I often think that Waitrose’s schedules of offers are text book examples of what retailers should be promoting. The current list – which runs until 2 June but see the details below – is an eclectic mix of regions, styles and prices with only a small proportion of branded wines. Here are some that I would recommend for you to explore further.
From the 3rd – 9th June Waitrose are running 25% off all their wines (when you choose 6 bottles or more) in all stores outside Scotland and in www.waitrosecellar.com
Straight forward red wine with depth.
We tend to concentrate on Australia’s flagship red wines – shiraz and cabernet – but that unostentatious old workhorse, merlot, also deserves a mention sometimes.
For example, 2013 Deakin Estate Merlot (down from £8.99 to £5.99), from the chardonnay-rich land of Victoria, provides us with a soft, undemanding damson and cherry centred wine with meaty depth, firm acidity, touches of cinnamon and chocolate and subdued tannins.
Thoroughly modern chardonnay
Speaking of chardonnay, take a look at a version that is a million miles from the big, ripe, oaky fare that the world has now turned against.
Instead, enjoy Italy’s light, crisp 2013 Alta Italia Chardonnay Vigneti delle Dolomiti (£5.99 – instead of £8.99) with a floral opening, lime and apple fruit but peach centred substance too.
The unconventional side of Italy
Sticking with Italy but moving south to Tuscany, I was hugely impressed by 2014 Teruzzi & Puthod Rondolino Vernaccia di San Gimignano (reduced £2 to £6.99).
This uses a little known local grape to create a smooth and delicate white with savoury and nutty undertones and a lovely fruity combination of pear consistency, apple freshness and grapefruit based acidity.
And to finish with a sparkle
Amid the fanfares that have greeted some of the supermarket own label champagnes (many at super prices), here is one from an excellent Champagne House.
Duval-Leroy Fleur de Champagne Premier Cru (£19.99 instead of £29.99) greets you with small, busy, bubbles and yeasty aromas that lead into a biscuity backdrop with gentle apple acidity, hints of mint and vanilla, a pleasing creamy structure and savoury depth.
