On the grapevine

If the thought of another few weeks of campaigning is driving you to drink, then here are a few suggestions you could try. For supporters of the present incumbent, a few bottles of Ch Brown, from Pessac Lognan in Bordeaux might come in handy. Recent renovations at the chteau have improved the wine's style and the fruit has begun to smile a little.

With the expected new arrival in the Cameron camp, wine may be off the shopping list for a while, although a glass or two of Ch David could demonstrate your allegiance to the party. But Ch David has lowly Cru Bourgeois status so perhaps Cycles Gladiator from California better reflects the mood of the opposition.

Nick Clegg fans should be drinking Ch Haut Bages Libral, while the Greens should stick to Vinho Verde from Portugal. Whatever you choose, buy in bulk. This is going to last another three weeks.

Wine events

The Grange in York will hold a Rhne Valley Evening on Thursday with Peter Fawcett of Field and Fawcett presenting a selection of wines to accompany a three-course dinner. Tickets cost 25 and are available on 01904 644744. Also on April 22, Mainly Wine and Whisky of Bawtry will start a new wine course at The Old Vicarage in Fishlake. Running on the third Thursday of each month, each is a stand-alone session, but if you attend them all you will cover wine regions in depth. The cost for each evening is 10 and there will be six to eight wines on show each evening. Book on 01302 714700.