Sophia Longhi's Autumn Drinks Pairing: Venison Feast

You've ordered your Dishpatch menu, the calendar's clear, and the table's all set for your nearest and dearest to come round. Now all that's left is to find the right drinks for the menu and the occasion!

For those of us who are a bit clueless about drinks pairings, our guest sommelier Sophia Longhi is on hand. For the launch of our autumn collection, the award-winning wine communicator and wine writer has designed a bespoke drinks pairing for a selection of menus, such as this tender venison stew by Michel Roux Jr.

Michel Roux Jr.'s slow-braised venison feast

Handmade sourdough, Isigny butter

Sophia recommends: Pentire Adrift, £26.80, Pentire Drinks

With a rich, indulgent menu, which is perfect for a cosy date night, it’s nice to start with something light. Pentire Adrift is a botanical non-alcoholic spirit made with plants native to the Cornish coastline - and it’s delicious served with tonic water and a sprig of rosemary.

French onion soup, sourdough croutons, Comté & Cheddar cheese

Sophia recommends: M&S Classics Alsace Pinot Gris, £10.50, M&S and Ocado

The opulence of a medium-dry Pinot Gris is a great match for the sweet, caramelised onions in this soup. This classic example from Cave De Turckheim also possesses a nice, bright acidity, which cuts through the oozing, melted cheese effortlessly.

Venison stew, pickled poached pear Gratin Dauphinois Hispi cabbage

Sophia recommends: Louis Violland Mercurey, £21.99 (£18.99 Mix Six), Majestic

A pinot noir with berry notes pairs nicely with game. Take a look at wines from Mercurey, which offer Burgundy at fantastic value for money. This fine example is ideal with rich, slow-cooked venison, and romantic evenings by the fireside.

Toffee apple pudding, Chantilly cream

Sophia recommends: Biddenden Ice Cider, £12.90, Biddenden Vineyards

For something a little different, why not try finishing with an ice wine or even an ice cider? This multi award-winning English Ice Cider from Biddenden Vineyards makes for an apple-tastic pairing and brings to mind a stroll through a Kentish orchard in the autumn sunshine.