I hunted out this wine in LIDL this week after reading it had recently won a gold at the IWC (International Wine Challenge), not only that but it was in fact the lowest priced supermarket wine to win a gold!
So what did I think of it…
Vibrant ruby in colour with aromas redolent of predominantly red berries (cranberry, cherry, strawberry) alongside smoky dusty notes on the nose. On the palate this is a bone dry, relatively full bodied red with warming alcohol (13.5%) which exhibits classic Sangiovese characteristics: high acidity and noticeable high levels of drying tannins (this is definitely more of a food wine than a party quaffer). The aromas from the nose follow through onto the palate – lots of rich red fruits and a touch of leafiness (think dusty tea leaves) alongside sweet vanilla spice and a hint of liquorice.
The Verdict: This is a good quality wine with complexity way beyond that you would usually find at this price point, indeed with a £6.99 price tag it does represent something of a bargain. Definitely a food wine, this would be perfect with tomato based red meat dishes but would be equally at home with a roast or even a pizza! (LIDL £6.99)
Off to Lidl! Thanks!