CityLife

Sparkling shiraz, cabernet aragones, cabernet sauvignon

BONFIRE bubbles! Why not capture the seasonal mood with a sparkling Aussie shiraz? This stylish sparkler is full of intense raspberry-ripple flavours, but full-bodied enough to make it a good match with devils-on- horseback and moreish little savouries. Langmeil Sparkling Shiraz NV, (£21.25, ravensbournewine.co.uk).

IT is also time to raise our glasses in support of our veterans and remember those who have fought and died on our behalf in conflicts current and past. Portuguese wine producer Tagus Creek has joined forces with two leading supermarkets to support the Royal British Legion’s Poppy Appeal. For every bottle sold in Waitrose until Wednesday, and in Morrison’s until Sunday, £1 will be sent directly to the Royal British Legion. Try the rich Tagus Creek Cabernet Aragones 2008 (£5.99, Waitrose), packed full of dark, berry flavours and great with game and cheeses.

AND it is worth picking up a couple of bottles of this great value wine while it is on seasonal special offer. Packed full of black fruits, spice and a hint of black olive, Wakefield Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 (£8.49 in Majestic, but on promotion to £6.49 until January) is from South Australia’s Clare Valley and it is great with lamb moussaka or the best of British cheeses.