Wine 101

Wine 101 is about offering and garnering knowledge for those of us non-wine snobs. It’s about debunking wine myths. And explaining what means what and why things are done a certain way in the wine world.

The Fete de Vendange is the celebration of the end of the grape harvest here in France - PumpjackPiddlewick

October, or at least some time in October, signals the end of grape harvest (Vendange) here in France. Depending on how early, or late, the harvest began will determine how early or late in autumn it comes to a conclusion. But ultimately, October signals it’s time for the Fete deRead More →

Here is an easy way to choose a good French wine from the wine bottle label at PumpjackPiddlewick

When it comes to buying wine, being confronted with a sea of wine bottle labels in a shop can be daunting. If not incredibly confusing. Do you go for a classic looking label? (Implying it is a better wine?) Minimalist style or busy with information? There are far too manyRead More →

How many different types of corkscrew are there at PumpjackPiddlewick

Have you given much thought to the humble corkscrew? Beyond that it opens your bottle of wine. Nah, me either. It’s all about the wine, if we are honest. Except, since opening Our Shop and selling wine related items (as you do) I have come to appreciate, recognise and wellRead More →

The vendage is what France calls the grape harvest that makes wines. Join in at Pumpjack & Piddlewick

A few years ago, due to a bad experience, I said, ‘never again’. And there is a saying ‘never say never again’. How very true. Fast forward to now and I find myself once again undertaking The Vendange. The vendange is a French term for the grape harvest here inRead More →