An Occasional Tipple: Straight to business with wonderful wine

Just one preliminary observation. To a normal journalist, trained to write directly and with extreme economy, 500 words to recommend three or four bottles of wine probably seems ample. But wine writers, and I confess to being one of the worst offenders, tend to indulge themselves in more florid, sesquipedalian descriptions so this presents quite a challenge. Upon which note, to biz.

First among near equals but just about gaining the nod by no more than the shortest of short heads to be sure to be sure to be sure as today’s WINE OF THE WEEK is the sumptuous, smooth and superbly balanced 2019 Chateau Moulin de Taffard Medoc AOC ( £9.49, Lidl). Exceptionally ripe blackcurrant and cherry flavours complement a lively, brambly character in this rustic Bordeaux red which will go wonderfully well with the hearty beef casserole which I intend to make for supper tomorrow evening at my lovely home, Rose Cottage, which I share with my beloved wife, Madame G., our adorable infant son, Gregory and our menagerie of pets.

It'll be tight but I think we can just about do it. My second selection is another big, brooding red which will go very nicely with hearty autumnal stews- the rustic, opulent and vibrantly aromatic, not to mention organic, sustainable and vegan-friendly, 2022 Purato Nero d'Avola (available from good independent wine stores, generally around £10). A full-bodied yet delicately spiced Sicilian red, brimful of ripe, concentrated cherry and blackberry flavours alongside notes of black pepper and coriander before a lengthy, deeply satisfying and very savoury finish.

Lovers of white, you have not been forgotten. Should the September sun continue to shine then we’ll be looking for something lightly chilled, upbeat and refreshing. Step forward today’s final recommendation, the ripe, zesty and exceptionally elegant 2021 Petale de Roche Viognier (£6.99, Lidl). Pronounced apricot and stone fruit flavours mingle pleasantly with honey and subtle spices in this delightfully dry French white. One for seafood, poultry or salads. This particular drop comes from what Lidl are calling their French Wine Cellar- a selection of very fine French wines at affordable prices which just started this Thursday and which will be updated every few weeks with bottles which seem ideal for autumn and winter evenings. Worth checking out.

Checking out is also what I’m about to do with, according to my trusty wordcount, almost 50 words to spare. Or to put it another way, just enough time and space to bid you adieu and to encourage you to enjoy your wine in moderation. And in time-honoured fashion to conclude by saying- till next week, tipplers, sante!