So the first column that I submitted got lost in an editorial crisis at The Resident (nothing of News of The World proportions you understand). I think that, in fact, the inaugural piece went out this Wednesday, but I haven’t seen a copy, so I can’t confirm it 100% yet. Can you?!
Apologies to those of you who are diligent SWL followers – you might recognise some recycled copy…
I chose a red from Morrisons. Lovely and round with lots of jammy fruit – here’s the piece:
If you’ve been waiting for a wine column in The Resident, well pop the corks! I’ll be here every week, giving the inside track on what’s out there in our local area for all you winelovers-on-a-budget.
I’ll be reviewing one wine per week – ranging around styles and locations. It’ll more than likely be on offer. And I’ll give a suggestion for food to go with.
If you don’t buy online, or head up to Cellar2Glass on The Ridge, then you’ll probably buy at the supermarket.
The trouble is that you can’t taste beforehand. So if you’ve got lots of knowledge already, great. For those that don’t, there’s time for a quick scan at the label before you’re on to the next aisle and the yoghurts. It can be hit and miss.
There are various factors that will influence whether or not the wine will be a good one – grape variety, soil and climate; vintage; classification; the winemaker’s choices about making and ageing the wine; and of course, your own tastes. Choosing well is about being clear about what you want out of your choice.
I’ve started at Morrisons, because that’s where I do my food shopping. I picked the Turning Leaf Vineyards Zinfandel 2009. This is a red wine from California, priced at £5, down from £7.79 – until 17 July.
Ruby in colour, it has blackcurrant and black cherry aromas with some sweet spice too. It’s soft on the mouth and well-balanced – dry, with good acidity and jammy fruit. Will go beautifully with a barbecue, or a lazy Sunday afternoon!
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