CUSTOMERS buying wines in Morrisons stores are now being asked for proof of age if they look 25 or younger in a bid to help prevent under-age sales. So, be prepared, all you baby-faced imbibers ...
This week's bottles: A blend of tempranillo and cabernet sauvignon grapes, Baturrica Tarragona 2001 Grand Reserva is a bit of bargain at only £4.49 (Lidl), considering its been maturing seven years. Dark ruby red and cherry-tinged, it finishes dry. S
unday roasts.
Staying with Lidl we have Viajero 2006 Chardonnay Viognier Reserva Privada (£3.79), a creamy (suggesting oak) Chilean white that's rounded as well as well priced.
I also liked Viajero Pinot Noir Syrah 2006 Grand Reserva (£5.99), a raspberry and cherry-stashed Chilean red, with a soupcon of redcurrant. Rich stews.
Two from Chilean wine-maker Yali – a 2006 Winemaker's Selection Cabernet Carmenere (£5.99 Majestic, but £4.79 when you buy two) and a 2007 Sauvignon Blanc (same price). The Cabernet Carmenere is as dark as port and bursting with chocolate, spicy cumin, plum and pepper flavours; the Sauvignon zings with lime citrus and a squeeze of grapefruit. Tangy man.
Brown Brothers Sangiovese (£6.99, selected Tescos) is a Central Victoria red smelling of dark cherry, a puff of tobacco and an immense savoury palate.
BARGAIN OF THE WEEKMade from organically-grown grapes, Adobe Carmenere 2006 (£6.24, Majestic, but £4.99 when you buy two) shows chocolate coffee creams, plum and tobacco wisps. Big on alcohol (14.5%), but well-balanced.
WINE OF THE WEEKValdehermoso Joven 2006 (£5.99, Lidl) is a juicy, plumy young Spanish red from Ribero del Duero, an exciting wine-making region of Spain. Red meats straight off the grill are perfect.
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