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Wine News: Say goodbye to Rosé and celebrate September with the Grillo grape

Tesco Cotes de Gascogne Blanc 2017, Southwest France (£5, Tesco)
Tesco Cotes de Gascogne Blanc 2017, Southwest France (£5, Tesco) Tesco Cotes de Gascogne Blanc 2017, Southwest France (£5, Tesco)

Marks & Spencer Grillo 2017, Italy (currently reduced from £7 to £6 until October 1, M&S)

September signals shellfish for seafood lovers – and what could be nicer with your fruits de mer special than a Sicilian vino that’s not only refreshing but brings sunshine to the table? The Grillo grape gives this wine honeyed aromas of lemon, lime and dried herbs, which gather momentum as they glide along on the smooth, creamy palate, with well-balanced acidity and an enjoyable, spicy note on the finish.

Tesco Cotes de Gascogne Blanc 2017, Southwest France (£5, Tesco)

It’s easy to skip past an everyday bottle of wine, especially when you’ve been drinking pink since early spring. September has arrived and it is time to say farewell to Rosé and say hello to this fresh, crisp white – a blend of Colombard and Ugni Blanc, local grapes in the style of Sauvignon Blanc – that’s really drinkable, with its fruity, citrusy edginess, squeeze of grapefruit and refreshing, interesting finish.

WINE OF THE WEEK

Casillero Del Diablo Merlot (£7.50 Sainsbury’s):

Chilean wine at its best from Casillero del Diablo – one of the best-value brands in the world. This is a smooth, medium-bodied Merlot that perfectly combines plum and red berry flavours with smoky, cedar wood aromas. Ideal to match with pasta, risotto and lightly spiced red meat dishes. I’m a big fan of rich, deep reds and this brand never fails to impress.