£11.50–£12, The Wine Society, Tesco
Full-bodied, succulent, Viognier-based dry white from one of the big names in a region much better known for its red wines – and one that doesn't usually major on Viognier in its whites. But it's the 60% Viognier (supported by Roussanne and Marsanne) that leads the way with fleshiness and soft texture, blossomy aromas and lush peach, cream and patisserie flavours. There's a sprinkling of white-pepper spiciness and a squeeze of grapefruit, too, and just enough acidity to give it a lift and keep it fresh.
All in all, an ideal wine for anyone who doesn't like bracing acidity and zing, or simply wants a break from the vinous equivalent of wild swimming in winter. And it just so happens that tomorrow is the first International Viognier Day.
It works as an aperitif, but if you feel 14.5% should be accompanied by food it goes well with scallops and other seafood and alongside mild curries with coconut milk (I do one with chicken thighs, cherry tomatoes, onion, coconut milk, fresh ginger, cumin, cinnamon and red pepper flakes). 14.5%
Guigal Côtes du Rhône 2019 (white), Rhône, France
£11.50, The Wine Society, £12, Tesco
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