If you dad likes a tipple, spoil him with one of the best brews on the market
Matt Dicks, WSET qualified Beers, Wines and Spirits Specialist for Waitrose, tells us more…
With Father’s Day fast approaching, it’s that time of year to say ‘I love you’ with something a little special. Your mission is to make his day by pulling out all the stops, as the gift of wine can anchor and enrich a special day.
My Dad is the sort of fellow who likes to stick with what he knows best when it comes to alcohol, although he can spring a few surprises. Only the other day, I paid my parents a visit only to find a bottle of Newcastle Brown Ale in the cupboard. I never had him down as a brown ale drinker, although I was informed by my mother that is was there purely to cook with. Hey, what do I know! Once he spots a decent bottle for a decent price, he’s not afraid to splash the cash, especially if it’s rich, full-bodied and heralds from South Africa or Italy.
It’s only natural that you should buy him the most expensive bottle. Often, these won’t be to the taste 
of the recipient or ready to drink. Worse still, the weight of expectation risks removing any chance that the wine will deliver excitement when received. Simply think about what Dad really loves.
Whether it be your dad or stepdad, we’ve got a lot to thank them for, so here’s some fabulous ideas to get your daddy dancing!
Lanson Black Label Brut NV
This has a lovely, fruity palate and a fine, delicate mousse. The long and slow maturation process in cool cellars gives this champagne finesse and a smooth texture. Delicious as an apéritif or with sushi.
La Monetta Gavi del Comune di Gavi
This is a citrus-charged, almond tinged, green-apple, zesty wine. Enjoy with seafood or with creamy chicken dishes.
Hill-Smith Estate Eden Valley Chardonnay
The vineyards that contribute to this blend are scattered throughout Eden Valley, and have been selected especially for Chardonnay. These different vineyard sites provide a rich tapestry of flavours that each add their own unique character to the finIsh of the wine.
Grant Burge Shiraz
Grant Burge’s expertise shows in this lovely juicy red that blends fruit from different sites to give aromas of ripe plums, liquorice, vanilla, damp earth and wood spice. It has plum and vanilla flavours and a long finish.
Villa Antinori
The Antinoris have been producing wine for 600 years and this excellent red is evidence of their expertise. Deliciously oaky with red fruit flavours and silky tannins.
Yeastie Boys Earl Grey IPA
I’m always on the lookout for innovative drinks, and this certainly ticks all the boxes. Whilst some may turn their noses up at the thought of Earl Grey tea, give it an alcoholic twist and you have a recipe to appeal to many.
Williams GB Gin
The Chase Distillery story how one man turned potatoes into a pot of gold is one worth reading about. With gin being the trendy spirit to sip, Dad would certainly enjoy this tipple on a summers afternoon. Bursting with elderflower, apple, cinnamon and nutmeg, this satisfying dry gin was designed with a refreshing G&T in mind.
