Wines of the week: Tenuta Le Calcinaie Gabriele 2006; Vistamar Sepia Pinot Noir Reserva 2011; Espelt Costa Brava 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.Sunday Lunch
Tenuta Le Calcinaie Gabriele 2006
The first of three reds designed to warm up chilly autumn evenings. From Tuscany but not a Chianti or a super-Tuscan blend, this is a 100 per cent Merlot that is the work of a producer known for top-notch whites: richly, earthily warming it is, too, with flavours of chocolate, coffee and blueberries and a long, spicy finish. Savour with a venison steak or game casserole. £14.17 (minimum order 12 bottles), goedhuis.com
Midweek meal
Vistamar Sepia Pinot Noir Reserva 2011
Lighter autumnal meals seem to call for the juicy, berry flavours of Pinot Noir, but forget the overinflated Burgundy prices and opt instead for a stunning Chilean wine: fresh and medium-bodied on the palate, but with big, full fruit flavours and a slight smokiness to round it all off. Superb to accompany a rare loin of tuna with balsamic jus or anything with mushrooms. £8.35, smithfieldwine.com
Bargain basement
Espelt Costa Brava 2009
If you are planning a party or gathering around now, perhaps for Halloween or Bonfire Night, then hustle around to your local Co-op and stock up on this fabulous bargain Spanish red. It's an oak-aged blend of smooth red fruits and spicy undertones deriving from old Garnacha and Carignan vines grown near to the now defunct El Bulli restaurant. Suitable for any roasted or grilled meat, particularly lamb or a tapas selection. £4.99 (normally £9.99; until 30 October), The Co-operative stores
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments