Rob Buckhaven from Metro explores the stigma around supermarket wines, noting that people are often hesitant to bring own-brand bottles to social events, fearing judgment, though they’re happy to drink them in private. Rob suggests we care less about others’ perceptions, as supermarket wines are often made by top producers and offer excellent value.
Here’s his list of recommended wines from Sainsbury’s:
- Crémant d’Alsace, France (£11.50): Made by Cave de Turkheim’s Daniel Gerold, this Champagne-style fizz features Pinot Blanc and Pinot Gris, resulting in a dry, zesty wine with lime, pear, and honey notes.
- Taste the Difference Champagne Brut, France (£22): Produced by Champagne Louis Kremer, this silver medal-winning Champagne leads with Pinot Meunier, providing a juicy, dry profile with green apple and fennel hints. Also one of my Picks.
- Taste the Difference Jurançon Sec, France (£9 or £8 with Nectar): Known for its low sugar and yuzu-like zest, this dry wine pairs well with battered or fried foods.
- Taste the Difference New Zealand Pinot Gris (£10.50): Crafted by Yealands’ Nat Cristensen, this Marlborough wine has ripe pear and lemon notes with a zesty finish.
- Ile de Bauté Rosé, Corsica (£10 or £9 with Nectar): A Corsican rosé with apricot, cherry blossom, and orange water notes, balancing dryness with fruity freshness.
- Discovery Collection Castelão, Portugal (£8 or £7 with Nectar): This Portuguese red features cherry, plum, and white pepper, showcasing Castelão in its purest form.
- Barbera d’Asti, Italy (£8.75 or £7.25 with Nectar): Produced by Claudio Manera, this Barbera is soft and fresh with morello cherry and savory notes.
- St-Emilion, France (£14): Crafted by Dourthe, this Merlot-based wine offers plum, damson, and mocha, making it an affordable silver award-winning Bordeaux option.
These wines represent exceptional quality for the price, dispelling myths around own-brand supermarket wines.
