There's something about European wines that makes them good with food - often better, actually, than by themselves.
I think it's the characteristic savoury hint and firm grip of European reds that blend so well with food.
They tend to be understated, although some of the less traditional styles can be as concentrated and showy as any of the Australians or New Zealanders.
Reds don't have to make a statement.
Balance and harmony are characteristics of wines that work well with food, and this batch of well-priced French, Italian, and Spanish wines are worth looking out for.
A delicious perfumed wine from Tuscany with an intriguing hint of the exotic, suggestions of dried herbs such as rosemary, spicy fruit, and a crisp, juicy finish.
3 styars (out of 5)
Good value
From the Abruzzo, southeast of Tuscany, this has concentrated red fruit with undertones of chocolate, savoury hints of dried herbs and spice and a crisp, firm finish.
3 stars (out of 5)
Good value
A light red from the Beaujolais region of France, this oozes nice ripe red fruits with a savoury undertone and a light grip on the finish.
A versatile wine to match light- to medium-flavoured dishes.
3 stars (out of 5)
Average value
From the northwest of Italy, this oozes dried thyme, plums and a hint of schist.
It's a firmly-structured wine with a dry finish which I found more enjoyable with food than by itself.
Match with red meat dishes, chicken in a dark sauce or something with cheese.
3 stars (out of 5)
Good value
This primitivo comes from the warm south of Italy, and suggests raisins and port on the nose, but it is dry with hints of pipe tobacco and green tea, spicy oak and firm tannins.
Good with something flavoursome and tomatoey.
3 stars (out of 5)
Good value
From Spain, this big young wine is showy, almost over-the-top, with intense, ripe, juicy fruit hinting of chocolate and dried herbs, with spicy oak and a suggestion of something earthy or mineral and a firm grip.
More new world than old in style.
Match with flavoursome food.
3 stars (out of 5)
Average value
