A&C 2017 Main Tour Brochure - UK

WINE TOURS Wine improves with age. Travel improves with wine.

2017

4 Travelling With Arblaster & Clarke

54 The Story of Greece

6 Types of Arblaster & Clarke tour

56 The Story of Tuscany

8 Travel With Expert Wine Guides

58 The Story of Rome

Let the professionals lead the way to great wine!

12 Map of Destinations 14 Original Tours

On our expert led Original Wine Tours you’ll enjoy VIP access to well-known estates and châteaux, as well as up and coming wineries

16 Introduction to Champagne 18 Champagne Weekends

Spring, May Bank Holiday, Autumn and Pre-Christmas tours

22 Bordeaux 24 Burgundy 26 Prosecco Weekend 28 Piedmont 30 New Year In Venice

62 The Story of Rioja 64 Reserve Tours

If you have a passion for fine wine, these unique tours are for you. Enjoy wine visits and tastings of the very highest calibre.

66 The First Growths of Bordeaux 68 Ultimate Champagne 70 The Rhone Valley 72 Ultimate Tuscany 74 Single Malt Scotland 76 From Nice To Barcelona 78 Joint Tours

32 New Year in Budapest

Conducted in tandem with our historically-focused sister companies, our tours to the ancient world and the not-so-distant past prove that together is better.

34 Vineyards of Sussex & Kent

80 The Loire Chateâux

36 Galicia & The Douro Valley

82 War & Wine

38 Chile, Argentina & Uruguay

84 Vintage Provence

40 South Africa

86 Sicily - Wine of The Gods

42 California

88 Pompeii & Amalfi

44 New Zealand

90 Umbria

46 Story Tours

92 El Cid - In The Domain of Rodrigo Diaz

Get to the heart of the world’s best-loved and lesser-known regions with tours that prove it’s not just about the wine — yes, really!

94 Calendar

48 The Story of Champagne & Chablis

96 2017 Essential Booking Information

50 The Story of Languedoc

98 Bespoke Tours & Private Groups / Any Questions? Get In Touch

52 The Story of Georgia

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60 The Story of Sicily

Wine improves with age. Travel improves with wine.

WELCOME To the Arblaster & Clarke 2017 Brochure!

Dear Travellers, Welcome to the Arblaster & Clarke 2017 brochure! Whether you’ve yet to travel with us, or you’re looking to plan the latest in a line of wonderful wine holidays, we hope you’ll find something to inspire you. As with any great wine, much passion and planning goes into the running of a tour. With our ongoing dedication to getting to know producers and destinations, and occasionally being lucky enough to visit them (it’s a hard life, we know) you can rest assured that your wine holiday has been refined down to the last detail.

And this year, there are more pleasures to discover than ever. Our new Story tours tell the 'whole story' of a wine region allowing you to discover the wine, history, landscapes and cultures of the places we visit. From Greece to Georgia, Tuscany to Scotland, we invite you to get acquainted with everything that has come together to make these areas great — vivid landscapes, telling relics, gastronomy, art, architecture, and much more.

Of course, 'in with the new' needn’t mean dispensing with the classics. Look no further than our Original and Reserve sections for superb tried-and-tasted excursions all over the globe. From venerable Burgundy to up-and-coming Budapest, the New and Old Worlds are your oyster. If you have any questions please do contact me, or my team, at the A&C office.

Happy travels and happy tasting!

Caron Fanshawe General Manager Arblaster & Clarke

To book, or for any questions Call: 01730 263111 | Email: sales@winetours.co.uk | Visit: www.winetours.co.uk

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TRAVELLING WITH ARBLASTER & CLARKE Worldwide wine holidays beyond the ordinary World-wide wanderers

With every passing year we expand our repertoire to include new and exciting destinations in the farthest reaches of the wine world — and those closer to home, too.

Explore the famous, familiar, and up-and-coming in Europe, from perennial favourites Champagne and Bordeaux to Georgia, Greece, and even Scotland! Or go further with a once-in-a-lifetime trip to the volcanic landscapes of South America, the sun-warmed valleys of California, or the modern cities and emerald forests of New Zealand.

Small Groups

Our tour groups are small enough to feel intimate, but large enough to ensure a variety of wonderful characters. The maximum size of our groups (excluding Champagne) is 25, with the average number of passengers around 16. If you are looking for an even more exclusive experience our Reserve tours are restricted to a maximum of 16-20 clients.

Perfect pairings

Great wine and great food make excellent bedfellows, each bringing out the best in the Expert guides other. In light of this, we’ve “When it comes to our guests, there’s no On each of our tours, an crafted each tour to include presumed level of knowledge — so whether the very best food of the expert Wine Guide and a Tour Manager. Our Wine you’re a novice or an old hand, whether it’s region. From Italian white Guides are experts in their truffles, to Michelin-starred your first wine tasting or your fiftieth, you field: Masters of Wine, restaurants. We choose all wine consultants and can follow along at the pace most enjoyable our hotels individually. writers. They convey their The vast majority of our knowledge with passion and for you.” accommodation is based in panache, not just experts characterful, often familyin wine, put experts in telling the stories behind every run, 4* hotels, with the occasional excellent 3*. One our glass. Our Tour Managers work behind the scenes to ensure Reserve tours, we feature 5* accommodation, often within everything runs as smoothly as possible. wine estates.

Exclusive access

You can make a lot of friends in thirty years— and that’s exactly what we’ve done. From Sussex to South Africa, we’ve built up quite an address book, whether it’s our very own under-the-radar discoveries, or established veterans of their regions. Our tours include access to top-notch producers all over the world. From First Growth Bordeaux producers, to Super Tuscans, to the English Sparkling Wine makers. No other Wine Tours company comes close.

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Wine improves with age. Travel improves with wine.

Like-minded travellers

There is something about wine that lends itself to forming new friendships - and strengthening old ones, too. Whether you’re joining us as a solo traveller, or as partners, relatives or friends, you will be welcomed on our tours. Our travellers are interesting people, and their wine knowledge ranges from absolute beginners to seasoned tasters. We aim to create an easy and convivial atmosphere, much like travelling with friends.

Buy wine at cellar door prices We work hard to ensure we give excellent holidays, at excellent value for money. As well as including tastings, meals, flights and expert guides, on our coach based tours we give you the opportunity to load up on cases of wine at cellar door prices. A chance to make the memories of your tour last a little longer.

NEW FOR 2017 The wine world has an expansive and ever-evolving map to explore. Here are some of our newest tours:

Full financial protection

All our holidays are fully bonded and protected. The air holiday packages in this brochure are ATOL Protected, since we hold an Air Travel Organiser’s Licence granted by the Civil Aviation Authority. Our ATOL number is ATOL 2543. ATOL protection does not apply to all holiday and travel services in this brochure. Holidays without flights are protected by ABTOT. This means that in the unlikely event of our insolvency, your holiday would be completed or refunded.

We never surcharge for our holidays, regardless of international currency fluctuations the price you see in this brochure is the price you pay.

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Bespoke tours & private groups

If you have an idea for your perfect tour, let us know. We’d love to make it a reality for you. Over the last 30 years, we’ve arranged countless trips for private groups and companies alike. Don’t limit your imagination to just cellar visits. We can arrange multi-faceted tours that include vineyard walks, opera performances, gourmet asides - from truffle hunting to cookery courses - and historical Châteaux tours. Please do get in contact to discuss your group, budgets and requirements and we will get you on your way to your dream wine tour.

PROSECCO WEEKEND A sparkling short stay in Italy's glorious Alpine foothills........ pg26

If you have any queries about travelling with A&C, or about any of the tours in this brochure, please do get in touch.

Call us on 01730 263111 or email sales@winetours.co.uk

NEW ZEALAND Explore the stunning Sauvignon Blanc capital of the world.......pg44

THE RHONE VALLEY A five star experience with the superb Stephen Spurrier........ pg70

NEW YEAR IN BUDAPEST Toast 2018 on an unforgettable Danube river cruise................. pg32

To book, or for any questions Call: 01730 263111 | Email: sales@winetours.co.uk | Visit: www.winetours.co.uk

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THERE'S MORE THAN ONE WAY TO TRAVEL...

Wine travel isn't a one size fits all affair - how will you join us?

THE STORY OF EXPERIENCE Go beyond the vineyards...

Wine is at the heart of all our tours, but man (and woman) cannot exist on wine alone. These tours offer the perfect introduction to A&C wine travel. We enjoy 1-2 tastings per day, plus cultural excursions and traditional food that offers an authentic taste of the region we're visiting. Discover stories of regions that are as rich, full-bodied and varied as the wines we taste...

Find out more on page 47

THE ORIGINAL EXPERIENCE Wine as it should be enjoyed...

These are the tours that we built our reputation on. Join us to discover well-known estates and châteaux as well as up-andcoming wineries. This is wine as it should be enjoyed — amid beautiful surroundings, in the company of people passionate about making (and drinking!) it. From the Old World to the New World we taste it all on our Original tours.

Find out more on page 15

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Wine improves with age. Travel improves with wine.

NEW FOR 2017 THE RESERVE EXPERIENCE

Whether you prefer the Old World or the New World we have a superb selection of new 2017 tours for you:

Five-star experiences in the world of wine Our small-group Reserve tours are for those with a passion for only the finest of wines. Travelling alongside some of the biggest names in the wine industry, we enjoy high calibre visits and tastings - many at estates usually closed to the general public. Every part of our tour is luxurious - from the elegant châteaux and hotels that we stay in; to the delicious dinners we enjoy at Michelin starred restaurants and authentic bistros.

Find out more on page 65

THE STORY OF ROME Sample 'la dolce vita'by the glassfull in Italy's iconic capital..... pg50

ALONGSIDE A&C We get by with a little help from our friends...

Working closely with our sister companies Historical Trips and Andante Travels, we’ve crafted an irresistible selection of tours for those who like their wine served with a slice of history.

Follow in the footsteps of a legendary warrior in Northern Spain; walk in the shadow of Roman ruins in Provence; and discover the impact the Nazi occupation of France had on the wine trade...

CALIFORNIA Taste the best that the USA has to offer in the Grape State...........pg42

Find out more on page 79

ULTIMATE TUSCANY

THE CRUISE EXPERIENCE

A five-star tour taking in DOCGs and Super Tuscans................... pg72

Come sail with us

What could be better than sailing shimmering seas, living the high life on a luxury yacht, with a healthy selection of exceptional wines? Nothing we can think of. Our Arblaster & Clarke small ship cruises offer all this and more. Sail through spectacular landscapes and enjoy delectable gourmet food every day. With regular stops for cultural excursions, vineyard visits and wine tastings.

Find out more on page 76

UMBRIA Wine and history collide in the green heart of Italy................... pg92

To book, or for any questions Call: 01730 263111 | Email: sales@winetours.co.uk | Visit: www.winetours.co.uk

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TRAVEL WITH EXPERT WINE GUIDES Let the professionals lead the way to great wine!

Each of our tours is accompanied by an Expert Wine Guide - whose job it is to ensure you get the best out of the region you are visiting. All of the guides who travel with us have an incredible but accessible expanse of knowledge. They make light of talking in depth, and can make even the most complex wine issues interesting and easy to understand.

Many of our guides have worked in the wine trade for countless years; while others are renowned wine writers and broadcasters; and some are Masters of Wine (MW). Whoever they are, one thing is certain— they like nothing more than a good glass of wine!

Nicola Arcedeckne-Butler MW

Beverley Blanning MW

Matthew Boucher

Stephen Brook

Nicola Arcedeckne-Butler MW specialises in South Africa, Bordeaux, and Burgundy as a buyer for Private Cellar. She has been a Master of Wine since 1996, and in the trade since 1987.

She is fluent in French and Italian, and has a love of all things Italian - having lived there in her twenties.

Beverley is an independent wine writer and Master of Wine based in London.

She has written extensively for Decanter magazine, and has also written books on a range of subjects. As well as Wine Guiding, she also lectures, judges and organises consumer tasting events.

Matthew Boucher has worked in the wine trade for more than twenty years, and arranges tastings for groups and companies. He is an Associate Tutor with Cambridge Wine School and holds the WSET Diploma in Wine & Spirits. Matthew is a fluent French and German speaker.

Stephen Brook is a leading expert on Bordeaux and other wine regions of France. He is also a distinguished wine writer, writes about other subjects, including travel. Stephen is also an award-winning journalist and has been a guest judge at many wine competitions.

Nicola will be leading the South Africa tour - p.40

Beverley will be leading the Chile tour - p.38

Matthew will be leading a range of Champagne tours see p. 18 for more information

Stephen will be leading the California tour - p. 42

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Wine improves with age. Travel improves with wine.

Tom Bruce-Gardyne

Bob Campbell MW

Conal Gregory MW

Lys Hall

Tom Bruce-Gardyne has written about the drink industry — specifically wine and whisky — for more than 20 years. He has written prolifically for a number of publications, including, but not limited to, The Sunday Telegraph, Decanter, Harpers and Whisky Magazine.

Bob Campbell MW is a New Zealand wine specialist, author, and educator. He has tutored over 20,000 students on his self-written wine diploma course, running since 1986. He has also judged professionally at wine competitions all over the world.

Conal Gregory MW was, for many years, the only MP Master of Wine. His interests include the classic French regions of Champagne, Bordeaux and Burgundy. He is the wine compère on ITV’s The Food Programme and the author of the ‘Cognac Companion’.

Lys Hall is an established lecturer on the wines of Europe and an expert on Italian and Spanish varieties. She has a degree in Art History and a passion for Mediterranean history, as well as a good all-round knowledge and love of the countries themselves.

Tom will be leading the Story of Rome tour - p.58

Bob will lead the New Zealand tour - p.44

Conal will lead a range of Champagne tours - see p. 18 for more information

Lys will be leading the Loire Châteaux tour - p.80

Jane Hunt MW

Louise Hurren

Andrew Jefford

Jane Hunt MW organises the UK wine trade tastings on behalf of the Chilean, Argentine and Italian wine industries. She previously ran the South African Wine Bureau. Jane has been a Master of Wine for more than thirty years. She is passionate about Italy and her olive trees!

Louise Hurren has worked in the wine industry for many years. She works closely with numerous growers and wine trade organisations — promoting their products and brands to an international audience.

Louise is also a fluent French and Italian speaker, which comes in handy on tour.

Andrew Jefford is a journalist, radio presenter, wine writer, and poet. He is author of the Decanter column, Jefford on Monday, among other articles, blogs, and books for which he has been called “the most thoughtful person we have writing about wine” by Randall Grahm.

Ellen is one of the A&C team. Whilst studying for a French degree at Bristol University, Ellen spent a year in France working for Champagne Taittinger. It was here that she realised that a career in wine was for her! Ellen has a great passion for French wines, especially Champagne.

Jane will be leading the Ultimate Tuscany tour - p.72

Louise will be leading the Story of Languedoc tour - p.50

Andrew will lead the Bordeaux tour - p.22

Ellen will be leading a range of Champagne tours - see p. 18 for more information

Ellen Lewis

To book, or for any questions Call: 01730 263111 | Email: sales@winetours.co.uk | Visit: www.winetours.co.uk

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Leonie Loudon

Giles MacDonogh

Charles Metcalfe

Monica Murphy

Leonie Loudon is a published travel and wine writer. She graduated in Spanish & History of Architecture from Newcastle University. She gained WSET Level 3 with Merit and certification from the Association of Italian Sommeliers.

Giles MacDonogh is a writer, historian, and translator. As a journalist, he has written on a variety of subjects, chiefly food and drink and modern history, having studied the latter at Balliol College, Oxford. He combines his expertise on our War & Wine tour.

Charles Metcalfe is a wine broadcaster and co-Chairman of the International Wine Challenge. He is also famous for his singing abilities, having been an Opera singer early in his career… he has been known to burst into song on tour!

Monica has long experience and priceless contacts in the wine industry. After her retirement, she still works as a wine consultant, wine list advisor, , wine tasting and event organiser and public speaker. She is a founder member of Slow Food Ireland.

Leonie will be leading the New Year in Venice tour - p.30

Giles will be leading the War & Wine tour - p.82

Charles leads Galicia & the Douro Valley - p.48

Monica will be leading the Story of Sicily tour - p.60

Jayne Powell

Rachel Ritchie

Derek Smedley MW

Steven Spurrier

Jayne Powell — also known as “Champagne Jayne” — is a wine writer and educator dedicated to de-mystifying Champagne and sparkling wine. She has won a host of awards including Champagne Educator of the Year, and has appeared on programmes such as ITV’s This Morning.

Having studied Modern European Languages at Durham University, Rachel is fluent in English, Spanish, Catalan, French and German. When not wine guiding for Arblaster & Clarke, she acts as an ambassador for the Priorat region, hosting tours around her adoptive home.

Derek is one of the most experienced members of the wine trade, working in it since 1961 and becoming a Master of Wine in 1968.

He started his career with Harveys of Bristol. Derek is a past co-chairman of the International Wine Challenge and is one of our most popular guides.

Steven Spurrier is a wine expert and former Parisbased merchant, described often as “a champion of French wine”. He organised the Paris Wine Tasting of 1976, and founded the Academie du Vin and Christie’s Wine Course, in addition to writing several books on the subject of wine.

Jayne will be leading the May Bank Holiday Champagne tour - p.20

Rachel will be leading the Story of Rioja tour - p.62

Derek will be leading the Story of Greece tour - p.54

Steven will be leading the Rhône Valley tour - p.70

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Wine improves with age. Travel improves with wine.

Julia Trustram-Eve

Sophie Ambler

Dr Hugh Doherty

Dr Michael Jones

Julia Trustram-Eve is the marketing director for English Wine Producers, and has been working with English wines for 25 years. As one of the people responsible for promoting up-and-coming UK vineyards, who better to lead our Sussex & Kent tour?

Sophie Ambler is a rising star in her field. The noted historian works at the University of East Anglia, and has worked on the prestigious Magna Carta Project. Enjoy her unmatched insights during our exclusive tastings on tour in Umbria.

Dr Hugh Doherty lectures at the School of History at UEA. Educated at Jesus College, Oxford, he specialises in Medieval manuscripts, and has particular interest in both the Plantagenets and Iberia.

He regularly leads tours for Historical Trips.

Dr Michael Jones is a respected military historian who has held academic positions at the Universities of Bristol and Glasgow. He has written widely on Medieval and twentieth century history.

He regularly leads tours for Historical Trips.

Julia will be leading the Vineyards of Sussex & Kent tour - p.34

Sophie Ambler will be leading the Umbria tour - p.90

Dr Hugh Doherty will be leading the El Cid: in the Domain of Rodrigo Diaz tour - p.92

Dr Michael Jones will be leading the Loire Châteaux tour - p.80

John Wurdeman

Dr Denise Allen

Tony O’Connor

John Shepherd

John Wurdeman is a practicing painter who began his career at the Maryland Institute, College of Art in Baltimore, before starting an artistic journey in Europe. He first came to Georgia in 1996, and has been combining his passions for wine and art there since 1998.

Dr Denise Allen is a respected archaeologist and the former Director of Archaeology at Andante Travels. She has led many tours to Provence over the years. She is a wonderful travel companion and will share fascinating many historical insights with us over a glass or two of wine.

Tony O’Connor is a specialist in the Roman Empire, who has excavated widely across Europe and North Africa, particularly in Libya. Tony is an experienced tour guide in this part of the world.

He is also one of Andante Travels most popular Expert Guides, having led many Sicily tours over the years.

John Shepherd is an archaeologist specialising in the Roman period, with a particular passion for the study of Roman glass. He worked at the Museum of London for over 20 years.

More recently, he joined Andante Travels and is now Andante Travels’ Head of Archaeology.

John will be leading the Story of Georgia tour - p.52

Dr Denise Allen will be leading the Vintage Provence tour - p.84

Tony O’Connor will be leading the Sicily: Wine of the Gods tour - p.86

John Shepherd will be leading the Pompeii & Amalfi tour p.88

To book, or for any questions Call: 01730 263111 | Email: sales@winetours.co.uk | Visit: www.winetours.co.uk

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WHERE TO NEXT? From the ancient vines of the Old World to innovative wineries in New World destinations, our wine map is well covered in 2017...

Where will you join us for a glass of the great stuff?

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ORIGINAL RESERVE STORY JOINT CRUISE

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Chile 1. Original Chile, Argentina & Uruguay.............................. pg38

France 2. The Story of Champagne & Chablis.................................. pg48 3. The Story of Languedoc...................................................... pg50 4. Original Bordeaux............................................................... pg22 5. Original Burgundy............................................................... pg24 6. Introduction to Champagne................................................pg16 7. Champagne Weekends..........................................................pg19 8. Reserve Collection: The First Growths of Bordeaux.... pg66 9. Reserve Collection: Ultimate Champagne...................... pg68 10. Reserve Collection: The Rhone Valley............................pg70 11. War & Wine - Historical Trips.......................................... pg82 12. The Loire Châteaux - Historical Trips............................ pg80 13. Vintage Provence - Andante Travels.............................. pg84 14. Wine Cruise: From Nice to Barcelona.............................pg76

Georgia

19. The Story of Rome.............................................................. pg58 20. The Story of Sicily.............................................................. pg60 21. Original Piedmont.............................................................. pg28 22. Original Prosecco Weekend............................................ pg26 23. Original New Year in Venice........................................... pg30 24. Reserve Collection: Ultimate Tuscany...........................pg72 25. Sicily: Wine of the Gods - Andante Travels.................. pg86 26. Pompeii & Amalfi - Andante Travels.............................. pg88 27. Umbria - Historical Trips.................................................. pg90

New Zealand 28. Original New Zealand.......................................................pg44

Portugal 29. Original Galicia & the Douro Valley............................... pg36

South Africa 30. Original South Africa........................................................ pg40

15. The Story of Georgia.......................................................... pg52

Spain

Greece

31. The Story of Rioja............................................................... pg62 32. El Cid - Historical Trips..................................................... pg92

16. The Story of Greece............................................................ pg64

Hungary

UK

17. New Year in Budapest......................................................... pg32

33. Reserve Collection: Single Malt Scotland......................pg74 34. Original Vineyards of Sussex & Kent............................ pg34

Italy

USA

18. The Story of Tuscany......................................................... pg56

35. Original California............................................................ pg42

To book, or for any questions Call: 01730 263111 | Email: sales@winetours.co.uk | Visit: www.winetours.co.uk

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Wine improves with age. Travel improves with wine.

THE ORIGINAL EXPERIENCE World Class Wines & Diverse Destinations Our Original tours are designed to illuminate the differences and similarities in wine styles, grape varieties and wine making. Taste some of the most tantalising wines available anywhere on the globe. The words ‘too far away’ simply aren’t in our wine vocabulary — the pursuit of top quality wine is always worth the distance travelled. Taste some of the finest wines available during our visits to parts of Europe you may not have had the chance to escape to before; and meet with New World winemakers who really appreciate the miles we’ve come and take the time to see us personally.

What's Included?

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A Meticulously Planned Itinerary - Enjoy the best wine the region has to offer from big names to local producers discovered by our experts. Enjoy 2-4 tastings per day on tour.

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Expert Wine Guides - Travel with Masters of Wine, critics and all round experts.

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Special Access - Go behind the cellar door, visit wineries and producers usually closed to the public, and taste yet to be released vintages. A unique glimpse into the world of wine.

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Delicious Food & Great Hotels - Sample the most fantastic traditional cuisine paired perfectly with wine; and enjoy comfortable stays in hand-picked hotels.

The Tours

p.38 Chile, Argentina & Uruguay

p.16 Introduction to Champagne

p.40 South Africa

p.19 Early Spring Champagne

p.42 California

p.19 Late Spring Champagne

p.44 New Zealand

p.20 May Bank Holiday Champagne p.20 Early Autumn Champagne p.21 Late Autumn Champagne p.21 Pre-Christmas Champagne p.22 Bordeaux p.24 Burgundy p.26 Prosecco Weekend p.28 Piedmont p.30 New Year in Venice p.32 New Year in Budapest p.34 Vineyards of Sussex & Kent p.36 Galicia & The Douro Valley To book, or for any questions Call: 01730 263111 | Email: sales@winetours.co.uk | Visit: www.winetours.co.uk

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Champagne

INTRODUCTION TO CHAMPAGNE 7th – 9th April & 15th – 17th September FRANCE

Champagne

Our Introductory Champagne weekends do exactly what they say on the tin. Join us as we get to know this fantastic region and the wonderful celebratory wine it is so famous for in the most suitable way — with a glass of bubbly in hand.

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n 1668, Dom Pérignon developed a way to make sparkling wine… debate still surrounds the identity of the actual inventor of Champagne, but his techniques are still used the world over. Of course, France’s most northerly wine region, Champagne, is home to some of — if not the — finest sparkling wine in the world.

Champagne is typically made from a blend of grape varieties: chardonnay, which adds elegant fruity notes; Pinot Meunier adding richness; and Pinot Noir providing the body. Our introductory weekends are designed to highlight the diversity of Champagne.

Despite what some may say, it doesn’t all taste the same. It is the most

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wonderfully diverse wine, endlessly adaptable to so many different food pairings and occasions.

We have the opportunity to taste (and buy) Champagnes from Taittinger and Vilmart, as well as many smaller producers. A highlight of our tour for many is our final lunch, where we visit the home village of Dom Pérignon himself and enjoy an extensive tasting of grower Champagnes.

Whenever Champagne is involved, there is always an atmosphere of fun, enjoyment, and conviviality, all of which we promise you’ll enjoy on our short (but terrifically sweet) introductory tour.

Wine improves with age. Travel improves with wine.

What’s Included Return executive coach travel from the UK 2 nights at a 4* hotel in Reims 1 meal included with wine as described in the itinerary Visits and tastings as per the itinerary Wine Guide & Tour Manager Load up with cases of wine at cellar-door prices

Original - France

“Pleasure without Champagne is purely artificial.”

Oscar Wilde

Itinerary Day 1 – Sparkling Introductions

Day 3 – Au Revoir Champenois

We travel from London to Folkestone and cross the channel by Eurotunnel, continuing on to Reims. Onboard, we enjoy an introductory lecture and tasting to kick-start our tour. On arrival in Reims our wonderful wine guide leads the first tasting at our Reims hotel. Our tour is based right in the heart of Reims — Le Capitale du Champagne.

You can soak up the Champenoise joie de vivre tonight, with an evening free to explore the city.

Dinner is independent, but your guide will be on hand to recommend restaurants, and those who wish to can also join the Guide at a restaurant of their choice.

Our visit to Champagne Taittinger, whose origins date back to 1734, offers unmatched insight into the history of Champagne and the region, and is a highlight of our tour. This morning, we visit their Reims headquarters and explore the magnificent 4th century Roman cellars which weave under the city.

Day 2 – Canard-Duchene and Vilmart The popping of a cork is all well and good.... but it’s nothing compared to sabrage. Enjoy a demonstration of this decadent bottle-opening at Champagne Canard-Duchene today. After we taste their delicious fruit-driven wines, we’ll have the opportunity to stock up on super cellar-price Champagnes in their excellent shop.

The spirit of Reims is not easily captured in words — bustling boulevards lead to a spectacular selection of art deco cafés, resplendent Roman remains, and a fine dining scene. Decorating the UNESCO World Heritage Site’s skyline, we find Notre-Dame de Reims, the Gothic cathedral of kings where more than thirty sovereigns began their reigns. This lunchtime we have free time to enjoy the sites — and tastes — of the city.

Champagne Vilmart is one of our favourite grower-producers. They are one of the few remaining traditional producers who both ferment the wines and mature the Champagnes in oak barrels and tonneaux. We enjoy a visit and tasting here this afternoon before returning to our hotel for an independent dinner.

Wine Guide Ellen Lewis is the Product Manager here at Arblaster & Clarke. Whilst studying for a French degree, Ellen spent a year in France working for Champagne Taittinger. It was here that she realised that a career in wine was for her!

All good things must come to an end, but when they do, they should be accompanied by delicious food. That’s the A&C way, anyhow. We enjoy a final group lunch, featuring a winning selection of Champenoise specialities in the village of Hautvillers. Dom Pérignon served as a monk here, so it’s a fitting spot for our final extensive tasting of grower Champagne producers.

We return to Calais for our Eurotunnel crossing back to Folkestone. There will be the opportunity for all guests to buy and transport up to thirty six bottles of Champagne home on our luxury coach, the perfect way to keep that effervescent holiday feeling going once back on British soil!

Wine Guide Conal Gregory MW was, for many years, the only MP Master of Wine. His interests include the classic French regions of Champagne, Bordeaux, and Burgundy. He is the wine compère on ITV’s The Food Programme.

Hotel For the duration of our whirlwind introduction to this most sparkling of regions, we make our base in a 4* hotel in the city of Reims. Founded by the Gauls and a major city during the time of the Roman Empire, there are echoes of history at every turn of this delightful town, not least its imposing cathedral.

£595

Sgl Supp - £100 Deposit pp: £100 Price inc. return coach travel from the UK

Food Champagne, universally charming, pairs well with all kinds of cuisine, from seafood to exotic spices.

You’ll be free to dine at your leisure in Reims, filled as it is with beautiful French restaurants — look out for local specialities! Raise a glass to Dom Pérignon during our final lunch in Hautvillers, where he served as a monk.

Wines We deconstruct the many manifestations of Champagne. Blanc de Blancs contains 100% Chardonnay grapes with refreshing tones of citrus and marzipan; its counterpart, Blanc de Noirs, combines the red-fruit flavours of Pinot Noir grapes with the rich, apple-toned flavours of Pinot Meunier.

To book, or for any questions Call: 01730 263111 | Email: sales@winetours.co.uk | Visit: www.winetours.co.uk

17

Champagne

CHAMPAGNE WEEKENDS Fabulous three day tours throughout 2017 FRANCE

Champagne

One of the best ways to learn more about Champagne is by visiting those who make it - small and large producer alike. Join us as we really get to know this fantastic region and the wonderful celebratory wine for which it is so famous.

O

nce you’ve tasted one Champagne you’ve tasted them all, right? Wrong.

With the popping of every Champagne cork, we are inviting a little bit of joie de vivre into our lives.

It has enchanted us for centuries, and it didn’t do that by offering us the same taste in every glass. Each Champagne is as different as you and I are from each other... They’re just waiting for you to get to know them — Champagne Weekend anyone?

toast to the changing of the seasons sound more appealing? Maybe a special pre-Christmas getaway is more your style... We don’t want to sound like a broken record, but this wonderfully diverse wine is endlessly adaptable to so many different food pairings and occasions — especially weekends away! And across these four pages, you’re sure to find the right tour for you...

We wouldn’t be Arblaster & Clarke without our Champagne Weekends.

Over the last thirty years, we have discovered an untold number of wineries, and while destinations may have fallen in and out of favour and fabulous staff have come and sadly gone on to new and exciting things, we have always enjoyed these weekends. Just as each bottle has its own personality, so, too, do the seasons in Reims and Epernay...

That’s why we have a wide spread of Champagne Weekends throughout the year. Will you join us on a relaxing Reims bank holiday break? Or does a

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Wine improves with age. Travel improves with wine.

What’s Included Return Eurotunnel crossing and executive coach travel 4* hotel in Reims Buffet breakfasts each morning served with a glass of Champagne Wine visits and tastings Wine Guide & Tour Manager Load up with cases of wine at cellar door prices

EARLY SPRING CHAMPAGNE ‘Paris in the Springtime’ can’t compare with Reims at this time of year...

Day 1 – Introduction Our Springtime tour begins with a guided tasting at our Reims hotel.

Day 2 – Barnaut & Taittinger Our first visit takes us to the aptly named Grand Cru region of Bouzy, and Champagne Edmond Barnaut.

Their Bouzy Rouge is famous for good reason, and quite unlike any other Champagne we've tasted... After some free time in Reims, we visit the iconic chalk cellars of Champagne Taittinger.

Day 3 – R.H. Coutier & Philipponnat Family-owned Champagne R.H. Coutier — an exceptional Chardonnay producer in a Pinot Noir-dominated region — hosts our final morning. We have tasted many famous names this weekend, and we end our tour tasting intense wines over lunch at the underrated Champagne Philipponnat.

Wine Guide Matthew Boucher has worked in the trade for more than twenty years. He is an Associate Tutor with Cambridge Wine School and holds the WSET diploma in Wine and Spirits. He is also fluent in French and German.

Dates & Price 18th – 20th March £595 | Sgl Supp pp-£100 | Deposit pp-£100

LATE SPRING CHAMPAGNE Sample sublime Champagnes in the spring...

Day 1 – Introduction We arrive in Reims, and toast the changing of the seasons at our hotel.

Day 2 – Billecart-Salmon & Cattier Superstar producers Champagne Billecart-Salmon have a history stretching back to the 16th century, and host our first tasting today. Experience Reims over lunch today — before an afternoon sampling the distinct Montagne de Reims character in a glass of Champagne Cattier's finest fizz.

Day 3 – Camille Savès & Goutorbe We have visited Champagne Camille Savès for more than twenty years and have never been disappointed by their delicious bready Champagnes, which we taste today. Our final visit is something of a family affair with lunch at Champagne Henri Goutorbe, run by Henri, his wife, and his children.

Wine Guide Ellen Lewis is the Product Manager here at Arblaster & Clarke. Whilst studying for a French degree, Ellen spent a year in France working for Champagne Taittinger. It was here that she realised that a career in wine was for her!

Dates & Price 27th – 29th April £595 | Sgl Supp pp-£100 | Deposit pp-£100

To book, or for any questions Call: 01730 263111 | Email: sales@winetours.co.uk | Visit: www.winetours.co.uk

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MAY BANK HOLIDAY CHAMPAGNE What’s a bank holiday break without a bit of bubbly? A wasted opportunity...

Day 1 – Introduction Our bank holiday begins in the best way, with a tasting at our Reims hotel.

Day 2 – Brice & Vilmart Champagne Brice hosts us this morning — they are one of Bouzy's best producers, with mono-cru Champagnes that are like nothing we've ever tasted. We move on to A&C favourite Champagne Vilmart, one of few traditional producers still in Champagne. Taste the difference in their Champagnes this afternoon.

Day 3 – Cattier & André Jacquart Champagne Cattier is a unique house — we spend our final morning tasting the family firm's distinctive wines. A farewell lunch is served at Champagne André Jacquart, in the heart of Chardonnay country. Their Champagnes are true palate pleasers.

Wine Guide Jayne Powell, also known as “Champagne Jayne”, is a wine writer and educator dedicated to de-mystifying Champagne and sparkling wine. She has won a host of awards including Champagne Educator of the Year.

Dates & Price 27th – 29th May £595 | Sgl Supp pp-£100 | Deposit pp-£100

EARLY AUTUMN CHAMPAGNE Toast the changing of the seasons with a sparkling glass...

Day 1 – Introduction The autumn colours of Champagne greet us upon our arrival in Reims.

Enjoy a first tasting at our hotel today.

Day 2 – Taittinger & Hatté et Fils Where better to begin our tour than at a tasting in Champagne Taittinger's incomparable chalk cellars? We continue to the small family-run Champagne Bernard Hatté et Fils this afternoon. Their truly traditional wines prove that great things really do come in small packages.

Day 3 – Savès & André Jacquart There are many good reasons why we keep going back to Champagne Camille Savès year after year — taste those reasons today. André Jacquart is a perfect final stop. Sampling their Champagne, you'll know why they're a firm favourite of ours.

Dates & Price 14th – 16th October £595 | Sgl Supp pp-£100 | Deposit pp-£100

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Wine improves with age. Travel improves with wine.

Wine Guide Jayne Powell, also known as “Champagne Jayne”, is a wine writer and educator dedicated to de-mystifying Champagne and sparkling wine. She has won a host of awards including Champagne Educator of the Year.

LATE AUTUMN CHAMPAGNE A civilised way to say goodbye to the Autumn…

Day 1 – Introduction Squeeze in a weekend away, before the winter takes hold of Champagne. We enjoy a first tasting at our Reims hotel.

Day 2 – Brice & Coutier We stop at Bouzy-based Champagne Brice to sample their magnificent mono-cru Champagnes. R.H. Coutier went against the grain in their Pinot Noir-dominated region — tasting their Chardonnay-heavy blends, you'll agree that it was a risk worth taking.

Day 3 – Philipponnat & Vilmart Reims and Epernay are home to so many houses that great producers are sometimes overshadowed by the big names. Champagne Philipponnat is one such house which deserves to be discovered. Our tour ends at Champagne Vilmart, one of few remaining traditional producers.

Wine Guide Mathew Boucher has worked in the trade for more than twenty years. He is an Associate Tutor with Cambridge Wine School and holds the WSET diploma in Wine and Spirits. He is also fluent in French and German.

Dates & Price 4th – 6th November £595 | Sgl Supp pp-£100 | Deposit pp-£100

PRE-CHRISTMAS CHAMPAGNE Say hello to the Holiday Season with a glass (or two) of Champagne...

Day 1 – Introduction This is an extra special festive tour, beginnings with a sumptuous first tasting at our Reims hotel.

Day 2 – Marguet Père & Jean Milan The passion of the fifth generation producers at Champagne Marguet Père & Fils can be found in every glass. Don't take our word for it, taste for yourself today. Sample the finest offerings of the famous Côte des Blancs region at the superb Champagne Jean Milan this afternoon.

Day 3 – Barnaut & Taittinger We end the tour on a 'Bouzy' note at Edmond Barnaut's regional house. We end our tour in style at Taittinger's Château de la Marquetterie, nestled in the heart of the Champenois Vineyards.

Don't forget to stock up on Champagne for your Christmas celebrations!

Wine Guide Conal Gregory MW was, for many years, the only MP Master of Wine. His interests include the classic French regions of Champagne, Bordeaux, and Burgundy. He is the wine compère on ITV’s The Food Programme.

Dates & Price 2nd – 4th December £645 | Sgl Supp pp-£100 | Deposit pp-£100

To book, or for any questions Call: 01730 263111 | Email: sales@winetours.co.uk | Visit: www.winetours.co.uk

21

Wine

BORDEAUX 23rd – 27th October FRANCE Wine

B

ordeaux produces the highest concentration of fine wines in the world — and during this tour, you’ll visit a selection of the great châteaux that produce them.

Over five days, we include tastings at some truly spectacular wineries and visits to such names as Château Pichon Baron and Château Léoville-Barton.

During our tour we explore the Left Bank, home to the famous ‘First Growths’ and more besides. On the Right Bank, the wines are powerful and tannic, bold and peppery, and can be drunk far younger than their Left Bank counterparts. To the south there’s Graves, home to a further array of fine reds; while Sauternes is known for its sweet white wines.

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The story of Bordeaux’s high concentration of fine wines is a tale of two halves, or rather two banks... Eat well and drink even better, exploring the elegant towns, opulent châteaux and historic vineyards of this classic region.

Over the course of our trip we traverse an undulating landscape of small and pretty villages dotted between the vines. Then there are the narrow streets of St. Émilion, endlessly inviting to curious (and perhaps peckish) travellers, lined as they are with shops and bakeries.

Decanter columnist Andrew Jefford is a leading expert on the wines of Bordeaux, and will introduce the great and the good of this most classic of French wine regions.

Sample fabulous wines in the company of those who make them as exclusive private estates open their doors to us.

A unique glimpse into the world of Bordeaux.

Wine improves with age. Travel improves with wine.

What’s Included Return flights London to Bordeaux 4 nights in a 4* hotel in the town of Bordeaux Most meals included with wines Visits and tastings as per the itinerary Wine Guide & Tour Manager

Itinerary Day 1 – Bonjour Bordeaux

World Heritage-designated waterfront...

We fly from London, arriving in Central Bordeaux with plenty of time to prepare for dinner . We start as we mean to go on with an introductory tasting over dinner in Bordeaux.

Day 4 – The Right Bank

Wine Guide

Day 2 – The Left Bank Our first full day begins with a visit to St Julien, home to the highest concentration of classed growths in Bordeaux. We travel to Château Beychevelle, based in one of the most beautiful chateâux in the area. The rich, smooth Cabernet blend is a fine way to start the day.

At lunch we continue to nearby Pauillac, perhaps the quintessential Claret appellation. We are delighted to have been invited to lunch at Château Pichon Baron, a renowned ‘Super Second’ growth. This afternoon we sneak in a final visit in Pauillac, this time to Château Lynch-Bages, where we learn just how much care and dedication goes into the production of these fine wines on our tour and tasting. Dinner is independent this evening,althought your guide will be on hand to advise you on local restaurants.

Day 3 – Sauternes and Graves We start our day with something sweet as we travel south to Château d’Yquem. This Sauternes favourite is often described as the greatest sweet wine producer in the world. This hill-top estate does enjoy the best growing conditions in the entire appellation... quite the advantage.

We move on to Graves, just south of the city of Bordeaux, and enjoy lunch and a tasting of the mineral reds at Château Smith Haut Lafitte. This is the area which helped establish Bordeaux’s reputation — England has enjoyed their wines since the 12th century. We end the day with dinner during a guided river cruise, serving fine French cuisine alongside Bordeaux’s UNESCO

Andrew Jefford is a journalist, radio presenter, wine writer, and poet based near Montpellier in southern France.

He is author of the Decanter column Jefford on Monday, among other articles, blogs, and books on the subjects of food, wine, and travel.

Author of The New France, His writing has been met with acclaim, with Randall Grahm — founder of biodynamic Californian winery Bonny Doon — calling him “the most thoughtful person we have writing about wine”, and Robert Parker of Wine Advocate calling him “one of my favourite wine journalists”.

Hotel We stay in the Hôtel de Sèze, a newly-converted 4* boutique hotel in the centre of Bordeaux, with a small spa and stylish bar. Rooms are elegantly decorated combining beautiful 18th century decor with all modern conveniences for a very comfortable stay.

We work up an appetite during our guided tour of St Émilion. The town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, perches above the vineyards that brought it world renown. If we’re lucky, we’ll see sunlight stream across the valley, giving the limestone buildings a halo glow.

We continue to the neighbouring appellation of Pomerol — and to Château Petit-Village. Their winery sits on the highest part of the magnificent Pomerol plateau, on deep gravel and clay soils.

Their wines are fresh and balanced, with remarkable fruit intensity.

The owner of our next stop, Château Canonla-Gaffelière, is quite the character. Comte Stephan von Neipperg once sang the praises of modern winemaking techniques — including microoxygenation — but has become critical of his own earlier vintages. He now prefers to pursue a truer expression of wine, stating simply “I don’t make plum pudding”.

Day 5 – Just Before We Go...

There are two choices available to you on our last morning in Bordeaux. Enjoy some free time to stock up on souvenirs, or, if you haven’t had your fill of wine just yet, you could visit the Bordeaux Wine Museum instead.

We travel to Bordeaux Airport for our return flight home this afternoon.

£2,100 inc. flights

Sgl Supp - £290 Deposit pp: £300 Without flights pp: £1,975

Food We enjoy some excellent meals, from lunch at stylish châteaux to a river cruise accompanied by French cuisine. When in Bordeaux, don’t miss out on the region’s signature pastry — cannelés Bordelais. These squat, fluted pastries have a custard centre and a caramelised crust, and pair especially well with red and dessert wines.

Wines Bordeaux wines vary from sweet reds to the renowned whites we will enjoy in Graves. Château PetitVillage on the highest point of the Pomerol plateau, the world-class sweet wines of Château d’Yquem and the quintessential claret of Pauillac. An introduction to a little of everything Bordeaux has to offer.

To book, or for any questions Call: 01730 263111 | Email: sales@winetours.co.uk | Visit: www.winetours.co.uk

23

Original - France

“I can certainly see that you know your wine. Most of the guests who stay here wouldn’t know the difference between Bordeaux and Claret.” Basil Fawlty, Fawlty Towers

Wine

BURGUNDY 8th – 13th May FRANCE Wine

I

n the valleys and slopes just west of the Saône, swathes of green vines consistently produce what are considered to be some of the world’s best wines. And while they might be small in stature, Burgundy’s five wine-growing areas are big players in the global trade, with their prestige, quality, and small-scale production leading to an impressive level of demand, and some even more impressive price tags.

Above all, Burgundy’s wines are completely influenced by their terroir, with each mouthful aiming to capture that elusive sense of place. We say the best way to enjoy it is to experience it for yourself. Whatever your tastes run to rustic or refined, elegant or robust, 24

First eastern France, then the world — Burgundy is one of our most globally-renowned and beloved regions, and with good reason. This is a comprehensive introduction to the grapes that made it great, meeting some of the most important producers both new and old. red or white, Burgundy is made to be drunk in the place it was grown.

Highlights include visits to the village of Vosne-Romanée, lunch at Domaine Olivier Leflaive, a tasting at Bouchard Père et Fils, and a walk in the vineyards around Beaune. We are based throughout in boutique hotels in the historic town of Beaune.

Burgundy’s pleasures don’t begin and end with its vineyards and châteaux.

There is plenty of time to admire the 17th century buildings of beautiful Beaune, roofed with vibrant glazed tiles; to explore the only surviving transept of the once-great Cluny Abbey, or just to soak up the atmosphere of this most venerated of regions.

Wine improves with age. Travel improves with wine.

What’s Included Return Eurotunnel crossing and executive coach travel 5 nights in a 3* hotel in Beaune Most meals included with wine Visits and tastings as per the itinerary Wine Guide & Tour Manager Load up with cases of wine at cellar door prices

Itinerary Day 1 – Bonjour, Beaune!

We travel by coach through the Eurotunnel to Calias, and stop on the way to our Beaune hotel at a traditional local eatery. We arrive at our hotel mid-afternoon, and spend our first evening enjoying a welcome dinner and tasting at a restaurant in Beaune.

Day 2 – Vosne-Romanée and Nuit St Georges This morning, we embark on a visit to the village of Vosne-Romanée where we enjoy morning tastings at Domaine Armelle et Bernard Rion.

Here we taste some excellent quality Grand Crus. The wines here are excellent value and very afforable, unlike certain other Romanée producers. We enjoy lunch at the Restaurant Le Terroir, owned by the Rion family. We continue to Domaine Louis Max in Nuit St Georges — originally founded in 1859 — for our tasting this afternoon. This evening, we have some free time in Beaune to spend as we wish, your guide will be hand to recommend restaurants for dinner.

Day 3 – Beaune and Bouchard We begin our day with a guided tour of Beaune, taking in the Hospice de Beaune and the Musée Dieu. Afterwards, we have a free lunchtime to spend in the beautiful historic town. Take the opportunity to visit the Beaune Market, boasting the region’s best and freshest produce; and admire the many fine 17th century buildings.

This afternoon, we pay a visit to the renowned négociant and vineyard owner Bouchard Père et Fils. The largest owner of Beaune Premier Cru vineyards, Bouchard create elegant, high-quality wines. We round off our evening with dinner at Aloxe-Corton’s Domaine Senard, whose superb wines are at once fruity, deep-flavoured, and wellstructured.

Wine Guide Matthew Boucher has worked in the wine trade for more than twenty years, and arranges tastings for groups and companies.

He is an Associate Tutor with Cambridge Wine School and holds the WSET Diploma in Wine & Spirits.

He has been involved with wine in Cambridge for a long time, and now has his own store ‘Thirsty’ which promotes 'Revolutionary Drinking’.

Matthew is a fluent French and German speaker. He is a fantastic travel companion, and has led many tours for Arblaster & Clarke over the years.

Day 4 – A Walk through the Vines Our first visit of the day is to Château de Monthelie — travel by coach, or take an optional hour-long walk through scenic vineyards to get there. Once arrived at the house, with its

Hotel We stay at the excellent Hotel Belle Epoque in Beaune throughout our stay.

The former merchant’s house has been beautifully restored in the Burgundian style.

Enjoy a relaxing atmosphere throughout your stay. The hotel's charming terrace is a particularly pleasant place to stop at the end of the day.

fantastical turrets and striking 14th century Burgundian tiled façade, we take the opportunity to taste some excellent rustic red wines. We then depart for a tasting lunch at Domaine Olivier Leflaive, switching to white as we sample the Meursault and Puligny Montrachet for which Leflaive is famous. After a second tasting in Meursault we return to Beaune where we have free time this evening.

Day 5 – Papal Power and Beaujolais Today, we visit Cluny Abbey with a local historian. The abbey was founded by William the Pious in 910, and is tranquil and beautifully situated. After a light lunch in Macon, we move on to Domaine Thivin in the Beaujolais region for a visit and tasting. Thivin, a medium-sized domaine, produces wines with a wonderfully gutsy, fruity nose, with lovely fruit and body on the palate. This evening, we have a final dinner paired with wines we have enjoyed throughout our tour.

Day 6 – We Bid Adieu On our final day, we enjoy a sparkling bonus — time in Champagne. Jean Milan vineyards hosts us for lunch today. Our tour ends on a triumphant high, as we sample their prestigious Champagnes before returning to Calais for our journey home.

£2,245 inc. coach travel Sgl Supp - £340 Deposit pp: £300

Food In true French style, the food in Burgundy — as the wine — is made to be enjoyed in good company. Pull up a chair in the rustic restaurant at Domaine Olivier Leflaive, where simple dishes pair beautifully with superb wines. We enjoy a farewell dinner on the final night of our tour.

Wines First and foremost, we explore the many expressions of Pinot Noir. Classic, rustic, and muscular, or delicate and ethereal, there is a Burgundy for everyone. We also taste Gamay-dominated Beaujolais. When it comes to whites, there are flinty Chablis and rich buttery Meursault to be enjoyed.

To book, or for any questions Call: 01730 263111 | Email: sales@winetours.co.uk | Visit: www.winetours.co.uk

25

Original - France

“A man cannot make him laugh — but that’s no marvel; he drinks no wine.”

Falstaff, Henry IV, Part II

Wine

PROSECCO WEEKEND 21st – 23rd April I TA LY Wine

T

he perfect follow-up to our Champagne Weekends, this year we are delighted to introduce a new tour — as we go in search of the perfect Prosecco.

Like its French counterpart, Prosecco is only produced in specific areas, in this case the Veneto and Friuli Venezia Giulia regions.

Over three days, we taste our way through this beautiful part of northern Italy, where rows of vines blanket the hillsides, dotted with terracotta-red farmsteads. Wine has been made here since Roman times, and we enjoy the fruits of two millennia of knowledge and experience, all while sampling the world’s finest Proseccos.

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In the Alpine foothills dominating the Venetian skyline something special is happening… Italy’s favourite sparkling wine, Prosecco, is being made. The light, frothy spumante can be enjoyed anywhere so join us amongst the vines, where its journey to bottle begins…

Our tour is based throughout in the lovely town of Treviso — affectionately known as ‘Venice’s little sister' — and we enjoy a combination of expertled tastings and visits to working wineries. In addition to wine, there will be ample opportunity to sample local specialities including hearty staples polenta and wild boar, as well as delicate pasta, seafood, and raddichio.

The combination of good wine, good food, beautiful scenery, and excellent company makes this an irresistible weekend.

The light, fruity fizz of Prosecco will take on new depths as you sip a glass in the evening sunshine on the hotel terrace, overlooking the bustling cobbled streets of lovely Treviso...

Wine improves with age. Travel improves with wine.

What’s Included Return flights London to Venice 2 nights in a 4* hotel in Treviso Most meals included with wine Visits and tastings as per the itinerary Wine Guide & Tour Manager

Itinerary Day 1 – Ciao Treviso

the winery is built on cellars excavated from the rock of the Prosecco region. As with Champagne’s chalk cellars, this allows Bisol to maintain the perfect temperature to conserve and ferment their vintages. We sample their superior spumante over lunch.

We catch a morning flight from London to Venice.

Our short break to Prosecco country begins in a gentle fashion with some free time in the often overlooked city of Treviso. It may not have the same allure as Venice’s lagoon islands, but if you want to experience authentic Veneto life away from gaggles of tourists then you will find much to enjoy in this charming city. Stroll the cobbled streets, past medieval city walls, frescoed churches, and narrow canals. Lunch is independent today.

This afternoon, we check into our hotel in time for our first tasting. Prosecco isn’t just the Italian equivalent to Champagne, it’s very much its own drink with particular nuances and properties.

The apéritif is made from native Glera grapes, cultivated in Italy since Roman times. These wines are best enjoyed young and fresh. Sampling them today, your palate will be greeted by floral scents, co-existing in harmony with peach and vanilla. These are dry wines, but you will likely find them sweeter than traditional Champagnes.

We have an independent dinner this evening, and you are free to explore local eateries or join our guides at a restaurant of their choice.

Day 2 – Exclusive Tastings in Valdobbiadene We travel into the green hills between Conegliano and Valdobbiadene which are home to the Prosecco Superiore di Cartizze DOCG area. Our first visit here is to the vineyards of Adami. This quality producer uses grapes taken only from their own vineyards. The winery is beautifully situated among the vine-draped slopes, the perfect start to our day.

Wine Guide Leonie Loudon is a published travel and wine writer, gaining a WSET Level 3 with Merit and certification from the Association of Italian Sommeliers.

Leonie is the author of Italy Chic, a guide to the hidden gems of Italy. She has also contributed to a number of travel guides to Italy. Fluent in Italian, Leonie writes a blog about the wines of the Mediterranean. She is a very popular guide at A&C and when not travelling in Italy she also runs events for London-based Wine Sorted.

For the duration of our tour, we stay in a centrally-located 4* hotel in Treviso. A lesserknown neighbour of nearby Venice, the town is no less beguiling. With the same meandering waterways and maze-like streets, but a slightly more tranquil air, it makes the perfect base for exploring the area.

Day 3 – Addio Venice!

We check out of our hotel this morning and travel to Venice. Before our flight, you can enjoy a guided tour of the city. Join us as we follow in Casanova’s footsteps, exploring La Serenissima — this unique city built on its maze of canals and lagoons. If you’re still looking to pick up some souvenirs from your holiday, this is the place to do it.

We return to Venice airport for our flights back to London.

We are happy to arrange extra nights in Venice pre- or post-tour. Please contact our customer service team to discuss your requirements.

£735 inc. flights

We continue to one of the best Prosecco producers in the region — Bisol Winery in the heart of Valdobbiadene. It’s not a place you can easily forget — something of a ‘cave of wonders’,

Hotel

Our hunger satisfied, we make our way to a friendly family-owned estate for our final visit of the day. The highly-regarded Sorelle Bronca is run by two sisters with an infectious passion for Prosecco. Grapes are harvested strictly by hand here, and their traditional local wines are delicious. Their Prosecco really illustrates how man (or woman, in this case) can bottle the very best of nature.

Sgl Supp - £100 Deposit pp: £100 Without flights pp: £550

Food The food of the Veneto area includes hearty specialities like polenta and risotto flavoured with spices. In the hills you will find delicious grilled game, while closer to the coast there is an abundance of excellent seafood. Our expert Guides will be on hand throughout to recommend restaurants.

Wine Youthful Prosecco offers peach and floral notes, often surprisingly sweet for a dry wine. We explore the hills of the superior DOCG region and visit some of the best Prosecco producers — from Adami Spumanti to Bisol Winery and the family-run Sorelle Bronca — in pursuit of the perfect prosecco for your individual tastes.

To book, or for any questions Call: 01730 263111 | Email: sales@winetours.co.uk | Visit: www.winetours.co.uk

27

Original - Italy

“Some take their gold in minted mold, and some in harps hereafter, but give me mine in bubble fine and keep the change in laughter.” Oliver Herford

Wine

PIEDMONT 17th – 21st October I TA LY Wine

I

n the hills of Piedmont, a unique climatic tug-of-war occurs as Alpine and Mediterranean temperatures compete for supremacy. This results in the perfect growing conditions for Piedmont’s favourite grape — Nebbiolo.

This tour positively revels in Barolos and Barbarescos. Over five days, we taste our way through the hills around Turin, enjoying a full range of superlative local wines.

As we journey, we also take in the full range of landscapes which make up this scenic part of Italy. We begin and end our Piedmontese journey amid the urban splendour of Turin, with its almost-Parisian boulevards, ornate palaces, and Alpine backdrop. But arguably, the real spirit of the region 28

From the urban elegance of Turin to the rustic charms of familyowned wineries, via undulating landscapes not unlike those of neighbouring Tuscany, the many disparate charms of Piedmont come together to form a particularly fulsome bouquet. lies in its vine-growing heartlands. Here, families both noble and common have been producing wine for generations.

For many, it has meant a rise to global acclaim.

It should come as no surprise, then, that a region so adept at making beautiful wines is also a true gastronomic hotspot. The global headquarters for the Slow Food Movement, which prizes traditional recipes and methods and local and seasonal produce, is located in Bra, where we retire each night. We also get caught up in the most delicious sport of the season with a chance to hunt truffles in the hills around Alba.

Wine improves with age. Travel improves with wine.

What’s Included Return flights London to Turin 4 nights in a 4* hotel in Piedmont Most meals included with wine Visits and tastings as per the itinerary Wine Guide & Tour Manager

Itinerary Day 1 – Meet the Family After landing in Turin this afternoon, we transfer to our hotel, the Albergo Cantine Ascheri, located in the scenic village of Bra. Having refreshed ourselves, we enjoy a welcome tasting and dinner at a nearby Osteria, which will feature Ascheri Wines. Owner Matteo Ascheri introduces some of his wines, including the excellent Barolo Sorano.

Day 2 – Traditional Tastes We kick off our first full day with a visit and tasting at GD Vajra, owned by the dynamic Aldo Vajra and his charming wife Milena. Their Barbera and Nebbiolo wines are outstanding, made in the traditional, centuries-old style of a powerful red.

Lunch today is at the historic Fontanafredda Estate, which was gifted to commoner Rosa Vercellana in 1858 after the King of Sardinia fell hopelessly in love with her.

Later this afternoon, we have some free time in Cherasco, a small and atmospheric town on the cliffs south of Bra; discover for yourself why Napoleon called this “the most beautiful spot in Italy”.

Day 3 – A Barbaresco Institution Our first visit of the day is to Bruno Rocca, a Barbaresco institution. Here, we are led in a tasting of the exquisite wines made by Bruno from the region’s characteristic Nebbiolo grapes, delicious in their complexity even while relatively young.

down to a selection of salami and cheeses, with a grating of delicately aromatic truffle. This afternoon, we have some free time to explore Bra. Day 4 – From Grapes to Grappa

Wine Guide Leonie Loudon is a freelancer in the world of wine, and a published travel and wine writer, gaining a WSET Level 3 with Merit and certification from the Association of Italian Sommeliers.

Leonie is the author of Italy Chic, a guide to the hidden gems of Italy. She has also contributed to a number of travel guides to Italy.

Fluent in Italian, Leonie writes and blogs about the wines of the Mediterranean. She is a very popular guide at A&C and when not travelling in Italy she also runs events for London-based company Wine Sorted.

We continue to La Casa del Trifulau for lunch, but not before heading to the woods to watch a truffle hunt in action. See how a genuine truffle hunter and his dog work together to discover their prize — the tartufo bianco — before settling

Hotel We spend 4 nights at the 4* Albergo Cantine Ascheri: which is owned and run by the winemaking Ascheri family. The hotel has been designed to fit in with its natural surroundings, and has the appearance of a hill slope.

The hotel is ideally located in the picturesque village of Bra in the heart of Piedmont.

This morning, we depart for a visit and tasting at Prunotto, near Alba. Taken over by the noble Antinori family in 1989, the winery has since gone from strength to strength, and we taste the excellent resulting wines over lunch at their cellars. We then have a free lunchtime in the town of Alba, with time to explore the wonderful market — at its most vibrant during truffle season — before an optional visit and grappa tasting at Marolo this afternoon..

This evening, we enjoy dinner at Bra’s Osteria Boccondivino, headquarters of the iconic worldwide Slow Food Movement. In line with the movement, Boccondivino’s menu features a sumptuous array of local and traditional dishes and seasonal produce.

Day 5 – Touring Turin We are led on a guided tour of elegant Turin, after which we have some free time to explore the city at our leisure before our flight home.

£1,725 inc. flights

Sgl Supp - £260 Deposit pp: £300 Without flights pp:£1,545

Food We take our tour at the height of the season for one sought-after regional specialty: white truffles, which we have the joy of tasting at Le Casa del Trifulau.

Then there’s divine chocolate and hazelnut Baci in Cherasco, and the many joys of the Slow Food Movement at Osteria Boccondivino...

Wines Here in Piedmont, the focus lies squarely on the individual wineries, and the families and oenologists behind them. Each wine tells a story, particularly Bruno Rocca’s judiciously oaked and intensely fruity Barbaresco, and the top-quality wines of Prunotto with Beppe Colla’s 1956 groundwork to thank.

To book, or for any questions Call: 01730 263111 | Email: sales@winetours.co.uk | Visit: www.winetours.co.uk

29

Original - France

“Drinking wine was not a snobbism nor a sign of sophistication nor a cult; it was as natural as eating and to me as necessary.”

Ernest Hemingway

Wine

NEW YEAR IN VENICE 29th December – 2nd January, 2018 I TA LY Wine

W

ith its winding waterways, striking mosaic of architectural styles, and the geometric mazes of its palazzi, Venice is steeped in wonder even at seemingly the most ordinary of times. On New Year’s Eve, as we walk the threshold between the present year and the next, its enchantment knows no bounds.

Prosecco is everything in Venice - its Glera grape grown in the Conegliano hills which decorate the Venetian skyline. The sparkling wine is delicious served simply as a refreshing apéritif or combined with fresh peach juice to create the ubiquitous bellini cocktail.

Of course, our tour doesn’t focus solely on Prosecco...

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Herald the arrival of ‘un anno seren’ in the heart of La Serenissima itself — magnificent Venice, with its waterways and crooked lanes, marbled palace walls and colourful lagoon-front houses. Raise a glass of sparkling Prosecco, and ring in the new year in style!

Venetian viticulture has been justly celebrated since Roman times, and Veneto is Italy’s largest producer of wine. The foothills of the Lessini Mountains, just north of Verona, are home to the potential perfection of red Valpolicella — fresh and approachable, with black cherry notes. Italian cuisine — with its simple ingredients and enticing aromas — is not just delicious, it elevates the wine to untold heights.

As the sun dips below the horizon on December 31st, a carnival atmosphere descends on the city as everyone gets together to see out the year. Toast un anno seren over a gourmet gala dinner, and celebrate into the small hours at a postprandial party — after all, the chance comes but once a year!

Wine improves with age. Travel improves with wine.

What’s Included Return flights: London to Venice 4 nights in a 4* hotel in Venice Most meals included, with wine as described in the itinerary Visits and tastings as per the itinerary Wine Guide & Tour Manager

Itinerary Day 1 – Introduction We catch our flight to Venice this morning.

Once landed, we are chauffered to the city itself by water taxi, a fittingly luxurious — and characteristically Venetian — start to our tour.

After checking in at our hotel, we are able to kick off the festivities properly, with a laid-back introduction and wine tasting followed by our first dinner as a group.

Day 2 – To Murano & Burano Our second day begins, once again, on Venice’s famous waterways, as we catch the ferry to Murano, the series of islands crowning the Venetian Lagoon. On the unspoilt island of Sant’Erasmo we find the Orto di Venezia vineyard, where French TV producer Michel Thoulouze has redeveloped the land around his villa into a vineyard. We enjoy a tasting of mineralistic wines which pair beautifully with the produce of the lagoon and its islands.

We cross to Burano Island for lunch. The island is particularly well-known for its small, brightly painted houses edging right up to the waterways running past. These cheery little dwellings are, unsurprisingly, popular with artists.

Upon returning to the city, we enjoy a light dinner before taking in a special New Year’s concert at the jaw-dropping, gilted Teatro La Fenice di Venezia.

Day 3 – New Year’s Eve Our first act of New Year’s Eve is to head into the green hills to the north of Metropolitan Venice, to pay a visit to Prosecco producer Sorelle Bronca.

This small estate is managed by two sisters who grow their own fruit in steep hillside vineyards.

We taste the wines and enjoy a tour of the small — but beautiful — estate.

At lunch, we continue to neighbouring Prosecco producer Bisol. Based in the heart of Valdobbiadene, the winery was established in 1875 and has shown no signs of slowing down.

Bisol was the first Prosecco producer to introduce the concept of single-vineyard ‘Crus’, harvesting late — sometimes into November — and fermenting in separate batches.

Wine Guide Leonie Loudon is a freelancer in the world of wine, and a published travel and wine writer, gaining a WSET Level 3 with Merit and certification from the Association of Italian Sommeliers.

Leonie is the author of Italy Chic, a guide to the hidden gems of Italy. She has also contributed to a number of travel guides to Italy.

Fluent in Italian, Leonie writes and blogs about the wines of the Mediterranean. She is a very popular guide at A&C and when not travelling in Italy she also runs events for London-based company Wine Sorted.

Hotel For the entirety of our Venice tour, we make our base in the scenic waterfront city itself.

We spend 4 nights in a handpicked 4* hotel in the heart of beautiful medieval Venice, with its Islamic and Byzantine inspired architecture and local hotspots within easy reach, all the better for joining in the festivities!

This afternoon, we take some free time in Venice, either to explore the sights or to relax before the festivities this evening. Then, we attend a gala dinner and party, where we enjoy a gourmet meal — with Champagne or Prosecco as you prefer — to ring in the year at midnight.

Days 4 – New Year’s Day On the first day of the new year, we enjoy a leisurely morning and brunch at the hotel as a group. We have some free time over lunch to spend as — and where — we wish.

We reunite in the afternoon to embark on a guided tour of Venice, followed by a fun and informal tasting of Italian wines hosted by our Wine Guide. This evening, we have our final dinner as a group at a lovely local restaurant in Venice.

Day 5 – Homeward Bound After some free time for last-minute souvenir shopping, we transfer to the airport for our flights home or onward travel.

£2,345 inc. flights

Sgl Supp - £595 Deposit pp: £300 Without flights pp: £2,095

Food Simple, warming, and hearty, Venice’s food is the perfect antidote to winter weather, and a prime example of the enduring attraction of ‘cucina povera’ — think creamy polenta, risotto, and gnocchi.

There’s also local seafood from Venice’s saltwater lagoon, prepared with beautiful simplicity — goby, sardines, cuttlefish, and more.

Wines Effervescent Prosecco, the sparkling jewel of Italian wine, is rightly our focus on this celebratory tour.

Encounter tranquilo for toasting, spumante for sipping, and frizzante for feasting on visits to Venetobased producers. Among these are the sisters Bronca of Sorelle Bronca, and Michel Thoulouze of Orto di Venezia.

To book, or for any questions Call: 01730 263111 | Email: sales@winetours.co.uk | Visit: www.winetours.co.uk

31

Original - Italy

“Venice, its temples and palaces did seem like fabrics of enchantment piled to heaven.”

Percy Bysshe Shelley

Wine

NEW YEAR IN BUDAPEST 29th December – 2nd January, 2018 HUNGARY Wine

I

Boldog Új Évet Kívánok! Or 'happy new year' to the non-native speakers amongst us... Bid farewell to 2017 in breathtaking style — during Danube river cruises, classical concerts, and guided tastings at a superb selection of wineries.

n Hungary, New Year’s Day is all about luck, fortune, health, wealth, and happiness for the year ahead.

So where better for a new year break? Raise a glass of fine Hungarian bubbles on the viewing terrace of a splendid fairytale locale, which boasts incredible panoramic views of the city.

We’ll continue to enjoy 2018 in style, at a special New Year’s Day concert at the exquisite Palace of Arts.

— Budapest is a fine food capital and we sample some of the best local and European food on offer.

Hungary may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of fine wine, but it is a mistake to overlook the country’s grapes. From big-bodied Villány reds to flinty Somló whites and sweet golden Tokaj, there’s something to suit every palate. Gastronomy doesn’t stop at goulash here either

When midnight finally arrives on December 31st, why not celebrate like the locals? There will be plenty of opportunities to join in with the renditions of the national anthem that fill the air as the clock strikes twelve.

An education in wine and a New Year’s party in the finest A&C tradition.

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The beautiful city is dominated by the mighty Danube River. Its long and complex history can be felt everywhere you turn. We enjoy the river in full during a cruise, sailing past the Turkish bathhouses and art nouveau architecture that line the riverbanks.

Wine improves with age. Travel improves with wine.

What’s Included Return flights London to Budapest 4 nights in a 4* hotel in Budapest Most meals included with wine Visits and tastings as per the itinerary Wine Guide & Tour Manager

Itinerary Day 1 – The Tasting Table We escape the Christmas hubbub at home while travelling from London to Budapest. Our tasting tour begins this evening — after checking into our hotel, we make our way to the aptly named Tasting Table. Hungary is home to numerous grapes and unique wine regions — this is the perfect opportunity to get to know them.

Day 2 – Wine for the Russian Tsar Our first full day takes us to the picturesque little town of Tokaj, where sweet wines have been produced since the 15th century. Here, we find that Erzsébet Winery’s ancient cellars have quite the pedigree, having once belonged to the wine merchant of a Russian Tsar. We enjoy a regal visit here today, tasting taste six wonderful wines paired perfectly with a delicious cheese plate.

over our meal until the time comes to toast the New Year with songs, fireworks, and a greeting of ‘boldog új évet mindenkinek!’

Day 4 – The Palace of the Arts

Wine Guide Wine Guide To Be Confirmed We are still putting the finishing touches to some of our 2017 tours.

Rest assured that you will be joined by one of the UK’s leading Wine Guides on this tour.

We enjoy all the comforts of home during lunch at our next stop — Hudácskó Winery. Their wines will taste all the better served alongside a traditional, home-cooked feast for lunch today.

We return to Budapest where you are free for an independent dinner this evening, or you can join the Wine Guide at a restaurant of their choice.

Our tour is coming to an end, but not before we have made our way down the mighty Danube. The Danube's banks are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with extraordinary architecture lining both sides. There is nothing better than seeing it up close during a relaxed river cruise — with a glass of fine Hungarian sparkling wine in hand!

The last day of 2017 begins in Etyek — known as the Hungarian Napa Valley. Pinot Noir is grown here, in addition to native grapes. The Hernyák family invite us into their estate’s cellar for a tasting, and we continue to their open kitchen for lunch, looking out on their vineyards as we dine.

We enjoy a final lunch at a local restaurant before returning to the airport for our flights home.

Take some time to relax at our hotel before tonight’s festivities... it’s sure to be a night to remember at the Fisherman’s Bastion. The historic Halászbástya restaurant, with its amazing panoramic viewing terrace, will host us as we celebrate the New Year. After a delicious dinner, we can look out upon the city. We linger

We spend the four nights of our tour in a 4* Hotel in central Budapest — what better way to get right to the heart of the holiday spirit? Amid the art nouveau architecture and wealth of historic monuments, it’s easy to feel at home in this ‘Little Paris of Middle Europe’.

The Palace of the Arts New Year’s Concert is an unmissable event on the city’s social calendar.

Welcome in the new year with Haydn’s grandiose masterpiece The Creation, a celebration of the world’s diversity and the wonder of life in all its glory. Each year, celebrated artists stand at the conductor’s podium, directing an outstanding ensemble of celebrated musicians.

Day 5 – Cruising the Danube

Day 3 – New Year’s Eve

Hotel

After last night’s celebration, we enjoy a slow start — greeting 2018 during a relaxed guided tour of Budapest. Immerse yourself in art nouveau splendour, and stop by historic grand cafés, ornate baths and festive markets. We’ll stop at a local restaurant for an early dinner before tonight’s entertainment.

£2,095 inc. flights

Sgl Supp - £295 Deposit pp: £300 Without flights pp: £1,835

Food We enjoy a home-cooked feast at Hudácskó Winery, a cheese-and-wine tasting session at Erzsébet and a New Year’s Eve dinner at the celebrated Halászbástya — a truly memorable experience.

You might even find a new favourite treat among the cafés and festive markets of beautiful Budapest.

Wines Though Hungary is best known for its sweet Tokaji wines, it also boasts fiery whites. Our tour includes Etyek, just south of Budapest, where the cooler climate gives rise to fresh, fragrant whites. Perhaps your most memorable glass will be aboard our morning river cruise on the Danube...

To book, or for any questions Call: 01730 263111 | Email: sales@winetours.co.uk | Visit: www.winetours.co.uk

33

Original - France

“Each age has deemed the new-born year The fittest time for festal cheer.”

Walter Scott

Wine VINEYARDS OF SUSSEX & KENT 27th – 29th April UK Wine

T

he Romans were the first to bring the grapevine to England’s shores. Of course, it hasn’t been plain sailing for the British wine industry, and we’re almost certain that England isn’t the first country you think of when someone says "fine wine". For a very long time, English wines were homemade, and confined largely to the stalls of village fétes.

By contrast, the English wine scene of today is an exciting emerging area of the wine world, producing award-winning sparkling wines.

Unsurprising really, when you realise that the South Downs’ chalk-rich soil is almost identical to that found in Champagne.

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Discover an unbelievably rich tapestry of wildlife, landscapes, and tranquility — rolling hills, medieval villages, and gorgeous coastline. Vineyards are an increasingly common (and pleasant) sight on the south-facing slopes of the South Downs.

On this exclusive tour, we visit some of the stars of the English wine renaissance, including the Bolney Estate, Gusborne, and Hush Heath.

Superb sparkling wines with strong mineral character are the main event here; but still whites and reds are also produced, although in comparatively small quantities. All are served alongside the sumptuous beauty of the South Downs, an endlessly inspiring corner of the English countryside.

A great next tour for those who have completed one of our Champagne weekends, or anyone who wants to experience the English wine revolution first-hand.

Wine improves with age. Travel improves with wine.

What’s Included Included travel from London 2 nights in a 4* boutique guest house Most meals with wine Visits and tastings as per the itinerary Wine Guide & Tour Manager Load up with cases of wine at cellar door prices

Original - UK

“Give me wine to wash me clean of the weather-stains of care.”

Ralph Waldo Emerson

Itinerary Day 1 – Pinot With Pedigree

Chapel Down produce a stunning selection of sparkling and still wines, in addition to award-winning beers and cider. We sample it all today, from grain to grape — with an apple or two thrown in for good measure. We return to Tunbridge Wells, where dinner tonight is independent.

We travel by executive coach from London’s Victoria Coach Station.

Within no time, we arrive at our first stop — the Bolney Wine Estate. Most people think that English wine accolades only came in recently, but Bolney is one of the oldest names in English wine, and has been winning awards since the 1970s.

Sample Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir, and Chardonnay, served alongside a delicious meat-and-cheese platter during lunch today.

We enjoy a second stop at an organic winery on the way to our hotel. Davenport Vineyards takes an interesting approach to wine-making. Each of their five plots has been allowed to develop naturally, creating individual wines that really demonstrate the characteristics of their soil and location. They are a firm favourite of the A&C office and we’re sure they’ll be one of yours too.

This evening, we check into our hotel, based in an old restored brewhouse in the heart of Tunbridge Wells. While dinner is independent this evening, your guide will be on hand to recommend local restaurants.

Day 2 – From Grain To Grape This morning, we travel to the Gusbourne Estate, one of the pioneers of English vinification, whose wine is made exclusively from grapes grown in their Kent and Sussex vineyards. Their approach sits comfortably in the middle of Old and New World wine-making — combining the best traditional methods with modern technology and cutting-edge equipment. Timing is everything with their wines, taking three years to go from grape to glass, so savour every drop.

Wine Guide Julia TrustramEve is Marketing Director at English Wine Producers, the body dedicated to the support and promotion of vineyards in England and Wales, whether up-and-coming or established.

Julia has worked at English Wine Producers since 1993, with English wines for twenty five years, and in the wider wine trade for just over thirty. With her wealth of experience, and her passion for the promotion of English and Welsh winemaking, we’re sure you’ll agree that we’d be hard pressed to find a better guide to lead our tour of the vineyards of Sussex and Kent.

With such fine wines on our weekend menu, how could we offer anything but the best food?

We enjoy Michelin starred fare at The Curlew restaurant today.

Hotel Over our long weekend in Sussex and Kent we stay in the charming 4* One Warwick Park. From its origins as a brewery and schoolhouse the hotel has been painstakingly restored, opening in 2015. The hotel boasts an excellent restaurant and is based in the heart of Tunbridge Wells.

Day 3 – The Garden of England Our day begins with a brush with history, at the childhood home of Anne Boleyn — the romantic, double-moated 13th century Hever Castle. Regardless of when you visit, the magnificent gardens and glorious grounds offer a breathtaking display for those strolling through.

We travel deep into the Garden of England for our next visit. The Hush Heath Estate is aptly named, its garden location hidden deep in the green heart of the county. Their exquisite selection of wines and ciders is produced from fruit grown in their beautiful vineyards and apple orchards. The ancient oak woodlands that surround the estate combine with the rich wildlife, flora, and fauna, and create a spellbinding final tasting experience.

You can taste the team’s passion in every glass.

We cross to a local pub to continue enjoying their wines over a hearty Sunday lunch.

We make our way to London Victoria Coach Station for our return journey home.

£795 inc. coach travel from London Sgl Supp - £195 Deposit pp: £100

Food A celebration of up-andcoming English wine would surely be incomplete without some equally celebratory feasts. We sample the best of British food, from charcuterie and cheeses perfectly paired with Pinot Gris and Chardonnay to a Michelinstarred lunch at ex-coaching inn The Curlew, rounding off with a classic Sunday lunch.

Wines From the internationally successful wines of Gusbourne to the sparkling depths of award-winning Balfour Brut Rosé, we’re here to show you that English wine truly can be something special. Our tour begins at the pioneering Bolney Estate, which was recently awarded Gold Outstanding for its Blanc de Blancs Magnum.

To book, or for any questions Call: 01730 263111 | Email: sales@winetours.co.uk | Visit: www.winetours.co.uk

35

Wine GALICIA & THE DOURO VALLEY 17th – 23rd April PORTUGAL Wine

I

n eastern Spain, nestled between the plateau and the Mediterranean Sea, we find Galicia. Here, the wild coastline is strewn with cliffs, beaches, and ports that deliver the best seafood in Spain. Inland is a verdant dream — deep valleys and majestic hills play host to stone-built villages, tranquil monasteries, and (last but certainly not least) vineyards.

Sample superb wines filled with great character, including some particularly robust reds. Our visits will prove without a doubt that Portugal deserves to be considered just as important and fascinating as the sumptuous Spanish region it borders... almost 2,000 years. Despite its age, it’s considered something of a new frontier for wine, its oenologists making the most of the 250 different native grape varieties found across the vine-laced landscape.

Galicia is best known for Albariño, one of Spain’s most distinctive white grapes. The best Albariño-dominated wines are aromatic, with delicious peach, apricot, and almond notes.

When you think of Portuguese wine you probably think of fortified wine first. Well, when it comes to Port, there’s no better region than the Douro Valley. Throughout our tour we stay in some lovely hotels — including a 5* 18th Manor house set in an exquisitely restored estate — and enjoy the tempting food of the region.

Across the border in Portugal, the Douro Valley is a historic spot, with many vineyards still unchanged after

Fortified or un-fortified, red or white — our tour has it covered as we discover a different side to Spain and Portugal.

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Wine improves with age. Travel improves with wine.

What’s Included Return flights London to Porto 6 nights in 4* and 5* hotels in Vigo, Leiro, and Pinhão Most meals included with wine Visits and tastings as per the itinerary Wine Guide & Tour Manager

Itinerary Day 1 – Introduction

Day 5 – Rising Stars

We fly from London to Porto, arriving in time for an introductory tasting over dinner at our lovely 4* hotel in the port city of Vigo.

This morning, we take a detour from wine visits and head to the impressive Baroque Palace of Casa de Mateus, built at the start of the 18th century and truly stunning. We continue to the Quinta do Portal for lunch. This fast-rising star of the Douro Valley boasts many award-winning Ports and wines. This evening, we have a special dinner at the Dow’s Quinta do Bomfim estate — owned by a great British Port family — on the banks of the Douro. Tonight, we check in to our 5* hotel in the heart of the Douro valley.

Day 2 – A Palace fit for Albariño

Wine Guide

Our day begins with a visit to Palacio de Fefinanes, a wonderful winery that really knows how to make a great Albariño. Wines have been made in this historic building since the 17th century. Next, we are whisked off on a tour of Forjas de Salnes vineyards, some of whose excellent indigenous Galician red wines we sample over lunch today. We return to Vigo for an independent dinner this evening.

Charles Metcalfe is something of a Renaissance man, with past careers including tour guide, security guard, freelance cook, investment analyst, and opera singer.

Day 3 – Native Grapes This morning, we check out of our hotel and head south to the cellars of Terras Gauda, an excellent Albariño producer in the O Rosal district.

They use a perfect blend of the best native Rías Baixas grape varieties to make their wines. We continue over the Portuguese border for lunch at the Anselmo Mendes estate before arriving at our next hotel late this afternoon, a beautifully tranquil, 12th century former Cisctercian monastery. We dine together this evening with paired wines.

Day 4 – Natural Methods and Biodynamics We enjoy a visit and tasting at Coto de Gomariz, who like to a follow a number of natural winemaking methods, including biodynamics. We don’t have to travel very far to get to our next tasting — the Vina Mein is just around the corner.

They have succeeded in reviving wonderful local varieties — such as Godello and Loureira — which we enjoy over lunch. We have a free afternoon and dinner this evening. Those who wish to can explore the lovely town of Leiro, and join our guides for dinner at a restaurant of their choice.

After discovering a passion for wine, he co-founded consumer wine magazine Wine International and the International Wine Challenge, a global competition which he continues to co-chair today.

Charles serves as Honorary President of the Association of Wine Educators and Chairman of Judges for the Louis Roederer International Wine Writers’ Awards.

He is also the author of books on the wines of Spain and Portugal.

Hotel We begin our tour at the 4* NH Palacio de Vigo, a modern hotel on the scenic Bajas Estuary. We continue to the 4* Hotel Monumento Mosteiro de San Clodio in Ourense, before crossing the border to the sumptuous 5* Vintage House, set in an exquisitely restored 18th century estate.

Day 6 – The Three Quintas Port is on the menu this morning during a tasting at Quinta de la Rosa. They also produce their own olive oil, which is equally as delicious as their wines. We move on to table wine during lunch at Quinta Vale D. Maria, a small but excellent estate which still has all its old vines. We toast the end of our tour with dinner at Quinta da Passadouro.

Some of their Ports are still made using the traditional foot-treading method.

Day 7 – Conclusion Could there be a more fitting place to finish a Portuguese tour than Graham’s Port Lodge?

Discover three centuries of craftsmanship and heritage — and spectacular views of Porto’s historic city centre — at the stately lodge.

Afterwards, you can take some time to wander through Porto’s impressive museums or grab a souvenir or two before our return flight home.

£2,195 inc. flights

Sgl Supp - £295 Deposit pp: £300 Without flights pp: £2,045

Food Throughout this tour we eat as the Iberians do, enjoying long, late lunches, relaxed afternoons (this is, after all, the country of the siesta), and some magnificent evening meals. Delicious regional cheeses and charcutiere complement the wines we taste. There is also excellent seafood, including cod fritters and grilled octopus.

Wines The primary Portuguese grape — and the Douro Valley’s favourite son — is Touriga Nacional. Used in port and dry reds, it is recognisable by its structured flavours ranging from blackcurrant to violet.

We also explore incredible revived Spanish grape varieties, including Godello and Loureira.

To book, or for any questions Call: 01730 263111 | Email: sales@winetours.co.uk | Visit: www.winetours.co.uk

37

Original - Portugal

“Wine cheers the sad, revives the old, inspires the young, makes weariness forget his toil.”

Lord Byron

Wine CHILE, ARGENTINA & URUGUAY 13th – 26th February SOUTH AMERICA Wine

C

Chile’s landscape has often been called nature on a colossal scale... and Argentina and Uruguay are almost as beautiful. Parched dunes, fertile valleys, volcanoes, and more offer the perfect visual accompaniment to the delicious wines that will cross our palates.

hile is a viticultural paradise.

Deliciously hot, sunny days followed by cool nights, with few rain showers and refreshing breezes. South America has made wine since the 1500s — Spanish Conquistadors introduced the very first vines, and Franciscan Monks produced wine for religious purposes from Mission grapes, before the viticulture movement made its way to Peru and then Chile.

Today, South America’s wine industry is thriving. Discover the finest source of well-priced, excellent-quality varietal wines — from sleek, fruity reds to ripe, clean whites. The organic movement is strong in South America, and the winemakers we meet strive for regionality and originality in their wines. Try delicious Chilean Carmenère, Argentina’s star white Torrontés, Uruguay’s bold Tannat blends, and so many more varieties.

But it wasn’t until 1851, when Don Silvestre Ochagavia Echazarreta planted a range of imported varietals — Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot, and more — that South America reached the turning point it needed to produce exceptional vino.

Join us on a voyage of discovery that examines everything from the humble Chilean casks that have always had their place on a Chilean table to the luxurious wines that have cemented South America’s position on the world wine map.

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Wine improves with age. Travel improves with wine.

What’s Included Flights London to Santiago; Buenos Aires to London 13 nights in 4* and 5* hotels, and a private wine estate Most meals included with wine Visits and tastings as per the itinerary Wine Guide & Tour Manager

Itinerary Day 1 – Welcome to Chile Our South American adventure begins in Chile.

Miguel Torres Vino y Tapas restaurant host us upon our arrival in Santiago — wine and food enjoy equal respect here.

Day 2 – Biodynamic Endeavours On our first morning in Chile, we meet the man who introduced the country to biodynamics — the incomparable Alvaro Espinoza — at his Antiyal winery. This evening is free to explore the small but vibrant town of Santa Cruz.

Day 3 – Feng Shui Captured in a Glass Great wine goes a long way to promote harmony with your environment. So what could wine made in a setting designed along Feng Shui principles achieve? Montes Winery may have the answer…

Day 4 – A Taste of the New World The sun-scorched vines of the Colchagua Valley produce some of South America’s most promising wines. Cono Sur Estate’s full, fresh flavours prove that they truly understand New World wines.

Day 5 – Mixing it Up The dynamic Maria Luz heads up San Antonio winery Casa Marin, concentrating on Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir and vinifying in two distinctly different styles. We enjoy a visit and lunch here today.

Day 6 – Fine Wine on our Doorstep We’ll happily journey far and wide to find the best wines, but sometimes there’s no need. Today, after some free time at our hotel to spend as you wish and a barbecue lunch, we explore its vast vineyards by carriage or on horseback.

Day 7 – Across the Andes to Argentina We take a break from wine tasting for today to journey across the Andes to Argentina. We follow a breathtaking route fringed by snow-capped mountains — make sure to look up for the chance to see condors soaring over the peaks.

Day 8 – A Taste of the Region We pay a visit to the small, family-run estate of Cassone this morning, before taking some free time in the thriving university city of Mendoza.

This evening, we taste a selection of superb Zuccardi wines before dinner at the estate itself.

Wine Guide Beverley Blanning MW fell in love with wine while working in advertising.

Quitting the rat race, she moved to Paris and began leading tours to the wine regions of France before heading up the first Arblaster & Clarke tours to Chile and Argentina. She has written on the subject of South American wines for Decanter magazine.

Since becoming a Master of Wine in 2001, she has taught the Christie’s Wine Course for many years and judged at wine competitions around the world. Author of Teach Yourself Wine Tasting and Biodynamics in Wine, she has also contributed to the Oxford Companion on wine and health.

Hotel Over the course of our tour, we have the pleasure of splitting our time between six 4* and 5* hotels across Chile, Argentina, and Uruguay.

Among these are the Vina Tarapaca, an idyllic villa set in lovely grounds which is usually closed to the public; and the white-stone Park Hyatt Mendoza, situated in the city’s main square.

Day 9 – The Grandest of Wineries Today, we visit the surreal Catena Zapata winery.

Modelled magnificently on a Mayan pyramid, it is the brainchild of the influential Catena family, and we enjoy lunch at the site this afternoon.

Day 10 – Defying Gravity As the immortal saying goes, “what goes up must come down”, and never has this been truer than at Bodega y Viñedos O. Fournier, a pioneering gravity-fed winery in the Uco Valley.

Day 11 – Hello Buenos Aires!

Take the whole day to explore Buenos Aires — sexy, alive, and supremely confident, it will take no time at all to fall in love with this capital city.

Day 12 – Waiting for the Train…

We journey over to Uruguay today, where we enjoy some free time in Colonia before an evening visit to a wonderful old Juanico villa winery with its own train station — so there’s no need to stop after that first delicious glass of wine...

Days 13 & 14 – Say Goodbye to South America After a tour of Montevideo, we enjoy some of South America’s most interesting wines with the family who make them at the Bodegas Bouza estate. We return home to the British winter on Day 15 — but bring with us memories that will warm us through to the spring.

£6,195 inc. flights

Sgl Supp - £1,100 Deposit pp: £500 Without flights pp: £4,995

Food South American cuisine combines native tradition with the influences of European invaders of more recent centuries, with dishes ranging from empañadas to stuffed tomatoes. From picnics amid the soaring Andes to private dinners at prominent wine estates, this tour promises to be unforgettable...

Wines Argentina’s famous white Torrontes is sure to spark your interest, but Uruguay’s passion for red wine — especially Tannat wines like Don Pascual — will steal your heart. Our tour begins in Chile’s warm-climate Central Valley region, famous for its fruity reds with bright acidity, and takes a panoramic view of South America’s very best.

To book, or for any questions Call: 01730 263111 | Email: sales@winetours.co.uk | Visit: www.winetours.co.uk

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Original - South America

“A full cup of wine at the right time is worth more than all the kingdoms of this earth!”

Gustav Mahler

Wine

SOUTH AFRICA 3rd - 11th March SOUTH AFRICA Wine

I

t is said that South African wine straddles both the Old and New Worlds — the Cape’s wine culture goes back more than 350 years.

Even so, as recently as ten years ago South African wines were lucky if they featured on the bottom shelf of your local supermarket’s wine section.

Much of the wine produced in the country was distilled into brandy — thank heavens the same can’t be said today.

Tasting the wines of the Cape region is a pleasure in itself, but sampling them in the actual vineyards where they were produced is a truly unique experience. The landscape you find yourself in is second to none, with immense open plains giving way

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With so many excellent wines available to you from a glut of grapes — Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc, Chardonnay, and more — the only problem you’ll have is deciding which to sample next... to hundreds of hectares of vines, towering mountain ranges, lakes, and green forests. We visit renowned areas, but also look to the emerging South African wine scene. Many of the country’s young winemakers have travelled the globe in search of divine vine inspiration, and the results are a captivating mix of technical expertise and creativity applied to South Africa’s unique soils.

Wine could easily encapsulate each and every moment of our South African tour, but we would be remiss if we neglected to schedule cultural visits too. From game drives at wildlife sanctuaries to informal family BBQs, we enjoy it all...

Wine improves with age. Travel improves with wine.

What’s Included Return flights London to Cape Town 7 nights in comfortable 4* hotels and welcoming guest houses Most meals included with wine Visits and tastings as per the itinerary Wine Guide & Tour Manager

Itinerary Day 1 & 2 – A True Start on False Bay We fly from London on Day 1, arriving in Cape Town on Day 2. Our tour begins a short distance from False Bay, at a beautiful farm on the east-facing slopes of the Constantiaberg.

Buitenverwachting dates back to 1685 and is renowned for its elegant wines. We stay for dinner, returning to Cape Town this evening.

Day 3 – A Wealth of Animals Springbok, giraffe, black wildebeest, zebra, and more delay our first tasting today — how many will you spot during our game drive at Villiera Wildlife Sanctuary? We continue to the familyowned winery for lunch before a scenic drive to Montagu where we have dinner and stay tonight.

Day 4 – Synonymous with Chardonnay If you are going to name your winery 'Excelsior Estate' then you must commit to producing quality wines, which is precisely what the De Wet family have been doing here since 1859.

Fine food and even finer wines are on the menu for lunch at De Wetshof, South Africa’s most eminent Chardonnay house. We enjoy free time in Montagu this afternoon and evening.

Day 5 – Make Yourself at Home Become an honorary member of the Hamilton Russell family during lunch served on the veranda of their beautiful family home in Hermanus. The Hamilton Russell Vineyards produce beautiful Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

We travel to Franschoek this evening.

Day 6 – From a World of Numbers Why pursue a career in accountancy when you could be a master winemaker? That’s the question Gyles Webb, owner of Thelema Mountain vineyards, asked himself when he left finance for

wine-making. After our private visit, we return to Franschhoek via Stellenbosch. A special dinner awaits us at the Kanonkop Estate, long described as South Africa’s answer to a Premier Cru. Day 7 – A Natural Balance

Wine Guide Nicola Arcedeckne-Butler MW started her wine trade career at Majestic Wine Warehouses in 1987, before moving to venerable merchants Corney & Barrow in 1988.

She passed the Master of Wine examination in 1996, collecting the Villa Maria Viticulture Award along the way.

Today, Nicola is Director of Buying for Private Cellar, and travels extensively throughout the New and Old Worlds visiting suppliers and tasting and buying some of the world’s best wines. She specialises in French, Italian, and particularly South African wine, and has led many tours to South Africa for us in the past.

Hotel We are welcomed on our first night in Cape Town by the luxurious surroundings of the waterfront Victoria & Alfred hotel, continuing to Montagu’s 19th century Mimosa Lodge, the Dutch Cape-style La Fontaine Guest House in Hermanus and the genteel Royal Hotel in Riebeek Kasteel.

We begin the day at Reyneke Wines, a leading light in South African biodynamic farming.

Spectacular panoramic views of Table Mountain, and Stellenbosch wait for us, along with superb wines, at Jordan Vineyards, an impressive farm with a history stretching back over 300 years.

We continue to Ribeek Kasteel where we stay in a charming small hotel with pool and garden.

Day 8 – Meeting the Malbec King Our morning is spent at Lemberg Winery, a boutique winery with some unusual varieties.

The Valley of Abundance hosts our taste buds at Annex Kloof, where we meet Hugo Basson, the self-styled ‘Malbec King of Africa’. The winery has been run by four generations of the same family who planted their first vineyards in 1907. We return to Riebeek Kasteel for our final dinner.

Day 9 – Fruits of the Bush-Vines Our final day sees us enjoy wines made from old bush-vine fruit at Lammershoek Farms and winery. Our last stop is Doran Vineyards, the brainchild of Edwin Doran, who has been a good friend of ours for 20 years. The former head of a travel company, Edwin retired to South Africa to pursue his love of wine, but with bottle production now in the millions his retirement seems to be proving anything but restful! We return home today, arriving on 12th March.

£3,395

inc. flights Sgl Supp - £250 Deposit pp: £500 Without flights pp: £2,395

Food South African cuisine encompasses many cultures, from Dutch boerewors and malva pudding, to Indonesia influenced curries and Zulu shisa nyama, or barbecued meat. Where meals are independent, your guide will offer recommendations, or you can join them at a restaurant of their choice.

Wines South Africa’s wards have incredible terroir and passionate growers, making it a powerful player in the world of wine. From the vineyards under Table Mountain to the ‘Malbec King of Africa’, explore over four centuries of wine heritage — our tour opens at Buitenverwachting, which dates back to 1685.

To book, or for any questions Call: 01730 263111 | Email: sales@winetours.co.uk | Visit: www.winetours.co.uk

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Original - South Africa

“The juice of the grape is the liquid quintessence of concentrated sunbeams.”

Thomas Love Peacock

Wine

CALIFORNIA 7th – 13th May USA Wine

T

here aren’t many states that are quite as relaxed as California — year-round sunshine will do that to you — but there is one thing they are incredibly serious about, and that’s top class wine.

The US wine industry has an uneasy history. Early East Coast settlers had little luck making wine, while their more successful West Coast brothers found their vines blighted by mildew and other diseases at the close of the 19th century, and prohibition saw the wine industry set back one hundred years. But, undeterred, America emerged — much like a viticultural phoenix — and today it stands as the world’s fourth largest wine-producing nation.

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Join us as we traverse a luxurious landscape of globally-renowned wines — meeting with world-famous wine producers and touring internationally-celebrated estates across the Sonoma and Napa Valley regions of America’s great ‘Grape State’...

Wine is made in every one of America’s fifty states, but California — the Grape State itself — is far and away its most important wine-making region. Known for full-bodied reds and oaky whites, this is one of the most diverse wine regions in terms of its soil, climate, and number of different grape varieties.

The Napa Valley is often acknowledged as the world’s second-best source of Cabernet Sauvignon, while Sonoma County produces world-class Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The wine world owes so much to California: varietal wines, ‘boutique wineries’, scientific site selection, and indeed the whole idea of the 'New World’. Join us as we discover vines, wines, and so much more, across the ‘Land of Milk and Honey’.

Wine improves with age. Travel improves with wine.

What’s Included Return flights London to San Francisco 6 nights in 4* hotels Most meals included with wine Visits and tastings as per the itinerary Wine Guide & Tour Manager

Itinerary Day 1 – Arriving in the Grape State

viticulture. We have found the wine world’s most interesting motto: “Time’s fun when you’re having flies!” Well, what else would you expect from the Frog’s Leap Estate? It’s quite the winery — small, neat, and modern, but happily ensconced within a historic red barn in Rutherford.

We arrive in the Grape State just in time to dine like the locals at a lovely San Francisco restaurant.

Day 2 – Let It Be...

How do you create pristine wines with velvety character? Well, you could try leaving it to your environment... a 'non-interventionist' style of wine-making has been adopted at Chimney Rock Estate, which we visit this morning. Many Napa Valley wineries were using Merlot as a blending grape when Dan and Margaret Duckhorn opened Duckhorn Vineyards in 1976, but they trusted its capabilities as a stand-alone wine — and their luscious wines have certainly lived up to their potential.

Day 3 – First Growth California People enter the wine industry from many different avenues, but the construction industry isn’t the most obvious choice. Despite very different career beginnings, Joseph Phelps’ vineyards are now considered a 'First Growth' of California. Standing in the former cattle ranch that Joseph bought in 1973, we taste one of the world’s most celebrated wines: Insignia.

After some free time exploring Sonoma’s plaza, surrounded as it is by historic buildings, we move on to the pioneering Saintsbury winery. Richard Ward and David Graves have produced delicious single-vineyard Chardonnay and Pinot Noir here since 1981.

Day 4 – A Leap of Imagination

Wine Guide

Day 5 – Fog-Drenched Valleys

Stephen Brook is a leading expert on Bordeaux and other wine regions of France. He is also a distinguished wine writer.

Stephen has also written many books on travel, both guide books and more personal accounts. He has also compiled anthologies, and written numerous books on wine, especially on the wines of Bordeaux and California.

He contributes articles regularly to four international wine magazines, lectures on wine at Christie’s Education in London, and is in demand as a guest judge at wine competitions around the world.

The Cabernet Sauvingon we sample today is served with quite the view. The David Arthur Vineyards’ rocky red soil sits high up on Pritchard Hill, giving way to transcendent views of the valley floor. During your free time in St Helena, make sure to stop at The Napa Valley Wine Library to chart the history of the local

Hotel We spend the first few nights of our journey in a San Francisco institution, the Westin St Francis on Union Square. From here, we move on to the plush MacArthur Place, a former working vineyard, and the modern Hotel Healdsburg, both in the heart of the beautiful Sonoma Valley Wine Country.

We have a scenic drive to Mendocino County’s fog-drenched Anderson Valley this morning, and the well-known Roederer Estate host us this afternoon. This is the Californian outpost of Champagne Louis Roederer, and their estatebottled sparkling wines are almost impossible to tell it apart from its illustrious counterpart.

Day 6 – Centuries Old Vines Famous for its Cabernet Sauvignon-based Monte Bello, a contestant at the Judgement of Paris, Ridge Vineyards also produces Zinfandel from centuries-old vines in northern Sonoma today.

The Sbragia Family invite us to picnic at their Dry Creek Valley vineyards. Wine-makers Ed and Adam Sbragia make highly acclaimed, limited production big reds including another wonderful old vine Zinfandel.

Day 7 – Leaving the Sun-Drenched State We bid a fond farewell to California with a visit to a true icon of the wine world, Opus One. We’ve saved the best sip for last, as this estate produces some of California’s most high profile and (more importantly) best wines. We fly home today, arriving in the UK the next day, Sunday 14th May.

£4,495 inc. flights

Sgl Supp - £995 Deposit pp: £500 Without flights pp: £3,695

Food Californian food is hearty but health-conscious, with an emphasis on organic agriculture. French, Italian, and Mediterranean influences are evident in the north, where beautifully prepared fusion food is also popular. Our tour begins in San Francisco, hailed as one of America’s best food cities.

Wines Californian wines are a best-fruit-forward affair, with bold yet endlessly drinkable vintages. Will your favourite be the velvety, non-interventionist Merlot of Chimney Rock estate, or David Arthur’s Elevation 1147, the 2013 version of which boasts beautiful blackberry aromas with a perfect transition to cocoa?

To book, or for any questions Call: 01730 263111 | Email: sales@winetours.co.uk | Visit: www.winetours.co.uk

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Original - USA

“Wine makes daily living easier, less hurried, with fewer tensions and more tolerance.”

Benjamin Franklin

Wine

NEW ZEALAND 19th February – 4th March NEW ZEALAND Wine

N

ew Zealand produces just 1% of the world’s wine — but that hasn’t stopped it becoming the Sauvignon Blanc capital of the world. A ‘must see’ destination for anyone interested in wine travel, we are delighted to be adding a much requested trip to New Zealand in 2017.

A drop of New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc on the tongue is instantly recognisable — its high acid, juicy citrus flavour, accompanied as it is by a herbaceous but floral aroma. The islands’ best Pinot Noir, on the other hand, offers unashamedly fresh and structured fruit.

Over sixteen days we travel from

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New Zealand is one of the world’s most diverse wine destinations, from big bustling cities to quieter villages. We may be visiting in February, but this is the Southern Hemisphere… Enjoy gloriously, long, light sunny days offering the perfect antidote to British winter!

Auckland to Christchurch. Along the way we visit the best boutique producers and a number of well known names, including Cloudy Bay, Stonyridge, and Te Mata. As well as wine, the spectacular, ever-changing New Zealand scenery is the other star of the show. We travel from bustling cities to wide blue bays, from geothermal lakes to soaring glacial mountains.

Our guide, Bob Campbell, is a Master of Wine who has been promoting and educating the world about the wines of his homeland for over two decades.

This is a once in a lifetime journey, a dazzling tour and an unforgettable introduction to the very best wines New Zealand has to offer.

Wine improves with age. Travel improves with wine.

What’s Included Flights London to Auckland; Queenstown to London 13 nights bed and breakfast in hand-picked 3* and 4* hotels Most meals included with wine Visits and tastings as per the itinerary Wine Guide & Tour Manager

Itinerary Day 1 – Harbour Dining We arrive in Auckland and dine harbour-side at a lovely local restaurant.

Day 2 – Auckland - The City of Sails Our first full day is an eclectic affair. Discover the Croatian roots of one of New Zealand’s greatest Chardonnays at the Brajkovich Estate. After lunch at nearby winery Coopers Creek we have free time in Auckland and an independent dinner.

Day 3 – Waiheke Island and Stonyridge We take a ferry to Waiheke Island, home of New Zealand’s Bordeaux blends. We visit Stonyridge, where we have lunch and Cable Bay where we enjoy beautiful views over the sea to Auckland.

Day 4 – The Bay of Plenty and Lake Taupo We leave Auckland and drive south to the Bay of Plenty where we stop for lunch at Mills Reef, a winery housed in a lovely Art Deco building.

Continue south to Rotorua — with its geothermal pools — and the shores of Lake Taupo.

Day 5 – Esk Valley and Hawkes Bay We continue south toward Napier and the Syrah of the Hawkes Bay wine region. Lunch is at the Esk Valley Winery where we enjoy a picnic and tasting before continuing to Napier.

Day 6 – Te Mata A highlight of our tour, we sample the delights of New Zealand’s oldest vines at Te Mata — truly delicious, buttery Chardonnay.

Day 7 – Martinborough & Wairarapa We travel to Martinborough where we visit the wonderful Ata Rangi winery and taste the firstclass Pinot Noir for which the area is known.

Day 8 – Crossing the Cook Strait After reaching Wellington, we enjoy a spectacular ferry crossing to South Island and alight in the Marlborough wine region. Based in Blenheim, we enjoy dinner with matching wines tonight.

Day 9 – Cloud Bay and Hunters New Zealand is known for its Sauvignon Blanc — our hosts today, Cloudy Bay and Hunters Wines, are the estates to thank. We visit both today, and enjoy the crisp, lemon notes that, for many, epitomise New Zealand wines.

Wine Guide Bob Campbell MW is a New Zealand wine specialist, author, and educator.

Since writing and implementing his own wine diploma course in 1986 he has tutored over 20,000 students.

He has judged professionally at wine competitions around the world, notably in New Zealand, England, China, France, and the USA. This is all part of what Bob calls “a fairly nomadic existence”, in which he roves around the globe to research, write, and teach about wine. When not travelling, he lives in Auckland, New Zealand with his family, and with his famous “CorkTaint-Detecting Cat” Mr Wu.

Hotel Across the 13 nights of our unforgettable tour of New Zealand’s vineyards, we stay in a selection of handpicked 4* hotels in urban Auckland, on the shores of scenic Lake Taupo, and across Hawke’s Bay, Martinborough, Blenheim, Christchurch, and, finally, Queenstown.

Day 10 – Biodynamics and a Scenic Train Learn more about biodynamics at New Zealand native Michael Seresin's superb estate. Lunch today is aboard our scenic coastal train to Christchurch, where we arrive this evening.

Day 11 – On the Banks of the Waipara River We visit Greystone Vineyards for a tasting before continuing to Pegasus Bay, a family run producer idyllically set on river banks north of Christchurch.

Day 12 – A Most English City…

We have free time in Christchurch this morning.

Devastated by recent earthquakes, the city has undergone extensive renovation and rebuilding.

We fly to Queenstown this evening.

Day 13 – The Pinot Noir Addict Englishman, winemaker, and self-confessed "Pinot Noir addict" Nigel Greening shows us around his Felton Road Winery in Central Otago on our final day in this wonderful New World wine region. We return to Queenstown for a final dinner paired with some of the best wines we have tasted throughout our tour.

Day 14 & 15 – The Long Journey Home...

We return home today, arriving on Day 15.

£7,495 inc. flights

Sgl Supp - £975 Deposit pp: £500 Without flights pp: £6,295

Food Picnics and winery lunches in breathtaking scenery abound on this tour. New Zealand cuisine is British-inspired with Mediterranean and Pacific influences, so you can enjoy familiar food with a unique twist. Look out for national favourite pavlova, and the chance to try ripe kiwi!

Wines Waltzing onto the worldwide stage with premium aplomb, New Zealand wines are fresh for the tasting, especially the Sauvignon Blancs. Take an exclusive wine route from north to south, from the Pinot Noirs of Waiheke Island on the coast to the peach and fennel Rieslings of Felton Road Winery, south of Christchurch.

To book, or for any questions Call: 01730 263111 | Email: sales@winetours.co.uk | Visit: www.winetours.co.uk

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Original - New Zealand

“The discovery of a good wine is increasingly better for mankind than the discovery of a new star.”

Leonardo da Vinci

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Wine improves with age. Travel improves with wine.

THE STORY OF EXPERIENCE You've tasted the wine, now experience the region The story of a great wine, is the story of the place in which it is made. On these tours, we cross continents, centuries and cultures – in cellars and vineyards, but also in museums, castles, restaurants and markets, as we go in search of each element that makes a wine unique. We go beyond terroir and technique, discovering the heart and soul of a wine. From tales of heretics and wine-making monks in the Languedoc; to the vines that have grown for millennia in the wild hills of Georgia. These tours are perfect introductions, with visits to the superlative wineries and vineyards, mixed with gourmet adventures, exciting excursions, historical visits, and city tours. Join us on this exciting new programme and fall in love with new wines and new regions, or discover the hidden depths behind old favourites.

What's Included?

•

Discover the Best of the Region - With 1 – 2 tastings per day, we discover the wines and the story of each destination. While these are still most definitely wine tours at heart, they also include walks, cultural excursions, and peeks into the history of the regions we visit.

•

Expert Wine Guides - Travel with Masters of Wine, critics, and all-round experts.

•

Local Knowledge - In addition to our expert, we are also joined by local artists, winemakers, historians, and musicians who give us a the inside story of their homelands.

•

Cultural Excursions - From Danube river cruises to Georgian polyphonic singing; from Tuscan cookery lessons to magnificent Languedoc castles.

•

Delicious Regional Food - Enjoy meals exquisitely paired with the best regional wines.

Well, you can't really say you know somewhere until you've enjoyed its food...

•

Perfectly Positioned Hotels - As well as offering a comfortable stay, we choose hotels in the heart of the regions we visit, so that you can easily explore independently.

The Tours p.48 The Story of Champagne & Chablis p.50 The Story of Languedoc p.52 The Story of Georgia p.54 The Story of Greece p.56 The Story of Tuscany p.58 The Story of Rome p.60 The Story of Sicily p.62 The Story of Rioja

To book, or for any questions Call: 01730 263111 | Email: sales@winetours.co.uk | Visit: www.winetours.co.uk

47

Wine THE STORY OF CHAMPAGNE & CHABLIS 1st – 6th October FRANCE

T

his is the story of two of France’s most beloved wines and the area that has produced them for hundreds of years. As with all our ‘Story’ tours, tastings and wine visits are combined with cultural excursions, free time, and explorations into the history of the region.

In Champagne, we begin with a walk among the tightly packed rows of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir vines.

What else could give such a feel for the scope and scale of Champagne?

Or, indeed, just how deeply this wine’s roots are planted in the gradual slopes and pretty towns of the region?

Our tour is led by Ellen Lewis who worked at Champagne Taittinger, and has a fantastic knowledge of Champagne and Chablis. Ellen is joined by growers, historians and producers.

This constellation of experts add

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Wine

depth and breadth to our story. In Champagne, we enjoy a tasting at Veuve Clicquot, and learn of the role of Champagne in World War Two. Standing in the dusty, bottle-lined chalk cellars we are told how villagers sheltered here while the bombs fell.

From Champagne we travel south to Chablis, the northernmost province of Burgundy. After three days here you’ll go home with the tart, mineral taste of Alain Geoffroy’s wines on your tongue. Not to mention the pure white, Renaissance glamour of the Château d’Ancy-le-Franc, and the lapping waters of the river Yonne in your mind’s eye. Travelling by coach, you can bring back up to 36 bottles to make

Wine improves with age. Travel improves with wine.

the memories last a little longer!

This is a tour for anyone who loves Champagne or Chablis, or anyone simply wanting to get under the surface of this magnificent region.

What’s Included Return coach and Eurotunnel crossing from the UK 5 nights in boutique hotels in Reims and Auxerre Most meals included with wine Visits and tastings as per the itinerary Wine Guide & Tour Manager Load up with cases of wine at cellar door prices

Itinerary Day 1 – Our First Tasting We meet in London and travel by Eurotunnel to Calais before continuing on to Ay, a lovely town in the heart of Champagne region. Our hotel here is a historic, restored town house, owned by Champagne Goutorbe. Appropriately, our Wine Guide leads us through a tasting of Gourtorbe vintages before dinner this evening.

Day 2 – Local Growers and Sabrage This morning, those who wish can join Ellen on a walk through the vineyards around Ay to a local producer, where we enjoy lunch and tastings (a coach transfer will be available for those who prefer a more relaxed start). After lunch, we travel to Massiges, where World War One trenches have been meticulously restored — a chilling reminder that the history of this region is not all fizz and celebration. We see off our second day in style with a display of sabrage, where the top of the Champagne bottle is sliced off neatly with a sabre. Don’t try this at home...

Day 3 – Veuve Clicquot, The Grand Dame Where better to learn about the history of Champagne than the chalk cellars of Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin? Here, locals took shelter among the bottles. Meanwhile, German officers — whose thirst for Champagne was seemingly unquenchable — downed 400,000 bottles a week.

We continue to Reims, the provincial centre of Champagne, where we are treated to a private guided tour of the city by a local historian.

The Cathedral is particularly magnificent and features a stained glass window by Chagall.

Wine Guide Ellen Lewis is an expert in the wines of Northern France.

Her CV includes a stint working for Champagne Taittinger, giving her a unqiue ‘insider’ view of the world of Champagne production.

Ellen has travelled and tasted extensively in France. She has a degree in French and has long been a student of French history and culture.

She joined the A&C team in 2011 as French Programme Coordinator, and is now our Product Manager, designing our tours and overseeing all aspects of the programme.

home to some of the finest Renaissance murals in the world. We continue to Domaine Emmanuel Dampt for our first taste of Chablis. Chardonnay is believed to have been grown in Chablis since the 12th century, when Cistercian monks grew vines along the River Serein. We taste some of that history as we sip the Premier and Grand Cru Chablis produced by this family-owned vineyard.

We enjoy dinner at a local restaurant before retiring to our hotel in Auxerre.

Day 5 – Auxerre and a River Cruise This morning we enjoy a guided tour of Auxerre, a town which dates back to Roman times, on the banks of the River Yonne. As we tour the splendid Gothic architecture we also learn how the making, selling, and drinking of Chablis is woven through the history of this town. We continue to lunch at Domaine Alain Geoffroy in Chablis. The vineyards here are some of the oldest in France, and produce pale gold and vivacious Chablis with powerful mineral character. We enjoy free time to relax and shop in the town of Chablis, before boarding a river boat for our evening cruise and dinner on the picturesque Yonne River.

Day 6 – A final taste of Champagne On our final day, we return of Calais via a final visit to Champagne. André Jacquart is a family affair, run by brother and sister team Marie and Benoit Doyard. We enjoy a final lunch, paired perfectly with the buttery brioche and cinnamon notes of their Champagnes. This afternoon, we return to Calais and on to Folkestone and London where our tour ends.

Day 4 – Grand Châteaux and Grand Crus We leave Champagne today and travel south. Our first stop on the Chablis trail is Château d’AncyLe-Franc. This exquisite building was built in the 16th century by the Dukes of Burgundy and is

Hotel On our journey through these most famous of regions, we stay in two excellent, handpicked hotels. We stop firstly at Castel Jeanson in Ay, a restored former 19th century home with beautiful stained glass windows. Then, we continue on to the Hotel Le Maxime in Auxerre, situated on the banks of the Yonne River.

£1,995 inc. Eurotunnel and coach travel Sgl Supp - £330 Deposit pp: £300

Food The food of Champagne and North Burgundy has evolved in perfect step with the region’s wines. At local restaurants and wineries, we enjoy specialities including soft cheese and the delicately vanilla-scented le biscuit rose de Reims. In Chablis, local delicacies include a ham cooked on the bone and eggs poached in white wine sauce.

Wines We taste a broad spectrum of Champagnes, from the ‘biscuity’ notes of Veuve Clicquot, to the fruit-driven Gourtorbe. In Chablis, we enjoy the full spectrum from village wines to Grand Cru. Chablis has been variously described as sinewy, clean, pure, mineral, and acidic. A wonderful expression of the Chardonnay grape.

To book, or for any questions Call: 01730 263111 | Email: sales@winetours.co.uk | Visit: www.winetours.co.uk

49

Story - France

“Three be the things I shall never attain: Envy, content, and sufficient champagne.”

Dorothy Parker

Wine

THE STORY OF LANGUEDOC 27th March – 2nd April FRANCE

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Wine

or some, the south of France begins and ends with Provence — but there is another south sat waiting. The Languedoc’s craggy peaks, windswept castles, and fiercely independent nature are legendary, and testify to a long history of division and dissent. It was here, in 1208, that Pope Innocent III launched his bloody crusade against the local Cathars. Wine-making is threaded through the history and character of the region. Vines were first planted by the Greeks and later propagated in the rich lands owned by Abbeys and the Church.

Wine Expert, Louise Hurren, has lived in the region for over a decade, and introduces us to some of the hidden gems. One such gem is the Château d’Angles, the pet project of Eric Fabre, former Technical Director of Château Lafite Rothschild. The ancient stone buildings overlook vineyards sloping down to the Mediterranean, and the wines here are multi-award-winning.

In telling the story of Languedoc, we travel from craggy châteaux, to Mediterranean towns, to some of the regions finest wineries. While Languedoc is one of the great mass producers of wine, the truly great vintages of the region are curiously hard to find (or to buy in the UK). Our

Travelling from Narbonne to Montpellier we stop at the Abbaye de Fontfroide, where vines have been present for over 900 years. We walk the boulevards and avenues of coastal towns just as pretty, but far less crowded than their counterparts up the road in Provence.

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Wine improves with age. Travel improves with wine.

This is a true ‘tour de force’, introducing the great vintages and great history of the Languedoc, with excellent meals and stays in two lovely hotels to complete the experience.

What’s Included Flights London to Toulouse; Marseille to London 6 nights in handpicked 4* hotels Most meals included with wine Visits and tastings as per the itinerary Wine Guide & Tour Manager

Itinerary Day 1 – Carcassonne and a Château Hotel We travel from London to Toulouse and transfer to historic Carcassonne, where we begin with a tour of the Medieval city walls. We continue to our hotel, a lovely château in a working wine estate near Narbonne. Our first day ends with dinner and a tasting introduced by Louise.

Day 2 – Archbishops, Abbeys, and Anglès This morning we travel into Narbonne, where the first vines in France are said to have been planted by the Greeks in the 5th century BC. We enjoy a guided tour of the city, including the Cathedral and Archbishop's palace. After an independent lunch we continue to the tranquil cloisters of the Abbaye de Fontfroide, where vines have been grown for 900 years. Tonight, we dine at the Château d’Anglès, where we sip elegant Syrah and Malvoisie blends while the sun sets over the sea and cicadas chirp in the evening air.

Day 3 – Ancient Villages and Vines Our day starts with a visit to Château La Voulte Gasparets, one of the most illustrious names in the Languedoc-Rousillon wine industry. We taste the vieilles vignes — on average 60 years old — before continuing to Gontran Dondain’s Château Cabezac for lunch. This afternoon, we walk off our wines with a guided tour of Minerve. The village is perched on a promontory surrounded by deep gorges, and was a Cathar stronghold.

Dinner is independent this evening.

Day 4 – A Tale of Two Wine Makers We check out of our hotel and travel inland to the Laurent Miquel Winery, owned by the same family since 1791. We taste the fruits of this heritage over a lunch with paired wines including Syrah, Viognier, and Grenache blends. This afternoon we continue to Domaine de Cebene, whose first vintage was only bottled in 2007.

Wine-maker Brigitte Chevalier’s balanced, rich, soft blends have been compared to Châteauneufdu-Pape. We continue to Montpellier where we check into our hotel and enjoy a concert at the Palais Des Congrès this evening.

Wine Guide

Day 5 – A Drop of Olive Oil and Montpellier

Louise Hurren Having previously worked in London and Paris, Louise moved to Languedoc in 2002 and has lived and worked from there ever since.

We take a break from wine visits to discover one of the regions other great exports, olive oil.

Our visit to a working traditional olive mill is followed by a tasting. We return to Montpellier for an independent lunch followed by a guided walking tour of the city – a graceful and easygoing metropolis of elegant buildings, grand town houses and stately boulevards. Dinner in a restaurant with paired local wines this evening.

She speaks fluent French and Italian, and holds the WSET 2 and 3 qualifications as well as the Sud de France Masters Certificate.

Drawing on a combination of marketing and wine expertise, Louise works with wine makers and growers to spread the word about the latest developments in Languedoc wine.

Day 6 – Michelin Stars and a Grand Cru

Louise is an evangelist for the wines of this region and the perfect person to lead our tour.

Hotel We spend our first 3 nights at Château L’Hospitalet. The jewel of the LanguedocRoussillon region, this is a renowned wine estate with a hotel concept that is unique for the region. This is followed by 3 nights at the 4* Pullman Montpellier Centre in the heart of the city.

This morning, enjoy free time to shop or simply lounge by the hotel pool before we travel to the Michelin starred Restaurant de Lauzun for lunch today, one of the highlights of our tour. We continue to Mas de Daumas whose rich, powerful Cabernet-based wines have been described as the region’s answer to Bordeaux. The great critic Hugh Johnson described the estate as the Languedoc’s only “Grand Cru”. See if you agree.

Day 7 – From Amphitheatre to Van Gogh On our final day we travel to Nimes for a tour of the Roman amphitheatre followed by a lunch in a local restaurant, paired with some of our favourite wines from the tour. After a stop at the Van Gogh foundation in Arles, we transfer to Marseille for our evening flight home.

£2,495 inc. flights

Sgl Supp - £480 Deposit pp: £300 Without flights pp: £2,325

Food This tour combines opportunities to dine independently with incredible meals at wineries like Château Cabezac and Laurent Miquel. We also dine at Michelin-starred Restaurant de Lauzun, which is a personal favourite of ours. Our tour also includes a visit to a local olive oil mill.

Wines The wines of Languedoc benefit from a warm Mediterranean climate, with the reds enjoying well-balanced acidity and ripe, rustic flavours; and the whites – crisp, fresh and piquant. During our final lunch, in Nimes, we will drink wines from our favourite regions.

To book, or for any questions Call: 01730 263111 | Email: sales@winetours.co.uk | Visit: www.winetours.co.uk

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Story - France

“[Wine] is an ornament in the slightest ceremonials of French daily life, from the snack to the feast, from the conversation at the local café to the speech at a formal dinner.” Roland Barthes

Wine

THE STORY OF GEORGIA 20th – 27th May GEORGIA

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eorgia has always staked its claim as the birthplace of wine, with grapes grown here for over 7,000 years.

It's unsurprising, therefore, that the vine is so central to Georgian culture production is an almost religious affair.

The Georgian wine map is an impressive sight – sprawling and complex. There are very few areas of this ancient country untouched by viticulture. Only Georgia’s most remote highlands are free from wine production. Here, churches perch on the mountaintops, a reminder of the country’s very old Christian heritage.

Semi-sweet wines are the most popular in Georgia, but there is a place for every kind of wine here. Telling our story, we sample award-winning, naturally semi-sweet Tvishi; to straw coloured Alazani; oak-aged red Mukuzani and many, many more.

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The astonishing landscapes of the Caucasus are as memorable as the wines. Georgia is one of Earth’s most exquisitely finished canvases.

Vineyards are found in lush, green valleys, carved out by lazy rivers. Up in the mountains time-weathered watchtowers peek vertiginously over the magnificent scenery.

Our guide as we navigate the dazzling variety of Georgian wine is John Wurdeman. John has lived in Georgia since 1996 and has founded a winery here. Travelling with John, we get a introduction not just to the wine, but to the wonderful culture and fine hospitality of Georgia (warning - there will be banquets on this tour...).

Wine improves with age. Travel improves with wine.

An essential trip for anyone interested in wine and its long heritage. Join us to try this and sample history in a glass, in the oldest of the Old World regions.

What’s Included Return flights London to Tbilisi 7 nights in 4* and 5* hotels; the best Georgia has to offer Most meals included with wine Visits and tastings as per the itinerary Wine Guide & Tour Manager

Itinerary Day 1 & 2 – Old Tbilisi We arrive at our Tbilisi hotel late in the evening and enjoy a restful night after our flight. In the morning, old Tbilisi welcomes us as we explore winding lanes, leafy squares and handsome churches, led by our expert guide. After lunch, we continue to the National Museum. We enjoy our first tasting of traditional wines at Vino Underground before continuing to Kopala restaurant for dinner tonight, with beautiful views across the old town.

Day 3 – Sighnaghi and Polyphonic Song We leave Tbilsi and drive east via Bodbe Monastery, whose patron saint allegedly carried a cross made from two pieces of grape vine. We have lunch and a tasting at Pheasant’s Tears before continuing to Sighnaghi, the heart of Georgia’s wine making region. We enjoy a walking tour of the town this afternoon. Dinner is a traditional feast, accompanied by a performance of Polyphonic songs. This ancient music is unique and as integral to Georgia’s story as its wines are.

Day 4 – Pheasant’s Tears This morning we discover more about Georgia at the National Museum in Sighnaghi before returning to John’s vineyard, Pheasant’s Tears.

The wine here is fermented using a traditional qvervi, a clay vessel said to have been used for over 8,000 years. After lunch we enjoy a wine tasting this afternoon with guest wine makers from Sighnaghi - John Okruashvili, and Archil Natsvlishvili. Dinner is hosted by our winemakers and their families this evening.

Day 5 – The Gardens of Chachavadze Alexander Chachavadze, was one of the first Georgian nobles to introduce French wine making techniques to Georgia in the 19th century.

We take a walk through Chachavadze - Tsinandali

Estate Gardens - this morning. Continue to Schuchmann Winery for lunch and a tasting of wines which combine ancient and modern production techniques. This afternoon, we visit Telavi Wine Cellar before coming to rest at Lake Lopota, where we have dinner at our hotel.

Wine Guide

Day 6 – A Lesson in Medieval Wine

John Wurdeman A life-long lover of wine, John co-founded The Pheasant’s Tears winery in 2007 which we visit on our tour. He is a champion of Georgian winemaking traditions.

John has lived in Georgia for over 20 years, and divides his time between his two passions, wine and art. Travelling with John, we are treated to an ‘insider’s guide’ to this intriguing country.

John introduces us not just to the wines of Georgia, but also to its history and its people: from ancient traditions to how the country is changing and adapting in the present day.

Hotel Our first nights in striking Georgia are divided between the 4* hotel Courtyard Marriott in Tbilisi, located on the city’s Freedom Square, and the boutique 5* Hotel Kabadoni in Sighnaghi. We also stay at the Lopota Lake Resort, a 4* hotel beautifully situated on the shores of Lopota Lake.

There aren’t many tours that offer Medieval wine classes and the Ikalto Wine Academy, dating from the 12th century, is unique. After class, we visit Niko’s Place for lunch, a hit with local foodies who enjoy the wild and foraged creations. After a visit to a qvevri maker we enjoy an afternoon tasting at Teleda, an estate owned by the renowned Dakishvili family. We end our day at Lopota Lake - feasting on a variety of dumplings and Chacha - a Georgian grappa of sorts.

Day 7 – Grapes and Gods We drive across the scenic Gombori Pass to visit Saguramo Vine Collection. Over a family lunch at Iago’s in Kartli, we sample celebrated wine made from the Chinuri grape. This afternoon, those who wish can join us to visit a collection of Roman mosaics, including a representation of Dionysus, the Greek god of wine. This evening, traditional singers perform for us at dinner at the Azarpesha restaurant – wondrously decorated with antique wine drinking vessels.

Day 8 – Conclusion Enjoy a leisurely morning shopping and sightseeing in Tbilisi. We transfer to the airport for our flights to London or onward journeys.

£2,350 inc. flights

Sgl Supp - £330 Deposit pp: £300 Without flights pp: £1,965

Food Georgia has an endless variety of unique and comforting food. Herbs play a big part in Georgian food - tarragon, parsley, dill and coriander mingle with walnuts and garlic - creating rich fillings and sauces.

Cheese-stuffed khachapuri bread, served with sour yoghurt is a particular gastronomic delight.

Wines From amber nectar to oaky Mukuzanni, Georgia is home to an astonishing array of grape varieties. We take a Medieval wine course, try celebrated Chinuri grape wines, and discover the gardens of Alex Chachavadze, who introduced French techniques to Georgia. We take the opportunity to try chacha — Georgian grappa.

To book, or for any questions Call: 01730 263111 | Email: sales@winetours.co.uk | Visit: www.winetours.co.uk

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Story - Georgia

“Wine, one sip of this will bathe the drooping spirits in delight beyond the bliss of dreams. Be wise and taste.”

John Milton

Wine

THE STORY OF GREECE 15th – 22nd October GREECE

I

n the 19th century, the quality of Greek Zitsa wine inspired Lord Byron to pen epic poetry. In more recent times, the country’s reputation as a wine producer has been somewhat tarnished. However, those who have terrible memories of the pine-resin scent of Retsina should think again. A new generation of wine-makers have spearheaded a renaissance in Greek wine, combining native varieties with cutting edge production techniques.

As with all things Greek, wine-making has a long history. The Greeks mixed their wine in kraters, with spices, water and honey. Travelling from Thessaloniki to Athens, we combine wine visits with archaeological sites, sun-drenched beaches and fascinating museums. Along the way we enjoy some very memorable meals, from mussels steamed in ouzo to hearty moussaka.

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Our Wine Guide, Derek Smedley, is a Master of Wine and has a keen interest in Greek wine. He will introduce us to some of the pioneering Greek wine makers from the northernmost wineries such as Ktima Alpha to Gaia Estate in the Peloponnese peninsula.

We sample too many grapes to count: the velvety red Agiorgitiko; bonedry Assyrtiko; jasmine-scented Malagousia; elegant Roditis and volcanic-soil Xinomavro.

This is the story of Greece’s very ancient history and very modern wines. From the flower-strewn hills of ancient Mycenae to the glittering Aegean sea - a wonderful experience.

Wine improves with age. Travel improves with wine.

Greek wines may be the most underrated on the planet. Help us fix their undeserved derision, by showering them with the love they truly deserve on tour.

What’s Included Flights London to Thessaloniki; Athens to London 4 nights in handpicked hotels Most meals with wine as described in the itinerary Visits and tastings as per the itinerary Wine Guide & Tour Manager

Itinerary Day 1 – The Greek Wine Renaissance

Day 5 – Delphi at Sunrise and Attica

We start as we mean to go on upon arrival in Thessaloniki, stopping at Domaine Gerovassiliou en route to our hotel. Thanks go to them for the hard work that was seminal in the Greek wine renaissance. We enjoy a dinner of regional specialities at the excellent hotel restaurant.

We have an early start this morning as we travel to Delphi, the oracle where the God Apollo is said to have intoned his prophecies. Magnificent views and ancient architecture greet us at the site. We fortify ourselves at the Ktima Kokotos Vineyards in Attica. The vineyard is situated where wine god Dionysus supposedly landed in Europe. We break from native varieties and enjoy the estate’s Cabernet-Merlot blend. Afternoon scenic drive to Napflio on the shores of the Peloponnese.

Day 2 – The Wines of Naoussa We travel into the foothills of the mountains to Naoussa, known for its light acidic reds . Here, we enjoy a tasting at the Dalamara winery, before continuing to Ktima Kir Yianni where we have a tasting and lunch in their iconic Ottoman vineyard watch tower. Those who wish can join us for a visit to the Royal Tombs of Vergina, where the ancient Macedonian kings are buried. Dinner is included in Naoussa town this evening.

Day 3 – Country Wines and Cookery We travel even higher into the Amyndeon mountains to visit Ktima Alpha. The vintages here may only count as ‘country wines’, but the quality is superb. The winery is beautifully situated on a lake shore, with mountains rising in the background. After lunch we return to the hotel for a private cookery lesson. The traditional dishes prepared during today’s cookery demonstration will be shared by all of us tonight at dinner.

Day 4 – The Warmest Vineyard We check out of our hotel and begin our journey south, stopping en route at Domain Dougas in the Rapsani region. Dougos sits in the shelter of Mount Olympus, we sample the best the winery has to offer. After lunch at a local restaurant, we continue our journey to the lovely seaside town of Itea, nestled below the hills of Delphi. We enjoy dinner with paired wines at a local restaurant this evening.

Wine Guide Derek Smedley MW is one of the most experienced members of the wine trade. He started his career with John Harvey & Sons of Bristol as a management trainee in 1961.

After passing the Master of Wine examination in 1968, Derek joined Whitbread as a wine buyer, travelling the world in order to expand their portfolio.

After running his own company, Smedley Vintners, for fourteen years, Derek began to focus on consultancy in 1999. Today, he looks after City Institutions, Lincoln’s Inn, Carlton Club, and the Royal College of Physicians, and is one of our most popular guides.

Hotels Our Greek odyssey begins with 3 nights in a charming spa hotel with views over the fertile Macedonian plain near Naousa and its wineries, followed by 1 night in a comfortable hotel in Itea, near the seafront, and 3 nights in a grand seaside hotel in the pretty coastal town of Nafplio.

Day 6 – Arcadian Wine & Homeric Legends We travel from Napflio to Tselepos Winery, the leading winery in Arcadia. The climate here is cooler and produces startlingly aromatic wines, including a Merlot which we sample over lunch.

This afternoon we visit the lovely Bronze Age site of Mycenae, home to Agamemnon, the mythic Greek king of the Illiad.

Day 7 – Gaia and Nemea After breakfast we make our way to Gaia, the brainchild of Oenology Professor Yanni Paraskevopoulus. After a tasting we continue to Nemea’s top ‘cru’, Domaine Helios, famous for its charming, sleek wines. The rest of the afternoon is free to explore. Why not stop at the nearby UNESCO Mycenaean site of Tiryns and the spectacular beehive tomb?

Day 8 – Avtío Athens Enjoy some free time in the Greek capital, Athens, before our flight home.

£2,295 inc. flights

Sgl Supp - £250 Deposit pp: £300 Without flights pp: £1,995

Food We lunch in Ottoman watch towers, enjoy regional specialties in Thessaloniki and take part in an optional private cookery lesson, the fruits of which we will enjoy at dinner with a representative from Domaine Thymiopoulos. We also enjoy some excellent dinners in the towns of Naoussa and Itea.

Wines From organic wineries led by young winemakers to sophisticated Amyndeon reds and the cool climate Merlots of the Mantinia appellation, we see it all. A real highlight of our tour is the dry white Oreinos Helios. Combining citrus, rose and lemon blossom notes, it has won international awards.

To book, or for any questions Call: 01730 263111 | Email: sales@winetours.co.uk | Visit: www.winetours.co.uk

55

Story - Greece

“The mention of Greece fills the mind with the most exalted sentiments and arouses in our bosoms the best feelings of which our nature is capable.” James Monroe

Wine

THE STORY OF TUSCANY 9th – 14th October I TA LY

C

ast any ideas of simple strawcovered bottles decorating Tuscan dinner tables from your mind. The Tuscany of today is as close to perfect wine country as you can get. Dating back to the 8th century BC, this is Italy’s most ancient wine region. And wine is at the centre of the region’s story: the Etruscans, the Romans and then the great abbeys of the Middle Ages all planted vineyards. And then wine fuelled the Renaissance...

It is fitting that the region that includes Florence, Siena and San Gimignano is also home to some of Italy’s most beautiful wines: from Chianti Classico, to Brunello di Montalcino to the Super Tuscans. Wine as art.

The Italian wine scene has undergone a dramatic change in the last thirty years – with Tuscany at the forefront of the revolution.

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Touring the region is not a five-minute affair, it is an immersive experience.

Surrounded by the quintessential Tuscan countryside – rolling, cypressstudded hills – we visit estates that have been at the forefront of quality improvements and whose fortunes we have followed for almost twenty years. With each visit, we have fallen more and more in love. Its unmatched personality, graceful beauty and a wonderful blend of respect for tradition and determined attitude has made Italy one of the most exciting wine countries in the world.

In many ways, Tuscany is like a truly vintage bottle of wine which has been lovingly crafted and aged. The more

Wine improves with age. Travel improves with wine.

time you spend contemplating it, the more you enjoy it. Our memories of this wonderful region will linger on forever… and we know yours will too.

What’s Included Return flights London to Pisa 5 nights in 4* hotels Most meals included with wine Visits and tastings as per the itinerary Wine Guide & Tour Manager

Itinerary Day 1 – The Square of Miracles Upon arrival in Pisa, we enjoy an introductory tasting over lunch. This is a city of some pedigree, the birthplace of important early physicist Galileo Galilei and many works of art and architecture, from the city’s ‘Square of Miracles’ to the iconic leaning tower. We transfer to our Radda hotel in time for a light dinner.

Day 2 – Flowered Hills & Ancient Oaks Beautifully-situated Montalcino producer Col d’Orcia hosts our first tasting of the day. For lunch and our second tasting, we continue to influential estate Tenuta Il Poggione, a shining example to modern wineries everywhere. We believe these wines to be some of the very best of the Brunello classification. After lunch we have a guided tour of the medieval hill town of Montalcino. With its rolling hills dotted with flowers, ancient oak trees, picturesque olive groves, and scenic vineyard-crossing roads, it is hard to imagine a more perfect spot.

Day 3 – Secrets Of A Tuscan Kitchen This morning we visit Siena, walking through the vineyards surrounding the city to get to its heart.

After lunch, and time to explore the city’s majesty, we discover the secrets of a Tuscan kitchen with a cookery demonstration this afternoon. With an emphasis on fresh and seasonal ingredients we learn how to prepare authentic regional dishes.

We then have the pleasure of tasting such dishes at a dinner paired with Castello di Brolio wines.

Day 4 – Works of Art Today we spend the whole day exploring Florence, birthplace of the Renaissance. We take a guided tour of the city, including a visit to the Uffizi Gallery Museum. After a light lunch, we are free to explore independently before rejoining this evening, to meet with Giovanella

Stianti, the charming owner of the beautiful medieval hamlet of Castello di Volpaia. Her winemaker produces elegant, fragrant wines including the admired Coltassala from Sangioveto and Mamelo grapes. We enjoy a tasting over dinner at the estate.

Wine Guide

Day 5 – Perfect Balance

Nicola Arcedeckne-Butler MW started her wine trade career at Majestic Wine Warehouses in 1987, before moving to venerable Londonbased merchants Corney & Barrow in 1988, where she soon rose up through the ranks.

She passed the Master of Wine examination in 1996, collecting the Villa Maria Viticulture Award along the way.

Today, Nicola is Director of Buying for Private Cellar, and travels extensively throughout the New and Old Worlds visiting suppliers and tasting and buying some of the world’s best wines. She is fluent in French and Italian, having lived in the latter in her twenties.

Hotel We spend the 5 nights of our 6-day Tuscan tour at the Palazzo Leopoldo, a delightful 4* hotel in a converted family palazzo in the heart of Radda in Chianti. This elegant hotel is decorated in traditional Tuscan style, with plush furnishings and ornate details.

We meet brother and sister team Piero and Bernadetta of Poggerino winery, who produce some of the most attractive wines of the area around Radda. The strict grape selection and vineyard management by Piero results in wines that are smooth yet full-bodied and totally balanced. We follow with a visit to one of the most beautiful estates in Tuscany — Badia a Coltibuono –with its impressive 10th century abbeywhich produces gloriously deep wines with hints of spice and tobacco. As well as producing fantastic wines, Badia a Coltibuono boasts beautiful gardens dating from the Middle Ages.

We are lucky enough to have a guided tour before stopping for an olive oil tasting. We round off our day with a farewell dinner in Radda.

Day 6 – Arresting Sights The delightful medieval town of San Gimignano, the third UNESCO World Heritage Site we visit, hosts us on our final day. It once boasted seventy towers, of which just thirteen now remain, but it is still an arresting sight. There are several interesting wine shops, numerous delicatessens selling excellent wild boar salami, many mouthwatering cake shops and various art shops to keep you occupied until our tour sadly reaches its conclusion. We return home this afternoon.

£2,295 inc. flights

Sgl Supp - £325 Deposit pp: £300 Without flights pp: £2,095

Food Tuscan food has universal appeal. Discover its secrets for yourself during a cookery demonstration during our tour. Throughout our stay we will be delighted by Tuscan cheeses and olive oils, by sausages and wild boar, and by bistecca alla fiorentina steak from the Chianina cow.

Wines Tuscan wines include some of Italy’s most famous appellations. We explore Brunello wines at Il Poggione in Montalcino, the fragrant wines of the Volpaia estate and the DOCG wines of the excellent Col d’Orcia. Volpaia wines are particularly fresh thanks to the height of the vineyards above sea level.

To book, or for any questions Call: 01730 263111 | Email: sales@winetours.co.uk | Visit: www.winetours.co.uk

57

Story - Italy

“The peoples of the Mediterranean began to emerge from barbarism when they learnt to cultivate the olive and the vine.”

Thucydides

Wine

THE STORY OF ROME 2nd – 7th October I TA LY

T

here’s something we can all agree on when it comes to the ancient Romans – they knew how to have a good time. We’re not saying that goes hand in hand with drinking wine, but it certainly helps. But what would those ancient Emperors have thought of modern Roman wine?

Thinking of ancient Rome, your thoughts may well turn to great goblets brimming with burgundy nectar.

However, Lazio – with its volcanic soil – is actually more of a white wine region, famed for lean, crisp, light Frascati and Castelli Romani that can be enjoyed young. In the red corner, we find the legendary Cesanese del Piglio – dating back to medieval Rome.

In this story of Rome, we find the perfect balance of sightseeing and wine visits. While there are many ‘cultural tours’ to Rome, who else would offer

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the chance to enjoy lunch in a leading winery after a visit to the Colosseum?

Or tour Medieval cellars at a stillworking vineyard?

Based in Rome and Southern Umbria, we have ample opportunity to sample the dolce vita. In Rome, and in the hilltop towns of Central Italy, we enjoy the picturesque streets, the plethora of art and architecture from all eras and of course wonderful Italian food. Sip a glass in a sun-filled piazza, or enjoy a plate of anti-pasti with newly-made friends on one of our free evenings.

The ancient Romans believed that wine was a daily necessity, that should be available to everyone, regardless

Wine improves with age. Travel improves with wine.

of their station in society. Who are we to argue with that? Let’s keep the tradition alive on tour.

What’s Included Return flights London to Rome 5 nights in handpicked 4* hotels Most meals included, with wine as described in the itinerary Visits and tastings as per the itinerary Wine Guide & Tour Manager

Itinerary Day 1 – Welcome To Rome Rome is much more than you see on the surface.

We get under its skin during our tour, starting with a visit to the Pantheon. Even after 2,000 years have gone by, this marvellous feat of Roman engineering and artistry, remains the largest unreinforced concrete dome ever built. We continue to Enoteca Barberani for dinner tonight.

Traditional Roman cooking served in an elegant, private setting, and an extensive wine cellar just waiting to be explored. Welcome to Rome.

Day 2 – The Eternal City There’s a whole lot of history tangled within the vines of Principe Pallavicini, established by one of Italy’s oldest noble families. As well as a fantastic selection of regional wines, they also make a rather interesting raisin wine; those who are feeling adventurous can try a taste over lunch at the estate today. We get to know Rome better this afternoon during a guided tour. A local historian will introduce the Roman fora, Renaissance art and much more. We reunite for a light dinner before those who wish join an optional visit to the opera (details TBC).

Day 3 – Gladiators and Frascati As if exclusive winery visits weren’t enough, we’ve also secured special access to the Colosseum. Stand, just as 50,000 spectators once would have before you, and you can almost hear the roar of the crowd that bayed for blood during so many gladiatorial contests. We travel out of the city for lunch at Casal Pilozzo. Here, we enjoy their fabulous selection of Frascati wines, whose journey to bottle begins in the hills of Monte Porzio Catone.

Day 4 – Secret Gardens and Hidden Cellars

Wine Guide Tom BruceGardyne has written about the drink industry, specifically wine and whisky, for more than 20 years.

Beginning with the world of wine, he shifted his focus to whisky on moving back to Scotland in 1998. He has written prolifically for a number of publications, including, The Sunday Telegraph, Decanter, Harpers and Whisky Magazine.

He has written and co-authored three books on whisky, and currently writes a weekly column for the Herald. He was also recently shortlisted for International Short Copy Columnist of the Year at the Louis Roederer International Wine Writers’ Awards.

The Villa Borghese crowns Rome in a glorious canopy of green – a breath of fresh air in Rome’s

Hotel We spend 3 nights at Hotel Ponte Sisto, a 4* hotel in the heart of Rome, a stone’s throw from the Tiber and with views of the Dome of St Peter’s.

For our 2 nights in Orvieto, we stay in Palazzo Piccolomini, a converted 16th century palace in the Medieval old town.

ever expanding urban metropolis. The gardens are a wonderful spot for an early morning stroll – it’s hard to believe that this was originally conceived as a private vineyard. We say farewell to the Eternal City and travel north through the foothills of the Apennines to Orvieto. En-route, we stop at Sergio Mottura. Wine has been made here for centuries, we enjoy a tour of the estate led by Sergio Mottura himself. Afterwards, we enjoy a guided wine tasting, and gourmet threecourse buffet lunch. We arrive in Orvieto in the early evening and enjoy a tasting of Umbrian wine over dinner at our historic hotel.

Day 5 – Cooking in Orvieto During our first morning in Umbria, we enjoy a cookery class at Duca di Orvieto. Afterwards, we will enjoy the results at lunch, paired with some more wonderful Umbrian wines. We end the day with a guided tour of the Orvieto Underground – a millinery city suspended somewhere between heaven and the earth. There are a labyrinth of grottoes hidden in this great rock. We have free time and an independent dinner this evening; our Wine Guide will be on hand to recommend restaurants and wine bars.

Day 6 – Final Visits and Arrivederci Passion for viticulture, a strong sense for their territory and a scientific approach are all parts of the Falesco philosophy. The close-knit family hosts our final morning tasting, and their wines certainly don’t disappoint. Before our return flights home, we stop for lunch at Leonardo Bussoletti Farm in beautiful Narni. Traditional Italian cuisine served alongside Umbrian inspired wines. A perfect end to our tour.

£2,295 inc. flights

Sgl Supp - £325 Deposit pp: £300 Without flights pp: £2,115

Food We enjoy lunches at some of Lazio’s best wineries, a dinner at a traditional enoteca and a hands-on cookery class at Duca di Orvieto. Specialities of the region include creamy pasta dishes (think Alfredo and Carbonara). In Umbria we sample hearty soups, salamis and cheeses flavoured with truffle.

Wines Straw-gold Frascati whites are some of the most famous wines in Italy, and perfect for those who love fruity notes balanced with nutty flavours.

In Umbria, we have the dry, robust whites of Orvieto, and the native Sagrantino whose dark plum-coloured vintages are perhaps reminiscent of ancient Roman wines.

To book, or for any questions Call: 01730 263111 | Email: sales@winetours.co.uk | Visit: www.winetours.co.uk

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Story - Italy

“How is it possible to say an unkind or irreverential word of Rome? The city of all time, and of all the world!”

Nathaniel Hawthorne

Wine

THE STORY OF SICILY 3rd – 8th April I TA LY

S

icily is an ancient viticultural haven with a fascinating history stretching back 4,000 years. Sat at the toe of Italy, from 750BC it served as an important Greek colony – but other empires have come and gone. Almost everyone has ruled the island at some point – their influences are found throughout this island – bursting at its seams with artistic and architectural gems. From Arab domes to Byzantine mosaics; baroque stuccowork to Norman palace walls - a multitude of artistic riches await.

And like the architecture, Sicily’s wines have something for every taste. The reds are dark, with a bomb of rich fruit; the whites, textured with profound, mineral qualities. Then there are the sweet wines: Marsala is the famous one, of course, but their Moscato is so good, it’ll stay with you forever.

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Of all of Sicily’s wondrous wines, those made with Nero d’Avola grape have received the most acclaim in recent years. The grape produces full-bodied dry reds with many of the qualities of Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah – but it took quite some time for it to be finally recognised as a 'serious wine'. Thanks for this are due to the small group of producers who resurrected it in the 1990s and we will taste several of their wines. Also unique to Sicily, we visit an estate whose wines are produced from vines on the slopes of Mount Etna – the volcanic soil giving them some very distinctive characteristics.

There are so many wine varieties to try on tour in Sicily, coupled with so much history and culture to absorb – not to

Wine improves with age. Travel improves with wine.

mention the amenable Mediterranean climate. You’d be easily forgiven if the idea of a second tour to Sicily popped into your head before the first has even reached its conclusion...

What’s Included Return flights London to Catania 5 nights in 4* hotels in Catania, Siracusa, and Taormina Most meals included with wine Visits and tastings as per the itinerary Wine Guide & Tour Manager

Itinerary Day 1 – Evening Introductions We fly to Catania and sample the first of many sumptuous Sicilian wines we will enjoy on tour, during a tutored tasting with our Wine Guide Monica Murphy tonight.

Wine Guide

Day 2 – Sicilian Specialities We enjoy a leisurely start today - visiting Pupillo Winery for a tasting over lunch. They were founded in 1908 and still play an important part in the wonderful setting of the Castello Federiciano del Solacium at Syracuse. They produce the little seen Moscato di Siracusa as well as some appealing reds and whites. After a visit to the property, we enjoy a buffet of Sicilian specialties which pair perfectly with the wines.

This afternoon, we have a guided tour of Noto, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Noto is full of Sicilian Baroque architecture and has more than thirty churches. Afterwards, we transfer to Syracuse.

Day 3 – Exploring The Catacombs We tour ancient Siracusa with a local guide this morning — ancient Greek ruins rise out of lush citrus orchards, and intriguing catacombs lie amidst other important archaeological sites.

Enjoy an independent lunch: sit at one of the cafe tables that spill onto the dazzling Baroque piazzas, or wander one of the honey-hued Medieval lanes that lead down to the sparkling blue sea. This afternoon we drive to a tasting of Mount Etna wines at Biondi Winery. The enormous active volcano has created unique soil systems. The south side of Etna produces subtle wines, paler in colour than their north side cousins. The northern slope produces darker more structured wines. Afterwards, we continue to Taormina.

Day 4 – A Touch Of Drama

Monica Murphy has been escorting Arblaster & Clarke tours to the wine regions of Italy, and specifically to Sicily, for nearly 20 years.

She splits her time between her native Ireland, where she has worked in the food and wine trades throughout her career, and Italy, a country about which she is extremely passionate, and where many members of her family live.

As well as guiding for A&C, Monica works as a wine consultant, wine list advisor, staff training provider, wine tasting and event organiser, and public speaker.

She is also a founder member of Slow Food Ireland and a passionate advocate of the Slow Food Movement.

We spend the morning exploring Taormina,

Hotel From the rural charm of vineyards and family wineries to top-notch accommodation, we experience all that Sicily has to offer. Beginning at the 4* Una Palace Hotel in Catania, we move on to the luxurious 5* Grand Hotel Des Etrangers in Siracusa, and finally to the 4* Hotel Taormina.

spectacularly perched on the side of a mountain.

The stunning ancient theatre makes a fan of all its visitors. Lunch is served at Tenuta delle Terre Nere, where respect, care, and a meticulous approach to viticulture, go hand-in-hand to create an organic balance present in every glass. We end the day at Tenuta di Fessina. Lying in the shadow of Mount Etna, this producer makes a number of different wines from indigenous grapes grown in vineyards rich with lava deposits.

Day 5 – A Taste Of Sicily This morning we will have a cookery lesson, learning how to create Sicilian specialities from a local chef. We will join him at a nearby market to buy food to prepare. We enjoy the fruits of our labour paired with Sicilian wine during a leisurely lunch. We continue to the Villa Communale gardens, designed by the incomparable Englishwoman Florence Trevelyan.

Alternatively, you can explore the many boutiques and designer shops in the area before we meet for dinner this evening.

Day 6 – Ciao Bella Catania Cantina Benanti hosts our final lunch today.

Enjoy the natural beauty of Mount Etna’s surroundings whilst you sample their wines that viscerally evoke their terroir. Enjoy a final free afternoon in Catania. This is a city of two sides – in some ways this is Sicily at its most youthful, packed with bars – but it also has a historic core where black-and-white palazzi tower over sweeping baroque piazzas. We say our goodbyes and return home this afternoon.

£2,245 inc. flights

Sgl Supp - £335 Deposit pp: £300 Without flights pp: £1,995

Food Sicilian cuisine is a unique blend of the many cultures that have left their mark on this crossroads of the Mediterranean — Italian, Greek, Spanish, Arab, French... We enjoy almondbased pesto, spicy aubergine caponata and the sinfully delicious cannoli siciliani - pastry filled with rich sweetened ricotta cream.

Wines The Etna DOC was the first in Sicily, and has some truly unique conditions — the Mediterranean waves reflect the sunlight back onto the volcano’s vineyards, resulting in incredible ripeness even at higher altitudes. The constantly-changing soil results in a wide variety of wines, with high-quality minerality and flinty notes.

To book, or for any questions Call: 01730 263111 | Email: sales@winetours.co.uk | Visit: www.winetours.co.uk

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Story - Italy

“If food is the body of good living, wine is its soul.”

Clifton Fadiman

Wine

THE STORY OF RIOJA 1st – 6th October S PA I N

T

he story of the region now known as La Rioja is the story of Spain writ large.

Phoenician, Roman, Visigoth and Muslim occupiers all had their turn before pilgrims en route to Santiago de Compostela passed through during the Middle Ages. By the time Napoleon arrived in the early 19th century, Rioja was a region famed for its wines, exporting as far as Cuba and Mexico.

The vineyards planted by the Phoenicians and the Romans no longer surround us as we travel through the many hills and compact villages of the beautiful River Ebro valley. There is so much to see here, that you could spend a week exploring the region without happening upon a winery… and yet, it is home to more than 1,200 of them.

We only visit the very best on tour. Our Wine Guide, Rachel Ritchie, has

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lived in Spain for more than twenty years. She will introduce us to the world renowned vineyards and wines of Marques de Murrieta and Contino as well as those of lesser known but fabulous producers. Blessed with a backdrop of the mountains of the Iberian System, the region is home to some stunning contemporary architecture. The juxtaposition of nature with chrome and glass brings people from all over the world.

Tempranillo is Rioja’s ‘big grape’. It grows practically everywhere, but this is its homeland. From the first drop, you’re hit with a pleasant mix (as strange as it sounds) of leather and cherry. It pairs beautifully

Wine improves with age. Travel improves with wine.

with rich meat dishes. If you enjoy a structured Cabernet Sauvignon or fruity Grenache, you’re sure to enjoy Tempranillo.

What’s Included Return flights London to Bilbao 5 nights in 4* hotels with breakfast each morning Most meals included with wine Visits and tastings as per the itinerary Wine Guide & Tour Manager

Itinerary Day 1 – Tapas, Tapas, Tapas We travel from London to Bilbao. This evening we stop at San Sebastian’s wonderful Pintxos Basque tapas bars. This is a region of such varied flavour – so we can enjoy as many as possible.

We will visit three or four different bars over the course of the evening.

Day 2 – Indulge Your Senses After enjoying so much of the regions wonderful cuisine last night, we learn how to make our own versions today. We enjoy our culinary creations at lunch, paired with carefully chosen wines.

This afternoon, you are free to explore San Sebastián with Rachel on hand to help. Explore the Miramar Palace and Gardens, the Gothic San Vincente Church, or the Baroque Basilica of Santa Maria. If the weather is good (it should be!) a visit to La Concha beach will offer sunbathing and swimming opportunities.

Day 3 – The Suckling Pig We sample great Grenache, Tempranillo, and Graciano based wines in Rioja’s neighbouring Navarra wine region this morning. We continue to Estella this afternoon for a guided walking tour. The historic city is part of the pilgrim route, the Camino de Santiago, and is filled with gorgeous Romanesque architecture. Following a comparative tasting in Logroño - we enjoy a typical Cochinillo Asado. An entire suckling pig is roasted whole before being presented and carved at the table. This is a fabulous traditional event from the region and a delicious dish.

Day 4 – The Villa Of The Muses For those who are happy to rise early, an optional tour of the Dinosaur Route is available this morning. Paleontologists insist skeletons of the biggest dinosaurs ever to have walked the Earth are buried in the region’s red-rock badlands. We

continue to Marques de Murrieta for lunch and a tasting. The estate is intrinsically linked with the history of Rioja - the first bottle of Rioja was produced here in 1852. We end the day at the Villa Romana de Arellano – this Roman 'Villa of the Muses' houses some splendid mosaics.

Wine Guide

Day 5 – Château Style Bodegas

Rachel Ritchie is a wine guide and translator living in the beautiful Priorat region of Catalonia. When not wine guiding for Arblaster & Clarke, she acts as an ambassador for the Priorat region, hosting tours around her adoptive home.

Having studied Modern European Languages at Durham University, and obtained an M.A. from the University of Barcelona, Rachel is fluent in English, Spanish, Catalan, French, and German. She has a love of all things Spanish: the language, the culture, the wine (of course) and her husband Gerard!

She works closely with wineries all over the country.

Hotel We spend 2 nights in a 4* hotel in San Sebastián, a sophisticated resort town on the Bay of Biscay. Some call it the city of indulgence...

We also enjoy 3 nights in a 4* hotel in Logroño, Rioja’s friendly capital. Here, creative Basque architecture rubs shoulders with a lively, award-winning gastro scene.

We visit another stop on the Camino de Santiago - Santa María la Real of Nájera. The monastery is well known for its ornate woodwork and for being the resting place of more than thirty royals.

Our next visit is to Contino. This was one of the first ‘single estate producers’ in Rioja, and is one of the few estates whose vineyards are actually around the bodega ‘château-style’. The wines are concentrated and rich, but above all delicious.

Our tasting will be accompanied with perfectly paired regional tapas. Enjoy some free time in Haro late this afternoon. Many of Rioja’s greatest bodegas are based in the town. Wandering along Haro’s intriguing alleyways, you might like to watch out for the particularly interesting Wine Museum.

Day 6 – Guggenheim Goodbyes We’ve arrived at the final day of our journey... but there is still some magic left during our stay.

We take a guided tour of Bilbao’s Guggenheim Museum. Designed by Frank Gehry, the museum itself is a work of art. Explore 11,000 square meters of exhibition space, distributed over nineteen galleries. We enjoy a final lunch served with wines from all over Spain.

£2,245 inc. flights

Sgl Supp - £265 Deposit pp: £300 Without flights pp: £2,095

Food We enjoy a cookery lesson in San Sebastián, learning to make regional dishes which we will pair with wine. We will also enjoy a traditional ‘cochinillo asado’ — a roasted suckling pig, presented whole. Throughout the tour we enjoy meals of tapas – a perfect accompaniment to wine and conversation.

Wines Rioja vineyards enjoy the warm climate of northern Spain, contributing to their ripe fruit and mineral flavours. Rioja’s star grape is Tempranillo, a black grape that gives birth to fullbodied, ruby red wines, but we will also explore excellent garnacha (Grenache) and graciano based wines in neighbouring Navarra.

To book, or for any questions Call: 01730 263111 | Email: sales@winetours.co.uk | Visit: www.winetours.co.uk

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Story - Spain

“Old wine and old friends are enough provision.”

Andalusian Proverb

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Wine improves with age. Travel improves with wine.

THE RESERVE EXPERIENCE Simply superlative wine tours If you have a passion for fine wine, these unique tours are for you. Visit ‘unvisitable domaines’ and join us to taste the finest wines from the finest vintages at properties that are normally absolutely closed to visitors. It’s not just the wines that are exclusive on these tour, the Wine Guides are too. Travel with some of the most respected names in the industry, with awardwinning books and a variety of accolades to their names. The exclusivity doesn’t end here… We stay at luxury châteaux and hotels, or as private guests of wine estates that are closed to the public. We also dine at Michelin-starred restaurants and authentic bistros, where local wine merchants and connoisseurs choose to dine.

What's Included?

•

An Exclusive Itinerary - Taste only the best wines the region has to offer. Over the last 30 years, we have built up strong relationships with the houses we visit. Join us behind the (usually) locked doors of the finest estates and châteaux.

•

The Finest Wine Guides - Travel alongside Wine Guides with a wealth of experience - from Masters of Wine to award-winning writers. Our small group sizes ensure you have plenty of opportunities to ask them questions over the course of our journey.

•

Iconic Wines - The big name bottles you may have only read about are all on the menu across our tours. Sample Sauternes' finest Chateau d’Yquem; Grande Cuvées; and even some of Scotland's finest drams on our single malt whisky tour.

•

Michelin Starred Meals - Fine wines deserve equally delicious food. The cities we visit aren’t just renowned wine regions, they’re world-famous gastronomic hot-spots too.

•

Superb Accommodation - Stay in superb 4* and 5* boutique hotels, lavish châteaux, and private wine estates, or in the case of our cruise - aboard a luxury yacht.

The Tours p.66 The First Growths of Bordeaux p.68 Ultimate Champagne p.70 The Rhône Valley p.72 Ultimate Tuscany p.74 Single Malt Scotland p.76 Nice to Barcelona

To book, or for any questions Call: 01730 263111 | Email: sales@winetours.co.uk | Visit: www.winetours.co.uk

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Wine THE FIRST GROWTHS OF BORDEAUX 29th May – 2nd June FRANCE Wine

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ordeaux is one of the largest wine regions in France, with more than 120,000 hectares of vineyard stretching across the landscape, and more than 700 million bottles of wine produced each year. Yet, of these, a small few are prized above the rest: the legendary First Growths.

First introduced at the Exposition Universelle of 1855, Bordeaux’s nowfamous ranking of its best wines was implemented by Emperor Napoleon III as a means for France to put its best oenological foot forward, and to set the standard for how French wine was regarded around the world. And what a standard it was — a precisely curated list of the very best, almost fabled houses, and their superb output.

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Visit and taste at the most exclusive and renowned wineries of Bordeaux... Fine wine should always be accompanied by fine food and there will be plenty of opportunities to enjoy gastronomic delights and local delicacies throughout our tour.

The history of Bordeaux’s First Growths is about much more than a classification system. The list informs our understanding of the origins of the region; the wine trade that garnered attention on the world stage; and most importantly, the châteaux themselves.

Join us on tour to discover more, and taste truly superior, sensational wines.

The wines on offer here are of such quality that we’re sure nothing but wine tastings would be just fine ... but we want you to enjoy the full flavour of the region. Explore small and pretty villages dotted between the vines, and patronise St. Emilion’s shops brimming with its splendid speciality, macaroons.

This tour offers a first-class overview of this fascinating area of France.

Wine improves with age. Travel improves with wine.

What’s Included Return flights London to Bordeaux 4 nights in exclusive 4* Château hotels Most meals included with wine Visits and tastings as per the itinerary Wine Guide & Tour Manager

Itinerary Day 1 –Domaine de Chevalier and Haut-Brion We begin our tour on a prestigious note — visiting on of the finest producers of Graves' wine, Domaine de Chevalier. They are of a very few Bordeaux estates to be named domaine instead of château. We enjoy lunch here before moving on to Château Haut-Brion. This First Growth in the Pessac-Léognan appellation is the only estate outside the Médoc to feature in the 1855 classification of red wines, and is undoubtedly one of the oldest wine-producing châteaux in the entire region, having been exporting to the UK since the 15th century. This evening, we have the pleasure of dinner at Château PichonLongueville Baron, a notable landmark on the Route des Châteaux with an undeniable fairy-tale character. The wines of this lovingly-restored house exude quality and are textbook Pauillac in style.

Day 2 – Mouton and Lafitte Rothschild Today, we enjoy a special visit and tasting at Château Mouton-Rothschild, one of the five First Growths of the Médoc. Our visit includes a visit to the famed Label Room, which houses an exhibition of the original artwork behind the iconic labels of the estate’s wines, dating back to the Victory label that marked the end of the Second World War in the 1945 vintage.

We continue to lunch and a tasting at Second Growth Château Pichon Comtesse de Lalande, before moving on to the esteemed First Growth Château Lafite-Rothschild. Not normally open to the public, the house’s picture-postcard setting is ideal for a tasting of its wines, rated amongst the best in the world for quality. Finally, we move on to Château Léoville-Barton in St Julien. The Barton Family has been in Bordeaux since 1725, and today, Châteaux Léoville and Langoa-Barton are the only châteaux from the 1855 classification of the Médoc still owned by the original family.

Day 3 – The Margaux Appellation We now visit the appellation of Margaux, where we have a visit and tasting at a very renowned

Wine Guide Stephen Brook is an award-winning wine journalist and author. He has written and contributed to several books on varied subjects, including travel and wine. Of these, many focus on Bordeaux and California, including the authoritative The Complete Bordeaux.

He has been a guest judge at numerous wine competitions across the world and is a regular participant in the tasting panels for Decanter and World of Fine Wine. As well as judging, he also regularly contributes articles to international wine publications, and lectures on wine at the prestigious Christie’s Education in London.

Hotel We divide our time between 2 luxurious hotels during our stay in Bordeaux. The Château Cordeillan Bages is a renovated 17th century Carthusian Monastry, set within Médoc vineyards, while the 4* Château Hotel Grand Barrail is an imposing 19th century château on the banks of a small tranquil lake outside St-Émilion.

estate this morning - one of the highlights of our tour. We continue to the superb Second Cru Château Lascombes. The influential Bordeaux-based oenologist Michel Rolland acts as a consultant for the winery. Our final visit of the day is to Château Rauzan-Ségla. Owned by Liverpool shipping magnate John Holt until 1989, the property was taken over by Chanel in 1994, and now makes outstanding wines which have flourished in recent vintages under the care and attention of winemaker John Kolasa.

Day 4 – Figeac We turn to the Right Bank this morning with a visit to Château Figeac, the largest estate in St-Émilion. As with Cheval Blanc, the vines here are planted in a soil of mainly gravel and sand.

Very unusually for a Right Bank Bordeaux, Figeac is made with Cabernet Sauvignon, rather than Merlot. This afternoon, we enjoy some free time in St-Émilion. Get acquainted with this beautiful UNESCO town, with its wonderful cobbled streets and fantastic views over the vineyards. This evening, we have our final dinner at one of the Premier Grand Crus of Saint-Émilion.

Day 5 – Chateau d’Yquem We pay a visit to Domaine de Chevalier, famous for both its superb white wines and brilliant reds, which we will have the opportunity to taste over lunch at the estate. Our final visit of the tour is to Château d’Yquem, Superior First Growth of Sauternes. Here, we learn about the complex process of Sauternes production and sample the great sweet wines of this iconic Château before transferring to the airport for flights home.

£3,695 inc. flights

Sgl Supp - £500 Deposit pp: £500 Without flights pp: £3,545

Food As you’d expect from a region with a busy Atlantic Ocean coastline, Bordeaux’s shop windows and market stalls are full to bursting with fresh fish and shellfish.

But it’s the meat dishes that really shine, particularly the regional specialty of entrecôte marchand de vin, made to be enjoyed with a robust red.

Wines On this tour, our oenological odyssey is hinged on big names and big bouquets.

Cabernet Sauvignon is, of course, the dominant grape perfected by the winemakers at Mouton, Lafitte, Figeac and beyond. On our final day, we are also let into the sweet secret of making Sauternes at Château d’Yquem.

To book, or for any questions Call: 01730 263111 | Email: sales@winetours.co.uk | Visit: www.winetours.co.uk

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Reserve - France

“The First Growths of Bordeaux were not selected competitively in the course of a gigantic taste-off. They selected themselves, in a way, by doing the right things at the right time.”

Gerald Asher

Wine

ULTIMATE CHAMPAGNE 24th - 28th April FRANCE Wine

D

epending on who you ask, you’re sure to hear a few theories on how the whole Champagne industry started. If you’re a purist, you may believe that Champagne’s true beginnings took place hundreds of miles away from the region itself, at London’s Royal Society.

Oxford-educated Christopher Merrett, was the scientist who first stumbled upon the idea of adding sugar to bottles of finished wine to trigger a second fermentation - and in his own words, create a “brisk and sparkling” wine.

The traditional process of making Champagne may be known as Methode Champenoise today, but many would say its origins lie in dear old Blighty.

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Champagne is a joyous drink. The popping of each and every cork, an uplifting sound – signifying that something wonderful has happened. Champagne toasts our milestones; launches great ships; sees in the New Year; and sometimes just brightens our day.

Champagne is a firm favourite at A&C. We’ve enjoyed many varieties over the years but sometimes you need to really treat yourself. That’s where the idea of Ultimate Champagne was born from.

This spectacular five-day experience explores the Champagne region in superior style. Discover Prestige Cuvées and vintage champagnes from renowned champagne houses, and dine as private guests of top producers.

Many of the Houses we visit are not open to the public and so our tour provides the unique opportunity to discover Champagne exclusively behind those (usually) closed doors.

There isn’t a superlative great enough to describe this tour… but ‘Ultimate’ comes close.

Wine improves with age. Travel improves with wine.

What’s Included Return Eurostar travel London to Lille; executive coach travel throughout 4 nights in 5* hotels in Reims and Epernay Most meals included with wine Visits and tastings as per the itinerary Wine Guide & Tour Manager

Itinerary Day 1 – Preparing the Palate We travel from London St Pancras to Lille – enjoying a light lunch on board along the way. We continue to Aÿ. Our Wine Guide, and Champagne expert, Tom Bruce-Gardyne will lead the first Prestige Champagne tasting at our hotel.

Day 2 – Small & Perfectly Formed We start the day at the small, but perfectly formed Champagne Jacquesson. The size of this boutique producer has no bearing on the quality of the Champagne they produce – enjoy excellence in every glass . We continue to a giant of the Champagne world Bollinger. Sampling their sophisticated wines over lunch – we’re sure you’ll agree that their reputation is justified.

Thanks to some great shops and online outlets, you can buy and enjoy great Champagne at home – but there are some things that really require you visit the region itself. Champagne Salon produce small quantities of Champagne, and only in the greatest vintage years. Savour every drop during our tasting today – this is a very special experience that only a few get to enjoy. We discover the nuances that are revealed when you pair Champagne with fine food tonight, during dinner at Taittinger’s impressive Château de la Marquetterie.

Day 3 – Essential Stops Grand houses are essential on our Reserve Collection tours – and Champagne Deutz are among the grandest of them all. Their impeccable wines include superb rosé Champagnes which will remind you of forest walks on summer days – cherry and blackberry perfection. The famous family-owned Pol Roger plays host to us during lunch today. Sir Winston Churchill was the Champagne house’s most illustrious devotee and customer – so much so that they named a champagne in his honour.

This afternoon we continue to the Abbey of Hautvillers, where Dom Perignon served as a monk in the 17th century. Our visit is followed by a tasting of at least two Dom Perignon vintages.

Day 4 – Surprise Visits

Wine Guide Tom BruceGardyne has been involved in the drink industry for more than 20 years.

He spent a gap year, following university, travelling round South America.

Years later, while teaching English in Santiago he got into wine and returned to work in the trade in the UK and Italy.

Since 2000 he has been a full time journalist. He has written prolifically for a number of publications, including, The Sunday Telegraph, Decanter, and Harpers. He won the Louis Roederer 'regional wine writer of the year award' for his weekly column in the Glasgow Herald.

His new book, The Treasures of Champagne was released in 2016.

Hotel We have the pleasure of staying at 2 excellent hotels on this tour: the Villa Eugène is a 5* manor house hotel located on the Avenue de Champagne in Epernay, while L’Assiette Champenoise, housed within an 18th century mansion, is owned by chef M. Lallement, who now boasts three Michelin stars.

After a surprise morning visit to a renowned Champagne House, we enjoy some free time to ourselves. The spirit of Reims is not easily captured in words. Bustling boulevards lead to a spectacular selection of art deco cafes, resplendent Roman remains, and an unforgettable fine dining scene. Then, decorating the UNESCO World Heritage Site’s skyline, we find Notre-Dame de Reims – the Gothic cathedral of kings, where more than thirty sovereigns began their reigns. After seeing such historic sights, where else could we visit but Champagne Taittinger - the iconic house dating back to 1734.

We visit their headquarters, and the magnificent 4th Century Roman cellars which lay below them this afternoon. Champagne Ruinart hosts dinner this evening.

Day 5 – Travel and Traditions Tradition is on the table today – visiting Champagne Krug. All of their wines are vinified in small oak casks. They claim not to make a NV Brut but rather cuvée de Prestige – the Krug Grande Cuvée, with an average bottle age of five years. We conclude our tour with a gastronomic lunch at a Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin - our Wine Guide Tom Bruce-Gardyne will choose a selection of wines to accompany our meal. We transfer to Lille, ready for our return journey back to London.

£3,195 inc. Eurostar travel Sgl Supp - £500 Deposit pp: £500 Without travel pp: £2,995

Food We dine as private guests at some of the most powerful estates in the Champagne region, from Champagne Bollinger to Pol Roger and Champagne Ruinart. One of our introductory dinners will be at Champagne Taittinger’s Château de la Marquetterie, and our tour will conclude with a gastronomic lunch at Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin.

Wines We are treated to worldexclusive champagnes in astonishing private settings, including the incredible Champagne Deutz, which offers something truly unique in the cherry and blackberry nose of their astonishing rosé. Finally, taste iconic Dom Perignon after a visit to the eponymous monk’s former abbey.

To book, or for any questions Call: 01730 263111 | Email: sales@winetours.co.uk | Visit: www.winetours.co.uk

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Reserve - France

“Burgundy makes you think of silly things, Bordeaux makes you talk of them and Champagne makes you do them.”

Jean-Anthelme Brillat-Savarin

Wine

THE RHÔNE VALLEY 28th May – 2nd June FRANCE Wine

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e are delighted to welcome Stephen Spurrier, one of the world's most respected wine experts, to lead our Rhone Reserve tour. We travel from North to South exploring the very best that the Rhone has to offer, from the floral whites of Condrieu, to the exemplary Syrahs of Côte Rôtie and Hermitage Hill and, of course, Châteauneuf-duPape.

We explore both the traditional and the modern winemakers of this region, tucked away in South East France. We follow the course of the great Rhone Valley, which winds through the vinecovered hills, picturesque towns and, above all, superlative wineries.

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Aside from the glorious grape, the Rhône Valley offers a captivating landscape… raw Mediterranean beauty at its best; hillsides covered with maquis, scrub oaks and wild French olives, and dotted with cypress trees.

Most famous for masterminding the Judgement of Paris, Stephen Spurrier has now turned his passion to biodynamic wines. On this tour, we visit some of the smaller growers and producers who are pioneering natural wine-making. In addition there are a wealth of 'stars' who have opened their doors for us including: Georges Vernay, Guigal and Chapoutier to name a few.

Throughout our six day tour we stay in some truly wonderful hotels and enjoy spectacular meals including in Lyon – the gastronomic capital of the region.

With so much impeccable choice when it comes to wine, food and hospitality there really is no place like Rhône.

Wine improves with age. Travel improves with wine.

What’s Included Flights London to Lyon, Marseille to London 5 nights in 4* and 5* hotels Most meals included with wine Visits and tastings as per the itinerary Wine Guide & Tour Manager

Itinerary Day 1 – Introduction

to Château St Cosme. Gigondas is a wine you may not be familiar with, but this ‘serious’ wine is sure to win you over with its rich, forceful but wellbalanced nature. The Château is also home to a fascinating wine museum and Roman cellar.

We travel from London to Lyon and check into our 5* hotel.

Day 2 – Georges Vernay and Delas Freres We begin our tour with a visit to one of France's top producers of Condrieu, Domaine Georges Vernay. The wines produced from their Viognier plantings have gained the respect of wine lovers around the world. We admire the steep slopes and taste some of the estate's best vintages.

After lunch at a local restaurant, we continue to Delas Frères. Owned by Champagne Roederer, they create intense wines of impeccable flavour.

We continue to Tournon where we check into our beautiful historic hotel, in the shadow of Hermitage Hill.

Day 3 – Guigal and Jaboulet Our first visit today is to Domaine Guigal, one of the foremost producers of Côte Rôtie reds (literally 'the roasted slope', named for the sundrenched hills on which the vines grow). Guigal is most famous for the 'La Las' - La Mouline, La Landonne and La Turque, single vineyard wines – all late harvested from tiny yields. We stop at a wine bar belonging to Domaine Jaboulet for lunch. Their motto is “Fac et Spera” – do and hope – which they believe sums up all the patience and daring that the art of wine-making demands. We take a biodynamic detour this afternoon, at the House of Michel Chapoutier in Tain l’Hermitage.

Day 4 – The University of Wine L’Université du Vin is found nestled between Valence and Avignon, at the 12th Château de Suze-la-Rousse. It was created in 1978 to offer professional support to all those involved in the wine trade. We enjoy a tutored tasting of various wines from the region here today. We enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before our next visit

Wine Guide

Day 5 – Châteauneuf-du-Pape

Steven Spurrier is a wine expert and former merchant.

He entered the trade in 1964 as a trainee at Christopher and Co., London’s oldest wine merchant, before moving to Paris in 1970. There, he set up his own wine shop, Les Caves de la Madeleine, where customers were frequently encouraged to taste wines before buying.

Unsurprisingly, he has been described as a “champion of French wine”.

Everyone knows the name Chateâuneuf-duPape. We go straight to the heart of the region to visit Ogier Caves des Papes – one of the finest and most successful Négociant houses in the Southern Rhône. They produce an impressive range, including the famous Clos De L’Oratoire which we may just enjoy a drop of... We continue to Domaine de la Mordorée after lunch. The biodynamic estate is without a doubt the top estate in Lirac. They of course produce a little Châteauneuf-du-Pape, but their excellent Tavel rosé is the wine you’ll be telling your friends back home about.

Steven is now a Consultant Editor for Decanter and has written several books on wine.

He has one of the most respected palates in the trade and, with a long list of contacts, can open the most prestigious of doors in the wine world.

Hotel The plush 5* Hotel Le Royal Lyon, with its ornate facade, serves as our first stop on tour. We continue to the listed 18th century Hôtel de la Villeon in Tournon, which has spectacular views over the Hermitage vineyards, and the 5* Hotel d’Europe, set on cobbled land in the Medieval city centre of Avignon.

Day 6 – Honey Whites & Herb Rich Reds Sadly all good things must come to an end... but when they do, make sure it’s in style. Our final stop, Domaine de Trevallon is really special.

Producer Eloi Durrbach enlisted his father painter and sculptor, Réné Dürrbach to create all the labels for his honey whites and herb rich reds.

We enjoy a final few glasses of the Rhône’s finest over lunch at a local winery, before our flights home.

£3,495 inc. flights

Sgl Supp - £450 Deposit pp: £500 Without flights pp: £3,335

Food Lyon is the culinary capital of France, with a trademark combination of simplicity and freshness that’s sure to delight. Of course, this Alpine region is famous for its farms; meat and dairy are king and queen at the table.

From charcuterie boards to cheese fondue, the cuisine of the Rhône offers the perfect complement to its wines.

Wines The Rhône’s most iconic appellation is Châteauneufdu-Pape, which we sample at the successful Ogier Caves – but there are many strings to this bow. Other highlights include the well-structured reds of Michael Chapoutier and the honey-gold whites of Domaine de Trevallon, with glorious notes ranging from marzipan to pear...

To book, or for any questions Call: 01730 263111 | Email: sales@winetours.co.uk | Visit: www.winetours.co.uk

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Reserve - France

“I know never to take a wine for granted. Drawing a cork is like attendance at a concert or at a play that one know well, when there is all the uncertainty of no two performances ever being quite the same.” Gerald Asher

Wine

ULTIMATE TUSCANY 23rd – 28th October I TA LY Wine

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hat does Tuscany have to offer the seasoned wine traveller or emerging oenophile? Quite a bit actually. Just take a look at the long list of DOCGs: from the Chianti Classico and Rufina; to age worthy Brunello di Montalcino, and elegant Vino Nobile di Montepulciano... and we haven't even started on the Super Tuscans.

Tuscany is often referred to as perfect wine country, but its timeless landscape is a treat in itself. Discover a picture postcard of gentle rolling hills emerging from the soft morning mist, exposing sculptural alleys of cypress trees, cathedral domes, golden wheat fields, and verdant vineyards. This is an endlessly enchanting area.

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Tuscany may not produce the most wine in Italy… but the wine it does produce is simply sensational. This is thanks, in no small part, to the time locals dedicate to thinking, talking and consuming food and wine. Follow their example on tour...

This is Italy’s most ancient wine region, and home to its most famous wine – Chianti – but this is anything but a one note region. In the 1970s, Super Tuscan wines made their way to the table, thanks to talented winemakers who embraced new ways of wine-making.

Blends of traditional local varieties with international grapes, these wines have tantalised many a palate since their inception. Of course, no man or woman can live on wine alone...

Luckily, Tuscany’s gastronomic reputation is just as strong. Immerse yourself in the slow food movement, locally sourced, seasonal fare produced with pride, in charming family-run trattoria. Buon appetito mei amici — enjoy a feast for the five senses!

Wine improves with age. Travel improves with wine.

What’s Included Return flights London to Pisa 5 nights in fabulous 4* and 5* hotels Most meals included with wine Visits and tastings as per the itinerary Wine Guide & Tour Manager

Reserve - Italy

“You may have the universe if I may have Italy.”

Giuseppe Verdi

Itinerary Day 1 – Ornellaia

Day 4 – Biondi-Santi

Our tour begins with a delicious dinner at Ornellaia, a leading estate in Bolgheri - one of Italy's most interesting and expressive winemaking areas. After a visit to vineyards and cellars, we taste their wines over dinner.

You can enjoy a leisurely morning at our hotel or join an optional transfer to the beautiful ancient hill town of Montalcino for some time to explore.

We continue to Biondi-Santi. It remains a beacon for traditionally made Rosso and Brunello di Montalcino. The Greppo vineyards of the BiondiSanti family date back to the 1800s. The estate has been passed down through the family to this day, and is currently managed by Franco Biondi Santi, along with the help of his two children, who will eventually take on the business themselves.

Visiting Brunello del Greppo, we are offered the unique opportunity to learn more about traditional agronomy (scientific methods of winemaking) and cellaring practises which are used to produce wines of great character and quality.

Day 2 – Sassicaia The home of the original Super Tuscan cult wine, Tenuta San Guido belongs to the Incisa della Rochetta family. Their Sassicaia is made predominately from Cabernet Sauvignon, and is quite simply one of the world’s best wines. We continue to Guado al Tasso — it sits in a perfect position surrounded by the sea and enclosed by the hills. After a visit to the cellars we enjoy a tasting followed by lunch at this lovely property, which may well include salami from their cinta siennese pigs. We end the day at Ca Marcanda, famed in the North for revolutionising a very traditional wine region. They make extremely appealing wines with good structure and impressive body.

Day 3 – Brunello di Montalcino The Orcia River marks the South West border of the Brunello di Montalcino territory and the name of the estate 'Col Orcia' is intrinsically linked to the physical location were the vineyards are planted. We tour the whole estate from the vineyards to the olive groves and gardens, farmed following exclusively organic agricultural practices. Afterwards, we hear about the long and varied history of the Argiano estate before tasting their superb wines over a rustic Tuscan lunch in their lovely renaissance villa - accompanied by fruit filled Rosso and refined Brunello di Montalcino. We also enjoy a charming wine named after the estate’s motto, Non Confunditur - which, just as its Latin name suggests, is ‘unique and unmistakable’.

Wine Guide Jane Hunt MW runs an event management company specialising in UK wine trade tastings for a wide number of Italian wine importers.

She has been a Master of Wine since 1985, and also holds an HND in Horticulture and Crop Technology.

She previously wrote a monthly column for House and Garden, and wrote for Bottoms Up and Wine Rack. She has also lectured for Leith's School of Food and Wine, and for Christie's Wine Courses.

In her spare time she has quite an interesting hobby - making her own olive oil at her property in Umbria.

Hotel We stay in a wonderful selection of hotels during our tour. We spend our first two nights in the 5* Grand Hotel Tombolo on the Etruscan Riviera. We also enjoy two nights in the Medieval hilltown of Montalcino, and one night at the 4* Palazzo Leopoldo, Radda in Chianti.

Day 5 – The Open-Air Museum: Sienna We travel to the Medieval masterpiece of Siena for a guided tour this morning. This is an openair museum of Gothic, spiritual and secular monuments. Its vibrant streets open onto inviting restaurants, enoteche, delis and more. We stop for a light lunch accompanied by wonderful Tuscan examples. We meet with Giovanella Stianti, the charming owner of the beautiful hamlet of Castello di Volpaia. Following a brief visit to the cellars we taste her elegant, fragrant wines over a superb dinner of Tuscan specialities.

Day 6 – Lasting Impressions We enjoy a final visit to Isole e Olena before our return home. The wines will leave a lasting impression on all of our palates...

£3,450 inc. flights

Sgl Supp - £495 Deposit pp: £500 Without flights pp: £3,250

Food We enjoy multiple lunches at excellent Tuscan estates, and discover the secret to pairing food with Tuscan wines. Meat and mushrooms alike work well with Sangiovese grape wines. Their vibrant acidity makes them a perfect match for tomato-based foods, and simpler cheeses.

Wines Tuscan wines are universally acclaimed. We enjoy Sassicaia, developed in private at the San Guido estate for decades before being made available to the outside world. We also taste fresh, elegant Volpaia wines, grown in some of the highest vineyards in Chianti.

To book, or for any questions Call: 01730 263111 | Email: sales@winetours.co.uk | Visit: www.winetours.co.uk

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Whisky

SINGLE MALT SCOTLAND 11th – 16th September UK Wine

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here are so many things we associate with Scotland.

Tartan, haggis, golf, Irn Bru, Robert Burns — all are wonderful in their own way, but make no mistake, this is whisky country.

Scotland’s national drink has been produced here for centuries. Where else can you find an environment as rich in the high quality ingredients that the distilleries crave? Pure spring water, rich peat soil, and abundant supplies of fragrant golden barley are the lifeblood of the landscape.

Travelling through the magnificent Scottish Highlands, you can’t help but be struck by their wild and dramatic beauty. Discover the heart of the distillery process — peek behind

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Before you say it — no, it’s not what you think... We haven’t created a Scottish wine tour. The story of whisky is the story of Scotland, so raise a glass and drink a wee dram as we tour the highlands and discover the very best nectar on offer. the scenes during distillery visits, sample fine drams of single malts, and gain an insight into the complex art of blending. Wherever we go, we enjoy a warm welcome and plenty of invitations to see, smell, taste, and absorb the magic of the malt.

As well as exclusive access to Scotland’s finest distilleries, we explore the long history of the Highlands with visits to Cawdor Castle, Culloden, and Loch Ness, among others. Throughout, we are led by award-winning author Tom Bruce-Gardyne, who has written numerous books on the wonderful subject of whisky. Tom will be on hand throughout our tour to introduce us to the best of his native land both in the glass and ‘o’er hill and glen’.

Wine improves with age. Travel improves with wine.

What’s Included 4 nights in handpicked 4* hotels Most meals included with whisky and wine as described in the itinerary Visits and tastings as per the itinerary & tips Wine Guide & Tour Manager

Reserve - UK

“Oh brother, be a brother, fill this tiny cup of mine. And please, sir, make it whisky: I have no head for wine!”

Nick Cave

Itinerary Day 1 – Mustard Seed & Night Caps

Day 4 – Loch Ness and on to Edinburgh

We meet at Inverness Airport at lunchtime and travel to The Mustard Seed Restaurant. Simple cooking and a warm, friendly atmosphere are always on the menu here. The main event, our first whisky tasting, takes place before dinner. For the first three nights of our stay in the Highlands, we are based in a magnificent manor house hotel set in forty acres of gardens near Inverness.

After checking out of the hotel we travel south to the famous Loch Ness for a scenic boat trip on the lake. We won’t have had any single malts this morning so Nessie sightings are most unlikely.

We return to shore and stop for lunch on the west bank of Loch Ness at the iconic Station Road restaurant. En route to Edinburgh we stop at Dalwhinnie Distillery — situated at over 1,164 feet above sea level, this is one of the highest distilleries in the land. Enjoy the opportunity to sample the `gentle spirit` of the glen and elevate your senses. We arrive in Scotland’s capital early this evening to enjoy some free time and an independent dinner.

Day 2 – Cawdor & Glenfiddich The splendour of Cawdor Castle and its gardens greet us this morning. Built in the 14th century, the castle is home to members of Campbell Clan and has famous, although distinctly dubious, connections to Macbeth. Afterwards, we journey to a famous name in the heart of the Speyside whisky region — Glenfiddich Distillery. We enjoy a light lunch at the Malt Barn, put together by their award-winning chefs using quality, local ingredients. Our hunger satisfied, we commence our Glenfiddich distillery tour and blending masterclass. This is one of the few single malt distilleries to remain entirely family-owned and is home to the world’s most decorated single malt scotch whisky. We return to our historic hotel for dinner this evening.

Day 3 – Bloody Battles & Notorious Bottles In April 1746, the last battle fought on British soil took place. We visit Culloden Battlefield this morning, retracing the last moments of the 1,200 soldiers who lost their lives in just one hour during this short but bloody battle.

Afterwards, we travel north to visit the worldfamous Dalmore Distillery. We also enjoy lunch at the estate which is notorious for its expensive, headline-grabbing bottles. But of course, that’s not all they produce here — their affordable single malt drams have also been widely praised for their rich and fruity character.

Wine Guide Tom BruceGardyne has written about the drink industry, specifically wine and whisky, for more than 20 years.

Beginning with the world of wine, he shifted his focus to whisky on moving back to Scotland in 1998. He has written prolifically for a number of publications, including, The Sunday Telegraph, Decanter, Harpers and Whisky Magazine.

He has written and co-authored three books on whisky, and currently writes a weekly column for the Herald. He was also recently shortlisted for International Short Copy Columnist of the Year at the Louis Roederer International Wine Writers’ Awards.

Hotel Enjoy 3 nights at Culloden House, an elegant hotel with a relaxed atmosphere.

The restaurant is rated four stars, with two AA Rosettes for food and boasts an Eat Scotland Silver Award. We also spend 2 nights at the stylish, well-located 4* Apex Waterloo Place Hotel in Edinburgh.

Day 5 – Whisky, Chocolate & Haggis Enjoy a relaxed morning at the hotel, or join us on an optional walking tour of Edinburgh.

Scotland’s capital has it all, from a Medieval Old Town to an elegant Georgian New Town, great gardens, neoclassical buildings, and an extinct volcano in Holyrood Park. We’ll make sure to stop by the castle along the way. After free time over lunch, we reunite for a visit to the Royal Mile Whisky Shop in the city centre where we are treated to an endlessly tempting whisky and chocolate tour. We end our final night with a bit of Scottish ceremony... enjoying a traditional Scottish menu and an address to the haggis.

Day 6 – Haste Ye Back!

After breakfast we transfer to the airport for independent flights home or onward journeys.

£2,495

Sgl Supp - £495 Deposit pp: £300

Food From lunch at Glenfiddich Distillery’s Malt Barn to chocolate and whisky on the Royal Mile, Scotland is proof that you don’t have to go far for unusual culinary experiences. Most distinctively, we end our week with an ‘address to the haggis’, reciting Robert Burns to the Scots’ most famous dish...

Whisky Smoky, peaty, fragrant, fresh, fruity — there’s just as much to whisky as there is to wine.

Scotland’s finest distilleries present us with their awardwinning whiskies. From the world’s most decorated single malt to the worldfamous Dalmore Distillery, we see it all, and even attend a masterclass at Glenfiddich.

To book, or for any questions Call: 01730 263111 | Email: sales@winetours.co.uk | Visit: www.winetours.co.uk

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FROM NICE TO BARCELONA

What do you get when you cross a superyacht with delicious wine? A wonderful holiday of course...

Wine

FROM NICE TO BARCELONA 30th August – 6th September CRUISE

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he Côte d’Azur, with its jewel-toned waters lapping colourful harboursides, warm Mediterranean breeze carrying the scent of tantalising local delicacies, makes a fitting first stop on our tour. As we land in Nice, we find a lazy stretch of coast encapsulating the combination of landscape, culture, food, and — of course — wine that makes every A&C departure so special.

And expect no less from the rest of our tour — as we make our way along France’s south coast via Provence and Languedoc, across the border to Spain and on to Barcelona and Tarragona, there are plenty of gems to be found.

Perfumed rosés from Fronton meet dry Jurançon whites over lunch on the

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Old World wines and old world charm come together aboard our elegant sailboat, Le Ponant. Trace France’s sun-soaked Riviera and Languedoc, and Spain’s golden Costa Brava and Costa Dorada, on this journey of maritime and oenological discovery. waters, effervescent Cava kicks off a dinner of local specialties in Barcelona, and varieties of the Southern Rhône are used to toast farewell over a Captain's dinner on our final night aboard.

Thanks to our luxury sailing vessel, Le Ponant, we travel between winery visits and forays ashore in superlative comfort and style. What better way to spend an evening than with good company, excellent food, and a glass of wine in hand? Add in the sun-warmed deck of a sailboat bobbing on the crystal-clear Mediterranean as the sun dips below the horizon, and the experience becomes nothing short of extraordinary.

Wine improves with age. Travel improves with wine.

What’s Included 7 nights on-board Le Ponant All meals included with wine Local transport: private A/C coach Visits and tastings as per the itinerary Expert Wine Guide and Tour Manager

Itinerary Day 1 – Setting Sail We fly from London to Nice, arriving in time for lunch at a restaurant on Nice’s harbour. We stop at the town's wonderful flower market, before embarking Le Ponant and setting sail for Bandol, stopping en route for a quick swim. We enjoy dinner on board tonight, accompanied with Provençal wines chosen from some of our favourite regional producers, including Château Simone whose wines have wonderful depth.

Day 2 – Coastal Climes We arrive at Bandol and pay a morning visit to an estate in La Cadiere d’Azur. The Bandol appellation produces some outstanding reds thanks to a warm, coastal climate ideal for the late-ripening Mourvèdre grape. We enjoy lunch on board, before setting sail for Tarragona.

Dinner tonight is accompanied by a range of Corsican wines from the island's coastal vineyards, including the rich and satisfying Muscat Vins Doux Naturels.

Day 3 – Sampling the Southwest We sail to northeast Spain today, a wine region that first came to fame in the late 1980s for its minerally, robust wines. En route, you can choose to relax or join a tasting hosted by our Wine Guide. We gather for lunch accompanied by wines from southwest France, including dry and sweet wines from Jurançon, rustic Malbecs from Cahors, and floral-scented rosés from Fronton.

We arrive in Tarragona this afternoon, and go ashore to explore the port city’s fascinating mix of Roman history and Medieval alleyways. We are joined for dinner by a winemaker from Priorat.

Day 4 – A Sparkling Afternoon We start the day with a walking tour of Tarragona before enjoying lunch on board with a producer of Cava, Spain’s answer to Champagne

and Prosecco. We continue to Barcelona, where you have time to explore the city: from the impressive spires of the Sagrada Família to the buzzing atmosphere of Las Ramblas. Dinner is served aboard Le Ponant tonight. We enjoy local specialties accompanied by Catalunya wines.

Wine Guide Wine Guide To Be Confirmed We are still putting the finishing touches to some of our 2017 tours.

Rest assured that you will be joined by one of the UK’s leading Wine Guides on this Mediterranean Wine Cruise.

Day 5 – Amongst the Trees We arrive at Port de Plaisance de Narbonne Plage and enjoy lunch at Château l’Hospitalet. The Narbonne restaurant sits among pine woods, vines, and moorland in the la Clape mountain range. There is a breathtaking view of the Mediterranean Sea here, and we stop for a swim at the nearby beach. We dine with another of our friends from the La Clape or Corbières region, who present their wines over dinner tonight.

Day 6 – Stars of the Languedoc We pay a morning visit to Mas de Daumas Gassac, one of the most outstanding producers in Languedoc-Roussillon, making rich, powerful reds with great ageing potential. Hugh Johnson is a great fan, having described the estate as "the Languedoc’s only Grand Cru". Later, we enjoy a free afternoon in the pretty fishing port of Sète.

Days 7 & 8 – Final Folly We travel to Châteauneuf-du-Pape, the standard bearer for the southern Rhône, where we enjoy a visit and lunch at Domaine de Font de Michelle.

Their vineyards are tended organically and wines are aged in everything from cement vats to French oak barrels. We enjoy a Captain's dinner accompanied by wines from the southern Rhône tonight. In the morning, we take some final time to explore Nice before boarding our flight home.

From Nice to Barcelona...

30th August - 6th September, 2017 From £5,399

Food If you like seafood, then the picturesque seaside town of Sète — which we visit on our sixth day — is the perfect place to indulge.

With the largest working fishing fleet on France's Mediterranean coast, creamy Provençal monkfish stews and plump oysters on beds of ice abound. For lunch with a view, we head to Narbonne, where the Château l'Hospitalet offers vistas of pine groves and endless green vines, as well as seasonal food reflecting the best of the Languedoc.

Wines As our vessel makes its way along the coast, we plot our very own map of the best wine these regions have to offer. Enjoy an effervescent Cava in the sparkling company of its Tarragona producer, be bowled over by the bolshy reds of Priorat and the Rhône, and savour the herb-driven fruits of Corsica's coastal climate and limestone soil.

These wines, and more, seem made to be tasted atop the gently lapping waves of the Mediterranean.

To book, or for any questions Call: 01730 263111 | Email: sales@winetours.co.uk | Visit: www.winetours.co.uk

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Cruise - From Nice to Barcelona

“There’s nothing — absolutely nothing — half so much worth doing as messing about in boats.”

Kenneth Grahame, The Wind in the Willows

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Wine improves with age. Travel improves with wine.

ALONGSIDE A&C Our ‘combined collection’ of tours...

We are pleased to announce that we have joined forces with Historical Trips and Andante Travels to bring you a selection of joint tours for 2017. What better combination could you ask for than a glorious European location, fascinating archaeological and historical sites and some of the world’s best wines? Wine is of course the perfect accompaniment to all manner of things, but pairs extremely well with a good slice of history… We have seven enticing tours to offer this year, each taking a look at the speciality wines of the region as well as presenting the area’s historical story with visits to some of the most spectacular ruins, towns and museums.

HISTORICAL

TRIPS THE HISTORY THAT SHAPED US

the world leader in archaeological travel

Historical Trips

Andante Travels

Travelling alongside historians, authors, and broadcasters, you’ll have the chance to blow dust off the pages of history; uncovering the extraordinary stories of the people and the events that have shaped our modern lives.

Their tours are conceived, planned and led by articulate archaeologists and historians, who bring good humour and vast knowledge with them as you explore fascinating ancient sites, that paint a vivid picture of the past.

www.historicaltrips.com

www.andantetravels.co.uk

Historical Trips tours bring the past to life. The company was founded with one clear aim - to bring people tours that explored the whole story of some of the most crucial episodes from World History.

Founded and run by archaeologists, Andante Travels has grown to become one of the UK’s leading specialist tour operators. Their tours have consistently named ‘Trips of a Lifetime’ by the National Geographic Traveler.

The Tours p.80 The Loire Châteaux p.84 War & Wine p.86 Vintage Provence p.88 Sicily: Wine of the Gods p.90 Pompeii & Amalfi p.92 Umbria p.94 El Cid: In The Domain of Rodrigo Diaz

To book, or for any questions Call: 01730 263111 | Email: sales@winetours.co.uk | Visit: www.winetours.co.uk

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HISTORICAL

TRIPS THE HISTORY THAT SHAPED US

Wine

THE LOIRE CHÂTEAUX 3rd – 9th September FRANCE

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he fertile Loire Valley has long nurtured both the noble families and the prized vines of France. Home to historic châteaux and estates of considerable pedigree, there is arguably no single place which better encapsulates the relationship between wine and history.

Here, medieval fortresses and Renaissance residences are just a few of the historical treasures awaiting discovery. Explore Château de Chinon, where Joan of Arc pledged to help Charles VII defeat the English in battle, and spend a day in Honfleur, former stomping ground of Impressionist painters including Monet. But the story of the Loire is by no means restricted to the walls of its

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If travel writer Anthony Peregrine is to be believed, then the châteaux of the Loire are not just at France's centre, but at the centre of Frenchness itself. We go to the heart of the undulating landscape, and the wines and stories it has so readily produced. traditionally historic sites — its many wineries also spin a fascinating tale of the region, while illustrating their very own struggles and triumphs.

At every turn we find exceptional wineries, tasting some of France’s most famous varieties including Sauvignon Blanc, Muscadet, and Vouvray. From our very first moment in the country, when we enjoy a picnic lunch and tasting aboard our coach to Tours, we treat our collective palates to a carefully curated selection of wines and sumptuous dinners, including a mouth-watering Michelin-starred meal. Lush and serene, the everpopular Loire Valley is a treat for all the senses, so join us on tour to see — and taste — it for yourself.

Wine improves with age. Travel improves with wine.

What’s Included Return Eurotunnel travel from the UK 6 nights in 3/4* hotels in Tours, Saumur, and Honfleur All meals included with wine Visits and tastings as per the itinerary & tips Wine Guide & Guide Lecturer

Itinerary Day 1 – Introduction

Day 5 – The Royal Couple

We depart London, and enjoy a picnic lunch and introductory wine tasting aboard our coach. We arrive in Tours and transfer to our hotel.

Our first visit today is to the Abbey of Fontevraud, the final resting place of Henry II, Eleanor of Aquitaine and Richard the Lionheart.

After lunch in Saumur, you can either join us for a tour of the Château de Saumur or relax for the rest of the afternoon. We enjoy dinner at Langlois-Château tonight. The prestigious estate sits under the same ownership as Champagne Bollinger. They make wines from their own vineyards from Muscadet to Sancerre as well as a delicious Crémant de Loire and Crémant Rosé.

Day 2 – From Chenin to Chenonceau

Wine Guide

We see the atmospheric city of Tours this morning before continuing to Marc Bredif in the Vouvray appellation. They are the largest négociant company in the area with precise and exacting standards. Following a visit to their cellars, we will taste a range of their excellent wines from the versatile Chenin Blanc grape. We stop in Chenonceaux this afternoon to visit the elegant Château de Chenonceau, the favourite home of Catherine de’ Medici.

Lys Hall is an established lecturer on the wines of Europe. Having been a wine guide for over a decade, she has a great knowledge of — and passion for — the countries we visit, particularly those of the Mediterranean.

Day 3 – Islands in the Stream Our first visit is to the Château d’Azay-le-Rideau, a picturesque château sitting on an island in the middle of the Indre river. We stop for lunch at a Bourgeuil Winery, before continuing to tonight’s hotel — a comfortable 18th century building on the banks of the River Loire, overlooked by the Château de Saumur. We enjoy a Michelin-starred dinner in Saumur this evening.

Our day begins in Angers, where we view the incredible medieval Apocalypse tapestry.

Following lunch in Angers, we continue to Honfleur, the charming Normandy port town which became a favourite destination for Impressionist painters. The boutique hotel we stay in tonight is based in the town centre, offering enchanting views over the port and the historic town.

Day 7 – Au Revoir, Loire

Day 4 – Heavenly Voices, Heavenly Vines This morning we visit Château de Chinon, the very castle where Joan of Arc beseeched Charles VII to grant her an army to relieve the siege of Orléans. After lunch in Chinon, you have some free time to yourself in the commune, before we depart for a visit and tasting at Domaine CoulyDutheil. The well established family-owned winery has long been acclaimed by the British wine press for their Chinon Blanc and Rosé wine.

We end the day with dinner and a tasting at our hotel.

Day 6 – Apocalypse in Angers

Historian Dr Michael Jones is a respected military historian who has held academic positions at the Universities of Bristol and Glasgow. He has written widely on medieval and twentieth century history.

Hotel On our journey through the Loire Valley, we spend 2 nights in a hotel in the lively town of Tours, 3 nights in a charming 18th century 4* hotel close to central Saumur, and 1 night in a boutique 3* hotel in the centre of Honfleur, with views over the picturesque historic port.

This morning, our final visit is to the Benedictine Abbey of Fécamp to discover the origin of the Bénédictine spirit, and to taste the unique liquer distilled from 27 differerent herbs and spices.

We continue to a final lunch in the commune of Fécamp, before our return to the UK by coach.

£2,445 inc. travel by Eurotunnel Sgl Supp - £245 Deposit pp: £300

Food The Loire Valley, nestled in the Alps, is famous for meat and dairy alike. Look out for its signature cheese fondue and popular red meats - an excellent counterpart to Loire wines. Throughout our tour, we are treated to a series of sumptuous meals, including a Michelin-starred dinner in the heart of historic Saumur.

Wines In a destination at the very heart of France, expect nothing less than the most characteristically French of varieties — Sauvignon Blanc, Muscadet, and Vouvray. For something a little different, head to the Benedictine Abbey to taste the famous spirit made by monks there for hundreds of years.

To book, or for any questions Call: 01730 263111 | Email: sales@winetours.co.uk | Visit: www.winetours.co.uk

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Joint - France

“Age appears to be best in four things — old wood best to burn, old wine to drink, old friends to trust, and old authors to read.”

Alonso of Aragon

HISTORICAL

TRIPS THE HISTORY THAT SHAPED US

Wine

WAR & WINE 4th – 10th June FRANCE

F

Out of occupied France, from the darkness of war-torn Europe, came inspiring tales of winemakers keeping their craft alive under the oppression of Nazi rule. On this tour, we learn their stories and taste the fruits of a proud tradition which continues today.

or centuries, the regions of Bordeaux and Cognac have produced wines beloved and celebrated the world over.

But in 1940, these legendary vines suddenly existed in the shadow of a powerful force ­— the occupying German army. Between 1940 and 1944 the Nazi’s ‘requisitioned’ hundreds of millions of bottles of the French wine, ransacking cellars and installing Weinführer to source and sell the best vintages.

joined the resistance after his vineyard was seized.

We make our journey in the company of historian and oenophile Giles MacDonogh, who leads us on an exploration of the conflict, interspersed with visits to superb French vineyards. Our visits include First Growth Château MoutonRothschild, the stunning Château Pichon Longueville Baron, Château Leoville Barton and many more.

Return flights London to Bordeaux

Join us as we uncover the story of occupation, resistance and collaboration among the great châteaux of Bordeaux. Along the way we hear tales of great heroism - such as Baron Philippe de Rothschild, who

Based in the historic centres of Bordeaux and Cognac, as we trace the turbulent recent history of this venerable château. A fascinating and unique look into one of France’s foremost wine regions.

Wine & History Guide

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Wine improves with age. Travel improves with wine.

What’s Included

6 nights in 3*/4* hotels in Bordeaux and Cognac All meals included with wine Visits and tastings as per the itinerary

Itinerary Day 1 – Introduction

73-hectare vineyard since 1851.

We arrive in Bordeaux and enjoy an introductory lecture.

Day 5 – ‘V’ for Victory

Day 2 – Commerce or Collaboration?

Our first visit is to the Quai des Chartrons, a stretch of Bordeaux’s vibrant Chartrons district overlooking the Garonne. In the 1940s, Quai des Chartrons’ warehouses were home to Eschenauer and Schröder et Schÿler, firms which, controversially, traded with the Germans during the Occupation. In the Médoc, we visit Château Chasse-Spleen — before World War I the property was owned by the family of Adolf Segnitz, who was installed by the Nazis as the Burgundy Weinführer. We discuss the deeprooted links between the French makers and German traders over a tasting of Chasse-Spleen’s excellent wines.

Day 3 – In Memoriam This morning we begin with a tasting at Château Mangol, whose walls still bear bullet marks from skirmishes in World War II. We have lunch and tasting at the château before continuing to sites associated with the Cockleshell Heroes, a group of Allied canoeists who tried to destroy German shipping in Bordeaux during the Occupation.

Later, we stop at the Bordeaux U-boat pen where a memorial has been erected to the prisoners of war who were enlisted to build it.

Day 4 – Château, Shelter, Sanctuary This morning, we visit Château Kirwan near Margaux. Once here, we have the chance to explore the estate’s wonderful gardens and enjoy a tasting of their Merlot-backed wines. In the afternoon, we visit Château Pichon Longueville Baron and learn the story of the refugees who fled here to escape Allied bombing. The Renaissancestyle property has sat proudly in the estate’s

Wine Guide Giles MacDonogh is a historian, journalist, and oenophile. One of the foremost authorities on Nazi German history, he also wrote for the Financial Times for 25 years, covering food and drink.

He was educated at the City of London School and Balliol College, Oxford, where he studied modern history. Since then, he has written or co-written fourteen books, including eight on Germany history and four on wine.

The Boston Globe described Giles as “something of a renaissance man”, while The Wine Lover’s Page said that “Giles MacDonogh’s wine columns display a rare combination of literacy, wit and wine knowledge”.

Hotel Over the course of our tour, we spend 6 nights in 3* and 4* hotels in handsome Bordeaux, called “an outstanding urban and architectural ensemble”

by UNESCO, and bustling Cognac, with its picturesque medieval streets and buildings.

We begin our day with a visit to Château MoutonRothschild and its on-site museum. During the war, Mouton was seized and its Jewish owner, Baron Philippe de Rothschild, joined de Gaulle in London. Upon his return to the house following an Allied victory, he asked for each 1945 label to be emblazoned with a ‘V’ for victory. We move on to Château Leoville Barton, whose owner, Ronald Barton —uncle of current owner Anthony — fought for the Free French, the government-inexile led by de Gaulle.

Day 6 – The Water of Life Today, we enjoy a visit to Hennessy Cognac, where Gustav Klaebisch, the Weinführer for the Cognac region, was credited with saving the precious stocks to blend Cognac. Despite this, he was still responsible for exporting over 26 million bottles to Germany during the war. We learn the story of this iconic house, and find out how l’eau de vie becomes the internationallyrenowned brandy.

Day 7 – Fortresses and Farewells In the morning, we visit Château de la Brède, medieval fortress and former home to the French philosopher Montesquieu. In the afternoon, we visit our final vineyard at Château Haut Bailly, regarded as one of the best red Graves properties.

Their wines are often lighter than other top red Graves, but maintain the region’s characteristic minerality. Afterwards, we fly home.

£2,595 inc. flights

Sgl Supp - £345 Deposit pp: £300 Without flights pp: £2,395

Food Perhaps unsurprisingly for a region so renowned for its oenological expertise, Bordeaux’s food seems specifically engineered to pair beautifully with wine, and often features it as an ingredient. Be sure to try anything cooked a la Bordelaise, with bone marrow, shallots, and either red or white wine.

Wines Each wine we taste on this tour has been specially selected not merely for its flavour profile, but for the story it tells. Taste some of the tales of Bordeaux at Château Mouton-Rothschild, Pichon-Baron and Leoville Barton and warm-hearted brandies at Hennessey Cognac.

To book, or for any questions Call: 01730 263111 | Email: sales@winetours.co.uk | Visit: www.winetours.co.uk

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Joint - France

“Bordeaux is like a friend who in time of trouble and misfortune stands by us always, anywhere, ready to give us help, or just to share our quiet leisure.” Alexander Pushkin

experts in archaeological travel

Wine

VINTAGE PROVENCE 28th May – 3rd June FRANCE

Join us as we discover the many delights of one of France’s oldest wine-producing regions, from cool, blush-tinted Rosés to golden Roman ruins.

F

rom fragrant lavender fields and ancient olive groves to mouth-watering local food and delicious wines, the joys of travelling through Provence are myriad. Following cliff-top roads through maquis-cloaked hills, join us as we discover the sights, sounds, and sensations of one of France’s most beloved wine regions.

More than a sensory haven, Provence’s idyllic landscape is home to some of Europe’s finest Roman remains, including arches, amphitheatres, aqueducts and more. Receive special access to the Pont du Gard, the Roman aqueduct crossing the river Gardon; and marvel at ancient architecture at the Amphitheatre les Arenes.

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Arguably the brightest of Provence’s historic stars are its vineyards — with a vine-growing culture dating back 2,600 years, the region’s inhabitants are no strangers to the fine art of vinification.

Highlights include dinner in a Châteauneuf-du-Pape vineyard and lunch in Domaines Bunan in Bandol.

Provence’s Mistral wind, Mediterranean climate, and masses of sunshine create the perfect conditions for growing vines. Boasting pioneering methods, world-famous appellations including Châteauneuf-du-Pape, and of course, beautiful rosés, those in search of a venerable wine destination need look no further.

Wine improves with age. Travel improves with wine.

What’s Included Return flights London to Marseille 6 nights in 4* hotels in Avignon, Aix, and Bandol All meals included with wine Visits and tastings as per the itinerary Wine Guide & Archaeologist

Itinerary Day 1 – Introduction We arrive in Avignon in time for an introductory tasting over dinner.

Day 2 – Roman Treasures On our first full day, we travel to the Roman town of Orange. The sites here are preserved to a magnificent degree, from the Théâtre Antique d’Orange and accompanying museum; to the Triumphal Arch of Orange, built in the 1st century AD to honour veterans of the Gallic Wars; and Orange Cathedral, a national monument of France. We stop for lunch and tasting at Clos des Cazaux, a fifth generation family winery. This afternoon, enjoy some free time in Avignon, exploring the maze of winding streets in the old city. Tonight we will re-join for a light dinner.

Day 3 – Du Gard et du Gardon Our day begins at Pont du Gard, where we have special access to the ancient Roman aqueduct crossing the River Gardon. We continue to Lapidary Archaeological Museum in Avignon, which houses many Egyptian, Etruscan, and Greco-Roman artefacts. After lunch, we take a walking tour around Avignon, visiting its famous medieval bridge, Pont Saint-Bénézet, along the way. We enjoy dinner and a wine tasting at an estate in Chateâuneuf-du-Pape tonight.

Day 4 – Arles’ Amphitheatre We travel to Arles to visit the town’s two-tier amphitheatre, built in 90 AD and capable of seating more than 20,000 spectators. We continue to the nearby Musee de l’Arles, which houses an interesting collection of Roman sculptures.

We also visit the Church of St. Trophime — its cloister and its sculpted capitals are testaments to the great resources that were invested in creating a special place of devotion. We stop for lunch in Arles before an afternoon visit at a local winery, after which we continue to Aix.

Wine Guide Monica Murphy has had quite a career in wine working as a wine consultant, wine list advisor, event organiser, and public speaker over the last fifty years.

A fluent French speaker, Monica is perfectly placed to introduce to this corner of the world.

Archaeologist Dr Denise Allen is a respected archaeologist and the former Director of Archaeology at Andante Travels.

She has led many tours to Provence over the years, and will share many historical insights with us over a glass or two of wine.

Hotel Over the course of our tour, we spend 3 nights in a comfortable hotel in Avignon’s Medieval centre, followed by 2 nights in a charming hotel in the upscale area of Aix, and 1 night in Bandol, one of Provence’s most internationally recognised wine regions.

Day 5 – Musea & Masterpieces We begin the day at the Acropolis Roquepertuse, a historical religious centre for the Celts, before continuing to Granet Museum in Velaux. The museum contains a self-portrait by Rembrandt and works by Cézanne, Giacometti and Nicolas de Staël. We stop for a light lunch with paired wines, before moving on to Entremont to visit the archaeological site at Oppidum - a centre of PreRoman Provence.

Day 6 – La Vie en Rosé We spend the day in Bandol, a gentle seaside resort and a favourite retreat for artists and writers. The wines found here are some of the most internationally recognized of Provence, and we sample many throughout the day at local estates and over lunch at Domaines Bunan. The family-run estate offers fantastic vintage reds, characterful rosés and exquisite white wines. We enjoy dinner tonight at Château de Pibarnon, producers of an exceptional selection of rosés.

Day 7 – Conclusion We travel to the port town of Marseille to visit Vieille Charité Museum, in the heart of the old Panier quarter. The former almshouse is now home to a number of different museums and libraries, including the Museum of Mediterranean Archaeology — which has an impressive range of oriental and classical antiquities. After a final light lunch in bustling Marseille, we transfer to the airport for our afternoon flights home.

£2,635 inc. flights

Sgl Supp - £295 Deposit pp: £300 Without flights pp: £2,425

Food With its distinctly Mediterranean influences and leitmotifs of garlic, olives, and olive oil, there is nothing else in the world like Provençal cuisine.

From bouillabaisse to olive tapenade; ratatouille to aïoli, it’s all delicious, and it all pairs exceptionally well with the region’s famous rosés.

Wines Observe traditional winemaking at Clos des Cazaux; visit local producers in Arles; and Châteauneufdu-Pape; and get treated like one of the family at Domaines Bunan. Travelling and tasting wine in Provence means sharing in a way of life both traditional and modern.

To book, or for any questions Call: 01730 263111 | Email: sales@winetours.co.uk | Visit: www.winetours.co.uk

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Joint - France

“‘Look at those vines,’ he said. ‘Nature is wearing her prettiest clothes.’”

Peter Mayle, A Year in Provence

experts in archaeological travel

Wine

SICILY: WINE OF THE GODS 14th – 21st October I TA LY

A

ccording to legend, wine first came to Sicily by virtue of the god Bacchus, and it has been a centre of viticulture ever since. What better setting for discovering the stories of ancient cultures and a time-honoured craft?

And what a setting it is — heavenlyscented groves of almond and orange blossom, gnarled olive trees, and soft, vine-covered volcanic slopes, all ringed by the glassy, turquoise Mediterranean. And among them, some of the most beautifully-preserved ancient architecture in Europe. Greek temples, Roman villas, and Norman cathedrals dot the landscape, creating a telling tapestry of centuries of culture on this picturesque island.

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The book and the vine, the human and the divine — it all comes together on Sicily. In the former crossroads of the ancient world, Greek temples rub shoulders with Norman castles, and one of Europe’s oldest centres of viticulture offers up new surprises...

But as the culture of Sicily has changed, one thing has remained constant — the island’s love of wine, the elixir of the gods having been made in Sicily for millennia. It’s a wine-lover’s paradise, with local vineyards producing an abundance of excellent, complex varieties from grapes both indigenous — Grillo, Catarratto, and Pignatello to name but a few — and international.

As the Sicilian proverb goes, 'lu tempu è priziusu' — time is precious. Come and see for yourself exactly why, as we take the time to acquaint ourselves with each of Sicily’s marvels ­— its world-class wines and winemakers, its exceptionally beautiful landscapes, and its wealth of tangible history.

Wine improves with age. Travel improves with wine.

What’s Included Return flights London to Palermo 7 nights in 4* hotels in Palermo, Marsala, and Agrigento All meals included with wine Visits and tastings as per the itinerary Wine Guide & Archaeologist

Itinerary Days 1 & 2 – Introduction We arrive at our hotel in Palermo in time for dinner. Our first full day begins at the town’s Archaeological Museum — home to one of the richest collections of Punic and Ancient Greek art in Italy. We continue to its Cathedral, an unusual amalgamation of architectural styles. Our final visit of the afternoon is to one of Palermo’s magnificent Baroque Palazzi. Tonight, we dine at Cana Enoteca, a cosy wine bar in Palermo’s old quarter, and our Wine Guide leads an introductory tasting.

Day 3 – A Liquid Lunch Our day begins in the best way — with a visit to a local winery. We stop for lunch at Tenuta Rapitalà, a 225 hectare estate which slopes down from Camporeale towards Alcamo, and whose name translates aptly as "Beautiful Garden of God". Afterwards, your afternoon is free to explore Palermo at your leisure. Be sure to visit the beautifully-adorned Capella Palatina. We re-join as a group tonight to enjoy dinner in Palermo.

Day 4 – Musea and Marsala We travel to the archaeological site of Segesta, and spend the morning exploring the unfinished temple and well-preserved theatre set high in flower-blanketed hills. We stop for lunch before continuing to the Punic War Ship & Museum.

The museum was installed in a traditional wine factory, and is part of the Archaeological Park of Lilybaeum. We enjoy a wine-led dinner in Marsala this evening, before retiring for our first night at Baglio Oneto, an award-winning winery and hotel.

Day 5 – Marvels in Marble We begin the day at the De Bartoli estate.

Established in 1928, this family-run company produce a broad range of varietal wines. We stop for a winery lunch at Donnafugata, with their impressive 19th century cellars. In the afternoon, we have some free time to spend in Marsala. The

town, which shares its name with the region’s most famous export, is paved in gleaming marble, and lined with beautiful baroque buildings.

Wine Guide Monica Murphy has been escorting Arblaster & Clarke tours to the wine regions of Italy, and specifically to Sicily, for nearly 20 years. She splits her time between her native Ireland and Italy, a country about which she is extremely passionate.

Archaeologist Tony O’Connor is a noted archaeologist and Roman Empire specialist. He is also an experienced tour guide, who has led many Sicily tours for Andante Travels over the years. He will be on hand to offer many fascinating insights during our tour.

Hotel We experience the best of both rural and urban Sicily with 3 nights in a wonderfully charming hotel in Palermo, 2 nights in Marsala with superior views of the hotel’s garden, planted with olive trees, and 2 nights in a boutique hotel within the beautiful Agrigento countryside.

Day 6 – Most Prized Ruins We make our way to Selinunte, once among the most important Greek colonies in Sicily. We stop for lunch at Planeta Winery in Menfi, which has established itself as one of the most dynamic and quality-orientated wineries in the whole of Italy.

We continue to Agrigento, home to Sicily’s most impressive Greek ruins, where you will have the whole afternoon free to explore the site at your leisure. Later this evening, we enjoy dinner at our hotel, a converted 13th century watchtower.

Day 7 – Valley of the Temples We begin our final full day at the Archaeological Museum of Agrigento, which displays thousands of artefacts illustrating the history of the Agrigento territory. We stop for a light lunch before our afternoon exploring the Valley of the Temples, an outstanding example of Greek art and architecture, and a national monument of Italy. We enjoy our final dinner in Agrigento.

Day 8 – A Family Affair We start the day at Morgante, an estate run by the same family for five generations and enjoying a beautiful setting in serene Sicilian countryside.

We continue to the 200-year-old Tasca D’Almerita winery near Vallelunga. As well as producing excellent wines from flagship Sicilian varietals, the enchanting place has hosted a number of famous personalities, most notably Richard Wagner, who composed the third act of Parsifal there in 1881. Finally, we return to Palermo and transfer to the airport for evening flights home.

£2,750 inc. flights

Sgl Supp - £265 Deposit pp: £300 Without flights pp: £2,475

Food As with every region of Italy, Sicily has its very own distinctive cuisine, with influences from all over the world. On this tour, we enjoy the finest Sicilian dishes — from delicious cannoli pastries, to satisfying stuffed arancini rice balls — alongside a carefully-curated list of perfectly matched wines.

Wines Sicily is home to a staggering variety of indigenous and international grape varieties.

Visit Marco de Bartoli, the family baglio building excitement around classic Marsala and promoting native grapes, and Rapitalà, whose output reflects the bold flavours and aromas of the Sicilian terroir.

To book, or for any questions Call: 01730 263111 | Email: sales@winetours.co.uk | Visit: www.winetours.co.uk

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Joint - Italy

“Wine is like the incarnation — it is both divine and human.”

Paul Tillich

experts in archaeological travel

Wine

POMPEII & AMALFI 23rd – 30th September I TA LY

P

rized by the Romans for its rich earth, it’s little wonder that this beguiling region of Southern Italy was gifted with the name Campania Felix — happy countryside. It is precisely this fertile country which kick-started Campania’s wine legacy 4,000 years ago, and continues to bring us some of our favourite wines today. Exceptionally elegant reds and modern, richly perfumed whites are borne by the region’s unique volcanic soil — from Taurasi, hailed as ‘the Barolo of the South’, to the celebrated Fiano di Avellino.

In addition to its outstanding wines, Campania offers a fulsome bouquet of cultural excellence, including

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Fertile, dramatic, and volcanic: the very land which first attracted vine-growers and colonisers to ancient Campania has changed little in 4,000 years. Join us in southern Italy as we go in search of ancient sites to explore and brand new wines to fall in love with. gastronomic delights, and architectural and archaeological marvels. Among Campania’s swathes of green vineland and pasture — bordered by the dramatic Amalfi coast and crowned by the buzzing urban sprawl of Naples — we explore rock-cut abbeys, fascinating museums, magnificent temples, and the astonishing remnants of Pompeii and Herculaneum, ancient towns devastated by the mighty Vesuvius.

Join us and travel alongside not one, but two expert guides who are waiting to introduce you to the remarkable history of southern Italy, and to share a glass or two of wine along the way. As the region’s most famous former inhabitants would have said — salutaria!

Wine improves with age. Travel improves with wine.

What’s Included Return flights London to Naples 8 nights in hotels in Amalfi, Cilento, and Naples All meals included with wine Visits and tastings as per the itinerary Wine Guide & Archaeologist

Itinerary Day 1 – Benvenuti ad Amalfi We arrive in time for a light lunch at a local Osteria in Amalfi, our first chance to sample some delicious local wines. Free time in Amalfi gives us a relaxed start to our tour — take a stroll through the sun-filled piazzas or along the beach before we continue to our hotel in Ravello, where we later get acquainted over a wine tasting dinner.

Day 2 – Grapes & Gastronomy We begin the day with a visit to Tenuta San Francesco. At this estate owned by the Bove family and located in the beautiful remote Lattari valley, we have the privilege of tasting an enticing range of wines. After a light lunch, we take part in an afternoon cookery demonstration of local recipes at our hotel, and enjoy the dishes we create for dinner this evening.

Day 3 – A Family Affair Among the fantastic views we encounter on our way along the winding roads to the Cilento coast is the Corpo Di Cava de’ Tirreni, a rock-cut abbey which stands in a gorge of the Finestre Hills.

Here, we have special access to the library and its rich archives, which date back to the 8th century.

We stop for lunch at De Conciliis, a family-run winery tucked away in the heart of the Cilento region. Their wines, from Fiano and Aglianico grapes, range from the glorious white-fruit Vigna Perella to stunning dry red Naima. We continue to Santa Maria di Castellabate for an afternoon wine tasting at Villa Sirio.

Day 4 – Cilento’s Ancient Cities This morning, we travel to Paestum — one of the most prominent Greek cities in Italy — and wander among its magnificently preserved temples. We travel to Velia, a beautiful ancient city of Magna Graecia, before continuing to Sangiovanni, a splendid estate owned by Mario Corrado and Ida Budetta. Here, we will taste the four wines the family produce under the Pasetum IGT classification, showcasing their passion for the Cilento region.

Day 5 – Frozen in Time We devote a whole day to the incomparable Pompeii, where we visit some of the bestpreserved buildings, including an amphitheatre, bathhouses, brothels, and bars — the rich soil around Vesuvius was renowned for producing some of the best wine in the Roman empire — travelling by the best routes to avoid the crowds.

Wine Guide Lys Hall is an established lecturer on the wines of Europe. Having been a wine guide for over a decade, she has a great knowledge of — and passion for — the countries we visit, particularly those of the Mediterranean.

Archaeologist John Shepherd is a renowned archaeologist and the Head of Archaeology at Andante Travels.

He has led many tours for Andante over the years and is one of their most popular guides you're sure to find out why on tour.

Hotel Our range of hand-picked hotels for this tour boasts some truly impressive locations: spend 2 nights in a sea-view room at a wonderful family-run hotel on the Amalfi Coast, 2 nights in a charming villa on the Cilento Coast, and 3 nights in a luxury hotel in Naples, overlooking Mount Vesuvius and the island of Capri.

Day 6 – Poignant Reminders We visit the town of Herculaneum, where we wander through streets with almost complete Roman houses rising on either side, before breaking for lunch at Viva Lo Re. This outstanding wine bar is perfectly located in Herculaneum and boasts an impressive wine list with over 1,000 references. Finally, we move on to Naples’ Archaeological Museum, home to exceptional wall paintings and statues from the early years of the excavations at Pompeii, as well as the more poignant tableware, glass beads, dice, and other incidental objects of everyday life.

Day 7 – Museum to Mithraeum We travel to Sta Maria Capua Vetere this morning to visit its excellent Archaeological Museum. We continue to the adjacent second century Mithraeum, a gorgeous, well preserved sanctuary to the god Mythras, and visit the interesting on-site Gladiator Museum. After a light lunch, we enjoy a final tasting of delicious local wines at our hotel. We will all gather for a farewell dinner tonight in a wonderful local restaurant — a fitting end to our tour.

Day 8 – A Final Farewell After breakfast, we make our way to Naples airport for our return flight home.

£ 2,750 inc. flights

Sgl Supp - £275 Deposit pp: £300 Without flights pp: £2,495

Food Our palates will be treated to a range of artisanal food and drink on our southern Italian sojourn. Experience the star ingredients and legendary local dishes of the Amalfi Coast and Naples — delicious wines, lively limoncello, the freshest buffalo mozzarella, sumptuous pasta dishes, and local olive oil.

Wines Wine and vine have long been a way of life in this part of Italy, with a multitude of varieties being introduced over the centuries. Of these, the most important is arguably Aglianico, the source of many world-famous and well-respected reds, closely followed by honeysweet white Falanghina.

To book, or for any questions Call: 01730 263111 | Email: sales@winetours.co.uk | Visit: www.winetours.co.uk

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Joint - Italy

“To take wine into our mouths is to savor a droplet of the river of human history” Clifton Fadiman

HISTORICAL

TRIPS THE HISTORY THAT SHAPED US

Wine

UMBRIA 29th May – 4th June I TA LY

O

ur tour through Italy’s ‘green heart’ begins in the fraught 13th century, and takes us all the way through to Umbria’s rather more relaxed present — specifically, its superlative winemaking.

During the Middle Ages, this beautiful hilly Italian region was the heartland of Papal power. And with great power, comes great art (at least in medieval Italy). Some of the greatest artists and craftsmen of the later Middle Ages were drawn to Umbria’s churches during this time of political uncertainty and civil unrest. On our tour, we discover the fruits of their labour: from richly-coloured frescoes at Spoleto Cathedral; to fairy-tale

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Once the heartland of Papal power, now the ‘green heart’ of Italy’s winemaking scene, the diminutive region of Umbria has always packed a great cultural punch. Discover luscious landscapes, artistic triumphs, and oenological masterpieces on tour... gothic façades at the Cathedral of Orvieto.

What’s Included

In the Middle Ages, the cultivation of the vine was considered one of the monkish arts, with the great Abbeys overseeing their own vineyards. The landscape in Umbria, moulded by steep hills and soft slopes, is perfectly suited to growing vines — Trebbiano, Sagrantino, and Sangiovese among them.

Return flights London to Rome

Over seven days this tour offers a perfect balance of charming hilltowns, beautiful art and architecture and excellent locally grown wine.

A wonderful holiday, and a very enjoyable chance to get under the skin of beautiful Umbria.

Wine Guide & Historian

Wine improves with age. Travel improves with wine.

6 nights in 3* and 4* hotels in Orvieto and Spello All meals included with wine Visits and tastings as per the itinerary

Joint - Italy

“The name of Italy has magic in its very syllables.”

Mary Shelley

Itinerary Day 1 – Introduction

Day 5 – Medieval Marvels, Modern Wines

We fly to Rome and arrive in Orvieto in time to visit the house of Barberani. Dating back to the Roman era, the estate now produces wines of great personality and prestige.

Our first visit this morning is to Montefalco, a charming hill-top town which we approach through scenic miles of flourishing vine-land.

Once there, we visit the San Francesco Museum Complex — a former 14th century church now home to works of art and artefacts from across the centuries — and the Sant’Agostino church.

After lunch, we visit Arnaldo Caprai to meet the winemakers responsible for bringing the area’s defining Sagrantino variety up to date. They also produce a sensationally intense Rosso di Montefalco, bursting with red fruit and warm vanilla notes; and a fantastic Cabernet Sauvignon.

Day 2 – Papal Power and the People While the 13th century saw Orvieto at the height of its wealth and power, it also saw it wrenched apart by conflict between papacy and people.

Nevertheless, its Italian Gothic cathedral, subterranean caves, and the imposing fortress at Albornoz — all of which we explore today — served to make Orvieto one of the time’s major cultural centres.

Day 3 – Angels & Demons

Wine Guide Lys Hall is an established lecturer on the wines of Europe and expert on those of Italy and Spain. She has a degree in art history, a love of Mediterranean history, and has been wine guiding for over a decade.

In Todi, there lie plenty of clues to the town’s power during the Middle Ages. We see the vast church of San Fortunate, the Palazzo del Capitano, and the magnificent Piazza del Popolo, with its impressive frescoed great hall. Later, we stop for a tasting at Scacciadiavoli — literally “devil banisher” — set within a beautiful property where oenologist Stefano Chioccioli helps to make each vintage better than the last.

In Perugia, the largest city in Umbria, we visit the stately Palazzo dei Priori. Dating from the 13th or 14th century, it today houses the National Museum of Umbria, which has a world-renowned collection of Medieval artworks. We spend the afternoon exploring the town’s 13th century Templar Chiesa di San Bevignate, beautifully decorated with frescoes depicting the crusades.

Day 7 – Conclusion

Day 4 – Sons of Umbria This morning, we visit the 15-hectare Villa Mongalli — a rustic estate made famous by the late Giorgio Lungarotti — before moving on to the fascinating wine museum at Torgiano. Then, we depart for the unspoilt Medieval town of Spoleto ­— its magnificent cathedral houses a letter written by St Francis, the region’s most celebrated son, and a series of beautifully vivid frescoes by Fra Filippo Lippi. We also visit the churches of San Salvatore and San Giovanni & Paolo, before spending our first night in Spello.

Day 6 – Palazzi of Perugia

Historian Sophie Ambler is a noted historian, often described as a rising star in her field. She has led many tours for Historical Trips and is one of their most popular guides. Enjoy her unmatched insights during our exclusive tastings.

Hotel We spend the six nights of our tour in 3* and 4* hotels in two of Umbria’s most picturesque towns.

We start in striking Orvieto, sitting loftily above a characteristically Umbrian valley, with its Medieval old town, and move on to charming, sprawling Spello, originally a Roman settlement.

Perched spectacularly above the Umbrian countryside, it’s not difficult to see how evocative medieval Narni inspired C.S. Lewis to create his own fantasy land. We spend our final morning here, visiting the ancient hilltown’s cathedral, fortress, and Chiesa di San Domenico, before returning home.

£2,445 inc. flights

Sgl Supp - £295 Deposit pp: £300 Without flights pp: £2,225

Food Beautiful Umbria boasts some of the best in rustic Italian cuisine. Pasta is naturally popular — look out for a popular spicy tomato pasta from Spoleto. Umbria also boasts five different olive oil denominations, but it might be proudest of its Perugian chocolates, known as baci, or ‘kisses’.

Wines History and wine exist in perfect harmony on this tour, as we take in producers and vine-growing sites harking back hundreds of years. Visit Enoteca Barberani, a noble house in existence since Roman times and flourishing since the Middle Ages; and Scacciadiavoli, owned and run by the Pambuffetti family since the 19th century.

To book, or for any questions Call: 01730 263111 | Email: sales@winetours.co.uk | Visit: www.winetours.co.uk

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HISTORICAL

TRIPS THE HISTORY THAT SHAPED US

Wine EL CID: IN THE DOMAIN OF RODRIGO DIAZ 5th – 12th September S PA I N

F

or many, the story of Asturias is inextricable from the story of El Cid, or “the lord”. In his lifetime, the warrior, adventurer, and conqueror was a man whose life and fortunes reflected the complexities of the milieu in which he found himself — that of volatile 11th century Spain.

Eight hundred years later, Eloy Lecanda y Chaves set to work transforming hectares of scrub and pine forest into a vineyard which would come to signal the birth of an entire region — the Ribera del Duero.

Which brings us, to the present. We explore El Cid’s former domain in its current incarnation — as the renowned wine regions of Rioja and Ribera. Over 92

Follow in the footsteps — or horsesteps — of El Cid, beloved folk hero of Northeastern Spain. Join us on tour to explore his former domain, which now falls under the renowned wine regions of Rioja and Ribera, and raise a glass — or two — in honour. eight days we examine the military and historical legacy of the region, while also sampling the produce of its native orchards and vines.

Balancing excursions to the sites seen and taken by El Cid with visits to fantastic local producers, we take in the very best of Asturias’ present, as well as its past. Follow a visit to Oviedo’s Gothic cathedral with an exploration and tasting of Asturias’ famous apple cider; round off a day of discovery in El Cid’s place of exile with an introduction to wines of Bierzo and Galicia that are unfairly often missed: warm, intense Mencía with notes of spice; stone-fruit, golden-hued Godello; and berry-driven Garnacha from Cariñena, it’s all waiting to be discovered in Northeastern Spain.

Wine improves with age. Travel improves with wine.

What’s Included Flights London to Oviedo; Valencia to London 7 nights in 3* and 4* hotels in Oviedo, León, Burgo de Osma, Zaragoza, and Valencia All meals included with wine Visits and tastings as per the itinerary Wine Guide & Historian

Joint - Spain

“For in the hand of the Lord there is a cup, and the wine is red.”

Psalms 75:8

Itinerary Day 1 – Introduction

Day 5 – Passion & Politics

We arrive in Oviedo, where we spend our first night.

We explore the Cathedral of Burgo de Osma, before departing for the Gormaz fortress to examine the complex interplay of passions and politics on the frontier where El Cid would have fought. En route to Zaragoza, we stop for a tasting at a Cariñena winery. Here, the region’s eponymous grape lends its emboldening influence to light-touch Tempranillo and lightly spiced Garnacha to make some sumptuous wines.

Day 2 – Royal Remains We spend the morning of our first full day in Oviedo. This former seat of the 10th century kings of Asturias, precursors to the kings of León, is a city of immense beauty, and we examine the remains of its royal palace and churches. En route to León this afternoon, we stop for a tasting at one of the cider houses for which the region is famous. Known by the Romans as pomaria, the Arabs as siserio, and today’s Asturians as sidra, it has been produced here since ancient times.

Day 3 – Christian Kings We spend the morning in a city familiar to El Cid: León, home to the leading Christian kings of the 11th century. We visit its Gothic cathedral and the Basilica of San Isidoro before departing for Bierzo, and the Dominio de Tares winery. The region of Bierzo is undoubtedly one of Spain’s best-kept secrets, its land a mosaic of vineyards, tiny towns, and wildly different terroirs, and its wines internationally lauded. Dominio de Tares’ wines, according to their mission statement, are ones of "calidad y personalidad"— quality and personality, as we will discover on a tasting there.

Day 4 – Tombs & Birthplaces Today, we embark on a journey which takes us through some of the most prized sites in the story of El Cid. Our day begins with a visit to Sahagún’s monastery, home to the 11th century tomb of the warrior’s contemporary, Alfonso Ansúrez.

On our way to Santo Domingo de Silos, we pass through Vivar del Cid, the place of El Cid’s birth in around 1043. We overnight in Burgo de Osma.

Wine Guide Rachel Ritchie works closely with wineries throughout Spain, particularly in Priorat, where she has lived since 1996. She also has a diverse knowledge of the geography and history of Catalonia.

Day 6 – Life of an Exile Today, we explore Zaragoza, where El Cid worked for Muslim rulers during his exile, discovering sites such as the palace of Aljafería, and the Museo de Zaragoza. This afternoon, we move on to the Roman amphitheatre and the contemporary Museo del Foro de Caesaraugusta.

Before dinner, we enjoy an introductory tasting of Rioja and Ribera del Duero wines.

Day 7 – Magnificent Monuments This morning, we proceed to Teruel and examine its many Arabic monuments, before continuing to our final stop of Valencia. El Cid captured the city in 1092 and was forced to defend it against an Almoravid relief army just two years later. We have free time to shop for souvenirs or explore the many lovely cafés of this fine Spanish city.

Historian Dr Hugh Doherty lectures at the School of History at UEA. Educated at Jesus College, Oxford, he specialises in Medieval manuscripts, and has particular interest in both the Plantagenets and Iberia.

Hotel We spend seven nights in 3* and 4* hotels throughout Asturias. Beginning in the capital city of Oviedo, we experience hand-picked accommodation in León, Burgo de Osma, Zaragoza, and finally to the thriving urban hub of Valencia, Spain’s third-largest city.

Day 8 – Conclusion We spend our final morning in Valencia, exploring its impressive cathedral, before transferring to the airport for our flights home.

£2,595 inc. flights

Sgl Supp - £255 Deposit pp: £300 Without flights pp: £2,375

Food Asturias’ position on Spain’s northern coastline, opening onto the Bay of Biscay, makes it a haven for seafood lovers, with fresh squid, crab, shrimp, and sea bass all making regular appearances on the menu. Asturian cheeses, especially Cabrales, are also famous throughout Spain and around the world.

Wines Sample spicy, savoury Cariñena; light, crisp Gordello, or deep fruitand-nut Mencía. Or, take a short detour away from wine country with a taste of Asturias’ traditional Sidra. The slightly sweet, fruity cider has been a speciality of the region since ancient times.

To book, or for any questions Call: 01730 263111 | Email: sales@winetours.co.uk | Visit: www.winetours.co.uk

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2017 CALENDAR

Take a look at the year ahead in wine tours Date

T ype Name

Guide

Region

Page

February 13 - 26

Chile, Argentina & Uruguay

Beverley Blanning MW

Chile, Argentina & Uruguay

p.38

19 - 4 Mar

New Zealand

Bob Campbell MW

New Zealand

P.44

3 - 11

South Africa

Nicola Arcedeckne Butler MW

South Africa

p.40

18 - 20

Early Spring Champagne

Matthew Boucher

France

p.19

27 - 2 Apr

The Story of Languedoc

Louise Hurren

France

p.50

3-8

The Story of Sicily

Monica Murphy

Italy

p.60

7-9

Introduction to Champagne

Ellen Lewis

France

p.16

17 - 23

Galicia & The Douro Valley

Charles Metcalfe

Portugal

p.36

21 - 23

Prosecco Weekend

Leonie Loudon

Italy

p.26

24 - 28

Ultimate Champagne

Tom Bruce - Gardyne

France

p.68

27 - 29

Late Spring Champagne

Ellen Lewis

France

p.19

27 - 29

Vineyards of Sussex & Kent

Julia Trustram-Eve

UK

p.34

7 - 13

California

Stephen Brook

USA

p.42

8 - 13

Original Burgundy

Matthew Boucher

France

p.24

20 - 27

The Story of Georgia

John Wurdeman

Georgia

p.52

27 - 29

May Bank Holiday Champagne

Jayne Powell

France

p.20

28 - 2 Jun

The RhĂ´ne Valley

Steven Spurrier

France

p.70

28 - 3 Jun

Vintage Provence

Monica Murphy & Dr Denise Allen

France

p.84

29 - 2 Jun

The First Growths of Bordeaux

Stephen Brook

France

p.66

29 - 4 Jun

Umbria

Lys Hall & Sophie Ambler Italy

War & Wine

Giles MacDonogh

France

p.82

From Nice to Barcelona

TBC

Europe

p.76

3-9

The Loire Chateaux

Lys Hall & Dr Michael Jones

France

p.80

5 - 12

El Cid - In the Domain of Rodrigo Rachel Ritchie & Dr Hugh Spain Diaz Doherty

March

April

May

p.90

June 4 - 10 August 30 - 6 Sep September

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Wine improves with age. Travel improves with wine.

p.92

Date

T ype Name

Guide

Region

Page

11 - 16

Single Malt Scotland

Tom Bruce-Gardyne

UK

p.74

15 - 17

Introduction to Champagne

Conal Gregory MW

France

p.16

23 - 30

Pompeii & Amalfi

Lys Hall & John Shepherd Italy

1-6

The Story of Champagne & Chablis

Ellen Lewis

France

p.48

1-6

The Story of Rioja

Rachel Ritchie

Spain

p.62

2-7

The Story of Rome

Tom Bruce-Gardyne

Italy

p.58

9 - 14

The Story of Tuscany

Nicola Arcedeckne-Butler Italy MW

P.56

14 - 16

Early Autumn Champagne

Jayne Powell

France

p.20

14 - 21

Sicily - Wine of the Gods

Monica Murphy & Tony O’Connor

Italy

p.86

15 - 22

The Story of Greece

Derek Smedley MW

Greece

p.54

17 - 21

Original Piedmont

Leonie Loudon

Italy

p.28

23 - 28

Ultimate Tuscany

Jane Hunt MW

Italy

p.72

23 - 27

Bordeaux

Andrew Jefford

France

p.22

Late Autumn Champagne

Matthew Boucher

France

p.21

2-4

Pre - Christmas Champagne

Conal Gregory MW

France

p.21

29 - 2 Jan

New Year in Budapest

TBC

Hungary

p.32

29 - 2 Jan

New Year in Venice

Leonie Loudon

Italy

p.30

p.88

October

November 4-6 December

ORIGINAL RESERVE STORY JOINT CHAMPAGNE CRUISE

To book, or for any questions Call: 01730 263111 | Email: sales@winetours.co.uk | Visit: www.winetours.co.uk

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2017 ESSENTIAL BOOKING INFORMATION Useful information to guide you through the booking process.

Useful information to guide you through the booking process. Please note that bookings with Arblaster & Clarke Wine Tours are accepted only in accordance with the terms and conditions set out in our full booking conditions, which can be found on our website or are available on request.

How to Book

You can book now on any of the tours listed in this brochure.

We are happy to provisionally reserve your places for 7 days without commitment. After this, we require a deposit to confirm your place (see below for deposit amounts).

The final balance due date is no later than 8 weeks before departure on all tours except cruises where it is due no later than 12 weeks before departure. 8 - 10 days before departure you will receive, by e-mail, the final joining instructions, outline daily tour plan and any necessary travel documentation, including flight e-tickets. Where you do not have an e-mail address this will all be sent by standard post within the UK.

Book by phone, by email or online

For bookings made by telephone or email, payment can be made by card, cheque or bank transfer (payable to Arblaster & Clarke). We accept payment by Access, Visa, MasterCard and American Express credit cards, and Visa and Connect debit cards. There is a 2.5% charge towards the cost of the Credit Card fees but no charge for Debit Cards. You may provide us with your card details by phone or fax. We do not accept post-dated cheques, nor do we keep your card details.

Programme changes

For the vast majority of our tours, the programme will be exactly as described in the brochure. Occasionally we do make changes to the order or number of visits. This is usually due to opening hours. We always try to tell guests in advance of any changes.

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Wine improves with age. Travel improves with wine.

Insurance

All clients must have travel insurance with medical emergency assistance, personal accident and liability cover and it is the client’s responsibility to supply A&C in writing of the policy name, number and emergency phone numbers and the name and number of a family member / friend we could contact in order to assist you. We will need to know the details of your policy 4 weeks before departure at the latest

Deposits £100

for Champagne tours

£300

for all other tours costing up to £3000

£500

for all tours costing over £3001

£1500

for Cruise

(except Cruises)

Cancellation by you

Cancellation charges payable to Arblaster & Clarke are calculated on time prior to departure as follows: 85 days or more before departure: loss of deposit 56 – 84 days before departure: loss of deposit (Cruise: -75%) 41 – 55 days before departure: -35% (Cruise: -90%) 29 – 40 days before departure: -55% (Cruise: -100%) 8 – 28 days before departure: -75% (Cruise: -100%) 0 – 7 days before departure: -100% (Cruise: -100%) All additional travel arrangements and extras, upgrades and tickets purchased and paid for at time of booking are 100% nonrefundable. Insurance claims must be made direct to your insurance company, but as soon as we receive written confirmation of the cancellation we will provide a cancellation invoice to enable you to make your claim.

Cancellation by us

If we have to cancel your holiday we will notify you no later than 56 days before the date of departure (85 days in the case of cruises), you will have the choice of taking an alternative holiday (and paying or receiving a refund/credit in respect of any price difference) or accepting a full refund of all monies paid.

Independent Tour Operators. The Association represents Britain’s leading independent tour operators and encourages high standards of quality and service. Arblaster & Clarke abides by the Association’s Code of Conduct and adheres to the AITO Quality Charter which can be viewed on www.aito.com. Visit the website to find out more about the Association or call 020 8744 9280.

Financial protection

What’s included

Flight inclusive tours: we hold an Air Travel Organiser’s License issued by the CAA (ATOL No. 2543) which provides for your protection in the event of Arblaster & Clarke’s insolvency. The price of your air holiday packages includes the ATOL Protection Contribution (APC) we pay to the CAA. This charge is included in our advertised prices. When you buy an ATOL protected flight or flight inclusive holiday from us you will receive an ATOL Certificate. This lists what is financially protected, where you can get information on what this means for you and who to contact if things go wrong.

Not all holiday or travel services offered and sold by us will be protected by the ATOL scheme as explained below.

Tours without flights arranged by us: The Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust Limited (ABTOT) provides financial protection under the Package Travel, Package Holidays and Package Tours Regulations 1992 for Arblaster & Clarke, and in the event of their insolvency, protection is provided for the following: 1. non-flight packages commencing in and returning to the UK; 2. non-flight packages commencing and returning to a country other than the UK; and 3. flight inclusive packages that commence outside of the UK, which are sold to customers outside of the UK.

◊◊ Wine Guide ◊◊ Tour Manager (with most groups of 15+) ◊◊ Scheduled flights, coach or train where stated ◊◊ Accommodation ◊◊ Wine tasting ◊◊ Meals with wine where stated; meals are not provided on travelling days ◊◊ Wine notes, tips, entrance to all vineyards in the programme

Committed to sustainable tourism

We work hard to ensure our visits have a positive impact on the places we go to and acknowledge the importance of AITO’s sustainable tourism ethos, which recognises the social, economic and environmental responsibilities of tour operating.

The prices in this brochure are valid for all bookings taken from August 2016. Last revised August 2016. We are Arblaster & Clarke Ltd, registered limited company no.

2966601. Registered offices: Arblaster & Clarke Wine Tours, Cedar Court, 5 College Street, Petersfield, Hampshire GU31 4AE

1, 2 and 3 provides for a refund in the event you have not yet travelled. 1 and 3 provides for repatriation. Please note that bookings made outside the UK are only protected by ABTOT when purchased directly with Arblaster & Clarke.

AITO quality charter

Arblaster & Clarke is a member of the Association of

DID YOU KNOW?

In terms of acreage, wine grapes are the world’s number one fruit crop

To book, or for any questions Call: 01730 263111 | Email: sales@winetours.co.uk | Visit: www.winetours.co.uk

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BESPOKE TOURS & PRIVATE GROUPS We are happy to help however we can - so give us a call...

If you have an idea for your perfect tour, let us know. We’d love to make it a reality for you!

Over the last 30 years, we’ve arranged countless trips for private groups and companies alike. Don’t limit your imagination to just cellar visits. We can arrange multi-faceted tours that include vineyard walks, opera performances, gourmet asides - from truffle hunting to cookery courses - and historical Châteaux tours. The list goes on and on!

If you have a hankering to explore a particular region, wish to plan a trip for your group or society, or want to arrange a special celebration we would be delighted to discuss a

bespoke private tour. Every year, we organise unique tours, all over the world, tailored to groups of many shapes and sizes. From birthday Champagne weekends to ‘once in a lifetime’ tours to Australia. Group sizes can vary from 2 to 200 people! Please do get in contact to discuss your group, budgets and requirements and we will get you on your way to your dream wine tour!

Visit renowned wineries and estates, stay in the best accommodation, dine at fantastic restaurants, and travel with insightful Wine Guides and experienced Tour Managers. Enjoy the trip of a lifetime - just the way you want it to be.

ANY QUESTIONS? GET IN TOUCH Let Arblaster & Clarke organise the perfect tour... just for you The Arblaster & Clarke office is staffed by a team of passionate and knowledgeable, well-travelled oenophiles and travel professionals...

When you call Arblaster & Clarke, you will get straight through to a ‘real’ person. Sam McCathie is our Customer Care Manager, and he and the team are on hand to help you organise your perfect wine tour from 9am - 5pm, Monday to

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Friday. All of our staff are happy to advise on all aspects of our tours.

For further advice, information and to book, ask our in-house experts: Call: 01730 263111 Email: sales@winetours.co.uk Visit: www.winetours.co.uk

“Religions change; beer and wine remain.”

Harvey Allen

DID YOU KNOW?

The world’s oldest bottle of wine, found in Germany, dates back to A.D. 325

To book, or for any questions Call: 01730 263111 | Email: sales@winetours.co.uk | Visit: www.winetours.co.uk

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01730 263111 sales@winetours.co.uk

www.winetours.co.uk

Arblaster & Clarke, The Clock Tower, Unit 4 Oakridge Office Park, Southampton Road, Whaddon, Salisbury, SP5 3HT