John’s Monthly Wine Recommendations: August Part 2

White Wine

Lenton Brae Southside Margar​et River Chardonnay. The Wine Society, £14.99

Lenton Brae Southside Margaret River Chardonnay, The Wine Society

The unique Maritime climate of Margaret River produces some of Australia’s finest red and white wines. An elegant, Burgundy-esque Chardonnay with a careful balance of delicate citrus and stonefruit, yeast lees nuttiness, butter and a lick of vanilla. This is not a stereotypical heavy Australian oaky bruiser. A satisfying, lingering finish will have you wanting more after every sip.

Red Wine

Definition ​Rioja Reserva 2010. Majestic Wine, from £10.99

Rioja Reservas and Gran Reservas at the cheaper end can often be disappointing. This one from Majestic’s own label punches well above its weight. Produced in Rioja Alta, where the finest examples come from, it is complex, satisfying and excellent value for money. Cooked/stewed blackberries and strawberry flavours with a delicious hint of dried fruit, sweet spice and a whiff of meatiness the best Rioja reds are famed for.

Majestic D​​​​​efinition Rioja Reserva 2010