Elizabeth Mellish, Head Sommelier at Gleneagles Townhouse and a respected judge at the London Wine Competition has built a reputation for her deep understanding of wine and her ability to share its stories with passion and precision. With over a decade of experience in hospitality, Elizabeth’s insights span from identifying emerging trends to curating wine programs that delight and inspire.

In this exclusive piece for the London Drinks Guide, Elizabeth takes us on a journey through the dynamic world of wine, offering her expert tips on enhancing wine experiences, discussing the latest industry trends, and sharing her favorite tastes that have captivated her palate. Whether you’re a sommelier, a wine enthusiast, or someone eager to stay ahead in the ever-evolving wine landscape, this article is a treasure trove of knowledge and inspiration.

Making Wine Approachable: For someone just starting their wine journey, what advice would you give on exploring different styles and finding their personal preferences?

Wine is a huge world so I would recommend approaching it with an open mind. Taste as much as you can but do so in a sensible manner. The more grape varieties you taste, the more you will learn. It's important to keep exploring, so why not visit your local supermarket or wine shop and pick up a bottle of wine that you're not familiar with? It can be helpful to keep a wine journal to record your tasting notes and what you liked or didn’t like about each bottle. There are also plenty of resources available to help you expand your knowledge, from websites and YouTube videos to books. Additionally, social media is a valuable tool, following wine enthusiasts and experts on platforms like Instagram is a great way to stay informed about the latest trends and developments in the wine world.

Monthly Wine Club Highlights: What makes the monthly wine club at Gleneagles Townhouse special, and can you share a memorable theme or event that resonated with members?

The monthly wine club at Gleneagles Townhouse is something really special. It’s not just about tasting great wines; it’s about bringing people together to enjoy the experience. Each month, members dive into a new theme, whether it’s a particular region, grape variety, or winemaking style, making sure there’s always something new to discover and enjoy. It’s the perfect mix of education, community, and of course, fantastic wine. 

One of the most memorable wine club events we’ve had was when we were lucky enough to be joined by seven exceptional South African winemakers and producers: Anthonij Rupert Wyne, Baleia Wines, Cederberg Cellars, Marras, Constantia Glen Estate, and Hartenberg Wine Estate. 

The evening is still discussed by members. Each winemaker shared insights into their unique wine-making processes, the history of their estates, and the distinct characteristics of the wines they produce. It was a lively, fun-filled night, where members had the opportunity to taste an impressive range of wines, from bold reds to crisp whites, each telling its own story. The atmosphere was filled with laughter and engaging conversations, as the winemakers exchanged anecdotes about their experiences in the wine industry. The personal stories behind each bottle brought a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship that goes into every wine. It was an evening not just of tasting exceptional wines but also of connecting with the passion and dedication of those who create them.

You can read more about their program and activities in the Gleneagles Townhouse monthly member magazine here 

Pairing Like a Pro: What are some simple yet impactful tips for pairing wines with everyday meals, especially for home cooks?

Pairing wine with everyday meals doesn’t have to be complicated, it’s all about matching the wine’s intensity with the dish. For lighter meals, like a fresh salad or grilled chicken, go for a lighter wine such as a crisp white like Sauvignon Blanc. It’s refreshing and complements those lighter flavors perfectly. For heartier meals, such as steak or roasted meats, a bolder red like Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec works wonderfully, as they have the structure to stand up to those richer flavors. 

A big part of pairing is considering the sauce, as this often dictates which wines will work best with the food. Another trick is to match the wine to the region of your dish, for example, Barbera with Italian food, or Rioja with Spanish dishes, because the wines and food often share similar characteristics. It’s also fun to experiment with the texture of the wine. 

For example, sparkling wine is fantastic with fried foods. The most important thing is to drink what you love! If you have a go-to wine, don’t worry too much about the rules, pair it with whatever you’re cooking, and enjoy how it enhances the experience. It should make your meal more enjoyable, not stressful!

Members' Club at Gleneagles Townhouse

Unique Vintages to Try: You focus on introducing unique vintages to your patrons. Can you recommend a few hidden gems that London wine lovers should seek out?

If you’re a wine lover looking to discover some hidden gems, there are plenty of unique and lesser-known wines that can surprise and delight. A few of my favourite wines include those from BlankBottle. They have an interesting philosophy of not revealing the exact grape varieties used in their blends, which helps to remove any negative associations that some people may have with certain varieties. Their wines are fantastic and are sure to spark stimulating conversation at any dinner.

Another gem is the lesser-known region of Alella, just 30 minutes outside Barcelona. Here there is a winery called Alta Alella that makes a range of delicious wines including their 100% Pansa Blanca. A refreshing alternative to Sauvignon Blanc this crisp dry white wine is packed with flavours of apple, and lime, with a salty almond note.

Clos du Caillou

Another winery I love is Clos du Caillou. Situated in the Southern Rhône, it is unique because it is surrounded by the Châteauneuf-du-Pape appellation but was intentionally excluded by its original owner. 

Their wines beautifully showcase the Southern Rhône’s terroir, with reds that are rich, expressive, and layered, highlighting Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre. Their Côtes du Rhône wines, in particular, offer incredible value and complexity, often exceeding expectations for the label.

Also Read:
Behind the Wine List: Maria Boumpa’s Philosophy at Two-Michelin-Starred Da Terra
Inside Joshua Castle’s World of Fine Wines at Keeling Andrew
A Boutique Approach: Molly Newport Talks Wine Selection at Ellis Wines