Wine: Velluto Rosso' or ‘Red Velvet' – a wine worth the price tag


From a top producer in one of the lesser-known wine regions in south-western France, this Expression de Saint Mont is a bright, fruity, dry white. It’s a tangy, dry and crisp style, unoaked and food-friendly, with notes of ripe peach fruit. Grapefruit scented, this fresh and appetising wine would be a good match for dishes such as creamy pasta or quiche. An uncomplicated wine that’s hard to beat at the price.

Made with Chenin Blanc grapes grown in South Africa’s iconic Stellenbosch region this wine opens with gentle blossom aromas – and follows through with peach, red apple and honey flavours. Those same flavours are then subtly integrated with gentle acidity, a touch of citrus zestiness and a mild, oak-influenced depth. It would be best served lightly chilled with seafood, creamy chicken or mildly spiced dishes.

WINE OF THE WEEK
Velluto Rosso’ or ‘Red Velvet’, Italy, £14.99, Hughes Foodhall, Camlough & The Wine Rack, Stewartstown
This hearty Velluto Rosso (Red Velvet) wine from Italy has rich aromas of blackcurrants and blackberries along with spicy notes of cocoa. The tannins are ripe, soft and make for a long, full-bodied texture yet balanced by good acidity which gives it a true sense of finesse (velvet). A treat that’s well worth the price tag...