July Newsletter

Summer Case

Bottega Vinai Trentino Gewurztraminer
Intense rose petal and lychee aromas typical of the grape, with hints of ginger and honeysuckle. Ripe and opulent on the palate, with plenty of citrus fruit and flowers leading to a long, spicy finish.
The Cloud Factory Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc
Perfumed with nettle and ripe tropical fruits, this is a classic Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc. Fresh and deliciously fruity with plenty of richness and some minerality.
Vetiver Rioja Blanco
Made from 100% Viura, this is a very stylish white wine from the Rioja Baja. Open and appealing on the nose with lemon and pineapple notes and floral hints, the mouthfeel is voluptuous, with tropical fruits and some toasted smoky character which is balanced perfectly by plenty of fine natural acidity.
Mon Vieux 'Old Dutch' Chenin Blanc - Swartland
This is a fine and concentrated old-vine Chenin. Rich and honeyed, with red apple and stone fruit flavours balanced by a core of wonderful minerality.
Soldiers Block Chardonnay - Western Australia
This is an elegant easy drinking Chardonnay with fresh, white peach fruit flavours and a subtle hint of spice. Bright and fruit driven, this is an unashamedly modern interpretation of the classic Chardonnay grape.
Domaine de L'Olibet Cinsault Rose
Lovely sweet fruity-floral aromas, reminiscent of scented pink spring flowers lead onto a palate which is immediately soft and round with abundant ripe fruit, lifted by a natural zing and finishing with a characterful texture and richness.
Le Fou Pinot Noir - Pays d'Oc
This is a fairly full style of Pinot with warm, ripe cherry fruit flavours that are lusciously smooth and effortlessly fruity. A well rounded and sweetly fruited red that is very easy to drink.
Cabaret Frank Old Vine Cabernet Franc - California
This is a smooth, medium bodied red that strikes a lovely balance with its blackberry, plum and dark cherry fruit characters coupled with classic leafy tones.
Les Pivoines - Beaujolais Village
This is a classic example of a quality, fresh and fruity Beaujolais Village. Juicy crushed strawberry and cherry fruit are complimented by some vibrant, peppery notes on the finish.
Pedera Monastrell - Jumilla
Ripe, juicy and forward with crunchy red berries, cherry and plum fruit flavours. Fruit driven in style, with good weight and complexity, yet another fantastic wine from the dynamic Juan Gil estate.
False Bay Pinotage - Western Cape
Hints of spice and red fruits on the nose with clean, bright and juicy black fruit flavours on the palate. Full and spicy with excellent concentration and some interesting earthy notes on the finish.
Bottega Vinai Trentino Lagrein Dunkel
Rich and robust with smoky wood aromas which mingle with red berries, spices and chocolate on the nose. The palate is dry and finely structured with smooth tannins, and a typically Italian sweet and sour twist.
£79.99 if collected from the shop
£88 delivered anywhere in the UK
Free delivery within a 30 mile radius. 

Cru Beaujolais Case

Domaine de la Porte du Paradis, St. Amour, Le Cru des Amoureux
Appealing aromas of fruit compote and perfumed with hints of violets, ripe and seductive on the palate which has a delicate minerality and wonderful freshness.
La Madone, Fleurie La Reine de L'Arenite
A heady perfume of freshly picked irises and peonies. The palate is fleshy and luscious, with cherry fruit flavours and a hint or roses, there is good depth and a touch of spice. Perfect Fleurie - floral, juicy and elegant.
Domaine les Roches Bleues, Brouilly, Le Cru du Volcan
This is bursting with flavours to tanlalize the taste buds. Lovely floral notes on the nose with a hint of violets. The palate is fresh and fruity with hints of raspberry and liquorice, a silky texture is complimented by a steely mineral core.
Domaine Les Roches Bleues, Cote de Brouilly, Vieilles Vignes
The nose is fresh with some fruits of the forest and sweet crushed cherries. Complex on the palate with plenty of spice to lift the flavours of plum and olive, the finish is herbal and slightly minty.
Cote de Py, Le Cru aux Roche Pourries
A fantastic Morgan that is filled with fruit and spice. Perfumed on the nose with a heady aroma of strawberry, the palate is vibrant and juicy fruited with crisp raspberry flavours complimented by some minerality.
Domaine Champs du Chene, Julienas
This is one of the lightest and most elegant of the Cru Beaujolais, with plenty of ripe, sappy red fruits and a comforting earthiness on the finish. A very easy drinking wine that is light and charming.
£52.50 if collected from the shop
£60.50 delivered anywhere in the UK
Free delivery within a 30 mile radius. 

Barbecue Case

Le Dolci Colline Prosecco Spumante
Fresh and gently fruity fizz from the Veneto. Citrus and green apple fruit flavours, delicate and lively in the mouth with plenty of zest on the refreshing finish.
Cien Malvasia - Toro
A fresh, floral and gently aromatic white wine with plenty of ripe stone fruit flavours on the palate and a twist of exotic spice on the finish.
Les Oliviers Sauvignon Blanc/Vermentino - Vin de Pays d'Oc
A delicious and refreshing blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Vermentino from the south of France. the perfect combination of exotic fruit aromas from the Vermentino and a clean, zingy palate provided by the Sauvignon Blanc.
Les Cepages Oublies Gros Manseng/Colombard - Pays de Gascogne
Lovely grassy, aromatic nose balanced by ripe tropical melon and pink grapefruit aromas, soft and creamy on the palate with real depth of flavour finishing with a lemon tang.
Castanzu Vermentino di Sardegna
Rich and spicy on the nose with citrus and tropical fruit aromas, gently floral and vibrant on the palate with lovely weight and some minerality.
Percheron Grenache Rose - Western Cape
This is a lovely pale salmon pink in colour, with delicate floral aromas of young vine Grenache fruit. The palate is filled with bright and juicy strawberry fruit flavours giving the wine real drinkability.
Mon Vieux 'Sheer' Syrah/Tannat - Stellenbosch
Black and warmly spicy with notes of star anise and flavours of earthy forest fruits, this has real character and a restraining minerality on the finish. An inspired blend of elegant Syrah wrapped in flavoursome Tannat.
Vista Tinta Roriz/Touriga Nacional - Beiras
Aromas of ripe cherry and plum fruit with a touch of pepper, this is warming and full of flavour with black fruits and some wonderfully savoury, meaty notes.
Manon Tempranillo Vino de la Tierra de Castilla
A very soft, fruit forward wine that is robust and rich in black fruits. This is juicy and delicious with plum and damson compote tinged with sweet vanilla spice.
Longue-Dog Rouge - Pays d'Oc
This is instantly fruity and warming on the nose, plump and luscious in texture with pure blackberry fruit flavours and an underlying hint of spice.
Chianti Colli Senesi 'Panezio'
Elegant aromas of cherry, plum and red berry fruits mingle in this attractive light Chianti. Ripe red cherry flavours on the palate mix with mellow oak characters adding a hint of spice to the finish.
Emiliana Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon
A very pretty cassis driven Cabernet from Chile's leading organic producer. Pure damson and blackcurrant fruits balanced by elegant toasted notes of wood.
£72.99 if collected from the shop
£81 delivered anywhere in the UK
Free delivery within a 30 mile radius. 

The Essential Wines of Summer..................
A personal selection of our most favourite wines for drinking throughout the summer.

White Wines

Domaine Papagiannakos 2013 Retsina - Greece per 50cl £5.59
This is amazing and must be tasted to be believed, dispelling any of the previous prejudice bestowed upon the lowly Retsina. The key of course is in the base wine which is fabulously fresh and lean, this is then blended with the finest quality resin wrought from the pine trees of Attica. The resulting wine has a totally unique aroma and flavour profile which bears an uncanny resemblance to rosemary and is absolutely perfect paired with pink lamb cutlets.
Domaine Francis Mabille Vouvray Demi-Sec 'La Croix Picaussee' - France £7.99
An elegant aroma of 'pain d'epice' and the zest of Seville orange peel lead on to a palate which is rich, infused with notes of acacia honey and white meadow flowers, streaked throughout with minerality drawn from the 'causse' (chalky) soils. A light and moreish, medium white wine with notes of candied peel and zesty lime that dance on the palate.
Giacomo Montressor 2012/13 Lugana 'Campo Valentino' - Italy £8.39
A stunning example of one of northern Italy's most in vogue white wines. Subtle and restrained on the nose with delicate stone fruit and lightly nutty aromas. A textural palate which displays more nutty characters and a broad mouth-feel, all beautifully balanced by peachy fruit, a dash of lime, and taut acidity on the finish.
Friedrich Wilhelm Gymnasium 2012 Fritz Willi Riesling - Germany £9.59
A classic Mosel from one of the region's most respected growers. Fragrant aromas of ripe apricots and red apples, delicious citrus characters balanced by refreshing minerality. Only 11% vol and medium dry.
El Tesoro Verdejo 2013 - Spain £5.49
Great value for money here, this is a super fresh and crisp dry white bursting with citrus and tropical fruit flavours.
Cave de Turckheim 2011/12 Reserve Gewurztramminer - Alsace £9.99
A fine Gewurzt that is the very essence of summer, floral and exotically spicy.
Pazo de Monterrey 2012/13 Godello - Monterrei £8.59
A crisp, aromatic white with a lifted nose of apricot, citrus fruits and a hint of pear drops. Very fresh acidity and mineral notes balance rich, ripe fruit characters of apple and pear.
Torre de Menagem 2013 Vinho Verde - Portugal £8.59
Blended from the superior grapes of Alvarinho and Trajadura, this is a superior Vinho Verde in every sense. Tangy and citrusy with lemon and pink grapefruit characters.
Txakoli Gorka Izagirre 2013 - Spain £11.39
Grown in the hills above Bilbao, this wine is crisp, saline, mineral and focused yet with depth and concentration reminiscent of the purest expression of Chablis. A sublime and unusual treat from one of the region's most accomplished producers.

Rose Wines

Domaine du Petit Chaumont 2013 Gris de Gris £6.99
Easily the finest quality £6.99 rose in the country. This is absolutely delicious, dry, full of fruit and elegant, with fabulous texture and real drinkability. The perfect rose to compliment the perfect summer.

Fantastic Fizz

Magpie Estate 2008 'Tight Cluster' Sparkling Shiraz - Barossa Valley £16.99
Very concentrated, medium dry, fizzy Shiraz - not my bag at all, but they love it with a BBQ down under, give it a try!
Stephane Breton N.V. Rose Brut £18.99
The rose sister of our sensational House Champagne. This is very fine, full-bodied and rich in soft red fruits, and what's more it is better and £30 a bottle cheaper than many more famous rose Champagne equivalents.
Henners 2009 Vintage Brut - East Sussex £22.99
Biscuity brioche on the nose, with delicate white flower and full fruit. Citrus, apple and 'leesy' characters add complexity to the palate. A very fine, patriotic fizz.
Ferghettina N.V. Franciacorta Brut - Italy £16.59
A blend of the classic Champagne grapes, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Soft and persistent with hints of white flowers and hazelnuts. Easy drinking and approachable.

Ferghettina 2010 Milledi Gift Box £25.99

Packaged like am ultra premium Grandes Marques Champagne, with contents to match, a stunning bottle in every sense. At this price this is surely a no brainer.

Red Wines
Domaine de Vedilhan 2011 Syrah - Pays d'Oc £6.59
A ripe, smoky Syrah with tonnes of easy fruit and plenty pf spice, ideal with barbecue fare.
Tenuta Roncaglie 2012/13 Dolcetto d'Alba Pian Balbo - Italy £9.99
An outstanding Dolcetto from a leading Barbaresco estate. Very fresh and vividly fruity with sour cherry, violets and dried herbs, delicious served with antipasti.
Kloster Eberbach 'Crescentia' Hollenberg 2011 Spatburgunder - Rheingau £19.99
A sublime Pinot Noir with ripe, wild, red berry fruit, fantastic concentration and great depth. Think fine, full-bodied Chambolle 1er cru, from a rich vintage, at 1980's prices and you're well on the way to discovering a very, very rare Pinot bargain.
Sierre Grande 2012 Pinot Noir - Central Valley £5.69
The same as the above only 1960's prices!
Macia Batle Crinza 2010/11 - Mallorca £12.59
Powerful and spicy aromas of black cherries, blackberries and warm, oaky notes. A rich, smooth, supple palate, juicy and beautifully balanced, with savoury layers of tobacco, coffee and bitter chocolate.
Allianca 2011 Bairrada Reserva - Portugal £5.99
2013 IWC - Great value red wine under £7 award.
Hearty and rustic with supple dark fruits and a warming spicy edge. Perfect with a barbecue.
Circumstance 'Seriously Cool' Cinsault 2013 £11.99
Fresh and fruity with plenty of old vine intensity. Delicious served slightly cool.
Burlesque 2012 'Old Vine' Zinfandel - Lodi £6.79
Great value fruit packed Zin whose abundance of sweet, fresh raspberry fruits couldn't fail to please.

We still have available our wonderful Everyday case and the Wines of Chile & Argentina, just click HERE

If you would like to order any of the wines you have seen in this newsletter, please give us a ring on 01200 423152 or 422281

FATHERS DAY

FATHERS DAY 2014 - need some ideas?
Apologies if the approach of Father's Day has taken you be surprise, (just as these once a year events tend to do, sneak up on you).
Here we go:

Whisky:
Jura Superstition + 2 free glasses (tasting on the counter tomorrow) This is absolutely gorgeous, come and try it! £28.59
Old Pultney 12 yo £23.99
Speyburn Bradan Orach £17.49
Strathisla 12 yo £29.99
Knockando 12 yo £28.59
Glencadam Portwood Finish £34.99
Glencadam Oloroso Finish £42.59
Glencadam 10 yo £29.99

WINE:
Just shipped in a whole load of this specially for the World Cup & it's flying off the shelves - Domaine de Petit Chaumont Gris de Gris Rose £6.99 (normally ££7.99) - summer in a bottle!

Does Dad like a bottle of red? Here's something fun, soft and fruity, you never know, he might even share it with you! Cabaret Frank £6.99 

BEER:
Is Dad a beer drinker? Do you want to join him in a tipple? A Bowland Brewery mini keg is the way to go! £18.99 for 5 litres

Summer Newsletter - The wines of Chile & Argentina

In this latest edition of our newsletter we are featuring a strong selection of recommended wines from Argentina and Chile.
After enjoying many years of popularity in the UK, the wines from both Argentina and Chile go from strength to strength, with a breed of young wine making talent working very hard to bring us fresher and more balanced wines.
Though styles may be changing for the better, the wines have never lost any of their trademark fabulous fruit, and still offer the same outstanding value for money for which they became famous.
Along with the usual great recommendations, in this issue we are also offering a special mixed case of Chilean and Argentine wines, some new wines of the month, and a couple of seriously sharply priced Grandes Marques Champagnes.

A Taste of Argentina and Chile - a case of specially chosen wines
Whites
Torino Don David Torrontes - Cafayate - Argentina
The special micro-climate in the Cafayate valley is ideally suited to the Torrontes grape variety, where it develops concentrated aromas and flavours, which build from start to finish. An intriguing aroma of rose water and delicate fruit flavours of grapefruit and honey make this a rich and elegant wine.
El Viejo del Valle Sauvignon Gris - Casablanca Valley - Chile
This lovely wine shows real intensity and perfume on the nose, the fruit notes are lifted and tropical. There is an abundance of melon and gooseberry fruit on show throughout the palate, and the finish is long and elegant. This is a deliciously soft and full flavoured white.
Adobe Chardonnay - Casablanca Valley - Chile
This is a fresh and nutty Chardonnay made from organically produced grapes. Citric fruit aromas such as grapefruit and lime lead to a soft and flavour-packed palate with plenty of ripe tropical fruit notes and a silky, honeyed finish.
Tabali Reserva Viognier - Limari Valley - Chile
This Viognier presents rich aromas of citrus and dried apricot, with fresh pears and hints of candied fruit. The palate delivers similar fruit notes with a combination of elegant citrus fruits and a fine, chalky minerality so typical of Limari. Bright and fruity with plenty of texture and great purity.
Oveja Negra Sauvignon Blanc/Carmenere - Maule Valley - Chile
The herbal character is very evident on the nose, which displays a nice citrus background that recalls a blooming lemon tree. the wine has a very pleasant and refreshing acidity which is well integrated to the fruit components, making it feel fresh and vibrant.
Reds
Kaiken Reserve Malbec - Mendoza - Argentina
Vibrant crimson purple in colour with an excellent intensity of blackberries, plums and spice. The palate is rich and perfectly balanced with very smooth tannins and a ripe, fruity finish. No oak is used in the wine making, which helps to retain primary fruit flavours and aromas.
Torino Don David Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon - Cafayate - Argentina
dark and intense on the nose with notes of spicy, red pepper and paprika. Powerful and intense in the mouth with blackberry and morello cherry fruit flavours mixed with some fine smoky and tobacco notes from the oak.
Tesoro de los Andes Bonarda/Malbec - Mendoza - Argentina
Unashamedly fruit driven and easy to drink, this is a perfect little fruit bomb with very broad appeal. Fine raspberry fruit flavours fill the palate, and are backed by some underlying floral notes which leave a feeling of real freshness on the finish.
Oveja Negra Cabernet Franc/Carmenere - Maule Valley - Chile
This delicious medium-bodied blend is supple and juicy fruited, with ripe plum and damson balanced by the soft touch of oak. The perfect interpretation of a modern new world red, showing soft, friendly tannins and a persistent finish.
Novas Gran Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot - Maipo Valley - Chile
Red fruit aromas elegantly combine with black pepper notes. On the palate this very classy Cab Sauv/Merlot is bursting with warm plum fruit flavours and just a hint of vanilla and chocolate. All in all this is a very well-structured wine with velvety smooth tannins.
Adobe Syrah - Rapel Valley - Chile
Black, meaty and appealing on the nose with complex aromas of ripe, red fruits and notes from the wood. Soft and well-rounded in the mouth with succulent black cherry fruit flavours and some fresh, smoky spice. A harmonious and mouth-filling wine.
Lauca Pinot Noir - Maule Valley - Chile
This is an elegant and aromatic Pinot Noir dominated by soft, red fruit flavours and light spices. Fresh and silky smooth in the mouth, with wild strawberry fruit flavours and plenty of perfume. Light and easy drinking.
£90 if collected from the shop
£98 delivered anywhere in the UK
Free delivery within a 30 mile radius. 

Our EVERYDAY CASE and SPRING CASE
Two cases of twelve carefully selected wines.
The Everyday Case is £62.99 if collected from the shop & £70.99 delivered in UK
The Spring Case is £79.99 If collected from the shop & £88.00 delivered in UK
Both can be delivered free of charge if within a 30 mile radius, please ring for details.

RECOMMENDED WINES FROM ARGENTINA AND CHILE

Whites
From two countries most noted for the production of fine red wines, a list of fantastically fresh and cool fruited whites that are perfect for summer drinking.

2013 Torino Don David Torrontes - Cafayate - Argentina £7.59
2013 Riccitelli 'The Apple Doesn't fall Far From The Tree' Torrontes - Mendoza
- Argentina £8.59
2013 Amauta Absoluto Torrontes - Cafayate - Argentina £8.59
2009 Bressia Monteagrelo Chardonnay - Mendoza - Argentina £13.59
2013 Adobe Chardonnay Organic - Casablanca - Chile £6.79
2013 Adobe Gewurztraminer Organic - Casablanca - Chile £6.79
2013 El Viejo del Valle Sauvignon Gris - Casablanca - Chile £7.59
2013 Oveja Negra Winemakers Selection Sauvignon Blanc/ Carmenere - Maule - Chile £7.59
2012 Oveja Negra Winemakers Selection Chardonnay/Viognier - Maule - Chile £7.59
2013 Novas Gran Reserva Sauvignon Blanc Organic - Casablanca - Chile £8.59
2012 Tabali Dry Muscat - Limari - Chile £7.59
2012 Tabali Reserva Especial Chardonnay - Limari - Chile £9.59
2011 Signos de Origen Chardonnay/Marsanne/Viognier/Roussanne - Casablanca
- Chile £10.59

Reds

Malbec, Malbec and more Malbec please...........
paying homage to one of the finest red grapes on the planet

Fresh, juicy fruited styles:
2012/13 El Camino Malbec - Mendoza - Argentina £5.99
2013 Dona Paula, Paula Malbec - Mendoza - Argentina £5.99
2013 M. Torino Collecion Malbec - Cafayate - Argentina £6.99
2013 M. Torino Cuma Malbec organic - Cafayate - Argentina £7.49
2012 Pablo y Walter Malbec - Mendoza - Argentina £7.99
2013 Renacer Punto Final Malbec - Mendosa - Argentina £8.59
All of the above offer sensational value for money, they are soft and approachable, delivering plenty of uncomplicated fruit flavours and all of them avoid being too heavy.

Floral, spicy and elegant
2010/11 Nieto Don Nicanor Malbec - Mendoza - Argentina £9.99
2011 Matias Riccitelli 'The Apple Doesn't Fall Far From The Tree' Malbec - Mendoza
- Argentina £11.59
2011 Matias Riccitelli Vineyard Selection Malbec - Mendoza - Argentina £16.99
2010/11 Bressia Monteagrelo Malbec - Mendoza - Argentina £13.59
2012 Achaval Ferrer Malbec - Mendoza - Argentina £13.99
2006 Achaval Ferrer Finca Mirador Malbec - Mendoza - Argentina £62.99

Powerful, soft, fruit driven:
2011 Kaiken Reserve Malbec - Mendoza - Argentina £7.99
2012 Urban Uco Malbec - Mendoza - Argentina £8.99
2011 Colome Estate Malbec - Calchaqui - Argentina £13.99
2010 Bianchi Particular Malbec - San Rafael - Argentina £13.99
2008 O'Fournier Alfa Crux Malbec - Mendoza - Argentina £23.99

Recommended red blends:
Skilfully blended and perfectly balanced interpretations of the vineyard

2011 Kaiken Cab/Malbec/P.Verdot - Mendoza - Argentina £8.59
2011 Kaiken Malbec/Bon/P. Verdot - Mendoza - Argentina £8.59
2011 Septimo Gran Reserva - Mendoza - Argentina £13.59
2011 Bodegas Ranacer Enamore - Mendoza £16.99
2008 Walter Bressia Profundo - Mendoza - Argentina £20.59
2010 Pulenta Gran Corte - Mendoza - Argentina £20.99
2012 Oveja Negra Cabernet Franc/Carmenere - Maule Valley - Chile £7.59
2011 Oveja Negra Cabernet/Syrah - Maule Valley - Chile £7.59
201 Novas Gran Reserva Shiraz/Mourvedre - Maule Valley - Chile £7.59
2009 Altair Sideral - Cachapoal - Chile £14.59
2010 Emiliana Coyam - Colchagua - Chile £15.99
2005 Casa Silva Altura - Colchagua - Chile £34.99
2008/9 Errazuriz Don Maximiano Founders Reserve - Aconcagua - Chile £42.59
2009 Eduardo Chadwick Sena - Aconcagua - Chile £72.99

Other red grapes:
Some classics we all know and a few surprises

2012 Torino Don David Reserve Cabernet - Cafayate - Argentina £7.59
2013 Amauta Absoluto Tannat - Cafayate - Argentina £8.59
2010/11 Bressia Monteagrelo Cabernet Franc - Mendoza - Argentina £13.59
2012 Nieto Bonarda - Mendoza - Argentina £7.59
2011 Carmen Gran Reserva Carmenere - Colchagua - Chile £8.59
2012 Perez Cruz Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon - Maipo - Chile £8.99
2010 Lauca Reserva Carignan - Maule - Chile £8.59
2010 Oveja Negra Single Vineyard Carignan - Maule - Chile £10.99

Wines of the Month

2012 Domaine Talmard Macon Uchizy - Burgundy - France £8.59
Highly Recommended DECANTER MAGAZINE panel tasting
- 2012 Macon cru whites. June 2014 issue.

2012 The Black Craft Shiraz - Barossa - Australia £9.99
Back in stock at last.....A hugely popular blockbuster of a Shiraz filled with sweet, velvety black fruits.

N.V. Le Dolci Colline Rose Spumante Brut - Italy £6.99
At only 11.5% vol this is the ideal warm weather session wine. Very pale pink, soft and filled with fresh, red fruits.


Special Offer Champagnes
Two sensational prices for what we consider to be the two finest N.V. Grandes Marques
N.V. Louis Roederer Brut Premier - Champagne £28.69
N.V. Bollinger Special Cuvee Brut - Champagne £31.99


Whisky recommendations

Clynelish 14 yo - Coastal Highland £29.99
This is a light, yet firm-bodied, maritime single malt. Fresh and creamily smooth on the palate, it has a smoky, sea-spicy character and a very pleasing texture.

Knockando 12 yo - Speyside £28.99
A delicate, sweet single malt. Very smooth yet complex, with layers of fruity, flowery and nutty notes.

For more information about any of these wines and spirits, or to order these or any other products, please give us a ring on 01200 423152

Spring Newsletter

White Wines
La Battistina Gavi Conchetta, Piemonte - Italy
A gently aromatic dry white with crisp green apple and kiwi fruit flavours typical of the Cortese grape. Fresh and elegant, this is a very versatile wine for drinking with food or as an aperitif.
M. Schiavo Coste del Molino Verdicchio, Marche - Italy
This is a lovely citrus filled dry white with pure sherbet lemon and lime fruit flavours, chalky minerality and vibrant, crisp acidity. The perfect spring aperitif or served with light fish dishes.
Les Oliviers Colombard, Pays des Cotes de Gascogne - France
A delicious, 'super-fresh' dry white with a palate full of ripe peach and melon fruit flavours. Light and easy drinking this is a perfectly modern, squeaky clean Colombard that is perfect for any occasion.
Domaine Mas Bahourat Viognier, Pays du Gard - France
This is a fine example of the rich and intoxicating Viognier grape, with a heady aroma of flowers and apricots leading to a ripe and textural palate flowing with concentrated flavours of peach, apricot and pear. A perfectly balanced, clean and full-bodied white wine.
Les Volets Chardonnay, Pays de l'Haute Vallee de l'Aude - France
This is a very fine Chardonnay with the aromas and flavours of candied tropical fruits, peaches and orange peel, giving way to toasted hazelnuts and buttered brioche. Elegant and intense with opulent flavours that fill the mouth.
Red Wines
Domaine Mas Barrau Cabernet Franc, Pays du Gard - France
Crackling with dark fruits and laced with spiky 'herbes de Provence', this is a deliciously round and silky wine that is rich, smooth and full of intense savoury flavours. Might we suggest serving this little beauty at the first barbecue of the year?
Les Cepages Oublies Mourvedre, Pays d'Oc - France
A dense and full-bodied wine with tonnes of personality, that screams of the magic of the south of France. Savoury black fruits are complimented by notes of black olive and tapenade with an array of exotic spices and some aromatic garrigue herbs, simply delicious!
Terrazze della Luna Teroldego Rotaliano, Trentino - Italy
A medium bodied wine with real vibrancy and energy, the concentrated plum and damson fruit flavours are ripe and faintly perfumed, while the finish is all freshness and flowers. This is something new and interesting to taste from one of Trentino's finest indigenous red grapes.
Il Cascinone Crocera Barbera d'Asti, Piemonte - Italy
A fantastic fruit filled Barbera, bursting with delicious black cherry flavours which are backed by some fine woody notes gained through 12 months ageing in French oak barriques. This is a very classy wine indeed.
Dowie Doole Spitting Spider Shiraz, McLaren Vale - Australia
This is a fresh and flavourful Shiraz that isn't too heavy. Unashamedly forward and fruit driven in style, with notes of plum compote and an uplifting, peppery spice. All in all a very enjoyable, soft and easy drinking wine.
Sierra Grande Pinot Noir, Valle Central - Chile
This is the quintessential Pinot, a delicate marriage of wild strawberry fruit flavours and some interesting, gentle smoky notes. A wine that is full of finesse, with an especially long and pure finish.
Herdade Sao Miguel Ciconia Tinto, Alentejo - Portugal
The Ciconia Tinto has been a consistently excellent wine for us, and the 2012 is on fantastic form. With an abundance of sweet red fruits and an alluring mix of spices, this wine is the perfect foil for any classic lamb dish, particularly Tagine.
£79.95 if collected from the shop and £88 delivered anywhere in the UK
Free delivery within a 30 mile radius

2013 Circumstance Sauvignon Blanc - South Africa
In our opinion the Waterkloof Estate produces the finest Sauvignon Blanc wines in the Cape. This is a lovely wine with a concentrated fruit core offset perfectly by some piercing chalky minerality. Lean and very fine.
2012 Capricho Val de Paxarinas Godello, Bierzo - Spain
A blend of old vine Godello and 15% Dona Blanca - floral, peachy aromatics, lush ripe fruit on the palate moderated by minerality and spice through to the sumptuously textured finish.
2012 Domaine Desire Petit 'L'Essenciel' Savignin Arbois, Jura - France
With aromas of citrus oils and subtle notes from the wood it has matured in, this has minerality and a marked hazelnut character - long and elegant, with a very slight hint of liquorice on the finish.
2009 Chateau La Moutete Rouge Vieilles Vignes, Cotes de Provence - France
Dense fruits of the forest perfumes followed by herbs of the garrigue, very smooth with rich, savoury and almost wild herby flavours alongside those of ripe red fruits and spicy oak. Powerful and structured with well integrated tannins, a true taste of Provence.
2010 Tain Esprit de Granit St. Joseph, Rhone - France
A multi award winning wine. Appealing and perfumed on the nose with intense liquorice and vanilla leading to a palate that is characteristically mineral with delicious sweet dark fruit, good balance and ripe tannins. Seductive and elegant, hallmarks of the wonderful 2010 vintage.
2005 Fincas de Ganuza Reserva, Rioja - Spain
Remirez de Ganuza are a first rate Rioja producer making stunning wines from old vines in the Rioja Alavesa. This is ripe and spicy with some creamy oak and round toasty tannins.
£89.99 if collected from the shop and £98 delivered anywhere in the UK
Free delivery within a 30 mile radius

Also available.......................

This is a beautiful case of twelve wines suitable for drinking at any time and for any occasion. The wines are accompanied by a sheet of tasting notes. Available for £60.99 if collected from the shop, or we can deliver anywhere in mainland UK for £69.00. Delivery is free within a 30 mile radius.


Red Wine of the Month
2011 Crocera Barbera d'Asti Superiore Il Cascinone £6.99
Deeply coloured, with an intense nose of ripe damsons and black cherry. Hints of smokiness and brown spices, the wine is full flavoured and generous with intense black fruit, balanced by fresh acidity, and finishing with a savoury tang.

White Wine of the Month
2012 Gavi 'Conchetta' la Battistina £6.99
Classic and elegant Gavi. Green apple, lime and the herbaceous characters typical of the local Cortese grape and lightly herbal savoury notes, combine with the fruit to give a wonderfully textured creamy palate.

Italian Selection
White Wines

Nosiola Mastri Vernacoli £5.99 D. BYRNE WHITE WINE OF THE YEAR
Amazing value here for such complexity. A medley of flavours with apple and stone fruit mixed with some lovely fennel spice. Nutty and ripe with a dash of lime and grapefruit on the dry, savoury finish.
2012 Castanzu Vermentino di Sardegna £5.99
"I was amazed by the quality to price ratio of this wine on a trip to Italy" said Philip. Rich and spicy with citrus and ripe tropical fruit on the palate, a textural honeyed feel with hints of lemon marmalade on the finish.
2012/13 Bottega Vinai Trentino Gewurztraminer £8.99
Intense rose petal and lychee aromas so typical of the grape, with hints of ginger, citrus peel and honeysuckle on the palate. Ripe and opulent with plenty of citrus fruit and floral characters leading to a long, spicy finish.
Terrazza Della Luna Pinot Grigio £6.99
This is proper Pinot Grigio with a purity of fruit that shines through. Zesty, citrus and textural.
Fontanino Riesling £6.99
A light and delicate dry Riesling with floral notes and hints of apple and fresh lime.


Red Wines

2010 San Felice Chianti Classico SPECIAL OFFER £8.99

Very attractive cedar and spice on the nose, with lifted perfumed notes, flavours of coffee and dark chocolate, and a lovely complexity on the finish.
2009/10 Araldica Barbaresco 'Corsini' SPECIAL OFFER £8.99

Vibrant aromas of black cherries, perfumed violets, warm spices and game. On the palate the wine has great structure and shows complex rich fruit and fine balanced acidity. Great with steak!

2009/10 Araldica Barolo 'Flori' SPECIAL OFFER £11.99

A beautifully structured introduction to Barolo. Lovely concentrated black fruit, with delicate floral and violet notes plus hints of vanilla and spice.

2010 Sassaiolo Rosso Piceno Monte Schiavo £6.69

The palate is warm and generous and packed full of rich berry fruit with a touch of exotic spice.

2008/9 Azienda Monaci Copertino Rosso £7.29

There are hints of sandalwood and tobacco on the nose. A ripe and generous wine on the palate, with developed herbal and cherry notes. The finish is long with a touch of spice.

2009 Salice Salentino, Giardinelli Vineyard £7.69

Warm generous and ripe, with hints of exotic spice and nicely balanced black fruit. A wonderful balance of sweet ripeness and bitterness so typical of Negro Amoro, held together by fresh acidity.

2011 Bottega Vinai Trentino Pinot Nero £8.99

Blackcurrant and cherry dominate the palate on this rich spicy wine. Soft and gentle with light tannins, and a wonderfully rich concentrated flavour. An outstanding Pinot for the price.

2011/12 Capitel della Crosara Valpolicella Classico Ripasso SPECIAL OFFER £9.99

Plump plush and generous, intense aromas of fresh cherry and ripe plum, with spicy vanilla notes, big and savoury, great with the weekend roast.

2012 Imprint Primitivo Appassito £10.59

A wonderfully rich and sweetly fruited red fermented from partially dried grapes. Rich blackberry fruit, Mediterranean herbs and a hint of vanilla.

2011 A Mano primitivo £7.59

This is forward and fruity without being too heavy, all raspberries and ripe tannins.

2012 Zabu Nero D'Avola £7.99

Fresh and un-oaked, this is a supple plummy wine made in the modern style.

Must tell you about this......
2010 Mr Smith Shiraz, McLaren Vale - Australia £9.99
Rich and ripe, this is the classic Australian Shiraz. Pure blackberry and plum flavours with chocolate undertones. A gorgeous mouth filling wine, and great value for money.

Just read about this in the Wine Advocate......

2011 Matrot Bourgogne Chardonnay £11.99
"Medium to full-bodied, with surprising intensity, this is sensational white Burgundy. This fabulous buy is a rare find from the super-premium world of Burgundy."

 Joseph's whisky recommendations

"Last year I was kindly invited to visit Glencadam Distillery, the only one remaining in the Kingdom of Angus and was established in 1825. The trip consisted of a tour followed by a tasting at the distillery and in the evening a meal at a local Golf Course with whiskies to accompany each course. All in all it was a great experience and I can highly recommend their whiskies."
Glencadam 10 Year Old £29.99
Aromatic and fresh. beautifully balanced with tart fruits, freshly cut hay and vanilla sweetness. Long and gentle finish.
Glencadam 12 Year old Port Wood Finish £34.99
Sweet and rich, with a wonderful mix of juicy malt, floral notes and some spice. Good length, with cinnamon, clementines and barley.
Glencadam 14 Year Old Oloroso Sherry Cask Finish £42.59
Rich, fruity palate with notes of clean malt and buttery toffee. Gingernut biscuits and walnut loaf. Good length with sweet spices and fruit.
Glencadam 21 Year Old £60.59
Spicy and tingling on the tongue, with oak-led spices, vanilla, cinnamon and allspice. Creamy pineapple and hints of coconut alongside toasted barley. Long finish with some oaky dryness and tropical fruit.
Each expression is bottled at 46% vol. to retain the whisky's unique and natural characteristics and subtlety of taste, and, by not chill-filtering their whisky, it ensures that the aromatic components in the whisky are preserved to enhance presence and flavour.


Orders or enquiries for any of the cases or wines in this newsletter please apply by phone to the shop on 01200 423152 or 01200 422281 - not by email please.

February Newsletter

February Newsletter

In this blog:
Wines of Spain Special Promotion
Very rare single malt whisky releases from Diagio

With January out of the way it is time for us to plan the new year, so with batteries fully charged we approach 2014 with renewed optimism and a promise to bring you more of the same great wines at some of the keenest prices in the UK. February and March are very important months for us as they signal the start of many of our trade tastings, so expect to find many new and exciting wines appearing on the shelves.

Our first promotion of 2014 features the wines of Spain and we shall be running this throughout February and March, see the wines listed below or pop into the shop where you will find many fabulous offers and a bottle or two to taste. Spanish wines have been a pivotal point of our list now for many years and we carry one of the country's most comprehensive selections, with over 300 wines on display and many more for which we don't have shelf space. The reason for having such a large selection of Spanish wines is quite simple, in our opinion the price/quality ratio is more favourable here than in any other wine producing country.

So all that remains is to wish you all a happy new year and to leave you with our unrivalled knowledge that is, there has never been a better time to fill your cellar with some fine wines from Spain.

The Sensational Spanish Dozen

A mixed case of outstanding value red wines from Spain

D. Byrne & Co. - Spanish Specialist merchant of the Year 2007 IWC

2010 Vina Real Crianza - Bodegas C.V.N.E. - Rioja

Fresh red fruits on the nose mingle with some wonderfully aromatic wood spices, the palate has great texture, with fantastically soft and elegant black cherry fruit flavours mixed with sweet, toasty oak. This is a superb Crianza from one of the Rioja regions most respected producers.

91/100 'Superb value for money' issue 210 Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

2008 Graciano - Bodegas Ondarre - Rioja

The Graciano is one of the classic Rioja grapes. Traditionally blended, it now appears more and more frequently as a high quality single varietal wine. Lifted aromas with flowers and ripe black fruits, leading to a concentrated palate full of freshness and vitality with an alluring mix of herbs and spices.

2011 Garnacha de Fuego - Bodegas Breca - Calatayud

A true 'old vine' Garnacha in every sense, made from rigorously sorted grapes from 50-90 year old vines. This is modern Spain at its best, a super-concentrated combination of smoky cherry fruits and some amazingly fresh and peppery minerality.

92/100 'Just when you think you have tasted the world's greatest values, along comes the Bodegas Breca'. Issue 203 Robert Parker's Wine Advocate.

2011 Tarima Monastrell - Bodegas Volver - Alicante

The Monastrell (Mouvedre) grape has adapted perfectly to the dry, arid conditions of Spain's southern regions. In the D.O.s of Jumilla, Yecla and Alicante in particular, a combination of old vines and small yields contribute to some highly concentrated grapes and particularly characterful wines.

91/100 'From an area dominated by cooperatives, this full-bodied blockbuster boasts plenty of blue and black fruit notes, impressive purity and an enticing texture as well as length. It is hard to believe that wines such as this can be found for under £10 a bottle.' Issue 203 Robert Parker's Wine Advocate.

2011 Cuatro Pasos Mencia - Bierzo

The Bierzo region is home to the very much in vogue and very funky Mencia grape which is also known as Jaen in neighbouring portugal. Cuatro Pasos is a perfect, modern example of the wonderful Mencia, with fresh and fleshy aromas, succulent, fine red fruits and lovely, crunchy acidity. This is a delicious and vibrant, food friendly wine.

Gold Medal 2013 International Wine Challenge

2011 En Vaso Bobal - Cien y Pico - Manchuela

From ancient Bobal vines, dry grown on limestone soils. A vibrant nose which shows abundant fruit, along with chocolate and earthy notes. Blackberries, blackcurrant and cinnamon spice, along with cocoa and mulberry on the palate. A soft wine with juicy tannins and an uplifting fresh fruit finish.

The perfect dozen - two bottles of each of the above £100

Or simply chose one bottle of each for the perfect half dozen £50

Recommendations taken from our massive range

of the finest Spanish wines.

White Wines

2012 Mara Martin Godello - Monterrei   WHITE WINE OF THE MONTH   £7.99

An intensely perfumed and spicy dry white that offers exceptionally good value for money.

2012 Boca do Monte - Valdeorras   £7.99

An un-oaked wine that is both fresh and elegant with some lovely minerality.

2011 Borsao Seleccion - Campo de Borja   £6.29
Soft and well rounded, with some lovely tropical fruits. 100% Macabeo.

Rose Wine

2012 Vinedo No5 Senorio de Sarria - Navarra   £8.29
A full and intense rose sources from very old Garnacha vines, peppery and delicious.
90/100 Robert Parker. Best Spanish Roase La Nariz de Oro 2013

Red Wines

2010 Vina Real Crianza Bodegas C.V.N.E. - RED WINE OF THE MONTH Rioja   £8.99
'This 2010 has a nice bright cherry color with a clean and open nose displaying red fruits and a spicy touch, coming through as quite a traditional nose and a polished palate with good acidity as they aim for freshness and drinkability. This Crianza represents superb value for money. 91/100 Issue 210 The Wine Advocate.
2010 Cerro Anon Crianza Bodegas Olarra - Rioja   £8.99
This is textbook Crianza with plenty of ripe fruit and a mouth-filling mellow spiciness.
Gold Medal & Trophy winner 2013 Decanter World Wine Awards
2008 Ondarre Reserva - Rioja   £10.99
One of our top selling wines of Christmas, and with good reason. This bargain priced reserva scooped the Rioja Reserva Trophy in the 2013 International Wine Challenge.
2008 Vinas de Gain Bodegas Artadi - Rioja   £13.99
A fantastically smooth, fruit forward, modern style Rioja from a superstar Bodega.
2001 Gran Reserva 904 La Rioja Alta - Rioja   special offer   £29.99
One of Rioja's very finest wines. 96/100 R. Parker.
2012 Pinna Fidelis Tinto Roble - Ribera del Duero   £6.99
This former D. Byrne & Co. Red Wine of the Year is on fine form in 2012, with silky red fruits and a touch of toasty oak.
2012 PSI Sisseck - Ribera del Duero   £22.99
A very fine Ribera from one of the regions most revered wine makers.
2011 Flor de Vetus - Toro   £9.99
A full-bodied succulent wine with plenty of structure, pure black fruits and fragrant spices.
91 pts Penin guide.
2009 Bodegas Borsao Berola Garnacha - Campo de Borja   £12.99
Included in the Wine Spectator Top 100 Value Wines of 2013
2010 Raimat Abadia Crianza - Costers del Segre    £6.99
A former firm favourite for many years, the 2010 is firmly back on form. Full, fruity and very well balanced.

This is a beautiful case of twelve wines suitable for drinking at any time and for any occasion. The wines are accompanied by a sheet of tasting notes. Available for £60.99 if collected from the shop, or we can deliver anywhere in mainland UK for £69.00. Delivery is free within a 30 mile radius.

So many people have been asking us about the individual prices of the wines in our Christmas and Connoisseur's Cases because they have enjoyed them so much that we thought we'd include them in our newsletter. The full descriptions for these wines can be found in our Christmas newsletter (which should be found by scrolling down below this month's offering).

The Christmas Case
WHITES
Mon Vieux 'Hell's Heights' Sauvignon Blanc, Banghoek - South Africa £9.19
Cavit Mastri vernacoli Trentino Nosiola - Italy £5.99
El tesoro Verdejo - Spain £5.49
Domaine Les Grands Presbyterese Tradition Muscadet, Sevre et Maine - France £6.89
Peacock Ridge, Chenin Blanc - South Africa £6.99
REDS
Domaine Belles Granges Syrah, Pays des Collines Rhodaniennes - France £6.99
Chateau de Blissa Cotes de Bourg, Bordeaux - France £7.99
Pierre Fine Grenat, Grenache Noir Vieilles Vignes, Pays d'Oc - France £8.39
'Les Coteaux' Cotes du Rhone Villages - France £7.69
Guelbenzu 'Vierlas' Ribera del Queiles - Spain £7.99
Silvermyn Argentum Merlot, Cab Sauvignon, Cab Franc & Petit Verdot - South Africa £6.69
Aliance Bairrada Reserva - Portugal £5.99

The Connoisseurs Case
WHITES
N.V. Domenico de Bertiol Prosecco di Valdobbiadene - Italy £9.89
2011 Clos Saint Pierre Macon Carnay - France £9.99
2012 Domaine Saint Romble Sancerre - France £12.99
2012 Lugana Campovalentino Montresor - Italy £8.59
2011 Waterkloof Estate Circle of Life White - South Africa £12.69
REDS
2010 Domaine Chante Cigale Chateauneuf-du-Pape - France £17.99
2010 Domaine Madeloc Cuvee Serral Collioure Rouge - France £15.99
2008 Ondarre Rioja Reserva - Spain £10.99
2009 San Felice Il Grigio Chianti Classico Riserva - Italy £13.99
2011 Tommasi Arele Apassimento - Italy £12.99
2010 Bressia Monteagrelo Cabernet Franc - Argentina £13.59
2010 Massaya Silver Selection - Lebanon £15.99

The 2013 Diageo Special Releases
An extremely rare opportunity to purchase a small annual release of a limited edition, natural cask strength single malt. These are very old unusual bottlings from famous and closed distilleries. The prices shown are per 70cl bottle.

For orders or enquiries for any of the cases or wines in this blog please apply by phone to the shop on 01200 422281 or 01200 423152.