I spent a few days in the South of France in February - checking out the progress of the terrace that we are extending in the garden, and the repairs to stop the leaks on the roof terrace.
After less than 24 hours soaking up the peaceful atmosphere at Borde Neuve, I sped up to Montpellier for 2 days of frantic tasting and talking at the most important wine fair that happen every year in the South of France.
I was absolutely delighted when the lovely Marlene from the Grenache Association rang me to tell me that the great Paolo Basso - a sommelier of huge reknown, who was awarded the title of 'Best Sommelier in the World' in 2013 - had chosen our single vineyard cuveé 'Les Genoux' 2011 in a line-up of top Grenache-based wines from around the world.
We were in very good company, and I was a bit worried about how our little-known wine would fare alongside some of the world's famous names from Chateauneuf-du-Pape.
Paulo conducted a live tasting for about...
