Cult Insider

EDITION 020 | JUNE 2024

Characteristics of the Appellations and Historic Châteaux of Bordeaux

Written by - Cult Wines Team

Wine production in Bordeaux's revered French region is vast in size and scope. With over 125,000 hectares under vine and more than 7,300 châteaux producing well over 10,000 different wines, the area's offerings range from mass-produced supermarket wines to some of the world's finest, most exclusive, and highly sought-after wines.

Of Bordeaux's 60-odd appellations – known as Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée (AOC), which indicate the geographical origin, quality, and (generally) the style of wine – some are particularly well-known for their higher quality, investment-level wines. Here, we'll explore these distinct appellations, the regions in which they're located, and the key characteristics of the fine wines they produce.

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News in brief

English Sparkling vs. Champagne

High Clandon Estate in Surrey Hills is hosting a "Battle of Waterloo" taste-off, pitting English sparkling wine against French Champagne as part of English Wine Week. Co-owner Sybilla Tindale notes England's burgeoning wine industry, driven by over 1,000 vineyards, climate change, and winemaking training at Plumpton College. Despite acknowledging Champagne's historic prestige, Tindale believes English sparkling wine holds its own, winning numerous competitions. English Wine Week features various events celebrating the nation's growing wine production.

Ornellaia Charity Auction Raises £325,000

Ornellaia's charity auction of its 2021 vintage raised £325,000, benefiting the Solomon R. Guggenheim Foundation's arts education programmes. The prestigious Italian winery's annual "Vendemmia d'Artista" auction included specially crafted bottles and unique experiences, attracting global collectors and enthusiasts. The funds will support art and culture initiatives, underscoring Ornellaia's commitment to philanthropy.

Qvevri: The Choice Drink of Summer

An 8,000-year-old wine from Georgia, known as Qvevri, is gaining popularity this summer. Made using ancient techniques in large clay pots buried underground, this wine is celebrated for its unique taste and historical significance. Enthusiasts are drawn to its traditional methods and rich cultural heritage, making it a sought-after choice among modern wine lovers.

Martin Docherty, Senior Relationship Manager - Cult Wines - 2018 Domaine du Pélican Arbois Chardonnay

What we’re drinking

2018 Domaine du Pélican Arbois Chardonnay

Martin Docherty, Senior Relationship Manager - Cult Wines

Domaine du Pélican is a unique gem from the lesser-known Jura region, specifically Arbois, about 80 km east of Burgundy. This wine is crafted by the esteemed team at Marquis d'Angerville, renowned for producing some of the best wines in Burgundy.

What I love about this Domaine is that it offers all the expertise, rigour, and investment of d'Angerville combined with the great terroir of Jura at an affordable price.

Sourced from vineyards in Arbois and Montigny-les-Arsures at nearly 400 metres altitude, the 2018 Arbois Chardonnay undergoes fermentation and élevage in 350—and 500-litre barrels, with only 5% new oak, for 10 months. The wine stands out with its toasty, spicy notes, creamy texture, and subtle salty finish, showcasing the winemaking team's expertise.

The wine offers a fresh and savoury bouquet, leading to a beautifully open and textural palate. Notes of ripe nectarines, orchard fruit, and zesty orange are complemented by a slight salty twist, providing a tangy freshness that enhances its brilliance.

In summary, Domaine du Pélican produces exceptional wines that reflect its terroir, offering both delight and a masterclass in winemaking without breaking the bank. Cheers!

Our fine wine feature

What I've Discovered About Oak in Wine: Transforming Good Wines to Great

Written by - Jessie Wu, Client Account Manager - Cult Wines

When it comes to wine, one of the most delightful contributors to its flavour profile is the role of oak in wine ageing. Oak barrels have been a staple in winemaking for centuries, imparting unique flavours and aromas that can elevate a wine's overall character.

This was famously spotlighted in 1982 when Robert Parker predicted the exceptional quality of Bordeaux wines from that vintage, many of which were aged in new oak barrels. With their bold, oaky characteristics, these wines set the stage for what would become known as the 'Parkerization' effect.

Whether it's American oak with its bold vanilla and coconut notes or French oak offering subtle hints of spice, toast, and smoke, the type of oak used and the cooperage process—including barrel size and toasting level—play a crucial role in the final product. These oak-induced characteristics can transform a good wine into a great one, enhancing its flavour, aroma, texture, and complexity.

The Science Behind Oak Ageing

To truly appreciate oak's influence, it's essential to understand the science behind it.

What I've Discovered About Oak in Wine: Transforming Good Wines to Great

The porous nature of oak allows for micro-oxygenation, which softens the tannins and integrates the flavours, adding to the wine's complexity and ageing potential.

Additionally, oak contains compounds like lignin, which contributes vanilla notes, and hemicellulose, which adds to the sweet, toasted flavours. The time a wine spends in oak and the age of the barrels can also significantly impact the final product, with newer barrels imparting stronger flavours than older ones.

'Parkerization' and the Wine Revolution in the pre-2000s

Now, let's sprinkle a little controversy into our oak barrels with the concept of Parkerization. Named after the famous wine critic Robert Parker, this term describes the trend of wineries tailoring their wines to suit Parker's taste, which often leans toward aged, high-alcohol, oaky, and richly extracted wines. Many argue that this led to a homogenisation of wine styles, favouring the bold and brash over the subtle and delicate.

However, it's essential to remember that consumers played a massive role in this shift. They craved those intense, fruit-forward wines and bought them in droves, turning the "international style" into a global sensation. Parker didn't create this trend; he merely validated it, guiding wine lovers toward the best examples of what they were already thirsty for.

Is Oak Still Popular? On a More Modern Palate

In the post-Parkerization era, we're witnessing a delightful resurgence of diverse wine styles that cater to a broader range of palates.

Today's wine enthusiasts are increasingly adventurous, exploring wines that emphasise terroir, balance, and subtlety over sheer power and oakiness. Natural wines have gained significant traction with minimal intervention and a focus on organic and biodynamic farming. Winemakers embrace indigenous grape varieties and traditional methods, producing wines with lower alcohol content, fresher acidity, and more pronounced minerality.

This shift represents a new era, emphasising authenticity and individuality rather than adhering to a singular, dominant style. As a result, the wine world is richer and more varied than ever, offering something for every taste and preference. Whether you're a fan of the bold and oaky or the light and nuanced, there's a wine out there just waiting to be discovered and enjoyed.

The Future of Oak in Winemaking

Looking ahead, the role of oak in winemaking will continue to evolve. Innovations in cooperage and winemaking techniques, such as using oak alternatives like staves, chips, and cubes, allow for more controlled and varied oak influence without the expense of traditional barrels. Additionally, the increasing focus on sustainability is driving the exploration of renewable resources and practices in barrel production.

As consumers become more educated and discerning, winemakers will likely continue experimenting with oak to create unique and memorable wines. While the Parkerization era spotlighted a particular style, the trend towards diversity and authenticity promises an exciting future for wine enthusiasts. Whether through traditional barrel ageing or innovative new methods, the interplay between wine and oak will continue to captivate and delight palates worldwide.

Explore & travel

A Journey of Purpose: The Tuscany Trek for Millimetres 2 Mountains

Written by - Cult Wines News

In a heartwarming collaboration, the Millimetres 2 Mountains Foundation (M2M) and CHX Challenge in the Alps recently completed a memorable fundraising trek through the scenic landscapes of Tuscany. This inspiring event, supported by Cult Wines, raised an impressive £21,000 to support the foundation's future beneficiaries.

The Origin of an Inspiring Trek

The idea for this extraordinary journey began when Damien and Alison, founders of CHX Challenge, were on vacation in Italy. While exploring the vineyards, they stumbled upon the Via Francigena, an ancient pilgrimage route from Canterbury to Rome. This serendipitous discovery led to conversations with Lois Jackson, Co-Founder of M2M, and the team at Cult Wines. The concept of a fundraising trek was born, blending the passions for walking, wine, and charitable giving.

Lois Jackson elaborated, “When Damien and Alison shared their experience of discovering the Via Francigena, we immediately saw the potential for a unique fundraising event. It combined our love for adventure, nature, and philanthropy, creating a perfect synergy.”

A Journey of Purpose: The Tuscany Trek for Millimetres 2 Mountains

Walking for a Cause

Over three days, participants covered more than 75 kilometres through the picturesque Tuscan countryside. The trek was not just about the distance but about the camaraderie and the cause. Each step taken was a step closer to supporting individuals facing mental health challenges, as M2M is dedicated to helping those affected by mental health issues and physical disabilities through adventure and nature.

Among the highlights was the presence of Cult Wines clients, including Gary and his son Olly, who together raised over £11,000. Another father-son duo, Jacopo Andreose and his son Sebastian, also joined the trek, showcasing the strong support from the Cult Wines community.

Additionally, the group enjoyed organized tastings at Palagetto in San Gimignano and the spectacular Antinori Chianti Classico wineries, adding a delightful culinary experience to their journey.

Voices from the Journey

James Fisher, one of the participants, reflected on the experience: “The opportunity to hike through the beautiful landscape of Tuscany while raising money for the M2M Foundation was an opportunity not to be missed. The support of Cult Wines and the finish line at Villa Antinori made this even more special.”

Lois Jackson expressed her gratitude: “It was a real treat to combine three of my favourite things – walking, wine, and fundraising. The best part of this trip was the incredible people who came along. Walking and talking through beautiful countryside while raising money for M2M, even with a few blisters, was amazing. Thank you to Cult Wines for their support; the £21,000 raised by participants will significantly impact our future beneficiaries.”

Gary, one of the top fundraisers, shared his thoughts: “Participating in the Tuscany trek was a profound experience. Not only did we enjoy the stunning landscapes and exquisite wines, but knowing that our efforts are contributing to such a worthy cause made every step worthwhile.”

The Impact of the Funds Raised

The £21,000 raised from this event will go a long way in supporting the initiatives of the Millimetres 2 Mountains Foundation. These funds will help organize more adventure therapy programs, provide resources for mental health support, and enable more individuals to participate in transformative outdoor experiences.

Lois Jackson highlighted, "The funds raised will support our upcoming programs designed to help individuals rebuild their lives through the power of nature and adventure. From climbing expeditions to wilderness therapy sessions, every penny will make a difference."

Looking Ahead

The success of this trek has set the stage for future events. M2M is gearing up for a golf day at The Manor House, Castle Combe, on Friday, September 6th, and a gala dinner in London on Saturday, November 9th.

These events are crucial for raising further funds and awareness for their cause. Interested parties can contact Rosie at [email protected] for more information.

A Shared Vision

The Tuscany trek is a testament to what can be achieved when passionate individuals and supportive organizations unite for a common cause. With the continued support of Cult Wines and the dedication of M2M and CHX Challenge, future Millimetres 2 Mountains Foundation beneficiaries can look forward to even more opportunities and support.

For information on upcoming events and to support the Millimetres 2 Mountains Foundation, visit millimetres2mountains.org. For more information on the CHX Challenge, visit CHX website.

Join the Movement

The Tuscany Trek was not just a fundraising event but a movement that inspired others to combine their passions with philanthropy.

Lois Jackson encourages everyone to get involved: "Whether you're an avid hiker, a wine enthusiast, or someone who cares deeply about mental health and wellness, there's a place for you in our community. Join us in making a difference, one step at a time."

Stay tuned for future M2M x CHX trips with Cult Wines.