On the road with Nigel

  

Had a good afternoon last Thursday with Keir Meikle proprietor of the excellent Navy Inn in Penzance tasting our way though a raft of new wine ideas for 2011. Lots of the samples came from our friends at Stratfords. Three Chardonnays from Columbia Crest, Washington State – Two Vines, Grand Estate and Horse Heaven Hills showed varying levels of complexity with the latter two showing judicious use of oak. I liked them all but HHH had the best balance. Well made oaked Chardonnay is a delight to go back to when you get a bit bored with the plethora of rediscovered grape varieties that it is our wont to get behind.

Toso Malbec Rosé was a bit of handful – everybody loved it. Tried it again today, still good but Henry hated it. Rosedale Barossa Shiraz 2008 was popular however I found it a bit too much of a fruit bomb for yours truly. Dined at Samphire, Falmouth on Friday



Samphire Restaurant