The CWB Spain-Off - Crisp Young White And Mature Big Red

An inexpensive Spanish crisp white and mature red from The Co-op

Crisp White and Big Red is the standard pairing for any meal.

A fresh, vibrant white serves as both aperitif and matches with starters such as fish, young cheeses or vegetables.

A big red matches with a substantial main of beef or lamb; if it's mature, it will match with something gamier such as venison or duck.

To avoid paying big money for grand-name appellations, you can seek out better-value wines from less well-known regions to get more wine for your pounds.

Even better, these two bottles from The Co-op are on special offer between February 23rd and March 15th, 2022 and both reduced to £5.

Raw Airen Verdejo Sauvignon Blanc Organic (£8, The Co-op)

A lighter, fresher alternative to entry-level Petit Chablis, Loire white or kiwi Sauvignon.

Airen, Verdejo and Sauvignon Blanc blend; aromatic, floral and peppery with vibrant lemon-lime citrussy zip, gooseberries and freshly-cut grass. Fresh and mineral; light and easy drinking with no rough edges.

Good and Good Value.

Drink as an aperitif or with the lightest of starters - oysters or goat's cheese.

Anciano Gran Clasico 8-Year-Old (£9)

Tempranillo grapes hand picked from 30 year-old vines in late August/early September, 18 months in oak; this is a budget alternative to mature Rioja.

floral and spicy with bramble fruit, fresh with red berry fruits, red berry fruits, plum, tobacco, vanilla, leather and herbs; evolved roasted nuts and old leather.

Thoroughly enjoyable and Good Value for the age.

Match with robust red meat dishes, such as beef bourguignon or venison stew.