Penfolds Launches New Champagne

When it comes to high-quality Australian wine, Penfolds is the name that springs to mind for us and for many others no doubt.

In 1844, Dr. Chrstopher Penfold and wife, Mary Penfold made the daunting move from England all the way over to Australia. Crucially, they stopped at France for vine cuttings and when these were planted at the Magill Estate near Adelaide, Penfolds was born. To celebrate their 180th birthday this year, they’ve given quite the present to themselves and us.

We’re big fans of Penfolds because they are just so reliable, no matter your budget. Indeed, they’ve provided many a wine for our Bring a Bottle podcast. If you see a Penfolds bottle on a shelf, you know that what’s inside won’t disappoint… and there really aren’t that many producers you can say that about.

We’ve luxuriated in their fantastic Shiraz range for a long time, but this isn’t about classic Aussie reds, this is about bubbles. More specifically, the Penfolds New Cuvée Brut Champagne. Working with Champagne Thiénot and expanding their links with France that started everything 180 years ago, Penfolds’ Chief Winemaker Peter Gago and Champagne Thiénot’s Chef de Cave Nicolas Uriel have conceived the project.

Not only did Penfolds originate with French vines, but legendary winemaker Max Schubert also learnt from Bordeaux ideas and techniques for Penfold’s iconic 1951 Grange, their most famous wine. All these years later, and the focus remains on intertwining French methods with Penfold’s classic house style.

This new Champagne follows Penfolds’ inaugural release of three 2012 vintage Champagnes at The Ritz Paris in 2019. Since then, they’ve been working at getting increasingly involved with on-the-ground winemaking in France, setting up at La Place de Bordeaux, Château Cambon la Pelouse and others. So, whilst this release looks back and celebrates 180 years of winemaking, it also seems like the beginning of something very exciting (and delicious).

The product of this luxury collaboration will be released across the globe later in the year in September 2024, expected to price at around $79 Australian Dollars, around £41.

What Can I Mix With Gin Instead Of Tonic?

The only ever-present force in gin is juniper, with its earthy, piney flavour – everything else can and does change. Therefore, as long as your mixer pairs well with juniper, you should end up along the right lines. It does depend on the style and botanicals of the gin, however.

For example, is it pink with berries? Is it umami and marine? Is it floral and citrusy? There are all kinds of complex flavours floating around, and you want a mixer that enhances those qualities. Of course though, you want a gin mixer that you enjoy, and that’s really all that matters.

If you’re not into tonic for whatever reason, then try these popular suggestions instead – we think they’re the best way to go.

Is Lemonade a Good Mixer with Gin?

Particularly with younger drinkers, the polls show that this is the country’s favourite mixer with gin, ahead of even tonic. Be it pink lemonade with a little kick of red berries like raspberry and strawberry, or regular, it’s probably the best gin mixer for those with a sweeter tooth.

There’s more to this classic combo than just providing a sugar injection though. The tart, bright citrus that comes through with the lemonade contrasts beautifully with the rich, earthy juniper profile of gin. As long as the gin isn’t too sweet to begin with, lemonade will likely work.

Is Soda a Good Mixer with Gin?

If you just can’t get on board with tonic but really don’t want to overshadow the delicately poised botanicals in gin, then how about soda? It’s simply carbonated water (even more so than sparkling water), so it tastes just like water. Therefore, similar to whisky, it can actually open up the botanicals in gin and enhance your libation – without the bitterness that tonic water brings.

What you’ll get is what you expect, a diluted version of the gin which usually leads to a more savoury, zesty drink – one of the purists! Of course, with garnishes like lime, lemon or mint, syrup and cordial, you can take this in any direction you like.

Is Flavoured Tonic a Good Mixer with Gin?

Alright, alright, so this is still tonic but hear us out. The main reason some people don’t like tonic water with gin is the bitter taste, mostly from the quinine. However, where there used to be no variation with tonics, there is now a tonne of it, and these flavoured tonics don’t have high quinine content.

The great thing about a flavoured tonic is that by retaining the lightness of water with only subtle flavourings, it still very much lets the gin shine as the star of the show. So, if you’ve never clicked with original tonic but still want the gin front and centre, we urge you to try some flavoured tonics.

For example, a simple Mediterranean tonic with a little citrus and herbs is fantastic with citrus and herbaceous gins and an elderflower tonic really emphasises the florality in floral gins – you really would be surprised at the difference it can make.

We love Franklin & Son’s range for its creativity and quality, and they have so many flavoured tonics, lemonades and sodas that are dreamy mixers for all kinds of gin – like Rosemary and Black Olive, Sicilian Lemon Tonic and Rhubarb and Hibiscus. Check out a few we love here!

Is Ginger Beer a Good Mixer with Gin?

Topping up your gin with the warming fizz of ginger beer has become a bit of a trend in the world of gin. You might not put the two together straight away, but it’s surprisingly versatile. Sweeter Old Tom styles go well, and with spiced, wintery gins it really emphasises the botanicals like cardamom, orange, cinnamon, and it goes without saying, ginger.

It works really well with big-flavoured gins that might need tempering a little, and the spicy feel is brilliant for standing up to bolder gin notes.

Is Grapefruit Juice a Good Mixer with Gin?

You’re never too far from citrus when it comes to gin combos.  Grapefruit juice is really handy for gin too because it’s a very popular botanical. It has a bittersweet, tart freshness that makes for a delicious combination with gin. Pink or red juices are dryer and sweeter, but the white is more bitter and acidic, so it’s down to personal preference really.

If you’ve got a very sweet pink gin for example, white may cut through nicely but for most gins, a ruby red grapefruit juice adds a nice layer. It’s also a lovely way of making your drink summery without too much sugar. Any fruity, citrusy gins and it’s a winner.

If you want some stunning gins to try out these mixers with, then we compiled some special bottles recently for our guide here.

There are a lot of questions like this one that float around the drinks world, and another one we get asked a lot is, ‘Is there a correct way to drink whisky?’

Is There a ‘Correct’ Way to Drink Whisky?

Whisky is probably the most intimidating drink out there, steeped in history and incredible variety, including some challenging expressions that most beginners are likely to struggle with. Even with the resurgence of Irish whiskey, access to American creations and shedding of the ‘old men pouring dusty bottles with cigars’ image, we still come across the question of ‘is there a correct way to drink whisky?’ a lot.

Well, in a word, the answer is no. As with everything drinks related, it really is down to personal preference, palate, whisky experience, and the bottle itself. If you enjoy it, then it’s correct, no matter how strange. There are no set rules, but there are popular methods and nuances that will help you get the most out of your glass. The key, of course, is to experiment and discover what works for you.

If once you’re done, you want to pick out a whisky, or whiskey (American and Irish) to get started with, then we’re always updating our guides of the best bottles, so take a look here and across the website.

Drinking Whisky Neat

You’ll come across a lot of purists preaching neat drinking. No ice, no water, no mixers, just the dram. This is the simplest way to taste whisky because you’re experiencing the liquid on its own. Often, drinkers will cleanse the palate with some cool water between sips too.

For well-aged, high-end whiskies rich in complexity, this is usually the best way to get the absolute most from the tasting experience. Room temperature whisky tends to bring the most flavour, and with no mixer in the way, you’re able to explore all the subtle notes and depths of the dram.

Of course, if you’re a total newbie, then this might be a bit much because it will be intense and difficult to enjoy, let alone explore.

If you’re wondering how neat drinkers who still desire a chill to their drink achieve this, they use whisky stones to lower the temperature without diluting the dram, which is a neat trick that keeps the drink, well, neat.

Drinking Whisky On The Rocks

On the rocks, or with ice, tames the intensity of whisky initially, and then as it melts, it dilutes and has the same effect as a splash of water. It makes for a far more refreshing experience, so may be more of a summer favourite.

Will you detect the full plethora of notes and complexity? No, probably not, because the ice will dull them a little, but remember, it is only water, and a small amount won’t overpower the whisky whatsoever.

It’s important to consider the measure (single or double… or even triple) and the size and amount of ice. Bigger ice chunks may not be melted by the time you’re finished, but crushed ice will melt very quickly.  

Drinking Whisky with a Dash of Water

Adding a dash of water isn’t just about smoothing out the alcohol. It does do that, but with some whiskies it actually enhances the flavour. Whilst the purists enjoy neat drinking, they also embrace a few drops of water because, especially with higher ABV bottles, it really tempts out hidden notes. Even with accustomed dram drainers, a whisky getting towards 60% will numb the senses somewhat, so water really helps unlock some flavours.

How much to add is entirely down to you but remember the golden rule - you can always add more. Some people literally just add a drop or two, so start with tiny amounts, taste, and see if you can notice any differences in aroma, texture, taste, and finish.

Drinking Whisky in Cocktails

Some whiskies are straight up better suited for cocktail mixing. This doesn’t necessarily mean they’re worse, just that they’re bold enough to come through and work alongside the other ingredients. Cocktails are a team game after all. Whiskies range massively with fruits, spice, smoke, sweetness, and wood, so they’re versatile when it comes to mixology.

Also, as is the case with pretty much every spirit, cocktails are the best way to ease yourself into whisky. You’re not getting big, in your face hits of the spirit, instead, you’re getting a taste of it, tempered by whatever else is in the cocktail.

A simple Highball (whisky, ice, and mixer) is an accessible and simple place to start, be that with sparkling water, ginger ale, cola, or something else. Other popular whisky cocktails are the Old Fashioned, Manhattan and the Whisky Sour. You can find loads more whisky cocktails in our One Drink, Three Ways section.

One area that whisky leads the way in is hot cocktails, and with comforting flavours and heat surrounding it, it’s a super accessible way to get into the spirit. Irish Coffee and Hot Toddy are two favourites, but also try this Spiced Clementine Mulled Whisky.

7 Affordable Tequilas Perfect For Margaritas

When answering the question, ‘What tequila should I use for a Margarita?’, the answer is not to break the bank – far from it. You just need a robust tequila with good balance and depth, and one that won’t burn your throat. Now, despite what its bar-shotting reputation might suggest, there are actually plenty of tequilas out there between £20-£30 that fulfil these criteria. Each one will take your cocktail in a slightly different direction too.

The Margarita was the most popular cocktail in the world last year and remains a favourite of so many, so if you’ve never tasted what the fuss is about, or you just want to be able to make a stunning version for guests, then these are some tequilas that will make it shine.

Oh, and once you’ve found the tequila for you, you can go here for the classic recipe, plus some variations that might tickle your fancy.

El Jimador Tequila Blanco

You can find El Jimador Tequila pretty much everywhere because it’s such a well-rounded Lowland Blanco at a good price. It’s 100% Blue Weber, distilled twice and immediately bottled for young freshness. Alongside some roasted agave, crisp, clean citrus bursts through here so it’s great for a fresh Margarita.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 38%
Find here: £21 (usually more!)

Olmeca Blanco Tequila

This is a trusty tequila that you can definitely rely on to elevate your cocktails. Hailing from Los Altos, this delivers the signature Highland style with a sweeter kick and delicate floral waft. A little green and black pepper supports, and it has that smoothness we want to integrate into the cocktail subtly. Serve for a sweeter Margarita with a little herbal nudge.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 38%
Find here: £24.29 (usually more!)

El Sueño Tequila Silver

Normally we look for 100% Blue Weber agave, but here we’re willing to make an exception. El Sueño is backed up by five generations of tequila producers, and here they’ve used 70% agave with 30% locally and sustainably grown piloncillo (natural cane sugar). Let the purists dismiss it we say, because it beats many 100% bottles hands down. Mellow vegetal agave intertwines with grapefruit tang for a full, flavoursome tequila that’s perfect for cocktail making. No mixto snobs here.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 38%
Find here: £24.75

Ocho Blanco Tequila

This is a single estate expression to represent the underrated importance of terroir in tequila. A joint effort by the Camarena family and Tomas Estes, it’s made in the traditional method with slow cooked agave for deep flavours, satisfying viscosity, earthy notes offsetting citrus freshness and a gorgeous crack of black pepper. It’s great for fading the in-your-face agave flavour into loftier sweet fruits and lingers for a fantastically long time. Great for a flavourful, slightly thicker Margarita.

Size: 500ml
ABV: 4%
Find here: £27.25

Tapatio Blanco Tequila

Remaining largely unchanged since the 1930s, tequila drinkers love Tapatio and their silver expression remains the benchmark for great value. It’s brimming with all that blanco character so expect hits of raw agave, cracked pepper, vivid citrus, and earthy anchoring. It’s well known for its intensity so can more than look after itself jostling in a Margarita. If you want a Margarita with oomph, go for Tapatio.

Size: 500ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £27.70

Pueblo Viejo Blanco

Pueblo Viejo are a rock solid option for tequila, and known within the tequila world for probably being a little bit underpriced. For a relatively cheap blanco, it’s a smooth joy to sip. The cooked agave comes through, but then the palate takes off in a surprising number of directions, with a grassy note, mineral hints, lively citrus, and herbaceous flavours, all before pulling everything together for a peppery finish. We think this would be perfect for a spicy Margarita.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 38%
Find here: £27.95

Mundo Blanco Tequila

Slightly softer at 35%, Mundo Blanco is a sipping tequila really, with plenty of earthy depths and fresh heights to explore. However, it also works for a luxurious, slightly more complex Margarita and remains under £30 so is cracking value. As beautifully presented by La Cofradia as it is in the mouth, it’s a Highland and Lowland mix for a crisp rounded taste with herbaceous hints. Easy to love.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 35%
Find here: £28.91

If you want to explore the absolute best this misunderstood spirit has to offer, then how about The Best Sipping Tequilas?

Baileys’ New Birthday Cake Truffles

Ever since Baileys dipped their toe into the world of chocolate truffles, it’s clear that people loved it because they’ve brought out more and more delicious twists on it. Strawberry & Cream, Salted Caramel, Espresso… and now the intriguing Birthday Cake.

The tantalising dance of rich Irish dairy cream, luscious chocolate, sweet vanilla and of course, seductive Irish whiskey seems to be a dreamy pairing with so many flavours, and with vanilla cake inspiring these latest truffles, it looks like a winner from the off.

They’ve teamed up with Dublin chocolatiers Lir who will be providing the indulgent white chocolate shell and vanilla truffle centre, which has been infused with the original Baileys Irish Cream Liqueur – nom.

It’s not the first collaboration between the pair, with the Nut Mix coated in Baileys flavoured chocolate released at the end of last year. Other collaborations with Cart D’Or, LiQ and the Finsbury Food Group show that we really are happy to buy Baileys with anything, and can we really be blamed.

The 135-gram packages will be available for £4 at a few different retailers like Card Factory, The Range, B&M and TK Maxx, so keep an eye as a sweet gift for Baileys lovers on their birthday.

If all this talk of Irish Cream has got you in the mood, then how about these cocktails that place it front and centre. And with this new truffle you’ve got the perfect garnish now too. It’s Christmas somewhere after all. Okay, so obviously it isn’t. But it’s nearly Easter, and that’s good enough. Treat yourself!

5 Boozy Pancake Day Recipes

Whether you’re one of those people who think Pancake Day is just for the kids, or you’re tired of the same old recipes and toppings every year, how about a grown-up twist - boozy pancakes.

Alcohol is massively underrated as a cooking ingredient and great for pushing the boat out this Pancake Day. These mouthwatering recipes range in simplicity, but use beer, Baileys, Chambord, coffee, vodka, and orange liqueur for indulgent boozy twists on classic pancakes.

Beer Pancakes

It won’t be one that you think of straight away, but beer actually adds a really lovely malty, yeasty flavour to the batter. And on top of that, the carbonation creates a lighter, fluffier pancake. Once it’s done, you can take it in a savoury or sweet direction and because the small amount of alcohol cooks away, the kids can try it too. A good place to start would be with a Belgian fruit beer like cherry, and then using the same fruit as your toppings… but all your usual toppings will pair up nicely. 

Ingredients (for 5):
3/4 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1 egg (beaten)
250ml beer (light)
125g plain flour
50g caster sugar
30g butter

Method:
Mix together the dry ingredients first, so that’s sieved flour, sugar, baking powder and salt in a bowl. Next, whilst continuously whiskiberrng if possible, pour in egg, melted butter and your favourite beer, before stirring until smooth. Set this aside (ideally for an hour but it doesn’t matter too much) and get some medium heat into the pan with a little oil. For one pancake, use about 60ml of batter and cook for about 90 seconds on each side – or until it’s starting to turn a nice golden brown. The flip to show off is optional.

Baileys Pancakes

You just knew these would be included. The creamy profile of the country’s favourite liqueur is just begging to be used for Shrove Tuesday.  A splash of Bailey’s gives mouth-watering fluffy pancakes with added indulgent richness and creaminess. These will exceed your expectations, trust us. 

Ingredients (for 5):
3 tbsp unsalted butter
3/4 tsp salt
2 tbsp granulated sugar
1 large egg
150ml milk
125g self-raising flour
80ml Baileys Irish Cream

Method:
Nothing complicated here because you can just do as you would, except swapping some Baileys in for a portion of the milk. It’s best to mix the dry ingredients first, before whisking the liquids in until it forms a light and creamy batter. Fry in oil or butter for around 90 secs until golden. Toppings can be whatever you like but try white chocolate!

Chambord Pancakes

If you’re not familiar with Chambord, then you’ll probably recognise the glamorous royal bottle. It’s the original raspberry liqueur, a velvety smooth mix of not just raspberries, but blackberries, vanilla, citrus, honey, and a little cognac – now that sounds like pancake material to us. It’s a decadent, fruity twist that splits the Chambord into the batter mix, but also as an opulent drizzle. Nom. 

Ingredients (for 5):
50g plain flour
100ml Chambord
75ml whole milk
40g dark chocolate
50ml double cream

Method:
Okay, so first mix flour, milk and 50ml of Chambord until smooth (watch the gorgeous purple colouring come to life). Coat a pan with a little butter or oil and pour 60ml of batter in. Like usual, cook for 90 seconds. In the meantime, melt chocolate in a bowl of boiling water. Combine this with double cream, and then the other 50ml of Chambord until it thickens slightly. Pour this over your pancakes for berry heaven. Be aware that some alcohol will remain in this one though!

Espresso Martini Pancakes

It was only a matter of time before coffee showed up. For adding a kick to your breakfast pancakes, how about combining them with the UK’s favourite cocktail, the Espresso Martini? It has similarities with a Tiramisu, with spongey, rich coffee flavour, and soft mascarpone on top. This one requires a little more effort, but if you need motivation then just read the ingredient list – delish. 

Ingredients (for 5):
200g self-raising flour
1 tbsp coffee (optional dilution with 1 tbsp of water)
1 tsp baking powder
1 tbsp golden caster sugar
½ tsp vanilla extract
200ml milk
2 eggs
25g melted butter

For toppings:
100ml espresso
4 tbsp caster sugar
25ml coffee liqueur
130g mascarpone
70g zero fat Greek yoghurt
1 tbsp vodka
3 tbsp icing sugar
Chocolate shavings

Method:
First, the pancake. So, simmer your coffee with water (instant is fine) with the sugar and coffee liqueur in a pan until it thickens like syrup. Leave this to cool.  Whisk all the pancake ingredients together until completely smooth and pourable. Again, 60ml ish of batter per pancake into the pan (depending on pan size and preferred thickness). For the topping, beat the mascarpone with the yoghurt, a splash of vodka and icing sugar until nicely mixed and smooth. Dollop this on top, alongside the coffee syrup you made earlier, and shave some chocolate. What a creation.

Orange Pancakes

Another tasty route to go down is zesty citrus. You could experiment with gin and lemon, but we think it might get overpowered so how about orange liqueur. Using either Grand Marnier (richer) or Cointreau (sweeter), you get a succulent, sunny pancake full of delicious orange. It might be a little light on its own, so we’ve paired it with double cream but ice cream would be delish too. 

Ingredients (for 5):
5 regular plain pancakes
85g unsalted butter (softened)
25g golden caster sugar
3 tbsp Cointreau or Grand Marnier
½ orange (zested)

For toppings:
2 oranges (juiced)
1 lemon (zested)
175g golden caster sugar
3 tbsp Cointreau or Grand Marnier
200ml double cream (softly whipped)

Method:
Combine butter, sugar, liqueur, and orange zest in a bowl and spread over your plain pancakes. Heat in an ovenproof dish for 10 minutes on a medium heat. Meanwhile, make the sauce – add your zests, juice and sugar to a pan and heat through until syrupy. Add 2 tablespoons of liqueur and reduce the heat once it starts gently simmering. Let it cool. Then add a final tablespoon of orange liqueur, and drizzle over your heated pancakes with cream. Mouthwatering stuff.

If you’re planning a proper evening of pancakes and booze, then find out which drinks go best with pancakes here!

The Rhubarb Crush

How about this for a Valentine’s Crush? Keeping it simple, it’s a Franklin & Sons recipe that’s essentially a twist on a classic vodka lemonade. Of course, you could include extra touches like elderflower liqueur or vanilla syrup, but if you get yourself quality ingredients, simple can be best. Franklin & Sons have been leading the way with mixers since the Victorian times, and their spring rhubarb lemonade is zesty, fragrant, and refreshing with lemon juice and sparkling water. Get yourself a stunning vodka to go with, make it look beautiful with some flowers and voila, a crisp Rhubarb Crush for Valentine’s or Galentine’s Day.

Ingredients (for 1)

50ml vodka
Top up with Rhubarb Lemonade (Franklin & Sons)
 Edible flowers

Method
1.      Pour out chilled vodka over ice.
2.      Top up with rhubarb lemonade.
3.      Stir gently to keep the bubbles going.
4.      Sprinkle some edible flowers.
5.      Enjoy!

If you’re still going strong with Dry January, then how about these Delicious Winter Mocktails? Or if you’re interested in more Frankin & Sons mixers to spruce up your serves then check out these.

Supermarket Wine Bargains: Waitrose February 2024

How about some Supermarket Wine Bargains again? This time, it’s Waitrose, who have some belting offers for February. We’ve identified four cracking reds and whites, and a couple of delicious Rosé suggestions too. Every bottle but one comes in at under a tenner, but they are worth a lot more if you ask us! Let’s go deal diving.

Waitrose Red Wines February 2024

Montidori Sangiovese

We’ve loved the value from this bottle for a while now. A portion of the grapes are dried bringing incredible, bold richness, which combined with soft spice intensity and a subtle dryness make for dark berry bliss.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13.5%
Find here: £8.99 (usually £10.00)

Little Giant Barossa Shiraz

This wine should easily cost more than it does, even at full price (but don’t tell Waitrose). It’s seductively smooth and brimming with delicious dark fruits and layers of warm spice. It just feels so, well, giant. Fantastically jammy Ozzy Shiraz .

Size: 750ml
ABV: 14.5%
Find here: £9.99 (usually £12.99)

Paul Mas Réserve Languedoc Rouge

From the renowned Jean-Claude Mas vineyards in Languedoc is this dry, easy-drinking red. It throws up blackberry jam, oaky vanilla, dark chocolate and a pleasant minerality for depth, and serves as an ideal candidate for those midweek Italian dishes.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 14%
Find here: £7.49 (usually £9.99)

Zalze Shiraz - Mourvèdre Viognier

With £3 off this South African gem, it’s the perfect time to give it a go. The rich spice of forest fruits and blackberries comes to the fore, but then the French oak is integrated smoothly in support of the fruits. The Viognier rounds off the finish nicely too. Really well-rounded and balanced red.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13.5%
Find here: £6.66 (usually £9.99)

Waitrose Rosé Wines February 2024

Esprit de Buganay Côtes de Provence Rosé

Hailing from slap bang in the middle of the Côtes de Provence is this traditional expression. Grenache, Cinsault and Syrah with a dash of structure from Cab Sav come together for a fresh fruity nose. Beyond that, dreamy smoothness with subtle strawberry, peach, and raspberry. Light, dry and fruity and a joy to pair with. A must try for under £10.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13%
Find here: £9.99 (usually £14.99)

Barefoot Pink Moscato

If you’re after a crowd pleasing Rosé for a top-notch price then look no further. A red berry parade invites the nose, continuing on the palate with a fruity sweetness that hits the spot. The touch of sherbet creaminess is a delight too. As the pink stuff goes, it is towards the sweeter end but if you like that, then you’ll love this.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 9%

Find here: £6.49 (usually £7.49)

Waitrose White Wines February 2024

Zenato Villa Flora Lugana Veneto

This Lake Garda beauty brings serious acidity from the Turbiana grapes, coming through with zippy citrus and subtle stone fruits. But there’s more to this white, because not only is it fresh and smooth, but it’s also got some curious earthy undertones and floral hints. No wonder the reputation of this wine is flourishing.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13%
Find here: £10.99 (usually £12.99)

Ara Single Estate Sauvignon Blanc

Great New Zealand Sauvignon here with more going on than usual. You can expect a slightly dryer profile than usual, with more aromatic floral notes. Think juicy fruits with grapefruit, peach, and lychee. But there are also delicious, perfumed notes, touches of green grass and crunchy acidity. Wonderful.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13%
Find here: £7.99 (usually £10.99)

Paolo Leo Fiano del Salento IGP

What a lovely southern Italian grape Fiano is, with rich historic roots. Nowadays, it delivers exquisite fruity freshness. Here that’s a huge kick of citrus and grapefruit, supported by loftier orchard fruits. Balanced, rich and complex with a welcome mineral touch to the finish.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 11.5%
Find here: £7.99 (usually £10.99)

Puklavec & Friends Sauvignon Blanc Pinot Grigio

Over to Slovenia now for an interesting dry white. It’s a family-owned winery, with the Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Grigio grapes handpicked. Fruity and lively, the citrus is stealing the show. Subtler tropical notes like mango and papaya linger too. An intriguing try from a less common wine nation.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12.5%
Find here: £7.79 (usually £9.79)

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