Spring is certainly making its presence felt up here in North Yorkshire, warm sunshine, flowers blooming, the sound of birds singing from the branches fill the air. What better way to celebrate the return of the sun than with a delicious glass of wine? This month we celebrate two fantastic grape varieties with International Malbec Day on the 17th, and International Viognier Day on the 30th, so naturally we feature them in this month’s selection.
Domaine de Montmarin Viognier, Languedoc, France 2023
A family-owned estate with a rich history dating back to the 15th century, located in the Côtes de Thongue region in the south-west of France. The estate spanning 400 hectares, including 80 hectares of vineyards, and produces a variety of wines that reflect the unique terroir of this slice of the Languedoc-Roussillon region. Under the stewardship of the Sarret family, Domaine de Montmarin emphasizes quality and traditional methods, crafting wines that showcase the local character and flavours. It has been our “house” pour for many, many years which is a testament to its continuous quality!
The vines have an average age of 20 years and are planted on south-facing terraces with views of the Mediterranean Sea and benefit from cooling breezes that blow inland. Grapes are harvested at night to retain acidity, freshness and aromas, resulting in a delicate nose of apricot, peach and white flowers. Medium-bodied with creamy texture underpinned by vibrant acidity that reveals more beautiful yellow and exotic fruit with a touch of spice.
£12.90 APRIL OFFER £9.80
Franschhoek Cellar 'Statue de Femme' Sauvignon Blanc, South Africa 2024
Inspired by over 350 years of winemaking tradition and heritage in the Franschhoek Valley, Franschhoek Cellar has become a tried and trusted choice for excellent quality wines. The ‘Statue de Femme’ is a graceful monument built in celebration of the 250th anniversary of the arrival of the French Huguenots in the Cape, and this bottling is the perfect homage.
Grapes are carefully selected from cool pockets of vineyards in the picturesque surroundings of the Cape winelands. Expressive aromas of Cape gooseberry, grapefruit and pineapple combine with a delicate herbaceous edge. Bright and energetic on the mid-palate thanks to the lively acidity and further core of citrus and tropical fruit with added white pepper spice on the fresh, lingering finish. Pairs perfectly with new season Asparagus and homemade hollandaise.
£12.90 APRIL OFFER £9.60
Caro and Lafite Aruma Malbec, Mendoza, Argentina 2022
Founded in 1999, Bodegas CARO is a partnership between Domaines Barons de Rothschild (Lafite) and the Catena family. The Catena family have an unrivalled knowledge of Malbec and the terroir of Mendoza, which coupled with DBR Lafite’s exceptional knowledge of blending Cabernet Sauvignon, results in a range of magnificent wines.
A selection of old vines found at high altitude in the Ucó Valley provide outstanding quality fruit, which shine even more given the absence of any oak. An abundance of cassis and blueberry intermingle with dark chocolate and hints of violet. Ripe and rounded with soft, integrated tannins that flow into more bramble and hedgerow fruit leading into a pleasing finish. Decant and serve with a tender rib-eye steak and frites, or a rich venison casserole.
£20.30 APRIL OFFER £15.00
Roberto Sarotto Dolcetto d'Alba DOCG, Piedmont, Italy 2021
Established in 1820, Roberto Sarotto is the seventh generation to lead this artisanal estate in the beautiful rolling hills of Piedmont and the village of Neviglie. Driven by their commitment to quality and innovation, Roberto and his family produce wines that capture the essence of Piedmont’s rich winemaking heritage while embracing modern techniques.
Dolcetto d’Alba translates as the “little sweet one” from Alba and is a vibrant and fruit-forward red wine with aromas and flavours of red cherry, plum, and violet. Medium-bodied with ripe tannins that envelope a core of further summer berry fruit and touch of black pepper spice. A versatile wine to serve with food and an excellent match with charcuterie as well as tomato-based pasta dishes.
£16.20 MARCH OFFER £12.00
