Delay that dreary drift into autumn for at least a couple of weeks with these three well-priced, but diverse, summertime whites that form part of the latest Co-op promotion.
Although these promotions end on 1 September, the judgements on the wines themselves should hold good for at least three months from the time of the post.
Click on any of the bottles shown for an enlarged image to help you pinpoint the wine on a crowded shelf.
What Germany currently does brilliantly
As part of my “rehabilitate a riesling” campaign do take a look at this perpetually satisfying example from the Pfalz – Germany’s driest, sunniest and, possibly, most open-minded wine region.
The lime and green apple acidity that underpins 2014 Devil’s Rock Riesling (£5.49 – instead of £6.49) adds a crisp freshness to the wine’s ripe but pithy tropical fruit flavours.
Or for a bit more depth
However, if textured depth is more your bag, then seek out this Languedoc version of viognier – which was once an exclusive (i.e. expensive) Northern Rhone grape variety.
Enjoy the ripeness, substance and length of 2013 Les Jamelles Viognier (£5.99 – instead of £6.99) and the floral, sweet-edged apricot flavours it brings to the party – without blunting that attractive lemon based acidity.
Or come safely home to sauvignon
Although not part of this promotion, the Co-op’s premium range is often worth a look – as this frisky Chilean white demonstrates.
Do not be misled by the neutral aromas of The Co-operative Truly Irresistible Leyda Valley Sauvignon Blanc (£6.99); this has zingy gooseberry and citrus vibrancy a-plenty with a backdrop that is both classy and grassy.
Yes Kiwis can sparkle
The words “fizz” and “New Zealand” do not often appear in the same sentence but Lindauer products are actually one of the country’s most exported wines.
Indeed, once past the very boisterous initial mousse, the uncomplicated pinot noir and chardonnay based Lindauer Sparkling Rosé (£8.99 instead of £9.99) delivers pleasingly attractive, slightly spicy raspberry fruit with balanced and pliable acidity.
Highlights from the Rest
Here are a couple of reds you may enjoy that are included in this promotion but do double check the prices before you get to the till:
2013 Les Jamelles Reserve Mourvèdre (£5.49 – down from £7.49) which is an intense, structured but juicy plum and cherry centred wine.
2013 Paarl Mountains Cabernet Sauvignon (£4.99 instead of £6.99) with blackberry fruit, raspberry based acidity and minty chocolate touches too.
For more reds take a look at my addition to the reds in last week’s M&S post – and, in particular, to the £4 reduction it offers you.
