Two well-known Italian wines to savour, both at reduced prices

Two Italian wines this week, both well-known names. I have been a fan of the Rizzardi Pinot Grigio for some time. It may be a little more expensive than some, but it is well worth the extra few euro, and is a real bargain at the sale price of €11.95.

O’Briens also has a French wine sale at the moment with some great value wines. The Mâcon-Villages La Côte Blanche (€14.76 down from €18.45) is an O’Briens stalwart, and a great all-rounder to match with all kinds of food.

From the reds, the soft, fruit-filled medium- to full-bodied Ferraton Côtes du Rhône Samorëns (€13.45 down from €16.95) is well worth trying out. I am also a big fan of the supple smooth Château Sainte Marie from Bordeaux (€15.96 down from €19.95).

Rizzardi Pinot Grigio delle Venezie 2023

A very superior pinot grigio with fresh crisp pear and apple fruits, a lovely refreshing citrus seam and a dry finish. A good aperitif and equally good with lighter seafood dishes and leafy salads too.

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12.5% abv. €11.95, down from €16.45, from O’Briens

[ Only in the very top category of wines does the year matter ]

Vigneti del Sole Montepulciano d’Abruzzo 2022

This is a soft easy-drinking red wine with ripe blackcurrant and cherry fruits. It would be perfect with pizza, tomato-based pasta dishes and antipasti.

12.5% abv. €11.95, down from €14.95, from O’Briens

[ https://www.irishtimes.com/food/drink/2024/04/12/john-wilson-two-great-value-wines-from-lidl/ ]