Emiliana Novas Viognier Gran Reserva 2010 (Independents, €7.49 )
This typically aromatic Viognier made from organic grapes in Chile’s Casablanca valley, and aged in oak barrels for 10 months, has plenty of apricot and peach fruit jumping out of the glass on first swirl. On the palate, along with a creamy appealing texture, there is again buckets of tropical fruit that playfully attack the senses. With an appropriately balanced acidity and satisfying finish this is ideal with anything spicy or Asian and particularly good value at this price.
Torres Gran Sangre de Toro Reserva 2008 (Tesco, Dunnes Stores, SuperValu, €13.49 )
An old reliable and favourite that reminds one of many a sun holiday, this is made in Spain’s Catalunya from Garnacha Tinta (60 per cent ), Cariñena (25 per cent ), and Syrah (15 per cent ). With a nice touch of cherry and raspberry fruit sprinkled with spice on the nose to begin with, the palate is a little richer with ripe developing blackcurrant fruit and a slight coffee spice adding to the round tannins giving a decent finish. In essence, perfect with Sunday roast or a warm soothing autumn stew.
