You don't need to be beside the seaside to plunder the fruits of the sea. Sam Wylie-Harris selects the perfect drops to conjure those holiday vibes. Against the backdrop of more warm days, our ice buckets are prepped for something bright and breezy, or fruity and tropical that work wonders with seafood. Here are five bottles that fit the bill.
1. SPAR Languedoc Blanc 2017, France (currently reduced to £6.50 from £7, SPAR, in store only)
A Mediterranean white that's right on cue with soupe de poissons (fish stew), we love its floral character that lifts the fruity flavours of apricot, citrus and peach, with a spicy note on the tail and fleshiness that keeps the wine rich and round. Made by Paul Mas, it's a lovely, inexpensive drop. Don't forget the garlic toast.
2. Exquisite Collection Clare Valley Riesling 2017, Australia (£6.99, Aldi)
A dry riesling with grassy aromas, limey acidity and a streak of minerality that works so well with shrimp and a squeeze of lime (or any foods that have 'green' flavours, such as Thai seafood curry). But with sun-kissed apple, lime and lemony notes you might expect in a riesling from Down Under, there's depth and intensity. Lots of fun and great value.
3. Taste the Difference Albarino 2016, Rias Baixas, Galicia, Spain (£8.50, Sainsbury's)
Spain's answer to muscadet, the crisp, clean flavours of albarino (Galicia's flagship grape) have a natural affinity for seafood, and this captures all the freshness that's albarino's calling card. A brisk style with floral aromas, inviting peach and apricot notes, even some green apple and lime, well-balanced acidity and a zesty minerality makes it just the ticket with seafood tapas, grilled fish and even paella.
4. Dourthe No1 Sauvignon Blanc 2017, France (£8.50, The Wine Society)
A pioneer of dry, white Bordeaux, Dourthe are celebrating 30 years of their No1 label - and from the first sip, this dependably delicious wine delivers ripened tropical and grapefruit flavours with much more purity, weight and energy than the price would suggest. A sophisticated and delicious choice with a seafood platter.
5. Abbotts & Delaunay Fruits Sauvage Sauvignon Blanc 2017, South of France (£9.99, Majestic)
With a commitment to quality over quantity, Abbotts & Delaunay have sealed their reputation as a premium producer in the Languedoc. This new release sings from the glass and captures sauvignon blanc's classic character - but with a roundness, complexity and blossomy, fruity freshness. Again, a perfect partner with fish stews, sardines, shellfish, grilled fish and, of course, fresh crab.
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