Summer 2008
Welcome to our summer newsletter, hopefully something to lift all the doom and gloom that is around- or supposed to be around, at least so we are told. The government kindly put duty up again, and this coupled by the pounds weakness against the euro and many currencies other than the US dollar, has meant price rises across the board...
Been a while since I last wrote to you. We have had horrendous drought and heat in Australia which has meant a very challenging vintage. I have been to Oregon and Washington State, which was a fabulous trip. These are great places with great wines. The people seemed much more down to earth and honest, with a real passion for the region and sustainable agriculture, than say some of California. The fruits of my trip are showcased in this newsletter with two new agencies. The stunning Bergstrom Wines in Oregon and the legendary Leonetti Cellars from Walla Walla in Washington State. We also have a fantastic mixed case to showcase Oregon.
Another new feature is our Top 100 Vin de Pays wine offers. I looked at this competition properly and started trying the wines, and there are some great values. If you are looking for characterful summer drinking, look no further, we are showcasing the wines of Paul Mas, who had 7 wines in the Top 100, and a really great mixed case of other winning wines.
New releases also feature Kracher 10 years on. The late, great, Alois Kracher started in 1996 to do a release of wines 10 years on, so here we have some amazing 1998’s that look absolutely fabulous.
Look also for the fabulous Peter Lehmann of the Barossa offer, a fabulous value Cabernet and stunning new release Stonewell Shiraz.
Also Sassicaia and Gaia offers, not for everyday drinking though!! Our bin-end list has been updated, and new wines will continue to be added over the months. This features some genuine great bargains, many have been snapped up, and many still remain, or have been missed!!
We also feature the first of our International Wine Challenge award winning wines. Just focusing on Trophies at present. We have followed this competition for years, and I think as a Senior Judge, that this year’s competition is the best organised it has ever been.
Anyhow I am just about to jump on a plane to winter in Australia; I sincerely hope the weather is better here.
Happy Imbibing
Kind Regards,
Noel
"All the very best wishes, Noel Young"
