After 14 years running this group this month's meeting was the last for Eric as he has decided to take a deserved rest from Group Leader duties. Over the years he has served hundreds of glasses of wine across over 150 monthly meetings, always with a friendly smile and a steady hand. Fortunately Eric will continue as a member of this group so will be on hand to help the new joint leaders, Sue and Wayne, settle into the role.
For this month's meeting Bruce and Anne presented 3 wines to partner with the pizzas that traditionally replace the cheeses for the November meeting of the group. Their wines were personally chosen by a knowledgeable assistant at Majestic Wines to pair with pizza.
Below are the details of each wine to accompany the food.
Starter
| Pizza Either Meat or Vegetarian |
| Wine Soave Classico |
Main Course
| Pizza Either Meat or Vegetarian |
| Wine Masciarelli Montepulciano |
Dessert
| Pizza Festive Turkey and Cranberry |
| Wine Desire Lush & Zin |
| Country | Italy |
| Region | Soave Classico |
| Producer | Domini Veneti |
| Grape | Garganega, Trebbiano, Chardonnay |
| Year | 2023 |
| Price | £11.99 £9.99 in the Majestic MixSix |
Domini Veneti are best known for their La Casetta Valpolicella Ripasso but this white blend of Garganeta, Trebbiano and Chardonnay grapes is a head-turner in its own right. Produced from grapes grown on volcanic soils in the heart of the Soave Classico region, Domini Veneti pour over 30 years of experience into every bottle. You'll find notes of blossom, citrus and pineapple, plus a creamy texture that pairs well with seafood dishes. Try it with salmon ceviche.
Find out more about wines from Domini Veneti
| Country | Italy |
| Region | Abruzzo |
| Producer | Masciarelli |
| Grape | Mixture |
| Year | 2022 |
| Price | £12.99 £10.99 in the Majestic MixSix |
Abruzzo has seriously strict rules. And you can really taste the quality in this. It's a step up from other Montepulciano, boasting notes of ripe cherries, sweet spices and an alluring hint of smoke. It's comfort food in a bottle.
The fruit for this wine is sourced from nine different single vineyards across the province of Abruzzo. Bright ruby in colour with an attractive nose of violets and red cherry and a juicy fresh palate.
Find out more about wines from Masciarelli.
| Country | Italy |
| Region | Not stated |
| Producer | Pasqua Vigneti e Cantine |
| Grape | Primitivo and Zinfandel |
| Year | 2023 |
| Price | £14.99 £11.99 in the Majestic MixSix |
Love big, bold reds? If so, you've likely tried Californian Zinfandel or Italian Primitivo. These sibling grapes may be genetically identical, but each has its own distinct character. And this velvety bottling combines the best of both. It's a classic earthy Primitivo with a modern twist inspired by the smooth, plush character of Zinfandel. The grapes are macerated in their own juice before fermentation, which dials up the delicious fruity flavour. And six months of oak ageing gives it extra complexity and a silky texture. Discover notes of cherry, plum coffee and cocoa, plus hints of black pepper and vanilla spice. It's the perfect partner for rich tomato-based dishes.
Find out more about wines from Pasqua Vigneti.