Re: Spring 2014 | Page 51

Winning Reviewed by Wes Game Hungary Campanula, Pinot Grigio Australia McGuigan Bin 578, Merlot £7 – Laithwaites/Sunday Times Wine Club £8 Sainsbury’s & Tesco sometimes on offer for less. As well as being famous for the sweet wine Tokaji, Hungary has been massively influenced by Italy for centuries, and wine is no exception. Pinot Grigio is widely planted throughout Hungary. Warm long summers help to inject flavours into this popular grape variety. This wine is packed with citrus flavours as well as subtle green fruit and melon with floral aromas. Whilst I am not usually partial to Pinot Grigio, I hold my hands up and admit I enjoyed it. A classic case of “taste it to believe it” and “don’t be influenced by the label”. Great value for money. I will be buying more. Portugal Portinho Covo, Touriga Nacional, Alicante & Syrah (Shiraz) £7 Laithwaites Touriga Nacional is Portugal’s finest grape type and is famously used in the production of port. Touriga Nacional gives low yields (low volumes of grapes/wine per vine), which results in intense flavours, colour and aromas. Blended with Alicante and Syrah, means there is a wealth of smooth black fruit and ripe berry flavours. Add in the smokey, woody aromas and the lovely intense colour and the wine becomes a joy to drink. Portugal is increasing its reputation for quality wine and after drinking this I would have to agree. An incredible wine for the money with layers of flavour. Australia is nearly 50% larger than the whole of Europe and is the 4th largest wine exporter in the world, focusing on consistent quality and keen pricing. The warm climate creates high alcohol levels as well as full flavours. This full bodied, smooth wine has strong plum, raspberry and cherry fruit flavours as well as aromas of vanilla and spice injected through the use of oak. This is a great commercially produced wine with consistent flavours that is ideal with roast dinners or winter stews. With occasional offers at the supermarket, keep an eye out for this very quaffable wine! South Africa Boschendal, Chenin Blanc £7 Drinksupermarket.com or Majestic Since the end of Apartheid 20 years ago, South Africa has worked hard to successfully improve the quality and reputation of their wine. Chenin Blanc, known locally as Steen, is the most widely planted grape variety in South Africa. As well as crisp citrus flavours, there are beautiful floral aromas with hints of peach and honey. A little more golden in colour than some other white wines makes you think of summer. A must try for Sauvignon Blanc lovers. As with most wines, drink it when you want – before, during or after food at any time of the year!! 49