Domaine Sainte Rose Le Sirocco Unoaked Chardonnay, Côteaux du Languedoc 2002.
Domaine Sainte Rose La Garrigue Syrah-Grenache- Carignan 2002.
Domaine Sainte Rose Le Sirocco Unoaked Chardonnay, Côteaux du Languedoc 2002.
From an exciting new property run by Irishman Charles Simpson backed by a group of 12 Irish investors, six from the North and six from the South (there's a story for the guests), this is a really stylish wine. Hints of nougat are countered by refreshing lemon crispness. Perfect with salmon, ham, chicken, salads . . . From James Nicholson, www.jnwine.com, 10.99.
Domaine Sainte Rose La Garrigue Syrah-Grenache- Carignan 2002.
My favourite red from the Simpson range - a concentrated mouthful of dark fruit and spicy richness with a firm, dry finish. Fans of red will love this intensely flavoured, characterful wine, but if you're worried that it may be a bit too robust for granny and the aunts, there's also Le Mistral Merlot 2002 - much softer and a touch sweeter. Classy looking bottles, all. From James Nicholson, www.jnwine.com, €11.95.