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Helpful Hints


The following notes are intended to answer the questions you may occasionally have about your wines. For example, what is the best corkscrew to use? What are those funny little crystals that sometimes cling to the cork? Just click on the images below for the answers... Of course, if you have a specific query that isn't answered here, please call or email a Wine Adviser who will be happy to help you.

Helpful Hints

Bits in the bottle Bits in the bottle
Crystals in wine are not usually a problem. But there is a fundamental conflict here. Wine, naturally has bits in. Bits of grape. Read more...
Corks Corks
Let's be honest! Corks aren't essential for most wines, only perhaps those venerable bottles that you want to keep for a decade or so. Most would be better serviced with a screw cap. Read more...
Corkscrews Corkscrews
Too many corkscrews are made too short for long corks (usually used for more expensive wines). Length is important. So is a good width of screw. Quiet please. Read more...
When to drink When to drink
The question of when to drink wine causes far too much worry. Age alone does not give you the answer. There are guidelines but wine is not a precise science - more a matter of personal preference. Read more...
Fine Wines Fine Wines
Generally this term is reserved for exceptional wines from the world's best vineyards, the highest quality grapes and the most acclaimed winemakers. Read more...
Storage Storage
Plan your ordering a little ahead of consumption, so you can give your wines a few days to rest before opening. They will taste better for it. Read more...
Wine Words Wine Words
We use a lot of odd words in wine - oh boy don't we just - and occasionally sensible people write in and ask why. 'Laithwaite! Be serious, surely that one's a bit over the top isn't it?' Read more...
Ideal Temperature Ideal Temperature
Nothing mars a wine more than serving it at the wrong temperature. Crisp, dry whites, rosé, sweet and sparkling wines (an hour in the fridge); Read more...
Tips on Tasting Tips on Tasting
Don't think tasting is for a few privileged palates. Everyone who enjoys a glass of wine can taste wine 'properly'. Read more...

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