Neil Gibson came to Beech on April 2 to show off the beautiful Ridgeback South African wines he helps to import. A select few guests were given the history of the vineyard and Neil’s connection to them, along with explanations of the various bottles for tasting. We started with a delicious champagne type, made with Viognier grapes.
The table was laid out with six bottles of white, one rose and seven reds for the assembled guests to pour for themselves. We were recommended to spit and drink water in between, but it’s hard to spit out such lovely wines even when you know you should. We were free to go back to revisit to the ones we liked, compare and contrast and discuss with our neighbours and with Neil. A groaning cheese board was also on offer, some of which (along with saucisson) had been brought back from France by Jo. Everyone enjoyed a delightfully relaxed, sociable evening.
The evening was hosted by Neil Gibson, who got to know the winery through many years of visiting and exporting their wines for himself, friends and family. These beautiful wines are now available in the UK exclusively through Richard Banks Wines, a small importer who Neil met along his journey. If you were unable to make this event, but would like to order some wine, do get in touch with Neil at neilkgibson@yahoo.co.uk.
