Wine with Gerard Richardson

WITH Valentine’s Day approaching the big question is what sort of drink will woo the love of your life?

Well, producers of Champagne, sparklers and roses are going to excommunicate me for this, but don’t waste your money on anything unless you’re sure it’s a drink they actually enjoy!

Most of us don’t actually choose to drink bubbly and, while we may accept a glass at an event, the real question is whether you would you buy it for a relaxing romantic evening at home.

Same goes for rose, which I love, but my dad used to say was nowt ’n’ summat. No folks, if your lover is a merlot fan then swat the moths away from your wallet and buy a stonker from the Napa valley.

If they like rose, then dig deep and get a single estate corker from Provence (other regions available but why bother?)

You see, having just turned 60, I’ve realised that the key to all this isn’t societal conformity, it’s showing that you truly know your partner and are giving them a treat, not a bottle to re-gift.

Riccitelli Tinto de la Casa Malbec, Mendoza

The simple label with the lady in a polka dot dress belies the true nature of this fabulous and deeply complex malbec. Ripe warm berries on the nose with black pepper, cocoa and lashings of smooth autumn fruits on the palate.

It’s an old fashioned masterpiece of a malbec.

Pop Wines Glasgow £24

Isle of Barra ‘Sealed with a Kiss’ Rhubarb & Heather gin liqueur

I rarely write about anything without trying it first but this one just looks so right for the occasion that I had to mention it. Their Atlantic Gin is world class so it’s got good roots.