THE weekend starts for many of us by popping the cork on a bottle of wine.
But with a little know-how there are ways to enjoy top-quality plonk and make your drink go further, saving you money.
Here are some of those party tricks . . .
LABEL THIS: When buying a bottle look out for wine labels which name the region as well as the country, recommends Co-op wine buyer Sarah Benson.
She explains: “This shows that the wine has been made from grapes from a much smaller region or area — often from regions that specialise in, or have a good reputation for, certain varieties.”
Look out, too, for wines whose names have an extra word alongside the region, such as Italy’s Classico Soave or Classico Chianti. It indicates a quality designation — meaning the wine is from a smaller area with stricter quality regulations.
CHILL OUT: The bank holiday weekend is the perfect time to enjoy a crisp glass of rosé. But rather than popping ice cubes in your glass to chill your wine, add frozen berries, says Richard Bampfield, Lidl’s Master of Wine.
He adds: “Whether it’s blueberries, strawberries or raspberries, they keep your drink refreshingly cool and add a splash of colour, but most importantly, they won’t dilute the delicate-tasting notes of the rosé as the frozen fruit thaws.”
WASTE NO WINE: If you open a bottle and don’t finish it, you can keep it fresh for another three days in the fridge, even if it is red or fizz.
Sarah says: “Using a thermos flask is a great way to store the wines once opened, as it helps to keep the wine fresher for longer.”
Or try using leftover red wine to create a Spanish calimocho, which is equal parts red wine and Coca-Cola — an alternative to sangria and perfect for a bank holiday BBQ.
- All prices on page correct at time of going to press. Deals and offers subject to availability
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