Pinot Noir for €9? Yes, it’s true

Pinot Noir for €9? Yes, it's true. Wildflower Pinot Noir from Romania is reduced by a fiver from its usual price of €13.95, at O'Briens shops nationwide. The same retailer has an enjoyable Pinot Grigio with character, from the Veneto, for €10.95.

Guerrieri-Rizzardi Pinot Grigio 2018
€10.95 (down from €14.95) O'Briens, obrienswine.ie
The world is awash with light, sweetish Pinot Grigio. It won't poison you or your friends, but very few are really enjoyable. The Guerrieri-Rizzardi version, from the Veneto region of Italy, is a happy exception. It has fresh racy melon and green apple fruits, and a very satisfying crisp, dry finish. A mere 12.5 per cent alcohol, so you can drink it solo, or with light salads and nibbles.

Wildflower Pinot Noir 2018, Romania
€9 (down from €13.95) O'Briens, obrienswine.ie
Pinot Noir is not an easy grape to grow, and many of the less expensive versions are best avoided. However, Romania produces a lot of Pinot Noir and the wines can offer great value for money. The Wildflower is light (13 per cent) and refreshing, with juicy, crunchy, dark cherry fruits and a rounded finish. Drink on its own, with chicken or seared tuna.