Aldi to sell chocolate wine in time for Christmas

Aldi has announced it will expand its alcohol offering next month, stocking a chocolate-flavoured dessert wine with notes of “figs, toffee and caramel” in time for Christmas.

Aldi will stock the chocolate-infused wine in time for the festive season.

The Rubis chocolate non-vintage wine uses a base of fortified Tempranillo, more commonly found in Rioja, and is infused with chocolate essence. It can be served at either room temperature or chilled over ice, according to the winemaker’s website.

The wine, which has flavours of “raisins, figs, dates, toffee and caramel,” has proved popular with industry leaders. It won the Silver award in 2015’s International Wine and Spirits Competition (IWSC), and took the IWSC’s Silver award again last year.

The fortified wine, which has a deep ruby colour, has notes of “mocha with a hint of freshly ground coffee beans, plus overtones of red fruit and cream,” according to the IWSC.

“Flavours of raspberry and cherry come forth on the mid palate, giving way to notes of creamy milk chocolate. Climaxing with a lingering a luxurious and silky finish.”

The unique Tempranillo has received positive reviews from retailers. The Whiskey Exchange describes the drink as “a very off-the-wall alternative to Port”.

While Rubis’ dessert wine is priced at around £13 online, Aldi will sell the bottles for £9.99 when they hit the shelves nationwide next month.

The grocer said the drink “would make the perfect end to a festive feast”.