Celebrating English Artisan Wine in Colton

On 1st March 2025 the 10th in the series of our regular wine tasting evenings took place in the Village Hall. On each occasion we choose a different theme for the evening with a relevant selection of wines and matching food. A professional from the wine trade is invited to host the evening. This time the chosen theme was Grove Estates Vineyards whose owners, Rob and Liz Grove gave  a presentation on their wines all of which are produced from the grapes grown in their vineyard near Eccleshall. They explained how they started and developed the business from a standing start, and the processes involved in producing their still and sparkling wines. Platters of cold meats and cheeses were provided  in sufficient quantity to ensure no one went home hungry. We also wanted to ensure that no one was thirsty at the end of the evening. All 48 bottles provided for the tasting were emptied by the 46 participants. At £25 per head, It proved to be yet another very happy evening!

One of the tangible measures of success is the noise level. At each of the tastings we have always generated such a wall of sound that you can actually feel it. For logistical reasons we limit the attendance to 50 but it is probable, that if we allowed more drinkers to participate, the fabric of the building might be damaged by our own version of breaking the sound barrier.  By popular demand, the next event is already in the planning stage.

Richard Monbiot