Wine Lust

Last week, when everyone went Fifty Shades of mad about a certain film, I tweeted that my abiding memory of the book was the wine descriptions. Specifically, how delicious they sounded (there was definitely a cool, crisp Chablis at some point; and I think there was a Sancerre and a Pouilly Fume too, always perfectly chilled and with not too much poured into big glasses). The response to my tweet was mostly one of horror that of all the things that stuck out (sorry), it was the wine. But it was ever thus. I used to love watching Brothers & Sisters: not only did they drink delicious looking red from beautiful glasses, but the family owned a vineyard! And in St Elmo's Fire, I remember Andrew McCarthy ringing Demi Moore from a smart restaurant for wine advice (she tells him to go for Puligny Montrachet) - but I can't remember the ending. I think I need to get out more. Just not to see Fifty Shades.

Current white in the fridge: Ara Pinot Gris 2014, £10.99, Waitrose
The Pinot Gris (also known as Pinot Grigio) grape is technically grey and the colour of the wine made from it ranges enormously. Fifty shades of Gris, if you like. Anyway, this one's from the Marlborough region in New Zealand, more famous for Sauvignon Blanc. With a pink tinge to it, think really fresh nectarine and pear flavours. Not an everyday wine at over £10 but lip-bitingly good - and refreshingly different. Memorable, too. 

Current red on the side: Tesco Finest Argentinian Malbec 2013, £6.49 on offer (normally £7.99), Tesco
The thing about these supermarket finest/taste the difference/extra special ranges is that the wineries behind the wines are often really good. You might just have to squint to find their names on the label (and sometimes their name won't be on there at all). This one's made by an Argentinian producer called Catena, one of the best in the country when it comes to Malbec. And their take on Malbec is perfect for the price, full of dark berry and cherry fruit flavours and a pinch of spice. Needs meat. 

Peace out, winos x

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