Simon J Woolf – Wine Reviews Database

Simon J Woolf

Founder and editor of The Morning Claret, an online wine magazine focused on all things organic, biodynamic and natural. Orange wine obsessive, author of the bestselling books Amber Revolution and Foot Trodden (with Ryan Opaz). Lover of strange musics and cats.

Nativo (The Hughes Family wines) – Flora 2017

Aged in used barrels where flor yeast developed, this Viognier, Chenin and Grenache Bland blend is bright and energetic with lifted notes of citrus oils and the flor quite evident with that very particular briney rasp. If you’ve ever tasted Read more

Nativo (The Hughes Family wines) – Blanco 2021

A multi vineyard blend, partially aged in old barrels. There are aromatic and herbal hints on the nose, with something that reminds me of pineapple weed. Loads of ripe fruit explodes on the palate, but there is more than enough Read more

Nativo (The Hughes Family wines) – Amarillo 2021

With a dark amber hue, but wonderful clarity, this skin fermented blend is inviting. The aromas have a fascinating duality about them – the base notes remind me of bananas and custard, with an expressive lactic quality, but the wine Read more

Trapan – Moia Syrah 2017

I like the whimsical faux-French label here! (even if I suspect Bruno might have the INAO on his tail soon). It says “Shishan Appellation d’Istrie controlée” – Šišan being the village from whence this Syrah hails. The nose is ripe Read more

Trapan – The One 2016

There is no mistaking Teran’s feral bark on the nose here – and I mean that in a good way! It’s characterful and intriguing. This is undoubtedly quite developed for a seven year old wine, with the kind of backed Read more

Trapan – Revolution 2018

If you like Loire Cab Franc, the slightly animalistic nose of this blend will appeal. The wild child that is Teran speaks clearly here, even though it’s a bit player in the blend. There are dried herb, iodine and dried Read more

Trapan – Luka Luna Merlot 2018

Quite evolved and herbal on the nose, there is a delicious, salty energy to this wine, driven by great acidity and lift. It’s ever so slightly lacking in fruit on the palate though, with more woody, herby notes playing centre Read more