Europe and the New World come together for you today – and both representatives are currently on offer.
One is a slightly different version of primitivo – and that is not just a reference to its organic status.
The other is New Zealand sauvignon blanc where definite efforts have been made to ease the intensity for which Marlborough is, deservedly, famed
Taken together, they reflect the moving canvas that is modern winemaking.
Long may that pursuit of fresh ideas continue, especially when it brings us wines as good as the pair being featured today.
Once again, pictures and hyperlinks are included where possible to make it easier to track down the wine in question.
This is the New Zealand option.
2022 Tukituki Sauvignon Blanc (£7.50 – down from £8 until the year-end – at Asda):
I first recommended this white wine four years ago but the quality it delivers has not dimmed in successive vintages.
As readers of MidWeeker Pauls’ contributions to our Comments section will know, its typical NZ sauvignon properties are softened by blending.
Those “guests” include small portions of less assertive varieties like gruner veltliner and pinot gris.
Bright and soft, the result has, as its main feature, textured apple, peach and pea shoot flavours.
These combine well with the lime and grapefruit acidity on display yet still provide more gentleness than many Marlborough offerings.
NB:- The Asda website does not seem to have caught up with the reduction their PR folk tell me started last week so, to avoid confusion, no hyperlink this time .
… And 20% off its partner just now.
2023 Casa Roscoli Organic Primitivo (£7 – instead of £8.75 until 2 December – for Tesco Clubcard holders):
Although science has proved zinfandel and primitivo to be the same grape, the attention devotees have lavished on the variety has been greater in California.
Nevertheless, Puglia’s young winemakers are on the case and, increasingly, distinctive and versatile examples of primitivo are being produced.
This, for instance, is not Italy’s fullest example but is a very pleasant option that packs a definite punch and is great value at this discounted price.
It is a young wine with rich bramble, plum and fig flavours at its centre.
These are accompanied by soft tannin and traces of vanilla within a liquorice and slightly earthy background.
Since there is no post this Thursday, join me again next Monday when we examine another duo of Top Tips.
3 responses
The Primitivo will be an even better bargain from tomorrow, as it’s included in a buy 6 25% discount deal.
Hi it looks like tesco also have 25%off 6 or more! That would bring the organic primitive down to an almost continental £5.25!
Welcome aboard David and many thanks to you and Chris for the “heads up” on the promotion. Other MidWeekers will be very grateful to you both for this early alert.