Wines For Late Summer Sipping

By Iheoma Okoroma | August 24, 2023 0 Comments

Weather-wise, it’s been dicey of late, with few hints of sunshine. So while we are on a warm run here is our selection of summery tipples to accompany the barbecue or a picnic in the sun. There’s still time to get something in for the Bank Holiday, too!

The reds

St Hallett Faith Shiraz 2020 – Barossa Valley, South Australia, 14.5% abv

100% shiraz grapes, so expect blackcurrant, damsons, plums and spices and weightiness you’ve come to expect from Antipodean wines. barrels, but first the chocolate nose will keep your taste buds busy. Maturing for nine months in French and American oak ensures a smooth tannin finish.  Full in the mouth with a medium finish. RRP £15.00 per bottle from Tesco.

Il Brutto Negroamaro Primitivo 2021, Puglia, Italy, 13.0% abv

80% Negroamaro and 20% Primitivo grapes combine to produce an earthy, mineral red, with a black and red cherry palate. Warm red in tone, the nose boasts light pepper, though we didn’t detect any spice in the palate. We would pair this with lighter meats or drink it alone. £11.99 per bottle from Laithwaites Wines.

The rosés

Non alcoholic Oddbird Alcohol-Free Sparkling Rosé NV, France, 0.01% abv

Sophisticated and attractively packaged, those seeking a long summer tipple will love this alcohol free ‘wine’ dedicated to summer. The palate smacks of apples and soft red summer fruits with a citrus nose. No less carefully produced than its alcoholic peers, this fizz is matured for 12 months before liberating from alcohol. Made from Syrah grapes. RRP £12.99 0r £9.99 per bottle if ordering a crate of 12, from Laithwaites Wines.

Bees Knees Rosé 2022, Western Cape, South Africa, 11.5% abv

The palate of citrus overshadows faint strawberries and red cherry. The nose whiffs of lemon sherbet, with hints of peach and floral. This is on the drier side and better drunk alone to appreciate its delicateness. £11.99 per bottle from Laithwaites.

The whites

Rueda Baron Amarillo Verdejo 2022, Spain, 13.5% abv

This Is a fresh tasting wine lying somewhere between Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Grigio. The strong citrus nose gives way to melon, peach and a stone fruit palate. Very dry, and goes well with white fish or creamy dishes. £11.99 per bottle from Aldi.