I used to work as a wine merchant during my early twenties and picked up a sizeable drink habit, a very basic knowledge of wine and a love of passionate salesmanship. There was nothing I liked more than a customer coming in and saying “what would you recommend for £7 to go with mutton”.
A few years ago I had quite a lot of money to spend on a case of wine for my father’s 60th birthday so I minced around various shops with an eager expression on my face determined to be sold something wonderful and, more importantly, to be taken seriously as wine buyer.
I was served my supercilious boys who treated me as an ignoramus or by older men who thought I was trying to steal something. Then I met Philip Shorten at Milroy’s. He listened to my needs, pretended that I really knew what I was talking about and I bought a case of Brunello di Montalcino from Sesti.
I would like to say that this was the start of a beautiful friendship but sadly I am generally short of cash and so tend to buy most of my wine from the bargain bins of supermarkets. If, however, I am having people over or want to impress my ladyfriend, then Philip is my first port of call. He has never let me down with a recommendation.
They are also a whisky specialist and Philip will often give you a little taste whilst you are browsing.
Twice a year they have free tastings to which they invite all their regular customers; I normally get drunk and disgrace myself and they keep inviting me back. Oh and if you live in the UK, get on their mailing list – they have some amazing sales.
Last Xmas I spent most of my bonus on mature Rieslings from Alsace – much better than squandering it on drugs and the horses like I normally do.
Good recommendations:
The Dr. Burklin-Wolf Ruppersburger (2007)
Morgon Cote de Py, Domaine Jean-Marc Burgaud. 2006
MILROY'S OF SOHO; 3 Greek Street, London W1D 4NX