Last of the Summer Wines, and the Barbecue Tinnies

By Iheoma Okoroma | August 27, 2024 0 Comments

This expected mini heatwave, we’ve ushered in a selection of drinks to complement your barbecue or indoor meal. Find them at your local supermarket or order online.

The Ciders

Taurus Blood Red Orange Cider 3.4% abv

Forget the sinister name, this orange variety has appeared across supermarket chains this year, and is now part of Aldi’s Taurus cider range. A pleasing glug, it sports a faint orange colour. Purchase 4x 440ml cans for £3.99.

Taurus Island’s Premium Apple Cider 4.5% abv

As the name suggests, expect a deep, gold colour and a rich, appley taste. I (author) however prefer pear ciders due to the apple variety leaving a vinegar aftertaste. Purchase 4x 440ml cans for £3.49.

Other flavours in the Taurus range include Pear, Dark Fruit, Cloudy Lemon and Cola.

Älska Cherry Swedish Premium Cider 3.4% abv

Overall, I found Aldi’s flavoured ciders taste heavily of fruit, and little of alcohol. Their versatility is that they can accompany most food types, including deserts.

A strong fruit flavour makes this feel more like drinking cherryade. It is equally deeply coloured in the glass. Pleasant finish and aftertaste. Purchase 4x 330ml cans for £3.49.

Woodgate Premium Pear Cider 4.8% abv – I included this perry-like drink with sherbet overtones. Quite fizzy but still pleasant enough. Its delicate taste means it is best drunk on its own or with blander dishes. Purchase 4x 440ml cans for £1.99 from LIDL.

The Pale Ones

These flavoursome ales from Aldi’s The Hop Foundry are bitter and creamy on the palate, with typical citrus overtones. Hues vary from clear to cloudy.

Peach On The Beach flavour, 4.0% abv

This delighter surprised, being easy on the palette and not at all artificial tasting. Purchase at £1.99 per 440ml can.

Passionfruit Martini flavour, 4.0% abv

A cocktail inspired pale ale said to capture the magic of the fruit and vermouth, with a cutting, hoppy overtone. I’d describe this as refreshing and sharp, though the flavouring tasted artificial. Purchase at £1.99 per 440ml can.

Pineapple flavour, 5.0% abv

A fruity, sweet flavour packs this drink, and it slips easily down. Enjoy with your favourite barbecued meats or fish. Purchase at £1.79 per 440ml can.

Other flavours in The Hop Foundry range of pale ales include Watermelon.

The Wines

Tenuta Fenice Nero D’Avola 2023, Italy, 14.0% abv

A 2017 first vintage of 100% Shiraz grapes has evolved into sweet flavours of blackberry fruit with strong cherry overtones, and hints of spices and liquorice, leaving the mouth feeling full, with a smooth tannin finish. The hue is deep plum. Pairs well with pasta dishes. Can be chilled for the hot weather. RRP £14.99 per bottle.

Maria Fadista Rosé 2022, Portugal, 12.0% abv

Especially for Laithwaite’s Spotlight for Summer, the Nero d’Avola vineyards in Sicily has produced organic wine bottled in 100% recycled ‘wild’ glass, a first in the UK.  Italy buyer Leonard Bassano. recommends pairing this with oysters and octopus. RRP £11.99 per bottle.

Nero D’Avola Rosato Organic Rosé 2023, Italy, 12.5% abv

This palette smacks of red berry and stone fruit, with a hint of citrus.  The nose showcases sherbet lemons and floral herbs. Delicately flavoured, it is probably best drunk without food. RRP £13.99 per bottle.

Le Rosé de la Clarière 2023, Bordeaux, France, 13.0% abv            

From a plentiful vintage on Tony Laithwaite’s “treasured” Côtes de Castillon estate. Cabernet Franc and Merlot grapes are blended and slowly fermented in stainless steel casks at cool temperatures, capturing every ounce of summer berry fruit for an easy drinking wine. RRP £14.99 per bottle.

Laithwaites’ wines can be found at www.laithwaites.co.uk