Cabernet Franc

Often seen as playing a supporting role to Cabernet Sauvignon (of which it is probably a parent) and Merlot, Cabernet Franc is, none the less, one of the world’s most widely planted varieties. It is an important component of most St Emilion cepages and does an excellent solo job in many Loire Valley red wines, where it’s crisp slightly grassy red fruit character can be very refreshing. It also has the occasional New World incarnation, usually with a little more power, and in the seminal Paleo Rosso from Le Macchiole in Tuscany.

Virtual dinner party

The Virtual Dinner Party – with Virtually Perfect Wine Pairings

By on 15/04/2020

Is there anything that beats a good Dinner Party? Coming together to share delicious food, exciting wines, and lively conversation with friends now seems more essential than ever before – but how to have that experience now? In recent weeks, technology has really stepped up to the plate, changing the way we work, play, and socialise.

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Thanksgiving 2019 wine

Best wines for Thanksgiving

By on 25/11/2019

It may be surprising to know that most of the states of the US produce wine. But, of course, most of the American wines that hit these shores are from California. From the earliest days of Spanish settlers, through waves of various European migrants, surviving the vicissitudes of Prohibition, to the modern internationally recognised industry of today, wine has always been part of the Californian scene.

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Le Macchiole

Le Macchiole: Latest releases from the Tuscan Coast – Pre-Shipment Offer

By on 25/11/2017

2014 was undoubtedly a challenging vintage across Italy - and Bolgheri was no different with uncharacteristic rain, cool temperatures and a constant lack of sun adversely affecting the harvest like rarely before. This was a vintage that required understanding, hard work and unstinting commitment. Only in the right hands at the right estates was glory possible.

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Tuscany

In pursuit of Tuscan Treasures: a recent trip to some of our top wine producers

By on 07/06/2017

Italy has always been close to the heart of Lea & Sandeman and we are very fortunate enough to represent some superb estates across the length and breadth of this beautiful country.

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Californian Wines

Understanding Californian Wines – Our New Kids on the Block

By on 25/11/2016

For many, Californian Wine means one thing – the big, rich, bold style – fruit-laden whoppers embodied most often by the wines from the Napa valley – but after 10 days hard study and exploration along the dramatic coastline of this beautiful state, we have learnt lots and there is great variety for those looking for more.

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Decanter

Decanter – Weekday Wines: October 2016

By on 31/10/2016

The December issue of Decanter landed on our doorstep this morning, and we were delighted to see some really high praise for lots of wines in the L&S portfolio. The ‘Weekday Wines’ section is put together each month by Tastings Director Christelle Guibert. It features 25 wines for less than £20, all of them a little different or adventurous in their own way.

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The ‘other’ Super Tuscans – Tignanello, Sassicaia & Saffredi 2013 pre-shipment offer

By on 03/02/2016

As ever we don't want you to forget about of our own Italian 'Supertuscans' that we are so proud to represent in the UK: Le Macchiole, Castello del Terriccio, Magliano and Monteti  but we would be failing you if we didn't offer today's releases of three other great wineries from this exciting region.

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