This week two French wines from Dunnes Stores. I have featured this Picpoul de Pinet before but thought it would come in handy in the run-up to Christmas. Typically Picpoul is light and refreshing with succulent pear and green apple fruits. While the French most often drink it alongside oysters and other shellfish, it makes a very good and affordable sipping wine to enjoy with nibbles but will also go nicely with most fish dishes and salads.
The Les Hauts de Naudon is from Bordeaux, one of the most famous wine regions in the world. Bordeaux tends to be medium-bodied with a dry finish. By itself it can sometimes seem a little austere, but it will taste so much better if you have some firm cheese or red meat alongside.
Les Coutelles Picpoul de Pinet 2023
12.5% abv, €9.50 down from €12 at Dunnes Stores
Clean fresh pear fruits with plenty of zesty acidity. Enjoy by itself or with all kinds of seafood, shellfish in particular.
Château Pierrail ‘Les Hauts de Naudon’ 2022, Bordeaux Supérieur
14.5% abv, €14 down from €20 at Dunnes Stores
A fairly full-bodied Bordeaux with plenty of succulent, ripe, dark fruits, a touch of spice and some well-integrated tannins. With a roast of beef or lamb.
