Drink

Wines to stock up on for Good Friday

This may be the last Good Friday where sales of alcohol are banned in Ireland, so make the most of it with our pick of the best

Enjoy the long weekend with a glass or two

Joe Breen
Thu Apr 13 2017 - 11:00

The forecast is goodish and spring is in our steps as we bound into Easter with thoughts of renewal and fun. Time to put those big heavy reds and rich whites to one side and reach for light refreshing bottles that evoke a sense of spring’s possibilities.This weekend we have five bottles that reflect that carefree spirit, two light succulent reds and two refreshing whites with a zippy well made fizz to seal the affordable deal.

Maria Casanovas Cava Brut de Brut NV: Spain. 12% €23

Like so much Spanish wine-making, Cava generally has upped its game in recent years and this lively citrusy example with clean fruit and good balance is just the job to set the right tone. Works well with a plate of mixed tapas or seafood.

Stockists: Jus de Vine, Portmarnock; Green Man Wines, Terenure; 64 Wines, Glasthule; Drinkstore, D7; Wicklow Wine Co.

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Kreydenweiss Kritt Pinot Blanc 2014: Alsace. 12%, €16.95 (reduced from €18.95 for April).

The humble Pinot Blanc doesn’t always get its name in lights but this fine bottle has oodles of class. The clean apple fruit has a delightful purity, reflecting the wine’s organic status. The wine also offers great length and freshness.

Stockists: O’Brien’s

Bolo Mountain Wine, Godello, 2015, Valdeorras, Spain. 13.5%. €17.95.

Godello is one of the grapes of the moment and this bottle delivers a deliciously refreshing blend of well-balanced peach and pear. Made by the highly-rated Rafael Palacios.

Stockists: 64 Wine, Glasthule; Whelehan’s Loughlinstown; La Touche Wines, Gresytones; Blackrock Cellars; Sweeney’s, Glasnevin; Jus De Vine, Portnarnock; Baggot Street Wines; Clontarf Wines

Leyda Pinot Noir Reserva 2015, Leyda Valley, Chile, 13.5% €11.95 (reduced from €15.95 for April)

Easter is perfect time for Pinot Noir, but then for some of us anytime is perfect time for Pinot Noir. At a time when Burgundy prices are going through the roof Chile is building a reputation for good value cool climate Pinot and this bottle, particularly at the offer price, is a guilt-free delight; juicy red fruits combine with soft tannins to create harmonious easy drinking.

Stockists: O’Briens

Port Phillip Estate Bellnarnig Pinot Noir 2012, Mornington Peninsula, Australia, 13.5% €29.95

No small price - if relatively modest by classy Pinot standards - but this brilliant example of Australia’s increasing ability to challenge Kiwi Pinot dominance rewards the extra investment. Dark cherries, velvet texture and a lingering finish. Lovely.

Stockists: Whelehan’s Wines, Loughlinstown.