Wine from classic Europe or New World? Most wine lovers have their preferences. Wine from California, for example, is definitely hot, certainly the more elegant and fresh style of a new generation of winemakers.
If you're not already a fan of wine from California, you will be after the WINELIFE readers' event. Inge van Leeuwerk already is, indeed, she makes sure we can buy it in the Netherlands.
We ask her five questions
'I want to be hugged from within'
Wine from classic Europe or New World? Most wine lovers have their preferences. Wine from California, for example, is definitely hot, certainly the more elegant and fresh style of a new generation of winemakers.
At least for Inge de Leeuwerk of Delta Wines, it is clear, she is a real fan. 'I have a great love for wines where you get the feeling of being hugged from within'.
Inge de Leeuwerk
Since she was the woman with the most knowledge of California wine in the team, she was tasked by her boss to significantly expand their range with wines from The Golden State. WINELIFE witnessed how she did this. On just any Monday morning, we caught the train to Rotterdam.
On to restaurant Fred, not the least with two Michelin stars. We come to discover the new American acquisitions of Pallas -Delta Wines. On the spot, we taste a great lineup of flavourful, elegant wines that underline the special class of wine from California. But who is this woman who personally ensured that these gems from California end up in our glass? Five questions to Inge de Leeuwerk.
Why your preference for wines outside Europe?
I am a globetrotter, having previously lived in South Africa, Malaysia and Australia. Maybe it comes from there. Wine from the new world has just that little bit more of everything that makes wine fine. It is also the case that I am sensitive to bitters and tannins. That's why I just prefer some sultry and rounder wines. And those tend to come from outside Europe. Actually, my choice of wine depends entirely on the moment, the menu and the company, so occasionally there is definitely a handsome European in between.
For you, what are the best wine-food pairings?
These are the combinations that make you happy. That you don't have to think too much about and that 'just' taste good. That's often the case with wines from California anyway. Those wines stand alone and can be paired with so many dishes.
What is your favourite wine grape?
Good question, chardonnay is of course obvious, but I'm going to go with a European one anyway, the grüner veltliner. Its wines are incredibly versatile. Mind you, we're talking about higher-end wines. I love the playfulness, spiciness and spiciness of them. They are also true terroir wines. A glass of these with sushi or cheese fondue is great.
Tip for visiting California?
Grab a bike! You can do that there. It's an incredibly 'healthy' area. There are good bike paths, and it's so cool to just ride in Napa Valley past all the famous wineries in that cult area.
Do you have any culinary tips?
You absolutely must have a cruffin Try it, which is a combination of a muffin and a croissant. So delicious! And it's a Valhalla for vegetarians. That's so normal there. We could learn a lot from that here.
Read also: Personal portrait of David Guimaraens, technical director and chief winemaker at Taylor's and Croft.
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