Wines of the week: Three light reds for summer

Red wine should not be ruled out when the sun does decides to shine in the summer months

Heavy reds on warm days can be a bit much, but chilling lighter red wines correctly can add a whole new dimension to wine drinking….

From Beaujolais…..

The Society’s Exhibition Cote De Brouilly 2015

A gorgeous village cru Beaujolais from the Society’s brilliant own label range – designed as benchmark examples of styles and grapes. This is a medium bodied, fuller flavoured Beaujolais but still benefits from being in the fridge door for half an hour or so, just to highlight the vibrant fruit of the Gamay. Drink with butterflied roast guinea fowl, charcuterie or soft cheeses.

£8.50, thewinesociety.com

From the Loire…..

Bouvet Rubis Demi Sec

Sparkling red is rarely seen in the UK, but this new addition to the Majestic range should help change that. A deep red colour, just slightly tannic, with full flavours of raspberries and damsons, this is off-dry, rather than sweet, and an utterly sublime match for fruity, sweet dessert or a summer pudding. Don’t drink too cold: an hour in the fridge should suffice.

£11.99, Majestic (or £9.99 for six)

From Australia…..

Brown Brothers Tarrango 2014

A cross between the Touriga Nacional and white Sultana grapes from Australia’s Victoria region. Youthful and fresh, with refreshing red berry fruit flavours, just a hint of spice and a dry finish, this needs decent chilling: think of it as more a full-bodied rose than a red. Great for barbecues, tapas and picnic spreads.

£7.00, Sainsbury’s; £10.50, Amazon.co.uk