Dear SPWC Members
Well, here we are with almost half the year gone already and we’re fast approaching the summer solstice. Since ancient times, summer solstice traditions have included gathering with family and friends to celebrate the return of light, sunlight, life, fertility at the height of the growing season, and the potential for a good harvest. I’ll leave it to you to determine how, or if, you wish to celebrate the occasion. Let’s just hope for some decent weather.
Last Month’s Meeting
Unfortunately, a few of us missed last month’s entertainment because we were away in Norfolk but we know that it was an excellent presentation by our own Tony Cavey with some top wines and some food for thought. Thank you, Tony. Also, thanks to Tracy who stood in for Heather on the evening and to everyone else who helped with setting up, putting away, the raffle etc to ensure another enjoyable evening.
This Month’s Meeting
On Thursday June 12th we welcome back another SPWC stalwart in the person of Dilyan Kolev, now running a company called The Jolly Merchants. As those of us who have attended previous presentation by Dilyan will know, he specialises in wines from eastern Europe, an up-and-coming region for wine production. Another super evening is in store.
Wine of the Month – Cuvee Chasseur, South of France, 12.5% ABV
Kevin has chosen Waitrose for this month’s wines for the cellar and the raffle and top of the pile is this delightful red. A smooth, fruity country wine made in the South of France from Grenache, Merlot and other local grape varieties, it displays a broad array of red fruit aromas while offering a lingering finish. It’s quaffable on its own but also makes a good accompaniment to red meats and cheeses.
Wine of the Month – Cuvee Chasseur, South of France
Pub of the Month – The Bull Inn, Chelsham Common, Warlingham, CR6 9PB
An ideal place to stop for a refreshing drink whilst walking through the local woods, The Bull Inn at Chelsham Common is open from 12 daily and has an excellent range of food on offer, featuring reasonably priced Sunday roasts (£15.95), plus other pub favourites including pizzas, fish and chips, burgers and salads. There is also a good selection of vegetarian, vegan and gluten free alternatives available. On a summer’s day, it’s a pleasant location to sit outside and listen to the sounds of the countryside. There’s a decent selection of wine and beer to accompany your food.
Other Events 2025
A group of 17 enjoyed a lovely day out visiting the Postal Museum on May 14th with early dinner at The Crown in Clerkenwell Green which was extremely well received. As stated in previous Grapevines, there are details of future events elsewhere on the website but our next one will be our annual walk on Sunday July 6th, starting from Tonbridge. There is still plenty of time for you to sign up for these events if you haven’t already done so.
Did You Know?
The top four wine making countries in the world produce nearly 60% of the total worldwide production. Can you name the four countries? Answers below – no peeking!
Very best wishes,
Goff
1st June 2025
France, Italy, Spain, USA