McWilliams Balance NV Brut Cuvee
With many good low calorie/low alcohol options available on the market at the moment, it is good to see that the scepticism about these wines is beginning to quieten down. In the past, some of that distrust was well directed at wines that could also have been labelled as ‘low flavour’. I was very pleased that this wine was not of the low flavour type although, in general, much work has been done with wines of this style in Australia to make sure that they no long fall into that category.
While it is lighter in character, it’s lemon citrus, light pear & stonefruit flavours were just the thing for countering the heat of summer where a big massive flavour & alcohol hit seems overwhelming.
It is dry, crisp with a good mousse (bubbles) & length. It has an ABV of 8% compared to the usual 12.5% for a fizz plus it has lower calories earning it a big tick of approval from Weight watchers. Let’s be honest, this is a wine not only that is good for those making wise lifestyle choices, but is also very appealing to anyone who prefers lighter more delicate flavours. Thumbs up McW!
Date: 26th January 2011 Price: $17 Value: $$ Drink: Now
For more details: see www.weightwatchers.com.au
Hey! Cheers! I’ve been waiting to find a tasting note on one of the Weight Watchers wines (I thought they were less than that though?). I was strolling up and down the isles of a Man Durphy’s yesterday when the bloke next to me walked past with about 6 of them in his basket, and I thought, hmmmm, must be getting across to someone.
I was contemplating trying the white but in retrospect, I can see how the style might suit a sparkling as well
Cheers,
Chris P
Hi Chris. Yes, the early versions of the genre were a tad skinny on character (excuse the pun), but I quite enjoyed the fizz & will taste through the range as I get the opportunity. Love your blog. LJ
I am absolutely loving low-cal wines at the moment. You wake up in the morning without a headache and without that guilty feeling you get when you think about all the calories in standard wines.
I just read a great article by wine writer Jeni Port on the website “The Hoopla” that recommends some great low-cal wines – you should check it out!
There is plenty of good low-cal wines around this year & more to be released in the coming months. I too like to have the options of low cal & low alcohol – it is nice to be spoiled for choice.