Traces: Two lighter ‘lifestyle’ wines to try

Wines for the Weekend: This brand aims to offer cleaner, naturally crafted wines

JOHN WILSON WEEKEND WINES 24-26 JULY
Traces wines are not organic but are produced in Haute Valeur Environnementale-certified vineyards.

Traces is a relatively new wine brand offering lighter, cleaner, naturally crafted wines. I am not generally a fan of “lifestyle” wines, but these are well-made and enjoyable wines that also went down well with the two other tasters I enlisted.

According to the blurb, they are “designed for consumers who want great taste, transparency and a feel-good drinking experience without compromise”. The wines are produced in HVE (Haute Valeur Environnementale) certified vineyards in France, but are not organic. They are vegan-friendly. I tasted three wines, including the two featured wines and a merlot. There is also a 5.5% spritz. The others are 11% alcohol by volume and have zero sugar, which means they have relatively low calories and are completely dry. They represent reasonable value if you have a Tesco Clubcard.

JOHN WILSON WEEKEND WINES 24-26 JULY
Traces Sauvignon Blanc 2025, Vin de France

Traces Sauvignon Blanc 2025, Vin de France

11%, 62kcal per 100ml. €15 (€12 with Tesco Clubcard)

Not the most aromatic sauvignon, lightly herbaceous with easy apple and pear fruits and a dry finish. Drink solo or with nibbles before dinner, and with seafood dishes.

JOHN WILSON WEEKEND WINES 24-26 JULY
Traces Rosé 2025, Vin de France

Traces Rosé 2025, Vin de France

11%, 62kcal per 100ml. €15 (€12 with Tesco Clubcard)

Aromas of rhubarb, with plump raspberry and red cherry fruits, finishing dry. A nice poolside wine, or with summery mixed salads.

  • Join The Irish Times on WhatsApp and stay up to date

  • Get the Food & Drink Club newsletter for the tastiest recipes, reviews and offers