We’ve really been out there looking for value during these difficult times and searched out some gems that won’t break the bank. I’ve already mentioned our go-to Reserve de Fleur Côtes du Rhône, but there’s loads more where that comes from.
New arrivals from the organic and biodynamic Spanish stable of Parra Jimenez include uber-quaffable Camino Tempranillo and Blanco Sauvignon Blanc / Moscatel at £6.99 and ‘next level up’ Graciano, Merlot, Verdejo and Garnacha rosado £8.40.
Les Amourettes Colombard/Sauvignon has had several successful outings, by the glass, in the wine bar and continues to stand out as the best Cotes de Gascoigne white we’ve found. A steal for £8.50.
The rather unfortunately named Chateau Burgozone, Cote du Danube, trio (Sauvignon Blanc, Viognier and Pinot Noir), for £9.90, punch way above their price tag and won’t fail to impress – particularly if you decant and hide the empty bottles.
Equally good are Bodega Bagordi’s unoaked Rioja Joven, Garnacha/Sauvignon blanco and Rosado – all a mere £9.99 each.
Sicily has always been a happy hunting ground for us with both the £8.99 Il Folle (Nero d’Avola and white Grillo) and £9.50 Fedele (a slightly fuller Nero d’Avola and Catarratto/Pinot Grigio blend).
From further north on the Italian mainland AZ ‘C’ Corvina (£8.95) ticks all the, all too rare, light and not too alcoholic boxes, while new arrival, ‘Le Salare’ Montepulciano d’Abruzzo (£10), from vineyards cooled by sea breezes off the Adriatic is also deliciously fresh.
Into the Veneto, the La Jara Prosecco (£11.99) and Rosato (£10.99) frizzantes might break the £10 ceiling a few bubbles always bump up the price. Both are also available in halves.
From Chilean superstar, Emiliana Organic, we have the Adobe range of varietals including Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc, Viognier and showstopping, Carmenere and Gewurztraminer. All are £9.00 a pop.
Continuing a whirlwind tour around the southern hemisphere New World, we have the ‘minimum intervention’ False Bay range from South Africa – all at £7.99. The choice includes Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc (my favourite), Shiraz, Pinotage (surprisingly good) and top selling, Cinsault/Mouvedre rosé.
Lastly, super sustainable, De Bortoli Family Estates in New South Wales make some great wines – starting with the Accomplice, Second Heist range of Shiraz, Chardonnay and Semillon/Sauvignon Blanc. All are £8.25.
Above mentioned are available in all of our shops and Ben’s Wine & Tapas to buy.