DRINKS – 3 Of The Best Wines (That You Can’t Buy In A Supermarket)

Whilst we all like to pick up the odd bottle of ‘plonk’ during our weekly supermarket shop, sometimes it pays to make a little extra effort and head out to an independent wine shop and take your pick from the glorious bottles on offer. Now this is all very well and good, but we understand how overwhelming this can be. Luckily for you, gents, we’ve enlisted Chris Orr (London Wine Week Guru) to lend a helping hand and select 3 of the best wines (that you can’t buy in a supermarket)…

TIO PEPE EN RAMA 2013, Jerez, Spain

If you think you’ve tried Fino sherry, think again. This little bad boy from Gonazalez Byass is simply awesome. It’s unfiltered, unclarified and unbeatable. Clear, crisp citrus flavour notes combine with a lovely home-baked bread yeastiness to give a complex and delicious palate. Take a plate of salted almonds, some freshly cooked clams, a sunny day and a bottle of this and never go back to boring old unfortified wine again. £11.95, Lea & Sandeman

ANNA DE CODORNIU CAVA, Spain

This is by no means the cheapest Cava you will find on offer, but then it’s the equivalent of choosing between a Fiat Topolino and a Ferrari – only at least the ticket price for this is a little more within reach. Intense biscuity, lemony fruit flavours mix with a slice of apple and pear to provide a creamy and delicious mouthful of fine bubbles. Pours scorn and shame all over Champagne. £12.50, Hanging Ditch Wines

BARBERA, Piedmont, Italy 2009,

Great Barbera fruit shining through with a combination of sweet damson, dark plum and an edge of redcurrant. Wonderful smoky edge to it, with a kick of dark chocolate running through its centre. Great with a stupendous hunk of lamb.£16.00, The Wine Shop at Harvey Nichols Knightsbridge

By London Wine Week Guru, Chris Orr

A unique seven day celebration of the capital’s emerging and passionate wine scene; London Wine Week aims to give wine-curious Londoners the opportunity to taste, learn about, and enjoy premium wines by the glass in some of the capital’s finest bars and restaurants. Just flash your wristband throughout the week in more than 130 of the best venues in London to qualify for premium wines by the glass and taster wine flights, each for just £5. Independent merchants across London will also be throwing open their doors to run masterclasses, meet the maker sessions and discounts on bottles for wristband wearers. Wristbands are £10 and are on sale now at londonwineweek.com.