Michaels Grapevine

January – is generally a period of abstinence after all the indulgences of Christmas and New Year.  We all make resolutions to shed a few pounds, drink less and generally purge ourselves.

I have a friend who always gives up alcohol for a month he says it makes him feel virtuous, however he does choose his alcohol free sabbatical for the month of February – being the shortest month!  This year the poor lad will have to suffer an extra day with it being a leap year!

January can be a bit of a tricky month for me.  It is the time of year when I receive lots of invitations to trade tastings – so being totally alcohol free is problematical.  I know we professionals spit out when we are doing serious tasting, however it is post tasting that the trouble starts, when fellow merchants gather for a chat and the obligatory glass of wine, this generally leads on to us decamping to a nearby hostelry for a cleansing ale.  I have decided I am going to be extra good between tastings (well, we will see how long it lasts).

This time of the year need not be all doom and gloom.  We can look forward to Valentine’s Day on February 14^th.  I think the world would be a better place if we can all be kinder and courteous to each other.  So let’s make an effort this Valentine’s day, I am not suggesting that we all indulge in hot raging passion – but if that is your thing – go ahead!  What I am suggesting is we add a little innocent romance to our lives and where is the best place to start but by indulging in a glass or two of pink bubbles.

I naturally turn to our Rose Champagne from Joseph Perrier.  Predominantly made from Pinot Noir, the grapes are from Joseph Perrier’s own vineyards in Cumieres it is a rich and fairly full style of Champagne, lovely on its own but even better with food.  I am also enjoying at the moment our new Italian fizz which comes from our Prosecco producer the Rosato Spumante Castello, this is very much lighter in style and very quaffable and at £10.56 affordable!

So come on lets be kinder and courteous to each other over a glass or two....