Over the years we've seen some unique gadgets to aid the ageing of wine. However, the Clef du Vin caught our attention when an article was written about it in Time Magazine. Actually what caught our attention was the numerous telephone calls we received at our wine shop from people trying to buy this little tool.

It's a scientifically-designed measuring device made from a mix of precious metals. When dipped into a glass of wine, it will age the wine one year for each second the alloy is in contact with the wine.

Not only will this help assist wine producers to determine when a wine will be at its peak, the consumer, of course, can speed up the ageing process of a wine in their collection that would otherwise need years to mature.

We purchased one for our winery and were amazed by the results!

• December 2006