Looking for an older guide? See all the Explorer's Club guides here.

What's in this month's Explorer's Club?

This month, were bracing ourselves for the cool days and chilly evenings by putting together a lovely mix of Autumn reds.

As the days grow shorter and the air takes on that first autumn chill, there’s nothing quite like a glass of red to warm the spirit. This month’s case brings together a collection of bold, characterful wines from unexpected corners of the world — perfect companions for hearty dishes, fireside conversations, or simply unwinding after a crisp autumn day.

From the velvety depths of India to the spice-kissed elegance of Lebanon, this selection is a journey through distinctive winemaking traditions. You’ll also find the rich flavours of North Macedonia, the plush smoothness of Ukraine, and the sun-soaked intensity of Croatia.

Each bottle tells a story of place, passion, and craft — together, they offer a vibrant taste of autumn in all its richness.

So pull on a sweater, pour something deep and red, and settle into the season with us.

And don’t forget, our team are always happy to answer any questions you have on these wines (and about wine in general!), but also we’ve provided plenty of information below, so pull the cork and let’s explore!

Sula Dindori Reserve — Nashik, India

From the sun-baked hills of Maharashtra, Sula’s Dindori Reserve shows just how far Indian wine has come — and why it deserves a place on your table. Made from hand-picked Shiraz grapes grown in the red clay soils of Dindori, this is a plush, polished red with exotic flair.
Aromas of ripe blackberry, plum, and sweet spice jump from the glass, joined by hints of vanilla and mocha from oak ageing. The palate is velvety and generous, with layers of dark fruit, soft tannins, and a warming, peppery finish that lingers long after the last sip.
Bold yet beautifully balanced, this is a wine that pairs as easily with slow-cooked curries as it does with grilled meats or roasted vegetables. Rich, inviting, and distinctly Indian — it’s a wine worth discovering.

Ksara Le Prieuré — Bekaa Valley, Lebanon

From Lebanon’s ancient Bekaa Valley — one of the oldest winemaking regions in the world — comes this expressive red blend that speaks of history, tradition, and sun-drenched vineyards. Ksara, founded by Jesuit monks in 1857, remains a pioneer of Lebanese wine, and Le Prieuré is one of its most beloved bottlings.
On the nose, it’s fragrant and generous, with aromas of cherry, raspberry, and redcurrant layered with eastern spice, dried herbs, and a touch of earth. The palate is fresh and supple, full of juicy red fruit, gentle tannins, and a savoury, almost Mediterranean finish.
Food-friendly and endlessly drinkable, it’s the kind of red you’ll reach for again and again — perfect with mezze, roasted lamb, or simply shared with friends.

Imako Primitivo — Tikveš, North Macedonia

Italy may have made Primitivo famous, but in North Macedonia’s warm Tikveš region, this grape thrives just as brilliantly — delivering a wine full of sun, spice, and generosity. Imako’s Primitivo captures the grape’s dark, juicy personality while adding a distinctly Balkan edge.
Expect ripe black cherry, plum, and fig aromas, lifted by notes of baking spice and a subtle smoky touch. The palate is round and concentrated, with velvety tannins and a smooth, mouth-filling richness balanced by a flicker of freshness.
It’s the kind of bold, comforting red that shines with pizza, pasta, or a hearty autumn stew — warm, approachable, and full of character.

Shabo Merlot — Odessa, Ukraine

Ukraine’s Black Sea coast has long been home to vineyards, and Shabo — one of the country’s leading wineries — is showing the world just how much potential this region has. Their Merlot is a polished, approachable red with a distinctly Ukrainian stamp.
Aromas of ripe red plum, cassis, and raspberry mingle with gentle touches of cedar and cocoa. On the palate, it’s soft and silky, with bright fruit, fine tannins, and a clean, elegant finish that makes it surprisingly versatile at the table.
Unfussy yet full of charm, this is a wine equally at home with roasted chicken, charcuterie, or simply a quiet evening glass. Smooth, balanced, and quietly impressive.

Ezimit Vranec — North Macedonia

Vranec — meaning “black stallion” in Macedonian — is the signature grape of the Balkans, and Ezimit’s version shows exactly why it’s so loved in the region. Deep, dark, and bursting with personality, this is a red that makes an impression.
The nose is full of blackberries, blueberries, and dark cherries, with hints of violet, spice, and a touch of wild earthiness. The palate is bold and structured, with juicy fruit at its core, balanced by lively acidity and firm, food-friendly tannins.
This is a wine that begs for hearty pairings — think grilled meats, rich stews, or aged cheeses. Rustic yet refined, it’s a brilliant introduction to one of Eastern Europe’s most characterful grapes

Merga Victa Plavac — Dalmatian Coast, Croatia

From the sun-soaked vineyards of Croatia’s Dalmatian coast comes Plavac Mali, the country’s flagship red grape and a close relative of Zinfandel. Merga Victa crafts a modern, expressive take on this classic variety, brimming with Adriatic charm.
On the nose, expect ripe dark berries, dried figs, and a touch of Mediterranean herbs, all wrapped in a subtle hint of spice. The palate is robust yet approachable, with juicy fruit, supple tannins, and a savoury, sea-breeze freshness that reflects its coastal origin.
Rich, warming, and deeply evocative of its homeland, this is the perfect bottle for roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or simply savouring on a crisp autumn night.

Welcome to this month's Novel Wines Explorer's Club, the UK's most exciting wine subscription for the curious drinker. Each month, we will introduce you to a new wine region as part of our promise to deliver no two wines the same for a whole year. Not a member yet? Subscribe here.

Looking for an older guide? See all the Explorer's Club guides here.

What's in this month's Explorer's Club?

Sometimes, the most rewarding journeys are the ones that take us back to where it all began. Introducing our Not So Novel Explorers Case — a curated collection of classic favourites and beloved bestsellers that have stood the test of time (and plenty of happy toasts).

These are the wines our customers come back for again and again — dependable, delicious, and full of character. From smooth, crowd-pleasing reds to bright, aromatic whites and generous sparkling surprise, this case is a celebration of what we know and love.

Think of it as comfort wine with a twist — tried, tested, and always ready to impress. Whether you're stocking up your wine rack, hosting friends, or just in the mood for something reliably brilliant, the Not So Novel case is your trusty go-to.

No maps needed this time — just open a bottle and enjoy the familiar joy of great wine done right.

Cheers to classics worth revisiting.

Vigneti Romio Sangiovese Superiore Riserva

If you love classic Italian reds with depth, elegance, and a story to tell, this one’s for you. The Vigneti Romio Sangiovese Superiore Riserva is a beautifully crafted expression of Romagna’s signature grape — bold, balanced, and brimming with character.

Aged to perfection, this Riserva brings together ripe cherry and wild berry flavours with layers of sweet spice, leather, and a whisper of vanilla from time spent in oak. It’s smooth and savoury on the palate, with refined tannins, bright acidity, and a long, satisfying finish that lingers with notes of dried herbs and dark chocolate.

This is Sangiovese with soul — ideal for slow dinners, rich pasta dishes, or simply unwinding with a glass and good company. It’s a wine that shows how tradition, when done right, never goes out of style.

Perfect with: ragù, grilled lamb, aged cheeses, or roasted vegetables with herbs

Carminucci 'Naumakos' Rosso Piceno Superiore

Rich, velvety, and full of Italian charm, the ‘Naumakos’ Rosso Piceno Superiore from Carminucci is a standout red from the Marche region — where Montepulciano and Sangiovese come together in perfect harmony.

This deeply coloured, full-bodied wine opens with aromas of ripe black cherry, plum, and a touch of violet, followed by subtle notes of baking spice, cocoa, and earthy herbs. On the palate, it’s smooth and generous, with silky tannins, well-integrated oak, and a long, warming finish that invites another sip.

Elegant yet bold, it’s the kind of red that shines with hearty Italian fare, but also drinks beautifully on its own — the perfect fireside bottle or dinner party companion.

Colomba Bianca 'Vitese' Zibibbo 2023, Sicily

Sunshine in a bottle, the Vitese Zibibbo 2023 is a joyful expression of one of Sicily’s most aromatic native grapes. Bursting with personality, this organic white wine is as vibrant and expressive as the island itself.

Expect an inviting nose of orange blossom, jasmine, and tropical fruits, with hints of citrus zest and fresh herbs. On the palate, it’s beautifully balanced — fragrant yet crisp, with flavours of juicy mandarin, ripe peach, and a twist of lemon peel, finishing clean and refreshingly dry.

Zibibbo (also known as Muscat of Alexandria) is typically known for its sweet styles, but here it’s made dry — and to delicious effect. It’s a perfect pick for warm evenings, flavourful dishes, or anyone looking to try something a little different yet utterly moreish.

Perfect with: spicy Asian dishes, grilled seafood, fresh salads, or just a sunny afternoon

Beaujolais Villages Blanc Cuvée Chant du Merle

A rare gem from a red wine heartland, the Cuvée Chant du Merle is a beautifully expressive Beaujolais Villages Blanc — proving that Chardonnay can shine just as brightly in this part of France.

Fresh, elegant, and full of finesse, it opens with aromas of white peach, citrus blossom, and a touch of almond. On the palate, it’s smooth and gently rounded, with flavours of pear, lemon zest, and a hint of creamy hazelnut, all balanced by a bright, mineral lift.

Fermented and aged with care, this white Beaujolais offers the charm of Burgundy without the price tag, and a lovely alternative for fans of cooler-climate Chardonnay.

Domaine de la Motte Petit Chablis

Bright, clean, and unmistakably Chablis, this Petit Chablis from Domaine de la Motte is a brilliant example of why this northern Burgundy region is so beloved by Chardonnay fans.

Grown on the limestone-rich soils that give Chablis its trademark minerality, this wine is all about freshness and finesse. Expect delicate aromas of green apple, citrus zest, and white flowers, with just a whisper of wet stone. On the palate, it’s crisp and precise, offering notes of lemon, pear, and a hint of salinity that lingers through a refreshing, flinty finish.

Stylish yet approachable, this is a superb go-to white — perfect for those who love their wines clean, unoaked, and full of energy.

Champagne Gremillet Rose Brut NV

Elegant, expressive, and effortlessly celebratory, the Gremillet Rosé Brut NV is a stunning pink Champagne that brings both finesse and fun to any occasion.

Crafted predominantly from Pinot Noir, this rosé delights with a beautiful salmon hue and a fine, persistent mousse. The nose is bursting with red berries — think wild strawberry, raspberry, and a touch of cherry — layered with hints of rose petal and fresh pastry.

On the palate, it’s vibrant and well-balanced, offering crisp acidity, silky texture, and flavours of summer fruits with a subtle citrus lift. Dry, refined, and incredibly moreish, it’s a rosé Champagne that feels both indulgent and refreshingly easy to love.

Looking for an older guide? See all the Explorer's Club guides here.

What's in this month's Explorer's Club?

This month, we're celebrating the best of homegrown brilliance with our English Explorer Case — a journey through the vineyards and cellar doors of England’s flourishing wine scene. From rolling hills to coastal breezes, each bottle tells a story of craftsmanship, character, and a touch of British eccentricity.

In true Novel Wines fashion, we’ve gone beyond the expected to uncover hidden gems and new favourites, from crisp and elegant whites to beautifully expressive reds and characterful sparklers. Whether you’re toasting a sunny afternoon, pairing with a picnic, or simply raising a glass to the joys of local discovery, this case has something special for every moment.

So, pop the cork, savour the terroir, and fall in love with the wines growing right on our doorstep. As always, we're here for your questions, tasting notes, or just a good old chat about wine. Cheers to exploring England, one glass at a time!

No celebration of English wine would be complete without a bottle of homegrown fizz — and this one’s a real gem. From the heart of South Staffordshire, the Pattingham Vineyard Single Estate Sparkling White 2021 is a testament to just how exciting English sparkling wine has become.

Crafted using the traditional method, this elegant sparkler captures the cool-climate freshness and purity that defines the best of English terroir. Fine bubbles dance in the glass, delivering delicate aromas of orchard blossom, crisp green apple, and lemon curd, with subtle notes of toasted almond and pastry in the background.

On the palate, it’s bright and refined with a creamy mousse, lively acidity, and flavours of citrus peel, pear, and a hint of honeyed brioche. The finish is clean, dry, and refreshingly moreish — a perfect choice for picnics, celebrations, or simply raising a glass to English excellence.

Perfect for festive toasts, parties, or accompanying light bites like smoked salmon or creamy cheeses, this sparkling wine embodies the spirit of celebration.

A quiet classic from one of Somerset’s hidden gems, Leonora’s 2022 is a beautiful expression of English white wine — graceful, refreshing, and effortlessly elegant. Produced by the family-run Oatley Vineyards, this wine captures the essence of a small-batch, single-vineyard approach with real heart and precision.

Made with the rare Kernling grape, a variety related to Riesling and shares it's aging potential. Pale and glinting in the glass, it opens with soft aromas of elderflower, green apple, and citrus blossom, touched by a gentle herbal lift. On the palate, it’s clean and vibrant, offering delicate flavours of pear, lime zest, and white peach, with a subtle mineral edge that lingers on a crisp, dry finish.

Ideal as an aperitif or paired with fresh seafood, garden greens, or a sunny afternoon, Leonora’s 2022 is a quiet reminder that sometimes, the most memorable wines come from just down the road.

With its breezy charm and vibrant fruit, Sutton Ridge Rosé 2022 is practically made for picnics, garden parties, and sunny afternoons. Grown on the sun-kissed slopes of the Mendip Hills in Somerset, this small-batch English rosé is a celebration of summer in a glass.

A perfect blend of Phoenix and Regent it offers a bouquet of wild strawberries, redcurrants, and rose petals, with a whisper of orange zest and fresh herbs. The palate is crisp and juicy, balancing ripe berry flavours with a refreshing lift of acidity and a dry, mouthwatering finish.

It can pair with charcuterie, grilled veggies, or simply sip it al fresco, this is a bottle made for sunny afternoons and good company — an English rosé with real personality. Whether you're spreading out a picnic blanket or hosting friends in the garden, this is your go-to bottle for relaxed elegance and a splash of English sunshine.

Delicate, refined, and full of quiet confidence, Aldwick Estate Pinot Noir is a shining example of what England’s cooler climate can achieve. Grown on the sheltered slopes of Somerset’s Mendip Hills, this is a red with poise, purity, and a real sense of place.

In the glass, it’s a light ruby hue with lifted aromas of ripe cherry, red plum, and hints of violet and sweet spice. The palate is silky and fresh, offering layers of wild berries, cranberry, and a touch of earthiness, wrapped in fine tannins and a gentle, elegant finish.

Perfect served lightly chilled on warmer days, it’s a versatile partner for everything from charcuterie boards and grilled vegetables to herb-roasted chicken. An expressive, food-friendly red — ideal for English garden gatherings or a quiet evening under the stars.

A true standout from Pattingham Vineyard, Rudge Heath Divico is a striking example of how hybrid grapes can shine here. Grown on the estate’s sun-drenched slopes in South Staffordshire, this wine is crafted from the rare and exciting Divico grape — a variety that thrives in the unique English terroir, offering an almost Cru Beaujolais style wine.

In the glass, it’s a deep, vibrant red with aromas of ripe red berries, black cherry, and subtle hints of spice and earthy undertones. On the palate, it’s medium-bodied and smooth, with flavours of plums, raspberries, and a touch of black pepper, all underpinned by soft, velvety tannins and a well-rounded finish.

Perfect for a springtime garden party, Rudge Heath Divico pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, fresh salads, or a spread of charcuterie. Its bright, berry-driven profile and soft tannins make it the ideal companion for relaxed outdoor gatherings, enjoying the sunshine with good friends and great food. A refreshing, elegant red that brings the best of the season to your glass.

A perfect sip for those long, sunny days, Woodchester Valley Vineyard Pinot Rosé is a bright and lively rosé that captures the spirit of English spring in every glass. Grown in the heart of the Cotswolds, this wine showcases the exceptional quality of English Pinot Noir in its most refreshing form.

Pale pink with a slight copper hue, it greets you with delicate aromas of wild strawberries, fresh raspberries, and a hint of rose petal. On the palate, it’s light and crisp, with vibrant flavours of red currant, citrus zest, and a touch of watermelon, all wrapped in a refreshing, dry finish.

Perfect for an afternoon in the garden or as an aperitif to kick off your spring gatherings, this rosé is as versatile as it is charming. Whether you're pairing it with fresh seafood, goat cheese, or a light summer salad, it’s the ideal companion for those joyful moments in the sun.

Looking for an older guide? See all the Explorer's Club guides here.

What's in this month's Explorer's Club?

We journey to the stunning northern shores of Lake Balaton, where the volcanic hills of Csopak shape some of Hungary’s most expressive white wines. Here, St. Donat Winery champions the region’s winemaking heritage, crafting terroir-driven wines that speak of the lake’s cooling breezes, mineral-rich soils, and centuries-old traditions.

Their Olaszrizling is a pure, vibrant expression of Hungary’s most widely planted white grape. Delicate yet deeply nuanced, the wine opens with aromas of white peach, almond blossom, and a hint of saline minerality, reflecting its volcanic origins. On the palate, layers of ripe pear, citrus zest, and crushed stone unfold, carried by a beautifully balanced acidity and a touch of almond on the finish—a signature of Csopak’s finest Olaszrizlings.

A perfect companion for freshwater fish, herby roast chicken, or creamy risottos, this is a wine that truly captures the elegance and authenticity of Balaton’s breathtaking landscapes. Pour a glass, take a sip, and let yourself be transported to the sun-drenched terraces of Hungary’s most iconic white wine region.

Tucked away in the rolling hills of Somló, Hungary’s smallest but most revered volcanic wine region, Fekete Pince crafts wines of true depth and character. This historic estate, often called the "Grand Old Man of Somló," has long been a champion of traditional winemaking, allowing the land’s unique terroir to shine through in every bottle.

The FKT Series Olaszrizling 2021 is a textural, mineral-driven expression of this noble grape, shaped by Somló’s basalt-rich soils and extended lees aging. Aromas of baked apple, lemon peel, and wild herbs invite you in, while the palate delivers a striking balance of ripe citrus, toasted almonds, and a flinty, smoky undertone—a hallmark of Somló’s volcanic origins. The wine finishes with a long, saline freshness, leaving a lasting impression of power and elegance.

A superb choice for roast poultry, umami-rich mushroom dishes, or hard cheeses, this wine is a pure reflection of Somló’s raw, untamed beauty. Pour a glass and discover why this region has been captivating wine lovers for centuries.

Our journey through Hungary’s volcanic heartland continues in Somló, home to one of the country’s most enigmatic and age-worthy white grapes—Juhfark. Grown on the steep basalt slopes of this tiny but mighty region, Fekete Pince’s expression of Juhfark is a true reflection of Somló’s raw, untamed beauty, shaped by its mineral-rich soils and a winemaking legacy that spans centuries.

The 2019 vintage offers a powerful, structured wine with aromas of ripe quince, citrus peel, and smoky flint, underpinned by a subtle touch of dried herbs and toasted nuts. On the palate, it’s richly textured yet vibrantly fresh, delivering layers of baked pear, lemon oil, and saline minerality, all wrapped in a firm backbone of acidity. With its long, complex, and slightly spicy finish, this is a wine that rewards patience, evolving beautifully with time.

A natural match for grilled fish, roasted pork, or aged cheeses, Juhfark is often called the "wedding night wine," believed to bring strength and vitality to those who drink it. So pour a glass, raise a toast, and let the volcanic magic of Somló unfold in every sip.

We travel to the rolling hills of the Villány region, where Sabar Winery brings us this vibrant and refreshing Rosé made from Kékfrankos, a Hungarian variety beloved for its spicy, berry-forward character. With its delicate pale pink hue, this wine offers a glimpse into the soul of Hungary’s rich winemaking history while showcasing the cooling influences of the region's unique microclimate.

The Sabar Rosé Kékfrankos opens with an alluring bouquet of wild strawberries, raspberries, and a touch of rose petal, making it an irresistible choice for those who appreciate aromatic freshness. On the palate, it’s crisp and lively, offering juicy red fruit, a hint of citrus zest, and a touch of herbaceousness, all lifted by a bright, zesty acidity. The finish is clean, refreshing, and perfectly balanced, with subtle mineral undertones.

Ideal for light appetizers, grilled seafood, or fresh salads, this Rosé is a fantastic companion to alfresco dining or simply sipping on a sunny afternoon. Refresh your senses and discover a new expression of Hungarian winemaking with this deliciously drinkable gem.

From the ancient wine lands of Carnuntum, where Roman legions once cultivated vines, comes a bold and expressive Blaufränkisch from one of Austria’s most respected organic winemakers, Walter Glatzer. Nestled in the rolling hills of Göttlesbrunn, his vineyards benefit from the warm Pannonian climate and cooling Danube breezes, creating wines of both depth and finesse.

This single-vineyard Blaufränkisch is a stunning showcase of the grape’s spicy, dark-fruited personality. The nose is alive with aromas of blackberry, sour cherry, and wild herbs, while the palate unfolds with layers of ripe plum, crushed pepper, and a hint of cedar, all wrapped in velvety tannins and vibrant acidity. The long, mineral-laced finish speaks to Carnuntum’s limestone and loess soils, giving the wine both structure and elegance.

An exceptional food wine, this Blaufränkisch pairs beautifully with grilled lamb, roasted duck, or hearty mushroom dishes. Uncork a bottle and discover why Carnuntum is emerging as one of Austria’s most exciting red wine regions.

Another family wine from the sun-drenched vineyards of Carnuntum, where Austria’s warm days and cool nights shape expressive, terroir-driven wines, comes this elegant and finely structured Cabernet Sauvignon. Crafted by Hanna Glatzer, daughter of the renowned Walter Glatzer, this organic Cabernet reflects both a low intervention approach and a clean, fresh style, capturing the essence of Austria’s evolving red wine scene.

The 2020 vintage opens with an inviting bouquet of blackcurrant, ripe cherry, and a touch of tobacco, underpinned by hints of cedar, graphite, and dried herbs. On the palate, it’s beautifully balanced, with layers of dark berry fruit, cacao, and spice, supported by fine-grained tannins and fresh acidity. A long, refined finish lingers with notes of black pepper and a subtle mineral edge, reflecting Carnuntum’s loess and gravel soils.

This sophisticated and food-friendly Cabernet is a perfect match for grilled steaks, roasted vegetables, or rich pasta dishes. Pour a glass, take a sip, and experience the finesse and precision of Austria’s organic winemaking at its finest.

Looking for an older guide? See all the Explorer's Club guides here.

What's in this month's Explorer's Club?

This month, we’re setting off on a vinous adventure to the sun-drenched landscapes of Croatia, a country where winemaking traditions stretch back over 2,500 years. In true Novel Wines fashion, we’ve handpicked a selection that showcases Croatia’s unique grape varieties, diverse landscapes, and the unmistakable character of its wines.

From the crisp, Adriatic-kissed whites to the rich, textured reds shaped by the country’s rugged coastlines and rolling vineyards, each bottle tells a story of discovery. Whether you’re sipping by the seaside, pairing with a Croatian-inspired feast, or simply expanding your wine horizons, this month’s case is your passport to something extraordinary.

So, uncork a bottle, raise a glass, and let Croatia’s hidden gems transport you to a place of rich history, bold flavours, and Mediterranean charm. As always, we’re here to answer your questions and can’t wait to hear about your favourites. Sretno i živjeli! (Good luck and cheers!)

We start in the far east of the country in the historic vineyards of Ilok, nestled along the banks of the Danube. Iločki Podrumi carries a thousand years of winemaking heritage, crafting wines that reflect the soul of Western slopes of the Fruska Gora Mountains where their vines are planted. Among its treasures is the Traminac Select, a captivating expression of the grape you may know as gewurztraminer, known for its aromatic intensity and elegant structure.

Brimming with character, this wine greets you with an enchanting bouquet of fragrant rose petals, ripe apricots, and a whisper of sweet spice. On the palate, luscious notes of lychee, honeyed citrus, and delicate white florals unfold, beautifully balanced by a fresh acidity and a silky, lingering finish.

Perfectly suited for pairing with fragrant dishes, creamy cheeses, or simply enjoyed on its own. Uncork a bottle and let its elegance unlock of one of Croatia’s most underrated wine regions.

From the sun-soaked hills of Istria, Franc Arman’s Chardonnay is a shining example of Croatia’s ability to craft world-class wines with elegance and depth. The Arman family has been tending these vineyards in Narduči for generations, combining tradition with modern winemaking to create wines that truly capture the essence of their land.

This beautifully crafted Chardonnay is both expressive and refined. Aromas of ripe peach, citrus zest, and delicate vanilla rise from the glass, hinting at the wine’s time spent in oak. On the palate, it’s wonderfully balanced—silky and rich, yet lifted by a refreshing minerality that speaks to Istria’s limestone soils. Notes of golden apple, toasted almond, and a whisper of spice lead into a long, harmonious finish.

Versatile and food-friendly, it pairs effortlessly with grilled seafood, creamy risottos, or roasted poultry, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. Pour a glass, take in its golden hues, and let it transport you to the warm, Tuscan-like vineyards of Istria.

Another gem from the wonderful Franc Arman up next. Here he showcases one of Croatia’s most iconic and beloved grape varieties: Malvazija Istarska. Unique to the Istrian peninsula, this indigenous grape is renowned for its fresh aromatics, vibrant acidity, and distinct mineral character, shaped by the region’s sun-drenched hills and limestone-rich soils.

In this beautifully crafted wine, Franc Arman captures everything that makes Malvazija Istarska so special. Bursting with aromas of acacia blossom, citrus zest, and ripe stone fruits, it offers an inviting first impression. On the palate, crisp notes of green apple, pear, and juicy peach are balanced by a crisp acidity and a touch of almond on the elegant, lingering finish.

A very food-friendly wine, it of course goes great with Istrian seafood dishes, but also truffle-infused pastas, or a simple platter of olives and fresh cheeses. Pour a glass and let Istria’s golden sunshine shine through.

From the historic vineyards of Ilok in eastern Croatia, Iločki Podrumi is one of the country’s most esteemed wineries, with a legacy that dates back centuries. Nestled along the Danube River, this region is known for its exceptional terroir, which lends elegance and character to its wines.

The Frankovka Rosé Select is a delightfully expressive Rose. Crafted from the Frankovka (Blaufränkisch) grape, delivering a rosé that’s as vibrant as the Adriatic coastline. It opens with enticing aromas of wild strawberries, raspberries, and a hint of rose petals. On the palate, it’s fresh and lively, with flavours of red currants and citrus zest balanced by a subtle minerality and a crisp, dry finish.

Perfect as an aperitif or paired with Mediterranean dishes like grilled fish, light salads, or prosciutto and melon, this rosé is a versatile delight. It beautifully reflects Croatia’s winemaking heritage and offers a refreshing glimpse into the country’s burgeoning reputation for producing world-class wines.

Pilato are a true gem in the winemaking scene of Istria. This family run winery specialize in the local grapes and it’s a pleasure to offer you this sensational aged Teran. It is a bold and expressive take on one of Croatia’s most fascinating indigenous red grapes: Teran. Known for its deep colour, vibrant acidity, rustic nature, and intense character, Teran has been cultivated in Istria for centuries, producing wines that are as wild and untamed as the rugged landscapes they come from.

This beautifully aged 2015 vintage is a testament to Teran’s potential for development and complexity. It opens with rich aromas of dark cherries, wild berries, and dried herbs, intertwined with subtle notes of spice and earthy minerality. On the palate, its structured tannins and bright acidity create a lively yet balanced experience, with flavours of black plum, forest fruits, and a touch of cocoa leading into a long, refined finish.

Perfect for pairing with hearty dishes like slow-cooked meats, truffle-infused pastas, or aged cheeses, it’s a wine that tells a story of tradition, craftsmanship, and the unique terroir of Istria.

Another treat from 2015! From Fuškulin in western Istria, this is a masterful blend from the family’s humble 7 acres of vineyards that embodies the rich winemaking heritage of Croatia’s most renowned wine region. Crafted by the Damjanić family, whose dedication to quality and tradition spans generations now with winemaker Ivan Damjanic heading up things, this wine is a perfect example of how Istria’s diverse terroir can produce reds of remarkable depth and elegance.

A blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Borgonja (Blaufränkisch), Clemente is a wine of complexity and balance. It greets the senses with an inviting bouquet of dark cherries, blackberries, and dried plums, layered with hints of vanilla, tobacco, and sweet spice from careful oak aging. On the palate, it is rich and velvety, with well-integrated tannins and a lingering finish that reveals notes of cocoa, black pepper, and Mediterranean herbs.

This bold yet refined wine is an excellent companion for grilled steaks, game dishes, or a lovely Sunday Roast, making it a perfect choice for those looking to explore the depth and sophistication of Croatian reds. 

Looking for an older guide? See all the Explorer's Club guides here.

What's in this month's Explorer's Club?

Step into the heart of the Balkans, a region steeped in history, culture, and extraordinary winemaking traditions. This month, we’ve handpicked a selection of wines that celebrate the bold flavours, unique grape varieties, and passionate craftsmanship that make Balkan wines truly unforgettable.

From the sun-drenched vineyards of Macedonia and the ancient cellars of Romania to the mountain slopes of Bulgaria, this case invites you to explore the incredible diversity of Balkan terroirs. Each bottle tells a story, brimming with character and the region’s unmistakable charm.

With a focus on the latest addition to the Novel portfolio, Aya Estate, this case is perfect for adventurous wine lovers, it’s a toast to a region that continues to surprise and inspire.

Raise your glass, and let the Balkans take you on an unforgettable voyage of discovery. Cheers!

From the sunlit vineyards of Aya Estate Winery, nestled in the beautiful Struma Valley, is this sensational southern Rhone blend is a captivating expression of modern Bulgarian winemaking. This carefully crafted mix of Marsanne, Rousanne, and Viognier to create a wine that is as vibrant and dynamic as the region itself.

On the nose it is brimming with aromas of ripe citrus, white flowers, and a hint of stone fruit, evoking the local beauty of the terroir. The palate is equally alluring, offering a harmonious balance of zesty lemon, juicy peach, and a touch of minerality, all rounded out by a soft, elegant finish.

Perfect for pairing with fresh seafood, light pastas, or simply enjoyed as an aperitif, this versatile white wine is ideal for both casual gatherings and special occasions. Aya Estate are possible the most exciting winery in Bulgaria and this is a testament to their commitment to quality and innovation, delivering a delightful taste of Bulgaria’s thriving wine scene.

From the rolling vineyards of Western Romania, the Balla Géza Királyleányka offers an elegant tribute to one of the country’s most cherished indigenous grapes. Translating to “Little Princess,” Királyleányka captures the charm and grace of Romania’s winemaking heritage while showcasing the expertise of winemaker Dr Geza Balla, a pioneer in the region.

This delightful white wine greets you with aromas of white blossoms, pear, and a hint of citrus zest, a delightfully aromatic bouquet. On the palate, it reveals a crisp, clean profile with flavours of green apple, stone fruit, and a subtle touch of minerality. The light body and refreshing acidity make it an incredibly versatile and approachable wine.

Perfect as a pairing for salads, grilled fish, or even spicy dishes, this wine really shines as a companion to both light fare and moments of relaxation. It’s a beautiful introduction to the unique character of Romanian white wines.

Hailing from the scenic vineyards of Minis, Romania, Balla Géza’s Magyarádi Fehér is a one-of-a-kind white blend that beautifully reflects the local terroir and the craftsmanship of Dr Geza Balla. Named after the Magyarádi vineyard, this wine is 100% Mustoasa de Maderat, an old local variety which survived Phylloxera.

On the nose, it reveals a charming bouquet of honeysuckle, citrus peel, and a hint of fresh ginger, setting the stage for a complex and layered palate. Fresh flavours of green apple, apricot, and other stone fruits, all balanced by vibrant acidity and gentle touch of quince on the finish.

A great wine to pair with light pastas, seafood dishes, and stir frys, making it perfect for both casual meals and special occasions.

Our second wine from Aya Estate is another nod to modern Bulgarian winemaking, with a Rose perfectly crafted with a balance of fresh fruits, red flowers, and a dry, crisp finish. From their sustainable, biodynamic, and organic vineyards in the Struma Valley, this blend of Cinsault, Grenache, and Syrah makes a Rose good enough to put Bulgarian winemaking even more firmly on the map.

On the nose, it enchants with aromas of wild strawberries, red cherries, and a delicate hint of rose petals, offering a fragrant and inviting bouquet. The palate is equally captivating, with juicy red fruit flavours, crisp acidity, and a subtle minerality, all leading to a light, dry finish.

Perfect for sunny afternoons, light salads, or Mediterranean-inspired dishes, the Ayano Rosé is as versatile as it is delightful. Whether you’re enjoying it as an aperitif or pairing it with food, this wine is sure to bring a splash of joy to any occasion.

At Aya Estate Winery, innovation meets tradition to create wines that capture the essence of Bulgaria’s rich winemaking heritage. The Colorito Pinot Noir is a stunning example of their commitment to excellence, offering a refined and expressive take on this beloved grape variety. From their cooler sites on the Black Sea Coast, where the climate is much more suited for the delicate Pinot Noir grape.

On the nose, this Pinot Noir greets you with aromas of ripe red cherries, raspberries, and a hint of earthy spice, showcasing its vibrant and complex character. The palate follows with a silky texture, juicy berry flavours, and whispers of vanilla and soft oak, all balanced by a lively acidity and a smooth, elegant finish.

Perfect for pairing with roast poultry, mushroom dishes, or herb-crusted lamb, the Colorito Pinot Noir is versatile and sophisticated, ideal for everything from intimate dinners to festive gatherings. This wine is a must-try for Pinot Noir enthusiasts.

And to finish we head to the sunny centre of North Macedonia for a really interesting Plavac Mali crafted by Ezimit Winery, a winery known for its dedication to showcasing the richness of Balkan terroirs. This Plavac Mali is a robust and characterful red wine. Plavac Mali, who you may be more familiar with from Croatia, is revered for its deep flavours, sweeter spices, and generous length.

On the nose, this wine reveals a compelling bouquet of dark cherries, blackberries, and hints of dried herbs, accompanied by a touch of cacao. The palate is bold and structured, offering flavours of ripe plums, figs, and a subtle smoky undertone, all framed by firm tannins and a lingering finish.

Perfect for pairing with grilled meats, aged cheeses, or hearty stews, this is a wine that invites you to savour the depth and complexity of Balkan winemaking. A true delight for those seeking bold, authentic flavours.

Looking for an older guide? See all the Explorer's Club guides here.

What's in this month's Explorer's Club?

This month, we’re embracing the magic of the holiday season with a festive Explorer case inspired by the warmth and cheer of Christmas. But in traditional Novel Wines fashion, you won’t be finding any classic holiday reds or sparklers, we have chosen some more surprising choices for your perfect for celebrations.

Explore wines with flavours that evoke cozy fireside evenings, festive gatherings, and the comforting aromas of the season. Whether you’re hosting a Christmas feast, giving the gift of wine, or simply indulging in a moment of holiday bliss, this month’s case has been handpicked to make every occasion merry and bright.

So, pour a glass, gather your loved ones, and let this special collection transport you to the heart of holiday traditions around the world. As always, we’re here to answer your questions and wish you the happiest of holidays!

You can’t start a Christmas party without some bubbles! Hailing from the picturesque Serra Gaúcha region in Southern Brazil, Fausto Pizzato is a sparkling wine that brings a vibrant celebration in every glass. Produced by the Pizzato family, pioneers in crafting high-quality wines from this emerging region, their commitment to innovation and tradition shines through in every bottle.

Made using the traditional method, it is lean and fresh with fine, persistent bubbles, it greets you with enticing aromas of green apple, citrus zest, and freshly baked brioche. On the palate, expect a harmonious balance of crisp acidity, refreshing notes of lemon and pear, and a creamy texture that leads to a lively, dry finish.

Perfect for festive toasts, parties, or accompanying light bites like smoked salmon or creamy cheeses, this sparkling wine embodies the spirit of celebration. Fausto Pizzato Brut is a dazzling example of Brazil’s growing reputation for crafting world-class sparkling wines, making it a must-try for sparkling wine enthusiasts.

From the picturesque Pfalz region of Germany, Oliver Zeter has become a celebrated name in the world of modern winemaking. Known for his innovative yet thoughtful approach, Zeter crafts wines that showcase both elegance and versatility. His passion for excellence shines through in this beautifully expressive Grauburgunder (Pinot Gris / Grigio).

It is a stunning example of this delicious grape. With a bouquet of ripe orchard fruits like pear and golden apple, complemented by subtle hints of almond and white blossom, it offers an enticing introduction. On the palate, it’s vibrant and textured, balancing luscious fruit flavours of peach and citrus with a refreshing minerality and a touch of spice on the finish. You’ll never believe it’s the same Pinot Grigio grape that you see in Italy!

This wine’s rounded structure and crisp acidity make it a delightful companion to roasted poultry, or a festive platter of charcuterie and cheeses, perfectly capturing the charm and complexity of this versatile varietal, making it an excellent choice for any occasion.

From the historic vineyards of Ilok in eastern Croatia, Iločki Podrumi is one of the country’s most esteemed wineries, with a legacy that dates back centuries. Nestled along the Danube River, this region is known for its exceptional terroir, which lends elegance and character to its wines.

The Frankovka Rosé Select is the perfect Christmas Rose. Crafted from the Frankovka (Blaufränkisch) grape, delivering a rosé that’s as vibrant as the Adriatic coastline. With a delicate salmon-pink hue, it opens with enticing aromas of wild strawberries, raspberries, and a hint of rose petals. On the palate, it’s fresh and lively, with flavours of red currants and citrus zest balanced by a subtle minerality and a crisp, dry finish.

Perfect as an aperitif or paired with Mediterranean dishes like grilled fish, light salads, or prosciutto and melon, this rosé is a versatile delight. It beautifully reflects Croatia’s winemaking heritage and offers a refreshing glimpse into the country’s burgeoning reputation for producing world-class wines.

Nestled in the serene coastal region of Canelones, Uruguay, Viñedo de los Vientos is a boutique winery renowned for its innovative approach and respect for tradition. Led by winemaker Pablo Fallabrino, the estate artfully combines old-world techniques with the unique microclimate of Uruguay to create captivating wines with character and soul.

This Barberais a brilliant expression of this Italian grape, thriving in its new South American home. Vibrant and juicy, it opens with inviting aromas of ripe cherries, blackberries, and a hint of dried herbs – very Christmassy indeed! On the palate, it delivers a lively burst of red fruit flavours, underscored by refreshing acidity and subtle notes of earth and spice, characteristic of its coastal terroir. The smooth tannins and balanced structure make it an incredibly versatile wine.

A fantastic match for duck or goose, this Barbera is a delightful discovery for fans of approachable, food-friendly reds. The Viñedo de los Vientos Barbera 2020 is a testament to Pablo Fallabrino’s dedication to crafting wines that bridge tradition and innovation, offering a taste of Uruguay’s burgeoning wine scene.

From the sun-soaked Istrian peninsula of Croatia, Frank Arman crafts wines that celebrate the region’s unique blend of Mediterranean and continental influences. A family-run winery with deep roots in Istria’s winemaking traditions, Frank Arman is known for producing seriously wonderful and expressive wines that reflect the local terroir.

This hearty red is a testament to this dedication, offering a rich and layered expression of Merlot. On the nose, it reveals inviting aromas of ripe plums, black cherries, and a touch of dark chocolate, interwoven with hints of tobacco and sweet spice. The palate is velvety and full-bodied, with flavours of blackberries, redcurrants, and a subtle earthiness, all balanced by soft tannins and a lingering, smooth finish.

Ideal alongside roasted lamb, grilled vegetables, or of course with that Turkey with all the trimmings, this Merlot is both versatile and deeply satisfying. It showcases the remarkable potential of Istrian wines, making it a standout choice for lovers of bold yet refined reds.

Steeped in tradition and expertise, Wiese & Krohn is one of Portugal’s most respected Port houses, producing exceptional fortified wines since 1865. Based in the heart of the Douro Valley, Krohn is renowned for its dedication to crafting Ports that showcase the rich flavours and complexity of this historic region.

The Krohn Ruby Port NV is a classic expression of youthful and vibrant Port. With a deep ruby colour, it bursts with aromas of ripe red fruits like cherries, plums, and raspberries, complemented by subtle hints of spice. On the palate, it’s rich and luscious, with concentrated fruit flavours, a velvety texture, and a balanced sweetness that leads to a smooth, warming finish.

Perfect for pairing with dark chocolate desserts, aged cheeses, or simply enjoyed on its own, this Ruby Port is an excellent way to end any Christmas dinner. The Krohn Ruby Port NV offers an inviting, approachable style that captures the essence of Portugal’s winemaking heritage.

Looking for an older guide? See all the Explorer's Club guides here.

What's in this month's Explorer's Club?

This month, we’re taking you to the heart of Central Europe to explore one of the continent’s most storied and exciting wine regions: Hungary. Known for its rich winemaking heritage that stretches back over a thousand years, Hungary offers a fascinating mix of tradition, innovation, and a treasure trove of unique grape varieties.

Hungary is perhaps best known for its legendary sweet Tokaji Aszú, often called the "Wine of Kings," but there’s so much more to discover. From crisp whites like Furmint and Hárslevelű to elegant, spicy reds made from Kékfrankos (Blaufränkisch) and Kadarka, Hungary’s wines are as diverse as the country’s landscapes, from the volcanic soils of Tokaj to the rolling plains of the Great Hungarian Plain.

In this month’s Explorer case, we’ve curated a selection that showcases the depth and character of Hungarian wines. From indigenous grape varieties with ancient roots to modern expressions that push boundaries, these wines tell the story of a vibrant and evolving wine culture.

So, get ready to uncover the magic of Hungary’s vineyards, where history and innovation come together in every bottle. As always, we’re here to answer any questions you have and help you enjoy the journey through this remarkable wine region. Cheers to exploring the wines of Hungary!

This is a standout expression from Hungary’s renowned Tokaj wine region, known for its exceptional terroir and centuries-old winemaking heritage. Family-run since its inception, Erzsébet Pince is celebrated for thier dedication to traditional methods and producing wines that reflect the purity and elegance of Tokaj’s vineyards.

This single-vineyard wine comes from the esteemed Zafír Dűlő site, where volcanic soils and meticulous viticulture come together to create wines of remarkable depth and character. The bouquet is captivating, with aromas of ripe apricot, honeycomb, and citrus zest, accented by a subtle floral note and hints of wet stone minerality. On the palate, it is is both vibrant and layered, delivering flavours of baked pear, quince, and a touch of almond, all balanced by a refreshing acidity and a lingering, mineral-driven finish.

This wine is a superb pairing for dishes like roasted poultry, creamy risottos, or soft cheeses, and it also shines as a contemplative glass on its own. This wine beautifully encapsulates the precision and artistry of Hungary’s dry Tokaji wines, offering a taste of one of the region’s finest vineyards in every sip.

The St. Donat Csopak Hegybor 2021 is a brilliant expression of Hungary’s Balaton wine region. The family-owned winery celebrated for its commitment to sustainable viticulture and authentic, terroir-driven wines are located on the northern shore of Lake Balaton. St. Donat specializes in showcasing the unique minerality of the volcanic and marl-rich soils of the Csopak appellation.

This wine, made from the Olaszrizling grape (Welschriesling), embodies the essence of the region. It greets you with aromas of green apple, lemon zest, and white flowers, underpinned by a signature saline minerality. On the palate, it is crisp and vibrant, with flavours of citrus, almond, and a subtle herbal note, balanced by lively acidity and a clean, mineral-laden finish.

This versatile wine pairs beautifully with seafood dishes, light pastas, or fresh goat cheese, and it’s also an ideal companion for warm, sunny afternoons. This really is a superb introduction to the elegance and precision of Csopak’s wines, offering a pure and unadulterated taste of Hungary’s iconic Lake Balaton region.

The St. Donat Heavy Rosé 2020 is a bold and distinctive rosé from Hungary’s renowned Balaton wine region. Another gem produced by the esteemed St. Donat Estate, a leader in sustainable winemaking, this rosé is crafted to reflect the volcanic soils and lakeside climate of the northern shore of Lake Balaton. Known for their focus on terroir and innovation, they have created a rosé that pushes boundaries while staying true to its roots.

Made primarily from Kékfrankos (Blaufränkisch) and Syrah, the wine boasts a striking deep pink hue that hints at its intensity. Aromas of ripe strawberries, red currants, and a touch of grapefruit leap from the glass, accompanied by subtle notes of spice and wet stone. On the palate, it is fuller bodied and textured, offering juicy red berry flavours alongside hints of blood orange, pepper, and a refreshing saline minerality.

This robust rosé pairs beautifully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even spicy dishes, making it as versatile at the dinner table as it is enjoyable on its own. The St. Donat Heavy Rosé redefines the potential of rosé wines, offering a richer, more complex expression that will appeal to those seeking something beyond the ordinary.

The Heumann Blue Secret Blend 2018 is one of our all time favourite blends, an intriguing and expertly crafted wine from Villány, Hungary’s premier region for bold and characterful reds. Produced by the boutique Heumann Winery, this blend is a testament to the estate’s philosophy of combining tradition with precision to create wines of exceptional quality. Founded by German-Swiss couple Evelyne and Erhard Heumann, the winery is celebrated for its meticulous vineyard practices and dedication to showcasing the potential of Villány’s unique terroir.

This 2018 vintage is a carefully balanced blend of Kékfrankos (Blaufränkisch), Cabernet Franc, and Merlot, resulting in a wine of remarkable depth and complexity. The nose reveals a captivating bouquet of blackberries, plums, and dark cherries, layered with hints of cocoa, tobacco, and a touch of spice. On the palate, it is rich and velvety, offering concentrated dark fruit flavours, fine-grained tannins, and a long, elegant finish with a whisper of minerality that reflects the region’s limestone soils.

This wine is an excellent pairing for hearty dishes such as slow-roasted lamb, beef stew, or rich mushroom-based recipes. Whether enjoyed now or cellared for further aging, the Blue Secret is a stellar representation of Villány’s ability to produce world-class red blends, offering both power and finesse in every sip.

The Sabar Estate Cabernet Franc 2019 is a refined and expressive red wine from Hungary’s picturesque Badacsony wine region. Known for its basalt-rich volcanic soils and stunning landscapes, Sabar Estate has built a reputation for crafting wines that reflect the unique terroir and microclimate of this exceptional area.

This 2019 vintage highlights the elegance of Cabernet Franc, a grape that thrives in Hungary’s diverse conditions. The wine greets you with aromas of ripe blackberries, red currants, and plums, intertwined with delicate notes of dried herbs, sweet spices, and a touch of smoky minerality. On the palate, it is medium-bodied yet vibrant, showcasing silky tannins, fresh acidity, and a harmonious balance of dark fruit flavours and savoury undertones. The long, nuanced finish leaves hints of black pepper and a whisper of cedar.

A versatile wine, it pairs beautifully with roasted duck, grilled vegetables, or even a classic beef steak, but it also shines as a contemplative glass on its own. Sabar’s Cabernet Franc is a wonderful introduction to Hungary’s growing reputation for producing world-class expressions of this noble variety.

The Markvart Bikavér "Bull’s Blood" 2018 is a bold and captivating red blend from the historic wine region of Eger, Hungary, home to the renowned Bikavér style. Literally translating to "Bull’s Blood," Bikavér is a blend deeply rooted in Hungarian winemaking tradition, embodying the strength and character of the region. Markvart Winery, with its dedication to crafting wines that honour Eger’s heritage, have created a stunning example of this iconic style.

This 2018 vintage is a harmonious blend of indigenous and international grape varieties, including Kékfrankos (Blaufränkisch), Kadarka, and Cabernet Sauvignon, among others. The wine exudes aromas of ripe cherries, blackberries, and plums, complemented by hints of warm spices, earthy tobacco, and a touch of vanilla from barrel aging. On the palate, it is full-bodied and well-structured, with velvety tannins, balanced acidity, and a long, satisfying finish marked by subtle notes of cocoa and black pepper.

Ideal for pairing with robust dishes such as goulash, grilled meats, or rich stews, this wine also has the depth to age gracefully for years to come. This really is is a striking testament to the regions winemaking heritage, offering a perfect blend of power, complexity, and elegance in every glass.

Looking for an older guide? See all the Explorer's Club guides here.

What's in this month's Explorer's Club?

This month, we’re venturing off the beaten path to explore two hidden gems of the European wine world: Slovenia and Slovakia. These countries may not always be the first to come to mind when thinking of great wine regions, but they are home to some truly remarkable wines that deserve their moment in the spotlight.

Slovenia, with its ancient winemaking traditions dating back thousands of years, offers a diverse range of wines, from crisp whites to rich reds and of course some of Europe’s most exciting sparkling wines, all shaped by the unique terroirs of its rolling hills and lush valleys. Slovakia, meanwhile, is emerging as a dynamic wine producer, combining centuries of tradition with modern techniques to craft wines that are both distinctive and exciting.

In this month’s Explorer case, we’ve selected a variety of wines that showcase the innovation, elegance, and character of these regions. From indigenous grape varieties to modern interpretations of classic styles, there’s something here to delight every wine lover.

So, get ready to take a journey through the vineyards of Slovenia and Slovakia, where tradition meets innovation and the wines are full of surprises. As always, we encourage you to reach out with any questions and, most of all, to savour the experience!

Hailing from Slovenia’s renowned Bizeljsko wine region, Istenic is a pioneering producer with a long-standing reputation for crafting world-class sparkling wines. Established in 1968, the winery was among the first in Slovenia to specialize in méthode traditionnelle sparkling wines, and today, Miha and his two sons are celebrated for their commitment to quality and innovation.

The No. 1 Brut is a stunning example of their craftsmanship, made using the traditional method, this sparkling wine dazzles with its fine bubbles and bright golden hue. On the nose, you’ll find aromas of crisp green apple, citrus zest, and a touch of freshly baked brioche. The palate is lean and fresh, offering a lively burst of acidity, balanced by notes of ripe pear, lemon, and a subtle nutty complexity from extended aging on the lees.

Perfect for celebrations or as an elegant aperitif, Istenic No. 1 Brut also pairs beautifully with oysters, smoked salmon, or creamy soft cheeses. With its refined structure and vibrant character, this sparkling wine is a testament to Slovenia’s growing reputation for producing exceptional sparkling wines.

From the volcanic vineyards of Slovakia’s Južnoslovenská wine region, the Csernus Pesecka Leánka is a delightful expression of a lesser-known but highly intriguing grape variety. Pesecka Leánka, a local favorite in the region, is celebrated for its fresh and aromatic qualities, making it a hidden gem for adventurous wine lovers.

Pesecka Leánka is known to some as the Romanian grape Feteasca Regala (Royal Maiden) but in fact it is a crossing of Feteasca Regala and Moravian Muscat, giving it a more perfumed style. The nose opens with inviting aromas of white flowers, lavender, ripe orchard fruits, and a hint of honeysuckle. On the palate, this wine is light and refreshing, with flavours of juicy peach, crisp apple, and a touch of citrus. A nice balance of an off dry sweetness and good acidity gives it a zesty lift, while a soft, slightly creamy texture adds an extra layer of elegance.

This wine’s approachable style and refreshing profile make it an excellent pairing for light appetizers, roasted vegetables, or fresh seafood dishes. It’s also a fantastic option for casual sipping on a warm afternoon. Csernus Pesecka Leánka is a wonderful introduction to Slovakia’s rich winemaking heritage and a perfect choice for those looking to explore unique, regional varieties.

Nestled in the heart of Slovenia’s Vipava Valley, Tilia Estate is renowned for its dedication to creating the best Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris outside of France, also champion indigenous grape varieties. One of their standout wines is made from Zelen, an ancient and rare grape native to this area, known for its vibrant citrus character and distinctive freshness.

The Tilia Estate Zelen greets you with enticing aromas of green herbs, citrus blossom, and ripe citurs fruits like lime and grapefruit. On the palate, the wine delivers a refreshing, lively acidity balanced by flavours of pear, lime, and a subtle herbal note, all underpinned by a delicate minerality that speaks to the Vipava Valley's limestone-rich soils.

Ideal for pairing with Mediterranean dishes, grilled vegetables, or as an apertif, this versatile white also shines with traditional Slovenian fare. Tilia Estate Zelen is a brilliant example of how Slovenia's indigenous grape varieties can deliver wines of remarkable elegance and freshness, making it a must-try for those seeking something off the beaten path.

From the volcanic soils of south central Slovakia, the Csernus Lava Cuvée Sillus Rosé is a captivating and vibrant wine that beautifully showcases a blend of distinctive grape varieties. This rosé is crafted from Frankovka (also known as Blaufränkisch), St. Laurent, and the local variety Andre, creating a unique expression that reflects the region's terroir.

The wine presents a lovely bright pink hue and opens with inviting aromas of fresh strawberries, raspberries, and delicate floral notes. On the palate, it delivers bright, juicy flavours of red berries and a hint of citrus, balancing it’s weight with a refreshing acidity. The volcanic soil contributes a subtle minerality, adding depth and complexity to this delightful rosé.

Perfect for warm weather sipping, this wine pairs beautifully with grilled seafood, fresh salads, or light pasta dishes. The combination of Frankovka, St. Laurent, and Andre results in a wine that is both elegant and approachable, making the Csernus Lava Cuvée Sillus Rosé an excellent choice for any occasion.

Nestled in the picturesque Vipava Valley of Slovenia, Tilia Estate is renowned for its commitment to sustainable viticulture and crafting wines that reflect the unique terroir of the region. This Pinot Noir is a remarkable example of how this delicate grape variety thrives in the valley's diverse climate and limestone-rich soils.

It presents a beautiful ruby red colour and opens with an enticing bouquet of ripe cherries, strawberries, and subtle earthy undertones, complemented by hints of violet and spice. On the palate, this wine is elegantly structured, showcasing flavours of red fruits, such as raspberry and cranberry, layered with notes of savoury herbs and a touch of oak from gentle aging.

With its bright acidity and refined tannins, this Pinot Noir is incredibly versatile, making it an excellent pairing for a wide range of dishes. It complements roasted duck, grilled salmon, or even mushroom risotto beautifully, enhancing the flavours of each dish.

The Tilia Estate Vipava Valley Pinot Noir is a true testament to their dedication to excellence and a fantastic representation of Slovenia's outstanding Pinot Noir.

Csernus Frankovka Modra hails from the scenic vineyards of Slovakia's Južnoslovenská region, showcasing the country’s commitment to quality winemaking. Frankovka, or Blaufränkisch, is celebrated for its vibrant character and ability to express the terroir from which it originates.

This wine greets you with a striking deep ruby hue, hinting at its intensity. Aromas of luscious blackberries and tart cherries mingle with subtle notes of black pepper and oak spice, and a whisper of fresh herbs, creating an inviting bouquet. On the palate, the Frankovka Modra unfolds with an engaging richness, offering a medley of dark fruit flavours, sour cherry and dark plums, that are supported by a well-integrated acidity and smooth tannins. The finish reveals lingering hints of spice and a touch of minerality, reflecting the unique volcanic soils of the region.

Versatile and food-friendly, this wine pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, from roasted lamb and grilled sausages to flavourful pasta dishes and aged cheeses. The Csernus Frankovka Modra is not just a wine; it’s an exploration of Slovakia's winemaking heritage, inviting you to savour every sip.

Looking for an older guide? See all the Explorer's Club guides here.

What's in this month's Explorer's Club?

This month, we’re heading to the heart of Europe for our Explorer case, focusing on the rich heritage and precision of Germanic wines. From the rolling vineyards of Germany to Austria’s hidden gems, with a little taste of Switzerland thrown in too, we’ve curated a selection that showcases the depth, diversity, and sheer quality of wines from these regions.

Germany may be renowned for its world-class Rieslings, but there’s much more to explore! We are going show you some exciting surprises that break the mold from less familiar wine regions.

This Grüner Veltliner perfectly captures the vibrancy and freshness the grape is known for, with inviting aromas of green apple, white pepper, and a hint of citrus blossom – exactly how a good Gruner should be. On the palate, it offers crisp acidity balanced by flavours of pear, lemon zest, and a delicate minerality.

An ideal pairing for light seafood dishes, fresh salads, or classic Austrian cuisine like schnitzel, this versatile white wine is a perfect choice for those who love elegant, food-friendly wines. Walter Glatzer’s Grüner Veltliner is a brilliant example of Austria’s flagship grape and a true testament to the winery’s dedication to excellence.

From the sun-drenched vineyards of Carnuntum, Hanna Glatzer – yes, Walters’ daughter, presents a lively and refreshing Welschriesling that highlights the often-overlooked charm of this varietal. Known for its crisp acidity and bright, uncomplicated character, Welschriesling is getting its time to shine, and Hanna’s expression of it is nothing short of delightful. She is true believer of preserving the quality of fruit in the vineyard so takes a ‘hands-off’ approach to winemaking giving us a low intervention, vegan friendly, and clean wine.

This wine opens with crisp aromas of green apple, citrus zest, and a whisper of fresh meadow flowers. On the palate, it’s light and refreshing, with flavours of tart pear and a clean, mineral-driven finish. Vivid and zesty, it’s a true thirst-quencher that excels on warm days or as a versatile pairing for food.

Ideal alongside fresh seafood, antipasti, or even spicy Asian dishes, this Welschriesling is a fantastic pick for those in search of something approachable, lively, and full of zest. Hanna Glatzer brings a new energy to this classic grape, creating a wine that's both elegant and endlessly drinkable.

Hailing from the picturesque slopes of Switzerland’s Vaud region, Cave de la Côte delivers a classic example of Chasselas, a grape that has long been cherished in Swiss winemaking. Known for its delicate, subtle character, Chasselas thrives in this cool, Alpine-influenced climate, producing wines that are light, crisp, and incredibly easy to enjoy.

This Chasselas greets you with soft floral aromas of white blossom, fresh herbs, and a hint of citrus. On the palate, it’s refreshingly smooth, offering notes of green apple, pear, and a gentle minerality that reflects the terroir of Switzerland’s lakeside vineyards. With its clean, understated elegance, this wine is perfect for those who appreciate finesse over boldness.

An ideal companion for fondue, raclette, or light fish dishes, Cave de la Côte’s Chasselas is a must-try for anyone looking to experience the subtle charm of Swiss wine. Light, refreshing, and incredibly versatile, it’s a wine that invites you to savour each sip.

From the renowned Cave de la Côte in Switzerland’s Vaud region, this Pinot Noir showcases the elegance and finesse that cool-climate winemaking can bring to this classic variety. Grown on the slopes overlooking Lake Geneva, the vineyard’s unique terroir imparts a refreshing vibrancy to this Swiss expression of Pinot Noir.

This wine opens with delicate aromas of red cherry, raspberry, and subtle earthy notes. On the palate, it’s light and smooth, with flavors of wild berries, a touch of spice, and soft tannins that lead to a clean, refined finish. True to the varietal, it offers an understated complexity and a lovely balance of fruit and freshness.

A versatile choice, this Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, mushroom dishes, or a simple charcuterie board. Cave de la Côte has crafted a Pinot that is light yet full of character, ideal for those seeking a refined red that’s perfect for both casual and special occasions.

From the heart of Carnuntum, Austria, Walter Glatzer brings us a beautiful expression of St. Laurent, a grape often described as Austria’s answer to Pinot Noir. Known for its deep colour and vibrant aromatics, this red wine has become a standout in Glatzer’s portfolio, showcasing the grape’s elegance and complexity.

With enticing aromas of ripe black cherry, plum, and hints of spice, this St. Laurent is silky on the palate, offering layers of dark fruit, subtle earthy tones, and a touch of smokiness. The wine is medium-bodied with velvety tannins, delivering a smooth, well-rounded finish that lingers with notes of blackberries and sweet herbs.

Ideal for pairing with grilled meats, roasted game, or earthy mushroom dishes, this St. Laurent is both versatile and full of personality. Walter Glatzer has crafted a wine that perfectly balances fruit-forward intensity with Old World charm, making it a must-try for red wine lovers looking to explore Austria’s native varieties.

From the lesser represented Pfalz region of Germany, Oliver Zeter delivers a bold and beautifully structured Cabernet Franc that highlights the potential of this grape in cooler climates. Known for his passion and creativity, Oliver Zeter has crafted a Cabernet Franc that is both expressive and refined, showcasing the lively personality of this varietal.

On the nose, this wine reveals aromatic layers of dark cherry, blackberry, and a touch of green pepper, a hallmark of Cabernet Franc. The palate follows through with juicy black fruits, subtle tobacco notes, and a hint of graphite, all wrapped in smooth, finely woven tannins. Its bright acidity provides a refreshing lift, while the long, elegant finish leaves a lasting impression.

This Cabernet Franc pairs wonderfully with roasted lamb, grilled vegetables, or a hearty pasta dish. Oliver Zeter has managed to capture both the finesse and depth of this often underappreciated grape, making it a fantastic choice for those looking to explore a more structured yet approachable red wine from Germany.

Looking for an older guide? See all the Explorer's Club guides here.

What's in this month's Explorer's Club?

Welcome to the August edition of our Explorer’s Club! This month, we’re taking you on a journey through ancient winemaking world via the historic and culturally rich wine regions of Türkiye, Armenia, and Georgia. These countries, each with millennia of winemaking tradition, are home to indigenous grape varieties and unique winemaking techniques that result in exceptional and diverse wines. So, join us and let's dive into six remarkable wines that will transport you to the sun-soaked vineyards of the Caucasus and beyond.

Looking for an older guide? See all the Explorer's Club guides here.

What's in this month's Explorer's Club?

We don’t know about you, but after such a wet summer so far, we are pining for a proper summer holiday. But don’t despair if you aren’t able to get away, our explorers' case this month is going to take you to some of the most popular summer holiday destinations in Europe so you can feel like you’re off relaxing the sun but without the hassle of the airports and transfers! Whether you go for Greece, travel to Turkey, or indulge in Italy, our Summer Holiday Explorers case has got you covered – let's take a look inside.

First stop is beautiful Greece. Blue sea, perfect beaches, stunning islands... and of course amazing wines. One of the country's most popular regions is the Peloponnese Peninsula, a large mountainous region to the west of Athens which is home to a whole host of interesting native grape varieties.

Organic and vegan winery, Noema, have taken Assyrtiko from Santorini and helped it thrive on the mainland. Arguably Greece’s most iconic grape, Assyrtiko makes a variety of wine styles including this crisp fresh, minerally dry white wine. Young winemaker, Christos Vavatsis, is the brains behind this exciting and modern wine with a philosophy of championing Greek varietals and helping them express themselves in a clean and pure style.

This is certainly a wine to bring out if there are oysters around, or any shellfish really. Feeling cheesy? Grab some halloumi and you’ll be set.

We all love an Italian adventure – great beaches, wonderful architecture, and of course amazing wines. And while Italy may seem a little too common for Novel Wines, we have gone off the beaten path to the lesser known of the two Verdicchio specialist DOCs of Italys Marche region. Verdicchio di Matelica is a unique valley running east to west, as opposed to north to south in the rest of Marche, making wines noted for their fresh and fragrant character which is slightly sharper that the more known Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi.

The Porcarelli family have owned the Tenuta Colpaola estate since the 70s and their grapes are grown 650m above sea level on east-facing vineyards, organically farmed, and surrounded by beautiful woodland. Made with minimal intervention in the vineyard and fermented in stainless steel to maintain the purity of fruit, this is textbook Verdicchio: floral, fruity and herby. The finish is saline and fresh with bittersweet grapefruit and lemon peel notes, which makes this wine a glorious partner with food or to sip chilled on a summer's day.

If you’ve not enjoyed the Turkish sun on the beautiful beaches on the Aegean sea, then make it your next stop! This light, refreshing, rose is made from only the free run juices from the local Kalecik Karasi grape (the Pinot Noir of Turkey!), cool fermented for freshness giving delicate notes of citrus, orange flower, pink grapefruit and vibrant, ripe red fruits.

These vines are planted at an altitude of 850m in Denizli Anatolia which helps to mitigate the long sunshine hours of the region. Kayra are one of the more modern wineries in Turkey, utilising local grapes to make international style wines. If you’re a fan of pale pink Provence style wines then look no further!

From one side of Europe to the other as we fly to Portugal for the next leg of our summer holiday. And what better way to enjoy the sunshine than with a refreshing glass of Vinho Verde? Well how about a Vinho Verde Rose...

Made with the lesser known Espadeiro grape this wine shows a Fresh, citrus aroma with notes of strawberry and watermelon. The palate has delicate red berry and redcurrant fruit, and a soft and appealing finish.

Vinho Verde's rosé wines share the same spritzy character as the more well-known white wines produced in northern Portugal under this designation. This characteristic is due to the retention of carbon dioxide during the winemaking process, which has become a defining feature of Vinho Verde wines.

Vila Nova have had this land in their family since the 12^th century on the eastern border of the region, with the welcomed cooling winds from the Atlantic there is the perfect climate to ripen their Espedeiro and help make this great aperitif style wine.

Now to continue our summer in Sicily with one of the islands greatest success stories – Nero d’Avola. It is found all over the island and can make simple easy drinking reds as well as more top shelf, complex styles. This smooth and fruity style was developed by winemakers Mattia Filippi and Francesco Asaro at Colomba Bianca. They use fruit from a variety of Sicilian organic vineyards to make a reliably delicious red year on year.

This is a brilliant, deep red Nero d'Avola with rich, juicy flavours of ripe plum and black cherries interlaced with subtle violet notes. Concentrated on the palate, the deep fruit flavours are backed by soft, ripe tannins and a spicy character on the finish. It’s soft and smooth enough that it can even benefit from a short time in the fridge for an even more refreshing experience.

It’s a great wine for Italian foods, in particular Lasagne.

And we finish where we started by making a full circle back to Greece, specifically the region of Nemea. Semeli started out with just 7 hectares in 1980 and now have 15 hectares of mostly white grapes, but their main red – Agiorgitiko – is one of the jewels in their crown.

This youthful, ruby red wine is an easy-drinking red that also can be enjoyed lightly chilled. Intensely perfumed with redcurrants and fresh cherry, it also has a soft, plummy palate with more cherries with a juicy finish with lush velvet tannins.

It’s a great wine to enjoy with tomato sauces, ragu, or and more herbal dishes such as lamb kofta or a lovely falafel.

Looking for an older guide? See all the Explorer's Club guides here.

What's in this month's Explorer's Club?

For your Explorer’s Club box for June we’ve chosen to celebrate English wine. June is when English Wine Week falls (this year from 17^th to 25^th) so it felt appropriate, not that we needed an excuse to round up some excellent wines for you from this rapidly improving region.

It also makes perfect sense that English Wine Week happens in a Summer month. The key white varieties of Seyval of Bacchus in the English climate produce refreshing, thirst quenching wines full of bright acidity and summer hedgerow notes like Elderflower. Highly appropriate for sipping with a picnic on the lawn whilst listening to Wimbledon.

Most of the wines in the box come from wineries on our doorstep in Somerset and the West-Country but the huge range of wines we can source locally is testament to the exciting potential of the young, upstart English wine scene. Unlike producers in Italy or France, there are no hard rules to follow meaning winemakers can experiment and find out what works where they are, try something new and just have fun.

Sparkling has dominated English wine due to the similarities of climate and soil between South East England and Champagne but still is increasingly important as the climate warms and acidy lowers. With freedom to experiment, producers are learning to use a wide range of unusual grapes in still wines that are likely to be added to Seyval and Bacchus as English signatures; Kernling and Divico are two that are featured in this box.

Its also good to remember that English wine is not one thing! A Chablis from one vineyard will taste different to one from its neighbouring vineyard, so why should a Bacchus from the limestone soils of Kent be the same as one produced hundreds of miles away on clay in Somerset? It’s probably too soon to talk of English appellations (although East Sussex have tried!) but there is certainly immense local character and its worth exploring wineries across the country.

We hope you enjoy this box and if you haven’t tried it before, discovering English wine. We’ve included a cracking sparkling and a delicious, deep red from a county you might not expect. If you have any specific questions about the wine, you can get in touch with our team here. However, as ever we've got lots of info on the wines below, so pull the cork lets go!

As we said earlier, it’s impossible to put together a case of English Wine and not include a sparkler! In this case we’ve chosen the Single Estate Cuvee from Pattingham Vineyards in Staffordshire. Maybe not the first place you’d think of for wine but Pattingham Vineyard have produced a delicious, light sparkling wine perfect for an aperitif. 50% of the blend is Seyval which brings the acidity and crisp citrus tones, while Pinot Noir makes up the other 50% and adds red apple, and a slight strawberry note. 24 months on lees gives character and body. Overall a fun and very drinkable example from our friends in the Black Country!

In the same way you can’t have an English wine case without Sparkling, we also had to include a varietal Bacchus. Originally a German grape it has found its home as one of main English white grapes. It ripens early meaning that it can take full advantage of sunlight hours and ripen fully in the cooler English climate. Woodchester, based in the Cotswolds and founded in 2007, produce an excellent example, full of the signature elderflower and lime notes alongside lychee and Pineapple. Unusually for the South West Woodchester sits on limestone deposits and these really boost the freshness.

From our most local producer; Aldwick Estate is based in the stunning Mendip Hills a short drive from Bristol. BS40 is actually the postcode of the Estate! This is an easy drinking blend of Seyval and Bacchus, light lemon in colour with a great balance of acidity. Elderflower and lemon is there on the palate but its subtle. A wine made for sipping on a sunny terrace, it doesn’t need food but pairing it with a light salad at lunch is a perfect way to enjoy it.

Oatley’s 2022 Leonora is another Somerset wine. Following the trend for experimentation it uses the unusual grape Kernling, a pink-skinned Rielsing cross with a lot of character. Its full of subtle English garden scents, rose and lime. Precise, linear but still with a noticeable fruit salad palate. A really interesting off-dry wine from a great, highly conscientious producer dedicated to preserving the natural appeal of the estate. As with Riesling, try with lightly spiced dishes.

Bride Valley’s Pinot Noir Rose is a classic of English wine. Pinot Noir thrives in the English climate and produces elegant roses. Based on Dorset’s south coast, Bride Valley was founded by English Wine legend Steven Spurrier with the aim of producing Burgundian quality wines in England and tin our opinion they’ve certainly succeeded. This was their first still rose vintage and is from the best of their Pinot grapes. It’s a great food rose, full of delicious red fruit but with an acidity that makes it well suited to food pairing. Try with Pork in creamy sauce or even a lightly seared duck breast where it will be a great foil to the gaminess.

For our final wine we return to Pattingham in Staffordshire for their Divico, a really unusual English red. Divico is a Swiss crossing that ripens early, produces small berries and is thick skinned. It’s naturally dark coloured skins make deep, fruity wines that are a contrast to the light reds that can sometimes put off red drinkers from trying English wines. Divico deserves its place at the forefront of English varieties and with a bit of oak treatment as Pattingham done here, it can produce complex, full bodied wines with cherry, plum, and cranberry notes alongside a spicy finish. Perfect with a fillet steak or a great burger.

Looking for an older guide? See all the Explorer's Club guides here.

What's in this month's Explorer's Club?

Welcome to your Explorer’s Club for May where we celebrate the next instalment of our Croatian Wines. If you were with us back in September last year you will have been fortunate to try the first selection of Croatian wines but given the huge variety of terrain, grapes and styles there we thought it was worth another deep dive. And after tasting the wines in this box we’re sure you’ll agree.

This month’s selection also covers the main regions of Istria with its freshness, the Dalmatian coast which warms and ripens harvests and the Croatian Danube with its true Continental Climate that layers acidity and fruit. It will introduce you to new varieties alongside wines that showcase well-known international grapes in distinctly, carefully managed Croatian blends.

 Join us for a proper Croatian road-trip and experience the wines of this amazing country. And remember, If you have any specific questions about the wine, you can get in touch with our team here. However, as ever we've got lots of info on the wines below, so pull the cork lets go!

Franc Arman has a long history and great tradition with their first vineyards planted back in 1850 and that experience and knowledge goes into producing premium quality wines today. They’re located on the north side of the Istrian peninsular, close to the border with Slovenia so are one of the most Northerly Croatian Producers

Sivi Pinot is also known as Pinot Gris and Franc Arman produce a radiant and refreshing white with it. They extract lots of floral fruity notes from what can be a simple grape and it it makes for a very easy drinking wine. Alongside the fruit is an unusual but distinctive scent of dandelion. A light, fresh white full of minerality, its ideal on its own but lovely with light pasta dishes or simple grilled white fish.

Zlatan Otok was founded in the early 90’s as part of the resurgence of Croatian and CEE wines in that period. Based around the island of Hvar near the town of Šibenik in the heart of the Dalmatian Coast. They’re one of the most awarded wineries in Croatia and were early champions of Organic wine. Their Posip benefits from their South facing location right on the coast and it’s a plush and rich white. This sunny location builds full and persistent fruity aromas, with coastal breezes adding a light bitterness and a really pleasant finish. A real partner for Mediterranean fish dishes.

The Domaine Koquelicot winery is located in Gračišće, Istria, owned by the spouses Olivier Ertzbischoff and Jacqueline Marovac. Having worked in Burgundy, the couple now spend half their time in Istria, and half of their time in France and their wines all show that French influence. This clear in this blend which is 80% Malvazija, the most important Istrian white, and 20% Chardonnay.

Koquelicot has no vineyards of its own, but instead buy the best quality grapes from around the region and the winery takes its name from the Koquelicot poppies that grow wild in the fields surrounding it.

It had a definite Burgundian style but the Malvazija shines through with aromas of quince and green herbs alongside vanilla and honey from the French oak aging. Really refined but delicious!

Testament are close neighbours of Zlatan Otok and also have vineyards just outside of Šibenik on the Dalmatian Coast. Hence the name of this wine, the Dalmatian Dog as this is the home of this famous breed.

Like the dog, this wine is a lively and fun. Babic is a native Dalmatian grape, dark blue in colour, large and very thin skinned. This produces a wine with fine tannins that makes it easy to enjoy. Expect a fruity, medium bodied red with lots of cherry notes, with herbs and lots of freshness. A good warm weather red that works well on its own but would pair with simple tomato pasta dishes or with its herbaceous notes,  BBQ’d lamb with rosemary.

We head well inland to the right bank of the Croatian Danube for this red. A blend of Frankova (Blaufrankisch) and Cabernet Sauvignon from a winery with lots of history. Ilocki Podrumi has cellars dating back over 500 years which they still use to age wine. The vineyards sit 200m above sea level and the warm days really ripen the grapes but the cool breeze off the Danube ensure ripeness is well managed.

The wine is deep ruby red, with fruity aromas and hints of blackberry and vanilla from maturation in French oak barrels. The palate is round and full, you can taste the warmth but with gentle and soft tannins. It’s a great food wine and will pair well with beef, pork and most game but especially venison due to its blackberry Cabernet Sauvignon notes.

We round out the case with a really special wine from the Momjan Valley on the northwest of the Istrian Peninsula. Kabola have over a century of history behind them and the vineyards are all organic. The soils are mainly marl and clay which means the vines have to search for water, production is controlled and the quality is high. It’s a very hand-on vineyard, modern but with real respect for traditional methods including the use of in Amphora for aging some of their wines.

With Supremo they’ve blended the Croatian Indigenous grape Teran with two popular, international grapes, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. The result is an incredible deep ruby, full-bodied red. Its hugely aromatic and cycles through blackberry, blackcurrant, vanilla, smoke and ending with ground coffee. With fine tannins and prominent minerality, this wine is fresh and smooth and pairs perfectly with a good steak.

Looking for an older guide? See all the Explorer's Club guides here.

What's in this month's Explorer's Club?

We are doing a bit of jet setting this month for our Explorer case, most of what we discover is from the realms of central and eastern Europe but every now and again we find some gems from much further afield.  Surprisingly – for us, at least – we have a very exciting Aussie producer that we want to share, along with a full world tour of wine destinations including Brazil and India too! So get your passports ready and take a long haul flight to discover some wines from far away places.

Here is what we have in this month’s case.

Looking for an older guide? See all the Explorer's Club guides here.

What's in this month's Explorer's Club?

As you well know, we here at Novel do love our Hungarian wines. There is no finer sweet wine that the luscious Aszu wines from Tokaj, and the dry expressions are pretty spectacular too. The main grape here is the amazing Furmint, but this month we want to explore Hungary beyond Furmint. We jump from the indigenous varieties you may not have heard of, to some with maybe more familiar synonyms, and a seriously exciting Cab Franc for good measure too!

Here is what we have in this month’s case.

Starting in Tokaj we want to highlight the regions second most planted variety, Harslevelu. Most commonly seen as Furmints blending partner in most dry Tokaji (and of course in the sweet stuff!), it’s reputation as a single varietal wine has steadily been growing – and for good reason.

Erika Racz from SanzonTokaj is a huge believer in Harslevelu, her 50-year-old vines are perfect for making this fruity, floral, and honeyed wine. It’s a grape that can show just as much complexity and quality as Furmint when given the right care. Clonal selection, site selection, and vine age are all crucial to get the best from it. In the winery you need gentle pressing so not to extract too much phenolics from its thick skins, and it can benefit from a little micro-oxygenation that oak fermentation provides.

The wine is fully organic and aged for six months on lees. The resulting wine is deep and complex with a lean acidity, floral and sweet clementine aromas, and a textured palate of peaches, honey, orange zest, ginger spice and citrus. A lovely wine to pair with Vietnamese cuisine.

Fekete Pince is located on the southern slopes of Somlo in West Hungary, not far from the glorious Lake Balaton. It is also a defunct volcano, so the soils here help to give an intense minerality and acidity to the wines.

Olaszrizling is no relation of the Riesling you may know. This aromatic, herby, peachy grape variety finds its home not only in Hungary, but all across Europe including Austria (as Welschriesling) and Croatia (as Grasevina). This wine is produced under a different label of the winery, the ‘fkt Series’, which celebrates the experiments and dreams of the family with small batch releases. There is only 1,900 bottles of this juicy white wine and it's bursting with peach, sweet citrus, and herbs. Carefully hand-picked later, at the end of November, the wine is naturally fermented in 1000L Hungarian oak barrels before short maturation in barrel and tank. It's velvety, full and with a substantial finish that reflects its mineral, volcanic terroir.

Juhfark is a Hungarian white wine grape usually known for its use in blends with other native varieties, often resulting in off-dry white wines. The name "Juhfark," translates to "sheep's tail," referring to the distinctive elongated grape clusters. This variety is almost exclusively cultivated within Hungary, with less than 200 hectares dedicated to its growth. In its youth, Somló wines crafted from Juhfark exhibit vibrant citrus notes, hints of grapefruit, herbal undertones, and bold flavours.

Carefully picked from grapes growing on the slopes of Somló Hill, this limited release of 6,000 bottles of Juhfark is the region's iconic wine. The grapes are gently pressed and fermented and matured in 1000L Hungarian oak. Further ageing is followed in tank. The result is a golden coloured wine with long legs and aromas of ripe peach, quince, and mango. On the palate it's fragrant with quince and pear, has a saline and long texture, and a warming finish.

If you're looking for a white wine to pair with lamb, then look no further!

We jump back over to Tokaj to take a look at one of the (much) lesser know grapes permitted here. Kabar is a fairly new addition to the Tokaj repertoire having only been permitted since 2006. It’s natural high sugars and susceptibility to botrytis make it ideal from Aszu wines, but the very few examples if being vinified in a dry style are producing some very exciting results.

Holdvölgy is a modern winery in the village of Mad in Tokaj. Their 28 hectares of vines is specially dedicated to small production and limited release wines having started with just the 1 back in 2021 – which was actually gifted as a birthday present, not bad!

Kabar is a low yielding grape with thick skins and, very usefully, high acidity. On the nose there are aromas of pear, mandarin, peach and cardamom, white-fleshed grapefruit, as well as vanilla. An elegant wine that unfolds with dynamic flavours and delicate spices.

Szentesi have a knack of getting the best out of some of Hungary’s lesser known, and nearly extinct grapes. Vörösdinka, Feketefáju Bajor, Kék Bajor, Purcsin, Tihanyi Kék, and Laska to name but a few, and one we found very interesting was Tarcali Kek.

During the Austro-Hungarian empire Tarcali Kek was noted amongst the first-class grapes of the region, but like many indigenous Hungarian grapes Phylloxeria pushed it to the point of extinction.

It was the wineries namesake Jozsef Szentesi who started to make his own wine in 1998. His wines are from his 16 hectare estate on the slopes of Lake Velencei in the region of Etyek-Buda, near the Budapest capital, and his main focus is on reviving rare grape varieties indigenous to Hungary. His wines are terroir-focused and driven by fruit, often released in very limited quantities.

It has a mix of spicy, earthy notes with ripe cherries. The tannins are soft and elegant with soft pink peppercorn spice and a light touch of smoky oak character from ageing in Hungarian barrel.

Completing our line up is another gem from Sabar! And a slightly more familiar name here in Cabernet Franc which has really found a home here in Hungary. This pristine, and youthful red is from very select parcel plantings of Cab Franc giving wonderful blackberry aromas with hints of leather and spice with a touch of vanilla.

Badacsony is a tiny, traditional region on the northern shore of the southern end of Lake Balaton, central Europe's largest lake. It shares its name with both the mountain which dominates the area and a village of around 1000 inhabitants. Founder Gabor Adam says: "I found peace of mind here in Sabar hill, I've always wanted in my heart. I would like to give this feeling to those who come here and sit with us under the old walnut tree." A truly magical place for truly magical wines.

Much to my enormous pride, Bulgaria is appearing on more people’s radar as a producer of exciting, and high-quality wines. With the cooling Black Sea to the East, the impressive Balkan Mountain range cutting across the country, and its large plains and rolling hills, it’s crazy how much potential for winemaking there is. And with such a variety of soil types too, including very fertile black Chernozem, alluvial sandy soils, and an abundance of nutrient rich forest soils including plenty from the impressive Cinnamon forests – it’s about time the wonderful wines they help produce are getting to the right places.

Both the ancient and recent history of Bulgaria provide a fascinating insight into the state of the wine culture there today. For over 6000 years wine has been produced here. You may have heard of the Thracians, the ‘original’ community of tribespeople who settled and thrived in this southwest corner of Europe, lending their name to the Thracian Lowlands (one of Bulgaria’s 2 PGIs…) who had one of the most significant affects on the country’s wine culture. Their worship of Dionysus, the God of grapes and wine, should tell you enough about the importance of wine to them already, but the Thracians were also respected far and wide for their wines as well with Greek philosophers such as Homer and Aristotle writing about their qualities. Over the many thousands of years between then and now there has been various controlling tribes, emperors, rulers… and through them all, even under around 500 years of Islamic Ottoman rule, wine has remained ingrained in the people of Bulgaria’s culture with most families today still making wine at home from the vines in their gardens.

The most significant contributor to Bulgaria’s recent wine history is certainly the Communist collectivisation whereby wines and the wineries were government controlled to produce high quantity over high quality to satisfy the demands of the Soviet markets. One positive during this time was during this period (1944-1989) a decree was established to investigate over 3000 vineyards across the country resulting in a great gathering of useful information on soils, vines, and vineyards which is still utilised today. There were also experiments on crossing grapes which resulted in the emergence of some of Bulgaria’s most successful ‘native’ varieties such as Rubin, Early Melnik, and a whole of Miskets.

What followed next in the 1990s was a messy time for the Bulgarian wine industry. A land restitution act was passed with the intention to return all the land to its original owners prior to 1947… but this was far from easy. Many original owners had passed on so the land would be split between which ever living descendants could be identified, many of whom had moved away – even left the country. Plenty had no interest using this land (no experience, no desire, too expensive) so many vineyards were left derelict. Officially this ended in the year 2000 but in reality, it is still going on today in parts. Many family winemakers have made hundreds of individual deals to buy back vines such was how fragmented the ownership had become following this. Bulgaria’s wine exports peaked in the 80s, but the 90s brought it crashing back down (albeit the access to cheap alternatives from places like Australia had a significant impact as well).

Today there is a good mix of Family-owned wineries and larger companies who excel at making more modern, dynamic wines. Many champion the local grapes – Mavrud, Melnik, Early Melnik, Rubin, Gamza, Pamid, Dimyat, etc. but there are wonderful examples of Pinot Noir, Merlot, Cab Franc, Marsalan, and a few Italian grapes that are thriving here too.

The future of Bulgarian wines is certainly bright, and the quality is improving year on year as more export conscious producers listen to the international markets. For me, I would like to see more movement on the PGI/PDO development. Bulgaria has just two PGIs – the Danube Plain and the Thracian Lowlands. Essentially one for wines made in the north half of the country and one for the south. Each so large it is pretty meaningless when speaking about wine style, varietal, winemaking techniques etc. A wine from the cool, low altitude Black Sea Coast would carry the same geographical indication as one from the desert like Struma Valley, what would be the point? It is important to get clarification because Bulgaria has lost its once strong position in many key export markets and if it wants to be recognised on the global stage then it needs to produce wines with something unique about them – formal classifications will recognise and support this. It needs wines that stand out and express the terroir, otherwise the wines are just copies of others. There is speak of the regions being expanded from 2 to either 5 or even 9 (I think the 9 would be best as 5 would still leave some rather large ambiguous areas), hopefully we see this development soon.

The good news is that the Bulgarian wines we see here in the UK are generally really good, and there is a great scope of producers available to really get stuck in and explore this amazing, and beautiful, country. I have seen first hand the development of the wine industry in Bulgaria over the last few years, they are serious about quality and want to share it with the world. It’s only a matter of time before even more new and exciting producers are on our shores and I implore you to try them all!

You start by trying wines from our Bulgarian Collection - https://www.novelwines.co.uk/collections/bulgaria

Looking for an older guide? See all the Explorer's Club guides here.

What's in this month's Explorer's Club?

This month we take a deep dive into one of my favourite places, the Balkans. An area consisting of around a dozen countries across southeastern Europe including Bosnia, Montenegro, Serbia, Bulgaria, and Albania amongst others. With over 2000 years of winemaking tradition and influences from multiple major empires, there is diversity and quality to be found from all corners.

For our journey into the Balkans, we’ll discover 6 wines from 5 different countries, each one with its own unique identity and profile, chosen to help you take this exciting foray into these wines from some places you may not have considered as wine producing countries before. Zelen, Zilavka, Vranec… get ready to be blown away by our brilliant Balkan Beauties!

We start in the beautiful Vipava Valley in Slovenia. The first wine is produced by Tilia Estate who were founded in 1996 by Matjaz Lamut whose sole intention is to make world class Pinot Noir. He makes a great Pinot Gris as well, but also wants to respect where he’s from and do his part to champion the local grapes. This is why we have this great zippy, fresh Zelen. Zelen is a pretty rare grape that only really exists here in this small part of Slovenia and its name comes from the wine’s green appearance, especially before filtration (Zelen means green in Slovenian). There is a lovely texture to this wine which helps to showcase the delicious peach and pear flavours, and it has a lovely finish full of apples, lemon, and a nice tart hit of pink grapefruit.

Next up is a scrumptious Zilavka from Bosnia. Zilavka is a very light skinned grape with great acidity and can develop some attractive nutty characteristics as it ages. The winery, Vinarija Citluk, is the largest in the country and located in the heart of Bosnia’s wine production centre in the southern Stony region. There is a pleasant floral profile on the nose to this wine along with hints of peach and bruised apple. A bit more apricot appears on the palate along with a touch of almond to compliment the peaches. It’s nice, zesty, finish makes it a great paring for seafood, especially with a bit of lemon.

Over to Croatia next for a fun white Posip from the family-owned Matusko Winery. Only founded in 1997 but by a family with a wealth of winemaking experience, they like to ensure their wines always show the family’s charm, personality, and playfulness. They forged a reputation not only for more rustic and dusty reds, but also fresh white like this little beauty. Posip is a bright and lively grape found almost exclusively here on the stunning Adriatic coast with these grapes coming from the winery’s vineyards on the Island of Korcula. Lemon zest, apple and pears, as well as an attractive note of honeysuckle make this a great wine for seafood – especially garlic prawns!

Our first red this month comes from North Macedonia’s amazing Ezimit winery. Another exceptionally modern winery, integrating new technologies with their traditional methods, producing a range of both international and local grapes. Vranec, the ‘Black Stallion’, is the champion here. Deep purple, juicy, and spicy, it has become the country's flagship grape for good reason. This Vranec is not as big and brash as some can be, its fruitiness compliments the luxurious chocolate and spices on the nose and in the mouth and the waves of blackberry make for a really pleasant experience. A great red meat wine, or one to match with a slow cooked stew.

We continue the tour of the Balkans with a trip to Romania. Founded in 1999, Dr Geza Balla’s namesake winery can be found on Minis Hill not too far from the Hungarian border on the banks of the River Mures. The long sunshine hours and cool evening temperatures help the vines here to really thrive. Blaufrankisch is much more well known in Austria and Hungary, and by its many synonyms such as Lemberger, Frankovka, and Kekfrankos to name but a few. But here it ripens so well, and you can find a black fruit dominated, brooding wine, with some tell tale blueberry and peppery spice. It’s a perfect choice for lamb, or Italian tomato-based dishes like some pastas and pizza.

One final trip back to North Macedonia completes our Balkan Beauties case, this time with an international variety – Cabernet Sauvignon. Imako Vino is located in the heart of the country’s wine hub, Tikves, a stunningly beautiful region perfect for grape growing. This is a lively Cabernet, easy drinking but with those typical black current and cassis flavours we love. Enticing aromas of sour cherry and plums are prevalent too, this translates onto the palate as well along with a lovely spice and soft, velvety tannins. A great wine for BBQ pork, and also goes great with a nice roast beef dinner.

It’s been an exciting start to my tenure here at Novel Wines. As the new Buying Director, I feel that I am in a privileged position to help find and bring some truly exciting wines, real hidden gems, that often get overlooked for more mainstream styles. Championing wines from lesser-known regions and the grapes you may not have heard of has been my own personal tag line in the industry and where else presents such a perfect fit as Novel Wines. 

I was lucky enough to have visited one of my favourite places, Georgia, twice last year, firstly as part of a delegation led by Georgian Wine expert Sarah Abbot MW back in the Spring, then more recently as a member of the IWSC judging panel. It’s a country rich in wine making tradition which resonates throughout the everyday lives of the Georgian people, and once you experience the famous Georgian hospitality you soon see why one visit here will never be enough!

Once Georgia is mentioned in discussions about wines it's easy to get lost in the headline ‘8000 years of winemaking’. And to be fair, that is exceptionally impressive! The cradle of wine, the origin of winemaking as we know it whose legacy can be seen and felt in every inch of the country. From the back garden winemaker to the vibrant wine bars of Tbilisi, the boutique family wineries, and the much larger wine ‘factories’ that used to supply the soviet demand in years gone by. But what I find interesting is just how far the quality of wines here has come in the recent past.

Since the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991 there has been a considerable shift from the vast quantity production wineries to the quality focused boutique styles. The fact that viticulture here survived throughout the communist era meant that there was decent infrastructure to maintain, and improve, the wine scene in the country. A very special mention needs to go to the Georgian Grape Research Centre who have preserved the over 500 indigenous varieties native to the region and try to find ‘homes’ where they could potentially become commercially viable.

The two most ‘famous’ of these are the inky red Saperavi and the racy white Rkatsiteli. Saperavi is a very consumer friendly grape, it can be pleasantly juicy with a whole host of wild, dark, brambly berries, and a pleasant spice on the finish. The best examples won’t go too heavy on the oak, and need to have the tannins managed well as if not controlled they can get too austere. Fans of Malbec and Montepulciano should be jumping at the opportunity to try Saperavi if they’ve not yet! And what’s more, this grape can age beautifully. Not many producers in Georgia have had the opportunity to cellar older vintages but I found some exceptional examples over 10 years old showing very attractive savoury, gamey, leathery flavours and still a lot of life left in them.

The iconic wine style from Georgia is certainly the Qvevri Wines. Orange wines, Skin-Contact wines, usually referred here as Amber wines or traditional winemaking (rather than ‘modern’, or ‘European’) are essentially made by soaking white grapes in the juice to extract colour and tannins the same way you would with red grapes for red wine. It is amazing to see the serious quality wines that are being produced via this ancient method. A Qvevri is a large, egg shaped, clay vessel that are used for both fermentation and maturation, they are painstakingly handmade – layer by layer – over 2 or 3 months, before they are fired in a kiln (cooked in a big oven) and if looked after properly that can last centuries. They not only allow the wines to take this gorgeous amber/golden/caramel colour, but also impart a texture unlike any other vessel. They help to preserve the wonderful perfume of the wine allowing the varietal characters to sing without being overpowered as can happen with judicious oak ageing. As well as Rkatsiteli, other white grapes take very week to Qvevri winemaking. Mtsvane with its wonderful aromatics, Khikhvi whose spiciness is delightful, and my personal favourite Kisi, with a combination of floral notes, stone fruits, and softer spices.

Don’t let the obscure names put you off, Georgian wines are a whole new world of discovery for most people to dive into and they are only getting better!

You can try some for yourself here:

https://www.novelwines.co.uk/products/vazisubani-estate-georgian-sun-amber-wine-rkatsiteli-2020-georgia?_pos=3&_sid=1c21e5fd9&_ss=r

https://www.novelwines.co.uk/products/vazisubani-estate-georgian-sun-saperavi-2018-georgia?_pos=2&_sid=1c21e5fd9&_ss=r

Looking for an older guide? See all the Explorer's Club guides here.

What's in this month's Explorer's Club?

To kick off the new year we wanted show you just how well some of the more known international grapes do in some more off the beaten path locations, so this month we have selected familiar faces from unfamiliar places. You’ll enjoy a scrumptious Sauvignon, a brilliant Barbera, and a vivacious Viognier and more, all whilst being transported through the wine glass from Hungary, to India, and even over to Mexico. 
 
Here is what we have in this month’s case.  

 While we do love to showcase the unique indigenous grapes that our producers have to offer, it’s also good to see and understand how the more familiar international varieties do in these different terroirs. Many grapes find a ‘home away from home’ and in this month’s line up we’ve found some of the best locations which are superbly suited to grapes that are more well known from other classic regions. 

As ever our team are very happy to answer any questions you have on these wines (and about wine in general!), but also do check out the info below and enjoy your case!

First off is our Benedek Sauvignon Blanc from Matra in northern Hungary. Sauvignon Blanc can be very distinct, both on the nose and the palate whether you go for the gooseberry and passionfruit laden Marlborough styles or more grassy and herbaceous examples from the Loire Valley. But wherever you find it, the tell tale citrussy and green pepper (thanks Pyrazines!) flavours will be there too. 

Vineyards in Matra are planted on the lower slopes of the Northern Hungarian Mountains, which help to bring a freshness to the wines and allowing aromatic whites to really excel here. Most of the vines are planted on volcanic soils that brings a distinct minerality, helping to give a more unique identity to this Sauvignon Blanc. 

Benedek is headed up by current generation winemaker Peter, whose grandparents build the winery. As their business has grown, more and more family members are getting involved with Peter’s brothers and parents all helping out. It’s a great wine to enjoy on its own but we also love to pair it with a herby pork fillet with plenty of roast veggies. 

The next white in the lineup is Sula Vineyards Chenin Blanc. We know Chenin Blanc not only as the iconic Loire grape making dry, off dry, and sweet wines such as Savennieres and Vouvray, but also as the flagship grape of South Africa producing some of their finest and most exciting wines. It has its high levels of acidity to thank for its versatility in style, it can be light and crisp enough to make delicious honeyed sparkling wines yet also produce more unctuous and fuller bodied still white wines with a plethora of flavours including green apples, tropical fruits, honey, and white flowers. 

Nashik is India’s biggest producing region and its hilly terrain scattered with lakes and rivers provides plenty of well drained sites perfect for grape growing. The area is affected by both the South Asian Monsoon, and the hot, dry air from the Thar Desert so winemakers need to be very careful to delay budburst until after the Monsoon has finished. Sula’s Chenin Blanc shows aromas of quince and pear along with those vibrant tropical flavours, enhanced from the long sunlight hours yet moderated by the vineyard’s altitude. 

It's slight off-dry feel allows for pairings with lighter Indian foods, we think its perfect with a Coconut Dhal or Butter Chicken. And if your feeling cheesy, go for the goats! Especially one with a lovely herb crust. 

 Viognier is the main grape in the Northern Rhone making full bodied, golden wines with its textbook oily texture and pronounced peach and apricot perfume. It likes warmer climates and has found homes in many regions worldwide, most notably Eden Valley, but great examples can be found from California to South Africa and beyond. Shtip, in the Vardar River Valley of North Macedonia is where we found another fantastic home for Viognier. 

An altitude of 330 – 560m helps to bring a much-needed freshness and acidity to the wines here as during the late summer there can be lot of sunshine and heat. Not only does Viogniers thick skins help against the sun, but also the wind, akin to the Mistral felt in the Northen Rhone, the Vardar River Valley has strong winds present for most of the year, and it is often referred to as the windiest place on the Balkans. 

The Ezimit Viognier shows a delicate floral, chamomile character, alongside the more obvious stone fruits and crisp apple-like freshness. A complexity that unravels from first sip to its long, textured, honeyed finish. A great wine for roast pork belly or a lemon and herb roast chicken. 

Our first red is Franc Arman Cabernet Franc. Cabernet Franc is grown in most wine producing nations but most famously is a key red grape in the Loire and an important blending grape in Bordeaux. As a parent grape of Cabernet Sauvignon (along with Sauvignon Blanc), Cab Franc shares similar traits but it’s distinct green, leafy, bell pepper, flavours, and a tendency to show more red fruits rather than black, set it apart. 

This wine is from the Croatian region of Istria, one of the countries northern most wine regions sharing its border with Slovenia. Its usually known more for its crisp whites, its coastal proximity helps its reds to develop a freshness and retain their acidity. After being aged in large oak barrels the wine takes on an enticing herbal-spiciness to compliment its fruity profile. It’s still lively, with a good, rounded finish and very pleasantly natured tannins. This is a great red to enjoy with a nice hearty, meaty stew, particularly with these cold winter nights! 

One of northern Italy’s classic varieties, Barbera can produce age worthy reds with attractive aromas and flavours akin to a good Nebbiolo but with lower tannins and a more rounded finish. A bright red cherry character is often found on both the nose and palate, this can take on a pleasant sourness as it matures in barrel which can also impart its wood tannins to help beef up some examples. 

We travel to Canelones in Uruguay for our Barbera, where more than 60% of the countries wine is produced. Far from the iconic South American rugged mountainous backdrop, the terroir here is relatively flat with some hills, well moderated by the proximity to the Atlantic meaning the extremes of summer and winter and much gentler here. There is a richness to the wine, an intensity of flavour that hits you straight away with juicy plums and red cherries. It’s got finesse and an elegance that unfolds as it lingers on towards a delightfully long finish. It's a classic wine to have with a good Italian Ragu, we also think it’s a match for roast lamb dishes too.  

And to finish our line up we are diving deep into the backbone of classic wines such as Barolo and Barbaresco with one of the most iconic red grapes – Nebbiolo. High acid, high tannins, and a complex flavour profile that more often than not contain the ‘typical’ notes of tar and roses. Nebbiolo is notoriously not a good traveller, but some exciting producers have had success in Australia, Uruguay, and as you are finding out now, Mexico. 

L.A.Cetto in Baja California, Mexico, have forged a stellar reputation over the last 20+ years winning international awards and acclaim from plenty of the world's top wine writers. It may come as a surprise to hear that viticulture in Mexico has been practiced here longer than anywhere else in the Americas with the first vines planted in the 16th century. Since then, Baja California has become arguably the most important region in the country with a varied range of growing conditions allowing for a wide variety of grapes to be successfully cultivated here. 

This concentrated, full bodied Nebbiolo, brings a combination of red and dark fruits with an almost meaty/gamey flavour and delicious leathery tannins. Get out the beef, grill some lamb, or roast some game, this is a cracker for a meaty dinner party! 

Looking for an older guide? See all the Explorer's Club guides here.

What's in this month's Explorer's Club?

As a wise man once sang: ‘Its Chrrrissstmmaaaaasssssssss!’

Ahem, anyway the festive season rolls round again so we’ve decided to do something a bit different to our regional exploration and select wines that make for perfect Christmas Lunch pairings.

This month’s Explorer’s Club is chosen to provide a wine for every course, from a sparkling that is ideal to really get lunch started to a favourite sweet wine made to cap off a feast. With this collection you can still Explore the world but you can do it from the comfort of your dining room table. With a paper crown on.

What do we mean when we talk about great pairings? As Seasoned Wine Explorers you’ll know that usually pairing wine with food means balancing acid with salt to ramp up fruitiness or upping the acidity and freshness to ‘cut through’ fat and richness. All are present in the wines this month but Christmas lunch throws in a lot more challenges that make this so much fun to think about. Often lunch is multiple courses, meaning palettes get jaded quickly; the wines served with the meal usually aren’t the first of the day; and the main course has lots of delicious sides, all of which need to be thought about and can trip up the unwary. We’ve included a couple of whites and reds, each of different body and weight to make things a bit more simple.

If you already have the wines planned then they also just make for a tasty glass of wine over the holiday period, whether that’s a pick me up on Boxing Day or a celebratory glass of fizz on New Year’s Eve. So, sit back, open a bottle and we’ll begin…

This is the flagship sparkling wine from the Istenic family, based in the eastern rolling hills of Slovenia. It’s named for the founder Janez Istenic’s career as the goalkeeper for the Slovenian national team before he made the move into winemaking in the 60’s. It’s all traditional method, exactly the same as in Champagne but the Pinot Meunier has been replaced by an indigenous grape, Rumeni Plavac. This adds an enticing peachiness that make it very smooth. This is combined with time on lees that gives it breadiness and complexity.

With the latest vintage, Istenic have reduced the sugar dosage to increase the acidity. This makes the wine ideal for pairing with fattier, salty foods like smoked salmon, prawn cocktail or dressed crab. It’s a smart wine to start a meal with but is light and balanced enough to drink by itself.


The first of our still whites, this is another wine to pair with fish as a starter but also works so well with roast turkey. Holdvolgy are modern winemakers with a long history. The winery itself sits on tunnels from the 16th century that are still used to age wine. They’re situated Tokaj, in the heart of Hungary’s winemaking capital and Vision really shows this. Hungarian furmints are all about minerality and its here in abundance but barrel aging adds additional layers of Williams pear, cedar and quince.

The minerality and natural furmint acidity will complement turkey and refresh palettes that might have already had a few different tipples by lunch but its complexity means it won’t be competing for attention with the variety of strongly flavoured sides. A real ‘food wine.’

This is a new wine for us this year as we’ve grown our range from the Republic of North Macedonia, a small country with an ancient viticultural tradition and an increasing international reputation. Viognier needs heat to ripen well so it really flourishes in this warm region but there is still a freshness and delicacy here, as there is in good Rhone versions where its most famously planted. All that heat really brings out the abundant stone fruit, chamomile, floral, honey and apple notes of the variety.

While it still has Viognier’s lightness, this has more ‘weight’ and body than the Vision and so it makes sense to have this after that if drinking with the meal. Or serve to fans of more mid-weight wines and keep Vision for the ‘crisp white’ drinkers. It should shine alongside a herby, lemony buttery turkey. 

Janos Markvart Jnr is the winemaker at this brilliant winery in the south of Hungary. The grapes grow on mature vines in two vineyard sites, in the Sauli Valley and the Right Hermit respectively, with the latter consisting of hundred year old vines. A long time Novel Wines favourite, the final wine is a Kadarka that is bright and fresh, bursting with red berries and showing similarities to Pinot Noir.

As a pairing wine it has a balanced acidity that works well alongside an indulgent meal. Although you may not be thinking red, light reds are a classic Turkey pairing and this Kadarka is no exception. Think cranberry sauce with its bright, red fruits and sweetness and you can see how this works. Its also fantastic with duck and contrasts nicely with rich meats and sides like pigs in blankets.

For our final red, we’ve stepped up on body and intensity and picked a wine for those of you treating yourself to a rib of beef this Christmas. Feketeleanyka, otherwise known as Feteasca Neagra, has a deep intense hue. Indigenous to Romania, the grapes are picked from the famous Minis vineyard in Transylvania, the home of Balla Geza. With this wine you get loads of blueberry, black cherry and warm spice notes, perfect for Christmas!

With an eye to food pairing, all the wines we’ve selected this month have a touch of acidity. When pairing wine with beef, its easy just to go with a big, oaky red but the tannins will clash with the fattiness of the meat and the spice in some of the sides (eg star anise in red cabbage.) Tannin is often a challenge and while there is big fruit here and some tannin from barrel aging, due to its tang it should play more nicely with beef while delivering the weight and punch of a hearty Chianti.

Christmas is a time for friends and Tundermese is certainly close to our hearts, being the first wine we ever listed! A blend of Furmint and Sargamuskotaly from Tokaj, Hungary. It’s a great dessert wine due its to its fresh, fruity flavour. There are layers of, melon, quince and pear over a fresh acidity. It’s a sweet finish but its well balanced by a fresh acidity that will pair nicely with the stilton or a mince pie.

However you’re doing Christmas this year, we hope you have an enjoyable and relaxing time. Thank you for your support as ever and look out for some exciting new boxes next year.

Merry Christmas from Novel Wines Ramblers and Globetrotters!

Where can I find out more?

If you're not subscribed to the Club, crack on and get your subscription online by clicking here and join from only £49. If you'd rather just stock up on Swiss & German wine, go here.

Looking for an older guide? See all the Explorer's Club guides here.

What's in this month's Explorer's Club?

For this month’s Explorers’ Club we visit the real heart of classical European wine, Switzerland and Germany. Twinned by similarities in language and culture, these are two very different regions in terms of wine production with Germany the much bigger sibling. However, Switzerland more than holds its own, with unique grapes and quality winemaking across the board. In this month’s box you’ll discover new wines, compare how a classic grape is influenced by both countries and meet one of our long-time favourite producers! So grab your passport and join us for a wine adventure around Germany and Switzerland. Prost!

Switzerland tends to fly under the oenological radar. It appears to be a place where wine is more likely to be drunk in swish lakeside hotels by serious men in suits than actually grown. Which is unsurprising given that only 1% of its total production is exported! However, it deserves to be more widely appreciated as the quality is high due to the real personal care and attention needed to grow wine in some of Europe’s highest vineyards, even in co-operatives like Cave de la Cote. 

The native white grape Chasselas dominates and the Swiss coax complexity and character from a fairly neutral variety, especially in the Western areas around Valais. Pinot Noir is the other hero and it tends towards a light, easy drinking style closer to Gamay. 

Germany meanwhile is a massively diverse country with huge contrasts in soils and temperatures, cold in the north and continental and warm in the south and west, increasingly so. German wine can be an archaic, opaque world and at the top end it has a notoriously complicated classification system of dry to sweet -’ Prädikatswein’ with an historic focus on sweeter styles. 

But is the modern face of winemaking we’ve focussed on in this box, with two dry wines and a very fun slightly off dry classic. We’ve also kept it simple and chosen two wines from the Rheingau, the traditional heart of German terroir and Riesling territory, and one from nearby Pfalz. 

The Rheingau as it sounds like, is situated along the Rhein and benefits from the warming effects of that great river that contributes to Rieslings and Pinot Noirs full of fruit and freshness. Pzalz is the sunniest and driest part of Germany and this makes for expressive whites such as Zeter’s Grauburgunder. 

Pull up a glass and let’s get started.

Chasselas is Switzerland's flagship white grape variety.Its a light white with a delicate nose of apple skins and lime blossom. However, it’s really all about the palate with Chasselas, and this is full of white peach and pineapple notes. It’s a perfect aperitif wine, refreshing and uncomplicated.

This is a  bright, refreshing Pinot, very much in the Swiss mould. Its cherry red and Gamay like with aromas of raspberries and blackcurrants leading into a lean and zippy palate. All this makes for a very drinkable Pinot with lots of fruit. It drinks well on its own but its crisp red fruits mean that it works well with Chicken or even spicier fish dishes. Try it lightly chilled.

Staying with Cave De La Cote but jumping up in quality, this is a premium blend of two varieties launched in 1990 that ripen later to allow body, deep fruit and spice notes to develop. The Gamaret gives a spicy, peppery and black fruit note similar to Syrah while Garanoir provides the structure and soft tannin you will notice. Blueberry is layered over blackcurrant, blackberry and red cherry on the nose with smoky hues and a touch of nutmeg spice.This wine highlights the potential for Switzerland to produce plush, full bodied reds using these varieties.  

A combination of slope angles, varied soils and warm, Rhineland  micro-climates produces a  unique Riesling with a complex heady sensation of sweet peaches and honey on the nose. It maintains a classic,  perfect balance of a 'sweet and sour' palate of floral and citrus notes, leading to a finish that should last. This is quality German winemaking and the winery is located among lush vineyards at the banks of the Rhine River in the heart of the most important Riesling growing region in the world. 

Grauburgunder is otherwise known as Pinot Gris and this wine is pure Pfalz, a warm West German region. From our friends at Oliver Zeter, this is an expressive dry white wine with juicy, warm aromas and flavours of ripe yellow fruits and lemon with quite a juicy finish. The wine was partially fermented in wooden barrels and left on fine yeast for a few months to add further complexity and richness.

It's worth tasting this alongside the Pinot Noir from Cave De La Cote to see the contrast between German and Swiss Pinot. This is a ripe version, warmed by the sun from the Rhine and shows the quality that Germany can produce. It explains why they drink so much of their own production! There are typical notes of cherry and strawberries but partnered with a noticeable toasted oak from the 10 months it spends in barriques. Highly versatile but try with duck breast or delicate, salt-marsh lamb.

Where can I find out more?

If you're not subscribed to the Club, crack on and get your subscription online by clicking here and join from only £49. If you'd rather just stock up on Swiss & German wine, go here.

Looking for an older guide? See all the Explorer's Club guides here.

What's in this month's Explorer's Club?

We've got a truly esoteric box of wine to send you this October. We're introducing you to the wines of Asia, featuring the likes of India, Japan and Thailand. In this exciting mix you'll taste wines you may never have tried before - even if the grapes might be similar, the climate is so wildly different that each of these wines carry their own unique stamp. We'll be indulging in volcanic Koshu white wines, sweet and creamy Chenin Blanc, and grassy Sauvignons, to a plump and fruity Pokdum blend and a rich, jammy single vineyard Shiraz.

So, without futherado, let's tuck into a box of Asian treats!

While much of Asia falls into the 30-50 latitude that experts say is the perfect area for vine growing, the culture of wine is still an exciting and emerging market for many of its people. India in particular is fast becoming the world's next wine powerhouse, but much of it is continental, hot and humid with large diurnal range and can produce ripe crops sometimes more than once a vintage. This means the winemakers and growers need to understand their unique terroir, using lessons from the west but tailoring them to a uniquely Asian climate and culture; Sula, as I'll discuss later, does this very well.

As fans of our wines will know, volcanic soils and regions have a tendency to deliver amazing depth and complexity to wine and Japan has this in abundance, especially in its main wine-growing region, Yamanashi prefecture. This volcanic soil lends itself to deep-rooting vines and concentrated fruit and yet, in a very Japanese fashion, its main grape variety, Koshu, is a delicate pink-skinned grape making lightly aromatic and saline wines. They are somehow both featherweight but long and intriguing on the palate.

In the humid, tropical Hua Hin Hills of Thailand, grapes like Pokdum with its plump berry and soft skins make for gluggable wines. Monsoon Valley, of all Thailand's emerging wineries, is spearheading the push for quality. 

There's so much to meet when it comes to Asian wine so we hope this case will dip your toes in and excite you to try something new.

If you have any specific questions about the wine, you can get in touch with our team here. 

We start this month's Explorer's Club with a wine very dear to me, Grace Koshu Kayagatake (included in The Globetrotter only), grown just a short train ride away from Tokyo in Yamanashi under Mount Koshu. This wine is made by the talented winemaker Ayana Misawa, one of the first winemakers I covered as a journalist early in my career. Her wines are delicate but characterful, with this Koshu showcasing pithy citrus and bittersweet pink grapefruit.

The grapes are grown on vines in volcanic soils, something I find adds salinity - like salting your food - that brings out more flavour and makes your mouth water. Naturally that makes it a great match with go-to Japanese cuisine like sushi, and I also love this wine with grilled white fish or goat's cheese.

One thing that sets Japanese drinks production apart from the rest of the world - whether it be sake, whisky or wine - is the attention to detail. The product they create is not simply delicious but full of subtle nuances. You can spend all day tasting the Koshu varietals from Grace and not get bored. The winery was set up in 1923 and today it is one of Japan's leading wineries on the export market.

Next up we have the Chateau Mercian Koshu Sur Lie (included both The Rambler and The Globetrotter). This is another Japanese white wine from Yamanashi but this time it has also had lees ageing, which is where the wine is rested on the yeast cells after they've been spent from fermentation. This can add creaminess typically, but the short cool time on lees with Chateau Mercian's Koshu adds texture and grippiness to the wine. The wine enjoys 8 months on its lees developing this extra flavour and texture before it is bottled, rested and then sold. 

The wine was made by Mitsuhiro Anzo, who showcases all of the style of Koshu in this bottle. Koshu, Japan’s indigenous wine grape, can be traced back to 1186 when it was discovered growing wild at Katsunama in Yamanashi prefecture, supposedly having reached Japan from Europe on the spice trail. Today very much a Japanese wine, it is only recently that we have had the pleasure of trying it abroad.

Pair Chateau Mercian's Koshu with fish pie, miso chicken or salmon ceviche.

Your next white wine in the case this month is the Sula Vineyards Chenin Blanc (included both The Rambler and The Globetrotter). This wine comes from India's Maharashtra region, near the town of Nashik. Chenin Blanc is one of the few grape varieties that seems to retain a good level of acidity as it ripens or, in some hotter years, over ripens. Entrepreneur Rajeev Samant originally teamed up with Californian winemaker Kerry Damskey to set up Sula Vineyards as a push for quality Indian wine - and make a wine that could be enjoyed with, rather than prior, to Indian food.

With this riper style of Chenin Blanc, some malolactic fermentation is employed to turn sharp acidities into creamy soft lactic acidity, and residual sugar is left, albeit gently balanced, to add sweetness. This mix of creamy sweetness with the wine's bright pear, red apple and spice flavours makes it a delightful match with dals, biryanis or fried bhajis. 

Your final white wine is another entry for India's Sula with their Sula Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc (included in The Globetrotter only). I remember, years ago, when I first went to a Wines of India book launch event at London's Institute of Masters of Wine tasting this grassy, ripe and soft white wine. It was, at the time, the pick of the Indian wines by famous critic Jancis Robinson MW. While I personally preferred the rounded sweet softness of the Chenin Blanc, over the years I've grown to enjoy Sula's Sauvignon. 

Try not to think of this as Sauvignon Blanc. It's grassy, almost peachy, and raw-like with fresh cut acidity and a hint of bruised pear. It has a thicker, more enveloped texture than your typical Sauvignon. It's best enjoyed with fish curries, dosas or samosas.

Before we try the delicious and expertly made red from Sula, let me intro you to another red wine from an unlikely place: Thailand. This is the Monsoon Valley Vineyard Pokdum-Shiraz Red (included in The Globetrotter only). An award-winning red wine from Thailand's premier contemporary winemaker Monsoon Valley using grapes sourced from the floating Vineyards of the Chao Phraya Delta and the Hua Hin Hills. Native Pokdum, Shiraz, Dornfelder and Rondo are carefully blended for layered complexity.

Light ruby in appearance with aromas of plum and red fruits, toast and subtle smoke. The wonderfully soft and textured palate shows a berry fruit and spice character with leathery undertones and a velvety finish. Try with Thai and East Asian cuisine such as red curries, beef salad, Panang Beef and chilli pork.

Monsoon Valley Vineyard is built on a former elephant corral, a sublime place where wild Asian elephants were domesticated. The terrain of loamy-sand and slate and constant ocean breeze allow international grape varietals to thrive and produce aromatic and award-winning wines. Their aim is to produce wine that uses a combination of the New and Old World accentuated with an exotic touch.

Finally let's introduce you to the wine that kicked off our Asian selection in 2016 all those years ago: Sula Vineyards Dindori Reserve Shiraz (included both The Rambler and The Globetrotter). This is a single vineyard selection of Shiraz grapes on the Sula estate and it's a real treat. It has often been a marmite wine for my customers, with people loving its smoky and jammy depths and others finding it all a bit much in the glass. The one thing everyone agrees on is that it's the best wine to pair with tomato based curries (think Jalfrezi, Madras or Tikka Masala). 

This Shiraz is picked late, plump and ripe, giving it sweetness and fullness of flavour. After fermentation, the wine is aged in heavily charred American oak barrels for 12 months giving elements of smoke, spice and vanilla. These heady aromas work wonders with spicy food. 

Dindori is a single vineyard in a picturesque sub-district of Nashik, offering gentle hills of red laterite and basalt rock. These lighter soils allow the Shiraz to flourish, rooting deeply into the nutrient-rich soils below.

Where can I find out more?

If you're not subscribed to the Club, crack on and get your subscription online by clicking here and join from only £49. If you'd rather just stock up on Asian wine, go here.

Looking for an older guide? See all the Explorer's Club guides here.

What's in this month's Explorer's Club?

Welcome to your September selection for the Novel Wines Explorer's Club, celebrating the return of our delicious Croatian wines. The case features a half dozen different varieties to try from across the country, from Malvasija-Istarska in Istria on the northern Adriatic coastline, via Traminac grown in the north-east Danubian plain of Slavonia, and the iconic Plavac Mali deep red wine of Dalmatia in the south. 

Croatia's unique position with the Adriatic coastline to the west offering cooling, saline-fresh winds, and the Mediterranean climate in-land to the east, leads to wine with both intensity and freshness. The Istrian peninsula in the north-west is the country's wine jewel, dipping deeply into the Adriatic's cooling influence with its flatter plots and eastern valleys that channel the coastal winds. The south, particularly Dalmatia, is a hot and dry region but the vines here sit on islands with steep aspects, surrounded by the sea and enjoying long ripening periods to create characterful, bold reds with lots of alcohol but great balance.

I am sure you'll love these Croatian wines, especially if you've been to the country and will enjoy a little taste of your holidays. If you have never visited Croatia before, then let these wines entice and tempt you into booking that next trip!

If you have any specific questions about the wine, you can get in touch with our team here. However, we've got lots of info on the wines below, so pull the cork and get stuck in!

We start this month's Explorer's Club with the Kabola Organic Malvasija-Istarska (included in The Globetrotter only), grown on elevated terraces on the south-west facing side of the Momjan Valley, with views of the Adriatic Sea. The 2021 vintage follows a string of successful vintages in 2019 and 2020, bursting with honey apple, melon, peach and lime. There's also a lovely bittersweet note, reminiscent of quince and grapefruit with a grassy, herbaceous hue. Sauvignon fans will love this as a sun-kissed, riper choice to their usual tipple. 

A lovely and fresh Malvazija like this is going to sing with coastal food, unsurprisingly; go posh and try it with lobster roll, or stay simple with grilled white fish and a squirt of fresh lemon. The wine's also a great pick for picnic grub like potato salad, fish cakes, pork pies, quiche and the like.

Next up we have the Testament Organic Posip (included both The Rambler and The Globetrotter). I still remember trying this wine for the first time in London around 5 years ago and absolutely adoring it. I'm so pleased we can share it today with wine lovers here in the UK. Posip is a delicious variety indigenous to the southern winegrowing region of Dalmatia. It loves the heat and gets plenty of it around the medieval town of Šibenik in northern Dalmatia. 

Straw gold in colour, dense and aromatic, this mouth-filling and full white wine brings a tide of flavour with apple, pear, chamomile and white peach. It's not sweet, rather opulent in texture, making it massively satisfying.

Pair Posip with asparagus wrapped in Prosciutto ham, roast chicken and trimmings, or baked salmon. 

Your final white wine in the case this month is the Ilocki Podrumi Traminac Premium (included both The Rambler and The Globetrotter). Ilocki Podrumi know how it's done - they are one of Croatia's oldest wineries. For their 'Vrhunsko' wines, meaning 'Supreme quality', Ilocki takes the best fruit from the vineyards of Srijem in the north-east region of Croatian Danube.

Using the Traminac grape, grown widely in these parts, they focus on making a pure style that evokes the fruit of the sunshine and the minerality of the terroir. The result is something more approachable than more pungeant styles of the similar Gewurztraminer variety, instead favouring an intense nose but a clean, elegant palate of fresh fruit and hints of honey and Turkish delight.

An amazing white wine with Thai cuisine or spice in general. It's also a good choice with semi-soft, strong cheese.

Time for reds! So much to choose from in Croatia but let's start with an iconic northern Croatian red, Pilato Teran (included both The Rambler and The Globetrotter). Teran is a quintessential Istrian dry red wine. The vines grow in ‘rust’ red terra rossa soil over a layer of limestone rock on a slightly elevated plain at 200m above sea level. The average age of the vines is around 15 years.

When the wine's young it can sometimes be tangy and astringent, but as it ages Teran matures beautifully into a poised, ripe and memorable red wine. This Teran is 2015 with 8 years of ageing, leading to a mix of dried cherries, tea leaves, pepper and blackcurrant. 

As it's not too rich, this red is a brilliant partner with lamb dishes or mushrooms, especially if a bit of soy is used to add caramelisation and sweetness. 

Our next wine is the Franc Arman Cabernet Franc (included in The Globetrotter only). I am a huge fan of Cabernet Franc, often from the Loire but especially from warmer climates like Villany and here, in Istria, Croatia. The result is a bold, deeply hued red with blackberries, blackcurrants, and black cherries. Hints of leathery tannins, vanilla and leather round out the wine, giving it structure and length.

Franc Arman's winery is based in Narduči, western Istria. Franc and Oliver continue the traditions of their ancestors, who first planted vines in the region in 1850. They make a lot of wine from international varieties but they are discerning in their selection and source the right varieties to fit the valley climates of north-west Croatia, like this excellent Cab Franc.

These kinds of reds work really well with red meat, strong cheese (think aged Cheddar or Gruyere), or stews. 

Finally let's introduce you to chocolate in a bottle: Matusko Dingac (included in the The Globetrotter only), which is the 2017 vintage.

Matusko is a pioneer of the premium Dingac red wines made from Plavac Mali (a variety known locally as the "blood of the soil"). Dark ruby red in colour, this is a full, rounded and harmonious wine with brooding black fruits, dark chocolate and a silky texture. Truly special! Created by one of Dalmatia's most respected winemakers, Mato Violić Matuško.

Pair with blue cheese, chocolate desserts, or rich gamey stews.

Where can I find out more?

If you're not subscribed to the Club, crack on and get your subscription online by clicking here and join from only £49. If you'd rather just stock up on Croatian wine, go here.

Looking for an older guide? See all the Explorer's Club guides here.

What's in this month's Explorer's Club?

Welcome to your August selection of the Novel Wines Explorer's Club, this month featuring a range of exciting wines from Szekszard and Villany, two winemaking regions at the south of Hungary. Villany is a small gastronomic village surrounded by vines to the south-west of the Danube River as it leaves Hungary and curves its way down the Serbian/Croatian border. Szekszard is a little further north and is a region of rolling hills and and greenery peppered with vineyards.

OK, we know you received a bottle of the Heumann Blue Secret in last month's BBQ box, but hear us out: the story-telling of these regions is all about the reds and we think the box wouldn't be complete without that mix of Bordeaux inspiration and delicious Kekfrankos as a benchmark wine to taste alongside the other bottles. We hope you loved it last month (and genuinely did try it with a BBQ), but this month, we would love you to open it alongside Markvart's traditional 100% Kekfrankos and see the two different directions these regions are pulling in. Who does it best? Is it more attractive in its purity, or as a blending agent for international varieties? Or maybe they are both great, but for different occasions? Let us know!

If you have any specific questions about the wine, you can get in touch with our team here. However, we've got lots of info on the wines below, so pull the cork and get stuck in!

OK let's kick-off this month's Explorer's Club with our Heumann Rhine Riesling (included both The Rambler and The Globetrotter), actually one of my favourite wines. This premium dry white wine was a great discovery when we went to meet Erhard and Evelyne Heumann, the Swiss/German couple behind their namesake estate in Villany. The Riesling is organically farmed and selected by hand for the best fruit, and it offers something quite different from the Rieslings of Germany and the New World. Clean and fresh but with an intense note of white peach, apricot, lime blossom, lemon citrus and zingy apple. This is fruit-forward and proud of it. Partial malolactic fermentation adds softness to the finish.

I like this wine with spice and have recommended it with chicken chimichanga or stir fries. If you're not a fan of spice, it's a really nice option with oilier fish like mackerel or to elevate classic simple but delicious food like pizza or pasta.

Next up it's pink wine time with the Heumann Rosé (included both The Rambler and The Globetrotter). The loess and limestone soils in Villany provide the ideal home for 'Kekfrankos'; in fact the high proportion of limestone in Siklós leads to fruit with a distinct note of elegance and minerality. The resulting deep salmon-colour (but dry) rosé has a soft nose of cherry, orange rind and cranberry fruit. It's very smooth with an elegant palate of spicy paprika and pepper over pink grapefruit, orange, fresh cherries and thyme. The finish has hints of apple, cherry stone and almonds. 

Rosé as good as this love umami (think soy-based dishes), sweet and sour pork, or picnic food. It's particularly good with goat's cheese, too.

Next up is the Markvart Kekfrankos (included both The Rambler and The Globetrotter). One of Janos Markvart Jnr's finest Kekfrankos wines, this medium bodied and silky red wine leads with fresh cherries and light, rustic wood notes. The acidity is tight and fresh, complementing the fruity palate and leaving a moreish finish. The wine is softened in large, used barrels prior to bottling. Kekfrankos may be central and eastern Europe's most-planted black grape variety but to master it takes a talented winemaker like Markvart and idyllic terroir like the rolling hills of Szekszard.

A really versatile red thanks to its acidity and fruit-forward style, enjoy this with sage and onion pork sausages, grilled meat and fries (think Med-style), jacket spud topped with cheesy beans, or Italian food, especially lasagne.

Another bottle from Markvart next with the deliciously Northern Rhone-esque red, Markvart Syrah (included The Globetrotter only). 

A tasty, and powerful Syrah grown on south-east facing hills and sandy topped terroir in the rolling hills of Szekszard. This Syrah is spicy, smoky and bold but is backed up with dark fruits and red berries to make it easier to drink compared to fuller reds. Complete with mineral notes and tannins making it well structed and a very enjoyable red.

It has a wonderful affinity with food, but particularly roast lamb and trimmings, or aubergine dishes.

Our next wine is the Heumann Blue Secret (included in The Globetrotter only).  The Blue Secret is a brand new blend from Hungary’s leading red wine area, Villany, in the south of the country. Selected from 14-24 year old vines, the fruit is carefully ripened and gently crushed. The wine's a mix of red cherries and vanilla with a deep purple colour and notes of smooth blackberries, cherries and plums on the palate. The tannins are soft and gentle with a rather long finish.

This is one of those wines that illustrates the style aspirations of the Villany wine region, so if you like it, make sure you look out for the wines of Villany in Hungarian selections. Do you prefer this or Markvart's pure take? Let us know!

Pair this richer take with blue cheese burgers or rich stews. It will also marry really well with pungent soft cheese.

Finally let's introduce you to the modern day Bull's Blood, the Markvart Szekszardi Bikaver (included in the The Globetrotter only), which comes with a striking label.

Unlike the story of Bull's Blood to the north, in Eger, which centres around the myth of the Ottomans routing at the sight of Hungarian knights with red wine down their beards, the Szekszardi story of Bull's Blood is a softer one. The term Bikaver was a slang word in the region for the finest blends of red wine, made with love from people's homes, and was coined by a local poet who enjoyed drinking the wine. It has lived on to this day as a word given to the region's most celebrated wines.

Predominantly made up of Kekfrankos, central and eastern Europe's most planted red grape, this blend also includes rich and fruity Cabernet Sauvignon, and spicy, meaty Syrah. The wine is traditional in style with notes of cherries and blackberries over a structured palate with herbaceous hints and milk chocolate tannins.

Enjoy it with braised beef, Porcini mushroom risotto, game dishes, or sirloin steak and truffle chips.

Where can I find out more?

If you're not subscribed to the Club, crack on and get your subscription online by clicking here and join from only £49. If you'd rather just stock up on Hungarian wine, go here.

Looking for an older guide? See all the Explorer's Club guides here.

What's in this month's Explorer's Club?

In July we're taking a step away from the usual theme by region to show you an eclectic mix of BBQ-perfect bottles. From zingy, peachy Vinho Verde and smoky Hungarian Juhfark in the white wines, through a smooth and creamy dry rosé from Slovakia, to a trio of reds giving you a full-bodied and rich experience.

So, without further ado, let me introduce you to this month's selection of novel BBQ wines.

While these wines have been selected with grilled meats, sticky sauces, and charred Mediterranean veg in mind, they are also a showcase of five different countries and the versatility available in wine. We think you're going to love exploring something a little different - and, if you don't have a BBQ to hand, we've included some other fabulous pairing as well.

If you have any specific questions about the wine, you can get in touch with our team here. However, we've got lots of info on the wines below, so pull the cork and get stuck in!

Starting this month's Explorer's Club is our Vila Nova Vinho Verde (included in The Globetrotter only). Vinho Verde - "green wine" - has made a name for itself as a spritzy, easy-going fresh white wine off the Atlantic coast. However, Vinho Verde is actually the name of Portugal's most northerly wine-growing region and home to a whole host of styles based on their (mainly white) local grapes. 

Based in northern Portugal with their vineyards located in the sub region of Sousa, the Vinho Verde Demarcated Region, Casa de Vila Nova combines the tradition and experience of its founders with the vitality and innovation of a young generation. It aims to be the best in the region, and its Vila Nova range is pushing for a more unique, fruit-forward style.

This wine from Vila Nova is a warmer, peachier style than you'd get from classic Vinho Verde. Its richness makes it work well with fatty meats like pork, or charred notes on BBQ chicken. It is also an easy winner with potato salad (or for just sipping cool by the glass, without the food!). If you're not having a BBQ then try this wine with ricotta and spaghetti, or baked hake.

Next up is the white wine, Fekete Pince Somloi Juhfark (included both The Rambler and The Globetrotter). 'Juhfark' is a unique, indigenous Hungarian grape variety that roughly translates to 'Sheep's tail'. Grown in western Hungary, the grapes are carefully picked from the slopes of Somló Hill, a defunct volcano in the Balaton highlands. This limited release of 6,000 bottles of Juhfark is the region's iconic wine, overseen by the 'Grand Old Man of Somló' until his death in 2012, before being continued by the next generation.

The grapes are gently pressed and fermented and matured in 1000L Hungarian oak, giving it a smoky hue. Further ageing is followed in tank. The result is a golden coloured wine with long legs and aromas of ripe peach, quince, and mango. On the palate it's fragrant with quince and pear, has a saline and long texture, and a warming finish.

This wine is one of the finest pairings I've tried with BBQ fish. It can even take on some spice, so you could try BBQ fish tacos. At home, the wine loves creamy sauces so going for chicken and mushroom, maybe a bit of truffle, is going to work very well.

The next wine is the Csernus Lava Cuvée Rosé (included both The Rambler and The Globetrotter). This is a "Siller" style of rosé, meaning it spends longer on skins and is from a later harvest compared with traditional rosé. That style allows for greater lees-integration, giving creaminess, and also a riper fruit profile that softens out the wine's high volcanic acidity.

The Lava Cuvée is a small production rosé of only 1,226 bottles from the Csernus family estate in Slovakia, with vines planted on the volcanic foothills of Mt Straz. Its name, 'Lava Cuvée', refers to the single vineyard of Pod Strážom with its granitic and volcanic rock soils on reddish iron ore, tuff, limestone and sandstone. This provides low yielding, highly concentrated and fruit-forward grapes with mineral freshness and acidity. The deeper rosé style is rich with cherry and plum notes and a hint of spice.

This style of rosé is an awesome pairing with BBQ lamb or anything spicy. It can also work really well with buttery, creamy cheese.

Now we're onto reds, arguably the go-to style for BBQ lovers. The first red, included in both subs, is the Walter Glatzer Zweigelt Cuvée Carnuntum DAC (included both The Rambler and The Globetrotter). Zweigelt is one of Austria's most important and most planted red grape varieties. 

This is a deeply coloured style of Zweigelt red, showcasing the warmer climate of Carnuntum and the fruit richness you can achieve. It's a nod to both Syrah and Blaufrankisch with silky notes of black cherry balanced by pepper spice. Briefly matured in 2,000L barrels to soften out before bottling. Made from a selection of organic vineyards around the village of Göttlesbrunn on Glatzer's family estate.

A great Zweigelt like this is the perfect partner for grilled red meats, but it is also fruity and rich enough to pair with a burger stuffed full of melted cheese, gherkins and sweet or spicy tomato sauce. The wine is also, like the rosé, a great lamb pairing and often my go-to for roast lamb and all the trimmings.

Our next wine is the Heumann Blue Secret (included in The Globetrotter only).  The Blue Secret is a brand new blend from Hungary’s leading red wine area, Villany, in the south of the country. Selected from 14-24 year old vines grown on loess and limestone soils, the fruit is carefully ripened and gently crushed. The resulting fruit-forward wine has aromas of red cherries and vanilla with a deep purple colour and notes of smooth blackberries, cherries and plums on the palate. The tannins are soft and gentle with a rather long finish.

Another burger-friendly wine, this is also a great pick for sticky BBQ ribs. It will also pair sauces well, especially gravies, so try it with sausages and mash.

Finally we have Vigne Romnio Romagna DOC Sangiovese Superiore Riserva (included in the The Globetrotter only), our fastest-ever selling Italian red.

Vigneti Romio is a brand created by the award wining Caviro Group, a grower's cooperative in Italy. They 100% energy self-sufficient with a focus on sustainability and social responsibility. The Vigneti Romio wines convey the history of the humble region of Romagna, through the grape varieties, the labels created by local artisans using traditional engraved wooden moulds, and the simple, food-friendly wine inside the bottle.

This deep crimson red is soft on the acidity, but bold on taste with a fuller body. Ripe black cherries on the nose with a delicious hint of spice. With red berry flavours on the palate and fine tannins, this wine is well balanced with a long finish.

Superb with BBQ sausages.

Where can I find out more?

If you're not subscribed to the Club, crack on and get your subscription online by clicking here and join from only £49. If you'd rather just stock up on wine, go here.

Looking for an older guide? See all the Explorer's Club guides here.

What's in this month's Explorer's Club?

In June we're doing things a little differently. I know that you love the Club for introducing you to wines and regions you may never have tried before, but this month we're going to have a play on the classics with half a dozen Spanish wines. In the selection this month, we're changing the conversation around Cava with a gorgeous Brut Nature; we're trying floral Malvasia and buttery Treixadura, grapes you may not have tasted before now; and two old vine examples, one Tempranillo - the grape you all know and love from Rioja - and one Bobal, a widely-planted grape that performs brilliantly when harvested from old vines. Last but not least we have a Gual from Tenerife, which is one of my all-time star wines. 

So, without further ado, let me introduce you to this month's selection of novel Spanish wines.

Remember, Spanish wines are incredibly versatile with food (think of the variety you have with tapas!) so do try and taste these alongside something yummy. This is because for much of Spain you have lots of sunshine hours, giving full and intense ripeness of fruit, but also a range of altitudes that deliver freshness. Modern winemaking means the heat can be offset to create some big but beautifully balanced wine styles.

If you have any specific questions about the wine, you can get in touch with our team here. However, we've got lots of info on the wines below, so pull the cork and get stuck in!

Starting this month's Explorer's Club is our Rovellats Premiere Cava Brut Nature (included both The Rambler and The Globetrotter). I have always loved Cava since getting into the wine trade. The fizz is made the same as Champagne, with second fermentation in bottle, but on the Mediterranean coast it develops a warmth and fruity profile that makes it approachable but toasty and bold. Rovellats is a nice trade-up from the cheaper Cava as it's Brut Nature so bone dry and elegant in nature. Brut Nature just means zero dosage, or no added sugar. This leads to a lean fizz full of apples, melon, candy peel and toasted brioche with a long, fresh finish.

I find Brut Nature wines are very good food friendly wines. Try with cured fish, salmon blinis, or any chicken and mushroom pie with cream sauce. It will also match very well with paella.

Next up is the white wine, Bodegas Cherubino Malvasia Blanc  (included both The Rambler and The Globetrotter). This wine's sourced from vines some 700m above sea level in the Albaida Valley, in the town of Bélgia. The altitude is an important thing to note for Malvasia as it needs cool air to retain its acidity. It has only seen stainless steel tank in the winemaking with low intervention, as to preserve Malvasia's fresh but expressive flavour and aroma. The clean, fruity, aromatic white wine is one for enjoying chilled on the patio in the sunshine.

If you fancy some food alongside, go for leafy salads, fresh light starters, grilled asparagus, or honey roast ham.

The next wine is the Pazo do Mar Treixadura (included in The Globetrotter only). Pazo do Mar was founded by the Mendez Family in 2002. Focused on indigenous Galician grapes, winemaker Cristalina Alvarez is producing some very exciting Spanish wines. The grapes grow 150m above sea level on granite soils, cooled by the Atlantic Ocean, and produce wines with intense fruit but fresh balance. This varietal Treixadura white is similar to White Rioja but leads with a more aromatic nose, combining blossom, lavender and rose herbs, citrus, and orchard fruits. On the palate it's rounded and buttery with a creamy, bright finish.

This buttery, spicy white wine is delicious with chicken in cream sauce, grilled pork with lots of crackling, or roasted aubergine. If you're not up for cooking and just want a glass of wine, chill it lightly and enjoy with crinkle cut salted crisps.

For Globetrotter subs you'll also have a bottle of Bodegas Viñátigo Islas Canarias Gual (included in The Globetrotter only). Tenerife is one of the Spanish Canary Islands, blessed with volcanic soils and a hardy sea breeze. The vines are often older, indigenous vines. The Gual grape, one you may not have tried before, is at home in the Canaries. It's a moderately yielding grape that makes wines with layers of smoke, jasmine, melon and pineapple on the nose. It's rich, long and buttery. 

The beauty of volcanic wines is they go so well with food. Volcanic vines tend to, for me, produce wines of depth and salinity, a kind of savoury or "mineral" texture. I think they work so well with hearty, spicy lentil stews, tapas or croquettas. The wine also pairs well with chicken wings.

Our next wine is the Alchemy 100 Year Old Vine Tempranillo (included in The Globetrotter only). This wine is sourced from a unique parcel of 100-year-old vines sitting 600m above sea level in warm, sunny central Spain. Tempranillo matures over a long ripening season and is hand-picked and sorted prior to fermentation. It spends 6 months in French and American oak, adding complexity. Garnet red in colour with hints of spice and summer fruits on the nose, it has a velvety-smooth, plush palate with pure berry fruits and gentle tannins. A stylish alternative to Rioja.

Pair Tempranillo with grilled red meats, cheeseboards, or - be a little bit rogue - and pair it with Italian tomato based pasta dishes like lasange. It works very well.

Finally we have San Juan Bautista inCorde Bush Vine Bobal (included in both The Rambler and The Globetrotter), one of our favourite new red wine discoveries. Bobal, a variety native to the Valencia wine region on the east coast of Spain, is usually regarded as a bit of a workhorse variety and traditionally it's used in blends. However, when a vine gets older its fruit is a great deal more concentrated despite the variety being lower yielding at this age. The grapes for our Bobal are grown in vineyards 750m above sea level. The grapes are hand picked and left to ferment in concrete.

This wine is full of red berries, with a pronounced strawberry, red berry and floral aroma. The red berries will continue in the taste of the wine too, but companied by some light but silky tannins, spices and pepper with just the right level of acidity.

Where can I find out more?

If you're not subscribed to the Club, crack on and get your subscription online by clicking here and join from only £49. If you'd rather just stock up on wine from Spain, go here.

Looking for an older guide? See all the Explorer's Club guides here.

What's in this month's Explorer's Club?

In May we have an exciting mix of home-grown English wines to share with you, from a crisp and zippy Somerset dry white blend to a duo of exceptionally good fizz from the south west. We're sure there's a few bottles of English wine in here you may never have tasted before and we're confident you'll love them. While much success has been awarded to the south and south-east wines of England, this mix is closer to our home here in Bath and celebrates a very south-west centric selection. There's also one of the finest English reds we've tried... a Divico from Wolverhampton, no less!

In this box we have the following wineries: Aldwick Estate, Woodchester Valley, Bluestone Vineyards, Oatley, and Pattingham Vineyards. Each wine celebrates its own individual style, and both the sparkling wines are traditional method - meaning they're Champagne quality!

So without further ado, let's dive in to your English box. Here's our buyer Ben chatting you through this May's Explorer's Club selection.

If you have any specific questions about the wine, you can get in touch with our team here. However, we've got lots of info on the wines below, so pull the cork and get stuck in!

Starting this month's Explorer's Club is our Woodchester Valley Vineyard Cotswolds Classic (included in The Globetrotter only). Easily one of our best-selling English wines, this traditional method sparkling wine from the Cotswolds is made from a blend of Seyval Blanc and Pinot Blanc. Seyval, not the same as Sauvignon, is a grape that works beautifully here in the UK and produces wines with zippy lemon-like freshness. The Pinot Blanc adds raciness to the wine.

Almost like bottled up apple pie, this wine is familiar and flavourful. It's great for celebrations or will sit nicely next to poached salmon or finger food. As the weather starts to warm up, this is a sure-fire favourite! Enjoy.

Next up is our newest English fizz, the Bluestone Vineyards Classic Cuvée (included both The Rambler and The Globetrotter). This wine is from England's vibrant and ripe 2018 vintage, so the fruit concentration here is marvellous. A fine wine made from majority Chardonnay grapes and aged on its lees for 3 years, this fizz combines flavours of orchard fruits, lemon and pastry over a soft mousse. 

The vineyard is owned and operated by Nat and Toby, the current generation of the McConnell family, in Wiltshire near Stonehenge. The family also has a rare breeds farm, which neighbours the vineyard.

Their Classic Cuvée has an intensity to it that makes it a wonderful food partner. Enjoy with seafood risotto and plenty of cheese, mopped up by chunks of sourdough bread.

Your first white wine in the box is Aldwick Estate BS40 (included in both The Rambler and The Globetrotter). This wine comes from one of our oldest friends here in Somerset, the Luck family in the Yeo Valley just south of Bristol. This gorgeous vineyard and wedding venue is a picturesque place to make some of the south west's very best still wines. 

A light and fresh mix of Seyval Blanc and Bacchus, the wine is zesty and floral with a good texture and a long finish. It's a very English style of white wine. Pairs beautifully with picnic food, lemony grilled shrimp, or goat's cheese. 

For Globetrotter subs you'll also have a bottle of Oatley Jane's (included in The Globetrotter only). This wine was one of the very first added to the Novel Wines list back in 2016. It's a dry white wine made from Madeleine Angevine, an early ripening white grape. The wine's made by Jane and Iain Awty near Bridgewater in the south-west and is full of garden aromas of elderflower and hedgerows. On the palate it's crisp, fresh and delightful summer drinking.

Pair a soft and rounded white wine like this with a cheeseboard, chicken in cream sauce, or a green leaf salad. Ideally, also serve with sunshine!

Our next wine is the Woodchester Valley Vineyard Rosé (included in The Globetrotter only). This still rosé wine may look deep in colour but it's a dry and flavoursome style. Packed with red cherries, cranberries and citrus notes, it's also creamy and long on the finish. This delightful balance is achieved thanks to Woodchester's limestone soils and plentiful aspect, ensuring a good mix of drainage from rain and sunshine in our marginal climate.

Rosé like this is an expert pairing with soy-based stir fries, sweet and sour Asian cuisine, or pizza. 

Finally we have Pattingham Vineyard's Divico (included in both The Rambler and The Globetrotter), one of our favourite English red wine discoveries. Grown in Wolverhampton, this is a piwi variety, a new species of vine that can survive in high disease pressure environments like the UK. It is lovingly tended to at Pattingham and fully ripe, presenting a red that's deep in colour and smells like plums and dark fruits. It's been aged for 6 months in French barrique, giving it texture, toast and spice as well.

Perhaps piwi vaieties are the future for England? They are certainly more sustainable. You can find out more about piwi varieties here.

Pair this red wine with pan roasted duck or gamey dishes, or try with shepherd's pie, mash and gravy. Yum!

Where can I find out more?

If you're not subscribed to the Club, crack on and get your subscription online by clicking here and join from only £49. If you'd rather just stock up on wines then find our wines from Austria, go here.

We were keen to learn more so we sat down with Nic Corfe, founder of Go Brazil wines and a fount of knowledge on Brazilian wine for a quick Q&A. Nic tells us what we should know about wine in Brazil, which regions to look out for and provides a great tip on where to visit in Brazil for the best chance to see wildlife...

NW: Hi Nic, how are you doing today?

NC: All fine and a little snowy here, since you ask! Brazil does occasionally get snow, in the southerly states of Santa Catarina and Rio Grande do Sul - which happens to be where the majority of the country’s vineyards are to be found. Very different from the Brazil stereotypes that we’re familiar with in the UK. 

NW: Very true! So, Brazil, not just samba dancing and football. They make great wine these days! This might surprise people, so what should they know about Brazilian wine?  

NC: Well, although Carnival, football and the fabulous beaches are all a reality, Brazil industry is dominated by the agricultural sector. Wine production is one very small part of this – but it is not new. Italian immigrants established a commercial wine-making industry in the late 19th century, and it has grown steadily since then. Once dominated by large co-operatives, in 1999/2000 numerous new family-run wineries emerged, wanting to make their mark independently, and where quality is of more importance than quantity. Indeed, in the last two decades Brazilian wines have won over 3000 international awards and in 2020 a Brazilian red featured on the front cover of Decanter magazine – a first for the country!

NW: And tell me, how did you became involved with Brazilian wine?

NC: My love of wine dates back many years, and I have been visiting Brazil since the 1990s, but it was a chance meeting in London around fifteen years ago that led me to establishing Go Brazil Wines. Despite the many obstacles Brazilians face in their daily lives, they are naturally passionate and have a great ‘joie de vivre’, which I find very attractive... hopefully my (Brazilian) wife would agree!

NW: Brazil is a huge country, is wine grown all over? Where are the wine regions? 

NC: Indeed, it’s the fifth largest country on earth. As I mentioned earlier, the two most southerly states of Rio Grande do Sul and Santa Catarina, which border Argentina and Uruguay, account for around 85% of the country’s wine production. However, over the last 5-10 years, there has been a growing trend for vineyards to be planted within the Tropics, most noticeably in the highlands of São Paulo and into the neighbouring state of Minas Gerais, in Brazil’s traditional coffee belt.

In this region they practice a winter harvest, when it is cold and dry, thus avoiding the extreme heat and rains which would be experienced if they had to pick grapes during the ‘normal’, late summer period. Some of these ‘tropical’ vineyards are very small and/or experimental but we will be keeping a close eye on their development, as it is very much the future for Brazilian wine-making.

NW: I'd imagine Brazil being really hot. Is the heat a factor in how the wines taste?

NC: I would ask people to forget the clichéd images of the Amazon rainforest or the baking beaches of the northeast. With only a few exceptions, Brazil’s vineyards are planted at an altitude of between 400-1200m, and this is crucial in ensuring temperatures are never too hot. While snowfall is occasional, it is rain which carries the most threat and, as mentioned with the vineyards within the Tropics, sufficiently intense there to require a winter harvest. Overall, we can say that Brazilian wines are usually very well balanced, neither with overripe fruit or excessive alcohol, and presenting a pleasantly high level of natural acidity.

NW: Focussing on Pizzato’s Fausto wines specifically, what can people discover there?

NC: The original Sr. Pizzato arrived in the south of Brazil from Italy in 1879, so part of that wave of early Italian immigration we discussed earlier. The current winemaker, Flavio Pizzato, is the family’s fifth generation: highly experienced (and Brazil’s ‘Winemaker of the Year’ in 2020), he manages operations spread over two vineyards covering just under 50 hectares, at an average altitude of 500m. The original vineyard surrounds the winery itself, producing thier ‘Reserva’ quality wines, while the second, smaller vineyard with younger vines is located around 35km away. It is here that the grapes for the Fausto range are harvested. While the Fausto range is intended to be drunk ‘young’ (ideally within 2-3 years), our experience is that the reds are can be enjoyed for at least five years, the Fausto Tannat being a good example of this.

Flavio is known for using - and re-using - both American and French oak barrels for maturing his red wines; in fact, with the exception of his Fausto Chardonnay and Fausto Rosé, all his still wines are oaked to a greater or lesser extent. 

Perhaps of all the Brazilian wines I have enjoyed over the years, Pizzato’s are the most European in style: they’re subtle, structured but restrained, and with a level of acidity which makes them ideal for food-pairing.

NW: Who else should we really be drinking? What other winemakers should we look out for? 

NC: In addition to Pizzato, I can highly recommend Familia Geisse for Traditional Method sparkling wines. Founder Mario Geisse established his company in 1979 and is now widely recognised as Brazil’s leading exponent of Trad Method fizz – indeed, that is all Geisse makes. Brazilian sparkling is also excellent value and heavily promoted by the country’s export association. That said, Brazil produces excellent reds and wineries such as Miolo, Don Guerino, Casa Valduga and Salton are leading the way internationally. Far fewer white wines are produced but there are some intriguing, high quality examples, not least from Pizzato and Campos de Cima, the latter having recently launched a stunning Alvarinho / Assyrtiko / Arinto blend.

NW: And lastly, any recommendations for places to visit in Brazil beyond the beach?

NC: I don’t represent Brazil’s tourism authorities (a shame really!) but, beyond the beaches, my recommendation would be a trip to the Pantanal. This is a vast swampy wetland, the world’s largest, that sits in Brazil’s central west, bordering Bolivia. If you enjoy wildlife, you’re in for a treat: guides will take you to find jaguars, tapirs, exotic birds and other creatures, including piranha fish..A long way to go, but well worth it! 

NW: Thanks Nic! 

NC:Thanks! 

Three to try: 

Pizzato Fausto Chardonnay 2022 (£16.99) - Crisp and fresh modern chardonnay with luscious apple, lemon and lime notes. 

Familia Geisse Amadeu Brut Rose NV (£21.99) - A rosé fizz chock-full of strawberry notes, waxy lemon, toasted almonds and brioche from Brazil's leading producer of traditional fizz. 

Don Guerino 'Vintage' Malbec 2020 (£19.99) - A softer Malbec with aromas of violets, mulberries and juicy plums. 

Looking for an older guide? See all the Explorer's Club guides here.

What's in this month's Explorer's Club?

This March, we're introducing you to our line-up of Austrian new arrivals from Walter Glatzer, alongside some of our favourite picks from the Waldschutz and Kracher* wineries. 

Austria is one of our favourite wine regions with a host of different styles you can discover along the Danube river in the north-east region of Niederrostereich or Lower Austria. This is where this month's case focuses, with a selection of styles showing you the wines of Kamptal, Wagram and Carnuntum. 

*Please note that the Kracher Reunion Blaufrankisch is now out of stock and some Club members may have received the Waldschutz Wagram Blauer Zweigelt as a replacement. Apologies for any inconvenience.

In your box you'll find grape varieties like Austria's flagship Gruner Veltliner and Zweigelt, their leading white and red wines, as well as discoveries like Blaufrankisch and St Laurent.

So without further ado, let's dive in. Here's our buyer Ben chatting you through this March's Explorer's Club selection.

If you have any specific questions about the wine, you can get in touch with our team here. However, we've got lots of info on the wines below, so pull the cork and get stuck in!

Starting this month's Explorer's Club is our classic Kamptal-born Waldschutz Riesling (included in The Globetrotter only). This is a dry Riesling coming from loess soils at a higher altitude along the north of the Danube River with a cool climate and good drainage ensuring for a piercing, fresh acidity. The grapes are picked at optimum ripeness giving freshness and length.

The grapes are hand-picked, fermented in stainless steel under temperature control, and then aged on its lees (spent yeast) for a short period to provide complexity. It's a delicious wine with grilled fish, goat's cheese, or chicken in cream sauce.

Next up is one of my top white wines from Glatzer, their Organic Gruner Veltliner Carnuntum DAC (included in The Globetrotter only). This is one of my favourite examples of the Gruner grape variety because it combines an approachable, fruity style - thanks to the warmer Carnuntum growing region to the south-east of Vienna - with those classic peppery tones that make Gruner so special. You'll love this wine if you're a Sauvignon Blanc fan, but it's also something beyond that, providing a memorable drinking experience.

It's a delight with all sorts of dishes, but works so well with roasted artichokes, simple pasta dishes, or pork loin.

The final white, included in all your boxes, is the fuller bodied Walter Glatzer Weissburgunder (included in both The Rambler and The Globetrotter). This is the same grape as Pinot Blanc, but in the hands of Glatzer is a richer, nuttier, oilier and all-round more complex style than what you might find further west. Lots of depth, style and breadth make for a superb food wine.

Pair it with roast dinners, fatty meats, BBQ dishes, or Greek meze.

OK, now it's time for rosé! Introducing the wonderful Waldschutz Hof Zweigelt Rosé (included in both The Rambler and The Globetrotter). This has that beautiful Provence-style colour but it's brimming with cherry fruit, spice, melon and a long finish. Who knew rosé could be this good?

A rosé like this goes so well with soy-based stir fries, spicy soups, or any glazed meats. It's also wonderful with sheep's cheese. Serve it lightly chilled to get all of its character.

Our next wine is the Glatzer St Laurent (included in The Globetrotter only). This is your first red wine in the case and it's the wine that we first discovered from Glatzer. He is the master of St Laurent, a grape variety that is a deeper, almost more big and brash take on Pinot Noir. Velvety smooth, bold with black fruits, and soft as anything, it's a star. 

Just like great Pinot Noir, a wine like St Laurent - especially when it's this good - is one of the most versatile food pairing wines you can be. Sip it with anything! 

Last up in your case is this Kracher Reunion Blaufrankisch (included in both The Rambler and The Globetrotter), this is a Bordeaux-meets-Chianti type of wine with black cherry, tight tannins and rich on the finish. Blaufrankisch is the most planted red grape east of Vienna, and this example, from Burgenland, is the gateway to the huge breadth of styles you can discover as you venture east. This one is a perfect wine by the glass but it will also stand up to a steak!

Where can I find out more?

If you're not subscribed to the Club, crack on and get your subscription online by clicking here and join from only £49. If you'd rather just stock up on wines then find our wines from Austria, go here.