Two French wines for €12: a fresh and zesty white and a full-bodied fruity red

This week’s two wines are from Tesco, both part of their Tesco Finest* premium range. Picpoul de Pinet, from the Languedoc in southern France, is enjoyed by holidaymakers and locals alike in the restaurants along the Mediterranean coast. Light and refreshing, it makes the perfect partner for fish and seafood. Conveniently, the wine region is right beside the Bassin de Thau, home to some of the largest oyster beds in France.

Côtes-du-Rhône Villages should be a step up in quality from Côtes-du-Rhône. Signargues is one of the most southerly villages in this large region. The wines here are typically a blend of grenache and other local grapes including syrah, cinsault and mourvèdre. Coming from a warm sunny climate, the wines tend to be rich and soft with plenty of alcohol; perfect for our winter weather.

Tesco Finest* Picpoul de Pinet 2022

Fresh and zesty with lemon peel and crisp green apple fruits. Perfect with oysters or any other shellfish. 13%abv. €12 from Tesco.

Tesco Finest* Signargues Côtes-du-Rhône Villages 2022

Smooth and full-bodied with soft easy dark fruits and a hint of spice. Save this for a roast of lamb or beef, or a warming winter casserole. 14% abv. €12 from Tesco.