One of the pitfalls in tasting is the way that our sensory systems are quite malleable. Take vision, for example. If you are out in the sunlight and then walk…
A quick update on Cape Wine 2012
Cape Wine 2012 has been brilliant. I have discovered some very exciting new wines, caught up with some cool people (and made new friends), and over the last two nights…
Cape Wine, the Green Tie party
Cape Wine got underway with a big party, held on the waterfront on a beautiful spring evening. It was a jolly affair, kicking off with a couple of glasses of…
Cape Wine 2012, day 2, the Chenin conference
Up bright and early on Monday morning to head into Cape Town for the Chenin Blanc Association conference. Chenin is a super grape and South Africa has half of the…
Cape Wine, day 1
So I arrived with a jolly bunch of UK journalists in Cape Town, on a cold and rainy day. We’re all on slightly different itineraries here, so some of us…
An attractive Gamay from a new appellation: Bourgogne Gamay
This is an appealing, fruity, vibrant Gamay that comes from a new appellation, Bourgogne Gamay, created in 2011. It’s Gamay from Fleurie, Chénas and Régnié, plus 15% Burgundy Pinot Noir….
A delicious, cheap German Riesling
Most £6 wines are distinctly dull. Some are nasty. But a few are really delicious, and this is one of them. I’ll be going back to buy some more. Just…
Beer: my first experience of The Kernel
Working on the Douro film tonight with Dave Fuller, who brought round a couple of beers from The Kernel brewery. They’re probably the UK’s most highly regarded craft ale producer…
Dinner at 28 50 with some interesting Aussie wines
After the Semillon tasting I reported on a couple of days ago, a few of us retired to nearby restaurant 28 50 for dinner, with some interesting Australian wines. I love…