Scratch Cooking and the Joy of the “Smidgen Roast”

Every household has experienced the moment. You open the fridge, stare into the freezer, rummage through the pantry, and realise there isn’t a clear plan for dinner. No recipe. No shopping trip. Just a random assortment of ingredients.

And yet, somehow, this is often when the best meals happen.

Across the UK, this improvisational style of cooking is affectionately known by many names, but one of the most charming is the “smidgen roast.” 

It describes the art of making a satisfying meal from a smidgen of this and a smidgen of that, a handful of leftovers, half-used vegetables, a tin lurking at the back of the cupboard, or the final portion of something hiding in the freezer.

What Is Scratch Cooking?

Scratch cooking in this context doesn’t mean elaborate culinary techniques or spending hours in the kitchen. Instead, it’s about cooking creatively with what you already have, rather than following a strict recipe.

You might find:

A couple of potatoes

Half an onion

A stray carrot

A leftover chicken breast

A tin of beans

Some frozen peas

On their own they don’t look like much. But combined with a little oil, seasoning, and imagination, they can become a hearty traybake, a soup, a stir-fry, or even an improvised pie filling.

The Magic of the Smidgen Roast

The “smidgen roast” is less a formal dish and more a state of mind in the kitchen.

The principle is simple:

Raid the fridge, freezer and pantry.

Gather anything that needs using up.

Cook it together in a way that makes sense.

Often it ends up roasted in a tray, simmered into a stew, or tossed into a pan with herbs and seasoning. Root vegetables become crispy and caramelised. 

Odd bits of meat or sausage bulk things out. Tins of tomatoes or beans provide a comforting base.

Some of the most memorable family meals are born this way.

Why It’s So Popular in the UK

There are several reasons this approach to cooking resonates so strongly in British kitchens.

1. Reducing food waste

With food prices rising, people are more conscious about using everything they buy. Scratch cooking ensures those lonely vegetables or leftovers don’t end up in the bin.

2. Budget-friendly meals

A smidgen roast is essentially a “use what you have” meal, making it perfect for stretching the weekly food shop.

3. Comfort food at its best

British cooking traditions have always celebrated hearty, practical meals, stews, casseroles, traybakes and soups. Scratch cooking fits perfectly within that tradition.

4. The joy of surprise

There’s a particular satisfaction when a meal thrown together from odds and ends turns out unexpectedly delicious.

Easy Smidgen Roast Ideas

If you want to embrace the spirit of scratch cooking, here are a few starting points:

The Everything Tray Roast

Chop potatoes, carrots, onions and any other vegetables you find. Add leftover sausages, chicken pieces, or even chickpeas. Toss with oil, salt, pepper and herbs, then roast until golden.

Pantry Pasta

Cook pasta and mix with sautéed garlic, tinned tomatoes, olives, frozen peas, and whatever protein is available — tuna, bacon, or leftover chicken.

Freezer Surprise Soup

Simmer frozen vegetables, stock, herbs and any leftover meat together. Blend if desired for a hearty soup.

Fridge Clear-Out Stir Fry

Thinly slice vegetables and fry quickly with soy sauce, garlic and ginger. Add noodles or rice.

The Kitchen Creativity We Should Celebrate

In an age of recipe apps, meal kits and social media cooking trends, scratch cooking reminds us of something important: good food doesn’t always start with a plan.

Sometimes it starts with a nearly empty fridge, a rummage through the cupboard, and the decision to simply make something work.

And when that spontaneous meal turns out brilliantly, you’ve created the perfect smidgen roast, proof that a little creativity in the kitchen can turn odds and ends into a proper feast.

National Cereal Day: Celebrating the Breakfast Favourite

Celebrate National Cereal Day on 7 March with a look at the history of breakfast cereal, why it remains so popular, and fun ways to enjoy your favourite cereals.

Every year on 7 March, cereal lovers celebrate National Cereal Day, a day dedicated to one of the most convenient, comforting, and iconic breakfasts in the world. 

Whether you prefer crunchy granola, chocolatey puffs, or a classic bowl of cornflakes, cereal remains a staple in millions of kitchens.

For many of us, cereal is more than just breakfast. It is nostalgia in a bowl, a quick weekday solution, and sometimes even a late-night snack when nothing else quite hits the spot.

A Quick History of Breakfast Cereal

Breakfast cereal has surprisingly serious origins. In the late 19th century, health reformers in the United States began experimenting with grain-based foods that were easier to digest than the heavy breakfasts people were used to.

One of the earliest breakthroughs came when Dr John Harvey Kellogg and his brother developed a process for making corn flakes in the 1890s. What began as a health food soon became a global breakfast phenomenon.

By the mid-20th century, cereal brands had become household names, introducing colourful packaging, mascots, and new flavours that appealed to families and children alike. Today, cereal ranges from simple wholegrain options to indulgent chocolate varieties and high-protein breakfast bowls.

Why Cereal Remains So Popular

Despite changing food trends, cereal continues to hold its place on the breakfast table. There are several reasons for its enduring popularity.

Convenience

Cereal is one of the fastest breakfasts available. Pour, add milk, and you are ready to start the day.

Variety

Supermarket shelves are packed with choices, from traditional wheat biscuits to nutty granola clusters and fruity flakes.

Affordability

Compared with many breakfast options, cereal can be a cost-effective way to feed a household.

Nutritional options

Many cereals are fortified with vitamins and minerals, while wholegrain varieties provide fibre and energy for the day ahead.

Cereal Beyond Breakfast

One of the fun things about cereal is that it is no longer limited to the morning meal. Many people now enjoy cereal:

As a late-night snack

As a dessert topping for ice cream

Mixed into home-made snack bars

Used as a crunchy coating for baked treats

Granola and muesli have also become popular additions to yoghurt bowls, smoothies, and even baking recipes.

How to Celebrate National Cereal Day

National Cereal Day is a great excuse to rediscover old favourites or try something new.

Some simple ways to celebrate include:

Revisiting a childhood cereal you haven’t eaten in years

Creating a cereal tasting board with several varieties

Making a yoghurt and granola breakfast bowl topped with fruit and honey

Trying a healthier wholegrain option you’ve never tasted before

Families often enjoy letting everyone pick their favourite cereal and creating a colourful breakfast spread.

A Simple Pleasure Worth Celebrating

In a world of busy mornings and endless to-do lists, cereal remains one of the easiest ways to start the day. It is quick, comforting, and endlessly customisable.

So on National Cereal Day, pour yourself a bowl, add your favourite toppings, and enjoy one of the simplest pleasures in the kitchen.

Because sometimes the best breakfasts are the ones that take only a minute or so to make.

Homemade Treats for Mother's Day, With Bonne Maman

Make your mum, or other important women, in your life feel extra special with these heartfelt homemade items, which are absolutely perfect for gifting and sharing. 

Try these adorable Heart Conserve Shortbreads and fill the hearts with a favourite variety of Bonne Maman Conserve. A simple and delicious treat! 

Or how about these Zesty Lemon, Thyme & Mirabelle Mini Cakes filled with luscious spring-time flavours? These include lemon, thyme and Bonne Maman Mirabelle Plum Conserve, making a sweet a thoughtful Mother's Day Gift.

Just simply cover the cake cases with wrapping paper and tie with a ribbon and a tag et violà!

For a delicious and pretty as a picture Mother's Day tea, why not make mum some Madeleine Teatime Treats? 

Dip or drizzle Bonne Maman All Butter Madeleines in pastel-coloured glacé icing or melted chocolate and sprinkle with sugar flowers or toasted flaked almonds. 

Serve alongside her favourite cup of tea or a glass of fizz.

Treat mum to their limited-edition Stacks of Love gift box, full of delicious goodies from Bonne Maman. 

With six adorable mini jars of jams and spreads, two boxed mini jam spoons and heart-shaped cutter, it is perfect for a small thank you for a lifetime of love.

Each gift box includes vibrant, special fruit flavours: Pineapple & Passionfruit, Blueberry & Blackcurrant, Lemon & Yuzu, Orange & Mandarin plus Strawberry & Redcurrant, alongside award-winning Hazelnut Chocolate Spread; totally luscious and without a drop of palm oil, too!

This new, limited edition Bonne Maman Stacks of Love gift box is available from Waitrose and Partners at £8.50 rrp and can be ordered online from bonnemaman.co.uk.

Our next visit to Waitrose should be fun!

Be one of 13,126! Compass Box Releases Limited Edition, Hedonism 2026, Its Oldest, Rarest and Most Iconic Yet… and It's Selling Fast

One of whisky's most iconic Limited Editions, Hedonism 2026 is available exclusively via Master of Malt, and experiencing strong early demand.

“It is no exaggeration to call Compass Box Hedonism one of the true great Scotch whiskies of the 21st century. It reframed the discussion around grain whisky at a time when single malt stole the headlines and proved that flavour ultimately always wins.” - Master of Malt.

One of the richest and smoothest expressions to date, Hedonism 2026 is a blended grain whisky crafted with incredibly rare and exquisite aged Scotch whiskies, and matured in some of the finest old sherry casks.

“Old grain stocks are finite. The category remains a relatively small corner of Scotch whisky. But it exists. And it tastes bloody great.” - Master of Malt.

Elegantly layered, expect caffè latte creaminess and butterscotch sweetness, lifted by a light flicker of orange cream. Polished wood sugars, soft nougat, toasted hazelnut and sherried richness.

The oldest, rarest and most iconic yet

For the 2026 limited edition annual release, Compass Box Creative Director of Whiskymaking Angela D'Orazio has included exceptional parcels of whisky aged within sherry barrels - a first for Hedonism. The blend includes some of the oldest components ever used in Hedonism, including a 30-year-old whisky from Strathclyde Distillery, and whiskies aged between 20 and 24 years come from Cameronbridge Distillery and the now-closed Port Dundas Distillery, alongside historic blended grain parcels.

Nishat Gupte, CEO of Compass Box says, “Within a week of pre-sale, Hedonism 2026 has already become our fastest-selling release ever in the UK. We've managed to uncover incredible flavour, thanks to the sourcing of exceptional calibre grain whiskies, masterfully blended with curiosity and precision - and it goes to show that this resonates with whisky lovers.”

This is a liquid with real star quality. Hedonism was the first whisky to feature the image of a woman on its label. This year, actor, director and proud Scot, Karen Gillan steps into the role of the Hedonism Muse, describing the partnership as “deeply personal”.

Female influence has always been part of Hedonism's story. The 2026 edition continues that tradition, created by whiskymaker Angela D'Orazio and reimagined visually by artist Emma Hack.

Karen Gillan says: “Sharing whisky and stories are some of the best times of my life. There's no wilder sensation than seeing yourself on a whisky bottle.”

Compass Box Hedonism 2026 is now available exclusively through Master of Malt, making it one of the most sought-after whisky releases of the year. With just 13,126 bottles worldwide, the Limited Edition is expected to appeal to collectors, whisky enthusiasts, and luxury gift buyers alike. The perfect gift for the discerning drinker, for Mother's Day, Father's Day, IWD on Sunday, and beyond.

Available now.

https://www.masterofmalt.com/compass-box-hedonism-2026/#the-bottle 

 RRP: £89.95 | ABV: 46% | 70cl

One Cornishman's 'driving' ambition. A Roaring Twenties Romance in a Bottle - Celebrating Nearly a Century of Craft

As cinema found its voice and the world embraced the glamour of the Roaring Twenties, a Cornish chauffeur named Norman Trevethan was quietly crafting his own masterpiece, a classic 'bathtub gin' inspired by London's famous gin palaces. 

Nearly a century later, that original 1929 recipe has been revived, refined and reimagined by chemist-turned-master distiller John Hall, transforming a family legacy into a modern icon.

Crafted in Cornwall and perfected by science, Trevethan 1929 Dry Gin (43% ABV | 70cl | RRP £38 at Sainsbury's) is distilled using the traditional London Dry method. 

It balances ten botanicals with precision and poise, juniper, coriander and angelica forming its classic backbone, layered with orange and lemon peel, cassia, cardamom and vanilla. 

Locally foraged Cornish elderflower and gorse flower lend a delicate and soft floral elegance, bringing warmth and romance to every sip.

The result is beautifully structured and expressive: bold juniper and bright citrus open the palate, unfolding into gentle florals and herbal complexity, finishing smooth with a subtle spiced sweetness.

Venues such as Cici's Bar at Paul Ainsworth's No. 6 Restaurant in Padstow, Michael Caine's Lympstone Manor and Adam Handling MBE Ugly Butterfly are serving the gin served in both G&Ts and cocktails.

Housed in a striking Art Deco-inspired bottle, Trevethan 1929 Dry Gin looks as stunning in your drinks cabinet as it does in a G&T. This Mother's Day, it's a fitting tribute to the women who shape our stories, lead with grace, and deserve a little everyday glamour of their own.

For a show-stopping Mother's Day serve worthy of the red carpet, pair 50ml of Trevethan 1929 Dry Gin with premium light tonic over ice. Garnish with a twist of orange peel and a sprig of rosemary to enhance its citrus brightness and juniper depth - a perfectly balanced G&T designed for celebrating at home.

Steeped in history, made with passion and perfected by science, Trevethan 1929 Dry Gin is almost a century in the making - a timeless gift for mothers who deserve nothing less than star treatment.

For more information, visit: https://www.trevethandistillery.com.

That's Health: Avocados Are Good For Women's Health

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2026 UK BBQ innovations from two leading global outdoor grill brands

Char-Broil and Pit Boss, two innovative barbeque brands from leading US outdoor living specialists W C Bradley, are launching exciting additions to their UK BBQ ranges for this sizzling Summer season.

CHAR-BROIL NEW FOR 2026

The first hybrid electric2coal BBQ: Powerful, Versatile, Compact, ideal for smaller outdoor spaces

Hybrid BBQ grill leader Char-Broil launches the UK’s first hybrid electric/coal BBQ: Patio Bistro E2Coal. This compact and space saving grill helps urban dwellers get the most from smaller outdoor spaces.

Designed for modern city living where smaller gardens, courtyards and balconies are common, the versatile barbecue may be small in stature, but delivers outstanding, flavoursome results thanks to the Char-Broil’s renowned TRU-Infrared™ technology which evenly distributes heat whilst you cook, ensuring food stays up to 50% lip-smackingly juicier as a result.

Its innovative Hybrid Power Technology also lets you switch effortlessly between electric or traditional charcoal-fired cooking for maximum flavour flexibility.

Fast convenient E-power for maximum performance

Simply plug in and switch on the electric grill. Reaching 315°C within 20 minutes and a maximum temperature of 370°C, the compact electric grill heats up fast and delivers that authentic seared flavour every time. The electric power is perfect for fast, intense grilling sessions, so no long waiting times, just great ‘instant’ barbecue moments.

Electric to charcoal in just a few, simple steps

With the Patio Bistro E2Coal you can opt for quick electric grilling or choose a slower traditional charcoal cook, giving you the best of both worlds. Whichever you choose, it’s easy to transform your electric BBQ to a charcoal grill in just a few simple steps, and no tools are required. 

Simply place charcoal on the dedicated grate, reinsert the cooking grate at mark ‘C’, and you’re ready to light the charcoal easily using the electric heating element.

Barbecue juicier than ever with TRU-Infrared™ Technology

Char-Broil’s TRU-Infrared™ Technology is the key to achieving succulent barbecue foods. A specially designed stainless-steel grate distributes the heat evenly across the entire cooking surface minimising food residues dripping onto the heating elements that can create unwanted flare-ups that can burn, taint and dry out your barbecue food. The result of this efficient technology is barbecued food that's up to 50% juicier. Even better, this technology also helps reduce energy consumption.

You can also transform your Patio Bistro E2Coal BBQ into an electric griddle in seconds by purchasing the optional griddle plate (sold separately).

A removable warming rack keeps your food hot, toasts bread or provides an indirect cooking zone for more delicate dishes. Barbecue cooking is best done with the lid down to retain heat, reduce cooking times, and it also helps keep food hot on the warming rack away whilst you complete your meal. 

That’s why Char-Broil has integrated an easy-to-read analogue temperature gauge into the lid to help you monitor the perfect temperature at all times, ensuring tender, juicy results, every time you cook. 

With a helpful three-metre power cord, you have the freedom to reach indoor and outdoor sockets, and the two sturdy wheels and side handles make it easy to manoeuvre the BBQ to exactly where you need it.

Everything within reach

Like Dr Who’s Tardis, the Patio Bistro E2Coal has unbelievable storage capacity to keep everything organised in its built in storage space. The middle shelf includes a dedicated griddle storage rail, whilst a lower shelf offers space to store charcoal tools. Two integrated tool hooks keep everything you need always within reach.

Where to buy

Available from John Lewis, Argos, Next, B&Q and Amazon, the Char-Broil Patio Bistro E2Coal (RRP: £349.00) is the perfect electric and charcoal hybrid BBQ for city living. Powerful, durable and easy to use. Accessories include a durable cover (RRP: £39.95) and griddle (RRP: £39.95).

ALSO AVAILABLE for the smallest of homes and outdoor spaces

Patio Bistro E2Coal has a lightweight and portable electricity powered brother, the new Char-Broil Patio Bistro Cube E. Perfect for cooking for 2-3 people, the Cube E has a smaller 38.4cm stainless steel grate and has the same patented TRU-Infrared™ Technology to ensure smaller doesn’t mean less tasty. The evenly distributed heat across the entire grate, minimises unwanted flare-up and ensures that your barbecued food is up to 50% juicier. The efficient technology also helps reduce energy consumption.

Despite its compact size, the Patio Bistro Cube E is robust and impressively powerful. Switch on, keep the lid down, and watch the integrated analogue temperature gauge start to rise. You’re ready to cook in under 20 minutes at 280°C, reaching a maximum of 320°C to deliver that authentic seared flavour every time.

The Cube E design and three metre power cord mean it can stand squarely on the floor of your balcony, patio, or tabletop on your garden or outdoor dining table. Thanks to its compact design, it’s easy to store when not in use.

Where to buy

Available from John Lewis, Argos, Next, B&Q and Amazon, the Char-Broil Patio Bistro Cube E (RRP: £229.00) is the perfect electric BBQ for city living and balconies. Powerful, durable and easy to use, a durable cover (RRP: £24.95) is available to purchase separately.

PIT BOSS NEW FOR 2026, the Onyx Edition

A striking collection of advanced pellet smokers, grills and griddles.

Pit Boss®, a global leader in bold outdoor cooking innovation, is launching the Onyx range in the UK, a striking new collection of pellet smokers, grills and griddles designed to elevate outdoor cooking with powerful performance, modern styling, and unmatched versatility and value.

Featuring a sleek matte black finish, cutting-edge technology, and Pit Boss’ signature Bigger. Hotter. Heavier.® construction, the Onyx range delivers premium outdoor cooking without compromise. From industry-leading wood pellet grills with the patented flame broiler to charcoal barbecues and the highly innovative portable griddle, each Onyx Edition product is engineered to perform across a wide range of cooking styles and occasions. 

Every model is fuelled by quality materials, backed by Pit Boss’ best-in-class 5-year warranty, and built to be the centrepiece of any outdoor setup.

The Onyx range includes four standout products featuring bold design and reliable Pit Boss performance, and all available from UK BBQ specialists nationwide:

Pit Boss® Classic Onyx Edition - RRP £649: This wood pellet grill combines proven Pit Boss performance with advanced digital technology and a distinctive look - a versatile and dependable choice for everyday grilling.

Offering 4,769 cm² of cooking space and an 8.5 kg hopper (pellet) capacity, the Classic can handle everything from weeknight meals to weekend party entertaining. The advanced digital control board allows precise temperature control from 82 to 260 °C in 5-degree increments, while the Flame Broiler™ Lever enables direct flame searing at temperatures up to 535 °C. An inbuilt meat probe ensures results are just how you like them. Designed for true versatility, the Classic delivers Pit Boss’ 8-in-1 cooking capability, allowing users to smoke, bake, sear, grill, barbecue, braise, char-grill, and roast, all in one machine.

Pit Boss® Austin XL Onyx Edition wood pellet grill with precision controls – RRP £749 - takes everything fans love about this best-selling grill and elevates it with enhanced technology and bold new styling. With more than 6,503 cm² of cooking space, the Austin XL is built for cooks who love to host, effortlessly handling large gatherings or family feasts.

Equipped with an leading-edge electronic temperature setting controller, the Austin XL offers settings at low temperatures for ultimate control, allowing users to adapt to their environment or increase smoke density. Temperature control ranges from 82 to 260 °C in precise 5-degree increments, while the Flame Broiler™ Lever allows for direct flame searing up to 535 °C. Two meat probes ensure precise and delicious results, while the 8-in-1 cooking capability offers ultimate flexibility. All this power is housed in a sleek matte black design and backed by Pit Boss’ industry-leading 5-year warranty.

The Pit Boss® Lexington Charcoal Onyx Edition – RRP £299 – is an iconic barrel design charcoal grill with a sleek matte black finish accented with striking copper details.

With 3,503 cm² of cooking space, the Lexington Charcoal is built for classic, flavour-forward barbecue with modern convenience. The side-access charcoal tray makes refuelling easy, while thoughtful storage options keep tools and accessories close at hand. 

The Lexington delivers reliable performances every time and timeless charcoal flavour.

Pit Boss® Sierra Onyx Edition Griddle, RRP 649. Innovation meets versatility with this powerful, full-size gas griddle that can be turned into a portable griddle for cooking anywhere, anytime. The full size griddle can either be used on its stand as a full size BBQ grill or, thanks to the “Lift-Off” functionality, it easily converts into a tapletop plancha for camping or small urban set ups.

Featuring a proprietary non-stick ceramic-coated cooking surface, the Sierra delivers an unmatched, user-friendly griddle experience. This 3,458 cm² ceramic cooking surface is ready to use straight out of the box and requires minimal clean-up, needing only a gentle wipe after use. 

The ceramic coating also protects against scratches and rust, helping the griddle look better for longer. With three stainless steel burners and a range of smart accessories, it’s the most versatile griddle in the Pit Boss lineup.

https://www.charbroil.co.uk

https://uk.pitboss-grills.com

You can buy them at the following link: https://amzn.to/4aYPN0g

How Long Can A Bottle Of Wine Be Left Open Before It Goes Bad? Experts Reveal The Exact Number Of Days

Different wines have vastly different shelf lives: here's your complete guide.

Key Points:

Wine experts reveal how many days each wine type stays good after opening, from sparkling to fortified wines

Sparkling wine lasts just 1–3 days while fortified wines can stay fresh for up to four weeks

Expert shares preservation techniques and warning signs that indicate your wine has turned

We've all been there: you open a bottle of wine for dinner, enjoy a glass or two, then wonder, “How long will the rest stay drinkable?” 

According to experts, the answer isn't as simple as you might think, and keeping wine past its prime can ruin what was once a beautiful bottle.

The team at Genuwine Cellars, a global leader in luxury wine cellar design and installation with over 10,000 bespoke projects completed worldwide, understands wine preservation better than most. 

With nearly three decades of experience helping collectors protect their investments, they know exactly how long each wine type remains at its best after opening.

“One of the most common questions we hear from wine enthusiasts is about opened bottles,” Robb Denomme, Founder and CEO of Genuwine Cellars told That's Food and Drink.

“The truth is, different wines have very different lifespans once exposed to air. Knowing these timelines can save you from wasting good wine or serving wine that's past its prime.”

Below, Denomme breaks down exactly how long you can keep each type of wine after opening, along with expert tips to extend their shelf life.

How Long Each Wine Type Lasts After Opening

The lifespan of an open bottle varies significantly depending on the wine's structure, alcohol content, and tannin levels. Denomme explains what you need to know about each type:

1. Sparkling Wine: 1–3 Days

Champagne, Prosecco, and Cava are the most delicate wines once opened. The moment you pop the cork, those signature bubbles begin escaping, and the wine starts losing its effervescence and flavor profile.

“Sparkling wines are under pressure, and once that seal is broken, carbon dioxide begins dissipating immediately,” explains Denomme. 

“Even with a proper sparkling wine stopper (far more effective than a regular cork), you're looking at a maximum of three days before the wine goes flat and loses its character.”

For best results, invest in a sparkling wine stopper designed to maintain pressure, and keep the bottle refrigerated between pours.

2. Light White Wine & Rosé: 3–5 Days

Crisp, unoaked whites like Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, and most rosés fall into this category. These wines are designed to be fresh and bright, qualities that fade quickly once they are exposed to oxygen.

The key to preserving these wines is immediate refrigeration and a tight seal. Store them upright in the refrigerator, and ensure the cork or screw cap is secured properly after each pour.

Within this timeframe, you'll still enjoy the wine's intended flavors, though some of the vibrant fruitiness may soften by day four or five.

3. Full-Bodied White Wine: 3–5 Days

Chardonnay and other full-bodied whites, particularly those aged in oak, often hold up slightly better than their lighter counterparts. The richer texture and oak influence provide some protection against oxidation.

“Oaked whites have more complexity and structure, which gives them a bit more staying power,” notes Denomme. 

“You might even find that some oaked Chardonnays taste better on day two or three as they open up, but beyond five days, you're pushing your luck.”

4. Light Red Wine: 3–5 Days

Light reds like Pinot Noir, Gamay, and some Grenache blends are fruit-forward and relatively low in tannins, which means they oxidize faster than their bolder relatives. 

While it’s common for people to assume red wine can sit out at room temperature, refrigeration actually slows the oxidation process significantly.

Cork the bottle immediately after pouring and store it in a cool place, or even in the refrigerator. Yes, you'll want to let it warm up slightly before serving, but the cooler temperature will preserve the wine's integrity much better than leaving it on the counter.

5. Full-Bodied Red Wine: 4–6 Days

Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Malbec, and other full-bodied reds are the champions of longevity among table wines. Their higher tannin content acts as a natural preservative, slowing down oxidation and keeping the wine drinkable for up to six days.

“Tannins are essentially a barrier against oxygen,” Denomme explains. “That's why a big, bold Cabernet can sit for nearly a week and still taste good, while a delicate Pinot Noir might start declining after three days.”

Even with these heartier wines, proper storage matters. Re-cork immediately and store upright in a cool, dark place.

6. Fortified Wines: 2–4 Weeks

Port, Sherry, Madeira, and other fortified wines are the exception to every rule. Thanks to their higher alcohol content (typically 17-20% ABV compared to 12-15% for table wines), they're remarkably resilient once opened.

“The extra alcohol acts as a preservative, which is why fortified wines were originally created for long sea voyages,” says Denomme. “

You can enjoy these wines over several weeks without worrying about significant degradation, though lighter styles like Fino Sherry should be consumed within a week or two.”

Store fortified wines in a cool place with the cap tightly sealed, and they'll reward your patience.

Robb Denomme, finished by saying: “The best way to extend any wine's lifespan is to minimise oxygen exposure. Cooler temperatures slow oxidation dramatically, which is why refrigerating all wines, even reds, makes such a difference. You can always bring a red back to room temperature before serving.

“As for knowing when wine has turned, trust your nose. If it smells like vinegar, wet cardboard, or nail polish remover, it's time to pour it out. Wine should smell inviting, not sharp or unpleasant. When in doubt, a small taste will confirm whether it's still enjoyable.”

To learn more about wines, wine cellars and the services that Genuwine Cellars offers please visit them at https://www.genuwinecellars.com.

Award-Winning British Hummus Brand Launches Innovative, Functional Collection

Designed for Health-Led Eating, Gut Health & Category Growth

ChicP’s launch of their exciting new range of ‘functional’ hummus puts the brand in the lead as the only functional premium hummus brand in the UK, delivering on quality and taste.

ChicP saw a gap in the market for a functional hummus that improves gut-health, provides high levels of fibre and enhances flavour. 

The range uses Aquafaba (the by-product of chickpea water) rather than water to prevent waste and increase fibre and protein content. 

The use of Extra Virgin Olive Oil instead of rapeseed oil, the high plant and fibre content, all contribute to a new high quality product that greatly enhances gut-health.

Available at leading stores including Ocado, Wholefoods, Planet Organic, Midcounties Co-op, Booths, Abel & Cole, Selfridges, and Independents/Farmshops across the country, ChicP is leading the expansion of the hummus category.

Hannah McCollum, Founder of ChicP, told That's Food and Drink: "We created this functional range to enable consumers to choose healthier eating habits without compromising on flavour or convenience. 

"Our hummus is a great addition to salads, roasted vegetables, meat and pasta dishes, as well as a much-loved dip. We've pushed the boundaries, offering targeted benefits for gut health support and increased plant diversity, redefining how hummus fits into a truly balanced and delicious lifestyle.”

ChicP is launching five distinct new flavours:

• Velvet Good Gut Hummus, a smooth, nourishing hummus that includes Aquamin, a natural, seaweed-derived source of calcium. Calcium contributes to the normal function of digestive enzymes, helping the breakdown of food molecules for efficient mineral absorption. This can have a prebiotic-like effect on gut bacteria to enhance beneficial microorganisms, boosting immunity, energy and metabolism. It also offers 4 Plant Points. A delicious, pure health bomb!

• Velvet Green Queen Hummus, a vibrant, antioxidant rich, Green Goddess-style hummus, packed with green peas, spinach, parsley, and basil. Delivering 6 plant points per pot, high in fibre and helping boost gut-friendly bacteria. An overall delicious herby hit.

• Velvet Beetroot & Horseradish Hummus, ChicP’s bold, vibrant hummus, offering 6 Plant Points, a source of protein and high in fibre. It’s a unique earthy-sweet flavour with a warming horseradish kick.

• Velvet Hummus: High in Fibre, a Great Taste Award winner, renowned for its outstanding flavour and creamy consistency. Best-tasting velvety smooth hummus on the market.

• Indulgent Velvet Truffle Hummus, created in collaboration with The Truffle Hunter, delivers deep savoury notes and 4 Plant Points. A sensational hummus with a wide range of admirers, this flavour is sublime.

ChicP is an award-winning British hummus brand with clean, transparent ingredients at its core. The company is B Corp Certified, and a founding member of Buy Women Built. It is an advanced product, pioneering gut and health functionality within the dip category, and acting as a true retail partner in category growth. Bringing superb taste and the hugely beneficial health benefits of aquafaba and plant proteins, ChicP is expanding how and when hummus is eaten.

The range will retail at £2.50 RRP per 150g chilled hummus pot. Truffle at £2.75.

www.chicp.co.uk