An article from The Times (link might no longer be public by the time you read this) discusses how London has become the fine wine capital of the world, boasting more restaurants serving top-tier wines than any other city. However, while some people indulge in extravagant vintages, the real measure of a fine wine isn’t its price but its complexity and finish.
Jane MacQuitty, The Times wine critic, suggests a simple 30-second test to determine wine quality. The longer the taste lingers after swallowing, the better the wine. Wines that last over 30 seconds indicate true excellence, while anything under five seconds is deemed poor.
MacQuitty also shares insights on what makes a fine wine, cautioning against being swayed by price marketing or awards. She highlights that great wines can come from various regions and grapes, although she believes pinot grigio and cinsault rarely reach fine wine status. Her advice is to develop a broad tasting experience rather than relying on labels and trends.
She also recommends twelve wines that provide excellent quality for their price:
Six Fine Whites:
- 2020 Ovitelli Yangara Estate, McLaren Vale, Australia – vinvm.co.uk, £55
- 2022 Hatzidakis Santorini Familia Assyrtiko, Greece – thewinesociety.com, £30.50
- Sugrue Bonkers Zombie Robot Alien Monsters Chardonnay, West Sussex – sugruesouthdowns.com, £29
- 2021 Finest Chablis Premier Cru, France – Tesco, £23
- 2021 Hunter’s Offshoot Marlborough Chardonnay, New Zealand – jeroboams.co.uk, £22.50
- 2023 Heaphy Hill Riesling, New Zealand – Waitrose, £9.99 (down from £13.99)
Six Fine Reds:
- 2020 Mullineux Granite Syrah, Swartland, South Africa – bbr.com, £94
- 2020 San Vicente Rioja, Spain – thewinesociety.com, £48.50
- 2021 Dog Point Pinot Noir, Marlborough, New Zealand – Majestic, £40
- 2019 Tommasi Amarone Classico della Valpolicella, Veneto, Italy – waitrosecellar.com, £35.99 (down from £44.99)
- 2016 La Réserve de Sociando Mallet, Bordeaux – Tesco, £28.50
