New faces at new pavilions

This year’s LIWF sees a host of the wine world’s more esoteric members hosting their own pavilions alongside the long-established nations.

The Lebanon, Russia, Bulgaria, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Georgia, Hungary and Slovenia are all among those with even greater presence at this year’s show.

Wines of Lebanon (R10) is making its debut at the LIWF and Russia’s sparkling wine producer Abrau Durso will be back with eight other Russian producers after an encouraging appearance last year (P16/Q10).

Wines of Croatia (I60) will also be holding daily brunches between 11am and 1pm, with each brunch focusing on a different part of the country. Expect olive oils, cheeses, beef fillet, Bucnica (cheese and pumpkin pie) and goose and mustard terrine.

Each of these countries is also holding masterclasses and seminars on different day of the fair. Consult your db speedguides to find out more.

Wines of Turkey (G45) too is offering a lot in the way of tasting and education, having signed up the Fat Duck’s head sommelier, Isa Bal MS, and wine writers and educators Caroline Gilby MW and Charles Metcalfe.

Other country’s stands include: Hungary – stands I20/H22; Slovenia – G71; Georgia – D40 and Bulgaria – stands E20/D20.

Rupert Millar, 17.05.2011