Monday 26 September 2016

September 2016 meeting

At our September meeting in the Christ Church Centre we were joined by Max Conrad, who guided us through a most enjoyable wine-tasting session. Max's experience and knowledge contributed much of interest to the evening, providing us with the opportunity to sample a selection of wines which were not familiar to us. 

Of these, voted the most popular red was a 2012 French Burgundy from the Domaine Tollot-Beaut, Chorey-les-Beaune. Beating this into first place over all was Blanc de Noirs Champagne. Unusually, this champagne is made from black grapes. 

Other whites we tasted were a 2015 Winery of Good Hope Unoaked Chardonnay; and a 2014 French white Burgundy by Olivier Leflaive Oncle Vincent. Max also gave us three Pinot Noir wines to taste, one from Chapel Down, a Cono Sur from Chile and a Mud House from South Island, New Zealand. The fifteen members present thank Max for his much appreciated presentation.

On October, Tuesday 4th, we are meeting at the Station Pub to take part in their quiz. This is timed to start at 8.00, so we should meet there from 7.30pm.

August 2016 meeting

In August the Wine Club spent a lovely sunny Saturday in historic Faversham. Our coach made an early start from South Nutfield which meant we had ample time to enjoy our visit. First, we were able to browse among the interesting stalls of the Saturday market, after which we met up at the Shepherd Neame Visitor Centre to be taken on a tour of the brewery. 

We were shown the whole beer-making process and given some background to the history of this long-established company (brewing since 1698). And, of course, we were given tastings of some of their many brews. Beer-drinkers will be familiar with the names Spitfire and Bishop's Finger.

It was then time for lunch - an excellent buffet at The Vaults - followed by a visit to a remarkably well stocked farmshop in the outskirts of Faversham, with tea and cake on the menu.

We have to thank Maureen H. for organizing this splendid day out, we well as Janet B. and Derek F. for driving us. AndDebbie was busy with her camera.