I’ll be the first to admit that I’m a wine snob. Okay, perhaps I’m being a little too harsh. When choosing my wines I usually end up in a good independent wine shop, perusing the shelves which are packed with varieties and styles. However, there’s something satisfying about being able to do the weekly shop, picking up all the bits you need in one place without having to go to and fro to get the essentials (yes, I’m classing wine as an essential here).
That’s where my admiration for Aldi comes in, and my wine snobbery is put to the test. In the past I’ve eschewed supermarket wines, feeling they don’t offer much excitement or depth. They’re good value, mostly, but they’re not setting my world on fire. In recent years I’ve noticed Aldi has taken a keen interest in their drinks offering, and it’s evident that they are aware of consumers’ growing interest and knowledge in wine. While some supermarkets are lagging behind, Aldi is top of my mind when I think of affordable and accessible wines.
This year I was delighted to be invited to Aldi’s Autumn wine tasting and their Christmas bash, and I dutifully sipped, surveyed and sampled their range of wines, all in the pursuit of research of course. I’ve rounded up my favourites of the bunch below, all of which are great wines and not too harsh on the purse strings. Top tip; get to your local store and stock up lickety split before you miss out on these must-have bargains.
Specially Selected Crémant du Jura
100% Chardonnay this sparkling wine from France is the epitome of a crowd pleaser. What is Crémant du Jura you ask? Basically “crémant” is the name given to French sparkling wines, outside of Champagne, made in the “traditional method”. This is the same method they use to produce Champagne, but as only wine produced in the region of Champagne can legally be called Champagne, crémant is a great alternative that’s easier on your wallet. It’s low alcohol at 12%, perfect for the many festivities this season.
RRP €17.99
12% ABV
Nicolas de Montbart Champagne
A super Champagne that even the most particular wine lovers will enjoy. Chardonnay (40%) and Pinot Noir (40%) led with Pinot Meunier (20%) completing the blend, it has good structure and balance alongside those delicious brioche notes that Champagne is famous for. Quality Champagne for under €25? Yes, please. Aldi’s Monsigny Champagne (€21.99) is very good too, but for a few extra Euro you’re getting far more complexity. Spend the extra, trust me.
RRP €24.99
12.5% ABV
Specially Selected Austrian Der Komponist Riesling
Riesling’s popularity has risen over the years, although it still has a way to go with consumers. Wine drinkers in the know, will understand this white grapes potential and adpatability – not all are sweet, I promise, this one is bone dry. Austria is one of the great producers of Riesling and this 100% varietal is a good example of their winemaking expertise. Expect lime aromas that Riesling showcases so well, with citrus aromas and mouthwatering acidity. Leftover turkey curries are crying out for this wine. Riesling this good for under a tenner? A joy.
RRP €9.99
12.5% ABV
Specially Selected Marsanne – Limited Edition
A newbie to Aldi’s range this 100% Marsanne is an absolute steal. Hailing from the Pays d’Oc region in southern France, it is easy drinking with fresh acidity and aromas of peach, melon and pear. At this price point it’s definitely one to pick up. Marsanne is a grape rarely given shelf space, so do yourself a favour and get out of that wine rut and try this – it won’t break the bank. Ideal if you want to shake things up from your usual Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay.
RRP €8.99
13% ABV
Specially Selected Baron Amarillo Rioja Blanco
It’s no secret that Irish consumers love Spanish wines. We flock to Spain in our droves, we adore the cuisine and the nations wine is the cherry on top. No doubt you’ll have tried Rioja, a red wine made from the Tempranillo grape, but Rioja Blanco, that’s white Rioja to you and I, is a style not so often found in our glass. This wine is a blend of 70% Viura (also known as Macabeo) and 30% Chardonnay.
RRP €9.99
ABV 12.5%
Specially Selected Ribera del Duero
Spanish wines are the second most consumed in Ireland, offering superb value for money. With their consistent quality, it’s easy to see why we love them so. 100% Tempranillo, or Tinto Fino if you want to flex your wine knowledge, this wine is a great option if you’re a Rioja drinker but fancy a little shake up. Pay a visit to Rioja’s neighbour Ribera del Deuro. New to the range it’s lightly oaked with dark fruits and subtle spice it’s a real winner, especially when the cold weather hits and a warming glass of red is needed.
RRP €11.99
ABV 14.5%
Fletcher’s Late Bottled Vintage Port
What better way to finish your Christmas day celebrations than by curling up by the fire with a glass of port in hand. Made with a blend of the typical port grapes; Touriga Nacional, Touriga Francesa, Tinta Roriz, Tinto Cao and Tinta Barroca. Late Bottle Vintage (LBV) is a ruby port from a single year, spending 4 – 6 years in barrel. Smooth and full of baking spices, it’s a joy with mince pies, Christmas cake or pudding, or for those who enjoy a savoury snack try it with a good Irish blue cheese.
RRP €14.99
ABV 20%
WINE SPIRIT WOMEN 