COUPS DE COEUR

expected to produce half the amount of wine in 2021, with Chablis in the far north even harder hit. As these wines are only just being made, the current Cellar is based on previous vintages. 2019 and particularly 2020 Burgundies are great – so now is the time to stock up the cellar. In other parts of France, generally earlier ripening varieties like Sauvignon, Chardonnay and Merlot were most affected. The low volumes mean there will be price pressure and it is too early to say what wine quality will be, so if you are looking for nice everyday drinking wines, Australia should be a serious consideration.

As if harvest challenges weren’t enough, international shipments of wine are being hampered. Significant delays to shipping brought on by lock down constraints at ports, rescheduling of ships and container shortages are being experienced around the world with the cost of shipping increased dramatically. A general lack of truck drivers is also impacting road haulage. All in all, these are strange times with much uncertainty. At such a time, it is the small pleasures in life that make it worthwhile. I certainly appreciate having my sense of taste and smell more than ever! As well as a well-stocked cellar to dip into whatever the occasion.

THIS CELLAR'S HIGHEST SCORING WINES.

WINE MASSEY DACTA SAUVIGNON BLANC, MARLBOROUGH, 2021 , LOT 2930, P9

EVERYDAY DRINKING

WINE BRIAR RIDGE COLD SOAKED CABERNET SAUVIGNON, ORANGE, 2018, LOT 2974, P35 DOMAINE DÉSERTAUXFERRAND POMMARD, AOP, 2019, LOT 3000, P50

WINE DOMAINE DÉSERTAUXFERRAND CÔTE DE NUITS-VILLAGES, AOP, 2019, LOTS 3003-3004, P51

CELLARING POTENTIAL

WINE