{"title":"White Wines","description":"","products":[{"product_id":"danbury-ridge-estate-chardonnay-2023","title":"England: Danbury Ridge - Estate Chardonnay 2023, Crouch Valley, Essex","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGrape variety: 100% Chardonnay. 13.5% alcohol. \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"The intensity of the work that goes into making these wines is next level.....whisper it....better value than Burgundy at the same price\" - Rosamund Hall, The Independent\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDrink Lightly Chilled (After Around 30 Minutes Out Of The Fridge).\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis has such power, perhaps even opulence, yet is also moreish, energetic, and beautifully balanced. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMaster of Wine Jancis Robinson in particular refers to its balance and finesse and it is rightly very favourably compared to other top-quality Chardonnays worldwide, so much so that several prestigious producers have been snapping up land in the area. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe fruit was sourced from the loamy, carbonate-rich clay of the estate’s three vineyards. I was a member of the winery team for this vintage, one of the largest harvests in living memory both in England and across the continent.  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIt was fermented and aged in a combination of used and new oak barrels for 12 months, followed by 6 months in stainless steel tanks for further ageing before bottling. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis super-premium estate is located in the warmest, driest corner of England, between the Blackwater and Crouch rivers, just a few miles from Maldon (of sea salt fame). \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis south-facing ridge enjoys an exceptionally long and warm growing season, meaning the fruit can enjoy a long 'hang time' to achieve the required level of ripeness for still wines. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRenowned Master of Wine John Atkinson, an expert on cool-climate viticulture and geology, is very intimately involved, while head winemaker Liam Idzikowski, like me a graduate of Plumpton College in Sussex, boasts many years of winemaking experience in England as well as in California. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBacked by owners the Bunker family, the winery is an astonishing no-expense-spared jewel in the crown for top-quality English wine production. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eI worked the 2023 vintage at this estate, the work that is put in here is insane, they are really pushing the envelope and they have garnered huge respect for the quality of their wines both here and abroad - not least in Burgundy itself: both Domaine Duroché of Gevrey-Chambertin and Domaine Benoit Moreau of Chassagne-Montrachet will be making wine in the Crouch Valley as a result of the quality they have seen at Danbury Ridge. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood Pairing:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eAn excellent food wine\u003c\/em\u003e. Pair with: rich chicken, pork, and fish\/seafood dishes e.g. creamy fish pie, scallops\/cod gratin or just with some smoked trout or mackerel pâté; also especially good with dishes featuring creamy sauces, mushrooms, and truffles. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat the critics say: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e93\/100 (Highly Recommended, of Excellent Quality \u0026amp; Character)\u003c\/strong\u003e - Decanter Magazine \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e17\/20 (Superior Quality)\u003c\/strong\u003e - Jancis Robinson, Master of Wine, jancisrobinson.com \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e92\/100 (Exceptional Quality, Highly Recommended)\u003c\/strong\u003e - Neal Martin, Vinous\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e92\/100 -\u003c\/strong\u003e \"The 2023 Chardonnay spent 12 months in 40% new oak. The nose is all lemony, creamy intensity that opens up into the milkiness of fresh cobnuts. The rounded, almost juicy body has real flow and overtones of pineapple, but there is a firm contour of freshness too. Lovely.\" - \u003cem\u003eAnne Krebiehl, Master of Wine, Vinous \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\"The intensity of the work that goes into making these wines is next level.....whisper it....better value than Burgundy at the same price\" - \u003cem\u003eRosamund Hall, The Independent\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0948\/7741\/7819\/files\/Danbury_Logo.png?v=1780344791\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0948\/7741\/7819\/files\/Danbury_Barrel_Hall.jpg?v=1780344722\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"#WineObsessed","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51467026628955,"sku":null,"price":40.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0948\/7741\/7819\/files\/DRChardonnay_f54cfe1f-d6b8-4a36-822d-72d341945140.png?v=1759761455"},{"product_id":"baleia-chardonnay","title":"South Africa: Baleia Estate - Chardonnay 2022, Lower Duiwenshoks River, Western Cape","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRead \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/wineobsessed.co.uk\/pages\/baleia\" title=\"Alex's notes on Baleia\"\u003eAlex's Producer Profile on Baleia\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGrape variety: 100% Chardonnay. 13.5% alcohol. \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePioneering boutique producer Baleia was established in 2009 by the Joubert family; Baleia meaning whale in Portuguese. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe family are what's known as 'terroir hunters', in that they embarked on a mission to unearth new winegrowing areas of the Cape. Some might call them mavericks! \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBaleia is thus the only producer in the Lower Duiwenshoks River region, a stone's throw from the Indian Ocean (St Sebastian Bay, known as the whale nursery of South Africa), around a 4.5 hr drive east of Cape Town. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBaleia is one of very few wineries this far east. What attracted them to this rugged, remote location? One word: limestone. Rare in SA. Soils rich in minerals, high in carbonates and thus high in pH (like many of the soils in Northern France \u0026amp; England!). \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSomewhat counter-intuitively, high pH soils result in low pH wines, these being wines with great acidity, poise, and ageability. Useful attributes given we are seeing less of this in many regions these days due to rising temperatures in more traditional winegrowing areas. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBaleia is on ideal Chardonnay territory, clearly evident in this effff-ing brilliant, lightly oaked, 'coastal' version. To me it has a style all of its own: there's a touch of something dairy on the finish, a little like crème fraîche. Although blind I might have said it was Côte d'Or, meaning serious white burgundy. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIf you consider, then, that this is akin to a decent producer's entry-level Bourgogne Blanc, then it might just be the steal of the century. This is a great find - thank me later. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood pairing:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eServe with white meat dishes - e.g. citrus chicken - seafood, pasta, risottos, creamy cheeses, and lightly spiced dishes; will be great with dishes involving mushrooms and truffle. It's refreshing and uplifting enough to be lovely just on its own, too. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat the critics say:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e90 points: - highly recommended - \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\"chalky, focused, and bright\" - Tom Cannavan - 90 points is a particularly high score for a wine at this price level. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eJancis Robinson, Master of Wine: \u003c\/em\u003e\"Definitely a producer to watch\". \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"#WineObsessed","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52139084644699,"sku":null,"price":17.9,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0948\/7741\/7819\/files\/BaleiaChardBottle.png?v=1776702222"},{"product_id":"basa-telmo-rodriguez-verdejo","title":"Spain: Telmo Rodriguez - Basa Verdejo 2024, Rueda, Castilla y León (Organic)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRead \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/wineobsessed.co.uk\/pages\/telmo_rodriguez\"\u003eAlex's Producer Profile on Telmo Rodriguez.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGrape varieties: 90% Verdejo, 10% Viura (aka Macabeo). Farmed organically. \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRemove from the fridge 5-10 minutes before serving. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePart of the Castilla y León region and around 1.5 hours northwest of Madrid, just to the south of the city of Valladolid and the Duero river, Rueda's vineyards lie on a flat, high plateau with elevations of around 700-800m. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis elevation contributes to dramatic shifts in day-night temperatures, ideal for preserving acidity in the white wines that dominate Rueda, while the continental climate is tempered by the Atlantic's influence.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFermented in stainless steel only. Basa means 'goblet,' referring to the goblet-shaped bush vines responsible for this wine. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSome of these vines are more than 80 years old, meaning they are very low-yielding but producing great fruit. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIntensely aromatic, zingy, and refreshing, but also beautifully textured, this is without doubt one of Spain’s best-value white wines. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFull of lime zest, green apple and herbs, it brims with life; I feel the 10% Viura is here for balance, it adds textural and aromatic nuance while reining in a little of Verdejo’s intensity. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eI just love it. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDrink it now (that's an order, not a drinking window)!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood Pairing:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSeafood of all types including seafood paella, tapas (e.g. tortilla, garlic prawns), Mexican dishes, asparagus, halloumi, white meat, grilled vegetables. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA favourite is chilli-lime prawns with asparagus - one of few wines to pair really well with asparagus. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat the critics say: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e90 points (Superior Quality, Remarkable Personality)\u003c\/strong\u003e - Wine Advocate – a very good score for a wine at this price level!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"#WineObsessed","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52139156832603,"sku":null,"price":16.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0948\/7741\/7819\/files\/Untitled-11_7.png?v=1760688282"},{"product_id":"gaba-do-xil-o-barreiro-godello","title":"Spain: Telmo Rodriguez - Gaba do Xil Godello 2024\/2025, Valdeorras, Galicia (Organic)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRead \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/wineobsessed.co.uk\/pages\/telmo_rodriguez\"\u003eAlex's Producer Profile on Telmo Rodriguez\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGrape variety: mostly Godello but also a few other indigenous varieties such as Doña Blanca and Treixadura. Farmed organically. 13.5% alcohol. \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRemove from the fridge around 10 minutes before serving. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTo quote Telmo Rodriguez (winemaker): \"Gaba do Xil is produced with organic, ancestral farming, and low intervention in a polyculture setting.\" \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eI am indeed obsessed with this wine. It is something of a mouthful - both to pronounce and to drink. Gaba do Xil refers to the “hillsides of the river Xil”, a rugged landscape in the Valdeorras region of Galicia, while O Barreiro is the single vineyard from which this wine comes. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTelmo began his pioneering work here in 2002 and has since restored its 16 hectares of old vines. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOnly healthy whole bunches are hand harvested in small crates. They are gently pressed, and the juice is spontaneously fermented by only wild yeasts in temperature-controlled stainless-steel tanks. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWild yeasts are those that are naturally present in the vineyard and winery; while fermentation is less predictable, wild (often called indigenous) yeasts are said to boost complexity and to reflect the vineyard's unique character (as opposed to cultured yeasts that are freeze-dried and come in a bag!). \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePost alcoholic fermentation, the wine is racked into different stainless-steel tanks, where it is aged for four months on its fine lees without bâtonnage (i.e. no stirring of the lees). \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLees are the yeast cells that have died after they have converted the sugars into alcohol. No malolactic fermentation (the conversion of malic acid to lactic acid by lactic acid bacteria) takes place to preserve the wine’s natural acidity, and it is bottled unfiltered. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis very low yielding vineyard produces an expressive, rounded wine; it is beautifully fresh and precise, with citrus pith as well as a savoury streak of salty minerality, and a long, dry finish. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis is a great introduction to the wonders of Godello, which is quite different to its regional and far more ubiquitous rival Albariño - depending on the style in which it's made, it's often more similar to a white from Italy's Alto Adige or Etna, or maybe a Chablis Premier Cru. I just adore this wine with seafood and tapas style dishes. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood Pairing:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTapas, seafood, vegetarian dishes - such as charred leeks, roasted fennel, asparagus with lemon and olive oil - goat’s cheeses, roast chicken or turkey with a creamy sauce. We love this with p\u003cspan\u003ean-seared sea bass with lemon butter. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat the critics say: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e92 points (Outstanding: Of Superior Quality \u0026amp; Remarkable Personality)\u003c\/strong\u003e - Wine Advocate \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e90 points\u003c\/strong\u003e - Wine-Searcher Average Critic Score\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"#WineObsessed","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52139161551195,"sku":null,"price":24.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0948\/7741\/7819\/files\/Untitled-10_4_6223486c-0367-4035-80bb-09e6e7c0257e.png?v=1760688399"},{"product_id":"finca-allende-blanco-2020","title":"Spain: Finca Allende - Blanco 2020, Rioja","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRead Alex's Producer Profile on \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/wineobsessed.co.uk\/pages\/finca_allende\"\u003eFinca Allende\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGrape variety: 95% Viura and 5% Malvasía.\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe grapes are sourced from Allende’s vineyards in Briones (Rioja Alta) where the vines are an average age of 55 years old!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFinca Allende is one of Spain’s most prestigious wineries, yet it is also one of its most humble: no flamboyant hotel and visitor centre designed by some famous architect, no glitzy marketing, no fleet of tractors or branded ATVs – just horses!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTheir sole focus is on making the very best wines possible in the most sustainable way possible; nothing else matters here.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThere aren’t many wine producers, particularly in Rioja, who could claim a greater focus on sustainability and respect for the environment than Allende: only organic fertilisers are used; they use horses rather than tractors to minimise soil compaction and carbon emissions; they do not use herbicides or any synthetic chemicals; they use natural cork washed and sterilised without the use of any chemicals.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFor this white, the juice is fermented in new French 225L oak barrels for 28 days, followed by fourteen months ageing in the same barrels - the first seven months with the lees (dead yeast cells) to build texture and body (thanks to a process called autolysis), and the remainder without, to preserve freshness. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eI love the colour of this wine, it’s a deep straw-yellow and so bright, almost Sauternes-like in appearance. This is such a complex, textured, creamy white, yet it never tires the palate thanks to its vibrancy of fruit and inherent freshness, while the oak is so subtle and well-integrated. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eI love its complexity, it’s a wine you can get lost in, with its tantalising notes of citrus and stone fruit accompanied by hints of honey, toast, and hazelnut. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA masterclass in winemaking, this is one of the very best white Riojas in my book and is always a real treat. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRenowned wine critic Robert Parker said it is a \"phenomenal modern version of classical white Rioja.\" And it will develop even more depth and complexity over at least the next decade.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis wine is on the wine list at the Hawksmoor restaurants at £70.00 a bottle, as just one example. So it makes sense to cook up a treat and enjoy this at home...\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood Pairing:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA great food wine: roast chicken or turkey (Christmas Lunch!), nutty cheeses such as aged Manchego, paella, seafood such as monkfish, scallops, sea bass with lemon and olive oil.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCook up a spanish seafood stew with smoked paprika, \u003cspan\u003emonkfish, hake, prawns, scallops, etc\u003c\/span\u003e! \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat the critics say:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eWine Spectator\u003c\/em\u003e have rated every one of Finca Allende’s wines over 90 points (Outstanding, With A Superior Character And Style).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e92\/100 (Superior quality, well-balanced, characterful)\u003c\/strong\u003e – Joaquín Hidalgo, Vinous \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e93\/100 (Outstanding, remarkable personality)\u003c\/strong\u003e – Luis Gutiérrez, The Wine Advocate \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e17\/20 (Superior Quality)\u003c\/strong\u003e - Jancis Robinson MW \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"#WineObsessed","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52139165974875,"sku":null,"price":29.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0948\/7741\/7819\/files\/FincaDeAllendeBlanco.png?v=1759761548"},{"product_id":"danbury-ridge-solstice-nv-copy","title":"England: Flint Vineyards - Bacchus Fumé 2024, Waveney Valley (Norfolk) \u0026 Crouch Valley (Essex)","description":"\u003cp\u003eRead Alex's Producer Profile on \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/wineobsessed.co.uk\/pages\/flint\"\u003eFlint\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGrape variety: 100% Bacchus sourced from vineyards in the Waveney Valley (Norfolk) and the Crouch Valley (Essex). 11% alcohol. \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLeave out of the fridge for around 30 minutes before opening. No harm in decanting either, but not obligatory! \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFumé here refers to this wine having spent time in oak barrels, giving it a certain smokiness. In this wine though, it's a very subtle smokiness. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIn wine terms, the word is usually associated with oak-aged and\/or particularly mineral, flinty Sauvignon Blanc. As the very expressive hedgerow and elderflower-scented Bacchus variety is stylistically similar to Sauvignon Blanc, both sharing a certain herbaceous, 'grassy' quality, this is Flint winemaker Ben Witchell's take on the style. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAnd what a successful take on the style this wine has proved to be, with this wine gaining rave reviews. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWhile, like Sauvignon Blanc, Bacchus is incredibly expressive and sometimes a little too attacking \u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003efor some\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e, in Flint's hands it is more rounded, textured and refined. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWhile it's still true-to-style - being intensely aromatic and zingy - I feel it is at its best when not served immediately at fridge temperature and after it's had a bit of \"airtime\" to reveal its texture and mouthfeel. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe texture and complexity here is achieved through extended skin contact and careful use of oak, with fermentation and six months of ageing taking place in large oak casks, as well as in concrete tanks. These impart no oaky character but as these vessels have some porosity, the wine benefits from gentle exposure to oxygen (known as 'micro-oxygenation') which helps develop texture and softens the palate. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eI'd recommend it as a food wine; it can handle a fair bit of spice. Try it with pungent goat's cheese too - match made in heaven! \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eYou may notice it’s missing a foil - a conscious decision as foils are incredibly wasteful things.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood Pairing:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAsian cuisine e.g. Thai green curry (it will handle a fair bit of spice), wonderful with seafood (e.g. scallops), goat's cheese salads, risottos, any herb-driven dishes, spring vegetables (asparagus), chicken salads with citrus or herbs. Asparagus is a tricky one for many white wines, but it works with this.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis wine's minerality and acidity means it can live with and will enhance any dishes with green, herbal, slightly bitter flavours, as well as enhancing itself! \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat the critics say:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\"Crisp, fresh, invigorating. Once again, one of the best Bacchus on the market\" - John Mobbs\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e91 points:\u003c\/strong\u003e \"Lively, zesty, Riesling-like focus on lime and lemon, with good acidity. The oak adds no flavour, but pushes the wine away from its more exotic fruit into a more citrus-led, structured spectrum. Really lovely\" - Dr Jamie Goode, Wine Scientist, Wine Anorak.com\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"#WineObsessed","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52139247468891,"sku":null,"price":19.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0948\/7741\/7819\/files\/Case2-16_1.png?v=1769779579"},{"product_id":"domaine-francois-villard-les-contours-de-deponcins","title":"France: Domaine François Villard - Viognier, Les Contours de Deponcins 2023, Rhône Valley (Organic)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e100% Viognier. Certified organic. 13% alcohol.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\"Better than most Condrieu and if it had that magic word written on the label you would pay an awful lot more for it.\" Victoria Moore, The Daily Telegraph \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis 42-hectare domaine spans six areas of the Northern Rhône with 7.5 of these in Condrieu, a tiny appellation 42km south of Lyon dedicated solely to growing the one variety, Viognier (vee-o-nyay). \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eVineyard work is carried out entirely by hand here, incredibly hard work due to Condrieu's steep slopes, while the domaine was certified organic in 2022. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis wine is particularly noteworthy: firstly, it's made by François, widely regarded as one of Condrieu's greatest winemakers. With no family winemaking pedigree, this chef-turned-sommelier-turned-winemaker planted his first plots in 1989 and built his reputation entirely from scratch, without any formal schooling in winemaking. No mean feat! \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSecondly, the great Deponcins vineyard from which this wine comes is within spitting distance of Condrieu but just outside the appellation limit, meaning it can't carry the Condrieu name. If it could, this wine would be at least twice the price (see Victoria Moore's note below). It is indeed superior to many wines carrying the Condrieu name. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eViognier can easily be flabby (too low in acidity) and quality is hugely site-dependent. Outside of a few areas of the Rhône, it's often 'blousy' (overly opulent) - of course with exceptions - while it's very much down to the winemaker's skill, being a notoriously difficult variety to master: harvest timing is also crucial as the potential alcohol can quickly go through the roof. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eVillard has most certainly mastered it; this wine displays an exhilarating mineral tension yet alongside a textured depth of rich stone fruit. Villard's wines are listed in many of the world's top restaurants and given what's involved in making it, this wine represents great value in a fine wine context.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood Pairing:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eI would say this wine should really be drunk with food: creamy fish dishes, shellfish, or even mild Thai curry. Fabulous with Coquilles St-Jacques. Also works well with charcuterie. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat the critics say\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e90\/100 (average score)\u003c\/strong\u003e - Cellar Tracker - highlighting its character and freshness \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\"Better than most Condrieu and if it had that magic word written on the label you would pay an awful lot more for it.\" Victoria Moore, The Daily Telegraph \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"#WineObsessed","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52139271192923,"sku":null,"price":32.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0948\/7741\/7819\/files\/Case2-6_3.png?v=1769780694"},{"product_id":"selbach-oster-zeltinger-sonnenuhr-riesling-auslese","title":"Germany: Selbach-Oster - Zeltinger Sonnenuhr Riesling Auslese 2019, Mosel (Organic)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRead Alex's Producer Profile on \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/wineobsessed.co.uk\/pages\/selbach-oster\" title=\"Alex's notes on Selbach-Oster\"\u003eSelbach-Oster.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e100% Riesling from a famed, incredibly steep single-vineyard called Zeltinger Sonnenuhr. Incredibly refreshing and only lightly sweet; this is not a dessert wine. Only 8% alcohol.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis has refreshment quality akin to a lemon sorbet and I drink this on its own or perhaps with a slice or two of a salty cheese, or pâté with a fruity chutney. I also drink it with spicy Asian dishes, Thai in particular - Auslese Riesling's sweetness and uplifting acidity works so well with exotic flavours and spice. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIt is neither sweet nor rich enough to go with very rich puddings e.g. christmas pudding or crème brûlée, but is delicious with fruit-based desserts such as a strawberry or raspberry tart. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe vineyards on the banks of the river Mosel that run from near the city of Trier to the river's confluence with the Rhine at Koblenz might be the most spectacular on earth, with many of the vineyards on such steep slopes that it beggars belief people are bothering with growing anything at all. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMost vineyard work here remains manual and hand-harvesting is commonplace for reasons of quality as well as being the only viable option! \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMuch of the production is artisanal and most are ecologically run family estates; it's a real labour of love to grow grapes here. Without the steep banks of the river, though, the region might struggle to ripen Riesling, a late-ripening variety, as the sun's rays are intensified while also being reflected off the river and onto the slopes, aiding ripening. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSelbach-Oster is family-run and owned, with a history dating back to the 17th century. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis has a fresh juiciness alongside its gentle sweetness, with such lovely lift, clarity and delicacy, yet also with magical tension and freshness thanks to its mineral-etched acidity.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis wine is lovely now but also has extraordinary ageing potential (2045+). \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood Pairing:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThai green curry with coconut prawns, fragrant spicy Asian foods, shellfish and fish, pork and poultry, blue and creamy cheeses, richer cured meats, fruit-forward desserts BUT this is not a richly-sweet pudding wine so not to be paired with anything very sweet! \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat the critics say:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e96 points\u003c\/strong\u003e: Wine Advocate\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e95 points\u003c\/strong\u003e: James Suckling\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e95 points\u003c\/strong\u003e: Wine Spectator\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"#WineObsessed","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52139294261595,"sku":null,"price":39.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0948\/7741\/7819\/files\/Case2-15.png?v=1769781419"},{"product_id":"not-yet-named-wine-company-vinevinu-vinho-verde-2024","title":"Portugal: Not Yet Named Wine Company \u0026 VineVinu, Vinho Verde 2024","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGrape varieties: Loureiro, Alvarinho (the Portuguese name for Albariño) and Arinto. 12.5% alcohol.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLoureiro and Arinto are both indigenous Portuguese varieties. The Arinto, around 25% of the blend, was aged in barrel - it brings texture and complexity to the blend. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eVinho Verde is a region in the far north-west of Portugal, bounded to the north by the Minho river and bordering Spain's Galicia region, while it stretches along the Atlantic coast as far as the city of Porto to the south. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe Atlantic has a strong influence here, the landscape is verdant and lush thanks to cool temperatures and abundant rainfall. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThere is some confusion as to the origins of the region's name, with some believing that the 'Verde' (green) designation is due to the acidity and freshness of the region's wine, in the sense of unripe fruit or 'green wine', while others say that the name relates to the region being very rich in vegetation and therefore very green, even in the summer months. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe wine is made by Alex Brogan and Manuel Cerdeira, who both studied winemaking alongside me at Plumpton College and in 2024 established the 'Not Yet Named Wine Company' with the ambition to partner with quality producers to make wine all over the world. Not Yet Named members vote on each stage of the winemaking process which the company refer to as \"democratic winemaking.\" \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAlex is from Manchester and speaks Portuguese while Manuel was born and bred in Vinho Verde and hails from a winemaking family who own both Soalheiro (considered by many to be the region's finest producer) and VineVinu, the latter run by Manuel and his father Luis. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eVineVinu specialises in the region's coastal vineyards, from which this wine originates. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis is a serious wine that needs a little time in the glass to reveal itself and should be drunk lightly chilled rather than fridge-cold. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSome may know Vinho Verde as very light and with a 'spritz' - a ubiquitous style in the region - but style-wise this has much more in common with a top quality, saline, tensile Spanish Albariño.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAn uplifting, generous wine that unravels in the glass, gaining depth and complexity on each pour!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood Pairing:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA perfect wine for seafood, but also grilled white meats, salads, light pasta dishes, pea risotto, asparagus, young goat's cheese, mozzarella or burrata, Thai, Japanese and Chinese dishes, as well as Indian fish curries. Great with Piri-Piri Prawns. And of course with sardines!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"#WineObsessed","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52843642782043,"sku":null,"price":25.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0948\/7741\/7819\/files\/NYNVinhoVerdeBottleForShop.png?v=1777925554"},{"product_id":"france-domaine-des-vaublins-les-acacias-sauvignon-blanc-2025","title":"France: Domaine des Vaublins - Les Acacias Sauvignon Blanc 2025 (Haute Valeur Environnementale)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e100% Sauvignon Blanc. 12% alcohol. \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eI am always super impressed with the quality of this wine, particularly so given its price point. It is very Sancerre in style (and a good Sancerre at that) but lighter on the wallet: z\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eesty, refreshingly dry, and oh-so food-friendly, this is a delightful little number.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOwned by the Deniau family, Vaublins has been a family winery for several generations, with the domaine now in the hands of the current generation Nicolas and Alexandrine who - together with Cedric Allion - are making some excellent wines under his watchful eye.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThey hold the \"Issu d'Une Exploitation Haute Valeur Environnementale\" - meaning they are certified as an agricultural estate for having \"high environmental value\". \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTheir 16 hectares (40 acres) of vines are located on the clay and limestone hillsides on the banks of the river Cher near the city of Tours. The 227-mile long Cher is a tributary of the Loire.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIn the grand scheme of things, Domaine des Vaublins is a tiny family producer with quality being their sole focus.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe fruit for this Sauvignon Blanc is grown on limestone soils and is harvested during the night to ensure optimal freshness is retained in the wine. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIt has the crispness one expects from Sauvignon Blanc but also the elegance, balance and minerality - an overall light touch - that is the hallmark of this variety when grown in the Loire Valley. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood Pairing\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs per all Loire Sauvignon Blanc, this is a match made in heaven with goat's cheese. Also grilled fish, sushi and sashimi, seafood pasta dishes, mussels, Mediterranean salads.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"#WineObsessed","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52852947583323,"sku":null,"price":14.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0948\/7741\/7819\/files\/VaublinsLesAcaciasSauvBlancBottle.png?v=1776865565"},{"product_id":"france-chateau-saint-maur-cuvee-azur-igp-mediterranee-cotes-de-provence-cru-classe","title":"France: Cuvée Azur 2024, IGP Méditerranée, Provence","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGrape varieties: Grenache Blanc \u0026amp; Ugni Blanc. 13% alcohol. \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA few kilometres from Saint-Tropez, Château Saint-Maur is one of only 18 estates in Provence awarded the prestigious Cru Classé designation, a status granted only to the historic, consistently high-quality domaines in Côtes de Provence.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eChâteau Saint-Maur has been a Cru Classé since 1955. The château itself is steeped in history: it was built at the end of the 19th century and inherited its site from a former monastery established on the estate.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eChâteau Saint-Maur is known for producing some of the region’s most refined, terroir-driven wines i.e. they look for their wines to have a sense of place, to express the unique characteristics of their vineyard sites.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCuvée Azur is Château Saint-Maur's entry-level label for everyday drinking and is the house\/by the glass wine at many great restaurants in the region. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis wine is from vineyards on sandy limestone soils that rise up from the tranquil waters of the Giscle, a small river at the foot of Grimaud, a short distance from the Gulf of Saint-Tropez. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWhile the vineyards are sun-drenched, the cooling effect of the river and the light winds from the sea preserve freshness and moderate sugar accumulation, and thus alcohol. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA lively, refreshing, citrusy, yet delicate white, lovely on its own as well as with food. A perfect wine for summer!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood Pairing\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChâteau Saint-Maur recommend the following types of dishes: veal carpaccio with olive oil and lemon, seabream fillets with preserved lemon, salmon tartare with dill, crunchy fennel and citrus salad, vegetable gratin, thin lemon tart with candied zest. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Winemaker's Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"The nose opens to a delightful and refined aromatic palette, combining notes of white flowers, fresh citrus, and a subtle touch of stone fruits. On the palate, the attack is lively and refreshing, supported by a pleasant tension revealing flavors of lemon, pear, and a hint of minerality. The light, thirst-quenching finish invites conviviality. This delicate wine is perfect for aperitifs or simple sunkissed dishes like summer salads or grilled fish\".\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0948\/7741\/7819\/files\/Ch_St_Maur_Logo.png?v=1780342726\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"#WineObsessed","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52852990574939,"sku":null,"price":15.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0948\/7741\/7819\/files\/ChStMaurCuveeAzurWhiteBottle.png?v=1776866312"},{"product_id":"italy-azienda-agricola-monte-del-fra-soave-classico-2025-veneto","title":"Italy: Azienda Agricola Monte del Frà - Soave Classico 2025, Veneto (SQNPI-certified)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGrape variety: 100% Garganega. 12% alcohol. Grown on a mix of clay and limestone soils of \u003cspan\u003evolcanic origin at an altitude of 100-200 meters above sea level, in the Soave region to the east of Verona.\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003e'Classico' \u003c\/em\u003erefers to this wine originating exclusively from the historic, original heartland of the appellation - specifically the hilly areas surrounding the towns of Soave and Monteforte d'Alpone. \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe \u003cem\u003eClassico\u003c\/em\u003e area features higher elevation and less fertile soils compared to the flat alluvial plains (from where the high-production, bog-standard Soave comes). \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"T286Pc\" data-sfc-cp=\"\" data-sfc-root=\"c\" data-sfc-cb=\"\" data-complete=\"true\" data-copy-service-computed-style='font-family: \"Google Sans\", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 400; margin: 0px; text-decoration: none; border-bottom: 0px rgb(10, 10, 10);'\u003eTo be labelled as \u003cem class=\"eujQNb\" data-sfc-root=\"c\" data-sfc-cb=\"\" data-complete=\"true\" data-copy-service-computed-style='font-family: \"Google Sans\", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 400; margin: 0px; text-decoration: none; border-bottom: 0px rgb(10, 10, 10);'\u003eSoave Classico\u003c!--TgQPHd|[]--\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e, winemakers must adhere to much stricter regulations - such as lower grape yields - to ensure higher overall quality.\u003c!--TgQPHd|[]--\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAn 'azienda agricola' is an agricultural estate - in wine, it refers to a producer that grows grapes and makes wine only from their own grapes, meaning they are fully in control of quality from vine to bottle. \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis wine's scores from wine critics - e.g. 94 points from famed Italian critic Luca Maroni (outstanding\/highly recommended) - are mightily impressive for its humble price point. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTo me (and other wine anoraks!), \u003cem\u003eSoave Classico\u003c\/em\u003e is one of the best value white wines in the world. The wines deliver such great bang for their buck. They are very fruit-forward but at the same time often with a stony minerality and great acidity, offering a superb value alternative to a high-quality unoaked\/lightly-oaked Chardonnay. Perhaps unsurprisingly, they are fantastic food wines.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis one is \u003cem\u003eparticularly\u003c\/em\u003e fruit-forward with a very attractive stone fruit and pear character on a delicate yet really long finish. This wine is all about the fruit - alongside a very subtle mineral character - it doesn't see any oak.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWhen you click on this producer's website, they say \"one of the best Italian wineries in Veneto\" - quite a bold statement given the vast size of this northeastern Italian region but given the consistent quality I've seen from them, this does hold true. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOwned and run by the Bonomo family since 1958, the estate was originally founded as a monastery a few hundred years prior. It today encompasses 137 hectares\/338 acres, while the family rent another 68 hectares\/168 acres, spread across the Custoza, Valpolicella, Lugana, Bardolino and Soave areas to the west, north and east of Verona. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSustainability at Monte del Frà\u003c\/strong\u003e: they are SQNPI-certified, the Italian certificate for integrated farming, which involves green manure, sexual confusion, micro-drip irrigation, and zero chemical weeding. As well as local workforces and local raw materials, working with recycled paper, sustainable glass, and a circular use of energy and water resources. The extensive winery renovation and expansion project, which will be completed in the next few years, aims to achieve maximum production sustainability.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Winemaker's Notes:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMedium intensity with floral and fruity aromas such as blossom, elderflower, peach and apricot. Pleasant mineral sensations. Dry, elegant, harmonious on the palate. The flavour remains true to the nose. Drink it now or maximize its potential storing for at least 5 years. This wine will keep your interest alive delivering constant emotions time after time. Drink now!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood Pairing:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePerfect with roast chicken, focaccia, shellfish and fish in general, asparagus, veal scaloppini, cannelloni, parmigiana, risotto, cauliflower soup and pasta primavera. Also delicious with fresh cheese such as goat's cheese, ricotta, mozzarella, and burrata.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat the critics say:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e94 points:\u003c\/strong\u003e Luca Maroni - an incredibly high score for a wine at this price point! \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0948\/7741\/7819\/files\/Monte_del_Fra_Barrels_In_Vineyard.jpg?v=1780335622\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"#WineObsessed","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53103532999003,"sku":null,"price":17.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0948\/7741\/7819\/files\/MontedelFraSoaveClassBottle.png?v=1779808706"},{"product_id":"australia-10-minutes-by-tractor-10x-chardonnay-2024-mornington-peninsula","title":"Australia: Ten Minutes By Tractor - 10X Chardonnay 2024, Mornington Peninsula","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"product__description rte quick-add-hidden\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGrape variety: 100% Chardonnay. 13% alcohol. \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWhile a light-hearted name - so-called as their three neighbouring vineyards are each 'ten minutes by tractor' apart - this estate happens to be one of the finest sources of Chardonnay \u0026amp; Pinot Noir not just in Australia but the whole world. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOwned and run by the Spedding family, their wines are legendary in wine circles and while they weren't the first producer on the Peninsula, their single-vineyard bottlings from the 2000 vintage onwards were quickly recognised as being amongst the very best. This is an epic producer.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis might be Australia, yes, but ditch the stereotypes: this is a cool-climate region, just a ten minute drive (by car!) from the notoriously breezy Bass Strait. They even get a touch less ripeness here than at Danbury Ridge, Essex!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe producers on the Mornington Peninsula, around an hour's drive south of Melbourne, are all small-scale and unshowy, and mostly family owned and run. Quite a few run their own restaurants on site, making the area a foodie paradise. There are no corporate behemoths churning out mass-market brands here! \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSustainability at Ten Minutes By Tractor: \u003c\/strong\u003ehere, we are talking small-batch wild ferments i.e. the use of indigenous yeasts naturally present in the vineyard and winery (instead of using mass-produced 'cultured' yeasts that come in a bag!) for spontaneous rather than winemaker-induced fermentation. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe estate is run along organic and regenerative lines which involves: preserving soil health and biodiversity, zero herbicide use, cover cropping, water efficiency, a lot of work by hand on canopy management to minimise disease risk naturally rather than via frequent spraying. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWinemaking here is top-notch: spontaneous fermentations require much more focused and attentive winemaking, while oak is used here only to support\/frame the wines, not to flavour them. This wine spent \u003cspan\u003e5 months in French oak puncheons, only 10% of which were new. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes: \u003c\/strong\u003e\"\u003cspan\u003eBright citrus, white nectarine, and perfumed floral notes bring a lovely freshness and vitality to this wine. As the palate glides through, there is a creamy mouthfeel, light and soft, key lime and biscuit crumb edges giving texture and grip. Delightful.\"\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood pairing:\u003c\/strong\u003e in their restaurant, the estate pairs this with h\u003cspan\u003eazelnut and ricotta homemade gnocchi with burnt butter and sage sauce. Being a crisp yet weighty Chardonnay, this will pair beautifully with seafood (just wonderful with lobster!), chicken and turkey, creamy mushroom and truffle dishes, and soft cheeses. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat the critics say:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\"The wines from this estate have become classier and classier with each passing year. Indeed, it's fast heading for elite status\" - Campbell Mattinson \u0026amp; Gary Walsh\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\"Chardonnay at its seductive best - poised, assured and curvaceous but contained\" - Nick Ryan, The Australian  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e92 points - Huon Hooke, The Real Review: \u003c\/strong\u003e“Light, bright yellow colour; creamy lees, cashew and lemon curd aromas, fresh, clean and bright. Pristine fruit‑driven flavours, light‑medium weight and beautifully balanced, the finish dry, clean and more‑ish. Excellent value too.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTen Minutes By Tractor is \"a stand out; a benchmark\" - Jancis Robinson MW\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbutton class=\"share-button__button\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0948\/7741\/7819\/files\/10_Mins_By_Tractor_Logo.jpg?v=1779913620\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"svg-wrapper\"\u003e\u003csvg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" fill=\"none\" class=\"icon icon-share\" viewbox=\"0 0 13 12\"\u003e\u003cpath stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\" d=\"M1.625 8.125v2.167a1.083 1.083 0 0 0 1.083 1.083h7.584a1.083 1.083 0 0 0 1.083-1.083V8.125\"\u003e\u003c\/path\u003e\u003cpath fill=\"currentColor\" fill-rule=\"evenodd\" d=\"M6.148 1.271a.5.5 0 0 1 .707 0L9.563 3.98a.5.5 0 0 1-.707.707L6.501 2.332 4.147 4.687a.5.5 0 1 1-.708-.707z\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\"\u003e\u003c\/path\u003e\u003cpath fill=\"currentColor\" fill-rule=\"evenodd\" d=\"M6.5 1.125a.5.5 0 0 1 .5.5v6.5a.5.5 0 0 1-1 0v-6.5a.5.5 0 0 1 .5-.5\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\"\u003e\u003c\/path\u003e\u003c\/svg\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/button\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"#WineObsessed","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53126568247643,"sku":null,"price":29.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0948\/7741\/7819\/files\/10XChardBottle.png?v=1779910539"}],"url":"https:\/\/wineobsessed.co.uk\/collections\/white-wines.oembed","provider":"#WineObsessed","version":"1.0","type":"link"}