It’s a new year and for those not partaking in dry January – or for those looking forward to February – it’s time to try some new things and get out of your slump. Here are my wine “Ins” and “Outs” for 2025.
Ins
Supporting small wine shops – with the rise in MUP, bottles from Tesco and Lidl are only a few quid cheaper than those from independent shops. I’ve been loving Drinksmonger in Tollcross, which has a great collection of more interesting wines for under £10. Wine shops also stock a wider variety than all the small Sainsbury’s locals and it’s great to support small businesses.
Not finishing a bottle of red – finishing bottles immediately, just because it’s open, is out. If you have some leftover cheap red, don’t rush it – leave it a few days to oxidise and soften. This works best for full-bodied reds that feel “aggressive” and overpowering, letting them breathe will break down the tannins and acidity – but still best to drink with 3-4 days and store somewhere cool and dark.
Outs
Pinot Grigio – you’re drinking it because it’s safe and predictable, which is also why it’s loved by 50-year-old wine-aunts the world over. It’s dry, acidic and pretty much always tastes of “peaches and pears”. You can do better, even for pres.
Natural Wines – there I said it. Going beyond organic wines (no fertilisers), natural wine is anti-intervention. They’re often all over the place and not worth the price. Intervention isn’t necessarily bad, millennial hipsters.
What I’ve been drinking recently
Co-Op Argentinian Malbec (£9) blew me away for its richness and well-balanced fruit notes.
Beppe Morchetta Bianco 2018 (£9.50) from aforementioned Drinksmonger, notes of pear, elderflower and mango. Easy to drink and refreshing.
Illustration by Rosie Warwood, @rosiewarwoodart on Instagram.