Whoever said a collectors’ cellar should remain untouched? Anyone wine enthusiast proud of their collection will want to keep an eye on it, adding things here and there, especially when a particular vintage appears from their favourite producer. Here we have a selection to inspire, bursting with mature wines to be savoured now or in months and years to come.
Don’t let these mature vintages hibernate for any longer! Begin 2021 with these beautiful nectars, just waiting for you in all their splendour. We have plenty of bottles from regions reputed for their production of wines that improve with age. From Bordeaux, exceptional vintages such as the 2010, 2009, 2005, 2000 and 1990 should be ripe for consideration. Especially as they are represented by some of the most prestigious properties, including Château La Conseillante, Pontet-Canet, and Cheval Blanc for 1990, Léoville-Barton for the 2000, Giscours and Yquem for the 2005, Le Puy for the 2009, and Clos de l’Oratoire and L’Aurage in the 2010 vintage.
Next is the Rhône Valley, a region reputed for its characterful and often sunny wines, many of which are made to be aged for a very long time. 2005 is a vintage that has stuck in the mind of this southern vineyard, so we highly recommend the Reine des Bois cuvée, a Châteauneuf-du-Pape from La Mordorée. From the northern Rhône, it’s 2005 and 2010 that you should look for, with Hermitage cuvées from Domaine du Colombier, Le Pavillon by Chapoutier, and Tardieu-Laurent…wines that can be enjoyed from today, if you so wish!
Largely known for its fresh, lively, and fruity wines (even if the region’s Cabernet can give rather robust cuvées), the Loire Valley surprises us here with some mature little gems sure to convince you of their appellation’s potential. Try the 2009 Muscadet-Sèvre-et-Maine Pueri Solis from Pierre Luneau-Papin, as well as the 2002 Bourgeuil Les Perrières from the wonderful Catherine and Pierre Breton.
The festivities don’t need to stop just because we’re into the New Year, especially as you may like something to lift your spirits in 2021. Whatever you feel like celebrating, you can’t go wrong with a bottle of fizz, so how about a 2006 Brut champagne made by Charles Heidsieck? If you’d prefer a dessert wine for such an occasion, head to Hungary for a 2007 Tokaji Eszencia from domain Disznoko. Precious and rare, Escenzia is still difficult to find outside of its native region, since it comes from an extraction of aszu grapes (botritysed). The must is so high in sugar that fermentation can take several years. Balanced out by a lively and noble acidity, this nectar holds onto its freshness for almost a century.
Take your time to find a rare pearl: here is the full selection.
