The colour is light ruby red with garnet reflections, it smells fine with scent of cherries, wild berry fruits, violet and spicy hints, dry and fresh, with good body and agreeable tannins and spicy hints in flavour. When young it is excellent with rich flavoured dishes, especially the traditional specialities of Tuscan cuisine.

What a coup to get this wine into our range. Certainly and deservedly one of the most highly regarded Rioja producers. These are the Riojas from which dreams are made. Think leather chesterfields, smoked meats and cigar-box.

A rich unmistakable Rioja jammed packed with flavours of ripe dark berries and plum. This bargain has been a favourite of ours for a while now and is a fabulous match to hearty casseroles and spicy sausages.

Tired of drinking Shiraz and Cabernet? Then try Spain's noble variety Tempranillo with an Aussie twist, made by Ben Riggs. Blackberry fruit flavours with aromas of violets and bramble. Mr Riggs has more savour than the usual Australian red.

As famed Spanish wine expert John Radford wrote in Decanter, the tiny enclave of Campo de Borja is “the source of some of the best value wines from Spain, if not the world”. It’s true. Where else could you find such a mellow, complex, oak aged red at this price? It’s made by our old friend Pamela Geddes (who also makes our bestselling Monasterio de Santa Cruz) at the 500 year old Bodegas Ruberte. 60% of the wine is Garnacha from vines planted in 1958. They’re not as prolific these days but the intensity of flavour in the grapes is impressive. The balance is Cabernet Sauvignon, which adds classic cassis character and structure to the spicy raspberry Garnacha. A rich and fragrant Spanish red best enjoyed with rustic lamb dishes.

Viña Real dates back to 1920, specialising in the smallest and northernmost sub-region of Rioja, Rioja Alavesa. The winery's name was inspired by the proximity of its vineyards to the 16th century Camino Real road. A blend of 90% Tempranillo, and 10% Garnacha, Mazuelo, and Graciano. Freshness and purity of fruit are the key attributes of this wine, with 13-14 months' barrel ageing providing subtle, complex notes of tobacco, toast, and spice.