TOP Tipples

You know it’s coming. ‘February Gold’ trumpet daffodils are blooming alongside blankets of snowdrops, signalling the first signs of spring.

And with this, thoughts turn to fresh white wines to polish up the palate — especially if you’ve just dusted down the wine rack and it’s looking a bit bare.

Here are the perfect whites to pair with spring.

1. No1 Cederberg Chenin Blanc

2022, Western Cape, South Africa

Some might say South Africa has something for everyone — and that’s certainly the case with its signature grape varieties. The country’s most important white grape, this ownlabel chenin (Waitrose has moved to the most recent vintage), combines juicy tropical fruits and zippy acidity, with a super-bright citrusy freshness lending the wine vibrancy and energy. A natural with seafood, especially scampi or smoked salmon.

2. Extra Special Chardonnay 2021, Barossa Valley, Australia

A ripe chardonnay with lovely concentration of fruit and touch of creamy vanilla, fresh stone fruit aromas and hint of melon follow through on the palate, with nuances of pineapple joining the party.vibrant with well-integrated oak, this is an easy-drinking chardonnay to wash down with seafood pie and Parmesan crust.

3. Abbotts & Delaunay ‘Les

Fruits Sauvages’ Chardonnay 2021, Languedoc, France

A beautiful expression from a key producer, this chardonnay showcases the potential of the sunny Languedoc – and could pass for a Burgundy blonde. With floral intensity on the nose, touch of pear and hint of hazelnut, this chardonnay’s bright and rounded on the palate, typically buttery and creamy, with balanced acidity keeping everything beautifully fresh. Think pan-fried scallops with garlic butter.