Givino Blog
Everything you need to understand wine terms, wine definitions and common wine vocabulary — whether you’re buying, tasting, or simply enjoying a glass at home.
Ever noticed little flakes or crystals at the bottom of your wine glass? That’s sediment, and it’s completely natural — especially in aged red wines like Bordeaux, Rioja, or Port. Sediment is made up of grape particles, colour compounds, and tartrates that form over time.
Discover 10 reasons why Port and cheese are the ultimate pairing. From creamy Brie to blue cheese, learn how Port enhances flavour, texture and indulgence.
We are thrilled to announce that Givino has won the IWC South West Regional Retailer Award 2025! 🏆 This prestigious title from the International Wine Challenge celebrates independent wine shops that demonstrate outstanding service, expert knowledge, and a true passion for wine.
Declassified wine is simply wine that was originally destined for a prestigious label or classification – such as Bordeaux AOC, Chianti Classico DOCG or Burgundy’s Cru system – but is instead bottled under a lower designation. This can mean it carries a more generic regional label, such as “Bordeaux” or “Toscana IGT”.
There are few better ways to enjoy the summer than with a barbecue, and the right wine can elevate your outdoor feast to a whole new level. While beer and cider often get the spotlight, wine offers a world of flavour combinations that can pair beautifully with smoky, grilled food. Whether you're throwing steaks on the coals or sizzling veggie skewers on the grill, here are some of the best wines to enjoy at a BBQ.
Pairing wine with ice cream might sound unconventional, but when done correctly, it can be a truly indulgent experience. The key is balance – finding harmony between sweetness, texture, acidity and intensity. Here’s a guide to some perfect pairings that bring out the best in both the wine and the ice cream.
Portugal may be a small country, but it boasts an incredibly diverse range of wine regions, each with its own unique climate, grape varieties, and winemaking traditions. From the lush, green north to the sun-drenched south, Portugal’s wine areas offer a rich tapestry of styles that reflect the country’s history, geography, and innovation.
Vines, particularly grapevines, follow a distinct annual cycle of growth that is heavily influenced by climate, particularly in temperate regions such as the UK.
A common misconception about rosé wine is that it is simply a mixture of red and white wine. While this might seem like a logical assumption based on its pink hue, the reality is quite different.
As January draws to a close, those who have embraced Dry January may be eagerly anticipating their first sip of something special.
This year marks an extraordinary milestone for our business, as we’ve been honoured with a place in Harpers’ Top 50 Independent Wine Merchants 2025.
