My VitiBox is a monthly French wine subscription box where all of the wines are specially selected by the famed sommelier Philippe Defleur (former sommelier of La Tour d’Argent and the Élysée Palace).
The wines are sent via courier to the UK and arrive in a shockproof box to prevent any breakages en route. Inside the box, you’ll discover two bottles of wine to taste in the comfort of your own home, alongside a copy of Philippe’s expert Tasting Notes.
Curious to find out more? Here’s what I found inside this month’s My VitiBox as part of their Colours and Flavours subscription:-
Domaine Saint-Romain Jongieux 2018
History: Living in the centre of the small village of Jongieux, the Perret family are among the best experts of Savoir winegrowing in the region. The family estate is more than 30 hectares wide and the area is a relatively young appellation as it was only officially labelled as such since 1989. Philippe discovered domaine Saint-Romain a few years ago and loves the freshness of this particular Jongieux wine.
Grape: Made from 100% Jacquère grapes.
Senses: A clear straw yellow shade in the glass, this wine has an explosive and pleasant aroma which is matched by its floral, citrusy and spicy disposition. Bone-dry, lively and light-bodied, notes of Hawthorn, Lemon Zest and Vanilla are dominant so it pairs well with Smoked Salmon dishes and fruity desserts such as Elderberry Panacotta.
Château Haut-Moulin Côtes de Bordeaux Vielles Vignes 2017
History: After taking over the estate in 1992, Christophe Chapron set work to modernise this vineyard and turned it fully to organic agriculture in the 2000s. Now a producer of small Bordeaux wines in the region, Haut-Moulin caught Philippe’s eye thanks to their delicious flavours and affordability.
Grape: Made from 15% Cabernet-Sauvignon and 85% Merlot.
Senses: A shiny garnet red in the glass with an expressive and pleasant aroma, this wine was an absolute delight to open! On the palate, it’s bone-dry, fresh, medium-bodied and with marked tannins for a satisfying evening meal drink. Lots of lovey fruity flavours from Blackberries come through which are complimented by spices such as Liquorice. Pairs well with Spinach Quiche and desserts like Chocolate Fondant.