DONCASTER is marking the 20th anniversary of wine being introduced to the city’s pubs, shops and supermarkets.
The city council approved the beverage for local people by a narrow majority in 2003, despite its fancy southern connotations. It has proved moderately successful, with Chardonnay the latest variety launched in 2021.
Pub landlord Tom Logan said: “I was as skeptical as anyone when it was brought in. I thought it was a drink for people that write poetry and go to France.
“We’ve sold the full range, still do, both red and white. But not the pink stuff. There are no homosexuals in Doncaster, so there’s no call for it.
“I was amazed at the effect that just four pints had on some of the punters. The brewery strongly suggested I stick to the recommended measurements, and after trying a couple of pints myself, I reluctantly agreed. For a pansy drink, it’s strong stuff.”
It is hoped by the wine industry that the success story of Doncaster will encourage other towns and cities in the north to take up wine as a beverage of choice.
However, Norman Steele, who runs the Crown and Sceptre in Macclesfield, said: “Over my dead body and the dead body of every other publican in Macclesfield. We’re not serving that effeminate piss.”
