A glass of wine is the ideal accompaniment to traditional autumn dishes, it has been suggested.

An article in the Huddersfield Daily Examiner stated Bordeaux - which is often featured in luxury gift hampers - is great with the likes of sausage and mash or shepherd's pie, as its smooth tannins and ripe berry fruits are perfect with a hearty meal.

"Traditional plates from the carvery such as roast beef and Yorkshire pudding taste even yummier with a spicy Spanish red that is packed with savoury black fruits," it noted.

The news provider observed a Shiraz is a good choice for chicken tikka masala because its hint of chocolate, backbone of tannins and black cherry fruit are able "to stand up to this hot and fiery dish".

A recent survey by Chef and Brewer revealed 16 per cent of wine fans have ordered expensive bottles in a restaurant just to make themselves look more knowledgeable.

And five per cent of respondents admitted they have split their beverage when swilling it around the glass in order to allow it to breathe.