Charles Lea's Wine List

Wines we are drawn to - in high summer

It has been hot - will it remain so? Rosé of course. But white too. The leaner fresher Blanc de Blancs styles of Champagne shine in the sun. We are still red drinkers even as the thermometers threated to explode. And I'm afraid a bit shameless about putting ice in our wine if the temperature is not right, although many might think that sacrilege it really is better than red at blood heat (or higher). So, in restaurants it's 'could we have a bottle of x, with a glass of ice cubes?'. Ice buckets and the fridge work even better if you have time.

We've just been to visit Luigi Maffini (taking in the astonishing classical site of Paestum which is barely 15 minutes down the hill and is uncrowded and astonishing in its completeness), so one of the whites I recommend without hesitation is his 'Kratos' Fiano - I'm sure it's be the best he's ever made and it remains outstanding value - do try it if you never have - or if you have in previous vintages. The reds here are chosen with a view to being able to put up with some quite rough treatment in terms of being opened and drunk at once and capable of taking a light chill (or more). I've even recommended three Fino sherries - did you know what a terrific match for fresh crab it is ? (assuming the octopi have not had them all) - do try it. As usual I'm in danger of recommending the entire list - which of course I do. Experiment, experiment, experiment, it's the fun of discovery and a big part of the enjoyment of wine. Have fun!

Charles Lea
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