Best Wines for a Beef Sunday Roast

Fluffy Yorkies, crispy spuds, slivers of tender beef… who doesn’t love a Sunday roast? And it tastes even better when you’re washing it down with a cracking wine. Read on for some top grape varieties guaranteed to match the meaty gorgeousness of a beef Sunday roast, whether or not you choose to smother yours in gravy…

Cabernet Sauvignon

Are you a Sunday roast purist? Then you can’t go wrong with Cabernet Sauvignon – perhaps the most classic match there is. It really makes the beef shine; the wine’s tannins and structure hold up brilliantly against the meat’s robust texture and help bring out its flavour. Styles of Cabernet vary quite a bit depending on where they’re from, so shop (and sip) around to find one you like. Those from Bordeaux are typically lighter than those form the sunny ‘New World’ and are often blended with Merlot, so expect a balance of lovely black and red fruit. California, meanwhile, is known for bold and powerful, age-worthy fruity numbers and if you want something in the middle, look to South Africa, Chile or Southern France.

Affordable: Apothic Cabernet Sauvignon UK £9 // US $8.98
Mid-Tier: Slingshot Cabernet Sauvignon UK £21.50 // US $25.19
Top-End: Mt Brave UK £79.99 // US $99.99

Malbec

This one’s a bit of a no-brainer. Argentina, where some of the world’s best Malbecs are made, also produces some of the world’s best beef so, obviously, the two will go together! Inky and rich, Malbec’s soft tannins and juicy, ripe sweetness make it a good pairing with everything else you’ve got going on the plate too, such as roasted carrots and crisp roasties. Don’t just stick to Argentina though; try Malbecs from Chile or for a more savoury, structured style, head to Cahors in the south of France, which is in fact the grape’s original homeland (and where it is known as cot).

Affordable: Tesco Finest Argentinian Malbec £8
Mid-Tier: Bramare Malbec Lujan de Cuyo £29.44 // US $39.99
Top-End: Catena Zapata Malbec Argentino UK £81.95 // US $119.99

Shiraz / Syrah

Whether in its more concentrated, richly-fruited, juicy and peppery form (Shiraz) or a more meaty, herbaceous style (Syrah), this versatile grape variety is a delicious match for beef. Old-World style Syrahs such as those from the grape’s original home in the Northern Rhône, can often be quite savoury and earthy, so make a good match for the all-important side veg (carrots, parsnips, you name it). Meanwhile, wines labelled as Shiraz, usually from Australia, are typically robust and juicy enough to make the beef stand out. Great halfway styles between the two classics can be found in California or cool climate, Northern Chile.

Affordable: McGuigan Reserve Shiraz £6
Affordable: The Black Stump Durif Shiraz £11.99
Mid-Tier: Penfolds Bin 28 Kalimna Shiraz UK £29.95 // US $27.99
Top-End: Mclaren Vale Yangarra Estate Ironheart Shiraz UK £89.97 // US $121.88

Grenache

It’s not hard to love Grenache. This grape’s got plenty of body, great for meaty dishes like Sunday roast beef but, thanks to soft tannins and lower acidity, it’s also seriously approachable and fruity (read: dangerously drinkable) with notes of wild strawberry and spice. You can easily sip it before, during and after the meal – it’s just as tasty on its own as it is with food, so it’s a prime pick if you’re draining a few bottles with friends over a pub meal where everyone has ordered something different. Spanish wines will label it as Garnacha, while Australian or Rhone ‘GSM’ blends see it blended with Syrah/Shiraz and Mourvedre, aka Mataro.

Affordable: Waitrose Cotes du Rhone Villages £7.99
Mid-Tier: Anayón Garnacha £22.15
Top-End: Orin Swift 'Abstract' UK £39.99 // US $37.99

Tempranillo

One word: Rioja. Savoury, spiced and bursting with strawberry, licorice and leather notes, this medium-bodied wine basically goes with loads of different foods and that means every bite of your sautéed cabbage (if you like that kind of thing with your roast) is going to taste just as great as those roasted potatoes or green beans. While the region of Rioja offers us the most famous expression of Tempranillo, you’ll also find the grape grown elsewhere in Spain and in countries like Australia, where styles are sometimes fuller and more juicy, with chocolate and black fruit notes.

Affordable: Il Carretto IGT Rosso di Puglia £8.75
Mid-Tier: Altos de Baroja Rioja Joven £10.95
Top-End: Marqués de Murrieta Gran Reserva Rioja £48.95

Pinotage

South Africa’s flagship red grape, brooding, earthy Pinotage will give love to the roasted, charred flavours on your plate with its plum, blackberry and dark cherry flavours. Don’t be put off by the ‘burnt rubber’ character that it’s sometimes described as having; the very best-made wines have plenty of fruit, structure and, as they age, develop notes of smoke and spice., especially when you choose a more premium wine made from older vines.

Affordable: Swartland Private Collection Pinotage £8.29
Mid-Tier: The Bernard Series Bush Vine Pinotage £22.90
Top-End: Hamilton Russell Ashbourne £37.95

Sangiovese

Even if you’re not fully ‘au fait’ with the Sangiovese grape, you’ve probably drunk it. For example, ever had Chianti or a Brunello? This Italian grape’s fresh acidity and earthy character makes it infinitely matchable with food, and it can take on a trad British roast just as successfully as Nonna’s finest lasagne. It’s also one of the rare grapes that loves acidic tomato sauces, If you’re looking for something quirkier, try Sangiovese grown in California (you’ll find some interesting takes in the Napa Valley) or Australia. 

Affordable: Caparzo Sangiovese Toscana UK £11.15 // US $12.99
Mid-Tier: Le Volte dell' Ornellaia £28.99
Top-End: Antinori Tenuta Tignanello 'Marchese Antinori' Chianti Classico Riserva UK £34.79 // US $49.99

Looking for some fun Easter drinks gifting? Why not try these Delicious Chocolate Alcoholic Drinks and while you’re at it why not check out these Epic Whisky and Chocolate Pairings?

A Wine Theme Park, You Say?!

Move over, Disneyland! Changyu, China’s largest and oldest winery, has announced the opening of a new wine theme park in Shanghai. Based in the newly popular North Bund – near the city’s must-see historic waterfront and skyscraper-stuffed business district Pudong – the 7,000 square metre boozy wonderland, or ‘Changyu City Winery’ as it’ll technically be called, is set to open this August. 

Sound too amazing to be true? Well, despite the liberal use of the word ‘theme park’, we wouldn’t necessarily book tickets expecting corkscrew-inspired roller coasters. While the park’s designs aren’t yet finalised, the info released so far suggests that it’s going to be more educational than high thrills. First, an immersive experience will walk you through how wine is produced, showing off seasoned barrels from Changyu’s 13 wineries and providing a virtual tour of its vineyards (some of which are set around ridiculously opulent Bordeaux-style châteaux in inland China). A separate dining area will – surprise – let you actually taste the wines and discover how they pair with food.

Of course, no matter quite what form it ultimately takes, Changyu City Winery will probably make a fun part of a wine-themed day out in Shanghai. If for no other reason than when you finish the tour, you’re a mere bottle’s toss from some of the city’s best restaurant vino lists – ideal for getting stuck into some serious tastings. L’Atelier de Jöel Robuchon has a novel-long list that includes the likes of Dom Pérignon Plenitude 3 1971, while at the Ritz-Carlton Pudong’s Flair Bar your glass of Gaja comes with sweeping views over Shanghai’s glittering nightscape.

For more quirky booze reads check out these hilarious (and sometimes downright naughty!) drinks names.

Perfect Drinks for Date Night

Words by Aidy Smith and Helena Nicklin

The biggest date night of the year is upon us, so be it still wine, bubbles, vodka or gin that you like to drink the most, here is Helena and Aidy’s selection of top picks to make your night the best yet, whether it’s a romantic date for two or a pamper date for one...

Cupid’s Perfect Sparkle

Taittinger Prestige Rosé Champagne

A deeply coloured, exceptionally vibrant rosé champagne produced using top class Pinot Noir from Montagne de Reims and Les Riceys and a fair whack of Chardonnay that rounds everything out beautifully. Youthful in appeal, it’s a wine packed with bright red berry fruit with an elegant, smooth body and creamy mousse. This is no wallflower champagne. It demands attention! HN

Size: 75cl
ABV: 12.5%
Find here: UK £38

Rathfinny Sparkling Rosé 2017

Rathfinny Estate is located on a prime, south-facing slope in East Sussex, where world class sparkling wines are produced largely from Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier. Their sparkling rosé 2017 is a blend of 63% Pinot Noir, 19% Chardonnay, 18% Pinot Meunier. It has an elegant, cherry blossom pink hue with notes of crunchy red berries and a subtle, spicy finish. HN

Size: 75cl
ABV: 12.5%
Find here: UK £36 (includes a complimentary gift box for Valentine’s Day.)

Hattingley Valley Sparkling Rosé 2017

Internationally renowned for its delicious English sparkling wines, Hattingley Valley has created its first-ever limited edition label just in time for Valentine’s day. A blend of Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Pinot Noir Précoce this award-winning 2017 sparkling rosé has delicious notes of strawberry coulis, a creamy texture and perfectly balanced acidity. Pair this with clam chowder - trust us, you won’t regret it. AS

Size: 75cl
ABV: 12.5%
Find here: £41

White & Rosé Wonders

Gran Moraine Chardonnay 2017

There’s nothing quite like a good Chardonnay to sip as you wind down in the evening and right now this beauty from Oregon is piquing our intrigue. Deriving from the Yamhill-Carlton AVA, this rich, fruity and balanced Chard is bursting with flavour and the most important thing for me in a wine like this – texture. Some people love oak, others don’t, but this has the perfect balance, making it incredibly well rounded and sumptuous. Rich, but not overpowering you can expect to taste apricot, buttery lemon, kiwis and clementines. For those who love Chardonnay, this is for you. For those who don’t, I’d dare say it will convert you. AS

Size: 75cl
ABV: 13%
Find here: £43

Kylie Minogue, Rosé 2019

Super easy-drinking, fruity and soft, Kylie’s first wine project is still an absolute smash hit. Made from Carignan and Cabernet Sauvignon from the South of France, Kylie has manage to create a beautifully packed, pretty, pink drop that knocks it out of the park for value.

Size 75cl

ABV: 12.5%

Find here: £9

Marques de Murrieta Primer Rose 2017 

Imagine the most beautiful rosé you’ve had from Provence, something along the lines of Domaine Ott? Well, say hello to the Spanish equivalent. Honestly, it doesn’t get much better than this. Strawberries, cream and raspberries erupt from the glass and with it so much texture. You’ll often hear me harp on about that word – but for whites and rosés, texture is key for me! This is the wine to be popping the cork on when the sun shines outside (and when I want it to shine inside, too). AS

Size: 75cl
ABV: 13%
Find here: UK £29.35

Changyu Moser XV Blanc de Noir 2016

Allow us to introduce you to the first white Cabernet Sauvignon from China – and my god is it beautiful. Firstly, the vines are around 15 years old – which is pretty unheard of when it comes to rosé. The vines themselves are located in the Ningxia province with Lenz M. Moser continuing to establish his name as a pioneering force of nature for Chinese wines. Estate bottled for that final seal of quality, you can expect grapefruit peel, exotic fruits and an array of crushed raspberries and apple. Zippy and refreshing with texture – and as you know, texture is everything. AS

Size: 75cl
ABV: 13.5%
Find here: £18.99

Romantic Red Wines

Saint Amour, Domaine Des Côtes de la Roche, Beaujolais, 2018

No date night is complete without a bottle of Saint-Amour. This vibrant, perfumed and fruity wine made with the Gamay grape hails from one of the lesser known and smallest of the ten Beaujolais ‘Crus’. It’s refreshing and lively with notes of concentrated blackcurrant and dark cherry with a whiff of wild strawberry and a slick of slate. Very easy, very pretty wine. HN

Size: 75cl
ABV: 13%
Find here: UK £11.50

Maruxa Mencia, Virgen del Galir, 2019,

Mencia is a grape that we will see exploding onto the wine scene soon as more and more people look towards lighter, crunchier, more refreshing red wines styles. Hailing most famously from Northwestern Spain, Mencia has similar strawberry and cherry-like qualities and high acidity, like Pinot Noir and Gamay, but add to the mix a touch of licorice and plum spice and a cool minerality with this one, which is made in tiny quantities by the same people responsible for the fabulous Contino Rioja. HN

Size: 75cl
ABV: 14%
Find here: UK £12.99 per bottle (£10.99 mix six).

Bolney Estate Pinot Noir 2019

Pinot Noir has garnered a reputation as the heartbreak grape as it needs contact care and attention to flourish, but when it does, it certainly gives the love back. This Pinot from Bolney Estate is light, elegant and silky, with understated notes of cherry and red plum with just the slightest hint of spice. Perfect if you’re after wine with a lighter touch and it goes perfectly with cold cuts, smoked salmon and hard, mature cheese. HN

Size: 75cl
ABV: 11.5%
Find here: UK £19.99

The McGuigan Reserve Shiraz

If a more easy-going, rich and juicy wine is what you’re after, then an Australian Shiraz will be your vinous comfort blanket. The Mcguigan Reserve Shiraz is our go-to, easy drinker thanks to its chocolatey texture and notes of blackcurrant, mint and damson conserve. Concentrated and spice, it’s a warm hug in a glass - one of the very few dry wine styles that can take chocolate and pairs perfectly with a snuggle on the sofa. HN

Size: 75cl
ABV: 13%
Find here: UK £7.

English Wine Gifting: Hampers, Tastings, Tours & More

Gusbourne X Cartografie Chocolate

The ultimate, elegant, English pairing featuring one of the most exciting wine producers in the UK and an emerging, boutique chocolatier, hand crafting beautiful, single origin, single bean chocolates. This duo features the stunning, 2016 rosé from Gusbourne in Appledore, Kent with its notes of crips apple, cherry and strawberry and a Cartografie box containing 4 hand-crafted, ganache filled chocolates. HN & AS

Find here: here

Rathfinny Estate: Hampers, Accommodation mid vines, Tasting packs.

Rathfinny are also offering Valentine’s day hampers packed full of fresh, local produce and a Valentine’s wine case with their Cradle Valley 2018 Pinot Gris/Pinot Blanc and their 2018 Seven Sisters Gin. Experience-wise, you can also get vouchers for overnight packages for couples to stay at their beautifully restored Flint Barns in the heart of the vines, tours of the estate and three-course lunches at their Michelin Plate Tasting Room restaurant. HN

See more here

Bolney Estate: Private Virtual Wine Tasting with Bespoke Bottle engraving

Bolney Estate are offering private, virtual tastings of their Cuvée Rosé, Eighteen Acre Rosé, Blanc de Blancs and Cuvée Pinot Noir, you can also request a bespoke package to include any of their wines or even a wine and food pairing tasting packages with cheese and chocolate selections. Bolney is also offering gift boxes containing sparkling wines or gins with chocolates. HN

See all their options here

Candles

Parks Candles

There’s just something about the way Parks create their candles that makes you feel so wholesome and comforted. Whether to create a romantic ambience during dinner or more of a relaxing one in the bath – they’ve got it all. Some of our personal favourites are Feu de Bois, Amber, Tobacco & Leather and of course Bourbon & Maple – but we’re sure you’ll fall in love with something that resonates with you too. AS

Find here: Prices start from £10

MoJo White Truffle & Cognac Candle

We’ve tested a lot of candles over the last few months and MoJo have been knocking out of the park for alluring aromas, long lasting length and fantastic value. We adore the White Truffle and Cognac candle which scents your room with a cosy, creamy, white chocolate scent with a hint of orange peel and spice. Original and gorgeous. We also love their Fig & Rose and Sumi & Paper Ink. Find them while you can! HN

Find here: £19

Get in the Spirit

Rosé Sainte Marie Pink Gin, Salcombe Distilling

Salcombe Gin’s beautiful, double award-winning pink gin is inspired by the sensory wonders of the South of France. Named after the lighthouse in Marseille’s Old Port where the fruit used to come in, it has a delicate fragrance of citrus fruit, white peach and melon. Pour over ice, top up with tonic and garnish with a slice of pink grapefruit, peach or even strawberry and breath in the atoms of a warm evening in Provence, even if it’s still snowing outside. Available in 70cl, 5cl and a range of gifts. HN

Size: 70cl
ABV: 41.4%
Find here: UK £40

Mirabeau Provence Rosé Gin

When it comes to rosé my top choice for quality and value is always Mirabeau, which made me pretty god damn excited when they announced they were making a gin. While the base botanicals consist of juniper, citrus, orris root, angelica root and coriander it’s the Provençal twist containing a variety of herbs such as bay, thyme and rosemary alongside the neutral grape spirit and base distillate of Mirabeau Classic Rosé that really makes this gin stand out from the crowd. The result is a fruity and textured gin with lemon, coriander and citrus bursting with floral notes, rose petals and lavender. The story ends on a final note as those herbs add an extra kick of character to the blend. AS

Size: 70cl
ABV: 43%
Find here: UK £45

Belvedere Single Estate - Smogóry Forest

Our next treat takes us to a tiny village in the far west stretches of Poland where Belvedere’s Smogóry Forest estate calls home. Mild winters and long summers result in bakers-grade Diamond Dańkowskie rye – the perfect base product for this award-winning vodka. Purposely left unfiltered to allow the flavour to continue to elevate over time, this is a vodka for those who like true craft. The single-estate gem oozes with salted caramel, cereal and a touch of honey evolve to reveal toasted bread and a hint of white pepper. AS

Size: 70cl
ABV: 40%
Find here: UK £39.90 // US $49.99

Gran Patron Platinum

I love a good tequila, it seems to be one of the spirits I’ve really found an appreciation for over the last few years. If I was to name one house that consistently delivers quality across its whole portfolio, my mind takes me straight to Patrón. It seems there’s a little something for everyone and while I’ll happily get my hands on a Reposado for my margarita needs (quick tip, avoid the salt rim, it ruins the drink), I love nothing more than to sip on something of premium quality. That brings me to Gran Patrón Platinum, arguably the world’s first ultra-premium tequila. With each bottle taking around 30 people to create, quality is of the utmost level. Agave is individually sourced for its rich sugar content before being harvested, triple distilled and left for 30 days in oak tanks to create pure elegance. The result is a smooth and seductive nectar of agave, orange, vanilla, lime and white peppercorns. Pure bliss if you ask me and don’t even get me started on a Mexican Martini (google it, you won’t be disappointed). AS

Size: 70cl
ABV: 40%
Find here: UK £193.95  // US $199.99

Highclere Castle Gin

The perfect gift for Valentine’s Day, this stunning gin is created using botanicals from Highclere Estate, also known for its appearance in the internationally renowned Downton Abbey series. The multi-award winning gin is distilled at England’s oldest distillery, Langley, in one of the oldest working copper gin stills dating back to the 1800’s. The result is an incredibly smooth gin, perfect for sipping over ice but also equally good in cocktail. Check out their ‘British 75’ cocktail, simple and yet stunning, it is a perfect celebration cocktail that will add the wow to your Valentine’s Day.

Size: 75cl
ABV: 43.5%
Find here: UK £42.30 // $39.99 

Enjoyed this? Then, make sure you check out Cheap Champagne that Tastes Great and Top Pink Proseccos £10 and Under

Cheap Champagne that Tastes Great!

Written by Helena Nicklin

There is only one place in the world that makes what can officially be called ‘Champagne’ and that’s the region of the same name just south of Paris in France. Literally everything else is sparkling wine, no matter how good it is. Reassuringly expensive, Champagne is complicated to make and takes a long time to blend and age (even the cheaper bottles must be aged for 15 months before release). It’s also a pretty small wine region and yet the whole world wants to drink its bubbles. Non Vintage (NV) Champagne tends to start around the £20 mark and go all the way up, so to find anything under that is pretty hard, especially if you want it to be drinkable. For the same money, you can get some cracking bubbles from other wine regions but sometimes, you need the magic word ‘Champagne’ on the bottle.

Luckily for you, we’ve done the hard work. Here are 8 Champagnes for £15 and under that are surprisingly pretty for the pennies.

Veuve Monsigny Brut NV: Aldi

The biscuity one: Jilly Goolden raved about this Champagne recently and with good reason! Made with all three Champagne grapes (Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier) and blended with older wines for layers of biscuity flavour, these brilliant bubbles are constantly impressing wine experts. For the money, this is easily the best NV Champers on the market. 10/10

Size: 75cl
ABV: 12%
Find here: £12.99

Louis Delaunay Brut NV: Tesco

The crowd-pleaser: A bronze medal winner from top wine competition IWSC, this is soft and easy-drinking, with a tang of red apple on the nose and baked apple pie on the palate. Dry but well balanced, so no screeching acidity to give you heartburn. Great for sipping alone. 8.5/10

Size: 75cl
ABV: 12.5%
Find here: £14

Andre Carpentier Brut NV: Tesco

The sharper one: If you like your bubbles a little more tart, this one is leaner and drier than some with an appley tang. Pretty, warm spice and vanilla notes add richness to the flavour without adding sweetness, which keep it in balance. A good food wine. Try it with paté and cold cuts. 7.5/10

Size: 75cl
ABV: 12.5%
Find here: £14

Henri Cachet Brut NV: Asda

The subtle one: Crisp and pure, there’s a lemon sherbert note to Asda’s Henri. Fairly simple on the nose and palate, it’s well-balanced fizz that’s dry and refreshing. Inoffensive in the most positive sense, where many others at this price can make you grab the Rennie. A good one for white fish and seafood. 7/10

Size: 75cl
ABV: 12.5%
Find here: Usually, £13.50 but on offer for £9.97 right now!

Comte de Senneval, Brut NV: Lidl

The savoury one: Not your classic Champagne flavour profile this, with notes of smoky toffee, caramel and an elderflower on the finish. It also has a wine-like weight and hint of sweetness that may split the judges. A bit quirky and of-a-style, but try it with smoked salmon and it should make a happy match. 6/10

Size: 75cl
ABV: 12.5%
Find here: £12.99

Nicolas de Mont Bart, Brut NV, £10.99, Aldi

The one for Prosecco lovers: You really should not be able to buy Champagne this cheaply anywhere, so it may well be a parcel that may disappear soon. Bone dry with citrusy freshness, crisp and frothy, there’s not a whole lot of flavour going on, but it’s certainly gluggable. As Aldi say themselves, this is your aperitif wine. 6/10

Size: 75cl
ABV: 12.5%
Find here: Usually, £10.99 but currently on offer for £9.95 

If you are looking for more champagne choices then check out: From Budget to Blow-out: 7 Outstanding Champagnes!

Top Pink Proseccos £10 and under

Words by Helena Nicklin

It’s official. Prosecco now comes in pink! Thanks to a change in the laws that govern winemaking in the protected region of Prosecco in Northeastern Italy, winemakers are now able to use up to 15% of the red grape Pinot Nero (Italian for Pinot Noir) in their Prosecco wines along with the famous Glera grape. Pink sparklers have always been found around the Veneto, but now, as long as a wine is produced with Glera and Pinot Nero (with a few other geeky regulations), it can officially be called Prosecco. Aldi was the first to market with their Costellore and now, the other supermarkets are following suit. It’s going to be a new bubbles trend, so watch this space! The great thing about Prosecco is that at around 11% abv, it's easy enough to drink alone but also goes with most food - and the pink ones are fabulous with fruit puds and cold cuts too. Hot off the (wine) press, here’s a look at the UK’s first-ever Pink Proseccos to hit the shelves...

Prosecco Rosé, Brut: M&S

A Brut style, so drier than some, this is a fun, fruity fizz with notes of wild strawberry, cherry and a dry finish. A sophisticated sparkler worth the extra pound or two.

ABV: 11%
Size: 75cl
Find it here: Case of 6 normally £60 currently £48

Corte Molino Prosecco Rosé, Extra Dry: Co-op.

Raspberry ripple pink with ripe, summer berry fruit and pear flavours. Flirty and frothy, this is very soft, fairly sweet and goes down far too easily. 

ABV: 11%
Size: 75cl
Find it here: £8.50

Prosecco Rosé, Fillipo Sansovino, Extra Dry: ASDA

This pretty pink is all about strawberries and cream with lots of soft bubbles. Not as refreshing as some on the finish, but the choice for those who like their fizz a little sweeter. 

ABV: 11%
Size: 75cl
Find it here: £6.50

Prosecco Rosé, Extra Dry: SPAR

Pale rose petal pink and delicate, this is a crisp, refreshing Prosecco that’s well balanced. Excellent value for money and one that everyone will most likely enjoy.

Size: 75cl
Find it in store: £8.99

Rosé Prosecco, Extra Dry: Lidl

In this rather striking cut glass bottle, this pale pink Prosecco is more savoury than you would expect from an Extra Dry. Simple and raspberry-scented with a subtle smokiness on the nose.

ABV: 11%
Size: 75cl
Find it here: £6.49

Costellore Pink Prosecco, Extra Dry: Aldi

A slightly darker pink and more meaty, this Prosecco is packed with very ripe red fruit but also, a subtle note of struck-match, which might split the judges. 

ABV: 11%
Size: 75cl
Find it here: £6.49

Splash Out! Prosecco Rosé, il Fresco Brut: Villa Sandi

Ok, it’s not under £10 but it’s definitely worth a mention. Brut in style, so drier than most of the others, this sparkler is a real step up in terms of texture and flavour, with notes of caramelized pear and raspberry purée. Beautifully presented, this one could also take some heftier dishes too, such as pork or poultry. Roast chicken with all the trimmings, anyone?

ABV: 11%
Size: 75cl
Find it here: £14.99

Want to know more about Prosecco and its sweetness levels? Check out this article!

4 Great Scotch Whisky Alternatives

Words by Helena Nicklin

Burns Night is upon us once again, but not everyone feels the love of Scotch whisky (crazy, we know!) Here are some drinks with a nod to Scotch whisky without actually being whisky themselves. Intrigued? Read on!

Wine

Jacob’s Creek Double Barrel Chardonnay, Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon

Here’s the wine drinker’s choice for Burns Night: wine aged in Scotch whisky barrels! The Jacob’s Creek Double Barrel range includes Shiraz and Chardonnay finished in aged Scotch whisky barrels (there’s also a Cabernet Sauvignon finished in Irish whisky barrels. Note that for St Patrick's day!)

These bold, fruity and spicy wines with great texture are matured at first in traditional, oak  wine barrels but then are finished - just like whisky can be - in aged whisky barrels to build additional layers of complexity.

Find here: UK Chardonnay £12 // US Shiraz $21.99

Spirits

Storywood Speyside 14 Añejo Tequila (ABV: 40%)

Created by founder Michael Ballantyne who was born in Scotland and raised in Texas, Storywood is described as ‘a tequila with the heart of Mexico and the soul of Scotland’. 

This 100% Agave Tequila was aged for 14 months in single malt whisky casks from Speyside, Scotland to create a unique, sipping Tequila that’s great on the rocks or with simple mixers. Think oak, nuts and treacle. It also makes an epic Old Fashioned. Personally, I’d call that a New Fashioned...

ABV: 40%
Size: 700ml
Find here: £53.20

No & Low

Crossip ‘Dandy Smoke’

This non- alcoholic ‘spirit’ packs a smoky, medicinal punch that reminds me of Islay Scotch whisky. Rich and viscous, this is a drink that’s fantastic alone over ice or with simple mixers like cola or ginger ale in highballs. It also makes a great Maple Old Fashioned. Crossip are worth checking out for their good causes too. A great product to support!

Find here: £22

Splash Out!

Havana Club Tributo 2019 (ABV 40%)

This extraordinary and exceptionally rare ‘peated’ rum was created with the help of three generations of Cuban rum masters, where each selected a rare, oak-aged rum base from numerous decades. The fourth release in the ‘Tributo’ range, it has been finished in Scotch whisky casks that used to hold peated whisky. Only 2,500 were made. Get in there! Don’t we all deserve a treat?

Find here: £350

Want to try some ACTUAL Scotch Whiskies? Here are some of our favourites.

Wine & Spirits Delivery: Lockdown 3 Guide

This week, several friends have asked us to find out which merchants would deliver booze to them as Majestic are overrun. We put out a tweet to see which wine writers had written one of those incredible lists and then people starting replying, telling us that they were also delivering booze. 

Note: If you are not currently featured on this list please FILL IN THE FORM BELOW.

MERCHANTS NATIONWIDE

Brixton Wine Club

Not your Mum and Dad's wine club. BWC sell premium wines, but in cans - no need for an underground cellar or fancy wine fridge. Just great wines, ready to drink at a moment’s notice. Choose from the Juice Box, Simply Red, All White, Rosé All Day or the 100% Fizz and join us. Either for a one-off box or an ongoing subscription. We also do monthly Taste-A-Longs on IG Live and can hold private virtual wine tastings.

brixtonwineclub.com

Jackson & Seddon

We are an award-winning UK based importer of artisan, organic wine from small independent producers in Italy. We choose to work with sustainable, boutique winemakers, because we find they put a great deal more love and passion into their work.

jacksonandseddon.com

Cellar Door Wines

Cellar Door Wines is an independent wine merchant specialising in high quality wine from around the world along with craft beers, spirits and liqueurs. They have a bespoke wine club and also run virtual wine tasting events. Buyer, Penny Edwards, has a passion for South African, Italian and organic wine and this is reflected in their broad portfolio of unique products.

cellardoorwines.co.uk

Marlo

Here at Marlo, we deliver fine wine by the bottle to your door. Born out of a vision to give people access to serious wine by the individual bottle, we have curated a superb selection of wines, all offering exceptional value and delivered directly the next working day. Using 100% sustainable materials, the wine is also beautifully wrapped and includes a hand-written note - it's the perfect way to indulge during lockdown or to send a lovely gift without leaving the house! Find us on Instagram @marlowine.

www.marlo.wine

Vinkind

We’re delighted to introduce you to Vinkind - a new online wine shop which helps you explore by taste and food pairing! We focus on delicious yet affordable wines from smaller producers and have a strong selection of vegan and organic wines. Be sure to check out Vinkind.com and use code - 3DRINKERS - for 15% off our range.

http://www.vinkind.com

Berkmann Wine Cellars

Short Description: Berkmann Wine Cellars has announced it is reopening its industry-leading Help 4 Hospitality scheme, the pop-up online wine shop that helped raise over £75K for individuals and businesses within the hospitality sector during the spring lockdown… This time, Berkmann Wine Cellars has chosen to increase the share of revenue donated to the industry from 12.5% to 20%.

 https://www.help4hospitality.com/

Wine Shop Lanzarote

Importer and online retailer of Lanzarote’s truly unique volcanic wine and craft beer.

 http://www.wineshoplanzarote.com

Gerrard Seel Ltd

 Wine merchants and shippers. Home delivery is our pleasure through U.K. mainland. Great quality at sensible prices.

http://gerrardseel.co.uk

9 Elms Wines

A treasure trove of award-winning wines & spirits from family owned, boutique producers. Many of which were previously only available in top restaurants. We offer a global range from old world classics to rarer, more esoteric discoveries for the wine explorer. Nationwide delivery.

 http://www.9elmswines.co.uk

Club Vino

Club Vino offers relaxed home wine tasting experience, to be enjoyed in your own time. Sourcing wine from boutique and family owned wineries. Packages include 6 full sized bottle , tasting notes, glass markers and access to an online video where founder and chief sommelier Marco castelanelli will guide your though the wine .

http://Www.club-Vino.co.uk

JF Tobias

A small London-based wine merchants, delivering fine wine nationally throughout lockdown. Safe, secure and rated 5 stars on TrustPilot.

http://www.jftwines.com

The Great Wine Co.

We represent our fantastic producers in the UK and it’s a delight to introduce you to their wines. We also sell spirits, and have mixed cases and gifts.
Free delivery over £50 across uk mainland, swift DPD courier service.

 http://Greatwine.co.uk

BeerGinVino

Finest craft beers, artisan gins and amazing wines from local English & emerging worldwide producers who really care. Local & provincial producers delivered to your door or visit The Hatchery our shop on a destination farm. Free UK delivery*, click & collect and shop openThursday 5-7.30 and Saturday 10-5pm Support & buy local️

 http://www.beerginvino.com

Libiamo Wines

London-based online wine store specialising in Italian wine and spirits. The team has a huge experience in the industry and deep connections with rigorous and talented small wineries throughout Italy. The website also hosts a blog with useful insights into the traditions of Italian winemaking. Most wines are highly prized. Products are delivered in 24/48 hours to UK Mainland.

 http://libiamowines.co.uk

Burgess & Hall

Independent wine shop & bar 353 Winchelsea Rd, London E7 0AQ NOW OFFERING LOCAL HOME DELIVERIES FOR OUTSTANDING WINE & BEER info@burgessandhall.com burgessandhall.com

Cépage

A conscious importer and retailer of unique, hard to find wines. Challenging what you taste, promoting new liquid discovery and removing preconceptions in wine. Available for personal recommendations and bespoke wine expert services.

http://www.cepage.uk/

Cellier

Wines, spirits, beer & gifts - from case deals on your supermarket favourites to great deals on niche products, FREE next day delivery on case deals & purchases over £75

 http://www.cellier.co.uk

DrinKit

We are wine enthusiasts who want to share our love of good, carefully sourced, and affordable wine with you. We want to help vineyards that have truly suffered during these difficult times while creating a community of wine lovers who enjoy discovering undiscovered wines!

 http://Buydrinkit.com

Grape Britannia

The English and Welsh wine specialists - over 200 wines in stock. Lots of amazing English Sparkling Wine of course, but also over 120 still wines of all colours, plus pet nat, charmat, natural, fortified and more.

 http://grapebritannia.co.uk

BloomsYard

The BloomsYard e-shop showcases specialty tea, coffee and wonderful wine - all handpicked for their specific attributes. Read all about each online before you buy.

http://Www.BloomsYard.com/shop

Slurp

Online wine merchant with our flagship retail store based in Banbury, Oxfordshire. Delivery nationwide. Slurp offers you excellent wines from around the world at exceptional value. From New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc to French Bordeaux we have something for everyone and we offer FREE next-day delivery when you spend £100 or more. We are continually seeking out new and exciting wines to share with you. Cheers!

http://Slurp.co.uk

 Eynsham CellarsWine Merchant with a shop in Oxfordshire, delivering Nationwide

http://Www.eynshamcellars.com

Husky Wines

Uk agent for the wines of Vinchio Vaglio Serra in Piedmont, N Italy. A co op of two valleys, growing Barbera, Nebbiolo, Pinot Noir , Arneis, Moscato , Brachetto amongst others

http://huskywines.co.uk

James Hocking Wine

Leading Californian specialist, James Hocking Wine, is offering free delivery – and same day where possible – to the Andover, Salisbury and Winchester hubs and their surrounding villages. Nationwide delivery is also available. JHW has created a limited-edition "Ultimate Californian Case" comprising six bottles of fine and rare wines from The Golden State. JHW also offers single bottles from its “Fine & Covetable” range, which includes Moone-Tsai 2017 Heintz Vineyard Chardonnay; CAMi 2016 Napa Valley Estate Wine; and Scarecrow 2017 M.Etain Cabernet Sauvignon. Many of these wines are usually destined for restaurant sales and are available to private customers for the first time.

 http://www.jameshockingwine.com.

The Drop Store

Short Description: Shop for award-winning premium spirits, craft beers and wines, exclusive brands not available on the high street from one of UK’s most established drinks specialists.

 http://thedropstore.com/

The Wine Barn

German wine specialist! A mixed case of twelve red, white and sparkling German wines to lighten your evenings and enjoy at home. Delivery included. https://the-winebarn.myshopify.com/products/stay-home-stay-safe

Winebuyers.com

Winebuyers.com is an exclusive online wine club with a simple mission: to bring wine and spirits into the 21st century. Using custom built API technology, developed over 18 months, Winebuyers connects wine lovers directly with some of the best vineyards, specialist merchants and distilleries. Winebuyers provides access to over 50,000 bottles, spanning 40 countries, all with zero mark-up and all with a commission free price-tag. Winebuyers.com

Corney & Barrow

Next day delivery within M25 / UK-wide delivery from our Hoddesdon and East Kilbride warehouse corneyandbarrow.com

Thomson and Scott

Offering free delivery on their organic, vegan Prosecco and Noughty (alcohol-free sparkling). Also doing daily live cocktail sessions on their instagram thomsonandscott.com

The Fizz Company

We are delivering wine, sparkling wine and champagne nationwide . Leeds, UK thefizzcompany.com

Noel Young Wines 

We are locally and nationally - thanks for shout out for the indies! Cambridge nywines.co.uk

Ditton Wine Traders

Fast growing fine wine merchants specializing in Bordeaux, Burgundy and Italy. Always well priced. Happily sharing all we know on /dittonwinetraders.co.uk

Elicite

We're a boutique e-commerce wine retailer based in the UK, specialising in wines over £15 and  yes, we're still delivering (express and also no-contact for those that need it), throughout the UK. https://www.elicite.com/

Le Vignoble

Fabulous selection & great service - Wine Lounge, Wine Merchant & Wine Education in the New Cooperage. Royal William Yard, Plymouth levignoble.co.uk

Red Squirrel Wine

We are delivering nationwide, free delivery over £70. Native, alternative & naturally lovely wines online since 2012. “An inspiring range,” Steven Spurrier. Try our new Rosé Tour de France mixed case. London. https://redsquirrelwine.com

BinTwo

Local delivery and mail order. We're that amazing little wine shop, Champagne & coffee bar just off the harbour in Padstow. Come and say hello! Padstow bintwo.com

The Little Fine Wine Company

We are still delivering our wines throughout the UK. Next day service. We specialise in half bottles. thelittlefinewinecompany.co.uk

Georgian Wine

Bringing you the Georgian wine experience... #gvinouk gvinouk.com/wines

Armit Wines

Still delivering in London. Leading contemporary UK #wine merchant. Armit Wines supplies wines from the world's best winemakers to private customers, on-trade and the trade. London armitwines.co.uk

Wines With Attitude

Wines With Attitude is still delivering in England & Wales https://wineswithattitude.co.uk

George Hill Wine & Worth Brothers

Both very good independents in the East Midlands. @GeorgeHillWine @worthbrothers 

Wanderlust Wine

UK based importer of small producers making sustainable organically farmed wine. London, England wanderlustwine.co.uk

Hawkins Bros.

Specialist English Wine Merchants, selling stunning English wines to a thirsty public, based at Secrett's Farm Shop, Milford, Surrey. hawkinsbros.co.uk

The Real English Drinks House

We are still operating and delivering nationally. We stock fine English wines, craft beers and artisan spirits. http://redh.co.uk

Feelgood Grapes

The online wine shop championing all things sustainable, organic, and biodynamic in the world of wine. https://www.feelgoodgrapes.com/shop

Good Wine x Good People

Introducing a new way to order wine online! We offer personalised wine selections, paired with YOU - for your palate, your meal, moment or mood. Central to this process is our Personal Somm Questionnaire, a few simple questions to help us get to know you and your preferences. Seasoned wine educator Dan Belmont then gets to work choosing your wine selection and writing personalised tasting notes! We also offer limited edition collections which include an exclusive video greeting from one of the featured winemakers! Most UK deliveries in 2 business days, free shipping on all orders over £150.

Use code GOODPEOPLES for 5% off your first order!

http://www.goodwinexgoodpeople.com

MySomm

We are a family-run online wine merchant based in South West London. Our dream is for wine to be more approachable and less elitist. With this in mind we are ready to take on any wine related questions you have to help you buy the perfect wine for you. We look forward to helping and recommending where we can. We store a selection of great value and quality wines from around the world, specialising in wines from America.

http://mysomm.co.uk

Natty Boy Wines

Short Description: Natural, Organic and Biodynamic Wine Specialists. Same day delivery in London and next day UK wide.

http://Www.nattyboywines.co.uk

VINEYARDS

Amber Valley Wines

A Derbyshire vineyard, producer and merchant selling a range of high quality English wines, local spirits, cider and ­ales. Free local and national delivery available. Tel: 07920484207

www.ambervalleywines.co.uk/shop

Alder Vineyard

Alder Vineyard is a family run vineyard, based in Devon. We ship our award winning wines throughout mainland UK, and offer local delivery.

http://ALDERVINEYARD.UK

Woodchester Valley Vineyard

Outstanding still and sparkling wines from the Cotswolds.
Vegan, low sulfite and sustainable.

http://www.woodchestervalleyvineyard.co.uk

Dalwood Vineyard

A very small CoOp in Devon. We make about 6000 bottles of award winning Brut and Still wines
Exclusive and Different.

http://dalwoodvineyard.co.uk

Rathfinny Wine Estate

 Producing Sparkling wines to rival the best in the world from a vineyard in the Sussex South Downs, near Alfriston. Available online for delivery across the UK or from our Cellar Door shop and various independent wine merchants.

http://rathfinnyestate.com/

Lyme Bay Winery

The Devon based winery makes award-winning still and sparkling English wines and offers free delivery on orders over £20. They are also currently offering 10% off all English wines with the code GOODFRIDAY10 https://www.lymebaywinery.co.uk/english-wines

WineGB.co.uk

Search here for English & Welsh vineyards near you that deliver to your door. WineGB.co.uk

Tickerage Wines

Boutique vineyard specialising in Sussex sparkling wines. Next working day delivery service. Sussexsparklingwines.co.uk

Flint Vineyards

Innovative Norfolk vineyard and winery, blending cutting edge science with traditional winemaking techniques. Times Top 100 Wines & Indy Best Buy 2018. We're offering free next day delivery nationwide on orders of 2 bottles or more. flintvineyard.com

Gusbourne

Award-winning wines from Kent. Wherever you are in the mainland UK, Gusbourne continues to offer free delivery on all orders, no minimum order required. gusbourne.com

Breaky Bottom

Sussex sparkling wines. Delivering to your door. Free delivery in April for cases of 6 wines. Breakybottom.co.uk

Dunleavy Vineyard 

I’m sending out mainland uk orders and delivering local. Award Winning English Wine | Bristol-Bath-Somerset-London | Instagram & FB Dunleavy Vineyards. Bristol & Somerset dunleavyvineyards.co.uk

Domaine du Météore

We are still delivering their great tasting case of reds in the UK with 20% off. http://domainedumeteore.com from the only vines in the world grown in a meteorite crater!

Carr Taylor Wines

We are one of the longest established vineyards in England, making fine English wines since 1971, in the heart of 1066 country. East Sussex. We're offering free delivery to mainland UK on all orders. carr-taylor.co.uk

Fox & Fox Vineyards

Boutique grower-producer of crafted English Sparkling Wines. Sussex. foxandfox.wine

Paso-Primero

Paso-Primero is an independent, family run company in Somontano in the central Pyrenees of northern Spain. Winemakers Thomas and Emma Holt settled here to achieve their ambition of making their own wines, in their own style. Their award winning wines are available throughout the UK, distributed direct from the winemakers in their hometown of Shrewsbury.

 http://www.paso-primero.com

COCKTAILS, SPIRITS , MEAD & MORE

York Gin

Short Description: We offer free UK delivery on our full range of dry gins. We regularly win major international gold and silver medals - our Old Tom is one of the world’s best. Our distillery runs on 100% green electricity, and all our products and packaging are plastic free.

http://yorkgin.com

Speakeasy At Home

Helping to light up your lockdown, Speakeasy at Home is a brand new, UK-wide cocktail delivery platform bringing together offerings from three of the world’s best bars, Swift, Nightjar and Oriole. Each cocktail is available in 220ml pouches (2 servings) and 500ml bottles (5 servings), catering for smaller and larger household alike from just £6.00 per cocktail. Several mix-and-match deals and gifting options also make it possible to experience all three bars under your own roof for less - the perfect indulgent treat or present over the festive period in lieu of in-person catch ups over cocktails, Christmas parties and seasonal drinks. Over the coming weeks, we will also launch a range of Christmas and New Year cocktail sets, alongside a subscription model for monthly themed deliveries.

http://www.speakeasyathome.co.uk

Easy Social Cocktail Co.

The easy social cocktail co was started by a group of friends who believe in a simple idea – life is better when we mix. Our cocktails include the 'very naughty boy martini', 'super strawberry negroni' and 'holy sassy molassy old fashioned' all available in 500ml bottle or eco pouch. Already have enough booze at home? Try our 'make mine a…' range: simply add to your favourite spirit and give a little shake or stir to turn your dram into a delicious cocktail. We also offer a bespoke cocktail service - the perfect present for the cocktail lover in your life.

https://easysocialcocktail.co/

Sociovino

Created by a team of former sommeliers, Sociovino gives you online wine expertise without the fuss, importing wines from small producers with big flavours. Build your own case, select from one of our themed collections or enjoy one of our cocktail kits.

http://www.sociovino.com

Sky Wave Gin

Craft Gin Distillery based near Bicester in Oxfordshire, producing traditional hand crafted gin in micro batches using the one-shot method. Began life in 2018 and won "World's Best Contemporary Gin" at the 2020 World Gin Awards for our signature London Dry Gin. Offering FREE 2nd class Postage & Packaging until 2 December 2020.

 http://www.skywavegin.com

Northumberland Honey Co - Beekeepers & Mead Makers

Commercial Beekeepers & Mead Makers. Traditional Method Sparkling Mead and quality honey. Beekeeping experiences, courses & bees. Talks & tastings. We're still delivering. Haltwhistle northumberlandhoney.co.uk

Sipping Liquor

We’re still delivering spirits! Get a curated selection of the world's finest spirits delivered to your door. Use the code TWITTER at checkout to get your first box for just £40. United Kingdom sippingliquor.com/join

The Single Cask

We ship awesome single cask whisky world wide. They’re all top quality, cask strength, and non chill filtered - presented in a decanter style bottle to make pouring a dram a moment of celebration. www.thesinglecask.co.uk

The Good Spirits Company

We aim to provide you with superb customer service, the best possible selection of fine wines & spirits from every corner of the world and we work with scores of suppliers to track down hard to find bottles. We are also trialling a free local delivery service for the Glasgow area. www.thegoodspiritsco.com

The Dram Team

Our subscription box club delivers unique whisky tastings to your door once a month; simple, easy, educational - and most of all, delicious. www.thedramteam.co.uk

GREAT LISTS OF RETAILERS COMPILED BY OTHERS

Jancis Robinson - Jancisrobinson.com  HERE

Susie Barrie & Peter Richards -  thewinefestival.co.uk HERE

Victoria Moore - The Telegraph HERE

Three Wine Men - HERE

Not Listed?

Fill in the form below and we’ll add you to the list.

Tweet us or email us to be added! helena@thethreedrinkers.com or @the3drinkers.com

Decoding Spanish Wine Labels

Wine labels can cause a real headache sometimes with all their terminology, especially if in a foreign language. Spanish wine labels are easier to understand than some so here are a few of the key terms you need to know to get the most out of your bottle…

Enjoyed this? Why not check out Delicious Spanish Food and Wine Pairings and 5 Reasons to Try Garnacha