Hyperlocal at HarperWells

Living in a fairly small village just outside of Norwich, I don’t have the opportunity to blog about what’s on my doorstep very often, so I’m rather pleased to have this one.

When the veterinary practice in Eaton moved to Cringleford in 2012, there was a lot of speculation about what was going to appear in its place. Happily the community’s fears (mainly of Tesco) were allayed a few months later by the appearance of HarperWells, a lovely new
wine shop.

When I visited last weekend I was initially wary that it would be a bit snooty and out of my price range; all I wanted was something to have with a takeaway and rather irrationally feared that I might be expected to have some knowledge of wine. I needn’t have worried…

Part of the community

Bright and airy, with the wines displayed attractively around the walls, it was immediately more welcoming than I had anticipated.

I was greeted by Brian, the manager, who offered me taster of a rose he had open and then left me to my own devices, dispelling any fear that I might have had about being pressured into buying an expensive wine. I meandered around the shelves, taking my time and reading the descriptions before hitting upon an interesting looking Italian white for £6.50.

Upon heading to the till, I had a few queries about whether there were any wine tasting events in the area and ended up having a lovely chat about the events HarperWells helps organise, before moving on to other subject like the reopening of the local pub, whisky and travel. It was a much more satisfying shopping experience than going to Tesco for a bottle, and infinitely more friendly.

The most important bit

And so to the wine itself. The Trebiano Rubicone attracted me because it was such a pale wine (it’s almost colourless). I know it sounds silly, but it just caught my eye. It also had an attractive label, and while I know that you can’t judge a wine by its label, it does help to give an overall impression!

It was very light on the palate, smooth and fruity, which was perfect for the warm and summery evening over the weekend. It was also very smooth and not too dry for me. And that is where I should probably leave it, before I come over all Jilly Goolden.

Check out the HarperWells website to find out more and buy wine.