John Wilson: Four festive wines for St Patrick’s Day

Weekend wines: O’Briens have a great selection of wines perfect for celebrating

There’s something of everyone among these four wines from O’Briens
There’s something of everyone among these four wines from O’Briens

As Saint Patrick’s Day approaches, I feature a few more expensive wines to enjoy with festive dinners over the weekend, or on the day itself. All are new to O’Briens.

Pinot Blanc La 4ème Tour 2017, Kuentz-Bas, Alsace

Pinot Blanc doesn’t always get the publicity it deserves. In Alsace in France, Alto Adige in Italy, and parts of Germany, Pinot Grigio is much more fashionable. This is a pity as Pinot Blanc can be very good, particularly those from Alsace where it often has a little more body and richness. The Kuentz-Bas version is delicious; lightly smoky aromas, plump, rounded peach and nectarine fruits with a lively acidity. Try it with lightly spicy chicken dishes, quiche Lorraine or onion tart. €16.95 down from €18.95 in O’Briens.

Pazo Baión Albariño, 2020, Rías Baixas

This has really seductive floral aromas and a lovely richness. It explodes on the palate with textured tropical fruits, cantaloupe melons and citrus, finishing long and dry. Perfect with prawns or seared scallops or a seafood risotto. €23.95 down from €26.95 from O’Briens.

Viña Leyda Single Vineyard Cahuil Pinot Noir 2020, Leyda Valley, Chile

I have featured the leyda Las Brisas Pinot Noir here before. The Cahuil Pinot is equally good, an elegant wine with mouth-watering red cherry and raspberry fruits with a smoky touch. This would go nicely with grilled pork chops, mushroom risotto, or spicy grilled salmon. €15.95 down from €17.95 in O’Briens.

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Château Sargant 2019, Lalande-de-Pomerol, Bordeaux

A substantial wine (14.5 per cent abv) packed with rich dark fruits swathed in vanilla and woodsmoke, and ripe dark tannins on the finish. One to enjoy with a roast of lamb, or a venison stew. €22.95 down from €25.95 from O’Briens.