Eamonn Fitzgerald's Rainy Day

Chardonnay is America's benchmark wine. However, it's omnipresence has become oppressive for some, with the result that many New World drinkers and growers are desperately seeking high and low for a chardonnay substitute and a few feel that they've found it in pinot gris. The jury is still out, though. Fact is, the white burgundy grape is ideally suited to the American climate, culture and palate, regardless of what wine snobs may say.

We tried a Haywood Estate 1997 and it lived up to our chardonnay expectations. Tasting notes: deep yellow colour, pear aroma, full body, flavours of tropical fruit that finish with a suggestion of smoky apples. At €10, this Californian import is somewhat overpriced, however.

Mention of apples there reminds me of a tip for a delicious nibble that I picked up yesterday from Megnut, currently dallying in Paris. She got it from Textism, long time resident of Pompignan. Here goes: slice a Gala apple and spread a thin layer of fresh Roquefort cheese on one side. Eat. Scrummy!