We sell gift vouchers - for more details call us on 0115 911 0555 or email us at eann@gauntleys.com
We sell gift vouchers - for more details call us on 0115 911 0555 or email us at eann@gauntleys.com
We invite you to peruse our collection of over 500 different spirits. Our selection features a hand-picked and curated range of spirits that offers everything from everyday favourites through to the sometimes downright weird and wonderful!
Australia’s spirity industry has gained worldwide recognition for its exceptional quality and diverse range of whiskeys. With a rich history dating back to the early 1800s, Australia has become one of the world’s leading whiskey-producing countries in the New World in recent decades.
France’s wines represent centuries of tradition and craftsmanship, offering a journey of discovery for wine enthusiasts seeking complexity, elegance, and exceptional quality. Enjoy exploring our vast range of sumptuous wines and delicious cognacs!
From the frozen vineyards of north eastern Austria, to the sun-cooked Western Cape in South Africa and beyond, there are no end to the vinous explorations to be had. Gauntley’s are fortunate enough to work with talented winemakers in over thirty regions, from a dozen countries, stretching from the old world to the new; and don’t forget to pay a visit to Rhône Valley where our journey as merchants began, many years ago!
Argentina, renowned for its vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes, has also made a name for itself in the world of wine. With a history dating back to the 16th century, the country has become one of the top wine-producing regions globally. Today, Argentine wines are celebrated for their exceptional quality, diversity, and unique flavours.
At the heart of Argentina’s wine production is the province of Mendoza, located in the western part of the country. It is home to the high-altitude wine regions of Luján de Cuyo and the Uco Valley, where some of the most highly rated Malbec wines originate. The combination of altitude, ample sunshine, and cool nights creates optimal conditions for grape cultivation, resulting in wines with distinct character and complexity.
Australia’s wine industry has gained worldwide recognition for its exceptional quality and diverse range of wines. With a rich history dating back to the early 1800s, Australia has become one of the world’s leading wine-producing countries in the New World in recent decades. From the bold and robust Shiraz to the elegant and refined Chardonnay, Australian wines offer an exciting journey for wine lovers.
Historically in the shadow of its neighbouring countries, Austria is a hidden gem amongst European wine producing nations, whose star continues to shine brighter on the international wine scene with each passing year. It’s astonishing range of indigenous grape varieties, styles and small-scale, quality-oriented family wineries make it a treasure trove for adventurous wine enthusiasts who crave exquisite, food-friendly wines.
Whilst its wine heritage dates back thousands of years, it is the recent generation of small family producers that is responsible for the country’s growing international reputation.
Weinviertel in the northeast corner of Austria is the largest wine-growing region in Lower Austria with over 13,000 hectares under vine. Grüner Veltliner dominates almost half of the region, with several other grape varieties such as Riesling, Pinot Blanc, Blauer Portugieser and Traminer grown too. The local Grüner Veltliner is famous for having a particularly peppery aroma, and sparkling wine is also produced in the region. Although very well known for producing excellent quality entry-level wines, Weinviertel’s extensive region produces exceptional high-end wines as well, along with excellent Eiswein from a wide range of grape varieties.
France, a country with a storied winemaking heritage, is renowned for its exceptional wines that have captivated the palates of enthusiasts worldwide for many centuries. From the rolling vineyards of Alsace to the sun-soaked hills of Provence, France’s wine regions offer a tapestry of flavours and styles.
France’s wines represent centuries of tradition and craftsmanship, offering a journey of discovery for wine enthusiasts seeking complexity, elegance, and exceptional quality. Enjoy exploring our vast range of sumptuous wines and delicious cognacs!
The beautiful and storied wine region of Alsace is one of France’s most beloved destinations for oenophiles. Straddling the French/German border, situated close to the city of Strasbourg and nestled in between the Vosges Mountains to the east and the Rhine River to the west, Alsace has a unique microclimate and cultural heritage that makes it wholly unique. For those who are passionate about and enjoy serious white wine, then Alsace is a region you’ll gravitate towards. The Alsatian grapes of Riesling, Gewürztraminer, and Pinot Gris create wines that are amongst the best, most complex and age-worthy in the world.
Just as with most other wine regions, following specific producers is important if you are wanting to find the very best wines produced. We at Gauntley’s are incredibly blessed to work with some of the finest wine makers in Alsace, who produce a constant stream of wines that are as profound as they are delicious. Most notably we would point to the wines of Albert Boxler, Domaine Schoffit and Domaine Weinbach as the ideal place to start if you are wanting to discover the wonders of Alsace.
Alsace is broken up into two parts: The Bas-Rhin (to the North, by Strasbourg) and the Haut-Rhin (to the South on the low slopes of the Vosges Mountains).
Whilst most French wine regions have numerous AOC appellations within them, preferring to showcase the town names and subregions that a wine comes from, Alsace prefers to showcase the vineyard sites and specific ‘Lieux-Dits’ alongside the grape variety on the label.
Instead of a multitude of different AOCs Alsace simply has three: the generic Alsace AOC (responsible for around 92% of the wines in the region), Crement d’Alsace (the designation for sparkling wines produced in the region) and Alsace Grand Cru (the top tier 4% of Alsacian wine). The Grand-Cru are vineyard sites highlighted and certified for their exemplary terroir, there are only 51 throughout the region and only the white grapes Riesling, Gewurztraminer, Pinot Gris and Muscat are permitted to be cultivated here; also known as the ‘noble grape varieties’.
The Beaujolais region in France is renowned for its vibrant and delicious red wines made from the Gamay grape, crafted using the unique winemaking method of semi-carbonic maceration. Nestled between Burgundy to the north and the Rhone valley to the south, this area is administratively considered part of the Burgundy wine region. However, with the remarkably unique and individual style of the wines produced here, and a climate that is closer to that of the Rhône than to Burgundy, Beaujolais is more often than not viewed as its own entity.
Whilst most famous for its fruity and youthful Beaujolais Nouveau releases of recent years, the region also produces high-quality, complex and age-worthy Cru wines, that are sought after by wine connoisseurs around the world. There is something for every wine lover in this petite yet dynamic region, filled with picturesque rolling hills, a vast treasure trove of hidden gems to discover and a large swathe of talented winemakers determined to show the world the best their homeland has to offer.
With its roots dating back over 2000 years: Burgundy is a perfect marriage of old-world traditions and new-age winemaking methods. The spiritual home of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, this land of enchanting terroirs may be small in size, however, its stature in the world of wine cannot be overstated.
For many centuries, this region has consistently produced some of the most sought-after, expensive, age-worthy and highly revered red and white wines around, and there is no shortage of wine lovers who would proclaim the wines of Burgundy to be among the greatest on the planet.
Situated in the heart of Burgundy, Pommard stands as an esteemed wine appellation renowned for its exceptional production of Pinot Noir. The region’s terroir lends an unmistakable character to the wines, characterised by robust structure, deep dark fruit flavors, earthy undertones, and refined tannins. Pommard’s Pinot Noirs are celebrated for their aging potential, showcasing the ability to evolve gracefully over time.
Welcome to the picturesque Burgundian wine appellation of Savigny-lès-Beaune! Located just north of the famous city of Beaune, Savigny benefits from a unique terroir that lends character to its wines. The vineyards here cover approximately 370 hectares, with varying altitudes and exposures. The region’s soils are predominantly limestone mixed with clay, offering ideal conditions for growing Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes.
Champagne is truly an iconic wine-producing area, with a long history of crafting delectable masterpieces. Famed for producing the first sparkling wine to reach global success, renowned for its unique characteristics – such as a deep golden hue, luxurious taste, and unmistakable aroma, for many, Champagne is an integral part of life’s most cherished moments. For centuries, winemakers in this region have worked diligently to perfect their craft, resulting in some of the most coveted and sought-after sparkling wines in existence. There are few things on earth, so completely associated with the finer things in life, than Champagne.
The Languedoc wine region, situated in the coastal Mediterranean swaths of southern France, is a hidden gem for wine enthusiasts. Spanning from Provence to the Pyrenees, this expansive region boasts an impressive 300,000 hectares of vineyards, making it the largest wine-producing region in France. The warm Mediterranean climate, coupled with the ample sunshine, provides the ideal conditions for grape cultivation, which can result in luscious and vibrant wines!
Known as the Garden of France, for over 600 miles the Loire River sweeps across central and north-western France, with its countless tributaries snaking out like veins through gorgeous and varied landscapes. From rolling hills scattered with vineyards to medieval villages and stunning castles perched atop lush forests, the Loire Valley is as much a visual treat as it is an oenological one.
The sheer diversity and scale of the region make it perfect for vinous exploration and the perfect playground for scores of ambitious and passionate winemakers to craft exemplary wines in every possible style. From the crisp, mineral and age-worthy whites of Sancerre and Savennieres; to the sumptuous sweet wines of the Coteaux du Layon and Vouvray; to the rich and exciting reds of Chinon to world-class Champagne method Cremant de Loire’s (sparkling), variety is truly the spice of life in the Loire.
After many years, and many thousands of miles spent toing and froing across ‘le Jardin de France’ (The Loire Valley), one area that consistently captivates, and one we always return to, is Anjou.
Although regions like Sancerre may be more widely recognised, the variety and quality found in the undulating hills north and south of the town of Angers, is simply astounding. A visit here never fails to tantalise our taste buds and leave us gleefully giddy.
The vineyards of Chinon stretch across 2,400 hectares (5,900 acres) of land, making it the largest red wine appellation in the Loire. Whilst the Loire Valley is primarily associated with white wines, Chinon stands out with its predominantly red wine production, complemented by 2-5% rosé offerings.
The wines of Chinon are predominantly crafted from the Cabernet Franc grape, which thrives in the region’s light, sandy-gravel soils. This unique terroir imparts nuanced flavours and characteristics to the wines, making them truly distinctive.
In the Lower Loire, white Muscadet rules, made from Melon du Bourgogne. Based around the City of Nantes, close to the Atlantic coast, the sea takes centre stage here – with its mild and damp weather conditions producing white wines with a distinctively fresh and salty taste. By the numbers, Muscadet is the most-produced white wine in the Loire, and although these can often fall into the neutral, insipid, mass-produced category, there are those who rise above. Specifically, Domaines such as Chateau du Coing, who specialise in late-release Muscadets with a great ability to age, and which are true showcases of what the best of Muscadet has to offer.
Pouilly-Fumé is an esteemed wine appellation located in the central Loire region of France, specifically around Pouilly-sur-Loire, in the Nièvre département. This appellation is dedicated to the production of dry white wine made from the Sauvignon Blanc grape variety.
Whilst geographically close to it’s neighbouring appellation of Sancerre, which also produces famed expressions of Sauvignon Blanc, Pouilly Fumé’s white wines have a very distinctive and unique flavour profile. With their pale straw yellow appearance, Pouilly-Fumé exhibits intense aromas of grapefruit and white flowers, often accompanied by herbal and mineral notes. However, the most notable feature of Pouilly-Fumé is the unique gunflint aroma that adds a distinct character to the wine. This aroma is a result of the terroir and limestone and flint-rich soil composition found in the vineyards of Pouilly-sur-Loire.
Sancerre, the renowned French wine appellation located in the eastern part of the Loire Valley, is a true gem for lovers of great Sauvignon Blanc! This picturesque region, characterised by rolling limestone hills, produces a marvellously crisp and aromatic expression of the grape variety, often exhibiting notes of citrus fruits, grapefruit, and lemon, with a beautifully perfumed nose.
Nestled southwest of Angers, in the Loire Valley, this small appellation boasts a rich history and a reputation for producing some of the finest dry white wines in the world.
Savennières wines are typically steely and dry, offering a beautiful balance of acidity, minerality, and complexity. With their bright acidity and vibrant citrus, green apple to honeyed notes, these wines are known to age gracefully, gaining complexity and richness over time.
Covering just 146 hectares, the small size of the Savennières appellation ensures meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to quality. Winemakers in this region take great pride in their craft, employing traditional and sustainable viticultural practices to produce wines that reflect the unique characteristics of the terroir.
It is our pleasure to present a selection of superb Savennieres, from two highly revered domaines in the region. Firstly, we have stunning wines from the greatly admired Domaine Loic Mahé, who has been making waves in recent years for his stunning naturally crafted cuvées; followed by a domaine with whom we go way back: the beautiful dry crisp whites from the historic and esteemed Chateau d’Epire.
Welcome to the captivating world of Northern Rhône, nestled along the steep-sided majestic banks of the Northern sections of the Rhône River in France.
Venture into the hills adorned with terraced vineyards where Syrah reigns supreme, and you’ll discover some of the world’s most revered appellations: Côte-Rôtie, Hermitage, Cornas, and Saint Joseph to name but a few. The wines produced here are known for their elegance, complexity, and ability to evolve and age gracefully.
From the dominance of the Syrah grape to the alluring expressions of Viognier and the captivating white Mediterranean varieties, join us on a journey through the vineyards and cellars of the Northern Rhône as we celebrate the wines that have cemented its place among the world’s finest.
Côte-Rôtie, nestled along the steep slopes of the Rhône River, just south of Lyon, is one of the most prestigious red wine-producing appellations in the world. Its name translates to “roasted slope,” paying homage to the region’s sun-drenched vineyards. The appellation spans over 320 hectares (790 acres) and is divided into two distinct areas: Côte Brune and Côte Blonde.
Côte-Rôtie is predominantly known for its red wines, crafted primarily from Syrah. The appellation regulations allow for up to 20% Viognier—a white grape variety— to be co-fermented with Syrah. The Syrah from Côte-Rôtie showcases a unique expression, characterised by its finesse, depth, and layers of complexity, depending on the winemaker and style. The wines often display vibrant red and black fruit flavours, interspersed with nuances of violets, black pepper, and smoked meat and leathery notes. Depending on the winemaker, oak of varying ages is used for ageing, and so can contribute slightly smoky and vanilla nuances.
Hermitage is the most celebrated appellation in the Northern Rhone and one of the most esteemed names in the world of wine! Boasting a minuscule 120 hectares of vines planted on one south-facing granite hillside situated above the town of Tain and overlooking the town of Tournon (just across the Rhône river) Hermitage holds historical significance as the birthplace of Syrah; and is known for producing some of the finest red wines in France, with the potential to age for many decades.
South of Cote Rotie and North of Hermitage, nestled amongst the hills on the west side of the Rhone valley lies the appellation of Saint Joseph. With over 600 hectares under vine, it is the second-largest appellation in the Northern Rhone and is often unjustly overlooked when compared with its prestigious neighbours. It is a source of some fantastic quality red wines made exclusively from Syrah as well as some delicious whites made from Marsanne and Rousanne, which also represent excellent value.
With its stunning lavender fields, idyllic medieval towns, and alluring landscapes, Provence is undoubtedly one of the most enchanting wine regions in France. But it’s not just its beauty that attracts wine lovers from all over the world. The region has gained an international reputation for its rosé wines, considered the holy grail when it comes to exquisite dry rosés, which account for over 75% of the region’s total wine production. And in fact, Provence is the only wine region in the world where pink wines reign supreme.
However, whilst rosé remains king in the region, critics and enthusiasts the world over consider wines like the spicy, full-bodied red wines, particularly those from the coveted Bandol appellation, to be amongst the region’s best-kept secrets. From the perfumed wines of Bellet, to the rich whites of Cassis, to the organic reds and rosés of Les Baux-de-Provence, Provence’s smaller appellations offer a glimpse into the diverse and exciting world of Provençal wine. Whether you’re a die-hard rosé fan, seeking bold and complex red wines or in the mood for rich, herbal and elegant whites, Provence is a wine region that’s well worth exploring.
Often refered to as the Grand Cru of Provence, Bandol is a wine region situated east of Cassis, on the south coast near Marseille. The name Bandol is derived from the ancient Phocaean port and despite the region being ravaged by phylloxera in the late 19th century, the region recovered well as the vignerons of the region realized that the arid, infertile, and well-drained sandy marl and limestone soils were perfect for late-ripening Mourvèdre that thrives in the heat.
These rich, intense wines are made with up to 95% Mourvedre and aged in oak for at least 18 months. Despite the lowest yields in France, Bandol has a reputation that extends beyond French borders as the finest representative of quality wine for Provence. One of the finest proprietors for the wines of this regions that we have come across is Domaine du Gros Noré and well as the world-famous Domaine Tempier.
The Southern Rhône region is a land of history, diverse terroir, and exceptional wines. From the iconic Châteauneuf du Pape to the hidden gems of Gigondas, Vacqueyras, Rasteau, Vinsobres, and Ventoux, each sub-region offers a distinct expression of the Southern Rhône’s winemaking prowess. Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or a curious wine enthusiast, a journey through the Southern Rhône is an exploration of the senses, where age-worthy reds, vibrant whites, and unforgettable experiences await.
Renowned worldwide for its prestigious wines, Châteauneuf-du-Pape is a symbol of the Southern Rhône’s winemaking prowess. Located in the heart of the region, it boasts a unique terroir of sandy soils covered in large round stones known as galets. This terroir, combined with meticulous winemaking techniques, results in wines of exceptional depth, complexity, and longevity. The wines from this appellation exhibit intense flavours of dark red fruits, spice, garrigues and earthiness, reflecting the unique terroir of the area. Incredible domaines such as Pegau, Barroche, Giraud, Clos du Mont Olivet and Chateau de Beaucastel truly epitomise the quality found here.
Located in the southernmost part of the Rhône Valley, approaching Provence, Costières de Nîmes enjoys a Mediterranean climate influenced by the nearby Camargue. The vineyards here benefit from a diverse terroir of pebbly soil, clay, and limestone, resulting in wines that exhibit vibrant fruit flavors and a distinctive freshness. Costières de Nîmes is known for its red blends, as well as its refreshing white and rosé wines. The flagbearers of this often unjustly overlooked region are the sensational Chateau Mourgues du Gres & Chateau d’Or et de Gueules.
One of the finest sub-regions of the Southern Rhone, nestled in the foothills of the Dentelles de Montmirail, Gigondas is a rugged and picturesque appellation known for producing robust and age-worthy wines. The vineyards here benefit from a combination of limestone and clay soils, which contribute to the dense and structured character of the wines. Gigondas wines are highly regarded for their power, elegance, and ability to age gracefully. Stand out here include Chateau Saint Cosme and the Charming Thierry Faravel of Domaine la Bouissiere.
Famous for its fortified wines in the past, Rasteau now produces outstanding red wines. The combination of Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre grapes results in wines with concentrated flavours, velvety textures, and great aging potential. We are avid proponents of the charming Rasteau wines of Domaine Grand Nicolet and Grands Bois.
The rolling ancient hills and Triassic soils of Ventoux offer a unique environment for winemaking. The vineyards, situated at higher altitudes, benefit from cooler temperatures, which lend freshness and vibrancy to the wines. Ventoux wines showcase a wide range of styles, from elegant and aromatic whites to powerful and structured reds, all reflecting the region’s diverse terroir. Due to the leaner regulations here, many exciting winemakers are being drawn to the foothills of Ventoux, eager to experiment and showcase the sensational terroir here! A few examples including the wonderful Clos de Trias, Saint Jean du Barroux and Domaine Martinelle.
Situated on the hillsides of the pre-Alps, Vinsobres benefits from a cooler climate and varied terroir, often with heavy proportions of limestone. The wines of Vinsobres exhibit elegance, finesse, minerality and a beautiful balance of fruit and acidity.
Germany is renowned for its exceptional wines that showcase a unique combination of tradition, precision, and innovation. Situated at the northernmost limit for viticulture, Germany’s cool climate contributes to the production of fresh, vibrant wines with elegant acidity. Riesling, the country’s flagship grape variety, steals the spotlight with its aromatic intensity, racy acidity, and remarkable ability to reflect terroir.
With a strong commitment to sustainability and organic practices, Germany is continuously pushing boundaries and elevating the quality of its wines. Whether you’re a fan of vibrant whites or elegant reds, exploring the wines of Germany promises a delightful journey filled with complexity, balance, and sheer deliciousness. Prost!
Despite Italy having all the cards to play a significant role in the world of exceptional wine, it has lived in the shadow of France for centuries. This was largely due to it not being explored as widely and hence, many of the country’s gems were not exported. However, Italy’s rich viticultural heritage, lofty sedimentary, calcareous and volcanic soils, and noble autochthonous grapes that each bring their unique terroir to life, are receiving long-overdue recognition.
Thanks to hundreds of native grape varieties, Italy’s vinous diversity is vast. Wine in Italy is more than just a drink; it’s a visual, aromatic, and culinary experience that’s best shared with fantastic food. Whether pairing a hearty wild boar ragu with Chianti, enjoying Brunello with a Fiorentine steak, or savouring Barolo and white truffles, Italy’s wine and cuisine are a match made in heaven. Italy is an exciting country that continues to tantalize wine lovers’ taste buds the world over.
Nestled next to Lazio, Abruzzo is an Italian wine region renowned for its ancient winemaking traditions and stunning mountainous landscape. The region fifth largest producer by volume in Italy and it’s Montepulciano d’Abruzzo DOC steals the show here, a grape not to be confused with the Sangiovese-based Vino Nobile di Montepulciano from Tuscany. With its medium-bodied red wine boasting a rich mixture of plum, boysenberry, coffee flavors and unique notes of herbs and black pepper.
The region’s white grape, Trebbiano d’Abruzzo DOC are equally impressive, producing medium to full-bodied white wines with citrus, apple, and tropical fruit flavors akin to Chardonnay. Abruzzo is without a doubt a wine lover’s haven, where ancient traditions and modern winemaking techniques coexist in perfect harmony.
The Piedmont wine region is situated in northwest Italy and benefits from both chilly mountain climates and balmy Mediterranean weather, creating ideal growing conditions for a variety of grapes.
The black grape Nebbiolo produces Piedmont’s most distinguished wines, namely Barolo DOCG and Barbaresco DOCG. Barbera, Dolcetto, Cortese, and Arneis are also well-known grape varieties grown in the region. Barbera is a juicy red wine with cherry and licorice flavors, while Dolcetto is a black plum and violet-flavored wine with bolder tannins.
Cortese is a dry white wine with intense minerality and a viscous body, while the Moscato d’Asti, a popular sparkling wine, has delicate floral and fruity notes of pear, honeysuckle, and mandarin.
Sicily is a wine region full of surprises, waiting to be explored by wine enthusiasts. The largest island in the Mediterranean boasts a dry, warm climate perfect for growing grapes, and this is evident in the fruity, medium-bodied red wines made from Nero d’Avola, and the juicy, peachy white wines produced from Grillo. These refreshing wines, which are most prolific from the Sicilia DOC, are just the beginning of Sicily’s diverse wine scene. Further south, Cerasuolo di Vittoria DOCG offers a unique blend of Nero d’Avola and Frappato, while the Etna DOC produces sought-after wines from the red grape Nerello Mascalese and the white grape Carricante. Don’t forget to try the Marsala DOC, the fortified wine from the west.
Tuscany, the gem of central Italy, is a breathtaking land drenched in wine culture. Tuscany stretches inland across gently rolling countryside, framed by the gorgeous Tyrrhenian Sea on its western coast.
Its most renowned red wines hail from Sangiovese grapes, producing standouts like Chianti, Chianti Classico, Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. Many other coveted wines from the region hold the coveted Toscana IGT label, including pure Sangiovese wines blended with international favorites like Syrah or Cabernet Sauvignon.
Vernaccia di San Gimignano DOCG is the most talked about white wine from the region. From earthy whiffs of wet clay to bold black cherry and raspberry notes, one sip of Tuscany’s wines will invite you to come back for more.
Nestled in the midst of the Alps, Lake Garda, and the Adriatic Sea, the Veneto wine region in Italy is a wine lover’s paradise, boasting breathtaking landscapes, with a diverse range of microclimates.
Italy’s largest producer of DOC wine, thanks in a large part to the production of Italy’s most famous sparkling wine: Prosecco, made from the Glera grape. Some of the best Prosecco come from the Conegliano Valdobbiadene DOCG and Cartizze DOCG. The Valpolicella DOC and Amarone della Valpolicella DOCG are two of the most notable red wines, primarily made from the Corvina grape. Much celebrated wines that offer delicious tart red cherry fruits, cinnamon, and green peppercorn flavours.
The diverse range of Portuguese wines encompasses everything from the crisp, effervescent whites of Vinho Verde to the robust, full-bodied reds and the iconic and delicious fortified Port wines from the Douro Valley. While red and fortified wines tend to dominate the market, the potential of Portugal’s white wines is increasingly recognized: The northern Alvarinho grape has garnered attention for its distinctive, character-driven dry whites, transcending the realm of traditionally predominantly budget-friendly options. The southern region of Setúbal also offers an array of delightful fortified Moscatels.
Over the past two decades, Portugal has quietly emerged as a powerhouse in the world of wine. This transformation can be attributed to the nation’s steadfast dedication to cultivating indigenous grape varieties and producing unique, full-bodied wines that can hold their own on the global stage. Far more than the country of Port, the incredible value offered by Portuguese wines has captured the attention of enthusiasts everywhere.
South African wines have a fascinating history that dates back centuries,to 1659 when the first bottle was produced in Cape Town by Jan van Riebeeck, the founder and governor of the region. Despite being considered a “new world” wine producing country, South Africa has been making wine for a long time, combining elements of both the Old World and New World styles.
Spain is a land of passionate flamenco dancers, buzzing fiestas, mouth-watering tapas, and of course, world-class wine. Rioja undoubtedly remains the most well-known region in the country, with its age worthy reds that have been gracing tables worldwide for many, many years. However, Spain’s wine scene is so much more than that. With burgeoning regions such as Ribera del Duero, Toro, and Priorat threatening to steal the limelight from the old master, Spanish is undergoing a revolution. Even better, the Spanish wine story is far from one-dimensional. From the lush, green vineyards of Galicia in the north to the sun-soaked hills of Andalusia in the south, Spain boasts a diverse landscape that provides the perfect climate for growing a wide variety of grapes, and offers winemakers the tools to craft wines in a vast kaleidoscope of styles!
Venturing to the northeast of Spain, we find Cava, Spain’s answer to Champagne. Produced mainly in the region of Catalonia, Cava is made using the traditional method, just like its French counterpart. This sparkling wine showcases a remarkable range of styles, from young, vibrant and fruit-driven to glorious long-aged Cavas which complex, refined and age-worthy. Made primarily from indigenous grape varieties such as Macabeo, Xarel-lo, and Parellada, Cava offers a delightful alternative to Champagne at a fraction of the price.
In northwest Spain, we find ourselves in Galicia, a region known for its breathtaking landscapes and refreshing white wines. The cool, damp Atlantic climate lends itself perfectly to producing crisp, aromatic whites. Albariño, the flagship grape of Galicia, produces wines with zesty acidity, vibrant citrus notes, and a touch of saline minerality. The region’s maritime influence, combined with granite soils, imparts a distinctive character to the wines of Galicia.
Nestled in northern Spain, the region of Rioja is undoubtedly one of the crown jewels of Spanish winemaking. Renowned for its age-worthy red wines, Rioja showcases the classic Tempranillo grape variety. This versatile grape yields elegant, full-bodied wines with vibrant fruit flavours and a hint of oak. Winemakers in Rioja embrace both traditional and modern winemaking techniques, resulting in a delightful blend of tradition and innovation.
Situated in the heart of Castilla y León, Rueda is renowned for its lively and refreshing white wines. Verdejo, the star grape of the region, thrives in the continental climate and gravelly soils. Rueda Verdejo wines captivate with their bright acidity, citrus aromas, and hints of tropical fruit. Whether enjoyed on a sunny terrace or paired with fresh seafood, Rueda whites are the epitome of summer in a glass.
Switzerland’s variety is awe-inspiring, with towering mountains that hold ancient glaciers, vast valleys, vibrant hills and glistening lakes. However, when people think of countries with a rich wine heritage, Switzerland may not necessarily be the first that comes to mind. It may be better known for its mountains, banks, watches and chocolates, but the country also has a story to tell about its incredible wines.
The country’s small-scale wine industry (15,000 total hectares, around half the planted area of Burgundy), high domestic demand, limited production, and the high cost of Swiss wines have been significant factors in keeping them under the radar to international markets over the years. In fact, of the 140 million bottles produced every year, only between 1-2% are exported. Nevertheless, this small European country boasts a vibrant and diverse wine culture and is home to some of the most unique and delicious wines in the world. With a winemaking history that dates back to Roman times, Switzerland has been quietly producing exceptional wines for centuries. Whilst Pinot Noir and Chasselas are by far the most utilised grapes, making up around 50% of the wine production, there is incredible variety to be found for those ready to look for it.
Valais is located in the heart of the Alps and is the largest canton by wine production, accounting for a third of Swiss wine. The 100km area where vineyards stretch along the Rhone river at up to 1,100 meters is a mix of specialty wines, such as Amigne, Arvine, Cornalin, Humagne Rouge, and Heida. The well-established reds of Pinot Noir, Syrah, and Gamay are also produced in Valais. With its dry climate (boasting 300 sunny days a year) and warm foehn wind the grapes in this region mature at astonishing rates. The steep and sunny vineyards are situated between 450 metres and 1,150 metres above sea level, making it one of the highest wine regions in Europe.
The Vaud region in Switzerland is home to some of the most beautiful and unique vineyards in the world, with the Lavaux appellation being the most noteworthy. Spanning over 800 hectares, the terraced vineyards in Lavaux stack up to 40 on slopes that stretch as high as 1,100 feet up, making them some of the steepest in the world. These vineyards are not only aesthetically pleasing but also have practical benefits, such as natural and consistent heating and climate control from the sun and reflection from the lake. The Dézaley vineyard, dating back to the 12th century and planted by Cistercian monks, is one of the only two vineyards in the region to be honoured with the “Grand Cru” label for its fine Chasselas wine. Chasselas is the signature grape of Switzerland and over-delivers to give wines of rare depth and complexity in the Lavaux. Pinot Noir and Gamay also hold their own in Vaud.
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