Red wine, with its rich flavors and bold tannins, is a favorite among wine enthusiasts. From fruity Merlots to spicy Syrah, the diversity of red wines offers something for every palate.

Popular Red Wine Varieties

1. Cabernet Sauvignon: Full-bodied, tannic, and acidic, with flavors of black currant, blackberry, and spice.
2. Merlot: Smooth, approachable, and fruity, with notes of plum, blackberry, and chocolate.
3. Pinot Noir: Light-bodied, elegant, and acidic, with flavors of cherry, raspberry, and earth.
4. Syrah/Shiraz: Full-bodied, spicy, and dark-fruited, with hints of pepper, licorice, and smoke.
5. Malbec: Fruity, velvety, and smooth, with flavors of plum, blackberry, and spice.

Red Wine Characteristics

• Tannins: Compounds that give red wine its astringent, drying sensation.
• Acidity: Balances sweetness and tannins, enhancing flavor.
• Body: Ranges from light (Pinot Noir) to full (Cabernet Sauvignon).
• Ageing: Red wines improve with time, developing complexity.

Food Pairing

• Cabernet Sauvignon: Grilled meats, roasted vegetables, hard cheeses.
• Merlot: Pasta, pizza, burgers.
• Pinot Noir: Salmon, poultry, delicate dishes.
• Syrah/Shiraz: Spicy food, game meats, robust cheeses.
• Malbec: Grilled meats, empanadas, spicy sausages.

Regional Red Wines

• Bordeaux (France): Blends of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc.
• Tuscany (Italy): Sangiovese-based wines, such as Chianti.
• Rioja (Spain): Tempranillo-based wines.
• Napa Valley (California): Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and blends.

Tips for Enjoying Red Wine

• Store: Cool, dark place (55°F-65°F).
• Serve: Decant before serving; use appropriate glassware.
• Drink: Within 2-5 years for most varieties.

Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or just discovering the world of red wine, there’s always something new to explore.

In anticipation of the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) National Executive Committee meeting scheduled for October 24, two prominent members of the party are in disagreement over which region should nominate a successor for the party’s interim National Chairman, Umar Damagum.

Since 2023, the PDP has faced internal conflicts, with some members accusing Damagum of failing to implement adequate reforms within the party.

Members of the PDP, particularly from the North Central region, have therefore called for Damagum’s removal and insist that his replacement should come from their zone.

They cited Section 47(6) of the party’s constitution, which states that when a party office becomes vacant, the Executive Committee must appoint a replacement from the same region or zone as the outgoing officer to complete the term.

Segun Showunmi, the 2023 PDP governorship candidate in Ogun State, disagreed with Kola Ologbondiyan, the party’s former National Publicity Secretary, over which zone should select Damagum’s successor.

Ologbondiyan argued that the replacement should be selected from the North Central region, while Showunmi maintained that the position was not specifically reserved for that area.

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“What the North Central is agitating for is for Damagum to leave that post and return to his position as Deputy National Chairman. The zone will then nominate a suitable person to replace him and complete the tenure,” Ologbondiyan stated.

“We are demanding that North Central be given its rightful place in the National Working Committee, which is the position of National Chairman of the party,” he added.

Showunmi, however, said, “What led to the removal of the last Chairman? Was it not the North Central issues at the heart of this problem? The party will lose if they continue this way.

 “I am from the South, and I have the best ideas to get this party moving right now. We need to bring young people into this party. By even putting myself forward for this, I am taking a big risk with my money and time. So, it is not about the zone; it is about the PDP, and I am saying all this because we cannot have a one-party state.”

A flood has inflicted extensive damage at the University of Ibadan, ruining books, food items, and other vital resources.

On Friday, the flood caused chaos within the university, resulting in the destruction of properties valued at millions of naira.

Items destroyed included important documents and other valuable possessions.

According to PUNCH’s investigations on Saturday morning, the floodwaters submerged several hostels at the institution, leading to the destruction of property.

A student of the institution, who preferred anonymity, said, “The most affected hall of residence is Awo Hostel where about 16 rooms in the underground floor were completely submerged with students’ property floating on the water.”

Another source said, “The students’ foodstuffs, documents and property, especially those that went for examinations were destroyed.

“The flood took over students’ rooms, toilets, kitchens and all the entrances to their hostel.

“The flood took over my friend’s room, and destroyed everything she has, including the ones in her cupboard.”

More Details in a bit…

The PUNCH

Tomatoes, often overlooked as a simple ingredient in our daily meals, have long been lauded for their rich nutritional value. However, as the world continues to grapple with the complexities of cancer, researchers have uncovered a surprising ally in the fight against this devastating disease: the humble tomato.

Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, these juicy fruits have quietly made their way into the spotlight as potent cancer fighters. For years, scientists have extolled the virtues of tomatoes, highlighting their rich nutritional profile and antioxidant properties. Now, a growing body of evidence suggests that eating tomatoes may play a significant role in cancer prevention.

Lycopene: The Cancer-Battling Champion

The vibrant red hue of tomatoes is primarily attributed to lycopene, a carotenoid pigment that belongs to the family of antioxidants. Numerous studies have linked lycopene consumption to a reduced risk of various cancers, including prostate, breast, lung, colon, and stomach cancers.

How Lycopene Works

• Antioxidant Power: Lycopene acts as a potent antioxidant, neutralising harmful free radicals that can damage cells and DNA, which are key factors in cancer development.
• Inflammation Reduction: Chronic inflammation has been implicated in several types of cancer. Lycopene helps reduce inflammation, creating a less hospitable environment for cancer cells to thrive.
• Cell Cycle Regulation: Lycopene may interfere with the cell cycle, preventing abnormal cell growth and division that can lead to cancer.
• Apoptosis Induction: In some cases, lycopene can trigger apoptosis, a process of programmed cell death, eliminating damaged or cancerous cells.

Enhancing Lycopene Absorption

To maximize the benefits of lycopene, it’s essential to prepare and consume tomatoes in ways that promote absorption. Cooking tomatoes, especially with a bit of oil, can significantly increase lycopene bioavailability. Consider these methods:

• Cooking: Saute tomatoes with olive oil or add them to stews and soups.
• Processing: Tomato sauce, juice, and paste are excellent sources of lycopene.
• Combination: Consuming tomatoes with foods rich in healthy fats, such as avocados or nuts, can enhance lycopene absorption.

Incorporating Tomatoes into Your Diet

Tomatoes can be easily integrated into your daily meals. Here are some creative ideas:

• Salads: Add cherry tomatoes or diced tomatoes to your salads for a burst of flavor and nutrition.
• Sandwiches: Top your sandwiches with tomato slices or tomato-based spreads.
• Soups and Stews: Tomato-based soups and stews are hearty and flavorful.
• Smoothies: Blend tomatoes with other fruits and vegetables for a refreshing smoothie.

A Note of Caution

While tomatoes offer numerous health benefits, it’s crucial to note that no single food can guarantee cancer prevention. A balanced and diverse diet, along with regular exercise, is essential for overall health and well-being. If you have concerns about cancer risk, consult with a healthcare professional for personalised guidance.

In conclusion, tomatoes, with their rich lycopene content, have emerged as a formidable weapon in the fight against cancer. By incorporating these delicious and versatile fruits into your diet, you can take a proactive step towards protecting your health and reducing your risk of cancer. So, let’s raise a glass of tomato juice or enjoy a plate of pasta with tomato sauce to celebrate the power of this humble yet mighty fruit!

There are strong indications that President Bola Tinubu has finalized the list of individuals and their roles for his reshuffled cabinet.

Several sources within the Presidency, who spoke to Saturday PUNCH in confidence, revealed that Tinubu had completed the list of ministers to be dismissed and retained, with plans to release it on Thursday night, a day after arriving in the UK for his two-week annual leave.

Amid worsening economic conditions and nationwide protests in August, President Tinubu has been under growing pressure from both inside and outside the All Progressives Congress to remove non-performing ministers.

Despite occasional warnings from the president about underperformance, his cabinet has largely remained the same, except for the suspension of Dr. Betta Edu, Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, in January 2024.

During a three-day retreat for cabinet members and presidential aides last November, Tinubu revealed that a Central Delivery Coordination Unit, led by his Special Adviser on Policy Coordination, Hadiza Bala-Usman, would evaluate the performance of ministers and senior government officials.

Tinubu noted that these regular performance evaluations would decide who would stay or be removed from the cabinet.

“If you are performing, nothing to fear. If you miss the objective, we’ll review it. If no performance, you leave us. No one is an island and the buck stops on my desk,” the President told participants.

A year after Tinubu’s cabinet was inaugurated in August, Sunday PUNCH reported that a reshuffle was approaching. However, officials who spoke with our correspondent couldn’t specify the timing.

It was also learned that the changes would go beyond mere portfolio exchanges. Some ministries, including the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, would be dissolved, while others would be reorganized and combined.

Officials, who spoke on Friday on condition of anonymity because they were not authorised to talk about the matter, said Tinubu was expected to release the list on Thursday but decided to “sleep on it” for a little while.

“We are just waiting for the go ahead. All I know is that we are waiting for him to send the new names of those he wants to drop and those he wants to appoint.

“We have been expecting them since yesterday (Thursday). I am not sure of any specifics regarding names for now.

“The last I know, he (the President) said he wants to sleep over the list again before he releases it. Maybe he still wants to change his mind about some names,” a source said.

Another source, who asked not to be named, said, “I’m surprised the list did not come out yesterday (Thursday). That thing is almost finalised already.”

The PUNCH

The Taraba Government on Friday unveiled the renamed and remodelled Taraba Government House as T.Y. Danjuma House.

Alhaji Aminu Alkali, the Deputy Governor and Chairman, of the organising committee, said that the decision was to appreciate Danjuma for his uncommon contributions to the development of the state.

According to him, the state government found the elder statesman’s significant contributions to nation-building and vital role in the development of Taraba worthy enough to rename the facility after him as a form of appreciation.

“The decision to rename Taraba Government House as T.Y. Danjuma House is to recognise his contributions to nation-building and the developmental strides.

“This will serve as a form of appreciation for what the elder statesman has done for the development of the state,” he said.

Danjuma, while inaugurating the remodelled government house renamed T.Y. Danjuma House, commended the governor for the decision.

Danjuma said the honour was a morale booster that would motivate him to attract more development to the state.

He appealed for a United Taraba, irrespective of political, tribal, and religious affiliations, to allow Kefas’ administration to thrive.