Just as COP26 was rounding up its act, I received an email from Berry Bros & Rudd, the oldest family owned wine merchants in the world and it intrigued me.

Berry’s are the elder statesmen of the wine world and they came up with a rather simple idea that if replicated across the wine industry, could have an enormous impact on the amount of single use waste generated by the industry. They have launched their first capsule free wine, the plastic adjournment they use to cover the cork.

It's a small step for the wine world but a giant step for mankind! Seriously though, well done to Berry’s and now I'd like to see all vineyards and major buyers follow suit. The supermarkets could make this happen very fast simply by announcing they will only buy capsule free wine. There are many other things the industry could do, such as phasing out the use of oil burners that some vineyards use to prevent frost, and taking a more proactive role in ensuring that bottles and packaging are recycled.

Ch La Nerthe Châteauneuf Du Pape

Berry’s own tasting note

This new addition to our range comes from the wonderful Ch. la Nerthe. On the nose, red cherries and sweet red fruits are lifted by an exotic perfume and heady spice. The elegant cherry continues on the palate, supported by fine tannins and a long, refreshing finish. This organic Châteauneuf is pure and focused, with a true sense of place.

BBR.com Berry Bros & Rudd £32.00

Cotes Du Rhone Villages

I've tasted this one several times in recent years and its just a lovely reassuring style. Well balanced, with warm plummy flavours and a nice spicy touch on the finish.

Marks & Spencer £10.00

 

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