Life

Wine: A Pinotage worth a try if you like a fruit forward, plummy style

Errazuriz Merlot, (was £9, now £7 until December 9, Tesco)
Errazuriz Merlot, (was £9, now £7 until December 9, Tesco) Errazuriz Merlot, (was £9, now £7 until December 9, Tesco)

Fado, Portugal, Centra stores, £7.49

Portugal is a country of strong wine tradition – and the variety and quality of its wines is on the up with wine lovers taking a keen interest in new releases. This example is a rich red-ruby colour with a clean nose and aromas of ripe red fruits, forest berries and some balsamic notes. On the palate, it has good volume, well matured tannins and a persistence on the finish. Good acidity and very well balanced.

Errazuriz Merlot, (was £9, now £7 until December 9, Tesco)

This Merlot from the Errázuriz Estate demonstrates the suitability of Chile’s Curicó Valley for this variety. It’s a deep ruby-red in colour with an aromatic profile that includes plum and raspberry notes mixed with subtle roasted pepper and balsamic flavours. Light notes of fresh fruit are evident on the palate. Medium body and smooth tannins make it a very easy wine to drink.

WINE OF THE WEEK

Irresistible Pinotage 2017, Swartland, South Africa

(£7, Co-op)

This smooth, juicy, Pinotage (South Africa’s signature red grape is a cross between Cinsault and Pinot Noir) is worth a try if you like a fruit forward, plummy style – and at 14 per cent ABV it certainly packs a punch. It would make a great pairing with a roast leg of lamb Sunday dinner, given its bold brambly, mulberry fruits, hint of smoky spiciness and long finish.