WITH summer finally here and our purses feeling tighter than ever before, if you’re eager to find a rosé wine that’s perfect for warm days and super affordable, you’ve come to the right place.
When it comes to rosé, there’s no doubt that Whispering Angel has secured itself an A-list reputation.
The popular rosé comes with plenty of celebrity backing, with Adele, Lady Gaga and the Beckhams pronounced as big fans of the tasty tipple.
But unfortunately for those on a budget, it also boasts a VIP price tag of around £22.50 a bottle.
However, luckily for those looking to cut costs on their alcohol stash, supermarkets have released a variety of similar styles that are much more cost-effective.
So, with the weather heating up and picnic season in full swing, here, Fabulous’ Senior Writer and self-proclaimed wine fanatic, Abby Wilson, tests out six of the high-street’s best bottles.
Breath of Paradise
£10.99, Lidl
I was excited to try the latest Whispering Angel dupe that hit Lidl shelves only recently, and while it looks practically the same, I have to say, I was thoroughly disappointed.
Yes, it’s a nice bottle, but this good-looking blush tribute is not getting a thumbs up from me.
This Whispering wannabe might have the vibe of the real thing but unfortunately, it lacks the flavour.
If you like wine that’s bitter and vinegary, this Provençal tipple could be for you.
Yes, it will keep your bank account in the pink, but it lacks depth and to be totally honest, has a nasty acidic taste that quite frankly, tastes cheap.
For me, Lidl normally smash it out the park with their dupes, but in my opinion, this is simply style over substance.
Unfortunately, it’s not giving me a ‘Breath of Paradise’. The only thing I’m noticing is a sigh of disappointment.
There’s not much of a fruity flavour and it definitely needs a bit of lemonade to sweeten it up.
While aesthetically it looks the best of the bunch, the taste makes it the biggest loser in my books.
Ranking: 1/5
Tesco Finest Provence Rosé
£10, Tesco
With the cost of our weekly grocery shop rising, there’s no doubt that many of our wallets are feeling the pinch.
But if you’re wanting to scrimp on rosé, the Tesco Finest Provence Rosé may, or may not, be one to try.
Where my taste buds are concerned, it’s dry, weak and watery, with a somewhat tangy aftertaste.
Yes, it’s light, but that’s about it.
I’m normally a huge fan of the Tesco Finest range and can’t get enough of their epic microwave meals that are perfect for lazy nights, but this own-brand buy hasn’t cut the mustard for me.
It’s said to emit “delicious stone fruit flavours” and has been hailed as “crisp and delicate”, but I’m not getting any of that with this beverage.
The only upside is that it’s cheap. You’ll be able to enjoy a summer BBQ and toast to all the cash you’ve cashed with this, so I suppose if I had to, I could force it down if it meant saving a few pounds.
Ranking: 3/5
Château Roquefeuille Côtes de Provence St Victoire
If you’re after a full body rosé wine, this bottle of Château Roquefeuille Côtes de Provence St Victoire should be one to add to your shopping list.
It’s got good depth and a nice sweetness, with a fruity flavour of fresh nectarine.
You’ll now be able to nab it for just £12, making it over a tenner cheaper than the real dealAbby Wilson
As well as having soaring character, with an intense, lasting taste, the expensive-looking bottle is sure to impress your dinner party guests.
It’s a gem of a wine that’s spot on when paired with a summer salad or a creamy pasta for an alfresco meal on a balmy night.
At £14, it’s not the cheapest of the bunch – but if you’ve got a Clubcard, you’ll need to move quickly, as you’ll now be able to nab it for just £12, making it over a tenner cheaper than the real deal.
Ranking: 3.5/5
Les Sarrins Côtes de Provence Rosé
For those after a wonder-wine that screams liquid sunshine, look no further.
Wine enthusiasts will need to get their hands on a bottle of Les Sarrins Côtes de Provence Rosé, which has a sharp but round flavour.
It’s more than just a copycat – its deep flavour almost gave me goosebumps (in a good way).
It covers all bases – it’s a brilliant all-rounder wine that is sure to be liked by many at your next outdoor function.
It’ll get you ahead of the A-list but that’s not all, as it’s also a lovely bottle that’s perfect for picnics and pre-drinks in the garden.
Yes, it’s not a mega bargain, but it’s refreshing, elegant and gluggable, making it brilliant for those looking for a luxury pale pink wine that will dance on your tastebuds.
Ranking: 4/5
La Balconne Organic Provence Rosé
If you can’t afford to splash the cash on Whispering Angel, here’s a wannabe that is well worth raving about.
The La Balconne Organic Provence Rosé has been hailed by M&S bosses as “elegant” and “charming”, and I have to say, I agree. It reaches near the top of the dupe test with flying colours.
It has a light but luscious flavour, with a nice tang that had me reaching for more.
It’s floral and fruity, with mouth-watering tastes of berries and wild herbs.
It’s been described as “delicate yet complex” and for me, that’s spot on.
Yes, it’s the most expensive of the bunch and isn’t that much cheaper than the OG, but it’s definitely worth it if you want something that’s similar to Whispering Angel but not quite as pricey.
Not only does it taste great and is suitable for vegetarians and vegans, but to top things off, it’s also a gorgeous bottle too.
Ranking: 4.5/5
Screaming Devil
£12.97, Asda
But if you’re eager to nab a rosé that’s bold but not too sharp, with a strong flavour that hits you straight away, look no further.
This Screaming Devil Côtes de Provence not only has a great name, but is of great value too.
It’s just like the costly celestial sip, but thankfully, a lot cheaper.
This high-class bottle will save you an impressive £9.53 and not only that, it’s also sure to make summer picnics in the park much more straightforward too.
This thirst slacker from Asda is sure to ruffle the feathers of the big-name bottleAbby Wilson
Thanks to the handy glass stopper, there’s no need for a corkscrew, so you’ll never find yourself desperately Googling hacks to remove a cork again – phew.
It’s a lovely, modern bottle and has a sweet and refreshing flavour of white peach.
As well as being vibrant, this thirst slacker from Asda is sure to ruffle the feathers of the big-name bottle, and has a tasty zest that left me pouring a second (and third) glass within a matter of minutes.
So if you can’t make it to the South of France this summer, this dupe-tastic buy is a real winner and one that you’ll definitely want to stock up on this season.
Ranking: 5/5
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