Grape Spy: Jean Smullen

2021 Casillero del Diablo Reserva Sauvignon Blanc €12

Casillero del Diablo means Castle of the Devil. The name originated 130 years ago when Don Melchor de Concha y Toro spread a rumour that his wine cellar was haunted, to keep strangers from stealing his wine.

This white has all those lovely Sauvignon Blanc aromas of tropical fruit with a hint of tomato leaf and asparagus. When tasted, it has a fresh acidity and zesty lime and lemon fruit flavour with a hint of white pear. Serve with fried chicken and chimichurri sauce.

2020 Casillero del Diablo Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon €12

Cabernet Sauvignon has found its natural home in Chile. Chilean Cabernet has a lovely minty aroma and flavours of black fruit with hints of vanilla and spice. There is some tannin but it is not overpowering and is nicely balanced with the ripe blackcurrant fruit flavours. Serve this with portobello mushrooms with a herb, spinach and hazelnut stuffing.

Widely available, both wines are currently on offer for only €9 in Dunnes Stores until October 10 and SuperValu until October 12.

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