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fizzing covers, you’ll find our most varied collection ever of prime bottles for seasonal en oyment, for tastes classical Go-To Bordeaux page 18) or contemporary (Tastes of the Unexpected page 14) and for budgets considerable (Puligny and Chassagne, page 4) or considered (Small Wonders, page 31). Festive gatherings of all shapes and sizes are amply covered in The Long and Short of It on page , here you’ll find the family of

hampagne formats depicted on the front cover, and much more besides.

he fact is that there has never been such a choice of fine ine for the ta ing. The notion of crus is no longer the preserve of the northern hemisphere as

e demonstrate ith New Zealand’s fine pinot noir (page 8) and e uisite single estate chardonnay from Kumeu, the rise and rise of real regionality in Australian shiraz (page 13) and a orld class array of sauvignon blanc (page 6)

limited edition case of the intense oire chenins of Moulin Touchais (page 24) is a perfect example of the rich seams to be prospected closer to home. Two Rhône villages oin the more usual fine ine focus on the north and

h teauneuf (page ). Italy (page 1 ), a orld of ine in itself, and one much fre uented by members, is represented by a mixed case of arbaresco from Poderi Colla, along ith some gift ideas inspired by the combinations of uni ue bottles and instant gastronomy at hich talians excel.

The racy, food-friendliness typical of Germany and Alsace are tailor-made for the smo ed fish, oysters, ba ed hams and prime poultry of the season. Turn to pages 16 and 1 for t o fine riesling mixed cases, and to page 12 for a selection of 2 lsace, including a hristmas bonus from omaine on eyer. For an instant orld-class ine list for the big day, try our Top Table

Dining Case on page 3 .

From hristmas present to hristmas future, Custom Cellars on page 26 includes a vertical selection of Mas de Daumas Gassac, a elter of 2007 Bordeaux and the fruits of the exceptional 2005 vintage in Burgundy,

hich, as they achieve opulence in the glass, are becoming proportionally thin on the ground.

f all this ma es you eager to raise a glass of fizz, you’ll find some rather special Champagne options on the opposite page, and, if you ant to be sure of oy unconfined, please let us have your instructions by midnight on Tuesday 17th December, our deadline for hristmas orders.

T T F T

How to use this List● Wines are listed by theme and then by price

● rin dates are given as a guide to maturity and ageing potential

● For further information about any of the ines please contact ember ervices on

01438 741177

● Fine ines too limited in uantity to be listed may be found in the fine ine section of The ociety’s ebsite at thewinesociety.com/finewine

CONTENTS page

CHAMPAGNE 3

CREAM OF THE COTE D’OR 4

THE RHONE 5

WORLD-CLASS SAUVIGNON BLANC 6

KIWI CRUS 8

ITALY, ANCIENT AND MODENA 10

A YEAR IN ALSACE 12

AUSTRALIAN SHIRAZ 13

TASTES OF THE UNEXPECTED 14

GERMANY 16

GO-TO BORDEAUX 18

THE LONG AND SHORT OF IT 20

LEGENDS OF THE LOIRE 24

CUSTOM CELLARS 26

TOP TABLE 30

SMALL WONDERS 31

THE SWEET SPOT 33

IN THE SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS 34

3For advice thewinesociety.com/advice or 01438 741177

xx

Grandes marques, great growths and rare gems

ra n from good recent vintages, including 2 2, this hristmas selection combines

ines from great houses li e Taittinger ith outstanding and rare micro-cuv es from some of the many smaller gro ers e no follo , including grapart and r che. These are made only in very small uantities, so don’t miss this opportunity to taste some real terroir.Marcel Orford-Williams

F-CH2721 bottle six

lexandre hartogne is a young and ambitious gro er ith vines in a prized area of hampagne, for years rendered unusable by the ravages of ar. The blend is more or

less chardonnay and pinot noir in a full-flavoured refined style. o to 2 1 . 12

F-CH2641 bottle six

ne name in hampagne, ur lien uenen has raised the bar at his family estate. ery much a disciple of grapart, belo , he ma es similarly intense and re ned hampagne, using only chardonnay from his grand cru vineyards in ramant. 12

F-CH2531 bottle six

elicate and refined ith ust a hint of stra berry and a onderful mousse, this is a gorgeous pin hampagne to drin on its o n or ith cold roast beef. o to 2 1 . 12

F-CH2661 bottle six

Agn s orbon ma es onderful, full-flavoured chardonnay from five acres of prime grand cru vineyard in the village of Avize. From the outstanding 2 2 vintage.

o to 2 1 . 12

F-CH2401 bottle six

e ran is a single vineyard planted ith pinot noir and chardonnay. Fermented initially in oa cas and then aged for several years in bottle, the ines are full, round and generous and re uire little dosage. efined, delicious and gastronomic hampagne.

o to 2 1 . 12

F-CH2671 bottle six

An outstanding vintage chardonnay from t o grand cru vineyards in Avize and ramant, part-vinified in oa barrels. ery fine, full-flavoured and bone dry. o to 2 21. 12

F-CH2581 bottle six

ol oger ma e their blanc de blancs only in exceptional vintages, such as 2 2. From five grands crus, Avize, ramant, ger, iry and houilly, this is the perfect aperitif hampagne or try ith sea bass served ith a hollandaise sauce. rin this year and next. 12.5%

F-CH2711 bottle six

aradis is ratien’s prestige ine made from 65% chardonnay and 35% pinot noir, all from top sites and as ith the rest of the Alfred ratien range, fermented in small 228-litre oa barrels. ound and richly flavoured ith a refined, creamy mousse.

o to 2 18. 12%

F-CH2541 bottle six

Al ays one of the better prestige hampagnes on the mar et ith the distinction of being made from 1 % chardonnay, all from grand cru sites on the te des lancs. A onderful hampagne for fine dining and an ex uisite aperitif over hristmas.

o to 2 1 . 12%

To order thewinesociety.com/ newines 01438 740222 smartphone app

A F T T ’ A A A

uligny and hassagne are, ith eursault, part of the great triumvirate of urgundy villages that ma e some of the greatest hite ines in the orld. uligny is generally considered uite a floral ine in its youth, ith a mineral or a discreetly appley palate. t is

taut and tense, more linear than broad but ith great persistence of flavour in the best crus li e Folati res. As it ages it softens a little and develops some honeyed overtones. When very mature it can taste toasty and nutty. hassagne is generally harder to define, but e only regularly buy hassagnes from tienne auzet and omaine ean- o l agnard, both of hom ma e elegant

ines in the style of uligny. 2 8 is one of the greatest hite vintages of the decade. The ines are firm and fine due to lo yields and a late cool harvest. 2 1 is in a very similar style and uality. 2 started out life uite bac ard and tight but is ust beginning to soften up. 2 is a ripe rich year best en oyed in its youthful opulence. Toby Morrhall

F-BU44131 bottle dozen

Fe village ulignys sho this concentration hilst preserving such finesse. rin this year and next. 12.5%


oncentrated ine ith good structure supporting the lively fruit. rin this year and next. 13.5%


Made from nine different parcels this is a very representative Puligny. Fresh and racy ine tinged ith honey. rin this year and next. 13%


Fine ine ith good length of flavour hich finishes fresh. o to 2 16. 13.5%

For hristmas future, a fine, bright ine ith a lovely grapefruity freshness and grip. 2 14 to 2 1 . 13.5% Only available as part of mixed case F-MX13244.

F-BU45121 bottle dozen igh on the te this is fresh, fine-flavoured Puligny ith energy and verve. rin this

year and next. 13.5%


acy, vivid Puligny from a top hillside vineyard sho ing all the characteristic ualities of this great village. rin this year and next. 12.5%

From the excellent nseign res vineyard, this is a round and honeyed ine, very

appealing. rin this year and next. 13% Only available as part of mixed case F-MX13244.

T P A A A A 235

Drink now and next year

A six-bottle case containing one bottle of each of the following:

ref F-MX13244

For advice thewinesociety.com/advice or 01438 741177

A 15

Drink now to 2015


ref F-MX13243

xxT MA T T F

h ne ines have made themselves an indispensable part of fine dining ith a full and generous range of ines that match so ell so much of hat e eat today. This selection dra s on The ociety’s stoc s of mature ines and represent a cross

section of hat the h ne does best. There are classics from the great appellations li e te- tie and h teauneuf-du-Pape ith the 2 5 anasse loo ing especially enticing. ut there are also more modest gems such as the yrah tes-du- h ne

from omaine oge, a little ornas in all but name. Marcel Orford-Williams

F-RH33901 bottle dozen

Alain oge is one of the top gro ers in ornas often ma ing some of the best ines in the vintage. This is a syrah from younger vines in ornas and vines outside the appellation. ar , characterful and deliciously fruity. o to 2 15. 13.5%


Fabulously rich and po erful cuv e of 1 % grenache gro n on a north-facing slope. Pic ed late, this pac s a hefty punch. o to 2 1 . 15%


This is a deeply coloured syrah from the village of eyssuel here a ne northern h ne appellation is slo ly being created. picy, slaty, similar to a good te- tie. o to 2 1 . 13%


Thalabert is al ays something special and needs time to come round. The 2 is no perfect for drin ing. ery refined, balanced and delicious. This as the first vintage made by current proprietor aroline Frey. o to 2 2 . 13%


Made from nearly 1 % grenache from a north-facing sandy slope near eaucastel, this is sublime ith a onderful combination of grace and po er. o to 2 25. 15.5%


ouis arruol of igondas buys small parcels of a fe exceptional ines from the northern h ne. is te- tie in 2 6 is a rare classic of exceptional finesse and depth of flavour. o to 2 21. 13%


ean and Mic ey onnet use some of their 1 -year-old grenache to ma e this very full and concentrated cuv e of h teauneuf. This is thic ly textured and very rich.

o to 2 24. 15%

eady no and perfectly primed for drin ing ith game or red meats. From one of the leading gro ers in the village of ornas. o to 2 16. 13% Only available as part of mixed case F-MX13243.


W - A A A

ts popularity continues unabated, and ith every vintage there are more opportunities to explore the fine regional distinctions to be found in premium sauvignon blanc. Pitting the oire against e ealand is old ne s step for ard the cool charm and subtle tropical notes of the

ape, the richer apa style and, lest e forget, a re uvenated ordeaux, also on the plate than s largely to enis ubourdieu of h teau

eynon. A mixed case affords en oyable comparisons. Janet Wynne Evans

F-BW4661 bottle dozenBordeaux

Pure sauvignon in 2 12, another good vintage for dry hites in ordeaux, giving nicely rounded but still fresh fruit. rin over the next year. 12.5%

F-LO10411 (Domaine Seguin) bottle dozen

A blend of three terroirs ith a higher proportion from flint soils this year contributing a distinct hint of gunflint to the aroma. o to 2 16. 12.5%

F-SA7981 bottle dozen

onsistently one of outh Africa’s best sauvignons, selected from cool inds ept vineyards on the chaapenberg. n ooded and all the more delicious ith a little bottle age. o to 2 15. 13.5%

F-US5391 bottle dozen

elicious apa sauvignon ith no oa , ust lovely grapefruit flavours and a uicy texture. o to 2 15. 12.5%

F-LO10471 bottle dozen

Fine, mineral ancerre ith onderful racy acidity and great length on the palate. o to 2 1 . 12.5%


Franc aloue is the producer of The ociety’s ancerre and eeps an immaculate cellar in the village of Thauvenay. is best unoa ed cuv e is concentrated but also fresh and long, influenced by the high proportion of grapes gro n in flint soils. o to 2 18. 13%


From the producer of our xhibition Pouilly-Fum , this is a full-flavoured and textural sauvignon from ancient Kimmeridgian marl terres blanches and limestone soils rich in tiny oyster shells and fossils hich are represented on the distinctive bottle.

o to 2 15. 12.5%

F-NZ6881 Waipara bottle dozen

A really individual sauvignon from a small producer, only 4, cases made in each vintage. The grapes are from the family’s o n plot, and the use of indigenous yeasts and old oa in the fermentation create a very structured ine, rich in spicy complexity.

o to 2 15. 12.5%

The talented ohn Williams of Frog’s eap


F-NZ4851 Marlborough bottle dozen

A partnership bet een the former head inema er and the ex-viticulturalist of loudy ay, this oa -aged sauvignon has a stunning perfume and stylish structure.

A real food ine. o to 2 16. 14%


A typical ordeaux blend, but from the ape. Miles Mossop’s flagship hite has around % sauvignon blanc for freshness and zip, and 3 % semillon for texture and more

complex flavours, and fully ustifies its five Platter stars. rin no to 2 2 . 14.5% This wine is available from the end of November.

F-BW3551 Pessac-Léognan bottle dozen

Year-in year-out, this is the outstanding performer in its class. Intense, concentrated and onderfully complex and po erful. reat potential, but sadly only 1,5 cases made.

2 18 to 2 35. 14%

W - A A I



(Domaine Seguin)

Bordeaux

Waipara

ref F-MX13249

The og Point delivery


KIWI K M I A AY

A 2006 Museum Release and a collection of single-vineyard magnums In 1 44, Mi e and Kate ra ovich and their son Mat , originally from the almatian coast of former Yugoslavia, arrived in Kumeu, north- est of Auc land. Over half a century later, the same family business is turning out e ealand’s finest chardonnay. 2 6

as an outstanding harvest for the grape, producing some of the purest fruit Michael ra ovich has experienced. We snapped up the opportunity to re-buy the minute stoc s remaining in e ealand of Kumeu iver’s three single-vineyard chardonnays Mat ’s, oddington and unting ill. All are offered in a special mixed case. The lo -yielding 2 1 vintage (5 % do n in volume) as exceptional in uality but allocations are predictably tiny. We have managed to get our hands on magnums hich, to ensure fairness to as many members as possible, are offered by the mixed case only. Pierre Mansour

Auckland Originally a component of the Kumeu state blend, north-facing oddington has been a fully-fledged cru’ since 2 6.

This is its maiden vintage, no evolved and mature, almost nutty, ripe and seductive but still perfectly poised. Michael ra ovich suggests an evolution period of t o to four years for oddington, and it’s certainly come of age, it ill

remain on this perfect plateau for a hile yet. o to 2 15. 13.5% Only available as part of mixed case F-MX13232.

Auckland ocated ust above Mat ’s vineyard, and planted in 1 82, unting ill has also emerged from the state lend to

shine in its o n right. In contrast to the exuberant oddington style, it produces tighter, racier ines ith delightful floral notes. Accordingly, Michael recommends a longer maturation period of four to six years. This is absolutely perfect no , its trademar restraint, freshness and blossomy undertones still going strong. rin no to 2 16. 14% Only available as part of mixed case F-MX13232.

Auckland From the plot that made Kumeu’s reputation, planted by Mat himself in 1 , this is not merely prime Ki i

chardonnay but a benchmar for the grape by any standards. Intense and concentrated ith base notes of pear and hazelnuts, its richness is lifted by its minerality and onderful acidity. Only 1, cases are made so seize the day.

rin no to 2 16. 13.5% Only available as part of mixed case F-MX13232.

Auckland oddington produced exceptionally ripe, almost tropical fruit in 2 1 ith broad flavour bac ed by lemony acidity

and 25% ne oa . ery good. o to 2 16. 13.5% Only available as part of mixed case F-MX13231.

Auckland unting ill sho s a distinctive mealy minerality. The 2 1 is very precise and floral ith crisp, racy acidity and

amazing structure and presence. rin no to 2 1 . 13.5% Only available as part of mixed case F-MX13231.

Auckland An exceptional vintage for this single-vineyard ine, one of e ealand’s very finest, but sadly yields ere do n

5 %. loriously perfumed ith great depth of flavour, mouthfilling texture and the ind of elegance that brings to mind urgundy’s te d’Or. rin no to 2 1 . 13.5% Only available as part of mixed case F-MX13231.


KIWI FI PI OT OI One of the most exciting things to happen across the orld of ine in recent years has been the ascendancy of e ealand pinot noir. The uality of the

ines is truly remar able. We have selected here six of the finest examples, chosen from producers that pinpoint the regional expression of pinot noir

ith precision entral Otago, Marlborough and elson in the south and Martinborough in the north. Most of these ines are crafted in limited uantities, often from single plots ithin vineyards, and represent the

pinnacle of each inema er’s craftsmanship. Pierre Mansour


ery stylish and poised pinot hich totally lives up to the hype that comes ith this pioneering Marlborough producer. o to 2 16. 14%


This amazingly fragrant, pure and plummy pinot ith glorious length may ust be og Point’s finest to date. o to 2 16. 14%. Low stock.

F-NZ5741 Central Otago bottle dozen

This tiny producer in entral Otago ma es outstanding cherry-scented and plump pinot. The 2 is subtle and highly elegant. o to 2 1 . 13.5%

F-NZ6781 Martinborough bottle dozen

Plump, full-flavoured pinot ith aromas of mocha and spice from this bouti ue producer in Martinborough. o to 2 15. 14.5%

F-NZ4911 Nelson bottle dozen

ense, velvety, mouth-filling pinot from Tim and udy Finn, delicious at five years of age, and ith time in hand. o to 2 1 . 14%

F-NZ6791 Martinborough bottle dozen

A very rare pinot from this leading orth Island producer, made only in stand-out vintages from individual parcels of the Te Muna vineyard. Floral, spicy and velvety-rich,

ith excellent cellaring potential. 2 14 to 2 1 . 14%

W A A PI OT OI A 16

Drink now to 2015

A six-bottle case containing one bottle of each of the wines listed above

ref F-MX13247

THE KUMEU RIVER £139 MA UM O E TIO

Drink now to 2016

A three-magnum case containing one magnum of each of the following:

AucklandAuckland

Auckland

ref F-MX13231

KUMEU RIVER £159 I E-VI EYAR HAR O AY 2 6

Drink now to 2015

A six-bottle case containing two bottles of each of the following:

AucklandAuckland

Auckland

ref F-MX13232


ITA Y, A IE T A MO E A

VINTAGE PODERI COLLAThe three generations of the olla family comprise some of the most experienced and no ledgeable producers in the arolo region. They combine a traditional approach to

inema ing ith a dynamic and open approach to each ne vintage, enabling each plot to shine. Rarely as this more so than in 2 8, a year of elegant ines that reflect the finesse and individual character of their respective vineyards.

This case, pac ed for us at the domaine, offers the opportunity to sample a blend of dolcetto and nebbiolo from ricco del rago, no n for the

longevity of its ines, the arolo ber-cru ussia and very possibly the finest arbaresco vineyard in the region,

Roncaglie. They are all approachable no , but eminently cellar orthy.

omprehensive producer notes are included in the case. Sebastian Payne MW

PO ERI O A 2 8 £149

Drink now to 2016 and beyond


picy, subtly floral and full ith a long, multi-layered finish. rin no to 2 2 , though the domaine confidently adds five years to our drin indo . 14.5%

os y, dar -fruit notes and hints of violet congregate on the palate in this brilliant example of arolo’s unior partner. rin no to 2 2 . 14%

The addition of 15% nebbiolo ( the foggy one’) to 85% dolcetto ( the little s eet one’) creates a fantastically complex coc tail of potent, irresistible fruit, ith undertones of ild herbs and spices. rin no to 2 16, and beyond according to the olla family. 13.5%

ref F-MX13239

Of the many phases in the evolution of ine, the three that resonate most ith drin ers may be described bluntly as needs eeping’, lovely no ’ or vinegar ’ We have them all. A mixed case from pride of Piemonte Poderi olla and the 2 8 vintage can

be broached or ept, and e have selected ust three perfect reds that are delicious to drin immediately. The vinegar is arguably the most luxurious item of all. Pac ed in a sumptuous golden, red-lined case, the collection of balsamics from Modena’s oldest producer is very serious stuff indeed ( e see no chips ). The Tuscan partnership of Vin anto and antuccini complete a small but stylish selection that demonstrates hat a gift Italy is to anyone see ing thoughtful and gastronomic gifts. Janet Wynne Evans


THREE PERFECT CHRISTMAS BOTTLESThree lovely but very different ines that flo seamlessly from alimentazione to meditazione. Paolo de Marchi has on friends for his elegant and floral hianti, as relaxed ith roast beef as it might be ith ild boar and porcini mushrooms. Allegrini’s ortegiara is a full-bodied meditation ine to be savoured at the end of a meal, hile raticciaia, a Puglian star The ociety has follo ed for many years no , is fearless in the face of a full-blo n and suitably himsical cheeseboard. Janet Wynne Evans

F-IT16711 bottle dozen

The perfumed fruit and charm of Isole hianti usually ma es them lovely to drin at bottling, but the 2 1 needed more time to come out of its shell. The ine has a lovely freshness to balance the supple fruit. o to 2 16. 14%


Round, richly fruity perfumed red made from fine healthy grapes vinified after a drying period that concentrates their flavour and s eetness. o to 2 1 . 15%

F-IT17241 Vallone bottle dozen

Puglia’s outstanding red, generous full, multi-layered and fine. Made from the finest clusters of -year-old bush-trained negroamaro vines, semi-dried in the open air on graticci (bamboo slats) before pressing to concentrate the flavour. A gorgeous ine.

o to 2 2 . 14.5% Low stock.

VI A TO A £25 A TU I I

T o Tuscan soul mates, pac ed in a Wine ociety red gift box. imply dun the biscuits in the ine for the most effortless pudding or digestif ever.

Intensely aromatic Vin Santo with hints of raisins and nuts. Round and long-lasting palate.

ref F-MX13236

THE A AMI O E TIO £99 THE UI EPPE IU TI PRE E TATIO A E

A sumptuous presentation case of five authentic, multi-tas ing balsamic vinegars from master of the craft iuseppe

iusti (founded 16 5). Protected by the I P designation (indicazione geografica protetta) they range from a pi uant sharpener for salad dressings to a glorious, limited-edition nectar to pour over that other Italian gift to the orld, good ice-cream.

Contains one 25cl bottle of each of the following five balsamic vinegars

For dressing For dipping

For garnishingFor pudding

For cherishing

ref F-KI7837


A YEAR I A A E

The best vineyards in Alsace are on slopes, often uite steep and often south-facing and on a variety of different soil types including granite and limestone. ome of the best are classified grand cru. Wines from these great vineyards often need time in bottle and may indeed age gracefully over many years. 2 as a great Alsace vintage mar ed by an ideal Indian summer and optimum ripeness. The ines are full and generous ith both finesse and complexity and are sho ing very ell no after six years. Marcel Orford-Williams

F-AL7571 bottle dozen

An outstanding riesling from the grand cru Pfersigberg vineyard, rich, yet bone dry ith flashes of citrus and honey. Than s to support from the domaine, e are able to offer it at £2 per bottle less than our previously listed price. o to 2 19. 12.5%


In a year hen Hugel produced no late-harvest riesling, the dry ubilee benefited from the best grapes from the grand cru choenenberg vineyard. A splendid effort hich ill repay a little more bottle age. o to 2 23. 13%


With aromas of orange peel and ba ed apricots, this is rich, even opulent ith some s eetness coming from the very ripe 2 vintage, but also a great sense of balance.

o to 2 1 . 13%


ry, full-bodied and very complex ith flavours of bread, butter, even mushroom. i e all eyer ines, this ill be best ith food. o to 2 2 . 14%


uscious dessert ge urztraminer, sho ing the length, depth and be itching flavour achieved by long, slo ripening in perfect conditions. o to 2 22. 11.5%


Trimbach don’t release their top ines until late. This is dry Alsace riesling at its best, tightly rought, intense and minerally. o to 2 22. 13% Also available in magnums and half bottles – see page 22


A very full-flavoured ge urztraminer in a dry, gastronomic style as preferred by this meticulous estate. Hengst is one of the best vineyards in Alsace. o to 2 18. 13.5%


A onderful expression of super-ripe ge urztraminer in a great vintage. Intense, s eet but not cloying and ith great purity of fruit. o to 2 2 . 11.5%

eguiling, fragrant, deeply sensuous ge urz. aptivating ith a hint of orange blossom. Outstanding. o to 2 2 . 14% Only available as part of mixed case F-MX13252.g y p f

A A E 2 £169

Drink now to 2018


ref F-MX13252


xxAU TRA IA HIRA PRI E OF P A E

The Australians first planted vines in the 19th century, and made their mar in the 2 th ith a technological revolution. In the 21st the focus is on terroir, as inema ers fine-tune their efforts in the vineyard to express the distinctive natural features that underlie the style and flavour of their ines. These eight reds demonstrate ho the shiraz grape adapts to different vineyard characteristics and vinification techni ues. From the vibrant, peppery character typical of the cooler climates of Western Australia and Victoria to the flamboyance it displays in outh Australia ( arossa and lare Valley, Mc aren Vale) and the savoury, earthy style of the famous Hunter Valley, shiraz spearheads an increasing and existing focus on regionality. Pierre Mansour

F-AU14261 Heathcote bottle dozen

ifted by 3% viognier, this is a rich, brooding and scented shiraz ith plummy, peppery flavours and chun y, dense palate. till youthful hen e first tasted it early in 2 11, the ine’s inherent balance, intensity and tannic muscle are all the ingredients for it to mature successfully in bottle. ecant an hour before serving. o to 2 16. 14%

F-AU15541 Clare Valley bottle dozen

From a region better no n for riesling, and in complete contrast to the almost neighbouring arossa style, a haunting shiraz of staggering intensity and length, lifted and balanced by natural acidity hich set it apart in a strong field at our 2 13 Wine

hampions tastings. o to 2 18. 13.5%

F-AU13991 Great Southern bottle dozen

A perfect vintage for this stylish Western Australian shiraz from a mature 4 -year-old vineyard. A fine, perfumed nose reveals a ine ith smooth, velvety texture, peppery blac berry fruit and seamless balance. ovely no it ill age ell until 2 21. 14%

F-AU15561 Barossa Valley bottle dozen

A proper arossa nose of chocolate and pepper precedes a thic , s eet palate, bac ed by excellent structure and length. The 2 9 vintage as a great success here. o to 2 21. 14.5%

F-AU15771 McLaren Vale bottle dozen

Wirra’s flagship shiraz is a deeply coloured and layered ine that oozes blac berry and mocha flavours, and is a near-perfect expression of the bold, po erful style of top-uality Mc aren Vale shiraz. In 2 1 the ine has added vibrancy, hich ma es it even

more appetising and harmonious than previous vintages. o to 2 22. 14.5%

F-AU15281 Mornington Peninsula bottle dozen

A rare Mornington Peninsula shiraz hich has a strong follo ing in Australia, this is a mighty impressive ine dar , intense yet elegant and complex ith layer upon layer of peppery, blac berry fruit. o to 2 1 . 14.5%

F-AU15761 Eden Valley bottle dozen

A complex s eet, spicy nose sho ing lifted fragrant aromas of plum and blac berry ith hints of sage and pepper supported by toasty oa . The intensely fruited palate

exhibiting dar berries is complex and fleshy ith great structure, velvety tannins and a long finish. o to 2 16. 14.5%

Hunter Valley One of Australia’s most distinctive and enticing examples of shiraz, full of meaty, savoury

fruit bac ed by an elegantly structured palate, uite Rh ne-li e in its poise. o to 2 2 . 13.5% Only available as part of mixed case F-MX13251.13.5% Only available as part of mixed case F-MX13251.

AU TRA IA RE IO A HIRA A E £189

Drink now to 2018


Great Southern Barossa Valley

Clare Valley

McLaren ValeMornington

PeninsulaHunter Valley

ref F-MX13251


TA TE OF THE U E PE TE

Unusual bottles for home entertainmentast year’s White Mischief ’ case the antidote to the omniscient ine buff every host has to contend ith at one time or

another as so ell received by adventurous members that e’ve expanded this vinous al on the ild side to include some thought-provo ing reds, from a brilliant anadian pinot noir and a uni ue, hite-pepper-laced oire to a Hungarian cabernet franc that nudges ordeaux for elegance. We emphasise that all have been selected for deliciousness, and not merely devilry, and some helpful food suggestions are given belo . The mixed exploration case offers a small inducement to try something different, and great scope for doing so.

WHITES F-JU891 bottle dozen

This Alpine curiosity is a blend of chardonnay and savagnin, aged in barrel for three years. The barrels are not topped up, hich promotes the development of a film of flor, as ith fino sherry, and a very distinctive flavour, pungent and incredibly complex. Offer it as an intriguing alternative to sherry, or try it ith its regional soul mates, chic en

ith morel mushrooms or a slab of mature omt cheese. rin no to 2 18. 13%


The finest ine of the best estate in the Verdicchio region, and from a onderful vintage to boot, this dry, focused hite has a natural seam of acidity that lifts its rich, honeyed intensity. An excellent all-rounder for any ell-flavoured seafood and the perfect partner for a really upmar et fish pie, blan eted in dill-infused cream ith a dash of Pernod or oilly Prat. rin no to 2 18. 12%

F-PW3781 bottle dozen

Made from vital, a venerable Portuguese variety promoted from chorus line to starring role by the late Anton o arvalho, this extraordinary Atlantic hite has a crisp, clean attac hich peels a ay to reveal layers of deep, savoury, pi uant fruit. A focused fish and fo l ine ith the concentration to deal ith rich, herby, tomato-based sauces, and the acidity to balance cream and butter. o to 2 16. 12%

F-HU771 bottle dozen

From the volcanic soils of the arpathian foothills, this is an extraordinary hite made from mature furmint, the To a i grape, fermented dry. In its uiet and elegant ay, it’s robust and focused enough even for roast goose, and positively shines ith Thai food. It

ould benefit from another year in bottle, but it’s already impressive. 2 14 to 2 19. 14%


ry, salty and extremely concentrated, this remar able oire hite comes from a rare plot of pre-phylloxera romorantin vines, planted in 185 . avour it ith ba ed oysters, sole meuni re or a brace of ell marbled and seasoned por chops ith a pi uant apple sauce. It also benefits from a short decanting, so get the air under its ings.

o to 2 25 and even beyond that. 13%

rard auby’s Roussillon blend of local hite hero macabeo (4 %) ith 3 % grenache blanc, 15% chardonnay, 1 % grenache gris and 5% carignan blanc has evolved into a profound, herby, marzipan-infused hite hich demands rich shellfish. ouillabaisse or paella ould be perfect. o to 2 16. 13.5% Only available as part

of mixed case F-MX13246.


REDSF-FC25341 bottle dozen

The interesting thing about this vineyard is that it produces ahors of classed-gro th standard. Fine, elegant and very long, it ill do ustice to any premium roast oint, notably lamb, and certainly duc and delicious ith toasted cheese savouries, served as a prelude to pudding. o to 2 2 . 13.5%

F-CA61 Ontario bottle dozen

For those sampling this be itching pinot noir blind, there ill be no mista ing the grape, but the origin ill be a revelation. From a small estate in Prince Ed ard ounty in Ontario, it is subtle, finely-tuned and very pretty indeed. A onderful partner for grouse, or other feathered game of the season, and very good too ith ild mushroom risotto.

rin no to 2 16. 12.5%


Eric icolas has specialised in bringing old vine varieties bac to life. The local pineau d aunis positively sings in his careful hands. Its intriguing deep-stra berry fruit, laced ith

hite pepper, is uni ue and comes into its o n ith spicy sausages, very rare beef or a scoop of por or goose rillettes. Try serving it cellar-cool or even slightly chilled ith a starter of carpaccio or bresaola ith roc et leaves, or grilled aubergine dressed ith pesto. o to 2 15. 14%

F-HU701 bottle dozen

Exceptionally fine and fragrant cabernet franc ith full, sil y and long-lasting flavour. A onderful find and ell orth its price, says ebastian Payne MW, ho suggests serving it from a decanter, dropping a casual reference to the right ban before revealing its Hungarian pedigree. It ill do anything a very good claret can, from ba ed salmon to lentil and alnut salad, and its green-pepper notes or brilliantly ith richer, spicier fare li e goulash. uc confit is a startlingly good match. o to 2 18. 14.5%

A speciality of Alto Adige and Trento, the lagrein grape has lovely, soft, bright, refreshing fruit and very gentle tannin, ma ing it an attractive midday ine, ith a salad lunch that could easily comprise a fe grilled porcini mushrooms or a more substantial dish of noodles or pasta ith smo ed ham and melted mountain cheese. o to 2 15. 13.5% Only available as part of mixed case F-MX13246.

A A E OF THE U E PE TE £99

Drink now to 2015

A six-bottle exploration case offering a saving of £7.50 and containing one bottle each of each of the following, along with the food suggestions given above, for easy reference:

Ontario

ref F-MX13246


THE A E FOR ERMA RIE I £ 5

Drink now to 2016

A six-bottle case containing one bottle each of the following:

ERMA Y MAKI THE A E FOR RIE I

Riesling is ermany’s finest gift to the orld of ine, greatly admired by inema ers all over the orld, from Australia to Alsace. It comes in an astonishing variety of bou uets, flavours and s eetness. ermans usually drin it dry. The ritish have traditionally preferred Mosel ith at least a touch of s eetness to balance fruit acidity. The s eetness codes are there to help guide you hen the labels do not.

Members ho regularly buy these ines ill recognise some deservedly familiar names in this eclectic list. Pr m has long been a favourite, for its extraordinary finesse and eeping uality, hile Egon M ller’s charzhof is, ithout doubt,

regarded as the finest riesling estate of all. It is not cheap, but exceptionally fine.

elo is a selection of onderful vinous experiences, for old hands and ne comers ali e. It includes t o delicious

ines, and t o mixed cases, one exploratory and the other reassuringly set in its ays. Sebastian Payne MW.

Full, ripe, yet refreshing riesling, rather drier than in past vintages. Apothe e is a very fine vineyard and this has been consistently popular ith members over the years. o to 2 18. 11%

Perfect late- eptember eather ith cold nights and arm days ripened riesling slo ly and ell, and it sho s

in the fragrant mineral fruit of this lovely bone-dry ine. o to 2 1 . 12.5%

ome of the finest vineyards in the aar are in Wiltingen and this ine sho s off their elegance and uni ue

mineral character ell. one dry, racy and invigorating ith real uality and personality. o to 2 16. 12%

lassic Rheingau, elegant, distinctive and delicious. This is largely from R desheimer urg eg but ith a percentage from eisenheim. o to 2 1 . 1 %

Full, multi-faceted riesling ith generous bou uet and dry but rounded flavour and even a hint of mango and passion fruit from ripe grapes pic ed in the golden October of 2 11. o to 2 18. 13.5%

elicious, elegant dry riesling from the Oberha ser eistenberg vineyard located in a small side valley of the ahe, here grapes achieve full ripeness over a long gro ing period. o to 2 19. 12.5%

ref F-MX13242

All these wines are only available as part of this mixed case.


THE PRUM A E £139

Drink now to 2020


F-GE8121 bottle dozen

Egon M ller o ns 16 hectares, of hich half are rooted in the pure slate of the steep, south-facing charzhofberg hill, one of ermany’s coolest gro ing spots, and yet producing one of its greatest ines. ublime Mosel of lightness, purity and finesse. A eeper. rin 2 2 to 2 32. 9%

F-GE8131 bottle dozen

2 12 is one of the smallest harvests Egon M ller has seen since he started in 1991. With controlled po er and onderful length of flavour, finesse and precision, this is an exceptionally delicious aar riesling from hat is probably ermany’s greatest vineyard. 2 22 to 2 35. 8.5%

Racy and intense ith a lovely summer flo er bou uet and flavour that ill only improve and gain complexity

ith time. o to 2 21. 9%

With the hallmar floral bou uet and fresh vivid elegant bou uet, this is a delicious riesling ith or ithout food

that ill leave the head clear and the palate refreshed. o to 2 2 . %

Already, the heavenly individual aroma is evident over the delicious ripe-scented fruit beneath. There is an intensity to the flavour of this ine hich ill only reveal its true potential ith ageing in a cool cellar.

o to 2 2 . .5%

ref F-MX13233

All these wines are only available as part of this mixed case.


O-TO OR EAU

Fine claret for drinking nowFrom fully mature to ust hitting their stride, the selection of clarets belo offers a ealth of choice for your o n personal hristmas list or inter solace. It spans three decades and nine different vintages, from stylish 2 4 crus class s to modest Moulis from contrasting vintages, A ripe for drin ing no . There’s another complementary pair from Anthony arton’s beautiful angoa, as ell as four of the great second ines of the M doc, also in the 2 4 vintage hich is no providing such delicious drin ing. A trio of fine classed-gro th properties ma es a special mixed case to anticipate 2 14 anniversaries, and our ommuning ith laret mixed case includes all but a Pauillac from our virtual tour of left and right ban s. Jo Locke MW

F-CM16041 Moulis-en-Médoc bottle dozen

With firmer structure than the 1989 belo but also fully mature, this has delicate perfume and firm bac bone. For the classicist. This year and next. 12.5%

F-CS5231 Pomerol bottle dozen

lassic Pomerol, charm personified, ith a perfumed uality on the nose, briary red fruit and a certain velvetiness on the palate. eet, supple fruit and fine balance add to the sense of approachability here. o to 2 18. 13.5%

F-CM16031 Moulis-en-Médoc bottle dozen

Elegant and supple, this cru bourgeois is sil y in texture and fully primed for pleasurable drin ing. This year and next. 12.5%

F-CM11101 Saint-Julien bottle dozen

oville- as- ases’s second ine is outstanding in 2 4, hen it represented 66% of the crop, all harvested in October, ith rich fruit and a long-lasting finish. o to 2 2 . 13%

F-CM11951 Margaux bottle dozen

Elegantly framed and cedary, still ith the freshness of youth, but ith enough fruit s eetness to be delicious no . o to 2 2 . 13%

F-CM13571 Moulis bottle dozen

ense and closed en primeur, 2 a classic year, characterised by po erful fruit and high, but ripe tannins has emerged from the cellars as a fine, expressive claret, enhanced by the extra spice and roundness of the 4 % ne oa in hich it as matured. o to 2 2 . 13%


lassic, elegant, long-living aint- ulien as befits the most charming property in the M doc and one that has been longest in one family’s o nership. o to 2 16. 12.5%


This is already lovely ith roundness and considerable length, and ill continue to mature gracefully too until 2 15. 12.5%


elightfully pure, soft, ripe fruit and true Margaux finesse ith a glorious finish. o to 2 24. 13.5%

F-CS4051 Saint-Emilion bottle dozen

ince renamed lair-Monange by its ne o ners, the Moueix family, this is elegant, complex claret for the long haul, but decant it and it starts to reveal its finesse and charm. o to 2 2 . 12.5% Low stock.

F-CM13581 Saint-Estèphe bottle dozen

This is a onderfully placed property at the southern end of aint-Est phe overloo ing the ironde. The ines have style and finesse as ell as strength. o to 2 16. 12.5%

F-CM9071 Pessac-Léognan bottle dozen

The second ine of Haut- rion (since renamed larence), made from 1% cabernet sauvignon, 22% merlot, and % cabernet franc. Ripe, soft blac fruit is evident but serious grip and length are present too to ensure longevity. o to 2 2 . 12.5%

For advice thewinesociety.com/advice 01438 741177

A I 2 4 ARET £45

Drink now to 2020


Pessac-Léognan

Pauillac Margaux

ref F-MX13234

OMMU I WITH £45 ARET


A 12-bottle case containing one bottle of each of the following:

Haut-MédocPomerol

Saint-JulienMargaux

MargauxPessac-Léognan

Margaux Saint-Estèphe

Saint-Emilion Moulis Saint-Julien

Saint-Estèphe

ref F-MX13256

F-CM7401 Pauillac bottle dozen

Fine uality here, ith hallmar Pauillac po er and elegance. The vines planted bet een 1962 and 19 8 are no fully mature and they benefit from the massed team of Rothschild pic ers to harvest at ust the right moment. o to 2 1 . 12.5%


A lovely vintage for drin ing no , though this ill cellar beautifully. Excellent, classically styled Pauillac ith Pichon omtesse’s haunting fragrance and charm. o to 2 24. 13%


This fine property, neighbour to Mouton-Rothschild, made an outstanding 2 vintage ith great concentration, flavour and fruit. o to 2 22. 13%


The second ine of the grand vin in a vintage that is delicious to drin no , seductively perfumed, ith good, ripe tannic structure. o to 2 2 . 13%


Refined claret ith a long, mineral finish, from one of ordeaux’s great vineyards in a beautifully balanced vintage, The blend is 55% merlot, 42% cabernet sauvignon and 3% cabernet franc. o to 2 25. 13%


One of ordeaux’s most elegant, long-lived ines in a very fine, classically framed vintage. ust starting to open up. o to 2 25. 12.5%


harles hevallier believes that a second ine should have some of the finesse of the the grand vin ithout the depth and structure that mean a long ait to en oy it. This supple, elegant claret proves the point. o to 2 2 . 13%

Haut-Médoc With its cedary bou uet and gentle, full, soft flavour, this is a delightful classed gro th

to en oy over the next year or t o. 12% Only available as part of mixed case F-MX13256.

Saint-Estèphe Popular laret from the ynch ages stable, particularly successful and fruity in 2 1.

o to 2 15. 13% Only available as part of mixed case F-MX13256.

Margaux A very special ine ith gorgeous, ripe, perfumed fruit and long, sil y palate. Excellent

depth of flavour. o to 2 25. 13% Only available as part of mixed case F-MX13256.


THE O A HORT OF IT

Magnums and HalvesAt a time of year hen the obligations of a good host range from intimate soir es to coach-parties, e need as many variations as

e can muster on the theme of the 5cl bottle. elo is a suitably diverse and often uir y selection of different formats, from

both ends of the ine orld, including an outstanding Portuguese red and a collection of arming d’Arenberg shiraz to complement the triumvirate of single-vineyard Kumeu chardonnays on page 8. The half bottle dining case is guaranteed to ma e smaller gatherings very special indeed. Janet Wynne Evans

MAGNUMS AND LARGER FORMATSWHITEF-LO10544 magnum six

(Chéreau-Carré)

h reau- arr has been ma ing ine for 5 years and supplying The ociety’s Muscadet for over 25 of them. h teau de hasseloir, at the confluence of the vre and Maine rivers, is their flagship vineyard and includes a plot of 1 -year old vines. It yields an extraordinary ine that balances body and typical Muscadet freshness.

o to 2 16. 12%

F-BU51884 magnum six

One of the stars in our range, this opulent unoa ed M con is made from biodynamic grapes, gro n near less , and offers onderful value. o to 2 16. 13% The 2 11 follo s.

F-GE8174 magnum six

A delightful ay to begin a celebration. charzhofberg is rightly no n as one of ermany’s greatest riesling vineyards because its ine has onderful purity and

elegance, precision and charm and leaves the head clear and the palate refreshed. o to 2 2 . 1 .5%

F-PW3754 magnum six

airrada is famous for red ines, but the ider eiras area benefits from late afternoon breezes hich favour the production of fresh hite ines, here from lovingly tended bical vines, producing a taut, appley flavour ith richness on the palate. o to 2 16. 13%

F-AL10054 magnum six

As may already be seen on page 12, 2 as a glorious vintage, sunny and hot ith balmy conditions that extended into autumn. This is dry Alsace riesling at its best, tightly rought, intense and mineral. o to 2 22. 13%

Please turn to page 9 for Kumeu River single-vineyard chardonnays in magnums.


REDF-AU13464 magnum six

McLaren Vale A deep red from an outstanding stable. ensuous, rich and smooth. o to 2 16. 14.5%

F-AU16174 McLaren Vale magnum six This hugely popular and unashamedly Aussie shiraz regularly sells out ith the speed

of the racehorse in honour of hich it is named. hun y and generous, ith stac s of s eet berry fruit, spice and a hint of pepperiness, it ould or ell ith herb-encrusted fillet of beef or lamb. o to 2 1 . 14.5%

F-CM11344 Haut-Médoc magnum six

With fresh, stylish fruit and great charm, this is a lovely vintage for the property and an excellent buy, as the many members ho buy it every year ill testify. o to 2 16. 12.5%

F-SP6994 magnum six

odegas Muga are ma ing some of the best Rio a in the region today. The youthful 2 has plump fruit bac ed by velvety ripe tannins. ecant before serving.

o to 2 18. 13.5%

F-RH34714 magnum six

till a little closed on the nose, but on the palate there are layers of s eet-tasting fruit and a polish that comes from some very good use of oa . This is a lovely orthern Rh ne hich ill repay eeping. o to 2 2 . 13%

F-AR2864 magnum six

Of all ernardo Weinert’s ines, avas is the one e consider the most interesting. It is a blend (45% cabernet sauvignon, 4 % malbec and 15% merlot), aged in large old barrels for three years. The resulting ine is comfortingly soft and mello , ith the cedary and leathery flavours of maturity. o to 2 1 . 14.5%

F-AU13484 McLaren Vale magnum six

Tiny yields in 2 resulted in a ead Arm ith onderful concentration, chun y and dense ith great depth, balance and length. This is delicious no if decanted, although

hester Osborn expects it to age ell until 2 22. 14.5%

F-PW4183 (Luis Pato) eroboam

Vinha Pan is a vineyard hich came to uis Pato via his ife’s family. This is a fascinating Portuguese combination of urgundian elegance and north-Italian fragrance and structure, but ithout the baga grape’s typically agressive tannin. o to 2 25. 13%

This ill prove a great year for Fontodi, on a par ith 2 1 hich is no absolutely splendid. Pure sangiovese, organically cultivated from the conca d’oro, a shell-shaped sun-trap in the heart of hianti lassico. o to 2 22. 14% Only available as part of mixed case F-MX13235.

A I MA UM £89

Drink now to 2016

A three-magnum case containing one each of the following:

Haut-Médoc

ref F-MX13235

’ARE ER MA UM £115 OPU

Drink now to 2016

A three-magnum case containing one each of the following:

McLaren ValeMcLaren Vale

McLaren Vale

ref F-MX13237

22 To order thewinesociety.com/ newines 01438 740222 smartphone app

CHAMPAGNEF-CH2234 magnum six

A hampagne of great complexity and eight made ith t o-thirds of exceptionally ripe chardonnay. The ine is rich, full-bodied and absolutely delicious no , though it has the structure for a long life ahead. o to 2 2 . 12.5%

F-CH994 magnum six

A creamy and luxurious cuv e based on the 1996 vintage. rin this year and next. 12%

F-CH1333 methuselah This comes from Alfred ratien and is ust as hampagne should be. The blend is made

up of all three hampagne grape varieties (pinot noir, pinot meunier and chardonnay) from excellent sources. E uivalent to eight bottles. rin this year and next. 12.5%

F-CH1334 salmanazar E uivalent to t elve bottles. rin this year and next 12.5%

HALF BOTTLESWHITEF-LO10412 half bottle dozen

Precise, crisp sauvignon blanc from sixth-generation Philippe eguin’s immaculate cellar at e ouchot. There are fe domaines here you get to taste every vat fe er still

here every vat is good. rin this year and next. 12.5%

F-NZ6412 Auckland half bottle dozen

An excellent Ki i gris ith floral aromas hich give freshness to the broad, ripe flavours. rin this year and next. 13%

F-NZ6402 Auckland half bottle dozen

Made by Michael ra ovich MW, ho spent some time in urgundy honing his s ills ith the grape, the Kumeu style is rich, but poised ith attractive mineral notes and a

discreet peachiness. 2 1 as a landmar vintage for this e ealand estate, ith lo yields but stupendous uality. Precise, subtle yet rich and long. o to 2 15. 13.5%

F-BW3522 Pessac-Léognan half bottle dozen

lassic hite ordeaux ith the apricot richness of semillon and full, rounded flavour balanced by a delightful clean finish. o to 2 18. 13.5%

F-AL10052 half bottle dozen

Trimbach only ever release their top ines after plenty of time. 2 as a glorious vintage, sunny and hot ith balmy conditions that extended into autumn. This is dry Alsace riesling at its best, tightly rought, intense and minerally. o to 2 22. 13%

THE O A HORT OF IT


REDF-RH26372 half bottle dozen

This is aboulet’s classic rozes hich these days includes a proportion from Thalabert. Outstanding in the great 2 9 vintage. o to 2 18. 13%

F-SP7552 half bottle dozen

orge Muga’s 2 8 is delicious. ifficult harvest conditions meant he made no gran reserva in 2 8, so his reserva has benefited from all the best fruit. Exotic, round and complete. We recommend decanting in advance. o to 2 16. 13.5%

F-CS8762 Saint-Emilion half bottle dozen

lassically styled right ban claret from the generous 2 9 vintage ith s eet, succulent fruit, ust developing typical fruit-ca e flavours. o to 2 19. 13.5%

F-IT17342 Scacciadiavoli half bottle dozen

A po erful red ith sensual, spicy, balsamic flavour and considerable grip. agrantino is the yardstic Umbrian red. It re uires and repays ageing in barrel and bottle and is best drun ith flavoursome food. o to 2 1 . 15%

F-NZ6062 Hawkes Bay half bottle dozen

Te Mata Estate is e ealand’s oldest inery, dating from the early 189 s, and is today ac no ledged as one of its best. This is a refined, poised ordeaux blend hich sho s great restraint and class. o to 2 18. 13.5%

F-CM7542 Margaux half bottle dozen

o firmly re-established here it should be, at the top of the second gro ths, this great vineyard has made a 2 2 of real breeding and class, ith ripe fruit but the structure to last a long time. o to 2 2 . 13%

2 9 produced supple arolo ith natural s eetness and charm after a long

maturation period. o to 2 1 . 14% Only available as part of mixed case F-MX13245.

I I Y HA VE £59


A case of six half bottles, containing one each of the following:

AucklandSeguin

Pessac-Léognan

Saint-Emilion

ref F-MX13245

Muga produces some of our favourite Rio a


E E OF THE OIRE

Moulin Touchais, Coteaux du LayonUni ue in the orld of ine, Moulin Touchais is a shy celebrity of a bygone age. It is the only ine bottled by this centuries-old estate, managed since 1988 by Jean-Marie Touchais. What sets the ines apart from others in the oteaux du ayon is their moderate residual sugar of 8 -9 grams per litre, little or no influence of botrytis (noble rot), early bottling in the spring follo ing the harvest, and long bottle maturation of at least ten years before release. There are currently an estimated thirty different vintages lying undisturbed in the labyrinth of historic cellars.

Early in 2 13 e visited to ma e the selection for our exclusive mixed case, pac ed at the domaine, ith notes on each of the ines. It celebrates three decades of this historic property, from the current release, the outstanding 2 3 bac to 1985, and including t o of the best vintages from the 199 s. The 1983, hich is offered individually, became an unexpected bonus, having been languishing in a forgotten corner for the last three decades. oded at around the 5 mar on our s eetness scale, hich places them intriguingly bet een the savoury course and the s eet, these are not typical expressions of oire chenin blanc but each is a rare piece of history brimming ith personality. Joanna Locke MW

MOU I TOU HAI VERTI A A E £1 9

Drink now to 2020Please note that the bottles are freshly labelled prior to shipping to ensure legibility, albeit at the cost of romance.

A six-bottle case containing one bottle each of 2003, 2002, 1997, 1996, 1986, 1985, shipped direct from the property and containing background notes by Loire expert and Master of Wine Richard Kelley.

uscious and long, tempered by onderful acidity. o to 2 6 at least a potential centenarian. 13%

avoury and malic on the palate, and still evolving. Hold for a year or so if possible. o to 2 5 . 12.5%

A great vintage, ith more botrytis than usual. Perfectly balanced and already distinguished, ith more in store.

o to 2 5 . 13.5%

Another great year for this property. Ripe, concentrated and almost tropical, held in chec by the trademar

acidity. o to 2 3 . 13.5%

eceptively restrained on nose and palate, holly seductive on the finish. o to 2 2 . 13.5%

Evolved, ith subtle marmalade and toffee-li e aromas, but drier, savoury and more pi uant on the palate.

o to 2 25. 13.5%

ref F-MX13250


FOOD FILEWe don’t use the ord uni ue’ lightly at The Wine ociety, but it’s ustified here. On the nose and palate, each of the ines is immediately redolent of old-fashioned crisp and s eet eating apples of the ind no found only on gnarled trees in private gardens. This ever-present malic intensity is lifted by ondrous acidity that eeps the

ines on the drier side of luscious. They are not conventional pudding ines, having a savoury character hich ic s in as they age and ma es them, if anything, more suited to salty and spicy dishes that need a fillip of acidity

soft and blue cheeses, rich p t , or perfection a alti-style vegetable curry, coo ed in coconut mil . Ho ever they do or ith gentle apple-based desserts easy on the caramel, cinnamon and cloves and generous on the cream. Janet Wynne Evans


right copper in colour, ith notes of tarte tatin, toffee apple and hazelnuts. Members ho attended our oire tastings earlier this year ere among the first ever to taste this ine outside the property. o to 2 15. 14%

Jean Marie Touchais


U TOM E AR

Presents with a futureWhat ma es ine cellar orthy A ame’ and A Year’, obviously, though one of the t o ill often do a great vintage li e 2 5 in France, for example, ma es unior properties excellent bets for laying do n hile a great ch teau or domaine shines in all

eathers. With myriad parcels offering either blessing or, indeed, both, ustom ellars invites members to assemble a collection as individual as themselves for future en oyment. Whether pre-mixed or personally selected, in multiples of a dozen, from our entire collection of bottles, these

ines may be stored in The ociety’s temperature controlled arehouse. Our only condition is that they are stored and ithdra n by the case. Janet Wynne Evans

For more information on storage in Members’ Reserves, visit thewinesociety.com/membersreserves

2007 CLARETThe greatest vintages demand the patience of Job even if you are among the increasing number of claret lovers to indulge in the fleeting flush of youth. The beauty of the 2 vintage is that the best are gentle, round and for ard, and a pleasure to drin already, sometimes even at cru class level, though the best of course ill eep. The t o mixed cases here should satisfy both camps.

2 as a vintage of for ard fruit, supple tannins, remar ably approachable in its youth, and so easy to drin that there is virtually guaranteed temptation to consider a second bottle. In 2 the best ines sho ed great charm from the outset, and many more have delighted us since. The follo ing selection as made after a series of tastings at ociety H in tevenage. All have en oyed the perfect storage conditions of The ociety’s tevenage cellars since shipment from the ch teaux en primeur. Joanna Locke MW

F-CM12561 Haut-Médoc bottle dozen

An aromatic, balanced soft and fruity claret made strictly on the pleasure principle made by Olivier ze, one of the best gro er inema ers of the M doc. o to 2 1 . 13%

F-CM14101 bottle dozen

Elegant and classically-honed claret from smart addresses ithin the afite-Rothschild portfolio. ecanting ill reveal more of its perfume and future potential. o to 2 16. 12.5%

F-CS6631 Saint-Emilion bottle dozen

Fran ois espagne, hose family has lived in aint-Emilion for centuries, has given ne life to this exciting estate since he too control in 1998. Vigorous, yet refined claret ith lovely freshness. o to 2 1 . 13%


Wine has been made at this estate at least since the 12th century. This is very clean ith a fresh, fruity cabernet-dominated palate, more for ard in the 2 vintage. o to 2 1 . 13% Low stock.


ourgneuf, o ned by the Vayron family for six generations, is one of the oldest in Pomerol and consists of nine hectares for the most part on the best Pomerol soil of clay-gravel on a clay bed ith iron-pan (crasse de fer) hich gives the ine distinctive perfume and structure. o to 2 2 . 13.5%


F-CM12311 Haut-Médoc bottle dozen

With the cedary nose, po erful fruit balanced by freshness, this is a great result from an increasingly high-achieving classed gro th hich is certainly no on a level ith its peers in next door aint-Julien. reat value, too. 63% cabernet sauvignon, 3 % merlot

ith the rest cabernet franc and petit verdot. 2 14 to 2 22. 12.5%


Alfred Tesseron and his maître de chai spare no pains to bring out the best of this biodynamically run vineyard hich has ta en a great uality leap in the last decade. olid, concentrated Pauillac, ith % cabernet sauvignon. 2 15 to 2 25. 13%


runo orie made a stunning success of this vintage and ucru as a stand-out ine at the primeur tastings. 9 % cabernet sauvignon, 1 % merlot, ith top- uality press ine adding tannin and body. o to 2 3 . 13%


One of the finest ines in a comprehensive tasting of the vintage. 58% cabernet sauvignon provides structure and precision, 36% merlot brings velvety texture, and touches of cabernet franc and petit verdot add a hint of exotic perfume. o to 2 3 . 13%


Alexandre Thienpont brings out the best of each vintage in his grand vin. His 2 , a blend of % merlot and 3 % cabernet franc, is a beautiful claret, all elegance, soul and pure pleasure. rin from 2 14 to 2 24. 13%


a Fleur P trus has been o ned by the Moueix family since 1952. Its 14 hectares, no including the best old vines hich ere part of e ay, lie next to P trus but on different soil, stony ith large gravel but no clay or sand. This is elegant and spicy

ith fine-grained tannins. 2 14 to 2 24. 13.5%


A claret of supreme elegance and charm ith a s eet inner core and excellent length, hich ill be en oyable younger than usual. Just 46% of the harvest made the cut and

the blend is 59% cabernet sauvignon and 41% merlot. o to 2 25. 13%

2 OR EAU £139 TO HAVE

Drink now to 2016


PomerolSaint Emilion

Pessac-LéognanHaut-MédocHaut-Médoc

ref F-MX13241

2 OR EAU £55 TO HO

Drink now to 2024


Pauillac

PauillacSaint-Julien

PauillacPomerol

Pomerol

ref F-MX13240


UIT - AI T- EOR E £245 2 5

Drink now to 2021


ref F-MX13254

2005 BURGUNDY2 5 is in many cases a great vintage, the best since 19 8, but not in a big and flashy style. 2 5 as a year of normal temperatures but slightly lo er yields than normal. The eather as excellent throughout. The ines are fine and elegant ith considerable structure. The tannins are ust starting to soften in some of the lesser ines but the vintage has many years ahead of it. This is a rare opportunity to buy some of these superb ines. Toby Morrhall


tylistically and geographically this is mid ay bet een the elegance of avigny and the plump opulence of eaune. o to 2 24. 13.5%


eep colour, ith a palate of ripe tannins and plenty of flesh. This is an excellent uits made from ust 4 hl ha. o to 2 23. 13%


ovely, graceful village Volnay offered at a bargain price. o to 2 16. 13%


From its ethereal aroma to its structured yet caressing palate, this sho s the class and complexity for hich urgundy lovers pay top dollar. o to 2 3 . 13%


Fine and pretty ine mar ed more by the intensity of its flavour than sheer po er. o to 2 21. 13.5%

This 2.19ha monopole vineyard is a ne ac uisition. eet and generously fruity ith an alluring, rounded palate. o to 2 21. 13.5% Only available as part of mixed

case F-MX13254.

U TOM E AR


MAS DE DAUMAS GASSACIf ever an estate deserved to be called iconic, it ould surely be Mas de aumas assac in the anguedoc. Yet it came about by accident. Aim and V roni ue uibert ere simply loo ing for an idyllic spot to raise a family, but among their many friends as Henri En albert, a noted authority on soils ho remar ed that this virgin land had the right geology to ma e a great ine. And the rest is history. The great Emile Peynaud as another consultant ho helped turn the cabernet sauvignon into a veritable afite. The first vintage as 19 8 hich is still going strong. Marcel Orford-Williams

F-FC15391 bottle dozen

aumas assac is an unusual ine, more comfortable in the company of a raves or a aint-Est phe than the Midi. It’s mostly made from cabernet but includes a ealth of other varieties brought in from as far a ay as eorgia. The 2 6 is ex uisite.

o to 2 25. 13%


This is uni ue ine made from a ma ority of cabernet sauvignon gro n on fine gravel in an idyllic spot surrounded by the garrigue and fed by the cooling aters of the little

assac stream. There is much finesse and concentration in the 2 vintage ith complexity that ill come from the myriad other grape varieties that ma e up 2 % of the final blend. o to 2 25. 12%


aumas assac reds have al ays needed plenty of time before they come into their o n. The 2 5 is deeply coloured, densely flavoured and very long. o to 2 25. 12.5%


Vintages that end in eight have all been very special at aumas assac and the 2 8 is no exception. There is depth and concentration here and a onderfuly refined finish.

o to 2 2 . 13%

FOUR YEAR OF £99 MA E AUMA A A

Drink now to 2020

A four-bottle case containing one bottle each of the above wines.

ref F-MX13238

U TOM E AR


TOP TA E UI TE E TIA I ER WI E

ix benchmar s, representing the classic ine styles our members traditionally buy for the hristmas festivities. Most of the seasonal food options are covered, from smo ed salmon and scrambled egg (riesling, of course) to roast grouse (Jim lendenen’s thought-provo ing alifornia pinot noir). The mixed case ma es a splendid gift from guest to host, ith a very good chance that you may get to share the bottles. Janet Wynne Evans

TOP TA E I I A E £1 9

Drink this year and next

A six-bottle case containing one bottle each of the above wines.

ref F-MX13248

WHITEF-AU15491 Clare Valley bottle dozen

Amazingly pure and aromatic Australian riesling hich is tightly structured and oozes character. o to 2 25. 12.5%


A ell-balanced assemblage from eight different vineyards averaging 3 years of age, ith 2 % ne oa . eliciously soft yet fresh hite urgundy to drin this year and

next. 13% Low stock.

REDF-SA5401 bottle dozen

The 25th anniversary release of this iconic ape red, and inema er hris Williams’ first vintage in charge. Ma ority cabernet sauvignon, ith merlot and cabernet franc, to produce a classically styled ordeaux blend. rin this year and next. 14%

F-SP8021 bottle dozen

Magnificent traditional gran reserva aged four years in cas until the bou uet is redolent of vanilla and tobacco, but ith plenty of vigour on the palate. o to 2 21. 12.5%


With greater selection in the ucru- eaucaillou vineyard, its second ine is uite on a level of uality ith other classed-gro th aint-Juliens. From the Plateau de eychevelle next to ruaud arose, the 2 6 is 5 % each cabernet sauvignon and merlot and already delicious. o to 2 18. 13%

F-US5041 bottle dozen

Fine, polished and plump pinot ith smooth, sil y tannins hich has onderful length of flavour. Exactly hat you ould expect from this leading alifornia pinot noir vineyard and the inema ing talent of Jim lendenen. o to 2 16. 13.5%


WHITEF-BU51741 bottle dozen

o yields explain the broad, structured palate and rich texture of this excellent urgundy. It is cleverly fermented in foudres to allo the ine to develop flavour ith controlled amounts of oxygen hile avoiding domination by oa flavour. o to 2 15. 13.5%

F-IT17451 Castello della Sala bottle dozen

An exceptionally attractive alternative to hite urgundy, made in Umbria ith all the no -ho and experience of the Antinori team. The baby brother of their top-class ervaro della ala at a friendlier price. o to 2 16. 12.5%


Opulent barrel-fermented ape chardonnay ith broad, spicy flavour, and ripe, generous fruit on the palate. o to 2 16. 13.5%

F-US5361 bottle dozen Santa Maria Valley

A refined and be itchingly perfumed chardonnay from a single vineyard in the anta Maria ench, in northern anta arbara, prime territory for cool, poised chardonnay and pinot noir. This is ripe and generous, yet crisp and lively ith a nod to urgundy.

o to 2 15. 15%

F-NZ5631 Auckland bottle dozen

The ra ovichs’ 2 9 is a scented, almost floral Ki i chardonnay hich is tightly oven, refreshing and long. o to 2 15. 13% Turn to page 8 for Kumeu River’s single-estate chardonnays

F-BW4481 Graves bottle dozen

elicious dry ordeaux hite from the ubourdieu stable here old semillon vines contribute richness and also add a more complex note. o to 2 1 . 13%


Its sought-after stablemate, sauvignon blanc, may steal its thunder, but loudy ay chardonnay is an underrated gem. iscover its intense aromas of peaches, nectarines and aromatic herbs and biscuity complexity and be converted. This year and next. 14%

F-AU15951 Yarra Valley bottle dozen

tunningly pure riesling from the trathbogie Ranges in Victoria, made in minute uantities by Mac Forbes. The balance bet een sugar and acid is sublime here. o to 2 18. 12%

F-PW4031 bottle dozen

Arguably Portugal’s top alvarinho producer, ith 15 hectares, mostly planted in the mid-19 s. The vineyards are set in the sunny hills around Melga o in northern Portugal, the sub-region of Monçao e Melgaço. Primeiras Vinhas comes from the oldest alvarinho vines. o to 2 2 . 13%

Great Southern This is our first shipment of Plantagenet chardonnay from Western Australia and it’s a

inner, elegant, lemony, fresh and beautifully crafted. o to 2 16. 13.5% Only available as part of mixed case F-MX13253.

xxMA WO ER

Fine wine at £20 and under, including a bumper crop of chardonnayThese popular pages are often inhabited (though not for long ) by brilliant, if lesser- no n corners of the ine orld, and varieties members may not have immediately thought of trying. hardonnay is on a roll as e discovered earlier this year in our Wine hampions blind tastings, and e ma e no apologies for listing all our current options to compare and contrast. The reds stri e a balance bet een classic and cutting-edge and old and ne orlds. Fans of ordeaux blends and Rh ne Rangers ill not go short either. The t o mixed cases ill ma e intriguing drin ing. Janet Wynne Evans

32 To order thewinesociety.com/ newines 01438 740222 smartphone app

REDF-FC24851 bottle dozen

From one of the top estates in the oteaux d’Aix, this is a deeply coloured, ripe-tasting blend of cabernet sauvignon and syrah. Perfect ith roasts or good heddar.

o to 2 1 . 13.5%

F-SP8071 bottle dozen

isters ristina and Mar Am zola ma e superb traditional-style crianza sil y, leathery and smooth. o to 2 16. 14%

F-NZ6931 Hawkes Bay bottle dozen

Fragant and cedary cabernet-merlot from this historic inery in Ha es ay on e ealand’s orth Island. This is supple and very stylish. o to 2 15. 13.5%


umptuous, grenache-led southern French red, rich, full-bodied and no nicely mature too. 2 6 produced ell-balanced ines and there is something urgundian about this one. est decanted before serving. o to 2 18. 14%

F-CS8371 Côtes de Francs bottle dozen

The leading estate of its district on the high point of the commune bought in 1946 by eorges Thienpont, hose family also o ns Vieux ertan. Typical blac currant fruit

no developing greater complexity, ith subtle tannins and freshness. o to 2 18. 13.5%


Oronzo Al has been ma ing ines from aglianico in asilicata for many years. This is his finest cuv e, made from fruit from 35-year-old vines ith lo yields. Ripe and rich

ith depth of character and the ability to age. o to 2 21. 14%

F-CM12251 Listrac-Médoc bottle dozen

Full-bodied, fruity claret, ith good balance and freshness, from a fine property hich has since become part of the orie family stable. o hurry. o to 2 1 . 14%


Pascale Marcillaud is an exciting vigneronne or ing several small plots of stony vineyard on a ind-s ept plateau above the pretty village of Montpeyroux in the anguedoc. a Jasse is a syrah-dominated cuv e that is dar , potent and spicy and ith a lovely

scent of olive and blac berry. o to 2 19. 14%


The altitude of Monteraponi and the forest surrounding the vines are a defence in hot vintages li e 2 11 and eep acidity and freshness in the ines. The soil, rich in limestone, also brings out finesse in sangiovese. With an explosion of fruit on the nose, this is a generous and immediately appealing ine. o to 2 19. 14%

F-AR2741 bottle dozen

usana albo’s onderful cabernet sauvignon-based blend from Mendoza has a fine cedary nose and palate combining concentration ith great length of flavour. An impressive blend of 6 % cabernet sauvignon, 15% malbec, 1 % merlot, 1 % cabernet franc and 5% petit verdot aged in ne French oa for 14 months. o to 2 2 . 14.5%

F-AU15751 bottle dozen Barossa

Hensch e is at the pinnacle of Australia’s family-run ineries. This southern Rh ne-inspired red is beautifully crafted and best decanted to unleash its bold, spicy blac -fruit flavour. o to 2 16. 14.5%


igar-box complexity, full-flavoured, spicy and ith the texture of rich velvet, this a uite outstanding red from the outh West that ould compare favourably ith some

of the best from ordeaux. o to 2 16. 13%

MA WO ER


MA WO ER £89 HAR O AY A E

Drink this year and next

A six-bottle case containing one bottle of each the following:

Castello della Sala

Great Southern

Marlborough

Santa Maria Valley

ref F-MX13253

MA WO ER £85 RE A E

Drink now to 2015


Hawkes Bay

Listrac-Médoc

Barossa

ref F-MX13255

THE WEET POT

A small but thoughtful selection of dessert ines to do the honours ith the full complement of seasonal s eets, from the lightest fruit salad to the most dense chocolate pudding. When it comes to certain ethereal bottles, though, less is more hen it comes to dessert. othing should detract, for example, from the glory of a Vouvray ith over half a century under its belt, hile Marcel Orford-Williams suggests that the Wehlener should be revered ithout solids, preferably in a conservatory Janet Wynne Evans

F-AA1242 half bottle dozen

elightful, light, grapefruity, s eet but fresh Austrian blend of around 9 % chardonnay and 1 % scheurebe, ith aromas of flo ers and mandarin orange. A delightful partner for aromatic, fruit-based desserts such as a tropical fruit salad or apple str del. This year and next. 11.5% Low stock.

F-BW4242 Sauternes half bottle dozen

uiraud as reinvigorated in 2 by ne o nership, hen Olivier ernard of omaine de hevalier and tephan de eipperg of anon la affeli re bought out

the arby family and oined avier Plantey. A touch of mandarin to the fruit, and only lightly honeyed in this fresh vintage. A glazed apple or pear tart sounds about right.

o to 2 25. 13.5%


F-BW3281 Sauternes bottle dozen

This tiny property made only 1,5 cases of fabulous rich, honeyed and seductive auternes in 2 . The onderful richness is balanced by tensile fruit acidity and a

full-throttle tarte au citron seems indicated. o to 2 2 . 14%


ottled in March 2 8, this is a remar able s eet Roussillon vin doux naturel. A deep mahogany colour, and concentrated, s eet and extremely long on the finish and a

onderful foil for dar chocolate puddings or ba ed figs. o to 2 15. 18%

F-GE7121 (JJ Prüm) bottle dozen

Exceptional and beautiful Mosel made from the cream of Pr m’s Auslese crop. i uourous, intense, onderfully fragrant yet ith invigorating freshness. This ill

age and develop over 3 years in the most intriguing ay. ensational ust as it is. o to 2 4 . .5%


This is only the fourth vintage of this ine in chlumberger’s history and has been

reserved exclusively for The Wine ociety. ublime, s eet yet fresh at the same time, ith the essence of passion fruit on the palate. A local partner ould be a slice of

festive ugelhopf, a yeasty, golden bread stuffed ith currants and raisins. r me br l e or s too. o to 2 32. 11.5%


A fabulous, rare nectar from the sud-ouest to uncor ith the most outrageous bread and butter pudding you can muster. o to 2 19. 14%

F-LO9342 half bottle An ex uisite rarity made by aston Huet himself, shipped direct from the family’s

reserves. rilliant yello gold, an elegant ine of great finesse from a great vintage. It could last decades yet, but hy ait to sip it reverentially 11.5%

I THE PIRIT OF HRI TMA

Sherry, Port, Madeira and SpiritsThis is traditionally the page ith the armest glo , and rarely as there a more glamorous set of options for personal fortification t o of our most sought-after sherries, a life-begins-at-forty Madeira and and an Exhibition his y, including a gift box guaranteed to arm the coc les of a true aficionado of the spirit of cotland. Mark Buckenham

F-SH671 bottle dozen

Pale bronze in colour, intense and nutty on the nose and dry and elegant on the palate, this 12-year-old-ish sherry is a stylish hristmas aperitif, but it also ma es an excellent partner for assertive hard cheeses li e mature heddar, Manchego or Parmesan. Any haze or tartrate crystals it may thro are harmless, and an indication of the minimal handling it undergoes. 2 %

F-SH682 half bottle dozen

This remar able sherry has seduced everybody ho has sampled its gorgeous, mello dried-fruit richness. It’s had some 3 years to gather momentum, and hile it copes very ell ith blue cheeses and s eet tarts, a fresh, clean finish gives the overall effect of medium rather than full-throttle s eetness. As versatile as the name suggests, it’s a revelation. 2 .5%

THE WEET POT


F-GN141 bottle dozen

Hints of elderflo er, ginger and spices lift this smooth, rich, handcrafted gin, distilled and bottled by ion Ed ards and Tom Warner in the village of Harrington,

orthamptonshire. aturally, the blend of spices and botanicals is a secret, but the bottle is than fully open to all once the stopper is pulled. 44% cl

F-WY701 bottle dozen

Islay malts are some of the strongest flavoured of all malts, pungent, eighty and heavily peated. This bottling sho s typical rich, characterful flavour and the characteristic iodine and medicinal flavours on the finish. 46% cl

F-PT1731 bottle dozen

e to the hristmas ist, this 3 -year old proved itself orthy of the Exhibition label ith a comforting all of ripe, s eet and plummy fruit. Perfectly delicious no and to

2 18. tand for 24 hours to let any sediment settle. and decant before serving. 2 %

F-PT1261 bottle dozen

A typically firm Taylor’s supple stylish and delicious no . Hints of spice and pepper give extra nuances to a muscular ine. rin no to 2 15. 2 .5%

F-MA341 bottle

This 4 -something Madeira has an aroma of dried fruits and raisins, tangy acidity and a complex dry finish. Once opened it can be refrigerated and ill eep for months, though all too conveniently on hand for spontaneous midnight feasts of alnuts, dates and the odd sliver of cheese or cured ham, or even a midmorning mince pie or t o on hristmas ay. o to 2 2 . 19.5% One bottle only per member.

THE E ROMA H U URY OT H WHI KY IFT O £39

En oy an armchair tour of the smallest of the peyside distilleries. Originally founded in 1898, enromach rose from the dead several times until 1998 hen it as purchased by the family firm of

ordon McPhail. Just t o fanatically precise and uality-driven distillers turn out its various nectars, using local spring

ater and good cottish peat-dried barley. Benromach Organic Single Malt (43%) is the smoothest of cotches tinged ith hints of vanilla and smo e. Benromach 10-Year-Old (43%) is matured firstly in bourbon and sherry barrels and then oloroso cas s for a richer, fruitier character. At 46%, Bernromach Peat Smoke Single Malt is the strongest and smo iest of all three, but onderfully elegant and fresh.

The Benromach Box contains a 20cl bottle of each, packed in a smart black presentation tin, with distillery notes on each.

ref F-XC1210

See page 11 for two other special Christmas Gift selections

FNO

V13

SERVICESMembers’ Reserves: optimum wine storage This purpose-built, temperature-controlled facility offers members access to ideal storage conditions at one of the UK’s most competitive rates.

● Optimum storage at a steady average temperature of 13 ith appropriate humidity of 65%

● Annual rental charge (currently £7.92 per dozen if paid by direct debit, £9.12 per dozen if not) includes VAT and insurance at replacement value

● Mix your o n case for storage, or store pre-mixed cases

● Remove a fe bottles of a full case stored in Reserves and leave the remainder to mature further

● Vie your stored ines online ith updated drin dates

● When you are ready to receive your ines, UK delivery is free of charge

thewinesociety.com/membersreserves

Vintage Cellar Plan – the simple and affordable way to create a cellar of fine wine

hoose from a range of plans and then let The ociety’s buyers do the rest, using their expertise to see out exceptional parcels of ine for your future en oyment. thewinesociety.com/vintagecellarplan

Fine Wine Advisers – here to helpPlease contact the Fine Wine Advisers for help ith ine selection, food matching and any other ine-related sub ect. Visit thewinesociety.com/advice or call 01438 741177 to find out more.

The Society’s Fine Wine ListPlease note that many of these ines are available only in limited uantities and ill be sold on a first-come first-served basis. Prices are correct at the time of publication, but The ociety reserves the right to amend them at any time during the life of this ist.

For details on ordering from The ociety see page 151 of the main ist.

Please note:

● Members ishing to store mixed cases in our Reserves facility are advised to ta e note of the drin ing indo s highlighted in the ine note of the ines included in it.

● Our tevenage ho room doesn’t hold stoc s of all the fine ines listed, so pre-ordering is recommended

KEYee page 159 of the main ist for full

descriptions

White Wines: bone dry, eg. Muscadet

a little fuller than bone dry or ith lo er acidity

dry but rich or lighter and s eeter

medium dry, usually demi-secs

medium s eet, the driest of the pudding-style ines

- dessert grade s eetness eg. auternes

Alcohol levelsAlcohol percentage by volume is indicated for each ine or spirit. Occasionally there ill be slight variations from the published figure. Alcohol levels are only a guide to a

ine’s fullness other factors such as tannin and extract in red ines also contribute to overall impression of eight and the note on the ine should ma e this clear. Units of alcohol are increasingly printed on ine labels. A UK unit of alcohol is simply measured by multiplying alcohol by volume. Thus a standard 13% 75cl bottle of ine ill contain 9.7 units of alcohol.

14.5 10.9

14 10.5

13.5 10.1

13 9.75

12 9.0

11 8.25

10 7.5

9 6.75

volume %Units per

standard bottle

The UK government recommends that men do not regularly exceed 3-4 units a day, and that women do not regularly exceed 2-3 units a day. It also recommends that pregnant women do not drink alcohol.

The Wine ociety is a mutual organisation, so our members’ satisfaction is paramount. If, for any reason, you haven’t en oyed a ine e ant to hear about it and ill happily offer a credit, a replacement or a refund. thewinesociety.com/promise

This offer is open until Sunday 9th February 2014 while stocks last. To order thewinesociety.com/ newines 01438 740222 smartphone app

The International Exhibition Co-operative Wine Society Limited. Registered Office: Gunnels Wood Road, Stevenage, Hertfordshire, SG1 2BT Register Number: 1824R (IP)Website thewinesociety.comEnquiries 01438 741177Orders 01438 740222

thewinesociety.com/ﬁnewines · ,igh on the '|te this is fresh, fine-flavoured puligny [ith...

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