THERE are two ways to go wine-wise with duck neck pie. You can play it safe and go for a big, earthy Pinot Noir or you can go bold with a full-flavoured sweet German Riesling. Of course, you can also do both.
For the Pinot Noir, you’ll need a big Burgundy such as a Pommard, a Gevrey-Chambertin or a Nuits-Saint-George. A new world equivalent would also do the trick, so long as you choose a rich one … I’d suggest heading to America (either Oregon, Carneros or Russian River), South Africa (Meerlust from Stellenbosch) or New Zealand (a good Marlborough or Central Otago if the budget will allow).
Pinot Noir works so well with duck because of the excellent acidity levels present in the wine, which effectively cut through the fattiness of the meat. It really is a match made in heaven.
Pommard Antoine Olivier 2015 (Inverarity One to One, £55.99). This is a spectacular Pommard, made following organic practices (though they are not yet certified) from old vineyards using very traditional methods. It’s pricey, but perfect with duck.
Underwood Oregon Pinot Noir 2015 (M&S, £14). This is much more of an approachable, everyday glugger with lots of up-front juicy fruit.
Dog Point Marlborough Pinot Noir 2014 (Majestic, £33). Ivan Sutherland and James Healy (previously of Cloudy Bay) have carved out a little piece of heaven here in Marlborough. Treat yourself to a bottle or two this weekend.
Roaring Meg Mount Difficulty Central Otago Pinot Noir 2015 (Majestic, £19.99). The Roaring Meg sees almost a year in French oak, which adds structure and gravitas to the wine. This is nothing short of phenomenal for the money.
And if you’re taking the path less travelled, try a Spatlese (or an Auslese) Riesling from Pfalz or the Mosel and I guarantee that you and your guests will be blown away by the match.
Dr Loosen Urziger Wurzgarten Riesling Spatlese 2014 (Inverarity One to One, £22.99). Ernie Loosen is my go-to guy in the Mosel. His wines are very high quality and, although they're not cheap, they are always very good value for money.
Pete Stewart is Glasgow director of Inverarity One to One, 185a Bath Street, Glasgow www.inveraritymorton.com
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