Last night, as I shoved unsolicited advice about sparkling wines down your throats, Tara tweeted asking for some still wine recommendations, especially reds, for Christmas. So, since she asked, here’s what I’ve got in for next week:
Whites in the fridge:
Tesco Finest Argentinian Chardonnay 2010, £5 on offer, Tesco
I shipped in some NZ Sauvignon Blanc for our housewarming a few weeks ago and much as I love the grassy, herbal, gooseberry characters of NZ SB, I fancied a change. So I went to Argentina (not literally, obviously) and picked up this Chardonnay, currently on offer. Happy to report this is a gorgeous, round, ripe white with melon and faint pineapple chunks to it. Tastes far more expensive than it is.
Yalumba ‘Y’ Series Viognier 2010, £8.74, Majestic
Love this wine, it is so bright in colour it almost glows. This is an aromatic little beast, wafting apricots under your nose then hitting you with peach flavours and a little kick of spice. Made from old vines in the Barossa Valley, in South Australia. Feels like a winter wine and is great with turkey. Winner.
Reds in the rack:
Ogio Primitivo 2010, £4.99 on offer, Tesco
This is a brilliantly vibrant red from the Southern ‘heel’ of Italy, Puglia. Made from the Primitivo grape, this is berry bright, juicy and easy enough to drink with or without food. Great value and in screwcap, making it the best stand-by wine for a house-full.
Cune 2007 Reserva, Rioja, £11.39, Waitrose
The whole big turkey feast can be matched with a fuller-bodied white or a soft, not-too-tannic red. This soft and curvy Rioja is all cherry fruit and smooth oak, made from a blend of Tempranillo, Garnacha and Graciano grapes. It is classic but with a modern twist, just right.
Fill yer stockings x
Very excited about those! When can I come over and taste that Chardonnay? x
Mrs R – I might just bring a bottle over with me later 😉
Also read about the Viognier on Jamie Goode's blog…sounds interesting.
Vinogirl – he clearly follows my blog, sensible fellow 😉