Villa Borghetti Valpolicella Ripasso 2013

Villa Borghetti Valpolicella Ripasso 2013, 13.5%

(£10.99 when you buy 6, Majestic or via Wine Searcher)

So what to choose with a classic bolognese ragu with focaccia by the delightful Italian maestro Gennaro Contaldo?

There are plenty of options, from Bardolino (in a lighter style) to Chianti (in a more classic one). But this Villa Borghetti Valpolicella Ripasso just hit the nail on the head in terms of providing plenty of comforting flavour but also an elegance and refreshment value that’s rare at this price.

It certainly proved a hit in the Saturday Kitchen studio. ‘Wow!’ exclaimed both Gennaro and Michel Roux Jr. Gennaro noted how it had an autumnal feel to it (spot on) as well as ‘balancing really well with the ragu and pasta’. Michel commented how it was ‘a bit beyond our usual budget – but worth every penny,’ adding, ‘great job, Susie, well done!’

With something like bolognese, you don’t want to splash out too much. It’s all about comforting, heart-warming flavours and simple pleasures. Gennaro’s version is brilliant, and the wine makes a fine match. (7/10, Susie, Sept 2016)