Hello.... Is it me your looking for?

Ive been away but now I'm back, and now its time to give it back. Drunk some wine, now I can't see but tomorrow I know you'll follow me.

I love the wine and I have some new insights, just keep posted.

Big Bold Label but do they have Bang for Buck

I have been away for a week but back with a bang (hopefully)!

Here are two wines that jump out at you from the shelf with their striking, contemporary labels. There is no real link or story between these two, they just seemed to stand out from the pack. The question is, will they grab the attention of the taste buds in the same way?

The first is a Fitou from the Mont Tauch cooperative. I have had some good experiences with French co-op's in the past - good wine for a good price. They have been making this since one since 1913 so hopes are high. I don't know much about Fitou, only what is on the back. A mix of Carignan, Grenache and Syrah (Or Shiraz to the new world buffs). If you like it pay their website (http://www.mont-tauch.com/) a visit, they are giving away a case.

The other selection is a fruity looking Pinotage and the first Rose to join in the adventure. Hopefully the South Africans have got this one sorted. Sophisticated is the word they use. Can a Rose be sophisticated or is it just for the alcopop drinkers that want to grow up?

Cellier des Dauphins - Cotes du Rhone, 2006

A combination of Syrah and Grenache blended in the summer sun at the end of the Rhone. An initially fruity aroma, then becomes earthy and slightly musty. The taste is one of blackberries with some tannins and a slightly acidic after taste. Overall quite palletable.

In my mind its unmistakeably French. Ideal if you are sitting three inches off the ground in a camping chair, waiting for the old guys in the tent across the way to down their Pernod and continue the boules tourney. Equally well suited if you are just thinking about planning your holiday too!

You can find out more at www.cellier-des-dauphines.com

Available from Morrisons - £4.99

Pished!!!

Yes, maybe but it was an interesting evening. Thanks to everyone that took part.

Wine Tasting - Live

It sound like a Channel 4 production! Anyway if you want to join in the wines are listed below:

Pick one and rate it on my Facebook page 'Chablis Charlie and the Grape Adventure'. You can follow the link on the left hand menu.

See you later.....

Can you taste wine virtually?

Interactive Tasting Anyone?

This Saturday evening I am planning to host a wine tasting event.

You are all welcome to join in and post your comments live. I don't expect you to try them all because unless you are having a party too, you will have a lot of open wine bottles. However why not choose one or two and join in.

Here is the list of pre-selected wines:
- Le Dog de Charlotte, Chardonnay 2008, France
- KWV, Chenin Blanc 2009, South Africa
- Picco d'Umbria, Orvieto d.o.c. 2008, Italy
- Nederburg, Shiraz Pinotage 2008, South Africa
- Kiwi Cuvee, Pinot Noir 2007, France
- The Best, Montepulciano d'Abruzzo d.o.c., Italy

They are all available from Morrison's and under the £6 limit (although there was a very tempting Gigondas at a tenner).

You can follow or join the event live via Twitter (@chablischarlie). Tasting notes will also be added to a discussion provided I can still type. Let the fun begin.

Macon Villages (Bourgogne) - Cave de Lungy , Chardonnay

A nice light looking Chardonnay without the darkness you get from oak. It also has that characteristic musty aroma that let's you know a Frenchman has been involved here.

Crisp and quite sharp citrus flavours then mellowing afterwards. Very refreshing.

Certainly lives up to its billing and nice to see a good French white for only £5.50 - Great!