Cyprus Gourmet on wine: Thinking about Christmas

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This week and for the next three weeks I am looking at wines for the Christmas and New Year season which can be enjoyed at lunch, dinner or a party. All, for me, are good value at their price.
Starting with five reds – one local, one French, one Lebanese and two Italian – which will drink well with many foods gracing our tables in the coming season.
Ayios Onoufrios 2007 – 2008, from Vasilikon Winery, Kathikas. Widely available: around €5.20. The almost ubiquitous Cyprus red – not always the darling of the posh wine writers but beloved of the wine drinking public. Always fruity, well balanced and lively – it seems to go with almost anything meaty or cheesy. Perennial favourite with me since its first vintage in 1996.
Campofiorin 2006 and Brolo di Campofiorin 2006, from Masi. €14.50 and €19.50 respectively, from Spectus. Two interesting wines from Masi, a big name in Valpolicella, famous for its Amarone wines, often using the Ripasso process of naturally increasing the richness, texture and body. They might be termed ‘little brother’ and ‘big brother’; offering similar quite crisp, dry almost austere notes, with the more expensive being, well, more expansive. Good with all kinds of pasta (except fish and shellfish), grilled pork and veal and medium bodies casseroles.
E. Guigal, Côtes du Rhône, 2006 – 2007. From La Maison du Vin shops €12.00. Another perennial favourite. Deep colour, warm red and blackcurrant notes with the balance of great blending from wines bought in by this marvellous producer. Duck, goose, turkey, lamb beef – casseroles, barbecues strong cheeses – this will match. Festive France!
Le Prieuré, 2006, from Chateau Ksara, Lebanon. Around €10.00 from Intercellars, Nicosia and Ghalanos offices. With a majority make-up of the Bordeaux staple grape Cinsault, this classy red blend emits very bright red fruit, good acidity and a very satisfying finish. Its individualistic style seems to mix Old and New worlds – but is a delight with Mezze, spicy meats, pastas and Middle Eastern food.