Meeting 1: 4th October
Chablis Moillard-Thomas 2023 12.5%
Chablis region Burgundy, Northern France
Not much changes in the centuries-old vineyards of Burgundy, but that hasn’t stopped Moillard-Thomas from finding ways to innovate. One of the region’s oldest wine merchants, they respect the heritage of the land and its world-class grapes while using modern winemaking methods. For their Chablis, that means swift pressing after harvest and fermentation in thermo-regulated stainless steel vats. The result is a wine with complexity, minerality and fresh aromas of white-stone fruits and citrus. It’s already drinking well, but could continue to age well for a few more years. A natural match for oysters, sushi or goat’s cheese. In 2022, this wine won an IWC award for the 2021 vintage.
Grape Chardonnay
Style Fresh & Elegant
The Oath Chardonnay 12.5%
Barrossa Valley, North of Adelaide…similar to Jim Barry red
The Oath, crafted with over 100 years of winemaking heritage, guarantees excellence in every detail. From the padlock on the label to the keyhole on the lid, the design symbolises this unbreakable commitment to craftsmanship. For this range, our Australian buyer, Jonathan Tiffany, partnered with the iconic Chateau Tanunda, a Barossa estate with more than 130 years of winemaking tradition. Known for blending traditional techniques with modern innovation and minimal intervention, Chateau Tanunda allows the unique character of each vineyard to shine through. Their head winemaker, recognized as a ‘Top 100 Master Winemaker’ by Drinks Business Magazine UK in 2020 and 2022, is truly among the best in the country. This is no ordinary Chardonnay. Delve into honeyed layers of peach and melon, balanced by fresh citrus. A touch of oak spice adds extra complexity and it is especially wonderful when paired with roast chicken or creamy pasta dishes.
Jim Barry The Lodge Hill Shiraz 2021 14%
Clare Valley north of Adelaide in South Australia
Clare Valley has a relatively cool climate. It results in reds that are more elegant and fresh than those in many other Australian regions. And this Shiraz epitomises that style. It’s made by the famous Jim Barry winery. So you can be sure of its excellence. Expect notes of blackcurrant, boysenberry, violets and a hint of fresh menthol. Delicious with meaty seared tuna.
Aroma: Perfectly ripe black plum and forest berry compote, with hints of pepper, spice, and a touch of sweet-cured meat on the nose.
Palate: The palate is coiled and purposeful on entry and feels like it wants to explode. With a satin flow, a bright core of berry fruits and hints of spicy oak, this a very moreish wine.
Chateau Guiot Costieres de Nimes 2023
North of Montpellier/Marseille in South of France: Languedoc, Blend of Grenache & Syrah
Costières de Nîmes has more in common with the Rhône across the river than it does with the wines of Languedoc immediately neighbouring it. Château Guiot lies just outside the city of Nîmes, in the heart of this appellation. Owned by Cornut family since 1976, following in their parents’ footsteps twins Alexis and Numa take care of the 65 hectare organic vineyard; focusing on wines that express the exceptional terroir. This blend of Grenache and Syrah is typical of the region. Here’s how it tastes: Deep, herby aromas with lashings of juicy forest fruits and spicy, rich berry flavours on the palate. A great crowd-pleaser and extremely versatile for foodie pairings – fabulous with rich, meaty dishes or charcuterie and cheeses.
