Photos: Albert Bichot 2012 tasting + Bond Street Station + Hedonism

Albéric Bichot wondering about the reception the Bichot 12s are getting!

2012 Chambertin Grand Cru, Domaine de Clos Frantin (Albert Bichot) 

An excellent way to finish 2013 London tastings!

Yesterday I went to my last London tasting of 2013 – a look at the 2012 Burgundies from Albert Bichot with Albéric Bichot in attendance. Most of the wines shown were still cask samples but as a first impression of 2012 it was very favourable. There was lovely purity in their Chablis with concentration and texture, while almost all the reds were silky and seductive with varying degrees of power. 

***

Hugh Jones, 2013 Young Wine Writer of the Year 

While I was up in the West End of London I took a few fotos to illustrate the winning article from Hugh Jones in the 2013 Young Wine Writer Award, which will be appearing the December issue of Circle Update, the newsletter of the Circle of Wine Writers.

 Bond Street Station entrance busy with Christmas shoppers

 Hedonism Wines (above and below)

2013 Young Wine Writer Award – a few more pics

 Hugh Jones – 2013 Young Wine Writer of the Year 

in the Downer Room, Australia House, London

The runners up: Michael O'Connell and Jennifer Ah-Kin

with Steven Spurrier (President of the Circle of Wine Writers)

and Yvonne May (Director of Wine Australia)

All the shortlisted candidates except Amanda Barnes who is in Argentina

Young Wine Writer of the Year 2013: the shortlist

Many congratulations to the following who have been shortlisted – their names are in alphabetical order:

Jennifer Ah-Kin
Amanda Barnes
Emma Cullen
Hugh Jones
Martin Klimmek
Sophia Luckett
Michael O'Connell
Jenny Smith
Janet Wang

There were nearly 50 entries this year and just as last year the overall standard was extremely high.

The winner will be announced on 20th November at a presentation of Australia House – Wine Australia is a major sponsor of the award. Further details about the award here.

2013 Young Wine Writer of Year Award

Calling for entries to the 2013 Young Wine Writer of the Year Award – 13th great year. Deadline for entries 30th September. Over the last few years competition for this prize, which has launched the careers of some now well established wine writers such as the first ever winner – Peter Richards MW – has really hotted up. The competition is open to anyone aged 30 or under on 31st December 2013.  

Full details here on www.youngwinewriter.com

The award is sponsored by the Circle of Wine Writers, Pavilion Books and Wine Australia.