Argentina – Mendoza (Uco Valley) In short: Ernesto Catena’s Alma Negra combines Argentina’s terroir with creative blending and bold, distinctive style. Founded by Ernesto Catena, son of Nicolás Catena, Ernesto Catena Vineyards is a creative and artisanal project in Mendoza. Known for the Alma Negra (“Black Soul”) label, the estate pushes boundaries with unconventional blends and bold, enigmatic branding. The Alma Negra wines often blend Malbec with Bonarda and other varieties, producing dark, fruit-driven, and textured reds. They are crafted to intrigue both in flavor and presentation, offering a contrast to more traditional Argentine bottlings. Other Ernesto Catena projects explore high-altitude terroirs and organic farming. The Uco Valley, with its combination of altitude, cool nights, and rocky soils, is Argentina’s premier region for fine wine. Ernesto Catena’s innovative approach highlights both the classic potential of Malbec and the creativity possible in Mendoza.

South Africa – Hemel‑en‑Aarde Valley (Walker Bay) In short: Ashbourne crafts site‑specific Pinotage and a distinctive white blend, setting a new benchmark for Hemel‑en‑Aarde Valley wines. Founded in 1996 by Anthony Hamilton Russell, Ashbourne is a boutique estate devoted to the refinement of Pinotage and a singular white blend. The project was conceived as a focused exploration of Hemel‑en‑Aarde’s unique terroir, complementing Hamilton Russell Vineyards’ legacy of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The flagship Ashbourne Pinotage is known for its purity and restraint, setting it apart from bolder expressions elsewhere in South Africa. Alongside, the Sandstone White—a blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay—captures maritime freshness and textural finesse. Both wines are produced in small volumes, reflecting the estate’s artisanal approach. The clay‑rich, stony soils of Ashbourne, coupled with cooling breezes from the nearby South Atlantic, yield wines with precision, structure, and salinity. These site‑driven qualities underscore the estate’s mission to create age‑worthy, world‑class wines rooted firmly in South African identity.

Germany – Rheingau In short: August Kesseler is a Rheingau leader, known equally for world‑class Riesling and Germany’s most elegant Pinot Noir. When August Kesseler took over his family’s estate at just 19 years old, he transformed it from a small bulk‑wine operation into one of Germany’s most important modern wineries. Today the estate is recognized worldwide for its expressive Rieslings and refined Pinot Noir (Spätburgunder). The winery’s holdings include steep, slate‑ and quartzite‑based vineyards such as Assmannshausen Höllenberg, renowned for producing some of Germany’s finest Pinot Noir. Meanwhile, Rieslings from Rüdesheimer Berg Schlossberg showcase mineral precision and energy. Low yields and careful cellar work preserve the clarity of each site. The Rheingau’s south‑facing slopes, stretching along the Rhine River, enjoy long hours of sunshine tempered by cool nights. This combination allows for slow ripening, resulting in wines with depth, aromatic intensity, and bright acidity that age gracefully for decades.

Australia – Victoria (Gippsland) In short: Bass Phillip defines Australian Pinot Noir with profound, age-worthy wines of perfume and finesse. Founded in 1979 by Phillip Jones, Bass Phillip has long been a touchstone for Australian Pinot Noir, producing some of the most sought-after and collectible wines in the Southern Hemisphere. Named after explorers George Bass and Arthur Phillip, the estate was established with the ambition of crafting wines of Burgundian finesse from Victoria’s cool Gippsland region. Today, Bass Phillip begins a new chapter under the ownership of Burgundy’s Jean-Marie Fourrier, a celebrated winemaker from Gevrey-Chambertin. Fourrier brings his deep knowledge of Pinot Noir and a refined Burgundian sensibility to the estate, ensuring continuity of quality while also elevating the precision and detail in both vineyard management and cellar practices. Bass Phillip remains best known for its Premium and Reserve Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays, bottlings that rival top Burgundy for perfume, depth, and age-worthiness. The cool, maritime-influenced climate of Gippsland, with its extended ripening season and ancient soils, provides natural conditions for wines that balance concentration with tension.

South Africa – Franschhoek (Western Cape) In short: Boekenhoutskloof unites heritage and innovation, producing iconic South African wines under Marc Kent’s visionary leadership. Established in 1776, Boekenhoutskloof is one of South Africa’s most historic estates. In the modern era, it has been shaped by the vision of winemaker and owner Marc Kent, whose leadership has elevated the estate into a benchmark for Cape wine. The name translates to “ravine of the Boekenhout,” a native beech tree, tying the property to its origins in Franschhoek. Boekenhoutskloof’s portfolio is anchored by its flagship Syrah, regarded as one of South Africa’s greatest reds. Old-vine Semillon from Franschhoek is another highlight, while “The Chocolate Block,” a Rhône-inspired blend, has become an international ambassador. Kent and his team balance heritage with innovation, ensuring wines that are powerful, elegant, and deeply expressive of site. Franschhoek’s granite and sandstone soils, coupled with mountain breezes, provide conditions for wines of both structure and finesse. Under Kent’s stewardship, Boekenhoutskloof stands as a model of South African excellence.

Italy – Tuscany (Chianti Classico, Castelnuovo Berardenga) In short: Borgo Scopeto produces quintessential Chianti Classico wines that balance Tuscan rusticity with elegance. Borgo Scopeto is a restored medieval hamlet situated in Castelnuovo Berardenga, one of Chianti Classico’s most esteemed communes. The estate, once a fortified village, has been transformed into a winery and hospitality center, surrounded by vineyards that embody the essence of Tuscan viticulture. Sangiovese is the dominant variety here, thriving on the galestro and alberese soils characteristic of the region. Borgo Scopeto’s Chianti Classico and Riserva bottlings deliver red-cherry fruit, firm yet polished tannins, and vibrant acidity, combining rustic Tuscan charm with an elegant frame. The wines reflect the southern character of Berardenga, known for producing deeper, more structured expressions of Sangiovese. The slightly warmer conditions of Castelnuovo Berardenga yield wines with more body and richness than those from cooler, northern areas of Chianti Classico. This, combined with Borgo Scopeto’s careful winemaking, makes its wines a true representation of both terroir and tradition.

Italy – Tuscany (Montalcino) In short: Caparzo, owned by the Angelini family, helped shape Brunello’s modern identity, producing age-worthy Sangiovese that reflects Montalcino’s terroir diversity. Caparzo, founded in the late 1960s, was one of the pioneering estates of modern Brunello di Montalcino. The name derives from “Ca’ Pazzo,” meaning “crazy house,” a playful nod to the spirit of its founders who saw the untapped potential of Montalcino before it became world-renowned. Since 1998, the estate has been owned by the Angelini family, who have invested significantly in modernizing vineyard practices and cellar facilities while preserving the estate’s heritage. Caparzo’s Brunello di Montalcino is noted for its structure and longevity, sourced from vineyards across multiple parts of the appellation. This zoning approach, innovative at the time, ensures a balance of power, elegance, and aromatic nuance. Single-vineyard bottlings highlight the diversity of Montalcino terroirs, while Rosso di Montalcino provides an approachable counterpart. Montalcino’s patchwork of soils and elevations — from galestro schist to clay and alberese limestone — enables Sangiovese to show remarkable complexity and aging capacity. Caparzo remains a vital bridge between tradition and modernity in Brunello.

France – Champagne (Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, Côte des Blancs) In short: Champagne Delamotte produces elegant wines of finesse, encapsulating the best of the Côte des Blancs. When François Delamotte – a vineyard owner in Reims – founded the House in 1760, could he ever have imagined that his champagne would still be gracing our tables three centuries later? Hidden away in the heart of the Côte des Blancs, in Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, Delamotte continues the tradition started by its founder. Champagnes produced with bold simplicity. They owe their subtlety to the Côte des Blancs. This terroir draws forth a rich balance from the powerful, airy Chardonnays. Well-reputed among sommeliers and wine enthusiasts, the champagnes from Delamotte are known for their consistency, delicacy and exceptional character. For over 260 years, the team has been developing four different cuvées, a small range that gives amateurs and experts alike a clear understanding of the art of champagne. The Blanc de Blancs, Blanc de Blancs vintage, Brut and Rosé are quintessentiel champagne wines. From Cramant to Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, through Avize and Oger: all the grapes are found in the Côte des Blancs. Its location is one of Delamotte’s richest assets. The chalky soil, the flora and the sloping vineyards give the grapes their exceptional character, delivering delicate, consistent champagnes. Championing this exceptional terroir, drawing the best from it while maintaining absolute respect for the vines and the environment - that's what Delamotte is all about.

Salon is a unique Champagne. All the emphasis in the production of this exceptional wine is on the singular. It was originally the product of one single man, Aimé Salon; from one single region, the Côte de Blancs; from one single cru, Le Mesnil-sur-Oger; from one single grape variety, Chardonnay; and from one single vintage, with no blending whatsoever. Created in 1911 with its first vintage in 1905, Champagne Salon is the creation of Aimé Salon, a champagne connoisseur enchanted then seduced by the terroir of Le Mesnil. Headed by Salon until his death in 1943, the house was then left to his nephew. In 1988, Champagne Laurent-Perrier, a family-owned company, became the majority shareholder of Champagne Salon. Today, the house of Salon, along with its ancient neighbor and sister, Champagne Delamotte (the 5th oldest Champagne house, founded in 1760) are directed by one man, Didier Depond. At each step of the production of Salon, a conscientious effort is made to be the best, the most beautiful and the rarest, thus allowing fervent admirers of Salon to taste a perfectly balanced Champagne, with rich and complex aromas.

France – Bordeaux (Barsac, Sauternes) In short: Château Climens is Barsac’s benchmark for pure, biodynamic Sémillon wines. Château Climens, Premier Cru Classé of 1855, is one of Barsac’s most esteemed estates. Owned since 2022 by Jean-Hubert Moitry and his family, Climens is celebrated for its commitment to biodynamic viticulture and its singular focus on Sémillon. Former owner Bérénice Lurton, who managed the estate for over 30 years under her father's stewardship, remains at the château in an advisory role. The estate’s sweet wines are prized for purity, freshness, and balance, offering citrus, apricot, and honeyed complexity supported by vibrant acidity. In addition, the estate now produces dry whites that highlight the same precision and terroir expression. Barsac’s limestone plateau differentiates it from neighboring Sauternes, lending greater lift and clarity to its wines. Under new stewardship, Climens continues to affirm its place as the “Lord of Barsac.”

France – Rhône Valley (Châteauneuf-du-Pape) In short: Château de Beaucastel is the reference point for Châteauneuf-du-Pape, producing profound, age-worthy wines that unite all thirteen permitted grape varieties. Château de Beaucastel is one of the most iconic estates in the Southern Rhône, with a history that traces back to the 16th century and continuous stewardship by the Perrin family since the early 20th century. The domaine is a guardian of tradition in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, known for its pioneering commitment to organic and later biodynamic viticulture. Over generations, the Perrin family has become a great ambassador for the appellation, balancing respect for heritage with forward-looking innovation. The hallmark of Beaucastel is its unique approach to blending. Unlike many of its neighbors, Beaucastel grows and vinifies all thirteen grape varieties permitted in Châteauneuf-du-Pape. This field-blend philosophy produces wines of remarkable complexity and balance, with Grenache and Mourvèdre often at the core. The estate’s flagship red, Châteauneuf-du-Pape Rouge, is famed for its depth and longevity, while the rare Hommage à Jacques Perrin bottling is one of the Rhône’s most coveted wines. White wines, crafted largely from Roussanne, show richness yet remarkable freshness and aging potential. The 100 hectares of vineyards lie on a plateau covered in galets roulés (rounded river stones), which absorb and radiate heat to aid ripening, while the mistral wind helps keep the vines healthy. This terroir, combined with Beaucastel’s meticulous viticulture and long, traditional fermentations, yields wines that are powerful, structured, and consistently age-worthy, standing as benchmarks for the appellation.

France – Loire Valley (Muscadet Sèvre-et-Maine) In short: Château de la Ragotière crafts mineral, lees-aged Muscadets of depth and precision, including extraordinary single-vineyard expressions. Château de la Ragotière, a historic estate dating back to the 14th century, is owned by the Couillaud family. For generations, the family has specialized in Melon de Bourgogne from the Muscadet Sèvre-et-Maine appellation, producing wines that elevate the region’s reputation. Extended lees aging gives Ragotière’s Muscadets depth and texture, balancing the grape’s crisp citrus and saline character. The wines are renowned for their compatibility with seafood and their ability to age surprisingly well. Granite- and gneiss-based soils, combined with the Atlantic influence, provide freshness and minerality. The Couillaud family’s stewardship ensures a faithful yet ambitious expression of Muscadet.

South Africa – Constantia (Cape Peninsula) In short: Constantia Glen, family-owned, produces refined Bordeaux-style blends in South Africa’s historic Constantia Valley. Constantia Glen is a boutique family-owned estate situated in South Africa’s historic Constantia Valley, with roots in winemaking dating back to the 17th century. Today, the estate remains in private family hands, producing some of the Cape’s most elegant Bordeaux-style wines. Its reds — based on Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc — are finely structured and aromatic, while its Sauvignon Blanc and blends with Sémillon are crisp, fresh, and mineral. Constantia Glen’s balanced style reflects its cool, maritime-influenced terroir. Located on high-altitude slopes of Table Mountain, the vineyards benefit from slow, even ripening and cooling sea breezes. This environment fosters wines of precision and distinction, true to the Constantia heritage.

Portugal – Madeira In short: Cossart Gordon, Madeira’s oldest house, crafts fortified wines of remarkable character and centuries-long aging potential. Founded in 1745, Cossart Gordon is the oldest company within the Madeira Wine Association and one of the island’s most prestigious names. Today it continues under the umbrella of the Madeira Wine Company, preserving centuries of fortified wine tradition. The house produces the full range of Madeira styles, from the driest Sercial to the richest Malmsey, each marked by the island’s signature high acidity and oxidative complexity. Long cask aging, sometimes for decades, creates layers of nutty, caramelized, and citrus flavors. As a guardian of Madeira’s heritage, Cossart Gordon maintains a reputation for authenticity and longevity, with wines that can remain vibrant for generations.

France – Rhône Valley (Côtes du Rhône) In short: Coudoulet de Beaucastel is the benchmark Côtes du Rhône, offering structure and depth rarely seen in this category. Coudoulet de Beaucastel is produced from vineyards that lie just outside the Châteauneuf-du-Pape appellation boundaries, the terroir a mirror of its prestigious neighbor. This results in a wine that is one of the most structured and age-worthy wines in the Côtes du Rhône category. The red blend is typically composed of Grenache, Mourvèdre, Syrah, and Cinsault, crafted with the same care as Château de Beaucastel. It delivers dark fruit, spice, and earthy undertones, supported by firm tannins and a long finish. A white Coudoulet is also produced, primarily from Viognier, Marsanne, Bourboulenc, and Clairette offering richness and freshness in equal measure. By combining noble terroir with accessible pricing, Coudoulet de Beaucastel provides a gateway to the Beaucastel style, prized for its complexity, structure, and ability to evolve with age.

France – Savoie (Chignin, Alps) In short: Tucked into the slopes of the Alps, Denis & Didier Berthollier craft fresh alpine wines from grapes native to the Savoie region. The Berthollier family has farmed vineyards around Chignin for generations, with Denis and Didier now at the helm of this alpine estate. Their focus is on indigenous grapes, worked organically on steep limestone slopes. Jacquère and Altesse yield fresh, mineral whites, while Mondeuse offers spicy, vibrant reds. The brothers’ stewardship emphasizes tradition and terroir, showcasing Savoie’s potential on the international stage. With its limestone scree, elevation, and alpine climate, Savoie delivers wines of vibrancy and precision, perfectly captured by the Berthollier family.

France – Burgundy (Pommard, Côte de Beaune) In short: Domaine de Courcel, family-owned for centuries, defines Pommard with structured, cellar-worthy Pinot Noirs that show the range of expressions from this terroir in the Côte de Beaune. Domaine de Courcel, founded in the 17th century, remains in the hands of the de Courcel family after more than 400 years. This continuity has preserved its identity as one of Pommard’s defining estates. The domaine’s 10 hectares include Premier Cru sites such as Grand Clos des Épenots and Les Rugiens. Pinot Noirs here are vinified with whole clusters and long macerations, producing wines of intensity, structure, and longevity, true to Pommard’s reputation for muscularity. By maintaining family stewardship and traditional practices, Domaine de Courcel delivers wines that embody the strength and authenticity of their terroir.

France – Provence (L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue) In short: Domaine de Leos produces sustainable Provençal whites and rosés that showcase the lavender-kissed Mediterranean character of the Vaucluse. Domaine de Leos is a Provençal estate founded by French singer, actor, and entrepreneur Patrick Bruel. Beyond wine, the property is celebrated for its olive oils, making it a multifaceted expression of Mediterranean agriculture. Bruel’s stewardship emphasizes sustainability and biodiversity. Grenache, Syrah, and Vermentino are central varieties, producing aromatic rosés, reds, and whites that balance fruit richness with freshness. The estate’s dual focus on viticulture and olive groves positions Domaine de Leos as a modern ambassador for Provençal terroir, rooted in both agriculture and lifestyle.

France – Loire Valley (Sancerre) In short: Domaine Delaporte, family-run under Matthieu Delaporte, produces benchmark Sancerres from diverse terroirs centered on their generational home in the hamlet of Chavignol. Domaine Delaporte, based in Chavignol, is family-owned and today led by Matthieu Delaporte, who has transformed the estate into one of Sancerre’s most exciting domaines. His leadership has emphasized organic farming, low yields, and precise winemaking. The estate’s Sauvignon Blancs reflect the full range of Sancerre soils: silex (flint) for smoky minerality, caillottes (limestone pebbles) for racy precision, and terres blanches (clay-limestone) for depth and texture. Pinot Noir is also produced, offering elegant, mineral-driven reds. The Delaporte family’s generational connection to Chavignol provides authenticity, while Matthieu’s vision places the domaine at the forefront of Loire Valley quality.

France – Burgundy (Morey-Saint-Denis, Côte de Nuits) In short: Domaine des Lambrays unites centuries of history with modern innovation, producing elegant, precise Clos des Lambrays from its historic monopole vineyard. The Clos des Lambrays, encircled by its historic walls, has been a symbol of Burgundy’s heritage for centuries. First recorded as belonging to the monks of Cîteaux in 1365, the vineyard was fragmented during the French Revolution and only reunited by the Rodier family at the end of the 19th century. This reunification cemented its identity as a single, eight-hectare monopole Grand Cru and laid the foundation for its reputation today. Since 2014, Domaine des Lambrays has been under the ownership of the LVMH Group, which has invested in preserving its history while driving innovation. In recent years, the domaine has embraced entirely organic viticulture, earning ECOCERT certification in 2022 and extending its practices to biodynamics. The Clos is cultivated with the attention of a garden, divided into 11 distinct parcels that are vinified separately before being harmoniously blended. This approach allows each parcel’s individuality to be expressed while retaining a direct, unaltered link to the full terroir. Alongside the Clos, the domaine has expanded with acquisitions in Nuits-Saint-Georges, Vosne-Romanée, and Morey-Saint-Denis, reuniting parcels that had been separated for over four decades. A new cellar and vat house, completed in 2022, reflect this commitment to both tradition and innovation. Designed to respect the surroundings, the facility uses gravity-flow winemaking and unique cylindrical wooden vats that allow for whole-bunch fermentation without risk of acetate spoilage. With 15 hectares now under vine, Domaine des Lambrays continues to produce wines of purity, precision, and emotion, seeking to evoke the essence of its mythical early 20th-century bottlings that remain legendary in Burgundy.

France – Burgundy (Nuits-Saint-Georges, Côte de Nuits) In short: Domaine Henri Gouges is the reference point for structured, long-lived Pinot Noirs from Nuits-Saint-Georges. Founded in the early 20th century, Domaine Henri Gouges is synonymous with Nuits-Saint-Georges, producing some of the appellation’s most structured and age-worthy Pinot Noirs. The family played a key role in defining Burgundy’s appellation system, ensuring recognition for its distinctive terroirs. The domaine’s 14.5 hectares include top Premier Cru vineyards such as Les Saint-Georges, Les Vaucrains, and Les Pruliers. The wines are noted for their depth, muscular tannins, and ability to evolve for decades. In addition to Pinot Noir, a rare white Pinot Gouges (a natural mutation of Pinot Noir discovered in the family’s vineyards) is also produced. Nuits-Saint-Georges, with its mix of clay and limestone soils, yields wines that are darker, firmer, and more powerful than those from neighboring Vosne-Romanée. Henri Gouges stands as a benchmark for this character.

France – Burgundy (Pommard, Puligny-Montrachet, Côte de Beaune) In short: Jean-Marc Boillot produces refined Côte de Beaune wines that balance modern precision with Burgundian tradition. Jean-Marc Boillot, a descendant of both the Boillot and Sauzet families, established his own domaine in 1985 and quickly rose to prominence for both red and white Burgundies. His wines are known for their clarity, energy, and modern yet balanced style. The domaine farms vineyards in Puligny-Montrachet, Volnay, and Pommard, among others, producing whites with minerality and tension, and reds that combine fruit purity with supple tannins. His Puligny-Montrachet Premier Crus are particularly esteemed. By marrying traditional vineyard practices with restrained use of oak and precise vinification, Boillot creates wines that are approachable in youth but also built to age.

France – Burgundy (Meursault, Côte de Beaune) In short: Domaine Matrot produces benchmark Meursault whites and elegant reds, combining tradition with sustainable viticulture. Domaine Matrot is a historic estate in Meursault, with roots tracing back to the early 20th century. Today run by sisters Adèle and Elsa Matrot, the domaine is known for classic white Burgundies of depth and longevity, alongside structured, mineral-driven Pinot Noir. Meursault whites from Matrot are benchmarks, offering richness balanced by taut acidity and chalky minerality. The estate also produces fine Volnay and Blagny reds, which emphasize purity of fruit and elegant tannins. Farming is organic, with a focus on sustainable practices. Meursault’s clay-limestone soils provide both body and energy, making it one of the Côte de Beaune’s most versatile terroirs. Domaine Matrot interprets these conditions with authenticity, producing wines that are approachable in youth yet capable of long evolution.

France – Burgundy (Vosne-Romanée, Côte de Nuits) In short: Mongeard-Mugneret produces rich, structured Burgundies from Vosne-Romanée and top Grand Crus. The Mongeard family has farmed vines in Vosne-Romanée since the 17th century, and today Domaine Mongeard-Mugneret is a respected producer across the Côte de Nuits. Its extensive holdings cover some of Burgundy’s most prestigious appellations. The domaine produces wines from Grand Crus such as Grands Échezeaux, Clos de Vougeot, and Richebourg, as well as a wide range of Premier Crus and village wines. The house style emphasizes depth and richness, with Pinot Noirs that are generous in fruit yet structured for aging. Vosne-Romanée is famed for combining perfume and power, and Mongeard-Mugneret exemplifies this, offering wines of both opulence and longevity.

France – Loire Valley (Vouvray) In short: Domaine Pichot crafts versatile Vouvray Chenin Blancs that combine freshness, complexity, and age-worthiness. Domaine Pichot is a family estate in Vouvray, specializing in Chenin Blanc across a range of styles, from dry to sweet and sparkling. With roots in the region for several generations, the Pichot family has established itself as a consistent interpreter of the Loire’s most versatile grape. The wines reflect the diversity of Vouvray terroir: dry bottlings emphasize crisp orchard fruit and mineral precision; demi-sec and moelleux versions showcase Chenin’s honeyed, floral complexity; while sparkling Vouvray reveals its freshness and energy. Each cuvée demonstrates the grape’s extraordinary ability to age, often for decades. The tuffeau limestone and clay soils of Vouvray provide a balance of structure and acidity that underpins the wines’ longevity. Domaine Pichot exemplifies this tradition, crafting Chenin Blancs that evolve beautifully while expressing place.

France – Burgundy (Morey-Saint-Denis, Côte de Nuits) In short: Domaine Ponsot is a Burgundy icon, producing collectible Grand Cru Pinot Noirs of purity and longevity. Founded in 1872, Domaine Ponsot is one of Burgundy’s legendary estates, celebrated for its uncompromising philosophy and exceptional holdings in Morey-Saint-Denis and beyond. Laurent Ponsot led the domaine for decades, pioneering both quality practices and anti-fraud innovations in the fine wine world. The estate’s portfolio includes iconic Grand Crus such as Clos de la Roche, Clos Saint-Denis, and Chapelle-Chambertin. The wines are known for their purity, transparency, and capacity to age, often made with minimal intervention and a focus on whole-cluster fermentation. They balance richness with a lifted, aromatic quality that reflects both site and vintage. Morey-Saint-Denis lies between Gevrey-Chambertin and Chambolle-Musigny, and Ponsot’s wines embody this middle ground: structured yet elegant, powerful yet perfumed. The domaine’s Grand and Premier Crus stand among the most collectible in Burgundy.

France – Alsace (Kaysersberg Valley) In short: Domaine Weinbach is a benchmark Alsace estate, crafting biodynamic, terroir-driven whites of precision and longevity. Domaine Weinbach is one of Alsace’s crown jewels, founded in 1612 as a monastery winery and today run by the Faller family. The estate, centered on the Clos des Capucins vineyard, is revered for its biodynamic practices and expressive, site-specific wines. Weinbach produces outstanding Riesling, Gewurztraminer, Pinot Gris, and Muscat, each showcasing clarity and depth. Single-vineyard bottlings from sites like Schlossberg and Furstentum highlight the power and precision of Alsace’s granite and limestone terroirs. The wines range from dry and racy to lusciously sweet Vendanges Tardives and Sélections de Grains Nobles. The estate’s meticulous viticulture and low-intervention cellar work yield wines of elegance, intensity, and remarkable aging potential. Domaine Weinbach consistently demonstrates why Alsace is home to some of the world’s most distinctive white wines.

France – Loire Valley (Bourgueil and Saint-Nicolas-de-Bourgueil) In short: Domaine Amirault produces biodynamic Cabernet Francs that capture both the charm and structure of Bourgueil terroir. Domaine Amirault, led by Xavier and Agnès Amirault, is a family estate rooted in the Loire’s Bourgueil and Saint-Nicolas-de-Bourgueil appellations, centered on the Clos des Quarterons. For over 180 years, the family has cultivated Cabernet Franc on these limestone-rich soils, creating wines of authenticity and finesse. The wines emphasize purity of fruit and a balance between freshness and structure. From approachable cuvées meant for early enjoyment to cellar-worthy bottlings from old vines, Amirault’s range highlights the versatility of Cabernet Franc. Farming is certified biodynamic, reflecting the family’s commitment to stewardship of the land. The sandy and gravelly soils of Saint-Nicolas yield supple, aromatic wines, while the clay-limestone slopes of Bourgueil produce more structured and age-worthy expressions. Together, they offer a complete picture of Loire Valley Cabernet Franc.

France – Bordeaux (Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux Right Bank) In short: Domaines Comte de Malet Roquefort embodies Saint-Émilion’s heritage with elegant, age-worthy Right Bank wines. The Malet Roquefort family is one of Bordeaux’s oldest wine dynasties, with a lineage tracing back to the 16th century. Their estates include Château La Gaffelière, a Premier Grand Cru Classé in Saint-Émilion, along with Château Armens, Château La Connivence, and Château Tour de Capet. The family’s flagship, La Gaffelière, is planted primarily to Merlot and Cabernet Franc, producing wines of elegance, balance, and long aging potential. Across their holdings, the Malet Roqueforts emphasize precision viticulture, respect for tradition, and innovation in the cellar. Situated on Saint-Émilion’s famed limestone plateau, these vineyards produce wines of remarkable finesse and minerality. The Malet Roquefort portfolio exemplifies the heritage and enduring excellence of Bordeaux’s Right Bank.

France – Northern Rhône (Crozes-Hermitage, Saint-Joseph, Cornas) In short: Maison et Domaines Les Alexandrins produces refined Northern Rhône wines that combine heritage with modern precision from both estate and sourced fruit. Domaines Les Alexandrins is a collaboration between Nicolas Jaboulet, Guillaume Sorrel, and Alexandre Caso, uniting expertise from some of the Rhône’s most esteemed families. The project highlights the terroirs of Crozes-Hermitage, Saint-Joseph, and Cornas, producing wines of depth and elegance. Syrah is the cornerstone, offering wines with black fruit, peppery spice, and firm yet refined tannins. White wines from Viognier, Marsanne, and Roussanne show freshness, floral notes, and balance. The team combines traditional practices with modern precision to highlight the unique qualities of each appellation. The Northern Rhône’s granitic slopes and varied exposures provide Syrah with structure and aromatic complexity. Les Alexandrins captures these nuances across a range of cuvées that are approachable in youth yet capable of aging gracefully.

France – Burgundy (Puligny-Montrachet, Côte de Beaune) In short: Etienne Sauzet produces benchmark Puligny-Montrachet whites of finesse, minerality, and longevity. Etienne Sauzet is one of Burgundy’s most revered white wine domaines, based in Puligny-Montrachet. Founded in the early 20th century, the estate is renowned for producing some of the most precise and age-worthy expressions of Chardonnay in the world. The domaine’s holdings include village, Premier Cru, and Grand Cru vineyards in Puligny and surrounding appellations. Sauzet’s wines are known for their finesse, crystalline minerality, and balance of richness with tension. The style is restrained yet powerful, capable of aging gracefully for decades. Puligny-Montrachet is considered the spiritual home of Chardonnay, and Etienne Sauzet exemplifies why: its limestone soils and ideal exposures yield wines that combine aromatic delicacy with intensity and persistence.

France – Rhône Valley (Southern Rhône) In short: Famille Perrin produces authentic Southern Rhône across its crus, combining tradition, quality, and sustainability. The Perrin family is one of the Rhône Valley’s leading wine dynasties, known both for their stewardship of Château de Beaucastel and for their broader range of wines across the Southern Rhône. As members of Primum Familiae Vini, their philosophy emphasizes sustainable viticulture and authentic expressions of terroir. Famille Perrin produces wines from appellations including Gigondas, Vacqueyras, and Vinsobres, as well as Côtes du Rhône blends that offer quality and value. Each wine reflects the family’s hallmark balance of fruit, spice, and structure. Their commitment to organic and biodynamic practices sets a benchmark in the region. The Perrins are also innovators, expanding collaborations internationally (including with Tablas Creek in California) while remaining deeply rooted in Rhône tradition. Their wines are among the most reliable and respected in France.

Spain – Ribera del Duero In short: Finca La Capilla produces polished Ribera del Duero Tempranillo that balances power and freshness. Finca La Capilla is a boutique winery in Ribera del Duero, producing wines from Tempranillo (locally known as Tinto Fino). The estate is committed to showcasing the elegance and power of this high-altitude region of Castilla y León. The wines balance ripe black fruit, spice, and firm tannins, with careful oak aging adding depth and polish. Both Crianza and Reserva bottlings highlight the structure and longevity for which Ribera del Duero is famous, while entry-level wines offer immediate pleasure. The region’s extreme climate — hot days, cool nights, and chalky soils — fosters concentrated yet fresh wines. Finca La Capilla exemplifies the energy and intensity of Ribera del Duero’s modern generation.

United States – California (Napa Valley) In short: Forman Vineyard is a Napa Valley classic, producing Bordeaux-style wines of elegance and longevity. Forman Vineyard was founded in 1983 by Ric Forman, one of Napa Valley’s legendary winemakers. Situated on the eastern foothills of the valley near Howell Mountain, the estate is dedicated to Bordeaux varieties, crafted with an Old World sensibility. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot form the backbone of Forman’s wines, which are known for their elegance, balance, and restraint. Rather than pursuing sheer power, Forman emphasizes harmony, fine tannins, and the ability to age gracefully. Napa Valley’s volcanic and alluvial soils, combined with Ric Forman’s classicist approach, produce wines that bridge Californian ripeness with Bordeaux structure. The estate remains a benchmark for Napa elegance.

France – Burgundy (Puligny-Montrachet, Côte de Beaune) In short: François Carillon crafts Puligny-Montrachet whites of precision, minerality, and finesse. François Carillon comes from one of Puligny-Montrachet’s most esteemed families. Since establishing his domaine in 2010 (following a division of the historic Carillon estate), François has built a reputation for precise, mineral-driven Chardonnay. His vineyard holdings span Puligny-Montrachet and neighboring villages, including Premier Cru sites. The wines are marked by clarity, texture, and balance, with oak used judiciously to frame rather than dominate. They are quintessential Puligny: refined, elegant, and age-worthy. Carillon’s meticulous vineyard management and restrained winemaking underscore the quality of his terroirs, reinforcing Puligny’s reputation as the pinnacle for Chardonnay.

Italy – Friuli-Venezia Giulia (Collio) In short: Gradis’ciutta produces elegant, mineral-driven Collio wines that highlight Friuli’s white wine excellence. Gradis’ciutta, owned by Robert Princic, is one of Friuli’s leading estates, located in the Collio hills along the Slovenian border. The family has farmed these lands for generations, and the estate today is a standard-bearer for high-quality Friulano and other native and international varieties. The portfolio includes Friulano, Ribolla Gialla, Malvasia Istriana, Sauvignon Blanc, and Merlot. The whites are renowned for their aromatic intensity, crisp acidity, and mineral drive, while the reds are supple and balanced. Collio’s flysch soils of marl and sandstone, combined with its Alpine and Adriatic influences, produce wines of great complexity and freshness. Gradis’ciutta exemplifies Friuli’s reputation as one of Italy’s premier white wine regions.

England – Hampshire (South Downs, Hampshire) In short: Hambledon is England’s pioneering sparkling wine estate, producing Champagne-quality wines from Hampshire chalk. Hambledon is England’s oldest commercial vineyard, originally planted in 1952, and has become one of the country’s leaders in traditional-method sparkling wine. Under current ownership, the estate has invested in extensive vineyard expansion and state-of-the-art winemaking facilities to rival Champagne. The chalky soils of Hampshire mirror those of the Côte des Blancs, making the region ideally suited for Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier. Hambledon’s sparkling wines are celebrated for their purity, crisp acidity, and fine mousse, with a house style that balances freshness and richness. With England emerging as a serious sparkling wine region, Hambledon stands at the forefront, combining heritage with innovation and consistently earning international acclaim.

United States – Oregon (Willamette Valley) In short: Hamilton Russell Oregon brings Burgundian finesse and South African pedigree to Oregon Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Hamilton Russell, famed for its South African Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, expanded to Oregon in 2018 with a project in the Eola-Amity Hills AVA of the Willamette Valley. The estate leverages Oregon’s cool climate and diverse soils to craft wines that echo the elegance of Burgundy while retaining a distinct regional identity. Pinot Noir is the flagship, delivering purity of red fruit, spice, and fine tannins, while Chardonnay thrives with fresh acidity, subtle oak, and layered complexity. The Zena Crown Pinot Noir is sourced exclusively from the Zena Crown Vineyard, a monopole site farmed sustainably and Salmon Safe. Its iron-rich soils, varied elevations, and maritime-cooled climate yield a wine of remarkable structure, aromatic intensity, and textural finesse, capturing the vineyard’s elegance with layered fruit, spice, and a long, balanced finish. Maple Grove Chardonnay comes from the Maple Grove Vineyard near Monmouth in the Willamette Valley AVA. This site imparts a firm mineral backbone and lifted fruit, producing a wine that balances restraint and elegance with textured depth. It reflects both classic European sensibility and the purity of its Pacific Northwest origin, completing the expression of finesse and structure shaped by Oregon’s volcanic and marine sedimentary soils and the cooling Van Duzer Corridor.

South Africa – Hemel-en-Aarde Valley (Walker Bay) In short: Hamilton Russell Vineyards is South Africa’s benchmark for world-class Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Founded in 1975, Hamilton Russell Vineyards is one of South Africa’s most famous estates, pioneering fine Pinot Noir and Chardonnay in the cool-climate Hemel-en-Aarde Valley near Hermanus. Owner Anthony Hamilton Russell has established the domaine as a benchmark for Burgundian-style wines from the Cape. Pinot Noir here is elegant and savory, with notes of red fruit, spice, and earth, while Chardonnay combines ripe citrus and stone fruit with saline minerality. Both are acclaimed for their restraint and age-worthiness. The proximity of the vineyards to the cold South Atlantic Ocean, combined with stony, clay-rich soils, creates wines of tension and distinct regional identity, proving Hemel-en-Aarde’s world-class potential.

South Africa – Stellenbosch (Western Cape) In short: Helderberg Winery produces structured Bordeaux-style reds and fresh whites that showcase Stellenbosch’s Helderberg terroir. Helderberg Winery lies in Stellenbosch’s Helderberg subregion, an area renowned for Bordeaux-style reds and complex white wines. The estate combines tradition with modern winemaking, drawing on the area’s maritime influence and diverse soils. Cabernet Sauvignon is the star here, often blended with Merlot and Cabernet Franc to produce wines of depth, ripe fruit, and firm structure. Whites, especially Chenin Blanc and Sauvignon Blanc, show freshness and texture, completing a well-rounded portfolio. The Helderberg’s granite and shale soils, combined with cooling breezes from False Bay, yield wines with concentration balanced by elegance. The winery embodies Stellenbosch’s reputation as the heart of fine South African wine.

Austria – Weinviertel (Lower Austria) In short: Ingrid Groiss produces fresh, expressive Austrian whites that showcase Weinviertel’s terroir. Ingrid Groiss is a rising star in Austria’s Weinviertel region, celebrated for her vibrant, terroir-driven white wines. With family vineyards passed down through generations, she combines tradition with a modern sensibility, crafting wines of authenticity and precision. Groiss focuses on Grüner Veltliner, Riesling, and indigenous varieties such as Gemischter Satz. Her wines are marked by bright acidity, expressive aromatics, and a clear mineral backbone. Biodynamic practices and low-intervention winemaking ensure purity and a strong sense of place. Weinviertel’s loess and gravel soils, combined with a cool climate, yield wines that are crisp, aromatic, and versatile with food. Ingrid Groiss is at the forefront of showing the region’s potential on the international stage.

France – Loire Valley (Sancerre, Pouilly-Fumé, Touraine) In short: J. de Villebois offers benchmark terroir expressions of Sancerre and Pouilly-Fumé whites and red at exceptional value. J. de Villebois is a family-owned estate dedicated to showcasing the diversity of Loire Valley terroirs through Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir. At the heart of the range is the Parcellaires series—single-vineyard Sancerres that capture the nuances of flint, limestone, and clay across the appellation. These precise, site-driven wines reveal the depth and character possible from Sauvignon Blanc, while the domaine’s Pinot Noir bottlings highlight the elegance and potential of red Sancerre. Founded by Joost de Willebois, the estate has rapidly established itself as a benchmark in the region, combining sustainable viticulture with meticulous cellar work. The result is a portfolio that not only reflects terroir with clarity but also offers remarkable value for money in the world of single-vineyard French wines.

Italy – Alto Adige (South Tyrol) In short: Kurtatsch exemplifies Alto Adige’s diversity, producing fresh, precise wines from dramatic mountain vineyards. Cantina Kurtatsch is a cooperative winery in Alto Adige, renowned for producing high-quality wines that reflect the dramatic diversity of its mountain vineyards. The cooperative model unites growers across steep, high-altitude sites, ensuring both consistency and character. The portfolio spans indigenous varieties such as Lagrein and Schiava, alongside international grapes like Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc. Elevation plays a central role, with vineyards ranging from 200 to 900 meters above sea level, producing wines that are aromatic, fresh, and balanced. Alto Adige’s Alpine climate and mosaic of soils yield wines of remarkable clarity and longevity. Kurtatsch demonstrates how a cooperative can achieve excellence by focusing on terroir expression and meticulous winemaking.

France – Burgundy (Chablis, Côte d’Auxerre) In short: Laurent Tribut crafts precise, mineral Chablis that rival the region’s most celebrated names. Laurent Tribut is a highly respected vigneron in Chablis, producing wines that echo the precision and purity of the region’s top names. Though modest in size, the domaine is celebrated for its consistent excellence. Tribut’s wines come from Kimmeridgian limestone soils that define Chablis, offering racy acidity, citrus and green apple fruit, and a saline, mineral finish. The style is restrained and classic, often compared to Raveneau for its precision and longevity. With careful farming and traditional winemaking, Laurent Tribut’s Chablis stands as one of the region’s most dependable and age-worthy expressions, offering outstanding value relative to its peers.

France – Burgundy (Chablis) In short: Louis Michel & Fils is a benchmark Chablis estate, producing unoaked, mineral-driven Chardonnay of purity and finesse. Founded in 1850, Domaine Louis Michel & Fils is a family-owned estate in Chablis renowned for producing unoaked, terroir-driven Chardonnay. By eschewing oak in favor of stainless steel, the domaine emphasizes the purity, freshness, and minerality of Chablis’ Kimmeridgian limestone soils. The estate owns over 25 hectares, including prestigious Premier Cru sites like Montée de Tonnerre, Vaillons, and Forêts, as well as Grand Crus such as Les Clos and Grenouilles. Each wine reflects its vineyard origins with clarity, balancing vibrant acidity with textured depth. Louis Michel’s dedication to expressing terroir without embellishment has made its wines benchmarks of classic Chablis style, prized for both immediate vibrancy and long-term aging potential.

South Africa – Coastal Region (Western Cape) In short: MAN Family Wines unites approachable classics with celebrated estates like Lievland, Essay, Kara Tara, and the flagship Stark-Condé, offering a complete view of South Africa’s terroir and excellence. Founded in 2001 by José Conde and brothers Philip and Tyrrel Myburgh, MAN Family Wines has evolved into a leading South African wine group, balancing accessibility with ambition. The original MAN range—named after the founders’ wives, Marie, Anette, and Nicky—remains the foundation, producing sustainably farmed Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinotage, and Cabernet Sauvignon that overdeliver on quality and value. The portfolio extends well beyond MAN. Lievland revives a historic Stellenbosch estate with terroir-driven, classically styled wines. Essay highlights the Cape’s affinity for Rhône-inspired blends in a modern, fruit-forward style. Kara Tara, meanwhile, is dedicated to small-batch Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from cool-climate sites, showcasing finesse and restraint. At the pinnacle is Stark-Condé, the family’s crown jewel in Stellenbosch’s Jonkershoek Valley, renowned for its ageworthy Cabernet Sauvignon, elegant Syrah, and white blend that rank among South Africa’s finest and most restrained. Together, these estates express the depth and diversity of the Cape’s vineyards—from everyday bottles to collector-worthy icons—while staying true to the group’s ethos of value, sustainability, and a strong sense of place.

Spain – Rioja In short: Marqués de Cáceres produces modern, elegant Riojas that combine approachability with aging potential. Founded in 1970 by Enrique Forner, Marqués de Cáceres is a modern Rioja estate that helped usher in a new era of international recognition for the region. Working closely with French enologists, the winery emphasized elegance, freshness, and consistency. The portfolio spans from Crianza and Reserva to Gran Reserva and single-vineyard wines, primarily from Tempranillo, Garnacha, and Viura. The house style emphasizes fruit purity, fine oak integration, and balance, making the wines both approachable and age-worthy. Rioja’s varied terroirs, including the limestone soils of Rioja Alavesa and the warmer Rioja Alta, provide diversity and complexity. Marqués de Cáceres is one of the region’s most recognized names worldwide, bridging tradition and innovation.

Italy – Piedmont (Barolo, Serralunga d’Alba) In short: Massolino is a Barolo powerhouse, producing structured, age-worthy Nebbiolos from Serralunga’s great vineyards, along with one of the region's greatest expressions of Barbera d'Alba. Established in 1896, Massolino is one of the great traditionalists of Barolo, based in the village of Serralunga d’Alba. The family has long championed Nebbiolo’s ability to convey terroir with depth, structure, and longevity. The estate’s holdings include top crus such as Margheria, Parafada, and the legendary Vigna Rionda. Massolino’s Barolos are noted for their firm tannins, dark fruit, and earthy minerality, with an elegance that emerges over years of aging. The family also produces expressive Dolcetto, Barbera, and Moscato d’Asti, as well as Riesling and Chardonnay. Serralunga’s calcareous marl soils impart power and backbone, making Massolino’s wines some of the longest-lived in Barolo. The estate stands as a reference point for the region’s traditional style.

Chile – Central Valley and Beyond In short: Miguel Torres Chile showcases depth of Chile’s vineyards through world-class farming and winemaking., through the ageworthy Manso de Velsaco, terroir-focused Cordillera wines, and the revival of ancient varieties. Since establishing its Chilean estate in the late 1970s, the Torres family has become a standard-bearer for sustainable viticulture and terroir expression in South America. From their base in Curicó, they have expanded into Chile’s most distinctive valleys, farming with organic methods, fair trade principles, and a deep respect for biodiversity. At the pinnacle are the Icon wines and Manso de Velasco, a profound old-vine Cabernet Sauvignon that epitomizes both longevity and site expression. The Cordillera de los Andes series offers a detailed exploration of Chile’s best terroirs—limestone-rich Maipo for Cabernet, coastal Casablanca for Sauvignon Blanc, southern Itata for País, and more—each bottling crafted to highlight regional character. The La Causa project focuses on reviving Chile’s heritage varieties, particularly ancient País and Carignan, preserving cultural identity while elevating quality. This broad yet focused portfolio underscores the Torres family’s unique understanding of Chile’s extraordinary landscapes—from the Pacific coast to the Andes foothills—and their commitment to farming that ensures resilience and authenticity for generations to come.

Argentina – Mendoza (Uco Valley, high-altitude vineyards) Mil Suelos crafts high-altitude wines from Uspallata, Mendoza’s frontier of viticulture, where extreme terroir delivers freshness, structure, and minerality. Mil Suelos, meaning “a thousand soils,” is dedicated to exploring the extremes of Andean viticulture. Its home, Estancia Uspallata, is one of the highest vineyard sites in Mendoza—planted at nearly 2,000 meters above sea level in a remote valley of the Precordillera. This pioneering location marks the outer edge of where vines can thrive, producing wines defined by precision, freshness, and minerality. The focus is on Malbec, Cabernet Franc, and blends that favor elegance over sheer power. Altitude preserves natural acidity and aromatic lift, while rocky alluvial soils and dramatic diurnal shifts build structure and aging potential. By unlocking the character of Uspallata, Mil Suelos is helping to redefine the possibilities of Argentine wine on the global stage.