Just in time for those cosy autumn nights in, over 100 new, carefully curated wines have landed on shelves in Tesco stores across Ireland. Whether you're a wine connoisseur or a casual sipper, it's never been easier to explore new tastes from all around the globe.
With a variety of bold reds, crisp whites, fruity rosés and bubbly sparkling wines, there’s no better time to gather some friends and host your very own wine tasting at home. Luckily, Tesco Ireland’s Wine Buying Manager, Fiona Whelan, is on hand to share her top tips for hosting like an expert, including some unique food pairings you might not have thought of:
Top Five Tips for a Wine Tasting at Home:
1. Select a variety of wines that showcase different regions and styles.
2. Serve each wine at the right temperature; whites at 7-13°C, reds at 13-18°C and sparkling at 4-10°C.
3. Use the correct glass for each wine e.g. red wine glasses will have a wider bowl profile, white wine glasses have a tulip-shaped bowl that is narrower at the top and wider at the base, and a stemless wine glass can work well for rosé.
4. Try out some unique food pairings for each:
• Dark chocolate pairs well with red wine because their bitterness and tannins balance each other, creating a smoother taste. Try the Tesco Finest Belgian Dark Chocolate Bar (RRP €2)
• White wine pairs well with sweet and salty popcorn because its crisp acidity cuts through the richness. Try the Tesco Sweet and Salty Popcorn (RRP €1.40).
• Rosé wine pairs well with fruit-flavored jellies because its fruity notes complement the sweets’ flavours. Try the Tesco Wine Gum Sweets (RRP €1).
5. Lastly, remember the 5 Ss of wine tasting; see (observe the wine’s appearance), swirl (to release its aromas), sniff (to pick up different aromas), sip (take a small sip and let it coat your palate, paying attention to the taste and texture) and savor (reflect on the finish and overall impression of the wine).
Fiona Whelan, Wine Buying Manager at Tesco Ireland says: “Our exciting wine range change sees over 100 new wines land on shelves, giving customers even more choice and variety coming into the autumn and winter months. We want customers to step outside of their comfort zone and try something new, rather than always reaching for their old reliable. There’s no better way to find your new favourite tipple than hosting a casual and fun wine tasting at home - grab a few friends and enjoy a cosy night in exploring new flavours.”
Now that you’re well-equipped to host your own wine tasting, all that’s left to do is choose the wine. Here are some of Fiona’s top picks:
La Vieille Ferme Rosé (RRP: €12 / €9.50 Clubcard Price until 15th October 2024): Beautifully pale pink in colour, fresh and fruity, with notes of red fruits, juicy nectarine and blood orange.
The Wanderer Malbec (RRP: €14 / €12 Clubcard Price until 15th October 2024): Rich and full bodied, with layers of velvety black fruits, hints of spice and smooth oak flavours.
Shallow Bay South African Sauvignon Blanc (RRP: €10 / €8.50 Clubcard Price until 15th October 2024): A dry, but fruity white wine with typical citrus fruit aromas and flavours, and a refreshingly zingy finish.
Canti Prosecco Frizzante (RRP: €12 / €10 Clubcard Price until 15th October 2024): A traditional Prosecco with notes of freshly ripened pears and a dry finish.
The new range of wines at Tesco can be bought in store, or for convenience customers can shop online at www.tesco.ie, or visit the Tesco Ireland app available to download from IOS or android app stores.
Additionally, shoppers can save time by using Tesco’s Click and Collect service which allows them to order their groceries in advance.
Slán go fóill.