The Independent's journalism is supported by our readers. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn commission.
Wines of the Week: Azamor, Alentejo, 2007; Château de Fayolle Red 2010; Les Pierres Bordes Marsanne-Viognier, Pays d'Oc, 2011/12
Terry Kirby selects the best bottles to buy
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Sunday lunch
Azamor, Alentejo, 2007
The first of three wines (and suggested food pairings) offering great value for money is a complex blend of traditional Portuguese port varieties such as Touriga Nacional combined with Bordeaux staples such as Merlot and Petit Verdot. Packing real punch, this is powerful, aromatic, with big, ripe, fruit flavours, a kick of spice from some oak and a long finish. Beware of the 14.5 per cent ABV and savour with slow-cooked casserole of pig's cheeks and chorizo. £9.20, slurp.co.uk; £9.99 (minimum order six bottles), aitkenwines.com
Midweek meal
Château de Fayolle Red 2010
An award-winning alternative to its bigger and brasher neighbour in Bordeaux, this is Bergerac rouge at its best and represents a substantial bargain compared with most claret prices. Fruity Merlot lushness again here, with some steel from Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon, all from low-yield vines, aged in oak. Savoury and lip-smacking; a dish of slow-braised duck legs with thyme, bay and garlic would be a great match. £7.95 (minimum six bottles), fromvineyardsdirect.co.uk
Bargain basement
Les Pierres Bordes Marsanne-Viognier, Pays d'Oc, 2011/12
Most Wine Society bottles below £7 represent good value for money and they have kept many prices below inflation for some time now. Make a retro moules marinière (plus frites) to accompany this lovely, refreshing combination of creamy, peachy Marsanne and aromatic, spicy Viognier from near Saint-Chinian in the middle of the Languedoc. £5.50, thewinesociety.com
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments