Château de Pennautier 2007
Well, the stock markets are in another tizz. Up and down like the price of US claret. This time Dubai is the potential bad debt – yes the entire state! I am not sure what all the fuss is about. I understand the exposure is a mere £60bn – less than the Bank of England secretly lent to two British banks during the crumbliest stage of the credit crunch! Surely the emirate rulers can merely sell a few hundred Rolls Royces?
Oh well. If you are poorer than the Al Maktoums, here is a recession defying red. Yet another from South of France, Languedoc to be precise. I got mine from Majestic for £5.99 (2008 at £4.99 for two bottles or more at time of writing) and it tastes great. Rich yet not overpowering. Smooth yet not lounge lizard. Fruity yet not jammy. Tasty yet not over-alcoholic (13%).
The label recommends it for “convivial” occasions. I consider “carnivorous” equally valid. Also goes well with proletarian dishes like baked beans on toast. A proper bargain for these austere times.