Coming up at this year’s London International Wine Fair:
- Connoisseur Estates (stand F6) will have representatives from many of the wineries it represents in the UK present at this year’s LIWF. Adrian Vanderspuy and winemaker Simon Thompson from Oldenburg Vineyards in Stellenbosch will make their debut with Connoisseur Estates, since setting up in the western Cape’s Banghoek Valley in 2003. Meanwhile, Vianney Fabre, co-winemaker at Château d’Anglès in La Clape, France, will be showing off the new packaging for the producer’s prestige cuvée Grand Vin with the release of the 2008 vintage. Further details from Louise Hill, louise@phillips-hill.co.uk.
- Wine and spirits importer Spirits do Brasil (stand V22) will debut Cachaça Lola, a contemporary Brazilian rum, at the Distil section of the exhibition. Lola is “a chic concept inspired by the cosmopolitan life of the Brazilian major capitals”, apparently. Its strength and balanced taste make it perfect for any blend with fruit, juices and spices. “Stop by our booth and try our exquisite Caipirinhas and Lola-cocktails!”
- Speaking of spirits, Spyglass Trading Europe (stand W22) will be launching the Île Four Sake range at Distil. The stable, comprising a limited edition Junmai Daiginjo, a premium Junmai Ginjo, Île Four sparkling sake and Yuzu Sake, has been developed specifically for the Western palate and is designed to be paired with a range of cuisines beyond Japanese, as well as a standalone drink. The company is looking to secure on- and off-trade distribution in the UK. The range is already available in Germany, Sweden, Switzerland and Canada.
- Grupo Codorníu (stand K22) is launching six new wines at the fair, including two new Cavas – Codorníu Brut and Codorníu Brut Rosado – and Raimat Vallcorba 2009, a 70% Cabernet Sauvignon/30% Syrah blend, from sustainable Spanish winery Raimat. Codorníu is also hosting a series of ‘Meet the winemaker’ tastings on its stand throughout the fair. These 30-minute, daily tastings are open to all, and will be presented by each brand’s winemaker. If you are interested in attending, email agerolami@clarioncomms.co.uk.