Italy has many less familiar grape varieties that are capable of producing very good wine. Verdicchio is one example. The wines, grown mainly in the Marches region, are fresh, crisp and dry, often offering very good value for money.

The White Town below is a replacement for Porta 6, one of O’Briens most popular red wines. I can see it being equally successful. It is from the Alentejo region of Portugal and offers real bang per buck.

Albiano Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi Classico 2022, Marotti Campi

Mouthwatering pear and stone fruits with plenty of cleansing acidity. Perfect summer wine, by itself or with salads.

13% abv, €12.95 (down from €15.95) from O’Briens

Wines from Italy and Portugal offering real bang per buck

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We tried 33 alcohol-free wines. Many were disgusting and disappointing, but here’s seven worth trying

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Why don’t French wines put the grape variety on the label?

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Four Irish session beers perfect for the last few weeks of summer

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The White Town 2023, Alentejo, Portugal

Ripe and rounded with sweet red fruits and a soft finish. A good barbecue wine, with any red meats, or roast Mediterranean vegetables.

14% abv, €10 (down from €12.95) from O’Briens