REDISCOVERING CABERNET

How many times have you faced this problem? You want to taste something special. Does it mean pricey, original or something you’ve never tried before? Well, you could do a lot worse than rediscover the thick-skinned classic grape of the Medoc, Cabernet Sauvignon, now planted throughout the New World. Try 1999 Beringer Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa Valley, one of the hottest spots for this black variety. Priced at £11.99, it’s not particularly cheap, but bearing in mind that in any London “reasonable” restaurant the cheapest plonk will set you back at least £13.00, it’s a real bargain.

Garnet in colour, smoky, with tobacco and black fruit aromas on the nose, its well balanced tannin and cherry and blackcurrant flavours on the palate will make you want to repeat the experience again and again. So, steady yourself, take a deep breath and let your journey into the wonderful world of Cabernet Sauvignon begin anew.

1999 BERINGER Vineyards, Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, Appellation Collection, 13.5% alcohol.

(Majestic - £11.99; 2 in a case -£9.99; Thresher – £10.99)

Another Cabernet treat is the 2001 Wynns Coonawarra Estate Cabernet Sauvignon which comes from another Cabernet classic region – Coonawarra in Australia with its terra rossa soil designed to produce a powerful and delicious wine.

Dark ruby with garnet rim in colour, with strong blackcurrant, cherry and dry mint on the nose and plenty of black fruit on the palate, it will give you a little lift and grace any occasion.

2001 WYNNS Coonawarra Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Australia, 14% alcohol.

(Oddbins - £10.00, try also Majestic, for other suppliers in the UK and USA, search on www.wine-searcher.com)

If you can afford to splash out about £30, treat yourself to 1998 Wynns John Riddoch Cabernet Sauvignon, Coonawarra, Australia 13.5% alcohol (Tesco, Oddbins)

And finally…
Cabernet Sauvignon goes well with grilled and roasted meats; also with cheeses: gruyere, red Leicester and cheddar, and, surprisingly, with green or black olives.

Cheers!