Author: thegrapewizard

I'm currently in the Wine Industry, loving every minute of it, experiencing enriching journeys and tasting some fabulous wines along the way !!

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English Vineyards WINE REVIEW

2022 Foxford Vineyard Classic Brut

Grapes : Chardonnay, Pinot Noir & Pinot Meunier

Every vineyard has a beginning. Some are centuries old, layered with history and tradition. Take Persia (or Iran ) with Shiraz, Carméneré with Bordeaux. Others — like Foxford — are part of a newer, more dynamic chapter in English wine. This is what makes the adventure and journey through wine so enriching.

Foxford Vineyard began in 2019, when Nick and Mary Hill acquired a plot of land in Hampshire’s Test Valley. This move was due to the owners see Hampshire as a emerging area for sparkling wine. Due to its cool climate location and a long ripening season AS well as similar soils to that of Champagne.

Having Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier you can see where comparisons emerge.

But buying land is one thing. Understanding it is another.

The Foxford site sits on sandstone with free-draining sandy loam soils. Allowing vines to struggle — allowing concentration, balance and character in the fruit. Add this to a south-facing aspect, (max sunlight) and you begin to see the intent behind the project. This wasn’t guesswork — it was quiet precision from the outset.

Planting followed in 2020, with around 8,500 vines spread across 2 hectares or 2 Twickenham rugby pitches.

But what defines Foxford isn’t just what was planted — it’s how it’s farmed. Hands-on means pruning, training, canopy management by the owners themselves- like so many small vineyards in the UK. Total control ! At harvest, grapes are hand-picked with local teams, reinforcing that sense of community and careful selection over efficiency.

The first real milestone came with the 2022 harvest — Foxford’s maiden vintage. But as with all serious sparkling wine, patience is part of the story. These wines were not rushed to market. Instead, they were left to develop on lees, building texture, complexity and depth before release.That patience is important as it defines you : the first release of Foxford wines was in 2025 marking the vineyard’s first steps onto the UK wine stage.

Foxford is a modern English vineyard, built from scratch doing the right thing first time at the right time. All too often, producers rush and end up with wine of no real style or character. Small scale, terroir-driven and focused on quality from day one is the key if you want niche market and consumer loyalty.

Develop when you want how you want and what you want.

English sparkling wine has, in recent years shifted from curiosity to credibility. Hampshire is firmly on the map. In many ways, Foxford represents the new England: not experimental, not accidental — but deliberate, informed and quietly confident.

What it Tastes like

2022 Foxford Vineyard Classic Brut

A first release of any wine always sets the tone, defines intent of the winemaker and quietly tells you what the vineyard is capable of. Foxford’s Classic Brut 2022 does exactly that. This is English sparkling with clarity, balance and a sense of purpose — not trying too hard, just getting it right. Although this was a bottle sent from the owners it is potentially a wine that I will have on my website. What do I need for my portfolio, is it different from other in the market and will it be consumer friendly. Well..

Appearance

Bright pale gold and lively bubbles – a very good start! Very clean and a brightness that shows a sign towards careful winemaking.

Aroma

Fresh and focused. Green apple and lemon zest on the nose. Additional notes of white peach and pear soften the experience. Add a touch of biscuit and fresh bread from lees ageing and you have an elegant English sparkling wine. This sparkler has a lot to offer and marries a lot of characteristics wonderfully.

Palate

Crisp, energetic and beautifully balanced. The palate opens with citrus drive — lemon, grapefruit and green apple ending with soft orchard fruit. A touch of creaminess and brioche. The mousse is smooth with refreshing acidity – just what you want with the food pairing

A very versatile wine and would pair well with Oysters, crab and shellfish, grilled sea bass or cod or light chicken dishes with herbs

First Release – Why It Matters

The 2022 “Classic” is Foxford Vineyard’s debut vintage, produced in small quantities from Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. Crafted using the traditional method and aged over two years on lees, it represents a clear statement of intent: quality over quantity, precision over excess.

First releases are always telling — and here, Foxford shows it understands balance, restraint and drinkability from the outset. This isn’t just a starting point; it’s a very confident introduction.

Gets my seal of approval and a wish list on my site 5*

GW Conclusion : When you look at the vineyard and its sole wine you think sure this is super small scale. Yes it has the 3 champagne grapes needed for crispness, freshness ; complexity and depth and also rusticness. If you like 100% Pinot meunier this Sparkling wine is probably not for you. If you love Blanc de Noirs then this one may not also not be for you. But if you love the champagne grapes in equal measures ( the majority of Champagnes). Then i think you’ll love this one.

Support British and you may just have to compare sparkling wine from the UK with its Champagne neighbours. Now thats a difficult task indeed !

Available on their website £32 a bottle or £170 for 6 ( saving of £22)

Foxford Winery website

DM me for more info Contact Me !

A circular seal featuring a seal balancing on a drum, with the text 'SEAL OF APPROVAL' around the edge.
I love it !

Stay tuned for vineyard visits and insights from the vineyard .

Categories
Savoie WINE REVIEW

Exploring Rare Mondeuse Blanche Wines in Brittany

Vignoble Perceval – Vin des Allobroges

So here I am just with a week’s holiday, not too far away from the suburbs of SW18 but far enough away from the whistle of the Monday-Friday commuters. A short trip over the channel and I’m in Brittany. A place not normally on my radar, till now but certainly one that won’t go unnoticed from now on.

Very British in climate but very agri-cultural when it comes to behavious. Bagette shops are packed out till 11 am , ladies meet up outside the shops and chat like they havnt seen each other in years and here in rural Brittany Uk number plates raise an eyebrow and a quizzical look! Still they do have supermarkets Super U (tesco-esque) U express ( Sainsburys) and Leclerc (Waitrose-esque). Leclerc seemed to be a destination shopping spree as everything seemed premium looking.

Display of fresh seafood including crabs and shrimp on ice in a market stall, with wicker baskets and signage.
Live rock crabs
A display of freshly harvested oysters labeled as 'HUITRES CREUSES DE PAIMPOL N°3' priced at €9.95 per kilogram, with a promotional sign highlighting 'MAGALLANA GIGAS élevées en Bretagne.'
Dangerously delicious oysters
A display of assorted fish on ice at a seafood counter, featuring price tags for barbecued fish, red mullet, trout portions, and sardines. A promotional sign is visible.
Super fresh fish

Ultimately I ended up in the wine and spirits aisle and looking for something different, but something that would complement Chicken or Tartiflette (A local Brittany dish influenced by Daphnenoise Potatoes)

A bottle of 'Vin des Allobroges' Mondeuse Blanche wine next to a filled glass on a wooden table, with a cozy stone wall and a fireplace in the background.
€9 @ Leclerc.

So for the princely sum of €9 and for a wine that is undiscovered, that is rare and will appeal to most consumers palete. For me this was a first and great to see ‘Multiples’ going Local grown locally sourced – Unlike UK. A great lesson to be learnt here !

Indeed Leclerc has built a strong reputation for championing French producers, particularly those from lesser-known regions such as Savoie. By listing a wine made from Mondeuse Blanche, the retailer not only supports small-scale, heritage-driven viticulture but also differentiates its wine offering from competitors. This exclusivity can drive curiosity and engagement in-store, encouraging customers to explore and trade up within the category.

Additionally, there is a growing consumer appetite for “hidden gem” wines — authentic, limited-production bottles with a sense of place. Mondeuse Blanche, with its alpine origins and microscopic plantings, fits this trend perfectly. Its freshness, food-friendly profile and link to French wine history (as a parent of Syrah) further enhance its appeal.

Ultimately, for Leclerc, stocking Mondeuse Blanche is not just about selling wine—it’s about offering discovery, provenance and a uniquely French narrative at an accessible price point.

Tasting notes

Mondeuse blanche is a variety of white grape almost exclusively found in and around the Savoy (Savoie) wine region in France. With just 5 hectares (12 acres) OR 12 Twickenham rugby pitches of plantations in 1999, it is surviving by ‘the skin of it’s teeth’ and mainly seen 2nd highest rating of categorization below AOC and above Table wine. Also seen in AOC Vin de Savoie.

Related grapes

Some studies have suggested that Mondeuse blanche is a parent of Syrah.

Mondeuse blanche is not closely related to Mondeuse noire, or Mondeuse gris.

Grapes just called Mondeuse are usually Mondeuse noire rather than Mondeuse blanche.

In the 20th century, ampelographers Louis Levadoux and (decades later) Linda Bisson categorized Mondeuse blanche as a member of the Peloursin eco-geogroup along with other less consumer friendly grapes like – Bia blanc, Béclan, Dureza, Exbrayat, Durif, Jacquère, Joubertin, Peloursin, Servanin and Verdesse.

In other words…. its called

Synonyms include Aigre blanc, Blanc Aigre, Blanche, Blanchette, Couilleri, Dongine, Donjin, Jongin, Jonvin, Molette, Persagne, Savouette.

Appearance
Pale lemon with a subtle golden tint, bright and crystalline. There’s a gentle viscosity in the glass, hinting at both ripeness and the grape’s natural structure.

Aroma
Delicate yet intriguingly layered. The nose opens with white orchard fruits—pear, apple and mirabelle plum—alongside soft apricot and peach tones. Floral notes of acacia and hawthorn drift through, supported by a subtle alpine freshness. With air, a faint herbal nuance and a light stony minerality emerge, reflecting its mountain origins.

Palate
Fresh, textured and quietly powerful. The palate delivers crisp orchard fruit—green apple, pear and citrus—balanced by a firm, linear acidity that is a hallmark of the variety. There’s a gentle weight through the mid-palate, with hints of stone fruit and a lightly honeyed edge developing. The finish is long, mineral-driven and faintly saline, with a touch of grip that adds structure and ageing potential. A refined, characterful expression of a rare Alpine grape.

Food Pairing
A superb match for alpine and delicate dishes. Pair with freshwater fish such as trout, fondue or raclette, and soft mountain cheeses like Tomme de Savoie. It also works beautifully with roast chicken, veal in a light cream sauce, or herb-led vegetarian dishes where its acidity and subtle richness shine.

Interesting Facts – Mondeuse Blanche

  • Mondeuse Blanche is an ancient and rare grape native to Savoie.
  • Despite its name, it is not a white mutation of Mondeuse Noire, but a completely distinct variety.
  • It is historically significant as one of the parent grapes of Syrah, making it genetically linked to one of the world’s most important varieties.
  • Wines made from it are known for high acidity and ageing potential, sometimes capable of developing over decades.
  • The grape nearly disappeared in the 20th century and is now considered a revived heritage variety, championed by a small number of producers.

World Planting Area of Mondeuse Blanche

Mondeuse Blanche is one of the rarest commercial grape varieties in the world:

  • France (primarily Savoie): ~8 hectares (2018)
  • 5 hectares globally (late 1990s)
  • Other estimates suggest just 5–10 hectares worldwide depending on vintage and replanting efforts

Summary:
Total global plantings remain well under 10 hectares, making Mondeuse Blanche an exceptionally rare and niche grape—truly a connoisseur’s discovery.

Stocking Mondeuse Blanche would align perfectly with the evolving retail strategy of E.Leclerc, which has increasingly focused on authenticity, regional identity and value-driven discovery. As one of the rarest indigenous grape varieties in France, Mondeuse Blanche offers a compelling story that resonates with modern consumers seeking something beyond mainstream varietals like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.

Leclerc has built a strong reputation for championing French producers, particularly those from lesser-known regions such as Savoie. By listing a wine made from Mondeuse Blanche, the retailer not only supports small-scale, heritage-driven viticulture but also differentiates its wine offering from competitors. This exclusivity can drive curiosity and engagement in-store, encouraging customers to explore and trade up within the category.

Additionally, there is a growing consumer appetite for “hidden gem” wines—authentic, limited-production bottles with a sense of place. Mondeuse Blanche, with its alpine origins and microscopic plantings, fits this trend perfectly. Its freshness, food-friendly profile and link to French wine history (as a parent of Syrah) further enhance its appeal.

Ultimately, for Leclerc, stocking Mondeuse Blanche is not just about selling wine—it’s about offering discovery, provenance and a uniquely French narrative at an accessible price point.

A circular seal design featuring a seal perched on a drum, with the words 'SEAL OF APPROVAL' encircling the image.
For Me it Gets the GW Seal of Approval

All this for 9 Euros. You just have to discover. This is a great lesson from moving away from your favourites and trying something new. Yes you can get it in the Wildes of Brittany and no you cant get it in Waitrose

BUT

What you can do is next time your hands go for the Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, just look around first and see if anything catches your eye. You might be pleasantly surprised.

Categories
WINE REVIEW

Paso Doblé Brut Blanc de Noir, USA

A bottle of Vargas Brut Blanc de Noir sparkling wine with a glass of sparkling wine beside it, set on a dining table with plates and glasses arranged in the background.

Tasting Notes

To get the colour the 100% Pinot Noir wine is gently pressed and fermented with little skin contact resulting in a pale and elegant appearance. Its white wine made from black grapes (confused ? ) Resulting in a fresh red fruited sparkling wine with elegance

Apperance.

Open the bottles and let the bubbles descend. Pale straw in colour with soft copper reflections, a sign it may be borne from entirely Pinot Noir. Evidence of fine bubbles forms a creamy mousse that lingers. Imagine fresh bright and enticing

Aroma

On the nose think wild strawberry, raspberry, and tart red currant together with green apple and lemon zest, white blossoms and wild rose add a delicate touch. Also enjoy brioche and fresh pastry dough. A touch of salty minerality as well compliments the experience.

Palate

Well balanced – bubbles are creamy and vibrant. The fruit profile echoes the nose with bright red cherry and raspberry, underpinned by crisp citrus and green apple. Brioche and nuttiness evident again – resulting in a clean, zesty, mineral-tinged finish that lingers with a hint of citrus peel and red fruit.

Food pairing: Because of its characteristic the wine makes a perfect companion to Oysters, Shrimp cocktail and Salmon blinis.  Scallops work well as does Sushi. Try with Soft Cheeses

In the Paso Doblé Brut Blanc de Noir, Vino Vargas delivers a sparkling wine that bridges clarity of fruit, textural finesse, and classic method craft — making it both a celebration wine and a deeply enjoyable companion at the table. Unfortunately , due to retirement Vino Vargas is no longer in operation in Paso,USA. But it is important to highlight such an interesting wine and just shows you what you can do with Pinot Noir – If its your grape!

Categories
USA

Vino Vargas – Paso Robles

A vintage white tractor positioned near a wooden barrel and tables, surrounded by green vineyards and a tree with a striped umbrella in a rural setting.
machinery and vineyards
Close-up of lush grapevines with leaves in a vineyard, showcasing green foliage and a rustic trellis.
surrounding vines
Two men standing close together, one resting his arm on the other's shoulder, facing a vineyard with rolling hills in the background. A vintage tractor is situated nearby, and the scene is set outdoors on a sunny day.
well its not just about me !
A view from inside a tractor focusing on a traditional wine grape press in a vineyard setting, with green vines in the background and a clear blue sky.
equipment everywhere to show the winemaking process
Two men talking outside a building with a sign that reads 'VARGAS', one wearing a blue shirt and the other in a red shirt.
such a welcoming guest
Stack of wooden pallets leaning to one side in a vineyard setting with rows of grapevines in the background.
even the mundane can be sexy
A scenic view of a rural landscape featuring rolling hills, a vineyard, and a house in the distance, surrounded by blooming lavender bushes and green trees.
area around the vineyard highlighting the character of the region

ALTHOUGH SADLY CLOSED I FEEL I HAVE TO HIGHLIGHT THIS FABULOUS VINEYARD THAT WAS !

Vino Vargas was a small, family-run winery nestled in the rolling hills of the San Miguel area, just a short drive north of central Paso Robles. When i visited the estate i received a personalised wine experience that was intimate and friendly. Sometimes you can get lost in commercial nature of the business as you get bigger – but the couple running it were fabulous hosts. It was definately a destination for enthusiasts seeking small balche niche wines.

Founded by couple Pedro and Vicky Vargas, the winery grew out of their passion for wine and a desire to share that passion with others.

Pedro applied technical expertise and creative flair to crafting limited-production wines and Vicky brought her deep understanding of food and wine pairing to every guest experience. Working as a symbiotic couple is easier when your married and they certainly did that with terrior and spirit of Paso Robles.

They did have a profile of diverse wines which i guess whas part of their signature brand. By producing a variety of varietals — from crisp whites like Albariño, Chardonnay, and Viognier, to elegant reds including Pinot Noir, Zinfandel, Tempranillo, Grenache and bold Cabernet Sauvignon-based blends they were able to offer more !

Over the years, they have also developed a reputation for sparkling wines, particularly the Paso Doblé series, made in the traditional Méthode Champenoise style. These sparkling wines showcase citrus, red fruit, and floral notes with crisp acidity and a refined finish, and have expanded to include several expressions such as Blanc de Blanc, Rosé, and specialty blanc and noir bottlings.

In addition to still and sparkling wines, Vargas produces Port-style dessert wines — both red and white — which offer rich honeyed aromas and flavors and pair beautifully with desserts like crème brûlée. The white version, called Oro (Spanish for “gold”), is noted for its refreshing balance and aromatic complexity.

Visiting Vino Vargas is designed to be more than just a tasting — it’s a personal encounter with winemaking. The tasting room is open by appointment only, ensuring that each guest receives dedicated attention from the Vargas family themselves. Tastings often take place on the terrace overlooking vineyards and horse pastures, where visitors can soak in panoramic views while learning the stories behind each wine. Vicky often pairs the wines with seasonal charcuterie, cheese, or hand-crafted chocolates to elevate the experience further.

The winery’s rustic setting and relaxed atmosphere had made it a welcome stop for those touring the Paso Robles wine country.

Its location amid open skies and pastoral landscapes creates a sense of retreat from everyday life — ideal for visitors who appreciate quiet elegance and thoughtful winemaking. While Vino Vargas didn’t produce the volume of many of its neighbors, its commitment to quality and hospitality has earned it a dedicated following among locals and travelers alike.

A wine cellar featuring stacked wooden barrels on green and red racks, with a metal wine processing equipment in the background and cardboard boxes on the floor.
small operation but wonderful wines – keeping it niche.

Overall, Vino Vargas represents the boutique spirit of Paso Robles — passionate, personal, and deeply rooted in the land. Whether you’re drawn by the sparkling wines, the expressive reds and whites, or the warm welcome of the Vargas family, it’s a winery that offers both exceptional wine and memorable experiences.

Terroir and Climate:
Paso Robles’ terroir is defined by a combination of climatic influences — warm, sun-soaked days with cool nights due to significant diurnal temperature shifts. This daily swing helps grapes ripen fully while retaining acidity and freshness, which is essential for both crisp white wines and balanced reds.

The nearby Pacific Ocean and Templeton Gap allow cooling breezes and fog to moderate the heat, adding another layer of complexity to how grapes develop.

Soils:
The soils around Vino Vargas and across Paso Robles are remarkably diverse, ranging from calcareous (limestone-rich) soils to sandy, loamy, and rocky marine sedimentary compositions. Particularly on the west side where Vino Vargas sits, calcareous and alkaline soils dominate — these soils have excellent drainage and tend to restrict vine vigor, concentrating flavors in the grapes and helping preserve acidity. This contributes to wines with structure, minerality, and depth.

Vineyard Setting:
The vineyards feeding Vino Vargas’ production are planted in the rolling hills west of Highway 101 (see photos above) where elevation changes and soil variation create micro-sites that expressed different facets of Paso Robles’ terroir. While Vino Vargas itself was a boutique operation that works with grapes from local vineyards its location amidst these hills allows winemaker Pedro Vargas to select fruit that reflects the regional character — ripe fruit flavours balanced by acidity and textural nuance.

Overall Impact on Wine:
The interplay of warm days, cooling nights, diverse soils, and proximity to maritime influence enables a wide array of grape varieties to thrive — from crisp whites like Albariño and Chardonnay to reds like Pinot Noir, Tempranillo, Grenache, and Cabernet Sauvignon. The terroir encourages grapes with deep color, concentrated fruit, and the acidity needed for balanced wines, whether still or sparkling.

In summary, Vino Vargas’ vineyard sources and terroir reflect the broader Paso Robles AVA’s strengths: geological diversity, significant diurnal temperature variation, and soils that stress vines in beneficial ways. These elements combine to produce grapes with expressive flavour, balanced acidity, and structural quality — all of which are hallmarks of the winery’s handcrafted wines

As of January 2026, Vino Vargas — the boutique winery in San Miguel near Paso Robles known for its handcrafted wines and sparkling Paso Doblé — closed. The reason – retirement and who could blame them !

so what did the wine taste like !

As has been mentioned earlier the vineyard is now closed. but as you can see from the range of wines below they did have a lot to offer. What this shows is the diversity of the vineyard and the capabilities of the region to grow such varied grapes. If youve never tried any Paso wines give them a go – try a region , try a new style youll be glad you did.

Sparkling Wines — Paso Doble Collection

Traditional – method sparkling wines, crafted with a second fermentation in bottle (Champagne Method )

  • Paso Doble Sparkling Pinot Noir — a red-fruit-driven sparkling wine that showed deep colour, ripe berries and spice character.
  • Paso Doble Sparkling Viognier Blanc — floral and orchard fruit notes with refreshing acidity.
  • Paso Doble Blanc de Blanc — classic Chardonnay-based Brut with citrus, brioche and fine bubbles.
  • Paso Doble Blanc de Noir — Pinot Noir-based Blanc de Noir with red fruit and crisp structure.
  • Paso Doble Rosé — a rosé sparkler blended from Chardonnay and Pinot Noir with berry-driven aromatics.

Still White & Rosé Wines

  • Albariño — a crisp, floral and refreshing white wine with pear and citrus notes.
  • Chardonnay (often labelled Ole Chardonnay) — balanced styles ranging from stainless ferments to lightly oaked, showing tropical fruit and minerality.
  • Viognier — aromatic and textured, spotlighting stone fruit and floral notes.
  • Rosé wines — typically Grenache-based rosés with strawberry, raspberry and delicate floral hints.

Red Wines

Vino Vargas also sourced from Paso Robles and other California vineyards:

  • Pinot Noir — elegant, lighter-bodied red with bright cherry and earth nuances.
  • Grenache — fruit-forward and spicy, often part of rosé or table red expressions.
  • Tempranillo — structured yet balanced Spanish-style red.
  • Red blends — particularly Grenache-Syrah-Mourvèdre (GSM) styles showcasing layered fruit and savoury spice.
  • Zinfandel — bold berry and spice profile.
  • Malbec, Petite Sirah, Cabernet Sauvignon — richer, fuller-bodied reds with dark fruit and firm structure.

Dessert & Port-Style Wines

  • Red Port-style dessert wine — fortified, rich and jammy, perfect with chocolate or cheese.
  • White Port-style dessert wine (“Oro”) — lighter, honeyed dessert wine with floral notes and citrus freshness.

Pointless talking about appearance aroma and palate if the operation is no longer there but i thought it important to highlight this fabulous vineyard and not to forget it in the ether of Social media

Categories
WINE REVIEW

FOXEN – 2021 SYRAH – USA

Tinaquaic Vineyard & Foxen Winery — A Brief History

Foxen Vineyard is one of Santa Barbara prominent vineyards.
Tinaquaic Vineyard itself is one of Foxen’s original estate sites. But here in the sleepy corner of the Santa Barbara region lies a Syrah who shows off depth, spice and elegant structures To top all of that the wines here lend themself to the hommage of their Côte-Rôtie cousin in the Old World

So what did I make of it …….
 
Foxen 2021 Syrah — Toasted Rope (Tinaquaic Vineyard)


Appearance: In the glass of the 2021 Toasted Rope lies a deep ruby-purple centre, dark as dark. With a touch of garnet on the rim. Some might think it’s 100% Petit Verdot because its so dark – or an enchanted pool looking deeper and deeper into the abyss – but here something is more alluring. Medium body and decent alcohol level.  This wine is a treat to experience.

Aroma: Forest floor fruits (try saying that when your drunk) evident first – complemented by plum and dark cherry. Touches of white pepper, dried herbs. Subtle smoky aroma – This wine is enticing!

Palate: Concentrated dark fruit wrapped in spice and supple tannins. A 15% Viognier pushes up the texture, increases floral notes but dances with smoky, almost roasted notes beneath the fruit. Acidity is balanced and poised with a long finish. This is a “leave me alone in a room listening to vinyl with your headphones on” kind of wine


In short: It’s a grown-up wine. Buy that leather Club chair and sink into it. Let the world drift on ahead of you. This wine is for the moment.

Pair with: Grilled lamb chops, Beef short rib ragu, Smoked duck breast etc.

The GrapeWizard Verdict : The 2021 Foxen Toasted Rope Syrah from Tinaquaic Vineyard is a compelling example of Central Coast Syrah done with purpose and pedigree. It combines bold fruit, peppery spice and floral nuance with balanced tannin and lingering finish, making it one of the standouts in Foxen’s esteemed portfolio of estate single-vineyard wines
Another example of a fabulous Syrah from a region that doesn’t really get a look in . Contact me for more infor about this fabulous wine and other syrahs from my shop

http://www.thegrapewizard.co.uk

Categories
WINE REVIEW

VENTI VENTI VINEYARD

CHANGING THE STYLE AND OPINION OF A REGION IN THE MOST MODERN OF WAYS

Ventiventi Vineyard is a family-owned winery founded and run by the Razzaboni family — specifically the patriarch Vittorio Razzaboni and his sons Riccardo, Andrea and Tommaso.

The family conceived and built the estate together, with the winery’s name Ventiventi (“twenty-twenty”) marking the year 2020 when the winery became fully operational and released its first wines. From the very beginning, the Razzabonis planted their own vineyards starting in 2016, converting family-owned land north of Modena in Emilia-Romagna into organic vineyards and constructing a modern winery centrally located within their estate.

This hands-on approach reflects their commitment to controlling every aspect of cultivation and winemaking. Today, Ventiventi remains firmly in family hands and embodies the shared vision of its founders, combining tradition, sustainability and modern winemaking methods.

The brothers play complementary roles in the business — Riccardo often handling commercial and marketing direction, Andrea overseeing winemaking and technical decisions, and Tommaso bringing additional energy and innovation to the project alongside their father.

Their ownership philosophy emphasises organic viticulture, meticulous grape selection and sustainable practices — not as marketing buzzwords but as integral parts of how the winery operates daily. This family ownership and personal stewardship ensure that the estate’s direction is closely aligned with their values of quality, environmental respect and regional identity.

For decades, Lambrusco has carried the weight of misunderstanding. Once synonymous with mass-market sweetness and supermarket shortcuts, the region’s reputation drifted far from its roots. Yet beneath that veneer lay one of Italy’s most historic and naturally suited landscapes for vibrant, food-driven wine. Ventiventi arrives not as a reinvention of Lambrusco, but as a reminder of what it was always capable of when treated with intent.

Ventiventi is located in Emilia-Romagna, just north of Modena — a region better known globally for Parmigiano Reggiano, balsamic vinegar and cured meats than for fine wine. That culinary pedigree matters. Historically, Lambrusco was never meant to be a contemplative, cellar-bound luxury; it was a table wine, designed to refresh the palate, cut through richness and elevate food. The mistake of the late 20th century was not the grape, but the industrialisation of its expression.

Founded in 2020 by the Razzaboni family, Ventiventi represents a modern Emilia-Romagna mindset: organic farming, site transparency and a willingness to slow things down. The estate’s vineyards sit on clay-rich, mineral soils, ideally suited to varieties such as Lambrusco di Sorbara, Ancellotta, Chardonnay and Pinot Bianco. These soils naturally preserve acidity and aromatic precision — exactly what great sparkling and frizzante wines demand.

So why should Lambrusco be trusted again?

Historically, Lambrusco is one of Italy’s oldest documented wine styles, referenced as far back as Roman times. It thrived because it worked with the land, the climate and the food. What undermined its credibility was volume-driven production — tank fermentation, residual sugar masking imbalance, and a race to the lowest common denominator. Ventiventi stands firmly on the other side of that divide.

By embracing Metodo Classico for several wines — the same bottle-fermentation technique used in Champagne — Ventiventi demonstrates just how serious Lambrusco can be when yields are controlled and lees ageing is respected. Their wines prioritise acidity, savoury minerality and structural balance, rather than sweetness or overt fruitiness. This is Lambrusco reconnected to gastronomy.

Crucially, Ventiventi does not reject Lambrusco’s natural exuberance. Wines like La Vie remain joyful, energetic and approachable — but they are clean, precise and food-ready. Others, such as the Rosé Metodo Classico or Rouge de Noir, reveal depth, texture and complexity that would surprise even seasoned drinkers who think they’ve “outgrown” the region.

What Ventiventi proves is that Lambrusco never lacked potential — it lacked restraint. Emilia-Romagna’s climate, soils and culinary culture have always been aligned with fresh, expressive wines. Today’s producers simply have the confidence to trust that alignment again.

For drinkers willing to reassess old assumptions, Ventiventi offers something rare: a historic region speaking clearly in a modern voice. Not louder. Just more honest. And far more compelling than its past ever suggested. 🍷

Ownership remains hands-on, with the Razzaboni family directly overseeing strategic direction, vineyard management and long-term vision. This continuity of stewardship is essential to understanding Ventiventi’s identity. The wines are not designed to chase nostalgia or reinvent Lambrusco beyond recognition; instead, they seek to restore trust through transparency and precision.

In historical terms, Ventiventi represents a quiet correction rather than a rebellion. It acknowledges where the region faltered but refuses to dismiss centuries of viticultural knowledge. Under the Razzaboni family’s ownership, the vineyard stands as proof that Lambrusco’s future is strongest when it is rooted firmly in its past — honest, food-driven and confidently local.

So.

Not that I do this often, but I was contacted by an Italian marketing company to assess if the wines the vineyard produced were A) suitable for the UK market and B) How good were they !

A bottle of sparkling wine with a black label featuring a green logo and text, placed against a white background.

🥂 VENTIVENTI BLANC DE BLANCS – Metodo Classico

Style: Traditional method sparkling wine
Focus: Precision, minerality and finesse

Appearance
Pale straw yellow with subtle green highlights and a fine, persistent mousse that speaks to careful lees ageing.

Aroma
Elegant and restrained, opening with green apple, pear and lemon zest, followed by hints of white flowers, fresh almond and chalky minerality. Subtle brioche notes emerge with air.

Palate
Crisp and linear on entry, driven by bright acidity and saline minerality. Citrus and orchard fruit are layered with a gentle creaminess from the lees, finishing clean, dry and refreshing.

Food Pairing
Ideal with oysters, scallop crudo, grilled langoustines, or simple dishes where freshness is key. Also excellent with Parmigiano Reggiano shavings or tempura vegetables.

GW Verdict: Surprising experience of this Blanc de Blancs, lots of elegance, fine mousse (like someone cares for the wine!) and a perfect balance of fruit, acidity bready notes and minerality. Considering I was expecting something else this one surprised me because of its elegant Characteristics

A bottle of Ventiventi Metodo Classico Rosé sparkling wine, showcasing a light pink color with a silver foil and a label on the front.

🌸 VENTIVENTI ROSÉ – Lambrusco di Modena DOC, Metodo Classico

Style: Sparkling rosé
Focus: Floral aromatics and savoury freshness

Appearance
Delicate pale pink with coral hues, animated by a refined and continuous stream of bubbles.

Aroma
Lifted and expressive with wild strawberry, raspberry and rose petal, complemented by subtle citrus peel and a lightly savoury, mineral undertone.

Palate
Fresh and vibrant with crunchy red fruit, taut acidity and a gentle creamy texture. The finish is dry, savoury and mouth-watering, making it highly drinkable yet serious.

Food Pairing
A natural partner for seafood antipasti, tuna tartare, sushi, or prosciutto and melon. Also works beautifully with soft cheeses and spring vegetable dishes.

GW verdict: elegant, floral and delicate lots of red fruit. Imagine gently being stoked on the cheek with a feather and smell a fresh bouquet of rose petals. Not harsh, No big bubbles –   just a soft creamy experience that would be welcome with any clean food dish (see above)

A bottle of sparkling wine labeled 'La Vie' with a black body and a pink label featuring a circular design.

🍷 LA VIE – Lambrusco Rosso di Modena DOC

Style: Frizzante red
Focus: Energy, fruit purity and conviviality

Appearance
Bright ruby red with a lively frizzante sparkle that immediately signals freshness and approachability.

Aroma
Juicy and aromatic, showing strawberry, red cherry and raspberry, lifted by floral notes and a subtle citrus twist.

Palate
Light-bodied and refreshing with vivid red fruit, crisp acidity and gentle tannins. The palate is sapid and energetic, finishing clean and irresistibly drinkable.

Food Pairing
Perfect with pizza, cured meats, tortellini, lasagne, or grilled sausages. A classic Lambrusco for the table — versatile, fun and food-friendly.

GW Verdict: At its best, La Vie offers bright red fruit aromatics (strawberry, raspberry) with floral and citrus touches.  You experience a salty saline edge to the wine

 Critically, La Vie was received well in the industry tastings due to its  juicy palate, delicate mousse and balanced fruit. lively acidity dances on the palate. Wines like these from historical regions like these need a little time with the public consciousness. Don’t ignore these wines because of lambrusco and what it once was.  These are a delight to drink. Never pre-judge –  Taste in the moment

A bottle of sparkling wine with a black label and elegant design.

🍾 ROUGE DE NOIR – Metodo Classico

Style: Traditional method sparkling from dark-skinned grapes
Focus: Structure, depth and gastronomic appeal

Appearance
Light copper to pale ruby tones with a fine, elegant mousse that hints at both power and finesse.

Aroma
Complex and layered, offering red apple, wild berries and blood orange, alongside hints of spice, dried herbs and toasted bread from extended lees contact.

Palate
Structured and precise with a creamy mid-palate, firm acidity and savoury depth. Red fruit and citrus notes are balanced by mineral tension, leading to a long, dry finish.

Food Pairing
An excellent match for roast poultry, duck, mushroom risotto, or richer seafood dishes. Also shines with aged cheeses and refined charcuterie.

GW verdict: Heavier in style than the previous 3 wines more atoned to bigger food like duck and creamy risotto although still delicate. You do get a sense that the fruit controls the show. Not in an overt way but just enough to complement those bigger foods.

🍇 The GrapeWizard Take

Ventiventi excels at redefining Emilia-Romagna sparkling wines, proving that Lambrusco and local varieties can deliver finesse, depth and serious gastronomic value when treated with precision and intent. The wines surprise and delight. There is a wine for most foods here  and that is testament to the family and the winemaker’s skill. Glad I tried Lambrusco wines as these 4 bottles changed the way I view a region based on its history.

Categories
USA

Denver : the undiscovered region.

What do you want when you want to learn about wine? Do you want to discover new grapes or just try wines that are too familiar? One of the most popular wines is a Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc – seems like it’s the No. 1 choice forever. What if you wanted to try something new from an undiscovered region you’ve had no exposure to? Wherever in the world you are, there is always some form of wine business going on.

Even Iceland has crowberry wine 🇮🇸

So next time your on a trip of a lifetime a getaway or just in a town – look for the nearest vineyard or winery

Discovering new wine and trying different styles of the same grape is a life experience.

Not only do your enrich your sights, sounds and taste buds you also learn – not bad from the humble glass of wine !

Colorado is recently one of those experiences. It has just two AVAs ( or regions of vine growing ) – Grand Valley and West Elks – both high-altitude, sun-drenched, and quietly brilliant. Grand Valley sits at 4,000ft with warm days, cool nights and river-fed soils – ideal for ripeness with freshness. West Elks climbs higher (5,000–7,000ft), cooler and shorter in season, better suited to Pinot Noir, Riesling and aromatic whites. Both are situated 4 hours drive from Downtown Denver and the International Airport.

These are not textbook regions. They’re discovery regions. And that’s where the future of wine is heading. More and more of us want to try different things , different places and try new fabulous wines.

Denver isn’t a wine region you’re taught to know. Bordeaux, Burgundy, Barossa – yes. Colorado? Never mentioned. And that’s exactly why it matters.

After 15 years in the industry, I’ve seen the shift. From quantity to quality. From labels to stories. People are thirsty for something new. England. Wales. Paso Robles. Mornington Penninsula . And now… Colorado.

Last week, I spent 10 days in Denver. Ski culture, craft beer, oversized food… and then, quietly, seriously good wine.
One winery stood out: Carboy Winery. And yes – I tried everything. Note: Ive left out 6 reviews for the wines i tasted : 13 is enough for you to get an idea 🤩

Of course there are more vineyards and wineries and yes the AVA’s are a 4 hour drive from Denver (where all tourists fly into ) but i guess that why they have the wineries in Downtown Denver. Its a great appeal for those that want to try wines home grown but cant drive the 4 hours !

Denver hasn’t broken onto the international stage just yet but when you think about going to regions that havn’t had that exposure to tourism for wine. Try an alternative, try an undiscovered area. Try Denver !

As you can see from the tasting notes below Carboys offers a host of grape varietals that some are widely known but interestingly though some are grapes i’ve never heard of – or rather are not grown in numbers seen in Europe. So for me. new varietals means new discoveries.

So what have I learned from discovering a new region? Well, I end up flying into Denver for Aunt’s and Uncle’s Thanksgiving dinner and end up taking a last minute trip to downtown Denver to see what an undiscovered wine region tastes like. What welcomes me to the approch of downtown Denver is ……

A road with traffic signals and street signs, leading towards distant mountains under a clear sky.
just your typical view of one of the roads leading into denver
Interior view of a brewery with stainless steel fermentation tanks decorated with red stockings. There are black tables and chairs set up for dining.
juice and stainless steel tanks. Magical
Interior of a brewery with wooden barrels, high tables, and metal chairs, featuring large windows and industrial decor.
Great for meeting friends and super friendly and knowledgable
A warmly lit rustic restaurant exterior at night, featuring string lights, wooden architecture, and outdoor seating.
Destination Denver
A wooden bar setup displaying various wine bottles, tap handles, and glassware, with shelves showcasing decorative items and two television screens.
what an impressive welcoming bar
A man and a woman stand back to back holding wine bottles behind their backs, with stainless steel fermentation tanks. Its all about the grapes!
Well after all the attention should be on the grapes and the producer. Not ME !
Exterior view of a modern building with a metal roof and wooden accents, surrounded by trees and landscaped grounds.
next door to the winery is also their storage facilities and wine making setup. This is where the magic happens !

What i expereinced recently was a super welcoming crowd of super passionate people. It felt right to walk into the winery and let people tell me about wines in their way. My day job is in the wine industry and i have this blog as well as a shop. A night off was ok just to listen and ask questions.

The Grape Wizard Shop

and for those that wanted to know about why the winery is called what it is …….

A glass carboy is a large, sturdy, airtight glass vessel, often shaped like a big bottle, used by homebrewers for fermenting and aging beverages like beer, wine, and cider because it’s easy to sanitize and doesn’t absorb odors or oxygen. These traditional containers, also known as demijohns, allow brewers to monitor fermentation through their clear glass and typically seal with a stopper and airlock to prevent contamination. While durable, they are heavy and fragile, requiring careful handling to avoid breakage.  

A clear glass jar with a rounded body and a narrow neck, displayed on a dark surface.
just one type of carboy
A large, clear glass jug with a narrow neck, sitting on a counter with colorful posters in the background.
another shape of carboy

Key Features & Uses

Fermentation: Acts as a primary or secondary fermenter for alcoholic beverages. 

Oxygen Barrier: Glass is nonporous, making it an excellent barrier against oxygen, which can spoil brews. 

Easy to Clean: Smooth surface doesn’t scratch easily and doesn’t harbor bacteria like some plastics can. 

Monitoring: Clear glass lets you watch the fermentation process. 

Variations: Come in different sizes (e.g., 5-gallon/23L, 10L, 11L) and sometimes include protective baskets. 

Verdict: 4 hour drive is a bit commited even for me to travel to the Vineyard but what I have in Denver is a host of wineries that are operating in a major town, setting up winemaking facilities so consumers can see what they are doing. Great idea. I was very surprised at the impressive quality of the wines at Carboys. New varietals , fabulous blends and sexy labels.

Please see their website below for more info

Logo of Carboy Winery featuring the brand name 'CARBOY' in bold letters and the word 'WINERY' below it.

Note : Carboys Winery is not yet in the UK or Europe but for those that read my site in the USA this is well worth visiting or at the least joining as a wine club. Definately 5 *

Interior of a winery showcasing stainless steel fermentation tanks decorated with red Christmas stockings, wooden tables and chairs, a Christmas tree, and wine barrels.
Exterior view of Carboy Winery entrance with a sign promoting wine tastings and wooden barrels.

TASTING NOTES for those that have reach this far…..

Its not just about me ! Its all about the grapes !

want to know what I thought of the wines ……….

A bottle of sparkling white wine labeled 'Native Fizz' with a distinctive geometric design featuring a mountain landscape and a blue band at the bottom.

2024 Native Fizz Blanc

Apple and pear are prominent characters here – touches of tangy lemon sorbet, fresh grapefruit and key lime. I dont know whether to turn it into a cheescake or drink it. Its a Pop, sip, repeat type of sparkling wine.

Grape : 100% Traminette

Traminette is a cross of the Joannes Seyve 23.416 grape and Gewürztraminer made by Herb C. Barrett (1965) His intention was to produce a large-clustered table grape with the flavor of Gewürztraminer. Traminette was found to be excellent wine quality, combined with good productivity, partial resistance to several fungal diseases, and cold hardiness superior to its acclaimed parent, Gewürztraminer, while retaining a similar character. It was the perfect combination! Traminette produces solid yields with out forgoing quality

Where you find it ! USA – Ohio, North Carolina, Illinois, the Finger Lakes AVA and Niagara Escarpment AVA of New York, and parts of Virginia, as well as in Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Southern New England.

GW Verdict : Trying a new region and a new grape, what a surprise that was. Fresh vibrant and full of character this is a perfect cork popper for a summers evening or ones of those days when you dont need a full on rich Champagne like Bollinger, Veuve or Dom Perignon. This is all about celebrating a local winery, a new discovery. Top marques can quite frankly wait !

A bottle of sparkling rosé wine labeled 'Native Fizz Rosé,' featuring a colorful label with mountain graphics, showcasing a vibrant pink liquid.

2024 Native Fizz Rosé

TGW verdict : – Imagine a strawberry soda with touches of vanilla, candied orange,peaches and cream on the nose with apricot and nectarine.

Grape : Blend.

Certainly the Winery must get an award for sexy labels. Very distinctive Made up of 3 varietals Syrah, Blaufränkisch and La Crescent

Grape :60% Syrah – dark fruits like black cherries and plums, with overtones of black pepper and spices.

Grape 30% Blaufränkisch: blackberry, black cherry, dark chocolate, allspice, and pepper. Medium-bodied, with medium tannins and good acidity.

Grape 10% : La Crescent is a hybrid grape. Grows well in cooler climates with Characteristics of apricot, citrus, and pineapple,

GW Verdict : TIP : With Natural wines always look for oranges and nectarines – sure fire way of assesing its quality.The winery also list this as Half Nat, but what is that, Its a mix of two processes Pét-nat + Charmat method

Pet Nat (short for Pétillant Naturel) means “naturally sparkling” low-intervention method where sparkling wine finishes fermentation inside the bottle, capturing CO2 for gentle, cloudy bubbles, creating fresh, often rustic, white, rosé, or red wines The Charmat method is a popular way to make fresh, fruity sparkling wines (Prosecco), where the fizz happens in large, pressurized stainless steel tanks, not individual bottles. By sealing the wine it creates bubbles (preserving vibrant fruit flavors and speeding up production faster and more cost-effective producing vibrant wines

A bottle of CO.SECCO sparkling wine, featuring a sleek design with a white label and orange lettering, set against a plain background.

CO.SECCO

When i tasted this in Dec 2025 i found it to be vibrant and refreshing. Lots of green apples and citrus zest. Great alternative to champagne or cava. sophisticated and approachable sparkling wine – leaves its European counterpart well in the Agreesive mouse camp !

Grape : 100% Traminette

Traminette is a cross of the Joannes Seyve 23.416 grape and Gewürztraminer made by Herb C. Barrett (1965) His intention was to produce a large-clustered table grape with the flavor of Gewürztraminer. Traminette was found to be excellent wine quality, combined with good productivity, partial resistance to several fungal diseases, and cold hardiness superior to its acclaimed parent, Gewürztraminer, while retaining a similar character. It was the perfect combination! Traminette produces solid yields with out forgoing quality

FOOD PAIRING : enjoy with most light dishes, like salads and enjoy all year round with Pizzas.

GW Verdict : Crafted in the Charmat method (see above ) they having given a nod to the Italian Prosecco by refering it as Colorado Prosecco.

A bottle of Carboy Winery's Grand Blanc de Blanc sparkling wine featuring an elegant label with gold and white design.

Grand Blanc de Blanc

The Blanc de Blanc, is a fruit cocktail for the senses and likely to be your new favorite sparkling wine. Intense pear, peach and mango fill the air around you and combine with nectarine, canned mandarin orange and kiwi in the glass for a magical experience. Sorry, not sorry!

Grape : 100% Chardonnay

GW “Pear, nectarine and citrus with zero oak nonsense.
For people who like Chardonnay… done properly.”

Food Pairing:Shellfish: Oysters, scallops, crab, shrimp.Sushi & Sashimi: Its minerality and acidity complement raw fish.White Fish: Tartare, ceviche, or gently cooked fish.Light Dishes: Salads, grilled fish, steamed vegetables. 

GW Verdict : Normally with Chardonnay i would say clean crisp and fresh . Not normally experiencing pear peach mango nectarine and kiwi swirling around in a delicious glass of fun. May not be a classic experience of what Europe expects in a traditional white – but then if we had all grapes with the same characteristics across the globe. how boring would that be! AND its a Denver wine ! TIP : Always try and discover a new wine , a new grape, a grape varietal that you expect to be what it is. Change the boundaries of what you expect. If you dont like don’t go back there !

A bottle of Carboy Winery's Grand Blanc de Blanc sparkling wine, featuring a sleek dark green bottle with a gold foil cap and a label that reads 'GRAND' in bold letters.

Grand Premier Blanc de Blanc

Hints of Gala apples, banana chips and raw coconut on the nose

On the Palate : Pineapple and clementine

Enjoy this wine from start to finish, enjoy the adventure and take your time with this one ! Finishing the bottle is not the issue finding another one immediately is !

Grape : 100% Traminette

Grapes: Aromella (37%) – Floral, perfumed, hints of peach and citrus.Vidal Blanc (23%) – Crisp tropical fruit, bright acidity, perfect for sparkling.La Crescent (18%) – Apricot and citrus-driven, cold-climate friendly.Traminette (18%) – Lychee, rose, and gentle spice, aromatic and fresh.Vignoles (4%) – Honeyed, tropical, small grape, big impact.

Food Pairing :Seafood: Oysters, scallops, light ceviche – acidity refreshes the palate.Poultry: Lemon-herb chicken, turkey breast with mild citrus glaze.Vegetarian: Roasted vegetables, asparagus risotto, quinoa salads.Cheese: Soft, creamy cheeses like Brie, triple cream, or mild chèvre.

GW Verdict : Carboys has introcuced its inaugural Grand Premier Blanc de Blanc using only its best grapes for premium character. Almost all of this wineries wines offer a fabulous array of characteristics. If someone is looking for something different just look at the grape varietals above

A bottle of Grand Cuvée sparkling wine featuring a sleek design, with a black label and gold elements, set against a plain background.

Grand Cuvée Blanc

100% Chenin Blanc from the Grand Valley Intense bouquet of lemon curd and golden apple with touches of crushed rock and green tea. Enjoy starfruit, passionfruit, apricot and kumquat within the fine mousse.

Enjoy this wine from start to finish, enjoy the adventure and take your time with this one ! Finishing the bottle is not the issue finding another one immediately is !

A premium sparkling wine produced by Carboy Winery’s Grand series Appearance. Pale straw to light golden hue. Aroma Zesty, orchard fruit and white flowers with touches of yeasty/brioche notes. Palate : Refreshing with citrus (lemon, grapefruit) & white peach. Creamy with a fine mousse.

Food Pairing :Oysters, Grilled prawns / scallops , Grilled chicken Vegetarian: asparagus risotto, Spicy Asian dishes

GW Verdict : Carboy’s Grand Cuvée Blanc is a bold statement from an emerging region that refuses keep quiet – this is high-altitude Colorado showing serious intent and serious class. GW : “The Winery has taken its jacket off, thrown it into the corner of the room and is putting its “dukes ” up ”

This is not imitation Champagne.
This is Colorado finding its voice.

Elegant, structured, and quietly confident. Cellar-worthy… if you have the willpower.

A bottle of Carboy Winery's Grand Brut Rosé, featuring a sleek design with a gold cap and a light pink sparkling wine inside.

Grand Brut Rosé

Bursting with bright aromas of mango, cherry and rose blossom. Mouth-wateringly juicy. Palate shows strawberry and raspberry with a clean, crisp finish.

Charcuterie & goats cheese, Smoked salmon or trout canapés — lively bubbles balance smoky, rich flavours. Seared tuna or grilled prawns with lemon herb marinade. Herb-roasted chicken or turkey breast with raspberry glaze. Brie, camembert, or creamy cheeses

Grape : Blend

67% Merlot | 10% Cabernet Sauvignon | 10% Cabernet Franc | 5% Syrah | 4% Orange Muscat | 2% Counoise | 1% Mourvèdre | 1% Primitivo 

Plum and black cherry from Merlot lead the charge, backed by Cabernet Sauvignon’s structure and Cabernet Franc’s leafy freshness. Syrah adds dark fruit and peppery depth, while a flicker of Orange Muscat lifts the aromatics with orange blossom and mandarin. Counoise brings herbal brightness, Mourvèdre adds savoury grip, and a final splash of Primitivo delivers juicy blackberry sweetness.

GW “A Willy Wonka of an experience”

GW Verdict : Appearance Color: salmon-pink to light rosy hue Bubbles: Fine and persistent Aroma strawberry, raspberry, and cherry notes on the nose. Hints of citrus zest (e.g., grapefruit or lemon peel).A crisp, vibrant bouquet not heavy or buttery Palate :creamy, lively texture red berry flavors carry through from the aroma.

“You have to try it just because of the newly discovered grapes !”

A bottle of Grand Brut Rosé sparkling wine from Carboy Winery, featuring a sleek design with a copper-colored foil cap and a black label that highlights its name.

Grand Premier Brut Rosé

Wild strawberry, raspberry, and sour cherry with clean minerality.Fine mousse and good acidity make it dangerously delicious !

Food Pairing: Seafood: Seared scallops, smoked salmon.Charcuterie: Prosciutto, mild salami, soft cheeses.Poultry: Herb-roasted chicken.Vegetarian: Beetroot salad, roasted peppers, watermelon & feta.

Grape : Blend

73% Marquette 15% Chambourcin 12% Verona

Marquette: Bright cherry, strawberry, lively acidity.Chambourcin: Red berries, gentle spice, smooth texture.Verona: Dark fruit, soft spice, subtle structure.

GW ” A wonderful discovery”

GW Verdict : Appearance : Color: salmon-pink. Fine, persistent bubbles Aroma Red berries: Strawberry and raspberry dominate Ripe cherry, rose petal and summer blossoms. Citrus zest & minerality: ance Color: salmon-pink to light rosy hue Bubbles: Fine and persistent

A stand out Colorado sparkling rosé — fruity energetic and of energy.

A bottle of Carboy Winery Chardonnay wine, featuring a clean label design, showcasing its origin from Horse Heaven Hills.

2022 Chardonnay

Not a big smack in the face Chardonnay from the USA ! Imagine a

Food Pairings Because it’s fresh and fruit‑centred it works with a wide range of dishes that complement bright fruit and balanced acidity: Grilled salmon&Shellfish. Roast chicken,Turkey & Pork tenderloin. Soft cheeses: Brie, camembert or mild goat cheese. Creamy risotto with peas or mushrooms.

Grape : 100% Chardonnay

Pairing tip: This style of Chardonnay is especially enjoyable with lighter, bright dishes that highlight citrus and fruit notes, and with mild creamy sauces that harmonize with its fruitiness without overwhelming its fresh character. Expect one thing and get a delightfully other experience. This chardonaay should be big and bruisy instead its more likely to “put the rubbish out and mow your lawn. Not lazy just light bright elegant and not too much fuss

GW ” It just grows on you more and more , i love it ”

GW Verdict : Appearance: Color: Pale straw‑golden hue. Aroma pear and nectarine Citrus and tangerine Hints of jasmine Palate : balanced fruit flavors with Medium acidity keeps the wine refreshing rather than heavy. No BIG OAK MONSTERS here Finish: Clean lasting fruit and a touch of lemon lifts the experience.

A bottle of Carboy Winery's Roussanne, featuring a sleek label design with the winery's name prominently displayed.

2022 Roussanne

pours a pale gold with a soft, luminous sheen. The nose is quietly expressive – pear, almond, herbal tea and a hint of honeyed chamomile. On the palate it’s textured and savoury, showing ripe apple, gentle stone fruit and a subtle nutty depth, finishing fresh, composed and beautifully balanced.

Food Pairings Poultry: Roast chicken, turkey, lemon-herb poussin – texture loves protein.Seafood: Scallops, monkfish, crab.Vegetarian: mushroom risotto.Cheese: Comté, Gruyère. Nutty all the way !

Grape : 95% Roussanne, 5% Marsanne

Roussanne is a white Rhône variety known for expressive aromatics, medium‑plus body, and layered fruit and herbal note. You expect something soft and simple… and then Roussanne quietly flexes. Pear, almond and herbal tea glide in with calm confidence, followed by a savoury, honeyed depth you didn’t see coming. Textured, composed, and quietly powerful – the gentle giant of the white wine world.

GW ” often ignored never disappoints. Yum Yum “

GW Verdict : Quietly confident and beautifully balanced, Carboy Roussanne delivers texture without weight and complexity without noise. A thinking drinker’s white – elegant, savoury, and seriously satisfying. Its never going to be one of the most drunk varietals in the world – It’s often overlooked but find it and discover something wonderful

A bottle of Carboy Winery's Roussanne, featuring a sleek label design with the winery's name prominently displayed.

2022 Viognier

Viognier is so versatile. Loved by most foods. If this was your neighbours you’d love em

Food Pairings Poultry: Roast chicken, turkey, lemon-herb poussin – texture loves protein.Seafood: Scallops, monkfish, crab.Vegetarian: mushroom risotto.Cheese: Comté, Gruyère. Nutty all the way !

Grape : 95% Viognier, 5% Roussanne

Appearance Color: Bright pale straw-golden, medium to fuller bodyAroma Tropical & Stone Fruit: Notes of papaya, cantaloupe, and fresh apricot lead the aromatic profile. Hints of white flower and a touch of mineralityPalate Fruit Flavors: Melon and white peach & juicy stone-fruit intensity. Medium body luxurious mouthfeel. Good acidity with a lingering finish .

GW ” often ignored never disappoints. Yum Yum “

GW Verdict : Quietly confident and beautifully balanced, Carboy Roussanne delivers texture without weight and complexity without noise. A thinking drinker’s white – elegant, savoury, and seriously satisfying. Its never going to be one of the most drunk varietals in the world – It’s often overlooked but find it and discover something wonderful

A bottle of white wine with a slender shape and a cork top, featuring a label with a watercolor design of blue mountains.

BLAN.CO White Blend (2022)

balances fruit brightness, aromatic intrigue, and refreshment

Food Pairings Poultry: oysters or shellfish shrimp or scallops. Herb-grilled chicken, Turkey breast. burrata, goats cheese or antipasti

Grape : Cayuga White (54%), Roussanne (28%), and Traminette (18%)

Color: Pale straw with golden highlights The bouquet is fragrant and refreshing

saline touch: with minerality
Overall, the aroma is expressive, tropical, and appealing — great for sipping even before tasting. Tropical fruit: Pineapple and lychee notes bring a sweet, exotic lift.Citrus & orchard fruits: Fresh mandarin and peach aromas add clarity and brightness.

GW ” It would be very east to have a ‘Piggy Pour’ on this wine ”

GW Verdict : The 2023 Blanco shows excellent quality of fruit, very food-friendly and shows no sign over overt oak (so prevalent on the West Coast ). Shows great acidity and well balanced probably down to fruit selection on the estate and clever winemaking. It is a very pleasant white wine that doesnt dominate it just shows off in the most elegant of ways. “New Wine Tried !“

Concordia Blanc

43% Riesling 37% Albariño 17.5%Gewürz2.5% Roussanne

2023 Sauvignon Blanc

2023 Rosé45% Marquette, 39% Frontenac, 16% Chambourcin

Such a great choice for everyone See their website for more info

Logo of Carboy Winery featuring the name prominently in stylized text.

Cabernet Franc

Cabernet sauvignon

Merlot

and others ……

Categories
Welsh Vineyards

2/32 On the road… to Velfrey Vineyard

It’s not just about me! Its all about the grapes!

Wales

Pembrokeshire

2/32 vineyards

A brief history of vine..

What is grown at Velfrey …….

Solaris

Solaris is a variety of grape used for white wine. Created in 1975 at the grape breeding institute (“great name “) in Germany by Norbert Becker

Becker created Solaris by crossing varieties Merzling with Gm 6493 Gm 6493 The Prefix Gm refers to Beckers workplace Geisenheim grape breeding institute, where “Gm” serial numbers for Geisenheim were given for the each plant produced. It is commonly grown in northern European countries such as Belgium, the Netherlands, England, Denmark, Sweden and Norway. As of 2007, there were 54 hectares (54 Twickenham rugby pitches) of Solaris in Germany, of which 35 hectares (86 acres) were in Baden, where Freiburg is located.

Solaris is fruity and aromatic – hints of gooseberry, citrus and elderflower and high acidity. In cooler climate, with less sugar content, also as a dry wine suitable for fish, shrimp or chicken.

Pinot Noir

Pale to medium ruby; Often bright and youthful, reflecting good mouthwatering feel.

Typical Characteristics

Red cherry, Cranberry, Raspberry, Redcurrant

Tannins: Fine, silky & light Body

Found In: France Germany Switzerland and UK

Food Pairing : Duck, Chicken, Salmon or tuna, Pork and Lamb and Root Vegatables(V)

Seyval Blanc

Pale lemon to straw, bright clarity, light-bodied, fine bubbles in sparkling wines

Lemon, lime, green apple, elderflower, flint, sea breeze; hints of biscuit or brioche if lees-aged

High acidity, citrus and green fruit, light body, crisp minerality, clean dry finish

If you like Solaris you might also like Bacchus, Madelaine Angevine or Ortega

If you linke Rondo you might also want to try Pheonix, Katherina or Schuyler

If you linke Seyval Blanc you’ll like cool-climate Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay Weissburgunder Madeleine Angevine

4 acres planted / 1.6 Hectares or 1 1/2 Twickenham rugby pitches

A panoramic view of Velfrey Vineyard in Wales, showcasing rows of grapevines with support stakes, a white building in the background, and a blue sky filled with clouds. The vineyard's lush greenery indicates a thriving grape-growing environment.

Like most vineyards in Wales you normally find them tucked away in little roads driving through small enchanted lanes. Turn a corner in a misty lane in Wales and you might just come across some beautiful vistas. Velfrey is in sheltered spot waiting to be discovered. Family run and quite small by comparision of the likes of Chapel down and Nyetimber. Small is good!

Velfrey Vineyard is owned by Andy and Fiona Mounsey, who run it with support from their son Ryan and his wife Sophie – the family business is crucial to the brand. Keeps it small and keeps it niche !

But thats not the only important bit.

Winemakers grow what grows locally. The UK has some fabulous grapes that grow well here and are exciting to discover. Over the next year you’ll see me discover them and visit them (Stay tuned !). Discovering new grapes and new characteristics is what’s exciting and it’s all on our doorstep

Velfrey meets you at the gates and slopes gently down and away from the entrance to the estate – great for position of growing grapes.

View of Velfrey Vineyard featuring rows of grapevines on a gentle slope under a cloudy sky, with lush green fields in the distance.

Only set in 2-3 acres it is nevertheless prime for growth. Have a look at the map below to see how small and how much potential the estate has. Out-buildings can be tuned into production facilities. Land can be exploited sustainably – All part of future plans.

Click on the map to see more

Velfrey uses Solaris , Seyval Blanc and Pinot Noir as its principal grapes. Some youve heard of. some you havnt. Isnt that whats the exciting part.

“You dont have to like Solaris but at least you should try it – you dont want to be stuck on New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc for the rest of your life do you ? “

This is what is successfully grown in this location locally. When I visited there recently there was talk of removing trees near the entrance of the property and sustainably plant them elsewhere. This would give the estate more land to plant vines and excuse the pun, grow exponentially.

Interesting to see what develops !

Even pruned branches can look very photogenic.

Velfrey have 4 wines at the moment but they have produced some great wines. SEE BELOW. Something to discover for everyone.


Velfrey Vineyard is a small, family-run vineyard and visitor destination in Pembrokeshire, Wales. Established in the mid-2010s it focuses on cool-climate, high-quality sparkling wine made using the traditional (bottle fermentation) method – just like champagne. The vineyard offers tours, tastings and grazing boards. Something for everyone looking to discover new vineyards!

Visit them here ! velfrey-vineyard


Andy and Fiona moved from Derbyshire to Pembrokeshire for a simpler life; after visiting a neighbouring vineyard they noticed that their land was suitable for growing grapes. In 2016 they turned that idea into a reality. Velfrey occupies a sheltered, south-facing slope, uses the coastal influences of Pembrokeshire help reduce disease and because of its size the vineyard is hand harvested rather than attacked by machinery during picking !

Why Velfrey chooses the grapes !
Pinot Noir is the classic base for quality sparkling wines is uses for its elegance and finesse Seyval Blanc is a white grape variety that grows very well in the UK – giving a mouth watering feel and a fragrant experience Solaris is aromatic and fruit driven


Velfrey has made sparkling wine production a priority by highlighting traditional sparkling wine methods whilst also making still whites from the Solaris grape In all my years in the wine industry the one thing consumers like is keep it small and relevant. Velfrey does just that !

Sign up to the vineyard to keep up to date with new products. products include a Gin and also Some times Velfrey ventures out to new products like a vineyard gin or “Natural” or “Naturol” style wines.

SEE velfrey-vineyard for more

Go and visit Velfrey for ….

  • regular tours (seasonal schedule)
  • grazing boards featuring local charcuterie and cheeses
  • tutored tastings
  • adopt-a-vine schemes
  • and gift-oriented products
Velfrey Vineyard in Pembrokeshire, Wales, showcasing neatly arranged grapevines set against gentle rolling hills and a cloudy sky.
A view of Velfrey Vineyard in Pembrokeshire, Wales, showcasing rows of grapevines with a green hillside in the background and a weather station visible in the foreground.
Velfrey Vineyard showcasing rows of grapevines on a gentle slope under an overcast sky.
It's not just about me! It's all about the grapes !

Velfrey sells directly through its online shop and at the vineyard, and has a small but growing presence with regional wine merchants. hopefully on my site soon( more details soon…)

www.thegrapewizard.co.uk

consult the vineyard’s website and social channels.(see link throught this article )

What they make !

Velfrey NV (Traditional Method Sparkling)

A bottle of Velfrey sparkling wine, featuring a gold foil cap and a sleek design with the text 'Velfrey Quality Sparkling Wine' on a dark label.

Aroma

Appearance

Mouthfeel

Bright, lively with excellent clarity. As a non-vintage sparkling, expect a pale lemon hue with fine bubbles

Citrusy and fresh with notes of peach, apricot, apple pastry; white florals; minerality. The traditional method adds brioche/cream character from the lees

Crisp acidity, refreshing finish, refined biscuity or brioche note from extended lees ageing (22 months in one version) giving complexity. Good length

Style summary: A cool-climate British sparkling that balances bright fruit (green apple, citrus) with subtle toasty character (brioche, cream) Good food pairing: Works well as an aperitif, with seafood (oysters), or with richer dishes (e.g., pork belly) where the acidity cuts through the fat.

Rhosyn (Sparkling Rosé, Vintage 2021)

Bottle of Velfrey Rhosyn Sparkling Wine 2021, featuring a gold foil capsule and a sleek label displaying the vineyard name and details.

Appearance

Aroma

Mouthfeel

Delicate blush or pale rosé colour (achieved by gentle skin contact of Pinot Noir in the blend)

Floral notes (cherry blossom, rose petal), red fruit (cherry, strawberry, pomegranate), subtle pastry/yeasty brioche from lees ageing

Crunchy red apple and blood orange, fine mousse (tiny bubbles), clean nutty finish. Good acidity and freshness

Style summary: Elegant sparkling rosé from Wales, combining red fruit freshness with the complexity of a traditional method sparkling — a refreshing but serious wine.Ageing: The 2021 vintage can be drunk till 2030 and beyond with careful cellaring

Solaris Still Dry White

A bottle of Velfrey Solaris 2023 white wine with a decorative label featuring grapevines and the vineyard's logo.

appearance

aroma

mouthfeel

Light straw/hay colour (typical of a fresh white in cooler climate)

Citrus (lemon/lime), white peach, elderflower — fresh and vibrant.

Clean, zesty, refreshing acidity, with light fruit and a hint of minerality reflecting the terroir

Style summary: A still white wine offering the super crispness of a wine grown in cooler temperatures – less complexity than the sparkling in terms of lees-derived notes, but with clarity and finesse.Food pairing suggestion: Soft cheeses (e.g., goat’s cheese), light salads, seafood.

Naturiol (Still White, Minimal Intervention)

A bottle of Naturiol 2022 white wine from Velfrey Vineyard, Pembrokeshire, featuring a label with floral designs and a bronze award sticker.

100% Solaris

appearance

aroma

mouthfeel

Similar to the Solaris, but as a “natural” wine expect a little more texture and presence in the glass.

Baked apple, caramel, a hint of pineapple (for the 2021 Seyval Blanc harvest version).

Dry, refreshing, crunchy green apple, subtle smoke, and a creamy buttery finish

Velfrey 2020 Vintage Welsh Sparkling Wine

Bottle of Velfrey 2020 Pembrokeshire sparkling wine with a black label and gold accents displayed against a white background.

appearance

aroma

mouthfeel

pale to light straw-gold colour. Small bubbles and creamy

white fruits (pear, maybe white peach) toch of citrus citrus blossom

Honeyed pastry / maybe brioche with gentle minerality

fine mousse which is lively and elegant

pear / melon and citrus freshness. Yet again citrus blossom, white fruits and honeyed pastry

refreshing mouthfeel crisp with a long finish

Why choose Velfrey ?

With so many producers to choose why choose this one. Thats up to you ! After all you have over a 1000 to choose from.

Well I always say choose your champagne & choose your grape.

In this instance. Find out if Solaris is your grape. Find out if Pinot Noir in a sparkling wine that works for you and find out if the cool climate has any effect on what you perceive it should taste like.

Try their natural wine. See if you like it – Its an Adventure after all !


I’m always on hand to ask any questions (just email me link below)

I’ve even put up a wine school approach to tasting to see how close you get to correctly identifying characteristics. Print off the 2 pages below and send them to me – see how well your doing. Always good to see how far along the road of wine enlightenment you are.


Try Velfrey as it is Welsh and its home grown. Even if you don’t like the characteristics. That’s ok. What you have done is discovered a new winery and a new story and you may just of found a sexy label.

They would love to hear from you !

None of the winereries I’m writing about have given me any samples. Merely I’m doing this to promote the fabulous wines of Wales

WSET Level 2 Wine Lexicon table outlining primary, secondary, and tertiary aromas and flavours of wine, including descriptors for red and white wines.
A WSET Level 2 systematic approach to tasting wine infographic, detailing aspects such as appearance, nose, palate, intensity, flavor characteristics, and quality.

EMAIL ME !

TGW

Watch out for 2026 and my visits to all things Welsh vineyards.

Categories
Welsh Vineyards

1/32 On the road…. to Hebron Vineyard

It’s not just about me! It’s all about the grapes!

Wales

Carmarthenshire

1/32 vineyards

A brief history of vine..

What is grown at Hebron…….

Solaris

Solaris is a variety of grape used for white wine. Created in 1975 at the grape breeding institute (“great name “) in Germany by Norbert Becker

Becker created Solaris by crossing varieties Merzling with Gm 6493 Gm 6493 The Prefix Gm refers to Beckers workplace Geisenheim grape breeding institute, where “Gm” serial numbers for Geisenheim were given for the each plant produced. It is commonly grown in northern European countries such as Belgium, the Netherlands, England, Denmark, Sweden and Norway. As of 2007, there were 54 hectares (54 Twickenham rugby pitches) of Solaris in Germany, of which 35 hectares (86 acres) were in Baden, where Freiburg is located.

Solaris has fruity and aromatic aromas with hints of gooseberry, citrus and elderflower and high acidity. It is considered to be suitable for dessert wines, as it ripens to high must weights. In cooler climate, with less sugar content, also as a dry wine suitable for fish, shrimp or chicken.

Rondo

Rondo is a dark-skinned grape variety, used for making red wine. It was created in 1964 by Professor Vilém Kraus in then by crossing the varieties. He offered it to Dr. Helmut Becker The variety was first planted in the 1980s by Thomas Walk Vineyard in Ireland under the name Amurensis Walk; and was renamed Rondo in 1997

This very early maturing variety possesses high resistance against winter frost. Rondo produces a ruby-red wine which is also used for blending. Rondo is cultivated in many locations in northern Europe where dark-skinned Vitis vinifera varieties are difficult to ripen properly, as it tends to yield good colour and aroma even in those locations. Rondo is cultivated in Rheinhessen and in many locations in northern Europe including Denmark, England, Ireland, Wales, the Netherlands, Poland and Sweden.

Meat: steak, beef casserole, and grilled meats. 

Lamb :lamb dishes with rich sauces.

Delicate Meats: duck or game ,

If you like Solaris you might also like Bacchus, Madelaine Angevine or Ortega

If you linke Rondo you might also want to try Pheonix, Katherina or Schuyler

4 acres planted / 1.6 Hectares or 1 1/2 Twickenham rugby pitches

Vineyard, Hebron, Whitland SA34 0XS

A scenic view of a vineyard in Carmarthenshire, Wales, featuring rows of grapevines with a cloudy sky and rolling green hills in the background.
Two individuals walking through a vineyard in Wales, surrounded by grapevines and grassy paths, under a cloudy sky.
A view of a vineyard in Hebron, Carmarthenshire, featuring neatly arranged vine rows under a cloudy sky.

Like most people you probably wondering why I’m writing about Welsh vineyards, seeing as you’ve almost never heard that Wales produces extraordinary wine. To date there approximately 30 Welsh vineyards and they are all producing exciting wine.

I’m not going to tell you what to drink; you have to figure that one out for yourself – I will , however, highlight producers. Highlight their fabulous stories and show off their sexy labels.

So over the next 12 months and with the help of a collab i’ll be highlighting this exciting region and hopefully most/all of the producers will appear on my online wine shop for you to order.

the Grape Wizard Shop – Click here !

I was lucky enough, recently, to travel to the heart of Carmarthenshire and visit a a small vineyard nestled in the beautiful Preseli Hills. A small vineyard that is quietly producing outstanding wines. Only 4 Acres ( 2 Hectares or 2 Twickenham rugby pitches ) and planted in 2010 by its owners Jemma Vickers and Paul Rolt.

Paul and Jemma

Hebron Vineyard

​When i first visited the vineyard I was struck by the complete tucked away and sheltered site of the vineyard. Great for the protection of the vines from prevailing wines. Great for forgetting about the world and if a winemaker ever needed time to just look after the vines. This is the place !

Paul even pushes the fruit higher up the vine so that frost passes lower down on the vine and doesn’t reach the grapes – “very clever.”

Having been away from the UK for a period of time in Spain both Paul and Jemma decided that family life and starting a business of their own was the thing to do. Hebron was born !

Some producers over farm, use far too many chemicals, machine harvest etc etc. Not here. Hebron established a vineyard using

regenerative viticulture – using nature to restore vineyard soils and biodiversity while reducing dependency on synthetic chemicals. Healthy soils equals healthy and vigorous vines. Everything slows down!

We I met Paul he did say that the regenrative process is not easy. Moving away from pesticides, herbicides, fungicides and fertilizers is always a harder option. Modern day chemicals sort out vineyard problems but Paul wanted the grapes to taste like their vines. Some chemicals can affect the taste and characters of the wine and as such he didnt want that !

He would like consumers to feel like the wine he produces reflects the love and passion from the vineyard and I think he has it spot on.

Finding your grape, finding what you like is not just about trying all the grapes ever grown – nor is it about trying what everyone else is drinking.

It’s about discovering producers that you like. Finding vineyards that interest you and find grapes that you are intrigued by. If you dont like natural wines and youve tried them dont waste your time looking for more of them. Wine is always subjective – what you like might not be what i like.

If you like Pinot Noir then find Pinot Noirs of the world. See what you like and see what you dont – but keep an open mind. You are allowed to try undiscovered grapes ! Just enjoy the journey !

If you are ever in Carmarthernshire and you see the Preseli foothills you are probably in one of the most picturesque areas of Wales, if not the UK – rolling landscapes and amazing vistas make this area perfect for getaways. Making perfect sense for Paul and Jemma to open up a dairy barn acccomodation.

Link : Hebron Vineyard Dairy Barn accomodation

​Winemaking process is made with a variety of equipment , stainless steel tanks, wooden barrels, concrete eggs – even submerged underwater in bottles for 18 months at a time. One thing that Paul does is part age the wine in amphora pots, giving it a potential savoury and smoky note but also giving it that smooth roundfeel in the mouth.

Amphora used to give the wine its roundedness and great mouthfeel

What amphora does …….

Aromas Pure fruit, earthy, herbal, sometimes honeyed

Colour Whites often deeper gold/orange due to skin contact

Palate Textural, mineral, tactile, rounded

Finish Long, savoury, balanced by natural acidity

The Wines

A bottle of wine with a unique swirling blue and white label design and a green cap.

Natural Amphora Solaris 2023.

appearance

aroma

mouthfeel

pale straw, its unfiltered and unrefined so expect haziness as well as sediment

A whiff of salty sea air, a freshness with a citrus and tropical fruits . Candied fruits. Its like sticking your nose in a sweet shop and then running out!

light bodied with a refreshing mouth watering feel, elegant salty sea air again. With exotic fruits as before

Food Pairing : Herby dishes, Shellfish and clean white fish + fresh vegatables

Natural Amphora Rondo Rosado 2023 – Grapes Rondo 100%

A bottle of wine featuring a colorful and abstract label design, with a green cap on top.

appearance

aroma

mouthfeel

pale blush, hazy due to its natural process and minimal intervention

red fruit, red cherry, raspberry with a toch of sweet fresh fruit compote

smooth texture with. the red fruit aromas on the mouth with a fairly short finish and a touch of. minerality.

Food Pairing : because of the lightness of the wines salads, fresh seafood and soft cheeses work well !

Tiriol Field Blend 2022 – Grapes Rondo 65% Solaris 35%

A bottle of Tiriol Field Blend 2022 wine with an artistic, abstract label featuring vibrant swirls of orange, red, and black colors.

appearance

aroma

mouthfeel

light pink hue

Savoury undergrowth aromas with cranberry tartness with a touch of cured meat

fresh with a slight touch of tannins and good refreshing acitidy – savoury notes continue here

Food Pairing : lightly spiced meats, root vegetable dishes, charcuterie, crisp salads and mild cheeses

Natural Amphora Rondo 2021

A bottle of wine with a vivid, abstract label featuring swirling patterns in pink, orange, and purple hues.

appearance

aroma

palate

beetroot and bilberries, elderberry, cranberry and rosehip, cured meat.

beetroot and bilberries, elderberry, cranberry and rosehip, cured meat.

Light bodied, high acidity, low alcohol, fine grained tannins

Food Pairing : beef carpaccio, lamb, and roasted vegetables, as well as dishes featuring umami-rich ingredients such as tomatoes, nori, and Parmesan

Silver Lining 2018 – Sparkling – 100% S

appearance

aroma

mouthfeel

Pale Lemon

clean with a whiff of pear and green apple. White flowers and something of a German bakery going on

ripe pear and apple, tropical melon; touch of malted biscuits

The wine has that question mark over it ! Somehing entices you in , something in its fruity characteristic and its soft mousse. You get a host of flavours. from the granny smith and lime on the palate to the slightly bready character on the finish.

If you want to try a new grape and try it from region where itflourishes. try it from Hebron Vineyard. You wont regret it.

hebron vineyard website


.

“Triskele” White (100% Solaris)

“Triskele” Red 2019 (100% Rondo)

Label of 'Triskele Solaris 2019' wine from Hebron Vineyard, featuring a clean pastel lemon appearance, description of aroma highlighting fruity notes, and a unique symbol.
Label design for 'Triskele Rondo 2019' wine from Hebron Vineyard, featuring a triskelion symbol and a description of the wine's characteristics and food pairings.

If you ever need a reason to try fabulous wine from a region you dont expect then you have try Welsh wine. So many winemakers have so much global winemaking experience there is always something for everyone.
if you like pinot noir you have to try rondo , if you like fruity of fruit forward wines then solaris is for you. There is a grape for everyone, a champagne for all you just have to find your taste.

Paul has made these two wines as light and bright wines – as usual he uses minimal intervention futher promoting the regenerative natural wine ideology. low alcohol in these wines also supports the food pairing for chilli heat, so enjoy with chinese,thai japanese and also mexican. Paul doesnt produce much so see the website for latest releases

“Triskele” White (100% Solaris)

appearance

aroma

mouthfeel

Pale straw to light gold; slight haze – minimal fining

Citrus &, green apple, white flower. touch of stony sea breeze

Crisp acidity, medium body; citrus and apple / light stone fruit) a mineral edge

Food Pairing : Asian style cooking (Thai, Vietnamese, Japanese), ceviche, sashimi, seafood in citrus dressings, light salads, vegetable dishes with umami. The freshness and acidity will cut through spice and fat.

Over the Years ive been lucky enough to try all of the wines listed above so in this arcticle will be my tasting note experiences

All of the vines are maintained by hand from prune to training to harvest. The only intervention in the vineyard is that Paul rolls the grass around the vines. He manages the canopy’s, removing unwanted buds and later leaves.

Because everything is minimal intervention the wines are as a result of natural fermentation created by the grapes – there is no chemicals added nothing. What you get is what comes from the field !

His goal is Zero intervention in the vineyard and in the winery

Natural Amphora Rondo 2021,

Tiriol Field Blend 2022 and

Natural Amphora Solaris 2023

all achieved this goal.

​A perfectly natural and pure interpretation of the 2022-23 terroir. Offering an unadulterated taste of place.

So….. What do you want . This is certainly a fabulous story and a great producer ( someone who wants to be different and produce incredible wines.)

These wines are not for everyone but if you you havnt tried Hebron wines you are genuinely missing out. Follow the linkes in this article to contact Hebron Vineyard and tell Paul you heard it from me !

Find your grapes !

Hopefully ive highlighted this producer, please visit their website and have a look at their accomodation. Link above

TGW