We’re dreaming of sunny picnics and summer barbecues, and the first thing that springs to mind in all scenarios is a nice tipple.
While we can tend to stay in our comfort zones and stick to the wines we know, food and wine expert Tom Doorley is encouraging us to branch out and expand our palettes.
Mr Doorley said: ‘If you’re after a white, maybe skip the usual suspects in favour of the crisp, citrus-scented Assyrtiko from Greece.’
Pic: Getty Images
‘In the reds, why not try the Red Lebanese, classically French in character but with extra sunshine,’ he continued.
‘Rosés come into their own in the summer and my top picks are the Jolie by Juliette from very close to Provence and the Argentinian Malbec Rosé. I’m betting these wines will fly, so there’s no time like the present to stock up!’
And with that in mind, here are Mr Doorley’s top ten picks from Aldi’s wine offering that we’re going to make it our mission to try this summer.
Portuguese Sparkling Vinho Verde (€12.99)
For those that typically opt for a bit of fizz, the Portuguese Sparkling Vinho Verde is one for you.
Retailing for €12.99, this Portuguese number is bursting with the flavours of citrus zest and green apples.
Specially Selected Italian DOC Delle Venezie Pinot Grigio 2024 (€9.99)
Described as a ‘superior’ Pinot Grigio, this Specially Selected wine is made interesting with a touch of grapefruit zest.
The wine, which is dry and crisp, is an earthy one with a nice mineral streak for just €9.99.
Greek Assyrtiko 2024 (€9.99)
If you’re not planning on jetting abroad this summer, transport yourself to Greece with this delicious Chardonnay for €9.99.
The native Assyrtiko grape in combination with Chardonnay makes for a delectably different white wine with a touch of citrus, chamomile and juicy apricot.
Specially Selected Margaret River Sauvignon Blanc 2024 (€10.99)
If you’re someone who likes a very dry white wine, Mr Doorley thinks this Sauvignon Blanc will be a winner in your eyes.
Described as a ‘highly prized part of Western Australia’, it retails for €10.99.
Jolie by Juliette Côteaux de Béziers Rosé 2024 (€8.99)
Our first pink on the list, Jolie by Juliette Côteaux de Béziers Rosé is from close to the Med in the south of France.
Cinsault and Grenache Noir are the grapes in this dry rosé with plenty of ripe strawberry fruit and a drop of black cherry. It retails for €8.99- bargain
Argentinian Malbec Rosé 2024 (€7.99)
The €7.99 Argentinian Malbec Rosé is one that’s bone dry, but with sweet, fruity aromas of tropical fruits and strawberry.
From Mendoza beneath the Andes, it’s a very food-friendly rosé, well-up to big flavours whatever is on the menu.
Specially Selected Lebanese Red 2022 (€9.99)
The Specially Selected Lebanese Red is a multi-variety blend with Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah, reflecting the French influence in Lebanese culture.
Retailing for €9.99, it boasts hints of ripe blackcurrants, spices, dark chocolate, and black plums. There’s also a subtle seasoning of oak.
Nero d’Avola 2024 (€8.99)
The Nero d’Avola 2024, which retails for €8.99, boasts Black Forest gateau aromas but is dry to taste.
It’s rich and silky with dark chocolate, black cherry fruit and oak. A delicious big wine from Sicily if you like an Italian!
Specially Selected Vallée du Paradis Rouge 2024 (€8.99)
The Specially Selected Vallée du Paradis Rouge for just €8.99 is a chunky red made with plums, spice, and a hint of very dark chocolate from the foothills of the Pyrenees.
If the temperamental Irish weather is acting up, this wine would pair beautifully with a Sunday roast.
Specially Selected Washington State Syrah 2020 (€11.99)
Closing out Mr Doorley’s list is a red wine chock-full of blackcurrant fruits and lots of oak seasoning.
For €11.99, it’s a hearty wine for big flavours and would be delightful paired with barbecued meats. Yum