Tesco, Aldi, Marks & Spencer and Asda all produced Great Value champions in the 32nd International Wine Challenge, 2015, the results of which were announced last night (July 16) in London.
Tesco topped the bill, with two of its wines being awarded Great Value Champion status. Its Tesco finest* Vintage Grand Cru Champagne 2007 (RRP £24.99) was named the IWC Great Value Champion Sparkling 2015. Thissparkler produced by Union Champagne impressed the judges with its ripe apple nose and brioche undertones, with a decadent balance of creaminess and freshness.
Tesco also impressed in the sweet category, receiving the IWC Great Value Champion sweet of the year for its Tesco finest* Dessert Semillon 2009. Produced by De Bortoli Wines, this Semillon was regarded “an absolute steal at £6.49”. It also won the Australian Botrytis Semillon trophy.
Aldi’s The Exquisite Collection Clare Valley Riesling 2014 was awarded the IWC Great Value Champion White 2015. Produced by Wakefield Wines it costs£6.99.
Asda had the IWC Great Value Champion Red 2015, with its Asda Extra Special El Mesón Gran Reserva 2005. It was produced for Asda by El Coto de Rioja. It also won the Red Rioja Trophy in the competition.
Marks and Spencer picked up the IWC Great Value Champion Fortified 2015 award for its Dry Old Palo Cortado NV. Produced by Emilio Lustau, it costs just £8.
The only non-supermarket wine to receive Great Value Champion status was the Italia Pinot Grigio Rosé 2014 produced by Adria, which was awarded IWC Great Value Rosé 2015. It is in Waitrose, Nisa, Ocado and CostCutter for £7.49.
Great Value Trophies are awarded to the best wines retailing under specific price points (up to £15 for Still, and up to £25 for Sparkling). To qualify, each winner must be available nationwide and have received a gold or silver medal at the challenge 2015.
