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B O T T LE B A N K T E S C O M A ST E R O F W I N E JA M E S DAV I S PI C K S S O M E O F H I S FAVO U R I T E L AT E - S U M M E R W I N E S The Master of Wine (MW) qualification is regarded in the wine industry as one of the highest standards of professional knowledge. There are fewer than 350 MWs in the world, so Tesco is very proud to have James working on its wine team.
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ith the nights drawing in, our minds start turning to comforting food and warming wines. But there is still time to make the most of last-minute sunshine and enjoy lighter wine styles. Here are my top recommendations for September, whatever the weather.
White wines needn’t be neglected at this time of year. Instead, choose rich, nutty styles to go with hearty dishes, such as fish pie. Award-winning Mâcon Blanc Villages, £6, is a bold style of Chardonnay, with strong peach and citrus tones. For those wanting something with body and warmth to pair with roasted meats, try Douro, £5. A ripe wine with aromas of black fruit and violets, it’s great served with a succulent shoulder of lamb. If the weather stays warm, and we get to enjoy an Indian summer (fingers crossed!), lighter-bodied reds are a great shout. South African Pinot Noir, £3·95, is a delicate wine, with raspberry and strawberry flavours and a smooth, fruity finish. Enjoy it with roast chicken and vegetables, or try it with the Spinach and ricotta stuffed chicken (p54).
A crisp, fresh white wine named after a small bird partial to its grapes, finest* Passerina, £6, is awash with flavours of citrus fruits and white peach. Perfect with grilled chicken or seafood.
Keep a bottle of White Port, £8·50, in your fridge to help make the most of warm, balmy evenings. With scents of apple and grape, and a lingering finish, it makes a deliciously refreshing apéritif served over ice with tonic and a slice of orange.
Rioja is so famous for red wines that its impressive line-up of whites often gets overlooked. A fantastic example is Rioja Blanco, £5, which has subtle floral flavours with hints of citrus and tropical fruits. It’s a great match for the Spanish roasted fish (p56).
Fun of the fair Taste all these and more at Tesco Wine Fairs this autumn, at venues around the country. See tescowinefair.com for details. Find these wines in store, or buy online at tesco.com/groceries
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