Talking Wine – January 2015
It is very depressing to read that enjoying a glass of wine after work is as bad for you as drinking three spirit measures. But as far as I am concerned this is absolute scaremongering and these sort of pronouncements are the worst side of the nanny state especially when no further information or advice is added. As Victoria Moore of the Daily Telegraph stated “the idiots in charge of public health give people no helpful information whilst having a go at them for enjoying themselves. It’s ultimately unhelpful”. So for those who believe everything they read in the press here are a few suggestions for cutting your alcohol intake.
- Don’t ever ask for a 250cl glass which is a third of a bottle!! At the Oxford Wine Cafe we only serve small (125cl ) and medium sizes (175cl).This is because we deal with quality rather than quantity and serving smaller amounts in large Riedel glasses is much more attractive than a cheap glass filled to the brim. There is also a legal requirement to serve 125cl in all bars and pubs.
- Check the alcohol content before ordering – there is a move towards less alcoholic wines these days. German Rieslings often start at about 7.5% natural alcohol whereas some big Aussie reds can exceed 15%!!
- Prosecco and most fizz is not that heavy in alcohol.
- Add a bit of soda to a glass which will retain the taste and flavours but make it last a little longer.
- Don’t bother with non alcoholic wines – they mostly taste revolting. You would be better off having a refreshing elderflower drink.
- Enjoy your glass or two with a meal – preferably a Mediterranean one. All the rage for a healthy extended life (or is that what I just read in the press!!)