Wines made from a blend of different grape varieties sometimes have a bad reputation, but it is usually unjustified. Wine makers often mix together two or more varieties to bring the different characteristics of each grape and form a better, balanced wine. This week, we feature two blends from Aldi. Stocks of both are limited.
The Austrian Orange wine is not as dry or tannic as most orange wines, but it makes up for it with some zingy fresh fruits. It is a blend of 75 per cent grüner veltliner, 15 per cent gewürztraminer, 10 per cent riesling.
The Costières de Nîmes is made from a blend of 73 per cent syrah, 20 per cent grenache, 10 per cent mourvèdre, 2 per cent marselan. Syrah gives it colour and fruit, grenache brings alcohol and soft fruit, mourvèdre adds structure. I am not sure a mere 2 per cent of marselan changes anything, but it is an interesting grape, made by crossing cabernet sauvignon with grenache.
Austrian Orange Wine 2024
12.5%, €11.99
Aromatic with very attractive, juicy fruits and a touch of spice; good acidity with rich peaches and some orange juice.
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From Aldi
Specially Selected Costières de Nîmes 2024
13.5%, €9.49
Medium- to full-bodied with ripe dark forest fruits and a subtle spiciness. Try this with grilled red meats, hearty casseroles and firm cheeses.
From Aldi
