Petit Courbu + Petit Manseng, Irouleguy, France

We are forever singing the praises of dense, structured #drywhitewines all year-round. Want something refreshing yet able to hold its own during dinner and the obligatory cheese course that follows? This gorgeous, weighty white wine from France’s South-West corner is a forever - not a fairweather - friend. If only it were actually available year round! Until the 1990s, Peio Espil at Domaine Ilarria was one of only two independent producers in this tiny but mighty appellation in French Basque country and they make so little that we only receive our small allocation once a year. Ilarria has been certified organic since 2008 and in fact, Peio doesn’t even plow, preferring to let nature takes its course. Looking at his vineyards planted on limestone soils, you have to squint to see the vines through tall grass - a sign that soil health is super important, resulting in such interesting, expressive wines. This timeless blanc is like opening an heirloom jewellery chest - all shiny and glittery and probably costume but who cares?! Feel fancy with heavy bejewelled rings and clip on earrings sipping this silky treat. It’s all unctuous glamour; preserved lemon, sour-honey, and baked pastries flaking all over your terrycloth robe cause this is a party for ONE and it goes all night.