If you’re gonna break dry January, at least don’t break the bank too. We are all trying to be a bit more frugal this month, but since we can’t just hibernate our way to spring, we might as well try to find joy in more affordable pleasures. Below, three wines for a tenner or less for the weekend that will please your palate without pinching your pocket…
Gran Volante
14% ABV
€9.95 (on offer from €14.95) – Available at O’Briens Wine
This blend of Garnacha, Alicante Bouschet, Monastrell and Tempranillo from Spain offers a full bodied and intense winter warmer at great value.
Ripe black cherries and cranberries along with a delicate herbal note and some sweet spice combine with moderate tannins and acidity. It’s made by Norrel Robertson MW, the Scottish winemaker behind the very popular Portuguese Porta 6.
Exquisite Collection Fleurie
13% ABV
€9.99 – Available at Aldi
If you favour lighter reds, this delicate and juicy Gamay from one of Beaujolais’ most famous appellations, Fleurie, is one to try.
Light bodies and with soft tannins, it has aromas of strawberries and just ripe red cherries and pomegranate. Fresh and easy to drink, it’s one that will go really well with a cheese and meat board, perfect for some casual entertaining.
Faustino VII Red
13% ABV
€10 – Available at Tesco
This Rioja is made from the region’s main grape, Tempranillo and offers a balanced and approachable taste from a winery with 150 of history.
A benchmark for what affordable Rioja should be, it’s dominated by ripe red fruit with a pleasant touch of vanilla, courtesy of 6 months of American oak barrel ageing. Moderate tannins and a fruity finish. It’s a good companion for a steak or other meat dishes.
Gabriela’s passion for writing is only matched by her love for food and wine. Journalist, confectioner and sommelier, she fell in love with Ireland years ago and moved from Venezuela to Dublin in 2014.
Since then, she has written about and worked in the local food scene, and she’s determined to discover and share the different traditions, flavours and places that have led Irish food and drink to fascinate her.
Gabriela Guédez Gabriela Guédez