was delivering some wines to the restaurant (after lunch hours, as we were walking out). I casually mention that Tortochot is an amazing Gevrey producer (I honestly think so), and the next thing we knew, our conversation led to us following his car, on the way to the cellars of Tortochot for a tasting. Chantal of course, joined us later after hearing that we really admired her wines, and we got a nice allocation. This 05 Mazis by Tortochot is going to blow you away.
A single bottle of 09 Rousseau Clos de la Roche lands, and most collectors will know Rousseau wines hardly come into marketplace. When it does, it is a rare find so don't miss. Along with this single bottles will be some Potel's collection including: the rare 05 Les Gaudichots and 06 Bonnes Mares. Then, a 02 Roche de Bellene Chambertin (from Bellenum collection). And the last Burgundy in today's offer: the 06 Moine-Hudelot Les Amoureuses.
Two other wines complete today's mailer: a well-drinking 05 P Jaboulet Crozes Hermitage, and the Burg-like Coteau Champenois Rouge by Egly-Ouriet. Don't miss the wine offers today, all well-drinking and delicious....
19/4/2022: Rare Whisky Offers: Macallan Edition No. 2 | Hakushu 18 Years | Nikka Taketsuru 25 Years
Whiskies! It's a drink I had been indulging for years, but probably paying more attention and exploring the Aged and Non-aged statements (NAS) in the last decade. The prices of Whiskies rose sharply over the last decade+, just like the the rise of Burgundies in the same time frame. And like other chasers, I indulge in chasing certain releases from a few distilleries. While Whiskies have a wider range of prices in the open market, it is quite a sellers market especially for rare bottles or bottles from lost or closed distillery. Today, rest assured that our whisky offers on Wine Bond's marketplace are very very attractive. I had never done a whisky offer on Wine Bond marketplace (so far), but had been longing to do one. Wish come true: these three offerings will be a good start:
Three bottles of the Macallan Edition No. 2, one unbeatable price. The Edition No. 2 is also my favorite from the Macallan Edition Series. The No. 2 imparts these rich flavours from a series of different casks, impressive to both amateur and seasoned whisky drinkers. Two bottles of the Hakushu 18 Years lands today. With the current price of this 18 years, and lots of chasers, you know that this is a must-own bottle. The accolades and exposure of multi-awards they had been winning in competitions (for the aged statements) in recent years, put the Hakushu in Japanese whiskies top spots. Today, this rare offer for the two bottles come from their 201X release. The last offer is for the uber-rare Nikka Taketsuru 25 Years Pure Malt, an aged Japanese Whisky that had been discontinued by Nikka. The seller had kept this bottle in perfect condition and in its original wooden box. Why wait (especially after you see the price). Check out all the prices below and don't miss any of them!
18/4/2022: Monday Spot Offers: 2013 Arnoux-Lachaux Collection | 1 bot of each Cuvee
Calling all Arnoux-Lachaux collectors!
The 2013 Arnoux-Lachaux collection on offer today, comes from a single wine connoisseur. This was originally a parcel whom the collector had kept. In today's offer, these bottles will be offered individually. If you are looking for a specific bottle or commune, from this 2013 vintage, here's your chance!
While many of us know that Charles Lachaux is the current vigneron (the way he likes to be called), vintages by Pascal are still highly sought after. After Pascal took over the Domaine, he had lowered yields significantly and improved the vinification process. He wanted to take advantage of the fact that all of these wines are made from old vines and should only have the best grapes. The result is the finest expressions of these "terroiristic" wines one can only dream of. From Pascal, the reins have been handed over to Charles in 2015. In today's collection, regrettably there will only be 1 bottle of each wine on offer so do not miss this. Please see below for the offers....
13/4/2022: Bordeaux Wines Return in April Part 3: Pomerol and St-Emilion
This is the last of our Bordeaux offers for April. A star offer from Pomerol kick-starts today: the 89 Latour A Pomerol. Made by the same team from Chateau Petrus, this is a must have for all Merlot lovers. Still good concentration with this 89. Chateau Latour A Pomerol is known for producing generous and concentrated wines with a perfect balance in elegance and power. The 89 will drink beautifully now but only 6 bottles are available. Along with this, another Pomerol the 01 Petit Village in MAGNUM format.
From the right bank of St-Emilions, some bottles make their return (from Dec last year) with a few new additions. Some well-drinking 1996 Monbousquet, along with this fantastic 2000 La Gomerie. Like La Tour Haut Brion, La Gomerie was absorbed into Chateau Beau-Sejour Becot after 2011 (by the Becot family), but in 2016, the family started to made small quantities of the La Gomerie again. Nevertheless, the 2000 La Gomerie has always been compared with the fantastic 05 and 09 vintages, the best (and silky) La Gomerie ever produced....No St-Emilion is ever complete with a Pavie, and the 01 makes a comeback. Then, these three cuvees, the most recognisable names from St Emilion lands: 09 La Gaffeliere (don't miss this), 11 Figeac and a 12 Canon la Gaffeliere.
11/4/2022: Bordeaux Wines Return in April Part 2: Margaux and Pessac-Leognan
Welcome to part 2 of our Bordeaux offers for April. In today's offer, we are going to Margaux and Pessac-Leognan.
Chateau Kirwan is a third growth that is definitely punching above its weight. As Kirwan had not expanded their land size or plantings exponentially over the years, this is a Chateau making consistent wines. Being manageable is always their key. This is amongst many connoisseurs favourite and the 2016 and 17 are on offer today! Two rare Palmers land today, the 91 and 95 (really hard to find especially the 90s). Palmer is no stranger to many, and followers will know today's prices are unbeatable.
From Pessac-Leognan, a 2016 La Chapelle de La Mission Haut Brion and 2004 La Mission Haut Brion. With noticeable Cabernet Franc in both wines, it is not hard to identify La Miss or La Chapelle de La Miss. Since the two listings are here, the defunct La Tour Haut Brion (2004 today) makes a "surprise appearance". This cuvee (last vintage 2005) had been absorbed into the La Miss since 2006. Own them today.
Last but not least, a delicious 17 Malartic Lagraviere Blanc, and then two offers for the 95 and 05 Malartic Lagraviere. Both vintages for the reds are well-drinking and ready to pop.
7/4/2022: Bordeaux Wines Return in April Part 1: Pauillac | St-Julien | St-Estephe
Hooray to significant relaxation of COVID-19 protocols in Singapore, and about time I think. Its great to have 10 pax dine in, to catch up with more friends. I've always wanted to use this line as a pun to Marvel's Avenger Movie: "Wine Groups..Assemble!"....Despite relaxation of these measures, it is still paramount that we all stay safe.
We've got exciting offers lined up for April. Let's officially start this month with a string of Bordeaux offers. This list of Bordeaux for April is extensive, coming from a single collector here at Wine Bond. While preparing the offers, it became inevitable that there will be three offers. As usual, regular buyers on our marketplace will find the prices in these offers irresistible (as they indeed are).
We start with a collection of wines from Pauillac, St-Julien and St-Estephe. First on the list is none other than a collection of Pichon Lalandes and Reserve de la Comtesse. The ones to notice, are the 1995 and 96 Lalandes (1990 and 2004 are also on this list). And for the Reserve de la Comtesse, 2000 and 05. Moving on, a well-aged and drinking 1996 Grand Puy Ducasse, followed by the 2012 Pontet Canet. Then, just 6 bottles of the irresistibly priced 2018 Carruades de Lafite. For those who like to drink their Carruades young, 2018 is quite a vintage to behold for Bordeaux's left bank. Of course, this wine can also be laid down for more time in the cellar.
From St-Julien and St-Estephe, some perfect wines: 2009 Montrose and 2010 Cos d'Estournel. By now, you'd probably notice there are some well drinking gems and it continues with a 95 Leoville Barton, 96 Les Pagodes de Cos and a 05 Sociando Mallet (Haut-Medoc). Last to compete the list of line-up today, the 17 Clos du Marquis.
In our mailer early next week, we continue with offers from Margaux and Pessac-Leognan, and will follow through with the last offer from Pomerol and St-Emilion. Don't miss all these offers, today and next week.
5/4/2022: Rockford Basket Press Shiraz Collection of Back Vintages
These Rockford Basket Press back vintage collection came from a good friend whom I had known for years, and I know how good the provenance of these bottles are. When these Basket Press back vintage collection came into our marketplace, I know this is going to be a rare chance to own these gems, at really good prices.
Rockford was one of the first Australian Shiraz I really like and still follow today. In my early days when I first joined this trade (around 2005), I dream about visiting Barossa Valley and walking into Rockford's cellar door. This was realized in 2009 August.
There's always something magical about Rockford's wines, not just the Basket Press Shiraz, but the Rifle Range Cabernet and their Sparkling Black Shiraz. What's special about Rockford's wines for me, is the identity and taste profile they created individually for their wines. It's like: you could always identify a Rockford Basket Press Shiraz by tasting it. These bottles will certainly impress some friends if they love a good ol' Rockford. Don't miss these back vintages now......
4/4/2022: Monday Spot Offers: Sine Qua Non with An Assortment of Californian Cabernets
It had been (almost) a full month of Burgundy offers for March. While it seems like we are not going to have offers from other regions, here comes some "fresh air".
In today's offer, these Californian wines are amazing to own and drink now, especially the three Sine Qua Nons, and of course these 2012 Californians (an awesome vintage). Philip Togni's Cabernet are as classical as it can get, and Peter Michael's Au Paradis Cabernet are "above the clouds" (pun intended, for those who know where the vineyard of Au Paradis lies). And to complete the offer, the perfect 2012 Promontory. For those who had visited Promontory's vineyard probably knows the slopes of the vineyards are not easy to maneuver in. Blankiet's vineyard (not far behind from Promontory) has the same degree of slopes. I did a two day harvest at Blankiet Estate under Claude and his vineyard manager years back, and it was so difficult walking down the slopes and picking grapes at the same time. I ended with a swollen ankle right after harvest.
Later this week starting Thursday, we will begin our April's Bordeaux offers. There will be probably two to three Bordeaux offers in total, which all the wines are priced to sell. They will come from the major regions: Pauillac, St Julien to Pessac-Leognan, Pomerol, etc. All I can say is: there are some really delicious Bordeaux coming soon.....
