Half the Bottle, Twice the Fun: Embracing the Mighty Half Bottles of Wine
If you’re looking to indulge in a glass of wine without committing to a whole 75cl bottle, then half bottles of wine are the perfect solution.
These petite bottles pack a punch of flavour and offer a wide range of options to choose from. Not only are they convenient for solo sipping, but they also allow you to try various wines without breaking the bank. Plus, they’re the ideal size for sharing with a friend or loved one during a cosy night in. Whether you prefer red or white, half bottles offer a delightful and manageable way to explore the world of wine. So, why not grab a bottle or two today and treat yourself to a taste of luxury?
Altano Douro Tinto - 37.5cl 2019
In a nutshell:
A deep bodied Portuguese red blend with red fruit and peppery tannins from the Douro Valley.
The lowdown:
The rugged Douro in the north of Portugal is most famous for being the home of Port, but there is more and more good quality still wines coming from here these days of which this zesty white blend is a good example. It's made by the Symington Family who are the producers of illustrious ports such as Graham's, Cockburn's, Warre's and Dow's so it means there's a pedigree behind it. This wine is a blend of Tinta Roriz that provides the rich berry fruit, and Touriga Franca that adds a lifted floral character. The grapes are sourced from the Symington family's Douro Valley vineyards, principally those located on the Cima Corgo and Douro Superior subregions. The majority of the blend was aged in American and French oak casks to soften up the muscular tannin of the Douro grapes so that the wine is ready for immediate drinking. This wine has ripe, succulent flavours of red plum, raspberry, and rockrose, with a good body and peppery tannins.
When to drink:
This wine is the perfect pair for most red meat dishes, think roasts, bbq or pizza.
Chateau des Antonins, Bordeaux Blanc - 37.5cl 2020
In a nutshell:
A wonderfully aromatic, complex and structured white wine from the Bordeaux region, France.
The lowdown:
Located southeast of Bordeaux, Chateau des Antonins is a family-run estate steeped in history. The estate was built in the 13th Century, owes its name to the Antonins monks who lived there for 500 years. The vineyards sit on the left bank of the Garonne river, only 5ha are planted with white grape varieties, split between 80% Sauvignon Blanc and 20% Semillon. The vineyards are managed in a sustainable way, the vines are planted on sandy loam soil which lends an elegance and lifted acidity to the wine. Once at the winery, the grapes underwent a 12-hour maceration period on skins to extract aromatics before being gently pressed in a pneumatic press. After cold settling the juice was fermented in stainless steel tanks at a controlled temperature. The wine was kept on its lees for 15 to 30 days, with regular bâtonnage, to add texture and complexity. This wine has a bright bouquet of grapefruit, exotic fruit, a hint of boxwood and minty notes. The Semillon adds texture and richness to the palate which has a balanced mouthfeel and good length.
When to drink:
This wine would pair best with meaty and oily fish dishes.
Chateau des Antonins, Bordeaux Superieur - 37.5cl 2018
In a nutshell:
A classic Bordeaux blend red wine, showcasing complex tannins and black fruit flavours from France.
The lowdown:
Located southeast of Bordeaux, Chateau des Antonins is a family-run estate steeped in history. The estate was built in the 13th Century, owes its name to the Antonins monks who lived there for 500 years. The red varieties of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot are planted on 20ha of clay gravel soils, producing wines with powerful and pure fruit concentration. All the vineyards are managed sustainably. The grapes were de-stemmed before undergoing maceration on their skins for between 20 to 30 days, with regular pumping over to ensure a gentle extraction. Fermentation took place in stainless steel tanks at controlled temperatures of between 27 to 30 degrees. Deep ruby in colour, this wine develops a beautiful complexity on the nose revealing aromas of black cherry and blackcurrant with a toasted background and accents of blond tobacco. Supple on the attack, full of charm, the mouth is carried by fine tannins which bring a nice harmony.
When to drink:
This wine would pair best with beef and venison dishes.
Chateau Musar Red - Halves 2016
In a nutshell:
A smoky, spicy and black fruit led vintage of Musar's flagship wine.
The lowdown:
A half bottle of an intensely smoky, spicy and black fruit led vintage of Musar's flagship wine. It's a vintage that's unmistakably Musar in style. The Cabernet Sauvignon, Cinsault and Carignan vines used have an average age of around 40 years and the wine itself has been seven years in the making, being released in early 2022. It's enticingly aromatic with rich flavours of baked fruit and spices and is full bodied and wonderfully appealing. The 2016 is ready for drinking from now until at least 2034.
When to drink:
A great wine to drink alongside richly flavoured game dishes.
Taittinger Brut Reserve - Half Bottle NV
In a nutshell:
A half bottle of a quite full and creamy style of Brut NV from one of the oldest Champagne houses.
The lowdown:
This, the Brut Réserve is Taittinger's flagship Champagne. Being one of the largest land owners in Champagne about half of the grapes come from their own vineyards - most houses depend on a higher proportion of bought-in fruit - and their blend comprises about 40% Chardonnay, 35% Pinot Noir with the remainder being Pinot Meunier. It's aged for a full three years on its lees which helps develops it's characteristic toastiness. The light and delicate nose has peachy and brioche hints while the on the palate there's a good depth and citrus elegance with a long fresh finish.
When to drink:
A dependable and famous name Champagne that won't disappoint, a natural aperitif and also good with oysters, or grilled and roasted white meats.
Bollinger Special Cuvee Brut - Half Bottle NV
In a nutshell:
A half bottle of one of the most famous of Champagnes whose reputation speaks for itself.
The lowdown:
Guaranteed to impress Special Cuvee is Bollinger's famous, flagship label whose consistent quality over the years has established it at the forefront of the Grand Marques. Over 85% of the grapes come from Grand Cru or Premier Cru vineyards and prior to release and it's aged for more than twice the time required by the appellation.
When to drink:
Serve it between 10 and 12° as the perfect aperitif. It also suits a wide range of seafood dishes, poultry or white meats.
