There was once a time when Cornish wines had novelty value. Wine drinkers in our many top local restaurants would choose them over an equally-priced Sancerre or Chablis simply to ‘support local’, without honestly expecting too much from the wine. This, however, is no longer the case. The number and sophistication of Cornish producers has grown considerably, as has understanding and knowledge within the wine trade and amongst the general public. Discerning drinkers now demand not just any Cornish wine but a great Cornish wine, with quality and regional character to vie with the established wine-making regions of Europe. We have many to choose from here at Scarlet Wines, including Camel Valley, Knightor and Polgoon - all of which continually exceed our expectations and deliver that sought-after quality time and time again. However, with room for more of this regional brilliance in the market, we have recently added new-comer Trevibban Mill to our Cornish selection. Trevibban Mill is a mixed farm, occupying land which slopes down to the Issey Brook, near Padstow. Vines and apple trees are planted on the higher slopes in order to catch the most sun, while the lower fields are used as grassland and grazing for sheep. The farm is operated according to organic principles and is certified by the Soil Association. Trevibban produce a selection of dry, off-dry, sparkling and rose wines, plus a red wine, cider and soft drinks. The vineyards and orchards are open for tours and tastings, and there is also a newly-opened restaurant onsite (Appleton’s At The Vineyard), headed up by Andy Appleton, former Head Chef at Fifteen - so it’s well worth a visit. Scarlet Wines currently stock two wines from Trevibban, which we have come up with some food matches for: Black Ewe, Sparkling White Brut, 2013 This has bags of citrus and floral notes on the nose, while the palate has added depth from a hint of honey and ripe yellow stone fruit. We think that the perfect pairing for this would be Smoked Mackerel Pate – served with crusty bread. Merope, Dry White, 2014 This super-delicate wine is elegant and refined, with subtle notes of flowers and fresh fruit. Merope has fast become one of our favourite summer wines; try it on a sunny day with a light lunch (it would work perfectly with a Crab Salad for example) and you won’t look back. We’ll be serving Trevibban Wines at the St Ives Food and Drink Festival on 14th and 15th May – it’s the perfect opportunity to try and glass or two… Owners Liz and Engin have also kindly offered to throw in a free bottle of cider with every bottle of wine purchased at the festival - another fantastic reason to come and see us!