I have dotted around the world to pull together a varied but stylish half dozen (currently Majestic’s minimum purchase) from their latest promotions but, obviously, that mix can be altered appreciably to suit your wallet or preferences.
The quoted prices apply when you buy two or more bottles – although different arrangements are in force in Scotland.
Click on any of the bottles shown for an enlarged image to help you pinpoint the wine on a crowded display.
Best for zest
South West France does terrific things with colombard and ugni blanc blends and this is one of the best I have encountered at this price.
Enjoy, then, the grassy and fresh 2014 Grand Héron Marc Ducournau (£5.99 – instead of £7.99) with zesty greengage and lemon acidity underpinning its typical apple and pear textured depth
Skilfully crafted chardonnay
When its oak is carefully restrained, South Australian Chardonnay can excel as this nicely balanced version from the acclaimed Peter Lehmann operation testifies.
Smooth and creamy, 2014 Peter Lehmann Art & Soul Chardonnay (£7.99 instead of £11.99) uses well judged acidity and a kiss of vanilla to embellish its polished peach and tangerine fruit.
More delicate than Marlborough
While Marlborough gives Sauvignon panache, the Loire gives it subtlety and elegance.
See that for yourself in the clean yet sharp 2014 Sancerre Remparts du Bellay(£11.99 instead of £15.99) which slowly builds its opening lemon base into a really appealing depth and roundedness.
Cannily priced Rioja
In Spain reservas have at least a year in oak while for crianzas like this, that limit is cut in half.
Judge whether that makes much difference by sampling the herbal and vanilla infused 2012 Condesa del Atrio Rioja Crianza(£5.99 instead of £8.99) with its warm blackberry fruit and deceptively vigorous acidic finish.
Ascending heights in Languedoc
Of all Languedoc’s reds, Saint Chinian is among the most distinctive – especially those from the upland Roquebrun sub-region.
I particularly like the leafy and soft 2014 Terrasses de Maylene Saint Chinian Roquebrun (£7.99 instead of £11.99) with its balanced herbal plum and chocolate flavours, firm acidity and mild tannins.
Strikingly effective blending
Although this South African blend is two-thirds shiraz, there is a fair portion of mourvedre too, along with four other ingredients – including viognier.
All those components knit together especially well in the rich and integrated 2013 Bosman Adama Red Fairtrade (£9.74 instead of £12.99) which puts layers of blackcurrant acidity, coffee and vanilla on top of its intense blackberry backbone.
