Lifted cherry and berry notes, followed by lively cherry and strawberry on a plush and rounded palate with earthy undertones, restrained oak and well-integrated tannins.
Bordeaux’s Côtes de Bourg region offers some great value red wines. This blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec, from an excellent vintage, is opaque purple in colour with a cedary-sandalwood nose of ripe plums. Medium-bodied and dry, it’s made in New World style. The flavours of plum and blackberry are delivered with a creamy mouth-feel. Perfect with lamb.
This fine-grower Champagne is led by Pinot Meunier (60%), 30% Chardonnay and 10% Pinot Noir and was produced using biodynamic methods. Disgorged in June 2015, it shows good depth of colour and a fine, persistent bead. Subtle floral scent with delicate citrus and red berry notes play against a background of rich, toasty brioche. On the palate, refined, developed fruit plays harmoniously with rich, creamy caramel, chalky mineral and polished acidity.
Pouring a vibrant rust colour with a fluffy head, this unfiltered IPA is an homage to Bell’s Two Hearted Ale. Like this beloved beer, People’s Pint’s ale is all about balance: a silky and lush caramel backbone is accented by notes of strawberry jam, and a firm pine-like hop bitterness.
This complex, firmly structured blend of equal parts Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon offers generous dark cherry, cassis and liquorice spice characteristics. It offers pleasurable drinking now, but will also develop over the next 10 years. Pairs well with pappardelle pasta with boar ragu.
The Black of Kalavryta is an indigenous Greek grape that almost disappeared a decade ago. Thankfully, a handful of producers have started to repopulate in the vineyards of Achaia, located in the western portion of the Peloponnese. Stylistically, this wine reminds me of a solid Gamay with its pale colour and flavours of cherry, plum, black pepper, spice and red flowers. Soft and easy-drinking, it should be served chilled, and paired with charcuterie or tomato-based dishes.
Clear medium-deep plum red. In your face nose of Gamay grape, also raspberry. Light body with high acidity and fresh grapey fruit. At its best now.