Latest news with #PinotNoir
Irish Examiner
14 hours ago
- Irish Examiner
Wine with Leslie: Intriguing tastes of Nebbiolo
I've often been asked what led me to fall in love with wine, and I think it was probably just my innate hedonism. I adore the scents, flavours and textures to be found in even modest bottles of wine, and of course in great wines from say Burgundy, Bordeaux and Piedmont (to name just three of my favourite regions). What inspired this column was a fragrant and fruit-driven Nebbiolo di Langhe in Lidl this month as part of their Italian celebration. Given that my last two columns covered southern Italy, I decided I needed to give other countries a chance, so I have chosen two other wines that offer similar pleasures. Nebbiolo is rarely a bargain and this is because it is such a difficult variety to manage. Nebbiolo is picky about the soil it is planted in, it is the first variety to bud but also the last to ripen (usually mid-October). It needs a long growing season with plenty of sunshine and well-drained soils so it is particularly suited to Piedmont. You will find examples in Australia, California and almost every new world region, but none have come close to recreating the complex aromas and flavour profile of the wines of Piedmont. Nebbiolo can have scents of violets, cherry and plums but also tar, ink, and cold tea. The best Barolo and Barbarescos are fragrant, elegant and enticing, but also much more grippy and structured than you would expect from such a beguiling aroma. I'm also recommending a Spanish Mencía which can also offer intrigue and complexity, but is generally a more easy drinking wine. And of course I had to include a Bourgogne Pinot Noir which is all about the seductive scents matched with structure and acidity; even Riedel recommend the same glass for both wines. There are finer Bourgognes to try, but this one is a good place to start. Santenzo Langhe Nebbiolo, Piedmont; €10.99 Santenzo Langhe Nebbiolo, Piedmont; €10.99 Lidl This has to be the best value Nebbiolo in the country and is one of number of good Italian wines in Lidl this month (also look for Fiano and the Riccardi Chianti Colli Senesi). Blackcurrant and dark plum fruits with a touch of ink, fruity and ripe with noticeable weight and texture. Tannins are present, but they are integrated and overall this is quite the charmer. Brezo de Gregory Perez, Bierzo, Spain; €21 Brezo de Gregory Perez, Bierzo, Spain; €21 MacCurtain Wine Cellar; Sheridans Dublin and Galway Mencía has similar molecular properties to black truffles, they say, and matches them brilliantly, as does Nebbiolo. Mencía offers scents of violets and lively ripe fruits such as blackberry and cherry, but also an earthy tone. This is one of my favourites, with pastille aromas, supple and layered fruits, but with a lightness of touch and lingering red and black fruits. Louis Jadot Pinot Noir, Bourgogne, France; €32-33 Louis Jadot Pinot Noir, Bourgogne, France; €32-33 JJ O'Driscolls; La Touche; Molloys; O'Briens Pinot Noir is an obvious grape to compare to Nebbiolo and this Bourgogne version is even somewhat affordable; Jadot are big but they are consistent. Bright cherry-strawberry aromas with a hint of earth; supple, textured and lingering tangy red fruits. O'Driscolls also stock the excellent Two Paddocks & Two Picnics Pinot from NZ, both made by Sam Neil (yes, that Sam Neil). Beer of the Week 8 Degrees Brewing 'Full Irish' Single Malt IPA, 6% ABV, 440ml €3.75 8 Degrees Brewing 'Full Irish' Single Malt IPA, 6% ABV, 440ml €3.75 Bradleys; Matsons; Tesco; Independents; I first tasted this in 2014 (initially for a festival but soon brought into the core range) but have not featured it here. From Irish grown barley malted in Cork, but using New World hops (simcoe, cascade, citra and amarillo). As expected from those hops this is a hop-bomb, packed with lime and lychee fruits but with a good hit of malt on the mid palate. Perfect summer drinking. Read More Wine with Leslie: Deep reds to savour from my Italian excursion
Daily Record
2 days ago
- General
- Daily Record
'I tested the best Champagne in the world and couldn't believe the price'
The best Champagne in the world probably comes with a huge price tag, right? The finer things in life always seem to be expensive, and you usually get what you pay for. But sometimes, apparently, that just isn't the case, and you can get world-class luxury wine without breaking the bank at all. So, if I told you that the best Champagne in the world is from Aldi and costs a mere £15, you'd probably laugh. But I'm being completely serious. Aldi's Veuve Monsigny Champagne Brut has been named World's Best Champagne at the prestigious World Champagne Awards 2025, outshining luxury rival G.H. Martel Honoré de Balzac Edition Limitée, which retails for almost £50. And if that doesn't have you running to your local store, I don't know what will. When I found out that the best Champagne in the world was not only affordable but could be picked up at my local supermarket, I was sold. Although £15 is the top end of what I'd usually pay for a supermarket Prosecco, to have the luxury of a Champagne for that price feels super decadent. Let me tell you, I was not disappointed with the taste. The Champagne is crafted from a classic blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier, and matured in cellars to enhance its complexity and length, and as a result, it is sweet, easy to drink, and delicious. As a usual Prosecco drinker, I've turned my nose up at Champagnes in the past, even opting to slyly pour vintage Moet away at parties (please don't judge me) because I'm just not fond of the taste. But the world's best Champagne has possibly converted me - provided that I can drink just the £15 bottles, rather than ones that cost in excess of £100. Aldi shared that the Champagne is known for its aromas of ripe apple, soft red fruit, and delicate florals - a testament to expert winemaking without the premium price tag. This is a statement I can back, because the Champagne is the most delicious I've ever tasted. It was sweet, delicious, and didn't give that acid-reflux feeling that a lot of Champagnes tend to, which was a huge bonus. In fact, I'd say it went down almost too easily! I poured my dad a glass and asked him to guess how much the best Champagne in the world costs. He guessed a whopping £200 a bottle, so I feel like Aldi should be really proud of themselves. Julie Ashfield, Chief Commercial Officer at Aldi UK, said: "To have our £14.95 Veuve Monsigny Champagne Brut recognised as the best in the world is proof that exceptional quality doesn't have to come with an eye-watering price tag. "It's a proud moment not just for Aldi, but for our customers who can enjoy world-class champagne without breaking the bank."
Otago Daily Times
3 days ago
- Business
- Otago Daily Times
Marvellous opportunity to be seduced
Today, a marvellous opportunity awaited in the guise of four sub-regional expressions of pinot noir by Valli and two newcomers from Domaine Thomson. The Pisa is a new offering in Valli's sub-regional portfolio, so I'm still getting my head around its style parameters, whereas the sumptuous, perfumed Bannockburn; dark, powerful Bendigo and bright aerial Gibbston have passed my way often. Was I seduced by the power of Bendigo this year? Perhaps, but I must doff my cap to it. Nice to try biodynamic producer Domaine Thomson alongside: their new Aspiring cuvee and the youthful Surveyor Thomson struts its potential. 2023 Valli Pisa pinot noir RRP $85 Price Rating Excellent to outstanding Youthful, a dusty, stony quality, lead pencil, hints of rose petal florality, wild herb, ripe fruit/berry compote happily in support. Peeling back layers of flavour as it unfurls, now fruit, now herb, now schist, now savoury aspects, all neatly wrapped in a corset of tannic grip yet drinkability too. Aerial, a lightness of being, fresh, youthful and lip-smacking. 2023 Domaine Thomson Single Vineyard Aspiring Central Otago pinot noir RRP $45 Price Rating Excellent A wilder nose at first, freshly turned humus evolving to blood and iron filings, reminiscent of syrah, a brooding, darker fruited register. perhaps plum. The palate brings in red fruits too, a humus/ clay like note, chewy tannins and a sense of weight that fills the mouth giving generosity to the wine. Already in a nice place to enjoy now. 2023 Valli Gibbston pinot noir RRP $85 Price Rating Outstanding Bright nose, touches of wood smoke, cranberry, raspberry, bramble, wild herb, something floral, rather beguiling. Fresh, lively in the mouth, nice energy, the tannins jousting with the bright acidity. Ripe fruit, a wonderfully long, dry finish, now blueberry and lavender, developing almost a tingliness as it dances in the mouth. Fine, elegant, great complexity. 2022 Domaine Thomson Surveyor Thomson pinot noir RRP $55 Price Rating Excellent to outstanding Schisty minerality, cracked pepper and spices, florals, savoury nuances appearing, ripe fruit in support. The palate belies the paler colour, powerfully chewy and structured, yet elegant rather than a fruit bomb. Spice and savoury notes frame the palate flowing to a lovely, long, dry close. Surprising power here, potential to unlock further with extra time in bottle. 2023 Valli Bannockburn Pinot Noir RRP $85 Price Rating Excellent to outstanding Bolder, really fragrant nose, perfume, wisps of mushroom, a sense of sweeter fruits underlying it. Really juicy and vibrant, sweetness, generosity to the fruit yet there's freshness too, underpinned by an earthy, stony quality and fine tannins. With air this is a more tightly wound, showing its youth, several re- visits see it hinting at what is to come, I'll score on its potential. 2023 Valli Bendigo Pinot Noir RRP $85 Price Rating Outstanding Deeply coloured and brooding, exuding richness without straying to overt sweetness. Flirts with humus, shifting to wild herbs, spices and savoury notes. Rich, dry, yet velvety texture, powerful tannins matched by the fruit depth. Almost crunchiness, lovely vitality and brightness that lifts it above the sheer power it possesses. Long, long dry finish. Superb.
Daily Mirror
3 days ago
- Business
- Daily Mirror
'I tried the 'World's Best' rated champagne - I can't get over the price'
When you think about champagne, most people assume it comes with a pretty hefty price tag - but that's all about to change. The 'World's Best' champagne has been named, and it definitely isn't going to break the bank. With the likes of Dom Perignon, Verve Clicquot and Moet out there, when you think of the best bubbles out there, you wouldn't associate it with Aldi - however the budget supermarket has just won gold in the champagne category at the World Drinks Awards 2025. The Veuve Monsigny Champagne Brut impressed the experts, and what's even better - it costs just £14.95. Crafted from a blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier the champagne has ripe apple, soft red fruit and delicate floral notes. It impressively scored higher than champagnes more than three times the price to be crowned the champion - including G.H. Martel Honoré de Balzac Edition Limitée Brut Champagne, which retails at £49.68 – making it over 70% more expensive. Balzac Honoré de Balzac Rosé Brut came in second place, while the limited edition Brut came in third. Speaking about the win, Julie Ashfield, chief commercial officer at Aldi UK, said: "To have our £14.95 Veuve Monsigny Champagne Brut recognised as the best in the world is proof that exceptional quality doesn't have to come with an eye-watering price tag. It's a proud moment not just for Aldi, but for our customers who can enjoy world-class champagne without breaking the bank." When I saw the news, I knew I had to get my hands on a bottle to try - especially while the sun is out. Now as a prosecco lover over champagne, I was eager to see how this would compare. While the bottle itself looked fancy, and would look great on any dinner table or cooling in an ice bucket - it's what's inside that counts, right? From the first pour the bubbles were strong and it looked seriously fizzy. I was also shocked by how pale in colour it was, as usually I notice champagne has a much deeper yellow colour as opposed to prosecco which is a lot clearer and lighter, so I already knew this was going to be good. From the first sip I noticed it was very dry, but I like it this way, it was also very very smooth and crisp, especially when chilled. I could also notice the apple, followed by a nice after taste of the floral notes. I would say it is very much a mix of a dry Pinot and a Chardonnay - and I am seriously impressed. If I was doing this as a blind taste test, I would definitely think this bottle had a huge price tag. It's safe to say this is going to be my summer drink, and it won't cost me too much either! Aldi's Veuve Monsigny Champagne Brut (£14.95, 75cl) is available in stores nationwide now.
Time Business News
7 days ago
- General
- Time Business News
Celebrate in Style: Finding Your Perfect Bottle of Sparkling Wine
1. Introduction 2. Understanding Sparkling Wine – 2.1 Types of Sparkling Wine – 2.2 The Sparkling Wine Production Process 3. Choosing the Right Occasion for Sparkling Wine 4. The Importance of Region in Sparkling Wine Selection 5. Pairing Food with Sparkling Wine 6. How to Taste and Appreciate Sparkling Wine 7. Recommendations for Popular Sparkling Wines 8. Budgeting for Your Sparkling Wine Purchase 9. Storing and Serving Sparkling Wine 10. Celebrating with Sparkling Wine: Creative Ideas Sparkling wine is synonymous with celebration, joy, and moments that deserve to be cherished. Whether you are toasting a wedding, marking a milestone birthday, or simply enjoying an evening with friends, finding the perfect bottle can elevate any occasion. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the world of sparkling wines, from understanding the different types available to how best to serve and enjoy them. Sparkling wine comes in various styles, each with its unique characteristics and production methods. The primary types include: Champagne: Originating from the Champagne region in France, this sparkling wine is made primarily from Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier grapes. It is renowned for its complexity and is often considered the pinnacle of sparkling wines. Prosecco: Hailing from Italy, Prosecco is typically made from Glera grapes and is known for its fruity and floral aromas. It is generally less expensive than Champagne and has become increasingly popular worldwide. Cava: A Spanish sparkling wine primarily produced in Catalonia, Cava is made using traditional methods similar to those used in Champagne but often at a more accessible price point. Sekt: This German sparkling wine can be made from various grape varieties and ranges widely in style and sweetness levels. Pétillant Naturel (Pét-Nat): Often referred to simply as 'Pét-Nat,' this is the original sparkling-wine method ('méthode ancestrale'). Fermentation is arrested by bottling before it's finished, trapping some carbon dioxide in the wine. The result is a lower-pressure, sometimes cloudy wine with a fresh, fruity character and a rustic, unpredictable charm. The production of sparkling wine involves a secondary fermentation process that creates carbonation. Here are the main methods used: 1. Traditional Method (Méthode Champenoise): Used for high-quality sparklers like Champagne, this method involves a secondary fermentation in the bottle. 2. Tank Method (Charmat Method): Commonly used for Prosecco, this involves fermenting the wine in large tanks before bottling. 3. Carbonic Maceration: A technique often used in producing lighter sparkling wines where whole grapes ferment in carbon dioxide-rich environments. Understanding these differences can help you choose a sparkling wine that best suits your palate. Sparkling wine is incredibly versatile; however, understanding when to reach for it can enhance your experience: – Weddings: Champagne or premium sparkling wines add elegance to weddings. – Anniversaries: A vintage bottle can make a memorable gift. – Casual Gatherings: Prosecco or Cava are great choices for informal celebrations. – Holiday Festivities: Opt for a festive sparkler that complements seasonal dishes. By aligning your choice with the occasion, you elevate both your experience and that of your guests. The region where sparkling wine is produced significantly influences its taste profile: – France (Champagne): Known for its minerality and complex flavors due to the chalky soil. – Italy (Prosecco): Often fruit-forward with notes of apple and honeysuckle; it embodies a light-hearted spirit. – Spain (Cava): More earthy with nutty undertones due to its aging process in contact with yeast. When selecting a bottle, consider how regional characteristics may complement your event or meal. Sparkling wine's acidity and effervescence make it an excellent companion to various foods: – Champagne pairs beautifully with oysters or caviar due to its crispness. – Prosecco complements light appetizers like bruschetta or fruit-based desserts. – Cava works well with fried foods thanks to its refreshing quality. Here's a quick pairing guide: | Food Type | Best Pairing | |——————|————————-| | Seafood | Champagne | | Salads | Prosecco | | Fried Foods | Cava | | Rich Meats | Vintage Champagne | | Spicy Cuisine | Demi-Sec Champagne | Experimenting with food pairings can lead to delightful discoveries. Tasting sparkling wine involves more than just sipping; it's about experiencing its full range of flavors: 1. Visual Examination: Observe the bubbles' size and behavior; finer bubbles usually indicate higher quality. 2. Swirling: Gently swirl the glass to release aromas. 3. Nosing: Take a moment to inhale the aromas; look for fruits, floral notes, or even mineral scents. 4. Tasting: – Take a small sip and let it coat your palate. – Note the balance between sweetness and acidity. Recording these observations can enhance your appreciation over time. To help you get started on your sparkling wine journey, consider these recommendations: – Louis Roederer Cristal Brut: A luxurious choice ideal for celebrations. – Mionetto Prosecco Brut: An affordable yet delightful option for casual gatherings. – Freixenet Cordon Negro Cava: A versatile sparkler that offers great value without compromising quality. Choosing wines from reputable producers can assure quality and satisfaction. Understanding your budget is crucial when selecting sparkling wines: – Under $20: Look for non-vintage Cavas or Proseccos; they offer good value. – $20-$50: You can explore quality Champagnes or premium Cavas within this range. – Above $50: This bracket opens up access to vintage Champagnes or exclusive cuvées renowned for their complexity and craftsmanship. Prioritizing quality within your budget ensures an enjoyable experience without overspending. Proper storage and serving techniques enhance any sparkling wine's flavor profile: – Store bottles upright to prevent sediment mix-up unless they are vintage wines which are better stored horizontally. – Keep them in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight at approximately 45°F – 65°F. 1. Chill bottles before serving; aim for around 45°F – 50°F. 2. Use flutes or tulip glasses to enhance bubble retention while allowing aromas to concentrate. 3. Pour at an angle initially to minimize foam buildup; then straighten as you fill. Following these guidelines helps maintain the integrity of your chosen bottle. Beyond traditional toastings, there are many innovative ways to incorporate sparkling wine into celebrations: – Create a sparkling wine bar at events where guests can customize their drinks with fresh fruit purees or mixers. – Host a blind tasting featuring different types of sparkling wines paired with small bites—this not only entertains but also educates participants on flavor profiles. – Organize outdoor picnics equipped with chilled bubbly alongside gourmet cheeses—ideal for summer celebrations. These creative ideas not only enhance enjoyment but also add an element of fun to any gathering. In summary, selecting the perfect bottle of sparkling wine is an art influenced by occasion, preferences, regional characteristics, food pairings, and personal taste experiences. By applying these insights, you not only uplift your celebrations but also enrich your knowledge as you explore this effervescent world. Cheers! TIME BUSINESS NEWS
