Going Dutch
Vermeer is a new chocolate cream liqueur from Holland. A blend of Dutch chocolate, vodka and cream, Vermeer was developed by Skyy Vodka founder Maurice Kanbar.
The product is named after Dutch artist Johannes Vermeer, and the bottle features Vermeer's most famous work, Girl with a Pearl Earring, as well as the artist's signature.
Bottled at 17% ABV, Vermeer will retail at 14.99 for 70cl. Lovers of the product apparently include actor Steven Berkoff, who described the drink as a dangerously delicious tipple'.
Harpers Tasting Panel
2004 Grans-Fassian, Trittenheim Apotheke Riesling Sptlese
8.99
Stockist: Tesco
Producer: Binderer St Ursula
Supplier: Thierry's
Very pale gold. Rounded and full, with slight spritz, which lifts it nicely. Hints of red apples, stone fruit - apricots and melons.
I would have liked a little more acidity. CD
2002 Tamada Saperavi
RRP: 5.99
Stockists: Sainsbury's Calais, Bristol Wine Merchants,
Soho Wine, Peake Wines, Sussex Victuallers, Les Caves
de Pyrene, Mortons.
Producer: GWS
Supplier: Georgian Wines & Spirits
Saperavi is regarded as the best of Georgia's indigenous grape varieties. The wine is a bright, youthful crimson in colour; medium to full-bodied. Slightly musty nose, pronounced, dark fruit, but with a short, drying finish. Maybe the tannins could do with a little managing? CD
2004 Old Tbilisi red and white
RRP: 4.99
Stockists: As above, plus Ocado.com
Producer: GWS
Supplier: Georgian Wines & Spirits
These two indigenous dual-varietal wines from Georgia both pack in a lot more character and concentration than you generally find at this price point. Not sure if the name and label have youth appeal exactly, but this is still an intriguing and original brand that should put Georgia on at least a few wine drinkers' minds. DW