Some wine tastings are good, some are great, and then there are the ones at Waddesdon Manor—where you sip world-class wines in a historic setting while secretly contemplating whether you could hide in a wine cellar and live there forever.
Last night, the Chalfont and Amersham Wine Club gathered for what can only be described as a masterclass in indulgence. Picture this: the grandeur of Waddesdon, a cellar modelled after Chateau Lafite, and a line-up of wines so spectacular they could turn even the staunchest beer drinker into a sommelier. And, just to top it off, they even kept the shop open late for us—because nothing says “a perfect night out” like panic-buying another case of your new favourite vintage.
The Wines That Stole the Show
We kicked things off with a crisp and vibrant Two Rivers Isle of Beauty Rosé 2023. This wasn’t just any rosé; this was a blend of Pinot Noir, Syrah, Cinsault, Grenache, Viognier, Riesling, and Sauvignon Blanc—essentially, a vinous cocktail party in a bottle. Fresh strawberries, zippy acidity, and a touch of aromatic complexity made it a fantastic opener.
Next came the Henry Bourgeois Menetou-Salon, an elegant Sauvignon Blanc that had us questioning why we don’t drink more Loire wines. Clean citrus, a whisper of grassiness, and that tell-tale minerality made this a standout.
Austrian wines had their moment too, with the Bodenschatz Grüner Veltliner 2022 delivering a peppery, orchard-fresh delight. There was even a whisper of exotic fruit, leading to a lively debate over whether anyone could actually taste the lychee or if it was just the power of suggestion.
The Reds Take Centre Stage
The Maison Roche de Bellene Volnay 2018 was everything you want from Burgundy—elegant, structured, and layered with red berries and a touch of spice. It was an undeniable star, though the Swiss Cave Jean-Rene Germanier Pinot Noir from Valais gave it a run for its money. The latter, with its pure fruit expression and alpine freshness, divided the room. Some loved its ethereal quality, others wanted more oomph. Either way, it was a worthy opponent.
Then, things got bolder. The Rupert & Rothschild Classique 2020 brought serious intensity, with dark fruit, spice, and just the right amount of South African sunshine. But it was the Chateau Clarke 2016 that stole the final round. Aged to perfection, this blend of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon oozed blackcurrant, cedar, and a whisper of cigar box. If a wine could wear a velvet smoking jacket, this would be the one.
The Setting and the Stories
Waddesdon Manor itself added an extra layer of magic to the evening. The cellars, inspired by Chateau Lafite, are now home to 15,000 bottles, including an 1870 double magnum of Lafite, estimated to be worth about a gazillion pounds.
But perhaps the most bizarre fact of the evening? Baron Ferdinand de Rothschild, the man behind Waddesdon, apparently hated drinking, eating, and socialising. He built this entire party palace and then sat at the head of the table with a slice of dry toast and a glass of tap water. If that isn’t commitment to being a reluctant host, I don’t know what is.
My Real Star of the Night
While the wines were undoubtedly exceptional, special mention must go to my wife, Alison, who put together the most stunning charcuterie boards. If wine tasting is an art, then Alison’s culinary spreads are the Sistine Chapel of snacking. Suffice to say, they went down an absolute treat.
Wrapping Up
The night ended with full glasses, lively debates, and an appreciation for the craftsmanship behind every bottle. The vote for “wine of the night” went to Chateau Clarke 2016—a fitting choice for an evening of rich flavours and even richer conversations.
A huge thank you to Oliver, our guide for the evening, who balanced education with entertainment like a true pro. His stories, paired with each sip, made every glass taste even better.
As we left, arms full of bottles and minds full of new wine knowledge, one thing was clear: great wine is best enjoyed in even better company. Until next time, Chalfont and Amersham Wine Club, cheers!
