The German-owned supermarket Lidl attracts UK shoppers in droves – even more so as the cost of living continues to bite. The wine range is one of the major draws, and in particular the themed Wine Tours, which are now refreshed every month (until recently it was every two months). This more frequent updating of the range means that there’s always something new and interesting in store, but it also means that you need to be quick if you like the look of a particular wine featured below, as they don’t hang around for long!
Scroll down for scores and tasting notes of the best Lidl wines to buy
The central buying team do a great job of sourcing small quantities of interesting and well-priced wines for the Lidl Wine Tour line-ups. Between this and the core range, it offers a comprehensive selection of Old and New World wines across a range of styles, though is invariably stronger in its European offering.
Lidl’s Italian Wine Tour
The new Italian Wine Tour has just hit the shelves, and will be on sale (while stocks last) until the next (Iberian) Wine Tour goes on sale in late June. Rather puzzlingly, the Italian Tour includes an Argentinian Malbec and an Australian Pinot Noir – let’s just go with it, as they both represent decent value for money.
Back in Italy, the focus and the highlights are overwhelmingly white – unsurprisingly given the time of year. The Lugana, and the two whites from the south – a Sicilian Viognier and a Fiano from Campania – are all juicy, fruit-forward and easy drinking, without oak influence, and would work well either on their own or with food. For something different, pick up the Moscato: sweet and lightly sparkling, it’s a delightful match for fruit salads or pastries (and always a winner with birthday cake), perfect for summer sipping.
DWWA results out 19 June!
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Core range highlights
As well as these six recommendations, we’ve included in the mix three wines from the core range that were shown at the same press tasting and which stood out for the quality and value on offer, plus another tasted later. If you only buy one white from the core range this spring, make a beeline for the new, 2023 vintage of the Picpoul de Pinet, vibrant and lemony, perfect for drinking over the coming summer season. The German Riesling is light and peachy, and fantastic value at around the £5 mark.
If it’s red you’re looking for, two Italian wines from the core range are worth seeking out, both smartly packaged and offering good value. The Vino Nobile de Montepulciano impresses with its food-friendly Tuscan character. Lower in price, but still in Tuscany, the Corte Alle Mura Chianti Riserva is always a good bet for everyday drinking.
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The best Lidl wines to drink this June
Below, you’ll find six recommendations to buy from the Lidl Spring Wine Tour, and four wines from the core range.