Good Hotel Guide Award to New Forest Boutique Hotel TerraVina

Gérard Basset, 'probably the most knowledgeable sommelier in the UK', and his wife, Nina, were co-founders of the Hotel du Vin group, which has now been sold. In 2007, they opened this 'stylish contemporary hotel' in the New Forest. Suzi Glaus is manager. 'The hands-on owners,' say inspectors, 'made great efforts to give us a pleasant stay; staff are enthusiastic. No stuffiness.'

The interior of this 'not particularly distinguished' building is 'open, modern; everything tastefully done: top-quality fittings, glass panels, natural wood or slate flooring'. 'Our spacious room had desk, free Wi-Fi, TV/DVD-player, minibar, etc, but could have benefited from a chest of drawers. Bathroom well equipped.' Most rooms have a patio or terrace. There is a 'lovely sitting room', a 'nicely lit bar area', and colonial-style roofed terrace overlooking the large garden.

One side of the large dining room faces the open kitchen. 'The chefs [led by Rory Duncan] work hard behind their counter. Delicious, refined cooking, eg, duck with quince, kale and swede. Organically grown local produce preferred. Portions just right; imaginative combinations. Wine cellar eclectic, with huge choice and some surprisingly reasonable prices.' Breakfast has a buffet; smoked salmon and scrambled eggs, full English, etc, 'all excellent, though toast was ordinary.

M. Basset came to shake hands on our departure.'