Wines from Great Vignerons

Now the snow has finally (hopefully) gone and the milder weather on its way, instead of offering row upon row of christmas left-over stock we thought it might be more enjoyable for everyone to highlight some of our wonderful producers. These are vignerons who breathe, eat and sleep wine, who worry about the vines like adopted children and who can talk about every vintage like it was yesterday.

The two producers this month are Robert Sérol who produces wonderful Côtes Roannaise Vieilles Vignes with juicy raspberry flavours, and Dominique le Guen, winemaker at Domaine Hudelot-Baillet. Dominique is a strong believer in the eco-friendly viticultral route which is reflected in his delicious toasty, buttery Chardonnay.

Côtes Roannaise, 2008 Domaine Robert Sérol

A deliciously pure, fresh and aromatic red. Bright raspberry flavours on the palate with an underlying complexity makes this an outstanding wine; it is bursting with earthy sweet characters, a good burst of acidity and has an intensely long finish. BUY SIX BOTTLES AND GET A 7.5% DISCOUNT Normally £8.92 a bottle.

Bourgogne Chardonnay, 2007, Domaine Hudelot Baillet

This wine is every bit as rich and vibrantly fruity as many a more expensive Cote de Beaune. The 2007 is a step up from the already excellent 2006. It is altogether richer and fatter than the previous vintage with a wonderful ripe freshness and length. It is quite weighty for its humble appellation and has an unctuous, toasty, buttery fruitiness which makes it very pleasant to drink on its own or with food. BUY SIX BOTTLES AND GET A 7.5% DISCOUNT Normally £10.21 a bottle.