ON THE GRAPEVINE

It’s a conundrum all wine lovers face at this time of year.

We love those rich, warming reds that make us feel cosy and comforted. But sometimes the softly, softly approach doesn’t quite cut it.

We want a fresh, crisp white to mirror the flowering snowdrops, or a fruity white to conjure a sense of ‘chalet chic’ – even if an actual ski run is a pipe dream.

These are the winter whites we’re in the mood for right now...

M&S Garganega Pinot Grigio 2020, Verona, Italy £6, Marks & Spencer

With those all-important floral notes, lively lemony flavours and a hint of almond on the finish, this is a ripe style of pinot grigio – and both the wine and its

Shakespearian label leave a lasting impression.

Youthful, unoaked and delicious with seafood.

Cono Sur Bicicleta Viognier 2021, Chile £6, Tesco

The virtues of viognier are well known – its spiritual home is Condrieu in the northern Rhone, famous for its fragrant, rich, dry whites with ripe flavours of peaches and apricots – and here we have the next best thing at a fraction of the price. Full-bodied with a pleasing bright acidity.

Morrisons The Best Chenin Blanc 2020, Swartland, South Africa £7.50, Morrisons

A beautifully fresh and friendly, fruity chenin blanc, this is a brilliant example of how South Africa’s signature grape satisfies with its baked apple and citrus flavours and hint of honey coming into play. A crowd-pleaser with a winter BBQ of seafood skewers.

Yealands Sauvignon

Blanc 2021, Marlborough, New Zealand

£9, Asda

Green, nettly and spiked with aromas of freshly cut herbs, citrus and blackcurrant leaf, this is a zesty sauvignon with vibrant flavours of limes, gooseberries and guava in spades, balanced by a crisp minerally finish. A white to put the wind in your sails, it’s vegan-friendly and a great choice with vegetarian or glutenfree dishes.