subconscious experience. It tells its own story, in its own words.
What I never tire of is the story. Wine is monotonous without it. Whether it’ s a pure line back to people, place, connecting with the natural world, or it’ s an inspired, artistic, historic idea breathlessly brought to life by passionate people, wine is a medium to share an idea that deserves to be told. Like stumbling upon a great speaker, espousing the virtues of an unexpected topic in a festival tent, I am open to it. It broadens my perspective.
When sharing wine with‘ wine people’, so often the story is unspoken. It is shared in the mutual appreciation of the grape variety, the vintage, the typicity or lack thereof.“ Loads of toast there, hey?”
And a nod. The story is in the silence between. The individual synaptic flutter:“ That’ s interesting, why have they done that, to support the riper vintage? When do you think they chose to do that to it?” In the room, the conversation has moved on to who’ s watching The Traitors, as it probably should.
Kent’ s wines have world-class stories. I get an electric twinge of excitement at the prospect of exploring them and the year ahead is no different. I hope you do too.
ABOUT TOM
Tom Surgey is one of the UK’ s leading wine experts, an author and television presenter. He is an engaging live performer, bringing a warmth and humour to his subject on stage. His unique take on live drinks experiences needs to be seen to be believed. You can find him at festivals and events throughout the year. See his website for more information.
Tom’ s book, How to Drink Wine, is available in Waterstones, Amazon and independent book shops. It is available as an audiobook via Audible.
In 2026, Tom is embarking on an English wine project with his dear friend and vinous canary down the mine, Oz Clarke;‘ Oz & Tom’ s English Wine Heroes’ will champion England’ s winemakers to consumers throughout the year.
tomsurgey. com tomsurgey
WINE WRITER | 43