Drinks: Red, White, Something Later

Many people like to have a glass of wine by itself – nothing wrong with that. Others obtain great enjoyment in finding wines that accompany a lot of cuisine and foods. It is true to say that certain wines (and other beverages) pair with numerous dishes, particularly well. White wines accompany fish, seafood, plus a good number of other foods. Reds are very much favoured towards red meats, steaks and casseroles, amongst many more dishes. AMANDLA SAUVIGNON BLANC (12% vol), from South Africa, I found to be crisp, with an enticing bouquet and very good flavours of fruits coming through, for the mouthfeel and palate’s delight. A most popular white wine. SAUVIGNON GRIS (12% vol), from France, is a further, impressive white wine production. Refreshing and most acceptable, using the lesser-known grape, Sauvignon Gris, this wine gives white fruits, for the mouth’s pleasures. Staying with white wines, LOIN de L’OEIL (12% vol) I class as an excellent ‘pleaser’. This French wine has a good bouquet, which leads to flavours of juicy fruits (hint: tropical), for the tastebuds. Red wines hold a very much respectful position, with wine lovers. ALBAROSSA (13% vol) originates from Italy and the grape variety (from 1938) is named after the town of Alba, Piemonte. This smooth production has an abundance of juicy and ripe red fruit flavours. AMANDLA SHIRAZ-ZINFANDEL (14% vol) has arrived from South Africa. A new favourite, with many, this has a hint of spiciness, with its flavour of juicy red and dark fruits. Powerful and rich, for mouthfeel and palate. If rum is a favourite? Certainly, a great number of spirits are hugely popular. DOORLY’S FINE OLD BARBADOS RUM (40% vol) is aged for 5 years. This is ‘classic’. Aged in American white oak casks, the expert method and process of production shows through, to give a splendid, pleasurable nose, which is followed by the wonderful taste. Wallow in the aroma, colour and rich flavour of this delectation. I located these productions at a Waitrose store. Some are in their ‘Loved & Found’ range, which utilises lesser-known grape varieties, to great advantage and are very much worthwhile seeking out. www.waitrose.com As always, Enjoy! Trevor Langley