This is a lovely wine. It defines smashable. I had it while I was solo dining last week, and if you are solo dining then you need something like this…
Two rarities from Eyrie Vineyards, Oregon: Pinot Meunier Rosé fizz and Chasselas Doré
I’ve just arrived in Oregon, after landing in Vancouver via Calgary last night. It’s a fair drive down, but on the way back I’ll be stopping in Seattle for the…
In the Okanagan, BC, Canada: Laughing Stock and Bella
The last couple of visits in the Okanagan were really interesting. The first was at Laughing Stock Vineyards on the Naramata Bench. Cynthia and David Enns (above) were financial people…
Flying long haul budget: what’s the WestJet experience like?
I’m flying quite a bit at the moment. This year I’ve been to New Zealand, Portugal twice, France three times (Beaujolais, Alsace, Champagne), Germany, Spain, South Africa (twice), California (twice)…
Brilliant new SA wines at an amazing lunch at Schoon de Companje
Finished my South African trip with an incredible informal lunch at Schoon de Companje, Stellenbosch, with a group of wine producers. Present were Ryan Mostert, Samantha Suddons, Reenen Borman, Mick…
Video: judging the Standard Bank Top 10 Chenin Blanc competition
Here’s a short film of the judging of the Standard Bank Top 10 Chenin Blanc competition
A new ‘icon’ Chenin from South Africa: Dirty Little Secret
This is the much talked about high-end South African Chenin Blanc from one of the grape’s greatest ambassadors. I managed to catch up with Shawn Mathyse, a young winemaker who…
The remarkable Leeu Estates: luxury accommodation in Franschhoek
After staying overnight at Leeu House, part of the Leeu Collection, I visited the newly opened Leeu Estates in Franschhoek, which began receiving guests just a couple of weeks ago….
In South Africa: the Mullineux new releases
I visited the new tasting room at the Leeu Collection in Franschhoek, to taste through the new releases of the Mullineux wines. It’s a lovely space, with glass windows looking…