WINNING
REVIEWED BY WES GAME
HUNGRY Disznoko Tokaji Aszu - Furmint
£ 27 – Majestic & Waitrose
In the 18th Century , Tokaji was one of the first wines to be systematically classified and legally protected and has managed to re-establish its reputation in the last 25 years since the fall of communism . 6 Grape varieties are allowed to be used in the making of Tokaji , but Furmint is the most important and most widely used . The grapes are left to go mouldy on the vine to create “ noble rot ”. This creates a golden , intense flavoured , amber coloured juice that some would describe as nectar . With flavours of marmalade and a hint of honey and cinnamon , it is well balanced . The level of sweetness is measured from 3 to 6 Puttonyos . This 5 Puttonyos wine is great with cake or even Christmas pudding !
FRANCE Esprit de Chablis – Chardonnay
£ 20 – Waitrose
This was my first taste of a Premier Cru Chablis and I was pleasantly surprised . I ’ m not a fan of oaked chardonnay mainly because of the Australian wines had I tried . However , this was not just crisp and fresh , like unoaked wine , but also had depth of flavours gained through subtle oak aging . With only 40 Chablis vineyards having Premier Cru status the peach and citrus flavours were a little more elegant . Surprisingly there was a slight creamy texture to the wine which went down very well with my guests . If you want to impress with something a little more special , give your taste buds a treat .
NEW ZEALAND Nanny Goat – Pinot Noir
£ 20 – Waitrose
New Zealand may have a reputation for great Sauvignon Blanc , but Pinot Noir is its No . 2 export . Central Otago , down in the south , is famous for Pinot Noir and accounts for 80 % of its vineyards . This is a lighter , medium bodied red wine with plenty of red fruit aromas and some subtle floral notes . There has been some gentle oak aging by using old French oak . I hadn ’ t realised they had used oak until I read it ! Very delightful with or without food … and I also love the name . Must buy again .
SPAIN Posada Del Rey – Tempranillo
£ 5 Laithwaites
Whilst Spain , the 3rd largest wine producer , is well known for Rioja , this wine is similar in style to a young Rioja . It ’ s medium bodied , unoaked and therefore young and fresh . It has more red fruit flavours including raspberries and cherries as well as a little spice . Almost Italian like . At this price it ’ s not going to have layers of flavours but certainly offers more that I was expecting . A fabulous wine for the price . I have to admit I can ’ t recall the last time I only spent £ 5 on a bottle ! Superb value for money .
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