- Albarino
- Alfrocheiro
- Barbera
- Blaufrankisch
- Cabernet Franc
- Cabernet Sauvignon
- Canaiolo
- Carignan
- Carignan Blanc
- Carmenere
- Chardonnay
- Chenin Blanc
- Cinsault
- Corvina Veronese
- Corvinone
- Counoise
- Dolcetto
- Encruzado
- Frappato
- Garnacha
- Gewurztraminer
- Glera
- Grenache
- Grenache Blanc
- Grenache Gris
- Grillo
- Gruner Veltliner
- Loureiro
- Malbec
- Mencia
- Merlot
- Molinara
- Mourvedre
- Muscadelle
- Muscat Blanc a Petits Grains
- Muskat Ottonel
- Nebbiolo
- Nerello Mascalese
- Nero D'Avola
- Nero di Troia
- Petit Verdot
- Pinot Blanc
- Pinot Grigio
- Pinot Gris
- Pinot Meunier
- Pinot Noir
- Pinotage
- Ribolla Gialla
- Riesling
- Rondinella
- Roussanne
- Sangiovese
- Sauvignon Gris
- Sauvignon Blanc
- Scheurebe
- Semillon
- Syrah
- Tempranillo
- Torrontes
- Touriga Nacional
- Vaccarese
- Valpolicella
- Verdejo
- Verdicchio
- Vermentino
- Viognier
- Viura
- Welschriesling
- Anjou
- Barbera d'Alba
- Barolo
- Blaye - Cotes de Bordeaux
- Brunello Di Montalcino
- Cahors
- Chablis
- Chateauneuf du Pape
- Chianti Rufina
- Condrieu
- Cote Chalonnaise
- Cote de Beaune
- Cote de Nuits
- Cote du Rhone
- Coteaux d'Aix en Provence
- Cotes de Thongue
- Dolcetto d'Alba
- Heathcote
- Langhe
- Maconnais
- Maremma Toscana
- Medoc
- Monteregio di Massa Maritima
- Moscadello di Montalcino
- Napa Valley
- Pouilly Fume
- Ribera del Duero
- Rosso di Montalcino
- Rueda
- Saint Georges - Saint Emilion
- Saint Joseph
- Sancerre
- Savennieres
- Sonoma County
- Stellenbosch
- Toro
- Valpolicella
- Vinho Verde
- Yarra Valley
- Albarino
- Alfrocheiro
- Barbera
- Blaufrankisch
- Cabernet Franc
- Cabernet Sauvignon
- Canaiolo
- Carignan
- Carignan Blanc
- Carmenere
- Chardonnay
- Chenin Blanc
- Cinsault
- Corvina Veronese
- Corvinone
- Counoise
- Dolcetto
- Encruzado
- Frappato
- Garnacha
- Gewurztraminer
- Glera
- Grenache
- Grenache Blanc
- Grenache Gris
- Grillo
- Gruner Veltliner
- Loureiro
- Malbec
- Mencia
- Merlot
- Molinara
- Mourvedre
- Muscadelle
- Muscat Blanc a Petits Grains
- Muskat Ottonel
- Nebbiolo
- Nerello Mascalese
- Nero D'Avola
- Nero di Troia
- Petit Verdot
- Pinot Blanc
- Pinot Grigio
- Pinot Gris
- Pinot Meunier
- Pinot Noir
- Pinotage
- Ribolla Gialla
- Riesling
- Rondinella
- Roussanne
- Sangiovese
- Sauvignon Gris
- Sauvignon Blanc
- Scheurebe
- Semillon
- Syrah
- Tempranillo
- Torrontes
- Touriga Nacional
- Vaccarese
- Valpolicella
- Verdejo
- Verdicchio
- Vermentino
- Viognier
- Viura
- Welschriesling
- Anjou
- Barbera d'Alba
- Barolo
- Blaye - Cotes de Bordeaux
- Brunello Di Montalcino
- Cahors
- Chablis
- Chateauneuf du Pape
- Chianti Rufina
- Condrieu
- Cote Chalonnaise
- Cote de Beaune
- Cote de Nuits
- Cote du Rhone
- Coteaux d'Aix en Provence
- Cotes de Thongue
- Dolcetto d'Alba
- Heathcote
- Langhe
- Maconnais
- Maremma Toscana
- Medoc
- Monteregio di Massa Maritima
- Moscadello di Montalcino
- Napa Valley
- Pouilly Fume
- Ribera del Duero
- Rosso di Montalcino
- Rueda
- Saint Georges - Saint Emilion
- Saint Joseph
- Sancerre
- Savennieres
- Sonoma County
- Stellenbosch
- Toro
- Valpolicella
- Vinho Verde
- Yarra Valley
2009 Domaine Loic Mahe, Savennieres 'Sectilis Terra'
Regular price £85.50 Save £-85.50ABOUT THE WINE
Having worked as a consultant for other wineries, Brittany-born Loïc couldn't wait to start his own, and so in 2011 he purchased 11 hectares spread between Savennières and La Franchaie, Certified organic and non-interventionist, Loïc prefers to let the effects of the seasons and terroir dominate the character of his wines. Grapes are exclusively picked by hand, with careful sorting to ensure quality fruit. Fermentation is slow, using natural yeasts and minimal sulphites, with maturation in oak barrels or small tanks.
TASTING NOTES
Produced only in exceptional years, from 'green-harvested' vines which are able to concentrate on feeding only 3 or 4 grapes clusters per vine. Harvested by hand, sometimes with small amounts of botrytis-affected grapes, the wine undergoes a slow, natural vinification of 18 months in oak barrels. Golden colour with amber shades, derived from a period of skin-contact prior to fermentation. The nose combines fruity, mineral and woody notes. On mouth it is ample, pure, rich and fresh. Incredibly long finish.
FOOD PAIRING
An exquisite wine to go with rich fish like turbot, brill or a poulet de Bresse or even fatty duck breast. We also recommend pairing with rich baked cheeses, like Comte and Beaufort.
FRIARWOOD SAYS
A great sensory experience! A great wine to drink now but with an ageing potential of 30 years. We recommend decanting for 30 minutes before serving.
2010 Domaine Loic Mahe, Savennieres 'Equilibre'
Regular price £49.30 Save £-49.30ABOUT THE WINE
Having worked as a consultant for other wineries, Brittany-born Loïc couldn't wait to start his own, and so in 2011 he purchased 11 hectares spread between Savennières and La Franchaie, Certified organic and non-interventionist, Loïc prefers to let the effects of the seasons and terroir dominate the character of his wines. Grapes are exclusively picked by hand, with careful sorting to ensure quality fruit. Fermentation is slow, using natural yeasts and minimal sulphites, with maturation in oak barrels or small tanks.
TASTING NOTES
Golden yellow in colour, very complex nose with honey, citrus, brioche and quince on the nose. Very bright and fresh with some nutty and toasted notes. On the palate is powerful and structured. Good minerality, medium weight and a long finish.
FOOD PAIRING
Ideal with any fish, preferably with a strong flavoured spice or sauce. Sweetbread or veal kidneys in a rich cream sauce will also complement the wine nicely, along with a locally produced goat or sheep's milk cheeses.
FRIARWOOD SAYS
The name 'Équilibre' symbolises a meeting point where the terroir-driven approach in Loïc's biodynamic vine-growing and the natural style of winemaking combine to create a wine which embodies the best of both philosophies.
2011 Benjamin Bridge, Brut Reserve
Regular price £51.15 Save £-51.15ABOUT THE WINE
In little more than a decade, Benjamin Bridge has distinguished itself by its dedication to time proven techniques, expert guidance, and most importantly its acclaimed, distinctive wines. When legendary Champagne oenologist Raphael Brisbois passed away in 2013, he left behind a legacy at Benjamin Bridge. From the moment his name was suggested by world-renowned sparkling wine critic, Tom Stevenson, to his more than a decade of blending and winemaking exploration at Benjamin Bridge, Brisboi, expertise and influence can be tasted in every sparkling bottle.
TASTING NOTES
In the glass, a vibrant yellow gold colour. On the nose, suggestions of lemon rind and minerals abound. On the palate, vibrant and expressive notes of sweet Devonshire cream and baked green apples lead to an enticing rich finish. The finesse and creaminess of the wine's effervescence is both mouth coating and persistent. A definitive cellar keeper with 20+ years of aging potential.
FOOD PAIRING
With white fish or seafood (oysters) in a buttery white sauce, a sublime mix of the soft and fresh, lemony and crisp.
FRIARWOOD SAYS
From the outset, Benjamin Bridge has been dedicated to producing only those styles of wines that the Nova Scotian micro-climate is perfectly suited to.
2011 Cave de Ribeauville, Pinot Gris Grand Cru 'Gloeckelberg'
Regular price £37.30 Save £-37.30ABOUT THE WINE
Created in 1895 by the wine-growers of Ribeauvillé, Cave de Ribeauvillé - being the oldest cooperative in France - is a pioneer winery in Alsace. Even today, from generation to generation, the winegrowers perpetuate the same solidarity and the same willingness to progress. The Grand Cru Gloeckelberg, located near the village of Rodern, is south-east facing and situated at an altitude between 250 and 360 meters on the granitic basement of the Vosges mountains. Alsace Grand Cru Gloeckelberg wines display surprising finesse, lightness and elegance. With a powerful bouquet and great persistence on the palate, they age particularly well.
TASTING NOTES
Intense and powerful nose of ripen fruits such as pear, apricot, quince with a hint of toasted aromas. On the palate aromas of jammed fruits are combined with some grilled hazelnuts notes. The finish is on citrusy aromas that brings freshness and elegance to the wine.
FOOD PAIRING
Great with foie gras and sweet and sour dishes such as duck a l'orange or pork with apricots.
FRIARWOOD SAYS
Terroirs are well exposed to sunshine and benefit from the natural protection of the Vosges mountains
2011 Chateau du Cayrou Chateau du Cayrou
Regular price £18.70 Save £-18.70Since 2009, Chateau du Cayrou belongs to the family Georges Douin. This family vineyard of 30 ha is located in the heart of Cahors. The 17th century castle, the park designed and planted in 1856 and the winery over 1000 m2 make it one of the most beautiful wine estate of the area. Cayrou means gravel in reference to its soil. This specificity allows the soil to drain, which facilitates ripening and softens the tannins key for the king grape variety of cahors: Malbec.
TASTING NOTES
Dark ruby colour, Dark fruit aromas with hints of licorice, plum and black cherry. The wine is rich but elegant with soft tannins, just a high quality wine.
FOOD PAIRING
Great with beef especially stews. Also strong hard cheeses like Manchego.
FRIARWOOD SAYS
Malbec from the original place in France where Malbec originated.
2012 Capanna, Brunello di Montalcino Riserva
Regular price £95.80 Save £-95.80ABOUT THE WINE
The Capanna farm, owned by the Cencioni family since 1957, is situated in the Montosoli area, to the north of Montalcino. Founded by Giuseppe Cencioni and his sons, Benito and Franco, it was one of the first farms of the modern period of Brunello. The farm is still family run from both a farming and winemaking viewpoint, with 11 hecatres out of 23 devoted to olive groves.
TASTING NOTES
A deep ruby red colour with garnet hues. Delicate bouquet of red fruit and a hint vanilla. Smoke, roses and liquorice on the palate; very aromatic and persistent, with excellent round tannins and structure, and a long finish. The extra time in oak has served to mellow the tannins in the wine, creating a broader palate and a more refined drinking experience.
FOOD PAIRING
Pairs well with roasted red meats, game and aged cheeses.
FRIARWOOD SAYS
A powerful yet very elegant wine. We recommend letting it breathe at least 30 minutes before serving.
2012 Capanna, Brunello di Montalcino Riserva
Regular price £209.10 Save £-209.10The Capanna farm, owned by the Cencioni family since 1957, is situated in the Montosoli area, to the north of Montalcino. Founded by Giuseppe Cencioni and his sons, Benito and Franco, it was one of the first farms of the modern period of Brunello. The farm is still family-run from both a farming and winemaking viewpoint, with 11 hectares out of 23 devoted to olive groves.
TASTING NOTES
A deep ruby red colour with garnet hues. Delicate bouquet of red fruit and a hint of vanilla. Smoke, roses and liquorice on the palate; very aromatic and persistent, with excellent round tannins and structure, and a long finish. The extra time in oak has served to mellow the tannins in the wine, creating a broader palate and a more refined drinking experience.
FOOD PAIRING
Pairs well with roasted red meats, game and aged cheeses.
FRIARWOOD SAYS
A powerful yet very elegant wine. We recommend letting it breathe for at least 30 minutes before serving.
2012 Trinite Estate, Acaibo
Regular price £66.00 Save £-66.00ABOUT THE WINE
The 2012 vintage, is the first vintage produced by Claire and Gonzague Lurton, who are part of great Bordeaux families. Acaibo is nestled in the hills in a small corner of the Chalk Hill area. The estate sits in an intimate bowl between three valleys: the Russian River Valley, the Alexander Valley, and Knight's Valley. Made from Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot.
TASTING NOTES
The Acaibo is remarkable for its very intense, almost seductive expression of aromas. The bouquet offers an elegant combination of floral notes (violets), spices (pepper, cinnamon, liquorice and vanilla), red fruit (blackberries and raspberries) and earthy undertones.
FOOD PAIRING
Goes well with steak, beef fillet and rack of lamb.
FRIARWOOD SAYS
This is the first ever vintage of this American project. Sold out at the winery, this wine is now a collector's item.
2013 Benjamin Bridge, Brut
Regular price £35.25 Save £-35.25ABOUT THE WINE
In little more than a decade, Benjamin Bridge has distinguished itself by its dedication to time-proven techniques, expertise, and most importantly to its acclaimed, distinctive wines. Located in the Gaspereau Valley in Nova Scotia, the vines benefit from the moderating influence of the Bay of Fundy, resulting in a climate remarkably similar to that found in Champagne.
TASTING NOTES
Butter and honey aromas, with plenty of citrus. The palate shows almonds, baked apple and creamy lemon-tart, with a mineral flourish to the finish.
FOOD PAIRING
Grilled salmon and rice, clams spaghetti with creme fraiche, pancakes and strawberries.
FRIARWOOD SAYS
A product for those who love champagne, and are feeling a little adventurous...
2013 Benjamin Bridge, Brut Rose
Regular price £35.25 Save £-35.25ABOUT THE WINE
In little more than a decade, Benjamin Bridge has distinguished itself by its dedication to time-proven techniques, expertise, and most importantly to its acclaimed, distinctive wines.
TASTING NOTES
Light rose colour with a pale ruby hue. On the nose, hints of wild strawberry and raw cinnamon combine with a range of toastiness from grilled bread to soft ember aromas. The palate displays the wine's intensity with dynamic effervescence and a structured richness. The elevated concentration complements the wine's elegance, as freshness and earthy cherry notes keep the wine in a state of balanced harmony.
FOOD PAIRING
Enjoy as a palate-refreshing aperitif, or with light finger-food, great with salmon terrine!
2013 Bodega Monteviejo, La Violeta
Regular price £127.60 Save £-127.602013 Cave de Ribeauville, Le Clos du Zahnacker
Regular price £41.60 Save £-41.60The Clos du Zahnacker has been the exclusive property of la Cave de Ribeauvillé since 1935, and is located in the heart of the Grand Cru Osterberg vineyard. Documents trace its origin to the 8th century; it bears the name of one of its first owners, a knight and monk, Martin Zahn, and is believed to have been a favoured wine of King Louis XIV. Today, the traditional grape varietals are still maintained, with Riesling, Pinot Gris and Gewürztraminer grown on the same small plot of land. The grapes are then pressed and vinified together, producing exceptional wines of great character and excellent ageing potential.
TASTING NOTES
Light golden colour. The nose is powerful, intense and complex, mixing the petrol notes of the Riesling, the smokiness of the Pinot Gris and the rose, acacia and spicy aromas of the Gewürztraminer. The mouth is full and well-structured with an explosion of citrus, peach and spices. The finish is long and very rich, yet dry. An exceptional wine for an exceptional terroir.
FOOD PAIRING
Perfect with sole, veal or roasted goose.
FRIARWOOD SAYS
A superb, quintessential wine of Alsace, nuanced and beautifully balanced - a singular experience, not to be missed.
2013 Tenuta Fanti, Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Vigna Macchiarelle
Regular price £406.40 Save £-406.40ABOUT THE WINE
Farmed by the Fanti family since the early 1800s, the Tenuta Fanti is a 300 hectare estate in a valley just south of Montalcino, complete with olive groves, fields of wheat and grain, and 50 hectares of vines, within the boundaries of one of the most highly regarded appellations in Italy, Brunello di Montalcino.
TASTING NOTES
Captivating; blackberry, dark plum and spice. Liquorice, black cherry, sawdust and rounded, silky tannins on the palate. Plenty of grip, open and expressive, with vanilla and cinnamon on the long, nuanced finish.
FOOD PAIRING
Best with grilled beef or lamb dishes with plenty of heft.
FRIARWOOD SAYS
Produced from a single vineyard on the estate, with vines over 40 years old.
2014 Bodegas Francisco Casas, Camparron Reserva
Regular price £19.60 Save £-19.60ABOUT THE WINE
Founded in 1942 by Francisco Casas Gomez, Bodega Francisco Casas remains a family-run winery, with the fourth generation now in charge. In 1965 the family bought a new cellar in Morales de Toro, the heart of the Toro region. Their vineyards cover more than 10 hectares in the surrounding region. The climate in Toro is continental, with extreme contrasts in temperature during winter and summer; there is a longstanding winemaking tradition in this area, predating even the Ancient Roman era. Eduardo Casas has recently taken over the Bodega, the latest generation to shape the Casas legacy.
TASTING NOTES
Dark fruit berry colour. Cherry, kirsch, prune and fruit compote nose. Incredibly smooth finish, with a refreshing herbal note.
FOOD PAIRING
Great with lamb and beef casseroles, and strong, hard cheeses.
FRIARWOOD SAYS
Bright and youthful, 2014 was another superb vintage for Toro, Rioja and Ribera del Duero. These latter two regions may be more fashionable, but Toro has the history, the vineyards and increasingly also the technical expertise to more-than match them for quality.
2014 Conti di San Bonifacio, Docet
Regular price £41.30 Save £-41.30ABOUT THE DOCET WINE
The estate, in the Maremma region of Tuscany, was purchased in 2002 by the Conte di San Bonifacio, Manfredo, and his English wife Sarah. They have since transformed it into a spectacular wine resort and wedding venue, with olive groves, beautifully manicured vineyards and a restaurant serving exceptional meals created using locally sourced ingredients. The first vines were planted in 2004 and the vineyard now comprises 7 hectares. Winemaker Luca d'Attoma has an exceptional talent for crafting Tuscan wines using international varieties.
TASTING NOTES OF CONTI DI SAN BONIFACIO DOCET
Dense and earthy, with a Bordeaux-like graphite note. Opens up on the palate to reveal subtle cherry and blackberry fruit, with ripe, structured tannins and a long finish.
FOOD PAIRING
Ideal with lamb or game, barbecued or roasted. Excellent with stew too.
FRIARWOOD SAYS
Cabernet Franc brings aromatic complexity, while the Cabernet Sauvignon brings depth on the palate and full bodied character. A wine which benefits from time in the decanter.
2014 Domaine Antonin Guyon, Aloxe Corton 1er Cru 'Les Fournieres'
Regular price £66.40 Save £-66.40ABOUT THE WINE
The second generation now manages this domaine, founded by Antonin in the 1960s. Based in Savigny-les-Beaune, they own vines throughout the Cote d'Or, including parcels in some of the finest Premier and Grand cru vineyards. Harvest is by hand, with initial sorting in the vineyard; no more than 50% new oak is used, and the wines of the domaine have a classic freshness and purity to them.
TASTING NOTES
Delicate in colour, with wonderful minerality and fine tannins. Bright cherry fruit, very intense, with a touch of oak adding elegance. Exceptionally well-balanced.
FOOD PAIRING
Ideal very slightly chilled, with summer salads; or with pork dishes on colder evenings.
FRIARWOOD SAYS
A superb vintage for Burgundy, the 2014 Guyon is a delightful wine.
2014 Domaine Loic Mahe, Savennieres 'Les Fougeraies'
Regular price £38.70 Save £-38.70ABOUT THE WINE
Having worked as a consultant for other wineries, Brittany-born Loïc couldn't wait to start his own, and so in 2011 he purchased 11 hectares spread between Savennières and La Franchaie, Certified organic and non-interventionist, Loïc prefers to let the effects of the seasons and terroir dominate the character of his wines. Grapes are exclusively picked by hand, with careful sorting to ensure quality fruit. Fermentation is slow, using natural yeasts and minimal sulphites, with maturation in oak barrels or small tanks.
TASTING NOTES
A Savennières of pleasure that combines the power of the terroir with a beautiful structure. Very dry, yet generous, with an unctuous character balanced by fresh acidity and impressive complexity - apple and pear fruit, with a hint of nuttiness and a touch of earth on the finish.
FOOD PAIRING
Ideal with fish, especially where they are cooked in powerfully flavoured sauces, but it will also be a good match with white meat (chicken, pork, veal) and creamy sauces.
FRIARWOOD SAYS
With a white of this complexity it is advisable to decant 30 minutes to an hour before serving; this wine will age beautifully for up to 15 years from vintage.
2015 Agriturismo Colognole, Chianti Rufina Riserva del Don
Regular price £72.10 Save £-72.10ABOUT THE WINE
In 1892, Conte Vencesalao Spalletti, Senator to the Kingdom of Italy and owner of a fine agricultural estate in upper Emilia, purchased the Colognole and Lucciano (in Chianti Montalbano) estates. Colognole was initially utilised mainly for lumber production, thanks to its extensive forests, but in 1912, due to the interest shown from the Conte's sons, Giambattista and Cesar, production focused on grapevines and olive trees. This development led, in the 1930s, to the construction of the Cantine Spalletti in the city of Rufina. Production significantly increased both in quantity and quality, and in the 1960s the name Spalletti had become synonymous with high-quality Tuscan wine, particularly for age-worthy reds. In the 1980s, with the addition to the shareholders of a large sparkling-wine producer, the owner gave up both the production cellar and the name Spattelli and concentrated their efforts on the Colognole Estate.
TASTING NOTES
A medium body with a ruby red colour. Cherry fruit on the nose with darker fruit, light spice, black olive and balsamic notes and delicate earthiness on the palate. Extremely smooth, velvety tannins, and perfectly balanced acidity.
FOOD PAIRING
It goes particularly well with traditional Tuscan meat dishes, such as grilled lamb, pork ribs, stew, and antipasti.
FRIARWOOD SAYS
Really impressive, subtle Chianti, the extra time in barrel adds refinement to a supremely enjoyable wine.
2015 Agriturismo Colognole, Chianti Vigna 'Rogaie'
Regular price £53.00 Save £-53.00ABOUT THE WINE
In 1892, Conte Vencesalao Spalletti, Senator to the Kingdom of Italy and owner of a fine agricultural estate in upper Emilia, purchased the Colognole and Lucciano (in Chianti Montalbano) estates. Colognole was initially utilised mainly for lumber production, thanks to its extensive forests, but in 1912, due to the interest shown from the Conte’s sons, Giambattista and Cesar, production focused on grapevines and olive trees. This development led, in the 1930s, to the construction of the Cantine Spalletti in the city of Rufina. Production significantly increased both in quantity and quality, and in the 1960s the name Spalletti had become synonymous with high-quality Tuscan wine, particularly for age-worthy reds. In the 1980s, with the addition to the shareholders of a large sparkling-wine producer, the owner gave up both the production cellar and the name Spattelli and concentrated their efforts on the Colognole Estate.
TASTING NOTES
A richer, more powerful wine than the Riserva; black cherry and bramble characterise the aromas, with red fruit on the palate. The finish shows a hint of barrel-ageing; long and promising, with grippy tannins suggesting a long life ahead.
FOOD PAIRING
Excellent with lamb loin chops and roast potatoes; or a roast butternut with trimmings.
FRIARWOOD SAYS
The Colognole estate spans 700 hectares in the Tuscan hills, of which only 27 hectares are planted to vines. In 2004 the estate embarked upon a project to find out which plots produced their finest Sangiovese grapes, the result of which is this exceptional single-vineyard release.
2015 Bodegas Torrederos, Ribera del Duero Reserva
Regular price £35.00 Save £-35.00ABOUT THE WINE
Situated in Ribera del Duero - home to one of Spain’s most sought after and applauded wines. Founded in 1999 by Serafin and Jose Mari - Torrederos Winery owns more than 100 hectares of Tempranillo planted vineyards. Vines are situated in a maximum radius of 5 km from the winery, facilitating continual production quality control. You can expect excellent value for these true expressions of Spain's most iconic grape.
TASTE NOTES
Complex and elegant bouquet of spicy aromas with a touch of menthol. Great balance between the oak influence and fresh fruit. Mouth is round and powerful with bold tannins, a long finish and a hint of smoke.
FOOD PAIRING
Roast beef, venison stew and lamb chops! The tannin in the wine will soften with the rich meat flavours for a very enjoyable dinner.
2015 Chateau Nouret
Regular price £22.50 Save £-22.50A 21-hectare estate purchased by the current owners in 2012. Extensive investment in the winemaking facilities and vineyards has seen considerable improvements in the quality of the wines produced. An estate on the rise.
TASTING NOTES
Blackcurrant, blueberry, toast and leather, with a fresh, accessible palate and impressive structure. 12 months in oak, 30% of which is new oak, providing additional complexity and a plush refined mouthfeel.
FOOD PAIRING
Try it with a juicy burger or beef stroganoff.
FRIARWOOD SAYS
The more exposed terroir of Bas Medoc ('lower' Medoc) receives a greater amount of Atlantic weather than appellations further up the Gironde estuary; successful viticulture in this mild, humid climate is often very dependent on vintage-conditions. The warm 2015 vintage, excellent throughout Bordeaux, provided ideal conditions for this wine.
2015 Conti di San Bonifacio, Sustinet
Regular price £45.50 Save £-45.50ABOUT THE WINE
The estate, in the Maremma region of Tuscany, was purchased in 2002 by the Conte di San Bonifacio, Manfredo, and his English wife Sarah. They have since transformed it into a spectacular wine resort and wedding venue, with olive groves, beautifully manicured vineyards and a restaurant serving exceptional meals created using locally sourced ingredients. The first vines were planted in 2004 and the vineyard now comprises 7 hectares. Winemaker Luca has an exceptional talent for crafting Tuscan wines using international varieties.
TASTING NOTES
Another powerful vintage! Dense and complex on the palate layered with spice and savoury notes. We recommend opening for 30 minutes prior to enjoying.
FOOD PAIRING
Ideal with lamb or game, barbecued or roasted.
FRIARWOOD SAYS
14 months in French oak, 6 months in bottle before release. A very impressive wine.
2015 Domaine de Juchepie, Paradis
Regular price £51.30 Save £-51.30ABOUT THE WINE
In 1985 Eddy Oosterlinck, Belgian by birth, and his wife Mileine moved to Coteaux du Layon and followed his passion of making natural Chenin Blanc. Seven hectares of 50+ yr. old Chenin Blanc vines (with the oldest planted in 1911). . The proximity to local rivers, augmented by the occurrence of morning mist or rain stimulates the development of botrytis at Juchepie. Vintages rich in botrytis allow Eddy to make his beloved sweet cuvees. When there is less noble rot in the vineyard then sweet wine production continues, just with more passes through the vineyard, and the production of the dry whites naturally increases. The balance of dry to sweet wine produced here is thus determined by nature.
TASTING NOTES
Dry wine made using mature grapes but with no botrytis. Amazing complex aromas on the nose of ripe white fruit, vanilla, flowers. Nice round body thanks to oak fermentation and soft buttery hints as well because of 12 months lees ageing.
FOOD PAIRING
It will suit fatty fish in cream and herb sauce, white meat, seafood like clams and scallops. Pairs well also with soft creamy cheese and mushroom dishes.
FRIARWOOD SAYS
A superb white wine, super concentrated flavours.