Two Italian wines perfect for spring and summer drinking

John Wilson: High-quality Soave and Valpolicella from family-owned estates

These bottles are lighter in alcohol, making them a refreshing pairing with summer meals
These bottles are lighter in alcohol, making them a refreshing pairing with summer meals

This week we’re taking a virtual trip to the Veneto with two summery wines from this beautiful region. These are part of the Italian wine sale in O’Brien’s from the 20th April to the 7th May.

The names Soave and Valpolicella will be well-known to many, particularly a generation who began drinking wine in the 1980s and 1990s. Cheap versions were watery at best, and sometimes quite nasty. However, the two neighbouring regions can produce very high-quality wines. The two wines are from family-owned estates. Lighter in alcohol, they are perfect for spring and summer.

Wines to keep connoisseurs happy, without breaking the bankOpens in new window ]

Ferra Soave Classico 2020 Guerrieri-Rizzardi, Italy
Ferra Soave Classico 2020 Guerrieri-Rizzardi, Italy

Ferra Soave Classico 2020 Guerrieri-Rizzardi, Italy

12.5%, €15.96 down from €20.45, O’Briens

A single vineyard Soave from the superior Classico subregion of Soave. Rich tropical fruits shot through with a streak of citrus acidity with subtle toasted almonds. Light but packed full of flavour. Try it with richer fish dishes – salmon would be great – or chicken.

Valpolicella Superiore 2018, Musella, Organic
Valpolicella Superiore 2018, Musella, Organic

Four refreshing white and red wines to put a spring in your stepOpens in new window ]

Valpolicella Superiore 2018, Musella, Organic

13%, €16.95 down from €20.95, O’Briens

Light, soft, velvety smooth dark cherry fruits with a rounded finish. Great on its own, with lighter tomato-based pasta dishes or grilled chicken.