Four really gripping, nervy, invigorating wines this week to match to the super-healthy recipes in Weekend Magazine.
2011 La Grille, Sauvignon Blanc, Loire, France (£5.99, Co-op). With pea shoot and asparagus notes on the nose of this jolly sauvignon, you can guarantee that it is the perfect partner for salads of all varieties. It is also a bit of a bargain, so grab a bottle and allow the lime and green veg notes to primp and perk up your palate in style.
2011 De Grendel, Sauvignon Blanc, South Africa (£10.99, reduced to £8.79, until 11 September, Waitrose). Another wine with really zesty notes and a faint whiff of sugar snap peas, this is a richer and longer proposition than La Grille and it can handle spicier dishes, too. Both modern sauvignons, performing at the top of their game.
2008 Marques de Monistrol, Vintage Cava Brut, Penèdes, Spain (£11.48 reduced to £7.28, until 4 October, Asda). This is one of the classiest Spanish sparklers around and as the vintage moves from 2008 to 2009 you are guaranteed continued excellence from this seriously great value wine. With tiny bubbles and a luxurious feel this is a celebratory treat.
2011 Côtes du Roussillon Villages, Benjamin Darnault, France (£10.99, reduced to £7.99 for ‘Angel’ members, www.nakedwines.com). My only red this week is a charmer, with briary, juicy notes and a smooth, liquid velvet touch. Why not live dangerously and chill it a few degrees with the Charred salmon, broccoli and red pepper sauce recipe. It will prove that some reds really do go well with fish.
