Vibrant and fresh, a perfect Picpoul!

Tasting Notes

Gently perfumed ripe melon fruit on the nose. The palate is ripe but retains excellent freshness, balanced by a touch of white pepper spice that is very typical of its grape variety. Deliciously long, the finish shows bright fruit and a clean, saline/mineral edge.

Production

Producer

Cave de l'Ormarine is an award-winning co-operative which produces wines from the tiny Pinet de Picpoul appellation in the Hérault. The l'Ormarine cellar was established in 1922 when vignerons from Pinet joined forces and formed a winegrowers' association.

Today, the Cave de l'Ormarine is a conglomeration of five separate co-operatives from across the Hérault, each with their own specific terroirs and styles of wine. It is proud to have 470 members farming more than 2,500 hectares of vines.Its flagship Picpoul wines are fresh and terroir-driven, and hugely influenced by both the Mediterranean Sea and the Etang de Thau, which act as a thermal regulator for the vineyards. In fact, it is said of Picpoul that, "Son terroir, c'est la mer (Its terroir is the sea)."Cave de l'Ormarine has made significant investment in its winery, and prides itself on the high-quality standard and traceability of its grapes.

Alan's Personal Tasting Notes

"Spot on - clean, fresh as a daisy, lovely melon fruit titillated with a touch of pepper and a delightful, saline finish. Perfectly balanced and great for salads, shellfish, and chicken dishes. A bottle of this and a dozen oysters s’il vous plait. Bang on for a tenner - great value - over delivers and proves that coming off the well-worn path pays dividends." September 2022

Specifications

An appealing appassimento style red from the Veneto - produced from classic Amarone and Valpolicella grapes.

Tasting Notes

Nose

Bright berry and black cherry aromas, and a touch of spice.

Palate

The palate has all of Valpolicella's appealing fresh cherry and ripe bramble fruit, along with added weight and complexity from maturation in oak. Supple tannins lead to a finish of delicate sweetness, offset by fresh acidity.

Producer

The illustrious Montresor family moved from France to Italy at the start of the 19th Century and settled in the Veneto region near Lake Garda. In 1892 Cantina Giacomo Montresor was established in Verona, and remains family-owned to this day.

Giorgio Montresor produces a portfolio of wines which increasingly rival the offerings of the region's more fashionable names - harnessing modern technology to craft the best wines from each site, across their 100ha of vineyard, in Valpolicella and Garda.

Production Method

Produced from Corvina, Corvinone and Rondinella grapes harvested from hillside vineyards north of Verona. 'Appassimento' refers to the process by which the grapes are dried for a few months before being pressed and vinified - this technique is more common in the Veneto than elsewhere in Italy. In this instance the grapes are dried for 30 days before vinification, and the wine spends 6 months in oak. The resulting red is rich with some residual sweetness.

A Note on Sustainability

At the end of 2019, Montresor received its organic certification. Some of its wines are already bottled in a lighter weight glass bottle (less than 420g) to reduce carbon dioxide emissions during transport, with the added benefit of reducing the amount of glass to be manufactured.

Over the next two years, solar panels will be installed at the winery to provide some of the electricity required in the production process. Alongside this, Montresor is about to install a water purification system to recover and recycle the water used at the winery.

Specifications

Powerful yet approachable!

Tasting Notes

Palate

A hugely popular Prosecco.

Tasting Notes

Fresh and gently fruity fizz from northeast Italy (Veneto) with citrus and green apple aromas. Delicate and lively on the palate with ripe, lightly grapey fruit, zesty acidity and a clean, refreshing finish.

Production Method

From selected parcels of Glera grapes grown northeast of Treviso. Hand harvested at optimum ripeness to give the required balance between aromatics and good acidity. Gentle pneumatic pressing followed by slow, cool fermentation in stainless steel. Second fermentation in pressure tanks, lasting 4 weeks.

Producer

Established in 2003, Adria Vini is a winemaking venture jointly owned by Boutinot and Araldica Castelvero, the leading co-operative in the Monferrato hills of Piemonte. The aim is to produce authentic, well-priced still and sparkling wines from local grape varieties. All aspects of production, from grape selection through to vinification, maturation, blending and bottling are meticulously overseen by Araldica's winemaking team of Claudio Manera and Lella Burdese - assisted by Boutinot's Tony Brown MW. They source from a range of private growers and cooperatives, with whom they have long-term relationships, principally in Veneto, Friuli, Lombardy, Sicily, Puglia, Abruzzo and Sardinia.

Specifications

A great introduction to Rioja Crianza - vibrant and appealing with plum and berry fruit backed with subtle spice and vanilla.

Tasting Notes 

An attractive, modern style of Crianza with lifted aromatics of bramble fruit with some pepper and spice. Substantial on the palate, with plummy fruit, ripe tannins and a gently savoury fresh finish.

Production Method

Made from Tempranillo grapes cultivated in hillside vineyards (600 metres above sea level) in the best parts of Rioja Oriental. The vineyards have clay stone soil with some sandy areas. 80% of the vines are trained in the trellis method and 20% are bush trained. The grapes are chilled for several hours before temperature-controlled fermentation in stainless steel. Fermentation lasts for approximately 15 days with twice daily remontage. The wine is matured for a minimum of 12 months in American oak, plus one year in bottle, before release. The winery replaces 20% of its barrel stock, with new barrels, each year.

Producer

Bodegas Ontañón is a 5th generation family-owned and run winery in Rioja Baja (now Rioja Oriental). Here Raquel, Rubén and Maria Pérez Cuevas continue their father Gabriel's work to develop Bodegas Ontañón into one of the most highly-regarded wineries in Rioja. Ontañón has vast swathes of vineyard in this part of Rioja. Whilst wine production in the region is typically very dependent on contracts with grape growers, the Pérez Cuevas family has seen fit to invest heavily in the purchase of its own land and vines. Its 250ha is a testament to the importance it places on controlling grape quality.

The family's vineyards sit high in the Sierra Yerga mountains in the prestigious region surrounding Quel, defying misconceptions that Rioja Baja is one of the lesser sub-regions within Rioja. Many of their vineyards are actually planted at altitudes on a par with, or above, those in Rioja Alta and Alavesa; (La Pasada is their highest vineyard at 800m above sea level, planted in 1979 it is used for Reserva and Gran Reserva wines). The hot and dry Mediterranean climate allows for consistent ripening of the grapes with little disease and this has enabled them to pursue organic production across 57 hectares of vines.

Notes of Sustainability

Currently run by the fifth generation of the Pérez Cuevas family to carry on the tradition of grape growing in the southern part of Rioja, they take great pride in maintaining their vineyards in the most sustainable manner possible as it is their land that supports their family’s craft. As well as farming organically and producing a range of organic wines, Bodegas Ontañón employs a range of other sustainable processes.

These include: controlled irrigation systems to reduce water usage and evaporation; planting vineyards in cooler, well-ventilated areas in order to reduce irrigation requirements and phytosanitary treatments; using plant/grass cover in vineyards to improve soil texture, to reduce tractor working hours and to lower carbon dioxide emissions; using environmentally friendly phytosanitary products that break down quickly and harmlessly; planting several hectares of pine forest near the vineyards in Ausejo and tidying and maintaining the oak forest near the vineyards in Quel. The estate plans to install solar panels at its irrigation installations to generate the electricity they require, and it encourages its worker to carpool from its winery to its vineyards to reduce emissions.

Specifications

Tasting Notes

Nose

Aromatic, zesty nose with notes of apple, lime and white flower.

Palate

The wine has juicy apple and lemon characters, and is textural with attractive minerality. The finish is balanced, with a zesty mouthwatering quality.

Production

The vineyards are south facing and the soil, chalky and mineral, which allows full ripening and excellent drainage. The 35 year old vines are trained Piemonte style on low Guyot trellis, planted with 4,000 - 4,500 vines per hectare and yielding 6600 lt/ha. The whole process of winemaking is undertaken at Araldica's winery, Azienda Agricola La Battistina, in stainless steel tanks. The hand harvested grapes are pressed in a pneumatic press and subjected to a temperature controlled fermentation in stainless steel. The wine remains in contact with the lees for 4 months before being fined, filtered and bottled.

Producer

The La Battistina estate consists of 26ha of mature vineyard including 5ha in Gavi del Comune di Gavi. The property was acquired by leading Piemonte producer Araldica in 2002, establishing their reputation as a Gavi specialist, with the largest vineyard holdings in the region. La Battistina (and the neighbouring 20ha estate of La Lancellotta, from which grapes are also sourced) are renowned as among the best sites in Gavi.

The estate consists of eight separate vineyard plots along one prime south-facing slope - the distinct areas producing very different wines. The vineyard has a unique combination of limestone and clay soil which allows full ripening of the local Cortese grape. This, together with vines of average age 35 years, gives complexity and weight to what is one of Italy's most fashionable white wines.

The majority of grapes go to produce the unoaked 'La Battistina', while 'Nuovo Quadro' comes from a small, plot at the foot of the Battistina hill which lies within the Comune di Gavi sub-zone. The 'La Battistina' range is produced by the Araldica winemaking team, overseen by Claudio Manera and Lella Burdese's son Carlo.

Sustainability

Production at La Battistina has obtained the SQNPI trademark - Sistema di Qualità Nazionale di Produzione Integrata (National Quality System of Integrated Crop Management). Wines and vintages that are now fully compatible with this system have a bee symbol on the label, which guarantees that each phase of production has complied with the strict parameters of integrated crop management. In other words, it is sustainable and eco-compatible, certified by an independent third party.

Specifications

A well-balanced expression of French Viognier.

Tasting Notes

Honeysuckle on the nose; richly textured and nicely balanced with flavours of apricots and a satisfying delicate bitterness on the finish.

Production

Domaine de Vedilhan (pronounced 'Domaine de Ved-ee-ohn') is the estate of the Fayet family, based in the village of Moussan close to Narbonne. Uniquely, a brook runs around the estate which provides much-needed water in this very hot climate, giving the wines their freshness and appeal. Vines are managed using the 'lutte raisonnée' method and terroir is a combination of limestone, sand and sea shale, meaning the vines dig deep for their nutrients and thus produce excellent quality grapes. 50% of the production from this Domaine is used for Boutinot wines. Since 1999, our winemakers have been working closely with the Fayet’s on all aspects of the production, from when to harvest to the exact blend or style of wines. The Viognier was picked early and carefully selected and handled in the winery to maintain its acidity and fresh aromatics, and was vinified without oak.

Producer

Like all good stories, that of Boutinot France is both long and a little bit complicated! Boutinot began as a tiny importer in 1980, specialising in French wines. Paul Boutinot himself began by personally selecting the wines from France, back in the UK he would unload the trailer by hand. And deliver the crates of wines to customers himself. But good things grow and by the end of the decade we had become a bigger and better company. A company that not only sought out great wines but made them too. After 10 years later, Boutinot France started in January 1990. The first office was in the middle of the vines in Julienas; perfectly located to navigate the Beaujolais and Macon regions on the quest to make beautiful wines.

Samantha Bailey, who started as a wine enthusiast, was there at the beginning of this adventure. Since then, she has grown into our Master Blender and has key responsibilities: building long-standing relationships, tasting, understanding the terroir and appellations, and pushing the boundaries. She is at the heart of the whole process from blending to quality assessment, making sure there is always a Boutinot touch in every cuvée. We are proud to also count Guillaume Letang and Julien Dugas in our winemaking team. Guillaume oversees the South of France and Languedoc, whilst Julien looks after our property in Cairanne. Together they have the local knowledge to select and blend the very best wines from throughout. Eric Monnin oversees every aspect of production and makes sure everything our winemakers blend and source is top quality.

Alan's Tasting Notes

'This is a gem! A classically French Viognier, with delicious fresh apricot fruit.  Beautifully balanced with great texture.  Perfect for a summer's evening in the garden, astounding value for a real quality dry, white style.  Perfect on its own but will match really well with both Chicken and Pork.  Really love it!' June 2023

Specifications

An elegant, non-alcoholic sparkling wine, perfect as an aperitif.

Tasting Notes 

A crisp and refreshing non-alcoholic sparkling white wine made with 100% Chardonnay grapes from sandy and calcareous soils in southern Spain. Crisp acidity & strong effervescence with hints of green apples & citrus peel accompanied with a floral aroma.

Notes of Green Apple, Biscuit and Jasmine Flowers.

What makes us different? From the Producer...

Award Winning

Both of our wines reached the very top in this years International Wine & Spirits Competition (IWSC 2022). Our Rosé is the highest rated non-alcoholic wine ever with 98/100 points.

Organic

We're proud to say that ALT. Chardonnay & Rosé are both certified Organic, meaning that we've gone through rigirous quality control and supply chain checks to ensure that our grapes are sourced from 100% organic wine growers.

Dry

Our wines have an extremely low sugar level. We do not need to add a lot of sugar to bring out a good taste, since we focus on raw materials with high quality and an uncompromising production process.

Vegan

ALT. is filtered using cross-flow filtration where as it's commonplace in the wine industry to use egg white. After filtration the liquid then goes through patenteded aroma recovery so that the finished wine is complex & delicious.

Specifications

The Portuguese cousin to the ever-popular Albarino.

Tasting Notes

Nose

Bright citrus aromas with hints of mandarin.

Palate

Fresh and lively on the palate with citrus characters, textural stone fruit and appealing minerality on the finish.

Production

Casa de Vila Nova is located in the sub-region of Sousa, the Vinho Verde Demarcated Region in the North of Portugal, the Vinho Verde lands are exposed to the Atlantic Ocean winds and influence. Soils, microclimate, grape varieties and the unique characteristics of the wine culture, distinguish it from all other wine regions of the world. The grapes are harvested by hand in 20 kg boxes that are quickly transported to the winery where the grapes are destemmed then a soft pressing takes place and fermentation in temperature controlled vats.

Producer

Casa de Vila Nova is owned by the Lencastre family, of aristocratic Portuguese lineage (one of their ancestors became the first Baron of Varzea do Douro in the 1800s). This land has been in their family since the 12th century - the ivy-clad tower that still remains from that time is now surrounded by Vila Nova (new house) that was built in the 1700s, and the property was gradually extended over the centuries.

The estate is near the town of Penafiel, close to the eastern border of Portugal's Vinho Verde wine region, around a 30-minute drive east from Oporto. In the late 1970s the family planted vines over 12 hectares - mainly local Portuguese varieties. In 2008 Bernardo Lencastre and his brothers took over the running of the property, revitalised the vineyards and began making Vinho Verde and bottling their own wines - the first generation to do so. They now have around 42 hectares of vineyard.

Here, in the Entre-Douro-e-Minho sub-region of Sousa, their vineyards are influenced by winds from the Atlantic Ocean - creating the perfect climate to ripen varieties such as Avesso, Loureiro, and Alvarinho.

Awards

Specifications

Hints of forest fruit flavours, subtile citrus aromas on the nose which continue onto the palate.  Dry to taste, this rosé is lively, well balanced and mineral on the palate with a crisp finish.

“Pinot Noir can be quite a temperamental grape but thrives on limestone soils in cool climates. This Pinot Noir Rosé vom Kalkstein is the palest of pale pinks reflecting the brief period of skin contact with the red Pinot Noir grapes to extract this delicate colour. There are hints of raspberry, watermelon and pomegranate on the nose which continue onto the palate. Dry to taste, this rosé is elegant, bright and racy on the palate with a crisp finish. Its fruitiness comes best to the fore by not chilling too much.’’

Alison Flemming MW

Producer

This wine comes from the Pfalz, one of Germany's key wine-producing regions, situated in the southwest, across the border from Alsace. The weather here is generally dry and sunny as the Pfalz wine region lies in the rain shadow of the mountains. The vineyards for this rosé are located in the north of the Pfalz and are in a valley basin, making it a cool area because of the fog and thermal currents. This cool climate, together with the limestone soils, makes for lean, long-lived wines. 

Specifications

Each vintage, from our base in Cairanne, we are able to select exceptional Grenache and Syrah from the best Côtes du Rhône Villages to make Les Coteaux, which we then enrich with classified wine from Séguret and Sablet.

Tasting Notes

Immediately impressive, this wine reveals its class from the start. Brambly fruit underpinned by subtle oaky nuances, lovely sweet spice - warm star anise with a touch of cinnamon. This classic Côtes du Rhône Villages is enriched with specially-selected parcels from Séguret and Sablet.

Production Method

Common practice in the Côtes du Rhône is to bottle the best cuvées as a single, named, village wine and the rest as more basic Côtes du Rhône Villages. Boutinot’s philosophy, on the other hand, is to start with the intention of making the very best Côtes du Rhône Villages possible by sourcing wine from the vineyards of named villages, and enriching them with a small proportion of barrel-aged wine from Sablet and Séguret.

Boutinot's Côtes du Rhône Villages 'Les Coteaux' is therefore a selection of the best Grenache Noir and Syrah from some of the 17 named Côtes du Rhône Villages. We source wine from a number of growers with exceptional terroir and so have the flexibility to select only the very best fruit each vintage (rejecting parcels which do not meet our high standards). Mostly unoaked, a small proportion (15%) is part-aged for up to 20 months in a few new, but mostly older, oak barrels to bring depth and subtle notes of complexity.

Producer

Boutinot’s love affair with the Southern Rhône spans thirty years of making wine in the region. In 2010, the relationship was sealed with the purchase of a winery and vineyards above the village of Cairanne. Domaine Boutinot’s seven vineyards are planted with classic southern Rhône grape varieties – old vine Grenache Noir and Syrah, Mourvèdre and Carignan Noir – and they all sit within the Cairanne Cru boundaries, sanctioned in 2016 when Cairanne was granted its own appellation status.

Working with our vigneron neighbours we are helping to revive traditional grape varieties such as Cinsault and Counoise, and in the cellar we prefer time-honoured winemaking methods such as a long cuvasion aided only by natural yeasts, gentle remontage, manual pigeage and patient maturation in a nursery of French oak barrels.

Awards

• A Bronze Medal in the 2023 Decanter World Wine Awards (2020 Vintage)

Specifications

Traditional Rioja Reserva

Tasting Notes 

Nose

A traditional Rioja Reserva from vineyards in Rioja Alta with a nose of warm black fruit, spice and vanilla notes.

Palate

The palate has ripe plum and damson characters balanced by well-integrated oak, supple tannins and gentle cedary spice on the finish.

Production Method

This wine is produced from selected Tempranillo, Mazuelo and Graciano grapes sourced from 30 to 40-year-old Rioja Alta vineyards whose distinctive stony soils are ideal for the long, even ripening of quality grapes. The fruit is hand harvested in mid-October. Each variety is fermented separately in small tanks using natural yeasts at 28-30° C. After 20 days on the skins the wine is gently pressed and racked to stainless steel tanks for malolactic fermentation. The clear wine is then racked to 2nd and 3rd year American and Russian oak barrels for 24 months maturation before blending and bottling.

Alan's Personal Tasting Notes

"This is good! Everything I would expect from a well made, traditional Rioja - bright fruit - some vanillin and spice from good oak integration and soft, smooth tannins giving a very well balanced and long finish." Tasted April 2024

Specifications

A really pretty and perfumed example of the Frappato grape from south-eastern Sicily.

Tasting Notes

This organic red has delicious floral and red berry characters and is surprisingly fresh and delicate given the hot climate.

Nose

Delicate and lightly floral aromas of strawberry, redcurrant and wild berries, with hints of aromatic herbs.

Palate

The palate has vibrant red berry characters balancing fresh acidity.

Producer

Is there a more dynamic place to make wine in Italy than on Mount Etna in Sicily? Cantine Nicosia is based at the foot of Etna, on the east coast of Sicily, where Carmelo Nicosia, along with his sons Franceso and Graziano (5th generation), have developed their family business into one of the area's most important wine producers. Their Trecastagni winery is where tradition meets ultra-modern technology.

Trecastagni, at the base of one of the extinguished craters dotting Mount Etna and at an altitude of around 700m, is home to the ancient vineyards of Monte Gorna, with their distinctive lava terraces. The vineyards have been completely restructured and replanted, focusing on the native varieties used for Etna DOC wines: Nerello Mascalese and Nerello Cappuccio for the red, and Catarratto and Carricante for the whites. The extraordinary wealth of minerals found in Etna's volcanic soils can be credited with the very rich flavour and unique character of the wines produced here.

Just a few miles from the southernmost tip of the Italian peninsula is the lively agricultural center of Vittoria and the Contrada Bonincontro district - home to the large and impeccably groomed Cerasuolo di Vittoria vineyards planted exclusively with Nero d’Avola, Frappato and Syrah.

Production Method

Frappato grapes are grown on sandy soil situated at approximately 200m above sea level. Grapes are hand-picked in September. The grapes undergo maceration and fermentation for approximately 10-15 at a controlled temperature of between 22-24°C. The wine is aged in stainless steel vats and 2 months in the bottle.

A Note on Sustainability

A proportion of Cantine Nicosia’s vineyards are certified organic by SIDEL, and its wines are certified as vegan by the Istituto Certificazione Etica e Ambiente.

Specifications

Very well made and incredibly well balanced

Tasting Notes

Château Haut-Grelot was established in 1920 in the village of Les Grelots by the Bonneau family. Today the Domaine is comprised of 58 hectares of vineyards and is run by Céline and Julien, who have been awarded the title of “Best Young Talent” in Bordeaux. The vineyards are made up of sandy gravel on the hillsides bordering the Gironde Estuary and sand clay-silt on the hillsides further inland. Blaye Côtes de Bordeaux benefits from an ideal microclimate where there is a high level of sunshine and just enough rain. The reds are fruity and concentrated and the whites are fresh, vibrant, and delicate. The Rouge is produced from 70% Merlot and 30% Cabernet Sauvignon and spends some time in oak barrels creating rich, plummy fruit supported by silky tannins.

Colour

Ruby red colour 

Palate

Lovely flavors of red berry fruit with vanilla, spicy nuances. On the palate, the wine is round, fruity, and well balanced with a long aromatic finish.

Sustainability

Since 2015, Euralis and Château Haut Grelot have set up a program called OPTIDOSE to reduce phytosanitary products. Their philosophy is to preserve the landscape and ensure the best quality of their wines.

Alan's Personal Tasting Notes

"All the cassis and blackcurrant aromas and flavours we come to expect from quality Bordeaux - but the plum mines of the merlot isn’t far behind in concentration. Like the white, it is very well made and incredibly well balanced with the forward fruit tamed by a mix of vanilla and spice - no doubt from some oak aging.

Extremely silky tannins with good length, finishes this off nicely.

To summarise the Haut Grelot Red & White are a fantastic pair of very well-made and well-balanced wines that show Bordeaux well at this price point - not something you can always say at this price point!" January 2022

Specifications

The wine is soft on the palate and goes down very easily.

Tasting Notes

Nose

Aromas of black cherries and violets on the nose.

Palate

A deeply characterful wine, it is really soft and velvety, with red berry fruits, and a smooth, gentle finish. It has noticeable, but subtle and well-integrated tannins which help give this wine a lovely structure and mouthfeel. The wine is soft on the palate and goes down very easily. 

Producers

The PEMO range of wines celebrates two grapes from Abruzzo – Pecorino (PE) and Montepulciano (MO). These two grapes have been growing in this region since 200 AD. 

• Produced in a modern way, while respecting local wine making traditions.
• Eat anything from barbecued meats to stews to pizza with PEMO Montepulciano.
• Montepulciano is a native Italian grape variety from Abruzzo.
• Originates from the rugged, mountainous Abruzzo region of central Italy.

Alan's Personal Tasting Notes

"Medium bodied with red berry/cherry fruits. A bit of spice gives it an extra dimension. Low acidity gives it a real softness and smoothness - a real easy drinker.

No oak characteristics coming through so it’s a fruity, modern, stainless steel style. As montepulciano in this area is pretty prolific these wines were historically used for blending or ended up in the German market. Now production is cut back and wines recognised on their own merits! Got to be one of our best value reds right now!" October 2022

Specifications

A classic, fresh and approachable expression of Grüner Veltliner from its homeland.

Tasting Notes

Aromatic nose with notes of white spice. The palate has stone fruit, green apple and lightly exotic characters - fresh and appealing. 

Our Rosé is the highest rated non-alcoholic wine ever with 98/100 points.

Tasting Notes 

Alt. Sparkling Organic Rosé is a fresh and aromatic non-alcoholic sparkling rosé wine made with 100% Tempranillo grapes from sandy and calcareous soils in the middle of Spain.

Crisp acidity & strong effervescence with hints of summer berries & watermelon accompanied by an aromatic aroma.

Dry, Fruity, Mellow. Notes of Summer berries, Citrus peel & Aromatic spice.

What makes us different? From the Producer...

Award-Winning

Both of our wines reached the very top in this year's International Wine & Spirits Competition (IWSC 2022). Our Rosé is the highest rated non-alcoholic wine ever with 98/100 points.

Organic

We're proud to say that ALT. Chardonnay & Rosé are both certified Organic, meaning that we've gone through rigirous quality control and supply chain checks to ensure that our grapes are sourced from 100% organic wine growers.

Dry

Our wines have an extremely low sugar level. We do not need to add a lot of sugar to bring out a good taste, since we focus on raw materials with high quality and an uncompromising production process.

Vegan

ALT. is filtered using cross-flow filtration where as it's commonplace in the wine industry to use egg white. After filtration, the liquid then goes through patented aroma recovery so that the finished wine is complex & delicious.

Specifications

Cicada takes its name from the famed ‘singing cicadas’ of Provence and the wine too sings of the warm vineyards of the south.

Tasting Notes

Nose

Easy-drinking, unoaked and a classic french-style table wine. Citrus and pear aromas on the nose.

Palate

Citrus flesh and nice weight on the palate, quite a ripe, round finish.

Producer

Domaine Chante Cigale is located within the village of Châteauneuf-du-Pape and has been owned by the Sabon Favier family for several generations. Consisting of 41 hectares, the domaine benefits from old vines, some of which are veritably ancient at over 100 years old. Alexandre Favier took over from his father, Christian, and is part of a new wave of producers in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, combining modern technical expertise with time-honoured winemaking practices.

Alexandre is lauded by notable journalists including Steve Danzier and Jancis Robinson for his deftly-made and reasonably-priced wines. Domaine Chante Cigale has also built a reputation for specialising in white wines, of which they produce more than any other estate in the appellation.

Production

An unusual blend of Viognier (30%), Picpoul Blanc (30%) and Grenache Blanc (40%). Sourced from clay limestone soils in Richerenes in the Vaucluse for the Grenache Blanc and Picpoul, with the Viognier sourced in the Northern Rhône (so the wine is classified as Vin de France). Vinified in stainless steel, with a short maceration of one week. Alex Favier then puts the final blend together.

Sustainability

As you might expect from someone born and raised on an estate named after singing cicadas, Alexandre Favier keenly promotes the biodiversity of his vineyards. He is very conscious of his role as guardian of his land for future generations and Chante Cigale is currently in conversion to full organic status.

Alan's Tasting Notes

'This is a beautiful find.  Loaded with aromas and flavours.  Fresh, unoaked but unctous fresh fruit with a persistent and compelling palate.  A great value alternative to more expensive Chateauneuf Blanc or Condrieu.'

Nose

Fuller than Pinot Noir from Burgundy, it has a warm, rich nose with aromas of black cherry compote. 

Palate

The palate is nicely balanced with an exciting, savoury streak provided by ripe, tasty tannins.

Production

An unique take on Pinot Noir from two growers' plantings in the sun drenched vineyards of the Southern Languedoc. Picked at optimum ripeness, balancing phenolics and acidity then cool vinified to enhance the fresh fruit flavours. No oak was used to keep this wine as pure and sensual as possible.

Specifications

The hills are alive with the sound of music!

Tasting Notes

Aromatic and ripe on the nose. This is a delicious and complete white blend with rounded orchard fruit and green apples, plenty of fleshy texture and a racy, refreshing acidity.

Production

Pneumatic pressing, temperature-controlled fermentation, no finings and minimal filtration all help to preserve pure varietal character of the wine. Here classic varieties Pinot Blanc and Riesling have been blended with the less well-known Sylvaner grape which brings delicacy and satisfying acidity.

Producer

Widely regarded as one of the best co-operatives in the world, Cave de Turckheim lies at the mouth of the Munster Valley. Working closely with 180 partners, its vineyards span the full breadth of Alsatian terroir and grape varieties. Cave de Turckheim only produces wine from the grapes of its member growers, it is a récoltant not a négociant.

Substantial investment in the winery has enabled the team to vinify many parcels of grapes separately, offering Michel Lihrmann (senior winemaker for 25 years) the chance to highlight each wine's nuances in his signature dry, yet fruit forward, style.

Committed to producing the highest quality wines, growers are encouraged to keep yields low - for example, Cave de Turckheim voluntarily caps yields for its Grands Crus vineyards at 45hl/ha rather than the permitted 55hl/ha - and to pick the grapes by hand. This is part of a long term and innovative strategy of sustainability that includes developing the largest holdings of organic vineyards in Alsace, using natural alternatives to chemical treatments, and a green overview of all vineyard practices. Alongside some great organic wines, the extensive range runs from the excellent value Tradition wines right through to individual Grand Cru bottlings, plus fantastic Crémants d’Alsace and Vendange Tardive dessert wines.

Sustainability

An awareness of social and environmental concerns has always been high on the agenda for the Cave de Turckheim’s growers. They were among the first in France to practice integrated agriculture, an approach that combines the best of modern tools and technologies with traditional practices, lowering the consumption of energy and other resources, reducing environmental pollution, conserving biodiversity and promoting sustainability. In 2014, all the members of the co-operative obtained Agri Confiance Volet Vert (Green Section) certification and in 2015, they all obtained High Environmental Value Level 2 certification. The growers are aiming for HVE Level 3 certification in late 2019.

In 2008, a number of growers decided to commit to the rigorous standards of organic viticulture. As part of Alliance Alsace, approximately 70 hectares of vines are now cultivated organically, having obtained organic certification in 2011, with a further 30 hectares in transition. These vignerons have revived ancestral practices, tilling the soil and undertaking work that facilitates the elimination of weeds and the combat against the two major diseases: powdery mildew which is tackled with sulphur and mildew which is treated with copper sulphate. Natural fertilisers are also used (nettle, horsetail, comfrey, and dandelion), fortifying the vines and increasing their natural resistance. Organic winegrowers meticulously observe their vines, enabling them to intervene in the right place and at the right time, rather than treating the plants systematically.

Turckheim’s commitment to the environment extends to the winery where it strives to conserve natural resources. Sorting waste for recycling, reducing its carbon footprint, using solar panels, and preventing pollution are just some examples of how environmental considerations are present in every aspect of its daily work. Committed to both the environment and its customers, Cave de Turckheim also plays an important role in the local economy.

Specifications

A classic Vouvray, full of flavour and style.

Tasting Notes

Pale straw in colour, with distinctive stone fruit aromas of apricot and peach with a touch of honey. The fruit flavours follow through on the palate with a touch of minerality, leaving a delicate and lingering finish.

Producer

Formed in 1973, Pierre Chainier is both a négociant and the owner of some 250 hectares of vines in the heart of Touraine, from which it sources classic Loire varieties. Its eight Touraine estates include Domaine de la Bruyère in the newly established appellation of Touraine-Chenonceaux. Conversely, Clos de Nouys, its 25 acre Vouvray estate, is one of the oldest in the appellation. Here, vines average 35 years of age in vineyards that were already listed amongst the best sites on geological maps dating from 1907.

Note on Sustainability

For both its négociant arm and its own vineyards, Pierre Chainier seamlessly blends the principles of reasoned agriculture with the most modern winemaking techniques. It encourages sustainable development and official certification for its growers, it uses sugar cane-derived biodegradable “corks”, and it has a comprehensive waste recycling programme.

Specifications

Utterly luscious - fine, balanced and exceptional value

Tasting Notes

A fabulous dessert wine, sweet and luscious with a great backbone of fine acidity for a clean finish. The nose is fresh with classic botrytis marmalade and ripe nectarine. Flavours on the palate are richer: honey with a finishing twist of bitter orange.

Production

Vineyards are based in the heart of Perigord, near Bergerac along the valley of the Dordogne river. Here, on the river slopes, there is a particular micro-climate which favours the development of the botrytis necessary to make this style of sweet wine. Vines average 25 years of age. Grapes are hand harvested at a very late stage of maturity, in three successive 'triage', to ensure that only the most mature grapes are picked. Grapes are harvested in October and November. Grapes are gently put into a pneumatic press and the juice is transferred to temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks. After fermentation, the wine is matured for 24 months.

Producer

Located in Pomport near Bergerac, in the heart of Périgord, Domaine de Grange Neuve belongs to the Pichon and Castaing families, and it has grown from being a small farm with just 4 hectares of vines in 1898 to a vineyard of 70 hectares today. Dedicated to making wine that respects tradition while not neglecting technological advances, both in the cultivation of vines and in winemaking techniques, today the property is still run by three generations of the same family. The vineyard consists of approximately 26 hectares of red grape vines (Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon), and 44 hectares of white (Sémillon, Muscadelle and Sauvignon Blanc), the average age of which is 25 years.

Sustainability

Domaine de Grange Neuve is constantly working to implement practices that preserve the environment and have a positive impact on climate change, and sustainable development is one of their major concerns. The estate has been certified HVE Level 3 since 2012, regarding this course of action to be wider reaching and of greater impact than “mere” organic practices as it evaluates their impact upon a broader range of environmental issues.

Grange Neuve goes much further than required by the HVE certification, having its own biological water treatment facility, a machinery hangar with a roof covered in solar panels to generate its own clean electricity and a comprehensive waste management strategy - it is a member of the Adelphe programme, it uses eco-packaging and recycles as much of its waste packaging as possible, it uses a minimum amount of consumables, and it uses eco-friendly cleaning products.

Specifications

 Crisp & zesty style, light & fresh with hints of rich, tropical fruit, plenty of body, some richness and some complexity. There's an awful lot to like here and it's pretty addictive!

Grillo grapes are grown in the top white grape producing area around Marsala.

Tasting Notes

Colour

Nose

Palate

Specifications

The inaugural Prosecco Rosé - Fontessa has an appealing balance of delicate berry fruit, bright acidity and a refreshing mousse.

Tasting Notes

A fresh and delicately fruity Prosecco Rosé with red berry and floral aromas. Lively on the palate with ripe strawberry and raspberry notes and a clean, refreshing finish.

Production

From selected parcels of Glera grapes grown northeast of Treviso, and with the addition on 10% Pinot Noir, also from the DOC region, to give colour and flavour. Hand-harvested at optimum ripeness to give the required balance between aromatics and good acidity. Gentle pneumatic pressing followed by slow, cool fermentation in stainless steel. Second fermentation takes place in pressure tanks, where the wine spends 2 months on lees.

Specifications

A brilliant all-occasion wine & one of the purest expressions of Vermentino you’ll find

Tasting Notes

Colour

A strikingly clear pale-yellow colour

Nose

An intense nose of wild citrus and pineapple

Palate

A very refreshing wine with a pleasant acidity. A very crisp, light and flavourful white wine.

The Varietal

Vermentino is a grape primarily found in Italy, which makes this particular bottle of Vermentino from France something worthwhile. Elicio Vermentino comes from the Mediterranean IGP wine region, which consists of land on the southeast coast of France and encompasses parts of the famed Provence and Rhone Valley winemaking regions. An IGP is one of three ways a winemaking region can be named in France that indicates quality and can be found on the label of any wine coming from France.

This is the kind of wine that can accompany you while thinking, reading, writing, or late night working. It’s easy-drinking, doesn't need food, and is relatively low in alcohol. 

Specifications.

The Can Macià estate near Odena is more inland than Sant Sadurni d'Anoia - with a more continental climate. This means more marked differences between day and night temperatures, causing the grapes to ripen later. At Odena the harvest occurs around two weeks after Sant Sadurni - the extra time spent on the vine, combined with excellent quality fruit from the mature vines on this estate, produces elegant and complex Cavas with crisp acidity.

Tasting Notes 

White fruit and citrus aromas lead onto a complex palate with green apple, stone fruit and a touch of white spice. Bubbles are fine and persistent through to the long finish and gentle savoury twist.

Production Method

A classic blend of Macabeo, Parellada and Xarel-lo - from 35 hectares of vines cultivated on the Can Macia estate, in the Anoia river basin near Odena. Made using the traditional Cava method - the wine is matured for an extended period of 24 months before disgorgement to enhance the complex, fruity aromas.

Producer

The Can Macià estate in Odena - around 50km north west of Barcelona and just 10km from the foothills of Montserrat - dates back 800 years and still belongs to the same family, of which Jordi Casanovas Bohigas is a direct descendant. He, together with his daughter Maria Casanovas Giró, run the winery and estate.

Cava is king here. Mas Macià's first Cava was released in 1936, but much of its production was still sold to other Catalan producers. However, investment in the cellars in 2000 led to renewed emphasis on high quality estate-bottled wines, both sparkling and still.

The Can Macià estate has over 35 hectares of vineyard, along with forests and wheat fields. The family also owns the 54 hectare Can Batllevell estate in Gelida (half-way between Odena and Barcelona) where its limestone soils and Mediterranean climate lead to early-maturing grapes. These estates combined mean that the family has access to Macabeo, Xarel-lo, Parellada, Garnatxa Blanca, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon - with some vines over 50 years old.

At 450m in altitude, the estate is the second highest winery in the region and at the very limit of Cava production.

Sustainability

Mas Macià’s vineyards are now certified organic and the Bohigas family is planning to produce organic still wines initially before focussing upon organic Cava production.

Specifications

Tasting Notes

Bouncy, crunchy Gamay, this is an irresistible fruit bomb packed with fresh, primary fruit aromas and the delicious soft red berry flavours of gorgeous Gamay at its best.

Production Method

Gamay loves the granite/siliceous soils of the vineyards in the hills to the northwest of Lyon in eastern France. Grapes were hand-picked deliberately early to maintain freshness. In the cellar, they are vinified using traditional carbonic maceration techniques (where fermentation is started by the weight of berries in the vat, crushing those below) followed by a short cuvasion to maintain the up-front, juicy fruit character.

Producer

Like all good stories, that of Boutinot France is both long and a little bit complicated! Boutinot began as a tiny importer in 1980, specialising in French wines. Paul Boutinot himself began by personally selecting the wines from France, back in the UK he would unload the trailer by hand. And deliver the crates of wines to customers himself. But good things grow and by the end of the decade we had become a bigger and better company. A company that not only sought out great wines but made them too. After 10 years later, Boutinot France started in January 1990. The first office was in the middle of the vines in Julienas; perfectly located to navigate the Beaujolais and Macon regions on the quest to make beautiful wines.

Samantha Bailey, who started as a wine enthusiast, was there at the beginning of this adventure. Since then, she has grown into our Master Blender and has key responsibilities: building long-standing relationships, tasting, understanding the terroir and appellations, and pushing the boundaries. She is at the heart of the whole process from blending to quality assessment, making sure there is always a Boutinot touch in every cuvée. We are proud to also count Guillaume Letang and Julien Dugas in our winemaking team. Guillaume oversees the South of France and Languedoc, whilst Julien looks after our property in Cairanne. Together they have the local knowledge to select and blend the very best wines from throughout. Eric Monnin oversees every aspect of production and makes sure everything our winemakers blend and source is top quality.

Today, Boutinot’s French office has recently relocated to Macon, and has over 20 employees who take care of production across the whole of France, covering fresh whites and rosés from Gascony, mineral wines from Burgundy, and joyful varietal wines from Languedoc among others. We don’t use any single model to source our wines; instead, a combination of sources are used, from large-scale, high-quality co-ops to small, family growers and single domaines, as well as our own vineyards in Cairanne and Saint-Vérand. Drawing on the expertise of our four winemakers and a network of partner growers, we seek to deliver the highest quality-to-price ratio possible for every wine.

Alan's Personal Tasting Notes

"Another delight. Medium to full-bodied with lovely ripe fruit, some spiciness, and a silky smoothness that lets the flavour linger and makes this a long-lasting mouthful. Got the weight and length of a much more expensive wine than it is. Delicious and keeps on giving until the last drop! Paired beautifully with our Venison Steaks." Tasted February 2024

Specifications

Cicada takes its name from the famed ‘singing cicadas’ of Provence and  this is a lively, fruit-forward red from the Southern Rhône.

Tasting Notes

Fresh, ripe red berries with a bit of forest floor. Yummy, ripe red and black cherries, a pinch of spice and some softly, boisterous tannins. Lovely balancing acidity completes the picture.

Producer

Domaine Chante Cigale is located within the village of Châteauneuf-du-Pape and has been owned by the Sabon Favier family for several generations. Consisting of 41 hectares, the domaine benefits from old vines, some of which are veritably ancient at over 100 years old. Alexandre Favier took over from his father, Christian, and is part of a new wave of producers in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, combining modern technical expertise with time-honoured winemaking practices.

Alexandre is lauded by notable journalists including Steve Danzier and Jancis Robinson for his deftly-made and reasonably-priced wines. Domaine Chante Cigale has also built a reputation for specialising in white wines, of which they produce more than any other estate in the appellation.

Production

Alex Favier sources the grapes for his IGPs from land the family owns in the Vaucluse; grapes for this come from 2 lieu-dits in Travaillan to the west of Gigondas – La Marteillère with clay soil for the Grenache & L’Hers on limestone for the Carignan, vines are 30 years old. Hand-harvested and de-stemmed, short maceration in concrete for the Grenache plus aging in 5 yr old Burgundy barrels for the Carignan to round out the tannins.

Sustainability

As you might expect from someone born and raised on an estate named after singing cicadas, Alexandre Favier keenly promotes the biodiversity of his vineyards. He is very conscious of his role as guardian of his land for future generations and Chante Cigale is currently in conversion to full organic status.

Produced from low-yielding Xarel-lo bush vines from one of Catalunya's most interesting indigenous varieties.

Tasting Notes

Nose

Aromas of ripe apple, flint and citrus fruit. 

Palate

The palate is bright and light-bodied, with ripe lemon acidity, stone fruit and a gently textural finish.

Production Method

Grapes are sourced from 35ha of vines cultivated on the Can Macia estate, near the Anoia river basin, near Odena. These low-yielding bush-trained vines are well suited to the production of still wine. The old vine Xarel-lo undergoes temperature controlled fermentation, and is kept on the lees for 4 months to give added texture.

The Estate

At 450m in altitude, the estate is the second-highest winery in the region and at the very limit of Cava production. Some of their vines are over 50 years old.

Mas Macià’s vineyards are now certified organic and the Bohigas family is planning to produce organic still wines initially before focusing upon organic Cava production.

Awards

• Silver at the 2020 Sommelier Wine Awards (2019 Vintage)

Specifications

A traditional sweet style produced from the Grasparossa grape - widely considered to be the highest quality of the Lambrusco varieties, with thicker skin and ripe tannins. It has lashings of vibrant cherry and berry fruit.

Tasting Notes

Dark ruby red in colour with intense aromas of plum and ripe black cherry. The palate is fresh and vibrant with pure crushed black fruits balanced by fresh acidity and a touch of sweetness. The finish is clean and bright with a nip of tannin.

Production

The Lambrusco Grasparossa grapes are sourced from sandy-clay vineyards in the Castelvetro region south of Modena. Made using the Charmat method, with its second fermentation in tank.

Producer

This new range of high quality Lambrusco is a partnership between the Soliera cooperative and Medici Ermete, one of the most influential producers in the renaissance of ‘proper’ Lambrusco. Cantina di Soliera, with 422 member growers and a 40 year tradition of Lambrusco production, is situated in the heart of the Lambrusco di Sorbara zone north of Modena and is the DOC’s largest producer. The alluvial soils here are ideal for the cultivation of the low yielding Sorbara variety, the mixture of sand and clay produces wines which balance elegance and structure and are regarded by many as the finest Lambrusco. Grapes for the Cantina di Soliera range come from 20 ha of selected ‘cru’ vineyards here and in the neighbouring Grasparossa di Castelvetro DOC.

The Lambrusco family of grapes (there are many varieties, once numbered at 56) is thought to be one of the oldest in Italy and is predominantly found in Emilia-Romagna. Today the focus is on a handful of varieties, and Cantina di Soliera specialise in Lambrusco di Sorbara and Lambrusco Grasparossa, the most important of the 5 Lambrusco DOC’s in terms of quality. The former produces light, elegant, floral wines, while Grasparossa typically gives deeply coloured, weightier and more structured wines. Both make fantastic food wines – the delicate Sorbara with cold meats and seafood, the richer Grasparossa a perfect match for fatty sausages, charcuterie, tomato-based pasta dishes and cheeses.

Sustainability

Specifications

A richly flavoured yet very proper Sauvignon Blanc from a single Domaine in the south of France.

Tasting Notes

A wonderfully sunny style of Sauvignon Blanc, broad and quite tropical with delicate smokey notes, ripe citrus acidity and a richly-textured finish

Production

Domaine de Vedilhan (pronounced 'Domaine de Ved-ee-ohn') is the estate of the Fayet family based in the village of Moussan, close to Narbonne. Uniquely, a brook runs around the estate which provides much needed water in this very hot climate, giving the wines their freshness and appeal. Vines are managed using the 'lutte raisonnée' method and terroir is a combination of limestone, sand and sea shale, meaning the vines dig deep for their nutrients and thus produce excellent quality grapes. 50% of the production from this Domaine is used for Boutinot wines. Since 1999, our winemakers have been working closely with the Fayets on all aspects of the production, from when to harvest to the exact blend or style of wines.

Producer

Like all good stories, that of Boutinot France is both long and a little bit complicated! Boutinot began as a tiny importer in 1980, specialising in French wines. Paul Boutinot himself began by personally selecting the wines from France, back in the UK he would unload the trailer by hand. And deliver the crates of wines to customers himself. But good things grow and by the end of the decade we had become a bigger and better company. A company that not only sought out great wines but made them too. After 10 years later, Boutinot France started in January 1990. The first office was in the middle of the vines in Julienas; perfectly located to navigate the Beaujolais and Macon regions on the quest to make beautiful wines.

Samantha Bailey, who started as a wine enthusiast, was there at the beginning of this adventure. Since then, she has grown into our Master Blender and has key responsibilities: building long-standing relationships, tasting, understanding the terroir and appellations, and pushing the boundaries. She is at the heart of the whole process from blending to quality assessment, making sure there is always a Boutinot touch in every cuvée. We are proud to also count Guillaume Letang and Julien Dugas in our winemaking team. Guillaume oversees the South of France and Languedoc, whilst Julien looks after our property in Cairanne. Together they have the local knowledge to select and blend the very best wines from throughout. Eric Monnin oversees every aspect of production and makes sure everything our winemakers blend and source is top quality.

Alan's Personal Tasting Notes

"Single domaine Sauv Blanc from the South of France. More depth, complexity and texture than Bellefontaine - but with the same citric acidity and ripe fruit flavours. A good step up from Bellefontaine and bang on the money at under a tenner." Tasted June 2024

Specifications

Specifications

Light, elegant with plenty of summer-pudding red berry fruit. Light oak adds weight and concentration. The vibrant violet, cherry fruit is typical of good Tempranillo Rioja.

Tasting Notes

Colour

Red colour with blackish tones

Nose

Good intensity, fresh, floral and red berries.

Taste

Medium body, easy drinking, fruity and fresh with mouth-watering acidity.

Producer

Santiago Ijalba has been making wines for over half a century and founded Bodegas Santalba (a fusion of his first and last name) in 1964. Joined by his son Roberto and daughter Laura over the last decade, Roberto concentrates his wine making expertise on the more modern styles, while Laura focuses her attentions on the marketing side, making Bodegas Santalba a real family affair. 

Specifications

This appealing north Italian organic sparkler, produced from 100% Pinot Noir, has layers of honeyed fruit and toasty character.

Tasting Notes

Nose

Aromas of lemon and brioche with lightly toasty notes.

Palate

The palate is fresh and dry, with citrus and apple characters balanced by crisp acidity. The wine has a fine and persistent mousse with honeyed fruit on the long finish.

Production

Produced from a selection of estate-grown grapes in Casteggio and Calvignano - where the Pinot Noir vines are planted on south-westerly facing hillside sites (around 300m altitude), in chalky clay soils. The wine is then produced according to the Charmat method, with second fermentation in tank.

Producer

Castel del Lupo, in the heart of Oltrepò Pavese, dates back centuries - and includes the eighteenth-century Palazzo Pegazzera. In 1974 three entrepreneurs took over this historic estate and began a regeneration process. Giovanni Doglio, whose father and grandfather were both Piemontese winemakers, has over 40 years of experience managing wineries. Recently joined by his daughter Federica, he has worked tirelessly to develop the estate. They have purchased more vineyards (to cover 100ha at around 300m altitude), planted new vines and built a new cellar. The vineyards are now certified organic. The winery's main focus is high-quality bottle-fermented sparkling wine, and much of the vineyard is planted with Pinot Noir for this purpose. However, these vines are also the source of fine still red wines.

A Note on Sustainability

Led by Giovanni Doglio since 1974, the team at Castel del Lupo is very keen to honour the long heritage of its estate which existed even before its inclusion on a map of the region in 1301. All of Castel del Lupos grapes are estate grown and the 100-hectare property is now fully certified organic to maintain the integrity of the environment, the ecosystem and soil fertility without resorting to artificial substances at any stage of the production processes.

Specifications

A vibrant and expressive Vermentino from Sicily's west coast, where many of the vineyards face the sea to benefit from light reflected from the waves. It's named after the delicate white flower of the lemon tree.

Tasting Notes

Nose

Ripe stone fruit aromas with preserved lemon characters and floral notes. 

Palate

The palate has apricot, citrus peel and grapefruit pith, an appealing texture and minerality, fresh acidity and a gently savoury finish.

Production

Vermentino thrives near the sea, such as on Sicily's west coast where these grapes are cultivated - also the source of some of the island's best Grillo. Fermentation is in temperature controlled stainless steel tanks followed by a short period on fine lees.

Producer

Established in 2003, Adria Vini is a winemaking venture jointly owned by Boutinot and Araldica Castelvero, the leading co-operative in the Monferrato hills of Piemonte. Our aim is to produce authentic, well-priced still and sparkling wines from local grape varieties. All aspects of production, from grape selection through to vinification, maturation, blending and bottling are meticulously overseen by Araldica's winemaking team of Claudio Manera and Lella Burdese - assisted by Boutinot's Tony Brown MW. We source from a range of private growers and cooperatives, with whom we have long term relationships, principally in Veneto, Friuli, Lombardy, Sicily, Puglia, Abruzzo and Sardinia.

Alan's Personal Tasting Note

"More expressive and attractive than I was expecting from a wee cheapie. Lovely citric and peach fruits - a wee touch of creaminess and a slight salinity on the finish.  Dry, medium bodied and very attractive for the price!"

"What 3 wine words? Dry, fruity, attractive"  September 2024

Specifications.

This is an approachable and unoaked style of Primitive with bright acidity.

Tasting Notes

Palate

Specifications

This is a fabulous introduction to the white wine of the Rhone Valley. Made up predominantly of Grenache Blanc, picked early to capture aromas such as citrus fruits and exotic fruits. Viognier and Clairette bring their complexity with touches of peaches and white flowers. The wine has wonderful complexity with excellent freshness and length.

Tasting Notes 

Only 7 miles along the road from Châteauneuf-du-Pape but not as well known globally so represents much better value!

Tasting Notes 

Only 7 miles along the road from Châteauneuf-du-Pape but not as well known globally so represents much better value!

Tasting Notes