2026 Past Tastings

February 10th 2026
AGM
‘Would I lie to you’ tasting and quiz

The AGM took place this evening followed by a wine quiz ‘Would I Lie to You’.
For every wine there were three choices – whether you thought it was wine A, wine B or wine C. These were the wines we tasted:
Wine 1
Made according to the Methode Traditionnelle, this Rose Cremant de Loire is aged in limestone caves to preserve its finesse. The blend of Cabernet Franc and Grolleau grapes produce delicate aromas of strawberries, cherries and citrus fruits, while the palate is lively and pleasantly fruity. Perfect as an aperitif or in combination with light dishes and fruit desserts.
Wine 2
This Macon Villages wine is full of fresh, citrus aromas and flavours with hints of green apple, this is an unoaked, crisp and elegant wine made from the Chardonnay grape. The grapes for this wine have been selected from some of the best vineyards of the Mâconnais region of southern Burgundy where the warmer climate and limestone rich soils produce exceptional wines. An easy-drinking wine that is delicious with creamy pasta and chicken.
Wine 3
Martín Códax Albariño 2024 is a Galician gem that dazzles with its straw-yellow hue and lemon highlights. On the nose, it envelops you with a bouquet of flowers such as mimosa and jasmine, alongside vibrant notes of orange and grapefruit that perfectly complement the freshness of apple. On the palate, its enveloping texture and balanced acidity stand out. The persistence of its flavour, where white-fleshed and citrus fruits predominate, invites you to savour every sip.
Wine 4
Journey’s End has one of the best views in the Cape, overlooking the magnificent False Bay. Low yielding Cabernet Sauvignon grapes were hand picked, with fruit cold soaked for 72 hours prior to fermentation in open fermenters. With 18 months barrel ageing, this richly curvaceous wine is packed with dark plum, chocolate and sweet spice flavours, enjoy with a rich steak pie.
Wine 5
Montecillo Reserva 2020 Rioja boasts an alluring bright ruby-red hue and a luscious texture. On the nose, it is distinguished by its intense aromas of ripe red fruits, such as cherries and strawberries, complemented by aromatic herbs. Its elegant bouquet from the 95% tempranillo/5% mazuelo grapes blend spicy notes and vanilla, with an undertone of cherries in liqueur. On the palate, it offers a powerful and refined entry, with velvety tannins and a solid structure. Try with charcuterie or strong cheese.
Wine 6
Over 130 years ago, the 1st generation of the Silva family pioneered Colchagua Valley, the region today producing Chile’s finest premium wines. This Carmenere is from the Los Lingues Estate tucked away in the Northeastern corner of Colchagua Valley in the foothills of the Andes mountains. This wine, of superlative colour, has great concentration of silky elegant tannins, hints of chocolate and a very long finish. Enjoy with a good barbecued steak.

January 13th 2026
Malcolm Brigg
Sauvignon Blanc & Syrah/Shiraz
Malcolm Brigg, one of our own members and an oenophile to boot, led an immersive tasting of premium Sauvignon Blanc & Syrah/Shiraz wines:
 SAUVIGNON BLANC 
Olivier Dubois Touraine, Loire, France 2024 – Majestic
Pringle Bay, Western Cape, South Africa, 2024 – Majestic
L’Epiphanie De Constantinia, False Bay, South Africa – Laithwaites
Roger Neveu Sancerre, Verdigny, Loire, France 2024 – Majestic
SHIRAZ/SYRAH
McLaren Vale, Australia, Shiraz 2023 – Laithwaites
Bannockburn Geelong Shiraz, Australia 2022 – Wine Society
TH Layda, Syrah, Chile – Wine Society
Cornas Patou, Rhone, France 2021 – Wine Society