The Story: What does one buy for a husband of almost twenty years who buys for himself whatever he wants! Late in vintage 2013 the phone rang,it was Robert John from the Malakoff Vineyard who had heard about our penchant for unusual varieties enquiring as to whether we wanted any Viognier. We had made a pact ‘no small batches’ and so after declining the offer I was somehow possessed to ask whether he had any Nebbiolo! It was Ray’s birthday in May and what better present. A great Nebbiolo rivals Pinot Noir in its elusiveness and Ray loves nothing more than a challenge. Two tonnes of Nebbiolo, difficult to wrap, but has given Ray many hours of fun, an excuse to spend a fortune on Barolo and will provide much pleasure for years to come. It has continued to work ever since. And as our experience grows, the vines age, and the solera of ‘other vintages’ continues to be built upon we are seeing a stunning legacy emerging…