Wintry reds help keep things cosy

THIS time of year typically feels like the seasons are just starting to change.

- by Matt Nixson

The days are a smidgen longer, the light feels just a wee bit more bright. There's still no sun, indeed this year we've had one of the longest runs of rainy weather across the country since records began. But as the temperature drops again this weekend, it's a stark reminder that winter won't be over until March 20-which still seems impossibly far-off, at least to me.So there's still plenty of time to snuggle up with a great bottle of red, and some hearty meals will help to keep you going through the miserable weather. Little lifts the spirits like a big, bold red, rich in colour, flavour and aroma.

Something to blow away the winter cobwebs. I've got six excellent selections below, any one of which I can guarantee will knock your socks off. All of them are fruit-forward, with plenty of lush flavours and some long, complex finishes. Just about the perfect antidote to February misery.