Some weeks ago I invited a friend to join me at an arts preview and wine tasting event in South Kensington, London, organised by The SaVVy Club. When it comes to wine and champagne, I pride myself as having a good nose and an exceptional palate for fine wines.
So, I was somewhat surprised and intrigued to be greeted with a curious selection of “boutique” wines from small vintners in France and Spain. Fred Ku-Mesu imports an excellent selection from small unknown wine growers around Europe. Our Savvy Wine Club hosts Fred & Stuart Beitler started us off with an excellent quaffing champagne called Jean Pierre Marniquet Champagne, NV.
At a bottle price of £16.99, it was simply delicious: the perfect alternative to Pol Roger at half the price. The Spanish Rioja (Gavion Tinto, 2004) was rich, smooth and memorable. The Domaine d’en Segur Rose was exquisite, perfect on the palate with a delicious complexity that left one’s taste buds yearning for more. There was a generous selection of excellent wines and, although some didn’t suit my palate, it was a joy to try them all.
The final touch was a taste of Tokaji Aszueszencia 1972, quite the most delicious and perfect sweet wine that I have ever had the privilege to enjoy. It was palatably sweet (but not sickly), enticing and satisfying. Therefore, at £140 a bottle, it would be the ideal finale to a perfect evening. If that’s too rich for your pocket, then try the 1995 for just £39.99. Stuart talked us through all the wines, generously imparting his knowledge and answering any questions we cared to ask.
Just as the wine was beginning to take effect, some delicious eats were passed around that were most appreciated. I can thoroughly recommend an excellent evening to enjoy some unusual wines and the exclusive art preview that one would not otherwise have the opportunity to enjoy.
A great evening.
M Davis
The SaVVy Club’s members enjoy a unique calendar of bespoke social events organised just for them. They can enjoy the company of fascinating people and relax in the knowledge that everything is taken care of.
