Book that sparkles with knowledge
Bring me sunshine
Rob at Hoults in Huddersfield (01484 510700) has lapsed into (poor) French to tell his customers about the offer of 20 per cent off all French wines until tomorrow. Top choice on his shelves is Lallier Grand Cru Reserve Brut Champagne at £28. Having tasted through well over a hundred champagnes recently, this one shone out for its light biscuit style and generous, rounded flavours. With sunshine on its way there is always a reason to pop a cork.
Ideal for spring lamb
A rack of lamb at the weekend called for a serious Rioja and CUNE Imperial Reserva 2009 fitted the bill perfectly. Mulberries, spice, oak under control and a lovely, long finish partnered the lamb supremely well. Normally £22 at Majestic this is now £17 when you buy two bottles. Stock up.