Hiring Alain Raynaud shows Barclays take wine venture seriously

It is clear that by hiring the expertise of Alain Raynaud, the Barclay brothers are taking this project very seriously. He is well known in the Bordeaux hierarchy as a vineyard owner and consultant.

He also has a particular knowledge of viticulture and soil and a reputation for producing fine wine in areas that are not renowned for it. His hallmark is producing wine that punches above its weight.

I think a vineyard on the island is a fascinating concept. My worry is that the island is exposed and my biggest reservation would be the effect of the wind. But it is clear that Mr Raynaud has done his homework and the geological survey has found that the soil is suitable for planting classic grape varieties that are capable of producing fine wines, such as chardonnay, pinot gris and pinot noir.

It is interesting that he has also chosen the savagnin, which is an obscure grape variety that I only know to be grown in the Jura in eastern France, which produces a sweet vin jaune.