The best new bottles to get you out of a wine rut
Are you stuck in a wine rut? Always pick up the same brand or wine style on your weekly shop? Drinks expert Susy Atkins has some canny wine swaps for you. These new bottles will lure you away from the tried and tested to a brave new world of adventure and rewarding experimentation… Swap out your standard shiraz or sauvignon blanc for one of Susy’s fresh new picks.
Always buy the same bottle or style of wine? It’s time for a spring refresh. Try these fresh picks…
Instead of shiraz, try…
Cape Quarter Boekenhoutskloof 2021, Stellenbosch, South Africa 14%
Scented like raspberry jam, with lively blackcurrant joining in, this is a well built, firm-bodied blend of cabernet sauvignon and merlot for full-flavoured cheeses and rich meat grills. £12, available from Marks & Spencer (in-store only)
Instead of sauvignon blanc, try…
Loved & Found Treixadura 2022, Galicia, Spain 12%
From relatively cool-climate northwest Spain, this snappy, refreshing dry white from the treixadura grape is shot through with lemon, lime and a tangy hint of kiwi fruit. Mouthwatering on its own – or pair with white fish and/or asparagus. £8.99, available from Waitrose
Instead of pinot grigio, try…
Unearthed Custoza Bianco 2023, Italy 12%
It’s a bit pricier than a cheap PG, admittedly, but there’s a lot more flavour in this new wine – think zesty tangerines and grapefruit with a whistle-clean finish. From northern Italy, around Verona, it’s a blend of three Italian grapes. £9.99, available from Aldi
Instead of chardonnay, try…
Taste the Difference Chilean Viognier 2022, Bio Bio Valley 13%
With its apricot scent and peachy flavour, this viognier, while not oaked, should please those who love the generous fruitiness and soft texture of chardonnay. One for roast chicken or creamy curries. £9.50 (down to £8 until 14 May), available from Sainsbury’s
Instead of pink prosecco, try…
Mirabeau La Folie Sparkling Rosé NV, France 11.5%
Subtle, delicate pink fizz, produced by Provence-based masters of rosé wine Mirabeau. Just like prosecco it’s made in tanks but the result is a drier sparkler with elegant wisps of red berry fruit. From £13.99, available from Waitrose, Tesco and Sainsbury’s
Instead of malbec, try…
Cidade Branca 2022, Alentejo, Portugal 14%
Portugal is a great source of ripe, plummy reds that can take on steak; this one has rich layers of red plum and cherry fruitcake with a twist of black pepper. £8.75, available from Morrisons
Discover the rest of our drinks recommendations, from lower-alcohol wines to the best beers to drink with cheese.
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