The IWSC presented a masterclass on unusual wines at French Wine Discoveries in London this week.

The class, ‘Unusual Suspects’, was led by IWSC Senior Tasting Manager Pip Mortimer.

“We wanted to try and introduce some slightly unusual grape varieties, unusual regions, and normal grape varieties grown in slightly unusual regions in France,” said Mortimer.

“We’re covering six wines. It’s a whistle-stop tour through something a little bit different.”

The wines presented were IWSC winners Paul Mas Vinus Clairette du Languedoc 2017, Domaine Brusset Cairanne Blanc Les Travers 2017, Château la Sauvageonne Volcanic Rosé 2017, Clos Chateau d’Isenbourg Gewurztraminer 2012, La Cave des Vignerons de Pfaffenheim Pinot Noir Tradition 2016, and Les Plos Réserve Cabardès 2016.

“For me, the Gewurztraminer is a favourite”, said Mortimer.

“I’d love to get more people drinking it. It’s mainly only produced in Alsace in France and it’s not a grape variety that people tend to go for, and, but when you get them to taste it they love it.”

“The Pinot Noir from Alsace again is a lovely light, fruity wine, and it comes in at a very good price point.”