It's September, which means one thing: wine sales! All the major supermarkets are offering incredible deals on French wines, and this year is no exception. From classic regions like Burgundy and Sancerre to exciting new discoveries, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
SuperQuinn started the trend of September French Wine Sales years ago, and Dunnes Stores jumped in first with a 20% discount on all French wines and Champagne until mid-October. This is an excellent opportunity to finally snag that bottle of Cristal or Dom Pérignon you've had your eye on.
If you're looking for something more affordable, Laurent Miquel, a French-Irish producer, is a great choice. Dunnes Stores offers most of their wines for around €8 or €9, and their excellent Cazal Viel Saint Chinian is just €10 – a fantastic addition to any cellar.
SuperValu launched their French sale on Thursday last week, with discounts on classic regions like Sancerre and Burgundy. I previously wrote about Beaujolais, and SuperValu has the ripe red-fruited Goichot Fleurie for just €10 (normally €18). Meanwhile, in O'Briens, the excellent Château de Fleurie is just €19.
O'Briens has a sale across all regions, but France offers some of the best bargains, including Piper Heidsieck Champagne for the unbelievable price of €42.50 (the cheapest I've ever seen it), and Bollinger for €68 (normally €80).
Be sure to keep an eye out for the fab Begude Chardonnay for just €13, Norton Malbec for €10, and Dauny Sancerre for €20.
Lidl, on the other hand, doesn't have a sale, but they launched a new French Wine Cellar with highlights including new whites from Alsace and reds from the Rhône, Languedoc, and Bordeaux.
The Best Wines to Buy This September
With so many great wines on sale, it can be hard to know where to start. Here are a few of my top picks:
From SuperValu
Goichot Fleurie
This Beaujolais Cru is a steal at €10. It's light and juicy, with flavors of cherry and strawberry. The silky texture makes it dangerously addictive and perfect for pan-fried salmon.
From Lidl
Fitou Carte d’Or Cascatel
This full-bodied red from the Languedoc is rich and complex, with notes of dark fruit, licorice, and spice. It's a great match for stews, red meats, and firm cheeses.
Séguret
This Rhône Valley red is full-bodied and rich, with smooth dark fruit and a touch of spice. It pairs well with cheesy bakes, richer pasta dishes, or pork chops.
From Dunnes Stores
Muscadet Château la Lauberdiere
This Muscadet is light and refreshing, with flavors of stone fruit and citrus. It's a perfect match for salmon, white meats, or enjoyed on its own.
From O'Briens
Domaine Begude Chardonnay
This Chardonnay is a steal at €13. It's rich and rounded, with smooth dark fruit and a touch of spice. Enjoy it with cheesy bakes, richer pasta dishes, or pork chops.
A Word of Warning
These sales are only available for a limited time, so don't wait too long to take advantage of these incredible deals! Be sure to get in early before the best bargains are snapped up.
A Final Thought
This September, raise a glass to some of the finest wines France has to offer! These sales are a fantastic opportunity to discover new favorites and stock up on old ones. Cheers!