January 2023 - It Must Be Wine O'clock

Wine of the Month: A wine produced in Cambridge from grapes grown in Essex

Gutter & Stars, Strange News from Another Star, Bacchus 2021 (Cambridge)

This is an outstanding Bacchus wine from Gutter & Stars urban winery in Cambridge. Produced from grapes grown in the Crouch Valley in Essex, the wine was awarded ‘Bacchus of the Year’ last year. And deservedly so.

A refreshing, crisp wine with aromas of jasmine, apple and citrus fruits on the nose, and green apple with subtle hints of peach and minerality on the palate. This is a well-balanced wine which can be enjoyed by itself, with seafood, white meat, a vegetable dish or light risotto.

Available from Gutter & Stars and Grape Britannia (£22-£24)

History in a glass: Commandaria, one of the world’s oldest wines

Keo St John’s Commandaria (Cyprus)

Though it is not easy to find Commandaria in the UK, it is well worth tracking down!

This luscious Cypriot dessert wine has a history dating back to the Crusades and is produced from the indigenous grape varieties Mavro and Xynisteri grown on the slopes of the Troodos Mountains and dried in the sun for ten days before they are pressed.

With aromas of dried fruit and spices, and flavours of caramel, honey and nuts, this is an outstanding dessert wine.

Enjoy it by itself, with cheese or desserts. We had it with tiramisu – heavenly!

Available from Aspris & Son and Drink Supermarket (£11.79, 50cl.)

A little winter sunshine from Crete …

Lyrarakis Assyrtiko 2021 (Crete)

If you’re looking for a little winter sunshine to brighten up these grey January days, this Assyrtiko white wine from Crete is just the ticket.

This is a dry wine with a crisp, refreshing acidity. It has pronounced aromas of honey, together with apple and peach, on the nose, and flavours of apple, pear and peach on the palate.

It is a well-balanced, medium-bodied wine with a long finish that can be enjoyed as an apéritif, and is also an excellent match for a seafood or chicken dish.

Available from Majestic (£11.99, Mix Six £9.99)