Torres, Vina Sol, 2013

This distinctive ever reliable table wine from Torres was purchased in Dunnes.

Apples and Pears best describe this with a touch of Fennel or Menthol.

A blend of Parellada and Garnacha Blanca grapes from the Penedès, perfect for the hot spell we’re enjoying. Not bad for a Garage blend.

Parellada and Garnacha Blanca grapes, grown in the Penedès region of Catalunya. – See more at: http://www.obrienswine.ie/wine/country-region/spain/torres-vina-sol.html#sthash.Nrc0lIHL.dpuf

Parellada and Garnacha Blanca grapes, grown in the Penedès region of Catalunya. – See more at: http://www.obrienswine.ie/wine/country-region/spain/torres-vina-sol.html#sthash.Nrc0lIHL.dpuf

Elegant, fresh, fruity aromas with fine spicy hints. Smooth, rich and crisp on the palate, with plenty of fruity flavours (apples and pineapples) and a touch of spice (fennel). – See more at: http://www.obrienswine.ie/wine/country-region/spain/torres-vina-sol.html#sthash.Nrc0lIHL.dpuf

Domaine du Bosc, Grenache Blanc, 2012

This is another Languedoc from winemaker Pierre Besinet.

I didn’t really enjoy this  – buttery around the edges, indistinct – with a touch of roussanne added to the White Grenache.

Neither one thing nor another. Avoid.

 

 

 

Costieres de Nimes, Blanc, 2010, Tesco, french connection classics

 

From Tesco, a complex blend of Grenache Blanc, Marsanne, Roussanne, Ugni Blanc & Viognier from the maker’s website: 

http://www.frenchconnectionwines.co.uk/wines/

Must do some research on Rhone Blancs.

G.S.M Grenache-Sauvignon-Marsanne 2011 Charles Vienot

2011 Charles Vienot GSM Blanc

This is a Superquinn exclusive by Boisset.

White Grenache, Sauvignon and Marsanne it has tons of ripe fruit but with a lovely acidic lift. Great!

Charles Vienot was a grower and negociant with very high quality and lovely wines and a history going back before the French Revolution. But like many in Burgundy, it fell on hard times in the 1980s and was sold (to Boisset). Now, the name has been revived. This wine was made by Pascal Marchand, formerly winemaker at Comte Armand, from grapes grown at Domaine Raymond Launay. The same wine was also sold under the Domaine Raymond Launay label.

Interesting article about the Boisset empire here http://www.southfloridagourmet.com/newsite/archives/boisset.html

A gift from the Farrells.

JP Chenet Grenache-Cinsault

This one is from Tesco @ €8, a product of the world’s largest wine exporter.

A robust bright pink Rose featuring a blend of grapes from Languedoc-Roussillon.

Good match with any BBQ.

Don’t be put off by the bendy neck and dimple in the side of the bottle, this is competent table wine.

Domaine Duffour – Côtes de Gascogne – 2012

From O’Briens. Very pleasing blend of mainly Columbard.

The label says it’s unoaked and it was quite quaffable.

La Basculá Catalan Eagle Garnacha Blanca & Viognier 2011 Terra Alta

We tried this in Coppinger Row where we had a really interesting meal to celebrate Lesley’s Birthday with the extended family who were in Dublin for Amy & Ross’ wedding. Wonderful day, excellent food and some interesting wines.