RAISE A GLASS

What a few days. I’ve been hot (phew, a September sun), I’ve been rained on (lots and lots). Who knows what the weather gods will be throwing around by the time you’re reading this.

But those few days have also been perfect. I’ve been “out out” – not in a posh frock and lipstick sense – but in a wine sense. I’ve met real wine people at live tasting events.

Bordeaux Day was a joy, and for the first time, I had the chance to taste the wines in the latest Bordeaux Hot 50. I brought you one of them just a couple of weeks ago: Château Pey de Faure 2019 (£12.99, online at Averys).

I’ve now met its wine friends, all of them highlighting the modern approach adopted by Bordeaux winemakers – whether through their techniques or sustainable practices.

The Hot 50 wines are under £25 and chosen to be approachable and appealing. If you’re nervous about trying new wines they’re a great place to start exploring the diversity of the region.

Here are three: A sparkling, a white and a red.

I love a drop of fizz and Premius Crémant de Bordeaux Brut (£RRP £10-£12, Slurp) is gorgeous.

The grapes sémillon, muscadelle and cabernet sauvignon have been cajoled into creating a wine with aromas of fresh and baked apples, toasty bread and baking spice. It is fresh, characterful and zesty.

One of my favourite whites of the day was Château Argadens 2019 (£12.50, tanners-wines.co.uk). It’s vegan, and the vineyards are managed in a way which increases biodiversity and decreases any negative environmental impact. It is also very enjoyable.

The white is a blend of sauvignon blanc (which takes the lead role in this palate performance) and sémillon. The aromas just keep on giving; tangy citrus, especially grapefruit.

A savoury edge adds depth and interest. The flavours zing and twist and delight.

As for the red, there were many to choose from, but for this missive I’ve opted for Roc de Lussac 2019 (£7.75, Sainsbury’s). The wine is from the Saint-emilion appellation where the fruitily plummy merlot grape dominates.

Cabernet sauvignon and cabernet franc are the blending partners in this wine which speaks of red and black fruits, and spice. Tannins play their part in an undemanding way.

The Bordeaux Hot 50 list is online at bordeaux.com/gb/selection

Jane is a member of the Circle of Wine Writers. Find her on social media and online as One Foot in the Grapes.