Three Wines from Jean-Luc Columbo

Three wines from Jean-Luc Colombo

Rhône wines are typically red and substantial - that makes two of these wines quite unusual.

The Picpoul, which is more associated with Languedoc than the Rhône, is new to the UK, whilst the ‘Abeilles’ ("bees") are new vintages and come with a donation for every bottle sold to the British Beekeepers’ Association.

Picpoul de Pinet, Les Girelles 2013 (£9.99)

Aromatic white flowers on the nose; fresh, ripe citrussy palate with mineral underpinnings, just a hint of varietal seashells - well-made and well-balanced in a modern, crowd-pleasing style.

Very enjoyable.

Serve as an aperitif or match with light seafood starters.

Stockists: Oddbins, Lay & Wheeler, Field and Fawcett, The Halifax Wine Company, The Leamington Wine Company, Dunedin Wines, Fountainhall Wines, Famous Wines, Bacchus Wines, Islington Wine

Les Abeilles Blanc 2013 (£9.99)

A blend of Clairette and Rousanne - honeysuckle, citrus, sweet spice and hints of incense on the nose; waxy-yet-fresh on the palate with orchard fruits.

Another well-made easy-drinker - a little more old-school in style.

Match with white meat, such as ham hock terrine.

Stockists: Define Food and Wine, Le Mouton Rouge, Dalling & Co wines, Trinas Wines, Fountainhall Wines, Tivoli, Taylors Fine Wines, Aiken Wines, Partridges, DP Vintners, The Butlers Cellar

Les Abeilles Rouge 2012 (£9.99)

GSM blend with juicy plums and dark berry fruit with some spiciness - low tannins make it another uncomplicated easy-drinker.

On first pouring, even with a decanter, the texture feels a little light and insubstantial, but it gains in presence with time. Well-balanced and feels like it has more to offer given time.

Match the juicy dark fruits with burgers and barbecue food or salamis.

Stockists: Tivoli, The Bottleneck, DeFINE food and Wine, Sunninghill Wine Merchants, North and South, The Butlers Cellar, Fountainhall Wines, Bacchus et Al

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