Reviewed by
Emma
Whilst getting slightly waylaid in the post, the October box finally made it’s way to me mid November – then came on holiday with me too – this is well travelled wine!
I’ve been drinking more white than red recently (which is unusual for me, as in these cold wet months I generally prefer the warmth of a well bodied red) , so I was happy to receive a bottle of white wine in my box this month.
The lovely people at Le Petit Ballon sent me a L’Auratae Nero d’Avola 2014 and a bottle of Domaine FL La Croix Picot 2013 as well as the usual ‘Le Petit Ballon’ gazette magazine and tasting cards (both of which, I forgot to pack with the wine – there’s always something left behind right?!)
All wines that feature in Le Petit Ballon boxes have been carefully selected by Jean-Michel Deluc, a master sommelier, formerly of the Ritz, London.
L’Auratae – Nero d’Avola – 2014 (13.5%)
This beautiful, radiant ruby red was organically made in the Santa Tresa estate in Italy. Traditionally made since 1697, this full bodied drop will set your tastebuds alive.
The tasting notes are as follows:
Eyes: A ruby-coloured wine with softer nuances at the edge of the glass. A brilliant, colourful wine that’s very attractive to the eye.
Nose: The wine offers a very good structure of ripe black fruits which coats notes of pepper, liquorice, cardamom and minerality.
Mouth: The wine is juicy and fleshy in the mouth, well balanced with a spicy, mineral structure. The ripe tannins are powdery.
Visit Le Petit Ballon to buy this wine.
Domaine FL – La Croix Picot – 2013 (12.3%)
This fresh, crisp fruity white is simply stunning in it’s flavour – right from the very heart of France in the Loire Valley region; this wine is described as ‘witty’ by Le Petit Ballon – and really, I couldn’t agree more….stunning!
The tasting notes are as follows:
Eyes: The wine has a bright gold colour and a crystalline shine that suggests it’s youth and freshness.
Nose: So much finesse on the nose with white fruit aromas, white flowers, honey and candied citrus.
Mouth: The wine is honeyed and almost sweet to taste, yet absolutely dry! There is a great balance and intensity of fruit and flowers.
Visit Le Petit Ballon to buy this wine.
Summary
Every month you’ll receive the following in your Le Petit Ballon box:
Two bottles of wine carefully selected Former Sommelier Chef at The Ritz.
Tasting advice and super tips With handy posts and videos.
The Gazette The magazine that tells you everything there is to know about wine without all the waffle!
There are 2 subscription options available to you:
- Grape Expectations – £24.90 per month, Including Shipping. This subscription brings you unknown, but great value wines chosen by the master sommelier Jean-Michel Deluc.
- Age of Raisin – £39.90 per month, Including Shipping. This subscription delivers prestigious labels for connoisseurs, chosen by the master sommelier Jean-Michel Deluc.
By subscribing you’ll also receive 20% off future wine purchases on their site, all delivered straight to your door.
By Mary 
By Evelyn 
