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Wines of the week: Three big reds for the cold weather

As the frost starts to bite and winter sets in, Terry Kirby finds the perfect wines to cultivate a cocoon

Terry Kirby
Friday 13 January 2017 15:35 GMT
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The Cabernet Sauvignon grape has become ubiquitous around many parts of the wine world and the basis of many blends. It is especially fine to reach for at the moment when we need big, meaty, and rich red wines to sustain us through the cold months.

From Spain

Conde de San Cristobal – Marques de Vargas 2012

A wonderfully elegant bottle design reflects the sophisticated and modern Ribero del Duero inside. It’s made by a top-notch estate, with the steely structure of Cabernet Sauvignon giving backbone to the blackberry fruit richness of Tempranillo and Merlot. An opulent, lush wine, perfectly suited to big, winter casseroles or tomato-based pasta bakes.

£15.99 majestic.co.uk

From the United States

Wente Vineyards Southern Hills Cabernet Sauvignon 2013

Plenty of elegant structure is also present in this pure Cabernet wine from California’s Livermore Valley. But the cooler climate results in a slightly lighter and restrained wine than the previous one, with fresher fruit flavours to the fore, underpinned with a touch of spice. Balanced and appealing. Ideal with a rare steak or grilled lamb.

£11.95 winedirect.co.uk

From Australia

Deep Woods Estate Redlands Cabernet Sauvignon Shiraz 2013

From the region in Western Australia that brings out the best of the grape, the Shiraz here contributes spice and rich-red fruit notes to the plum and chocolaty flavours of the Cabernet. A full-bodied, smooth, powerful wine, this is ready to drink now but will get even better with time. Decant well in advance and a rare rib of beef or a leg of lamb would be in order.

£14.99 laithwaites.co.uk

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