Some notes from the Top 100 South African Wines judges’ welcome lunch last Sunday, here at Rodwell House, St James. It was a relaxed affair and Robin brought out quite…
More Top 100 judging
Yesterday was another glorious day, most of which was spent judging wines. This year’s Top 100 South African Wines has seen a higher standard of entries than last year. In…
A day of firsts
Today was a day of firsts. At 7 am, before the judging of the Top 100, Duncan Savage took three of us out for our first experience of surfing. We…
The Top 100 South African Wines, day 1
A busy day here in St James, judging the Top 100 South African Wines competition. I was judging with Greg Sherwood and Duncan Savage. It was a really fun day….
South Africa, day 3
So the third and final day of my Stellenbosch visit. Next, I’m off to St James. And it was another great day. First up, Rustenberg with Simon and Murray Barlow….
South Africa, day 2
Some great visits today. All in beautiful sunshine. Once again, pictures will have to suffice. Words will come later. The day began with a visit to Neil Ellis’ new cellar…
In South Africa, day 1
Tired, now, after a great first day in South Africa. I landed this morning, had a quick refresh, then hit the road. Too tired to do proper write-ups now, so…
A lovely, affordable Hunter Semillon
Very nice wine, this. Hunter Valley Semillon is a unique style of wine. Pale, fresh, light in youth, yet ages brilliantly. And it comes from a very warm wine region….
Managing a wine retail brand: comparing Majestic and Berry Bros & Rudd
Yesterday I was contacted by a brand consultant who is doing some work for a wine merchant. He wanted to pick my brains. The conversation got me thinking about brand…