Wines of the week: Abbotts & Delaunay Zephyr Limoux 2012; Racine Picpoul De Pinet 2013; Paul Mas Marsanne 2013
Terry Kirby on the best bottles to buy this week
Sunday lunch
Abbotts & Delaunay Zephyr Limoux 2012
The first of three very different Languedoc whites is an award-winning Chardonnay from an Aude wine-maker that sounds like a firm of English solicitors, bringing a more refined tone to an area known for its bulk wines. Well-balanced between fresh, citric minerality and a richer depth, this is ideal for fine white fish, such as turbot, with salsa verde. £16.99, averys.com
Midweek meal
Racine Picpoul De Pinet 2013
Mostly grown on limestone near the Mediterranean coast between Agde and Sete, Picpoul is beguiling, opening with zesty pear-drop flavours, followed by a salty, smokey tanginess that hits the mid-palate. Goes with any white fish or shellfish – it comes from a big oyster farming area, so they're a natural accompaniment. £9.30, hhandc.co.uk
Bargain basement
Paul Mas Marsanne 2013
Ultra-reliable Languedoc specialist Paul Mas delivers again with the relatively unknown Marsanne, a grape which is like a creamier, lighter Viognier, full of bright acidity and a touch of nuts and honey on the finish. Terrific value, recently voted one of the South of France's top 100 wines, and great with spaghetti alle vongole. £7.99, Co-op stores
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies