Description
As summer slips into autumn, we’ve put together a mixed case of six wines that feel just right for the change of season.
There are three whites, ranging from crisp and refreshing to a little richer and more textured, alongside three reds chosen for their easy-drinking, warming character. Expect everything from zesty Stellenbosch Sauvignon and barrel-fermented white Rioja to juicy Bardolino, organic Garnacha/Syrah and a generous, warming Malbec.
A lovely selection to have to hand as the evenings draw in – versatile, characterful wines that work brilliantly with autumn suppers, Sunday lunches or simply a glass by the fire.
Vina Real Rioja Blanco, Barrel Fermented – Bright and clear pale yellow in color. On the nose it presents a good balance between the aromas coming from the variety and those coming from its stay in the barrel such as floral, fruity aromas of apple, pear together with pastry spices and light notes of aromatic herbs. On the palate the fresh fruit is to the fore with balanced silkiness on the mid-palate and a long, fresh finish.
Lanzerac Sauvignon Blanc, Stellenbosch – This crisp and refreshing Sauvignon Blanc boasts generous aromas of green fruits including Granny Smith apples that interplay with white fruits such as Asian pears and white peaches in a perfect fruit-acid balance. A fresh lemongrass mouthfeel with subtle minerality is rounded off by a soft creaminess in the long finish due to extended lees contact.
Felicette Blanc, Languedoc (Grenache Blanc) – The nose opens with fresh aromas of pear and white flowers such as almond blossom. The palate is ripe and generous, with flavours of pear and white peach, underpinned by delicate acidity. It finishes is slightly bitter, with hints of grapefruit zest, offering freshness and balance.
Vina Real Tinto Rioja, Spain – Lovely bright berry fruits mingle with notes of cocoa. Easy drinking and approachable, this is a terrific wine to enjoy with a variety of dishes, tapas is a winner or simply on it’s own.
Flying Solo, Grenache & Syrah – 60% Grenache and 40% – grown in Minervois on a limestone plateau, the wine has ripe fruit on the nose, red plum, blackberry and blackcurrant with a touch of freshness as well. The finish is long with aromas of liquorice ans cracked black pepper.
Duc de Belmonde, Malbec, Languedoc – A single varietal selection of high quality Malbec grapes carefully nurtured in the warm winelands of Southern France. Rich, dark fruit and a rounded intense palate profile adds up to a very enjoyable wine.