Poco do Lobo Espumante BrutoThis Traditional Method red sparkling wine from Portugal's Caves Sao Joao is a successful, relatively new venture. Baga, Touriga Nacional and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes from the Bairrada region spend at least 12 months on lees for a beautifully layered wine. Poco do Lobo is deep ruby in colour, with intense aromatic notes of raspberry, blackcurrant and blueberry. On the palate it is fresh with creamy foam, rounded tannins and sumptuous fruit running

This Gewurztraminer varietal from the Hunawihr co-operative in Alsace uses carefully selected grapes for aromas of roses

intense yet not over-powering

Both areas produce wines from the Sauvignon Blanc grape

a slightly fruity character and a pale hint of smoke

a small island in the heart of the Muscadet vineyard

shellfish or cold courses

In the mouth

and they have been awarded the envied status of Grand Cru Classe de Graves for their exceptional wines

Decanter and IWSC

made in very small batches in traditional copper stills

Marsala became hugely popular

Complex aromas show subtle notes of brioche