There are truly few better things than a heatwave over a bank holiday weekend. And the weather has well and truly delivered. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or simply going on a picnic, a crisp glass of vino will certainly not go amiss. That’s why I’ve consulted experts to recommend the best wines on the shelves at Sainsbury’s right now.
Known for its wide and varied wine selection, the supermarket offers everything from organic options to award-winning bottles, making it a reliable choice for both everyday sipping and special occasions. Right now, you can enjoy 25 per cent off when you buy six or more bottles.
Whether you’re after a crisp white, an easy red, a refreshing rosé, or something fizzy to celebrate, these bottles are genuinely worth picking up.
Best sparkling wine at Sainsbury’s
Sainsbury’s taste the difference crémant d’Alsace
open image in gallery“The crémant train continues to gather momentum in the UK, and this is a standout expression,” says Luke Flunder. Expect “crisp apple and citrus, a gentle brioche note, and a clean finish.
“It’s the balance that makes it so enticing and keeps you coming back for another sip,” according to Flunder.
Codorniu vintage cava
open image in gallerySpain’s oldest winery, Codorniu, was the first to produce Cava.
“Cava is made in the traditional method (the same way champagne is produced), so this is a quality glass of fizz,” says Jane Peyton. “I can’t resist an invigorating sparkler, and this wine has green apple aromatics, zesty citrus flavours and bright acidity,” she adds.
Best white wine at Sainsbury’s
Sainsbury’s taste the difference Alsace gewürztraminer
open image in gallery“Few wines can be identified by the first sniff, but gewürztraminer is one of them,” says Peyton.
“With this wine’s flamboyant lychee and rose petal aromatics, followed by ginger spice and tropical fruit on the palate, it is a memorable drinking experience. Even more so when matched with fragrant Thai or Vietnamese food. It is off dry, so the slight sweetness means it admirably matches spicy dishes.”
Bellingham Bernard Series old vine chenin blanc
open image in gallery“South Africa has developed an excellent reputation for its chenin blanc, and here is a brilliant example of why,” explains Flunder.
“Rich and textured, with ripe pear, stone fruit and a lovely thread of honey running all the way through. There’s a depth here that you simply don’t expect at this price.”
Best rosé at Sainsbury’s
Mirabeau x Côtes de Provence rosé wine
open image in galleryThis bottle is “a taste of Provence, the spiritual home of rosé wine”, says Peyton.
“It’s a vibrant wine with juicy peach, melon and grapefruit flavours that make me want to sit in the sun overlooking the Côte d’Azur. With its dry palate and high acidity, I shall be drinking it with the Provençal dishes of tapenade and salade niçoise for lunch.”
Le Bijou de Sophie Valrose rosé
open image in galleryFlunder describes this as “an elegant, delicate rosé that overdelivers for the price.”
“I’ve tasted it blind against more expensive labels on several occasions, and it more than holds its own. Light, dry and refreshing, with bright strawberry, raspberry and a touch of citrus.”
Best red wine at Sainsbury’s
Sainsbury’s Château de Pierreux Brouilly
open image in gallery“This is a Beaujolais that truly delivers,” according to Flunder.
“From Brouilly, one of the ten crus, it shows a richer, more expressive style while staying beautifully balanced. Ripe plum, blackberry and cherry lead, with a touch of dark chocolate on the finish. Works with a little chill time and is a superb summer option.”
Meet the experts
open image in galleryHoping to make wine more approachable, Luke Flunder shares his expertise and recommendations across Instagram and TikTok, where he’s built a following of more than 215,000, as well as on his Substack, ‘Flunder Wine World’. He began his journey in the industry at Majestic Wine before going on to launch his own wine business.
Jane Peyton is founder of the School of Booze consultancy. Jane was the UK’s first accredited cider sommelier, Britain’s first Beer Sommelier of the Year, and is a former Drinks Educator of the Year. She is the author of numerous non-fiction books including Wine Knowledge Box and The Philosophy of Gin.
Read more: Best supermarket rosé