Had drinks with our neighbour Stephane Derenoncourt who they say is now the most in-demand winemaking consultant of all. Funny he should come to set up his own winery, vineyard and offices right bang next to our place. I think the village is very lucky. But seems he thinks he is quite unappreciated locally. Many apparently think he is crazy to aim at making great wine here in Ste Colombe.
The same people think the same about me.
So I think we should get together with a few other quality nutters and put on a journalist's blind tasting of our Castillon wines versus Saint Emilion 'Grand Crus' to find out just who comes out top. Then we'll see.
Stephane does everything with such extreme care … such a delicate … actually a very 'kind' touch. He loves the earth, the vines and the grapes. I'm certain he'd prefer to just stay around here and get his hands dirty. Instead of which, when vintage kicks off he'll be racing right around the northern hemisphere … from California to Syria of all places! Now Syria … I ask you … that's brave. But I tried the wine he makes there – on sale at Le Comptoir de Genes here – and it’s good.
Stephan's favourite tipple? A good dry fino sherry! I keep saying; sherry will make a comeback!
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