It's been a while - but the builders have (at least for now) gone and I can get at my wine rack again.
So - this week I have been reacquainting myself with :
1. Aldi - Minarete - Ribera del Duero
A complete bargain at a paltry £5.49. Bright, fruity, no harsh tannins or oakiness. Excellent with steak and salad, or even with a cheese and crackers snack.
https://www.aldi.co.uk/en/product-range/drinks/wine-cellar/red-wine/red-wine-product-detail-page/ps/p/minarete-ribera-del-duero/
2. Waitrose - Lustau East India Solera Sherry
About as far as you can get from the traditional sweet, 'bristol' sherries.
Almost black in colour, a huge mouthful of raisins and complex dark fruit flavours. Drink as an aperitif with olives, or as a pudding wine with tarte au citron. It's a huge bargain at £10.49
http://www.waitrose.com/shop/ProductView-10317-10001-15045-Lustau+East+India+Solera+Sherry
3. Talisker Dark Storm
I can't fib - my bottle of this actually came back from a foreign airport - look out for it, if you are travelling.
It's brilliant - loads of seaweed and iodine - but not the total medicinal hit of a Bowmore or Laphroaig. Drink (with a splash of spring water) as a reviver after a cold walk - or with cheese after a meal. Also available (although a tad dear) at Waitrose :
http://www.waitrosecellar.com/popular-spirit-brands/talisker-storm-scotch-malt-whisky?gclid=CjwKEAjwx9KpBRCAiZ_tgYKWvhQSJABQjGW-Cmf173Ol3E-oTfRjfzB0EpwF2KjZKrvjLnAUvQ8kIhoCRV_w_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds
4. Leffe Ruby
A most refreshing (although deceptively alcoholic - be careful) fruit beer. On a hot summer's day I'd be pushed to find a better thirst quencher.
http://www.tesco.com/groceries/product/details/?id=283980356
Bottoms Up
D xx