This week, I feature two more expensive wines than usual, but I feel both – which are new to O’Briens – still offer good value for money. Picpoul de Pinet comes from vineyards planted close to the Bassin de Thau, a large lagoon close to the French Mediterranean coast. Various kinds of shellfish are farmed here, the most important being oysters, which go very nicely with the wine.
Alsace produces of range of varietal white wines, as well as a little sparkling, rosé and red. The whites are usually very high quality and dry. While it is famous for its riesling, there are plenty of other great wines, including pinot gris (known as pinot grigio in Italy).
Fresh, inviting aromas, with lively zesty lemon and pear fruits. This would make a nice aperitif but would be even better with summery seafood dishes.
This is a wonderful wine, rich in exotic fruit and ginger spice. It finishes dry and has plenty of refreshing acidity. Enjoy as an aperitif, with pork chops or smoked salmon.