As a change from the routine I’m writing about summery wines which go with almost anything because at this time of year catering can be impromptu and parties can involve a huge selection of food (especially if everyone is bringing along a dish).
If you like a bit of continuity it’s good to have a wine in the house that is effectively your house wine. This is especially useful if you’re doing a lot of entertaining and catering for different dietary requirements. Choose a versatile light white such as the Charentais Sauvignon from Domaine Gardrat which is crisp dry and nettle-y and goes well with fish and chicken as well as making a delicious aperitif.
In the summertime it’s good to add a rosé wine to your repertoire – it makes such a pretty aperitif and is somehow only quaffable in sunny weather. A light rosé which is popular with our friends is the Côtes de Gascogne rosé from Domaine Millet – with a screw-cap and just 11.5 per cent it is ideal for picnics and parties.
A good go-with-almost-anything red is the Saumur from Château Fouquet which is robust enough to go with red meat and cheese but doesn’t overpower lighter dishes. Alternatively the Gamay de l’Ardèche is light and summery enough to drink chilled while you wait for the barbecue to get going.
By: Pippa Goldfinger
