Wines Tasted 

 

Wednesday 2nd April 2025

Spanish Wines Selection

Presented by 

Tom Holt of Paso Primero Wines

 

 

1. Paso Primero Blanco

ABV: 13% £11.50

Chardonnay, Gewurztraminer, Alcanon, Macabeo

 

Details: Stony, aromatic, fruity, balanced, long finish. Chardonnay gives it body. Local indigenous variety Alcanon gives it acidity. Gewurz gives it fragrance.

 

2. Pasotismo Blanco

ABV: 12% £22.50

Chardonnay, Alcanon, Macabeo

 

Details: Pale straw colour. Aroma fills out as it warms up. Fresh acidity from Macabeo, Weight from Chardonnay. Elegance and finesse.

 

3. Paso Primero Rosado

ABV: 13% £11.50

Merlot, Tempranillo, Syrah

 

Details: Deep pink, full-bodied rose. Soft ripe red fruits, strawberries and redcurrants. Ideal every day drinking. Goes well with snacks, particularly Frazzles! 

 

4. Paso Proximo Tinto

ABV: 13.5% £?

Garnacha, Paraletta, local indigenous variety Moristel

 

Details: Deep purple red. Lightly smokey ripe black fruit nose. Blackberries, soft rich tannins. Elegant, no hard edges. Silky nice acidity.

 

5. Pasotismo Tinto

ABV: 13.5% £22.50

Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Tempranillo, Garnacha, Syrah, Moristel, Parraleta

 

Details: Leafy and ripe. Fresh fruitiness. Rich, deep, complex and comforting, Lighter, more drinkable than typical Somontano oaked reds.

 

 

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Wednesday 5th February 2025

Italian Selection

Chosen by Daniel Read of New Forest Wines

Presented By; John Billington, Claire Hillyard, Sue Warnock & Stuart Warnock

WWS Members

 

Bottega Vinai Gewurztraminer 2023

Region: Trentino

Grape: 100% Gewurztraminer

ABV: 14%

 

Details: Calvit is a leading co-operative in the mountains of the Trentino region, in the Valle dei Laghi north of Lake Garda, in northeast Italy. Started up in 1950 and today it consists of 11 cellars with a total of 5,250 grape growers and 6,350 hectares of vineyard which produces an impressive portfolio of both indigenous and international grape varieties. Their site at Maso Toresella on the shores of Lake Toblino is one of the most significant rural estates in the whole of Trentino. Trento DOC was the first Classical Method sparkling wine DOC to be established anywhere in the world after Champagne, and the first in Italy.

 

For this Gewurztraminer, the grapes are soft-pressed to prevent colour extraction. Gewurztraminer grapes possess a pinkish-copper tinge on the skins when ripe so colour extraction is a danger if not treated carefully in the winery. After fermentation in stainless steel, the wine is left in tank for 4-5 months before bottling.

Intense rose petal and lychee aromas, with hints of ginger, citrus peel and honeysuckle. Exotic fruit on the palate with balancing acidity, which is important, leading to a rich spicy finish.

 

Pair with Thai cuisine, seafood canapes, or white meat in creamy sauces.

 

 

Cantine Grasso ‘Sette Aje’ Inzolia Catarratto 2022

Grape(s): 50% Inzolia & 50% Catarratto

Region: Sicily

ABV: 12%

 

Details: Winery founded in 1887 and has been handed down over 5 generations. Based in Milazzo in north-east Sicily on the Tyrrhenian side of the province of Messina opposite the Aeolian Islands.

Inzolia (aka Ansonica in Tuscany) is indigenous to Sicily and is commonly used to produce Marsala wine and is known for its nutty aromas.

Catarratto is a more well-known variety of Sicily and is the most widely planted grape on the island, producing entry-level wines up to very premium examples.

This wine is fermented in stainless steel vats and aged for at least 2 months in bottle before release.

Fresh and elegant on the nose with white flowers, hay and more fruity aromas of peach and ripe pear.

Nicely textures and well-structured on the palate with grassy nuances on the finish.

 

Pair with fish in a creamy, fennel sauce.

 

 

 

Benito Ferrara ‘Terra d’Uva’ Greco di Tufo 2022

Grape: 100% Greco

Region: Campania

ABV: 13%

 

Details: Family-run estate which has been producing wine since 1880. Located within the district of San Paolo near Avellino in Campania. Considered the number one producer of Greco di Tufo, consistently producing wines of outstanding quality. Only 12.5 hectares under vine at an altitude of 450-600 meters above sea level. Today, Gabriella Ferrara now manages this small estate together with her husband Sergio.

For the Terre d’Uva (land of grapes) the vines range from 5 years old to 60 with an eastern exposure on volcanic soils.

The grapes are soft pressed followed by fermentation and then maturation on lees in stainless steel tanks for 7 months. Only 36,000 bottles are produced annually.

 

Medium-bodied with lifted aromas of citrus and tropical fruits, bitter almond and plenty of minerality with lovely acidity. Great ageing potential.

 

Pair with pan-fried calamari, grilled swordfish steak with garlic and mint sauce, or even a tartiflette for a wintery pairing.

 

 

Vesevo Beneventano Aglianico 2022

Grape: 100% Aglianico

Region: Campania

ABV: 13.5%

 

Details: Situated in the Irpinian hills inland from Naples, Vesevo, produce a delicious range of local Campania specialities overseen by winemaker Antonio Melone. Their vineyards are between 450 and 550 metres above sea level and benefit from cooling breezes from the Bay of Naples. The soils in the area have a poor, volcanic character influenced by the ash blown in from the nearby Mount Vesuvius. Finest examples of Aglianico can be found in the Taurasi appellation, 30 miles northeast of Naples.

 

This is a full-bodied red which is vinified mainly in stainless steel tanks to preserve fruity characteristics, with a small proportion aged in American barriques. Full of smoky, ripe black fruit flavours with a touch of cassis and herbs. Oak maturation lends a subtle vanilla influence and gives it a nicely rounded structure. Aglianico is a thick-skinned variety which means oak maturation is usually necessary to soften the tannins before bottling.

 

Pair with barbequed lamb or mushroom risotto.

 

 

Guasti Clemente ‘Desideria’ Barbera d’Asti 2023

Grape: 100% Barbera

Region: Piemonte

ABV: 14%

 

Details: Guasti Clement founded the winery in 1946 in the heart of Nizza Monferrato and is the first producer to bottle a 100% Barbera “Cru” - Barbera delle Cascine Nicesi, which are still the pride of the House, bearing the name of Barbera d'Asti Superiore DOCG “Cascina Boschetto Vecchio”. The family’s winemaking traditions go way back to the pioneer Secondo Guasti, who emigrated to California in 1881, carrying with him cuttings of the Barbera vine. Within a decade using cuttings of those vines to achieved having planted the world's largest vineyard at that time and established himself as the state’s wine king under the Italian Wine Company. The result of his hard work is still visible today in the town he funded, which still bears his surname.

 

The Desideria means ‘desire’ and is 100% Barbera which is aged for 6 months in oak barrels, plus 6 months ageing in bottle before release. Medium to full-bodied with intense aromas of strawberry, cherry jam followed by fresh hints of violets with herbaceous and earthy tones. Smooth and warm on the palate with a fresh mineral led acidity on the finish.

 

Try with red meats or tomato-based pasta dishes.

 

 

Petra ‘Quercegobbe’ Merlot 2021

Region: Toscana

Grape: 100% Merlot

ABV: 14.5%

 

Details: Elisa Bonaparte Baciocchi, Napoleon's sister, grand duchess of Tuscany and lady of Lucca and Piombino, picked this location in 1808 to plant the first seed of an agrarian and vinicultural endeavour. While travelling to Bordeaux with her father, Francesca Moretti discovered the area 200 years later. She wanted to study horticulture and oenology since she was fascinated with their cultural and historical significance. Tuscany was a no-brainer at the time because of its freshly earned status as a wine area. A few kilometres outside Piombino in the Suvereto region, Francesca's father, Vittorio Moretti, bought 148 acres in San Lorenzo in 1997. And the beginning of a significant modern project was established with Petra. We’re roughly 30 miles southwest of Siena. Francesca Moretti discovered her second home here, a place that she loved just as much as her first one in Franciacorta.

 

 Quercegobbe translates to ‘humped oaks’ and is the name of the vineyard from which the grapes are sourced. The winery itself is located near the ancient village of Suvereto, named after Suvere (oak trees which produce cork). The Quercegobbe vineyard is located on the edge of a Mediterranean scrub, on a well-ventilated hillside overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea.

 

Fermentation takes place in oak barrels and the wine is then transferred to demi-muids, of which 20% of the juice in new and the rest in second or third use, for 18 months. The wine is matured for a further 10 months in bottle before release.

 

The wine expresses rich red fruit aromas with subtle sweet spices, eucalyptus and balsamic notes. Powerful, yet elegant on the palate with blueberry jam, dried raspberries and hints of cinnamon, black pepper and liquorice.

 

Pair with hearty meat dishes, beef wellington, or mature cheeses.

 

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Wednesday 8th January 2025

Call My Wine Bluff

Presented by 

Claire Hillyard & Stuart Warnock

WWS Members

 

1. La Val Albarino 2023 12.5% £13.99    Waitrose

 

Albariño variety of white wine grape grown in Galicia (northwest Spain) and in Northwest Portugal where it is also used to make varietal white wines.[1] Albariño is the name for the grape in Galician. In Portugal it is known as Alvarinho, and sometimes as Cainho Branco.

It was once thought that Albariño was brought to Iberia by monks from the monastery of Cluny in the twelfth century, but recent studies point to Albariño/Alvarinho being native to Galicia / Portugal. Both the Galician "Albariño" and the Portuguese "Alvarinho", derive from albo<albus, meaning "white, whitish".It has also been theorized that the grape is a close relative of the French grape Petit Manseng.

History

For hundreds of years, Albariño vines could be found growing around the trunks of poplar trees and in bushes along the outside margins of fields. However, in the middle of the last century growers  made big investments and became professional grape growers. When grown in a vineyard, the vines need to be wire trained with large canopies to accommodate the 30 to 40 buds per shoot that is typical. The grape responds well to the heat and humidity though the high yields and bunching of clusters usually keep the grapes within the margins of ripeness

Wine characteristics

The grape is noted for its distinctive botanical aroma with a citrus  undertone, very similar to that of Viognier, Gewurztraminer, and Petit Manseng, suggesting apricot and peach. The wine produced isunusually light, and generally high in acidity with alcohol levels of

11.5–12.5%.[9] Its thick skins and large number of pips can cause residual bitterness.

The wine is from Rías Baixas in north-west Spain, and has in-depth flavour with citrus notes and a long finish. Ideal with seafood andfish, fresh cheese or chicken

(The Rías Baixas (Galician for "Lower Rias") are a series of four estuarine inlets located on the southwestern coast of Galicia).

The styles of Rías Baixas Albariño range across five sub-regions —from a crisp, aromatic “melony” character to more earthiness. While the different sub-regions express subtle differences, the wines all share a number of characteristics. A pale golden lemon colour, crisp, elegant and fresh. Bone-dry and aromatic, the wines are packed with flavours of citrus, white peach, apricot, melon, pineapple, mango and honeysuckle. Many winemakers use techniques such as lees aging to develop a full range of Albariño styles including wines with longer aging potential

Summary

Made exclusively for Waitrose & Partners by Bodegas La Val, from some of the most prestigious vineyards along the River Miño. This is elegant and refined wine, expressing the best characteristics of the variety. There are refreshing flavours of ripe zesty citrus, stone fruit and flower blossom, without oak influence. There's a gentle

coastal character that complements fish dishes and green salads.    

 

 

2. Pouilly-Fume Chatelain 2023. 13% £17.99 Waitrose

 

A famous French wine from the Loire and made of 100% Sauvignon Blanc grapes Selected and imported by Taylor wines London  Bottled by Vincent Chatelain,  Pouilly sur Loire.

Just goes to show you how terroir matters! Grown on flint and limestones it has a character quite superior (in my opinion) to any NZ Sauvignons!

This fruity wine has following characteristics, White Appearance: Pale straw yellow. Nose: Pouilly-Fumé – Intense aromas of grapefruit and white flowers, frequently with herbal and mineral notes. Sauvignon is very sensitive to fluctuations in natural conditions - climate and microclimate, altitude and exposure.

Pouilly-sur-Loire - Pleasant, soft fruit notes.

 

 

 

3. Chablis Premier Cru 2022 13%. £27.99  Waitrose

Esprit de Chablis

 

A beautiful wine made entirely from chardonnay grapes The Chablis region is located in Northern France, in between the cities of Dijon and Paris. While it is part of Burgundy, it is often separated from the Burgundian conversation in a similar way as Beaujolais. This is not without reason. Geographically, Chablis is angled away from Dijon, with its streams and rivers flowing north to the Seine rather than the Rhône. It is much further north than the Côte d’Or (let alone the Côte Chalonnaise and Pouilly-Fuissé), and as a result, the grapes need to coax as much energy as possible from the sun to ripen. This gives Chablis its characteristic acidity and lithe body Not all Chablis are equal, but few regions give Chardonnay a platform to shine as purely as it does here. Chablis’ greatness comes from a tapestry of ingredients, all equally important: ancient

limestone soil, indirect sunlight from a northerly latitude, a cool climate, and of course, an entrenched, multi-generational culture of winemaking. The first three factors give Chardonnay a vivaciousness and purity; the latter lends the region an incredibly high level of consistency.

There are 4 versions of Chablis: Petit Chablis, Chablis, Premier Cru,and Grand Cru

The wine you are tasting is Premier Cru

As we move up the spectrum to the Premier Cru level, we find that sun exposure, micro-climates and soil compositions are beginning to reveal the area’s complex terroir. These wines are

Chablis plus a little something extra: a tinge of herbs here, a pineapple-skin aroma there, a longer-lasting finish over there. Avid Chablis drinkers will tell you that certain Premier Cru

vineyards— can yield wines of equal complexity to many Grand Cru.

For me, Premier Cru hits the sweet spot for my budget: a worthy expense given the degree of quality, character and surprising intrigue from bottle to bottle.

In summary:

Delicious, French fine white wine, an exclusive blend of the finest Premier Cru vineyards to showcase the true spirit of Chablis. Pale gold in colour with delicate aromas of white peach and citrus on the nose. The palate is elegant and fresh, showing citrus peel and nectarine fruit together with honeyed, nutty characters. The fossil-rich, chalky soil of the region gives this wine its classic, refreshing mineral finish.

 

 

 

4. Château de Beauregard, Moulin-à-Vent La Salomine 2022  14%    £22.50 The Wine Society

 

A poised and complex cru Beaujolais from vines planted over 100 years ago in granite soils over 400m above sea level. Beautiful minerality and depth, from the finest vineyard in the Beauregard crown. Made from the 'gamay Nicolas' grape which has almost died out in the Beaujolais region. Can be broached now but will develop further complexity of flavour in the coming years.

About the wine maker - Half of their Beaujolais vines are in Fleurie, but there are also small plots in Morgon, Moulin-à-Vent, and Saint-Amour. The vines range from 35 to 45 years old on average, and are located at some of the most prestigious plots in their respective appellations. In Fleurie, for instance, the vines are mostly at the highly respected Poncié site which borders Moulin-à-Vent, whereas in Moulin-à-Vent itself the family owns a superb vineyard called Les Petits Bois.

All of the family’s Beaujolais is made at a winery in Fleurie. The various crus are all vinified in a traditional style, and most spend some time in oak –, Moulin-à-Vent spends around nine months in oak.

The windmill (moulin) – standing at 278 metres, surrounded by vineyards – is classified as a historical monument. It embodies the prestige and pride of the small appellation, straddles two communes, and benefits from a homogeneous terroir. After a few years, Moulin-à-Vent wines develop aromas of iris, wilted roses, spice and ripe red fruit and a hint of nutmeg, with notes of undergrowth and truffles, providing tannic, structured wines. When younger, they are floral and fruity, with violet and cherry aromas.

As the nose develops it reveals aromas of raspberry, redcurrant and blackcurrant. On the palate, it is round, elegant and lively. It offers aromas of red fruit and a hint of nutmeg.

 

 

5. Running With Bulls, South Australia, Tempranillo 2021 14%  £ 8.75 The Wine Society

 

Leave the sheep and run with the bulls was the driving philosophy behind the Hill-Smith Family when they created Running with Bulls. First – with their introduction of the Spanish varietal Tempranillo in 2008; followed by launching Grenache and advocating ‘chilled reds’.

Born from a different attitude and a different approach, it stuck its finger up at the status quo and created something not only new, but brilliant.

Juicy, fragrant red made from the Spanish tempranillo grape. The nose shows plums, blueberries and a hint of pepper. The palate is silky, full and fruit-forward with a lovely twist of spice towards the finish. Perfect slightly chilled and with tapas or pizza.

While tempranillo is extremely popular in the southwest of Europe, in Australia its parcels are small. The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS 2015) reported 736 hectares of planted tempranillo, in comparison to other popular red varieties like shiraz, which recorded 39,893 hectares and cabernet sauvignon registering 24,682 hectares. 
 

The 2021 National Vintage Survey states that 5874 tonnes of tempranillo were crushed, accounting for 0.3% of the total grape crush (where shiraz's grape crush was 538,402 tonnes, contributing 26.5% of the national crush).

it delivers significant red fruit flavours of cherry, strawberry and raspberry, along with a hint of fig. Notes of tobacco, leather, cedar and spice are also present

 

 

6. Saint-Julien Anthony Barton 2017 13% Avery Wines £23.99 (List price £28.00)

 

Anthony Barton is one of the most famous names of Bordeaux’s Left Bank; his family are behind both châteaux Langoa Barton and Léoville Barton. This mature claret is from their Les Vins Fins négociant – a fine 2017, showing superb length and complexity., This 7-year-old Claret that has been sourced from the excellent Barton family – one of the best names in Bordeaux and arguably THE best name in St Julien! St Julien is the smallest commune in the Medoc with just 11 Classed Growth estates – the quality is undeniable. It has one of the highest concentrations of Crus Classés wineries, producing highly structured yet perfumed and elegant wines.

Though this wine lacks any First Growths it more than makes up for that in consistency of excellence throughout the appellation. Nestled between Pauillac to the north, known for wines with power and elegance, and Margaux to the south, known for its charming, perfumed aromas, Saint-Julien is considered to be a perfect blend of these attributes.

Les Vins Fins Anthony Barton –  allows them to source amazing wines from all over Bordeaux. They have assured us that, although this is not from one of their two St Julien properties, it is from one of the other remaining 9 Classed Growth Properties, so it could be any of: Château Ducru-Beaucaillou, Château Gruaud-Larose, Château Léoville-Las Cases, Château Léoville-Poyferré , Château Lagrange, Château Beychevelle, Château Branaire-Ducru, Château Saint-Pierre & Château Talbot, so when you consider the price – it’s a genuine bargain and a proper wine merchants ‘insiders tip’.

 Mostly Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, with a dash of Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc, the wine is a ruby-purple in the glass. Beautiful aromatic intensity, the nose is evocative of rose petal, lavender, crushed strawberry, mint, and cedar, all drawing your attention in turn. On the palate the tannins are fine and yielding but offering good structure with plenty of character along with classic St Julien minerality. Supple and resonant, with good depth and length.The fruit combining harmoniously with notes of earthy spice, cedar and cigar box. This is a complex and fascinating expression of St Julien as you would expect given the team behind it. It has a subtlety that marks it as a great Bordeaux, the hallmark of the Barton’s family talent. Drink now once decanted for an hour and over the next 8+ years. Match with fine red meat dishes. 

 

 

 

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Wednesday 4th December 2024

Christmas dinner at Cloisters in Wimborne

 

 

See the Meeting Reports

 

 

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Wednesday 6th November 2024

Port

Presented by Mike Webber &

Roy King-Underwood

WWS members

 

 

Offley Rosé Port

Offley one of the oldest names in port, going back nearly three centuries.

Rosé port is technically a ruby port, but fermented in a similar manner to rosé wine with limited exposure to the grape skins.

Best served well chilled or on the rocks.  If kept cool can last up to 10 to 12 days after being open, without any obvious deterioration of quality.

Bottle label claims: elegant, a very intense bouquet with prevalence of tropical fruit; in the mouth it has excellent freshness with a fine harmony and a lingering finish. 

 

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Ruby Port selected by Tesco

Produced by Symington Family Estates.  Symingtons one of world’s leading producer of premium ports including Graham’s, Dow’s, Warre’s & Cockburn.

Serve lightly chilled as an aperitif, or after dinner with cheese.  Drink within a year of purchase.   Can last up to a month after being opened, without any obvious deterioration of quality.

Bottle label claims: fruit driven, youthful style with red and black fruit flavours and a robust finish.

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Graham’s Ten Year Old Tawny Port

Serve lightly chilled and finish within 8 weeks of opening.

Bottle label “The arts of cooperage, ageing and blending, passed down our families over 200 years to produce exquisite Tawny Ports.  Complex nutty and mature fruit flavours.

 

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The Wine Society’s Late Bottled Vintage Port 2018

Made for the Wine Society by Symingtons.

LBV ports come from a single year and are bottled between four and six years after harvest, the extra ageing in the barrel giving the wine added generosity.  It is filtered before bottling so it does not need decanting.

After opening should last two weeks to be safe, but some can last up to a month

Bottle label claims: with ripe dark berry fruit, spicy nuance and long-lasting finish, this is the perfect after dinner and cheeseboard port.

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The Wine Society’s Exhibition Crusted Port 2013

Inspired by the style of vintage port but is a blend of several harvests, unlike vintage port which is from one harvest.  Bottled in 2013 without fining or filtering, produces a crust or sediment over time.  Bottle should be stood upright for at least two hours and then decanted.  Can be enjoyed with cheese or chocolate, or just on its own.

If kept cool can last for 2 months after opening.

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The Wine Society’s 150^th Anniversary 2011 Vintage Port

Produced by Symingtons.  Not every year is good enough to make vintage port, but 2011 was outstandingly good.

A Vintage Port will only last a couple of days after opening

Bottle claims: it has the sweet concentration and intense long, generous flavour typical of this highly regarded vintage.  Approachable now it will continue to develop further complexity in bottle to 2035 or beyond. 

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Wednesday 2nd October 2024

New "New Forest Wines"

Selected by Daniel Read

Proprietor of New Forest Wines, Ringwood

 

The Dot ‘Austrian Nut’ Pinot Blanc 2023

Grape:100% Pinot Blanc.

Region/Country: Niederösterreich (Lower Austria), Austria.

ABV: 14.5%

Price: £10.99 per bottle

Info: The Dot range is made by the world-famous producer Wiengut R&A Pfaffl in the Lower Austria wine region of the country. The range is made up of both native and international grape varieties and offer a fantastic introduction to Austrian wine.

Tasting Notes: The Pinot Blanc provides a slight pétillance (spritz) on the palate and expresses notes of stone fruit, green apple, banana skin, light honey and a slight nuttiness (almond).

Food Match: It’s dry, with a rounded, almost creamy mouthfeel and would pair nicely with soft cheeses, lightly spiced Asian cuisine or seafood.

 

Silent Noise ‘MOFO’ Bianco 2023

Grape(s): Pinot Grigio, Vermentino, Zibibbo, Fiano, and Greco Bianco

Region/Country: McLaren Vale, Australia

ABV: 10.5%

Price: £18.99 per bottle

Info: Winemaker Charlie O'Brien takes pride in growing Italian grape varieties to create small batch wines in the warm McLaren Vale. From Charlie himself: “The name Silent Noise was inspired by my upbringing. An upbringing that included a winery as a family home as well as a vineyard management business as neighbours. As you can imagine, this meant tractors, trucks, people, not to mention a lot of machinery constantly coming and going—particularly during vintage. All things that I adored as a young boy.  But my upbringing and love of all things ‘noise’, also taught me to appreciate silence. In particular, the silence created once a wine is in bottle and patiently awaiting being cracked opened. A point at which it will again explode into its own noise, on the nose and palate”.

Tasting Notes: The palate expresses white blossoms of jasmine and jonquils entwined with sweet musk and exotic lychees. The luscious palate brings flavours of glacéd pears and old-fashioned lemon bonbons with citrus notes to balance.

Food Match: Light seafood dishes or as an aperitif.

 

Salzl ‘Figaro’ Grüner Veltliner 2021

Grape: 100% Grüner Veltliner

Region/Country: Burgenland, Austria

ABV: 14%

Price: £20 per bottle

Info: Founded by Heribert Salzl, his grandson Christoph currently runs the winery which produces some of the top wines of the region. The special microclimate of the region, with Lake Neusiedl as a climate regulator that stores heat, and primarily the many small salt lakes next to the lake give the wines fresh mineral notes and herbal spiciness. The salty and moist air, the limy soils of sand, black earth and gravel, and the bright sunshine are essential and valuable natural ingredients for well-balanced, fruity and concentrated wines, perfectly represented with the Figaro.

Tasting Notes: A complex, concentrated wine which has been matured in oak barrels for 6 months prior to bottling. Pleasant herbal spiciness with ripe stone fruit, green apples, grapefruit, and lime, along with hints of elderflower, black and red pepper, and subtle roasted aromas. Full-bodied on the palate with a hint of salinity and a long finish.

Food Match: Creamy poultry dishes, roast pork, or liver.

 

Bacalhôa Alabastro Tinto 2022

Grape(s): Aragonez (aka Tempranillo) based blend. It also includes the native varieties Trincadeira and Alicante Bouschet.

Region/Country: Alentejo, Portugal.

ABV: 14%

Price: £9.99 per bottle

Info: Bacalhôa are one of Portugal's largest and most progressive producers with 600 hectares spread across estates in five regions from Douro in the north to Alentejo in the south. For the Alabastro, a combination of hand and machine-picked grapes are sourced from old, low yielding vines from Bacalhôa's own vineyards, not far from the Spanish border.

Tasting Notes: Lifted aromas of black fruits, with a juicy palate expressing flavours of ripe fruits of the forest and hints of black pepper spice.  Soft on the palate with supple tannins and a fresh finish.

Food Match: A generous wine which pairs nicely with lamb stew or slow-cooked ratatouille drenched in fruity olive oil.

 

Finca Allende Rioja Tinto 2015

Grape: 100% Tempranillo

Region/Country: Rioja, Spain

ABV: 14%

Price: £29.99 per bottle

Info: Finca Allende, the estate created by Brother and sister team Mercedes and Miguel Angel de Gregorio, is located in the hill town of Briones in the sub-region of Rioja Alta. 'Allende' can be roughly translated as 'further'; its philosophy is to go further and further towards creating the perfect Rioja.

Tasting Notes: Intense cherry colour with purple hints. On the nose, dark fruit (blackberries, blueberries, cherries) dominate the perfectly integrated tones conveyed by ageing in wood barrels, for 14 months, that provide sensations of cedar and tobacco. In the mouth, it is serious and lively with intensity and great balance. An expansive palate combines fresh fruit and an elegant structure for a wine with a great ageing potential.

Food Match: A perfect accompaniment to grilled meats or hearty stews.

 

Azienda Agricola ‘Binomio’ Montepulciano d’Abruzzo Riserva 2020

Grape: 100% Montepulciano

Region/Country: Abruzzo, Italy

ABV: 15%

Price: £48 per bottle

Info: Binomial means two names. Stefano Inama (Inama Azienda Agricola) and Sabatino di Properzio (Fattoria La Valentina) first met at Prowein in Dusseldorf in 1997. A friendship was born, along with the idea of ​​producing a great Montepulciano d'Abruzzo together, which was both sumptuous and modern, to which they have achieved rather successfully.

Tasting Notes: Deep dense intense ruby ​​red colour, with a purple viscous rim.
Intense nose with ripe blackberry, wild strawberry and spices.
Powerful and expansive on the palate, with ripe tannins and great balance. Round and fresh ending, long-lasting, with aromatic persistence.

Food Match: Lamb!!! Or mature cheeses.

 

 

 

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Wednesday 4th September 2024

"A Trip Round Corsica"

Presented by Norman Atkinson

WWS Member

 

Q Why did you choose this theme?
A  Because I knew little about Corsica and was an opportunity to do some research. Also because there are lots of indigenous grape varieties that people were likely to be unfamiliar with. Also an opportunity to compare blends with single grape varieties.

 

Q What was your favourite wine of the six tasted?
A  Probably the Mino 2022, Domaine  Sant Armettu

 

Q What was WWS members reactions to the wines tasted?
A  Everyone seemed well engaged. Quite a few comments and questions. People seemed to enjoy the wines.

 

Main supplier was Vinatis. A very good on line supplier based in France. They were efficient, prompt and competitively priced. Click on link below...

Vinatis Wine UK

 

Q Overall favourite white wine of the evening?
A  The E Croce 2023, Domaine Yves Leccia

 

Overall favourite red wine of the evening?
A  The Mino 2022, Domaine  Sant Armettu

 

Tasting notes:

Name of wine:  Domaine Casanova Blanc
Country of origin: Corsica
Grape varieties: Chardonnay and Vermentinu
Organic: No
ABV: 13%
Price: £10.20
Supplier Vinatis.

 

Name of wine: E Croce 2023 Domaine Yves Leccia
Country of origin: Corsica
Grape varieties: 100% Vermentinu
Organic: Yes
ABV:  13.5%
Price: £33.08
Supplier Vinatis

 

Name of wine: Isula Mea Rosé 2023
Country of origin:Corsica
Grape varieties:Sciacarelo and Syrah
Organic: No
ABV:  11%
Price:£9.99
Supplier Waitrose

 

Name of wine:Terra Nostra Rouge 2021
Country of origin: Corsica
Grape varieties: 100% Nielluccio grapes
Organic: No
ABV: 13%
Price: £10.96
Supplier  Vinatis

 

Name of wine:  Mino 2022 Domaine Sant Armettu
Country of origin: Corsica
Grape varieties:  Sciccarellu 50%, Nielluccio 25%, Syrah 25%
Organic: Yes
ABV: 13%
Price:£15.78
Supplier Vinatis

 

Name of wine: Rosumarinu 2023, Domaine Sant Armettu
Country of origin: Corsica
Grape varieties: !00% Sciccarellu
Organic: Yes
ABV: 13%
Price: £23.47
Supplier Vinatis.

 

 

 

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Wednesday 7th August 2024

"South Western France"

Presented by John Billington & Mike Webber,

WWS Members

 

Q Why did you choose this theme?
A It was inspired by Mike and June’s exploration of SW France.

There are many good wines from less famous parts of France that deserve to be better known.

 

Q What was your favourite wine of the six tasted?
A Madiran, Domaine Pichard 2009

 

Q What was WWS members reactions to the wines tasted?
A Very positive. The Wine Society got a great reaction (John)

A Some members were enthusiastic and glad to try good value wines that they hadn’t encountered before, but a minority of those present didn’t find the wines to their taste.  That was hardly surprising as that area of France produces distinctive wines that would have been unfamiliar to many wine-drinkers (Mike)

 

Q Overall favourite white wine of the evening?
A Pacherenc du Vic Bilh Sec, Ode d'Aydie 2021 (John)

A Blanc de Noirs, IGP Atlantique, a white wine made from the merlot grape by growers from Entre deux Mers and Duras (Mike)

 

Overall favourite red wine of the evening?
A Madiran, Domaine Pichard 2009

 

 

Tasting notes:
 

Black & Wine Blanc de Noirs, IGP Atlantique 2023

 

A white made purely from merlot grapes grown to the east of Bordeaux, the wine is dry with good fruit concentration and depth of flavour. It displays notes of green apple, brambles and a hint of brioche on the finish. Pair with white meat such as roast chicken, or seafood and ceviche. Made by an association of 10 cooperatives in the Entre-Deux-Mers and Duras regions, this is the first vintage of an innovative dry blanc de noir made from merlot. The wine has been developed in response to the critical situation that many growers face in this part of France, with prices for red grapes dropping below cost of production. It is hoped that this style of wine will become a lifeline for embattled producers across Bordeaux and its neighbouring appellations. The merlot grapes are very gently pressed in order to avoid extracting colour from the dark skins, and then fermented in stainless steel tanks. The result is delicious, producing a wine with plenty of body and breadth, yet with a dry, mineral texture.

 

• White Wine
• 2 - Dry
• Merlot
• 75cl
• Now to 2025
• 11.5% Alcohol
• no oak influence

 

 

Bergerac Blanc La Cuvée des Conti, Domaine Albert de Conti 2023

 

• A delicious blend of 50% semillon, 40% sauvignon with a little of the rare muscadelle for added complexity. The 2023 vintage is full-bodied and ripe tasting with flavours of tropical fruit. White Wine
• 2 - Dry
• Sauvignon Blanc Semillon
• 75cl
• Now to 2026
• 14% Alcohol
• no oak influence

 

Pacherenc du Vic Bilh Sec, Ode d'Aydie 2021

 

This amusing sounding appellation of south-west France is contiguous with Madiran but tends to occupy cooler slopes that are better suited to making a crisp white. Bone-dry yet with roundness coming from the ripe manseng grapes, this is fragrant with flashes of pineapple and grapefruit. A delight served chilled with fish.

• White Wine
• 1 - Bone dry
• Gros Manseng
• Now to 2025
• 14% Alcohol
• no oak influence

 

Côtes du Marmandais, Château de Beaulieu 2012

 

Fully mature, with truffle and mint, and a touch of cedar too. Real class from a region in the south-west of France sometimes considered a satellite of Bordeaux.

 

• Red Wine
• Medium-bodied
• Cabernet Merlot
• Now to 2025
• 13% Alcohol
• oak used but not v. noticeable

 

 

Madiran, Domaine Pichard 2009

 

A sunshine vintage in south-west France which yielded a very ripe, dark and brooding Madiran. Full, well-built but now ready to drink, and the perfect foil for fattier cuts such as pork belly or lamb shoulder. Society buyer Marcel Orford-Williams' love affair with these wines began a good few years ago when he came across some bottles of Pichard wines in a shop near the Place des Vosges in Paris.

• Red Wine
• Full-bodied
• Tannat
• Drinking now
• 14.5% Alcohol
• oak used but not v. noticeable

 

Maydie Tannat 2018 50cl

 

Sweet fortified red made from the tannat grape and from Château d’Aydie, one of the top estates in Madiran, south-west France. Very black, very fruity, and delicious with dark chocolate.

 

• Red Wine
• 6 - Dessert sweetness
• Tannat
• 50cl
• Now to 2030
• 17% Alcohol
• oak used but not v. noticeable

 

 

 

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Wednesday 5th June 2024

"Beautiful Burgundy"

Presented by Claire Hillyard & Caroline McGregor,

WWS Committee Members

 

Name of presentation: Burgundy Red and White

Month of presentation: June 24

Presenters: Claire Hillyard: White Burgundy (with poetic licence!)

Caroline Mc Gregor: Red Burgundy

 

Q Why did you choose this theme?

A White burgundies are my favourite wines, as well as some other chardonnay wines

 

Q What was your favourite wine of the six tasted?

A Saint-Aubin Premier Cru Domaine Gerard Thomas 2022

 

Q What was WWS members reactions to the wines tasted?

A Most agreed that the St Aubin was the best white, though the Pierro from Margaret River was well received but thought a bit pricey at £53 per bottle! 

 

Q Overall favourite white wine of the evening?

A St Aubin was clear favourite 

 

Tasting notes:

 

Name of wine: Pol Guyot Champagne

Country of origin: France

Grape varieties: Chardonnay and Pinot Noir

ABV: 12.5%

Price: £19

Supplier Sainburys

 

Name of wine: Saint-Aubin Premier Cru, Domaine Gerard Thomas

Country of origin: France

Grape varieties: Chardonnay

ABV: 13%

Price: £36.99

Supplier Waitrose

 

Name of wine: Pierro Chardonnay

Country of origin: Australia

Grape varieties: Chardonnay

ABV: 13,5%

Price: £52.99

Supplier Waitrose Cellar 

 

+++++++++++++++++

 

 

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Wednesday 1st May 2024

South African Wines

Presented by Preet Sahota,

Edgmond Wines, Newport, Shropshire

 

 

Name of presentation: SOUTH AFRICAN WINES
 

Month of presentation: May 2024
 

Presenter: Preet Sahota, Edgmond Wines
 

Q Why did you choose this theme?
A South African wine specialism

Q What was your favourite wine of the six tasted?
A  Villa Esposto Chenin Blanc

Q What was WWS members reactions to the wines tasted?
A All very positive

Links to related articles/further information:
 

Q Overall favourite white wine of the evening?
A  Villa Esposto Chenin Blanc

Overall favourite red wine of the evening?
A Blake Malbec

 

Tasting notes:
 

Name of wine:Niel Joubert Gruner Veltliner 2022
Country of origin: S.Africa
Grape varieties: Grüner Veltliner
ABV:
Price:£14.95  reduced to 8.99
Supplier  Edgmond

From 8 y.o. vines in Paarl.

Pale straw colour. Appleskin nose.Good fruit/acidity balance.   Dry and lightly oaked

 

Name of wine:Lysa Albarino
Country of origin: S.Africa (Stellenbosch)
Grape varieties: Albarino

ABV: 13.5%
Price:24.95 reduced to 9.99
Supplier Edgmond

Production ceasing soon from a small 1-off parcel.

Pale straw colour.Fruity and aromatic -peach, apricot, guava 2021 a top vintage year. This wine will keep!

 

 

Name of wine: Villa Esposto Chenin Blanc 2022
Country of origin: S.Africa
Grape varieties: Chenin Blanc
ABV:
Price: 21.95 reduced to 14.99
Supplier  Edgmond

From 42-y.o. vines at Skurfberg.

Very fine. Mid-lemony colour. Nice nutty overtones… rich &dry, with good length

 

Name of wine:Blake Family Malbec, 2020
Country of origin: S.Africa
Grape varieties:Malbec

14% ABV:
Price: 14.95 red. To £8.99
Supplier Edgmond

Single vineyard Malbec.

Deep purple-red. Spicy blackcurrant nose.  Spicy black fruit on the palate.

 

Name of wine:Hidden Cape Grenache 2021
Country of origin: S.A.
Grape varieties: Grenache
ABV:
Price: 19.95 red. To £9.99
Supplier Edgmond

Single-vineyard wine; Grenache Vines soon to be replaced by Chenin Blanc.

Mid-red with pale aureole.Faintly herby; dusty thyme aroma (garrigue?}Fruity, with nice balance & length

 

Name of wine: Villa Esposto Pinotage 2018
Country of origin: S.A.
Grape varieties: Pinotage
ABV:
Price:£21.95 red. To 14.99
Supplier Edgmond

As different from the pinotages of old as could be imagined. A mature Pinotage which absolutely sings!

Dark red heart, pale at the edge of the glass. Dusty grapeskin nose,  Dark fruit, lovely balance and acidity

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Wednesday 3rd April 2024

Italian wines

Presented by Daniel Read of

New Forest Wines, Ringwood

 

 

Wines 1-3 are white wines.

Wines 4-6 are red.

 

Wine 1 – Mandrarossa ‘Le Senie’ Viognier 2022

Grape: 100% Viognier

Region: Menfi, Sicily

ABV: 13.5%

Price: £13.99

 

Tasting Notes: A lovely expression of Viognier, with ripe peach and apricot fruit on the nose and a lovely minerality, which is characteristic of wines from the Island. It is full and opulent on the palate with fresh acidity to balance.

 

Food Match: Sicilians recommend trying this with grilled swordfish, shrimp tempura or fish cous cous. It also pairs nicely with Thai cuisine.

 

 

 

Wine 2 – Saraja ‘Tarra Noa’ Vermentino di Gallura 2022

Grape: 100% Vermentino

Region: Gallura, Sardegna

ABV: 13.5%

Price: £16.99

 

Tasting Notes: Very typical of the variety, bright and textural with citrus aromas, delicate floral hints, and lightly savoury characteristics. The palate has fresh acidity with touches of stone fruits, myrtle, and bitter almond (signature of the grape) with a lovely saline minerality. Lees ageing provides a rounder, richer mouthfeel for a beautifully balanced wine.

 

Food Match: Spaghetti dressed with olive oil, garlic, and lemon zest.

 

 

Wine 3 – Felsina Berardenga ‘I Sistri’ Chardonnay 2020

Grape: 100% Chardonnay

Region: Tuscany

ABV: 13.5%

Price: £30

 

Tasting Notes: Deep yellow colour in the glass. Classic, barrel-aged Chardonnay which is rich, complex, and buttery. Plenty of exotic fruit on the nose (ripe stone fruits, mango, and banana), subtle hints of baking spice and nicely integrated vanilla notes from the oak maturation. The palate is full and creamy, balanced by a fresh acidity.

 

Food Match: Grilled fish, poultry, risotto, or pasta in a creamy sauce.

 

 

Wine 4 - Monte del Fra Valpolicella Ripasso Classico Superiore ‘Lena di Mezzo’ 2020

Grape(s): Corvina, Corvinone, Rondinella

Region: Valpolicella, Veneto

ABV: 14%

Price: £21.99

 

Tasting Notes: Pronounced nose of floral notes, sweet spice, cherry, black pepper, liquorice, and vanilla. Medium to full-bodied with fine tannins and a persistent length. The Ripasso method results in a slight sweetness on the palate. Has the potential to age for 8-10 years.

 

Food Match: A versatile wine which would pair well with an array of dishes; red meats, mature cheeses, Asian cuisine, or even fatty fish. A great wine for the Christmas table also.

 

 

*Wine 5 - A Mano ‘Prima Mano’ Primitivo 2021 (*Additional bottle for raffle prize)

Grape: 100% Primitivo

Region: Puglia

ABV: 14.5%

Price: £29

 

Tasting Notes: Aromas of crushed rose petals, raspberries, blueberries, black pepper, maraschino cherries and a hint of eucalyptus. Smooth and silky on the palate, showing complexity and concentration of fruit. A lovely balance between intensity and elegance.

 

Food Match: Another versatile wine when it comes to pairing with food due to its soft, smooth texture. Try with Osso buco, tomato-based pasta dishes, pizza, blue cheese, Indian cuisine, seafood jambalaya, stuffed mushrooms, charcuterie etc.

 

 

Wine 6 – Banfi ‘La Lus’ Albarossa 2019

Grape: 100% Albarossa

Region: Piemonte

ABV: 14%

Price: £24.99

 

Tasting Notes: Soft and velvety on the palate with enough tannic grip. Intense red berries, cherry, and ripe plum fruit, with liquorice, dried herbs, and hints of vanilla. Persistent length with fresh acidity.

 

Food Match: Seasoned salami, hearty stewed meat dishes, or a rich ragu.

 

 

 

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Wednesday 6th March 2024

Wines from Eastern Europe

Presented on behalf of Chris Holding 

by John Billington 

WWS chairman

 

Welcome everyone, to tonight’s presentation on:

 

‘Wines of Eastern Europe’

 

In researching for this presentation, some interesting facts about the wine industry came to light. As they are not specific to the presentation, I just ask you to refer to the FACTSHEETS on your table during the evening.

 

<EASTERN EUROPEAN WINES – FACTSHEET>

 

The wines tonight are from Transylvania Wines based in Halifax, and The Old Cellar based in London.

 

SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT

Now he really wanted to be here in person, but I’m afraid Count Dracula has been called away on urgent business with Messrs Miller and Carter, apparently for a 2 for 1 steak night. He’s also decided to move out of his quiet spot in the corner of Peter’s Cellar. Apparently there’s been a lot more activity there recently. Finally, he is represented tonight by his agent Stuart, who is looking for properties in Belgravia on his behalf.

 

Without further ado, the first wine will now be served.

 

<POURING>

 

Wine 1

We are in Romania. This is a

 

Budureasca Vine in Flames Daphix Chardonnay & Feteasca Regala 2018

Grapes: Feteasca Regala (65%) & Chardonnay (35 %)

 

Romania is one of the oldest, and youngest, winemaking countries in the world, with a history that goes back 4,000 years, but with a 40-year hiatus during the Communist era. Romania and Moldova are the front line of a new old world tide of wine countries.

 

The Regala grape is described as enigmatic.

 

Vineyard: Budureasca is located in Dealu Mare wine region in Muntenia in the southern Carpathian hills. The ‘Vine in Flames’ brand reflects on a historical moment during the rule of the first Dacian King Burebista (82-44 B.C.) when the vineyards were burned because they were considered a temptation for invaders.

 

To preserve the intensity of flavours, the component wines from this cuvee were fermented at 10°C and to perfect the taste Chardonnay was kept in American oak barrels for six months.

 

Tasting Notes

Golden yellow colour, with fresh aromas of apricots and light vanilla notes. Full-bodied wine with great balance and a pleasant taste of ripe apples. Lovely and intense finish.

 

Food Pairing

Very good associated with fish and poultry dishes.

 

Serving temperature: 14-16 ° C

 

ABV: 12.5%

Transylvania Wine

Price Paid: £12.95

 

 

 

Wine 2

Now we move to Moldova. This is a

 

Viorica 2022, Chateau Purcari, Stefan Voda, Moldova

Grape: 100% Viorica - which is indigenous to Moldova

 

Awards: Platinum Medal, Decanter World Wine Awards

 

 

Tasting Notes

Pale yellow colour with light greenish hues. Fresh and intense nose with acacia, white flowers, basil and citrus fruits notes. Crisp and fresh body with good length and moderate acidity.

 

Food Pairing

Seafood, shellfish, smoked fish, light Asian dishes.

 

EXTRA BIT

Founded in 1827, Purcari Cellars are a real treasure. Vintage wines from 1948, and the Queen Elizabeth II Collection dating from 1947 with labels in English, are some of the jewels therein. You will feel the historical fingerprints left by the monks who built the cross-shaped cellars, thus blessing the wines.

 

Purcari terroir

Located on the west coast of the Dniester River, at an altitude of 110 to 185 metres above the Black Sea, the Purcari vineyards, which cover an area of over 260 hectares, have a special microclimate that protects the vineyards from frost in winter and heat during summer. The microzone is known due to the soil composition - clay chernozem, or sandy charred. The slope orientation determines the soil characteristics, which play an important role in forming the wine flavours and taste. The slope also facilitates water drainage. The vine roots penetrate deep through the layers of carbon soil in search of water, and planting in ordered rows allows good air circulation.

 

There will be a little more about Purcari later when we reach Wine no. 6.

 

Serving temperature: 10-12 °C

 

ABV: 13.5%

The Old Cellar

Price Paid: £16.95

 

 

 

Wine 3

A third stop in Georgia now. This is a

 

Dugladze Kakhuri Qvevri 2020

Grape: 100% Rkatsiteli

 

Dugladze - is one of the best producers available on the market.

 

Kakhuri - Appellation of Controlled Origin dry white wine is made using Kakhetian traditional technology from the Rkatsiteli grape variety cultivated in the Kakheti region.

 

Qvevri - is the name of the first vessel used in winemaking. Archaeological studies have confirmed its 8,000 year history.

 

 

Tasting Notes

This wine has dark amber colour, varietal aroma, distinctive bouquet, extracted, velvety and raisin notes.

 

Food Pairing

Matches well with Georgian traditional cuisine, such as:

 

Khachapuri - cheese-filled bread

Khinkali - spices and lamb, pork or beef dumplings

Badrijani Nigzvit (good luck!) - fried eggplant rolls with walnut

Lobio - bean soup

Mtsvadi - made with chunks of pork, mutton or veal, is first abundantly marinated in pomegranate juice or rubbed in a good dose of salt before it’s threaded onto a skewer and roasted on an open fire

 

EXTRA BIT

Georgia is rightly called “The cradle of wine”, reaffirmed by UNESCO in December 2013, when the oldest Georgian method of wine making in Qvevri was inscribed in the representative list of the intangible cultural heritage of humanity.

 

Georgia boasts more than 500 varieties of indigenous grapes, nearly one-sixth of the world’s grape varieties, including endangered varieties found nowhere else on Earth.

 

Today ‘Kakhetian Traditional Winemaking’ (KTW) is one of the largest companies producing wine and alcoholic beverages in Georgia, employing more than 2,500 people.

 

Serving temperature: 10-12 °C

 

ABV: 12.5%

Transylvania Wine

Price Paid: £11.45

 

 

 

< HALF TIME BREAK >

 

 

 

Wine 4

Back to Romania now. This is a

 

Folklore Ursul Negru de Dragasani

Grape: 100% Negru de Dragasani

 

The Negru de Dragasani grape is described as full of character. The variety was obtained at the Dragasani viticulture research station through individual selection. It is a hybrid, officially recognised in 1993, between the Negru Vartos and Saperavi varieties (a native Georgian grape).

 

Tasting Notes

The grape has a black-blueish colour, with red-coloured, juicy, non-aromatic pulp and a straightforward taste. Wines produced from this variety are dry, more robust, strikingly red, with flavours and aromas of black cherries, sour cherries, blueberries, blackberries, and spices. They are suitable for aging in oak barrels and subsequently in bottles, however this one is not oak-aged (Mike or Stuart will probably interject here and say it should have been!).

 

With its mesmerising ruby red colour, this particular wine reveals dominant aromas of red fruits in its bouquet. The taste is a delightful harmony, featuring well-balanced notes of ripe tannins, along with delicate hints of vanilla, chocolate, and pepper.

 

EXTRA BIT

Taking place every winter in villages and cities in Romania’s eastern region of Moldova, the ‘Dance of the Bear’ symbolises the death and rebirth of time. Performed between Christmas and New Year’s Eve, this ancient ritual brings together the whole community, who gather to watch the performance. For Geto-Dacians, ancestors of present-day Romanians, the bear was a sacred animal with healing powers. The life cycle of the bear was responsible for regulating seasons, entering hibernation before winter and waking up in spring.

 

Serving temperature: 14-16°C

 

ABV: 12%

Transylvania Wine

Price Paid: £13.95

 

 

 

Wine 5

A representative from Bulgaria here. This is

 

Elements Fire Unique Red 2017

Thracian Valley

Grape Varieties: 35% Cabernet Sauvignon, 31% Cabernet Franc, 17% Carmenere and 17% Caladoc

 

This is a full flavoured and robust wine which has been aged 10 months in French oak barrels.

 

Tasting Notes

Dark red with purple hues colour. Black cherry, plums, dark chocolate and vanilla on the nose. Rich and well structured, with great purity of fruit, gentle oak and moderate spice that helps frame the wine really well.

 

Food Pairing

Roast meat, Game and BBQ dishes.

 

Serving temperature: 16-18°C

 

ABV: 14.06%

The Old Cellar

Price Paid : £14.50

 

 

 

Wine 6

We end in Moldova. Recommended by the merchant, this is a

 

Chateau Purcari - Saperavi de Purcari 2020 - Limited Edition

Grape: 100% Saperavi

 

Purcari wines are aged exclusively in French oak barriques with a capacity of 225 litres. Depending on the variety, the aging period varies from 6 to 18 months. After aging in barrique, the wine is cold bottled under sterile conditions, then a natural cork stopper is applied and the wine continues its aging in the bottle for another 6 months.

 

Saperavi de Purcari Limited Edition is a wine with a strong personality that will surprise you -it’s an explosion of grace, perfect for edgy combinations and the most surprising olfactory mixtures.

 

Awards:

Gold Medal - Decanter World Wine Awards 2023 (95 points)

Gold Medal - Mundus Vini Summer Tasting 2022

Silver medal - Decanter World Wine Awards 2022

 

Tasting Notes

Saperavi, the famous unmistakably fragrant Georgian variety, is noted for its strong character and authenticity of fulminant taste. The wine of an intense ruby with purple reflections reveals explosive aromas of plum and well-ripened fruit.

 

Grapes are Hand Harvested by double manual selection.

 

Vinified with care and dedication, Saperavi de Purcari impresses with its velvety tannins, full, opulent taste, evolving into a long and pleasant aftertaste, with complex aromas.

 

Food Pairing

Traditional meat dishes, venison, lamb chops.

 

Decant for 60 minutes before serving.

Recommended serving temperature: 18 - 20 °С.

 

ABV: 13.5%

Transylvania Wine

Price Paid: £19.95 reduced from £21.95

 

 

WINE ORDERS

 

If anyone would like to order small quantities of the above wines, Chris is happy to facilitate this, as he now has an account with Transylvania Wine and can also get The Old Cellar wines at a discount.

 

Orders should be placed on the Order Form provided, but for logistical reasons, only those taken tonight will be valid. A contact telephone number must be put on your Order Form please.

 

Delivery method can only be agreed with Chris via the Form and direct contact.

 

Lastly, the alternate for the final wine can also be ordered:

 

Legendary Dracula 555 Feteasca Neagra Red Wine 2020

Grape: Fetească Neagră

 

Fetească Neagră (or Black Maiden in English) is an old native variety that originates from Moldova. Fetească Neagră is a bramble fruited red with hints of soft cherry.

 

Oak aging: 18 months

 

Tasting Notes

Intense red colour wine, it has an unique character of dry plums, wild berries and spices bouquet, with vanilla hints coming from aging in Romanian oak barrels. Velvety texture and well balanced by the round tannins, silky on the palate; long, smooth aftertaste.

 

Food Pairing

Lamb, pork, veal, beef dishes, even with fried chicken.

 

Serve at 16°C

 

ABV: 14.5%

Transylvania Wine

Current Price: £19.95

 

 

 

 

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Wednesday 7th February 2024

Peter's Cellar

Presented by Peter Hampton

WWS committee member

 

Name of wine: Montagny 1er Cru  “Les Millières” 2019
Country of origin: France, Burgundy
Grape varieties: Chardonnay
Organic: No
ABV: 14%
Price:£12.99 in Sept 2020 (now £19.99)
Supplier: Majestic

 

Name of wine: Maison Roche de Bellène  2018 Pinot Noir vieilles vignes
Country of origin: France, Burgundy
Grape varieties:  Pinot Noir
Organic: No
ABV: 13%
Price: £12.88 in Sept 2021 (now £18.00)
Supplier: Majestic

 

Name of wine: Gigondas Clos des Cazaux 2011
Country of origin: France, S.Rhône
Grape varieties:Grenache, Syrah, Mourvedre
Organic: No
ABV: 14.5%
Price:£14.29 Feb 2013, £24 now
Supplier: Lay & Wheeler en primeur

 

Name of wine: Ch.Léoville Poyferré 2006
Country of origin: France, Bordeaux, St.Julien
Grape varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon 62%, Merlot 28%, Petit Verdot 8%, Cabernet Franc 2%
Organic: No
ABV: 13%
Price: £38.99 Jul 2007, £80 to £120 now
Supplier.Lay & Wheeler en primeur

 

Name of wine: Ch.Duhart Milon Rothschild 2005
Country of origin: France, Bordeaux, Pauillac
Grape varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon 71%, Merlot 29%
Organic: No
ABV:13%
Price: £28.06 Jun2006 £67.50 now
Supplier: Lay & Wheeler en primeur

 

Name of wine: Ch. Coutet 2005 (in half-bottle)
Country of origin: France, Bordeaux, Sauternes, Barsac
Grape varieties: Semillon 75%, Sauvignon Blanc 23%, Muscadelle 2%
Organic: Yes
ABV: 14%
Price: £16.44 May 2006, now £24 (halves)
Supplier: Lay & Wheeler en primeur

 

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Wednesday 3rd January 2024

Celebrity Wines

Presented by Tracie Billington-Beardsley

WWS committee member

 

 

Wine Margaret River Chardonnay 2019 From Howard Park Western Australia ABV: 13% Price: £20 Supplier: Celebrity Drinks Collection	Celebrity Kylie Minogue popstar and actress Winemaker: Janice MacDonald	Awards Gold medal winner at 2020 Global Chardonnay Masters Award
Botham All Rounder Chardonnay 2021 Australia Australian grapes from South Eastern and Western areas. Includes Margaret River area ABV: 12.5% Price: £11 Supplier: Celebrity Drinks Collection	Celebrity Sir Ian Botham Cricketer
Gordon Ramsay Vibrante Bianco 2022 Italy 25% Tuscan Vermentino to Abruzzo fruit 40% Chardonnay, 20% Trebbiano, 15% Pecorin), ABV: 12.5% Price: £11 Supplier: Celebrity Drinks Collection	Celebrity Gordon Ramsay celebrity chef Winemaker: Alberto Antonini Poggiontonda Vineyard Tuscany
Red wine 2021 Spain Organic Grapes Syrah, Tempranillo ABV: 13.5 % Price: £8 Supplier: Celebrity Drinks Collection	Celebrity Singer and songwriter Gary Barlow of Take That   Winemaker: Peninsula Vinicultores
John Terry Wine Of Champions Salice Salentino 2020  Italy 80% Negroamaro & Malvasia Nera. ABV: 13.5% Price: 24.50 Supplier: Celebrity Drinks Collection	Celebrity Footballer John Terry
Pinot Noir 2020 Yarra Valley Australia Pinot Noir 100% ABV:13.5%	Celebrity Kylie Minogue	Awards Gold medal at the Global Pinot Noir Masters Competition

 

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This is a table showing the wines we have tasted in the past, showing, where possible, as many of the following characteristics as possible:- Date of tasting, Wine type, name & vintage, supplier, and price.  Where these are not shown the information was not available at the time of data entry! Note, price shown was current at time of purchase and will not necessarily be the same subsequently.

Key for wine type: W/R/P = White/Red/Pink(=Rosé)

                                  T/S/D/F=Still Table Wine/Sparkling/Dessert/Fortified