Over the first lockdown, we noticed Modal Wines everywhere. And the response was gooooood. Importers of independent wines, they focus on distinctive wines that have been made with as little interference in the vineyards and cellars as possible. Like the modal scales in music, which sit outside the more common and ordinary major and minor scales, their aim is similar: to source unique wines with the right mix of edge, character, balance, and drinkability.

The reference to music makes sense, too. Founder Nicolas Rizzi had a 15-year career in the music industry before launching Modal.

Now, Modal supplies wine to a wide variety of outlets all over the country, from great London restaurants and bars such as Kiln, Albertine, and 10 Cases to fine dining establishments such as Spring, Carters of Moseley, Moor Hall Restaurant and everywhere in between. Usually they focus on selling to trade –  so we’re lucky to have them on UJ Select!

@modalwines