Really enjoyed these three from Hoffmann & Rathbone, a high-quality negotiant operation based in Sussex. Hoffmann & Rathbone Classic Cuvée Brut 2010 Sussex, England 60% Pinot Noir, 30% Chardonnay, 10%…
Hambledon Classic Cuvée Rosé
Hambledon is one of the most exciting of all the English sparkling wine producers. They’ve just released their first rosé, and it’s really impressive. Hambledon Rosé NV Hampshire, England 12%…
Washington wines on the world stage: a seminar looking at Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon
This was an interesting tasting that attempted to put Washington State’s wines in context by blind tasting them with some stiff international competition. We tasted double blind, although in each…
Day 2, in Madeira
Day 2 of our Madeira visit began in the new Blandy’s cellars, which are located near the main Port, just past the airport. They’ve been moving most of their production…
In Madeira with Blandy’s
I’m in Madeira. It’s my first time on the island. It’s quite a beautiful place. The reason? To find out about Madeira wine, with the island’s largest producer, Blandy’s. Day…
Gamay focus 26, Jean-Paul Thévenet Morgon Tradition ‘Le Clachet’ 2015
Continuing on my quest to explore Gamay, I’m sticking with Beaujolais, and another of the newly released 2015s. This is a very highly regarded vintage in the region, but it…
Grower Champagne focus: Vilmart et Cie Grande Reserve Premier Cru NV France
Vilmart makes some excellent Champagne. I’ve included them as a grower even though technically they aren’t because they source some grapes as well as relying on their own production, but…
Co-chairing at the International Wine Challenge Tranche 1
This week I have been judging in Tranche 1 of the 2017 version of the international Wine Challenge (IWC). After eight years as a panel chair, I’m now a co-chair…
Some good value wines that impress
I’m aware that many of the wines I recommend here are quite expensive. So these are some wines that I’ve tried recently that represent excellent value for money. These are…