Sunday 18 February 2018

Spotlight on Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion+, £31


This is not a paid post. Products are press samples.




When the BBC’s The Truth About Looking Good recently put popular moisturisers to the test I smiled knowingly when Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion was one of the two found to boost hydration.






I have used this gem for years. I always get compliments about my skin and though genetics and diet play a part, I find this lightweight lotion also has an important role in giving me a glowing, healthy-looking complexion. My skin feels nourished all day long.

By Daralyn Danns

Friday 16 February 2018

Comforting wines for February




On a cold and dreary night a glass of wine to lift the spirits is often called for. The world of wine is forever evolving and discovering new things. Our tastes, too, change.

Many of us now are looking for wines with a history, a story to tell. In times of change and uncertainty, it is reassuring to know that they have been around for a long time.

As we also become more health conscious and increasingly turn to more plant-based diets, we are also looking at organic or biodynamic wines.

So whether you want a wine with a story or are looking for an organic number, here are some that I hope you will enjoy drinking as much as I did.






Pouilly-Fuissé, En Carementrant, 2015, Bret Bros, ABV 13.5%, £29.95, Berry Bros. & Rudd (bbr.com)
From vineyards that have been farmed organically since 2000, with biodynamic principles being steadily introduced, the Bret Bros are producing some fine wines.

This is a delicious Pouilly-Fuissé that makes you think of ripe pears from the first sip.  The grapes are crushed before pressing, a technique which has almost disappeared. Using this method adds texture as well as reinforcing the stability of the wines. This is a complex, lively number that is sure to impress.





Berry Bros. & Rudd Chianti Classico, 2015, ABV 14% by Badia a Coltibuono, £15.50, Berry Bros. & Rudd, (bbr.com)
This stunning sangiovese-blended chianti, from Tuscany, is perfect for a cold, dark night. Bursting with tangs of red cherry and hints of spice, this deliciously smooth wine has a lovely zesty spirit. Since the 2003 harvest the producer’s fruit has been certified ICEA organic. Enjoy with a plate of pasta!






Nero d'Avola Rosso Capofeto, ABV 12.5%, £9.99, ocado.com
Made from fermentation of organic nero d'Avola grapes, one of the most prolific red grapes in Sicily. This oozes flavours of red berries laced with a peppery kick. It is soft and velvety on the palate. A lovely polished wine that is easy to drink.







Ville Blanche Terret Blanc 2016 Pays d’Oc, ABV 12 % £8.49, Waitrose
Made from Terret Blanc, an old white wine grape native to the Languedoc, this is a refreshingly fruity white wine with crunchy acidity. Produced especially for Waitrose by winemaker Laurent Calmel, this forgotten grape has been given a new lease of life. Those who like crisp, dry unoaked whites will find this wickedly enticing.

By Daralyn Danns


Thursday 15 February 2018

Spotlight on L'Occitane Terre de Lumière L’Eau, £49










With notes of bergamot, pink pepper and pink peony underpinned with tonka bean and white musk, this is a fresh, pretty scent that is easy to wear. Ideal for every day.


By Daralyn Danns