I’m being forced to put my feet up. Or at least one of them because I’m having that knee operation tomorrow. So, this morning I went for one last walk on the forest with five friends and nine dogs and it was gorgeous. And funny: one friend turned up with a burst blood vessel in her eye due to excessive screaming at a Robbie Williams concert last night. At least she didn’t try and throw her knickers on stage. Anyway, if you need me I’ll be on the sofa for a bit. Glass of wine within reach, obviously.

Also, if you’re in or near the New Forest area and fancy an evening involving a little drinks inspiration in gorgeous (secret) surroundings then join me next Wednesday (14th June) at Lime Wood. Together with Ben Branson, founder of Seedlip, the world’s first distilled non-alcoholic spirit and Jane Gottschalk, founder of Jax Coco coconut water, we’ll be talking and tasting all things no-and-low alcohol. There are a few tickets left, contact the Herb House on 02380 286 999 for details. Until then, bottoms (and feet) up x

Current white in the fridge: Masseria Pietrosa Verdeca

Price: £8.00 - Buy From Morrisons

Another gorgeous Italian white made from a random grape variety, this time it’s Verdeca along with a dash of Sauvignon Blanc and Malvasia. This is such a lovely style, fresh and crisp with subtle lemon flavours and a tiny touch of spice. From the heel of Italy, in Puglia, it was one of the highlights at the recent Morrisons spring/summer wine tasting. More please. Preferably with a plate of grilled chicken and a tray of roasted vegetables.

Current red in the rack: Sainsbury’s Taste the Difference Douro

Price: £8.00 - Buy From Sainsbury's

As is often the case with Portuguese reds, this is a cocktail of grapes usually found in port. But here,  the grapes are left to do their thing as a red wine rather than being fortified with grape spirit as port is. Made by a brilliant producer, Quinta do Crasto, it’s intense (in a good way) with loads of juicy black plum and cherry fruits. Think big, bold and brilliant. And make sure there’s a plate of something meaty in front of you when you drink it.