02/08/2026
JULY MEETING: CHRIS STENTON LOIRE WINES
Twenty two members and four guests had a most convivial evening of wine tasting, with a talk by Chris Stenton based on his bike tours around the Loire Valley, including visiting its vineyards. Chris’ talk was hugely entertaining very relaxed, more conversational than presentational, with interesting snippets of information about the towns and places along the Loire Valley. He recommends cycling from the source to the sea, as this is all downhill and pretty flat.
Chris brought along six different wines to be tasted, and warned us that six 50ml samples would add up to drinking about half a bottle of wine. His partner, Sylvia, and member Diane W generously poured the wine, and there were accompanying savoury snacks. All those who imbibed had wisely left their cars at home.
The first wine was a sparkling Cremant de Loire Rosé a more traditional champenoise wine than Prosecco. Members liked it; one describing it as “a patio wine” and “dangerous”. Next a Vouvray, which some described as “easy to drink on its own” and “a sweet afternoon wine”. Then a Touraine, which was dry and more of a wine to have with a meal. The Muscadet was slightly spritzy and tangy. (At this point a senior member stood up, announced “I’ve have enough” and tottered out; happily we knew she didn’t have far to walk home.) There followed a Sancerre Rouge, a light red wine available like all the above from Sainsbury’s (which has regular 25% off offers on wine). The final wine was an Icone Chenin Rouge, purchased from Majestic.
Members thought this would be nice with cheese, and there was at least one suggestion that we should have a cheese and wine evening.
Our hostesses for the evening were Clare and Sue S, who modelled our new official Jesmond WI aprons.
The official raffle was won by Liz H (hand cream) and Liz T (candle). There were four opened quarter full bottles of wine left, so the raffle continued until every one had found a home. Members lingered for quite some time chatting and finishing their wine.
