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Interview with head of Château Haut Brion.
Terroir France has an interesting interview with Jean-Philippe Delmas of Château Haut Brion. Six pages.
http://www.terroir-france.com/interview/haut-brion.htm
TN: Oscar Brillant Mentou-Salon Blanc, 2002, Loire, France.
Wine Tasting Note: Oscar Brillant Menetou-Salon Blanc, 2000, Loire, France.From Wine Parcels for £9.99.
One of a number of small parcels just released by Wine-Parcels. This is a Sauvignon Blanc from one of the lesser parts of the Loire. Menetou-Salon neighbours Sancerre but tends, due to a change in soil type (from pure limestone to a mix of limestone and sandstone), to have a less mineral style than its neighbour.
This is demonstrated by this particular wine. The classic characteristics of the Sauvignon Blanc grape are evident - crisp acidity underpinning a good weight - but the minerality really only appears on the finish. The aroma is gently honyed with a grassy freshness to the flavours. I rather like it.
Scribblings Rating - 90/100
Sagrantino Variety Stays in Umbria.
Looking for something unique and interesting for your next Wine Blogging Wednesday contribution - how about the Italian Sagrantino grape?The Ministry of Agriculture and the Regional Government has said it will restrict planting of Sagrantino to its traditional zone in Umbrian in wines labelled Sagrantino di Montefalco DOCG. The issue has caused some debate in Italy, especially after interim lists of approved varieties permitted Sagrantino to be planted in neighbouring Tuscany, with one side arguing that the variety should remain exclusive, while others say that its value should not be lost to the rest of Italian winemaking.
Marco Caprai, the man credited with single-handedly reviving the fortunes of Sagrantino in Montefalco, points out that the issue is not just about the biological variety but the culture that produces such unique wines in Montefalco. He is concerned that this aspect will be lost in squabbling over the variety between wine sectors that do not necessarily understand its cultural context.
Courts to decide what 'Napa' means.
"What does the word "Napa" on a bottle mean? The debate has reached the U.S. Supreme Court."
http://sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?
f=/c/a/2005/02/24/WIGGQBFEFQ1.DTL
http://sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?
f=/c/a/2005/02/24/WIGGQBFEFQ1.DTL
Technorati Tags: wine food & drink
Winter Wine and Food.
Over at the BBC - which wines to go with Rioja (lamb), Shiraz/Syrah (Oxtail, pork belly, poached pheasant) and Argentinean Malbec (beed). Includes three recipes for each.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/food/recipes/
mostof_winterwineandfood.shtml
http://www.bbc.co.uk/food/recipes/
mostof_winterwineandfood.shtml
Technorati Tags: wine food & drink
Changes at Threshers.
Off-line nationwide retailer Threshers is ditching its up-market food and wine concept. It purchased Leaping Salmon last year but the format has failed. Reports state that more food was thrown away than sold. Personally throwing posh food into any old grubby offie was bound to fail. In certain up-market areas I can see this working if they advertised it correctly; which they didn't.
The company is also reported that the popular 'buy two get one free' offer is to spread-out across ALL price points.
The company is also reported that the popular 'buy two get one free' offer is to spread-out across ALL price points.
Ethics in Wine Tasting.
When I first read Lenn's posting suggesting that bloggers indicate which samples were received free (against those he purchased himself) I was all for the idea. After all we (we being independent wine writers/bloggers) need to maintain our honesty and provide our readers will as much detail as possible. The Professor agrees too.
However there are some persuasive arguments against this over at Vivis Journal for example. They end their comments with "Don't do it Man" in big capital letters.
So now I don't know.
Over the years in producing the Scribblings Newsletter, writing tasting notes on UKWinesOnline and now in this weblog too, I have prided myself on being impartial. Some samples I have received I have not written up because they were bad/off/corked or because they did not fit into the theme of the moment. Would it have made much difference to building up a loyal readership if I had stated that wine x was brought by myself but wine z was supplied as a sample? Are weblogs and independent websites at a stage where their authority (even if written by someone with AIWS after their name) are still derided with the 'real writing' in nationally printed publications the 'be-all and end-all' and you only of importance if you have a book out or have appeared in traditional print?
This posting sums up a Five Point Blogging Ethic.
However there are some persuasive arguments against this over at Vivis Journal for example. They end their comments with "Don't do it Man" in big capital letters.
So now I don't know.
Over the years in producing the Scribblings Newsletter, writing tasting notes on UKWinesOnline and now in this weblog too, I have prided myself on being impartial. Some samples I have received I have not written up because they were bad/off/corked or because they did not fit into the theme of the moment. Would it have made much difference to building up a loyal readership if I had stated that wine x was brought by myself but wine z was supplied as a sample? Are weblogs and independent websites at a stage where their authority (even if written by someone with AIWS after their name) are still derided with the 'real writing' in nationally printed publications the 'be-all and end-all' and you only of importance if you have a book out or have appeared in traditional print?
This posting sums up a Five Point Blogging Ethic.
Last bottle of world's oldest single malt leaves Scotland.
The last remaining bottle of the world's oldest single malt whisky left Scotland for Hong Kong, where it will be the star attraction at an airport shop. The Glenfiddich Rare Collection 1937 is expected to sell for over £10,000.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/scotland/4298619.stm
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/scotland/4298619.stm
New Labelling for the Languedoc.
A new system of labeling wines from the Languedoc is to be introduced from this years harvest. The new 'Languedoc' designation will require the region to organise its wines into a hierarchy according to vineyard and village. Will this aid the creation of consumer-friendly brands or just confuse the appellation rules even more?
Technorati Tags: wine food & drink
Cognac/Armagnac Info.
Interested in cognac or armagnac? This article, while positioned to the bar owner/staff is full of information for those with a passing interest. Several cocktail recipes included too.
http://www.thepublican.com/cgi-bin/item.cgi?id=16415&d=11
http://www.thepublican.com/cgi-bin/item.cgi?id=16415&d=11
Technorati Tags: cognac
TN: Quinta Vista Bin 1386, 2003, Estramadura, Portugal.
This wine is offered in support of Wine Blogging #7; an 'introduction' if you like to three 'unusual' grape varieties. Casa Santos Lima is a family-run winery in Alenquer north of Lisbon. They maintain 160 hectares of vineyards which are planted with local native varieties including Touriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz and the three grapes that go into this blend – Castelão, Tinta Miúda and Camarate.
Tinta Miúda means ‘small red grape’ there is some speculation that it could be the Spanish Graciano, the French Morrastell, although several books I have read dismiss this. Camarate is a synonym for Casteláo Naçional, about which I know little and I assume Castelão is Castelão Francês (aka Periquita the ‘small parrot’). This should impart a raspberry flavour to a wine that gains more tar like qualities as it ages.
Wine Tasting Note: Quinta Vista Bin 1386, 2003, Estramadura, Portugal.
Available from Oddbins for £5.49.
The wine itself has a subdued aroma – summer fruits perhaps and fresh peas. Odd but it was there. Initially sweet blackberry fruit dominate but that disappears leaving rustic, gravely tannins on the finish. That rusticity remains when tried with food (something equally rustic) but overall the wine was more rounded, as it was designed to be, with food. Interesting rather than hugely enjoyable.
Scribblings Rating - 88/100
Announcing Wine Blogging Wednesday #7.
Wine Blogging Wednesday #7 – Wine Rummage.
This month we are chucking out the Cabernet. Ignoring the Merlot too. Out goes the Syrah, the Tempranillo, the Pinot and the Sangiovese. Yep all gone. Quickly followed by anything and everything white. Or pink.
“Does that leave much?” I hear you ask. As it happens, yes indeed!
One of the fascinating aspects of this whole wine-shebang is the plethora of grape varieties that can in no way be described as mainstream. I love hunting down the obscure, the unknown, the interesting and the different. This might just be an English thing – championing the underdog and all that! If you ignore the grape varieties listed above it still leaves hundreds of relative unknowns to explore and savour.
In an attempt to broaden all our tasting experiences the theme for Wine Blogging Wednesday 7 is Obscure Red Grape Varieties. I hope this theme will engage your investigative skills in researching the variety and thereby broadening your wine knowledge in the process. You may even exercise the back muscles in stooping down to the bottom shelf in your vinos-rummaging escapades.
This month we are chucking out the Cabernet. Ignoring the Merlot too. Out goes the Syrah, the Tempranillo, the Pinot and the Sangiovese. Yep all gone. Quickly followed by anything and everything white. Or pink.
“Does that leave much?” I hear you ask. As it happens, yes indeed!
One of the fascinating aspects of this whole wine-shebang is the plethora of grape varieties that can in no way be described as mainstream. I love hunting down the obscure, the unknown, the interesting and the different. This might just be an English thing – championing the underdog and all that! If you ignore the grape varieties listed above it still leaves hundreds of relative unknowns to explore and savour.
In an attempt to broaden all our tasting experiences the theme for Wine Blogging Wednesday 7 is Obscure Red Grape Varieties. I hope this theme will engage your investigative skills in researching the variety and thereby broadening your wine knowledge in the process. You may even exercise the back muscles in stooping down to the bottom shelf in your vinos-rummaging escapades.
Off the list.
Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah and Pinot Noir are the ‘classic’ red grape varieties. From their homelands of France they have spread throughout the world and are pretty much ubiquitous in whichever country section of a wine shop you explore. Tempranillo and Sangiovese, while not having quite the world encompassing reach, are the mainstays of Spain and Italy. So out goes all the Rioja, quickly followed by all the Chianti.
Cabernet Franc is also off the list which wipes out the Loire and should stop anyone sneaking in a Claret. If you are in the UK and South Africa Pinotage is banned too. They are so easy to find I don’t class this variety as obscure! Lenn, instigator of this blog-happening, informs me that they are not that widespread in the US so anything from Pinotage is acceptable if you are based there. Don’t get me started on Gamay (the constituent of all Beaujolais and the remaining reds from the Loire) or Zinfandel/Primitivo. Both are banned. No arguing at the back there; who said this was a democracy! ;-)
Where to look?
So having rejected three-quarters of the wines in the average supermarket or wine merchant where should you look? You may not have to stoop to the bottom shelf as whole countries have yet to be ‘invaded’ by the international grapes. In many instances you may find that an unknown ‘local’ variety may appear in a blend with one of the international varieties. As long as the dominant grape in your wine is unusual/obscure that is fine. A warning though over synonyms. Don’t get caught out by a label proclaiming a variety using the local name – one of the most obvious is Syrah/Shiraz but Pinot Noir is known as Spätburgunder in Germany and Pinot Noir is Pinot Nero in Italy (a bit obvious that one). You may have to do a little research - just don’t get stressed over it though as this blog-happening is supposed to be a fun exercise!
OK Lets Get Started.
Greece and Portugal spring to mind as a good place to begin. The reputation of Greek wines belonging in the oxidized/maderized/crap category has long passed. In the UK companies such as Oddbins, Eclectic Wines and Ampelos Wines have championed a new wave of international-standard wines. Who can fail to be enticed by varieties such as Agioritikos, Xynomavro, Monemvassia or Liatiko. No idea what some of them actually taste like but the names are great! Over in Portugal you have loads of different vines. What is fun here is that owners of older vineyards may not have a clue on what they are growing (often several different varieties were planted in the same plot of earth) so they just make up a name.
Who can fail to smile as they sip a Bastado, a Periquita (little parrot), a Pédo Rato (mouse paw) or Rabo de Ovelha Tinto (Ewe’s Tail). Sadly Esgana Cão, dog strangler, is a white varietal. You may find a Jaen, a Trincaderia or a Baga as single varietal wines. The main online Portuguese specialist in the UK is Chase Wines.
France should not be ignored in your hunt. Away from the main regions of Burgundy and Bordeaux there are plenty of obscure regions with their own local grapes. There is Mourvèdre and Grenache of course available from the Rhone to the Spanish border (and across into Spain too but known as Monastrell and Garnacha). You also have Malbec and Tannat. Synonym alert - Malbec can be called Côt in certain areas but in the Côtes de Marmandais Cot is actually Merlot! Regional French specialists include Allez Vins, Pic Wines and Modern French Wines.
Talking of Malbec, smooch over to the Argentinean section. There are some superb single varietal Malbecs emanating from Argentina at the moment and they offer excellent value. (I have long championed the wines listed by Vinos Vinos the UK’s only Argentine specialist). Unless you include native American species of vine (vitis vinifera is the European species; there are several American ones) there is little from the New World that falls into our theme. Chile, South Africa, Australia and America are dominated by the international set. Some Rhone varieties in California can be had and there are experiments with Italian grapes in Australia; but little else. Unless you can surprise me of course!
Italy is another European country with a plethora of the unusual. I am expecting many entries will be Italian. Some of the more well known names are made from grapes other than the international bunch banned in the intro. Barolo and Barbaresco are made from Nebbiolo. Valpolicella and Amarone are blends of Corvina Veronese, Rondinella and Molinara, but I hope you will be a little more adventurous and look for Marzemino, Canaiolo Nero and Aglianico del Vulture instead. Top UK internet retailers of Italian wines include Bat and Bottle, Valvona & Crolla and Italian Wines Direct
Is that enough inspiration or do I need to continue? More… OK
From across Eastern Europe, Austria and Switzerland there is Blaufränkish/Kékfrankos and Zweigelt. Then there is Bobal from Spain and Alicante Bouschet from France. The list is (almost) endless. Even Japan has its own native varieties.
Conclusion.
Far from limiting your selections this month I hope the topic – Obscure Red Grape Varieties – opens vinos horizons you will not have encountered before. A little fun research and experimentation are the order of the day. If you feel inspired to match your wine with food (again think local) all the better. I shall be awarding points for the most unusual variety and most inspired selection! And what do points equal? Interest!
Wine Blogging Wednesday 7 is the 9th March. Post your entries on or before this day, let me know when you have posted (either by track back or comment to this posting or via email) and I will compile an overview a day or so later. So says the Gospel of Wine Blogging Wednesday.
If you don’t have a website of your own but would like to participate please feel free to email in your tasting note to be included in the write up. I am also happy to answer any questions via email.
To start the ball rolling I have posted a tasting note on a wine from Portugal - not a great wine, nor is it expensive, but it is as least interesting.
http://www.spittoon.biz/archives/tn_quinta_vista_bin_1386_2003_estramadura_portugal.html
A recap on those NOT to buy – Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah/Shiraz, Gamay, Primitivo/Zinfandel, Tempranillo and Sangiovese. Pinotage too if you are in the UK or South Africa. Have fun while you rummage.
Kiwi Pinot at the Palace.
"Buckingham Palace snubbed top French wines in favour of a Central Otago Pinot Noir at a banquet in London on Friday to support the city's bid to host the Olympic Games in 2012. The palace used Mount Edward Central Otago Pinot Noir as one of the wines at the reception for International Olympic Committee members. "
They also served Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc and Orange (not Grange as printed) Muscat and Flora from Brown Brothers. Nice to see the Commonwealth being supported over Europe for a change.
http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/southlandtimes/0,2106,3194944a6570,00.html
They also served Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc and Orange (not Grange as printed) Muscat and Flora from Brown Brothers. Nice to see the Commonwealth being supported over Europe for a change.
http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/southlandtimes/0,2106,3194944a6570,00.html
Answer to Life, the Universe and Everything?
"Scientists have cracked the ultimate mystery and discovered the true nature of the universe … in a champagne bottle. According to one leading astrophysicist the cosmos resembles an unimaginably vast bottle of bubbly." Good so far, then it gets on to string theory (beyond me) but then its back to the bubbles - hurrah!
http://212.2.162.45/news/story.asp?
j=134120938&p=y34yzy644&n=134121698
http://212.2.162.45/news/story.asp?
j=134120938&p=y34yzy644&n=134121698
Technorati Tags: champagne food & drink
UKWinesOnline Update - Food and Fine Wine.
From the heart of Sheffield (Altincham) Food and Fine Wine - offering a great range of top notch Australian and Californian wines (amongst others) and a great range of deli food items too. The descriptions are really non-existent and I do like to see photos of the products I am buying but the site is easy to use, simple and effective. Delivery is worldwide.There are some photos of the shop/bar which does look cool and trendy in a wood and blackboard style - a pity they didn't transfer a similar hipness to the website and instead went for this cool blue minimalist look; which is quite frankly dull and uninspiring.
Technorati Tags: wine food & drink
Fine Wine From A Barren Land.
"Twenty years ago land around Gimblett Rd, west of Hastings (New Zealand), was regarded as rubbish. Now it is what the French would call a grand cru - a defined area where great wine is made."
http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/0,2106,3193471a7775,00.html
http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/0,2106,3193471a7775,00.html
Technorati Tags: wine food & drink
Wine Blogging Wednesday - South African Reds The Roundup.
So many entries to the latest and greatest (wine) blog-happening that everyones favourite Cook Sister has had to split the write-up into two. Some great wines selected across the world - informative write-up too.
http://cooksister.typepad.com/cook_sister/2005/02/wbw6_a_barrel_o.html
http://cooksister.typepad.com/cook_sister/2005/02/a_barrel_of_sou.html
And guess what - its Spittoons turn to host next - are we excited or what!? but no clues on the theme until the invite...
http://cooksister.typepad.com/cook_sister/2005/02/wbw6_a_barrel_o.html
http://cooksister.typepad.com/cook_sister/2005/02/a_barrel_of_sou.html
And guess what - its Spittoons turn to host next - are we excited or what!? but no clues on the theme until the invite...
Technorati Tags: wine food & drink
AdVintage Wine Cases - new releases.
Ad-Vintage Wines have released a range of mixed cases - "an excellent offer on mixed cases from Australia, Canada, Italy, South Africa and South America. We purchased these in aid of a number of charities including The Wine And Spirits Trades’ Benevolent Society and Spinal Research. The good news is that we can offer each case to you at a very special price of £60 only – the wines in each case would normally cost £100."
Delivery is free in South West London and Surrey or £5 elsewhere.
http://www.advintage-wines.co.uk/html/mixed_cases.html
Delivery is free in South West London and Surrey or £5 elsewhere.
http://www.advintage-wines.co.uk/html/mixed_cases.html
Technorati Tags: wine food & drink
New Taittinger Champagne: Nocturne
Champagne Taitinger have released a Champagne - Nocturne. It is designed to be enjoyed with food and "through the evening". Price is around £31.99. It comprises 40% Chardonnay and 60% Pinot Noir/Pinot Meunier with a higher dosage.http://www.taittinger.com/gb/
cuvees/main/gbmainnocturne.htm
OLN Drinks Retailing Awards 2005.
Trade newsheet OLN (Off-Licence News) has just published their annual Drinks Retailing Awards. High Street Chain of the Year went to Majestic (hardly much competition there) and Multiple Beer Retailer was awarded to Asda.
Multiple Wine Retailer went to Waitrose and Snacks Retailer, just to make sure everyone won something I guess, was the Thresher Group.
Of more interest OLN Independent Wine Merchant of the Year was awarded to Off the Vine (a company I dont know) leaving The Cellar Door and Stone, Vine and Sun as finalists.
Multiple Wine Retailer went to Waitrose and Snacks Retailer, just to make sure everyone won something I guess, was the Thresher Group.
Of more interest OLN Independent Wine Merchant of the Year was awarded to Off the Vine (a company I dont know) leaving The Cellar Door and Stone, Vine and Sun as finalists.
Technorati Tags: wine food & drink
White wine, black land rights and the good intentions that withered on the vine.
"When a white vineyard owner rewarded his black workforce by giving them 11 hectares of their own, he thought he was doing them a favour. Meera Selva reports on a failed experiment in land reform"
http://news.independent.co.uk/world/africa
/story.jsp?story=611769
http://news.independent.co.uk/world/africa
/story.jsp?story=611769
UKWinesOnline Update - Ultimate Wines Burgundy Tasting Report.
Now available on UKWinesOnline a review of the Ultimate Wines Burgundy Tasting. Includes tasting notes for the best wines available at the tasting.
http://www.ukwinesonline.co.uk/Wines/ourWines.asp?
KC=727&PL=2&ST=3&SS=ULTIMATE%20WINES%20BURGUNDY
%20TASTING%2012TH%20FEB%202005&SCI=15516&HC=1
http://www.ukwinesonline.co.uk/Wines/ourWines.asp?
KC=727&PL=2&ST=3&SS=ULTIMATE%20WINES%20BURGUNDY
%20TASTING%2012TH%20FEB%202005&SCI=15516&HC=1
Technorati Tags: wine food & drink
Wine Blogging Wednesday - South African Reds.
It is Wine Blogging Wednesday - how excited are you!? This month it is hosted by an ex-pat South African under the auspices of Cook Sister. Her theme is South African Reds. My choice is a superb red - bloody lovely it was.
Flagstone Wines The Berrio, 2003, Western Cape, South Africa.Limited Parcel at Oddbins £9.99.
Superb aroma – deep stewed black fruits with hints of spice, mint and chocolate, warm. Palate is very rich with smooth generous tannins and masses of complex flavours; a medley of red fruits, blackberries and cinnamon spice. Acidity appeared a little high at the moment but this should pass with some bottle age or when enjoyed with food. A blend of 97% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Cabernet Franc. The Berrio, incidently, was one of the first ships to sail around the Cape with de Gama in 1497.
Scribblings Rating - 96/100
Rear Label – “This is a wild, tough part of the world. The belligerent ocean batters this rough-cut limestone coastline. The soil is as unyielding as the clouds and the icy wind will blow you flat on your back if it wants to. It’s a magical, mysterious place and you know in your bones it’s where you have to be. The hand-crafted wine you are drinking is our attempt to translate the spiritual essence of this place.”
Rather than repeat the content from the company website, by empowering the wonder that is the internet howsabout a link direct to the relevant page -
http://www.flagstonewines.com/wine_theberriocab.html.
I think this is a small parcel sent to the Oddbins shops only; it is not available online.
Food Match – it needs food really, the acidity stands out a tad at the moment. For a themed match I was looking at doing something ‘South African’ although my knowledge of their cuisine stops at knowing they have a Malay influence and Dutch as well I suspect. Waitrose had three different South African imported sauces on the bottom shelf from a company called Walnut Ridge something called Karoo Farmstyle Apricot, a Malay Curry and a third that I have now forgotten. (Anyone tried these? Are they any good?) Not too sure that a ready-made cooking sauce is really in the spirit of my bon-vivant lifestyle though! ;-)
A rather delicious Italian salami caught my eye at the Waitrose deli counter; which ended up in a pasta sauce. Not very South African I admit; penne pasta, porcini mushrooms, tin of tomatoes, a healthy sprinkling of SoGo Italian Herbs (which is made in South Africa so there is a connection), a little chopped onion, a splash of wine, garlic and the sausage that had been gently browned. Lovely and rather a good match to the wine.Technorati Tags: wine food & drink
TN: Rustenberg Brampton OVR, 2002, Western Cape, South Africa.
Wine Tasting Note: Rustenberg Brampton OVR, 2002, Western Cape, South Africa.Waitrose and Independents £6.99.
Could they squeeze and more grapes into this? A heady blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (54%), Merlot (20%), Shiraz (18%), Carignan (4%), Mourvèdre (2%), Malbec (2%) - so informs the back label. Ripe blackberries on the nose – laced with cassis and pepper. Lovely rich, ripe palate, subdued tannic structure, acidity on the finish, flavours of spice and chocolate add to the complex flavours - raspberry, silky strawberry ending in a long lasting aftertaste. Delicious.
Scribblings Rating - 96/100
Now this is so good it could have been my contribution to tomorrows Wine Blogging Wednesday; it isn’t as I have something even more exciting to share!
Technorati Tags: wine food & drink
UKWinesOnline Update - Vendimia.
A new company still experimenting (I would guess) with the website; the full credit card facilities are not yet available, the design is a bit messy and not all products have full details. Still lets not knock there efforts as the wine range, while a little small, does hold some interesting wines. There are easily enough to put together an interesting mixed case. From the picture here the website does not look too bad. However, forced like many who use off-the-peg shopping cart packages, the site is in two distinct sections. The front end at Vendimia is fine, if a little basic. The style does not carry on through to the actual shop. Where for example is the company logo? All the colours and design change as well.
Still, not everyone can be a wine merchant and a web designer at the same time. Without that professional edge, and I am talking generally here not specifically about Vendimia, how does any merchant compete against the multitude of other similar websites, all trying to flog wine?
Technorati Tags: wine food & drink
Wine 'can protect women's hearts'.
There is such a regular flow of health and wine related reports and articles I wonder if it is worth even mentioning them. This one is posted on the BBC website; so it must be true!
"Drinking wine, but not beer or spirits, keeps women's hearts beating healthily, Swedish research suggests."
"Drinking wine, but not beer or spirits, keeps women's hearts beating healthily, Swedish research suggests."
Technorati Tags: wine food & drink
Bourgeois Chateaux Reclassification.
The ongoing saga of the re-classification of the Bourgeois chateux of Bordeaux has taken another turn. The lastest groupings have been ruled inconsequential, effectively, with the French Ministry of Agriculture ruling that 77 properties, that failed in their attempt to receive Cru Bourgeois status, can reapply. The Ministry ruling follows a court hearing in Bordeaux that found fault with the process of classification.
Technorati Tags: wine food & drink
Sugar High Friday #5 - Puff Pastry - The Roundup.
The round-up of this months Sugar High Friday have just been posted on the a la cuisine weblog with a rousing 28 entries this time around (and my first as a participant). Ready Made Puff Pastry manufacturers around the globe must be very, very happy!
http://www.alacuisine.org/alacuisine/2005/02/shf_5_roundup.html
http://www.alacuisine.org/alacuisine/2005/02/shf_5_roundup.html
Technorati Tags: wine food & drink
Comic Relief/Wine Relief 2.
As part of the comic relief fundraising Webber's Wines/The Wine Maestro has a special wine tasting together with a wine quiz, a blind tasting and a light supper. Cost just £25. Wednesday 23rd February 8pm until 11pm.
http://www.thewinemaestro.co.uk
http://www.thewinemaestro.co.uk
Buckfast to Sue Justice Minister.
"The makers of Buckfast tonic wine are to take legal action against Cathy Jamieson, the justice minister, after she urged shopkeepers not to stock the product because it was fuelling antisocial behaviour."
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/article/0,,2090-1481995,00.html
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/article/0,,2090-1481995,00.html
Technorati Tags: wine food & drink
Ultimate Wines - Tasting Schedule.
I have just returned from a very enjoyable couple of hours in the company of Paula (and 8 other willing guests) at an Ultimate Wines Burgundy tasting. Details of the wines tasted will appear shortly but thought I would give notice of the forthcoming schedule of tastings - places are limited so early booking is advisable.
19th March Unusual Italian Varietals - Wonderful Discoveries (£20)
16th April Austrian Wines - Exciting Food Wines (£20) (UPDATE - also 14th April at WSET School EC4 £30)
21st May Greek Wines - Ancient Vines Get a New Start (£20) (UPDATE - also 18th May at WSET School EC4 £30)
18th June Not Just for Puds - Exploring Dessert Wines (Also WSET School EC4 £40)
All great value seeing the array of wines available to taste and the quality of the food available via a small buffet. So if you are anywhere within travel distance of Marlow, Buckinghamshire (and now Queen Street, London, EC4) I can heartly recommend attending.
19th March Unusual Italian Varietals - Wonderful Discoveries (£20)
16th April Austrian Wines - Exciting Food Wines (£20) (UPDATE - also 14th April at WSET School EC4 £30)
21st May Greek Wines - Ancient Vines Get a New Start (£20) (UPDATE - also 18th May at WSET School EC4 £30)
18th June Not Just for Puds - Exploring Dessert Wines (Also WSET School EC4 £40)
All great value seeing the array of wines available to taste and the quality of the food available via a small buffet. So if you are anywhere within travel distance of Marlow, Buckinghamshire (and now Queen Street, London, EC4) I can heartly recommend attending.
Technorati Tags: wine food & drink
TN: La Pampa Estate Sauvignon Blanc, 2003, Mendoza, Argentina.
La Pampa Estate Sauvignon Blanc, 2003, Mendoza, Argentina.£4.99 Waitrose.
Green and grapefruity on the nose this 100% Sauvignon certainly announces its presence in the glass. Rounded and tropical initially then the green acidity kicks in with a lime fresh finish. A sherbet touch too.
Scribblings Rating - 86/100
Sauvignon Blanc can rarely be described as hugely complex – being punchy, clean and crisp character is its style. I prefer an SB to be clean and crisp, unsullied by oak influence generally – as this one is. Food match? Well fish and goats cheese are generally accepted as where to head for but one amazing combination I tried recently was with Venetian Style Liver.
Technorati Tags: wine food & drink
UK Government warns over changes to agriculture from global warming.
"The Government has issued a stark warning to farmers over the threats posed by global warming, particularly in terms of availability of water resources.
Government scientists have looked at projected consequences of global warming across the country up to 2080 and have identified a number of potential scenarios, with water scarcity and changing patterns of rainfall posing the greatest problems.
Despite the gloom and doom scenarios predicted, there was one ray of light in the situation. Mr Morley said the changing weather patterns meant that the British wine industry would no doubt see a big boom in profits as conditions become far more favourable for them. Ideal conditions for champagne growers are expected to be seen along the south coast in places like Dorset, while their traditional growing lands in France become unsuitable. "
http://www.edie.net/news/news_story.asp?id=9532&channel=0
Government scientists have looked at projected consequences of global warming across the country up to 2080 and have identified a number of potential scenarios, with water scarcity and changing patterns of rainfall posing the greatest problems.
Despite the gloom and doom scenarios predicted, there was one ray of light in the situation. Mr Morley said the changing weather patterns meant that the British wine industry would no doubt see a big boom in profits as conditions become far more favourable for them. Ideal conditions for champagne growers are expected to be seen along the south coast in places like Dorset, while their traditional growing lands in France become unsuitable. "
http://www.edie.net/news/news_story.asp?id=9532&channel=0
Technorati Tags: wine food & drink
Comic Relief/Wine Relief.
Wines in many retailers now sport the Comic Relief logo; 10 per cent of the retail price goes straight to the campaign. I couldn't make the official trade tasting of the wines late last year but Janis Robinson recommends a few in the FT today (which you can read online once the annoying pop-up add runs its course). Comic Relief culminates in Red Nose Day on the 11th March.
http://news.ft.com/cms/s/e6174d3a-
7c41-11d9-8992-00000e2511c8.html
http://news.ft.com/cms/s/e6174d3a-
7c41-11d9-8992-00000e2511c8.html
Sugar High Friday #5 - Puff Pastry.
Pushed for time today and its Sugar High Friday! The theme for my first foray into this web-happening is puff pastry, hosted by http://www.alacuisine.org/. Sadly there is not much in the cupboard by way of ingredients. It will have to be ready made puff pastry. I have an apple, some mixed nuts, two kumquats and some sweet(ish) apple jelly (its French with some Calvados in it - Gelée de Pomme au Calvados). I could make some meringue and some custard… oh and there is that Brown Brothers stickie sitting in the wine rack to accompany; unless someone has snaffled it already.
One idea was to make simple puff pastry squares coated with the calvados-apple jam with layers of apple placed on top (dusted with cinnamon). Baked and served with fresh vanilla custard. But this seemed a bit too simple.
Baked custard filled apple with meringue topping and puff pastry straws.
So I went for baked apples – left whole with the skins on but de-cored with the hole filled with fresh vanilla custard. These were topped with a few spoonfuls of meringue mixed (topped with some crushed hazelnuts) and popped in the oven for about 25 minutes or so. I actually lost track of time...
They could have done with being served with more custard but rather nice I thought. And where is the puff pastry? They were served with thick straws of puff pastry, coated with the jam/jelly and topped with crushed hazelnuts.
I did worry that the main ingredient wasn’t puff pastry and thus I would be forever shunned and ridiculed by the Sugar High Friday fraternity...Cinnamon spiked baked apple puff pastry custard slice.
While I made the puff pastry straws I also made a larger slab of pastry, again coated with the apple jelly and topped with crushed hazelnuts. After it had cooled I sliced it in half, horizontally, piled in some mashed apple (baked with a little water, a sprinkling of cinnamon and a crushed clove) on top of a layer of some custard thickened with flour. It makes a cake of sorts. It was rather good if I say so myself (the custard was a tad runnier than I wanted) but perhaps could have done with some fresh whipped cream. Then I remembered the kumquat - just in time for the photo!
Sadly these puff pastry creations were sampled without any alcoholic accompaniment. Some bugger has snaffled my Brown Brothers stickie! I know who you are…
No room for "Stalin" wine in Canada.
"Wine labelled with a photo of brutal Soviet dictator Joseph Stalin was pulled from shelves in the Canadian province of Manitoba this week after complaints from the local Ukrainian community, a spokeswoman for government-owned liquor stores says.
The sherry and port from the Massandra winery in Ukraine featured a photo on the bottles' labels of Stalin seated with former U.S. President Franklin Delano Roosevelt and former Prime Minister Winston Churchill.
The wine commemorated the Yalta Conference, held at a castle near the winery 60 years ago this week, where the leaders decided on the shape of Eastern Europe after World War Two."
http://today.reuters.co.uk/news/newsArticle.aspx?
type=oddlyEnoughNews&storyID=2005-02-10T165851Z_01
_HOP060865_RTRIDST_0_OUKOE-LIFE-CANADA-
STALIN.XML
The sherry and port from the Massandra winery in Ukraine featured a photo on the bottles' labels of Stalin seated with former U.S. President Franklin Delano Roosevelt and former Prime Minister Winston Churchill.
The wine commemorated the Yalta Conference, held at a castle near the winery 60 years ago this week, where the leaders decided on the shape of Eastern Europe after World War Two."
http://today.reuters.co.uk/news/newsArticle.aspx?
type=oddlyEnoughNews&storyID=2005-02-10T165851Z_01
_HOP060865_RTRIDST_0_OUKOE-LIFE-CANADA-
STALIN.XML
Technorati Tags: wine food & drink
Hope sparkles for UK wine industry.
"Global warming could put a sparkle into the British wine industry as southern England becomes the best place to grow champagne grapes, a minister forecast."
ICNewcastle
ICNewcastle
New Wines From Provence.
Wine-Parcels has just received a batch of wines from Mas Sainthe Berth, Provence. Three wines in the range (plus a gift pack containing olives and olive oil from the same estate £19.99) a Cabernet/Shiraz/Grenache blend (Rouge Tradition £6.89), a Rosé (Shiraz-Grenache £6.95) and the estates flagship wine which is a blend of Cabernet and Grenache (Louis David £10.25).
Some tasting notes on these wines can be seen on UKWinesOnline.
Some tasting notes on these wines can be seen on UKWinesOnline.
Technorati Tags: wine food & drink
Introduction to Wine Tasting.
An Obsession with Food (Derick Schneider) gives a good introduction to wine tasting and ends with some thoughts on wine and food.
What it boils down to is having fun and finding the right descriptives by drawing on your own experiences (one persons cut grass is anothers gooseberry). One thing he does not mention is that the more you taste and 'analyse' (which is a bit too strong a word but you get the drift) the more proficient you become. Then you begin writing notes... comparing different expressions of the grape... noting vintages... in short a wine buff!
http://www.obsessionwithfood.com/2005_02_01_blog-archive.html#110805192250756674
What it boils down to is having fun and finding the right descriptives by drawing on your own experiences (one persons cut grass is anothers gooseberry). One thing he does not mention is that the more you taste and 'analyse' (which is a bit too strong a word but you get the drift) the more proficient you become. Then you begin writing notes... comparing different expressions of the grape... noting vintages... in short a wine buff!
http://www.obsessionwithfood.com/2005_02_01_blog-archive.html#110805192250756674
Technorati Tags: wine food & drink
Oregon Claret?
Apparently Claret is a protected name (see my diatribe on a previous post). Peter May gives more details on Lets Talk Wine and gets into a bit of a spat with 'Waldo the Wino' from the States.
http://www.letstalkwine.com/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=908
http://www.letstalkwine.com/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=908
Technorati Tags: wine food & drink
UKWinesOnline Update.
Just uploaded to UKWOL some highlights from the latest issue of Decanter Magazine covering the best of the New Releases, South African Shiraz and German Riesling. There is also a look inside the March issue of Delicious with their wine and food recommendations.
http://www.ukwinesonline.co.uk/FAQS/xtraPages.asp?PG=nw
http://www.ukwinesonline.co.uk/FAQS/xtraPages.asp?PG=nw
Technorati Tags: wine food & drink
UKWinesOnline Update - Genesis Wiines.
A new addition to the UKWinesOnline database - Genesis Wines. Specialising in the wines of France - although there are a couple of wines each from Australia, South Africa and other countires - this company has received good recommendations from across the internet wine-writing scene, with glowing reports on their wines. The website is clear and functional but devoid of any illustrations; which makes it dull, quite frankly. Wines are listed with case price and bottle price but only full case (or in some instances half case - 6 bottles) can be ordered. Minimum purchase is a case of wine. Technorati Tags: wine food & drink
Cloudy Bay 2004
Missed out on the latest Cloudy Bay release? Be quick and email Richard at Great Grog they have a dribble (60 bottles) arriving soon. And the price is a very reasonable (compared to those who flog it off at £25+) £15.99.
Great Grog on UKWOL
Great Grog on UKWOL
Technorati Tags: wine food & drink
TN: Casa Girelli Canaletto Winemaker’s Collection Pinot Grigio Cuvée Brut, NV, Trento, Italy.
Wine Tasting Note: Casa Girelli Canaletto Winemaker’s Collection Pinot Grigio Cuvée Brut, NV, Trento, Italy.From the chill cabinet at Threshers £7.99.
Pure lemon on the nose perhaps a touch of ‘yeastiness’. With bubbles quickly subsiding (this will be tank-method production not the champagne method in bottle) a quick slurp resulted in a mouthful of pear, apple and lemon flavours. But it is what follows that ruins this fresh crispness - the aftertaste verges on the sour and is distinctively rough and harsh. Perhaps I was being unfair – it was drunk on its own (even the rear label suggests food – “light dishes such as smoked salmon”) maybe a splash of orange juice or cassis would have smoothed out the finish. Alcohol 12%. 100% .
Scribblings Rating - 78/100
Technorati Tags: wine food & drink
Men lose their bottle at buying wine in pub.
"Wine is more popular than ever in Britain, but men still lose their bottle when ordering it at the bar. A report by market analyst Mintel showed that wine sales have grown by more than 30% in the past five years, thanks mainly to increasing demand from women."
http://www.theherald.co.uk/news/33066.html
http://www.theherald.co.uk/news/33066.html
Technorati Tags: wine food & drink
Champion Winter Beer of Britain.
"The guys here are absolutely thrilled, it's like winning the Oscars of winters ales. It gives us the exposure and confirms the quality of Old Tom. We've brewed it since 1899 and have always known it's the best and most loved ale on the beer circuit."
http://www.manchesteronline.co.uk/business/general/
s/144/144380_beers_to_you_mr_robinson.html
http://www.manchesteronline.co.uk/business/general/
s/144/144380_beers_to_you_mr_robinson.html
Technorati Tags: beer food & drink
Microchipped Glasgow Pub.
"A Scottish nightclub is about to become the first in Britain to offer its customers the chance to have a microchip implanted in their arm to save them carrying cash.
The "digital wallet", the size of a grain of rice, guarantees entry to the club and allows customers to buy drinks on account. Brad Stevens, owner of Bar Soba in Glasgow, said his customers had responded enthusiastically to the idea."
http://www.smh.com.au/news/Unusual-Tales/Buffed-
styled-and-microchipped/2005/01/17/1105810845916.html?oneclick=true
The "digital wallet", the size of a grain of rice, guarantees entry to the club and allows customers to buy drinks on account. Brad Stevens, owner of Bar Soba in Glasgow, said his customers had responded enthusiastically to the idea."
http://www.smh.com.au/news/Unusual-Tales/Buffed-
styled-and-microchipped/2005/01/17/1105810845916.html?oneclick=true
Technorati Tags: pubs food & drink
Fusty and British?
It is not so much the use of the word Claret (about to appear on wine labels) in Oregon that annoys me it’s the fact the writer thinks that the word is “fusty and British”. The line “Tallyho and all that” is frankly patronising – even more so since fox hunting is about to be banned (and about bloody time too). Talk about stereotyping. And I wonder what 'a certain age' is supposed to imply - that no one under 60 drinks red wine from Bordeaux? Cretin. Anyone know if the legal use of Claret is restricted in the UK/EU?
http://www.oregonlive.com/living/oregonian/
index.ssf?/base/living/1107349720257740.xml
http://www.oregonlive.com/living/oregonian/
index.ssf?/base/living/1107349720257740.xml
Technorati Tags: wine food & drink
UKWinesOnline Update - Rodney Fletcher Vintners.
I am sure to upset them by saying this but the website is crap. I can forgive the lack of infomation, just, (delivery charges, full company address, privacy policy etc) and can just about get over the poor graphics, but the wine list is a mess. Sometimes a section will display on the screen but others require a PDF download. There is no online ordering. The wine range has some very good specifics; Bordeaux and Burgundy are good for example. They also offer free delivery throughout Kent, London and most of the South East. Who are they? Rodney Fletcher Vintners. Hope they don't take it personally...Technorati Tags: wine food & drink
Wine Offers Round-Up.
From the mass of email offers these stand out this week – The Allez Vins sale is now in full swing with up to 20% off selected French Regional Wines (until the 18th February).
http://www.allezvins.co.uk/
erol/erol.html#15738x0
Best Cellars has numerous offers including a mixed New Year Case at 20% off. Case includes wines from New Zealand, Boschendal )South Africa), a Premier Cru Chablis and from Australia Tyrrells. (now £66.25).
http://www.bestcellars.co.uk/case_month.html
Vinos Vinos the Argentinean specialist is offering 15% off their entire range. www.vinosvinos.co.uk
The image is from those humours chaps at Easy Wine. Click for a larger image.
Wrightson Wines is offering two mystery cases – reduced price and free delivery – one at £60 the other at £84.
http://www.wrightsonwines.co.uk
Technorati Tags: wine drink yoga
Warning to distillers on labelling of whiskies.
"Scotland's distillers will be told to tighten up their whisky labelling this year to prevent a repeat of the acrimonious battle over Diageo’s attempt to change the contents of its Cardhu brand.
Terms such as 'vatted malt', 'vintage malt' and 'pure malt', which are used to mean the product of more than one distillery, are now banned and will be replaced by 'blended malt'. "
http://business.scotsman.com/agriculture.cfm?id=139782005
Technorati Tags: whisky drink
Terms such as 'vatted malt', 'vintage malt' and 'pure malt', which are used to mean the product of more than one distillery, are now banned and will be replaced by 'blended malt'. "
http://business.scotsman.com/agriculture.cfm?id=139782005
Technorati Tags: whisky drink
Bistro Culture Sweeps Britain.
"After years of trying to chase the continental lifestyle, the cultural gulf between Britain and Europe is opening up again - only this time it is we who are leading the way.
A new study has revealed that bistro culture has now become so ingrained in British life that within three years we will be drinking more wine than France, Germany and Italy.
Britons are also spending more eating out at restaurants than their continental cousins - a fact that would have been unthinkable just a few short years ago."
http://news.scotsman.com/uk.cfm?id=131672005
Technorati Tags: wine food & drink
A new study has revealed that bistro culture has now become so ingrained in British life that within three years we will be drinking more wine than France, Germany and Italy.
Britons are also spending more eating out at restaurants than their continental cousins - a fact that would have been unthinkable just a few short years ago."
http://news.scotsman.com/uk.cfm?id=131672005
Technorati Tags: wine food & drink
End of Month Egg on Toast Extravaganza #5 - the Roundup.
Cook Sister has posted the Egg on Toast roundup on her site. There are some excellent interpretations this month involving everything from smoked salmon, cress, bananas, pumpkin seeds, macaroni and meatballs. Oh, I have just had an blindingly excellent idea for the next EoMEoTE blog happening...
I am also well chuffed that my Oscar Wild quote discovery may be adopted as the official motto.
"An egg is always an adventure; the next one may be different."
I am also well chuffed that my Oscar Wild quote discovery may be adopted as the official motto.
"An egg is always an adventure; the next one may be different."
Technorati Tags: egg food & drink
Women in Whisky.
The first section of this article profiles Joanna Dennis of Blackwood Distillers (the first ever whisky distillery on Shetland) - very interesting. Of less interest perhaps, this is an accountancy magazine afterall, is a profile of Sara Bishop, Finance Director of Burn Stewart.
http://www.accountancyage.com/features/1139368
Technorati Tags: whisky drink
http://www.accountancyage.com/features/1139368
Technorati Tags: whisky drink
Live Webchat with Charles Metcalfe.
Charles Metcalfe is one of the best-known, most spontaneous and amusing wine critics in Britain. He is Associate Editor of Wine International Magazine, and co-chairman of the International Wine Challenge, the world’s biggest wine competition held annually in London.
If you would like a personal wine tasting tutorial and learn how to tell your Rieslings from your Pinot Blancs; get your questions in early or ask Charles live during the chat.
The date? The 8th February 16:00-16:30 UK time.
The place?
http://www.webchats.tv/index.php?ContentType=frontpage&Status=live
Technorati Tags: wine food & drink
Wine Dogs (the four legged type).
Wine Dogs: the dogs of Australasian wineries - "Behind every successful winemaker sits a faithful bow-wow".
http://www.winedogs.com/
Technorati Tags: wine dogs
http://www.winedogs.com/
Technorati Tags: wine dogs
Unwins Latest.
Rumours abounded last week concerning high street chain Unwins; and now they are confirmed. In what must be relief to all the 'in limbo' staff the company is not going to be sold. Instead the company has raised an estimated £35 million by selling property assets and engaging in a long-term lease-back.
Nice to see that the name will continue on the high street. Lets hope the buying team can bring some vigour back to the shelves - my local store has been looking particularly rubbish of late in terms of wine range.
UPDATE: a link to confirm the info.
http://www.thisismoney.co.uk/news/article.html?in_article_id=397844&in_page_id=2&ito=1565
Technorati Tags: wine unwins
Nice to see that the name will continue on the high street. Lets hope the buying team can bring some vigour back to the shelves - my local store has been looking particularly rubbish of late in terms of wine range.
UPDATE: a link to confirm the info.
http://www.thisismoney.co.uk/news/article.html?in_article_id=397844&in_page_id=2&ito=1565
Technorati Tags: wine unwins
UK 'to be biggest wine consumer'.
Britons are set to become Europe's biggest spenders on wine, with UK consumption set to outstrip even France within four years, says a new report.
In 2003 Britons quaffed £5bn worth of wine, which is set to rise to £6bn by 2008 making the UK the second biggest wine consumer globally after the US.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/
uk_news/4233809.stm
Technorati Tags: wine drink
In 2003 Britons quaffed £5bn worth of wine, which is set to rise to £6bn by 2008 making the UK the second biggest wine consumer globally after the US.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/
uk_news/4233809.stm
Technorati Tags: wine drink
TN: Errazuriz Veo Grande Cabernet-Shiraz, 2003, Colchagua and Maule, Chile.
Wine Tasting Note: Errazuriz Veo Grande Cabernet-Shiraz, 2003, Colchague and Maule, Chile
Tescos £2.99 (half price normally £5.99). Really this has got to be a bargain – a £2.99 wine that is wonderfully drinkable. Richly fruity, a slap of tannins and a splash of refreshing acidity on the finish combine into a super little wine for the price. Good for drinking on its won or paired with all sorts of meaty dishes.
Scribblings Rating - 90/100
Technorati Tags: wine food & drink
TN: Clos Petite Bellane Vieilles Vignes, 2001, Valreas, Rhône, France.
Wine Tasting Note: Clos Petite Bellane Vieilles Vignes, 2001, Valreas, Rhône, France.From Oddbins £8.49.
Some lightly spiced red fruits to the nose- not generally forthcoming it must be said. The palate immediately cries out for food. The upfront fruit – all spice and plumy fruits – descends into a tannin led mouthful. With food however these tannins and the high acidity dissipate, leaving a gorgeous mouth-filling wine with good length. We drank this with Baked Guinea Fowl with Garlic Beans and Smoked Sausage (from Rick Stein’s Food Heroes: Another Helping) which was a fine pairing. 55% Grenache 45% Syrah 14% alcohol.
Scribblings Rating - 90/100
Technorati Tags: wine food & drink
Online Drink Sales up 45% in UK.
Internet sales of beer, wine and alcohol were up 45% last year according to a report.
http://internetretailer.com/article.asp?id=14014
Technorati Tags: wine drink
http://internetretailer.com/article.asp?id=14014
Technorati Tags: wine drink
Wine Blogging Wednesday - South African Reds.
Wednesday the 16th should be ringed in red on your calender for it has just been announced as Wine Blogging Wednesday!
The fifth such event is to be hosted by Jeanne at Cook Sister; as she is South African her choice of topic (South African Reds) is totally predictable ;-)
UPDATE: I have just been reading the write-up/invitation Jeanne has provided for this - an excellent source of info for those tempted to join in the fun and unsure of where to start. It is also good for those who wish to explore the delights of South African wines in general.
Technorati Tags: wine food & drink
The fifth such event is to be hosted by Jeanne at Cook Sister; as she is South African her choice of topic (South African Reds) is totally predictable ;-)
UPDATE: I have just been reading the write-up/invitation Jeanne has provided for this - an excellent source of info for those tempted to join in the fun and unsure of where to start. It is also good for those who wish to explore the delights of South African wines in general.
Technorati Tags: wine food & drink
Fierce Competition for Ireland's Alcohol Licences.
If you thought America's rules for the sale of alcohol were archaic look to Northern Ireland for real anti-free trade rules. Not sure I understand why you have to go 'down the road' to buy drink at one establishment; or where you go for that matter (to a phone box?).
http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/features/story.jsp?story=606734
Technorati Tags: wine drink
http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/features/story.jsp?story=606734
Technorati Tags: wine drink
TN: Hartford Sonoma Coast Chardonnay, 1999, Sonoma, California.
Wine Tasting Note: Hartford Sonoma Coast Chardonnay, 1999, Sonoma, California.Purchase from Wine-Parcels for £15.99
Pineapple biscuits and cream spring to mind on tasting this American wonder. Yes its big and well… American in style but it also has a goodly amount of complexity and character. It has certainly benefited from a year or twos bottle age with layers of apricot and peach flavours mingling with crisp apple acidity and vanilla oak. You will have to be quick to buy this though. Wine-Parcels have only a few bottles to pass your way!
Scribblings Rating - 94/100
Technorati Tags: wine drink
TN: Domaine Jean-Claude Courtault Chabllis, 2002, Burgundy, France.
Wine Tasting Note: Domaine Jean-Claude Courtault Chablis, 2002, Burgundy, France.Available from Wine-Parcels for £9.99.
This is lovely – a sumptuously generous aroma coupled with a good, stylish palate. From a 8.7 hectare estate in the heart of Chablis the domaine has squeezed plenty of mineral-edged complexity from the grapes with generous pear and apple hints to the flavour. Yes, it is a Chardonnay (I say that because so many people turn their noses up at Chardonnay) but this has wonderful crispness and subtly. Partner with roast chicken, garlic laced dishes and herbed fish dishes.
Scribblings Rating - 92/100
Technorati Tags: wine drink