Wine Review: Domaine Thillardon “Chassignol” Chénas

Heroes of Chénas

Brothers Paul-Henri and Charles are the heroes of Beaujolais’ less-represented Crus. Their passion for Chenas has brought this often-overlooked appellation into the limelight. In a region where Morgon and Moulin-a-Vent steal much of the spotlight, the Thillardon brothers have made it their mission to let Chenas shine. Paul-Henri, under the mentorship of natural winemaking legends Jean-Louis Dutraive and Yvon Métras, learned the traditional ways of Beaujolais and Burgundian winemaking. This unique combination of tradition and innovation is what sets Domaine Thillardon apart in a growing Beaujolais wine scene full of wonderful producers.

Elevated Bistro Wine

Domaine Thillardon Chassignol Chénas is the perfect choice for those looking to elevate their dining experience. Pouring into the glass, this wine reveals a captivating rusty red hue, a testament to the authenticity of its varietal expression. At first sip, the wine bursts with bright and spicy flavors, offering a fresh yet savory experience with crisp edges of cracked pepper. It's a light and vibrant wine, remarkably elegant in its character. Pair it with a variety of French bistro-inspired dishes, from classic steak frites to comforting onion soup, or even mussels and rich duck confit.

For Those Seeking The Next Great Cru Beujolais

TWL Rating: Delightful! Great for parties, gatherings, and impressing people!

★★★

Domaine Thillardon Chassignol Chénas deserves high praise. This wine is a true testament to the potential of Cru Beaujolais. Its intricate and bright profile showcases a level of complexity that rivals even some classic Burgundy wines. It's a bridge between natural wine enthusiasts and those who appreciate class and elegance in their wine. The Thillardon brothers have masterfully crafted a wine that offers the best of both worlds, making it a must-try for anyone seeking a unique and remarkable wine experience.

The Details

Country: France

Region: Beaujolais

Vineyards: Chassignol, Chenas

Varietals: Gamay

Winemaking: Traditional methods learned from mentors Jean-Louis Dutraive and Yvon Métras, with a focus on natural winemaking, highlighting the true expression of the Gamay grape.

Wine Review: Jean Foillard Beaujolais Villages

A Villages Hero

There are names in the world of wine that are inseparable from the concepts of tradition and authenticity, and Jean Foillard unquestionably belongs to this esteemed group of legends. His wines are like time capsules, preserving the essence of Beaujolais. As one of the founding traditionalists of the region and a proud member of the "Gang of Four," Foillard's Beaujolais Villages is a testament to his unwavering commitment to honesty and humility. The story behind this wine is one of unwavering dedication to the roots of Beaujolais winemaking, a story where simplicity and purity are the guiding principles.

Jean Foillard Beaujolais Villages embodies the very soul of the Beaujolais region. It's a wine that does not need any grand gestures to impress; it simply is what it is—fresh, vibrant, and unassuming.

The Essence of Beaujolais

Pouring a glass of Jean Foillard Beaujolais Villages is like uncorking the essence of Beaujolais. The wine greets you with an immediate burst of juicy and earthy flavors, true to the terroir of the region. Its freshness is striking, offering bright aromas with distinct notes of cherries and red currants. This wine is perfect for moments of simplicity, fitting seamlessly into life's most unassuming moments. This wine pairs exceptionally well with lighter braised meats, such as rabbit or chicken, making it an ideal companion for a variety of dishes.

For Cozy and Romantic Evenings

TWL Rating: Charming! Easy, fun, delicious, great value!

★★

Jean Foillard Beaujolais Villages embodies the very soul of the Beaujolais region. It's a wine that does not need any grand gestures to impress; it simply is what it is—fresh, vibrant, and unassuming. Every sip is a testament to the honesty of its winemaking process and its commitment to traditional practices. This wine is an invitation to a good time, a journey into the heart of Beaujolais. It is the perfect choice for a casual, cozy date night, where the wine is the backdrop to quiet and romantic moments. It is also the bottle you would happily bring to a Friendsgiving gathering, where its unpretentious charm will make it the star of the evening.

The Details

Country: France

Region: Beaujolais

Varietals: Gamay

Winemaking: Jean Foillard's approach to winemaking is all about minimal intervention. He employs traditional, natural winemaking methods, using native yeasts, whole-cluster fermentation, and low sulfur levels. This dedication to traditional winemaking techniques is what gives his wines their pure, unadulterated character.

Wine Review: La Vizcaina de Vinos “Las Gundiñas”

Unveiling the Rustic Charm of Bierzo

In the heart of Spain's Bierzo region, a place steeped in tradition and mystery, lies the remarkable La Vizcaina de Vinos winery. Among the many treasures produced here, the 'Las Gundiñas' stands as a testament to the enigmatic allure of this winemaking haven. Crafted by the gifted hands of Raul Perez, this wine is a compelling blend of artistry and nature. It embodies the winery's ethos, offering an intriguing and stoic wine that exudes rustic charm, taking you on a journey through time and terroir.

What makes 'Las Gundiñas' truly exceptional is its ability to transport you to another era. It has the charm of an old Spanish artist or poet, awakening nostalgia and curiosity with every sip.

Exploring the Essence of Bierzo

When you pour a glass of 'Las Gundiñas,' you're immediately greeted by a vibrant bouquet that dances with the essence of pomegranates, cherries, the minerality of gravel, and a subtle hint of licorice. This wine isn't merely a drink; it's an experience. It's as versatile as it is enigmatic, making it suitable for a variety of occasions. Enjoy it on a tranquil evening to accompany a hearty, slow-cooked Spanish stew, where it complements the rich flavors with its fruity and earthy notes. Or, imagine savoring a glass as you unwind with a collection of poems by an old Spanish artist or poet; the 'Las Gundiñas' fits seamlessly into such moments, enhancing the experience with its charm.

Captivating Nostalgia and Artistry

TWL Rating: Delightful! Great for parties, gatherings, and impressing people!

★★★

What makes 'Las Gundiñas' truly exceptional is its ability to transport you to another era. It has the charm of an old Spanish artist or poet, awakening nostalgia and curiosity with every sip. Its rich, layered flavors and earthy undertones are like a journey through the history of Bierzo, where the vineyards have witnessed centuries of winemaking tradition. The craftsmanship of Raul Perez shines through, and the result is a wine that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also tugs at your heartstrings. This is a wine that tells a story, captures the essence of a region, and offers itself up to earn a place in your heart as well as your wine collection.

The Details:

Country: Spain

Region: Bierzo

Vineyards: La Vizcaina de Vinos

Varietals: Mencia

Winemaking: Raul Perez employs traditional winemaking processes that respect the natural characteristics of the grapes and the terroir, resulting in a wine that beautifully reflects the unique Bierzo region. These processes may include hand-harvesting, natural fermentation, and minimal intervention to allow the wine's personality to shine through.

Wine Review: Akutain Rioja Reserva

Akutain Rioja Reserva - A Nod to Classic Rioja

The story of Akutain begins over four decades ago, a time when Rioja's storied estates consistently produced Spain's most highly sought-after wines. Through his work as an engineer Juan Peñagaricano Akutain developed personal relationships with many Rioja bodegas and spent time tasting and learning in the region, most notably in the cellars of two of the great traditionalists, CVNE and La Rioja Alta. These experiences gave him the confidence to plant his first vineyard in 1975, strategically located just 5km west of Haro at Rioja's epicenter.

Pouring a glass of Akutain Rioja Reserva is like opening a time capsule of the region.

With a deep-rooted desire to craft wine in the chateau style, Juan acquired a horse stable adjacent to the vineyard and ingeniously transformed it into a small but highly functional bodega. Akutain has been making wine here ever since, with an unwavering commitment "to control the whole process from vineyard to bottle." Their mission revolves around producing wines in the traditional style set forth by the Grand Bodegas, albeit on a much smaller scale. Most importantly, they seek to singularly reflect the wind-swept, high-altitude terruño of Rioja Alta, ensuring that every bottle carries the essence of this historic and distinguished winemaking region.

A Time Capsule in a Bottle

Pouring a glass of Akutain Rioja Reserva is like opening a time capsule of the region. The wine boasts a deep garnet hue, hinting at the aging process it has undergone in French and American oak barrels. On the palate, you are greeted with an orchestra of flavors: ripe red berries, dried cherries, and a subtle touch of vanilla, all harmonizing beautifully with hints of leather tobacco and soil. The tannins are smooth, making each sip velvety and inviting.

Pairing this exceptional Rioja Reserva is a pleasure. It complements a myriad of dishes, from traditional Spanish tapas like Jamón Ibérico and Manchego cheese to heartier fare such as grilled lamb chops or fabada. But it's equally delightful to enjoy on its own, paired simply with deep conversations musing on the trials of the day, all while savoring the wine’s complexity.

A Wine That Inspires Reverence

TWL Rating: Delightful! Great for parties, gatherings, and impressing people!

★★★

What makes the Akutain Rioja Reserva so special is its ability to transport you to the rugged yet beautiful landscapes of Rioja with every sip. It's a wine that tells a story of dedication to the craft, of respect for the land, and of a commitment to tradition. The Akutain family's meticulous approach to winemaking is evident in every aspect of this bottle. The balanced blend of Tempranillo and Graciano grapes showcases the essence of the Rioja region, with the extended aging process allowing the wine to mature into something truly magnificent.

The Akutain Rioja Reserva has a remarkable ability to evolve in the glass. With every passing moment, it reveals new layers of complexity and depth that seduce the tastebuds and soul ever further. It's a wine to be savored, whether on a special occasion or simply as a way to make an ordinary day extraordinary. Akutain Rioja Reserva is a masterpiece that captures the essence of Rioja's winemaking tradition, and every bottle is a testament to the time, patience, and passion put into crafting it. This is a wine that deserves a place in your collection, ready to be opened and enjoyed when you seek a taste of Rioja's timeless elegance.

The Details

Country: Spain

Region: Rioja, specifically Rioja Alta

Vineyards: The vineyards of Akutain are located 5km west of Haro, at the heart of Rioja Alta. This region is known for its high elevation and wind-swept terruño, providing a unique terroir that imparts character to the grapes.

Varietals: Tempranillo with a little Garnacha (Grenache)

Winemaking: Akutain follows a traditional approach to winemaking, in line with the Grand Bodegas of Rioja. The winemaking process is meticulous, with a focus on controlling every aspect from vineyard to bottle. The grapes are harvested carefully by hand. After spontaneous fermentation using native yeasts, the wine spends an extended period maturing in French and American oak barrels to develop its rich flavors and velvety texture. This careful approach to winemaking reflects the timeless traditions of the region, creating a wine that captures the essence of Rioja Alta.

Wine Review: Maison des Ardoisières 'Silice' IGP Blanc

Embracing Tradition in the Heart of the Alps

Maison des Ardoisieres Slice Blanc stands as a testament to the rich history and innovative spirit of winemaking in the Savoie region of France. Nestled in the breathtaking Alps, this boutique winery has rekindled the tradition of cultivating the Jacquère grape variety, which had nearly faded into obscurity. With a commitment to organic, terroir-driven winemaking, the passionate artisans at Maison des Ardoisieres have crafted Slice Blanc, a wine that beautifully combines the essence of their region's unique terroir with a contemporary touch.

Slice Blanc not only complements traditional Savoie cuisine like fondues, raclettes, and freshwater fish but also adds an elegant touch to everyday moments.

A Symphony of Alpine Elegance

Pouring a glass of Maison des Ardoisieres Slice Blanc reveals its pale, crystal-clear appearance, setting the stage for an enchanting experience. The nose unveils delicate notes of white flowers, green apple, and a distinct minerality that reflects the vineyard's alpine slate soil. On the palate, the wine's flavors harmonize, offering refreshing hints of lemon zest and ripe pear, all carried by a lively acidity. Slice Blanc not only complements traditional Savoie cuisine like fondues, raclettes, and freshwater fish but also adds an elegant touch to everyday moments. Whether you're relishing it in the heart of the Alps or incorporating it into urban life, this wine brings a touch of alpine charm to any occasion.

Slice Blanc: A Captivating Tale of Tradition and Terroir

TWL Rating: Delightful! Great for parties, gatherings, and impressing people!

★★★

Maison des Ardoisieres Slice Blanc tells a captivating story of preserving the past and embracing the future. By reviving the Jacquère grape, the winery honors the winemaking heritage of the Savoie region, while their organic approach underscores their dedication to the environment. The wine's pristine clarity and crispness echo the purity of the alpine landscape, and its balanced acidity ensures an invigorating experience. Slice Blanc is an exquisite gem from the Alps, sharing a narrative that combines tradition and modern sophistication.

The Details

Country: France

Region: Savoie

Vineyards: The vineyards of Maison des Ardoisieres are located on the steep slopes of the French Alps in the Savoie region. These vineyards are uniquely situated in a terroir characterized by slate soil, which imparts a distinctive minerality to the wines.

Varietals: Maison des Ardoisieres Slice Blanc primarily features the Jacquère grape variety. Jacquère is a white grape native to the Savoie region and is known for its ability to reflect the local terroir. It is a key component in many traditional Savoie white wines.

Winemaking: Maison des Ardoisieres is committed to organic winemaking practices. Their approach combines traditional winemaking techniques with modern innovations to produce wines that truly express their terroir. The winery's emphasis on terroir-driven winemaking includes minimal intervention, ensuring that the grapes' characteristics shine through. The winemakers employ gentle pressing and cool fermentation to preserve the delicate aromas and flavors of the Jacquère grapes. The result is a wine that embodies the pure, mineral essence of the Savoie region. While the winery practices organic viticulture, the exact winemaking methods can vary from vintage to vintage, allowing them to adapt to the unique qualities of each year's harvest.

Wine Review: Château de Chantgrives “Caroline”

Breaking the mold

Château de Chantegrive - cuvée Caroline may not seem like a wine that broke the mold, but in 1988 it did. The Cuvée Caroline was of the first Bordeaux Blanc wines to incorporate the Burgundian method of fermenting the white wines on the lees in order to develop a richer and creamier wine. More than thirty years later the Cuvée Caroline from Château de Chantegrive remains one of the most sought after and delectable Bordeaux Blancs on the market, and one that will make you fall in love with the region’s underappreciated wines.

Cuvee Caroline Blanc's ability to strike a perfect balance between freshness and flavor, combined with its connection to a rich family history, makes it a delightful and memorable choice.

A rich and creamy blanc

Chateau de Chantegrive Cuvee Caroline Blanc is a captivating white Bordeaux wine that exudes elegance and freshness. From the moment it graces your glass, it reveals a bright and inviting demeanor. On the nose, it's an orchestra of citrus notes, with zesty lemon and vibrant grapefruit taking the lead. There's a delicate interplay of white flowers and green apples, adding a touch of sophistication. The palate is a harmonious blend of crisp acidity and fruit-forward flavors. It dances on the taste buds with a lively citrus burst and subtle hints of green apple and white peach. The finish is clean and enduring, leaving a lasting impression of citrus zest and a gentle minerality.

A Bordeaux Blanc Gem

TWL Rating: Delightful! Great for parties, gatherings, and impressing people!

★★★

Chateau de Chantegrive Cuvee Caroline Blanc captures the essence of the Bordeaux region's terroir, showcasing the purity of its fruit and the influence of the local climate. Its vibrant acidity makes it incredibly food-friendly, pairing seamlessly with a variety of dishes, from seafood and salads to light poultry. The wine's balance and finesse are a testament to the winemaker's skill, creating a wine that can be enjoyed both as an aperitif and as an accompaniment to fine dining.

Cuvee Caroline Blanc's ability to strike a perfect balance between freshness and flavor, combined with its connection to a rich family history, makes it a delightful and memorable choice. Whether you're savoring it on a cool Fall evening or toasting to a special occasion, this wine offers a taste of Bordeaux's beauty and tradition in every sip.

The Details

Country: France

Region: Bordeaux, Graves appellation

Varietals: Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, and Muscadelle blend

Winemaking: hand-harvested, gentle pressing, stainless steel fermentation, lees aging, meticulous blending

Wine Review: Southern Right Pinotage

An old favorite revisited

Southern Right Pinotage is a wine that's been on our radar for a while. In fact, many of the Vynlyf team members consider it a cheeky favorite, while our founder considers it his earliest favorite wine. Many bottles have been shared over the years, but as you try more wines over the years, sometimes you forget the bottles that impressed you early on. So we had to revisit it and see if this wine was all we remembered it to be. Spoiler alert, it was all that and a revived love for a truly delicious wine. This South African delight is all about contemporary flair and bold flavors, making it the ideal choice for a stylish evening gathering.

Still surprising and delighting

Southern Right Pinotage does not disappoint when it comes to appearance and palate. It pours a seductive, deep ruby-red, setting the stage for an unforgettable tasting experience. The wine's clarity and luscious viscosity give it an Instagram-worthy appeal.A swirl of the glass reveals an enchanting bouquet. Dark fruits like blackberries and plums take center stage, with subtle hints of spices smoke. It is a fragrant, sensory journey that promises a palate adventure.

Whether you're hosting a chic dinner party with friends or celebrating a special milestone, this wine adds a touch of sophistication and adventure to the occasion.

The first sip was a revelation, unveiling the vibrant and intricate flavors of Southern Right Pinotage. It offers a symphony of dark fruits, including black cherries and black currants, lifted by a touch of red fruit brightness. The wine's luxurious, velvety texture is countered by a zesty acidity that keeps the excitement alive.

Southern Right Pinotage is your ideal companion for a memorable night out or a festive night in. Whether you're hosting a chic dinner party with friends or celebrating a special milestone, this wine adds a touch of sophistication and adventure to the occasion. Imagine savoring it with a decadent charcuterie board, artisanal cheeses, braised red meats, or roasted root vegetables. It's the perfect choice for those moments when you want to elevate the occasion and explore something refined but different.

A testament to good, solid winemaking

TWL Rating: Delightful! Great for parties, gatherings, and impressing people!

★★★

Southern Right Pinotage is an alluring wine that promises a contemporary tasting experience. Its vibrant fruit, well-balanced structure, and intricate flavor layers make it a standout choice for Pinotage aficionados and modern wine enthusiasts alike. Take this wine on your next stylish evening adventure—it's a testament to the artistry of South African winemaking that's sure to leave a lasting impression.

The Details

Country: South Africa

Region: Western Cape (a blend of grapes from Hemel-en-Aarde, Overberg, and Swartland)

Varietals: Pinotage

Winemaking: Aged in a mix of oak barrels and protected from disease organically.

Wine Review: Badenhorst Family Wines - Secateurs “Riviera”

A twist on the Swartland

Adi Badenhorst is a rockstar of South African wine. His Badenhorst Family Wines under the Secateurs labels are always fun, pleasant, and, more than anything, accessible. They offer us a window into just how incredible wines from South Africa and the Swartland can be. Better yet, they are always ready for a good time, and you can never feel shy about opening up a bottle. They are the quintessential introduction to modern South African wines.

The Secateurs Riviera is an interesting blend, predominantly of Chenin Blanc, with a support cast that varies from vintage to vintage…

So when we discovered that Adi and his family had added an orange wine to the Secateurs line, we were all over that. The Secateurs Riviera blew us away! This modern orange wine is something you need in your life right now!

Sweater-weather wine

The Secateurs Riviera is an interesting blend, predominantly of Chenin Blanc, with a support cast that varies from vintage to vintage but includes Rousanne, Grenache Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, and Colombar, to name a few. With a little bit of skin contact, you get that gorgeous pale amber color that will excite anybody with a passion or curiosity for orange wine. What came as a delightful surprise was just how racy and zesty this wine is, with notes of quince, orange peel, and grapefruit, along with notes of sage and spices to add an extra layer of intrigue.

All that combines to make the Secateurs Riviera aa perfect wine for the Fall. The freshness makes it a great wine to drink on warm and cool days alike while picnicking amongst Fall foliage or for a cheeky drink post apple picking. It is also a great wine

A modern orange wine

TWL Rating: Delightful! Great for parties, gatherings, and impressing people!

★★★

There is something so fun, delicious, and vivacious about this wine that makes it a breath of fresh air amongst orange wines. It is easy to fall in love with how fresh and racy this wine is, with its citrus notes blended so well with rich herbs and spices. This feels like a perfect Fall wine we could sip all season.

The Details

Country: South Africa

Region: Swartland

Varietals: Predominantly Chenin Blanc with other white wines blended in small amounts, including Grenache Blanc, Rousanne, Sauvignon Blanc and Colombar

Winemaking: After native yeast fermentation, the wine undergoes skin contact and carbonic maceration in concrete tanks and old casks. The wine is bottles without fining or filtering.

Wine Review: Quantico Etna Bianco

Etna’s reserved winery

Founded in 2009, Quantico is one of the newer producers in Etna. Nonetheless, Giovanni Raiti’s Quantico Etna Bianco is an incredible wine that could easily place itself among the best in the region. The winery, from the outside looking in, is very reserved and quiet. The winery is open to visitors on weekends, but you have to set up an appointment by email. Still, this winery that creates just a single red and white wine has astounded us with their subtle, luxurious wines. The Quantico Etna Bianco is a true hidden gem.

A perfect pairing for grilled seafood

The Quantico Etna Bianco immediately brings grilled seafood to mind, from the first whiff of the aromas to the wondrous palate. Lots of fresh, juicy citrus notes with a hint of saltiness and fresh herbs. This fresh and clean wine also has incredible body and structure, making it a great wine to surprise your Chablis and Chardonnay loving friends with something even more prestigious. This wine just screams to be paired with grilled branzino, octopus, calamari, and prawns served in the fading sun at a seaside bistro.

Refined tastes

TWL Rating: Delightful! Great for parties, gatherings, and impressing people!

This is one of the most delightful and brilliant Etna Bianco’s we have tasted. The Quantico Etna Bianco is the epitome of the quiet luxury that this wine is so praised and enjoyed for. It is elegant, delicious, and a wonderful surprise for those who seek out the most prestigious wines. The Quantico Etna Bianco will elevate many moments and show that you have a refined taste for the finer things in life without being too flashy.

The Details

Country: Italy

Region: Etna, Sicily

Varietals: Predominantly Carricante, with some Catarratto to add body and a little bit of Grillo to provide notes of stone fruit and cassis.

Winemaking: Organic farming. Quantico forgoes any pesticides in the vineyards and minimal intervention in the cellar in the pursuit of clean, well made wines that reflect the character of the vintage and varietals.