The alcohol content in wine is rising, which isn't appreciated by those of us who like a tipple but don't want to be hallucinating after one glass. Wine editor, Susy Atkins, finds the best wines under 13%.
Have you ever chosen a refreshing-looking white wine because you want something light, only to discover after a glass or three that it contains 13.5% or 14% alcohol? Many wines these days are strong – partly because so many come from hot New World countries, where riper grapes mean more sugar and a higher alcohol level. And alcohol levels this high can be truly headache-inducing.
Happily, there are still enough succulent and juicy white wines out there that come in at no more than 12% alcohol. Many of these are made in cooler climate vineyards, such as those in Germany’s Mosel region, England or Italy’s more northern areas. Sparkling wines tend to be a bit lighter – Prosecco in particular – and certain grape varieties, such as Semillon and Riesling, regularly turn out featherweight alcohol levels.
As for reds, if you scan the supermarket shelves you’ll spot loads of bottles hitting the 14.5% mark, with few under 13%. But one or two lighter styles do exist, mainly from France, and I’ve even uncovered a decent, well-balanced Chilean red for you.
Generally, avoid artificially de-alcoholised wines, which have no or little alcohol, as they tend to taste horrid. Better to have cordial, pressé or fruit juice, I’d say. The exception is a fairly new white, Torres Natureo from Spain, which is made from the Muscat grape and has the alcohol removed after production. It’s clean-tasting, if rather simple (0.5% alcohol; Waitrose, £5.99). Otherwise, to get more satisfying flavours, limit your search to wines that naturally contain less alcohol. Here are some of the best around…
Gemma Vigna Fiorita Moscato d’Asti, Italy £7.49 (£5.99 as part of a mixed case), Oddbins
Smarter and tastier version of good old Asti Spumante, with a gentle spritz and sweet, honeyed, green-grapes tang. Serve icy-cold with fresh fruit salads or meringues. 5.5%
Valdo Prosecco Marca Oro NV, Italy £6.99 (half bottles for £3.79), Sainsbury’s
Lively, dryish fizz with zesty citrus fruit and a hint of sherbet. Not as floral or sweet as some lesser Proseccos and
it’s great for parties. 11%
Quinta de Azevedo Vinho Verde 2009, Portugal £6.87 (£5.49 for two or more bottles), Majestic
Here’s a subtle, distinctively dry version of Portugal’s popular white, brimming with succulent green grape and lemon flavours. 11%
Fritz’s Riesling 2009, Rheinhessen, Germany £8.99 (£7.99 for two or more bottles), Majestic
Intensely flavoured, packed with apple and grapefruit with an off-dry finish. It’s a palate-cleansing aperitif that won’t take you unawares. 11.5%
Soleado Merlot 2009, Central Valley, Chile £4.99, Marks & Spencer
A cheerful, well-priced red (low in alcohol for a Chilean wine). Sings out with juicy fresh strawberry, plum and black cherry flavours. Good with cooked tomato sauces and ratatouille. 12.5%