Divine Wine at Le Di-Vin

"Wine bar". For those of us who grew up in the 80s this term evokes memories of venues packed with punters dressed like extras from Dynasty, glugging over-oaked chardonnay to a backing track by Sade.  Fortunately, the modern incarnation is a lot more palatable, as a recent to visit to Le Di-Vin joyfully proved.

Nestling in a former church building, Le Di-Vin is the younger sibling to next-door restaurant La P'tite Folie, both owned by Virginie and Ghislain Brouard. 

Entering the bar it is apparent that wine is the star.  A whole double-height wall is dedicated to decorative pewter bar, backed by shelves of quality wines, expertly sourced from across the globe by Ghislain: 164 bottles to choose from.

Yet a visit to Le Di-Vin is far from an overwhelming experience - quite the reverse.  The staff are warm, welcoming and have the knowledge to deftly guide patrons.  Accompanying the wine is a cleverly matched menu of food - more of which later.  To appreciate the breadth and quality of wines available, my dining/quaffing partner and I were offered a mini-wine tasting.

Whites included: a grassy, grapefruit-laden Picpoul de Pinet; an Australian Riesling with subtle elderflower and apricot flavours; and a stunning Chablis - steely dry, but with brioche hints.  Reds were equally fine: South-American Carménère that was full of rosehip and rhubarb (amazing, given it isn't usually my favourite grape); cherries and raspberries, courtesy of an "easy drinking" Sangiovese; and a great plummy, spicy Malbec.  Do I sound a wee bit 'Jilly Goolden'?

The wine was so well balanced and enjoyable, I don't care! (Wines sampled ranged from £3.30-5.25 for 125ml glass).

The very clever thing Le Di-Vin does is match well-prepared, tasty - yet straightforward - dishes to accompany the impressive range of fine wines.

 We consumed a very moreish planchette of mixed charcuterie and French cheese (£15.50 for 2) as we sipped and chatted.  Quizzing Virginie, she elaborated about the food.  "If people want a three-course dinner, we direct them to our restaurant.  If they prefer to relax with good wine and food that doesn't require a kitchen full of chefs, it has to be Le Di-Vin".

Welcoming, airy, yet intimate.  With some of the best wine I have tasted in a while, plus inviting, uncomplicated food, I shall certainly return to Le Di-Vin soon.

Chris Berry - @scrummyscran