According to Lorraine Candy, editor of Elle magazine, it’s easier to run an office of 40 than build a Lego fort. You don’t say. When I was on maternity leave after Eldest Boy was born it was obviously joyous, but it was also mind-numbingly monotonous at times. Engaging with little people against a backdrop of dirty washing and a toy-covered kitchen floor whilst running a free canteen and taxi service (with complimentary bottom-wiping, obviously) is hard work. Being in an office, having grown-up conversations, drinking a cup of coffee that’s not gone cold, sitting in relative peace on the journey home? ‘Tis the stuff of dreams. And they call it work…
This week’s white in the fridge: Terre a Verre Picpoul de Pinet 2009, £10, Source Wines
We had a wine tasting to raise a bit of money for Middle Boy’s school earlier this week and this was one of the stars in the line up. The grape is Picpoul, meaning ‘lip-stinger’, apparently because of the high acidity of the grape. I promise you it doesn’t sting. It does tingle, though. The delicate jasmine-scented aromas, peach-like fruit flavours and crisp acidity are brilliantly balanced. From the Coteaux de Languedoc region in the South of France, it is a gorgeous example of this underrated grape. Loves food, especially my chicken curry (mild).
This week’s red on the side: Piccini Supertuscan 2008, £8.54, Tesco
This wine is a so-called ‘super-tuscan’ because the blend of grapes used is not the traditional blend required for it to be labelled as Chianti. This particular one is mostly Sangiovese (as with Chianti) but with a bit of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon added for good measure. Be prepared: this is big, bold, herby and blackcurranty with an added whack of spice just when you think the wine’s work is done. You can feel the acidity and it makes your mouth water, so add food for best results, preferably something meaty or spicy. Or both. I bought it when on offer a few weeks ago – half price I think – but we’ve run out. I’ll shout when it’s on offer again.
Now, fancy winning a trip to Valentine’s trip to Venice via Naked Wines? Me too. Click here for details.
Pip pip x
This Super Tuscan sounds yummy! I will pass this on to my brother so he can get some for me to try on my trip home in April.
Vinogirl – it IS good, really good!
Work is definitely easier than childcare. Pass the wine!
Dear Knackered Mother,
I am going to visit my best friend next Sunday (20th). She lives near a very large Tesco. I personally do not like Tesco because I believe they are attempting world domination, however; that is where she likes to shop. We would like to get utterly trashed, as elegantly as possible, for as little money as possible. Can you help?
Bring on world domination…eagerly awaiting the spring opening of Fresh & Easy in Napa. I will spend every grocery dollar I have there…Rule Britannia!
I have been enjoying reading your blog and have given you a Stylish Blogger Award! Check it out at http://karenandnigella.blogspot.com/2011/02/precious-paella.html
NVG – liking your style
Troutie – sounds beautiful. Red, white, sparkles or all three?
Vinogirl – woo-hoo!
The likelihood is white, possibly sparkly, and my dear friend is partial to a rose occasionally. XXX
Troutie – I'm on it x
Troutie – Maschio Prosecco Spumante Extra Dry 75Cl is currently half price to £5.99, start with that one. After that, go for Tesco Finest Ken Forrester Chenin Blanc (a South African white), currently 2 for £10, normally £5.99. If you're still thirsty, try the Casillero Shiraz Rose, on offer at £4.99 rather than the usual £6.99. Tell me what you think and have a brilliant night x
Domestic Goddess Wannabe – thank you! x
You are a superbly lovely lady. Can't wait to get trashed on your reccommendations! I can't work Twitter. I can't even get past the homepage – I just don't understand it!!!!! And its not even like I am usually shit at these things. I am definitely more low-tech than hi-tec but Twitter is something I should be able to master…..
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If you wish to join a wine club it is great if you could find a promotion code online. This way you some extra dollars. Everything is now accessible online you just have to rake advantage of it.