Wines of the week: Three big reds for the cold weather

As the frost starts to bite and winter sets in, Terry Kirby finds the perfect wines to cultivate a cocoon

Friday 13 January 2017 10:35 EST

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

The Cabernet Sauvignon grape has become ubiquitous around many parts of the wine world and the basis of many blends. It is especially fine to reach for at the moment when we need big, meaty, and rich red wines to sustain us through the cold months.

From Spain

Conde de San Cristobal – Marques de Vargas 2012

A wonderfully elegant bottle design reflects the sophisticated and modern Ribero del Duero inside. It’s made by a top-notch estate, with the steely structure of Cabernet Sauvignon giving backbone to the blackberry fruit richness of Tempranillo and Merlot. An opulent, lush wine, perfectly suited to big, winter casseroles or tomato-based pasta bakes.

£15.99 majestic.co.uk

From the United States

Wente Vineyards Southern Hills Cabernet Sauvignon 2013

Plenty of elegant structure is also present in this pure Cabernet wine from California’s Livermore Valley. But the cooler climate results in a slightly lighter and restrained wine than the previous one, with fresher fruit flavours to the fore, underpinned with a touch of spice. Balanced and appealing. Ideal with a rare steak or grilled lamb.

£11.95 winedirect.co.uk

From Australia

Deep Woods Estate Redlands Cabernet Sauvignon Shiraz 2013

From the region in Western Australia that brings out the best of the grape, the Shiraz here contributes spice and rich-red fruit notes to the plum and chocolaty flavours of the Cabernet. A full-bodied, smooth, powerful wine, this is ready to drink now but will get even better with time. Decant well in advance and a rare rib of beef or a leg of lamb would be in order.

£14.99 laithwaites.co.uk

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Thank you for registering