Two familiar themes re-surface in today’s selections.
The first is the high quality attained by well chosen red wines in the (otherwise, relatively humble) basic Côtes du Rhône classification.
Second is another drum-banging exercise by the RFS25 (Riesling for Summer 2025) axis – i.e, me!
This one is from Austria – a country that narrows down the main style of riesling it produces compared to the broader spectrum created in Germany.
This result will delightfully enhance many warm, sunny days.
And when everything clouds over, then there is the hearty Rhône red that accompanies it today.
Both represent great value for money.
As is normal here, pictures and hyperlinks are provided where possible to guide you straight to the right wine on shelf or web page.
Let’s start in France though
2023 Leon Perdigal Côtes du Rhône (from £8 in Majestic and 14% abv):
Southern Rhône winemakers are widely praised for their blending skills – and this well-crafted red wine shows you why.
It is a rich combination of grenache and syrah nicely embellished with herbal influences – but watch out for that high alcohol.
Behind a centre-piece of ripe cherry, plum, and loganberry flavours, you can find lively acidity and gentle tannin.
Contrast is provided by an interesting touch of graphite, along with hints of clove, vanilla, and oregano.
And then to that riesling
2022 Extra Special Austrian Riesling (£8.14 at Asda and 12.5% abv):
If, despite all my entreaties, you remain doubtful about riesling from Germany, then give this Austrian version a taste drive.
350 miles separate the main regions concerned – with the Austrian part generally considered to make the more powerful wines and to focus particularly on drier styles.
This one is fresh with only a hint of those trade-mark kerosene aromas and it brings you bold apple, nectarine, and grapefruit flavours.
It also has a gentle texture, zingy acidity – with lime notes and a slight tingle – and the whole thing lingers lengthily on your palate.
After today’s sweep between retailers, Thursday’s post sees our regular look at the most recent Lidl Wine Tour.
2 responses
Morning from the Riesling Year Round (RYA) camp!
Happy to also recommend another Austrian wine, this one from Aldi. An unnamed field blend, probably based on Grüner Veltliner, there’s a definite waft of Riesling in their Unearthed Gemichster Satz.
At £8.99, it’s refreshing, food friendly and ideal for this week’s upcoming sunny weather.
Welcome aboard and thanks for the support. We are on the same page with that Aldi option as it was recommended here on 3 April. As you say, a lovely wine.