Genuine spring lamb is a treat, but I prefer the mature flavours of hogget and enjoy a slow-roasted shoulder just as much as a leg. If you are looking for something to drink with Easter lamb, the good news is that most red wines, especially those with some tannins, will go perfectly with a roast of lamb.
I feature two classic matches today, but this can also be the occasion to bring out your finest wine. Cabernet sauvignon, cabernet franc, Ribera del Duero or Chianti spring to mind, though a grippy Greek or Mediterranean reds would also be good.
They are very fond of lamb in Spain’s Rioja region, and not surprisingly it goes very well with the local wines. A substantial, spicy bean dish with garlic and pimentón and either stewed lamb or chorizo is best partnered with Joven (unoaked Rioja), or a lightly oaked richer Rioja Crianza. One of their favourite dishes (and mine) is finger-licking chewy lamb cutlets simply grilled on vine cuttings. Of course it’s unlikely you will have dried vine cuttings to hand, but barbecued or quickly grilled chops would do very nicely. I would serve these with a Crianza. However, if you are serving a simple roast, possibly studded with garlic and rosemary, you can bring out your finest Rioja Reserva or Gran Reserva.
Another traditional match for lamb is red Bordeaux. The region even has its own EU GI certified Agneau de Pauillac for young lamb raised in the Gironde. Pauillac would be the ideal choice, but any good Bordeaux, preferably with some nice tannins, will go very nicely with plainly cooked lamb.
[ Easter lamb with a twist and the most simple of puddingsOpens in new window ]
Vin Rouge du Liban 2022, Bekaa Valley
13.5%, €9.99
Medium to full bodied with ripe blackcurrant fruits, an earthy spicy edge and some good dry tannins on the finish. This Lebanese wine would go nicely with roast lamb, firm cheeses or roast aubergines.
From Aldi
Saumur Champigny 2022, Domaine Langlois-Château
14%, €16.47, down from €21.95
A lighter red wine with mouth-watering red cherry and raspberry fruits. Serve lightly chilled with white or red meats or cheesy gratins.
From O’Briens
Marques de Murrieta Rioja Reserva 2020
14%, €24.95 down from €31.95
A classic Rioja Reserva showing vanilla spice, toasted nuts and smooth red cherry fruits. Perfect with roast lamb or pork, or dishes featuring red peppers.
From O’Briens
Château Paveil de Luze 2019, Margaux
13.5%, €45
A very classic Margaux, fragrant and elegant with very stylish ripe blackcurrants and cassis, with light tannins on the finish. You could decant it just before serving. Perfect with any red meats or firm cheeses.
From Whelehan’s, Loughlinstown, Whelehanswines.ie
