Raise a Glass to Mum and Mother Nature with Candover Brook Rosé NV

This Mothering Sunday, 30th March, you can celebrate and honour the remarkable women in your life with a gift that embodies sophistication, thoughtfulness, and natural beauty. 

Candover Brook Rosé NV, an award-winning English Sparkling Wine, is the ultimate expression of love and appreciation.

Crafted in Hampshire's beautiful and idyllic Candover Valley, Candover Brook is a testament to the art of winemaking in harmony with Mother Nature. 

Nurtured in chalk-rich soils and made with a meticulous commitment to regenerative farming, this sparkling rosé celebrates conscious indulgence and refined luxury.

With its delicate blush hue, fine effervescence, and notes of wild strawberry, cranberry, and toasted brioche, Candover Brook Rosé NV delivers an enchanting sensory experience. A balance of crisp freshness and velvety smoothness makes it the ultimate toast to Mum and a thoughtful, eco-conscious alternative to chocolates and flowers.

Candover Brook is more than a vineyard, it is a legacy of sustainability and stewardship. Every bottle contributes to the protection of local biodiversity, including the endangered, white-clawed crayfish, the vineyard's emblem and a symbol of its dedication to preserving the natural world.

Luxurious gift boxes make your gift even more special, and handwritten notes are available to ensure your Mother's Day gesture is as personal as it is elegant.

Candover Brook Rosé NV is available for purchase online at www.candoverbrook.co.uk (£38 per bottle).

This Mothering Sunday, raise a glass to the extraordinary women in your life with a wine as exceptional as they are. A sparkling tribute to Mum and Mother Nature in every sip.

Celebrate Love in Sparkling Style This Valentine's Day with Ferrari Maximum Rosé

This Valentine's Day, elevate your celebrations with Ferrari Maximum Rosé Trentodoc, which is the ultimate gift of Italian elegance. 

Crafted to perfection in the heart of Trentino, Ferrari Maximum Rosé promises a romantic experience as unforgettable as your own love story.

A Toast to Romance

Ferrari Maximum Rosé is a sophisticated sparkling wine made from 70% Pinot Noir and 30% Chardonnay, grown on the breathtakingly beautiful slopes of the Trentino mountains. 

Its old rose-pink hue and delicate bubbles are as enchanting as the love you're celebrating. Aged for over 36 months on the lees, this wine embodies the fine artistry of Ferrari Trento's meticulous winemaking process.

There's a true symphony of flavours

Broad and complex on the nose, Ferrari Maximum Rosé tantalises with notes of citrus, berry fruits, and peach. Its rich, mouth-filling palate is perfectly balanced, with a remarkably long finish and delicate yeasty hints. Whether sipped as an aperitif or paired with a romantic meal, this sparkling treasure complements a variety of dishes, adding a touch of magic to every bite.

The Perfect Pairing for Your Valentine's Day

Ferrari Maximum Rosé is more than just a wine; it's an invitation to create unforgettable moments. Ideal for a candlelit dinner, a cozy evening by the fire, or an intimate toast under the stars, it sets the scene for your love story to shine. Since its debut in 2002, Ferrari Maximum Rosé has become a symbol of timeless Italian sophistication.

May we suggest obtaining some delicious Italian-themed delicacies to accompany your Ferrari Maximum Rosé wine on Valentine's Day?

Here are some irresistible pairings to make your Valentine’s Day unforgettable:

1. Prosciutto-Wrapped Melon

The sweet, juicy flavor of ripe cantaloupe or honeydew melon wrapped in thin slices of salty prosciutto creates a harmonious balance of sweet and savory. The wine’s crisp acidity enhances the sweetness of the melon while cutting through the richness of the prosciutto.

2. Burrata Crostini with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil

Spread creamy burrata cheese over toasted slices of Italian bread, then top with halved cherry tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. The creamy texture of the burrata pairs beautifully with the wine’s smooth mousse, while the tomatoes add a refreshing burst of acidity.

3. Arancini (Fried Risotto Balls)

Golden, crispy arancini filled with gooey mozzarella or savory ragu are a decadent treat. Their rich, fried exterior contrasts wonderfully with the wine’s effervescence, cleansing the palate with every sip.

4. Parmigiano-Reggiano and Honey

Serve chunks of aged Parmigiano-Reggiano drizzled with a touch of acacia honey. The nutty, umami flavors of the cheese are a perfect match for the wine’s subtle yeastiness, while the honey highlights its fruity notes.

5. Smoked Salmon and Mascarpone Blinis

Top mini blinis with a dollop of mascarpone cheese and a sliver of smoked salmon. Garnish with fresh dill or a twist of lemon zest. The silky texture of the salmon and the creamy mascarpone are elevated by the wine’s lively bubbles and citrus undertones.

6. Marinated Olives and Taralli

Offer a selection of marinated olives alongside taralli, the crunchy, ring-shaped Italian crackers. The briny olives and subtly spiced taralli provide a delightful contrast to the wine’s berry-forward profile.

7. Strawberries with Balsamic Glaze

End on a sweet note with fresh strawberries drizzled with aged balsamic glaze. The natural sweetness of the strawberries and the tangy complexity of the balsamic mirror the wine’s fruity and acidic character, creating a perfect finale.

Setting the Mood

Pairing these Italian delights with Ferrari Maximum Rosé Trentodoc ensures a Valentine’s Day filled with elegance and flavour. Arrange your snacks on a beautifully set table with candles, soft music, and a bouquet of roses to complete the romantic atmosphere. Whether you’re celebrating with a partner or treating yourself, these pairings promise a memorable experience.

Cheers to love, laughter, and la dolce vita!

Celebrating English Wine Week: June 15 to 23

As the days grow longer and the sun graces our landscapes with its golden warmth, there’s no better time to raise a glass and toast to one of the most delightful and burgeoning industries in the UK: English wine. 

English Wine Week, celebrated from June 15 to 23, is a splendid occasion to explore and appreciate the incredible wines produced right here on our doorstep.

A Rich History and Promising Future

The history of English wine dates back to Roman times, but it’s in recent decades that our vineyards have truly flourished, garnering international acclaim. 

The chalky soils and temperate climate of regions such as Sussex, Kent, and Hampshire have proven ideal for viticulture, producing grapes of exceptional quality. English sparkling wines, in particular, have been lauded for their finesse and are often compared favourably with those from the Champagne region of France.

Events and Activities

English Wine Week offers a fantastic array of events and activities for both seasoned connoisseurs and curious newcomers. Vineyards across the country open their doors for tours and tastings, allowing visitors to learn about the winemaking process firsthand. Many offer guided walks through the vineyards, where you can see the vines in full bloom and perhaps even participate in a bit of grape pruning or harvesting.

Top Vineyards to Visit

1. Nyetimber, West Sussex: Known for its world-class sparkling wines, Nyetimber offers an exquisite tour that includes a visit to their 16th-century manor house and a tasting of their award-winning wines. https://nyetimber.com

2. Chapel Down, Kent: One of the UK’s most famous vineyards, Chapel Down offers a comprehensive tour that covers everything from grape to glass, ending with a tasting session in their elegant tasting room. https://chapeldown.com

3. Gusbourne, Kent: Renowned for its commitment to quality and craftsmanship, Gusbourne’s tour is an intimate experience that delves deep into the details of their winemaking philosophy. https://www.gusbourne.com

Supporting Local Winemakers

By choosing to celebrate English Wine Week, you are not only enjoying some of the finest wines available but also supporting local farmers and winemakers. The industry contributes significantly to the rural economy, providing jobs and sustaining traditional farming communities.

There are other English winemakers. Just Google English winemakers to check out what winemakers are near to you.

Pairing English Wine with Food

English wines are incredibly versatile when it comes to food pairing. The crisp acidity and complex flavours of English sparkling wines make them perfect companions for seafood, particularly oysters and smoked salmon. Still whites like Bacchus and Chardonnay pair wonderfully with chicken dishes and creamy cheeses, while English reds, often made from Pinot Noir, complement roast lamb and mushroom-based dishes beautifully.

Conclusion

English Wine Week is a celebration of our country’s vinous achievements and a testament to the passion and dedication of our winemakers. Whether you’re visiting a vineyard, attending a tasting event, or simply enjoying a bottle at home, take a moment to savour the unique character and quality of English wine. Cheers to a week of discovery, enjoyment, and, of course, excellent wine!

A Rosy Summer With Codorníu

Sunshine, celebrations, and good times are with us. And Codorníu cava rosé is the ideal bottle to have on hand this Summer. The cavas in the Codorniu Rosé Collection take inspiration from the first cava signed by Josep Raventós, uniting tradition and innovation all in the same bottle.

These fruity cavas are characterised by fresh fragrance and a nice balance of flavours. Whether you're hosting a dinner party, taking advantage of the warm nights with friends, or relaxing at a picnic in the park, toast with Codorníu for a life in pink.

Codorníu Rosado Cava Brut NV

This sparkling wine is made using the traditional method, like Champagne, with secondary fermentation in the bottle. This gives the wine depth of flavour, elegance, and long-lasting, fine bubbles. A properly dry, pure, and bright Rosé fizz with aromas of raspberry and strawberry. Perfect with tapas, light salads or simply as an aperitif. The ideal accompaniment to a summer picnic.

Codorníu Rosado Cava Brut NV 75cl | Waitrose (waitrose.co.uk) £10.49

Codorníu Clasico Rosé

A cava with a fresh and fruity aroma, made from Monastrell, Grenache and Trepat varietals grown in the Catalan region, Penedés. Bright and deep pink with fine bubbles. Red fruit aromas, jams and cassis, and soft notes of pastries. Ideal as an aperitif or an accompaniment to fish, tapas, and other rice dishes.

Codorníu Classico Rosé 75cl | Ocado (Ocado.co.uk) £9.00

Ars Collecta Grand Rose Reserva

Spoil your dinner party guests with fine bubbles and a delicate crown. Intense aromas of raspberry, blackberry and strawberry intermingled with a light citrus aroma that enhances the previous ones and brings freshness. On the palate, the red fruit notes stand out, typical of the Pinot Noir variety.

An excellent accompaniment to gourmet appetisers or perfect with salmon

sashimi, sushi, carpaccio, or tartar.

Codorníu Ars Collecta Rosé 75cl | Vinissimus (https://www.vinissimus.co.uk/en) £24.65

Re-Energised Bolle Returns to the London Wine Fair With an Improved Low/no Wine Offer

Buoyed up by positive initial expert and consumer reactions NEW, improved Bolle will be hitting the alcohol free wine marketplace this Spring.  

Roberto Vanin, who is the founder of Bolle is again shifting the goalposts when it comes to revolutionising best-in-class, alcohol-free wines.  

After extensive trialling, (including buyer reviews, event tastings and awards panels) the Bolle team are convinced this new, improved offering will meet and even exceed the demanding taste aspirations of an increasingly influential low/no movement.

 For the most part, the UK's leading alcohol-free wines are produced via de-alcoholisation, a somewhat heavy-handed process which unwittingly and unfortunately removes not only the alcohol but also all of the volatile components that shape a wine's unique personality.   The result is a one-dimensional proposition devoid of depth and engaging taste, because incumbent low/no wine providers fill the resulting 'flavour void' with lazy juices, sugar and flavourings. 

Bolle's unique pathway opts instead to leverage game-changing Zero GradiTM technology to re-ferment the de-alcoholised wine, revitalising complex flavour and aroma profiles without alcohol.   

Bolle is a stylish sparkling wine with none of the taste compromises historically associated with the UK's low/no wine movement.  Bolle is committed to taking low/no wine in a new pure pleasure direction and was recently shortlisted at The World Innovation Awards.

To learn more visit Visit bolledrinks.com.

 

The Blue Nun Sparkling Gold ... For Life’s Golden Moments

It may be a little early for some, but the party season is just around the corner and that means plenty of sparkle and a glass or two of fizz! (EDITOR: Never too early for a bit of fizz!)

 

For all those celebrations and family get togethers, Blue Nun has released a new sparkling Gold Edition white wine, complete with distinctive fine flecks of delicate 22 carat gold leaf!

Designed with all the glitz and glamour of the party season in mind, the iconic brand, owned by Langguth Wines in Germany, has used their passion, heritage and expertise to create a delicate, subtle quality sparkling white wine with a lovely light fruitiness (alc 11.00%). 

Blue Nun has crafted the Gold Edition with a full, rounded flavour, this light and elegant style wine has the exciting addition of gold flecks to highlight the natural effervescence of sparkling white wine.

The Gold Edition is ideal as an aperitif or to accompany light bites and hors d’oevres so it’s well suited for the party season, special occasions, celebrations or just for fun!

Blue Nun Sparkling Gold Edition is priced at £6.99 per 75cl bottle and is available to buy on-line from www.drinks2home.co.uk. or   www.drinksdirect.co.uk

The Blue Nun Sparkling will also be available to buy at the BBC Good Food Show at the NEC Birmingham which runs from 23-27^th November 2011, stand number U70.

(EDITOR: OK, some will say this is a gimmick.  All my wife and I know is that when we gently (VERY gently!) inverted the bottle and put it upright again, the flecks of genuine gold danced and shimmered in the light from our Christmas candles as they slowly fluttered down to the bottom of the bottle.

As for the taste? Absolutely gorgeous. It is not too dry, nor is it too sweet, it has a fruity and pleasing taste and it has just the right amount of bubbles. It is one of the nicest sparkling white wines of any type that we have ever tried. Getting some in for Christmas? At £6.99 a bottle? I should think so!)