...And to drink?
In the 1980s Oddbins launched Australian wine in the British market with great success. In the 1990s they did it again with Chile and in the 2000s it was Greece’s turn to receive the Oddbins treatment. It was a bridge too far. The superb Greek selection sat on the shelves gathering dust. This setback seemed to aff ect buyers’ confi dence and the subsequent range became very conservative. Happily, the old pioneering spirit is back. Oddbins now has the most exciting range on the high street, off ering consistent good value on individual bottles. And if you’re like me, you’ll be pleased that there is once again a good Greek selection. Here are some of the best buys.
To order or for details of branches: 0800-328 2323, www.oddbins.com
Mullineux Family Kloof Street 2013, £13
Mainly Syrah with a dollop of other Rhône varieties, this comes from one of South Africa’s most lauded new producers. This is their entry-level red and in its delightful freshness it epitomises everything that’s good about the new wave of South African wines.
Mediterra Mirambelo 2010, £10
From Crete, this is an old Oddbins favourite. It smells of cherry drops with a little leather. It tastes mature and has a slightly nutty fi nish like a port but with plenty of freshness.
Moulin des Chênes Lirac 2012, £12.50
Wine from Lirac can be rather four-square and meaty. Not this one. It’s all grace and fragrance to go with the plums and spices. This might be down to the unusually high percentage of Cinsault in the mix.
Filipa Pato FP Branco 2013, £11.75
A blend of Bical and Arinto, it smells of lemon rind and flowers. It’s tangy and concentrated.
To order or for details of branches: 0800-328 2323, www.oddbins.com
Mullineux Family Kloof Street 2013, £13
Mainly Syrah with a dollop of other Rhône varieties, this comes from one of South Africa’s most lauded new producers. This is their entry-level red and in its delightful freshness it epitomises everything that’s good about the new wave of South African wines.
Mediterra Mirambelo 2010, £10
From Crete, this is an old Oddbins favourite. It smells of cherry drops with a little leather. It tastes mature and has a slightly nutty fi nish like a port but with plenty of freshness.
Moulin des Chênes Lirac 2012, £12.50
Wine from Lirac can be rather four-square and meaty. Not this one. It’s all grace and fragrance to go with the plums and spices. This might be down to the unusually high percentage of Cinsault in the mix.
Filipa Pato FP Branco 2013, £11.75
A blend of Bical and Arinto, it smells of lemon rind and flowers. It’s tangy and concentrated.