Two modern classic wines to try: a Marlborough Sauvignon and a Malbec from Argentina

Two modern classics this week, wines that would have been completely unknown to our parents or grandparents, but are among the most popular wines today.

The first Sauvignon vines were planted in Marlborough by Montana in 1973, but it was only in the mid-1980s that the wines became famous worldwide. Since then sales have grown exponentially; it seems we all enjoy that wonderful combination of fresh green fruits and zesty citrus acidity.

Malbec has been grown in Argentina for over a century, but it was not until the 1990s the wines hit the world stage. Plantings of this variety have quadrupled since then as producers try to keep up with world demand. The unique high altitude vineyards of Mendoza produce wines that are full-bodied and fragrant with rich ripe dark fruits and a refreshing acidity. They are perfect with red meats and many other foods too.

Insight Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc 2022, Marlborough

Fresh racy apple and kiwi fruits with a rounded finish. A good aperitif or with salads and seafood. 12.5%. €18.95 down to €13.95 from O’Briens.

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Bodegas Caro Aruma Malbec Argentina

Deeply coloured with lifted violet aromas. Full-bodied with layers of ripe dark fruits and a solid tannic structure. This calls out for grilled or roast red meat. A ribeye would be perfect. 14.5%. €18.45 down to €14.95 from O’Briens.