On the grapevine
SAM WYLIE-HARRIS ON... RED WINES READY FOR BARBECUE SEASON
WHETHER it’s a casual cookout or gastro grill, we’re a nation that loves a good barbecue, and there couldn’t be a better time to get a head-start on one of the most important elements – the wines.
Here are some of our favourites...
1. The Big Gun Spanish Red, Central Spain (£5.49, Aldi)
A CROWD-pleasing fruit bomb that’s ‘big’ on flavour
Powerful, heady aromas of blackberry fruits spiked with pepper meld with a sweet sun-drenched juiciness that floods the palate.
A tempranillo blend, the sweetish, jammy finish keeps you coming back for more.
2. Les Jamelles Syrah 2018, Vin de Pays d’Oc, France (£7, Co-op)
A LITTLE gem from the South of France, this has a smooth, polished feel with fruity brightness (expect swathes of wild berry fruits, spice, cinnamon and hints of violets), a delightful richness and enough structure to pair with barbecued meats and all the trimmings.
3. Tesco Finest Fair Trade South African Pinotage 2017, South Africa (£7.50, Tesco)
SOUTH Africa’s flagship red grape loves smoke, and the streak of smokiness flowing through this ripe, plummy, earthy, bushy red with a slightly dryish finish, makes this a great allrounder.
Great with sticky, sweet sauces, especially if you’re planning to tap into the trend for smoking pork and ribs with oak, hickory and wood flavours, such as apple, this summer.
4. Palataia Pinot Noir 2017, Pfalz, Germany (£9, Marks & Spencer)
GERMANY’S floral, delicate pinot noirs are becoming increasingly popular, and this has ripe summer berries and raspberries galore.
There’s a silky elegance to the lush berry fruits, which are brightened by scented strawberry notes and a kiss of oak. Try serving it lightly chilled on a hot sunny day and you’ll be in good company – really lovely and uplifting.
5. Quinta do Espirito Santo 2016, Vinho Regional de Lisboa, Portugal (£9.99, Laithwaite’s)
A TASTY little number that’s easy, approachable and a great match with lamb chops, herbs and potato salad. Fragrant and rich, it shows engaging damson fruits infused with warm spice on the nose with blackberry, plummy-damson fruit and redcurrants topped with a hint of coffee and vanilla.