Are You Game?

Grouse season is here, which marks the beginning of Game Season in the UK and the steady emergence of some of my favourite foods on restaurant menus and in my butcher's window. Vegetarians look away now, because here follows my quick guide to the wines you should be drinking to ensure these beautiful animals didn't die for nothing!
 

The key with game is that these animals are all pretty low in fat so work best with wines that are low in tannin. Avoid Cabernet Sauvignon and Bordeaux reds unless they are really mature. Syrah/Shiraz/Rhone reds and Pinot Noir/Red Burgundies are all safe bets but there is more you can try...

Photo courtesy of www.countryandtownhouse.co.uk

 

Grouse

This is a very strongly flavoured bird so it needs a big powerful red wine. Try Cornas or Crozes Hermitage, both 100% Syrah from the Rhone Valley.

Pigeon
Goes deliciously with Oregon Pinot Noir, Barossa Shiraz or Rioja

Partridge & Pheasant
If you'd like a white wine, you can't go wrong with a white burgundy, especially something like a Puligny Montrachet. Or try a dry Pinot Gris from Alsace. For reds, try Chianti Classico or mature Rioja.

Venison
My dream match for venison is Nebbiolo: look out for Barolo & Barbaresco which are both made from 100% Nebbiolo in the north of Italy. Or if you want something a bit sweeter, try a Californian Zinfandel. 

Hare
You can't beat a good bottle of silky smooth, rich Amarone here. Or even an Argentinian Malbec. 

Wild Boar
Look out for top cru Beaujolais such as Fleurie, Brouilly or Morgon. 

Happy Swigging!