Wines of the week: Les Pionniers NV Champagne; Casa Silva Reserva Carmenère 2009; Banfi Mandrielle Sangiovese 2009
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.New Year's aperitif
Les Pionniers NV Champagne
If you are planning on celebrating the New Year and need to stock up on fizz, this sparkler from a retailer whose stores are mostly open today was recently rated a Best Buy by Which? in a test of supermarket champagnes for less than £35. It's not difficult to see why – light, crisply refreshing and with a nice long finish, it would be great for gatherings or as an aperitif with canapés and fishy starters. £17.99, Co-operative stores
New Year's lunch
Casa Silva Reserva Carmenère 2009
A wonderfully soft and smooth Carmenère from one of Chile's most reliable producers. Great aromas of ripe fruits and spices give way to rich, mouth-filling flavours of juicy blackberries, some chocolate and coffee, together with a balancing touch of oak. A great bottle for any roast meats, particularly chicken, and capable of handling Middle Eastern-style dishes. Wine Rack stores are also open today. £9.99, Wine Rack; £8.99, averys.com; £9, michaeljoblingwines.com (2007/08; minimum purchase 12 bottles)
Light dinner
Banfi Mandrielle Sangiovese 2009
Need a little Mediterranean cuisine to make a change from all that seasonal food over the past week or so? And are budgets tight after present-buying splurges? This wine fits both requirements – a good price for a robust, juicy, medium-bodied, straightforward bottle that is perfect for a pizza or a bowl of pasta with tomato-based sauces. £5.99 (each for two bottles, if bought as part of six-bottle minimum purchase; normally £8.99), majestic.co.uk
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments