Plantagenet Hazard Hill Semillon-Sauvignon Blanc, Western Australia 2004 and Vigna Corvina Montepulciano d'Abruzzo 2001.
Plantagenet Hazard Hill Semillon-Sauvignon Blanc, Western Australia 2004. Top marks to prominent WA producer Plantagenet for making a wine of this quality at such a digestible price. Purity and intensity of flavour are the hallmarks of this smart, grapefruity white, along with superb length. Fine with food or without (but especially delicious with Thai dishes). From Sweeneys, Dorset St; Donnybrook Fair, Donnybrook; Brackens, Glasnevin; Londis, Malahide; Bourkes, Cabinteely; Walsh's, Naas; Capranis, Ashford; Wicklow Wine Co, Wicklow town; Aherns, Boyle; Callans, Dundalk and others, about €10.99.
Vigna Corvina Montepulciano d'Abruzzo 2001. From middle-Italy, Montepulciano d'Abruzzo can often be either fruity and forgettable or too clumsily rustic for comfort. The great thing about this version is that, while it is smooth and sophisticated, with no rough edges, it's also stuffed with personality and punch. Look out for aromas of macerated cherries, herbs and a whiff of damp earth, then layered flavours and plenty of juicy appeal on the palate. A true January sale bargain - perfect for pasta, pizza or meaty casseroles. From O'Briens, usually €11.49, now reduced to €8.99.