Two wines new to the Lidl range this week, both from France. Alsace, in the east of France produces excellent fresh dry white wines that usually have a mouth-watering, nervy acidity. A wide range of white grape varieties are permitted, including Pinot Gris, or Pinot Grigio as it is called in Italy. In Alsace it is sometimes quite sweet and goes well with Thai curries and creamy dishes, but the wine below is in the drier more Italian style.

Fitou, a small village situated close to the Mediterranean Sea gives its name to the wine. Like it’s better known neighbour Corbières, it produces medium top full-bodied spicy red wines often with a pleasing earthiness. They are made from a blend of two grape varieties, Grenache and Carignan, usually with some syrah or mourvèdre.

Pinot Gris 2022

Fresh and fruity with a good backbone of acidity. Good on its own or with fish and chicken dishes. 13% abv, €10.

Fitou Carte d’Or 2021 Cascatel

Smooth, sweet ripe dark fruits, with a leathery spicy note. Save this for a warming autumn casserole, especially with beans. 14% abv, €9.99.