Two wines from the Languedoc this week, both available from Dunnes Stores. The Languedoc is a great source of inexpensive wines. While the region has its own local varieties, producers have also planted all of the various well-known grapes, including chardonnay, sauvignon blanc and pinot noir, all of which feature this week. The La Bastide is an unusual blend of sauvignon blanc and chardonnay that works very nicely. It can be a bit too warm to grow pinot noir in the Languedoc, but the Luch vineyard is in one the cooler parts of the region.

Domaine de la Bastide Blanc Réserve 2022 pays d’Oc

12.5% abv, €10.50 from Dunnes Stores

This has the aromas and racy acidity of sauvignon complemented by nice weight of fruit from the chardonnay. Fresh, pure green fruits with lively citrus acidity. Drink solo, with fresh goat’s cheese or lighter fish dishes.

Bonfils Pinot Noir 2023, Réserve de Luch, pays d’Oc

12.5% abv, €8.60 until 26th August from Dunnes Stores

Soft and smooth with ripe easy red summer fruits – cherries and raspberries. Drink cool with cold meats and summer salads.