Six quick takeouts from The Vintner tasting where we tried the new range
1. Good value Pinot? Think Bulgaria
This region is back on the map. To prove it the Soli-Terra 2012 from the Thracian Valley would fool many a MW tasted blind. Everything was in its right place – sous bois nose, balanced, well-structured, fruity, great length. All for £8.44.
2. 2012 Bordeaux are showing beautifully
Three Bordeaux that are ready to drink now – deliciously fresh and well structured. On release this was classed as a Right Bank year. The Pomerol La Croix de Mazeyres makes that clear. But these two Margaux – Zédé de Labégorce and Chateau Labégorce are also wonderful. Maybe it should have been classed a Merlot year?
3. Soave deserves to come back into fashion
It’s not just Pieropan that is making interesting Soave. The ‘Campo Vulcano’ Soave Classico 2014 from I Campi is a great reminder of what an interesting and refreshing white it is. This had an uplifting, honeysuckle nose and layers of interest on the palate. Small production, previously unrepresented in the UK.
4. Offer two Rosés
Giving your Rosé drinkers a choice of price and complexity can only work. Have your entry level blush for sure but a wine like the Mado en Provence 2015 has got layers, structure and ease in drinking all in one. It’s what makes Provence so good at these things. Could be served with or without food, with starters or dessert.
5. Julien Collovray makes great value white Burgs
Julien Collovray is a name to look out for. We tried three of their whites a Macon Chardonnay, St Veran, and Pouilly-Fuissé (£10, £12.75, 16.50). All well made with the Pouilly-Fuissé a knockout on the nose and worth the extra.
6. What runs in the family…
Owner and founder of The Vintner, Tom Gilbey, is the great great grandson of Alfred Gilbey who co-founded W&A Gilbey Wine Merchants in 1857. It’s not what you know folks…!
