Get ready for fresh summer reds, each under a tenner! From France: a southern Rhône blend ideal for barbies and a crowd-pleasing medium-bodied Cabernet Franc from Chinon. From Austria I have a great example of the increasingly trendy Zweigelt grape, and from South Africa there’s a vibrant Cinsault.
Watch the video below to see me serving summer reds, including a top South African Cinsault, below.
Specially Selected Ventoux Rouge 2022 (14.5%), £8.49, Aldi.
This bold yet playful rouge from Mont Ventoux – famous for its challenging Tour de France incline – is bursting with red fruit, and teases with white pepper and spice.
Lentsch Zweigelt Burgenland 2021 (13%), £9.99, Waitrose.
Make way for Zweigelt! This Austrian gem, crafted from a crossing of St Laurent and Blaufränkisch grapes, delivers juicy cherries, aniseed nuances and a refreshing finish to boot.
The Best Chinon 2023 (12.5%), £9, Morrisons.
The Chinon region of France is a hit with sommeliers for its food-friendly reds, from quaffable to complex. This one oozes violet and cranberry notes with a herbaceous hint in there.
Discovery Collection Cinsault, Breedekloof 2023 (12.5%), £10, Sainsbury’s.
Light and ruby in colour, sourced from old vines, this wine brings bright berries and a fragrant character – it’s just perfect served chilled on a hot day.
