10 Irresistible Chocolate Liqueurs For All Spirits Lovers

If no one’s buying you an egg this Easter, then what about a chocolate liqueur? They are the epitome of luxurious indulgence and unquestionably delicious – well, these ten are anyway. Perfect for cocktails, desserts or just with ice, they’re surprisingly versatile too.

Of course, we’ve got sweet treats here, but with whisky, rum, gin, tequila, vodka, absinthe, wine and more involved, this list shows there’s way more to chocolate liqueurs than just their sweetness. Find your favourite spirit and see how the drinks geniuses have blended it with the deliciousness of chocolate below.

The Best Chocolate Cream Liqueurs

Amaz-In Chocolate Créme Liqueur

This is a rich and velvety dream bringing together Grenadian chocolate and Grenadian rum for big hits of chocolate flavour and incredible smoothness. It’s thick and packed with flavour, most noticeably the creamy chocolate of course, but also more delicate hints of tropical fruits rolled in brown sugar from the rum. This could be drunk neat, with a few ice cubes, drizzled into desserts or of course, chocolatey cocktails – think Espresso Martini.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 20%
Find here: £37.01

Dooley's White Chocolate Liqueur

If chocolate is top of the tree when it comes to indulgence, then surely white chocolate is the angel on the top. Decadent, delicious, and superb value for money, Dooley’s uses Dutch cream and wild berries to bring a touch of zing to the sweet white chocolate. Premium vodka brings some boozy steel, but its neutrality really allows the chocolatey and fruity goodness to star. Desserts, baking, cocktails – this would be difficult to resist.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 15%
Find here: £14.54

The Best Dark Chocolate Liqueur

Mozart Dark Chocolate Liqueur

Smooth and sophisticated, you’ll see the striking shape of Mozart on many a bartender’s shelf. Carefully produced with Austrian chocolate, it combines luxurious vanilla and cocoa, a portion of which has even been aged for added depth. It’s very rich but even with just ice, it’s deliciously balanced. It’s won the prestigious top awards in chocolate categories before and is generally considered one of the top choices.

Size: 500ml
ABV: 17%
Find here: £14.50

The Best Chocolate Liqueur for Whisky Lovers

Riverside Dark Chocolate Whisky Liqueur

The ornate bottle of Riverside sets up some lofty expectations for the liquid inside, and it doesn’t disappoint. Dark chocolate flavours intertwine with rich malty character and this famous combination tastes as delicious as you’d expect. If you’ve always found chocolate liqueurs too sweet before, then the dark chocolate brings some great bitterness here that’s mellowed harmoniously by oaky vanilla and caramel notes.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 20%
Find here: £23.52

The Best Chocolate Liqueur for Rum Lovers

Rumbullion! Chilli & Chocolate

It looks like we have another stunner of a bottle on our hands – what a gift this would make. Strictly speaking, this leans more on the flavoured rum side of things than liqueur (hence the 42.6% ABV), but rum lovers will adore it all the same. Criollo cocoa nibs, chipotle chilli and jalapeño join the original Rumbullion! notes of vanilla, orange, cassia, clove, and cardamom. The end result is an absolute cockle warmer, with indulgent, rich spices. It’s a really interesting, limited release from Ableforth’s that rum lovers should definitely try.

Size: 500ml
ABV: 42.6%
Find here: £27.95

The Best Chocolate Liqueur for Gin Lovers

Chocao Cacao Gin Liqueur

This is a distilled cacao gin that’s infused with ethically sourced single origin Peruvian Gran Yapatera cacao nibs and husks, before coming to life when bottled in Staffordshire. It’s less creamy and indulgent and more elegant with super smooth mouthfeel and a fruity and floral profile. The familiar earthy juniper notes are there but they battle it out with bitter dark chocolate and smidges of caramel.

Size: 500ml
ABV: 26%
Find here: £29.99

The Best Chocolate Liqueur for Tequila Lovers

Mis Amigos Chocolate Cream Tequila Liqueur

Spotting the potential of earthy agave with rich chocolate, Mis Amigos have produced yummy results. They’re slightly boozier chocolate and tequila liqueur is fantastic too, but now they’ve added extra decadence with chocolate cream. The agave is peppery and grassy which works a treat with the sweet chocolate for a grown-up milkshake vibe.  

Size: 700ml
ABV: 15%
Find here: £18.67

The Best Chocolate Liqueur for Vodka Lovers

Bouvery CV Chocolate Liqueur

This liqueur was decades in the making, combining four times distilled corn vodka with organic cocoa from three South American countries. It’s noticeably viscous in the mouth as those rich dark chocolate notes coat the mouth deliciously. The vodka provides a warming boozy kick, but it’s the chocolate that feels like it’s melting in the mouth that steals the show.

Size: 350ml
ABV: 16%
Find here: £26.49 (usually more!)

The Best Chocolate Liqueur for Absinthe Lovers

La Maison Fontaine Chocolat

The much-misunderstood absinthe is a no brainer to merge with chocolate, and La Maison have made a cracking job of it with this one. It’s inspired by a 1920s recipe for créme de cacao found at the distillery, so the chocolate isn’t as intense as most chocolate liqueurs. It’s quite dry for a liqueur, with the cleansing wormwood and herbal flavours coming through strongly, just coated delicately in milk and dark chocolate. By the time the finish comes around, it’s all absinthe flavour so the journey is completely unique and definitely worth picking up for the inquisitive drinker.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 25%
Find here: £22.25

The Best Chocolate Liqueur for Wine Lovers

Rubis Chocolate Wine

What a sumptuous infusion this is – Spanish Tempranillo with cacao essence for a super decadent fortified wine. We sort of understand why you might be put off, but trust us, the combination completely works because the balance is spot on. On the wine side, cherries and red fruits are delivered, and all coated with the perfect amount of chocolate flavour.

Size: 500ml
ABV: 15%
Find here: £13.94 (usually more!)

For all the chocoholics over Easter, try matching them up with some heavenly drinks pairings – you might surprise yourself!

Supermarket Wine Bargains: ASDA March 2024

If you love wine and do your weekly shop at ASDA, then you’ll want to take a look here. We’ve searched this month’s offers high and low and come up with the ten best bottles all for £10 or less. They’re worth a lot more, and if you see one that takes your fancy, you’ve got till the 3rd April to go get it.

ASDA Red Wines March 2024

Mateo Nieves Monastrell

Sweet fruits a-plenty with this Spanish red, think juicy plums, rich raisins and a hefty helping of French and American oak bringing lovely vanilla and a touch of smoke. It’s a full-bodied number in a similar mould to Primitivo and perfect for those who go in for jammy reds.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 14%
Find here: £6.25 (usually £9.25)

Masso Antico Primitivo

This is Masso Antico’s most loved wine, made from Apulian Primitivo, or Zinfandel to you and us. It brings the warmth of black pepper and spice to be expected from Italian reds in Puglia, and all the history of the Roman Albarello method too. Cool sea air and Mediterranean heat combine with oak ageing for fresh berries, soft tannins, and lingering spice.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 14%
Find here: £8 (usually £9.50)

Jacob's Creek Double Barrel Matured Shiraz Red Wine

This is a really interesting Shiraz aged in Scotch whisky barrels. You’ll find it across the supermarkets, but with ASDA offering it for £10 it’s a no brainer. It’s aged in traditional oak first, before the Scotch finish creating a combination of richness, elegance, and easy-drinking smoothness. Expect plenty of vanilla oak, blackberry, plum and earthy tobacco.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 14.5%
Find here: £10 (usually £12.50)

ASDA Extra Special Carménère

This Chilean Carménère pours a seductive dark purple and reveals instant and intense black fruits and pepper on the nose. The palate fills out with heaps of plum and rich chocolate that begins sweet before turning tart. The oaky spice returns to finish off – delicious.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 14%
Find here: £7.50 (usually £8)

Faustino Rioja

What great value this Tempranillo from Bodegas Faustino is. It brings the classic profile of Spanish Rioja, with great structure and bright, concentrated fruits. The first sip reveals how silky and balanced it is, and the touch of earthy complexity is a welcome addition.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13.5%
Find here: £9.75 (usually £12.50)

ASDA White Wines March 2024

Villa Maria Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough

This is a vino that goes on quite the adventure before settling into your glass. The Sauvignon Blanc vines are grown in between fierce oceans, historic valleys and majestic mountains, before reaching Villa Maria itself, situated in the crater of a volcano! It’s a classic Marlborough profile so plenty of crisp refreshment, exotic flavours, light gooseberry and no bitterness whatsoever.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12.5%
Find here: £8.50 (usually £10.50)

Freixenet Pinot Grigio

From glorious Garda comes this crystal sip of pure Italian sun. At just 11%, it’s crisp and dry with a soothing quality from the delicate orchard fruits and bright citrus. The floral aroma of honey adds a loveable touch too. How could this not be crowd pleaser?

Size: 750ml
ABV: 11%
Find here: £8.50 (usually £10)

Diablo Golden Chardonnay

This is a buttery Chard that really stands out from the crowd. From Chile’s Central Valley, it takes a few interesting turns with tropical pineapple and passion fruit, oaky, buttery vanilla and also just a subtle touch of stoney steel. Likeable.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13.5%
Find here: £8.50 (usually £10)

ASDA Extra Special Rueda

100% Verdejo grapes, this blend has picked up a number of big awards and deservedly so. The star of the show is the mineral salinity that comes through with great freshness, waxy tones, and wafts of smoke. All of that, before floral peachy notes and super crisp apples.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13%
Find here: £6.25 (usually £6.75)

Tukituki Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough

This would be easy to identify as a Marlborough Sauvignon in a blind taste test, with green pepper, asparagus, and vivid grass. These shades of green do mellow and quickly give way to tropical flavours of passion fruit, all the while keeping a clean zing.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12%
Find here: £8 (usually £8.50)

If you shop elsewhere then not to worry, check our website for our other up to date Supermarket Bargains!

Supermarket Wine Bargains: Sainsbury’s March 2024

Shoppers of Sainsbury’s listen up. We’ve been pawing through the offers for the best bottles this March, and the offers are superb this month. Check out these ten bottles, split down the middle between juicy reds and elegant whites… and all for £10 or less.

Sainsbury’s Red Wines March 2024

Feuerheerd's Anchor Wine Reserva Douro DOC

In the heart of the Douro region, this delicious Portuguese red is made that bit deeper with a Vintage Port finish for 12 months. There’s so much refined spice and delicately rich black fruits all before the silky finish that lasts for ages. You don’t find many reds that bring bold flavour but also nuanced restraint as well as this for a tenner.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 14%
Find here: £10 (usually £11.50)

Sainsbury's Valpolicella Ripasso, Taste the Difference

This is one of the best value bottles in any UK supermarket. Corvina makes up most of the four-grape blend where dried grape skins are macerated for extra depth and texture. Rich darker fruits come through alongside bright berries and lively spice but despite all that bold Italian flavour, it doesn’t feel heavy at all. Masterfully made.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13.5%
Find here: £10 (usually £12)

Mucho Mas Vino Tinto

This is a juicy, easy-drinking red from one of the world’s largest family-owned wineries, situated not far from Madrid. Sweet dark fruits are brimming at the heart of it, supported by a crack of warm pepper and comforting vanilla. Top-notch midweek glugger at this price.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13.5%
Find here: £7 (usually £8.50)

Trivento Private Reserve Malbec

Chilean Mendoza Malbec from the Uco Valley at the foothills of the Andes now. Aged for 8 months in oak barrels, the wine darkens with chocolatey notes and spice, most notably black pepper, and nutmeg. Mulled wine comes to mind at times.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 14%
Find here: £9 (usually £11)

Porta 6 Vinho Regional Lisboa

The vineyards above Lisbon are cooled by the Atlantic ocean, so the grapes grown there maintain really fresh acid and aromatics. The blackcurrants and strawberries are light and softened by that acidity, leaving a rustic style wine that goes down a treat. Let it breathe for a while though.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13.5%
Find here: £7 (usually £8.25)

Sainsbury’s White Wines March 2024

Greasy Fingers Big Buttery Chardonnay

We are more than to shout about this from the rooftops whenever it comes on sale because it is divine. There’s no getting away from the ‘big and buttery’ label here that has made a massive impression on us in its short life so far. The butter leaves just enough room for crunchy orchard fruits and a touch of oaky vanilla, so expect more of a Cali Chard profile than Aussie.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13%
Find here: £8.50 (usually £10)

Yealands Sauvignon Blanc

Yealands produce a few Sauvignon Blancs and this supermarket gem is fantastic. It’s a crisp classic delivering tonnes of naturally high acidity, offset harmoniously with tasty tropical fruits like guava and peach, and all underwritten by lovely herbaceous notes too.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12.5%
Find here: £8 (usually £10.50)

Sainsbury's Coolwater Bay Marlborough Sauvignon, Taste the Difference

What a great price this is for quality Marlborough Sauvignon. It’s got that beautiful dryness and exotic mango, lime, and papaya that you want. The minerality definitely comes through, as do hints of fresh herbs. It’s crisp and delicate and simply delivers on exactly what you want.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12.5%
Find here: £9.99 (usually £11.99)

Barone Montalto Grillo Sicilia DOC

100% Grillo grapes from Sicilain winery Barone Montalto have produced an absolute gem here. Citrus (most notably grapefruit) floods the nose and after the first sip, you’ll notice that this is a big, weighty white with tropical fruit sweetness and a flicker of green fruits. Very nice.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12.5%
Find here: £7.25 (usually £8)

Elegant Frog Viognier

Say hello to the Elegant Frog, a Languedoc Viognier from Jean-Claude Mas. Part of the blend is aged in oak barrels to enhance the aromas of floral peach, as well as the richness of dried fruit on the palate. The aftertaste is particularly strong for a Viognier but we love it.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13.5%
Find here: £7.75 (usually £9.25)

Other Great Discounts Worth Checking Out:
RED WINE
Wise Wolf Cabernet Sauvignon - Was £12 Now £10
Santodeno Negroamaro - Was £11 Now £9
Barossa Ink Shiraz - Was £11 Now £9
Artesano Organic Malbec Cab Franc - Was £10.50 Now £9
Greasy Fingers Luscious Red - Was £10 Now £8.50
Terre di Faiano Organic Nero di Troia - Was £9.50 Now £8

WHITE WINE
Oyster Bay Sauvignon Blanc - Was £10.75 Now £8.50
19 Crimes Chardonnay - Was £9.50 Now £8
Most Wanted Regions Rueda Sauv Blanc - Was £9.50 Now £8

ROSÉ WINE
Roches de Provence Rosé - Was £10 Now £8.50

If you shop elsewhere then not to worry, check our website for our other up to date Supermarket Bargains!

How to Choose the Best Corkscrew for Your Favourite Wine

Photo Credit: Will Wong

You just want to crack open your favourite bottle and pour yourself a glass. Surely it can’t be that difficult!? So why are there so many types of corkscrews? Which is the best and do you need more than one?

Drinking wine should be a relaxing experience, but a crumbled cork, or one stuck part way down the neck of your bottle is anything but. So, without further ado, let’s take a look at five of the most popular corkscrews and answer those questions, so you find which one is right for you and the wine bottle you are trying to get into!

What are The FIVE Most Popular Corkscrews?

The Waiter’s Friend Corkscrew

Photo Credit: Will Wong

Chances are, if you walk into most restaurants or bars, you’ll find waiters, bartenders or sommeliers using one of these, the most common corkscrew out there.

Pros:
1. Small and portable
2. Affordable
3. Comes with a blade to cut the foil.
4. Doubles up as beer or crown cap opener.
5. The adjustable hinge makes it easy to draw the cork with leverage, as long as you pierce the cork in the middle and drill in a clockwise direction.

Cons:
1. For brittle old or dry corks in aged bottles, the need to drill twice might snap and break the cork.

The Screwpull Corkscrew

Photo Credit: Will Wong

This is a variant of the more common design widely available.

Pros:
1. Extremely easy to use. Place the opener over the bottle neck and just turn clockwise.
2. The cork is drawn without the need to pull.

Cons:
1. No foil cutter or crown cap opener attached. 
2. A little bulkier and generally pricier than the Waiter’s Friend.

The Butterfly or Winged Corkscrew

Photo Credit: Will Wong

Designed by Alessandro Mendini for Alessi in 2003, with Anna’s smiling face. This is a designer and collector’s item for your wine connoisseur friends, or yourself. Other designs and brands are available.

Pros:
1. The double arms or wings make opening a bottle a doddle. 
2. As you twist clockwise down the cork, the arms raise automatically.
3. You just need to push them down to the default positions and the cork is drawn.
4. Some other models double up as crown cap openers with their top.
5. A wide range of designs and materials available.

Cons:
1. No blade or foil cutter attached.
2. It does most jobs effortlessly but may not be foolproof for an old and brittle cork.

The Lever Wine Bottle Opener

Photo Credit: Will Wong

Highly intuitive and simple to use: turn the lever by three-quarters of a circle till the worm/spiral is raised. Securely hold the two handles round the neck of the bottle; then reverse the lever to its original position and now the worm is totally inserted into the cork. Now, turn the lever once more and the cork is drawn effortlessly. 

Pros:
1. Most designs come with a stand as well as a foil cutter. 
2. This is probably our favourite option for either natural or synthetic corks.

Cons:
1. Bulkier and heavier than most other options; not really portable.
2. A wide range of prices depending on the brand and design.

The Two-prong (Ah-So) Wine Bottle Opener

Photo Credit: Will Wong

Also known as the Ah-So opener, this is best for very old bottles (10 years +) with natural cork which could have become dry and brittle. You push the longer prong down one side of the cork, followed by the shorter one on the opposite side. Then wiggle it back and forth to slide the two prongs further down. With a firm grip on the sides of the two prongs as well as the top handle, slowly turn the cork to draw it whilst feeling your heart beat. 

Pros:
1. It does not pierce through the cork thus reduces the risk of snapping it.

Cons:
1. Best use a foil cutter to make a clean space.
2. Requires trial and error, and a little practice on how best to wiggle the two blades down the sides of the cork, before turning and drawing it.

Which Corkscrews Work Best With The Most Common Bottle Closures?

The Best Corkscrews for A Cork with a Foil Cover

Photo Credit: Will Wong

You can use any of the above; and probably wouldn’t need the Two-Prong one. My favourite at home is the lever as it simply requires two seamless motions with very low risk of pushing the cork down or breaking it.

The Best Corkscrews for A Cork with No Foil

Photo Credit: Will Wong

Such bottles are best stored horizontally in the dark away from fluctuating temperatures. We have had the unfortunate experience of losing half a bottle of natural wine on the rack; as the pressure inside the bottle pushed the cork out when summer temperatures hit 42ºC!

Having said that, you don’t need a foil cutter and could examine the state of the cork easily against natural light or using the torchlight on your mobile phone.

Again, any of the first four corkscrew options work.

The Best Corkscrews for A Wax Seal

Photo Credit: Will Wong

They look classy and alluring, don’t they? This ancient method has made a comeback especially with natural, organic and biodynamic wine producers. 

Whilst we have seen experienced winemakers use a knife to cut the wax away from the bottle’s rim, others vouch that this is totally unnecessary. You can just pretend there is no wax there and drill right through. Once you’ve screwed the ‘worm’ all the way in, simply pull the cork up and it should break through the wax seal. ‘What if the wax proves stubborn and starts crumbling around the neck?’ you ask. Fear not. Get a piece of clean damp cloth to wipe round the bottleneck and slowly draw the cork. Wipe away any remaining debris and you are good to pour, swirl and sip!

What is the Best Overall Corkscrew?

So, which corkscrew should you get? Is there one best all-rounder or do you need different tools for different bottles?

Well, The Waiter’s Friend probably ticks most boxes. It’s budget friendly, light and portable. We would start with that if you are relatively new to wine, or get a low cost butterfly option.

Opening very old bottles (over ten years in storage or vintage-wise) requires a different approach. Yes, get that foil cutter and wiggle your way through with the Ah-So (not necessarily pricey and widely available online).

Photo Credit: Will Wong

Honestly, the best option is not having to use one at all. Natural cork (mostly from Portugal) has been the industry standard and tradition for centuries; and now increasingly synthetic ones are here to stay. 

Whilst debates between using the more sustainable natural cork and metallic screwcaps carry on, I love their simplicity to open and also the ability to store vertically if you don’t have enough space on your wine rack. There are now premium screwcaps designed to allow varying tiny amounts of air into the bottle.

As seen above, this Austrian producer has cleverly used the screwcap and bottleneck to promote a distinctive visual and national identity. For various reasons, many producers especially in Australia and New Zealand have been bottling with screwcaps for decades. That applies whether the wine costs £40 or £400. This might alter for the once all-important export market in China as screwcaps are perceived as closures for cheap and inferior wines. 

What’s your preferred corkscrew and why? Or maybe you have some tips that have served you well over the years? Get in touch and let us know!

If you’re interested in the right way to store wine correctly before opening it, then we’ve got another guide here on just that!

By Will Wong

Best Wine to Gift Mum this Mother's Day

There’s a reason that a thoughtfully selected, delicious bottle of wine is one of the most popular Mother’s Day gifts. Sunday 10th is just around the corner (hopefully that hasn’t caught you off guard), and we’ve curated a selection of wines perfect for the big day.

There’s something for everyone, beginning with flourishing English wines before luscious reds and crisp whites to finish. The wines we’ve picked here absolutely justify their price tag and beyond, but we’ve included a few different price points so that you can deliver, no matter how much you have to spend. Let’s get into the good stuff and raise a glass to the Mums!

English Sparkling Wine for Mother’s Day

Asquith Gardens Traditional English Sparkling Wine

One of the English sparklers picking up awards on the international stage, this Asquith Gardens wine is made using the traditional method from a blend of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Meunier. 5 years of ageing lead to luxuriously fine bubbles, and notes of apple, floral honey, marmalade, and biscuit. It goes toe-to-toe with far more expensive Champagne and is a steal at this price point.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 11.5%
Find here: £18

Ridgeview Fitzrovia Rosé NV

Fit for a Royal (and a President), this blend was chosen to be served at many Buckingham Palace banquets such as Obama’s visit in 2011. It’s harmoniously balanced, delivering fresh notes of raspberries, a little honey sweetness and a zip of citrus. It pairs perfectly with shellfish and lean fish and is an outstanding example of English sparkling rosé that is bound to make Mum’s Day!

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12%
Find here: £40

Chapel Down Rosé Brut

One of the trailblazers in English wine, Chapel Down make a stunning sparkling rosé that’s brimming with fruits. Strawberry and raspberry lead the charge, flanked by bright lemon and lime and supported by delicate orchard fruits. It’s so crisp and balanced and every sip reminds you that you’re in safe hands. It really is a top notch English sparkling rosé and is excellent value for money too.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12%
Find here: £29

Champagne for Mother’s Day

Champagne PIAFF Blanc de Blancs NV

Where there’s a celebration, Champagne is never far away but with lofty price tags, you want to make sure you’re getting bang for your buck. From Mansard’s Côte des Blancs vineyard comes this dreamy 100% Chardonnay expression, with a striking, persistent mousse lifting the floral and subtly nutty nose. Beyond that, delicate white fruits, brioche fullness and pleasing minerality build a solid structure. The wave of freshness comes first, before the mellow pastry profile takes over. It’s intense and restrained in perfect measure and exactly what Champagne is all about.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12%
Find here: £69.30

Red Wine for Mother’s Day

Ravenswood Lodi Old Vine Zinfandel

This is Cali Zinfandel from Lodi that’s full-on in the best way possible. 18 months of American and French oak ageing has developed a tasty bouquet of red and dark berries. The fruits come through with intense concentration of flavour- think woody Christmas spice, plush blackberry and a really unique coconut note. Smooth, quaffable and deeply delicious. Perfect for a red wine loving mum.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 14.5%
Find here: £12.50

Malbado Malbec

Mendoza Malbec now and this bottle really is superb value for the money. It brings that signature Argentinian profile - warm, smooth, and seductive with dark fruits with a subtle waft of smoke (perfect for hearty meat pairings). Peppery spice tickles the tongue nicely at the end too. It’s rock solid Malbec with great character, and a sure fire hit with most Malbec drinking Mums.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 14%
Find here: £12.50 (usually more!)

DV Catena Malbec

This is one of those great wines that makes you think the price tag is wrong because it has so much going on. A Mendoza Malbec, the cocoa and coffee bean notes are rich, the dark plums and cherries are concentrated and floral vanilla notes add a delicate touch. Silky, spicy and one of the best in the supermarket- Mum would never guess it is £13!

Size: 750ml
ABV: 14%
Find here: £13

Bread & Butter Pinot Noir

If your Mum likes Pinot Noir, and particularly American Pinot then this Napa Valley wine is perfect. It balances the lofty, floral and pretty nose with a distinct earthy, almost leathery note. The barrel really shows with strong vanilla oak, and of course the signature red berries dazzle at the heart of it all. A perfect gift for Mum.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13.5%
Find here: £13.50 (usually more!)

White Wine for Mother’s Day

McGuigan Black Label Moscato

This delivers on all the sweetness you want with a Moscato, but for such a low price it does so much more. Guava, kiwi and lychee make for a tropical whirlpool, holding onto some sour tang for great balance. It’s surprisingly refreshing, and not over sweet (the downfall of many Moscato bottles). A really fun and affordable Australian sipper that may just become Mums regular favourite.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 8%
Find here: £6.50

Graham Norton's Own Sauvignon Blanc

Made by Invivo, this is a great Awatere Valley Sauvignon from the nation’s favourite chat show host, Graham Norton. You’ll notice straight away after the first sip that it’s less up forward fruit and more savoury, saline, and even a little smoky. The classic grassy hints come through too. Some celebrity wines are a bit dodgy, but this is really, really nice.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 11%
Find here: £7.50 (Clubcard Price)

Mount Impey Malborough Sauvignon Blanc

In the Marlborough Wairau Valley stands Mount Impey, the peak of the Holdaway family’s biodiversity reserve. This vast landscape is home to countless species under threat, including the New Zealand Eastern Falcon adorning the label. Every purchase of this wine helps to support this effort. But crucially, what’s inside is a delight too. The green vegetal notes and gooseberry intertwine with bold citrus and soft peach. There’s a really good kick of acidity too.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13%
Find here: £11 (Clubcard Price)

1000 Stories Chardonnay

This is an eyebrow raising wine, in the best way possible. If you haven’t heard of 1000 Stories, they focus on fermenting their wines in charred ex-bourbon barrels. Their Chardonnay is a really yummy example, reimagining the Cali classic with toasted caramel and oaky vanilla. Expertly though, the loveable characteristics of the grape are not lost, because in come those delicious orchard fruits with a little citrus zip. Great for a Mum who likes exploring twists on classic wine profiles.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 14.5%
Find here: £13.50 (Clubcard Price)

If you’re after some other drinks for Mother’s Day, then check out our recommended Spirits and Ciders that are perfect for the occasion.

Supermarket Wine Bargains: Tesco March 2024

Supermarket Wine Bargains again, and shoppers at Tesco will want to see these gems. They’ve got some cracking offers for March, and we’ve been through and highlighted four stunning reds and whites, and two delicious Rosé suggestions too. They’re all under £10 and better than many wines double the price. See which one (or three) takes your fancy.

Tesco Red Wines March 2024

Aprimondo Appassimento

This is one of the best Sangiovese reds under £10. It’s full of body and flavour, with a luxuriously smooth mouthfeel. You can expect a symphony of darker berries, with great sweetness from the dried grapes. Fig, date, prune and vanilla mellow things out for a fantastically well-rounded wine.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 14.5%
Find here: £8 (Clubcard Price) (usually £9.25)

19 Crimes Red Wine

19 Crimes are a reliable go-to at this pricepoint, with each bottle being a ode to those transported to Australia many years ago. This Shiraz-dominant blend is aged in American oak so vanilla and cedar spice support jammy blackcurrant and plum. It’s got an almost Christmassy feel to it we think, with a good whack of sweetness so if like that, you’ll love this.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 14%
Find here: £8 (Clubcard Price) (usually £9.50)

Apothic Merlot

Untamed blueberries and dark cherries absolutely soar in this silky smooth Cali Merlot. Buttery, oaky, vanilla fill out the palate indulgently making this the sweetest, jammiest of any Apothic wine. It won’t be for everyone, but for big rich sweetness, it’s delish.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13.5%
Find here: £9 (Clubcard Price) (usually £10)

Luis Felipe Edwards Malbec

Fans of Chilean Malbec, look no further. Grown from 70-year-old wines, the stand out characteristics here are the dryness and pleasing acidity joining the richness of blackberry, plum and chocolate coated cherries. There’s oak too, but it’s not as intrusive as Argentinian blends. It’s very nicely poised overall, with a more expensive feel than it actually is… which is always nice.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 14.5%
Find here: £8.50 (Clubcard Price) (usually £10.50)

Tesco Rosé Wines March 2024

Maison Castel Rose D'anjou

This inviting pale pink hue hides an explosion of citrus and red fruits on the nose, which unfold into a richly aromatic palate. A refreshing dryness persists, but strawberry sweetness and light melon come through fabulously and last an age. Top notch Loire Valley Rosé.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 11%
Find here: £8 (Clubcard Price) (usually £9)

Kylie Minogue Cote De Provence Rosé

Another hit for Kylie, this pitch-perfect Provence Rosé is stunning. Every sip feels delicately poised between minerality and fruit. Lofty watermelon, bitter lemon, soft white peaches and strawberries – it’s a proper glass of summer.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12.5%
Find here: £10.50 (Clubcard Price) (usually £12.50)

Tesco White Wines March 2024

Brancott Estate Sauvignon Blanc

This Marlborough Sauvignon is a favourite in a number of UK supermarkets, loved for its traditional expression of the style. Everything you want is there, from the gooseberry nose to the tropical fruits with soft pineapple and zippy grapefruit. The whole thing is razor sharp but elegant with it, and there’s even some herbaceous complexity to play with. So well-rounded.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12.5%
Find here: £8.50 (Clubcard Price) (usually £10.50)

El Jardin De Ana Godello

What amazing value this is for £8. The work of renowned producer Martín Códax, it delivers maximum freshness with no oak. 100% Godello, it’s juicy, and lively, brimming with orchard fruits and a touch of creamy butter. Nothing too complicated, you know what you’re getting, and it’s delicious.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12.5%
Find here: £8 (Clubcard Price) (usually £10.50)

Bouchard Grand Conseiller Chardonnay

This is an unoaked Bergundy Chardonnay that’s divine for the price. The light lemon coloured pour reveals a bright citrus nose, chiefly lemon and grapefruit, and these continue in the mouth. They’re flanked by spicy acidity and crunchy green fruits, before a return to citrus with lime zest lingering on the finish.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12%
Find here: £8.50 (Clubcard Price) (usually £9.50)

19 Crimes Australian Chardonnay

We always keep our eyes peeled for this wine to come on sale, though truth be told we’d buy it at full price too. Oak ageing gives a moreish richness to the melon and stone fruits that appear, but the buttery almost vanilla note is what steals the show bringing a tasty nudge of sweetness to proceedings.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13%
Find here: £8 (Clubcard Price) (usually £9.50)

If you shop elsewhere then not to worry, check our website for our other up to date Supermarket Bargains!

Supermarket Wine Bargains: Waitrose March 2024

We’re back with some Supermarket Wine Bargains for March, and they are superb this month at Waitrose. We’ve got four luscious reds and crisp whites, as well as couple of yummy Rosé suggestions too. Every bottle we’ve highlighted comes in for under £10, which is an absolute bargain considering the quality. See which takes your fancy and get stuck in before the deals run out on the 19th March!

Waitrose Red Wines March 2024

Pazzia Primitivo di Manduria

If you like Waitrose’s Terre di Faiano Primitivo (and we do!) then there’s a good chance you’ll fall for this too. Also from Puglia, it’s a seductively inky pour revealing fleshy cherries, ripe plums, and a bed of oaky vanilla. They’re low yield grapes which put many producers off, but what is bottled is special and tastes a hell of a lot more expensive than it is – especially with the discount.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 14%
Find here: £9.99 (usually £12.99)

Chateau Tanunda Shiraz

Top notch value Barossa Valley Shiraz here. It’s super jammy and full-bodied with raspberry, blackberry, plum and cherry, but the sweetness is restrained nicely too. Mellow oak, peppery spice and vanilla round things off nicely.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 14.5%
Find here: £7.49 (usually £9.99)

Stemmari Passiata

An Italian blend of Syrah and Sicilian Nero d’Avola, lightly dried grapes bring a delicious rich sweetness to the plum, blackberry, and blueberry notes. Woody tobacco and vanilla take over to fill out the body, but somehow it retains a lightness that a wine like this normally wouldn’t.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13.5%
Find here: £9.99 (usually £11.99)

Tilimuqui Fairtrade Organic Malbec

Tilimuqui’s organic Malbec is an absolute gem. Hailing from Argentina, it’s very much on the dry side, brimming with perfectly executed black fruits and chocolate. It’s silky and spicy too and probably on the lighter side of Argentinian Malbec which may go against it for some, but we enjoyed it.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13%
Find here: £8.99 (usually £11.99)

Waitrose Rosé Wines March 2024

Alaina Rosé Laurent Miquel

Syrah, Grenache and Cinsault combine for this Languedoc Rosé, named after the winemaker’s daughter. It’s so summery, refreshing and elegant, and alive with crisp fruits and floral notes. The strawberry brings some richness but overall this is a light Rosé with good citric acidity and would be a dream pairing for many dishes.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12.5%
Find here: £9.69 (usually £12.99)

Le Bijou Rosé de Sophie Valrose Coteaux de Béziers

This gem was on offer a few months ago so it’s great to see it back (even though it’s easily worth picking up at full price). Inspired by legendary Sophie Valrose who did great work supporting women vineyard workers, it’s a signature dry and crisp French Rosé from Languedoc. Strawberries and cream are lifted by subtle but vibrant lemon and enforced by steely minerality. Should cost more really (shh!)

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12.5%
Find here: £7.99 (usually £9.99)

Waitrose White Wines March 2024

Villa Maria Private Bin Sauvignon Blanc

An adventure from the start, the Sauvignon Blanc grapes are grown between historic valleys, picturesque mountains, and wild oceans, before reaching Villa Maria… beneath a volcano. The end product is a signature Marlborough profile in the glass – no bitterness, just refreshing crispness and stunning lightness. Think gooseberry, passion fruit, kiwi and green apple.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12.5%
Find here: £8.49 (usually £10.99)

Cave de Beblenheim Pinot Gris Reserve

A benchmark Alsace Pinot Gris across all supermarkets, this is stunningly fresh and easy to drink, but with a delicate side that shows more is going on. Pineapple, vanilla, elderflower, melon, and pear intertwine with a richness that coats the tongue. Crowd-pleasing, food-friendly, what more could you want?

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13%
Find here: £9.99 (usually £11.99)

Morande Terrarum Semillon

Semillon was one of the grapes neglected by vineyards for a long time, but as part of a wider effort to revive old vines, it’s developing again. 100-year-old vines go into this complex dry white from Chile, delivering a waxy mouthfeel rich with crisp citrus, floral depths and sweet honey. There’re also some herbaceous green hints going on too. Really interesting wine.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12.5%
Find here: £8.99 (usually £9.99)

Piccozza Pinot Bianco

This a wonderfully robust Italian Pinot Blanc white in roughly the same vein as a Chardonnay. Orchard fruits come to the fore alongside stone fruits and fragrant jasmine. Smooth and refreshing, the balance is spot on with this one and it’d be a dreamy companion to many fish dishes.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13.5%
Find here: £9.74 (usually £12.99)

If you shop elsewhere then not to worry, check our website for our other up to date Supermarket Bargains!

Supermarket Wine Bargains: Sainsbury’s February/March 2024

We’re back with the latest Supermarket Wine Bargains, hunting down the latest and greatest must try wines discounted this month. These wonderful reds, whites and rosés are all currently on offer at Sainsbury’s (until the 10th March), and nearly every bottle is under £10. They really are incredible value for money this month, so let’s dive in.

*UPDATED: 21/02/2024*

Sainsbury’s Red Wine Discounts February/March 2024

Santodeno Sangiovese Appassimento

This is an Emilia-Romagna Sangiovese from Tenuta Santonedo that is one of the best value reds across all UK supermarkets. Staggeringly easy to drink, the grapes are hand-picked and slow-dried for seductive, ripe richness. Jammy blackberry and cherry come to the fore, with tasty vanilla and enough acidity cutting through. Every sip is super smooth and there really is no better bottle for Italian dishes.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 14%
Find here: £9 (usually £11)

Greasy Fingers Luscious Red

Greasy Fingers’ medium-bodied blend of Grenache and Shiraz is a tremendous pickup. Like their big and buttery Chardonnay, it’s made to sing with yummy, greasy food, but there’s a lot more to it. The mouthfeel is super silky and the balance between the Shiraz’s rich fruits and the Grenache’s fruity sweetness is pinpoint perfect. It’s so moreish and easy to love that we fail to see how it couldn’t be a crowdpleaser.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13.5%
Find here: £8.50 (usually £10)

Journeys End Bluegum Merlot

Over to Stellenbosch now for this ruby red Merlot. The richness of flavour is noticeable straight away, delivering full blackberry and plum. But this is a really big Merlot so there’s so much more – oaky, earthy, almost smoky wafts and subtle graphite notes provide an intoxicating complexity. 14% but very drinkable and interesting,

Size: 750ml
ABV: 14%
Find here: £10 (usually £12)

PepperBox Shiraz

Fans of Aussie Shiraz, this is your stop. The nose is instantly captivating with a little liquorice, eucalyptus and of course, luscious dark fruits. The soft viscosity is lovely, as plums, blackcurrants and red cherries reveal themselves amongst the gently spicy depths. That spice comes from noticeable pepper that stands out. We love its indulgence, and think it would be perfect with Sunday Lamb.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 14%
Find here: £9 (usually £11)

Sainsbury’s White Wine Discounts February/March 2024

Brancott Estate Sauvignon Blanc

One of the best textbook Marlborough Sauvignon’s in Sainsbury’s. The gooseberry nose, the tropical pineapple, and grapefruit tang, it’s all so elegant and crisp. The acidity is razor sharp, but there’s herbaceous nettle notes swirling around too and a well-roundedness to the citrus.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12.5%
Find here: £8 (usually £10.50)

Amandla Our Future Sauvignon Blanc

We’ve praised Amandla tonnes before, because not only are they brightening up our shelves with great wine, they’re also an inspiring all black operation with vino star Praisy Dlamini at the hem. This is their zesty Sauvignon that’s full of sunshine – think ripe and tropical notes of pineapple, passion fruit and bright citrus. Dry and with a tip-top sharpness for food too.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12.5%
Find here: £8 (usually £9.50)

Sainsbury's Verdeca Puglia IGT No 26

This is quite a new addition to the Sainsbury’s Discovery collection but has stood out to us and is well worth trying. It’s 100% Verdeca grape from Puglia, which you may never have tried before. Expect citrus with a flash of honey on the nose, leading into a eyebrow raising-ly clean palate of crisp minerality. The citrus that’s there is so fresh, and a little peach and florality adds depth. You just need to look at the label to know when to drink this – it works a treat with fish.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12.5%
Find here: £6.50 (usually £8.50)

Atlantique Vinho Verde

A lovely Portuguese blend from the family-owned Casa Santos Lima, the grapes in the Minho are cooled by the Atlantic for wines with great freshness and aroma. The profile is that of a young white, with super crisp acidity and fresh fruits, most notably lemon, lime and apple.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 11%
Find here: £7 (usually £8.25)

Sainsbury’s Rosé Discounts February/March 2024

Sainsbury's Taste the Difference Île-de-Beauté Rosé

This was on offer back in January, so we’re happy to see it back below a tenna (even if it is easily worth more). Niellucciu, Sciaccarellu, Grenache, Vermentinu and Syrah come together to make quite a mouthful, in more ways than one. Hailing from Corsica, it’s very much a dryer Rosé. A gentle bouquet welcomes the nose and the ripe berries and currants fill out the flavours. Stone fruits pop up before an undertone of pink peppery warmth on the finish. This is one of those Rosés that will win over white and red drinkers.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12%
Find here: £9 (usually £10.50)

Freixenet Italian Still Rose

This bottle is also on discount for the same price at Morrisons, so there really is no better time to try it. We’ve all seen the signature bottle, but the wine inside is underrated by many. A blend of Italian Corvina and Garganega, every sip has a seductively soft feel and that’s before the red flood of strawberry and cranberry. Grapefruit brings some bitter balance, and overall it’s just a well put together fruit-forward, fresh Rosé.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 11.5%
Find here: £8 (usually £10)

Sainsbury’s Red Wine Discounts February 2024

Barossa Ink Shiraz

This is fantastically deep Shiraz from the Barossa Valley. It uses grapes from all over the region, delivering intense opulence. Think mocha notes, blackberries, and plums. It has a great weight to it, and is screaming out to be drank alongside hearty meats.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 14%
Find here: £9 (usually £11)

Terre di Faiano Nero di Troia Organic Wine

Terre di Faiano make some top notch organic wines, and their Nero di Troia is wonderfully fruity and smooth. It really delivers on a fresh feel before delving richer with plums and blackberries and rounding off with oaky vanilla. Must buy at this price.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13%
Find here: £8 (usually £9.50)

Sainsbury's Valpolicella Ripasso, Taste the Difference

This is fantastic value for money, it really is. A four-grape blend of mainly Corvina, they macerate with dried grape skins for added depth and a velvety texture that’s to die for. Vibrant berries meet rich darker fruits and a touch of spice. It isn’t too heavy despite all of that, which is why it’s so well made.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13.5%
Find here: £12 (Buy 3 and save 25%)

Sainsbury’s White Wine Discounts February 2024

Sainsbury's Riverblock Marlborough Sauvignon, Taste the Difference

If easy-drinking Marlborough Sauvignon is your thing, then this is for you. The freshness is immediately impressive, and the zesty tropical hints are delicious. It can cleanse the palate but also has enough body to stand up to heartier dishes too. You’ll need 3 for the big discount, but if Marlborough Sauvignon is your go to then this won’t let you down.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13%
Find here: £10.50 (Buy 3 and save 25%)

Sainsbury's Jurançon Sec, Taste the Difference

Jurançon sits in the sun-drenched foothills of the Pyrenees and is known for indigenous grapes, like the Gros and Petit Manseng in this expression. Usually, you’ll find these make sweeter wines, and though this brings a little of that, it’s very pleasantly dry, zesty, and refreshing – think tangerine and melon. Unique and well worth a go.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13%
Find here: £9 (Buy 3 and save 25%)

The Ned Pinot Grigio

This is a Waihopai Valley Pinot Grigio that stands out from the usual style. Behind the seductive salmon blush colouring is an expression brimming with stone fruits. It’s rich, and full-bodied, but the twist that comes is with the lingering minerality that we love. It’s the perfect time to try whilst it’s under a tenner.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13.5%
Find here: £9 (usually £10.50)

19 Crimes Chard

We’ve featured 19 Crimes a few times because of their consistent quality, and their Chardonnay is yet another wine that delivers. Oak ageing means the melon and stone fruits come through with richness, but the stand out trait is the buttery, full body that makes this a must try at this price point.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13%
Find here: £8 (usually £9.50)

Most Wanted Regions Sauvignon Blanc Rueda

This is a benchmark Spanish Sauvignon Blanc from Castilla y Léon. The nose is aromatic with green apples and grass, the palate is brimming with gooseberry and a little kiwi, before a pleasant kick of citrus acidity on the finish. Nom!

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13%
Find here: £8 (usually £9.50)

Sainsbury’s Rosé Discounts February 2024

Silver Moki Sauvignon Blush

If you’ve never taken to rosé then we urge you to give this a go, particularly if you’re not keen on the sweetness. This delivers much of the crisp Sauvignon Blanc and slicing citric acidity. Indulgent peach and strawberry offset this harmoniously, but they’re subtler than most rosé expressions. It’s the sophistication and elegance that blows our minds with this bottle though. Worth double the price.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12.5%
Find here: £7 (usually £8.25)

Madame F Rosé Wine

There is so much to applaud with this rosé. First, of course, the snazzy frog. Second, its collaboration with a charity trying to create the first LGBTQ+ museum. And thirdly, the liquid. The Grenache and Shiraz combination brings vibrant crowd-pleasing red berries, and there’s enough citrus acidity to make it food-friendly too. Try a glass with seafood paella.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12%
Find here: £8 (usually £9.50)

If you shop elsewhere, then take a look at our up to date Supermarket Wine Bargains here.