Hello everyone, Tom here—your resident wine enthusiast and bartender at The Nuthatch! As the leaves turn and the days grow cooler, it’s the perfect time to cosy up with a great glass of wine. This season, we’ve got some fantastic autumn wine specials lined up for you, and I couldn’t be more excited to share them with you. So, let’s dive into the stories behind these wines, explore the countries they come from, and, of course, discuss how they pair beautifully with our charcuterie and cheese boards.

Montesol Rueda, Vinos Sanz, Spain

Let’s start with a crisp white that has a story to tell: Montesol Rueda from Vinos Sanz in Spain. Vinos Sanz is one of the oldest and most prestigious wineries in the Rueda region, known for producing wines that capture the spirit and tradition of Spanish winemaking. This wine is made from the Verdejo grape, which thrives in Rueda’s high-altitude vineyards. With cool nights and hot days, the climate allows the grapes to develop vibrant acidity and refreshing citrus notes.

Montesol Rueda is the kind of wine that brightens up a room with its fresh and zesty flavors. Think green apple, lemon zest, and a hint of herbal undertones that add complexity. This white pairs beautifully with our charcuterie, especially with cured meats like coppa and air dried ham, and it also loves to mingle with cheese, it’s perfect with Wigmore, a Sheep’s cheese sitting on our list. Its acidity cuts through the richness, cleansing the palate and leaving you ready for the next bite.

Chianti Cavatina, Casalidel Barone, Tuscany, Italy

Next up, we head over to Tuscany, Italy, with the Chianti Cavatina from Casalidel Barone. Chianti is probably one of the most famous wine regions in the world, and for good reason. It’s home to some of Italy’s most iconic wines, and Casalidel Barone is a winery that takes pride in blending traditional winemaking with modern techniques. The Chianti Cavatina is crafted primarily from Sangiovese grapes, which are known for their bright cherry flavors, earthy undertones, and a hint of spiciness.

This wine is a true expression of Tuscany’s terroir—bursting with red fruit, subtle notes of violet, and a touch of rustic charm. It’s medium-bodied with just enough tannin to make it an excellent companion to our charcuterie, especially when paired with hard cheeses like Kirkhams Lancashire or Red Leicester. The wine’s acidity balances beautifully with the saltiness of cured meats, while its fruit-forward profile complements our selection of cheeses.

Tannat Anarkia, Pablo Fallabrino, Canelones, Uruguay

Finally, let’s journey to South America with the bold and intriguing Tannat Anarkia from Pablo Fallabrino in Canelones, Uruguay. Tannat might not be as familiar to some of you, but it’s a grape that’s gaining recognition for its robust and complex wines. Pablo Fallabrino, the winemaker behind Anarkia, is known for his minimalist approach to winemaking—no oak, no additives, just pure expression of the Tannat grape. This wine is rich, full-bodied, and filled with flavours of dark berries, plums, and a touch of spice.

Tannat Anarkia is perfect for those who love a wine with a bit of grip and structure. It’s a wine that begs to be paired with bold flavours, which is why it shines alongside our charcuterie and cheese board. The richness of the wine stands up to stronger cheeses like Pevensey Blue, and its robust fruit flavors work wonders with our cured meats, particularly when we’re lucky enough to have Venison or Hoggatt on the list.

Pairing Perfection at The Nuthatch

At The Nuthatch, we believe that the right wine can elevate your sharing board, and our autumn wine specials are all about showcasing the diverse flavours of these incredible wines alongside our delicious charcuterie and cheese offerings. Whether you’re a fan of a bright and zippy white, a classic Italian red, or a bold Uruguayan wine with character, we’ve got something special waiting for you.

So, come on down, cosy up with a glass (or two!), and let us take you on a wine journey across the world, right here in Middlesbrough. Cheers to a season of great wines and even better company!

See you soon,

Tom  
The Nuthatch’s Wine Enthusiast