WEEKEND WINE PICKS

MOËT & CHANDON ROSÉ IMPERIAL PINOT NOIR-PINOT MEUNIERCHARDONNAY N/V, CHAMPAGNE, FRANCE

$80.99 | 90/100

UPC: 03185370074831 The colour is peachy orange, the attack soft and round with 9 g/L of sugar. Three years on lees provides creamy, toasty structure that easily holds the explosive raspberry, cherry, cranberry fruit with a citrus undercurrent. It’s the freshness and acidity that seals the deal, along with flecks of brown spice. Clearly built for food — you could start with grilled salmon but don’t be afraid to serve this with grilled lamb or pork.

GÉRARD BERTRAND CÔTE DES ROSES ROSÉ 2017, COTEAUX DU LANGUEDOC, FRANCE

$24.99 | 89/100

UPC: 03514120107107 More than anything, Côte des Roses celebrates the Mediterranean lifestyle, something Gerard Bertrand has done with style for more than two decades. The Grenache, Cinsault, Syrah blend comes off mostly hard limestone and schist with a lesser contribution of gravels from the rivers of the Languedoc region. Strawberry, watermelon and citrus with fresh lively mineral undercurrent supports a similar flavoured palate, with a riff of Southern France garrigue. Dry, firm and elegant, a pairing of lobster comes to mind, as does a spicy tuna poke.

CEDARCREEK PLATINUM HAYNES CREEK SINGLE VINEYARD VIOGNIER 2016, OKANAGAN VALLEY

$35.99 | 89/100

UPC: 778913800313 A Valentine’s-style white with a dense, ripe and rich style and sun-warmed, aromatic apricot, peaches and pears, sourced from Haynes Creek Vineyard. Five months on the lees in oak/concrete plumped up the texture and honeysuckle, honeydew, acacia and jasmine scents complete the package. Not shy, enjoy this full-bodied and off-dry wine solo or with rich dishes.

MURPHY-GOODE PINOT NOIR 2016, CALIFORNIA, UNITED STATES

$21.49 | 87/100

UPC: 083722023489 Murphy- Goode is a solid label offering consistent quality Pinot for around $20. The style is round, juicy and easy drinking, with earthy, cherry, compost, spicy notes with a touch of oak. Ready to drink and designed for fun. Simply add your favourite pizza.

ALTESINO ROSSO DI MONTALCINO 2016, TUSCANY, ITALY

$27.99 | 90/100

UPC: 662255300337 Simplicity can be complex when you pull it off. In the case of this rosso, the fruit is all Sangiovese that is aged a mere seven months in Slavonian oak barrels followed by three months in bottle before heading to the market three full years before its big brother Brunello will arrive. Lightish in colour and alcohol, Altesino is about elegance and red and black fruits, harmony, low tannin and drinkability in a mouthwatering style that complements a variety of foods. A classic Euro luncheon or mid-week dinner wine you can serve with creamy pasta dishes, roasted chicken, barbecued sausages and/ or pizza. Ready to drink. Superb value, stock up.