Out with the old

My wine merchant sent me a copy of their 1909 price list today. It was fascinating, not only to look at the prices, which were surprisingly high, but also the order and tastes of our fellow wine lovers back then. This particular wine merchant, Berry Brothers and Rudd, were established in the 17th Century so I expect they have been more interesting records at their disposal. the first thing that struck me was that Sherry and Port were the first three pages, compared with today's list (also provided) that starts with their own label wines. I am sure that this reflects the commercial drivers of today's and yesterdays business but I am sure the tastes of Edward VII had a big impact on what people were buying in those days. What also struck me was that the big names were all there, Yquem, Lafite, Mouton Rothschild, Margaux, Pol Roger, Clicquot, Mumm, Krug, Bollinger, Romanee Conti etc. The Germans had 2 pages but nothing from Rhone, Italy, Spain, North America, South America, South Africa, Australia or New Zealand. Clearly in a mere 100 years our tastes have changed and wine distribution has gone global (I am sure they were making wine in these countries then, just not exporting them).

Its a great piece of marketing and a fascinating snapshot of social history, well done BBR!

Justerini and Brooks

I walked past one of my favourite shop windows in London yesterday. Justerini and Brooks have been trading since 1749 and are of course well known all round the world for their J&B Rare Whisky. Their window is particularly impressive at the moment as it features the smells and tastes of Italian Red wines. Under posters listing the key grape varieties are massive glasses with the contents of the smells and tastes described. Huge glasses with Tobacco, licorice, gunpowder and all manner of products that evoke the true essence of these fantastic grapes. If you are in London it is well worth a trip to St James Street, not only does J&B have a shop front here but a few doors down on the left is the fantastic Berry Brothers and Rudd. I have to confess to buying my en premieur wine from here, its such a treat and their cellars are amazing (book in advance to look around). Enjoy.