A new online retailer run by award-winning blogger Mike Turner is demystifying sustainable bottles, writes Peter Ranscombe. THERE’S always an awkward moment when a friend asks me to taste the wines that their business stocks. But, when it comes to the bottles that Mike Turner has chosen for Feel Good Grapes, I needn’t have worried… Continue Reading
Author Archives: Kenny Smith
Five of the best from Lidl’s latest wine tour
Head to Italy is Peter Ranscombe’s advice when it comes to the German supermarket’s latest summer special offer. IN THE big scheme of things, this definitely ranks as a #FirstWorldProblem – but the coronavirus lockdown has played havoc with wine writers’ routines. While many masterclasses with individual producers have shifted online, it’s much harder for… Continue Reading
Craft distilleries call for clarity on covid support
EIGHT of Scotland’s craft distillers have written to the Scottish Government seeking clarity on whether they qualify for support during the coronavirus pandemic. The group of spirit producers said that some of its members have been turned down by their local councils for the 12 month business rate holiday promised by Scottish ministers, while others… Continue Reading
Craft whisky distilleries call for clarity on covid support
EIGHT of Scotland’s craft distillers have written to the Scottish Government seeking clarity on whether they qualify for support during the coronavirus pandemic. The group of spirit producers said that some of its members have been turned down by their local councils for the 12 month business rate holiday promised by Scottish ministers, while others… Continue Reading
Down on the farm: Virgin Wines backs wellbeing charity
As Mental Health Awareness Week draws to a close, Peter Ranscombe toasts Virgin Wines’ ongoing partnership with care charity Growing Well by tasting some of the online retailer’s organic offerings. THIS year’s Mental Health Awareness Week took on extra significance during lockdown. Thousands of people will have become even more acutely aware of the state… Continue Reading
Lifting the vale: Searching for grenache outside McLaren Vale
Peter Ranscombe indulges his passion for grenache by looking beyond exciting examples in Australia, France, South Africa and Spain. GRENACHE has helped to put Australia’s McLaren Vale on the map – a grape often seen only in blends in Rioja and the Rhone has become the star of the show and elevated to cult status.… Continue Reading
Travelling La Route des Grands Crus with Chateau de Pommard
Online wine tastings are elevated to a whole new level with grand cru wines from Burgundy, says Peter Ranscombe. IT’S hard to think of an activity that hasn’t headed online during lockdown. From family quizzes and cocktails with friends through to work meetings and court hearings, there seems to be no part of everyday life… Continue Reading
Scotch on canvas: the art of whisky
John Robertson, founder of consultancy firm Messrs Whisky & Co, finds out why Argentine artist Gisela Garcia Gleria was inspired to put whisky on canvas and how she captures the subtle essences of the dram. THE subjects of fine art and Scotch whisky might not be obvious companions but, when the two come together, it… Continue Reading
Spanish experiments with sauvignon blanc
Creativity is at the heart of good winemaking – and self-confessed science geek Peter Ranscombe never turns down the chance to lift the lid and look at how blends are made. THERE must be something in the water at Ramón Bilbao. Last year, we explored how winemaker Paula Fandino at the Spanish drinks giant’s Mar… Continue Reading
Louis Latour looks beyond Burgundy for promising pinot
With the price of making wine in Burgundy continuing to rise, Peter Ranscombe finds out why one producer is turning to other regions. FEW names are as synonymous with Burgundy as Louis Latour – the wine producer traces its roots in the prestigious French region back to 1768, when Jean Latour planted vines at Aloxe, continuing… Continue Reading
