, although we quickly learned not to bother to bring any home. What tastes wonderful on a balmy July evening on a campsite in Perigord doesn't tend to do so well on a cold November evening in Gloucestershire

I've had exactly the same experience... never bring a wine home from vacation, it just doesn't taste good in a different environment.
We can do beer like nobody else.
Tim, unfortunately I can't agree with you on this statement.
We Germans are best at that.