Today’s selections encompass changes of direction in wine production.
The one involving red wine has only sprung to the forefront in very recent times – but is widely welcomed, nonetheless.
The other involves a much more radical shift that largely took place last century but endures right through to the present day.
Both of this week’s chosen examples are currently on offer but, in one case, not for much longer.
I hope you enjoy them both.
As ever, pictures and hyperlinks should help you track down the wine in question
Starting then in Italy
Which wine should I buy? 2023 Irresistible Chianti
Why should I buy it? Many of my recent Chianti recommendations feature the wine in its lighter, more fruit driven modern style – and which everyday wine drinkers who reach for an Italian red are increasingly relishing. Here is another great example.
What does it taste like? Ruby-coloured with enticing fruit aromas, it is a smooth, ripe Italian red that centres on cherry, bramble and raspberry flavours. These are combined with lively acidity and firm tannin, finishing with touches of chocolate, clove and herbs.
Where, how much and what abv? £9 – down from £10 at the Co-op but the offer ends on 21 April – and 12.5%):
NB: Web post may not show the discount.
Then moving a long way south
Which wine should I buy? 2024 Nobilo Sauvignon Blanc
Why should I buy it? It has taken a mere 50 years for Marlborough to transition from sheep grazing territory to become the pioneers of New Zealand’s white wine revolution. Here is a dependable, quietly competent, unpretentious example of the easily recognised sauvignon that resulted.
What does it taste like? Clean and grassy with citrus-tinged aromas, it displays passionfruit, tangerine and grapefruit flavours bolstered by bright lime acidity, with melon, bell pepper and sage components rounding things off.
Where, how much and what abv? £8 Nectar price at Sainsbury’s until 28 April – down from £9.25 and 12.8% abv.
Breaking News
The excellent Exceptional by ASDA Grüner Veltliner (£8.50 list price) is – I am told – on a 3 for £18 deal until 26 April, at Asda obviously.
Join us again next Monday for tidings about a new range – and on the sister site _ MidWeek Wines Guild – for their customary in depth looks at the wine world on Thursday and Saturday.
2 responses
Great minds think alike!
The Asda Grüner Veltiner favourably features in my article coming out end of May, “Two Austrian stunners”- the other one is Asda Extra Special Riesling. Thanks for the heads up on the great discount.
This Thursday in midweekwinesguild.substack.com
I cover the wines of north-east Italy and feature Tanners indie wine retailer.
Guild members also contribute notes to the site. My section is called “Paul’s Ponderings” and the latest post explores why so many now choose to watch top UK sporting events from abroad.
Richard and Dave are also going to review Majestic’s latest press tasting.
There is a lot going on!
Indeed there is, and so much for wine drinkers young and old to enjoy – and to shape their purchases.