The wines to match

You might question whether wine is an appropriate drink to turn to for this quintessentially comforting ‘nursery’ pudding, but there’s something quite celebratory about a homely recipe like this and its associated memories, especially if you’re sharing it with friends. So why not? Given the citrus element

I’d be tempted to go for something orangey – a Spanish Moscatel would be a very affordable choice, or you could try an Orange Muscat such as Andrew Quady’s Essensia from California or Brown Brothers Orange Muscat & Flora from Australia, as below. (An Aussie late-harvest Semillon would actually work, too.)

Stepping up the richness, I wouldn’t be averse to a marmaladey Passito di Pantelleria from Sicily or a (relatively young) Hungarian Tokaji, either. I also like the idea of a sweet (dolce) Marsala or a cream Sherry or Montilla, which would bring a raisiny element to the party. Two other leftfield choices which are non wine-related would be spiced chai tea or – especially indulgent – a shot of Grand Marnier liqueur. Wine suggestions from decanter.com –

Try: Brown Brothers Orange Muscat & Flora, Victoria, Australia 2022 89

£8.50-£9.95/37.5cl Tesco, The Fine Wine Co

It’s helpful when the two grape varieties that comprise the wine’s name describe its taste (here we have 80% Orange Muscat and 20% Flora). Delicate orange blossom, juicy grapiness, ripe apricot and runny honey aromas and flavours, with a clean finish and fresh acidity. Drink 2024-2026 Alc 9.5%

Try: Martinez, Superiore Riserva 5 Year Old Dolce, Marsala, Sicily, Italy 90

£9/37.5cl Ocado

Marsala’s not just for tiramisu or zabaglione – this sweet style, with a minimum 100g/L of residual sugar, is a fresh alternative to cream Sherry and would be delicious with a slice of fruitcake. The round, creamy palate is packed with notes of nutty toffee, dried figs and vanilla oak spice. Drink 2024-2026 Alc 18%