2019 Stephen Vincent, Chardonnay
Regular price £19.80 Save £-19.80ABOUT THE WINE
Stephen Vincent and his two business partners have combined decades of experience with working for household names such as Robert Mondavi, Louis Roederer & La Crema to create their own affordable but premium tasting wines. Stephen Vincent sources their fruit from some of the coolest pockets of the North Coast, which helps keep the alcohols in their wines low and maintain the refreshing acidity, but always delivering quality, reflecting the delicious qualities the Californian sun provides. Friarwood is proud to be the exclusive importer of these affordable gems from California.
TASTING NOTES
Fermented as whole-clusters and 100% barrel-fermented and aged in mostly neutral barrels for 15 months. Superb attention to quality and labour-intensive process to ensure freshness in wine while still preserving the rich complexity which makes California Chardonnay so irresistible. The fragrant freshness of green apples, and green citrus sing at first impression, after which the sour, ripe mango comes across with toast, sweet corn and yoghurt notes. A touch of subtle vanilla and slivered, toasted coconut accompanies the peach and the mango on the palate with bright acidity, but wraps up with a pleasant toasty finish.
FOOD PAIRING
Chicken and prawn tacos, paella and spaghetti primavera.
FRIARWOOD SAYS
Stephen Vincent offers some of the best quality-to-price ratio for any American wine which could be found in the UK.
2021 Nittnaus, Gruner Veltliner Selection
Regular price £19.70 Save £-19.702018 Domaine des Masques, Blanc 'Essentielle'
Regular price £19.60 Save £-19.60ABOUT THE WINE
An olive-grove since the time of the ancient Gauls, the plateau near Aix-en-Provence upon which Le Domaine des Masques rests was settled by the Knights Templar of the Order of Provence in the Middle Ages. Vines were first planted in 1992, and in 2003 the estate was bought by Carl and Sophie Mestdagh. The vineyards are tended according to organic principles, although the estate has not sought certification. With duties in the cellar overseen by the famous Rhône winemaker, Yves Cuilleron, the estate is in excellent hands, and producing exceptional wines.
TASTING NOTES
Harvested a little earlier than the Exception, to preserve the fresh fruit-character of the wine. Vinification is in sealed vats to limit exposure to oxygen. Delicate citrus, peach, apple and pear aromas; fresh yet full-bodied on the palate.
FOOD PAIRING
An excellent aperitif, also perfect with grilled fish. A lovely wine with a cold lunch-spread.
FRIARWOOD SAYS
The reductive (oxygen-free) winemaking allows for the bare minimum of sulphur to be used in this wine.
2016 Chateau Rieussec, Les Carmes de Rieussec
Regular price £19.20 Save £-19.20ABOUT THE WINE
Château Rieussec was acquired by Domaines Barons de Rothschild (Lafite) in 1984. Traditional Sauternes techniques are used and the harvests are carried out with selective pickings depending on the ripeness of the grapes and the evolution of botrytis cinerea (noble rot). Les Carmes de Rieussec, the Second wine from Château Rieussec, is produced from young vines of the estate.
TASTING NOTES
The wine gives off candied apricot, citrusy and white peach aromas enhanced by a light honey hint on the nose finish. The wine offers an unctuous, quite ample and balanced palate, which finishes on a vibrant note.
FOOD PAIRING
Consider cheesecake of all kinds (no chocolate), almond tart, lemon tart, and custards. Also great with savoury dishes such as Roquefort or Livarot cheese and foie gras or terrine with caramelized onions. Herb-roasted poultry or spicy Asian are a good bet too.
FRIARWOOD SAYS
This is an example of how great Sauternes can be super versatile when it comes to pairings.
2022 Domaine Philippe Charmond Macon-Village
Regular price £19.10 Save £-19.10ABOUT THE WINE
Winemaking has been a tradition in the Charmond family for three generations, starting in 1950 with only a few acres. Today, Philippe Charmond owns and cultivates 8ha in the villages of Vergisson, Davayé and Prissé. This terroir of the region is ideal for grape growing, with vines situated on southeast-facing slopes to catch the sun.
TASTING NOTES
A bright and refreshing white wine with a flavoursome profile that showcases the best of this iconic Mâcon terroir. On the palate, it delivers excellent poise and balance, with lively acidity and a long, rounded finish that lingers on. Unlike some other white wines from the region, this vintage exhibits no noticeable oak character, allowing the pure fruit flavours and minerality to shine through. The nose reveals enticing aromas of citrus fruits, green apples, and subtle floral notes, which translate beautifully onto the palate. Balanced by a creamy texture and a slight nuttiness, creating a harmonious and complex profile that's delighting.
FOOD PAIRING
A versatile choice for any meal, it's particularly well-suited to seafood dishes, such as grilled prawns, seared scallops, or poached salmon. resh goat cheese, bruschetta, or raw vegetables with a yoghurt dip.
FRIARWOOD SAYS
Great value from the southern part of Burgundy.
2023 Tenuta San Giacomo, Gavi DOCG
Regular price £18.10 Save £-18.10ABOUT THE WINE
Run by the Bergaglio family, Tenuta San Giacomo lies close to the centre of Gavi, on the hills of the Ligurian Pre-Apennines. The estate owns 20 hectares of vineyards, cultivated according to the passion and the tradition of the Bergaglio family who has played a significant role in the birth and growth of Gavi di Gavi for three generations. The family firmly believes in the principle that great wines come from the vines first of all; therefore they devote themselves entirely to the most careful cultivation of vines, strictly respecting the territory and the environment,
TASTING NOTES
Obtained from 100% Cortese grapes, its colour is pale straw yellow with green hues. It has a floral fragrance, with hints of acacia and a round, dry flavour, with good balance and acidity.
FOOD PAIRING
Perfect as an aperitif or with fish dishes.
2023 Saxenburg, Guinea Fowl Chenin Blanc
Regular price £18.10 Save £-18.10Found in great numbers in the region, the guinea fowls that adorn the Saxenburg emblem have become symbolic of their winemaking philosophy, and it’s now the heart, the mind and the soul of Saxenburg.
2020 Solar das Boucas, Loureiro Vinho Verde
Regular price £17.90 Save £-17.90ABOUT THE WINE
The first references to the estate date back to the beginning of the 17th century – although the Manor House was practically in ruins just over 50 years ago when the property was bought by Albano Castro Sousa. He transformed it into one of the most respected producers of Vinho Verde and the Solar das Bouças brand quickly became synonymous with quality. In recent years the estate has been under the stewardship of Quinta do Noval and one family member – Fernando Van Zeller – undertook a new phase of restoration which encompassed both the Manor and estate houses as well as the planting of new vines (including new varietals). Today Solar das Bouças belongs to an investment company led by António Ressurreiçáo and this ‘purchase of passion’ has seen them continue to develop the potential of the estate. Produced and bottled on the estate the Vinho Verde Solar das Bouças uses - exclusively - grapes grown on the property.
TASTING NOTES
The embodiment of a summer wine this light, fresh and fruity style has aromas of lemon peel with floral green fruit - apple blossom - notes and a delightfully playful little sparkle. In the mouth you have fresh white fruit (nectarines & peaches), green apples and pears plus citrus of all kinds; hints of cut grass and a gently spicy minerality. A lovely balanced wine with good structure and a pleasant finish.
2019 Castra Rubra Dominant White
Regular price £17.85 Save £-17.852021 Bodegas Torrederos, Verdejo
Regular price £17.50 Save £-17.50ABOUT THE WINE
Situated in Ribera del Duero - home to one of Spain’s most sought after and applauded wines. Founded in 1999 by Serafin and Jose Mari - Torrederos Winery owns more than 100 hectares of Tempranillo planted vineyards. Vines are situated in a maximum radius of 5 km from the winery, facilitating continual production quality control. You can expect excellent value for these true expressions of Spain's most iconic grape.
TASTE NOTES
Highly aromatic nose dominated by aromas of white fruit, citrus and a touch of fennel. Crisp yet full palate followed by great acidity on a long, crunchy finish.
FOOD PAIRING
Delicious with fish tacos or grilled octopus. Can also stand against aromatic spices like dill and coriander.
2021 Marques de Arviza, Verdejo 'La Mision'
Regular price £17.50 Save £-17.502021 Bodega Monteviejo, Torrontes Festivo
Regular price £16.60 Save £-16.60ABOUT THE WINE
In 2001, a famously perfectionist Bordeaux chateau-owner, the late Catherine Péré Vergé, embarked upon a new venture in Mendoza, Argentina, and founded Bodegas Monteviejo. With the assistance of Michel Rolland as a consultant and Marcelo Pelleriti as winemaker, the attention to detail shown at her most famous estates of La Gay and La Violette in Pomerol was transplanted to the new world. The estate boasts over 100 hectares of vineyards in Mendoza, planted at high density to control yields, producing exceptional quality and intensity wines.
TASTING NOTES
Captivatingly fragrant bouquets, enriched by an intricate medley of zesty citrus nuances. The palate delights in a crisp and refreshing essence, boasting luscious pear and apricot, sun-kissed peaches, and a whisper of honey, all intertwined with a signature ginger undertone unique to the variety. Fermentation in stainless steel safeguards the varietal essence while limiting oxygen exposure, yielding a luminous and harmonious wine.
FOOD PAIRING
Allow the enchanting notes of Torrontes to elevate your experience with delectable shrimp ceviche, an exotic Moroccan tagine, or artisanal herbed goat cheese to achieve a genuinely transcendent pairing.
FRIARWOOD SAYS
Torrontès is a distinctly Argentine grape variety, related to Muscat, but genetically distinct. The grape benefits enormously from the extreme altitude of most Argentine vineyards, which provide warm, dry daytime conditions, and cold, crisp nights which heighten the naturally low acidity of the variety, and create the balanced palate which makes this wine so charming to drink.
2019 Kelman, Encruzado Branco
Regular price £16.40 Save £-16.402022 Domaine Saint Peyre, Picpoul de Pinet
Regular price £16.10 Save £-16.102021 Tres Palacios, Gran Reserve Sauvignon Blanc
Regular price £16.00 Save £-16.00ABOUT THE WINE
The 'Tres Palacios' winery is a family business, founded in 1996 by Don Patricio Palacios and his wife, Maria Inés Covarrubias. With patience—and much passion—they began their search for an area that had never before been used for winemaking.
2021 Tres Palacios, Gran Reserve Chardonnay
Regular price £16.00 Save £-16.00ABOUT THE WINE
The 'Tres Palacios' winery is a family business, founded in 1996 by Don Patricio Palacios and his wife, Maria Inés Covarrubias. With patience—and much passion—they began their search for an area that had never before been used for winemaking.
They settled on the Cholqui sector of the Maipo Valley, 16 km (10 miles) from the city of Melipilla. The unique location of the vineyard protects them from extremes of heat and allows the grapes to ripen slowly and completely. In a setting reminiscent of the crater of a volcano, this terroir is unlike any other in Chile’s Central Valley.
TASTING NOTES
Crystalline gold in colour, this wine is fresh with aromas of tropical fruits such as ripe pineapple, mango and banana. This freshness and fruitiness continues on the palate, with a minerality that provide balance.
FOOD PAIRING
Excellent as an aperitif, or served with salads, lean fish, fresh cheese and white meats.
2022 Alagna, Grillo Griari
Regular price £16.00 Save £-16.002021 Chateau Vignol, White
Regular price £15.70 Save £-15.702021 Spinsanti, Altero's Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi Classico
Regular price £15.50 Save £-15.50ABOUT THE WINE
Located on the slopes of Monte Conero in Le Marche, the vineyards of Tenimenti Spinsanti were founded in 1973. They have dedicated their production to native varieties of the region.
TASTING NOTES
A wine with strong fresh, mineral aspects of wet stones along with zingy green citrus and apple notes. What sets it apart from its counterparts is its distinct fragrant florality. Particularly white and yellow flowers. An elegant but refreshing Italian white, which flies under the radar of more famous Italian names, hence providing excellent value.
FOOD PAIRING
Buffalo mozzarella, Prosciutto di San Daniele, Cacio e Pepe pasta and white pizzas with basil.
2021 Vega Caledonia, Rioja Joven White
Regular price £15.50 Save £-15.50ABOUT THE WINE
Part of the ambitious Bodegas Najerilla, established in 1975, located in High Rioja in Bajo Najerilla Valley. With some vineyards over 50 years old, the winery produce grapes of excellent quality thanks to their strict selection and consistent quality control techniques. Thanks to three generations of committed winemakers, Vega Caledonia wines are highly recognized in Spain for honouring their historic region and their authentic flavour profiles.
TASTE NOTES
Classic white Rioja! Lean, citrusy aromas with a touch of honeydew. Palate is fresh, bursting with acidity and notes of peaches and apples. The finish is persistent and crisp.
2023 Reguta, Ribolla Gialla
Regular price £15.30 Save £-15.30ABOUT THE WINE
Founded in 1928, Reguta Winery is located not far from the Roman town of Aquileia and from Palmanova, a historic fortress city founded in the 16th century by the Venetians, in the municipality of Pocenia. The company today boasts 250 hectares of vineyards, which are located near the sea, ventilated by sea breezes and with mainly clay soil rich in mineral salts. They grow a variety of native grapes making excellent Friuli DOC wines.
TASTING NOTES
Straw yellow in the glass, the nose is delicate and well expressed with tinges of wild flowers, herbs and grapefruit. In the mouth the wine is extremely drinkable, slightly sour, fresh and with elegant mouth feel.
FOOD PAIRING
Cold appetizers with sour or sweet sauces, soups, above all creme soups, vegetables main courses and fish dishes.
FOOD PAIRING
Lesser known than it's close neighbour Pinot Grigio, the ancient grape variety Ribolla Gialla makes exceptional fresh and vibrant white wines.
Solar das Boucas, Escolha Vinho Verde Release 2021
Regular price £14.60 Save £-14.60ABOUT THE WINE
The first references to the estate date back to the beginning of the 17th century – although the Manor House was practically in ruins just over 50 years ago when the property was bought by Albano Castro Sousa. He transformed it into one of the most respected producers of Vinho Verde and the Solar das Bouças brand quickly became synonymous with quality. In recent years the estate has been under the stewardship of Quinta do Noval and one family member – Fernando Van Zeller – undertook a new phase of restoration which encompassed both the Manor and estate houses as well as the planting of new vines (including new varietals). Today Solar das Bouças belongs to an investment company led by António Ressurreiçáo and this ‘purchase of passion’ has seen them continue to develop the potential of the estate. Produced and bottled on the estate the Vinho Verde Solar das Bouças uses - exclusively - grapes grown on the property.
TASTING NOTES
This classic ‘green’ wine with citrus and straw aromas has at once a lively vibrancy whilst remaining soft, fruity and floral. The fresh flavours and beautifully balanced acidity bring to mind lemons and limes; green apples and pears; fennel flowers and a touch of saline notes. This is a wine to savour!
2017 Les Vignes de Tracey, Pouilly Fume
Regular price £14.10 Save £-14.10ABOUT THE WINE
A brand produced by the co-operative Caves des Pouilly-sur-Loire, who receive and vinify the harvests of independent growers from throughout the region.
TASTING NOTES
Golden colour with a green reflection. Aromas of Citrus and gooseberry. Crisp, upfront, fine and mineral wine. It shows complexity in the mouth with a long lingering aftertaste and a slight acidity.
FOOD PAIRING
Ideal for the classic pairing, goats cheese; also excellent with crisp seafood dishes.
FRIARWOOD SAYS
Co-operative producers in both Pouilly-Fumé and Sancerre play an important role in maintaining the high standards of these appellations, setting the bar for quality and consistency.
Also available in 2022 75cl Bottle
2022 Jean Pierre et Alexandre Ellevin Chablis
Regular price £13.90 Save £-13.90