To those with real wine knowledge - let me level with you. You may want to pass on this review.
My knowledge of complex flavours is zilch, the only nose I have for the stuff is the 'I knows that I like' variety (boom boom), and even though one of my favourite films ever is 'Sideways', and I love the whole wine-poetry bit when the blond actress does that impressive booze soliloquy, it's just words to me. The true meaning floats away on a breeze scented neither with notes of raspberry nor chocolate.
So you might say I'm in no place to even review this place, which knows all about notes and noses and varietals. But even some of the nose-less among us do quaff back a fair amount of the stuff, so I think we qualify to talk about it too, if only among ourselves. Like-minded readers, read on.
So, the reasons I rate this place highly:
*It's lovely and big and you know just from the sheer variety of the stuff there that they are really passionate about wine.
*You know it too by the way they are so willing, nay delighted, to help you choose your vino, whatever your budget.
*They're well trained in disguising their horror at your lack of knowledge. Instead, they'll invite you to a tasting evening, as they are secretly intent on helping you develop your palate, just not pushy.
*The woman once complimented me on my choice, remarking on its 'surprisingly complex flavours for the price'. She talked to me as if I knew, and not as if I'd randomly picked it because I liked the label and it was pre-chilled. I got to nod sagely in agreement, feeling all important.
*The have yummy posh food too, and yes, it's ridiculously expensive but, hey, it's artisan. And you can't arrive at someone's house brandishing Lidl prosciutto or cheese, it's just wrong.
*They have crisps.
*And tons of other alcohol including fancy beers.
*It's an independent business.
*You can park your car just outside it.
So who's to say that it doesn't deserve five stars? Not me, but I'll leave that to those who not only love but actually understand 'Sideways' to decide.
In the meantime, I'll raise my glass to them. read more