On the evening of Wednesday 7th February, we all gathered at Code 34 for a wine tasting event. This was a new addition to our social calendar and it was a huge hit, with tickets selling out quickly!
We were lucky to have Weavers of Nottingham providing us with a fantastic selection of wines. If you enjoyed any of them, you can purchase them directly from Weavers - just visit their website.
The event was generously sponsored by RBC Brewin Dolphin, and we were delighted to have Alan Rodgers and Byron Burghart in attendance.
The atmosphere at Code 34 was perfect for the occasion, and we had a lovely spread of cured meats and cheeses to complement the wines we were tasting.
Philip Trease, the wine expert from Weaver's, kicked off the tasting with a refreshing glass of La Grande Marque Saumur from the French Loire Valley. This wine is a delightful blend of Chenin Blanc, Cabernet Franc, and Chardonnay.
We then had the opportunity to sample two more whites, some reds, a rosé, and finally, a dessert brandy-based aperitif wine called Pineau des Charentes Blanc.
If you're interested in the full list of wines we tasted and some detailed notes, please see below:
Reception Drink
La Grande Marque Saumur, Loire, France
This sparkling wine is fresh and lively on the palate with the floral bouquet typical of Chenin Blanc. Well-balanced and light with an elegant aftertaste.
White Wines
La Chipie, Touraine-Chenonceaux 2020, France - paired with Goats Cheese
A vibrant Sauvignon Blanc from the Loire valley's Touraine region. Complex with aromas of white flowers, citrus and ripe fruits.
Goldschild Riesling, Trocken, Mosel, 2022, Germany - paired with Brie
Crisp and fresh with remarkable elegance. Lime and peach on the nose and palate with a crisp Granny Smith apple finish. A delightful match with river fish such as trout.
Rosé Wines
Chemin des Pelerins Rose, Saint-Mont France, 2022, France - paired with Camerbert
A delicious fruity rosé made from the local grapes of Saint-Mont. Attractive aromas of soft cherry fruits reveal a palate of summer fruits with a delicious moreish finish. A very well made and though through wine.
Red Wines
Dancing Flame Gran Reserva Pinot Noire, 2022, Chile - paired with Aged Red Leicester
Supple red fruits on the palate are supported by smokey notes and a crispness on the finish.
Los Poetas Libertad, Uco Mendoza, 202, Argentina - paired with Gouda
An expertly blended red wien from Karim Mussi, made using traditional Bordeaux varieties this is fruity, full-bodied and rich.
Dessert Wine
Pineau des Charentes Blanc, Chateau d'Orignac, France - paired with Stilton
This sweet, brandy-based aperitif is best served chilled but will also accompany a range of desserts and cheeses.
We are planning to organise another Wine Tasting event in the late Autumn season, just in time for Christmas wine orders. Keep an eye on the events page for updates because tickets are limited and they will sell out quickly!
Below are some pictures of the attendees. We want to express our gratitude to everyone who supported the event and extend a special thank you to Code 34 for their outstanding hospitality. Philip and the Weaver's team provided us with a great deal of wine knowledge!
Philip Trease pours the welcome drink, La Grande Marque Saumur from the Loire Valley.
Excellent pairings of cheese and cured meats from Code 34 to accompany the wide range of wines.
Head of Operations Michelle Foster with Alan Rodgers from RBC Brewin Dolphin, the evening's sponsors.
RBC Brewin Dolphin, Byron Burghurt, sponsor representative with Resolution Council Member Drew Dennis.
Head of Operations Michelle Foster with Weaver's Wine Expert, Philip Trease and President, Stephen Luke.