So this week I was booked for a tasting by a group of people who work in a secondary school; some teachers, some admin staff. I will admit to being rather nervous about guiding such a knowledgeable bunch though the world of wine. However, once we got started my fears were a distant memory; what a lovely and intelligent bunch they were. Keen senses of humour and eager to soak up knowledge (and alcohol!).
The highlight of the tasting, for me, was our white wine tasting. We were comparing a lovely light Picpoul de Pinet and a rather more heavyweight Gewurztraminer (both available from the wonderful people at Majestic). Most of the group had not heard of either wine so it was lovely to introduce them to these vastly different grapes. The Picpoul was tasted first and there were loud exclamations that people could smell cheese and much laughter before we decided that we could also smell lovely fresh citrus fruit. Once in the mouth everyone was pleasantly surprised. From such a fragrant wine the taste was crisp, light and extremely refreshing. On swilling like true connoisseurs there was a magical taste of green apple peel and the group agreed with me that this wine makes a lovely and refreshing change to yet another Sauvignon Blanc.
The Gewurtztraminer caused even more uproar. A massively perfumed and floral nose which caused many of the group to assume they wouldn't like it at all. On tasting, however, they were shocked by the dryness but fruity flavour. One taster proclaimed it to be 'lychee in a glass'. I love introducing people to this wine because it's such a love it/hate it one (Marmite anyone?) but there's no denying that if you like Thai or Moroccan food there are few wines better to pair with them, in my opinion. For many of tonight's group this was their favourite wine of the night!
| I loved the fact that this group were so pleased to have learned things and some were voracious in their note-taking. If you would like to book me for a tasting I would love to teach you something, no matter what your prior knowledge. Please do contact me using the button below! What a lovely night. Thank you so much people! |  |
RSS Feed