Custoza 2014, Zenato
12.5%
Available for €14.95 from Searsons, Monkstown
Custoza, a lesser-known neighbour of Soave, can be more reliable, possibly because there are fewer producers who have to try a little harder. They use the same grape varieties, mainly Garganega, sometimes with a little Trebbiano, to make attractive crisp refreshing white wines. This example has fresh textured pear fruits and good cleansing acidity. Great served solo or with lighter seafood and salad dishes, possibly a prawn salad of some sort.
Pinot Noir La Roncière 2014, André Vatan, Vin de Loire
12.5%
€14.95 from Whelehan's, Loughlinstown
For a long time, Sancerre was one of the few parts of France other than Burgundy attempting to make red wine from Pinot Noir. Red Sancerre has got a whole lot better, but is always quite pricey. This wine, made by one of the leading producers of Sancerre (white and red) from vineyards just outside the appellation, is very moreish and offers very good value for money. Light refreshing red fruits with an earthy edge. Serve cool with all sorts of summer salads, cold meats and chicken dishes.
