There has been a lively discussion on our Members' forum about the merits of German Pinot Noir, or Spätburgunder. Here's a chance to judge for yourself – with a special discount for Purple pagers.
It would not be exaggerating to say that Meyer-Näkel makes some of the most outstanding Spätburgunder in Germany – Werner Näkel was Gault Millau's winegrower of the year in 2004, and won Decanter's International Pinot Noir trophy amid a host of worthy rivals from Burgundy, New Zealand and Oregon. I had a chance to taste his wines at The WineBarn's annual tasting earlier this year and was bowled over by their elegance. The Ahr Valley estate has been in the family for five generations, but in 1997 Werner Näkel ventured further afield with a wine estate in Stellenbosch, and in 2000 with the purchase of Quinta da Carvalhosa in the Douro.
On Sunday 19 Sep 2010, Werner's elder daughter Meike Näkel will be in the UK presenting a very special tasting of his wines from Germany, Portugal and South Africa at the Hotel du Vin Winchester. Guests will be served a four-course meal specially designed by the chef to match the wines.
Tickets are (in my opinion) an incredibly good-value £70 per person, which includes aperitif, dinner and all wines served. But the really good news is that thanks to the persuasive skills of Iris Ellmann of The WineBarn, Purple pagers get a £10 discount. Accommodation in this attractive boutique hotel is also available for just £65 per room per night including breakfast.
Bookings and more information on +44 (0)1962 841414 or events.winchester@hotelduvin.com. Quote Purple Pages/WineBarn for your £10 discount.