Love fine wines? Then keep on reading, because I’ve discovered your one stop online shop to purchase and invest in some of the world’s finest wines. Millesima, for those of you who don’t know was in founded in 1983 by Managing Director, Patrick Bernard and has since gone on to become Europe’s leading fine wine mail order merchant. When it published its first catalogue of 100 of Bordeaux’s greatest wines, Patrick’s aim was to bring some of the world’s greatest wines, direct to wine lovers.
Over the past 15 years, Millesima have made over 300,000 deliveries to more than 65,000 customers and with their expert knowledge and range of some of the world’s best wines – the company continues to supply more and more wine enthusiasts with top wines from France, Europe and the rest of the world. The company specialise mainly in some of the finest Bordeaux Grand Cru’s, but it doesn’t stop there and as Millesima buys its wines exclusively from each property – meaning the provenance of its wines are exceptional.
As for the website, it’s incredibly well laid out and you could spend hours browsing through its extensive list, creating your perfect cellar or must have wines. Each wine-producing region on the website is listed into regions, but for those not quite as knowledgable – by countries and colours.
Personally I love the idea of creating a tasting case and it’s a great way to really find your own personal taste in wine before investing in a collection for the first time. Simply browse the site, selecting from the ranges of loose bottles and compose your own case from as little as 6 bottles to confirm your selection which comes displayed in a cardboard box. Need some help? Well I’ve picked out 6 of my all time favourites. Starting with Champagne and finishing on a sweet wine.
Krug, Grand Cuvèe Édition 165
The 165ème Edition Krug marks the 165th release of Grande Cuvée since the beginnings of Maison Krug in 1843. With the launch of numbered releases starting with Edition 163, Edition 165 is the third numbered release which has spent at least 7 years in Krug’s cellars to develop the expression and elegance which Krug is so well-known for. The 165ème Édition is a blend of 127 wines from 12 different years meaning it’s a reason alone to have this wine in your cellar and why I love it so much.
Billaud-Simon, Chablis 1er Cru “Montèe de Tonnerre 2016
The Chablis Premier Cru “Montée de Tonnerre” from Domaine Billaud-Simon is a 100% Chardonnay white wine from the Chablis Premier Cru appellation and in my opinion, a true essence of what Chablis is all about – the terroir. The vines on this wine grow in the well-known Kimmeridgian clay soils, producing a crisp and refreshing Chablis which will evolve over time. For anyone who doesn’t love Chardonnay, this is the perfect wine to change your mind.
Château Ausone 1989
Named after the Roman poet Ausonius who owned over 100 acres of vineyard around Saint Emilion, Chateau Ausone consists of only 7.3 hectares of vines and flourishes on a steep, south-east facing slope. Ausone as a Chateau struggled during the 1950s & 1960s, but regained its reputation into the 1970’s and now with Michel Rolland acting as consultant, this Chateau is producing rich, long-loved wines that require time – exactly why this 1989 will be drinking so well right now.
Château Palmer 1990
Château Palmer, named after a British officer, Major General Palmer, who settled in Bordeaux in 1814, is one of the most famous wines in the Margaux appellation after Château Margaux. Located in the centre of the Margaux appellation, this estates sparse gravel plateau are what gives this wine such a classic, textbook Bordeaux nose and the 1990 is a fine vintage. Seductive, with notes of berry, tobacco and cedar.
Antinori Solaia 2012
Moving into Italy, the 2012 Solaia is a beautiful wine which shows just how long-lived and delicious Italian wines can be. Both the 2011 and 2012 vintages come from hot climatic conditions with a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Sangiovese. Dark berry, spice and plum, this wine might still need a little more time in bottle, but a good breather in a decanter – this wine may just convert you into an extra case or two.
Château Doisy-Daène 2013
Château Doisy-Daëne in the Barsac region of Bordeaux produces some of the finest sweet white wines, full of finesse and richness. The property takes the second part of its name from an Englishman who bought the original Doisy estate which was split up in the 19th century. The estate currently produces three wines: a dry white, a classic sweet wine and a special cuvée, L’Extravagant, which is only made in outstanding vintages. However this 2013 vintage is one of the finest produced and can easily age for up to 20 years or more. My advice? Buy one to fall in love with, then order a case to lay down for another 10 years or so.
Once you’ve picked out your favourite wines and paid, Millesima will safely pack up your wines, with regular shipments from their cellars in Bordeaux to the UK which takes on average between 10-14 days. The integrity of the wines is a primary concern of Millesima, and they will not ship your wines if the conditions would in any way cause harm to the wine. Once the order is ready for delivery, a local carrier will contact you to organise a delivery appointment according to your availability.
Over time and once you enjoyed your purchase, you can continue to order in single bottles or begin investing in original cases, either taking delivery to your home or storing within your own UK in-bond storage account. For further information about Millesima then please visit their website for more details: https://www.millesima.co.uk
