Wine and Beer: Real Ale Gives Us 4 Options to Choose From

Words Tim Peyton

Al fresco dining and barbeques are two of the many things we love about summer. However, selecting the right drinks can be daunting when faced with massive menus. Twickenham favourite Real Ale is opening a new location in Little Venice, the perfect setting for good drinks with friends. Store manager Tim Peyton singles out two wine and beer offerings from their selection, describing what makes them so suitable warm weather.

Wine

Red: Domaine Gramenon “On est Zazous”, Cotes du Rhone

This has a bit of a cult following in our Real Ale Twickenham shop (partially because it was unavailable for a year). A Cotes du Rhone at the lighter end of the spectrum, this red shows fresh cherries and sprightly bramble fruit with just a hint of rusticity. Simple, yet satisfying – perfect BBQ fodder.

White: Daumas Gassac, Reserve de Gassac Blanc, Pays d’Herault France

This full-bodied yet elegant white from a superb producer makes a perfect summer tipple and provides a pleasing change from the tyranny of Sauvignon Blanc. Viognier makes up the bulk of the blend with Marsanne and Chardonnay also contributing to its peachy, apricot-laden character. Great with goat’s cheese salad or creamy chicken dishes.

Beers

Firestone Walker Pivo Pils

Summer calls for refreshment, which means lager for some. Pivo Pils is the ultimate thirst quencher on a warm summer’s day. Like every lager should be, this one is bitter, crisp and infinitely drinkable.

Verdant Brewing Co Lightbulb Extra Pale Ale

The much-hyped brewery from Falmouth, Cornwall are renowned for their stronger IPAs, but this super light and zesty pale ale is an absolute joy. Truly, a beer we could all drink far too much of.