Great party wines

Great party wines are there to cater for the masses

I always get asked what is the best wine for a party. This greatly depends on whether you are hosting it or simply bringing a few bottles along.

Great party wines are there to cater for the masses so you may want to leave the Riesling and Gerwutraminer behind. If you want wines of mass appeal you will need to choose ones that are easy drinking with or without food, fruity but not sweet and crisp but not over acidic. Sound difficult? Not really. Here are a few ideas for you to try. If you are unsure always ask your local wine merchant for advice.

Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand. Try to pick up ones from Marlborough. Widely enjoyed and consistently good. Juicy and mouth-watering, with lime, passion fruit, kiwi and minerals. Priced between £7-£25

Pinot Grigio from Italy deluged in the past by poor quality acidic liquid, recently has seen great improvements. Lively acidity and coiffable in quantity. It's very worth while spending a few pounds more so look out for good quality Pinot at £6 - £12.

Argentinian Torrontes is best known as Argentina's number-one white wine, but not so well known over here. Known for its floral aromas, being related to the Muscat family. Lightly spicy, with the smell of white flowers. Look out for Torrontes Riojano the most widely planted and aromatic. Great value at £6 - £10.

Spanish Tempranillo Rose. A native Spanish variety and main grape in Rioja wines. The rose colour is created by the result of skin contact method at low temperature. The Tempranillo adds great body making it a fantastic for those who have rose hang ups. Price between £7 - £10.

Beaujolais-Villages from France. These are soft, fruity, easy-sipping red wines and one of my favourite. Made from the Gamay grape, the light fruity red wines of Beaujolais are perfect for a light lunchtime drink or with cold cuts. Once you have tried this grape you will be hooked. It is incredibly versatile and drinkable, with or without food. Priced from £7 - £25.

Italian Prosecco is an Italian sparkling wine. Generally a dry or extra dry wine; normally made from Glera grapes. Famous for the main ingredient in Bellini cocktails, this sparkling wine has now started to compete with champagne. Just like its French counterpart it comes in many different styles. However, it can be picked up from just £7. You will get a deliciously elegant one for £14 - £15.

Food & Wine by Paul Sheerin
Pshearse@gmail.com