“Marked as medium-dry but not sweet at all. In fact, it’s sour … but surprisingly drinkable after the first shock. I could imagine enjoying it in sunnier climates mixed with mineral water as a tart wine spritzer.”

Why I would bother to write all that and not name the wine is beyond me. I don’t suppose it occurred to me that there would be more than one vineyard on the island. Or perhaps given my reaction I thought it was kinder not to be specific.

Anyone recognise it by the description by any chance?

Isle of Wight was a lot more interesting than I think anyone expected. I’m not sure when the next trip is (or even where to!) but hopefully before the end of this month.

I’m quietly ignoring the fact that I stupidly have not booked a hotel and as it’s Cowes week the entire trip may get a rapid cancellation. Wish me luck whilst phoning around frantically this afternoon!

Assuming it goes ahead, I’m planning on doing the following:

• Whitecliff Bay
• Dimbola Lodge
• Osborne House
• The Needles (chair lift?)
• Isle of Wight Sweet Manufactory
• Barrows near Freshwater Bay / Mottistone / Brook Down
• Newtown
• Cowes High Street shopping
• Carisbrooke Castle
• Cream tea at the Old Smithy
• Steam railway trip

Anything I’ve missed?

…plans are afoot for the Isle of Wight and the Scilly Isles for the first week of August. Time to dive into those guide books again. As always, any must-see recommendations are greatly appreciated.