Mike Leigh’s Secrets and Lies is, in my humble opinion, a profound film. It’s raw, real, clever, and there’s some humour amid the painfully gritty reality. Mike Leigh is unparalleled at social commentary. You should watch it if you haven’t seen it. It’s poignant for our family because it deals with the difficult subject of adoption. Timothy Spall and Brenda Blethyn excell.

Two wines to report on.

Domaine Cauhapé Jurançon Sec Chant des Vignes 2004 Southwest France
Quite a deep yellow colour. Distinctive savoury, slightly herbal, straw-tinged nose. Fresh, yet with a hint of oxidative character. The palate is concentrated and savoury with a lovely herbal, cheese-tinged, straw-like edge. It’s almost like a dry Loire Chenin. A lovely food-friendly wine with some complexity. Very good/excellent 91/100 (£9.95 The Wine Society, Stevens Garnier)

Château Saint-Jacques d’Albas 2002 Minervois, France
Vintages add a nice layer of complexity to wine. Even less-good vintages are to be enjoyed because they offer something different. This has a lovely savoury, spicy nose that is quite fresh and distinctive with a pungent, almost medicinal edge, earthy undertones and hints of mint and menthol. The palate is savoury and full with nice fresh spicy fruit. I enjoy this: lots of flavour and savoury character. Very good+ 88/100 (£8.95 Goedhuis & Co)