Seven reds for Easter – selected by the experts
News • 01/04/2024
Easter is upon us which means Spring is here. If you’re having the family over for a roast or a get together, the drinks experts at Kingsland Drinks – one of the largest suppliers of wines to the UK supermarkets – have selected their top 7 red wines that should have a place on the table as you celebrate.
Ranging in price and in style, there’s a red for every occasion from all high street supermarkets.
Baron de Ley Rioja Reserva 2019 (abv 13.5%), Spain, Co-op
REDUCED TO £9.50 (SAVING £3) from 13 MARCH – 2 APRIL (promo embargoed until 4th March).
With serious fruit and real complexity, this is a Reserva of the 21st century. Made primarily using Tempranillo grapes grown in Baron de Ley’s Mendavia vineyards, its deep cherry colour and complex aromas are the result of spending 20 months in new oak casks followed by maturation in the bottle. On the nose it has a powerful fruity character mingling with reminders of its noble ageing, traces of coconut, toffee and attractive wild herb nuances. It matches well with a varied Easter cheeseboard.
Baron de Ley Gran Reserva 2017 (abv 14%), Spain, £19.99, Waitrose
This gorgeously mature Gran Reserva Rioja from Baron de Ley – a heritage winery in Spain – delivers a remarkable aromatic intensity on the nose with notes of ripe fruit and a smoky complexity. The palate is silky soft with wild herbs, spice and toasted tones, and it’s perfect with roast British lamb with garlic and rosemary. A showstopper!
The Hidden Sea Red Blend 2020 (abv 14.5%), Australia, £10.00, selected Co-op stores
A heady and well-crafted combination of Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, and a tiny splash of Malbec, this South Aussie blend is bright crimson red with delicious aromas of red berries, fruit cake spice and toasty oak. These characters carry onto the palate, which is smooth, rich and long. What’s more, the purchase of every sea-saving bottle equals 10 single use plastic bottles removed from the ocean, so great for sustainably minded people this Easter. Suitable for vegans.
Campaneo Old Vines Tempranillo 2021 (abv 13.5%), Spain, £6.50, Tesco
This great value Spanish red is a gorgeously smooth and well-structured wine with hints of wild ripe raspberry, hints of cherry and just a touch of spice. This delicious red matches perfectly with a good chunk of Manchego cheese or a selection of cold meats such as prosciutto. It’s also a belting bargain alternative to pricy Riojas and works well as a match with roast lamb.
Vandenberg Black Label Shiraz Cabernet 2021 (14.5%), Australia, £8.75, Co-op
Deep crimson with a vibrant and intense nose with black fruits and ripe cherry, this Limestone Coast red wine made by Leisha Munro at Vandenberg becomes more earthy on the palate with plush berries and toasted spice, layered over cassis and dark chocolate. It’s a wonderful wine, made even better with a generous serving of Aberdeen Angus Beef, heaps of leafy greens and crispy roast potatoes.
Andrew Peace White Label Signature Shiraz 2021 (13.5% ABV) 1.5lt Bag in Box, Australia, £13, Selected Co-op stores
This smooth, full-bodied red wine blended from Shiraz with a touch of Tempranillo, brings typical ripe black fruit flavours with a hint of cherry. It’s vegan friendly but goes with a range of foods including roasted meats. The handy 1.5lt bag in box contains two bottles of wine and is great for Easter get-togethers where people can serve themselves.
Campaneo Old Vines Garnacha 2021 (14% abv), Spain, from £6.00, Tesco / Morrisons
A beautifully smooth and full-bodied red wine complemented by rich plum notes, a touch of cherry and light spice flavours, this delightful Spanish Garnacha is made from old vines and has been lauded by top wine critics. It’s a lovely all-rounder for Easter and will go well with Easter Sunday roasts as well as stews and casseroles.
