Posted on

Antao Vaz Wines

In the sun drenched vineyards of one of the most prolific wine production countries in the world, lay the yards in Portugal. Nestled amongst the rolling hills of the Alentejo region, lies a treasure cherished by wine enthusiasts worldwide- Antao Vaz. These indigenous grape varieties captured the hearts of many connoisseurs with its unique characteristics and ability to produce wines of exceptional quality and stunning elegance.

Antao Vaz finds its roots deeply embedded in the rich viticultural history of Portugal. Believed to have originated in the Alentejo region, this well-loved grape variety thrives in the warm Mediterranean climate and limestone rich-soils, imparting distinctive flavours and textures to the wines it produces and creating wines that are well loved by so many people!

One of the things that make these wines so unique is the crucial role that the winemaking process plays in the true potential of Antao Vaz. Talented winemakers employ a combination of traditional and modern techniques to be able to craft wines that reflect the stunning terroirs of the Alentejo region. Careful vineyard management, precise harvesting, and pressing ensure that the grapes reach their full potential, resulting in wines of exceptional quality and balance.

Antao Vaz Wine Flavours

One of the most captivating aspects of Antao Vaz wines is their interesting aromatic complexity. From the moment that the bottle is uncorked, a symphony of enticing aromas fills the air, inviting the senses on a journey of discovery. Different notes of ripe tropical fruit flavours such as pineapple and mango dance alongside delicate floral undertones, creating a bouquet that is both captivating and alluring!

On the taste buds, Antao Vaz wines continue to enchant with their elegant expression, Crisp acidity provides a refreshing counterpoint to the luscious fruit flavours, while hints of citrus and minerality add layers of depth and complexity. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired up with a variety of dishes, the versatility of Antao Vaz makes it a delightful choice for any occasion!

As previously mentioned, the versatility of Antao Vaz wines extends to the dining table, where they shine alongside a wide range of cuisines. Their vibrant acidity and fruit-forward profile make them an excellent complement to seafood dishes such as grilled prawns or seared scallops. For a real taste of Portugal’s culinary heritage, pair Antao Vaz with traditional dishes like salted cod or duck rice. The wine’s crisp acidity helps cut through rich flavours, creating harmonious pairings that elevate the dining experience!

Antao Vaz Wine At The Little Fine Wine Company

Very few varieties possess the allure and sophistication of Antao Vaz. From its origins in the sun-drenched vineyards of Portugal to its captivating aromas and flavours, this indigenous grape variety continues to captivate the palates of wine enthusiasts around the globe. Whether enjoyed on a leisurely afternoon or savoured during a special occasion, Antao Vaz wines offer a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Portugal’s winemaking heritage, inviting all who partake to be able to experience the magic of this remarkable grape variety.

Here at The Little Fine Wine Company we have a wide range of these beautiful Antao Vaz grape wines, such as Esporao Monte Velho Branco 2021 alf Bottle, a crisp white wine that can be paired beautifully with all of the light dishes we mentioned earlier or to be enjoyed by itself!

Posted on

Viura Grape Variety

Embark on a captivating journey through the sun-kissed vineyards of Spain as we begin to unravel the captivating story of Viura wine. Nestled within the heartlands of La Rioja and Navarre, Viura emerges as a timeless treasure, steeped in centuries-old tradition and brimming with a promise of discovery for wine enthusiasts all over the world!

Viura wine really takes you on a journey back in time to its ancient origins with every sip, once known affectionately as Macabeo we can trace its illustrious lineage through the annals of Spanish viticulture. From its humble beginnings as a prized grape in Catalonia to its widespread cultivation across Rioja and Navarre regions, Viura’s journey is as rich and diverse as the landscapes where it springs forth!

When it comes to Viura, one thing we can look into is the spirit of centuries old winemaking traditions as we peer into the cellars of renowned bodegas crafting Viura wines with unwavering dedication and expertise. Amidst the hallowed halls of oak barrels, Viura undergoes a metamorphosis, marrying its inherent freshness with subtle nuances of vanilla, spice and toasted almonds- a true testament to the artistry and finesse of Spanish wine making.

Types Of Viura Wine

Viura is a white grape variety, this versatile grape is used to produce a wide range of wines, each one with its own distinctive characteristic that really makes them jump out from the crowd! A popular type of wine that comes from this grape is a varietal wine, Viura typically showcases floral aromas along with notes of citrus fruits such as lemon and lime. On palate it offers crisp acidity, a light to medium body, and refreshing flavours of green apple and pear. Viura varietal wines are more often enjoyed as an aperitif or paired with seafood dishes like grilled shrimp or fish tacos!

Another popular way to enjoy this grape is it is blended with other white grape varieties, such as Malvasia and Garnacha Blanca, to create more complex and textured wines.These blends will often exhibit a broader flavour profile, with additional notes of tropical fruits like pineapple and mango. They also undergo oak ageing, adding nuances of vanilla and spice to wine. When it comes to dishes that this wine can be enjoyed with, it’s famously known for its versatility to be able to pair well with a variety of dishes, including creamy pasta dishes, roasted chicken, and vegetable risottos!

Viura Wine At The Little Fine Wine Company

Overall.Viura wines are celebrated for a crisp acidity, vibrant fruit flavours, and versatility at the table. Whether it happens to be enjoyed by its owner paired with a variety of different dishes. Virura wines offer a delightful sensory experience that captures the very essence of Spain’s Rioja region. Here at The Little Fine Wine Company we offer a variety of different Viura wines, each one unique in itself, one of our customer favourites is the white El Coto Rioja Blanco 2022, with its crisp acidity and enchanting flavours these wines call out to be enjoyed with friends on a hot summers day in the garden.

Posted on

Roupeiro Grape Variety

In the sun-drenched vineyards of Portugal, where history whispers through the vines and tradition dances in every single glass, there lies a gem that embodies the essence of Portuguese wine making- Rouperio wine. Today we want to take a sensory journey into the intricate flavours, storied past and unparalleled charm of this remarkable grape.

We can’t talk about Rouperio without paying attention to the terroir that shapes its distinct personality. The Alentejo region, with its rolling hills and maritime influence, bestows upon the grapes unique sense of place. The overall combination of hot, dry summers and cool evenings imbues the fruit with a delicate balance of ripeness and acidity, resulting in wines that are both vibrant and structured.

Roupeiro Characteristics

What really sets Roupeiro apart is its ability to captivate the senses with an array of intricate flavours. On the palate, expect to be greeted by notes of ripe stone fruits, such as peach and apricot, intertwined with hints of citrus zest and a touch of minerality. These flavours unfold gracefully, revealing layers of complexity that long after the very last sip.

From crisp, refreshing whites to luscious, oak aged blends, Rupeiro showcases its versatility in a myriad of styles. Whether enjoyed as a standalone aperitif or paired with the rich tapestry of Portuguese cuisine, there is a Roupeiro wine to suit every occasion and palate.

Trends with everything will come and go in this modern age and wine is no exception, Rupeiro stands as a testament to the timeless allure of tradition. For generations, Portuguese winemakers have honed their craft, passing down age-old techniques age-old techniques that celebrate the natural beauty of the land.  Today, modern innovations blend seamlessly with ancient wisdom, ensuring that each bottle of Roupeiro wine carries with it a piece of Portugal’s vinous legacy.

Roupeiro Wine At The Little Fine Wine Company

As we raise our glasses to toast the splendour of Roupeiro wine, let us raise a toast to the journey that was ahead. With each sip, we embark on a voyage of discovering, exploring the boundless possibilities that lie within each bottle. So, let us savour the moment for in the world of wine, every drop tells a story waiting to be shared! Here at The Little Fine Wine Company we offer a plethora of Roupeiro wine to be enjoyed! Esporão Monte Velho Branco 2021 is one of the most loved choices from our company!

Posted on

Viognier Grape Variety

Viognier Grape Variety

Viognier is a captivating grape variety known for producing aromatic expressive white wine. Originating from the Rhone Valley in France, particularly in the Condrieu region, Viognier has gained popularity worldwide for its distinctive flavours and luxurious texture.

Viognier Characteristics

In terms of taste, Viognier wines typically exhibit a rich and full-bodied profile with pronounced floral aromas, often reminiscent of honeysuckle, jasmine and orange blossom. These floral aromas are complimented by vibrant fruity flavours, including ripe peach, apricot, and tropical fruits like pineapple and mango flavours. Viogner wines can also display hints of spice, such as rich flavours of ginger or white pepper, adding a whole different complexity layer to the overall flavour profile.

One of the most notable characteristics of Viognier is its luscious mouthfeel. The wines often have a silky texture with a slightly oily or viscous quality, which often contributes to their luxurious and indulgent nature! These wines can stand excellently on their own or be paired beautifully with certain types of dishes! Viognier grape varieties offer aromatic and flavourful profiles, making them an excellent match for aromatic cuisines like Thai, Indian or Moroccan dishes. Viognier’s natural sweetness and acidity can balance spicy or savoury flavours, making it an ideal component for curries, stir fries and dishes with creamy types of sauces.

Additionally, Viognier pairs well with seafood, particularly shellfish like lobster, crab and scallops. The wine’s fruity and floral notes can enhance delicate flavours of these seafood dishes without overpowering them. Poultry dishes, especially those with a subtle hint of spice or sweetness , also pair well with Viognier.

Types Of Viognier Wines

Viognier is commonly known as a versatile grape and is frequently used in blends with other types of grape varieties to add aromatic complexity and texture. One of the most common examples of blending is Viognier with Roussanne and Marsanne to create Rhone style blends. These wines often have a much richer texture and additional flavour components such as pear, honey and spice. Viogner blends can vary widely depending on the style of grape that is used, but generally offer a balance of fruitiness, acidity and aromatic intensity. Here at The Little Fine Wine Company we offer blends of wine using Viognier grapes like Guigal Condrieu which offers a stunning balance of acidity and sweetness to the mouth, we offer this and so much more to really get your taste buds tingling!

Image by Katie Nichols 

Posted on

Pinot Meunier Grape Variety

Pinot Meunier Grape Variety

In the world of wine, some varieties sparkle brighter than others, commanding attention with their rich histories and distinct flavours. Among these, Pinot Meunier stands as a quiet yet essential player, particularly in the realm of Champagne production. Often overshadowed by its more famous counterparts, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, this grape variety possesses its very own unique charm and contributes significantly to the complexity of many beloved sparkling wines.

The Importance Of Pinot Meunier

Despite its understated nature, Pinot Meunier plays a crucial; role in the world of wine. In Champagne production, it contributes freshness and fruitiness to blends, helping us to balance the richer more structured qualities of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Its resilience in the vineyard makes it a valuable asset for growers in the area, particularly in the face of climate change and shifting weather patterns.

It’s essential to shine a light on unsung heroes like Pinot Meunier. With a subtle charm, versatility, and undeniable importance in the production of Champagne, this enigmatic grape deserves recognition and appreciation of wine lovers around the world! Beyond its huge role in Champagne, Pinot Meunier is also suitable for still wines, showcasing its huge versatility and potential standalone excellence. These still wines, often so labelled as “blanc de noirs” or “vin gris”, can offer a delightful alternative to traditional white wines, with their vibrant fruit flavours and refreshing acidity.

One characteristic that sets Pinot Meunier apart is its soft, approachable nature. Unlike some other grape varieties that have more pronounced tannins or acidity, Pinot Meuner tends to offer a smooth mouthfeel, making it a very enjoyable drink on its own or as part of a blend.

At their very best, Pinot Meunier grapes produce wines with vibrant explosions of fruitiness and a charming freshness. The taste can be described as a medley of red fruit flavours, including ripe strawberries, raspberries and cherries, with subtle hints of citrus zest, such as lemon or mandarin orange. There’s often a delicate floral note, adding a touch of elegance to the wine.

Pinot Meunier At The Little Fine Wine Company

Here at The Little Fine Wine Company we offer a plethora of wines created from the Pinot Meunier grape variety for you to try for yourself! With Gaston Chiquet Premier Cru Tradition Brut Champagne and A.R Lenoble Champagne Brut Intense, each one with a stunning, fizzing texture. These beautiful Champagne wines play well with various different dishes from seafood, light appetisers and poultry because of its acidity and effervescence to compliment these delicate flavours, as well as being perfect on their own.

Image provided by rawpixel.com

Posted on

A Guide To French Wine

The French didn’t invent wine, which was probably made first in West Asia, in either Georgia, Armenia or Iran, in 6000 BC. But, they may well have done, given the worldwide reputation of French wine, the French wine regions Champagne, Burgundy, Sancerre and Bordeaux etc, and French wine grapes such as Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon or Sauvignon Blanc. 

The Phocaeans (traders from the Greek city of Phocaea) brought grapevines to France in 600 BC, and they were cultivated there by the Romans. Since then, however, a 2000-year history of French wine traditions and winemaking have led to advanced techniques in wine cellars and vineyards. These have often been exported to other regions like Rioja and Tuscany, as well as much of the New World. 

France has an complex system of appellations, i.e. the 363 vineyard areas that are strictly regulated by the country’s quality controller, the INAO (Institut national de l’origine et de la qualité). There are some flaws in this system, but it usually provides a degree of consistency and quality; think of the appellation Sancerre and Chablis, and you usually know what you’ll find in your glass.

The French also developed the idea of Grand and Premier Cru vineyards, as well as ‘terroir’. This is a medieval term which was originally used to define distinct territories, but in the 1920s was applied to wine. It means the combination of soil, topography, climate and grapevine that give wines from different vineyards recognisably different tastes. 

France is also a whopping producer of wine, making over 40 million hectolitres! With Italy, France is the largest producer of wine in the world, from 200 different native grape varieties and a plethora of styles. There are the famous sweet wines of Sauternes, to Champagnes and Cremants for sparkling wines, and many different white, red and roses..

Wine has always been seen as part of the French lifestyle. France is the second biggest consumer of wine after the US, and the third biggest per capita (after Portugal and, surprisingly, Luxembourg). Just as in French cuisine, where the Michelin guide, cookery school Le Cordon Bleu and chefs Raymond Blanc, the Roux family and Anne-Sophie Pic have permeated our brains as the epitomy of cooking and eating well, so have the names of Dom Perignon, Cristal, Domaine Romanee Conti, Chateau Lafite, Chateau d’Yquem when it comes to drinking great wine.

The same goes for tourism: think of the South of France, the Mediterranean, Bordeaux city, the Loire Valley or Champagne, and (even if we don’t know the area well), most of us can imagine a holiday full of sun, good food, great wine and picturesque vineyards.

If we were, ahem, responsible for awarding medals for wine, food or travel, we know which country would win quite a few! 

Posted on

Our Guide To Pinot Noir

As you may be able to tell from our wine range, our favourite red grape variety, by far, is Pinot Noir. Its combination of red berry perfume, fine texture on the palate and excellent balance is extremely alluring. The grape is tricky to grow and tricky to vinify (which means it is never the cheapest wine offered) but is found widely around the world and is reliably consistent; those who are keen on ‘blind’ wine tastings rarely struggle to spot a Pinot Noir!  

The Pinot Noir family

Pinot Noir is often abbreviated to Pinot and therefore could be confused with Pinot Grigio and Pinot Blanc. These grapes are in fact all related (Pinot Gris/Grigio, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Meunier are likely variants, or clones, of Pinot Noir). But, for avoidance of doubt, if Pinot is mentioned, assume Pinot Noir is meant, i.e the red grape.

As an aside, it is a prodigious variety, being the parent (along with Gouais Blanc) of other famous grapes Chardonnay, Aligote, Melon de Bourgogne (the grape now found in Muscadet), Gamay, Pinot Precoce (often found in the UK’s cool-ish climate) and many others. So, if there is one grape to know, it’s Pinot Noir!

Styles of Pinot Noir

Generally, Pinot Noir is one of the few grapes you can spot from the colour in the glass. It’s noticeably lighter in colour than other wines found in the same region/country. It’s possibly confused with a Beaujolais or Valpolicella, but otherwise, the low colour intensity is a bit of a giveaway.

Pinot Noir tends to have red fruit aromas and flavours in the glass. Think strawberries, raspberries, cherries and cranberries. Warmer climates might provide black fruit characters such as blueberries or cherries, or even some dried fruit characters. But red fruit notes are the telltale sign you may have a Pinot noir in your glass.

In addition to this, Pinot Noir wines are often aged in oak barrels, but are not usually in new oak barrels. The new oak is what gives the wine a particularly spicy or toasty character, and often this is reserved for Cabernet, Merlot or Syrah, the fuller-bodied red grapes.

With age, Pinot Noir’s character becomes even more interesting, taking on earthy, mushroom or gamey characters. And when the ‘whole-bunch’ technique is used in the cellar (where the stems of the bunches are kept in the fermentation vats for several days), a lovely herb/lavender character can present itself in the glass. Pinot Noir is never dull!  

It’s also a thin-skinned grape which translates into wines with low tannin. This is why you may hear winemakers suggesting you chill your Pinot Noir in summer. Wines with low tannin such as Grenache or Pinot tend to chill down well, whereas thick-skinned, high-tannin grapes such as Cabernet Sauvignon taste bitter at cooler temperatures.

Pinot Noir is also a grape which has high natural acidity, so there is frequently a fresh quality to the wine, a lightness and elegance relative to other good reds. It makes a delicious food match. Try a fruity Pinot Noir such as Ata Rangi’s Crimson with duck, turkey or chicken, with mushroom risotto or a charcuterie platter, and it will wow! It’s extremely versatile and tends to be the wine that will please a crowd over a Christmas dinner, for example.

Where do you find Pinot Noir?

Pinot Noir remains the sixth largest red grape variety in the world. But, Burgundy is Pinot Noir’s homeland, where it’s the largest red grape by far, and is responsible for 39.5% of all grapevine plantings. You can also find good examples of Pinot Noir in Alsace, the Loire Valley (where it tends to make very good Sancerre Rouge and Rose) as well as the Languedoc (see our Altugnac Pinot Noir for a light, refreshing and remarkably good value Pinot).

Head into Germany and particularly the Ahr and Baden regions for further fine Pinot (it is known as Spatburgunder in Germany). Or to Eastern Europe for light, fruity and ultimately more simple versions. But for serious Pinot Noir outside of Burgundy, the most exciting areas, in our opinion, are the following:

Oregon and particularly the Willamette Valley regions such as Dundee Hills and Eola-Amity: Try Drouhins’ delicious Pinot from Dundee Hills or Cristom’s Marjorie Vineyard from Eola-Amity),

California, where with Sonoma Coast and Santa Barbara are highlights: Try La Crema or Hirsch if you are keen to splash out.

Victoria, in South Australia: Curly Flat, Bindi, Kooyong and Yarra Yering are all great examples.

New Zealand: Central Otago and Martinborough such as Valli, Felton Road or Ata Rangi

Generally, the high acidity of Pinot Noir is valued for sparkling wines. So, it’s a major component of almost all great Champagnes, as well as many of the English traditional method wines that have broken onto the wine scene of late, such as Exton Park or Nyetimber. Plus, Franciacorta (try Ca del Bosco), Tasmanian and Californian Sparklings, Cape Classique from South Africa and others.

It’s not an easy grape to grow, which restricts plantings of Pinot Noir to certain wine regions. This, plus the fact that it’s difficult to extract tannin and flavour from Pinot Noir grapes in the cellar, means it’s often referred to as ‘the Heartbreak grape’! It has thin skins and buds relatively early, therefore is susceptible to disease and frost. This usually means low yields, which never pleases the grape grower. It also loses freshness and precious acidity quickly in a warm climate, so you’ll find that most of the climates above are on the cooler side, or at least sheltered from the fiercer temperatures of other warmer wine regions. Making Pinot Noir is a real labour of love, but is definitely worth it!

To try some of these wines, please see our full range of Pinot Noirs here

Posted on

How Rosé wine is made

One of the questions we are asked most often during our wine tastings is how Rosé wine is made. Here, our Director Vicki outlines the basics.

Well… there is an easy way to make Rosé. This is to blend white and red wines together just before the wine is bottled. But, this is not seen as the best way to make a good Rosé wine (exceptions are Champagne and some Sparkling wines).

As is so often in life, the best way is also the hardest way!

In this case, to make good still Rosé, you can extract the colour from the skins of red grapes and use this to turn the juice of the grape (which is almost always white in colour) pink! This happens by pressing the grapes to draw out the red colour from the skins, and/or allowing the grape skins and juice to macerate together (often known as ‘skin contact‘).

In fact, it’s also possible to create a very light style of Rosé from a few different white grapes such as Pinot Grigio. Naturally, this grape has a slight pink tinge to its grape skin. With the right amount of maceration time, it will show a gentle pink or orange hue in the glass. This very light-coloured wine is traditionally called Ramato in Northeast Italy. Ramato literally means ‘copper’, as in a copper colour (rather than the slang for the local police, in case you were wondering!).

However, the complete answer to making Rosé wine is actually more complicated. If that has sufficiently answered your question about making Rosé, we are happy to help. But, if you’re interested in a deeper dive, see below for the long read.

Decisions decisions decisions

Depending on the desired style of Rosé, there are plenty of decisions the winemaker can make. So let’s dive into the technical side of Rosé…

The raw ingredient: great grapes in great places!

For Rosé wine-making, the first thing to look at is the grapes…

Generally speaking, the red grapes that already grow well in an area would also be used to make Rosé. So, you’ll find the red grape Pinot Noir is used for a Sancerre Rosé in the Loire Valley of France (It’s just too chilly to ripen, say, Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah here). And, Zinfandel is used for many Californian Rosés, as this is a red grape that thrives in much of this that state. In Europe this is often part of the wine laws. The Sancerre appellation is a good example; Pinot Noir can make Red or Rosé wines if the name Sancerre is on the label.

Often a blend is best

There are plenty of Rosés that are a blend of different grapes varieties. One good example is a Bordeaux Rosé, where the red grapes Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot form the main blend. (See our Chateau Haut Rian Bordeaux Rosé for a particularly juicy example).

There are also some Rosés where red and white grapes can be macerated and pressed together at the start of the winemaking process, before fermentation. For example, while red grapes are usually needed for that famous pink Provencal colour, plenty of Cotes de Provence wines also contain the white grape Rolle (known in Italy as Vermentino). This gives a refreshing citrus character to the Rosé. Whispering Angel and Miraval both contain this Rolle grape. And just to the north, the Rhone Valley appellation of Tavel permits up to nine different grapes to be used in the blend, of which three can be white: Picpoul, Bourboulenc and Clairette. Try Chateau d’Aqueria for a great example of Tavel.

The different grapes will give different qualities to the wine. Pinot Noir has thin grape skins and therefore less colour, giving a lighter tint to the wine, along with good natural acidity and freshness. Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot have thick grape skins and therefore more colour potential as well as more tannin and structure. And in warmer regions such as the South of France, the white grape Clairette is naturally high in acidity, which balances the richer, fatter character of some of the red grapes in the blend.

In many cases, the grower harvests grapes for Rosé wines earlier than grapes destined for a winery’s red wines. This ensures the acidity level in the grapes destined for Rosé is higher. This is an important component, as we all love the freshness often found in Rosé wines.

The technical bit, there are actually at least four different ways to make Rosé wine in the cellar

Earlier, we talked about pressing the red grapes and/or macerating them to move some of the colour from the skins into the juice. But in reality, the Rosé-making lines are a little blurred (and not because we have drunk too much Rosé, we promise). So, read on….

Method One: Direct Press Rosés (known in French as Rosé de presse)

For this method, the red grapes are harvested, taken to the winery and then pressed, promptly separating the grape skins and juice. There is minimal contact between the juice and the skins, and so only a light pink colour results. This is particularly the case if only the very first juice that flows from the press (known as the free-run juice), is kept.

Note, this is similar to how white wine is made, where the pressing happens early in the winemaking process and there is little maceration.

In most cases the grapes are destemmed (the grape stalks are removed) and crushed gently, before going to the press. This helps the extraction of red colour, although with some of the best Champagnes, for example, even these two steps don’t happen, and the whole bunch of grapes goes straight to the press. This means extremely gentle treatment of the grapes and a pale colour.

You may also see the words Vin Gris (translating to ‘grey wine’ in English; it really does sound better in French!). This is a Rosé with a particularly pale colour. It’s not a legal definition but typically is made from the juice that runs from the grapes after they are crushed, before they reach the press, or immediately after pressing.  

Method Two: Skin Contact or Maceration

This really is a variant of the above, however the juice and skins are kept in contact for longer, anywhere from a couple of hours up to two or three days. This means the wines are often slightly pinker and with a little more tannin and structure than a direct press Rosé. This skin contact can either happen prior to pressing, often at cold temperatures with what’s known as a ‘cold soak’ (a maceration at around 10-15 degrees to extract the red pigment from the skins of the crushed grapes) or after pressing, before the juice is separated from the skins.

Method Three: Saignée (pronounced sane-yay, from French word ‘saigner’ meaning ‘to bleed’)

Traditionally, a Saignée Rosé (or Rosé de Saignée in France) is a sort of offshoot of the red winemaking process. The grapes are crushed and then the maceration begins as with a red wine. The longer time of contact and increased extraction between the skins and juice creates a deeper, darker style. Most importantly, around 10-20% of the juice is then separated or ‘bled off’. The separated portion is the Rosé. This leaves behind a much more concentrated red wine, so Saignée is a method of ensuring that your red wine has lots of flavour and structure.

This method was used to concentrate red wine in terms of tannins and flavour in Bordeaux amongst other key red wine regions. Often, because of the length of maceration and extraction, the colour and tannins are also increased in the Saignée portion, i.e the Rosé. Many Tavel Rosés are still made in this way, where the deep red colour, full body and firm structure are part of the style.

Note, Saignée Rosés are usually dry wines. An important point to remember is that a dark colour in Rosé does not, despite some assertions, necessarily equal sweet!

Method Four: Blending

As mentioned previously, blending is the easiest way to create Rosé. This method literally is blending white and red wines together. Contrary to what some might say, this method is allowed worldwide, although, with the exception of Champagne, French wine appellations usually forbid it. The highest profile example of wines that are a blend of white and red are some Champagnes, such as Moet et Chandon or Nicolas Feuillatte (in France you may see a reference to a Rosé d’assemblage). Anywhere between around 5 and 20% of red wine is added to the white before finally sealing the bottle. Some estates such as Louis Roederer or Billecart-Salmon decide against this, and use the skin contact method, as above, or the direct press method such as the English Sparkling estate Exton Park.

Other Styles

Today, much Rosé is made in a dry, light, pink style, in stainless steel tanks at cool temperatures which keep the berry fruit character and freshness. But, there are some notable exceptions:

Try Garrus by Chateau d’Esclans (maker of the aforementioned Whispering Angel) which is aged in oak barrels, or Rioja’s Tondonia Gran Reserva Rosado, which is aged in American oak barrels for four years. Both have a more complex, savoury style and the latter has a brick red hue, as the ageing process is so long and oxidative (i.e. with lots of oxygen swirling around the wine).  

For a sweet Rosé, try a Rosé d’Anjou or Cabernet D’Anjou. If you are keen to experiment, the Brachetto d’Acqui from Piedmont is both sparkling and sweet!

Another style, the Rosé blush, can be confusing. Originally it referred to very light colour Rosés; however, it was adopted by Californian wine producers for their sweet Rosés made from the red Zinfandel grape.

If you are feeling thirsty, see our full selection of Rosés here

Posted on

Our Wine Cases to Send as Gifts for Christmas and Beyond

We’re busy putting the finishing touches to our tasting/Christmas dates and are looking forward to sending these out very soon.

In the meantime, a friend asked recently if we also send cases of wine out as gifts (rather than on a subscription basis)…the answer is a resounding yes! Please see below eight ideas for individual cases for Christmas wine gifts and other occasions. From Champagne and English Sparkling to Bordeaux, Brunello and more, in half bottles and some full bottles too.

Christmas Wine Cases

Merry Mix of Six – This festive gift box features a selection of full-bottle (75cl) seasonal wines to be enjoyed over Christmas. This Hamper includes a Nyetimber Classic Cuvee, A Mano Bianco, a Billaud-Simon Chablis, an Esporao Monte Velho Tinto, a Bourgogne Pinot Noir and an Izadi Rioja Reserva.

The Christmas Case of Twelve – Celebrate the 12 days of Christmas with this selection of nine different half-bottle (37.5cl) wines full of flavour. There are 2x bottles of Veuve Fourny Premier Cru Champagne, Izadi Rioja Reserva and Bourgogne Chardonnay. There is also a Leon Beyer Cremant, Quinta do Crasto Douro Red, Chateau La Tour de By, Chateau Haut Rian Bordeaux, Carmes de Riuessec, Chateau Rieussec and Vintage Port.

The Christmas case of Six – Another great selection of half-bottle (37.5cl) wines is on offer here inside a rustic wicker basket, great as a gift at Christmas. The hamper has Veuve Fourny Premier Cru, Izadi Rioja Reserva, a Bourgogne Chardonnay, a Chateau La Tour de By, a Chateau Haut Rian Bordeaux and a Chateau Rieussec 2018.

Mainly Red Advent Case – This festive case is ideal for celebrating the 12 days of Christmas with a different half-bottle (37.5cl) wine for each day. This case includes 10 red wines and 2 whites with mystery wines labelled for the 12 days.

Other Wine Cases

Le Petit Tour de France – This Mix of 4 half-bottle (37.5cl) French wines includes varying drinks showing off the great wines of France. This case includes a Domaine Sautereau Sancerre, a Chateau Le Pey Medoc, a Bourgogne Chardonnay and a Delas Cotes du Rhone L’Esprit.

Favourite Whites – Taste the 6 favourite white wines from half-bottle (37.5cl) bottles with wines from Italy, France, New Zealand and Portugal. Includes an Esporao Monte Velho Branco, a Marlborough Sauvignon, a La Giustiniana ‘Lugarara’ Gavi di Gavi and more!

The Champagne Case – A case of bubbly, great for a Christmas party or as a gift all year round. Includes 6 choice half-bottle (37.5cl) of champagne, providing a taste experience for novices and wine-tasting connoisseurs alike.

Tuscan Reds from Bolgheri to Brunello – A range of Tuscan half-bottle red wines, great as a gift for fans of this popular Italian export. Includes a Capezzana Barco Reale, a Tenuta Guado al Tasso II Bruciato, Chianti Classico and more!

Delivery is free at £100 or above (there is a surcharge for Scottish Highlands), and we deliver anywhere in the mainland U.K. Add a personal message at checkout, and we will also handwrite a gift card.

Posted on

The Little Fine Wine Company wins Decanter World Wine Award

The Little Fine Wine Company wins Decanter World Wine Award

Solely in the UK, there are over 50,00 different variations of wines you could possibly choose from. In turn, this makes it almost an impossibly difficult decision to pick the best and favourite one for you. However, here at the Little Fine Company, our main priority is to provide you with the best of the best half bottles of wine, separating you from the big-name mass-produced brands that can often charge over-the-top prices. From roses, reds and whites to sparkling and even non-alcoholic wines, we are always keeping an eye out for new high-quality variations in which we can add to our fine wine selection.

Coincidentally, the LIttle Fine Wine Company and its dedication to providing tasters with unfamiliar yet outstanding wines has resulted in us winning a number of rewards, including some from the prestigious Decanter World Wine Awards. Take a look below to find out why we continue to be amongst the best Wine Clubs currently out there!

The Little Fine Wine Company wins Decanter World Wine Awards Best Subscription Wine Club for the second year in a row

I founded the company in 2018, the website went live in 2019, and things went a little mad in 2020! The last year and a half have been a rollercoaster, but we’re really proud of the work we’ve done with the wine club and in introducing clients to fine wines in little bottles! We have several subscriptions, including a regional focus (a different wine region each month with an optional, free-of-charge tasting included). Subsequently, we managed to win the Best Subscription Wine Club award at the prestigious Decanter World Wine Awards, something we are incredibly proud of due to the short time period we have been operating. Most of all, big thanks to those who have supported us thus far; it’s been a pleasure!

The Judges Say

‘A category that continues to grow and become ever more competitive yet producing a repeat of the result in the 2021 Retailer Awards. Little Fine Wine champions its niche with aplomb, featuring an excellent range of half-bottles and a highly personal service’.

How does the Wine Club work?

Our Fine Wine Focus club is a monthly subscription. Each month a different wine region is featured. Customers receive wines, tasting notes and a corkscrew on signing up, plus an optional tasting with me (Director of the company/Master of Wine) and one of the winemakers represented.

There is no obligation to take the case every month; you skip the case if you don’t wish to explore a particular region. We always email at least 5 days prior to the next renewal to let customers know the next set of exact wines. They can add further wines with no extra delivery cost, or amend their subscription, or request a quote for 75cl bottles. Delivery is the next working day.

We also have a ‘Classic’ subscription, bi-monthly or quarterly: a more traditional, rolling subscription to try wines from around the world. That is £66.95/6 half bottles and includes tasting notes, a corkscrew, delivery but no zoom tasting.

What are the benefits of becoming a member of your Wine Club?

Explore fine wines accessible in half bottle, and find favourites

Learn about different regions

Between 1-3 wines monthly are only available to Wine Club members

Subscription offers a saving compared to the value of the wines and delivery (varies every month, usually between 10 and 20%).

The optional tasting is free; we think it’s the best opportunity to spend time, live, with a key winemaker other than visiting the region itself. This year has included Severine Schlumberger (Alsace), Stephen Chambers (Rutherglen), Pieter Walser (Blank Bottle, South Africa). The recording is available afterwards.

Customers can add on wines from our 170-strong range (from £5.95 to £90/half), without paying for delivery. We also provide a quote for the full bottles too when the halves are not enough!

They also find out about limited wines and special offers first

What information do you provide to customers as part of their membership?

  • Food & wine matching
  • Tasting notes
  • Yes, sent out electronically
  • Info on regions and producers  
  • Info on grape varieties  
  • Wine maps

What is your cancellation policy?

Cancel anytime at all, no problem, and through the website yourself (no need to ring us nor email us and wait for our response). It’s immediate. We always write to subscribers five days prior to renewal so they can decide whether to skip or cancel, but they don’t tend to!

The wines need to be:

  • Delicious
  • Great quality
  • A ‘top ten’ wine of its region/type/price bracket and ideally (O)organic, although this is not always possible
  • Typical for where they are from, so you can get to know the region well each month

Do we host any wine events? 

Yes, the virtual tastings that I mentioned above. There is now a live/hybrid option as part of this club so that the members can all meet each other (the live event is twice a year). The first was at Christmas and was a success. This is therefore being repeated later in the summer, as sometimes it’s just better to meet face-to-face!

We won Best Wine Club 2021 at the Decanter World Wine Awards, which was brilliant and we couldn’t have been happier. We didn’t want to change what was working, and we have had a low cancellation rate, so believe that customers are happy.

We’ve added bimonthly options to our quarterly club for flexibility and frequency.

Transit cases are cardboard (no plastic airbags/wrap); just one box rather than double-boxing, unlike some subscriptions, with electronic tasting notes. To minimise paper use, there is no paperwork sent (other than a handwritten gift message). Delivery is the next day. There is always an email from the team to confirm that the wine has been dispatched; we find it’s a small but personal way to contact/service customers.

Why choose the Little Fine Wine Company?

We are proud providers of some of the highest quality wines from various vineyards from all over the globe without charging you the sometimes extortionate prices of some mass-produced brands. When it comes to our half-bottled wines, this is where we specialise in picking some of the best vinifications in order for you to expand your palette and test the multitude of grape and terroir combinations.After winning  ‘Best Subscription Wine Club’ at the 2021 Decanter World Wine Awards, we aim to repeat this feat at the upcoming Decanter World Wine Awards 2022 after another impressive year of providing our customers with a host of the finest wines out there.

Posted on

Autumn Wines

Autumn Wines | The Little Fine Wine Company

New Wines for Autumn

We’ve stocked the shelves with new wines from France, Portugal and beyond, ready for Autumn drinking.

Below, you’ll find some of the best Autumn wines, such as a traditionally made Cremant sparkling (a great addition to the fridge) and impressive Loire Valley and Saint-Emilion reds. We have added two zesty whites under £10. Plus, full bottles of Louis Roederer Champagne; it’s perfect as a gift or for entertaining. And for something unique: a flavoursome, aged Madeira from the 1999 vintage.

Introduction

As the nights start to get colder, let’s take a look at some of the great Autumn wines available right now. Autumn wines typically have a warming quality, great for taking the chill out of short Autumn nights. Here are some half-bottle wines you can try out as popular wines shift from chilled Summer flavours to warm, spiced flavours. 

Crisps, refreshing Loire Valley Whites

Jean-Francois Baron Muscadet Sur Lie 2020 – Crisp, bone dry and refreshing, with a slight saltiness too. This is excellent value and the ideal wine to match an autumn vegetable risotto or soup.

Domaine des Bruniers Quincy 2021 – A Sancerre-like Sauvignon Blanc at a very good price. Mouthwateringly juicy, a great wine to match butternut squash stew or curry with a chilli kick.

New Autumnal French Reds

Domaine Filliatreau Saumur-Champigny 2019 – Peppery, refreshing red with medium body, delicious forest fruits and herb flavour and firm acidity. Brilliant to match herb-encrusted lamb or nut roasts.

Petit-Figeac Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 2016 – Structured Bordeaux from 41% Cabernet Franc, 36% Cabernet Sauvignon and 23% Merlot. Cellar till 2030, or decant now to enjoy with beef dishes. Alternatively, sip over a cool Autumn evening.

Traditional Method Sparkling & Champagne

Leon Beyer Cremant d’Alsace Sparkling – Traditionally made sparkling at an attractive price. Made from the Pinot Blanc and Pinot Auxerrois grapes, and aged for 2 years. It’s perfect for keeping in the fridge ready for a treat!

Louis Roederer Collection 243, 75cl bottle – For great Champagne, Louis Roederer has always been our favourite. A brilliant wine never disappoints, with finesse and flavour from 70% Pinot Noir and 30% Chardonnay. A fine gift and great for entertaining.

From Muscat to Madeira

Chambers Rutherglen Muscat – Full, fruity and decadent! This luscious fortified wine gives Tawny Port a run for its money. Try with a cheese and fig or nut board (particularly blue cheese), chocolate desserts or meat plates.

Justino’s Madeira Colheita 1999 – Decades old, this mellow, layered Madeira is the perfect gift when looking for something unique. Sweet but with plenty of acidity to prevent it from being heavy. Try with chocolate torte, shortbread or coffee desserts, or as a digestif

Summary

Those looking to try out any of the Autumn wines mentioned can find them available here at The Little Fine Wine Company. Whether you want to try a taster with our selection of half bottle wines or to get a full size bottle for an upcoming dinner party, you can find some of the best Autumn wines here.