The leaves are falling faster than Prime Ministers, so put on some warm clothes and heat yourself up internally with these vote winning wines.
The largest AOC wine growing region in France with 65 appellations Bordeaux is also the birthplace of the varietals Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Sauvignon and Semillon.
Harmonising these varietals is the secret of Bordeaux’s success in delivering wines for all occasions, simple aperitifs to wines for gourmet dining at a grand price.
This selection of Bordeauxs is well worth putting in your cellar, or into your kitchen wine rack if you’re not actually living in a castle. Not that they will stay there long, being delightfully both affordable and drinkable.
TImberlay Brut Crémant De Bordeaux NV
Fizz isn’t all about champagne, and when you fancy something vivacious and fresh that won’t break the bank this fine little bubbly is just the ticket.
Crémants are made using the same methods as champagne, but because they’re made outside of the region they can’t be called champagne. In fact some Crémants are even made as far away as Luxembourg. They are all made to very exacting standards though, which are enforced by law.
This Crémant de Bordeaux is made with 80% Semillon and 20% Merlot and has lovely floral and citrus notes. You’ll find it in Marks & Spencer for £9.00.
Château de Seuil, Bordeaux Rosé, 2021
Thoughts don’t usually turn to Rosé at this time of year, the marketing men and women have put so much effort into selling Rosé as the summer drink it seems almost weird to be uncorking one as the rain lashes down outside.
Why not though? You don’t have to serve it super cold, in fact you will do your rose a solid if you serve it just lightly chilled, which if our energy bills get any higher will soon be normal room temperature.
This one has fruity floral aromas, classic crab apple flavours and a crisper bite than some. It’s 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc and it’s yours from Virgin Wines for £10.99.
Château Montlau, Entre Deux Mers, 2021
Even though it’s autumn I still find myself eating less meat and more fish and shellfish, and while it is possible, and often pleasurable, to have certain red wines with fish the fact is that you can’t go wrong with a decent white.
This one has zesty lemon freshness, which makes it sound like I’m describing a washing up liquid, but this is what you want with fish because you’ll often have a lemon on the plate.
A blend of 60% Muscadelle, 30% Semillon and 10% Sauvignon Blanc it punches well above its price which is a mere £7.00 from Blanco & Gomez Wines