"This charming Loire fizz and the viognier are part of a trio of wines in Whelehans Wines €69 Valentine's box. This is 100% Cabernet Franc and pours a pleasing salmon pink with aromas of red currents, cherry, and spice. Ripe raspberry fruits on the palate with some buttery pastry flavours and a crisp tangy finish."
"Beauchêne's vines are currently tended by the 11th generation of the Bernard family. This viognier is aromatic with white peach and floral scents, a lush palate with pleasing honeysuckle and creamy lemon flavours, and a touch of spice on the finish. With spicy prawns perhaps? Its "Le Terroir" red Côtes du Rhône is also recommend."
"Another Rhône producer I like, also exclusive to Whelehans. Classic Northern Rhône blend of marsanne-roussanne, two grapes that can be as seductive as viognier. This has ripe pear and soft peach aromas, a rounded creamy palate with light honey notes cut through with racy acidity on the finish. Ideal with lemon sole."
Leslie Williams, Irish Examiner, 4th February 2023.