Out Of The Bottle

With David Ellis

Sparkling Pinot Chardonnay & Cabernet Merlot

Come July 14 and all good Frenchmen and dedicated Francophiles will be thinking nothing other than food and wine as they celebrate France’s biggest anniversary, Bastille Day.

And if you’d like to join in, but are not quite sure of what to put on the table, think about starting your celebrations with party-size herbed goat cheese and tomato tarts, served with a Les Petites Vignettes’ non-vintage Sparkling Pinot Chardonnay. From maker Maison de Grand Esprit’s Burgundy vineyards, the acidity in this bubbly is a nice foil to the creaminess of the goat cheese ($25.99 a bottle.)

Follow it up with – what else? – traditional Coq au Vin and a Les Petites Vignettes Burgundy Pinot Noir 2007, that also at $25.99 is a perfect match for the rich chicken, bacon, red wine and garlic flavours of the Coq au Vin.

And to end what could be more French than Crepes Suzette? Serve these delights with a late harvest dessert-style Alsace Pinot Gris 2007 from the same maker ($32.99 a half bottle) – you’ll find the sweetness of the wine stands up delightfully against the citrus flavours of the Crepes.

Just remember to begin each course with a hearty Bon Appétit!

One For Lunch

Margaret River, Geographe and Mount Barker all have fine reputations for producing outstanding quality Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, and maker Evans & Tate has brought together examples of both varieties from all three regions for their 2009 Gnangara Cabernet Merlot.

This is a classic Cabernet Merlot with bright flavours of forest fruit and fresh blackcurrants, combined with soft, succulent tannins. Great value at just $13.99 for a Sunday barbecue of char-grilled steaks.

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