The wines to match
This clever riff on the Provençal dip anchoïade adds a touch of sweetness, but not so much that it’s going to totally alter your wine choice. The photo suggests rosé as an accompaniment and I think that’s bang on. I’m thinking Bandol rosé, which I particularly like for its savoury edge, but other Provence rosés would work well, as indeed would rosés from the neighbouring Rhône and Languedoc – and Corsica for that matter. Or Lebanon. Frankly you could stop at ‘rosé’ and that would be fine. For a white, I’d probably go for one with a bit of heft and texture, such as a white Rhône or maybe a Vermentino, but the other option that tempts me is a dry white or rosé vermouth. The Spanish, who call it vermut, make some great ones. Or how about a white Port and tonic – the slight sweetness of the Port would pick up nicely on the sweetness of the fig. Finally, if you fancy a red, how about a Cinsault? Wine suggestions from decanter.com –
Try: Domaine du Gros’Noré, Bandol Rosé, Provence, France 2022 90
£27.70 Gauntleys
Soft orange fruit, bitter orange and salted almonds. Bold, dynamic and reminiscent of orange wines. Ripe raspberry, acacia, orange and cream. Smoky with a tangy, saline finish and almond bitterness. Drink 2024-2032 Alc 14%
Try: Sainsbury’s, Discovery Collection Cinsault, Breedekloof, South Africa 2023 89
£10 Sainsbury’s
This bright, juicy Cinsault is perfect to enjoy chilled on a sunny day. Cold-fermented to preserve colour and flavours, it’s packed with cherry and strawberry fruit. Gentle oak influence adds spice and structure to the soft palate. Drink 2024-2025 Alc 12.5%