Two white wines to try: a rare Italian and an old reliable from Spain

Two white wines from Tesco this week. Passerina is a rare, traditional Italian grape variety. It is native to the Abruzzo and the Marches, regions we know better for red wine. Passero/Passera is Italian for sparrow, birds with a great appetite for ripe grapes, hence the name. The Tesco version is well-priced.

Albariño from Rías Baixas in Spain is one of our favourite wines and with good reason. Fresh and fruity, it is perfect on its own or with most white meats and salads. The Rías Baixas region is close to the Atlantic coast. Locals consume vast quantities of shellfish accompanied by albariño.

Tesco Finest Passerina 2022, Terri di Chieti

Medium bodied with juicy nectarines and lemon zest. Grilled chicken with herbs or spice, or mixed antipasti. Abv 13% €12, (€9 with Tesco Clubcard).

[ I’m hosting a drinks party – how much wine should I buy? ]

[ John Wilson: Is that bottle of wine worth €100? ]

Tesco Finest Viñas del Rey Albariño 2021, Rías Baixas

Succulent pears and apples with zesty limes and grapefruit, and a rounded finish. Try it with prawns, scallops, or mussels. Abv 12.5%, €14.