White Wine from Other Countries over £12.00 per bottle
Other Countries includes wines that did not have a country specified when we added them to our database - so may include countries originally listed in the menu.
Gran Tarapaca Casablanca Estate Sauvignon Blanc - £24.87
Price on 16-Jun-08 from Laithwaites.
Casablanca has been hailed as a source of Chile's ''most exciting whites'' by Tim Atkin MW, so it's little wonder that Tarapaca are seriously proud of their dazzling Sauvignon from this exciting region. The secret to the success of white wines here are the cool breezes that drift in from the Pacific Ocean, helping to lengthen the ripening season and give wonderfully concentrated fruit flavours. Winemakers Ed Flaherty and Cristian Molina - who has several Parker-rated wines to his name - selected only the very best Sauvignon grapes (less than 0.6% of their total harvest!) to go into Gran Tarapaca, and treated a fraction of the wine to 4 months in French oak barrels to add a hint of vanilla richness. This attention to detail, combined with one of the best vintages Chile has ever seen, makes for a truly stunning wine! Intense aromas of kiwi and passion fruit merge seamlessly with savoury asparagus flavours and hints of minerality. An outstanding aperitif, it will also make a delicious partner to traditional Chilean ceviche (raw fish 'cooked' with lemon juice, onions and red peppers), sushi or a crisp green salad with grilled goat's cheese.
Price on 16-Jun-08 from Laithwaites.
Casablanca has been hailed as a source of Chile's ''most exciting whites'' by Tim Atkin MW, so it's little wonder that Tarapaca are seriously proud of their dazzling Sauvignon from this exciting region. The secret to the success of white wines here are the cool breezes that drift in from the Pacific Ocean, helping to lengthen the ripening season and give wonderfully concentrated fruit flavours. Winemakers Ed Flaherty and Cristian Molina - who has several Parker-rated wines to his name - selected only the very best Sauvignon grapes (less than 0.6% of their total harvest!) to go into Gran Tarapaca, and treated a fraction of the wine to 4 months in French oak barrels to add a hint of vanilla richness. This attention to detail, combined with one of the best vintages Chile has ever seen, makes for a truly stunning wine! Intense aromas of kiwi and passion fruit merge seamlessly with savoury asparagus flavours and hints of minerality. An outstanding aperitif, it will also make a delicious partner to traditional Chilean ceviche (raw fish 'cooked' with lemon juice, onions and red peppers), sushi or a crisp green salad with grilled goat's cheese.
Domaine Darnat Clos du Domaine 2005 - £25.00
Price on 16-Jun-08 from Laithwaites.
'' Henri Darnat - a cult figure in Meursault who sells almost all his wine to private clients'' (Parker) ... so we are very excited to have secured a small parcel of Henri's lavish, peach-scented 2005 Meursault. And at an excellent price for a wine that is rich, ageworthy and easy to enjoy - the gift of a top vintage. Will drink wonderfully on release for those who lack the patience to cellar it!
Price on 16-Jun-08 from Laithwaites.
'' Henri Darnat - a cult figure in Meursault who sells almost all his wine to private clients'' (Parker) ... so we are very excited to have secured a small parcel of Henri's lavish, peach-scented 2005 Meursault. And at an excellent price for a wine that is rich, ageworthy and easy to enjoy - the gift of a top vintage. Will drink wonderfully on release for those who lack the patience to cellar it!
Chateau d'Arches 1997 - £26.00
Price on 16-Jun-08 from Laithwaites.
High quality, very well made Sauternes froma famous second growth estate, consisting of 90% Semillon and 10% Sauvignon Blanc. ''Given the quality of the wines, their prices are among the most reasonable of the appellation'' (Robert Parker, 'Bordeaux' on Chateau d'Arche). Now perfectly mature, this golden-hued Sauternes offers up heady aromas of freshly set orange marmalade, Cape gooseberries and creme brulee. Serve with apricot tart or blue cheeses.
Price on 16-Jun-08 from Laithwaites.
High quality, very well made Sauternes froma famous second growth estate, consisting of 90% Semillon and 10% Sauvignon Blanc. ''Given the quality of the wines, their prices are among the most reasonable of the appellation'' (Robert Parker, 'Bordeaux' on Chateau d'Arche). Now perfectly mature, this golden-hued Sauternes offers up heady aromas of freshly set orange marmalade, Cape gooseberries and creme brulee. Serve with apricot tart or blue cheeses.
Domaine Dampt Grand Cru Les Preuses 2006 - £26.00
Price on 16-Jun-08 from Laithwaites.
Les Preuses enjoys more sunshine hours than any other Grand Cru, producing the most luscious of all Chablis - almost Meursault in style. The masterful Eric Dampt's 2006 is just such a wine, underpinned with Chablis' irresistible steely elegance. Will drink beautifully in its youth.
Price on 16-Jun-08 from Laithwaites.
Les Preuses enjoys more sunshine hours than any other Grand Cru, producing the most luscious of all Chablis - almost Meursault in style. The masterful Eric Dampt's 2006 is just such a wine, underpinned with Chablis' irresistible steely elegance. Will drink beautifully in its youth.
Domaine Long-Depaquit Grand Cru Bougros 2006 - £26.00
Price on 16-Jun-08 from Laithwaites.
Exquisite, mineral-laced gem from Depaquit's ''exceptional'' (Parker) Gerard Vullien and the renowned Bougros vineyard. Mouthwatering proof Chablis has enjoyed its second 5-star vintage in a row.
Price on 16-Jun-08 from Laithwaites.
Exquisite, mineral-laced gem from Depaquit's ''exceptional'' (Parker) Gerard Vullien and the renowned Bougros vineyard. Mouthwatering proof Chablis has enjoyed its second 5-star vintage in a row.
Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc 2007 - £26.00
Price on 16-Jun-08 from Laithwaites.
Wow! This wine is phenomenal! The signature Cloudy Bay style is given a zesty twist thanks to the slow-ripened grapes from a tiny crop of exceptional fruit. This is simply New Zealand at its best - but hurry! Extremely low yields meant that only a few precious cases were made ... make sure you order yours now! ''Pale straw in colour and enticingly fragrant ... reminiscent of a fresh summer fruit salsa - ripe peach, passion fruit, mango and juicy citrus - sprinkled with zesty citrus and apple sherbet.'' (Cloudy Bay)
Price on 16-Jun-08 from Laithwaites.
Wow! This wine is phenomenal! The signature Cloudy Bay style is given a zesty twist thanks to the slow-ripened grapes from a tiny crop of exceptional fruit. This is simply New Zealand at its best - but hurry! Extremely low yields meant that only a few precious cases were made ... make sure you order yours now! ''Pale straw in colour and enticingly fragrant ... reminiscent of a fresh summer fruit salsa - ripe peach, passion fruit, mango and juicy citrus - sprinkled with zesty citrus and apple sherbet.'' (Cloudy Bay)
Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc - £26.00
Price on 16-Jun-08 from Laithwaites.
Wow! This wine is phenomenal! The signature Cloudy Bay style is given a zesty twist thanks to the slow-ripened grapes from a tiny crop of exceptional fruit. This is simply New Zealand at its best - but hurry! Extremely low yields meant that only a few precious cases were made ... make sure you order yours now! ''Pale straw in colour and enticingly fragrant ... reminiscent of a fresh summer fruit salsa - ripe peach, passion fruit, mango and juicy citrus - sprinkled with zesty citrus and apple sherbet.'' (Cloudy Bay)
Price on 16-Jun-08 from Laithwaites.
Wow! This wine is phenomenal! The signature Cloudy Bay style is given a zesty twist thanks to the slow-ripened grapes from a tiny crop of exceptional fruit. This is simply New Zealand at its best - but hurry! Extremely low yields meant that only a few precious cases were made ... make sure you order yours now! ''Pale straw in colour and enticingly fragrant ... reminiscent of a fresh summer fruit salsa - ripe peach, passion fruit, mango and juicy citrus - sprinkled with zesty citrus and apple sherbet.'' (Cloudy Bay)
Monte Viejo Macabeo - £26.94
Price on 16-Jun-08 from Laithwaites.
Officially classed as ''very good'', La Mancha's 2006 vintage gives this ripe Macabeo tons of intense apricot flavour. Complex and well-balanced, it's a fantastic value alternative to pricier white Rioja. The Macabeo variety is not very widespread in Castilla although its popularity is increasing. It is said to owe its name to the Maccabee tribe mentioned in the Bible and seems to have originated in the Ebro basin near Rioja. During harvest the Macabeo grapes were picked very early in the morning and taken to the pressing station immediately to preserve freshness. There they are pressed and fermented in stainless steel tanks at low temperature guaranteeing the fresh, aromatic nose you encounter the moment you draw the cork. Crisp, with slight floral hints and abundant tropical fruit aromas, Monte Viejo Macabeo is a perfect easy drinking white. Ideal as an aperitif, or with seafood salads and white fish.
Price on 16-Jun-08 from Laithwaites.
Officially classed as ''very good'', La Mancha's 2006 vintage gives this ripe Macabeo tons of intense apricot flavour. Complex and well-balanced, it's a fantastic value alternative to pricier white Rioja. The Macabeo variety is not very widespread in Castilla although its popularity is increasing. It is said to owe its name to the Maccabee tribe mentioned in the Bible and seems to have originated in the Ebro basin near Rioja. During harvest the Macabeo grapes were picked very early in the morning and taken to the pressing station immediately to preserve freshness. There they are pressed and fermented in stainless steel tanks at low temperature guaranteeing the fresh, aromatic nose you encounter the moment you draw the cork. Crisp, with slight floral hints and abundant tropical fruit aromas, Monte Viejo Macabeo is a perfect easy drinking white. Ideal as an aperitif, or with seafood salads and white fish.
Pierro Margaret River Chardonnay 2004 - £27.00
Price on 16-Jun-08 from Laithwaites.
Famously complex Chardonnay that's comparable to top white Burgundy with its richly layered peachy flavours and minerally restraint. Aussie wine critic James Halliday lists it among his top wines for the region - quite the accolade when you consider the stiff competition it faces! ''Light straw-green; a complex array of fruit aromas ranging from herb to faintly tropical, then a powerful, intense and long palate. Excellent acidity and grip'' James Halliday
Price on 16-Jun-08 from Laithwaites.
Famously complex Chardonnay that's comparable to top white Burgundy with its richly layered peachy flavours and minerally restraint. Aussie wine critic James Halliday lists it among his top wines for the region - quite the accolade when you consider the stiff competition it faces! ''Light straw-green; a complex array of fruit aromas ranging from herb to faintly tropical, then a powerful, intense and long palate. Excellent acidity and grip'' James Halliday
Domaine Servin Grand Cru Les Preuses 2005 - £27.00
Price on 16-Jun-08 from Laithwaites.
La Revue du Vin de France says you should go ''go to any length to secure Chablis 2005'' ... making this Grand Cru rarity an absolute must-buy! Domain Servin produces first class whites with ''quality to die for'' (Wine Spectator). Show-stopping pristine white with inviting aromas of white flowers plus citrus flavours and that unmistakable steely fresh minerality found only in this classic region's top flight wines. Wow!
Price on 16-Jun-08 from Laithwaites.
La Revue du Vin de France says you should go ''go to any length to secure Chablis 2005'' ... making this Grand Cru rarity an absolute must-buy! Domain Servin produces first class whites with ''quality to die for'' (Wine Spectator). Show-stopping pristine white with inviting aromas of white flowers plus citrus flavours and that unmistakable steely fresh minerality found only in this classic region's top flight wines. Wow!
Ramirez de Velazco Torrontes - £27.74
Price on 16-Jun-08 from Laithwaites.
Having claimed Torrontes as its own, Argentina has not rested on its laurels. It is gradually turning this little known grape into a sought-after household name. This is thanks in no small part to the country's rapidly improving winemaking expertise and massive investment in its wineries. Increasingly, Argentina is the place to look for ''good value wines with unique flavours'' (Drinks Business). Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, the vineyards for Ramirez de Velazco Torrontes lie in the La Rioja region, which enjoys warm days and cool, dry nights ... with plenty of melt water available for irrigation, the conditions are near ideal for the vines and shows through in the intense, pure fruit flavours. The fresh and lively 2007 vintage offers plenty of distinct rose and citrus aromas, apple, melon and a hint of spiciness. Dry and crisp, it is wonderful served slightly chilled with salads, fish and poultry.
Price on 16-Jun-08 from Laithwaites.
Having claimed Torrontes as its own, Argentina has not rested on its laurels. It is gradually turning this little known grape into a sought-after household name. This is thanks in no small part to the country's rapidly improving winemaking expertise and massive investment in its wineries. Increasingly, Argentina is the place to look for ''good value wines with unique flavours'' (Drinks Business). Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, the vineyards for Ramirez de Velazco Torrontes lie in the La Rioja region, which enjoys warm days and cool, dry nights ... with plenty of melt water available for irrigation, the conditions are near ideal for the vines and shows through in the intense, pure fruit flavours. The fresh and lively 2007 vintage offers plenty of distinct rose and citrus aromas, apple, melon and a hint of spiciness. Dry and crisp, it is wonderful served slightly chilled with salads, fish and poultry.
Berton Weigh Station Chenin Blanc - £28.74
Price on 16-Jun-08 from Laithwaites.
Aussie Bob Berton is an old friend who has made some of our favourite wines (think Willy Willy!). He has now invested in a cellar all of his own, and this white is one of his first releases. Chenin Blanc is a hugely versatile but under-rated grape. Best known in France's Loire Valley, it's capable of producing wines in a massive range of styles - all with a captivating and refreshing vibrancy. In Australia's warm climate, this grape stays crisp, fruity and fresh. Pale straw in colour with aromas of lime, passionfruit and apple tart. Generous passionfruit and kiwi flavours. Delicious on its own, or enjoyed with warm lime and coriander chicken salad, creamy fish dishes or simply cold meats.
Price on 16-Jun-08 from Laithwaites.
Aussie Bob Berton is an old friend who has made some of our favourite wines (think Willy Willy!). He has now invested in a cellar all of his own, and this white is one of his first releases. Chenin Blanc is a hugely versatile but under-rated grape. Best known in France's Loire Valley, it's capable of producing wines in a massive range of styles - all with a captivating and refreshing vibrancy. In Australia's warm climate, this grape stays crisp, fruity and fresh. Pale straw in colour with aromas of lime, passionfruit and apple tart. Generous passionfruit and kiwi flavours. Delicious on its own, or enjoyed with warm lime and coriander chicken salad, creamy fish dishes or simply cold meats.
Guigal Condrieu - £29.00
Price on 16-Jun-08 from Laithwaites.
The 2004 vintage of this stunning wine was one of Decanter's Top Northern Rhone Whites (July 2006), praised as ''exuberant'' and awarded a 5-star rating. 2005's natural advantages make this better still. And with just one third of the juice fermented in new barrels, the oak is appetisingly subtle. Unctuous yet elegant with intensely fresh, aromatic fruit. Drink 2007-2012.
Price on 16-Jun-08 from Laithwaites.
The 2004 vintage of this stunning wine was one of Decanter's Top Northern Rhone Whites (July 2006), praised as ''exuberant'' and awarded a 5-star rating. 2005's natural advantages make this better still. And with just one third of the juice fermented in new barrels, the oak is appetisingly subtle. Unctuous yet elegant with intensely fresh, aromatic fruit. Drink 2007-2012.
Didier Dagueneau 2005 - £29.00
Price on 16-Jun-08 from Laithwaites.
''Didier Dagueneau sweeps all contenders aside in the purity of his world-class Sauvignon Blanc'' (The Independent) Didier Dagueneau's Pouilly-Fume is consistently stunning, but what makes this wine so exciting - and collectable - is the outstanding quality of the 2005 vintage.
Price on 16-Jun-08 from Laithwaites.
''Didier Dagueneau sweeps all contenders aside in the purity of his world-class Sauvignon Blanc'' (The Independent) Didier Dagueneau's Pouilly-Fume is consistently stunning, but what makes this wine so exciting - and collectable - is the outstanding quality of the 2005 vintage.
Domaine Gerard Thomas Premier Cru Blagny 2006 - £29.00
Price on 16-Jun-08 from Laithwaites.
''Look out for Gerard Thomas' excellent Meursault Blagny'' advises Robert Parker - indeed, his richly textured 2006, handcrafted from a tiny parcel of 50-year-old vines, is a notable step up in flavour concentration. Will be beautifully fresh and vibrant on release, the gift of 2006, but will develop honeyed depth with cellaring. Terrific value for a top-tier Premier Cru Meursault.
Price on 16-Jun-08 from Laithwaites.
''Look out for Gerard Thomas' excellent Meursault Blagny'' advises Robert Parker - indeed, his richly textured 2006, handcrafted from a tiny parcel of 50-year-old vines, is a notable step up in flavour concentration. Will be beautifully fresh and vibrant on release, the gift of 2006, but will develop honeyed depth with cellaring. Terrific value for a top-tier Premier Cru Meursault.
Barooga Station Verdelho Chardonnay - £29.34
Price on 16-Jun-08 from Laithwaites.
''The success of Verdelho in Australia is an extraordinary phenomenon'' says leading Oz wine critic James Halliday. This Portugese grape was originally used solely in the production of Madeira but Down Under it produces a superb, lime-scented, honeysuckle white. Here it's a perfect partner for ever popular Chardonnay, giving typical sunshine-in-a-glass melon and pineapple flavours an aromatic, citrussy edge - the perfect alternative to over-oaked, over-priced big brand Aussie whites. Indeed for excellent, everyday drinking wines full of sun-drenched ripe fruit - look no further than the delicious Barooga Station , courtesy of the family-run Riverina Estate. The wine wizard here is Sam Trimboli (200 plus medals a year), the winery high-tech and yields are kept low for clean, flavour intensity.
Price on 16-Jun-08 from Laithwaites.
''The success of Verdelho in Australia is an extraordinary phenomenon'' says leading Oz wine critic James Halliday. This Portugese grape was originally used solely in the production of Madeira but Down Under it produces a superb, lime-scented, honeysuckle white. Here it's a perfect partner for ever popular Chardonnay, giving typical sunshine-in-a-glass melon and pineapple flavours an aromatic, citrussy edge - the perfect alternative to over-oaked, over-priced big brand Aussie whites. Indeed for excellent, everyday drinking wines full of sun-drenched ripe fruit - look no further than the delicious Barooga Station , courtesy of the family-run Riverina Estate. The wine wizard here is Sam Trimboli (200 plus medals a year), the winery high-tech and yields are kept low for clean, flavour intensity.
Barooga Station Verdelho Chardonnay - £29.34
Price on 16-Jun-08 from Laithwaites.
''The success of Verdelho in Australia is an extraordinary phenomenon'' says leading Oz wine critic James Halliday. This Portugese grape was originally used solely in the production of Madeira but Down Under it produces a superb, lime-scented, honeysuckle white. Here it's a perfect partner for ever popular Chardonnay, giving typical sunshine-in-a-glass melon and pineapple flavours an aromatic, citrussy edge - the perfect alternative to over-oaked, over-priced big brand Aussie whites. Indeed for excellent, everyday drinking wines full of sun-drenched ripe fruit - look no further than the delicious Barooga Station , courtesy of the family-run Riverina Estate. The wine wizard here is Sam Trimboli (200 plus medals a year), the winery high-tech and yields are kept low for clean, flavour intensity.
Price on 16-Jun-08 from Laithwaites.
''The success of Verdelho in Australia is an extraordinary phenomenon'' says leading Oz wine critic James Halliday. This Portugese grape was originally used solely in the production of Madeira but Down Under it produces a superb, lime-scented, honeysuckle white. Here it's a perfect partner for ever popular Chardonnay, giving typical sunshine-in-a-glass melon and pineapple flavours an aromatic, citrussy edge - the perfect alternative to over-oaked, over-priced big brand Aussie whites. Indeed for excellent, everyday drinking wines full of sun-drenched ripe fruit - look no further than the delicious Barooga Station , courtesy of the family-run Riverina Estate. The wine wizard here is Sam Trimboli (200 plus medals a year), the winery high-tech and yields are kept low for clean, flavour intensity.
Marques de Bataneros Oak Aged - £29.74
Price on 16-Jun-08 from Laithwaites.
Made from the traditional Airen variety - the most widely grown grape on the plains of La Mancha - and partially fermented in brand new oak to add a touch of creamy, vanilla richness. Crafted by Felix Solis, one of the largest wineries in Spain. Their ability to transform tradtional grapes using modern technology has earned them countless awards. Superb, stone fruit flavours, with hints of toast, butter and vanilla. Excellent when matched with rich seafood dishes.
Price on 16-Jun-08 from Laithwaites.
Made from the traditional Airen variety - the most widely grown grape on the plains of La Mancha - and partially fermented in brand new oak to add a touch of creamy, vanilla richness. Crafted by Felix Solis, one of the largest wineries in Spain. Their ability to transform tradtional grapes using modern technology has earned them countless awards. Superb, stone fruit flavours, with hints of toast, butter and vanilla. Excellent when matched with rich seafood dishes.
Finca Concepcion Sauvignon Blanc - £29.74
Price on 16-Jun-08 from Laithwaites.
This super-refreshing Sauvignon owes it wonderfully crisp flavours to the quality of the grapes. Grown in vineyards that lie over 1,000 metres above sea level, the grapes benefit from plentiful sunshine during the day and cool temperatures at night which allows them to ripen perfectly. Bursting with intense passion fruit and lemon aromas, leading into a zesty, lingering finish. Fantastic on its own, or partnered with fresh seafood.
Price on 16-Jun-08 from Laithwaites.
This super-refreshing Sauvignon owes it wonderfully crisp flavours to the quality of the grapes. Grown in vineyards that lie over 1,000 metres above sea level, the grapes benefit from plentiful sunshine during the day and cool temperatures at night which allows them to ripen perfectly. Bursting with intense passion fruit and lemon aromas, leading into a zesty, lingering finish. Fantastic on its own, or partnered with fresh seafood.
Groenendal Vineyards Chenin Blanc - £29.74
Price on 16-Jun-08 from Laithwaites.
Chenin Blanc has been grown in the Cape since the first settlers arrive from the Loire Valley in the 1660s. Despite the recent switch to more ubiquitous international varieties (Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc), Chenin remains the definitive Cape white. Always distinctive, in the right hands it is capable of elegance, complexity and longevity. Groenendal was among the first 15 farms established in the Wellington area 300 years ago. Chenin has been grown there for the last century. The current owner Herman Le Roux's great grand father emigrated from Blois in the Loire which is the centre of Chenin Blanc cultivation in France. Today the estate's wines are vinified by Franck Meaker at Wellington's Bolvei Cellars. Pale gold with light green tinges. Ripe peach, citrus and guava aromas. This is a really well balanced wine with a whack of fresh fruit flavours, lovely harmonious structure and a crisp lingering finish. Especially recommended with grilled fish and seafood kebabs.
Price on 16-Jun-08 from Laithwaites.
Chenin Blanc has been grown in the Cape since the first settlers arrive from the Loire Valley in the 1660s. Despite the recent switch to more ubiquitous international varieties (Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc), Chenin remains the definitive Cape white. Always distinctive, in the right hands it is capable of elegance, complexity and longevity. Groenendal was among the first 15 farms established in the Wellington area 300 years ago. Chenin has been grown there for the last century. The current owner Herman Le Roux's great grand father emigrated from Blois in the Loire which is the centre of Chenin Blanc cultivation in France. Today the estate's wines are vinified by Franck Meaker at Wellington's Bolvei Cellars. Pale gold with light green tinges. Ripe peach, citrus and guava aromas. This is a really well balanced wine with a whack of fresh fruit flavours, lovely harmonious structure and a crisp lingering finish. Especially recommended with grilled fish and seafood kebabs.