Had Ryan Mostert and Samantha Suddons over for dinner on Thursday night. They are a young couple working at one of South Africa’s most exciting wineries, Reyneke, and so we…
A great game of rugby followed by some wine
Took older son along to Twickenham today for his first England international. It was against the mighty All Blacks (that’s the New Zealand team for the benefit of those who…
A superb Hunter Valley Semillon
This is rather good. It’s a Tyrrells exclusive for UK retailer Marks & Spencer, and it’s the real deal. Proper Hunter Semillon, just entering its long drinking window. It’s not…
An English white Pinot Noir and an Aussie Topaque
Headed over to Denbies wine estate today, in Dorking, Surrey, for a meeting of Elevage. Elevage is the organization I’m involved with that runs the International Sparkling Wine Symposium (ISWS)….
Two lovely, full-on wines from First Drop
I love the packaging of the First Drop wines. The labels seem to resonate with the wines. And while I’m all for elegance, sometimes it’s great to have full-flavoured Aussie…
Royal Melbourne Wine Show – the film!
A short film, set to music, of the Royal Melbourne Wine Show judging. Ever wondered what an Australian wine show is like? Here’s your chance to find out, although I…
A delicious Zinfandel from Western Australia
Laithwaites have unearthed a gem here. It’s a wine that surprised me: I’m not a fan of Zinfandel normally, but this is really elegant and utterly delicious, and it’s at…
A big night out in Melbourne, with a good feed and lovely wines
Sunday night in Melbourne. Just before the beginning of the Royal Melbourne Wine Show, which I am here to judge. The evening started off in the City Wine Shop, Spring…
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…