Few people had ever heard of the Vermentino grape variety until recently. Grown mainly on the Italian Mediterranean island of Sardinia and a little in Tuscany, it was called Rolle in France and confined to Provence. However, climate change has encouraged producers to look for grapes that are suitable for warmer weather and Vermentino fits perfectly into that category, retaining acidity and freshness in hot climates. It also makes great wines, such as the one below.
Corbières is one of the largest wine regions in the Languedoc in southern France. Most of the wines are red, rich and full of flavour, often with herby aromas.
The two wines featured today punch way above their weight and offer exceptional value for money at less than €10.
Cocobiroux Vermentino 2022 IGP Pays d’Oc
Fresh and lively with citrus peel, racy pears and a lip-smacking dry finish. Fantastic value for money. Try it with spicy or herby prawn stir-fries. 13% abv, €9.80 (down from €12.25) from Dunnes Stores.
Château Vaugelais Fût de chêne 2021, Corbières
Smooth ripe red fruits with a touch of toasted spice and a gently rounded finish. A good all-rounder, perfect served with bean casseroles, red meats and firm cheeses. 13.5% abv, €9.60 (down from €12) from Dunnes Stores.
