WINE TASTING

HANGING DITCH

"WHAT IS IN THE GLASS, AN INTERESTING MIXTURE OF WINES"

The Hanging Ditch Wine Merchants premises are located in the small local area of the same name, not far from the rivers Irwell and Irk and the Cathedral. The name suggests dark medieval doings but this is not founded in fact. The early settlement which would eventually become Manchester in due course was sited very close to here, protected by the two rivers and also some additional specially dug ditches. One of these ditches at some point in time was spanned by (presumably) a drawbridge - hence the name "hanging ditch" (This bridge was later superceded by a narrow stone bridge the remains of which can still be examined).

However, on the 20th October 2016 sixteen intrepid IWFS wine tasters received a warm welcome to the Hanging Ditch from owner Nathan Sherwood and founder Ben Stephenson (who is a judge for the International Wine&Spirit Competition and the International Wine Challenge) to enjoy a tasting of six wines under Ben`s tutelage. It should be remarked that the shop is very wide but narrow with cellarage beneath and a very adequate outside seating area (for dry days!).The rear wall of the shop is fitted with a very impressive full width and height racking unit carrying an amazing range of wines and spirits of all types.

Proceedings opened with a glass of Lallier Zero Dosage NV (ex magnum) to limber up! This proved to be a fine dry wine with no acidity and a nutty aftertaste.

No1 Tasting was of Maestro Sierra Fino. This was considered an excellent dry fino sherry with a nutty aftertaste and restrained acidity.

No2 Tasting was of F de Beauclair L`Ormichal Bourgogne Blanc 2014. A pleasant very lightly oaked Chardonnay.

No3 Tasting was of Littorai Hirsch Vineyard Pinot Noir 2013. This light red USA (Sonoma) wine was slightly astringent but with low acidity and was very reminiscent of Burgundy.

No4 Tasting was of Cakebread Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon 2010. This Californian wine is 86% Cabernet Sauvignon with a blending of Petit Verdot and others resulting in a good deep colour and fruity taste. A nice drop!

No5 Tasting was of Bassus Finca Casilla Herrera 2012. A well blended Spanish wine involving Syrah and Petit Verdot.Good strength and very palatable.

No6 Tasting was of a dessert wine, Dom Petit Metris de Layon 1er Cru Chaume 2011.This proved to be a very presentable aromatic sweet wine exhibiting "marmalade rind" flavours.

Towards the end of the tasting session charcuterie, bread and cheese was enjoyed before everyone departed for home after a very pleasant and instructive evening.

John Chippendale