SWN Wine List - 29 October 2026
Three countries. Three distinctive wine styles.
Three women who have helped shape the wines and regions they represent.
Nyetimber Classic Cuveé
England · Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Meunier
One of the benchmark wines of English sparkling wine, Nyetimber Classic Cuvée is made using the traditional method from the same three principal grape varieties associated with Champagne.
England’s cool climate helps the grapes retain naturally high acidity, giving the wine its characteristic freshness and precision. Extended ageing on the lees adds extra complexity and the familiar notes of brioche, biscuit and pastry alongside citrus and orchard fruit.
Nyetimber’s Head Winemaker Cherie Spriggs has played a major role in establishing the reputation of English sparkling wine internationally. In 2018, she became the first winemaker from outside Champagne — and the first woman — to be named Sparkling Winemaker of the Year at the International Wine Challenge.
Look for: lemon and green apple, delicate orchard fruit, brioche and biscuit, fine bubbles and a fresh, elegant finish.
£35.00 - £45.00, widely available
Gary Farrell Russian River Selection Chardonnay 2023
Russian River Valley, California · Chardonnay
This is a great example of the more refined side of Californian Chardonnay.
The Russian River Valley enjoys plenty of Californian sunshine, but its proximity to the Pacific Ocean brings cooling fog and maritime air. This slows ripening and helps the Chardonnay retain freshness while still developing ripe, generous fruit.
The 2023 wine was fermented and matured in French oak, with around 30% new oak, and spent around 10 months on its lees. This brings a creamy texture and gentle spice without overwhelming the fruit.
The vintage was made during the tenure of winemaker Theresa Heredia, who became particularly well known for her site-focused approach to Chardonnay and Pinot Noir and for expressing the cooler side of California wine.
Look for: ripe lemon, orchard and stone fruit, nectarine, subtle ginger and oak spice, creamy texture and a bright, fresh finish.
£47.00 at Ministry of Drinks
Susana Balbo Nosotros Malbec
Gualtallary, Uco Valley, Argentina · Malbec
Nosotros is a flagship expression of Argentina’s most famous grape: Malbec.
The grapes come from the high-altitude vineyards of Gualtallary in the Uco Valley, at around 1,300 metres above sea level. Mendoza is dry, sunny and arid, but the altitude brings much cooler nights. This combination allows Malbec to develop deep colour and concentrated ripe fruit while retaining freshness and acidity.
The wine is made from 100% Malbec, with careful selection of the grapes, cold maceration, fermentation using indigenous yeasts and extended maturation in French oak. The result is a powerful wine, but one with considerable elegance and structure.
Susana Balbo graduated as an oenologist in 1981 and became Argentina’s first female winemaker. She went on to become one of the most influential figures in modern Argentine wine and founded her own winery in 1999.
Look for: blackberry, blueberry and cassis, violet and floral notes, spice and oak, fine-grained tannins and a long, concentrated finish.
£100 - £120, various suppliers.
If you enjoyed the event, follow me @winewithcarl for more wine experiences.
Looking to bring some wine fun to your team or group?
Wine tasting… but make it an adventure.
Forget sitting in the same room all afternoon. We’ll explore Bermondsey’s buzzing wine scene, stopping at three brilliant venues to taste five carefully curated wines, uncover fascinating stories and learning just enough to impress your friends
No wine snobbery. No exams. Just great wine, good company and plenty of “I never knew that!” moments.
Next Event…
