Cono Sur Bicicleta Viognier 2019, Chile (£7.50, Sainsbury’s)
Viognier is becoming popular because they are more often full-bodied whites with apricot, peach and honeysuckle scents and flavours laced with gentle spice. They are a fantastic pairing with seafood (especially crab and langoustine – or a simple prawn or avocado and mango salad). This Bicicleta example is a really nice wine and its lush, ripe fruit just jumps from the glass. It’s definitely one for summer garden parties.
The Original Dark Horse Chardonnay 2017, California, (£8.50, Tesco)
Offering a beam of Californian sunshine at a reasonable price, this wine has an appealing mix of apple, pear and honeydew melon, balanced by hints of creamy vanilla and a juicy burst of acidity. The rich, creamy flavours are nicely complemented by a crisp acidity, culminating in a smooth, lingering, full-bodied finish. A very easy wine to drink, with just enough oakey flavour, but not overpowering.
WINE OF THE WEEK
M&S This Is Chenin Blanc 2019, South Africa (£5, M&S)
M&S new ‘This Is’ wine range features 15 bottles, with ‘bright, helpful labels showing exactly what kind of wine is on the inside’. Shoppers who are looking for a bargain bottle will be impressed with all of the bottles costing just £5, apart from the two sparkling wines at £6 each. Think passion fruit and green apple. This is a spritely little number with a snappy finish.