Special Occasions: 5 of the Best Budget Wines
Although many guest houses only offer breakfast to customers, more and more B&Bs can see the potential in extra services. A huge number of travellers go away for the weekend on special occasions, from holidays like Valentine’s Day to celebrations such as birthdays and wedding anniversaries. A great way to market your B&B to these customers is to provide extras and romantic gifts like wine, either as a complimentary or optional service for an additional charge.
These five excellent budget wines are a great addition to your B&B customer service or marketing plan and all come in at least than £10.
1. Argentina, Malbec
Although plenty of South American varieties have caught on around the world, Argentinean wines are less popular than those from neighbouring Chile. The Malbec is one of the most distinctive grapes from this region, a rich and fruity red that’s soft enough to drink on its own as well as with food.
Often described as ‘the new Pinot Noir’ or compared to good a Cabernet, what really makes Malbec stand out is the price. Despite the depth of taste and the typical high quality, a bottle will usually set you back less than £10.
Recommended: Finca Flichman Reserve, Oak Aged Malbec 2010 Mendoza, £8.54 at Waitrosewine.com
2. South Africa, Chenin Blanc
Originally native to the Loire Valley in France, Chenin Blanc is now the major white grape grown across South Africa, where nearly a fifth of all vines are planted with the variety. A refreshing white with hints of apple and pear, it’s a lovely Summer or afternoon wine.
Top vineyards in France demand a very high price for their bottles, but the prolific growth in South Africa means you can get your hands on a decent Chenin Blanc for just £6 or £7.
Recommended: Zalze Bush Vines Chenin Blanc, £6.99 at Tesco
3. Sicily, Nero d’Avola
Steer clear of the Chiantis and Barollas from Italy that are hard on the budget and head further south to Sicily for some excellent value wines for under £10. The cream of the crop is the Nero d’Avola, a sweet and rich red with hints of plum that’s native to the island and thrives in the hot, arid conditions.
Recommended: Tesco Finest Nero d’Avola, £6.99 at Tesco
4. Italy, Prosecco
If you’re looking for a sparkling wine, steer well clear of champagne and look instead for a crisp Prosecco from Italy. Unlike other budget sparkling varieties, it’s dry, not sweet, and has the light bubbles that make it perfect as an aperitif. Whereas a good champagne will make a dent in your wallet, white and rose (also called Rosato) bottles of Prosecco can be picked up for less than £20.
Recommended: SanLeo Prosecco Brut, £9.49 at Waitrosewine.com
5. England, Rose
Many B&Bs pride themselves on using local produce for breakfast and the wine you offer could be another local selling point. English varieties are often overlooked in favour of the continent but there’s a surprising number of decent bottles for a good value price. Fruity but refreshing, English roses can’t fail to go down well.
Recommended: Chapel Down English Rose 2010 Kent, £9.49 at Waitrosewine.com
Image: Thanks to vitalsine on Flickr.com
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Category: Bed and Breakfast Marketing, Inspiration
