Aldi to hand out free glasses of wine in Manchester this week - but only if the sun is shining

Aldi is handing out free glasses of rosé wine in Manchester this week - but only when the weather hits a certain temperature. The retail giant has launched the world’s first billboard which dispenses the nation’s favourite summer tipple - but only when the sun is shining and when the weather hits 19.2C.

According to research the North West was the most rosé-loving region identified by Aldi sales data so the supermarket has set up the billboard in the centre of Manchester ahead of National Rosé Day (June 10). Julie Ashfield, managing director of buying at Aldi UK, said: “Everyone’s heard the saying ‘it’s wine o’clock’ but we wanted to find out when it’s ‘rosé degrees’ - and according to the nation of rosé lovers, the ideal temperature is 19.2C.

“Setting up the world’s first billboard to dispense rosé at a certain warm temperature was a challenge in Manchester, which is noted for rain.

“But as the centre of the region which loves rosé more than any other in the UK , fortunately everything came up rosé.”

Two thirds of those surveyed describe rosé as the ‘perfect summer drink’, while almost half think it’s best enjoyed in shorts and t-shirts – and a quarter start drinking it as soon as the winter coat comes off. But ice is a divisive topic, with the country split in half when it comes to cooling their rosé; 55% think it’s acceptable when the weather is hot, while 45% claim they would ‘never’ dilute their drink.

Sam Caporn, Mistress of Wine, added: “Rosé is the ideal summer drink; it really does add a sense of summer fun and al fresco vibes to any occasion with friends and family.

“When it comes to ‘whether’ to put ice in the glass or not, I’d advise rosé fans to be led by personal preference - which as ever - is all that really matters. Don’t worry too much about dilution as with rosé it’s all about refreshment and I love it being served super chilled.

“So let’s raise a glass to the nation’s favourite vino for summer sipping, a drop of pink!”

How to get a free glass of wine from Aldi

Aldi’s Rosé Billboard will dispense free rosé when the weather hits 19.2C (approx. 1pm) until 7pm in St Ann’s Square, Manchester on June 8 and Friday 9.