December at Monkeyshed
So the season is upon us! What more to say than we have the wine for you. A cracking Champagne to toast friends and fortune. Whites and reds to fortify you before, after or instead of a bracing walk. And even something deliciously sweet to ensure everyone looks just that little rosier. And despite the chancellor's bah humbug duty rise it all comes with only 15% VAT - the long and short of the smoke and mirrors is spend over about £90 a case and the lower VAT really should mean lower prices (and does with us). Read on....
Quaffers for December
Everyday prices, exceptional wines.
It felt right to be doing our little bit to help the global recovery! We've chosen three whites and reds and helped with case deals on our already rock bottom pricing - to be shared with friends or for a guilt free glass at the end of another hard day, lunch or whatever. Read on.....
It felt right to be doing our little bit to help the global recovery! We've chosen three whites and reds and helped with case deals on our already rock bottom pricing - to be shared with friends or for a guilt free glass at the end of another hard day, lunch or whatever. Read on.....
Stars for December
Unaffordable luxury - unaffordable in the "you can't afford to miss it" kind of style!
This month we've put together a selection of six wines unashamedly match with their perfect food partner (or the likes.....) all inspired by the latest visitor to the lab that is our kitchen Valentine Warner's What to eat Now.
A mixed dozen for £120 or click on each wine to see any further case deals.
Two Whites:
► Loimer Kamptal Riesling, Austria '07 – Get the oysters out and start celebrating like you mean it.
► St Veran, Les Chailloux, Domaine Deux Roches, Burgundy '06 - This is good Chardonnay at its versatile best. Stick with the Riesling for the lighter more delicate fishy things but any weight and this is your man. We're workshopping a winter barbequed pork when the clouds part and I'm guessing this will be the baby (if you can't drink proper wine that is).
Four Reds:
► Cotes-du-Rhone, Domaine St Cosme, Gigondas, France '07 – I think this will be the red partner for the pork above. There is a wonderful earthy character in this wine which stands well out in the sea that is Cotes-du-Rhone and if you are playing with rabbit or wood pigeon you could do worse.
► La Vendimia, Palacios Remondo, Rioja ’07 – Next dish after the pork barbeque on the list of Valentine Warner's dishes that need dissecting in a controlled environment is his Lamb Birria. A Mexican lamb stew. La Vendimia is made for lamb and I've been waiting all my life for someone to invent Mexican food that lives up to my expectations - no pressure then. The wines crunchy youth will work a treat with the spice and any other spicy dish you might want to throw at it.
► Heinrich, Red, Neusiedlersee, Austria '06 – A luxuriously polished wine, at once earthy and velvety if that doesn't conjure up images of ... well best leave it there. This I'd try with a classic rack of lamb or for a twist perhaps Val's wild mushroom lasagne? The wine is delicate enough to enhance rather than overpower the delicacy that is often overlooked in an pasta dish.
► Mercurey, Vieilles, Vignes, Francois Raquillet, Burgundy '04 – This is great stuff, wants beef and I'm heading to the venison pie, most of the game and just sitting back to read the rest of the book with this old favourite.
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This month we've put together a selection of six wines unashamedly match with their perfect food partner (or the likes.....) all inspired by the latest visitor to the lab that is our kitchen Valentine Warner's What to eat Now.
A mixed dozen for £120 or click on each wine to see any further case deals.
Two Whites:
► Loimer Kamptal Riesling, Austria '07 – Get the oysters out and start celebrating like you mean it.
► St Veran, Les Chailloux, Domaine Deux Roches, Burgundy '06 - This is good Chardonnay at its versatile best. Stick with the Riesling for the lighter more delicate fishy things but any weight and this is your man. We're workshopping a winter barbequed pork when the clouds part and I'm guessing this will be the baby (if you can't drink proper wine that is).
Four Reds:
► Cotes-du-Rhone, Domaine St Cosme, Gigondas, France '07 – I think this will be the red partner for the pork above. There is a wonderful earthy character in this wine which stands well out in the sea that is Cotes-du-Rhone and if you are playing with rabbit or wood pigeon you could do worse.
► La Vendimia, Palacios Remondo, Rioja ’07 – Next dish after the pork barbeque on the list of Valentine Warner's dishes that need dissecting in a controlled environment is his Lamb Birria. A Mexican lamb stew. La Vendimia is made for lamb and I've been waiting all my life for someone to invent Mexican food that lives up to my expectations - no pressure then. The wines crunchy youth will work a treat with the spice and any other spicy dish you might want to throw at it.
► Heinrich, Red, Neusiedlersee, Austria '06 – A luxuriously polished wine, at once earthy and velvety if that doesn't conjure up images of ... well best leave it there. This I'd try with a classic rack of lamb or for a twist perhaps Val's wild mushroom lasagne? The wine is delicate enough to enhance rather than overpower the delicacy that is often overlooked in an pasta dish.
► Mercurey, Vieilles, Vignes, Francois Raquillet, Burgundy '04 – This is great stuff, wants beef and I'm heading to the venison pie, most of the game and just sitting back to read the rest of the book with this old favourite.
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Quaffers
Everyday drinkers chosen to take the hit and miss out of the superstore wine selection lottery.
Criteria: Must hit both the cheeky little quaffer spot and the wallet with such a satisfying pleasure that you’ll forget those evil greenfield killing monoliths and support not just your local butcher, fishmonger, fruit and veggerer but also the wine merchant too!
This month, in doing our own small bit to help save the world, we've put case offers on all six of our special selection for November. Wines to be shared with friends, tippled guiltlessly after a hard day, add a zing to lunch........ its an oyster out there.
White:
► Calbuco Semillon Chardonnay, Chile '07
– Try a dozen for £60 (£5.00 each)
► Alpha Zeta, Chardonnay, Veneto, Italy ’07
– Try a dozen for £72 (£6.00 each)
► Pinot Grigio Corte Giara, Veneto, Italy '07
– Try a dozen for £80 (£6.67 each)
► A mix of whites
– £69 for four of each of the three above
Red:
► Calbuco Cabernet Merlot, Chile '07
– Try a dozen for £60 (£5.00 each)
► Colonia Las Liebres, Bonarda, Argentina '06
– Try a dozen for £72 (£6.00 each)
► Il Faggio, Montepulciano d'Abruzzo, Italy '07
– Try a dozen for £75 (£6.25 each)
► A mix of reds
– £69 for four of each of the three above
Christmas coming early isn't just about window dressing and lights, we hope you'll agree.
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Criteria: Must hit both the cheeky little quaffer spot and the wallet with such a satisfying pleasure that you’ll forget those evil greenfield killing monoliths and support not just your local butcher, fishmonger, fruit and veggerer but also the wine merchant too!
This month, in doing our own small bit to help save the world, we've put case offers on all six of our special selection for November. Wines to be shared with friends, tippled guiltlessly after a hard day, add a zing to lunch........ its an oyster out there.
White:
► Calbuco Semillon Chardonnay, Chile '07
– Try a dozen for £60 (£5.00 each)
► Alpha Zeta, Chardonnay, Veneto, Italy ’07
– Try a dozen for £72 (£6.00 each)
► Pinot Grigio Corte Giara, Veneto, Italy '07
– Try a dozen for £80 (£6.67 each)
► A mix of whites
– £69 for four of each of the three above
Red:
► Calbuco Cabernet Merlot, Chile '07
– Try a dozen for £60 (£5.00 each)
► Colonia Las Liebres, Bonarda, Argentina '06
– Try a dozen for £72 (£6.00 each)
► Il Faggio, Montepulciano d'Abruzzo, Italy '07
– Try a dozen for £75 (£6.25 each)
► A mix of reds
– £69 for four of each of the three above
Christmas coming early isn't just about window dressing and lights, we hope you'll agree.
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December at Monkeyshed
So the season is upon us! What more to say than we have the wine for you. A cracking Champagne to toast friends and fortune. Whites and reds to fortify you before, after or instead of a bracing walk. And even something deliciously sweet to ensure everyone looks just that little rosier. And despite the chancellor's bah humbug duty rise it all comes with only 15% VAT - the long and short of the smoke and mirrors is spend over about £90 a case and the lower VAT really should mean lower prices (and does with us).Our Stars for December carry on from the start made in November. Now that we have finally managed to track down the ingredients - what a trial - we are making an all out assault on those tantalising treats from new favourite chef Valentine Warner. What we've tried so far has lived up to the mighty high expectations notes to follow.
The National Open Art at Chichester went off a storm and with all but a few paintings returned to artists or new owners our family is almost reunited. We've carried over our Art Lovers Selection just to celebrate.
With our Quaffers we've defied the best efforts of Darling Alistair - he's demanded an extra 12p per bottle in duty - and kept our fighting prices in place - Merry Christmas! Grab the Alpha Zeta Chardonnay and the Il Faggio Montepulciano and you are guaranteed impressive presents from any you spring these stars on.
The VAT change really does us a favour at the top end and all our feature wines in the Focus on Burgundy have come tumbling down - buy now or be sorry, very sorry.
Finally, our business grows and thrives on your loyal support and word of mouth. To help expand our merry band we'd like to offer a bottle from our tasty selection of olive oils to all those that introduce a friend! Winners all round I think you'll agree.
Stay tuned for more.....
The Art Lovers Selection
This box is put together as a tribute to the National Open Art Competition now over but we thought the box should live on just a bit longer. Another year of sweat and innovation and it is better than ever. From the vast field of over some 1200 works a select 118 make for a worthwhile trip to our southern shores.
The dozen selected (two of each of the wines featured below) is on offer at £100 (usually £111.40 no less) and available whilst the show lingers.
Two Whites:
► Chablis, Denis Race '06
An elegant backbone to provide a structure for creative souls anywhere.
► Tinhut, Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, New Zealand '07
Something exciting and edgey that draws a thoroughly modern story from classic roots.
Four Reds:
► Colonia Las Liebres, Bonarda, Argentina '06
A solid earth base of understated character. One that deserve careful consideration.
► Il Faggio, Montepulciano d'Abruzzo, Italy '07
A wine that captures all the warmth and colour of the Adriatic.
► La Vendimia, Rioja, Palacios Remondo, Spain '07
New, vibrant and brilliantly bright.
► Heinrich, Red, Neusiedlersee, Austria '06
Polished and elegant, from a solid earthy core this wine opens to reach unexpected heights.
Try them if you dont believe me!
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The dozen selected (two of each of the wines featured below) is on offer at £100 (usually £111.40 no less) and available whilst the show lingers.
Two Whites:
► Chablis, Denis Race '06
An elegant backbone to provide a structure for creative souls anywhere.
► Tinhut, Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, New Zealand '07
Something exciting and edgey that draws a thoroughly modern story from classic roots.
Four Reds:
► Colonia Las Liebres, Bonarda, Argentina '06
A solid earth base of understated character. One that deserve careful consideration.
► Il Faggio, Montepulciano d'Abruzzo, Italy '07
A wine that captures all the warmth and colour of the Adriatic.
► La Vendimia, Rioja, Palacios Remondo, Spain '07
New, vibrant and brilliantly bright.
► Heinrich, Red, Neusiedlersee, Austria '06
Polished and elegant, from a solid earthy core this wine opens to reach unexpected heights.
Try them if you dont believe me!
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Heinrich, Red, Neusiedlersee, Austria ‘06
Grapes: Blaufrankisch, St. Laurent and Zweigelt
Each: £11.00
INTRODUCTORY OFFER - A Dozen for £120 (£10.00 each)
This was just too tasty to leave behind but I did have to wonder, will anyone want to drink an Austrian “Red” made from a blend of what might as well be three varieties of cabbage? Well if not they certainly should!
This is really good. Almost like drinking velvet. It has a rich, luxurious and envelopingly softness up front and through the middle with just the right amount of solid backbone to hold up the rear and stop it loosing all shape in a pool of loveliness. To the blend. The Blaufrankisch is deemed to bring the alluring fragrance of good Gamay and some of the gaminess of Syrah. It is long and sinewy on the palate. St. Laurent brings colour, depth, delicacy and balance. Zweigelt is named after the good doctor who crossed the Blaufrankisch and St Laurent - an obvious move I hear you cry as one!
I really like this. Try it, I think you will too.
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This is really good. Almost like drinking velvet. It has a rich, luxurious and envelopingly softness up front and through the middle with just the right amount of solid backbone to hold up the rear and stop it loosing all shape in a pool of loveliness. To the blend. The Blaufrankisch is deemed to bring the alluring fragrance of good Gamay and some of the gaminess of Syrah. It is long and sinewy on the palate. St. Laurent brings colour, depth, delicacy and balance. Zweigelt is named after the good doctor who crossed the Blaufrankisch and St Laurent - an obvious move I hear you cry as one!
I really like this. Try it, I think you will too.
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Colonia Las Liebres, Bonarda, Mendoza, Argentina ‘06
Grapes: Bonarda
Each: £6.50
INTRODUCTORY OFFER - A dozen for £72 (£6.00 each)
It’s probably best not to delve too deep into exactly what Bonarda is. Ostensibly its native to Italy but there seems to be a certain amount of confusion at home as to what it really is. What is safe to say is that with Malbec, a native of Bordeaux and Cahors, it has found much greater popularity, success and a new sense of purpose in its new home from home Argentina.
Scrummy, a full, rich wine with a damsony tone to its exuberant fruit and great terras argentinas earthy weight.
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Scrummy, a full, rich wine with a damsony tone to its exuberant fruit and great terras argentinas earthy weight.
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Las Rocas, Garnacha, Calatayud, Spain ‘06
Grapes: Garnacha
Each: £7.95
Yum! It really is hard to beat a good Garnacha as the saying goes? Juicy, supple and approachable but this has a depth and complexity that just keep you going back for more if only to put your finger on exactly what it is you are tasting.
This comes from the Aragon plains and must be drunk with slow roasted little lamb to be fully appreciated.
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This comes from the Aragon plains and must be drunk with slow roasted little lamb to be fully appreciated.
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Alpha Zeta, Amarone, Veneto, Italy ‘05
Grapes: Corvina, Rondinella and Cabernet Sauvignon
Each: £24.50
INTRODUCTORY OFFER - Six for £129 (£21.50 each)
Wow. Amarone is a real mind blower and this is no exception. Good modern purity and deliciously perfumed flavours on both nose and palate.
Amarone is never cheap but this is good value and really punches well above its weight, treat yourself.
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Amarone is never cheap but this is good value and really punches well above its weight, treat yourself.
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Valpolicella, Allegrini, Veneto, Italy ‘07
Grapes: Corvina and Rondinella (primarily)
Each: £8.45
This wine was always a bit of a no brainer when putting together a new list for the Harvey Nichols empire. Always delicious and always a benchmark example of such a classic Italian style. I’ve toyed with it since giving up the luxury of such a vast range and decided in the end that Valpolicella was perhaps a style too far. But I still couldn’t resist trying the new vintage at a recent tasting. Delicious, as ususal, but somehow richer, purer, slightly more vibrant and delicious than I remember? Screw cap! Bored of waiting for the legislators to catch up (and this too is a theme of the family) the Allegrinis declassified from Valpol Classico to straight Valpol in ‘07 and bottled under a screw cap.
Now the wine gets a listing simply for being quite a tasty tipple at the perfect price.
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Now the wine gets a listing simply for being quite a tasty tipple at the perfect price.
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Il Faggio, Montepulciano d’Abruzzo, Italy ‘07
Grapes: Montepulciano
Each: £6.95
DOZEN OFFER - £75 (£6.25 each)
A cousin of the Alpha Zeta range that so tickles my fancy!
Matt Thomson has weaved his magic with fruit from Abruzzo this time around. Ripeness is never a problem for such a warm region. The challenge is to capture the richness but keep it focused and clean.
So here you are - all the rich flavours of the Abruzzan Med in Technicolor, extra bright, clear and focused.
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Matt Thomson has weaved his magic with fruit from Abruzzo this time around. Ripeness is never a problem for such a warm region. The challenge is to capture the richness but keep it focused and clean.
So here you are - all the rich flavours of the Abruzzan Med in Technicolor, extra bright, clear and focused.
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Plantagenet, Great Southern, Chardonnay, Western Australia ‘07
Grapes: Chardonnay
Each: £13.40
Can I get away with the Princes of Denmark being Plantagenets? Probably not, but Plantagenet is one of the original wineries in the Great Southern region of Western Australia and was set up at Mount Barker, not a million miles inland from Denmark, W.A.. So now you know.
This is a classy number. Big on fruit and oak but both are checked by some wonderfully levelling acidity, the key to the wine’s excellent balance. The class of the fruit and wine making skills of John Durham bring a depth of complexity to the wine.
Tidy, very tidy indeed.
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This is a classy number. Big on fruit and oak but both are checked by some wonderfully levelling acidity, the key to the wine’s excellent balance. The class of the fruit and wine making skills of John Durham bring a depth of complexity to the wine.
Tidy, very tidy indeed.
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Macon–Davaye, Domaine des Deux Roches, Burgundy, France ‘07
Grapes: Chardonnay
Each: £11.00
DECEMBER OFFER - a dozen for £118 (£9.83 each)
Really juicy friendly stuff. The Deux Roches crew make a range that never disappoints. The common signature throughout is ripe full opulent flavours. That’s what this is all about, and all the tastier for it.
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Loimer, Kamptal Riesling, Austria ‘07
Grapes: Riesling
Each: £9.95
I’ve got a thing about Fred Loimer’s wines.
In fact it probably goes further than that to my introduction to Austrian wines. An invite came through to a tasting at the Austrian Ambassador’s Residence in Belgrave Square about two seconds from my old Knightsbridge office. It seemed churlish not to. I waltzed up expecting something along the lines of the slightly mad, slightly unwashed, slightly hippy, boho crew that had revealed themselves as the Swiss wine trade. Not a bit of it. I clearly hadn’t read my invitation and dared to turn up around lunch time not in full ball gown and feeling particularly underdressed. An extraordinary atmosphere of very much alive imperial majesty leagues removed from their alpine neighbours. The wines are similarly leagues apart. If the Swiss offer slightly too high altitude versions of their neighbours in France, Italy and I suppose Germany, Austrian wines are truly singing their own song. The best are absolutely fantastic with a brilliant combination of purity and richness.
The Loimer wines deliver.
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In fact it probably goes further than that to my introduction to Austrian wines. An invite came through to a tasting at the Austrian Ambassador’s Residence in Belgrave Square about two seconds from my old Knightsbridge office. It seemed churlish not to. I waltzed up expecting something along the lines of the slightly mad, slightly unwashed, slightly hippy, boho crew that had revealed themselves as the Swiss wine trade. Not a bit of it. I clearly hadn’t read my invitation and dared to turn up around lunch time not in full ball gown and feeling particularly underdressed. An extraordinary atmosphere of very much alive imperial majesty leagues removed from their alpine neighbours. The wines are similarly leagues apart. If the Swiss offer slightly too high altitude versions of their neighbours in France, Italy and I suppose Germany, Austrian wines are truly singing their own song. The best are absolutely fantastic with a brilliant combination of purity and richness.
The Loimer wines deliver.
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Lugana, Ca dei Frati, Veneto, Italy ‘07
Grapes: Lugana
Each: £11.40
Amazing stuff from the shores of Lake Garda. The problem with wine from such a picturesque and well know spot is finding one that firstly wants to and secondly can live up to your holiday memories or fantasies. At Ca dei Frati both are well and truly taken care of.
The Dal Cero family are winemakers who put in the hard work finding great vineyards, cropping low and respecting their fruit. Stunning wines of great depth and complexity that all but the very, very best holiday memories will struggle to put in the shade.
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The Dal Cero family are winemakers who put in the hard work finding great vineyards, cropping low and respecting their fruit. Stunning wines of great depth and complexity that all but the very, very best holiday memories will struggle to put in the shade.
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Brokenwood, Semillon, Hunter Valley, New South Wales, Australia ‘07
Grapes: Semillon
Each: £9.90
A particular favourite of mine ever since we first met over a crowded table in Sydney
Semillon has been at home in the Hunter valley for as long asAustralia
Brokenwood now make two Semillons. Their ILR Semillon is an admirable tribute to the classicLindemans Hunter Valley
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Semillon has been at home in the Hunter valley for as long as
Brokenwood now make two Semillons. Their ILR Semillon is an admirable tribute to the classic
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Tinpot Hut, Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, New Zealand ‘07
Grapes: Sauvignon Blanc
Each: £9.95
INTRODUCTORY OFFER - A dozen for £107 (£8.92 each)
Speaking as the inhabitants of the Monkey Shed we could hardly do anything but like a wine called Tinpot Hut. Indeed just as our name links our past and present (we live in Chico’s old digs) so too does Tinpot Hut link the sheep (well it had to be really) rearing history of Marlborough to its present guise as a winemaking mecca. Lyrical enough?
The Hut is a solo venture of Fiona Turner erstwhile co-conspirator, in many a caper, of the ubiquitous Matt Thomson. The grapes come from her own property in Blind River and other specially selected sites, from contacts carefully ferreted away over the years for just such a solo venture.
The wine has lovely depth and intensity and a Sauvignon pungency that is leavened by a lovely minerality on both the nose and palate.
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Each: £9.95
INTRODUCTORY OFFER - A dozen for £107 (£8.92 each)
Speaking as the inhabitants of the Monkey Shed we could hardly do anything but like a wine called Tinpot Hut. Indeed just as our name links our past and present (we live in Chico’s old digs) so too does Tinpot Hut link the sheep (well it had to be really) rearing history of Marlborough to its present guise as a winemaking mecca. Lyrical enough?
The Hut is a solo venture of Fiona Turner erstwhile co-conspirator, in many a caper, of the ubiquitous Matt Thomson. The grapes come from her own property in Blind River and other specially selected sites, from contacts carefully ferreted away over the years for just such a solo venture.
The wine has lovely depth and intensity and a Sauvignon pungency that is leavened by a lovely minerality on both the nose and palate.
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Focus on Burgundy
A favoured region that has remained sadly neglected. We’ve put together a selection of case deals to redress this truly sorry situation!
| White Burgundy Chablis, Domaine Denis Race, France '06 ** By the Dozen £128 Au Bon Climat, Santa Barbara, Chardonnay, California '06 ** By the Dozen £184 Meursault, Boyer-Martenot, Burgundy '06 ** By the Dozen £244 Puligny-Montrachet, Les Charmes, J-L Chavy, Burgundy '06 ** By the Dozen £260 Meursault, Jean-Philippe Fichet, Burgundy '05 ** By the Dozen £295 | £11.90 £10.67 £17.00 £15.33 £22.50 £20.33 £24.00 £21.67 £27.50 £24.58 |
| Red Burgundy Morey-St-Denis, Pierre Amiot, France ‘04 ** By the Dozen: £240 Pommard, Domaine Billard-Gonnet, Burgundy, France ‘02 ** By the Dozen: £265 Volnay, Comte Armand, Burgundy, France ‘05 ** By the Dozen: £270 Gevrey-Chambertin, Humbert Frères, Burgundy, France ‘05 ** By the Dozen: £285 Chambolle-Musigny, Hudelot-Noellat, Burgundy '02 ** By the Dozen: £324 | £22.50 £20.00 £24.50 £22.08 £25.00 £22.50 £26.50 £23.75 £30.00 £27.00 |
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The List - November
Where to look for what
Fizzzzz - Classic Champagne and an alternative or two
Quaffers - Everyday prices, exceptional wines!
Whites
Sauvignons - and suggestions
Aromatic Whites - at least vaguely, anything but Chardonnay
Chardonnay - or empathetically structured
Pink - For the hardy?
Reds
Italians - from Barolo through Brunello via San Fransico
Rhone, Rioja and Relatives - from warmer, Mediterranean hugging climes or similar international hotspots.
Merlot, Cabernets and other Bordeaux beauties - just a taste of what we can find for you
Pinot Noir and likeminded neighbours - Pitfalls and peaks, we've chosen the latter for you .
The Larder - Tasty treats to accompany any fine tipple.
Offers for November - You can't afford not to!
December Offers
In keeping with the general feeling of belt tightening bravado we've beefed up our offers to squeeze every ounce of pleasure from your pound;
► Quaffers - exceptional wines at everyday prices and
► Stars - affordable luxury
We continue the offers on a bijou selection of red and white Burgundy. A favourite area that has been sadly neglected on the list. Worry not these are all highly recommended and truly delicious!
► Focus - on Burgundy
Stay tuned for our festive selection of gifty ideas, to follow over the next weeks or days even....
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Giaconda, Nantua Les Deux, Chardonnay Roussane blend, Beechworth, Victoria, Australia ‘05
Grapes: Chardonnay and Roussanne
Each: £32.00
Just amazing. Rick Kinzbrunner ploughs his particularly individual furrow in one of the many mini regions of the state of Victoria, Australia. The Nantua les Deux was born from tiny initial production of Rick’s pet white Rousanne. The crop only yielded half a barrel, Rick topped this up with Chardonnay and has stuck with the blend ever since. An amazingly haphazard birth to an intriguing wine that is so beautifully crafted you’d swear it was the culmination of lifetime of dedicated experimentation.
Depth of concentration, complexity and focus in remarkably long lived wines.
Depth of concentration, complexity and focus in remarkably long lived wines.
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Meursault, Jean-Philippe Fichet, Burgundy, France ‘05
Grape: Chardonnay
Each: £27.50
DOZEN OFFER - £295 (£24.58 each)
Number two on my list of favourite White Burgundy producers. If Yves Boyer-Martenot works his magic by bringing a signature acidity to his wines Fichet is a master of the individual terroirs from which he gets his grapes. A stunning range – the full selection can be discussed if you’d like to explore further – this is almost a tribute to Meursault and draws mostly from three beautifully situated parcels on the southern slopes of the village: les Cloux (60-year-old vines); les Chaumes de Narvaux, just above Boucheres and Gouttes d’Or; Limouzin, directly below Genevrières, plus a little Criots. Sites that happily produce wines in their own right Fichet blend is magnificent.
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Puligny-Montrachet, Les Charmes, Jean-Louis Chavy, Burgundy, France ‘06
Grape: Chardonnay
Each: £24.00
DOZEN OFFER - £260 (£21.67 each)
One of two sons that split the Gerard Chavy estate between them. Jean-Louis continues the style of his father for restraint. Approachable wines with a subtle complexity, fresh floral aromatics, minerality and bright fruit. Tasty.
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Bourgogne Chardonnay, Henri Boillot, Burgundy, France ‘05
Grape: Chardonnay
By the Dozen: £220 (£18.33 each)
or by the bottle : £20.00
A great family and a a stunning entry level wine. The full spectrum of their Premier and Grand Cru wines are available on further discussion.
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Au Bon Climat, Santa Barbara Chardonnay, California ‘06
Grape: Chardonnay
Each: £17.00
DOZEN OFFER - £184 (£15.33 each)
Jim Clendenen is a giant in the US wine industry. After a brief year out in France Jim returned to California, graduated in Pre-Law at UC Santa Barbara and then chose to turn his back on a seemingly obvious career path. Bitten by the wine bug, he worked in the Zaca Mesa winery before establishing Au Bon Climat in 1982. The estate has prospered, its reputation seemingly enhanced with every vintage and Jim is deservedly recognised, not just by himself, as a pioneer force in Californian Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
This is the ABC house Chardonnay. Made with Californian fruit in a Burgundian style.
If only for the fashion statement you have to visit Jim Clendenen’s website www.aubonclimat.com.
Jim Clendenen is a giant in the US wine industry. After a brief year out in France Jim returned to California, graduated in Pre-Law at UC Santa Barbara and then chose to turn his back on a seemingly obvious career path. Bitten by the wine bug, he worked in the Zaca Mesa winery before establishing Au Bon Climat in 1982. The estate has prospered, its reputation seemingly enhanced with every vintage and Jim is deservedly recognised, not just by himself, as a pioneer force in Californian Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
This is the ABC house Chardonnay. Made with Californian fruit in a Burgundian style.
If only for the fashion statement you have to visit Jim Clendenen’s website www.aubonclimat.com.
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Rully, Montmorin, Jean Chartron, France ‘07
Grape: Chardonnay
Each: £14.85
Fresh vibrant, juicy and very ready to drink. The grapes come from an ideal hillside bordering Mercurey. They are given the full Burgundy treatment - fermentation in barrel and extended lees aging for about 8 months or so. Good complexity and great fruit rather serious Burgundy really.
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Macon, Les Heritiers du Comte Lafon, Burgundy, France ‘07
Grape: Chardonnay
Each: £12.40
After years of exploring the world marketplace Dominic Lafon returned from the polo fields to head the current generation of the Comtes Lafon. More than simply maintaining their reputation for producing some of the finest wines in Burgundy, Dominic was keen to expand operations. After no mean search a vineyard in the Macon that shared the Lafon family commitment to quality was found. This was bought and the family has now firmly expanded their footprint from the home vineyards in Meursault.
The vineyard may be different but the style and commitment to quality remain. Effortlessly stunning wine. Clean, focused racy stuff with a wonderful balance and easy seated complexity – you can see the influence of a top Meursault producer but at Macon prices.
The vineyard may be different but the style and commitment to quality remain. Effortlessly stunning wine. Clean, focused racy stuff with a wonderful balance and easy seated complexity – you can see the influence of a top Meursault producer but at Macon prices.
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Chablis, Domaine Pascal and Didier Picq, France ‘05
Grapes: Chardonnay
Each: £11.90
Much more traditional in style than the Race. Steely minerality with keen focus and good complexity.
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Volnay, Comte Armand, Burgundy, France ‘05
Grapes: Pinot Noir
or by the bottle: £25.00
By the Dozen: £270 (£22.50 each)
A noble and ancient estate run, for almost ten years now, by the equally quiet and assured Benjamin Leroux a truly annoyingly capable youth of thirty something. Leroux is a vociferous proponenet of biodynamic viticulture and his wines some of the finest examples of what these mysterious practices can achieve.
Great stuff, if perhaps not quite as approachable as the Humbert Grevrey.
A noble and ancient estate run, for almost ten years now, by the equally quiet and assured Benjamin Leroux a truly annoyingly capable youth of thirty something. Leroux is a vociferous proponenet of biodynamic viticulture and his wines some of the finest examples of what these mysterious practices can achieve.
Great stuff, if perhaps not quite as approachable as the Humbert Grevrey.
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Sauvignon Blanc and suggestions...
Newly delivered in their own right! We thought there is such demand we'd pull all the Sauvignons into their separate section. We've also added two alternative suggestions for those that really like the style but want to try something different.
| NEW - Tinpot Hut, Sauvignon Blanc, New Zealand '07 ** By the Dozen £107 Allan Scott, Sauvignon Blanc, New Zealand '07 Sancerre, Domaine de Brosses, Loire Valley, France '07 ** By the HALF Dozen £60 Jules Taylor, Sauvignon Blanc, New Zealand '07 | £9.95 £8.92 £10.00 £11.50 £10.00 £11.45 |
Love the sauvignon style but fancy a new direction, try
| Pinot Grigio, Corte Giara, Veneto, Italy '07 Loimer, LOIS, Gruner Veltliner, Austria '07 | £6.95 £7.95 |
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Gevrey-Chambertin, Humbert Frères, Burgundy, France ‘05
Grapes: Pinot Noir
Each: £26.50
By the Dozen: £285 (£23.75 each)
Goes without saying that this is a fine example of its kin. Gevrey’s style is for fuller, more masculine wines. This is true to that pigeon hole but where structure can often dominate this has a very attractive balance with its feminine side.
Seemingly a tad youthful the ’05 is such a phenomenal vintage that whilst there is potential to age this wine it really is drinking now. Ripe fruit and tannins put a stunningly soft and seductive velvet cover on a structure that supports a deceptive complexity.
Forget the waffle – ’05 is stunning, one of the best vintages in my lifetime and this is a great example and will never disappoint.
Goes without saying that this is a fine example of its kin. Gevrey’s style is for fuller, more masculine wines. This is true to that pigeon hole but where structure can often dominate this has a very attractive balance with its feminine side.
Seemingly a tad youthful the ’05 is such a phenomenal vintage that whilst there is potential to age this wine it really is drinking now. Ripe fruit and tannins put a stunningly soft and seductive velvet cover on a structure that supports a deceptive complexity.
Forget the waffle – ’05 is stunning, one of the best vintages in my lifetime and this is a great example and will never disappoint.
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Pommard, Domaine Billard-Gonnet, Burgundy, France ‘02
Grapes: Pinot Noir
Each: £24.50
By the Dozen: £265 (£22.08 each)
Pommard, one of the classic Burgundy appellations is a small village in the Côte de Beaune district of the Côte d’Or. The vines here, almost exclusively red, grow on steep uneven slopes of clay-dominated soil, which climb high into scrub covered hills. The resultant wines tend to be well structured, meaty, and more powerful and tannic than other Pinot Noirs from the neighbouring appellations. This means that whilst Pommards can be drunk young they also have excellent potential for aging.
Domaine Billard-Gonnet has about ten hectares of classic Pommard vineyard and make wines that reek of authenticity. The ’02 has age under its belt and shows the developing potential of the village.
Pommard, one of the classic Burgundy appellations is a small village in the Côte de Beaune district of the Côte d’Or. The vines here, almost exclusively red, grow on steep uneven slopes of clay-dominated soil, which climb high into scrub covered hills. The resultant wines tend to be well structured, meaty, and more powerful and tannic than other Pinot Noirs from the neighbouring appellations. This means that whilst Pommards can be drunk young they also have excellent potential for aging.
Domaine Billard-Gonnet has about ten hectares of classic Pommard vineyard and make wines that reek of authenticity. The ’02 has age under its belt and shows the developing potential of the village.
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Morey-St-Denis, Pierre Amiot, Burgundy, France ‘04
Grapes: Pinot Noir
Each: £22.50
By the Dozen: £240 (£20 each)
A fine eight-hectare estate that has been run by the new regime of Pierre's sons Didier and Jean-Louis for five years now. Classic Morey-St-Denis, a halfway house between its masculine neighbour to the north Gevrey-Chambertin and the more feminine Chambolle-Musigny to the south. A great combination of natural potential well harnessed by a skilled winemaking duo.
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Beaujolais-Villages, Dominic Morel ‘07
Grapes: Gamay
Each: £8.50
By the HALF Dozen: £46 (£7.67 each)
Benchmark stuff. Morel has all the ingredients; a tidy little 12 hectares of vineyard. Old vines, roughly 70 years on average. A fine philosophy – “I make wine that I like to drink…..”. And an understanding of just how to achieve that. Mission accomplished! His wines are always voluptuous oozing a satisfying richness in colour and vibrant up front fruit.
There is also a very fine Fleurie. By the Half Dozen: £66 (£11.00 each) or Individually: £12.00
Back to the ListThere is also a very fine Fleurie. By the Half Dozen: £66 (£11.00 each) or Individually: £12.00
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Chateau Tour de Biot, Bordeuax, France ’05
Grapes: Cabernets and Merlot
Each: £7.60
A really good introduction to modern Claret. The wine has clarity of flavours and elegant focus. Berry and cherry fruits dominate the nose and carry through the palate. A firm hit of tannin and alcohol support this fruit heightening the flavours rather than dominating. The finish shares a hint of liquorice.
Claret with flavour and focus – a pair far too often neglected but mastered here.
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Claret with flavour and focus – a pair far too often neglected but mastered here.
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Rosso di Montalcino, Pietroso, Tuscany, Italy ‘04
Grapes: Sangiovese
Each: £13.35
Gianni Pignatti is a good, honest, straight up sort of a chap. He is an artisan farmer who nurtures his vineyards and makes his wine with a heart felt attention to detail so natural it reaffirms faith in mankind. His wines he presents with a modesty and humility that could be embarrassing were they not as good as they are.
This is benchmark Montalcino that shows the potential that has lead neighbours to produce many a flashier beast stamped with the signature of their creators. Pignatti’s is there in the tribute to the soil, region and vineyard that have allowed him to make such a fine tipple.
This is benchmark Montalcino that shows the potential that has lead neighbours to produce many a flashier beast stamped with the signature of their creators. Pignatti’s is there in the tribute to the soil, region and vineyard that have allowed him to make such a fine tipple.
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Meursault, Yves Boyer-Martenot '06
Grapes: Chardonnay
Each: £22.50
DOZEN OFFER - £244 (£20.33 each)
Boyer-Martenot is a star. One of my top three White Burgundy producers, his are the most approachable (and affordable). Boyer's Meursault’s are true to the traditional unctuous, buttery style for which the village is renowned but add a signature seam of crisp, fresh, yet somehow generously juicy acidity. This acidity supports, enhances and invigorates rather than countering the wines’ naturally generous opulence.
Perfection, great stuff.
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Chablis, Domaine Denis Race, France ‘06
Grapes:Chardonnay
Each: £11.90
DOZEN OFFER - £128 (£10.67 each)
Soft and delicate, this is Chablis in velvet gloves. Great balance and acidity are emphasised stretching a soft supple flesh over Chablis’ traditional mineral core. An easy style and very tasty for it.
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Chardonnay - or empathetically structured
Chardonnay or similarly physique'd creations.
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Aromatic Whites
Or everything bar Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay
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Cremant de Bourgogne, Louis Bouillot, Perle Noire NV
Grapes:Pinots Noir (mainly) and Meunier
Each: £11.00
HALF DOZEN OFFER - £60 (£10.00 each)
Made in the Methode Traditionale (as Champagne) the Pinot grapes give an extra weight and flavour.
A tasty alternative for the odd occasion we might find to celebrate, thank you Darling!
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Ingredient of the Month (a taste)
Summer threatens to take hold, school is out and its time for family hunting and gathering – jaunts to catch that slippery little sea bass or perhaps just a sunburn and then home for a refreshing glass (well that should be sorted) and something simple to go with the main showpiece. We have the solution!...... read on
A Coup in the Classics
Our core selection continues to evolve. Last month we added a tidy little trio of Bordeaux (with a twist, of course).
This month no prisoners have been taken! We've been offered access to a classic selection just short of 2000 lines. Once fathomed we'll be cobbling together a few special recommendations, so watch this space, but mail or call (01243 383733) for fast tracking or just sharing in this glorious opportunity.....
This month no prisoners have been taken! We've been offered access to a classic selection just short of 2000 lines. Once fathomed we'll be cobbling together a few special recommendations, so watch this space, but mail or call (01243 383733) for fast tracking or just sharing in this glorious opportunity.....
Think Pink - Again
Our introductory selection is all sold out but we’ve continued with two classics from that initial toe dabbling.
A new vintage but we've kept the Domaine Poujol ’07 @ £8.25 from theCoteaux de Languedoc Provence
*Offer - A dozen, mixed or straight £90*
Email Think Pink - Again or call 01243 383733
A new vintage but we've kept the Domaine Poujol ’07 @ £8.25 from the
*Offer - A dozen, mixed or straight £90*
Email Think Pink - Again or call 01243 383733
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Stars in August
August's stars show just why Burgundy and Rioja have the reputations they have.
For the white we've chosen a truly classy St Veran. This is a tribute to a wine making team that know their vineyard and just how to get the absolute best out of their fruit. A wine that reaches heights well above most of its neighbours.
The Red is a teasing glimpse into the talents of one of this planets true talents, Alvaro Palacios. Even with this entry into his world of wine there is a focused complexity that truly impresses.
Both these wines drink deliciously and will happily improve the mood, they also stand up to a more cerebral examination for days when the anorak needs an airing. Stars!
Offers:
► St Veran, Les Chailloux, Domaine des Deux Roches '05 punches well above its weight and shows just how good southern Burgundy can get. *Offer £126 per dozen (£10.50 each) - usually £150 (£12.50 each)*
► La Vendimia, Palacios Remondo '06 is all about Alvaro Palacios. He trained at Petrus, established L'Ermita in the Priorat and has now turned his hand on the home front of the family property in Rioja. Fantastic. *Offer £100 per dozen (£8.33 each) - usually £111 (£9.25 each)*
► *Mixed Dozen of the Stars £115.* six of each make a delightful party pack.
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For the white we've chosen a truly classy St Veran. This is a tribute to a wine making team that know their vineyard and just how to get the absolute best out of their fruit. A wine that reaches heights well above most of its neighbours.
The Red is a teasing glimpse into the talents of one of this planets true talents, Alvaro Palacios. Even with this entry into his world of wine there is a focused complexity that truly impresses.
Both these wines drink deliciously and will happily improve the mood, they also stand up to a more cerebral examination for days when the anorak needs an airing. Stars!
Offers:
► St Veran, Les Chailloux, Domaine des Deux Roches '05 punches well above its weight and shows just how good southern Burgundy can get. *Offer £126 per dozen (£10.50 each) - usually £150 (£12.50 each)*
► La Vendimia, Palacios Remondo '06 is all about Alvaro Palacios. He trained at Petrus, established L'Ermita in the Priorat and has now turned his hand on the home front of the family property in Rioja. Fantastic. *Offer £100 per dozen (£8.33 each) - usually £111 (£9.25 each)*
► *Mixed Dozen of the Stars £115.* six of each make a delightful party pack.
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Prosecco, Ca’ Morlin, Conegliano di Valdobbiadene, NV
Each: £11.00
HALF DOZEN OFFER - £60 (£10 each)
Simple, easy, quaffable and delicious for it.
Made with a few special touches.... Grapes are picked later, in order to obtain riper flavours. Fermentation is cooler, in order to preserve the delicate aromatics of the grape, and ensure that the yeasts have sufficient nutrients so as not to produce deviant wafts that would mask the delicate aromatics!! Finally there’s a lower level of residual sugar than is usual with Prosecco, so the wine is drier and more drinkable as a result.
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Ingredient of the Month
Summer threatens to take hold, school is out and its time for family hunting and gathering – jaunts to catch that slippery little sea bass or perhaps just a sunburn and then home for a refreshing glass (well that should be sorted) and something simple to go with the main showpiece. We have the solution!
Frankly, wine has preparation and service licked. Twist a screw top, pour, enjoy. Why should it be more complicated? Perhaps slip in a decanter and those ever so impressive crystal stems for a bit of flair but essentially its a straight forward affair. This is probably the thinking that has led to a surfeit of John West cans outside far too many wine trade doors or the odd gouty leg from too much issue shirking in the finest hostelries.
Let us help you find and embraced your inner Nigella! She's all in the decanting, seemingly a frivolous extravagance but actually a simple process that completes any glass.
Back to the Bass. This needs to be a savoured occasion and that requires nibbles. To the larder and pull out four jars of mixed antipasti and pop a helping of each on a plate. Now for the decanter moment - scatter each with a few rocket, dandelion nasturtium or other leaves to hand, drizzle with a bit of tasty olive oil and serve with fingers of lightly grilled ciabatta. A few extra minutes and John West is an ancient historical reminder of darker days!
*The Monkeyshed selection - for £30:*
► Wild Asparagus in Extra Virgin Olive Oil - £5.95 (280g jar)
► Artichike Hearts, alla Romana (and that does make all the difference!) - £5.95 (290g jar)
► Porcini Antipasti from Seggiano - £5.50 (180g jar)
► Peperoncino Piccante Ripieno - £2.95 (180g jar)
► Alpha Zeta Extra Virgin Olive Oil - £9.95 (750ml)
For a spot of gastronomic inspiration you can't beat a coffee and bite at Hornet Provisions, The Hornet, Chichester - 01243 790999. Pop in for something there, something for home or a brimming cold box for a picnic on the downs, by the beach or in your garden.
Meetings we look forward to with glee!
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Frankly, wine has preparation and service licked. Twist a screw top, pour, enjoy. Why should it be more complicated? Perhaps slip in a decanter and those ever so impressive crystal stems for a bit of flair but essentially its a straight forward affair. This is probably the thinking that has led to a surfeit of John West cans outside far too many wine trade doors or the odd gouty leg from too much issue shirking in the finest hostelries.
Let us help you find and embraced your inner Nigella! She's all in the decanting, seemingly a frivolous extravagance but actually a simple process that completes any glass.
Back to the Bass. This needs to be a savoured occasion and that requires nibbles. To the larder and pull out four jars of mixed antipasti and pop a helping of each on a plate. Now for the decanter moment - scatter each with a few rocket, dandelion nasturtium or other leaves to hand, drizzle with a bit of tasty olive oil and serve with fingers of lightly grilled ciabatta. A few extra minutes and John West is an ancient historical reminder of darker days!
*The Monkeyshed selection - for £30:*
► Wild Asparagus in Extra Virgin Olive Oil - £5.95 (280g jar)
► Artichike Hearts, alla Romana (and that does make all the difference!) - £5.95 (290g jar)
► Porcini Antipasti from Seggiano - £5.50 (180g jar)
► Peperoncino Piccante Ripieno - £2.95 (180g jar)
► Alpha Zeta Extra Virgin Olive Oil - £9.95 (750ml)
For a spot of gastronomic inspiration you can't beat a coffee and bite at Hornet Provisions, The Hornet, Chichester - 01243 790999. Pop in for something there, something for home or a brimming cold box for a picnic on the downs, by the beach or in your garden.
Meetings we look forward to with glee!
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St Veran, Les Chailloux, Domaine des Deux Roches, Burgundy ‘06
Grapes: Chardonnay
Each: £12.45
Deux Roches has been there or there abouts for every wine list I have put together since starting my wine life in theUK
Les Chailloux is lieu-dit, literally said or named place. Lovely I hear you all chorus but what, pray tell, does that mean? Effectively it was a cunning way around the bureaucracy of the appellation system that has now been absorbed into the appellation system – glad you asked? It’s a way of singling out really good parcels that produce particular wines. Les Chailloux produces rich, luscious grapes that work particularly well with a good hit of oak. Fantastic integration of fruit and oak produce a wine that really punches well above its price.
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Each: £12.45
Deux Roches has been there or there abouts for every wine list I have put together since starting my wine life in the
Les Chailloux is lieu-dit, literally said or named place. Lovely I hear you all chorus but what, pray tell, does that mean? Effectively it was a cunning way around the bureaucracy of the appellation system that has now been absorbed into the appellation system – glad you asked? It’s a way of singling out really good parcels that produce particular wines. Les Chailloux produces rich, luscious grapes that work particularly well with a good hit of oak. Fantastic integration of fruit and oak produce a wine that really punches well above its price.
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Grand Prebois, Vin de Pays de Med, France ‘07
Grapes: Grenache, Syrah and Mourvedre
Each: £7.20
This comes from no less noble a stable than that of the family Perrin of Chateau de Beaucastel fame, acclaimed by everyone who has an interest in selling it as “an” if not “the” premier property in the whole of Chateauneuf-du-Pape me lud! A few less interested parties might concur.
The grapes for this wine come from vineyards the family own and manage around the property lived in by Francois Perrin, uncle of the current custodians of the family name and reputation. The property is named after an 11th Century tower built by the Provost of Orange. That tower apparently blew down in 1624 but its spirit lives on in this tasty little number primarily of crunchy Grenache with a backbone of more stern Syrah and Mourvedre. Made for early drinking try it a little cool al fresco.
The grapes for this wine come from vineyards the family own and manage around the property lived in by Francois Perrin, uncle of the current custodians of the family name and reputation. The property is named after an 11th Century tower built by the Provost of Orange. That tower apparently blew down in 1624 but its spirit lives on in this tasty little number primarily of crunchy Grenache with a backbone of more stern Syrah and Mourvedre. Made for early drinking try it a little cool al fresco.
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Alpha Zeta, Chardonnay, Veneto, Italy ’07
Grapes: Chardonnay
Each: £6.50
DECEMBER OFFER - A dozen for £72 (£6.00 each)
The Alpha Zeta range marries the new world winemaking skills of kiwi Matt Thomson with fruit from 1700 hectares in the hills northeast of Verona Italy, not Texas. The aim is simple, to produce good affordable wines that highlight the quality of fruit traditionally lost in the melange of co-operative mediocrity.
The Chardonnay shows good weight, ripe fruit with a zippy lean finish.
The Chardonnay shows good weight, ripe fruit with a zippy lean finish.
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La Vendimia, Palacios Remondo, Rioja, Spain ‘07
Grapes: Tempranillo and Garnacha
Each: £9.00
DOZEN OFFER - £100 (£8.33 each)
The key to this wine, well of course it’s tasting it but, the other key is the person that made it – Alvaro Palacios. Heralded by just about everyone that writes on the subject as the embodiment of the New Spain, Alvaro spent time at Chateau Petrus before cracking his own whip at L’Ermita in Priorat. One of sixty-five children (or there abouts) Alvaro then returned to the family property to do his bit.
The Vendimia is the entry wine from the Palacios Remondo stable, that is it spends but four months in oak before being bottled and is released young to capture its fresh, vibrant, crunchy hints of forest floor? Brilliant balance and great depth in a not so demanding way. Rather like a book you can either skim through whilst concentrating on your tan of spend a degree course on – both with equal satisfaction if not the same pallor.
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Pinks
The year round demand for Pink Wines in the Harvey Nichols' restaurants and bars was always a surprise, so do ask if you fancy some "out of season".
Both the Rosato and Poujol are fuller styles for those hardy al fresco diners damn it! The Omedes is classic onion skin Provencal Rose, for those that cant live without!!
| Alpha Zeta, Rosato, Veneto, Iatly '07 Domaine Poujol, Coteaux Languedoc, France '07 Domaine St Marc des Omedes, Provence, France '06 | £5.50 £8.20 £8.50 |
Summer Sizzlers
Just the other day I was leafing through a biography that included a few photos from the turn of the last century or is it the one before? Roughly about a hundred years ago. There was a fantastic shot of a fully laid table, pristine linen and even a chandelier. Not too surprising until you fill in the background - in the middle of a wooded glade. Guess what we are up to next weekend. That's right spending most of it in A&E sorting Daddy's broken leg and mild electrocution.
Read on.....
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Read on.....
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Calbuco Dozen Offer!!
**June Dozen Deal £62 (£5.17 each)**
Straight, mixed or multiple you chose. £62 for every multiple of 12.
A canny three-way joint venture between UK importers, Pet Italian flying winemaker and Chilean producer looking for help in the UK market. The obvious combination and why has it never happened before I hear you ask!
Blessed with a great climate, soils and altogether wonderful grape growing conditions it is surprising just how mediocre most Chilean wines have been. Well at least the ones that find their way across the seas to our market. This pair quietly show the real potential of
This is the white, a blend of Semillon and Chardonnay achieves a wonderful balance with zippy the young fruit leading to pleasant melony tones. Lees aging adds a bit more complexity and an altogether very pleasing little tipple. The red, again a blend, this time of Cabernet and Merlot, is all about vibrancy, vibrant colour and vibrant flavours. Tobaccoy complexity leads to the vibrant fruit that dominates, it will develop more of this and some chocolatey tones as it ages.
Obviously...The Chicken (a taste)
Our first stab at a recipe review!!
The niggled has naggled for a very long time, having decided to tackle the vast beast that is food and wine where does one start? What comes first? A bolt as shrill as every early morning wake up call from the neighbour's rooster - Coq au vin!
Read the full story.
The Great Recipe Test Experiment
The niggled has naggled for a very long time, having decided to tackle the vast beast that is food and wine where does one start? What comes first? A bolt as shrill as every early morning wake up call from the neighbour's rooster - Coq au vin!
Read the full story.
The Great Recipe Test Experiment
Guess the Vineyard - May
A spin on the ever exciting "Options" party game (blind wine and twenty A or B questions from hemisphere, through continent right up through which side of the hill the grapes grew on!).
Anyway points for Hemisphere all the way through - Guess the Vineyard - Answers next month or by return.
La Sonate, St Emillion Grand Cru '05
Grapes: Merlot and Cabernet Franc
Each: £19.75
La Sonate is made from grapes selected from some of the most charming pebble and sandy soils of the Saint-Emilion Grand Cru appellation. A rigorous culling of this selection is made and only the best grapes make it to the final blend. Vinification and gentle ageing in oak add complexity to a balanced, full-bodied, powerful wine.
Very tasty.
Very tasty.
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La Violette de Chateau Manoir du Gravoux, Cotes de Castillon '06
Grapes: Merlot and Cabernet Franc
Each: £14.65
The grapes for La Violette of Château Manoir du Gravoux come from a special two hectare parcel planted in 1958 on a clay-limestone plateau in the Cotes de Castillon.
Location, location, location to borrow a phrase.
The parcel produces grapes with naturally complex and intense aromatic expression. These bunches are handled separately from the Chateau wine and La Violette is the result.
The parcel produces grapes with naturally complex and intense aromatic expression. These bunches are handled separately from the Chateau wine and La Violette is the result.
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Terra Burdigala - a concept
Terra Burdigala is a sort of mini co op of like minded high end growers pulled together and collectively marketed by Stéphane Derenoncourt and François Thienpont. Stéphane’s excellent work in the vineyard is spoken for by the plethora of prestigious properties for whom he consults. Francois comes from the family that own Vieux Chateau Certan, Chateau Puygueraud and Le Pin amongst others. Pedigree for both that is not to be sniffed at.
What they have done with Terra Burdigala is simply to make the fruits of their high standards and practices accessible. They gathered together a group of winegrowers who believed in the same high standards of quality; respect for nature, low yields and wines with real authenticity. From meticulously selected vineyards, sometimes far removed from the most fashionable appellations, they offer all Bordeaux-lovers excellent and undeniably "good value for money" wines.
I think they succeed
Three wines
Roc de Jean Lys, Bordeaux Superior '06
La Violette de Chateau Manoir du Gravoux, Cotes de Castillon '06
La Sonate, St Emillion Grand Cru '05
More Claret!
The world of Claret is, frankly, a rather large oyster. Call us and let us divine and satisfy your own, personal needs. Call 01243 3833733 or email wines@monkeyshed.com
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What they have done with Terra Burdigala is simply to make the fruits of their high standards and practices accessible. They gathered together a group of winegrowers who believed in the same high standards of quality; respect for nature, low yields and wines with real authenticity. From meticulously selected vineyards, sometimes far removed from the most fashionable appellations, they offer all Bordeaux-lovers excellent and undeniably "good value for money" wines.
I think they succeed
Three wines
Roc de Jean Lys, Bordeaux Superior '06
La Violette de Chateau Manoir du Gravoux, Cotes de Castillon '06
La Sonate, St Emillion Grand Cru '05
More Claret!
The world of Claret is, frankly, a rather large oyster. Call us and let us divine and satisfy your own, personal needs. Call 01243 3833733 or email wines@monkeyshed.com
Back to the List
Back to Merl, Cab and other Bord Beauties
Roc de Jean Lys, Bordeaux Superieur ‘06
Grapes: Merlot and Cabernet Franc
Each: £9.90
An exciting new venture that could show Mr Spielberg a thing or two about rediscovering a classic formula!
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Each: £9.90
An exciting new venture that could show Mr Spielberg a thing or two about rediscovering a classic formula!
This "cuvée" comes from a special plot of the Château Roques de Jeanlice located on the limestone plateau of the Entre deux Mers region.
This was my introduction to the whole Terra Burdigala set up. Frankly I liked the label and had had enough of wading through some pretty uninspired wines. Tasting this was like the first double espresso of the morning – wow, I’m awake and the day is looking lively.
Pretty sexy stuff that has ripe juicy flavour over a classic Bordelais structure.
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Summer Sizzlers - the full story
Just the other day I was leafing through a biography that included a few photos from the turn of the last century or is it the one before? Roughly about a hundred years ago. There was a fantastic shot of a fully laid table, pristine linen and even a chandelier. Not too surprising until you fill in the background - in the middle of a wooded glade. Guess what we are up to next weekend. That's right spending most of it in A&E sorting Daddy's broken leg and mild electrocution.
The latest in the Monkeyshed Box Scheme. £130 delivered or sign up to the scheme, get peace of mind over future boxes and save its just £120 delivered! Two thoughts? Not necessary!
A selection for warmer times:
Two Whites
Loimer, LOIS, Gruner Veltliner, Austria '07
Shaw and Smith, M3 Chardonnay, Adelaide Hills, Australia '06
The Gruner is a real star. Zippy, fresh and vibrant it combines all the refreshing zing of really good Sauvignon Blanc with a texture and weight so often missing.
The Chardonnay doesn't deny it nature pure new world power but adds a complexity and subtlety so often lacking and much more at home in a quality Burgundy.
A Pink
Domaine Poujol, Coteaux Languedoc, France '06
Elegant structure as you'd expect but with an unexpected kick of fruit. Very tasty.
Two Reds
Roc de Jean Lys, Bordeaux Superior, France '06
Greenstone, Shiraz, Heathcote, Victoria, Australia '05
Two wines that uncover the potential of their respective cradles of quality. The Roc de Jean Lys is made by a team more usually associated with the absolute pinnacle of Bordeaux. Here they have kept their high aspirations for quality but take up the challenge of delivering these without a vast budget and at an affordable price - success. The Greenstone shows, as does the M3 Chardonnay, the complexity and subtlety that can be achieved in Australia's cooler growing regions.
A twist!
Alpha Zeta, EVOO '06
Fontodi, EVOO '07
Take two saucers and pour a healthy splash of olive oil into each.
Slice up a baguette
Dip
Breath
"F"ing gorgeous to quote that mild mannered Scot.
The Fontodi is pure, green class. Fresh and spicy its a real dresser, to be used as close to by itself as possible. The Alpha Zeta is a softer sort and works better with more complex flavour combinations. Try the Tuscan steak approach. Take a thick, thick beautifully marbled steak. Grill (preferably over an open fire in your villa in the vineyards of Panzano). Slice and dress half with each oil. You might need seconds to decide which you prefer.
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The latest in the Monkeyshed Box Scheme. £130 delivered or sign up to the scheme, get peace of mind over future boxes and save its just £120 delivered! Two thoughts? Not necessary!
A selection for warmer times:
Two Whites
Loimer, LOIS, Gruner Veltliner, Austria '07
Shaw and Smith, M3 Chardonnay, Adelaide Hills, Australia '06
The Gruner is a real star. Zippy, fresh and vibrant it combines all the refreshing zing of really good Sauvignon Blanc with a texture and weight so often missing.
The Chardonnay doesn't deny it nature pure new world power but adds a complexity and subtlety so often lacking and much more at home in a quality Burgundy.
A Pink
Domaine Poujol, Coteaux Languedoc, France '06
Elegant structure as you'd expect but with an unexpected kick of fruit. Very tasty.
Two Reds
Roc de Jean Lys, Bordeaux Superior, France '06
Greenstone, Shiraz, Heathcote, Victoria, Australia '05
Two wines that uncover the potential of their respective cradles of quality. The Roc de Jean Lys is made by a team more usually associated with the absolute pinnacle of Bordeaux. Here they have kept their high aspirations for quality but take up the challenge of delivering these without a vast budget and at an affordable price - success. The Greenstone shows, as does the M3 Chardonnay, the complexity and subtlety that can be achieved in Australia's cooler growing regions.
A twist!
Alpha Zeta, EVOO '06
Fontodi, EVOO '07
Take two saucers and pour a healthy splash of olive oil into each.
Slice up a baguette
Dip
Breath
"F"ing gorgeous to quote that mild mannered Scot.
The Fontodi is pure, green class. Fresh and spicy its a real dresser, to be used as close to by itself as possible. The Alpha Zeta is a softer sort and works better with more complex flavour combinations. Try the Tuscan steak approach. Take a thick, thick beautifully marbled steak. Grill (preferably over an open fire in your villa in the vineyards of Panzano). Slice and dress half with each oil. You might need seconds to decide which you prefer.
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Chateau Lanessan, Haut-Medoc, Bordeaux '95
Grapes: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot
Each: £25.00
With a reputation for rich, gutsy, black currant opulence of the more chewy variety I was surprised how restrained this was drinking. Minerality shone threw. Quite the classic Claret.
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Kanonkop, Kadette, South Africa ‘05
Grapes: Pinotage, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot
Each: £8.90
Kanonkop is one of the
The Kadette is Pinotage based with a healthy dose of Cabernets Sauvignon and Franc and Merlot to add style and complexity to the blend.
Cherry and berry fruit knit seamlessly into a mineral core.
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Hellfire Bay, Shiraz Grenache, Western Australia ‘06
Grapes: Shiraz and Grenache
Each: £7.50
The pair to a range made by one of my favourite Australian producers, Plantagenet.
All about immediate opulence this is spicy, powerful and rather satisfying – share it with friend.
Back to Rhone, Rioja and Rels
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Neil Ellis, Elgin Chardonnay, South Africa ’05
Grapes: Chardonnay
Each: £11.50
Neil Ellis Wines has a huge reputation and this shows you why. The Elgin Chardonnay is made from grapes which come from the slopes of the mountains behind Somerset West. The cooler climate of these higher slopes makes for a slower, longer ripening period and more subtle, elegant wines – this has real class.
What I really like about cooler climate new world wines is the restraint and elegance they get. Always there will be signature new world fullness and ripeness but with a cooler region this often over exploited promise is tempered and some old world elegance creeps in – voila might not be out of place!
What I really like about cooler climate new world wines is the restraint and elegance they get. Always there will be signature new world fullness and ripeness but with a cooler region this often over exploited promise is tempered and some old world elegance creeps in – voila might not be out of place!
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Gewurztraminer d’E, Domaine Ostertag, Alsace, France ‘07
Grapes: Gewurztraminer
Each: £16.50
The PR blurb sums it up really “André Ostertag is anything but a run-of-the-mill Alsace
Andre studied in Beaune and became a life long friend of Dominique Lafon, of Meursault fame, before returning to Epfig. He brought with him an open mind and practices not common to winemaking in Alsace
Fantastic wines as you’d expect from someone as madly dedicated. The Gewurzt is off dry with amazing richness and clarity of flavour.
Give yourself a treat.
Fantastic wines as you’d expect from someone as madly dedicated. The Gewurzt is off dry with amazing richness and clarity of flavour.
Give yourself a treat.
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Sancerre, Domaine des Brosses, Loire Valley, France ‘07
Grapes: Sauvignon Blanc
Each: £11.50
HALF DOZEN OFFER - £60 (£10 each)
The new generation moves in again. Nicolas Girard has recently started working with his father, Alain Girard, on the family’s 12 hectare estate. Fresh, aromatic, modern and unapologetically accessibility this is a wine that will appeal to traditionalist and reformist alike, no mean feat from no mean winemaker.
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Allan Scott, Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, New Zealand ‘07
Grapes: Sauvignon Blanc
Each: £10.00
A product of the boom that is the New Zealand wine industry. Originally setting up as growers in 1975 the Scott family went the whole hog in 1990 opening a winery and releasing their own label. Since then they have added a bottling hall, warehouse facilities and a modern, well equipped laboratory. Oh, and the key to any successful wine venture, a small brewery to produce high quality bottle conditioned beer! As the saying goes “it takes a lot of water to make good wine but even more beer.” (Anonymous Antipodean)
Allan and Cathy Scott now have son Josh as winemaker and daughter Sara responsible for their sustainable viticulture and organic practices concentrating on their Carbon ZERO programme.
And the wine? As you’d expect from such experience in the new southern heartland of Marlborough – great. Not too big and heavy as some can be but refreshing, fresh, vibrant southern sauvignon.
Allan and Cathy Scott now have son Josh as winemaker and daughter Sara responsible for their sustainable viticulture and organic practices concentrating on their Carbon ZERO programme.
And the wine? As you’d expect from such experience in the new southern heartland of Marlborough – great. Not too big and heavy as some can be but refreshing, fresh, vibrant southern sauvignon.
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