A showcase of Austrian and German wines in a historic Yorkshire setting
This year’s AGM took place at the elegant Middlethorpe Hall, where guests enjoyed an evening that combined the society’s annual review with a curated exploration of Austrian and German wines. Following the formal session, wine specialists Paul Tate-Smith and Alex Danson led a guided tasting featuring seven distinctive wines across sparkling, white, red and dessert styles.
Live piano from committee member Kevin provided a gentle musical backdrop throughout the evening, adding warmth and character as each wine was introduced. With thoughtful presentation, relaxed conversation and the charm of Middlethorpe’s surroundings, the event offered an engaging introduction to two of Europe’s most expressive wine regions.
A journey from Mosel sparkle to Burgenland depth and sweetness.
🥂 Dr. Loosen Riesling Sekt Extra Dry NV
A vibrant, traditional‑method Sekt from the steep Mosel slopes. Crisp green apple, lime and peach lead the palate, supported by subtle toasty richness from lees ageing. Fresh and lively, it set a sparkling tone for the evening—enhanced by Kevin’s piano, which gave the opening wine a wonderfully musical lift.
🍏 Dr. Loosen Erdener Red Slate Riesling Dry 2024
A taut, mineral‑driven Riesling shaped by Erden’s iron‑rich red slate soils. Native yeast fermentation and extended lees ageing bring clarity and texture. Bright citrus and orchard fruit meet a firm, stony backbone, making this a standout example of Mosel precision.
🫒 Höpler Grüner Veltliner 2024
Crisp, elegant and full of Grüner’s trademark citrus, yellow apple and white pepper. Light, mineral and quietly expressive. A long‑standing favourite of Paul Tate-Smith—so much so that Alex jokes she can always tell when he’s been “looking after the shop.” A versatile white suited to salads, seafood, sushi and spring vegetables.
🍐 Villa Wolf Pinot Gris 2024
A gently rounded, unoaked Pinot Gris from the Pfalz. Soft fruit, clean acidity and a subtle stony texture give it easy charm. One of Alex Danson’s personal favourites, and a natural partner for Asian dishes, salads, grilled chicken and lighter pasta plates.
🍓 Walt Pinot Noir 2023
A light‑garnet, aromatic Pinot Noir from vineyards southeast of Frankfurt. Ripe berry fruit, savoury spice and a touch of earthiness lead to an elegant structure and gentle anise‑tinged finish. A pleasing historical note: Walter S. Siegel was founded in 1887—just a year before Paul Tate-Smith’s own family business began in 1888.
🍇 Höpler Blaufränkisch 2017
Deep, full‑bodied yet refined, with ripe dark fruit, firm structure and a long, warming finish. Rich enough for roasted meats and winter dishes but still elegant enough for a second glass. A comforting, characterful expression of Burgenland terroir.
🍯 Höpler Trockenbeerenauslese
A luxurious “liquid gold” dessert wine made from hand‑selected, noble‑rot‑affected berries. Golden, honeyed and richly layered with caramel, apricot and gooseberry. Its sweetness and citrus‑friendly depth paired beautifully with the evening’s tarte au citron, bringing the tasting to a decadent close.
MARGIN TASTING NOTES...
Looking Ahead…
…our next gathering takes place on Monday 13th April 2026 in The Courtyard at Hotel du Vin (YO24 1AX). We’ll meet from 6.30pm for “A Twist on the Classics”—an exploration of Central and Eastern European winemaking led by Alex Bassick and Abbie Wafer from Jorvine, in association with Betton Wines. It’s always a pleasure to welcome young, enthusiastic presenters, and Alex and Abbie have curated the session from wines that have personally inspired them, promising a fresh, engaging start to the spring programme.
The closing date for this event is Friday 27th March 2026. If you’d like to join us and haven’t yet received an invitation, please get in touch with Jason Valentine, our Section Chair.
