September is not only the beginning of autumn but it also starts a period of domestic disruption for yours truly.
We commence a process that culminates in our moving to a smaller house in the garden of the current one.
Meanwhile, though, we must move into one (and, potentially, two) temporary homes until building work is complete – probably in the New Year.
“What has this to do with me?” I hear you ask.
Well, moving house reduces the time available for other things and, consequently, this first re-shuffle will cut the number of weekly posts from two to one for most of September.
That will be the normal Top Tip feature but it will appear on Thursdays not Mondays for the next fortnight or so.
Normal Thursday (more detailed) posts should resume on 28 September with a look at the re-modelled Lidl Wine Tour expected to start on that day.
Monday Top Tips should resume three days earlier – on 25 September.
Fear not though, the quest for optimal value selections will continue with the usual gusto throughout the month.
Meanwhile, here are a couple of “Friday Night Treat” options to help quench thirsts as we shuffle, probably reluctantly, into the new season.
As is normal here, pictures and hyperlinks are provided where possible to guide you straight to the right wine on shelf or web page.
Starting in Eastern Europe
2022 Dragon Hills Pinot Noir (£10.99 at Virgin Wines and 12.5% abv):
In summertime, we often enjoy pinot noir as a major component of rosé.
Now the variety appears in an orthodox format in this example from the consistently impressive vineyards of Romania.
Light in body with little tannin, it is from a top producer there and provides nutty plum, cherry and raspberry flavours that are just perfect for drinking with lighter meals.
That fruity foundation is ably supported here by good acidity and hints of chocolate, mint and baking spice.
Then heading north-west
2021 50 Degrees Dry Riesling (£10.95 at Slurp and 12%):
Germany’s Rheingau region (with so many famous wine villages) claims to be the birthplace of riesling and, nowadays, is an important producer of dry versions like this.
Riesling’s classic kerosene aromas appear briefly here but melt away completely before reaching the palate.
In their place come orchard fruit components supported by a prickle of zesty lime acidity.
To round things off nicely, you can also detect a trace of the slate minerality that Northern German vineyards do well.
Call in again next Thursday when, as I have explained, the spotlight falls on Top Tips – focussing, as ever, on options at a store near you that represent especially good value.
