In The Press | Jamie Oliver's Drinks Tube

"The X Factor Essential" | The Money Spider, D’Arenberg, 2012

The grape geeks among you may be surprised at the suggestion of an autumnal white from the roussanne grape, but stick with me; in a glass of this roussanne you will find everything you’d want, and more.

Roussanne is a grape normally harnessed to marsanne and viognier in the Rhone Valley. However, this fantastic South Australia producer has taken an incredibly unappreciated grape and allowed it to be the star all on its own. With its perfumed scent of fresh pear, apricot and honeysuckle, it soothes your weary limbs like entertainment television does on a Saturday night. On the palate, concentrated summer fruits combine with a dollop of Greek yoghurt freshness, all underlined with a moreish, nutty backbone.

Aromatic, intense and weighty, yet elegant – everything you could desire! Picture Mel B’s assertion, Cheryl Cole’s seductive beauty, Simon Cowell’s gravitas and Louis Walsh’s…. well Louis Walsh’s light freshness. No food needed, just a sofa, a fire and some trashy TV.

Review by Amelia Singer - Wine enthusiast & consultant